Upper Keys Weekly 24-0201 by Keys Weekly Newspapers

The Upper Keys is hopping with all sorts of happenings.

February 1, 2024

SOARING AND SURFING

Wind Games come to Islamorada | P. 18

WHAT’S ALL THE RACKET? Court needs arise as pickleball takes off | P. 16 KEEPING KIDS OFF SOCIAL MEDIA Florida legislators consider a strict ban | P. 8

TAX & ACCOUNTING 305.852.4373

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

MESSAGE

FROM THE

SHERIFF The old saying, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, is applicable when discussing online and phone scams afflicting every corner of our country — the Florida Keys included. Unfortunately, our residents are sometimes swindled out of many thousands of dollars due to these unwanted phone calls, texts, and emails. One recent case involved a resident losing more than $265,000. Criminals pose as legitimate law enforcement officers — sometimes they claim to be me — with false stories about missed jury duty, overdue bills, and unpaid taxes, fake arrest warrants or fire inspections— you name it — but they’re all scams. Never give your personal information via unsolicited phone calls, texts, or emails — particularly when using electronic banking platforms such as CashApp, PayPal, Venmo, or Zelle. Anyone requesting that you to buy gift cards for payment is an immediate red flag! Always hang up and call the appropriate agency the scammers claim to be affiliated with. Often these criminals operate outside the country, making their arrest very difficult. Help me spread the word and keep an eye on our social media pages for the latest scam alerts. Remember: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

Monroe County Sheriff, Rick Ramsay

Download the MCSO App Today!

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

LONG KEY | $4,299,000 | LISTING ID: 607501

Long Key Fish Camp.

This multifamily home is nestled on one of the only private beaches in the Florida Keys offering 221 ft of white sandy beach. Situated at the southern tip of Long Key, this property boasts a breathtaking, unobstructed view of the Atlantic Ocean with sunrise and sunset views! This duplex features four bedrooms and two bathrooms designed as a fish camp, paying homage to its history. Currently run as a successful vacation rental property allowing nightly rentals, this is an excellent opportunity for investors. Outdoor and fishing enthusiasts will relish the proximity to Long Key State Park and the Viaduct, recognized as one of the world's top Tarpon fisheries. Whether you're an experienced angler or a novice, you'll find the fishing opportunities here unparalleled. Numerous tiki huts flanking the beach provide a shaded retreat from the warm Florida sun, perfect for taking in the stunning ocean views. Of historical significance, this home occupies the former site of Henry Flagler's original Long Key Fishing Camp. Zane Grey, the renowned author, once called this place home, where he penned some of his works in the early 1900s. The camp was initially established for tourists seeking world-class fishing and served as lodging for the railroad workers constructing the Overseas Railroad to Key West. Over the years, the camp welcomed esteemed guests such as Herbert Hoover, Franklin Roosevelt, Andrew Mellon, Charles Kettering, and other luminaries. Zane Grey, a pioneer of sailfishing, even became the inaugural president of the Long Key Fishing Club in 1917.

81888 Overseas Highway | Islamorada 305.712.8888 | oceansir.com Each office is independently owned and operated.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

KEYS

NEWSPAPERS

89240 Overseas Hwy. Suite 2 Tavernier, FL 33070 Office: 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com Editor / Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

3:11

Harriers hoping for a coveted spot in the 2024 Seven Mile Bridge Run needed fast fingers at 6 a.m. on registration day, Jan. 30. 1,500 entries for the wildly popular run filled online in just 3 minutes, 11 seconds.

WATER PROJECT FLOWING ALONG Majority of pipe installation is complete in Islamorada

Digital Editor / Gwen Filosa gwen@keysweekly.com Director of Sales Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com Business Development Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com Account Executive Oliver Allison oliver@keysweekly.com

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

early 4 miles of new water transmission main were laid into the ground in Islamorada over the last eight

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com Design / Pre-Press Diana Striker www.keysweekly.com Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844 Se habla español THE UPPER KEYS WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials. Postmaster SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO THE KEYS WEEKLY, 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050 News Deadline Monday Noon Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m. @KeysWeekly @theWeekly Members of

The Wind Games return to Islamorada as kiteboarders and wing foilers from Florida and across the U.S. compete Feb. 9-11. Read more on page 18. SARAH EWALD/Contributed

Crews install new 36-inch water transmission main into the ground. FKAA/Contributed New water main transmission is installed via open-cut trench.

PEDESTRIAN INJURED IN HIT-AND-RUN

50-year-old Key Largo man was seriously injured after a vehicle reportedly hit him and left the scene. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the incident occurred around 6:20 p.m. on Jan. 26 near MM 103 on U.S. 1 in Key Largo. A vehicle was traveling north approaching Avenue

A when it collided with the man who was traveling west on Avenue A. The car didn’t stop and fled north. Witnesses say the vehicle was a white SUV. Anyone with information on the hit-and-run can call FHP at 305-289-2601. — Keys Weekly staff report

months. Since April, motorists rolling through Islamorada have noticed the orange cones, the shifts in traffic and the deep trenches where workers spent the days and weeks installing new 36-inch steel transmission lines — replacing a worn 30-inch main. With most of the work complete, FKAA says the traffic congestion will lessen some time after March. The project, however, will continue through 2025 with most tasks ahead. Crews will work in 1,000-foot sections to install service pipes for the master meters and air relief valves. In addition, workers will begin to place 1,600 feet of transmission main south of Tea Table Crossing and the pipe into the ground across Whale Harbor Crossing via directional drilling. FKAA’s first water main replacement project was funded with a $35 million grant and $7 million in lowinterest loans. With the initial pipe replacement project inching its way to completion, FKAA is preparing to install 8,250 feet of 36-inch water main on Windley Key from Whale Harbor to the south end of Snake Creek bridge. Work is scheduled to begin in April as motorists will experience similar rolling lane closures. FKAA said the work will pause for major holidays and events which tend to bring heavy traffic through Islamorada. Bike lanes will remain open, as will access driveways to all businesses. The Windley Key project will cost about $15 million.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

By Alex Rickert, Mandy Miles and Jim McCarthy

EARLY ENCOURAGEMENT Island leaders optimistic following 2024 Florida Keys Day

ollowing the annual Florida Keys Day, island officials returning from the panhandle say they’re more than encouraged about several issues atop the island chain’s wish list for the 2024 state Legislative session. The annual gathering with state legislators to bring a piece of the state’s southernmost county to Tallahassee, this year on Jan. 25, was a meeting of municipalities that several Keys leaders say they hope to see more often throughout the next year as the islands work to resolve critical issues affecting residents from Key Largo to Key West.

Minor changes to evacuations Multiple officials confirmed to the Weekly that following a brief uproar over draft legislation in Marathon earlier this month, the 2024 legislative session shouldn’t bring extreme changes to hurricane evacuation models or bestow additional building allocations to Keys governments. Backed by resolutions and verbal support from the Monroe County BOCC, Islamorada Village Council, Key West City Commission and Marathon City Council, meetings with Florida Commerce, which presented potential changes to hurricane evacuation models in late 2023, found agreement with adding Key West residents and mobile homes to phase 2 (24 hours) and phase 1 (48 hours), respectively, of the Keys’ hurricane evacuations. Decisions about what to do with nearly 8,000 vacant lots throughout the Keys, a large number of which may not be buildable, will likely wait until the 2025 legislative session, following extensive resident input and dialogue among the Keys’ governments. Leaders will try to balance the financial liabilities of takings cases with environmental, traffic and infrastructure concerns that accompany new development. “They want us to be the decision makers (on building allocations),” said county commissioner Michelle Lincoln. “They gave us the numbers (for evacuations), and then it’s up to us from there to start having the conversations,” added Marathon Mayor Robyn Still, adding that Florida Commerce “seemed like they wanted to distance themselves from any conversation about specific numbers (of permits).” Affordable housing making headway County officials said they were encouraged in early meetings about the fate of legislation that would allow a one-time use of a $25 million surplus from the Monroe County Tourist Development Council (TDC) to go toward construction of affordable housing for tourism workers.

Though recent changes allow TDC funds to be used for capital projects with “public facilities,” the new legislation would allow these “public facility” funds to be used specifically for affordable housing. “For us, it was about educating some of the different places where the bill is stopping,” said Lincoln. “Specific language was actually crafted with the assistance of the president of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, and this has received the support of all of our chambers of commerce.” Lincoln added that the bill was written to narrowly constrain distribution of the surplus to a one-time use in Monroe County alone, without larger effects on the other long-standing statutes governing the use of TDC money. Other items on the table • House Bill 565, filed by state Rep. Jim Mooney, seeks several crucial insurance reforms for the Keys. As filed, the bill would raise the maximum property value for coverage by Citizens Property Insurance Corp. from $1 million to $1.5 million and would institute a 10% annual rate cap on insurance premium increases. The bill also nixes a flood insurance requirement for Citizens policyholders who aren’t at risk of flooding – either because of their location in an “X” zone or elevation of their home at least one foot above base flood elevation. • Councilman Mark Gregg, who was among the contingent from Islamorada to visit Tallahassee, and Still both touted a new program that could fund new fire rescue boats in the islands. Gregg said Islamorada hopes to secure $300,000 from the state for equipment and training, and that “given the number of people on the water in Islamorada on any given weekend, it makes perfect sense.” Still said Marathon officials spoke extensively with District 82 state Rep. Lauren Melo about the program, which could fund units best equipped to handle all varieties of medical emergencies at sea, from heart trouble to shark bite victims, with paramedics on board. • Key West Mayor Teri Johnston said she was pleased that the Southernmost City was “successful in getting both of our appropriation requests – the Caroline Street road project and the Southernmost Point sea wall – into the Senate budget thanks to the support of Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez.” Johnston said Key West is also closely monitoring a bill with language to assist funding of homeownership units in the Lofts in Bahama Village. • A full allocation of $20 million for the Florida Keys Stewardship Act is once again in budgets for both the House and Senate. In addition to setting aside funding for state land ac-

Outgoing Monroe County School Board member Andy Griffiths and Schools Superintendent Theresa Axford pose with Florida Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz Jr. The three had a meeting with Diaz’s senior staff in Tallahassee on Jan. 25. CONTRIBUTED

Monroe County commissioners and county staff advocate for the Florida Keys with state leaders in Tallahassee on Jan. 25. From left: Commissioners Michelle Lincoln and Holly Raschein, Monroe County legislative affairs director Lisa Tennyson and County Administrator Roman Gastesi. Commissioner Jim Scholl is second from the right. MONROE COUNTY/Contributed

Monroe County commissioners and top county staff members meet with state leaders in Tallahassee on Jan. 25. MONROE COUNTYContributed

Marathon officials opted for a series of live streams on social media to cover their efforts in Tallahassee, such as this one with Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez, left, City Manager George Garrett and Mayor Robyn Still. CITY OF MARATHON/Contributed

quisition throughout the Keys and other items, the act supports critical water quality projects throughout the islands. • Lincoln said meetings with FWC officials continued to stress the derelict vessel issue throughout the Keys, reiterating that the current process leaves dozens of vessels stuck in an extensive paper trail before officials can take action. “We’re not doing anything to rattle their cage, but we asked for anything they can do to help this process become a little more expeditious, and they heard us on that,” she said.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

STATE COULD BAN SOCIAL MEDIA FOR KIDS UNDER 16 Florida House passes bill; Senate to consider it next JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

ids under 16 in Florida could soon be barred from accessing certain social media platforms that allow users to create profiles, upload content and interact with others. On Jan. 24, members of the state House voted 106-13 on a bill that would force social media platforms to terminate accounts belonging to those under the age of 16. Florida Keys State Rep. Jim Mooney co-sponsored the bill and voted in favor of it. Specific social media channels aren’t named in the bill, but language added a day before passage states its intention to outlaw platforms with “addictive, harmful or deceptive design features” meant to draw and keep users engaged. The legislation was sent to the Senate for consideration. The House and Senate must approve the bill in order for it to reach the governor’s desk, where a veto is always possible. Lawmakers in the Florida House co-sponsoring the legislation — which include Republicans and Democrats — haven’t named social media applications targeted by House Bill 1, despite questions from some opponents. The proposal doesn’t apply to websites mainly used for email, messaging and texts, news, sports, streaming services, online shopping or gaming. Opponents of the bill expressed concerns in keeping parents from having a say over their children’s access to social media platforms. Rep. Ashley Gantt, a Democrat representing Miami, agreed with the bill sponsors’ mission to protect children, but she said “it should not come at the cost of parents being the ultimate decision in how they raise their child.” Gantt also said the proposal infringes on free speech. “We see this bill be(ing) introduced and passed in other states and go(ing) into litigation,” she said. Utah passed a bill requiring social media companies to get consent from parents before minors under 18 can obtain an account. The new law will take effect this October, but it’s facing a challenge in court by NetChoice, a trade group associated with Meta, TikTok and X, on claims that it violates the First Amendment’s

guarantee of free speech. NetChoice is also in opposition to the proposal floated in Florida. House Bill 1 would also force social media platforms to use age-verification methods to ensure users meet the age requirement. An account holder would be denied if he or she fails to verify their age. The age-verification would be conducted by a non-governmental, independent, third party that is not affiliated with the social media platform. No specific punishments are outlined in the bill for minors who attempt to gain access to a social media platform. Rather, legislation targets social media companies with fines that could reach $50,000 per violation, according to the bill. Florida House Speaker Paul Renner, a Republican, said the state has a compelling interest and duty to protect children and their mental health. “We must address the harmful effects social media platforms have on the development and well-being of our kids,” he said. Republican Rep. Fiona MacFarland, a bill co-sponsor, said addictive pings and algorithms keep people turning back to their phones, turning down sleep and food to keep up with the latest happenings in the community or their social circles. “These dopamine hits are addictive. It’s like a digital fentanyl,” McFarland said. “Even the most plugged-in parent or tuned-in teen has a hard time shutting the door against these addictive features.” Mooney, a Republican who represents the Keys, was one of 26 bill co-sponsors, which included Republicans and Democrats. Mooney alluded to Democratic Rep. Michele Rayner’s stories of kids committing suicide due to cyberbullying as one of the reasons strong action needs to be taken. Rayner was also a bill co-sponsor. “The number of kids committing suicide because of cyberbullying … it’s truly frightening,” he said. “This is about kids.” In May 2023, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy released an advisory to call attention

to the effects of social media on youth mental health. The advisory noted that at crucial periods of adolescent brain development, social media use is predictive of decreases in life satisfaction, as well as additional concerns around body image and sleep issues. He also concluded that 13 years old is “too early” for children to use social media, despite most social media companies allowing 13-year-olds to use their platforms, because in early adolescence, kids are still “developing their identity, their sense of self.” Caulder Childs, public policy manager for Meta, told the House Judiciary Committee during a Jan. 17 hearing that the bill takes the decision-making away from parents as to which applications their teens can use. “At Meta, we believe parents should have the ability to ensure teens are not accessing adult content or apps they’re simply not comfortable with,” said Childs, adding that 81% of adults support parental approval for a social media account per a survey by Pew Research Center. Sue Woltanski, Monroe County school board chair, said she’s surprised to see bills passing through the state that restrict parental decisions, especially in an era where parental rights are a priority. Woltanski said she wishes to see a statewide campaign on the issues surrounding social media and the effects on the mental health of children. “I think that would be the better way. How do you learn to use it responsibly?” she said. Gov. Ron DeSantis expressed some concerns with House Bill 1 during a news conference in Kissimmee on Jan. 26. “To say that someone that is 15 just cannot have it no matter what, even if the parents consent, that may create some legal issues,” he said. “I want to give parents tools to be able to do this, so I think you have to be smart with how you do it.”

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024 BRIEFLY Lecture delves into bonefish & tarpon in Panama The 33rd annual lecture series, “The Delicate Balance of Nature,” sponsored by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, presents the first lecture of the season on Wednesday, Feb. 7. “Oceans Divided: Natural History and DNA of Bonefish and Tarpon on Either Side of the Americas” will be presented by Jack Stein Grove, founding director of the East Pacific Corridor Alliance Foundation. Grove will discuss the diversification of fishes and the oceanic significations of the Isthmus of Panama. The author of “The Fishes of the Galapagos Islands,” Jack has transited the Panama Canal fourteen times in the past five decades. His talk will focus on the species of fish that have migrated through the canal. Enjoy this dynamic speaker at the Visitor Center and Aquarium building inside John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. The park is located at MM 102.5, oceanside, and there is no cost to enter the park for the lecture series. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the lecture begins at 7:30 p.m. Seating is limited, so it is recommended that visitors arrive on time to be assured of a seat in the auditorium, which is wheelchair accessible. For more information or accessibility needs, contact Elena Muratori, Park Services Specialist, at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State park, 305-676-3786. For more information on Florida’s State Parks, visit www. FloridaStateParks.org. Card Sound to close for nighttime work The Card Sound Road resurfacing project includes the installation of “ground-in” rumble strips along the centerline and outside edges of the lanes to reduce lane departure accidents. The installation process uses large equipment that will sometimes extend into both lanes of traffic. To complete the work safely, Card Sound Road will be closed from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 5 and Tuesday, Feb. 6 into the morning of Wednesday, Feb. 7, from the intersection of County Road 905 at the south/ east end to just west of the Monroe County toll plaza on the north/west end near the Monroe County line. The closures will not impact the MiamiDade section of CR 905.

BE A BETTER BOARD MEMBER Florida Bay circa 1937. CONTRIBUTED

Stroll down memory lane through Islamorada The Historical Preservation Society of the Upper Keys presents “Islamorada Remembered — A Photo Album” on Monday, Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. at Coral Isles Church, Tavernier. The Power Point presentation offers a unique opportunity to take a nostalgic stroll down memory lane of Islamorada. Sheriff: Driver arrested on U.S. 1 A 34-year-old York, Pennsylvania man was arrested on Jan. 27 for speeding and nearly causing crashes on U.S. 1. Michael Moore was charged with resisting lawful commands and reckless driving. The sheriff’s office observed Moore driving in excess of 80 mph and nearly striking several other vehicles and pedestrians near MM 92 at approximately 4:42 p.m. Multiple motorists also reported Moore to 911. Moore refused to stand where instructed during the incident, pushed Deputies away, and tensed his body in an effort to avoid getting into a patrol vehicle. Sheriff: Man arrested for boat theft A 56-year-old Key Largo man was arrested Jan. 26 after reportedly stealing a boat trailer that belongs to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. Jonathan Scott Sharkey was charged with grand theft. The boat trailer was reported missing from John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park on Jan. 21. It was returned to its original location at the park on Jan. 25 with evidence that it had been used. Statements from witnesses and security video footage was collected, leading detectives to a Key Largo residence where they found Sharkey, who promptly admitted he took the trailer and had been using it without permission, but returned it when he learned it belonged to the sheriff’s office and the agency was investigating the theft.

Graduates from the 2023 CFFK Leadership Success Academy. CFFK/Contributed

CFFK offers 2024 Leadership Success Academy

or the first time, the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys will hold its board member training program in Islamorada. The 2024 Leadership Success Academy will be held at the Islander Resort on Tuesday, March 26 and Wednesday, March 27. Registration is online at cffk. org/LSA. The cost of the two-day program is $149 and includes lunch on both days and a graduation reception. The sessions will focus on leadership styles, board member roles, nonprofit finance, fundraising, communications and strategic planning. Individuals who participate on both days will receive a certificate of completion. A special addition this year will be a presentation from AH Monroe’s executive director Scott Pridgen, whose organization merged with the Florida Keys Outreach Coalition effective Jan. 1. He will explain the process his board went through to make this happen, and how they weighed the pros and cons of their options, ultimately choosing a merger for the greater good of the community. “Since 2008, we have trained more than 600 nonprofit leaders from throughout the Keys from over 100 different nonprofits,” said Jennifer McComb, president and CEO of the foundation. “Board members who have completed our program have learned to ask more questions, think beyond the

way things have always been done, and take steps to move the organizations they care about to the next level.” The training, which has previously been offered in Key West, was expanded to Marathon in 2020 and Key Largo in 2022, McComb said. This will be the first time hosting it in Islamorada. Coaches include nonprofit expert and consultant Alex Counts of Baltimore. Together with Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, Counts co-founded the Grameen Foundation, a global nonprofit which has helped lend over $6.5 billion to the poorest of the poor, while maintaining a repayment rate consistently above 98%. Counts is the author of three books and a frequent contributor to the Washington Post, the Stanford Social Innovation Review and the Chronicle of Philanthropy. Other 2024 presenters are Kate Banick, Bob Gold and Martha Roesler. More information is at cffk. org/LSA or from Kevin Bowes at 305-809-4992. The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys has granted over $32 million supporting arts and culture, beautification and preservation of the Keys, health and human services, disaster relief, scholarships and youth programs. The foundation helps individuals and families leave a legacy in the Keys by inspiring giving and by connecting people, resources and needs through philanthropy, More information is available from 305292-1502 or at cffk.org.     — Contributed

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

COMMUNITY RECOGNIZES FIRST RESPONDERS

LOOKING TO HIRE?

MCSD IS HOSTING A CAREER FAIR!

Week celebrates dedication to service Dottie Moses and Ann Helmers with the Island of Key Largo Federation of Homeowner Associations delivered treats and community-made thank you cards to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office on Plantation Key. CONTRIBUTED

ATTENTION EMPLOYERS & COMMUNITY PARTNERS!

he Upper Keys community came together Jan. 9-14 to celebrate first responders. Last December, Monroe County Mayor Holly Merrill Raschein presented a proclamation at the Monroe Board of County Commissioners meeting to recognize the upcoming event. Sue Woltanski, Monroe County School Board chair, organized a thankyou card campaign from local students. James “Doc” Boilini donated Doc’s Diner for a cookie-baking session to ensure every first responder got a sweet treat. The Monroe County Parks and Beaches contributed a special banner displayed at Friendship Park. Key Largo branch library sponsored story time with special guests. One visit featured the EMS team from Key Largo Fire Rescue, who read stories, let the kids tour their fire truck and even did the hokey pokey with their small fans. A second story time hosted Monroe County sheriff’s deputies as visiting heroes. Key Largo branch library also installed story walk paths at Key Largo Community Park, Plantation Key School and Key Largo School. Islamorada branch library children took a field trip to the fire station and sang songs to their local heroes. Other community organizations supporting the week of appreciation were the Key Largo Sunset Rotary, Key Largo Chamber of Commerce, Island of Key Largo Federation of Homeowners Associations, MarineLab, Upper Keys

ARE YOU LOOKING TO HIRE NEW EMPLOYEES? Meet local high school seniors and juniors who are looking for work in our communities! 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Young tykes check out a Key Largo Fire Rescue truck. CONTRIBUTED

League of Women Voters and Blue Horizon, a community support group. From the Ocean Reef public safety department to the emergency dispatch team in Marathon, it was a week of letting Keys first responders know just how much their service and dedication means. More information is available from Karen Beal at PriusChallenge@gmail. com. — Contributed

February 27, 2024 Coral Shores HS February 28, 2024 Marathon HS Employers/Businesses click on QR Code to register. Or contact MCSD at caroline.bleske@keysschools.com

February 29, 2024 Key West HS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

KEYS SCHOOL OFFICIALS SEEK STATE FUNDS Superintendent & board member head to Tallahassee for housing initiative

From left, Dade County Commissioner Rene Garcia, State Sen. Ana Maria Rodriquez, Monroe County School District Superintendent Theresa Axford and school board member Andy Griffiths meet in Tallahassee to discuss funding to support affordable work housing during Florida Keys Days. CONTRIBUTED

onroe County Schools Superintendent Theresa Axford and school board member Andy Griffiths joined the Monroe delegation to celebrate Florida Keys Day in Tallahassee last week. In addition to the festivities surrounding Florida Keys Day the school officials had a request that would enable the development of 140 units of affordable housing for teachers. In order for Integra, the company that won the bid to develop housing at the district’s Trumbo Road headquarters to move ahead, the administration building there has to be demolished. The 52 workers in the building can be relocated to the school district-owned Bruce Hall on United Street. But that historic structure, built in 1925 as an Ecclesiastical Seminary for the Episcopal Church, needs serious renovations. The renovation will cost $20 million, according to estimates. The building would be a community treasure when renovated. It would not only house school district offices but also have meeting rooms and other amenities

for the community. Axford was in Tallahassee last year, too, pushing for assistance with the renovation. Florida Keys State Rep. Jim Mooney and State Sen. Ana Maria Rodriquez were able to get $2 million allocated to the project, but that’s not enough. Mooney and Rodriguez are supporting the effort this year also. Axford is again working with them to get the rest of the money. She has been working on this project since she became superintendent and has enlisted the help of Education Commissioner Manny Diaz, whose support and advice have been instrumental in moving the project forward. He can articulate what is needed at Trumbo Point clearly and has been speaking to legislators in Tallahassee to gain their support. Diaz knows affordable housing is a real need in Monroe County to attract and keep good teachers. Axford plans to meet with Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez in the near future to gain her support as well. The allocation would be a one-time ask for Monroe County schools. — Contributed

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

KIDS SAIL THE SEAS Buccaneer Blast draws Kids enjoy an inflatable slide during the 2019 Winter Fest at Coral Isles Church. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

FUN FOR ALL Massive yard sale a Winter Fest favorite JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

ool temperatures in the Florida Keys this past week have set the stage for an upcoming winter festival on Plantation Key at MM 90. More than 40 vendors will descend upon Coral Isles Church’s grounds — and one of the largest indoor yard sales returns — for the annual Winter Fest on Saturday. Feb. 4. Now in its 12th year, the idea for the family-friendly event came from Susan Ashmore as a fundraiser for the church. There will be food and music, a kid’s zone and vendor tents featuring arts, crafts, apparel and more. Members of the congregation spent the past several days sorting through items for the yard sale inside the church sanctuary. It’s one of the big attractions for many who attend Winter Fest. “We have people who wait in line to see what’s for sale,” Ashmore said. A “buy it now auction” is another unique feature of Winter Fest. Instead of people writing their names down for a silent auction, Ashmore

said patrons can scoop up gift cards for a great price. “We say, ‘Here’s a $50 gift card; buy it now for $40.’ People can find some deals on local restaurants, artwork, services and all kinds of stuff.” Kids attractions include two bounce houses, a water slide and other games. Live music runs all day, and festival fare will include pulled pork, meatballs and burgers. Adult beverages will also be available. Ashmore said Winter Fest also features a recycled jewelry sale with donations provided by people who no longer wear their necklaces, earrings, bracelets and other accessories. The church will also have a booth with towels, aprons and other products created by a sewing group that meets once a week. “It’s a fun day. It’s a lot of work,” Ashmore said about Winter Fest. “Everybody in our church gets involved in some way. It builds camaraderie and we all get to know each other better and see people we know in the community.” Winter Fest runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission and parking are free. For more information, call 305-8525813 or visit Coral Isles Church on Facebook.

competitors across the globe

ore than 200 young sailors are gearing up to battle it out on the high seas in the Keys’ biggest sailing regatta this weekend. The Mark Sorensen Youth Sailing Program’s Buccaneer Blast will take place at the Upper Keys Sailing Club in Key Largo and Founders Park in Islamorada. With competing sailors from as far away as Bermuda, Mexico, the Philippines and all points north in the U.S., the local team is looking to bring home some booty. More than 80 volunteers from the Upper Keys Sailing Club come together to help run the Florida Keys regatta, which boasts prizes suited to the competing age groups. With pirate heads, ships in a bottle and enough pieces of eight to go around, local residents and visitors can see this happy bunch of buccaneers sailing off Founders Park Saturday, Feb. 3 and Sunday, Feb. 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“Sailing is a sport that can literally last a lifetime,” said Dominic Marsden, director for the Mark Sorensen Sailing program who began sailing at age 11. “Unlike most ball sports, here’s a sport in which you never stop learning. Living on this chain of islands, surrounded by water and super weather, we should be among the best sailors in the world. You just never know where the next Olympian is coming from.” — Contributed

1. Sailors with the Mark Sorensen Youth Sailing Program range in age from 8 to 17. They’ll compete in the annual Buccaneer Blast Feb. 3-4 in Key Largo and Islamorada. CONTRIBUTED. 2. Young sailors take to the waters off the Upper Keys for the annual sailing competition. 3. Pirate-themed plaques are up for grabs during the 2024 Buccaneer Blast.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

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FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY & DISCOVERY CENTER PRESENTS

LUNCH & LEARN

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February 5, 2024 • 12:00 pm- 1:00pm Admission $15 (member) $25 (Non-Member) Lunch Included

For questions or additional information email programs@keydiscovery.com or call 305-922-2237 82100 Overseas Highway, MM 82 on the property of the Islander Resort

2024 Series Sponsored by the Joe and Lindy Roth Foundation Winter Lecture Season Sponsored by Phyllis Mitchell in memory of Bob Mitchell

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

MEMBERSHIP SOCIAL LUNCHEON Thursday, Feb. 8, 11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

Upper Keys pickleball players attend a clinic at Founders Park focusing on the physical and mental aspects of the game. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys Weekly

ISLAMORADA PICKLEBALL COMMUNITY RALLIES FOR MORE COURTS

Players compete for space as sport explodes in popularity KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL www.keysweekly.com

im Booth recently started taking pickleball lessons at Founders Park, and like so many others, she’s already addicted to the sport.

PIXABAY

“This pickleball, it has me completely hooked,” Booth said. “If I could go to adult sleep-away camp to learn more about pickleball, I’d be there,” she added with a laugh.

For Booth, pickleball has filled a void in her life left by retirement. Two years ago, after 42 years of ownership, Booth’s family sold their iconic business, Norman Brothers Produce in Kendall. Her life suddenly felt empty, until pickleball. “I believe in this game. It is such great exercise. It’s meeting people,” said Booth. Booth lives in Homestead and commutes two to three times a week down to Founders Park to learn more about the country’s fastest growing sport. Her husband volunteers with the Islamorada Fire Department and is the one who introduced her to the game. “Pickleball is my passion and I am just so eager and thirsty to learn every bit of this game,” she said. On one recent day, Booth was watching some of the best players from the Upper Keys take tips from two pickleball professionals during a clinic at Founders Park. Jennifer Gallwas and her pickleball partner David George play in the National Pickleball League for the Naples team. Gallwas is a physical therapist and lives in Chicago. George is an ethics and philosophy professor at Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana. To offset the costs associated with participating in tournaments, the professor and PT host clinics around the country. The clinics focus on both the physical and mental aspects of pickleball. “I’m trying to really incorporate how to stay strong and support your joints, and not just for pickleball, but for life,” said Gallwas. “At a certain level, it’s not about who has the best forehand, it’s about who can hit that shot under pressure, who doesn’t break down, who keeps a positive attitude, who doesn’t yell at their partner, things like that,” said George. Susie Jannach is a tennis professional who also teaches pickleball at Founders Park and runs the pickleball program. Six years ago, she held an open house on the basketball courts to gauge local interest in pickleball. The response was overwhelming with more than 100 people turning out. “Being a tennis coach I knew it was only going to be a matter of time before I needed to incorporate pickleball,” said Jannach of the sport’s rising popularity. Pickleball has become so popular, securing court time can be challenging and frustrating. At Founders, the three courts in the dedicated pickleball area are always busy. Two

additional courts have been added to the basketball courts, but players say it’s simply not enough. “When the snowbirds come down or people that have second homes come down here during the winter, there are lines and it gets a little chaotic; people just want to play,” said Islamorada’s Russell Hubartt. He plays pickleball every day and is one of about a dozen players who have resorted to hitting the courts before the sun comes up, at 6 a.m., to get some playing time in before the crowds arrive. “Down here we have three courts and it’s beautiful, but I wish we could have a dedicated 10 courts; that would be perfect and everybody could play,” added Key Largo’s Scott Van. He is so devoted to the sport, he started his own pickleball paddle and apparel line called diNGK Sports. Van and Hubartt are accomplished, ranked players. During the recent clinic, they even managed to beat the visiting pros during a game. Islamorada resident and pickleball enthusiast David Epstein has been pushing for more courts for at least a year and a half. He also serves on the Islamorada Parks and Recreation Citizens’ Advisory Committee. “It is a battle to get on the court,” said Epstein, who would like to see six additional courts built at the park. “I’ve been passionate about it,” he added. But exactly where to build the courts and how to pay for them continues to be the subject of debate. Maria Bagiotti is the director of Founders Park, a position she’s held since 2017. She’s worked at Founders for 23 years. “I do understand why everyone is so intrigued with it; it’s fun,” she said of the interest in pickleball. Bagiotti said the village is in the process of hiring an engineering firm to come up with an overall plan for Founders amenities, including its pickleball complex. “What they are looking at is adding more additional courts to where they are at right now,” said Bagiotti. She adds a lot of details would need to be resolved, including funding, parking and lighting. “There is a need and the public has been very verbal about it,” said Jannach. “We’re hoping to get them (courts) sooner than later.” Visiting pickleball pro Jennifer Gallwas believes the sport will continue to gain in popularity. “People want to play,” she said. “It’s inclusive. It’s something you can do at any age.”

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

ISLAMORADA HOSTS WIND GAMES

Kiteboarders & wing foilers test their skills A kiteboarder takes to the Florida Keys waters during last year’s Wind Games. CONTRIBUTED

iteboarders and wing foilers from around the world will blow into Islamorada for the Wind Games, set for FridaySunday, Feb. 9-11 on the Atlantic Ocean beach at Whale Harbor, MM 83.4. Presented by Otherside Boardsports, the event includes five games that are expected to attract professional-level athletes as well as recreational enthusiasts. All games are scored using a cumulative point system. The fun begins Friday, Feb. 9, from 3 to 10 p.m., with rider checkin and the “rail jam,” an open riding session during which participants encounter obstacles like ramps and rails. The Sandbar at Whale Harbor

serves as the site of a welcome party for participants and spectators with live music, food and drink specials, and a prime view of the warmup action from its rooftop deck. On Saturday, Feb. 10, games take place from 9 a.m. until sunset, with a 7 p.m. after-party at Ocean View Inn & Sports Pub, MM 84.5 in Islamorada. On Sunday, Feb. 11, the games begin at 9 a.m. An awards ceremony is slated for 5 p.m. on the beach. The schedule of game activities each day will be determined closer to the event based on weather conditions. The games require at least 12 knots of wind to proceed. The “rain dates,” which are actually “no wind dates,” are Feb. 16-18. Game 1 in the series is a 12-mile

round-trip race around Alligator Reef Lighthouse. Racers can choose from the categories of kiteboard, kite foil or wing foil. All registration dollars from the race support the Save Alligator Light nonprofit organization working on the lighthouse’s preservation and restoration. Game 2 is the crowd-pleasing freestyle competition where top athletes show off their skills. Big air and technical tricks will be scored in the categories of professional, amateur, women, youth and masters. During Game 3, the poker run, riders are provided waterproof score cards. They are to maneuver to boats positioned offshore until they have collected a five-card, luck-of-the-draw poker hand. The best hand wins.

Game 4 is a team relay. Teams of four kiteboarders race around the course one at a time, with the kite and kiteboard serving as the baton that’s passed from one rider to another. Fans typically line the beach to cheer for their favorite teams during the competition. Game 5 is the “floatie fail.” Teams of two have a single kite and swap out their kiteboards for an oversized inflatable bird float in the just-for-fun downwind race. Floats include giant flamingos, swans, ducks and more. The first team through the finish line wins. Registration for the games opened Jan. 9. — Contributed

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HILLBILLY DELUXE WINS CHEECA TOURNAMENT 34th annual sailfish competition brings 84 anglers

he 34th annual Cheeca Lodge and Spa Presidential Sailfish Tournament kicked off on the beach with 84 anglers, plus friends and family. The two-day competition was a game of multiple hook ups and releases. In the end, Hillbilly Deluxe came away with the tournament victory. The first triple header was called into the committee boat at 10:23 a.m. on Jan. 20 aboard the Tackle Center by Capt. Charlie Scoble. The team successfully released one of the three sailfish. Hillbilly Deluxe called in their first triple header at 10:31 a.m. and all three fish were released, propelling them to the lead by 11:05 a.m. The next triple of the day went to Back in Business followed by a triple on the Cloud Nine, Relentless and Crisdel. Day two was another wolf pack kind of day, with triple hook ups on the Killbox and Hillbilly Deluxe, plus a couple of double headers. In the end Hillbilly Deluxe Capt. Trevor Frins led Tavernier anglers Jess Frins, Tyler Webb, Cody Gunther and Hank Pin-

der, along with Mark Toledo, of Hollywood, and Parker Cox, of Key Largo, to the winners circle with six released sailfish. Photograph prints by Tim Rahn Photography were presented to all winners, including the most outstanding captain award won by Frins and the Outstanding Mate award won by Cody Gunther. Angler Jess Frins won an original painting from artist and Cheeca employee Osvaldo Fernandez Diaz for the top lady angler award with two releases. Capt. Greg Eklund, of the charter boat Cloud Nine from Bud N’ Mary’s Marina, led his anglers to second place with five releases. The team included anglers Donald Gibbs, of Fort Lauderdale, Cory Nelson, of Islamorada, and Tavernier anglers Erik Ehlers and Ben Esh. Third place went to Back in Business with Florida anglers Matt McLean from Naples, John Watson from Parkland, Audrey Koocher and Mike Mason from Islamorada each releasing a sailfish. Capt. Robert Collins, along with additional anglers Robert Helms and Brooks Gregory, all from

Hillbilly Deluxe wins the 34th Cheeca Lodge and Spa Presidential Tournament on Jan. 21. TARA BETH PHOTOGRAPHY/Contributed

Islamorada, released four sailfish. The Tackle Center of Islamorada owner Donny Lange won Top Male Angler with a total of two releases. Top Junior Angler award went to Andy Cone fishing on the Trophy Hunter with his dad Capt. Brian Cone at the helm with two releases. Most tagged fish team was the Hillbilly Deluxe with three. A total of 42 sailfish were released over the two-day event and six of those fish were tagged. The tournament’s awards ceremonies were

held in the new grand ballroom. “I would like to thank all the anglers, captains and people who helped to make this tournament a great success,” said Cheeca Lodge and Spa’s Bill Coteron. “We are looking forward to our 35th anniversary of the tournament next year.” The 2025 Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Tournament will take place on Jan. 17-19. — Contributed

SWAMP GUIDES BALL THIS WEEKEND Tournament supports local foundation

From left, Andy Yaffa, Jared Raskob, Reid Raskob, 3, and Steve Friedman, commodore of the Florida Keys Fishing Guides Association and tournament coordinator during the 2021 Swamp Guides Ball. GREG POLAND/Contributed

he backcountry fishing challenge known as the Swamp Guides Ball is set for FridaySaturday, Feb. 2-3 in Islamorada. The 34th annual all-release tournament targets redfish, snook and bonefish. All anglers are welcome to compete and are not required to hire a professional guide to participate. Many Keys backcountry guides climb down from their poling platforms and pick up fishing rods each year to join the competitors. Headquartered at the Safe Harbor Angler House, MM 80.5, the event benefits the Florida Keys Fishing Guides Foundation and the Guides Trust Foundation, organizations that assist fishing guides who can’t work because of serious injury or illness. The registration and kickoff party are set for Friday, Feb. 2, at the host location. Activities begin at 5 p.m. with the pickup of scoring packets and measuring devices. Participants can check

out the online silent auction and listen to live music by the Carousers. The online auction will feature fishing and boating gear, artwork, guided fishing trips and other items. The auction link, 32auctions.com/ SGB2024, went live in mid-January. Lines-in is set for 7 a.m. Saturday, Feb 3. Anglers can launch from anywhere between Key Largo and Marathon, excluding Flamingo. Linesout will be called at 3 p.m. and final check-in with the scorekeeper is set for 5 p.m. The awards “Ball” begins at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at Safe Harbor Angler House. Entry fee is $400 per two-angler boat team and $200 for a youth team of two anglers age 17 and under. Scan the QR code here for more information. — Contributed

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

PRESIDENTIAL DESCENDANTS VISIT KEY WEST

MCSO QUARTERLY AWARD WINNERS HONORED

Relatives take part in forum at Little White House

Clifton Truman Daniel

James Earl Carter

Kurt Graham

Massee McKinley

Patricia Taft

Ulysses Grant Dietz

n Saturday, Feb. 17, the Key West Harry S. Truman Foundation and The Society of Presidential Descendants will host six descendants of U.S. presidents who will take part in a moderated panel discussion at the Harry S. Truman Little White House, 111 Front St. An annual ticketed event that takes place before a live audience, the “Presidential Descendants Forum” is the largest such Presidents’ Day Weekend gathering in the country. The descendants will discuss “Political Maneuvering: The Powerful Influence of the Presidency.” Participants include James Carter, grandson of Jimmy Carter; Clifton Truman Daniel, grandson of Harry S. Truman; Ulysses Grant Dietz, great-great-grandson of Ulysses S. Grant; Mary Jean Eisenhower, granddaughter of Dwight D. Eisenhower; Massee McKinley, great-great grandson of Grover Cleveland; and Patri-

Mary Jean Eisenhower

cia Taft, great-granddaughter of William H. Taft. Kurt Graham, director of Independence, Missouri’s Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, will serve as moderator. The Harry S. Truman Little White House, where Truman spent 11 working vacations during his 1945-1953 administration, is Florida’s only presidential museum. Forum tickets are $40 each for foundation members and $60 for non-members. The discussion begins at 4:30 p.m., with doors and cash bar opening at 4 p.m. Following the forum, winners of the inaugural Monroe County student essay competition will be announced, after which attendees can mingle and enjoy cocktails on the lawn. More information is at www.trumanlittlewhitehouse. org/foundation/events. — Contributed

he Monroe County Sheriff’s Office recently held its quarterly member awards ceremony in Marathon. Members of the fourth quarter of 2023 were recognized for exemplary service to the agency and to the citizens of Monroe County. Members were also recognized for their years of service to the agency. From left: Deputy of the Quarter William Guerra, Bureau of Corrections Deputy of the Quarter Ybelisse Rodriguez, Sheriff Rick Ramsay, Reserve Deputy of the Quarter Tiffany Rodda, and Support Member of the Quarter Michael Cabot. MCSO/Contributed

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he world’s only motorized banana and other specialty cars graced the parking lot of American Caribbean Real Estate at MM 99 on Jan. 21 for the inaugural Key Largo Cars and Coffee event. Sandbar Donuts coffee and donuts were available to be purchased — hot or cold brew — and car and coffee enthusiasts coalesced into a community for a morning of chats. Their contribution benefited MarrVelous Pet Rescues, this month’s charity. The idea was inspired by Lorie Leal, real estate agent, car aficionado and keeper of two miniature schnauzers. A fan of the Jerry Seinfeld show “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee,” she and her husband own a red sporty car themselves, complete with sexy black Corbeau racer seats. “As an autophile myself, I am

thrilled to host a Cars and Coffee event right here in Key Largo,” she said. “The response from fellow enthusiasts who displayed their beautiful cars and the spectators that came to admire them was amazing. My brokerage, American Caribbean Christie’s International Real Estate’s downtown Key Largo location at MM 100 is the perfect venue, Sandbar Donuts’ selection of fresh donuts was delicious and the Florida Keys winter weather was spectacular.” The next Key Largo Coffee and Cars will be held on Sunday, Feb. 11 from 9 a.m. to noon at 99900 Overseas Highway, Key Largo. If you would like to display your vehicle, there’s a $20 donation to benefit a local charity. To reserve your spot, contact Leal on Instagram @KeyLargoCarsAndCoffee, Facebook at Key Largo Cars & Coffee, or visit KeyLargoCarsAndCoffee.com.

1. Car enthusiasts attend the inaugural car show with coffee on Jan. 21 at American Caribbean Real Estate in Key Largo. LORIE LEAL/Contributed. 2. Classic cars parked at American Caribbean Real Estate in Key Largo for the inaugural Key Largo Cars and Coffee. 3. Classic cars fill the parking lot at American Caribbean Real Estate.

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AFTERNOON TEA WITH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Islamorada Village of Islands Meeting Schedule February 2024

Upcoming parties support homes for families

Unless otherwise noted, meetings are held at the Founders Park Community Center, 87000 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada

Wednesday, Feb. 7, 3 p.m. Islamorada Youth Council Monday, Feb. 12, 5:30 p.m. Local Planning Agency Tuesday, Feb. 13, 5:30 p.m. Regular Village Council Meeting Thursday, Feb. 15, 4 p.m. Attorney-Client Session Islamorada Administrative Center and Public Safety Headquarters, 86800 Overseas Highway, Third Floor Conference Room

Thursday, Feb. 15, 5:30 p.m. Regular Village Council Meeting Tuesday, Feb. 20, 5 p.m. Workforce/Aﬀordable Housing Citizens Advisory Committee Islamorada Administrative Center and Public Safety Headquarters, 86800 Overseas Highway, Third Floor Conference Room Two or more members from the Village Council and members from various Village Committees may be present at meetings. These meetings are open to the public. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, all persons who are disabled and who need special accommodations to participate in this meeting because of that disability should contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA@Islamorada.ﬂ.us or by phone at 305-664-6448 at least 48 hours before the scheduled meeting.

To participate via Zoom, please scan code to the Village Calendar and refer to the Public Notice for speciﬁc meeting log-in information.

PIXABAY

here will be an afternoon tea in support of Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys, sponsored by Zero Dress Code, to help set the stage for its upcoming Kentucky Derby-themed cocktail party on March 8. Supporters are invited to join in for an afternoon filled with tea, champagne and the opportunity to bid on fascinators and Kentucky Derby hats that will add a touch of glamor to their ensembles for the cocktail party. The afternoon tea will be held at the Ocean Harbor Condominium clubhouse in Islamorada on Thurs-

day, Feb. 7 from 3 to 6 p.m. and includes a selection of teas and enjoy champagne, along with light bites to support a great cause. The event also features the auction of fascinators and hats, each a unique creation to complement your style for the upcoming Kentucky Derbythemed party. Additional raffles and bidding opportunities will round out the afternoon. Space is limited and tickets are available on a first come/first served basis at www.habitatupperkeys.org. — Contributed

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024 Islamorada, Village of Islands REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS RFP 24-03 FOUNDERS PARK SPLASH PAD RESURFACING PROJECT Bid Submittal Deadline: 3:00 p.m. February 20, 2024 Islamorada, Village of Islands is seeking formal proposals from qualified contractors to provide the materials and services needed to resurface the Splash Pad at the Ron Levy Aquatic Center in Islamorada’s Founders Park. Specifications and details are provided in the RFP document and exhibits.

MASTERS OF SOUND

Cellist Zlatomir Fung, left, and pianist Benjamin Hochman perform at Coral Shores High School’s Performing Arts Center in January. CONTRIBUTED

Pianist and young cellist take stage ASTA KRASKOUSKAS

www.keysweekly.com

lorida Keys Concert Association presented its second concert of the season at Coral Shores and Marathon high schools with Zlatomir Fung on Jan. 22-23. He’s the youngest cellist to win first prize at the Tchaikovsky Competition; in the Keys, he played with acclaimed pianist and conductor Benjamin Hochman. The evening’s program included music of Robert Schumann, a 19th century German romantic; Marshall Estrin, a 21st century New York-based modern classic; Benjamin Britten, a 20th century British classic, and Sulkhan Tsintsadze, a 20th century Georgian classic. The four compositions had one thing in common — they all had five movements. Fung explained that for a long time he had an idea of playing a program of five movements. “A composer has to put an extra effort to compose five movements,” Fung said. Fung, of Bulgarian and Chinese heritage, was born into a family of mathematicians. He is the second youngest in the family. Of the three other siblings, only the youngest brother plays music. The cellist’s hobbies are movies and playing chess. His cello is a rare Domenico Montagnana instrument of circa 1729. Fung’s musical mission has three aspects. First, he loves playing music as a craft. Second, Fung loves sharing interesting music. Third is to have a special experience — a space that happens between him and the audience. The 24-year-old cellist has already proven himself a star among the next generation of world-class musicians. At the concert, he executed every composition, every movement, every sound with intense emotion.

“I enjoyed the depth of the talent,” Cynthia Finamore, a season ticket holder, said. Hochman’s mission is to make great art. He plays solo recitals, concerts, chamber music and conducts orchestras. Hochman claims that he loves music and loves making it at the highest level. Hochman was born and raised in Israel. He has one elder brother, a mathematician. His parents are professors of literature. Hochman’s hobbies include running, cooking and spending time with friends and family. As a soloist, he loves playing Schubert, Schumann, Beethoven and Brahms. During the concert, Hochman was technically and emotionally connected with Fung’s playing in such a manner that it impressed everyone. Hochman said contemporary music is very broad. Sometimes it takes time to listen to it for the second time. “There are a few factors. There is a factor of fear. Try to be open. Not immediately have an opinion. Try to have an experience. It is important to keep an open mind,” he said. Fung said it is important to play new contemporary composers. “You never know, will a new music work be liked? Sometimes there is no choice. If the composition is commissioned, we have to play it. The most important thing for contemporary music is to be played by a second person. (It says something when) the piece is picked up by someone else and is played again.” The next concerts will feature the Balourdet String Quartet on Monday, Feb. 12 at Marathon High School and Tuesday, Feb. 13 at Coral Shores High School. The concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. Visit FLKCA.com for more information.

To be eligible for selection consideration, a submittal package must contain all documentation detailed in Section VIII of the RFP document. Submit one (1) original printed package and three (3) printed copies, and one (1) electronic copy provided by email attachment or cloud storage link to clerk@islamorada.fl.us. The printed documents shall be enclosed in a sealed envelope and be marked on the upper left-hand corner with the name and address of the contractor and bear the following title: “Founders Park Splash Pad Resurfacing Project (RFP 24-03).” Submit sealed proposal packages by certified mail or in person to: Islamorada, Village of Islands, Attn: Village Clerk 86800 Overseas Highway Islamorada, Florida 33036 Go to https://www.islamorada.fl.us/bids.aspx?bidID=23 to view and download the bid documents.

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KEEPING TERRAPINS OUT OF TRAPS

Blue crab fishing? This device is required

1. Diamondback terrapins are small turtles that live in the mangroves and brackish waters. PIXABAY 2. The bycatch reduction device provides a smaller opening to reduce the catching and drowning of diamondback terrapins. RICK O’CONNOR/Contributed

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

he Monroe County Extension Office is offering free bycatch reduction devices (BRDs) that have been required on all recreational blue crab traps since March 1, 2023. Although Monroe County does not have a large recSHELLY reational blue crab fishery, KRUEGER it is essential to meet these is the University legal requirements because of Florida, IFAS blue crab fishing without an Monroe County adequately installed BRD is a Extension Florida second-degree misdemeanor Sea Grant Agent. offense. Penalties are up to Shelly is a marine biologist and $500 per trap and a mandatory court appearance. Adding provides sciencebased education these BRDs provides a smaller about coastal trap opening to reduce the environments. likelihood of catching and drowning diamondback terrapins. Research has shown the 6-inch by 2-inch plastic devices are successful at keeping diamondback terrapins out of the traps, yet large enough to allow the blue crabs to enter the traps for capture. These new BRD regulations are for blue crab traps only — this does not apply to the black plastic recreational stone crab traps. For the 2024-2025 stone crab season, there is a new regulation that applies to recreational and commercial stone crab traps: an unobstructed escape ring 2-3/16” in diameter must be located within a vertical exterior trap wall. The escape ring allows smaller stone crabs to escape from the traps

where larger stone crabs frequently eat them. Diamondback terrapins are small turtles that live in the mangroves and brackish waters of estuaries from Massachusetts to Texas. They are a species of particular concern, endangered or threatened throughout their range. Out of the seven subspecies of diamondback terrapins, five live in Florida, and three of the seven sub-populations only live in Florida (mangrove, Florida, and ornate). The mangrove diamondback terrapin only lives in the brackish waters of the Florida Keys and Everglades. Like all diamondback terrapins, the mangrove diamondback terrapin is a secretive reptile foraging on mussels, clams, snails and crabs. These turtles are known to enter blue crab traps for an easy blue crab meal. Since turtles are air breathers, they frequently drown in blue crab traps, a significant cause of their decline. Mangrove diamondback terrapins live around 25 years, and it takes females five years to become reproductive when they start having two to three clutches of five to 10 eggs per year. In addition to negative encounters with blue crab traps, they are collected for the pet trade and Asian live food markets. Since March 2021, terrapins may not be collected for pets or food in Florida. People with terrapins may keep their pets but must register them with a no-cost Personal Possession permit from the FWC. The Monroe County Extension office has free BRDs (bycatch reduction devices) for recreational blue crab traps. Please call 305-292-4501 or email shellykrueger@ufl.edu for more information.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

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ithout fail, within 10 minutes of pulling up to any beach or parking the boat, I’m inevitably asked with desperation where I got my dog’s life vest. If that person has a keen eye they usually notice the collar as well. I excitedly reply, “Stunt Puppy.” Being a local and a boat owner, our dogs are in the water most weekends out of the month. I spent years – and I mean years – buying, testing and returning life jacket after life jacket for my pups. Either it didn’t help them float much or it just rubbed them the wrong way and would irritate their skin. I swear some even seemed to try to drown them. Both of my pooches are great swimmers, but I don’t want to test exhaustion and I sure hate that occasional mouthful of saltwater that ends up happening without a vest, especially its later effects. Cue the best thing I’ve ever bought: Stunt Puppy’s float doggy life vest. It was the first life jacket I’ve seen that actually took a canine’s anatomy into consideration. The handle on top along with the leash loop make keeping your dog nearby easy whether in the water or on land. The real difference is they were the first jacket I’ve seen to have floating material on the chest and near the stomach. My tykes just seem so much more balanced and buoyant. This is very important for keeping their head

above water for any unexpected boat wakes. Finding this product has completely changed our experience on the water with our doggies and I just felt like every SAMANTHA animal-loving local should DELLILO know. It doesn’t is a Keys native who has a passion for all stop there; as if things food. She runs I wasn’t already an impressed the local food blog, lifelong custom“Florida Keys Eats.” er, they made a dry collar. It’s a waterproof collar that allows your fur baby to get soaked and not worry about a water-logged, soggy collar around their neck. If you don’t have a pet, this might all not seem like a big deal. Those who are parents of any kind know when you find a product that improves your life in so many ways, it means the world. I don’t get paid or anything like that for sharing this product with you; I just wish someone did me the favor of telling me it existed years ago. Go ahead and splurge and get the furry love of your life a premium life vest. They will thank you with puppy kisses and barks. Order yours in time for the dog days of summer at www. StuntPuppy.com.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

FOX SANCTUARY PREPARES FOR PUBLIC TOURS Plus a Ralphie Bra Walk preview

i friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” Last week, mom and one of our carpenters ripped up the floors in the back of the house where we foxes are allowed in. Then, we all got locked out of mom’s room, which isn’t really her room any more because we’ve successfully taken it over in the past three years. I’m not sure what’s going on, but I don’t like it. We can still go inside, but we now only have access to one room. Only one room in the house instead of two? Somebody call the ASPCA because I’d like to file an animal cruelty report. Now listen, I know we can be a lot. I know we just take what we want, when we want. I mean, maybe mom deserves a home office or sanctuary of her own. But it’s going to take me a minute to get used to this. Aside from that, we have quite the itinerary of things happening in February. I’m not going to spoil any surprises, but some really cool people

are coming to visit. Like, super duper cool. I have been sworn to secrecy even though I should just spill the tea to get back at mom for taking away a room. I can tell you though, that a group of amazing volunteers REEF are coming SaturTHE FOX day, Feb. 3 to help get some things Reef is a red fox ready around the that was saved from a fur farm. sanctuary so we can hopefully open He now lives in Key Largo with up to the public his human, Nicole for tours starting Navarro. in March. I know mom had wanted to start tours in January but some things happened and it got pushed back. The group coming is the Florida Animal Rescue Alliance. They visited last year and spent literally all day helping out. Their mission is to “extend a helping hand and forge alliances with like-minded sanctuaries, aiming to create a lasting impact.” We

are so grateful that they are coming. Sunday, Feb. 4 is the Ralphie Walk — a bra/poker/pub crawl for charity. The party starts at 11 a.m at Sharkey’s. Make sure to decorate your most creative, wild, loud and silly bras and/ or tutus. All money raised is donated directly to the Cancer Foundation of the Florida Keys and the Upper Keys Humane Society. Registration is at Sharkey’s on the day of the event and is a $25 donation. Registration includes six poker sheets. Additional poker sheets are available for purchase. Participants with the best poker hands at the end of the walk will win exciting prizes. A party follows at the Caribbean Club, featuring live music by some of the best musicians of the Upper Keys, including Luke Sommer Glenn, Adam Musick, Jimmy Hawkins, Eddie James and more. You won’t want to miss it. Anywho, that’s all for this week. Stay up to date with all things fox by visiting our social media channels. All links to those can be found on our website at pawsitivebeginnings.org Reef, over and out!

A bra walk participant displays his festive bra during the annual Ralphie Bra Walk in January 2020. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

SAVE THE DATE Thursday, Feb. 1 • Foreign Policy Association’s Great Decisions: Mideast Realignment from 2 tot 3 p.m. at Key Largo library. • MarrVelous Pet Rescues’ Yappy Hour from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Skippers Dockside, Key Largo. Dogs must be vaccinated, well-behaved and leashed.

noon to 3 p.m. at Friendship Park, Key Largo.

Friday, Feb. 2 • Feeding South Florida hosts a “Garden Sort/Plant Parts We Eat” activity and food demonstration from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at Key Largo library. • Fifth annual Pascal Weisberger Day of Service with a cleanup from 4 to 6 p.m. at Harry Harris Park, Tavernier. • First Friday Concert Series presents The Kennedys, a New York-based duo, at 6 p.m. at Key Largo library.

Monday, Feb. 5 • Florida Keys History & Discovery Center’s Lunch and Learn with Jono Miller, historian and author of “The Palmetto Book” at noon. Event is $15 for museum members and $25 for nonmembers. Lunch is included.

Saturday, Feb. 3 • Plantation Key School PTA’s annual Family Color Run at 8 a.m. at Coral Shores High School. Check in begins at 7 a.m. Race is $25 per child/ adult. • 12th annual Winter Fest from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Coral Isles Church, MM 90, Tavernier. • Wellness Fair hosted by Florida Department of Health in Monroe from

Wednesday, Feb. 7 • JOY classes from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church, MM 87.5, bayside, Islamorada. Visit justolderyouthinc.org to view the full schedule of activities. • Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys’ Fascinator Party from 3 to 6 p.m. at Ocean Harbour Condominium clubhouse, 87851 Old Highway, Islamorada.

Sunday, Feb. 4 • Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responders’ Marine Mammals & Mimosas from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at The Oasis, 82703 Old Highway, Islamorada.

Tuesday, Feb. 6 • LEGO Club for ages 6-11 at 4:30 p.m. at Key Largo library.

TRIXTER

rixter is a 1-yearold male who was found by Angie with Whiskers & Paws. He was found abandoned and declawed, but is now seeking a permanent home. If you would like to make Trixster a part of your family, or to learn more about other pets available for adoption, give the Upper Keys Humane Society (UKHS) a call at 305-451-3848. UKHS is a nonprofit no-kill shelter that provides food, shelter, medical care and adoption services for unwanted and abandoned animals.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

INVASIVES ON THE ISLANDS Exotic trade brought nonnatives to the Florida Keys Veiled chameleon captured on Plantation Key. BRAD BERTELLI/Contributed

s a kid who grew up hunting snakes and catching lizards, I find South Florida and the Keys to be something of a reptilian mecca. It is a mecca, however, for all the wrong reasons. There is an impressive array of reptiles that are native to the FLORIDA Keys and, for a lover of these KEYS scaly things, quite a few invasive HISTORY species, too. Two of the indigWITH enous species are the American BRAD and the crocodile. Did BERTELLI alligator you know that South Florida and the Keys are the only places in Brad is a local historian, author, the world where alligators and speaker and crocodiles coexist? Honorary Conch These are not saltwater who loves sharing crocodiles like the man-killers the history of the in Australia, but the American Florida Keys. crocodile, a generally shy and reclusive animal. What makes them dangerous for those members of your family not named Spot or Fluffy is feeding them and tossing pieces of meat to draw them closer – especially while standing at the cleaning station after a day out on the water fishing. When they associate people with food, they lose their natural fear and become considered no longer part of the ecosystem but a nuisance. Nuisance crocodiles and alligators are often euthanized because they pose a threat to humans. Invasive reptiles are not a new thing to the Keys. In my yard alone, a whole host can be found. Of course, there are iguanas, the newly everywhere curly-tailed lizards, the occasional red-headed agama and several species of geckos. These exotic species are introduced into the environment for a myriad of reasons. For instance, the curly-tailed lizard was released into the sugar cane fields in the hopes that they would act as a form of pest control. While iguana iguana, the green iguana, has all but taken over South Florida and the Keys, it is indigenous to Central and South America.

How did they wind up in South Florida? It started with the exotic pet trade. The little green fellows escaped some of the enclosures attempting to hold them, and others were set free by thoughtless owners. In 1964, an exotic pet store owner from Miami released 300 green iguanas – on purpose. Invasive geckos, too, were introduced to the area through the exotic pet trade. Three species of invasive geckos can be seen around my yard and house – there are others crawling around the island chain. Mediterranean geckos come out at night and are the ones my cat catches inside. Tokay geckos from Indonesia are large, heavy-bodied monsters with a strong bite, and are quite beautiful with orange and purple hues. It is their song that echoes through the neighborhood at night. The other invasive is the star from the Geico insurance commercials that, in real life, is a Madagascar day gecko. There is one native gecko in the yard. It is the reef gecko and is considered to be North America’s smallest lizard. I used to see them every time I moved a trash can. Since they developed the empty lot next door into a house with a pea rock yard, I have not seen one wriggle off when I take the trash cans out to the side of the road. I keep looking, though, and hoping they return. There are also the anoles, besides the curly tails the most common lizards found scurrying around the yard. I know that at least four different kinds of anoles are living in the neighborhood. The brown anole, the bark anole and the largest of the anoles, the Cuban knight anole, perhaps the grumpiest and the one with the worst temperament of the local anoles, are all invasive. The only native anole is the Carolina anole or green anole. I grew up calling them chameleons because they can change their color so dramatically from brown to green. Now, it looks like there might be a new invasive reptile climbing through the neighborhood trees. Unlike the green anole I grew up calling a chameleon, and that is sometimes referred to as the American chameleon, the real thing appears to have arrived – maybe. Breeding populations of veiled chameleons have become established on the mainland. They were first observed in 2000-2002. A striking spe-

cies, they are native to the Arabian peninsula and the mountainous regions of Yemen – bordered by Saudi Arabia to the north and the Red Sea to the west. Brightly colored and interestingly adorned with a large “horn” or crest atop their head, they are popular in the herpetology trade and retail from $129 to $349 each on at least one site. The veiled chameleon represents one of the worst examples of the invasive species problem proliferating on and around the southern tip of the Florida peninsula and, maybe, now in the Keys. Reptile breeders and sellers take breeding pairs of a species and let them loose in the environment. Many, like the veiled chameleon, thrive and begin to expand their territory. The breeders are then able to go catch and sell them. Veiled chameleons can now be found from Lee County to Florida City and north into Miami-Dade County. In recent months, poachers were caught in the Big Cypress National Preserve with a reported 150 chameleons. They are out there. Apparently, they are in the Keys, too. On a Thursday morning in late January, a veiled chameleon was found in a Plantation Key yard. On Friday morning, a second one was discovered. Before discovering these two, a third had been reported on Plantation Key. Often, these lizards enter the Keys via the farms and nurseries in Homestead as accidental hitchhikers – which is probably how these three arrived. Are there others? Maybe. If you find an unusual creature in your yard or on some Florida Keys adventure, report it by calling the Exotic Species Hotline at 888-483-4681.

The green anole is the only native anole in Florida and the U.S. PIXABAY

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

CONVENING WITH KEYS ARTISTS

Find some talented creators at this Key Largo gallery

Top: Find some talented artists at Key Largo Art Gallery, located at 103200 Overseas Highway. CONTRIBUTED. Bottom: Key Largo Art Gallery holds gatherings to meet local artists every last Friday of the month.

rtists are essential to a community’s culture. Miami art tends to be bright, bold and vibrant, much like the city. All you have to do is look at all the art on the Wynwood walls to get a feeling of the culture in Miami. Local artists help define WILLIAM a community, what it is and DEPAULA what it represents. In the Upper Keys, the culture is a little more laid back, is an artist, designer and a little more natural and more gemologist who water- and ocean-related activibelieves in the ties. After all, local art holds a power of art. mirror to the community it was made in. Talented artists are everywhere from Key Largo to Islamorada, but sometimes it’s hard to find them. At first I was going to discuss two of the bigger regular art events in the Upper Keys. Upon further thought, I believed it was a mistake and will instead cover the events in different articles. This way there is no confusion of where and what the event has. Tucked away in a strip plaza is Key Largo Gallery. If you blink you will miss it and you wouldn’t want to do that. The gallery is a real treat with over 20 artists — a great example of local Keys art. As the owners Carmen and Tere Kelley say, “It is the first gallery you see when visiting the Keys and it is the last gallery you visit when you leave the Keys.”

It’s really special for those who want to get an idea of what Keys art is. From October through May, there is a gallery event every last Friday of the month. “We started gallery night as a way to get everyone together, patrons and artists alike. Because we have so many artists in the gallery, it’s not often they get to meet all of their patrons and vice versa. Gallery night gave us a forum to do so. Twenty years later it continues and we have built a great family of art lovers who continue to join us and look forward to doing so consistently.“ Final Fridays are a great event if you want to see local art and meet some fantastic artists. The event feels more like you are hanging out with family and friends at a local block party. Last Fridays are held from 6 to 8 p.m and sometimes continue later. The events are documented by photographer David Kay. Most visitors make a night of it, going to Num Thai restaurant, which is in the same plaza, or have some food platters at the gallery that is catered from the Juice House, which is in the same plaza. If you are visiting the Keys or live in the Keys, this is a must-do art event to look at art, buy art or hang out with some new friends who happen to be artists. Key Largo Art Gallery is located at 103200 Overseas Highway #10. To find out more, call them at 305-451-0052. Next week, we’ll delve into another venue worth visiting to meet Florida Keys artists: the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

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FEBRUARY 1, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

FEB. 1

THE SCOREBOARD Team

Sport

Opponent

Date

Result

Key West

Boys Basketball

iMater Academy

1/22

W, 61-52

Marathon

Girls Basketball

Posnack

1/22

W, 40-37

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Posnack

1/22

L, 73-45

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

Florida Christian

1/22

W, 54-25

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

LaSalle

1/23

L, 47-26

Key West

Boys Basketball

Marathon

1/24

W, 61-49

Marathon

Girls Basketball

Key West

1/24

W, 43-33

Key West

Boys Basketball

MAST Academy

1/25

W, 71-42

Coral Shores

Girls Soccer

Marathon

1/25

W, 3-2

Key West

Girls Soccer

MAST Academy

1/25

W, 4-2

Marathon

Boys Soccer

South Homestead

1/25

W, 4-3

Coral Shores

Boys Soccer

Silver Palms

1/25

L, 3-1

Key West

Boys Soccer

South Miami

1/25

W, 9-1

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Coral Shores

1/26

W, 52-43

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

Marathon

1/26

L, 43-33

Key West

Boys Basketball

Palmer

1/26

L, 74-46

Key West

Boys Soccer

MAST Academy

1/26

L, 4-0

Coral Shores

Girls Soccer

Palmer Trinity

1/26

L, 8-1

Key West

Girls Basketball

Archbishop McCarthy

1/27

L, 62-45

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

FEB. 1

Date

School

Sport

Opponent

Start Time

2/1

Marathon

Girls & Boys Basketball

Shelton Academy

3 & 4:30 p.m.

2/1

Key West

Boys Basketball

@ Coral Reef

6:30 p.m.

2/2

Key West

Girls Basketball

@ Schoolhouse Prep

6 p.m.

2/2

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

@ Westminster Christian

7 p.m.

2/2

Coral Shores

Wrestling

@ Green Cove Springs

2 p.m.

2/2

Key West

Boys Basketball

Boyd Anderson

6:30 p.m.

2/3

Coral Shores

Wrestling

@ Green Cove Springs

10 a.m.

2/3

Key West

Competitive Cheer

States @ Lakeland

9 a.m.

2/3

Key West

Girls Weightlifting

Regionals @ Sebastian River

10 a.m.

2/3

MHS & CSHS

Girls Weightlifting

Regionals @ Lemon Bay

10:30 a.m.

2/6

Coral Shores

Tennis

LaSalle

1 p.m.

2/7

Marathon

Boys Weightlifting

Coral Shores

4 p.m.

2/8

Coral Shores

Tennis

@ PACE

1 p.m.

ON THE COVER The smallest of the three Keys high schools, led by hoopsters like Elena Eubank, top left, Adrian Cruz, top right, Yaniel Garcia, center, and Kayesha Christian, last week showed that when county rivals visit their gym, all bets are oﬀ. See page 8. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

THIS WEEK

Natalie

ARGUELLO

Senior, Key West Wrestling

She holds high expectations of herself and continues to work towards meeting those expectations.” – Justin Martin, Key West athletic director

GOLD at Lady Bear and Lady Indian invitationals

Key West’s Natalie Arguello is dominating in what is both her and her school’s second season of varsity girls wrestling.The 2023 regional qualifier is quickly proving she has what it takes to make it to the next round this year and is putting in the work to earn a spot in the FHSAA state brackets. Arguello won her weight class in the last two meets she attended, bringing home gold at the Lady Bear Invitational Jan. 6 and the Lady Indian Invitational in Immokalee Jan. 20. Key West head coach Chaz Jimenez has been impressed with her dedication this season, and Conchs athletic director Justin Martin agreed. “She’s constantly working on her craft and has really pushed herself to reach her full potential,” Martin said. For her unwavering commitment to her sport and internal drive to be her absolute best, Key West’s Natalie Arguello is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Photo CONTRIBUTED

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / FEBRUARY 1, 2024 SPORTS WRITER

The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.

TRACY MCDONALD fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.

PODCAST HOST

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Managing Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Director of Sales

Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com

Business Development

Patti Childress patti@keysweekly.com Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com

Production Manager

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Graphic Design

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

SEAN MCDONALD grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.

MARKET EDITORS

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

Se habla español

THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

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CONCHS MAKE A STATEMENT ON THE PITCH Boys set net ablaze; girls take out top seed for shot at district title

ey West’s boys picked up win number nine on Jan. 24 when they hosted South Miami in the FHSAA District 16 4A quarterfinals match in The Backyard. The Conchs sent the Cobras home early in a 9-1 mercy rule victory to secure a spot in the semifinals. Wyatt Gibson scored a hat trick and Damir Karimov, Niko Sulak, Jose Sene Reyes, Owen Linley, Emmanuel Innocent and Kieran Smith scored 1 apiece in the resounding win. On Jan. 26, the No. 3-seeded Conchs headed to Gulliver to take on the second-seeded Makos of MAST Academy on neutral ground. Key West lost the semifinal match 4-0, but their late-season run and difficult schedule may give them a coveted at-large spot to regionals. The Lady Conchs advanced directly to the semifinals due to a small district pool. Fourth-ranked Key West took their talents on the road, taking down top-seeded MAST Academy in a shootout victory. Goalkeeper Teagan Lavin and the Conchs’ defense managed to keep the Makos off the scoreboard in regulation play. Unlike the regular season, playoffs require a winner, sending the teams into penalty kicks in a shootout dominated by Key West. Grace Andrew, Kaitlyn Franco, Molly McKnight and Maddie Kilduff found the net with their shots, and some spectacular saves by Lavin spelled victory for the Conchs, who played for the FHSAA District 16 4A title against second-seeded St. Brendan on Jan. 31 (results not available at press time). Marathon’s boys pulled off an upset of their own on Jan. 29, defeating higher-seeded Somerset South Homestead in a 4-3 road win. Oscar Cardona struck first, followed by Jay Marshall and Giordani Prieto with a nice header. Stuart Godoy scored the go-ahead goal from a ricochet off the upright with just about a minute remaining in regula-

FEBRUARY 1, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

2 1 tion play, sealing the quarterfinal win for the Fins. Tiago Rivero and Aiden Judd combined in goal for what head coach Shannon Wiley described as “countless saves,” giving the keeper duo praise for their “stellar teamwork.” Next up for Marathon’s boys was a Jan. 29 semifinal match against the number one seed in District 16 3A, Palmer Trinity. Though the Fins put forth a valiant effort, they fell to the Falcons 4-0. The Lady Fins hoped to pull off an upset at Coral Shores, a team they had improved against recently. In their last matchup, the teams tied, making their third game this season something both teams felt was winnable. On Jan. 25 in the FHSAA District 16 3A quarterfinals, Coral Shores would be the victor, effectively ending Marathon’s season at 2-10-2, but not before the Fins gave the ’Canes some cause for worry. The match came down to the final whistle in a 3-2 victory for Coral Shores. Lady Fin midfielder Jordan MacDonald scored one of Marathon’s goals off of a penalty kick and Mackenzie Budi redirected a corner kick for the Fins’ two scores. Scoring for Coral Shores were Kai Redruello, Izzy Malloggi and Ali Beth Wilson. The Lady ’Canes earned a spot in the semifinals with their win over Marathon. They hit the road on Jan. 26 to play at Palmer Trinity against the perennial powerhouse Falcons, who ended the seasons of both Marathon and Coral Shores last year. Palmer defeated Coral Shores 8-1 in the semifinal match, with Grace Goodwin spoiling a Falcon shutout with a nice goal off of a Jenna Mandozzi corner kick. The loss ended Coral Shores’ chance to move on, and they completed their season with a 3-10-1 record. Coral Shores’ boys played Somerset Silver Palms in their quarterfinal match Jan. 25. The ’Canes lost the match 3-1. Junior Preston Carroll scored the lone goal for the Hurricanes, whose season came to a close with the loss. The ’Canes ended with a record of 2-8-3. 1.The Conchs put on an offensive master class against the South Miami Cobras, notching a 9-1 mercy rule victory on Jan. 24. Photos by GRACE ANDREW/Keys Weekly. 2-3. Marathon and Coral Shores’ girls soccer squads tangle in a district quarterfinal matchup on Jan. 25. Coral Shores earned a 3-2 win. Photos by DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly. 4. Regulation wasn’t enough to decide the Lady Conchs’ contest against MAST Academy on Jan. 26. The Conchs advanced to the district title game in a penalty kick shootout. Photos by SARAH BAXTER/Contributed. See more game photos at keysweekly.com.

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

LADY FINS CLAIM DISTRICT TITLE Keys weightlifters bring home 11 district championship gold medals

fter a long season of competition, Keys lifters headed to district meets last week in hopes of bringing home the gold. As a relatively new sport, scoring and moving on in competitive weightlifting can be confusing. Marathon coach Jessie Schubert clarified exactly what to expect in the postseason. “There are four districts that compete to go to regionals. The top eight lifters in each weight class, with a maximum of two per team per weight class, compete at districts,” he said. “Regional competitions take the top 20 from districts. So, to advance to regionals, an athlete must be in the top 20 of those 32.” The only athlete to move on automatically, both from districts to regionals and regionals to the state meet, is the first-place winner in each weight class. Because of this, there are 19 at-large bids in each weight class, but according to Schubert, “it’s almost a given that anyone placing second or third at district and regional competitions will move on.” Key West was first to attend its district meet, participating in the FHSAA District 16 2A championships on Jan. 25 at Dr. Joaquin Garcia High School in Lake Worth. The Conchs took third place in Olympic lifts as a team and fifth in traditional out of seven teams. Claire Boysen was Key West’s biggest winner, securing the district runner-up medal in both lifting events. Dazmine Jenkins (154 lbs.) and Youma Midy (unlimited) took second-place medals in Olympic lifts with Jenkins coming in fourth and Midy winning third in traditional lifting. Shylo Sanchez (139 lbs.) and Adelaide Sir (183 lbs.)

1. Marathon’s double district champion Justice Lee Isom, second from left, poses with her team’s first- and secondplace trophies with coaches Sean Roussin, left, Michelle James and Jessie Schubert. CONTRIBUTED 2. Olympic unlimited weight class medalists including Coral Shores’ Sydney Eysenbach (1st) and Vanessa Gabriel (3rd) and Marathon’s Elizabeth Piper (5th). 3. Marathon’s girls weightlifting team celebrates their district championship win in the traditional lifting event at FHSAA’s District 16 1A meet. 4. 110 lb. traditional lifting medalists including Coral Shores’ Rachel Rusch (first place) and Elizabeth Giordano (fourth) plus Marathon’s Rilynn Richards (second). Photos by AMANDA LEE/Contributed

FEBRUARY 1, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

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both scored fourth in both events. Other top-four finishers were Neslo Atilla (129 lbs.) and Alexandra Konecna (119 lbs.), who were fourth in Olympic lifts. Marathon and Coral Shores compete in the 1A classification, which took place on Jan. 27 at Doctors Charter High School in Miami. Both teams fared extremely well, with Marathon winning the district championship in traditional lifts. Coral Shores was the runner-up. In Olympic lifting, the Fins and ’Canes placed second and third, respectively. Coral Shores had a pair of double district champs in Jennille Arias (169 lbs.) and Sydney Eysenbach (unlimited). The pair automatically qualifies for regionals and a chance for a spot at the state championships in February. Rachel Rusch (110 lbs.) won the district gold in traditional and a spot in the regional lineup. Other top performers in traditional were runners-up Kali Gomer (139 lbs.), Madison Tillman (169 lbs.) and Vanessa Gabriel (unlimited). Julia Rusch (101 lbs.) and Leticia Lima (119 lbs.) placed third and Elizabeth Giordano (110 lbs.) came in fourth. The ’Canes also had high performers in Olympic lifts. Rachel Rusch and Gomer took home silver medals. Tillman and Gabriel struck bronze and Melanie Moc (139 lbs.) was fourth. Marathon can now claim four district champions this season. Justice Lee (183 lbs.) won both events and a pair of regional spots. At 119 lbs., Sierra Earnhardt won the gold in traditional plus a silver in Olympic. Ava Merryman (139 lbs.), Marquisha Abraham (154 lbs.) and Sabrina Schofield (199 lbs.) are the reigning district champs in traditional lifts. Schofield won silver in Olympic and Abraham won bronze. Ella Dunn (101 lbs.) had a pair of second-place performances. Rilynn Richards (110 lbs.) came in second in traditional and fourth in Olympic. Mikkel Ross (129 lbs.) was second in traditional and third in Olympic. Elise Dolton (154 lbs.) and Harlie Daniels (119 lbs.) both won silver in traditional and fourth in Olympic. Cami Wrinn (139 lbs.) won bronze in Olympic and fourth place in traditional. Samantha Schofield (183 lbs.) brought home a pair of fourth place medals while Ella Evans (129 lbs.) claimed a third place medal in traditional. Elizabeth Piper (unlimited) came in fourth in traditional lifts. Key West’s regional qualifiers will chalk up on Feb. 3 at Sebastian River High School while Coral Shores and Marathon participate at Lemon Bay on the same day. Anyone qualifying for the big show will travel to Lakeland Feb. 16 and 17 for the FHSAA State Championships.

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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

FINS STUN ’CANES

Marathon celebrates senior night with double dose of victory

1 2

oral Shores swept into Marathon’s Kay Gradick Gymnasium on Jan. 26 with the odds in their favor. The Fins were arguably the underdogs in both the boys and girls games set for tipoff on Friday night. The Hurricane boys had already beaten Marathon twice this season by 9 and 18 points, and the Lady ’Canes had previously topped the Fins by 2 while boasting a better record. As the teams showed, when it’s a rivalry game, all bets are off. The Lady Fins started off the night celebrating their lone senior, Kayesha Christian, just prior to tipoff. The teams traded leads early in the game, and it wasn’t until the final quarter that the Lady Fins pulled away for the 43-33 win. Elena Eubank single-handedly poured on 25 of those points. The rest would come from Marti Kilbourne (10), Daysi Williams (6) and Payton Junker (2). Coral Shores’ Brooke Mandozzi led the charge for the ’Canes, scoring 19 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. Makayla Hahn scored 8 and registered 4 steals. Abby Vogt was credited with 7 assists while Grace Leffler and Gabby Thomas did a majority of the rebounding with 11 and 8, respectively. With their season head-to-head score all tied up, a third matchup is a possibility in the postseason; Marathon and Coral Shores both participate in the FHSAA District 16 3A division. District brackets will begin to be populated as early as this week, with games beginning Feb. 5. The boys game started in similar fashion. Marathon honored seniors Jesus Gonzalez, Adrian Cruz, Jaynel Rojas, Xavier Grant and Yaniel Garcia, but it would mainly be the underclassmen who dominated for the Fins. Marathon pulled out with an early lead and had all the momentum going into quarter two when the ’Canes came alive. Coral Shores’ Isaac Holmes and AJ Johnson did an exceptional job locking down

FEBRUARY 1, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

1. Marathon’s Lady Fins welcome their northern neighbors for a rivalry match with Coral Shores on Jan. 26. The Dolphins beat the ’Canes 43-33.

the Fins in the second quarter, using a physical style of play to pull down rebounds and box out Marathon. The Hurricanes managed to pick up steam heading into halftime and were up by 2. But the aggressive defense which broke Marathon’s momentum in quarter two proved to be the ’Canes’ downfall in the final quarter of the game, when both Holmes and Johnson fouled out. Marathon could not miss in quarter four, and a reenergized home team regained the momentum, though it would come down to the final moments before the Fins could seal the deal. Sophomore Daeshawn Holmes erupted for 23 points for Marathon, pulling down 14 rebounds for a double-double, while his nine blocks nearly qualified for a triple-double. Yaniel Garcia scored 9 in his final home game for Marathon, grabbing 5 rebounds of his own, and freshman Josh Koler owned the paint, sinking 8 points, pulling 7 rebounds and registering 2 blocks. For Coral Shores, Isaac Holmes and Aydan Lane scored 13 each and Donovan Thiery added 7 points in the 52-43 loss. Fins head coach Jim Murphy was more than satisfied with the win. “Since 2018, we have not beaten either of our in-county rivals in football, basketball or baseball,” he said. “We showed this week we can compete with the two much bigger county rivals and are looking forward to our future matchups. This was a great win on senior night.” Key West’s boys had a full schedule last week, playing a

2. The Lady Fins and Lady Conchs battle it out in Marathon on Jan. 24. The Fins came away with a 43-33 win in the rivalry matchup. 3. Marathon’s boys take on the Coral Shores Hurricanes on Jan. 26, stunning their county rivals with a 52-43 win. 4-5. The Conchs and Fins meet up on the hardwood Jan. 24. Key West brought home a 61-49 road win. Photos by BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly. See more game photos at keysweekly.com.

series of four road games in five days. Despite the exhausting schedule, the Conchs picked up three wins to tack on to their now even 9-9 record. They started it off Jan. 22 at iMater Charter, where they defeated the Knights 61-52. James Osborne had the top score with 26. DeMarcus Deroche scored 13, Kameron Roberts added 7 and Walson Morin and Tramane Scott put in 6 apiece. The following night they made the short trip to Marathon, downing the Fins 61-49. Osborne led the charge again with 23. Deroche scored 10, Roberts had 9 and David Aviles and Scott had 8 each. Marathon’s Daeshawn Holmes had the top score for the Fins with 16 while Josh Koler earned 8 and Xavier Grant added 7. Key West earned their third victory Jan. 25 at MAST Academy, winning 71-42. Osborne and Roberts each scored 19 and Deroche put in 11 in the big win. The following night the Conchs suffered their first loss of the week at Palmer Trinity, falling to the Falcons 74-46. Roberts and Osborne shared the team high again with 13 points each. The Conchs play on the road on Thursday, Feb. 1, then take on Boyd Anderson at home Friday, Feb. 2 for their final regular-season game. The Lady Conchs lost a pair of games last week, falling to Marathon 43-33 on Jan. 24 then to Archbishop McCarthy 62-43 on Jan. 27 in a pair of road trips. They play their final regular-season game at Schoolhouse Prep in Miami on Friday, Feb. 2.

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

Veteran coach, alumnus, athlete returns for Coral Shores “We are highly blessed to have Tony leading our baseball program. I can’t think of anyone who can match his experience and leadership. Moreover, he’s an icon in our community and he is revered by all who know him.” – Rich Russell, Coral Shores administrator

“We are very happy to have coach Hammon as our head baseball coach at Coral Shores. He will do an amazing job leading our young men on and oﬀ the ﬁeld.” – Ed Holly, Hurricanes athletic director

oral Shores recently announced its newest hire in head baseball coach Tony Hammon. Hammon is a Coral Shores graduate who has filled the roles of classroom teacher, school administrator and coach and has been a member of the Upper Keys community for the past five decades. He started his career at Coral Shores as a science teacher after playing baseball at FKCC in the late ’60s while earning his associate’s degree. He then went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in biology education from the University of Miami and a master’s degree in educational administration from Tennessee Temple University.

Marathon’s Xavier Grant (11) soars in for a layup against Coral Shores in the teams’ rivalry showdown last week. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

THE KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP PODCAST Basketball rivalries renewed, weightlifting gold and soccer postseason recap On this week’s Keys Weekly Sports Wrap Podcast, Sean and Tracy will go in-depth on a week full of rivalry basketball games, cover the prep soccer playoffs and dive into the details on girls weightlifting district meets as hardware-winning athletes move on to regional competition.

EP 39 Listen to the Sports Wrap podcast

TONY HAMMON TAKES THE HELM FOR ’CANES BASEBALL The 2024 season will not be Hammon’s first stint as head coach with the ’Canes. Hammon was the second baseball coach in Coral Shores history following the iconic Roger Allen, who had been his coach and mentor all through high school. He then helped to found the Island Christian School, starting a varsity baseball program there in 1975 and coaching there for the next 40 years. In addition to teaching, coaching and serving as a school administrator, Hammon is pastor emeritus of Island Community Church, where he served as senior pastor from 1989 to 2019, has authored three books and continues his educational training by traveling to underserved populations throughout the world. Despite his insanely busy schedule, Hammon did not hesitate to find time to return to his alma mater to serve his community yet again. “My kids all played ball here in this community, both in little league and then varsity,” he said. “I have been an umpire, coach, teacher, principal and parent, so I guess I’ve just about covered all the bases.” “I’m excited to be coaching at Coral Shores again. These are great kids and I have an exceptional coaching staff working with these young men,” he added. “I am looking forward to a great season.” Hammon has been married to his wife Colleen, his high school sweetheart, for 52 years, and has four children and 11 grandchildren.

FEBRUARY 1, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

MANDOZZI SINKS 1,000 Coral Shores senior battled injuries, adversity to join four other quadruple-digit ’Canes

n Jan. 23, Coral Shores senior basketball star Brooke Mandozzi joined an elite group of just four other female athletes to score 1,000 career points. The unassuming hoopster has been a staple on the Hurricane hardwood for four seasons, and scored her 1,000th point in typical Mandozzi style – she was completely unaware it had occurred until it was announced at halftime during the team’s final regular-season home game against LaSalle. The Hurricanes would lose the game, but Mandozzi still managed to score half of the team’s total points and grab 10 rebounds for a double-double on the same night as her historic achievement. “Brooke and the team had no idea she was close,” said head coach Jarrod Mandozzi. “She's pretty no-nonsense and isn't big about individual goals and would never want to have it be about her, which I love as a coach.” Another reason for the ’Canes’ coach to love his superstar scorer is the fact that he is her father. “I'm obviously happy for her and so proud of her for all of her accomplishments,” he said. “I know it was hard on her in her freshman year particularly, and even a little into her sophomore year, because she felt like she was looked at as ‘Coach Mandozzi's daugh-

ter.’ I know it bothered her, and in some ways probably pushed her. “I told her midway through her sophomore season that she needed to forget that, because she was showing who she was as an athlete. … She was turning the table and making people say that I was Brooke Mandozzi's father.” A tenacious player, Brooke has endured more than her share of bumps and bruises on the court in her tenure with the ’Canes. “I've said before she's certainly among the toughest kids I've coached, girls or boys,” said coach Mandozzi. “As her coach, I love and appreciate that. As her dad, I often wish she'd take it a little easier on herself, and I tell her that all the time.” Leading up to her junior campaign, Brooke suffered a cut above her eye which required eight stitches to close. She managed to get cleared by her doctor and worked to convince her coach to let her play despite the risk of opening the cut again and making it far worse. Going into her final home game, she was under the weather for several weeks, yet played through it to break the historic barrier. The Hurricanes finish out their regular season Feb. 2 in Miami before doing everything in their power to make a run at the FHSAA 3A postseason. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

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DEEB ELDER LAW, P.A. 6675 13th Ave. N., Suite 2C St. Petersburg, FL 33710 E-Mail: servicekat@ deebelderlaw.com FL Bar No. 997791 Publish: February 1 & 8, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO. 23-CP-000106-P IN RE: ESTATE OF STEPHEN HARVEY LAWRENCE, DECEASED. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Stephen Harvey Lawrence, deceased, whose date of death was April 6, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this Court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is February 1, 2024. Personal Representative: Toby Burk Lawrence 2 Valley View Dr. Athens, Ohio 45701 Attorney for Personal Representative: Andrew Ponnock, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 195420 Ponnock Law, PLC 10100 West Sample Road, 3rd Floor Coral Springs, FL 33065 Telephone: (954) 340-4051 Fax: (954) 340-3411 E-Mail: andy@ponnocklaw. com Publish: February 1 & 8, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: January 25, 2024. Personal Representative: Diane S. Brown 126 Fontaine Drive Tavernier, Florida 33070 Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: January 25 & February 1, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

North Miami Avenue, Miami, Florida 33128, and serve a copy on counsel of record for Petitioner, Victor J. Pelaez, Esq., Fowler White Burnett, PA, 1395 Brickell Ave., 14th Floor, Miami, Florida 33131, on or before March 15, 2024, or be defaulted. If any Claimant desires to contest either the right to exoneration from or the right to limitation of liability, he or she shall file and serve on counsel for Petitioner an answer to the Petition on or before the aforesaid date, unless his or her claim has included an answer so designated, or else be defaulted. DONE AND ORDERED in Chambers at Miami, Florida, this 17th day of January, 2024. DARRIN P. GAYLES UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE Publish: February 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI Notice is here by given that on February 12th, 2024, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold. The names of whose units will be sold are as follows: 103530 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 William Murray –1186 $420.70 Joseph Miller – 1751 $590.28 Taylor Adkins – 1561 $503.90 Alex Murgas – 1580 $519.80 Brian Long – 1504-51 $708.00 James WilsonJr –1171 $314.20 Alex Peacock – 1673 $688.62 Curtis Williams – 1536 $717.85 Sheila Chamberlain –1167 $430.75 Publish: January 25 & February 1, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings & Workshops The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform. The Advisor Gatherings are in person. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@keysarts.com Art in Public Places Committee Meeting Feb 20, 2024 at 12:00 PM Eastern Time Join Zoom Meeting: Meeting ID: 818 5416 5871 Passcode: 743867 Executive Committee Meeting Feb 22, 2024 at 2:00 PM Eastern Time Join Zoom Meeting: Meeting ID: 867 4725 3505 Passcode: 351297 Advisor Gathering – Marathon Feb. 29, 2024 – Noon Irie Island Eats Advisor Gathering – Key West March 4, 2024 – Noon Advisor Gathering – Islamorada March 6, 2024 – 1:30 pm Call for address: 305-295-4369 Publish: February 1, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC NOTICE OF HEALTHCARE FACILITY CLOSURE On March 5, 2024, DispatchHealth Florida, Inc. will cease operations at 1200 NW Avenue, Suite 101, Doral, FL 33126, affecting certain zip codes in Monroe County. Patients can access their medical records through the patient portal at www.dispatchhealth. com/patientportal, app. chartrequest.com, or by contacting Jodra Lambert at 5223 Northwest 33rd Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309-6302, or calling (786) 900-1979. For current DispatchHealth services in FL, visit www.dispatchhealth. com/locations. Publish: February 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NUMBER: 22-CP-80-M DIVISION: MARATHON FLORIDA BAR #980810 IN RE: THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM P. SMITH, JR. Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of WILLIAM P. SMITH, JR., deceased, whose date of death was May 17, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION REF NO. 23-000310-K IN RE: ESTATE OF ALBERT R. LAATSCH, DECEASED. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The name of the decedent, the designation of the court in which the administration of this estate is pending, and the file number are indicated above. The address of the court is MONROE County Courthouse, 500 Whitehead St., Key West, FL 33040. The name and address of the ancillary personal representative and the ancillary personal representative’s attorney are indicated below. If you have been served with a copy of this notice and you have any claim or demand against the decedent’s estate, even if that claim is unmatured, contingent or unliquidated, you must file your claim with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF A DATE THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER YOU RECEIVE A COPY OF THIS NOTICE. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with the court ON OR BEFORE THE DATE THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY THE LIMITATIONS DESCRIBED ABOVE, ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN FILED WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS AFTER DECEDENT'S DEATH. The date of death of the decedent is July 31, 2023. The date of first publication of this notice is February 1, 2024. Ancillary Personal Representative: ERIC W. LAATSCH 2395 State Hwy. 47 S. Lac du Flambeau, Wisconsin 54538 Attorney for Ancillary Personal Representative: TERRY J. DEEB, ESQ.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2024-CP-0008-P DIVISION: GARCIA IN RE: ESTATE OF CANDACE K. SUTFIN, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Estate of CANDACE K. SUTFIN, deceased, whose date of death was November 2, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, FL 33070. The name and address of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorneys are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's Estate on whom a copy of this Notice is required to be served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's Estate must file their claims with this Court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is February 1, 2024. Personal Representative: THE NORTHERN TRUST COMPANY 600 Brickell Avenue Suite 2400 Miami, Florida 33131 Attn: Michelle A. McClaskey, Vice President Attorneys for Personal Representative: DUNWODY WHITE & LANDON, P.A. John J. Grundhauser, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0705373 Candice J. Palte, Esq. Florida Bar No. 118840 550 Biltmore Way, Suite 810 Coral Gables, FL 33134 Telephone: (305) 529-1500 Fax: (305) 529-8855 E-Mail: jgrundhauser@dwllaw.com cpalte@dwl-law.com Secondary e-mail: ralvarez@ dwl-law.com karmas@dwl-law.com Publish: February 1 & 8, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-15-P DIVISION: UPPER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF RICHARD PAUL BROWN Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Richard Paul Brown, deceased, whose date of death was December 17, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA CASE NO.: 4:23-cv-10009-DPG IN ADMIRALTY IN THE MATTER OF THE: Petition Of TWO CONCHS CHARTERS, INC., as Owner of the 2011 Mako 28-foot Center Console Vessel bearing Hull Identification No. BUJ61192F111, Petitioner, ______________________/ NOTICE TO CLAIMANTS OF COMPLAINT FOR EXONERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY Notice is hereby given that Petitioner Two Conchs Charters, Inc., as Owner of the 2011 Mako 28-foot Center Console Vessel bearing Hull Identification No. BUJ61192F111 (“Vessel”) has filed a Petition pursuant to Title 46 U.S.C. §§ 30501 et seq., as amended, for exoneration from or limitation of liability of all claims for any injuries, loss, destruction, or damage arising out of an alleged incident that occurred in Monroe County, Florida, on or about August 8, 2022, as more fully described in the Petition. All persons having such claims must file their respective claims, as provided in Rule F of the Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Claims of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, with the Clerk for the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, Key West Division, Wilkie D. Ferguson, Jr. U.S. Courthouse, 400

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FOURTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR DUVAL COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 16-2023-DR-6415 DIVISION: FM-B IN RE: ADOPTION OF HAYDEN MARIE GOLD, Adoptee. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS AND STEPPARENT ADOPTION TO: Brandon T. Saye 978 Gibraltar Road Key Largo, Florida 33037 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that a Joint Petition to Terminate Parental Rights and Adoption by Stepparent has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Stephanie GarciaBaker, of Owenby Law, P.A., Petitioner’s attorney whose address is 2301 Park Avenue, Suite 404, Orange Park, Florida 32073, on or before MARCH 8, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 501 W. Adams Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32202 before service on Petitioner’s Attorney or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The minor child(ren) is identified as follows: Date of Birth: November 26, 2019 Place of Birth: Fernandina Beach, Florida Physical Description of Respondent: Age: 38 Race: Caucasian Hair Color: brown hair Eye Color: hazel Approximate Height: 5’10 Approximate Weight: Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address, (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the addresses on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of

FEBRUARY 1, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

EMPLOYMENT

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

RV LOT FOR RENT

Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings. Dated: this 23RD day of January, 2024. Jody Phillips CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT By: Margaret Martin Deputy Clerk Publish: February 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings. Dated: January 25, 2024 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Jaquelyn Fonseca Deputy Clerk Publish: February 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings. Dated: January 5, 2024 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Destiny Johnson Deputy Clerk Publish: January 11, 18 & 25 and February 1, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

comfortable with heights - located in Tavernier. To apply, please call or text Jay 305-587-1581.

Insurance CSR needed: Fullers Insurance in Key West is looking for a customer service rep. or agent. Hours are 8-5 Mon-Fri. Paid holidays, vacation, and health insurance. Apply in person at 1432 Kennedy Drive, Key West, FL or email resumé to norman@ fullersinsurance.com.

P R I V A T E C O L L E C T O R WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578

Large RV Waterfront Lot with Dockage for rent in Marathon. Full hook up. $1950/ month plus utilities. F/L/S 305-731-5042

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 20-DR-722-K DIVISION: FAMILY PAULINA ANDREA JARA GALLEGUILLOS Petitioner, and, MAYKEL RAMOS GARCIA Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR MODIFICATION OF PARENTLY PLAN TO: MAYKEL RAMOS GARCIA RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 6639 PENINSULAR AVENUE, KEY WEST, FL 33040 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for modification of parently plan has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Paulina Andrea Jara Galleguillos, whose address is 616 Peary Court, Apt. B, Key West, FL 33040 on or before March 1, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 530 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: N/A Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24-DR-7-K DIVISION: FAMILY SHANIN OURADA Petitioner, and, ROBERT OURADA, JR. Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE TO: ROBERT OURADA, JR. RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 19442 CANAL DRIVE, SUGARLOAF KEY, FL 33042 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Shanin Ourada, whose address is 50 Sands Road, Big Pine Key, FL 33043 on or before February 10, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of

AUTOS WANTED AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not. $CASH 305-332-0483

BOATS FOR SALE 18' Mako 2003 center console T-top with 2020 Suzuki 140 hp only 30 hrs. 2021 Rocket Trailer Located in Marathon. $27,500 call Mark 305.731.5588

Office Support 8-10 hours per week, Key Colony Beach, Sea Isle Condo, Hourly $23-$25 range, PC experience required. 734-476-0531 Pigeon Key in Marathon is seeking a Customer Service Rep/ Ramp Attendant. to join our island team. Position includes greeting customers, giving information and taking admissions. Outgoing professionals can contact pigeonkey@aol.com for additional details. City of Marathon Current Job Openings: Administrative Asst. Fire Department and Right of Way Technician. Full Benefits. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us

BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

Dockage for rent in Marathon behind residence. Call for particulars. 305-619-5282 Boat Dockage for rent in Marathon. Private bay bottom, up to 40' boat, self containing, offshore water, car & dingy parking space provided. 305-610-8002 Place your BOAT SLIP FOR RENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

CAMPING SITE Camping site at marina available in Marathon. 305-610-8002

EMPLOYMENT Hiring: Lead Gutter Installer - EXPERIENCE REQUIRED – valid Driver’s License - must be

Marathon Auto Air looking for Shop Help - full or part-time. Pay based on experience. Apply in person at 2525 Overseas Highway, Marathon. 305-289-9884

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: PT Receptionist, Assistant to Director of Housing, Housing Assistant-Key West, Protective Service Aide, Housing ManagerMiddle Keys, HVAC Maintenance Mechanic, and Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker). To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha.org or 305-296-5621 Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www. kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968. Place your EMPLOYMENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844.

Large One Bedroom Suite, Conch House, carpet, tile, appliances, fully furnished in Marathon. Available now. $2,000/month includes electric, water, sewer, cable, internet. No Pets. 305-610-8002 2 Bedroom 1 Bath house in Marathon. Tile & carpet floors, new appliances, gated property. No pets. 305-610-8002 Place your Housing For Rent ad here. $25.00/ week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844.

Place your RV Lot For Rent ad here. $25.00/ week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844.

VACATION RENTAL

Key West House For Rent 28 day minimum. Recently renovated. 2 Units: 3BR/3BA or 2BR/2.5BA. 1 block to Schooner Wharf @ Historic Seaport. Starting $214/night. Sweet Caroline Seaport.com

YARD SALES Place your YARD SALE ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

RV LOT FOR RENT

NOW HIRING

Must have managerial experience and excellent organizational skills to manage the condominium and work with the Board. Needs to be proficient in QuickBooks or a similar program to do billing and handle other financial information; supervise maintenance projects; CAM license or plan to pursue required; be familiar with State Statute 718 for condominiums; be able to maintain a pleasant but professional attitude in dealing with owners, renters, vendors and Board members and have good writing skills. Handyman skills are a plus. Housing may be available onsite.

Full-time Private Captain in Islamorada.

Interested parties should submit resume to casaclarateam@yahoo.com

Experience with at least a 61' vessel is required. Great pay and benefits!

Please email resume to Apply4APREI@gmail.com

SUDOKU SOLUTION

DYNASTY MARINE ASSOCIATES, MARATHON, FL

Benefits package including vacation, sick days, holidays and 401K PSP retirement plan. Please send cover letter and resume to sales@dynastymarine.net for consideration. No phone calls please. dynastymarine.net

LONG TERM Key Largo - 2BR/2BA Spacious Doublewide, 1400 sq ft modular on canal w/40’ dock, direct ocean access. Very nice community. $3,500/ month 786-258-3127

Large RV Lot for Rent in Marathon. Full hook up. $1600/ month plus utilities. F/L/S 305-731-5042

SEEKING A MANAGEMENT COUPLE OR INDIVIDUAL MANAGER FOR A LARGE CONDOMINIUM IN KEY COLONY BEACH

$$$ OFFICE ASSISTANT $$$ Duties to include invoice and inventory entry, creating and filing paperwork for international shipments, scheduling inspections needed for international shipments, customer communication and tracking, creating and maintaining customer accounts and some customer service. Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel. This position requires high attention to detail and the ability to multitask. Competitive compensation plus benefits.

HOUSING FOR RENT

The Moorings Village is seeking friendly, self motivated, team players for the position:

MULTI-TASKED OFFICE POSITION Competitive salary and great benefits. Weekends are a must. Job Types: Full-time, Part-time Please email your resume to Lindsey@MooringsVillage.com or call the reception office at 305.664.4708

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844 DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER HAS A FT/PERMANENT OPENING FOR A FACILITIES MAINTENANCE APPRENTICE Must work well with animals, in order to support Medical & Animal Care & Training departments & participate on Manatee Rescue Team. Must be physically fit, able to lift 75 lbs., possess general “handy-man” skills, have a clean driving record & be diver certified or willing to become certified – knowledge of dive equipment maintenance is a plus. Successful candidate will be responsible, organized, & motivated with excellent team player skills. Benefits include medical insurance, 401(k), vacation & paid holidays. Job description available at www.dolphins.org. Email resume & DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE 58901 O/S HWY - GRASSY KEY, FL TEACHING... LEARNING... CARING

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon

Join our team! Full and part-time Educational Program Guides/ Gift Shop Sales. Public speaking & retail sales experience helpful. $18/hour to start. Send resume to: turtlehospital@turtlehospital.org

DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATORS

applicants. Requires a High School, Diploma or GED and valid Florida Driver’s License. Salary: $50,376.48. Excellent benefits and opportunities for advancement. EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for a Construction Worker D. to perform semi-skilled work, involving the installation, repair, and maintenance of FKAA water distribution systems. We provide on-the-job training for qualified applicants. Previous experience as a laborer with a utility or construction company preferred. Requires a High School diploma or GED and valid Florida Driver’s License. Salary: $50,376.48. Excellent benefits and opportunities for advancement.

Apply online at www.fkaa.com/212/opportunities EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

Apply in person at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, 7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon

The Advocate DUI Program is hiring for part time positions. DUI instructors and evaluators - 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse field required. Bilingual preferred, not required. Office located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for Distribution System Operators to perform semi-skilled work, involving the repair and maintenance of FKAA water distribution and trans-

LOCATION: KEY WEST

• Bussers • Hosts • Line Cooks • Waitstaff • Bartenders • Dishwashers • Bar Backs

DUI EVALUATOR/ INSTRUCTOR

LOCATION: MARATHON

CONSTRUCTION WORKER D

SUNSET GRILLE IS HIRING

IS HIRING IN THE UPPER KEYS

FULL TIME PROJECT MANAGER BOOKKEEPER Send resume to: admin@cbtconstruction.com Or call: 305-852-3002

WE ARE HIRING! Client Medical Services Manager Looking for an LPN/RN with solid experience, to work with our clients and staff to meet medical needs. Assist the clients in areas of dental, medical, transportation, liaison between clients, families and support staff. Florida LPN or RN certification. Level II background screening required. Fluent in English, valid Florida drivers’ license w/good driving record, references. Pre-hire on-line training required. Some on call responsibilities. Strong computer skills. Direct Care Staff /Driver at Adult Day Training Program (FT/PT) – Key West Office. This position is available at our Adult Day program. Provid direct care service and support to our clients in the day program. Requires the minimum of high school completion or GED. English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. FL Driver’s license w/clean driving record, also a must. Pre-employment training online and in person. Ability to pass a Level II background screening and references. Come join our family! EOE Apply at the MARC office, 1401 Seminary St., Key West. Or online at www.marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org. Phone: 305-294-9526 *32

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE EXPERIENCED ELECTRICIANS AND HELPERS NEEDED Experience is required. Must have a valid driver’s license. We offer 401K, medical insurance, paid holidays and paid vacation. Positions available in Key West and Marathon. 305-292-3369

We are now hiring for the following positions:

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers Applicants must apply in person to be considered. 4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

FEBRUARY 1, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC && LEGAL NOTICES • • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 OPENINGS AVAILABLE TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

PAPA JOE’S WATERFRONT in Islamorada is in final stages of construction and looking forward to opening soon!

- Customer Service Coordinator - Medical Technologist, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Medical Technologist, Laboratory - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Radiology, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Ultrasound, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - MH Multiplace Hyperbaric Tech - Pool Group Exercise Instructor - Pool Physical Therapist - Registered Nurse, $25k Sign-on Bonus*

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL - Cook, Dietary, $5k Sign-on Bonus* - Emergency Department Team Coordinator - Environmental Tech, $5k Sign-on Bonus* - Manager Food Service - Medical Technologist, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Radiology, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Patient Care Manager, Emergency Department, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Patient Experience Advocate - Pharmacy Tech, $4k Sign-on Bonus* - Phlebotomist, Laboratory - Pool Physical Therapist - Registered Nurse, Oncology-Outpatient, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Registered Nurse, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Security Officer All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. *Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience.

APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING!

GCC offers excellent benefits for full-time employment, but we realize some would prefer part-time to enjoy the Florida Keys lifestyle more. All positions can be considered for full or part-time unless notated. Apply at westcare.com and enter your availability.

KEY LARGO

Advocate (PT) Behavioral Health Counselor (Child)

KEY WEST

Peer Support Specialist Prevention Specialist Advocate Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult) Behavioral Health Counselor (Child) Case Manager (Adult, Forensic)

MARATHON

Housekeeper Prevention Specialist Admission Specialist Care Coordinator (PT) Driver (CDL) Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult) RNs/LPNs - 3 shifts (also Per Diem) Peer Support Specialist *Support Worker – Assisted Living (PT) *Behavioral Health Technicians 3 shifts (also Per Diem)

Work with the BEST!

• Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance • Tuition Reimbursement • Paid Holidays, Vacation & Sick Time • 401K Employer Match • Quarterly Cash Proﬁt Sharing • Fun, Fast-Paced Environment

Voted Best Bank 2014 - 2023

• Great Hours

Key West Now accepting applications via email for the following positions: Restaurant/Floor Manager(s) Beverage/Bar Manager Sous Chef(s) Kitchen Manager/Supervisor(s) We are now beginning to assemble our management team. If you’re interested in any of these listed employment opportunities, please email your resume to FrankS@PapaJoesWaterfront.com Please be sure to attach your resume, contact info, & position(s) of interest. Please No calls, No walk-ins at this time. Thank you.

Customer Service Representative/ Online Banking Information Technology Technician II

Key Largo Full Time Upper Keys Float Teller

Apply Online at KeysBank.com/Careers

Member FDIC

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

IS HIRING! Volunteer Resources Administrative Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

Facilities Maintenance Apprentice (Full-Time, Permanent)

Education Program Host (Full-Time, Permanent)

Staff Photographer

(Full-Time, Part-Time, Seasonal)

Media & Marketing Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

Benefits include medical, life & disability insurance, 401(k) plan, paid vacation, sick time & holidays. Full job descriptions available at www.dolphins.org/career_opportunities Email cover letter, DRC application & resume to drc-hr@dolphins.org EOE

*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands required.

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

Background and drug screen req. COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Check out all available positions at: www.westcare.com (search by zip code) EEOC/DFWP

Teaching... Learning... Caring

58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL

EOE-M/F/V/D

Equal Housing Lender