Upper Keys Weekly 24-0321

MERMAIDS, MUSIC & MORE

Island Fest also brings boat races & ‘Taste of Islamorada’ | P. 39

HAITI DISARRAY COULD MEAN MORE MIGRANTS

State sends help to the Keys | P. 4

STROKES AGAINST CANCER

Swim along the bay benefits critical research | P. 24

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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.

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$977M

The Mega Millions jackpot rose to $977 million on March 20, following no winner on March 19. According to the lottery, there have been 28 consecutive drawings without a winner. The next drawing is set for Friday, March 22.

PREPARING FOR POTENTIAL MASS MIGRATION

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Gov. Ron DeSantis ordered a wave of state officers and guardsmen to the Florida Keys in preparation for possibly more maritime voyages among migrants from two Caribbean countries facing unrest and violence.

DeSantis’ deployment of some 133 Florida State Guard members on March 13 was in response to the possible influx of Haitian migrants taking to the southern U.S. waters. Since late February, gangs unleashed violent, lethal attacks on areas surrounding Haiti’s capital in Port-au-Prince, killing dozens, kidnapping many more and leaving the country in a state of despair.

Attacks and killings continue despite Haiti Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s intentions to step down and form a presidential transition council, which gangs demanded. Gangs in Haiti have opposed Henry as prime minister, believing he wasn’t elected by the people.

Recent gang uprisings in Haiti could mean more dilapidated sailing

Disarray in Haiti draws DeSantis to deploy manpower to the Keys

vessels taking to the sea with hundreds of Haitians onboard hoping to reach U.S. soil, particularly the Sunshine State and the Keys. Not only did DeSantis deploy more than 130 state guardsmen to the Keys and South Florida, but he also recently ordered 30 Florida Highway Troopers, 23 Florida Fish & Wildlife officers, 39 Florida Department of Law Enforcement officers and 48 Florida National Guard members. A total of 250 officers and soldiers and more than a dozen air and sea craft were deployed to the southern coast of Florida, DeSantis said.

“No state has done more to supplement the (under-resourced) U.S. Coast Guard’s interdiction efforts; we cannot have illegal aliens coming to Florida,” DeSantis said.

This isn’t the first time the Florida governor deployed resources to the Florida Keys to assist local law enforcement overwhelmed with migrant landings. DeSantis activated the Florida National Guard on Jan. 6, 2023, days after federal, state and local authorities dealt with the arrival of 300 migrants at Dry Tortugas National

“What’s their potential threat to the citizens here and also to the state of Florida?”

— Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay

Park. Since August 2022, agencies have encountered more than 8,000 migrants in the Florida waters.

Florida Keys Sheriff Rick Ramsay appeared on Fox News on March 18 to discuss the potential flow of Haitian migrants to Florida amid the gang uprisings. Ramsay said he was told there could be a larger wave of voyages and migrants than what the island chain witnessed in past years.

The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Venturous repatriated 65 migrants to Haiti on March 7 following an interdiction of a migrant venture on this vessel near Great Inagua, Bahamas. U.S. COAST GUARD/Contributed

Mermaid “Bubbles” sits in her chair by the water during the 2022 Island Fest at Founders Park in Islamorada. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

Welcome to Even More Convenient Care.

The Fishermen’s Community Hospital campus is expanding.

Our new 10,000-square-foot Medical Arts Building will bring multiple services under one roof:

• Primary care

• Physical, occupational and speech therapy

• Oncology infusion for Baptist Health Cancer Care patients

• Physician offices for orthopedics, general surgery and gastroenterology

At Baptist Health, we’ve got the Middle Keys covered — from emergency care and surgery, to wellness appointments and cancer care. Welcome to expert, compassionate care, all on one campus.

HAITIAN MIGRATION

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

In August 2022, 300 Haitian men, women and children aboard a wooden vessel grounded not far from the gated Ocean Reef community in North Key Largo. Months later, a vessel carrying nearly 200 Haitian migrants grounded on the sandbar in Islamorada on Nov. 21, 2022.

“Our resources are very limited here,” Ramsay said, applauding U.S. Sen. Rick Scott and DeSantis for assisting on the mass migration front. “All my troops are on ready (and) standby. We have mass migration plans already on the books. Our first goal is to help, aid, and assist state, local and federal governments, but keep my citizens safe and secure.”

Meanwhile off the Florida coast, vessels carrying Haitian migrants have been intercepted by the U.S. Coast Guard, which continues to confront illegal voyages to the U.S. by sea from Haiti, the Dominican Republic and Cuba. On March 12, the Coast Guard repatriated 65 migrants to Haiti following an interdiction near Great Inagua, Bahamas five days before. A good Samaritan notified the Coast Guard on March 7 of a vessel in distress.

“The Coast Guard’s primary mission as a member of the Homeland Security Task Force- Southeast is to preserve human life at sea,” said Capt. Willie Carmichael, incident commander for Operation Vigilant Sentry.

On Feb. 29, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission intercepted a boat with smugglers and children in Brevard County near the Indian River County line. Officers say the 42-foot vessel had two dozen people, guns, night vision equipment and drugs onboard.

“This is not really our responsibility,” DeSantis said regarding state and local resources used to combat illegal maritime voyages. “This is the federal government’s responsibility. The Coast Guard does by and large a good job, but they’re undermanned.”

Ramsay said the federal government has “dropped the ball” in dealing with mass migration issues.

“Are these people coming just looking for a better way of life? Or, with all the volatility, are these criminals, are these emptied-out prisons, are these gang members? … What’s their potential threat to the citizens here and also to the state of Florida?” Ramsay said during the Fox News interview.

Alejandro Mayorkas, U.S Homeland Security secretary, recently said a limited pool of funds is putting all work, from shelter services and border security and “everything across the diverse threat landscape that we face in very serious peril.”

“The Coast Guard does by and large a good job, but they’re undermanned.”

— Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis

In January 2023, the Biden administration announced its intent to provide safe and orderly pathways to the U.S. for up to 30,000 nationals of Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela. The program, formerly known as the Process for Cubans, Haitians, Nicarauguans and Venezuelans, allows certain people from those four countries who have a sponsor in the U.S. and who pass a background check to come to the U.S. to live and work lawfully for two years — using a mechanism called “humanitarian parole.”

The creation of this new parole program, however, was coupled with restricted access to asylum at the U.S.Mexico border for migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela. In January 2023, the government of Mexico agreed to allow the U.S. to expel up to 30,000 migrants from those countries to Mexico each month — preventing them from requesting asylum under U.S. immigration law. With the expiration of the Title 42 order in May 2023, the U.S. announced that it would formally deport some migrants from these countries to Mexico instead of to their home countries.

U.S. Rep. Carlos Gimenez represents the Florida Keys and south Florida in Congress. He accused the Biden administration of standing idly by while Haiti descended in chaos following the assassination of thenPresident Jovenel Moïse three years ago. Gimenez said community security is at risk of another mass migration event from Haiti.

“I demand the Biden administration implement a comprehensive

strategy to address the unrest in Haiti and prevent this security crisis from impacting South Florida families,” Gimenez said.

According to a report by CNN, the Biden Administration has discussed using Guantanamo Bay to process Haitian migrants, if there’s a mass exodus to the U.S. Located 200 miles from Haiti, Guantanamo Bay in Cuba once had a migrant center to process migrants before returning them to Haiti. The center is separate from where terrorist suspects are held.

Last July, the U.S. State Department heightened the travel advisory to level 4, urging people not to travel to Haiti amid rising crime, kidnappings and poor infrastructure. The message

hasn’t changed as of March. And with the Port-au-Prince airport shutdown, the State Department is working to get Americans trapped in the country safely to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Local, state and federal authorities aren’t only preparing for possible mass migrations from Haiti. They’re also dealing with Cuban migrant landings amid political unrest. On the evening of March 18, U.S. Customs & Border Patrol responded to Duck Key, where 24 Cuban migrants arrived on a homemade vessel. Samuel Briggs II, acting chief patrol agent for U.S. Border Patrol in Miami, said they will be processed for removal proceedings.

Haitian migrants who reached the Tavernier shore receive a mask and board a U.S. Homeland Security bus on Feb. 9, 2023. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

A Haitian puts a thumbs-up after reaching U.S. soil in Tavernier on Feb. 9, 2023. The man was loaded onto a bus with 100 other Haitians. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

COUNCIL TERMS COULD CHANGE, IF VOTERS APPROVE

Proposals seek to bring government stability, per members

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Islamorada council members approved a pair of items which will send questions to the November ballot regarding the number of years a person can serve and staggering terms to avoid having five seats up for election every two years.

At a March 12 meeting, the council unanimously supported the second reading of an ordinance calling for a referendum to revise term limits to eight cumulative years, effective following the 2024 election. Village charter currently allows a council member to serve four consecutive two-year terms, for a total of eight years, before they must step away. The person, however, could run for office after taking a year off and could serve another eight consecutive years, if the majority of the voters give their approval at the polls.

An original proposal brought before the council last November would have asked voters in the November 2024 election if they supported members serving eight cumulative years — and made the change retroactive, meaning those who served previously would have those years counted against them. The council voted 3-2 in favor of the proposal.

Two days later, the council reconsidered the ordinance following concerns that the proposal targeted certain members in the village, barring them from running since they previously served eight years. Councilman Henry Rosenthal asked council members to reconsider the previous vote to send the term limits question to voters. Sure enough, the council voted 3-2 for a reconsideration of the referendum at a meeting in December.

On Dec. 14, the council directed the village attorney to prepare an ordinance to create a ballot question, asking voters if they support a cumulative eight-year term limit for village council members, which would begin after the 2024 village election. The council voted 5-0 on the revised ordinance at the Jan. 9 and March 12 meetings.

Council members followed up by voting 3-2 on an ordinance that calls for a referendum to establish four-year, staggered council terms. All council member seats currently run in the same election every two years. It stemmed from the

2020 election, when all seats were up for grabs with former council members either running for other offices, terming out or choosing not to seek re-election.

Alison Smith, village attorney, said she’s practiced law for 20 years. She told council members that it’s “incredibly uncommon” to have two-year terms.

“Normally it’s four years,” she said.

Four-year council terms aren’t new to Islamorada. In the early 2000s, council members served four-year terms. However, council member terms were reduced to two years following the March 9, 2004 election. The suggestion to reduce terms from four to two years came from a village charter review committee.

Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney said voters repeatedly turned down four-year terms.

“This has been voted down because people who sat on council who had their own agendas, and we all know this is true. I’m not saying everybody, but there’s been people,” she said. “Four years is a long time.”

Councilman Mark Gregg said four-year terms have distinct advantages and have nothing to do with personalities of the people who are running. Gregg served a four-year term from 2000 to 2004.

“It provides stability in the government that attracts people to work here who are comfortable that they’ll have the same bosses for a lengthy period of time,” Gregg said.

Gregg, Mayor Buddy Pinder and councilwoman Elizabeth Jolin voted in favor of four-year, staggered terms. Mahoney and councilman Henry Rosenthal voted “no.” The ordinance will come back for a second reading at a future meeting.

Per a staff analysis, if voters approve the term changes, three council members would serve four-year terms following the November 2024 election. The three members serving four years would be any person elected through an unopposed election and those receiving the highest number of voters in their respective elections.

Two council members would serve a onetime, two-year term following the 2024 election. Thereafter, the two council members serving under two-year terms would be up for election for a four-year term in the 2026 election.

Councilman Mark Gregg. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney.

SUSPECT CAUGHT IN ATTEMPTED ARSON

Incident happened at Key Largo restaurant

Pilot House & Restaurant in Key Largo closed March 6 following a reported burglary and attempted arson. Investigators from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office searched for clues.

KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys Weekly

A51-year-old Key Largo man was arrested on March 14 for allegedly setting his former place of employment on fire and causing more than $1,000 in damage.

According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Terry Wayne Moore was charged with arson, burglary and criminal mischief.

Investigators were called to the Pilot House Restaurant & Marina in Key Largo during the early morning hours of March 6 for a reported burglary. A neighbor reported hearing a loud banging around 4:30 a.m.

DEPUTY SHOOTS ARMED TEEN WHO PULLED A GUN ON HIM

Sheriff said it’s self-defense, but asked state to review

Investigation by the sheriff’s office found evidence that multiple fires were intentionally lit. Inside, they found a door smashed and a carpet behind the door doused in gasoline. Smells of propane also filled the air, which drew response from the Key Largo Fire Department.

The investigation revealed Moore was a disgruntled former employee and the suspect. A warrant was issued for his arrest and he was booked into jail on March 21.

There were no serious injuries reported.

— Keys Weekly staff report

GWEN FILOSA gwen@keysweekly.com

AMonroe County Sheriff’s Office deputy fatally shot a girl who was armed with a stolen handgun on March 18 shortly after 5 a.m. on Stock Island.

She was shot after pointing the handgun at deputies, MCSO spokesman Adam Linhardt said.

“This incident is a tragedy for everyone involved,” Sheriff Rick Ramsay said in a statement. “While the deputy appears to have acted in self-defense, I have asked the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) to conduct an independent investigation to ensure transparency.”

At 5:21 a.m., deputies responded to a call of a suicidal juvenile who had stolen a firearm, broken off an attached gun lock and walked to a remote location on Stock Island, Linhardt said.

“She pointed the gun at deputies who were attempting to de-escalate the situation,” Linhardt said.

After she was shot, deputies “immediately called for rescue and rendered aid,” Linhardt said.

The girl was pronounced dead at Lower Keys Medical Center.

Linhardt told Keys Weekly he could not identify the girl or give her age. A press release only referred to her as a “female juvenile.”

On Monday, an FDLE spokesperson would only confirm that the state agency is investigating.

“At the request of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, FDLE is investigating an officer-involved shooting in the Florida Keys from this morning,” said Dana Kelly, of the FDLE’s press office. “This is an active investigation and we have no additional information.”

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the fatal shooting of a juvenile girl by a Monroe County deputy on March 18, 2024.

TROUBLED WATERS: KEYS LEADERS FIGHT FOR FISH HEALTH

State provides $2M to research on sawfish deaths

By Keys Weekly Staff

With a sawfish death toll at 21 and other species exhibiting bizarre behavior, such as spinning in circles, Florida Keys leaders have united to support researchers in a search for the causes behind the troubles.

The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners on March 13 announced its support for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) in its quest to uncover the mystery behind both the ongoing deaths of the rare, critically endangered smalltooth sawfish and fish abnormalities in the Keys.

“We know there is a lot of frustration in the community not knowing what is going on,” said commissioner Michelle Lincoln of Marathon. “We are all extremely concerned about our ecosystem and what is causing this to happen.”

FWC’s investigation is an organized response by researchers and environ-

mental advocates. And State Rep. Jim Mooney, of Islamorada led an effort to send $2 million in state funds for the FWC’s effort in determining the scale and scope of the recent fish mortality and disease happening in Biscayne Bay, Florida Bay and the Keys.

“The FWC will contract with nonprofits to assist with data collection and analysis, and employ local fishing guides to assist with data collection,” county spokeswoman Kristen Livengood said.

For now, the BOCC is helping spread the word of the FWC’s efforts.

County Mayor Holly Rashein said, “We are fully supporting our state scientists and experts in working as quickly as possible to discover what is happening.”

What FWC knows so far:

There have been 21 documented deaths of smalltooth sawfish, one of five species of sawfishes.

Based on fish necropsy data, there are no signs of a communicable pathogen and specimens were negative for bacterial infection. Additional sawfish tissues are still being processed for analysis.

Dissolved oxygen, salinity, pH and temperature are not suspected as the cause of the fish behavior or kills.

Red tide toxins produced by Karenia brevis have not been detected in water samples.

How to help

Report all healthy, sick, injured or dead sawfish to FWC’s Sawfish Hotline at 844-472-9374 or email Sawfish@ myfwc.com with the date, time and location of the sighting, estimated length, water depth and other relevant details.

NOAA describes smalltooth sawfish as being “olive gray to brown on top” with a white underside.

“Although sawfish have shark-like bodies, they are actually a type of ray,” NOAA’s website says. They get their name from their long, flat snouts that are lined with about 22 to 29 teeth on each side.

Under the Endangered Species Act, it is illegal to catch, harm, harass or kill an endangered sawfish. It is also illegal to possess, sell, carry or transport sawfish or parts of sawfish — such as the rostrum (snout).

While some fishermen catch sawfish as bycatch, they can follow safe handling and release guidelines to quickly and safely release incidentally captured sawfish.

Report fish concerns

If you see abnormal fish behavior, fish disease or fish kills, submit a report to FWC’s Fish Kill Hotline either through the web form MyFWC.com/ReportFishKill or call 800-636-0511.

NEW RULES RESTRICT REALTORS’ COMMISSIONS

Local agents respond to national legal settlement

By Mandy Miles, Jim McCarthy and Alex Rickert

The typical 6% commission that has long been paid to real estate agents by people selling a home will no longer be standard practice.

That figure will be more negotiable come July, pending a judge’s approval.

Realtors nationwide are facing new rules and restrictions on their commissions following a legal settlement that affects the real estate professionals and consumers buying and selling homes.

The National Association of Realtors on March 15 announced it had settled an antitrust lawsuit that claimed the organization and its real estate agents colluded with brokerage firms, forcing home sellers to pay high commission fees to agents.

The terms of the settlement will take effect in July, pending its approval by the courts.

In addition to a $418 million payout over four years to the plaintiffs, the settlement changes the industry’s overall business model in which the seller of a house typically paid a 6% commission — $60,000 for a $1 million home — that was split between the seller’s agent and the buyer’s agent.

Plaintiffs in the recent lawsuit claimed the 6% fee was expected and anything less would discourage agents from showing a seller’s property. But according to several agents who spoke with the Weekly following news of the settlement, that “standard” commission, and the agreed-upon split between sellers’ and buyers’ agents, is far less universal than has been portrayed.

“There’s no such thing as a standard commission,” said Coldwell Banker Schmitt agent Josh Mothner. “I view the fact that they’re all roughly the same as the same reason many products are the same price, even if they’re not from the same company –competition.”

Under the terms of the settlement, as of July, the buyer and seller could each have to pay their own agent’s commission fee. The seller will not be burdened with both, unless they choose to pay both commissions in order to facilitate the sale – an option still very much on the table, contrary to some national headlines. However, where sellers’ agents could previously add proposed commission offers for buyers’ agents on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), they will no longer be permitted to do so, regardless of their intent to strike a deal.

These changes concern some Florida Keys real estate brokers and agents.

“These new rules will make real estate transactions more complex and slow,” said Sebastian Del Negro, comanaging broker with Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty. “At OceanSIR, we never made it compulsory for sellers to offer commissions to buyer’s agents. Although we usually followed industry standards, commissions have always been negotiated. Historically, sellers offering compensation to buyers’ agents has been a tool to attract buyers.”

PIXABAY

COMMISSIONS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

Some buyers may not have the funds to pay their own agent separately, which becomes particularly problematic if a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) or Veterans Affairs (VA) loan is involved.

“With any FHA or even VA loan, the loan rules do not allow buyers to finance the cost of their agent’s compensation,” said Ocean Sotheby’s Realtor Ally Kelly. “Should a seller not choose to offer a buyer’s agent’s compensation, the buyer, not the FHA or VA loan, will have to pay for the representation. This only increases the closing costs … and may make the property even less affordable.”

“This could have an adverse impact on buyers with limited funds for a down payment and closing costs,” said Key West broker Bascom Grooms of Bascom Grooms Real Estate. “In the event their Realtor finds them a property that the seller has not agreed to compensate a buyer’s agent for procuring a buyer, they would have to compensate their Realtor out of pocket, and they may not have the resources.”

Del Negro agreed, saying, “With our current system, commissions were rolled into the loan, whereas in the future, buyers will negotiate commissions with agents and then need to bring additional funds to the closing table.”

Derek Epperly, principal broker of Keys Atlantic Realty in Key West and president of the Key West Association of Realtors, has similar concerns for VA buyers and others with limited funds.

Grooms added that some sellers may still elect to pay both agents’ commissions in order to sweeten the deal and facilitate the sale, “but it remains to be seen if this structure will actually benefit a seller,” Grooms said.

The commission fees will be negotiable and cannot be included in the MLS listing for a property. Rather, the fee must be negotiated individually for each sale with each agent.

“For Realtors, the proposed settlement just means more paperwork; for the consumer, it means a clear understanding of who pays for what,” Epperly said.

“Who this is really going to impact are inexperienced agents who aren’t able to have frank conversation about commissions and being compensated,” Mothner added. “It’s going to cause a lot of confusion initially, but it will settle out.”

Finally, the settlement includes a new rule that requires buyers to enter into written agreements with one agent. The designated agents handle all showings and offers.

“This is going to be an adjustment for buyers,” said Grooms. “Historically they have never had to sign a

representation agreement to work with a Realtor. For sellers this is common practice that they sign a listing agreement. Buyers would still have the option to represent themselves if they did not want to commit to an exclusive agreement, much like sellers have the option to sell their property as a for sale by owner.

But buyers representing themselves, Del Negro said, “translates to delayed transactions and extra work for listing agents and title companies.”

“(Having a buyer’s agent) has always been allowed and personally, I encourage it as there is more protection for the buyers,” added Kelly.

For some agents, a standard written agreement with buyers before starting any significant amount of work is nothing new. Regardless, multiple agents who spoke to the Weekly said the new across-theboard requirement would heighten competition, forcing companies to re-examine the quality and depth of services offered to buyers. And on the buyers’ end, “shopping around” until the moment a deal is struck won’t be as easy as it once was.

“It’s going to tighten up the ship for those people who love to call around and call a different agent every day,” said Mothner. “They’re going to have to be careful, because they will have formal, likely binding, agreements with buyers’ agents.”

In announcing the settlement, NAR did not set a new suggested commission fee, but the current 6% standard is significantly higher than the 1% and 2% commissions paid in other countries such as the U.K. and Israel, according to CNN.

Grooms said he doesn’t expect the proposed settlement to significantly affect the Florida Keys’ listing inventory or local agents’ livelihoods.

“Our income is driven more by the health of the economy, strength of financial markets, interest rates, etc.,” he said. “This is not the first change our industry has experienced and it won’t be the last. We as real estate professionals will adapt and change our business models accordingly.”

Del Negro added, “Real estate agents are one of the few professionals that only get paid after all their work is done and finished. The reward is great, but the risk is considerable.”

He also specified that, “Anywhere Realty, our umbrella company, had settled this lawsuit last November and is excluded from any current or future copycat lawsuits.”

Anywhere Real Estate Inc. owns and franchises several recognizable real estate brands, including Coldwell Banker, Century 21 Real Estate, Sotheby’s International Realty and Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, among others.

PIXABAY

ANTHONY ‘TONY’ CHARLES GIBBONS

Anthony “Tony” Charles Gibbons died on Saturday, March 2 surrounded by all his children, nieces and cousin he loved so deeply. Tony was born in Cleveland, Ohio – as he said, “the Pearl of the Midwest.”

He was the first son of Francis and Edna May Rose (O’Donnell) Gibbons. Tony graduated from Benedictine High School in 1960. He then went on to John Carroll University where he played on the 1962-63 undefeated football team and was inducted into the JCU Athletic Hall of Fame in 2013. His college years were interrupted when he was drafted and played for the Boston Patriots, now the New England Patriots, for several years.

He returned to John Carroll University, graduated and married. He began his careers as a teacher, coach and a referee, but soon realized he had a growing family to support and began his career in the food brokerage business for 20 years, all while he continued to referee. He moved to Key Largo in 1994 and joined the Mid-Keys Official Association to continue to referee. Tony was able to get back into teaching that he loved when he became a physical education teacher at Plantation Key School from 1997 until he retired in 2008.

With deep appreciation, the family thanks Tony Hammon for the joyous eulogy and all who attended the beautiful celebration of Tony’s life at the Caribbean Club. The

atmosphere and vibe was filled with sadness, laughter and peace. Tony is survived by the love of his life, Chris, for 24 years; three wonderful children, Kate (Phil), Mike (Bambi), Anthony (Melinda), two bonus daughters, Nathalie and Melanie; his six outstandingly smart grandchildren – Tony loved to take credit for that – Tinaye, Leilani, Benjamin, Ryan, Rylan and Bryce; five nieces, two great-nieces, two great-nephews, his cousin Mary Virginia and sister Mary Leoni.

He was predeceased by his best friend and brother-in-law Elmer, his niece Karen Marie, sister Mary Dorothy and his parents. Tony was a strong and loving man, father, grandfather and uncle. He truly was a wonderful role model for his family and community. A Cleveland celebration of life will take place this summer. The family requests donations to be made to the afterschool sports programs at Key Largo School and Plantation Key School.

WILLIAM T. GRAY

Dr. William T. (Bill) Gray, born Feb. 26, 1945, of Tavernier, passed away peacefully on March 5 at the age of 79. His wife of 28 years, Virginia Gray, went before him in 1999, and he is survived by his three daughters: Cindy Schneider of Chicago, Illinois, Katie Krupa of Key West, Florida, and Julianne Chenevey of Alachua, Florida; and his brother, Doug Gray, of Blairsville, Georgia.

He has six grandchildren — Logan, Ian, Virginia, Zachary, Hudson and Hank – and loved and treasured his family deeply. Bill was born in Hollywood, Florida, and lived there and in Fort Lauderdale for almost 70 years before moving to the Keys, except for the nine years he spent at Auburn University, where he attained a bachelor’s degree in wildlife management and a doctorate in veterinary medicine.

He co-founded Nova Animal Hospital in Davie, Florida, in 1979 and practiced there until his retirement. From his childhood on, he was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood.

Bill had a great love of and respect for nature, and enjoyed fishing, diving, hunting, hiking and

gardening. He loved the mountains of North Carolina and would often vacation there, enjoying hikes and naming all the trees and plants, as well as their uses for any listening ear. He was a skilled fisherman and lobster diver, with numerous gamefish mounted on his walls.

He enjoyed keeping up with the news and watching any and all sports, but especially Auburn football (War Eagle!). A small memorial service with family and close friends will take place in the Florida Keys in July. In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome to the Auburn School of Veterinary Medicine at AuburnGiving.org/GrayMemorial.

HOLY WEEK SERVICES

SUNDAY, March 24, 10 a.m. The Liturgy of Palm Sunday and Procession of Palms

THURSDAY, March 28, 6 p.m. Maundy (Holy) Thursday Liturgy including Stripping of the Altar followed by Meditation

FRIDAY, March 29, Good Friday Services 1 p.m. Stations of the Cross and 6 p.m. Good Friday Liturgy

SUNDAY, March 31, 10 a.m. Easter Sunday Service. Easter Egg Hunt and Reception to follow. 87500

The

and success of my sellers are paramount, and my greatest reward. Seeing them achieve their goals, with confidence in their future brings me immense satisfaction. By putting sellers' needs above all else and working diligently to help them realize their vision of the future, I am able to build trust, loyalty, and lasting relationships that extend far beyond a single transaction. Let’s talk and start the journey towards realizing your vision of the future together.

A FITTING OPENING

Keys Deep Apparel has new storefront in Islamorada

MELINDA VAN FLEET www.keysweekly.com

“Live the lifestyle with us” is the tagline of local apparel line Keys Deep, and it sums up the overall product performance, attention to detail and vibe.

The name itself, Keys Deep, is about falling in love with the Keys and was divinely guided to the original owner, founder Keys local Scott Grenfell, along with the entire concept.

New owner Carlos Lorenzo, who is also a local real estate agent with American Caribbean, purchased Keys Deep from Grenfell in November 2023.

“Scott started the company in 2020 and built the infrastructure as a way to give back to the community. I met him years ago at the farmers market and, over the years, bought seven or eight of his shirts,” Lorenzo said. “The shirts are made in the USA, digital full sublimation versus screen print and offer sun protection — the fit is awesome, never gets hot and feels good.

“When we moved to Key Largo, I saw that Scott lived down the street,” Lorenzo continued. “I had a vision of the brand and I saw that he took down the wrap on his van. Two days later, I learned it was for sale and bought it.”

In addition to their website and selling wholesale to Robbie’s Marina and Florida Bay Outfitters, Keys Deep Apparel recently opened a retail location in Islamorada at MM 81.6, bayside, next to Martinis Fine Wine & Spirits. The new location also had the help of local interior designer Kelsey Caputo.

“I wanted to put some energy and money behind it. There was something we could create there,” Lorenzo said. “So, I purchased the assets, the branding and the trademarks. I wasn’t trying to change anything. I just wanted to be able to use my skills and relationships to grow the brand.”

Providing known and sought-after products is the goal, as well as continuing to serve the local community. In addition to its growing merchandise line, including hats and neck gaiters, Keys Deep offers Aftco, Marsh Wear and a new, highquality sunglasses line called Bajio, which is under the Aftco umbrella.

Since the garments are produced in Miami, they can easily offer wholesale and collaborate with various nonprofits, charity events and captains. One example is the cool sailfish shirt designed by Sam Milazzo specifically for Capt. Kieran “Kiki” Ferrer’s fight against pancreatic cancer, in which $30 per shirt goes to help Ferrer.

“As a Realtor, I love what I do. In addition to the local community work, this is a way to further build relationships and also build a nice platform for my children, Jonathan and Amanda,” Lorenzo said.

Lorenzo is also a three-time cancer survivor with a big heart and a very supportive family, especially his wife, Belkis. He has an innate entrepreneurial spirit and, during our conversation, realized it was also in his genes.

“My dad and grandfather (on my mom’s side) partnered and owned grocery stores until 1992, so I grew up working and helping customers,” Lorenzo said. “My dad would teach me about the cost and how to price products.”

Daughter Amanda Lorenzo has taken on the role of administrator who’s responsible for the majority of things behind the scenes such as orders, managing the website, Shopify, working with the vendors, nonprofits and other channels. She also works on the product alongside Grenfell and newly-added designer, popular local artist Pasta Pantaleo.

“It was a huge success,” Amanda Lorenzo said regarding the store opening. “We’ve been weirdly calm, and it all fell into place. Best sellers were the new black cotton T-shirt ‘The Great State of Keys Deep,’ Aftco products and the lighthouse collection in general from local artist and fishing guide Sam Milazzo. The shirts with watercolor art from artist Fiona Clark are beautiful and also good sellers.

“And seeing Scott so happy and involved is a blessing in itself. I cannot believe we bought this company in November, and we now have a store,” Amanda added.

Grenfell, who is still involved with Keys Deep, said the opening was phenomenal.

“I was impressed with how it all came out and how professional,” Grenfell said.

The biblical verse from John 21:6, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some,” has been a scripture found inside each shirt since the beginning, and it perfectly fits the journey of the Keys Deep brand.

When asked about her biggest surprise with the brand, Amanda Lorenzo said, “It’s a fun surprise to see people out in the Keys wearing our stuff. For a brand like this to grow so quickly and have the support it has, it’s really special.”

Amanda agreed with her dad as he left for the store Sunday morning when he said, “I don’t think what we’ve done has hit me yet.”

“I felt we could make it happen,” Amanda said.

Visit Keys Deep Apparel at www.keysdeep. com, Instagram and Facebook @keysdeep or at MM 81.6, bayside, in Islamorada. Store hours are Monday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m; Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

1. Inside Keys Deep Apparel’s new Islamorada store. CONTRIBUTED. 2. Carlos Lorenzo with wife, Belkis, and daughter, Amanda.

MAKING WAVES AGAINST CANCER

Annual swim from Founders supports research

For Islamorada resident Glenn Latham, a love for swimming and a mission to join in the battle against cancer were married two years ago with the inaugural Swim Across America — Florida Keys Open Water Swim.

Latham, 69, is celebrating his 12th year cancer-free following a diagnosis in 2008 and four years of treatment.

“Cancer is something we’ve either faced or known someone who’s battled through over the years,” said Latham, the Florida Keys open water swim coordinator with his wife, Susan, and Bob and Lisa Coakley.

On April 20, swimmers will don goggles and caps as they take part in a noncompetitive, social swim to support the fight against cancer. Participants will gather at the beach at Founders Park in Islamorada.

Swim Across America — Florida Keys Open Water Swim enters year three with distances including the 2-mile, 1-½ -mile and half-mile. Young participants who can swim 100 feet or more can join the fun kids’ splash. The Lathams said the races aren’t competitive, but more “go at your pace.”

“We’ll have big mats they (young swimmers) can swim to and play on before swimming back and running through the arch,” Susan Latham said.

More than $210,000 was raised in the two previous open water swims in the Florida Keys. Proceeds support ongoing cancer research and patient care programs at the Baptist Health South Florida’s Miami Cancer Institute. This year’s open water swim seeks to raise $150,000.

Receiving a cancer diagnosis in his early 50s wasn’t actually a surprise to Latham — his parents and two siblings all battled cancer. Latham’s father battled prostate cancer, and his mother passed away at 48 from breast cancer — a disease that also affected two of his sisters, of whom one succumbed to the disease.

“I believe we need to expand cancer research, and the funding that Swim Across America and our swim generates is of huge value,” he said.

Funding for cancer research is especially critical in a time of rising cancer diagnosis. The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 2 million new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S this year.

Swim Across America holds events

throughout the country to support cancer research at hospitals and institutions. More than $100 million went to fund cancer research and clinical trials. According to Swim Across America, 100% of grants it issues are applied only to approved clinical trials or research projects.

The idea for a swim originated with a group of women tennis players, including Glenn’s wife, Susan, who started swimming for additional exercise at the Founders Park beach and around the jetty. The small group welcomed other interested swimmers, including Bob Coakley.

“He (Bob) was involved with Swim Across America events for a long time,” Susan said. “We just got to talking. He said Founders Park is an absolute jewel for this kind of swim.”

“It raised a passion for us,” Susan said about a swim to support the fight against cancer. “We wanted to do something in our community.”

Former Olympic swimmers will join participants during the swim event. Steve Lundquist won gold in the 100-meter breaststroke and the 4-by100-meter medley relay in the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles. Decorated Olympian and Islamorada resident Jon Olsen will also be on hand. Olsen, who coaches the Coral Shores High School swim team, won five gold medals and one silver medal at the 1986 Olympics, three golds and a bronze at the 1992 Olympics and two gold medals at the 1996 Olympics.

Other notable swimmers include Eric Wunderlich, Tony Corbisiero and Coakley. Glenn Latham said the decorated swimmers will also serve as angel swimmers.

“Any swimmer who maybe isn’t comfortable in open water can swim alongside them,” he said.

Swim participants 18 and over pledge to raise at least $500, while those under 18 are asked to get $200 in donations. A person can swim alone or as a team.

Swimmers, volunteers and those wishing to donate can visit swimacrossamerica.org/floridakeys. Donations can also be made to support cancer research on the website. Interested swimmers who can’t make the Swim Across America event in Islamorada can participate virtually by visiting the website, clicking the “get involved tab” and clicking “SAA My Way (Virtual).”

1. Swimmers take off from Founders Park beach to Florida Bay for the Swim Across America’s Florida Keys Open Water Swim. CONTRIBUTED. 2. Participants in the Swim Across America — Florida Keys Open Water Swim at Founders Park beach. STEPHEN FRINK/Contributed 3. Glenn and Susan Latham, middle, with family.

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

RARE PLANTS IN THE FLORIDA KEYS

Final nature lecture welcomes Fairchild Botanic Garden

Thirty-nine years of plant conservation by the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden will highlight the final nature lecture of the season at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park on Wednesday, March 27.

Now in its 33rd year, “The Delicate Balance of Nature” lecture series is sponsored by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park.

Jennifer Possley, conservation program manager with the Coral Gables-based Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, will discuss the group’s work with rare plants in the Keys since the conservation program’s inception in the mid-1980s. Since that time, new species have been discovered and many more species have become federally listed as threats.

Possley will present a brief overview of her team’s rare plant conservation work and provide details about some Keys favorites, including Sargent’s cherry palm, Florida semaphore cactus, Key tree cactus, climbing vine fern, sand flax,

Big Pine partridge pea and more.

Learn more about conservation efforts in the Florida Keys at the visitor center and aquarium building at 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. 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. Bring your own cushion for added seating comfort. Temperatures in the auditorium vary and a sweater or light jacket may be desired. Please help us to accommodate those who are chemically sensitive by not wearing fragrances and other scented products.

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.

— Contributed

GOLF ‘FORE’ HOUSING CAUSE

Habitat for Humanity of Upper Keys hosts tournament

Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys’ annual golf tournament is set for Thursday, April 18 at the Redland Golf & Country Club in Homestead. Shotgun start begins promptly at 10:30 a.m.

Golf enthusiasts and supporters are invited to join this event which promises friendly competition, camaraderie and supporting a worthy cause.

For a $150 entry fee, the tournament includes a package, including a round of golf, range balls, cart, beverages, lunch, awards ceremony and more.

Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their skills and compete in contests, including the putting contest, closest to the pin and the longest drive for the men and women divisions.

“We are excited to host our annual golf tournament and grateful for the support of our community,” said Lindsay Fast, Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys’ executive director. “This event is not only an excellent opportunity for golf enthusiasts to enjoy a day on the

course but also contributes to the organization’s mission of building strength, stability and self-reliance through affordable housing.”

The money generated from the tournament will be directly allocated to the Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys’ building fund. This financial support plays a crucial role in facilitating home construction projects, allowing the organization to continue its efforts in providing affordable housing for those in need. Current projects include an eight-home development in Islamorada and a single-family home in Key Largo. An additional 13 units are in the planning stages with groundbreaking expected later this year.

Registration for the tournament is open through April 8. Individuals and teams are encouraged to secure their spots early to ensure participation in this premier event. More information about registration, hole sponsorship opportunities, or about Habitat is at habitatupperkeys.org or call 305453-0050.

— Contributed

Participants in last year’s golf tournament supporting the Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys’ building fund. CONTRIBUTED

Semaphore Cactus in bloom. FLORIDA PARK SERVICE/Contributed. Inset: Jennifer Possley is the conservation program manager with Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden.

RUNNING FOR GOLD

Inaugural St. Paddy’s races attract hundreds

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Before the Guinness, Car Bombs and corned beef and cabbage, a couple hundred runners decked in festive green took to the starting line for the inaugural St. Paddy’s Day 5k and 10k on March 17. The race, organized by Islamorada Running Co., was held at the Florida Keys Brewing Co. in Islamorada. Dania, Florida resident Ricardo Rios, 35, won the 10k with a time of 38 minutes and 39 seconds. Marathon’s Holly Smith came in a close second, and No. 1 in the female division, at 38 minutes and 56 seconds. Amesbury, Massachusetts resident Andre Bailin, 19, won the 5k with a time of 17 minutes and 52 seconds. Karen Carlton, 57, of New Jersey, ran the 5k in 23 minutes and 5 seconds to take the female crown.

1. Runners await the start of the Islamorada Running Company St. Paddy’s Island 5k & 10K at Florida Keys Brewing Co. 2. Runners begin the 5k and 10k in Islamorada. 3. Marathon’s Darby Sheehan runs the 10k. 4. Decked in green garb, Tavernier residents Ashley Hudson, left, and Nicole Mulder participate in the 5k. 5. The race may have been in Islamorada, but a sizable crew of Middle Keys distance runners made their way to Florida Keys Brewing Co. on Sunday morning.

•Big

•Rex

Photos by Doug Finger and Alex Rickert.

APPLICATION PERIOD OPEN UNTIL APRIL 30 FOR EARLY REENTRY PLACARDS AFTER HURRICANES

The application period for Monroe County Emergency Management’s 2024 business placard early reentry program is open through Tuesday, April 30 at 5 p.m. There will be no exceptions after this time to apply for the 2024 business placard. The program allows essential businesses and nonprofits based in Monroe County timely access to the Florida Keys following hurricanes to assist in restoring community lifelines more efficiently and timely.

Placards are only valid in the year they are issued. There is only one application form to fill out each year. Do not apply until you have read and compiled the required documentation described on the placard web page. A link to the application and program details are at www. monroecountyem.com/placardprogram. Applications will be reviewed within 21 working days.

Each registered business is allowed to bring in only its essential personnel; it does not include friends and family of those workers. Entering the county under a state of emergency using a placard grants access to an area that has not been deemed

PRESENTS FOR THE PETS

TVM donates to local humane society in honor of the late Pascal

Tsafe. Basic life support resources may not be available after a major event; those entering with a placard must be self-sufficient for 14 days with shelter, food and water.

“Disaster response takes the effort of an entire community,” said Shannon Weiner, emergency management director. “Sharing your business’s skills and resources when needed most contributes to a swift recovery for all.”

Other residents who wish to obtain or renew a Monroe County early reentry placard for 2024 may do so through the Monroe County Emergency Reserve Corps at www. mercorps.org. Hurricane recovery courses are required for residents to receive the placard.

Standard reentry windshield stickers for residents can be picked up at Monroe County Tax Collector offices throughout the Florida Keys with proof of residency and vehicle registration. For more information and locations to obtain stickers, visit www.monroecountyem.com/reentrystickers.

Hurricane season begins June 1. — Contributed

by donating a number of items to a nearand-dear cause the young boy had before tragically passing away in May 2020. Taking a brief break from studies on March 15, TVM students and faculty presented a $500 check and pet toys they made to the Upper Keys Humane Society. To generate funds, students spent several hours washing vehicles during the annual Pascal’s Day of Service on Feb. 2. In addition, students crafted and sewed pet toys for the furry animals at UKHS, located in Key Largo.

reasure Village Montessori honored the late Pascal Weisberger

Treasure Village Montessori students and staff present a $500 check and decorated bags with toys created by the young pupils to the Upper Keys Humane Society on March 15. Representatives from UKHS accepted the donations. Ariel Poholek, dad of the late Pascal Weisberger, offered his thanks to the students and faculty at TVM. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

Monroe County Emergency Management’s early reentry placards allow essential businesses quicker access into the Keys following hurricanes to assist in restoring community lifelines. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

NATIVE EDIBLES

Florida Keys bear a variety of fruits

FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI

Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.

One of the best early accounts of aboriginal life in the Florida Keys was in a memoir by Hernando De Escalante Fontaneda. As a boy, Fontaneda was shipwrecked on the Florida Keys and spent 17 years living with the Calusa Indians. His memoir was published in 1575.

In his work, he wrote about the Calusa: “The territory of Carlos, a province of Indians, which in their language signifies a fierce people, they are so-called for being brave and skillful, as in truth they are. They are masters of a large district of country.”

He also wrote about the Keys, noting: “On these islands is likewise a wood we call here palo para muchas cosas (the wood of many uses), well known to physicians; also much fruit of many sorts, which I will not enumerate, as, were I to attempt to do so, I should never finish. ... These Indians have no gold, less silver, and less clothing. They go naked except only some breech-cloths woven of palm, with which the men cover themselves; the women do the like with certain grass that grows on trees. This grass looks like wool, although it is different from it.”

The “palo para muchas cosas” may have referred to the lignumvitae tree, which has a history of medicinal uses ranging from modern pharmaceuticals like Xanax to Viagra. For a long time, it was also used to treat

Early Keys pioneers called the papaya pawpaw. BRAD BERTELLI/Contributed

syphilis. What I have always been curious about is the statement “also much fruit of many sorts, which I will not enumerate, as, were I to attempt to do so, I should never finish.”

What were the “fruits of many sorts” that Fontaneda observed? A quick search of plants native to the Florida Keys provides a surprisingly long list of scores of possibilities. The fruits of historical note that were not included on the list were pineapples, Key limes and coconuts — none of which are native to the Keys but were later introduced. Potential fruits and other edible plants that might have been among those observed by Fontaneda include berry, plum and cucumber, among others.

Quail berry, or Christmasberry, is an evergreen that bears small red berries year-round. The mildly sweet berry grows in pine rocklands and rockland hammocks. Cocoplum produces a purplish plum with a bland flavor. The seeds taste something like almonds and can be roasted or crushed and added to other dishes for extra flavor. Seagrape produces clusters of red grape-like fruits that ripen in summer.

Coral bean, sometimes called Cherokee bean, has both good and bad properties. Native Americans ate the roots to increase perspiration. The red flowers and young leaves can be cooked like string beans. However, parts of the plant are toxic, a narcotic and a hallucinogen.

The creeping cucumber’s fruit is about the size of a jellybean. It is edible when it is ripening and still green with white stripes, like a tiny watermelon. Once it continues to ripen and turns purple to blackish, it can become toxic.

The coastal ground cherry is also edible. The yellow to orange berries are covered in a papery husk like a small tomatillo.

The Florida prickly pear cactus, sometimes called the devil’s tongue, produces a reddish fruit that grows atop the cactus’ flat paddle. Once de-thorned, both the fruit and the paddle can be eaten. The fruit can be eaten raw, but the paddle is best

grilled or sautéed. The paddle is sometimes found in the produce section of the local supermarket.

The gopher apple is a small fruit that grows from ½ inch to 1 inch in length and ripens in late summer. As the fruit matures, it transitions from white to a pink, purple or red color. The flavor has been reported as relatively tasteless.

Marlberry fruits grow off and on throughout the year. When the small berries first grow, they are green or reddish but turn a shiny black color when they ripen. Some people report the flavor as something like blackberry or a grape, though not everyone seems to agree, with some referring to the fruit as distasteful and acidic.

The beach bean, sometimes called seaside bean or bay bean, grows near the water’s edge and develops tough bean pods about 3 inches long and 1 inch wide. The plant’s flowers can be eaten, and the pods, when they are still young, are edible when boiled or roasted. However, as the pod matures and grows thicker, the beach bean can be toxic.

One of the more recognizable fruits that Fontaneda might have observed and possibly tasted was what early Keys pioneers called pawpaw. The more common name is papaya, and though not indigenous to South Florida and the Keys, it is considered a native species. Native species that are not indigenous need to have arrived before European discovery. Several years ago, papaya seeds dating back to circa 300 A.D. were discovered in Lee County. By the time Fontaneda was shipwrecked in the Keys, the papaya had been growing in Florida for more than 1,200 years.

The ripe fruit of the papaya is soft and juicy, with some comparing the flavor to a mango. I would disagree, as I find a mango delicious, though messy. I find papaya to be more like the mixed reviews of the marlberry that is sometimes likened to the taste of blackberry, and some not liking it all. While the historical note attached to the papaya’s story is super cool and I love that part of its history, I do not care for the taste of its fruit.

OPENING SOON!

• Serving pediatric + adult

• Medical exam and vaccination

• Local medical transportation

MON-FRI 9AM-5PM, SAT 9AM-1PM 91461 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, 305-780-7730 advmedsupplies3@gmail.com

Islamorada, Village of Islands

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

PLANTATION TROPICAL PRESERVE GAZEBO

PROJECT RFP 24-08

Bid Submittal Deadline: 3:00 p.m. April 11, 2024

Islamorada, Village of Islands (the “Village”) is seeking formal proposals from qualified contractors to provide services for the construction of a community gazebo, associated concrete walkway and other site improvements in accordance with Design Plans and Specifications provided by the Village

The Plantation Tropical Preserve is located at 90600 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier, FL. Interested parties are encouraged to visit the Preserve during the hours the site is open to the public – sunrise to sunset There is an approximately 1800 sq ft gravel parking lot with one ADA compliant handicap parking spot. An open area close to the parking lot is to be the location of the gazebo.

To be eligible for selection consideration, a submittal package must contain all documentation detailed in Section X of the RFP document. 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=28 to view and download the bid documents including construction plans

BACK TO BASICS

Composting ABCs

We live on a rock. To have a plentiful garden, you need rich soil. That soil must be hauled in from the mainland, fertilizers and pesticides must be added, and the tropical climate requires frequent irrigation.

All these challenges are added to the fight for garden rights with the hungry Key deer and iguanas. Composting can solve many of these issues. The rich nutrients in compost offer a natural mineral fertilizer and biologically deter pests. The enriched soil retains moisture and reduces the need for irrigation. Composting also reduces greenhouse gasses.

Chew on this

According to the EPA, about a third of our nation’s food is wasted. Food waste in landfills accounts for some 58% of the methane gas created, and 61% of that gas is not captured for energy use. We buy food and throw it in the trash. The waste increases food suppliers’ demand, increasing over-harvested land, fertilizer and pesticide pollution. Composting food waste puts organic nutrients into the soil and keeps it out of landfills. Now, how do you begin composting at your home or office?

To worm or not to worm?

Vermiculture is a form of composting that uses worms to process organic food scraps. The worms eat and excrete nutrient-rich waste, cutting the compost process time in half. There is a “recipe” for a healthy vermiculture process.

• A plastic tote (from Home Depot, Ace or Office Max) with holes drilled into the lid to allow air and humidity.

• Layer small-sized organic food waste, moist newspaper strips and the worms.

• Add food scraps and paper daily — worms eat a lot. They eat half of their weight. (example ½ pound of food waste to 1 pound of worms)

• Store the bin in a dark place, indoors or outside in the shade; the worms prefer darkness.

• Spritz the organic mixture with water to maintain a moist environment

• Use native worms such as a red wiggler. Worms can be ordered online or at local nurseries.

• Compost material should be ready to use in about three months.

• Mix the compost product into your soil or apply it to potted plants sparingly. It is concentrated and can burn sensitive plants.

You can also choose to create a compost area outside in your yard. The area can be as large or small as you would like. In addition to organic food scraps, this option allows you to compost yard waste. The materials must be kept moist and turned frequently to allow air circulation. Without the worms, the process will take about twice as long. With either option, the compost should not smell or attract flies. A smelly compost is typically contaminated with animal products, so don’t use meat scraps, bones or cooked food. Use eggshells, greens, vegetables, fruit pieces and coffee grounds.

It’s a win-win

No matter which option you choose, you will benefit from healthier plants, less irrigation, eliminating the need for processed chemicals and pesticides, and reducing your carbon footprint.

Upcoming ‘Dirty Talk’

Please join me at Key Largo Public Library on Thursday, March 28 from noon to 2 p.m. for a presentation on food waste, composting, and gardening for the monarch butterfly. Attendants will start a milkweed seed to take home.

Left: Composting food waste puts organic nutrients into the soil and away from the landfill. PIXABAY.

Above: Worms eat and excrete nutrient-rich waste, cutting the compost process time in half.

Monroe County household hazardous waste and electronic waste collections

• Long Key Transfer Station: First and third Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Key Largo (Behind Walgreens): Second and fourth Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Islamorada (Founders Park): June 7 from 9 a.m. to noon

• Marathon (10600 Aviation Blvd.): April 13 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• Cudjoe transfer station (Blimp Road): First and third Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Stock Island (Bernstein Park): May 11 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Did you know?

“Kool-It” refrigerant bags can be upcycled. Thaw the bag, cut open the freezer bag and use the contents in your potting soil to retain moisture. The contents are biodegradable.

MELODY TUSCHEL

Melody Tuschel is the Monroe County recycling coordinator and outreach liaison.

MAYOR’S VISIT

Reef sits down with Holly Raschein

Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” So, if this doesn’t make the front page of the Keys Weekly, I am going on a writer’s strike. What other fox on the planet could get their mayor to stop by for an interview?

Monroe County Mayor Holly Raschein sat down with your favorite fox to answer some tough questions, so let’s get into it.

Reef: I read that you are originally from Alaska. That is quite a jump in climate. So, if you had to pick: extreme Alaska cold or extreme Florida Keys hot?

Holly: The fabulous Florida Keys for sure. I love Alaska and it’s beautiful in the summer; however, it’s freezing and dark for too many months out of the year. I’d rather be hot than cold!

Reef: I, myself, prefer having options. That’s why I convinced my mother years ago that we need inside AC and outside access. When you aren’t wearing your mayor’s hat, what is your go-to for fun here in the Florida Keys?

Holly: I love to be out on the water, of course, snorkeling, hanging at the sandbar and fishing. I also relish in spending time with my son, Drake. He’s into most sports, so there are always games or practices to go to. He loves to be outside as well so we bike, fish and he is currently trying to teach me how to ride his Onewheel. I’m not a fan.

Reef: What is your favorite event to attend in Monroe County throughout the year?

Holly: That is an impossible question to answer, I love to attend so many of our community events! I personally am involved in the following celebrations: the Bougainvillea Ball benefiting Mariners Hospital, Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys’ annual Cocktail Party and the Miami/Florida Keys Chapter of the Red Cross’ Garden Party in Key West. It warms my

CONTRIBUTED

heart that our community bursts with so many things to do for good causes, there is always something on the calendar.

Reef: Do you have any pets at home?

Holly: This is an area that I need to improve in; currently we have two fish. I’m on the road most days and my schedule is not conducive to having a pet. However, you can always dream. A dog or a bunny are high on the list.

Reef: Well, I can tell you that foxes do not make good pets, just in case Drake tried to convince you otherwise. Now, who has the best Key lime pie in the Florida Keys?

Holly: Another impossible question to answer, there are so many delicious options! A few that come to mind are Sundowners, Mrs. Mac’s, and the chocolate-covered version from Key Largo Chocolates.

Reef: Many other cities across the country have elected rescued animals as honorary mayors. As you know, I am already a fan favorite here in the Upper Keys, taking home the title of Best Local Celebrity two years in a row. Since Key Largo is unincorporated, what are the chances of yours truly becoming the honorary mayor of Key Largo?

Holly: I’d say the outlook is good; let’s work on that.

Well, you heard it here first my friends. You could be looking at the new mayor of Key Largo this year. I have some research to do for Holly on how to hold a fox election but you better believe I am on top of it.

Anywho, that’s all for this week. Until next time, Reef, over and out!

SCOTTY

This 1-year-old male is seeking a “furever” home. A chihuahua mix, Scotty is neutered and up to date on his vaccines. If you would like to make Scotty a part of your family, or to learn more about other pets available for adoption, give UKHS a call at 305-451-3848. UKHS is a notfor-profit no-kill shelter that provides food, shelter, medical care and adoption services for unwanted and abandoned animals.

March 23-24

• Islamorada Chamber of Commerce’s 32nd annual Island Fest at Founders Park. Visit islamoradachamber.com to learn more.

Monday, March 25

• STEM activity with jelly beans at 2 p.m. at Key Largo library. For elementary students. All supplies provided.

• Free hands-on CPR class led by registered nurses at Baptist Health South Florida from 5 to 7 p.m. Email lauraarb@baptisthealth.net.

Tuesday, March 26

• Mote Marine Laboratory’s Adopt-A-Coral launch party with MarrVelous Pet Rescue from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Mote’s coral nursery at Reefhouse Resort & Marina, Key Largo.

• Books on Tap at 6 p.m. at Keys Meads, Key Largo. The book “The Measure” by Nikki Erlick will be the subject of conversation. Borrow book at Key Largo library.

Wednesday, March 27

• 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.

Thursday, March 28

• Discussion on food waste and how to compost by Melody Tuschel, Monroe County recycling coordinator, from noon to 2 p.m. at Key Largo library.

• Nature lecture series welcomes Jennifer Possley, of the Fairchild Botanic Tropical Garden at 7:30 p.m. at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo.

Friday, March 29

• Dive into Arts & Music from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at Safe Harbor Angler House, 80500 Overseas Highway, Islamorada. Musical performance by Rainbow Full of Sound and guests.

Saturday, March 30

• Spring Fest from 9:30 to 11:30 at Founders Park. For ages 12 and under. Bunny arrives at 9:30 a.m.

• Keys Community Concert Band’s Pops in the Park at 4 p.m. at Founders Park amphitheater.

Monroe County Mayor Holly Raschein visits Pawsitive Beginnings Inc. and Reef the fox.

Reef is a red fox that was saved from a fur farm. He now lives in Key Largo with his human, Nicole Navarro.

RECAPPING UPPER KEYS IRISH FESTIVITIES & FUNDRAISERS

There is one sentence I should not have heard from anyone in the Upper Keys this past week. That sentence is “I’m bored.”

I could not keep up with all the events and happenings we had going on, but I sure tried. On March 14, I attended the “Cocktails & Conductors: Honoring Henry Flagler’s Legacy” held at the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center in Islamorada. Everyone was dressed with glitz and glamor as we sipped cocktails from Islamorada Brewery & Distillery. Richard Russell, or coach Russell as we call him, discussed some historic classic Keys stories.

Delicious hors d’oeuvres like bacon-wrapped scallops and mini beef wellington were passed around to counteract all the tasty hibiscus gin libations. Henry Flagler’s great-grandson, George Matthews, attended and was extremely pleased with the turnout.

March 16 was a big one with the annual Upper Keys Irish festival at the Caribbean Club. I had never seen attendance this high in all my years at this festival. I’m not sure if it was my previous article about Darren Pais’ amazing burger or the timing with spring break. It was a scorcher with temperatures hitting almost 90 degrees. But all of us festively dressed up and endured the sweat and had a blast.

This fundraiser was put together to benefit TIPS, or Teen Intervention Prevention Services, and their work with Key Largo School athletic teams. TIPS encompasses the youth basketball league and gives scholarships to kids for summer and athletic camps. Any Upper Keys teens who apply for the scholarship are eligible. We celebrated St. Paddy’s for a great cause, and judging by the crowd size, I hope they brought home “the green” to an amazing program. Email tips4youth@gmail.com for an application or any inquiries for scholarships.

I gathered my strength and got some rest for many more events on March 17. I started the morning with the new, popular Cars and Coffee at American Caribbean Real Estate parking lot. They

meet monthly and have gorgeous and unique cars on display. Our favorite Sandbar Donuts was there with some Irish-themed treats, as well as La Cafetera mobile coffee truck, which you can’t miss since it’s shaped like a huge cafetera, or as some would call it, a moka pot.

If you’re interested in joining Cars and Coffee, reach out to info@KeyLargoCarsandCoffee.com; it costs $25 and they donate the proceeds to a new charity chosen each month.

Next up was the also newly organized Key Largo Locals Market held at the Civic Center parking lot. The minute I heard Mallory’s Bakery would be there, I knew I had to swing by to stock up on some treats. Key Largo is in desperate need of something fun and consistent like a local’s market, so I’m excited to see this event take off and become a staple. To inquire about becoming a vendor at the Key Largo Locals Market feel to text or call Cathy Hardison at 305-522-3978. Hardison is the founder of this event and sells some gorgeous flowers and plants at her booth, so check her out.

Next up was my stop at Florida Keys Brewing Co. They had the 5k & 10k that morning which I missed but heard great things. They also had live traditional Irish music, green sangria slushies, and The Moveable Feast cooked up corned beef and cabbage, shepherds pie and Guinness brats.

As 4 p.m. neared, I headed to San Pedro Catholic Church where they had a St. Patrick’s Day extravaganza. It was a $25 admission and had Irish coffee, green beer, music, games, raffles, desserts and all the Irish fixin’s. My last stop for the night was Dillon’s Pub & Grill, or as I like to call it, Ol’ Faithful. I didn’t stay long but I knew it wasn’t St. Paddy’s if I didn’t have at least one Irish slammer there – or as I heard someone call it, the Dublin Drop. You may be more used to the drink by its more controversial original name, the Irish car bomb.

Well, I survived the weekend and had a blast doing so but the fun isn’t over. I’ve been picked to judge the famous fish dip competition at “The Taste Of Islamorada” this weekend at Island Fest. The event is held at Founders Park in Islamorada on Saturday, March 23 and Sunday, March 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. I am beyond honored and excited to be chosen as a judge. If you see me, don’t hesitate to come say “hello!”

1. Young Upper Keys Irish Fest attendee Emi Camacho enjoys some treats. SAMANTHA DELLILO/Keys Weekly.

2. Upper Keys Irish Fest festivities at the Caribbean Club on March 16. 3. An Irish donut from Sandbar Donuts and coffee from La Cafetera at Cars & Coffee at American Caribbean Real Estate in Key Largo.

is a Keys native who has a passion for all things food. She runs the local food blog, “Florida Keys Eats.”

SAMANTHA DELLILO

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MAKING A SPLASH

Local swim coach & husband receive the coveted Peace Award

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Head of the local Fighting Manatees swim club, Rob Dixon, remembers the moment coach Jennifer Dutton entered the swimmers’ lives several years ago. The search for a coach was long, but it appeared to be worth the wait.

“She brings us a sense of peace and love when we have our workouts. She can connect with anyone on any level at any time, and she knows what they need to hear or don’t need to hear,” he said.

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Dixon’s sentiments were shared with representatives of the Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run, who took a break from the running to present Dutton with the torch bearer award and a medal during a March 7 ceremony at Founders Park’s Ron Levy Aquatic Center. This global torch relay for peace celebrates local heroes’ accomplishments while recognizing the unsung heroes who give back to their communities. The Peace Torch circled the globe for nearly 40 years, giving millions of people a chance to make a wish for peace.

At the Ron Levy Aquatic Center, Peace Run members from Canada and Ukraine, Hawaii and Orlando, Mexico and Kyrgyzstan joined Dutton and friends to present the award. One of the world’s best open-water swimmers, Dutton was only the eighth person to swim Switzerland’s Lake Geneva. She accomplished the swim in 33 hours, braving freezing cold water without a wetsuit.

She was nominated for the 2021 World Open Water Swimming Performance of the Year Award for her long-distance swims. She’s conquered Switzerland’s Lake Lugano, Sierra Nevada’s Lake Tahoe, New York’s Lake George and Vermont’s Lake Memphremagog, to name a few.

The award also recognized Dutton’s masterful coaching of teenagers in the Boston area for two decades. She currently coaches adults who seek to improve their strokes at the Ron Levy Aquatic Center.

“I’m inspired everyday by everyone I come into contact with,” Dutton said. “My coaching inspires me to do my swimming. I can’t do my swimming without coaching.”

Retired pediatrician John Weare is one of Dutton’s swim students. He

told the group of peace runners and friends in attendance that Dutton is a tremendous person beyond swimming.

“She’s able to connect with everyone she meets on their level, and that’s a real tribute to her warmth and care for others,” he said.

Dutton wasn’t the only one who received the torch and medal. Her husband, Andy, was honored for supporting his wife in her open-water swims. He was surprised upon receiving the torch and medal.

“Without a doubt it’s been a fun ride,” he said.

The Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run, founded in 1987 by Sri Chinmoy, is a biennial nonprofit relay which currently journeys through 160 nations. It is not affiliated with religion, politics or any commercial interest. It’s focused on fostering oneness in humanity, especially young people, with the opportunity to express their aspirations for peace and love for the environment through music, art, poetry and running with the torch.

Over the years, a few luminaries who have held the Peace Torch include Mother Teresa, Pope John Paul II and Pope Francis, Nelson Mandela, Mikhail Gorbachev, Muhammad Ali, Queen Elizabeth, Jane Goodall and Sting.

Maria Bagiotti, village parks director, was also honored by the group of peace runners with a certificate of appreciation.

Islamorada swim instructor Jennifer Dutton receives the Peace Run torch bearer award on March 7 at the Ron Levy Aquatic Center at Founders Park. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

Andy Dutton, Jennifer’s husband, receives the Peace Run torch bearer award for supporting his wife’s openwater swims.

CONTENT CREATORS

GORDON FOOD SERVICE OPENS IN KEY LARGO

Upper Keys residents have another place to buy groceries, with Gordon Food Services’ new Key Largo location. A ribbon-cutting ceremony among employees and the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce on March 5 marked the store’s opening. GFS filled vacant space formerly occupied by Office Depot at the Divers Direct plaza. GFS offers walk-in meat, produce and daily coolers, grab-and-go meals and other grocery essentials. Patrons can order online and grab their groceries in two hours. GFS also serves businesses with same-day express delivery. The store is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. CONTRIBUTED

What: “Martyr!” by Kaveh Akbar

Why: Cyrus Shams is a typical American 20-something with delusions of artistic grandeur, tumultuous relationships and a substance abuse disorder. Haunted by the ghosts of his Iranian heritage, Cyrus becomes obsessed with martyrdom.

He hears about Orkideh, an Iranian artist who’s completing her final work — a performance piece — while dying of cancer. She holds court in an empty museum, conversing with anyone who wishes to engage. Cyrus and Orkideh develop an immediate rapport. But she swiftly disabuses him of the notion that her death is more noble or meaningful than any other –or, indeed, that death has any meaning at all.

Cyrus’ journey ends in a paradoxical revelation: rather than ending in death, everything, in fact, ends in life.

SHELF HELP

The big twist on which the plot turns requires a suspension of disbelief –but why not? To reject the tale out of “plausibility” concerns seems to miss the point. While sometimes too ambitious, it’s an enjoyable debut novel, with elements of philosophy, poetry and pop culture. I’m interested in what he writes next.

Where: This is available as a print book, e-book and e-audiobook from the Monroe County Public Library system.

How: You can request books online by logging in to your account keyslibraries.org and get e-books and e-audiobooks 24/7 at estuff.keyslibraries.org. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? info@ keyslibraries.org

Recommended by: Laura Bernazzoli, library associate, Key West library See previous recommendations at keyslibraries.org/shelf-help.

Established in 2020, Blue Seas Lawncare specializes in commercial and residential lawn care, including mowing, edging, trimming, palm trimming, weed removal, mulching and pea rock installation. The team at Blue Seas can also design gardens. This family-owned business prides itself on being predictable and reliable, while o ering competitive prices.

Owners Rick Riveron Perdomo and Amanda Riveron service clients out of their location in Key Largo. They o er free estimates, are licensed and insured and have more than 30 years of experience in lawn care and maintenance.

"Our passion is in creating clean and green spaces which make our clients' lives easier," said Amanda Riveron, co-owner and manager.

ISLAND PARTY

Boat races, hot rods & Taste of Islamorada return to Founders Park

The Islamorada Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for the 32nd annual Island Fest, which features a juried art show, live music, food, classic cars and more. The festivities take place Saturday and Sunday, March 23-24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Founders Park, MM 87, Islamorada.

The arts and crafts show brings artists whose works span from paintings and sculptures to jewelry, fine crafts and even driftwood carvings. Local painter Carmen Sotolongo Kelley is this year’s poster artist. Kelley owns and operates the Key Largo Art Gallery.

Island Fest will once again feature the “Taste of Islamorada” competition on Sunday at noon. Top local restaurants will showcase their most mouthwatering dishes. Attendees will get to cast their ballot for the coveted People’s Choice Award. The awards ceremony will take place on the stage at 4 p.m. on Sunday. The smoked fish dip contest is being brought back by popular demand to the Saturday lineup. The winner receives a plaque, bragging rights and a good time.

Returning again this year is the All-American Road Vintage Cruisers Car Show, featuring antique cars, trucks, motorcycles and rat rods. The show will be visible from U.S. 1, encouraging passersby with an interest in antique and unique cars to stop for a look.

An array of popular musical acts appealing to music lovers of all genres will perform throughout the festival. Acts include southern rock, blues, reggae, beach tunes, Cuban folk and good old rock and roll.

Children and child-like adults can help paint a life-sized dolphin statue and compete in hula-hoop contests while giant kites fly high in the sky. In addition, teams will venture to the beach on Saturday, where they will compete to create the best sand sculpture inspired by this year’s theme of “Ocean Wonders.”

Also on the event’s first day is the “What Floats Your Boat?” homemade-boat race. Participants will create a “boat” to enter in the race on Saturday. The race is free to enter, and the Chamber of Commerce is seeking entries. The big winner will be presented with the Lucky Ducky Admiral Award. The first rule of the contest is “have fun.” There will be a “What Floaties Your Boat?” for participants 10 and under. Teams can enter with their favorite swimming pool float. Prizes include but are not limited to Duckiest Award, the Super Star and the Scallywag.

Admission to Island Fest is free and on-site parking is available for a $5 donation. The Islamorada Chamber of Commerce encourages the public to “keep the scene green” and bring a reusable drink container to reduce plastic use during the event. Events will take place rain or shine. Plan to bring your own lawn chairs and blankets. For more information, call the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce at 305-664-4503.

MUSIC ROCKS THE STAGE

Saturday, March 23

– Toko Irie & The Newton Band

– I Land Vibes

– The Sunshine Band

Sunday, March 24

– Cortadito

– The Pitbull of the Blues Band (Artist Pasta Pantaleo will be painting during the performance.)

– Electric Mayhem

5.

1-2. Carmen Sotolongo Kelley is this year’s poster artist whose work, ‘Flamboyant Royals,’ captures the beauty of the beloved royal poinciana. KEYS

WEEKLY FILE PHOTO. 3. Cool pups attend Island Fest. CONTRIBUTED 4. The Florida Keys Brewing Co. crew dishes out cold beers. KEYS

WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

A young Island Fest attendee paints a dolphin. CONTRIBUTED

Saturday & Sunday 10 to 5 March 23 & 24

Saturday, March 23

Live performan ces all day long on the s tage on the beach

Toko Irie & The Newton Band – Reggae

I Land Vibe s – Beach Tunes

The Sunshine Band – Rock and Roll

Saturday Highlights: WHAT FLOATS YOUR BOAT

Homemade Boat Race Adults & Kids Divisions

“Ocean Wonders”

Sand Sculpting Contest on the Beach!

2024 poster signing by artist Carmen Sotolongo Kelley

Sunday, March 24

Live performances all day long on the Crooked Palm Distillery Stage on the beach

Cortadito – Cuban Folk

The Pit Bull of Blues Band – Blues while Pasta paints to the rhythm

Electric Mayhem - Southern Rock

Sunday Highlight: Taste of Islamorada!

Sample incredible food from some of the best restaurants in Islamorada (only on Sunday)!

Music, Art, Food & These Activities (both days):

Kite Flying

Sand Sculpting on the Beach

Paint the Dolphin: Art for Kids

Hula Hooping & Contests

Large Selection of Food & Drinks

8-ft. Sand Castle — Photo Op

Swim with a mermaid

Meet a mermaid

Mermaid photo ops

Sponsor: Florida Keys Brewing Co.

A DUEL ON THE DIAMOND

Coral Shores visits Marathon for ‘Battle of the Keys’ | P.5

THE SCOREBOARD

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

MARCH 21

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK NILES

3/28 Key West Girls Lacrosse @ St. Thomas Aquinas 4 p.m.

3/28

Coral Shores Tennis Marathon 2 p.m. THIS WEEK

Monday, March 25 will mark the only time this year that two Keys teams will face off on the baseball diamond, as Campbell Lavoie and the Coral Shores Hurricanes will travel to face Jack Chapman and the Marathon Dolphins for 2024’s ‘Battle of the Keys.’ Game time is set for 7 p.m. Photos by Doug Finger and Barry Gaukel.

Scarlet is one of the most athletic players to come through this program since I have been here.”

– Jason Garcia, head coach

home runs slugging percentage

.960

“Scarlet will not be outworked,” said head coach Jason Garcia. “Scarlet always puts in extra work on the field or in the cage. (She’s) always leading the way on conditioning and workouts.”

Though Niles is clearly a power hitter, she is willing to lay down a bunt when it is what her team needs, and defensively, her speed and agility make her a deadly outfielder. For her phenomenal talent paired with tremendous work ethic, Key West’s Scarlet Niles is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Photo by: MAICEY

Weekly

Senior, Key West Softball

Two weeks ago, Key West’s Scarlet Niles slammed four home runs, with three in one game. This week, the talented senior proved it was no fluke when she drilled her fifth home run of the season, a team high. But her stats don’t stop there – Niles leads the Conchs in numerous categories, boasting a .360 batting average, .448 on-base percentage, a .960 slugging percentage, 5 stolen bases and 8 RBIs. And though much of her accomplishments are in part due to her pure athleticism, Niles earns her stats the old-fashioned way.

MALGRAT/Keys

5

MARCH 21

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.

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.

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

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.

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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.

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP PODCAST

9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050

Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

On this week’s Keys Weekly Sports Wrap Podcast, Sean and Tracy bring you all the scores and events from last week and give you behind-the-scenes information you won’t get anywhere else. Find out about upcoming games and matches and hear about some of our local athletes and their work toward greatness. This week, Sean will give a special sneak preview of an exciting upcoming event for Marathon’s football team.

Scarlet Niles. GRACE ANDREW/ Keys Weekly

tracy mcdonald

sean mcdonald

SPORTS WRITER

PODCAST HOST

MARKET EDITORS

FINS, ’CANES PREP FOR BASEBALL’S ONLY ‘BATTLE OF THE KEYS’ THIS YEAR

Conchs head to West Coast after two-game skid

Following a pair of splits last week, the Marathon Dolphins and Coral Shores Hurricanes will have the only chance to duel for Keys bragging rights when they meet on Monday, March 25.

It would take 12 innings for a winner to be decided when Marathon traveled to Ransom on March 12, and unfortunately for the Fins, the win went to the Raiders.

Gavin Leal registered 4 hits in 5 at-bats in the loss, while Jack Chapman, Aidan Gonzalez, Mason Thornton, Dylan Williams and Gabe Leal each had 1 hit. Dylan Ziels pitched the first 6 innings, striking out 10 batters before both Leal brothers added some relief.

Two days later, Marathon had an easier go against Berean Christian in a two-game series. In game one, Thornton started things off on the mound, lasting 5 innings and striking out 8 of the 20 batters he faced. Williams closed out the final inning in a mercy-rule 10-0 win. Gabe Leal had a pair of hits with 4 RBIs and Williams, Thornton, Ziels and Michael Merryman had 1 hit apiece.

The following day, the Bulldogs made it onto the scoreboard, facing many of Marathon’s younger athletes, but the Fins still won it in 6 innings, 16-5.

Williams, Chapman, Ziels and Gabe Leal had two hits, with Thornton, Curran Nicolay and Wyatt Sifford

adding a hit each. Gabe Leal pitched 4 innings, striking out 7, while Williams and Chapman shared the rest of the game. The Fins are off for spring break but will face perhaps their toughest opponent this season the day school resumes. Coral Shores travels to Marathon on Monday night for both a District 16 and Battle of the Keys matchup at 7 p.m.

Coral Shores split the week with a loss to Varela on March 12, then a win against Somerset South Homestead the next night. The Vipers of Varela were stingy, allowing just 2 hits, 1 each from Keller Blackburn and Benjamin Friedman. Donovan Thiery spent 3.2 innings on the mound with Riley O’Berry and Dominic Batista helping out for an inning each. The trio combined for 3 strikeouts against the markedly larger 6A Vipers.

Against South Homestead, a fellow 3A District 16 opponent, things went much better. The ’Canes were error-free in the field and drove 7 hits, 2 of which came off the bat of Thiery. The others were from Friedman, O’Berry, Batista, Campbell Lavoie and Ezekiel Myers. Once on base, Coral Shores stole 9 bases total, with 3 from Friedman. Tate Brumbalow spent 3 innings on the mound and Grayden Ross closed out the 11-1 win. The Hurricanes have a pair of games scheduled over break before heading to Marathon.

Key West continued the tradition of taking on

OF

the toughest opponents they can schedule when they traveled to American Heritage High School on March 13. There, the Conchs faced the Plantation-based Patriots, ranked sixth in 5A. South Florida is home to two American Heritage High Schools, both with top-notch baseball programs. The other is the 4A Delray Beachbased Stallions of American Heritage, a team the Conchs could face in regionals. Key West is hanging on to the No. 2 spot in 4A.

Anthony Lariz and Felix Ong paired up on the mound for Key West in a powerful performance, striking out 10 batters, walking 4 and allowing just 3 hits. Despite their best efforts and some solid hitting, 4 errors contributed to a negative outcome for Key West. Steel Mientkiewicz, Auggy Davila, Nelson Ong and Sam Holland had one hit each in the 3-1 loss.

On March 17, Key West hosted another perennial powerhouse, Belen Jesuit. The game went scoreless through the third, then Key West scored 1 in the fourth inning to claim the lead. Belen struck back in inning 5, scoring 3 runs, then added 2 each in the sixth and seventh. Key West would not score again, resulting in a 7-1 loss to the Wolverines. Noah Burnham, Caden Pichardo and Nelson Ong each had a pair of hits, and though the Conchs were perfect in the field, 11 hits from Belen proved more than enough to defeat Key West.

Next for the Conchs is a trip to California to play some of the top-ranked teams on the West Coast before heading home for the second half of their regular season.

Top: Ezekiel Myers. JOY SMITH/Purely Joyous Photography

Bottom: Mason Thornton. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

NILES HITS FIFTH HOME RUN

Marathon, Key West pick up one win each last week

Key West traveled to Homestead to take on Keys Gate on March 12, bringing home a resounding 15-3 win. The Conchs’ bats were on fire, amassing 22 hits in total with Alexa Condella leading the pack with a single, double and triple. Vera Rodger, Shylo Sanchez and Lindsey Koppal had 3 apiece and Ryleigh Harnish, Skye Sterling and Alexandra Rodriguez each had a pair of base hits. Monica Bueno, Scarlet Niles, Tavyn Gage and Maciey Malgrat accounted for the rest. Chloe Gilday completed the game for Key West, striking out 6 batters over the 7 innings of play.

Two days later, Eustis made the long trip to Key West for a highly-anticipated meeting of two of Florida’s top 2A teams. The Panthers, ranked 19th in the state and No. 2 in 2A, hail from district 7. The Panthers topped the Conchs, currently ranked No. 5 in 2A, 7-0. Eustis held Key West to just 2 hits, 1 from Sterling, who doubled, and Rodriguez. The score was tight, with the Panthers scoring the only run prior to inning six. Eustis unleashed a flurry of hits on the Conchs, who struggled with three errors in close succession. The 6-run sixth inning was too much for Key West to overcome in game one of the two-game series.

The following day, the yet-unbeaten Panthers held Key West to just 4 hits. Alexa Condella, Rodger, Malgrat and Niles each had 1. Niles’ hit was a home run, her fifth this season. Despite the Conchs’ best efforts, the Panthers, who boast six athletes batting over .500, defeated Key West 9-2. The 3-5 Conchs play again at home on March 23 against the 7A Indians of Vero Beach High School.

Marathon gained one win the easy way last week. Ransom Everglades forfeited their scheduled matchup on March 12. The following day, the Lady Fins hosted Miami Country Day, losing 10-1. Sara Robinson had a single and a triple in the loss. Madelyn Thornton and Shynell McGuire each tripled and Maeve Merryman and Elena Eubank added a single each for the remainder of the Fins’ 6 hits. Marathon, now 6-2, is off until after spring break, when they pick up again at home against Gulliver on Tuesday, April 2 at 4 p.m.

Coral Shores did not see any action last week.The Hurricanes will work for their first win in their next scheduled game on Thursday, April 4 at home against Somerset South Homestead at 5 p.m.

The Key West Lady Conchs do battle with the Eustis Panthers in the second game of a back-to-back series. The Panthers prevailed, 9-2.

1. Scarlet Niles hits her fifth home run of the season.

2. Nevaeh Arnold.

3. Shylo Sanchez.

Photos by GRACE ANDREW/Keys Weekly. See more game photos at keysweekly.com.

2

Matthias Martinez

Velez earned wins in both traditional and Olympic lifts for the 139-lb. weight class.

BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

FINS AND ’CANES STRUGGLE AGAINST 3A COLUMBUS

Lifters complete their regular season with a fourway dance at Coral Shores

On March 13, Coral Shores held a quadmeet to complete its regular season schedule. The ’Canes were joined by Marathon and Gulliver Prep, both 1A District 16 opponents, plus Columbus High, a larger 3A competitor. Columbus won first place in Olympic and traditional lifting, with Marathon securing second place in both events. Coral Shores was third in Olympic and fourth in traditional.

Three Keys strongmen were dual winners, all hailing from Marathon. Chase Leird won both events at 119 pounds, Matthias Martinez Velez at 139 and Max Childress at 183. Braulio Garcia won the traditional competition at 238 pounds. Coral Shores’ AJ Johnson was the champion at 219 pounds in the traditional event.

On Thursday, March 28, Marathon and Coral Shores will head to Doctors Charter for the FHSAA 1A District 16 Championships to begin the long road toward states.

The Conchs, ’Canes and Fins battle through a triple rivalry meet in track and field at Key West on March 16. The Conchs ended the evening with the highest scores for boys and girls, followed by Marathon, then Coral Shores.

KEY WEST DOMINANT ON HOME TURF

IMarathon’s Marshall and Key West’s Jenkins claim speed titles

t was a busy week on the track for Keys schools, with each team competing twice, but on March 16, all three squads met up in Key West for a tri-meet to showcase the track and field talents of Monroe County. When the final runner crossed the finish line and results were tabulated, the Conchs topped their in-county competition in both the boys and girls events. Marathon was second in both, with Coral Shores taking third. All three schools enjoyed some success in the various events, with plenty of time left in the season to improve.

Coral Shores had multiple winners and plenty of notable performances at the tri-meet. Ethan Marguet came in first in the 800m race in 2:07. Distance teammate Alaric Rodriguez was second in the mile, running it in 4:57, just a few seconds shy of a school record. Adrik Gadea was first in the 400m race, finishing it in 55.06s. Jack Collins was third. Xavier Johnson cruised over the 110 hurdles for a second-place finish and in the field, Rex Matthews was second in the long jump event. The 4x400m team of Adrik Gadea, Brian Hurt, Rodriguez and Marguet added another first for the ’Canes.

For the Lady Canes, Mira Jones was the biggest winner of the day with a first-place finish in the 400 in 1:06.02. Sammy Bates was second in the 800, finishing her two laps just one second away from the current school record.

Marathon’s Mikail “Jay” Marshall was the top finisher in the 100m and 200m races. Marshall finished the 100 in a respectable 11.26s, and his 22.71s finish in the 200 was a solid second faster than his closest competitor. Tony Bursa was first in the two-mile race, completing eight laps in 11:03.

Older brother Vance was third. Caleb Shelar finished the 400 in second place, rounding out the Fins’ track highlights. In the field, Fabbianho Louis Jeune won the high jump and came in third in long and triple jump. Cullen Coleman-Sayer was second in the pole vault.

The Fins’ girls fared well in the field events, with wins from Daysi Williams in the high jump and Kayesha Christian in the long jump. Christian also took third in the 100m while Williams was third in the 200m. Tinashay Cunningham came in second in the 400m while Mikkel Ross claimed a pair of seconds in the one- and two-mile races. Rebecca Merryman was third in the mile. Caylie Globe was second in both the high and long jump events while Shilo Yeider was second in the 100m hurdles. Justice Lee placed second in javelin and third in discus with teammate Marti Kilbourne taking third in javelin.

The Conchs had lots of first-place finishers, including Andrew Fedor with a 4:56 mile. Colbin Hill was close behind in third. Hill also claimed second in the two-mile race. Suharevskis Niks-Davis was a dual winner, taking first in the 110m high hurdles in 17.30s and the pole vault with a height of 13’11.25”. Jeff Dejean won a pair of firsts, in long jump (20’7.25”) and triple jump (40’).

The Conchs swept the throwing events, picking up a big share of their points. Jean Louis was first in shot put, tossing it 43’5.25”. Anthony Jenner and Benndy Ambrose were second and third. Noah Mercer was first in discus with a 130’4” throw. Ambrose claimed another second while Te’von Watson was third in that event. In javelin, Peyton Zubieta’s 156’4”

Photos by TRACY McDONALD/ Keys Weekly.

Lower left, Dazmine Jenkins; lower right, Mikail ‘Jay’ Marshall. Photos by Mark Hedden and Barry Gaukel.

throw was good for first place, with Watson finishing second and Jeremiah Harvey in third.

Other top-three performances for Key West’s boys included Clerff Alexandre with second-place finishes in the 100m race and triple jump. Shane Lavallee captured third in the 100m, while Walson Morin and Leandro Batista finished second and third in the 200m. William Forster was second in the 800m, Anthony Jenner was third in the 110m hurdles and Ian Torrealba was third in pole vault. Additionally, the Conchs claimed firsts in the 4x100m and 4x800m relays. The 100 team was made up of Alexandre, Morin, Dejean and Lavallee, while the 800 team included Ryan Barrios, Hill, Jerven Louis and Forster.

The Lady Conchs were led by Dazmine Jenkins, with

wins in the 100m and 200m races. The speedy senior finished the races in 13.65s and 27.95s, respectively. Alyssandra Camargo was right behind Jenkins, claiming second in the 200m.

Caylaa Makimaa was first in the 800m, finishing in 2:41, then won the 3200 in 11:37, neary three minutes ahead of the second-place finisher. Teammate Naima Thomas was first in the mile, winning the race in 6:01. Thomas was also third in the 800m. Brooke Biskupich was first in the 100m high hurdles. Neslo Atilla was first in the 400m hurdles and third in the 100m high hurdles.

Anabel Portuondo won the pole vault, clearing 8’11.75”, then took third in the high jump. Clare Boysen threw the shot put 29’3.25” for first place. Kaylee Matas Cabezuelo won the discus with an 87’9” toss, then

claimed second in pole vault and third in shot put. Audrey Smith was first in javelin with a 112’11” throw and was second in discus. Taking third places for the Conchs were Jaila Hicks in the 400m and Riley Richard in pole vault. The Lady Conchs swept all three relays, as well. Abigail Cowan, Biskupich, Jenkins and Camargo teamed up to win the 4x100m race. Biskupich, Camargo, Makimaa and Thomas won the 4x400m relay and Thomas, Makimaa, Emerson Jackson and Mia Steer won the 4x800m event.

CONCH BOYS EARN DECISIVE VICTORY OVER ’CANES

Lady Conchs show improvement against Mavericks

Boys lacrosse had a Keys matchup last week when Key West and Coral Shores played in Tavernier on March 12. The Conchs beat the ’Canes 18-3 in a decisive victory. Mack Hill led Key West in scoring with 6 goals and 4 assists. Hill was also credited with 3 takeaways in the win. Carter Sessoms, Brooks Pellicier, Smith Switzer and Max Louchheim had 2 goals each, with Sessoms and Pellicier assisting 3 times each, as well. Roman Van Loon, Kieran Smith, Zachary Payne and Dreyden Telfer made up the other goals for the Conchs. Goalkeeper Mateo Lopez had a half-dozen ground balls and 8 saves.

For Coral Shores, Red Tudor scored twice and Nick Petrusha netted 1 goal with assists from Nathaniel Shugarman and Lucas

Carballo. SG Paul scooped up 4 ground balls and registered 6 take-aways in the ’Canes’ loss while Brock Bynum and Yoan Garcia paired up in goal for 13 saves. Key West is sitting on a 7-3 record with its next game scheduled against LaSalle on Tuesday, March 26. Coral Shores, now 1-7, plays at St. Brendan on Wednesday, March 27.

In girls lacrosse, Key West added one win and one loss to its record last week. The Lady Conchs played Archbishop McCarthy on March 13, winning 11-9 over

“Palmer came to play and the Conchs didn’t. We were flat the entire game and couldn’t find our rhythm.”

—

head coach

Marisa Giacopuzzi

the Mavericks, a team Key West lost to just two weeks prior. The team has been picking up steam lately, just in time for postseason action. Against McCarthy, Key West was all tied up at the end of quarter one and two, but managed to pull away in the second half. “It was a goal-for-goal type of game, high intensity and very physical,” said head coach Marisa Giacopuzzi. “Archbishop got four yellow cards in the first half, leading them to be down a player the entire second half.”

Key West took advantage of the situation, applying pressure to the Mavericks at the goal. “It was a hardfought game on both sides,” Giacopuzzi said, describing her young team’s will to win against a more seasoned rival. Colbie Turner scored 5 goals, won 6 draw controls and caused a turnover. Kait-

lyn Piloto netted 3 goals and intercepted twice. Maeve O’Hearn, Eisley Whitehead and Deanna Mercier each scored 1 goal. O’Hearn caused a turnover and had an interception and Mercier caused 3 turnovers and won 3 draw controls. Ava Brock caused 2 turnovers and was credited with a pair of assists. In goal, Courtney Grabus saved 7 to preserve the win.

On March 15, the Conchs celebrated Senior Night against Palmer Trinity. Key West struggled against the Falcons, losing 6-5. Though Palmer was the underdog in the game, Giacopuzzi said, “Palmer came to play and the Conchs didn't. We were flat the entire game and couldn't find our rhythm.

“Having just upset Archbishop, I thought we were ready. … Palmer out-hustled us, pressured us and shot

more than us. We were prepared in knowing what we needed to do in a close game like this, as we were with Coral Shores a few weeks back, but we still couldn't make it happen.”

Despite the loss, Giacopuzzi praised the hustle of Ella Bishop, whose defensive play, including 7 ground balls, helped keep the Conchs in the game. Grabus had 11 saves in goal, keeping the game close through the end. Turner scored 2 while Mercier, Piloto and Taylor Gibson each netted 1 goal.

Key West will need to leave its loss against Palmer behind in order to prepare for the strongest portion of the schedule in the coming weeks. The next game is Saturday, April 6 against St. Thomas Aquinas, then they face both American Heritage schools, one of which is the No. 1-ranked team in the state.

Colbie Turner, left, and Mack Hill. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

CORAL SHORES BOYS, KEY WEST GIRLS BLANK DOLPHINS

Districts set for April 15-16

Keys teams hit the tennis courts last week to get some matches in just prior to spring break. Marathon was the busiest team, playing both Coral Shores and Key West. The Fins hosted the Conchs on March 11, picking up two wins against Key West’s five. Adrien Holdinga won his singles match, then paired up with Tanner Snowden to claim the number one doubles match for Marathon’s only wins of the day. Key West saw wins from Michael Grodzinski and Devon Soni in singles, plus a win from the duo of Grodzinski and Soni in doubles action. Marathon did not field a full boys roster.

Two days later, Marathon traveled to Tavernier to play against Coral Shores. The Hurricanes swept the Fins in singles and doubles with wins from Makani Burga, Zachary Bolano, Merrick Dunn and Max Smith. Burga teamed up with Rory MacEachern and Bolano did the same with Tony Khioni to claim both doubles matches.

In girls action, Key West’s Amalia Strunk, Claudia Steling, Juliana Strunk, Violet Jangraw and Leyla Atilla beat out the entirety of Marathon’s lineup. Amalia Strunk and Steling plus Juliana Strunk and Atilla won the doubles matches for a clean Conch sweep. Marathon fared a little better against the ’Canes, picking up a singles win from Rain Banks and a doubles victory from Banks and Reese Elwell. Coral Shores managed to edge out the Fins 5-2 with wins from Charlotte MacEachern, Olivia Hughes, Chloe Koval and Vanessa Gabriel. MacEachern and Hughes teamed up for a doubles win as well.

All three schools have some early April matches, then head to district play on April 15 and 16. Key West will play at Tropical Park, while Marathon and Coral Shores face their district rivals at the Miami Dade College courts.

Top: Key West’s Michael Grodzinski, left, and Amalia Strunk.

MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

Bottom: Coral Shores’ Zach Bolano, left, and Merrick Dunn.

DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice of Seizure that in accordance with Florida Statutes 83.805/83.506, Upper Keys Commerce Center, 97300

Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 will sell or otherwise dispose of the personal contents of the following unit to satisfy the delinquent storage lien.

All contents in:

Unit 9 – Tonya Skillman

Sale of all goods will be 4/8/24 at 10:00 am at , 97300

Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037.

Upper Keys Commerce Center reserves the right to accept or reject any and/all bids.

Publish: March 21 & 28, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold their regularly-scheduled meeting on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., at the DoubleTree Grand Key, 3990 South Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West, Florida 33040.

The Visit Florida Keys Corporation will also convene during this meeting.

All Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public, and one or more County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the Monroe County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting. If you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”.

Publish:

March 21, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

DISTRICT II ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC II)

(From the City Limits of Key West to the West End of the Seven Mile Bridge) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

has an opening for an “At Large” representative - Any resident who is not directly involved in a tourism business and who shall represent the general public and shall live or work within the tax collection district for which they are applying. (The operative word within this description is directly. This word means someone who is not in business, nor whose business or economic activity are

dependent upon tourists.) Any person wishing to participate on the District III Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys. com. Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@ fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address below:

Department DAC

Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040

The deadline for receipt of application at the above address is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 26, 2024. A resume may be attached to the application.

Publish: March 21, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that

on Thursday, May 9, 2024, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:

Customs and Border Protection Facility Phase 3

Key West International Airport Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request.

Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Emailed/mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/ responses WILL NOT be accepted.

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com, no later than 3:00P.M. on May 9, 2024. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of

your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/ proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071.

If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Thursday, May 9, 2024. You may call in by phone or internet using the following:

Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156

Meeting ID: 4509326156

One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York)

+16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York)

+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

MANDATORY PRE-BID MEETING:

(Prospective bidders failing to attend the Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting shall forfeit their opportunity to respond to the solicitation.)

Date: April 17, 2024

Time: 10:00 A.M.

Location: 3941 S. Roosevelt

Blvd., (Construction Trailers, Front of Complex)

Publish: March 21, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

that on Tuesday, April 16, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Monroe County On-Demand Micro-Transit Monroe County, Florida

Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon

NOTICE OF FUNDING AVAILABILITY FOR MONROE COUNTY HUMAN SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS

Electronic applications for Monroe County Fiscal Year 2025 are now available to eligible 501(c)3 organizations. The new application is available on the Monroe County website on the Human Services Advisory Board page at: www.monroecounty-fl.gov/ 318/Human-Services-Advisory-Board.

Applications must be submitted electronically at noon, Friday, April 26, 2024. Applications are reviewed and funding recommendations are made by the Human Services Advisory Board, appointed by the Board of County Commissioners. All HSAB meetings are open to the public. For questions contact Oksana Christow at Christow-Oksana@monroecounty- .gov or 305-292-4474.

request.

Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Emailed/mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/ responses WILL NOT be accepted.

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com, no later than 3:00P.M. on April 16, 2024. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/ proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071.

If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Tuesday, April 16, 2024. You may call in by phone or internet using the following:

Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom.

us/j/4509326156

Meeting ID: 4509326156

One tap mobile:

+16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York)

+16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location:

+1 646 518 9805 US (New York)

+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

Publish: March 21, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 24-CP-23-M

DIVISION: MARATHON

IN RE: ESTATE OF HENRY BERNARD SPITZIG

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Henry Bernard Spitzig, deceased, whose date of death was June 29, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 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 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

LEGAL NOTICES

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: March 21, 2024.

Personal Representative:

Margaret A. Spitzig 1505 Sombrero Blvd., #203 Marathon, Florida 33050

Attorney for Personal

Representative:

Robert K. Miller, Esq.

Attorney

Florida Bar Number: 359173

Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938

Marathon, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-9428

Fax: (305) 743-8800

E-Mail: service@ floridakeyslaw.com

Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com

Publish:

March 21 & 28, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA DIVISION: PROBATE FILE NO.: 2024-CP-1-M IN RE: ESTATE OF SALLY J. PRINCE Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Sally J. Prince, deceased, whose date of death was October 2, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 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 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 March 21, 2024.

The date of the second publication of this notice is March 28, 2024.

Personal Representative:

Marty Prince 1365 Marlin Drive Marathon, FL 33050

Attorney for Personal Representative:

Anthony J. Barrows

Attorney for Marty Prince

Florida Bar Number: 662569

WRIGHT BARROWS PLLC

9711 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-8118

Fax: (305) 489-0307

E-mail: Tony@keysclosings. com

Publish:

March 21 & 28, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

CASE NO: 24-CP-119-P IN RE: ESTATE OF GEORGE WOOD, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of GEORGE WOOD, deceased, whose date of death was 10 July 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the Personal Representatives and the Personal Representatives’ 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: March 21, 2024.

Co-Personal Representatives:

Elizabeth Wood 94381 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier, FL 33070

Jessica Wood 182 Carroll Street Islamorada, FL 33036

Attorney for Co-Personal

Representatives:

Tom Woods, Esq. Florida Bar No.: 0525197

116 Porto Salvo Drive Islamorada, Florida 33036

Phone: 305.664.2200 Fax 2205

Email: tom@tomwoodslaw. com

Secondary Email: eserve@ tomwoodslaw.com

Publish: March 21 & 28, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO: 23-CP-000120-P

IN RE: ESTATE OF TED JONES, a/k/a Ted Warren Jones, a/k/a Ted W. Jones, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The Administration of the Estate of Ted Jones, deceased, whose date of death was August 5, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, 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: March 21, 2024.

Personal Representative:

Keith Edward Jones 4197 Baker Avenue Palo Alto, CA 94306

Attorney for Personal

Representative:

Cyrus Malhotra, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0022751

THE MALHOTRA LAW FIRM

P.A.

Attorneys for Petitioner

3903 Northdale Blvd., Suite 100E Tampa, FL 33624

Telephone: (813) 902-2119

Fax Number: (727) 290-4044

Email: filings@ FLprobatesolutions.com

Secondary Email: sandra@ FLprobatesolutions.com

Publish: March 21 & 28, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 24-CP-000058-K

IN RE: THE ESTATE OF STEVEN DUNCAN, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of STEVEN DUNCAN, deceased, whose date of death was October 12, 2023, and whose Social Security Number is ***-**0714, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; the address of which is 302 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 33040. 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 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 March 14, 2024.

Personal Representative: Michael Duncan

435 South Gulfstream Avenue, #808 Sarasota, FL 34236 Attorney for Personal Representative: Steven K. Schwartz Florida Bar No. 187976

E-mail: Steven@ stevenkschwartzpa.com

Publish: March 14 & 21, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 22-CP-000323-K

IN RE: THE ESTATE OF PAUL P. ROLLICK, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of PAUL P. ROLLICK, deceased, whose date of death was September 20, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division; the address of which is 302 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida 33040. 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

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 March 14, 2024.

Personal Representative: Arnold David Makepeace 83311 Old Highway Islamorada, Florida 33036

Attorney for Personal Representative: Nicholas W. Mulick

E-mail Address: reception@ mulicklaw.com Florida Bar No. 337757

Nicholas W. Mulick P.A. 91645 Overseas Highway Tavernier, Florida 33070 Telephone: (305) 852-9292

Publish: March 14 & 21, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

All

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 March 14, 2024.

Personal Representative: MICHELE CAROL STAROBA

1614 Steven Avenue Key West, Florida 33040

Attorney for Personal Representative: JOHN A. TURNER

E-mail Addresses: john.turner@saul.com linda.dunne@saul.com shar-ann.callahan@saul.com

Florida Bar No. 000922

SAUL EWING LLP

515 W. Flagler Drive, Suite 1400 West Palm Beach, Florida 33401

Telephone: 561-833-9800

Publish: March 14 & 21, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 24-CP-000035-P

IN RE: THE ESTATE OF ROBERT MAKEPEACE, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Robert Makepeace, deceased, whose date of death was December 4, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Ste. 2, Plantation Key, 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

All other creditors of the

Zodiac 11' Yachtliner w/trailer. Equipped w/40hp Yamaha. Well maintained, 6 hrs./year annual usage. Fun vessel named "Tubby" - pleasure assured to captain. Located in Key Colony Beach. Fairly priced at $8,995 Call 781-422-1131

2008 Precision 165

Sailboat for sale. Length: 16.5’ Beam 7’2” Draft 1’9” Fiberglass w/ two 6’8” berths. Trailer and 1.5 hp Honda outboard. $6,500. Located on Summerland Key. Call Kyle 928-231-0442

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

BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

Place your BOAT SLIP FOR RENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24-DR-194-K KALAMKAS AKHMETOVA

Wife, and, ANDRE WILLIAM WALTERS Husband.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE

TO: ANDRE WILLIAM WALTERS

2213 STAPLES AVENUE

KEY WEST, FL 33040

YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Kalamkas Akhmetova, whose address is Law Office of Wayne Dapser, 300 Southard Street, Suite 208, Key West, FL 33040 on or before April 6, 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. 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 Notice of Current Address, Florida Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed to the address on 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: March 4, 2024

Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court

Monroe County, Florida

By: Destiny Johnson

Deputy Clerk

Publish: March 7, 14, 21 & 28, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

AUTOS WANTED

AUTOS ALL YEARS!

Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.

$CASH 305-332-0483

BOATS FOR SALE

City of Marathon

Current Job Openings: Administrative Asst. Fire Department and Part-time Custodian/ Maintenance. Full Benefits for full-time positions. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us

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 Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is now hiring for the following positions: Server, $10/hr + tips, 9:30am-7pm, Beach Shop Attendant, $18/hr, 9:30am-5pm, and Part- time Office Clerk, $18/hr, Thu/Fri/Sat, 9:30am-7pm. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR SALE OR LEASE

COMMERCIAL OFFICE/ RETAIL SPACE For Sale or Lease, Middle of Marathon. Excellent Highway Exposure, 1,900 + sq. ft. Available May 1st. Call or text 305-731-6021

EMPLOYMENT

Las Marias Medical Center- Hiring bilingual: Front Desk, RN, Medical Assistant & Local Driver. Tavernier, MM 91. 305-780-7730

Aluminum Installer needed in the Upper Keys: (Handy Randin) Install pool cages, hurricane shutters, railing. No exp. needed. Pay rate $17- $25/hr depending on experience. 305.394.5929

Hiring for backyard, light work, pull weeds in Marathon. $15/hour 305-610-8002

Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder is hiring an overnight Security Guard- responsibilities include but are not limited to observing marine mammals to ensure quality care, the ability to follow written instructions, and follow protocol and procedures as directed. Candidates must be able to lift 50 lbs and must be able to stay awake and alert for a 13.5 hour shift (5:30pm- 7am). DPMMR is a drug- free workplace. To apply, please send your resume to andreaw@dpmmr.org.

Hiring: Lead Gutter Installer - EXPERIENCE REQUIRED – valid Driver’s License - must be comfortable with heights - located in Tavernier. To apply, please call or text Jay 305-587-1581.

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time dishwasher. Private club, friendly atmosphere, flexible afternoon/ evening hours available Tuesday – Sunday. Must provide photo ID and social security card or passport. Call 305-743- 6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com

Large One Bedroom Suite, Conch House, carpet, tile, appliances, available for rent in Marathon. $2,000/month furnished, $1600/ month unfurnished includes electric, water, sewer, cable & internet. No Pets. 305-610-8002

2BR/2BA Conch House downtown Key West. Recently renovated kitchen and baths; original Dade Co pine on walls; incl. W/D, fridge; unfurnished. No smoking. No pets. $4,500/mo + F/L/S. 305-842-1368

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

RV LOT FOR RENT

Large RV Lots for Rent in Marathon. Full hook up. Dry & Waterfront lots. $1300 - $1700/ month plus utilities. F/L/S 305-731-5042

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions:

PT Receptionist, Housing Assistant-Key West, Housing Manager- Middle 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.

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. HIRED!!!

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

HOBBIES/COLLECT

PRIVATE COLLECTOR

WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578

Place your Hobbies/ Collectibles ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844.

HOUSING FOR RENT

ANNUAL RENTALKey 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

SARA’S ESTATE SALE: 7525 Gulfstream Blvd, Marathon | Fri, March 22 & Sat, March 23 9a to 1p both days. MASSIVE ESTATE SALE, PART 1 @ waterfront home featuring dive, fish & boat gear plus designer interior. Outstanding: mermaid/dolphin fountain, a Ritz-quality brass bellhop cart, pair of 20-ft carbon fiber outriggers and top- quality tools and fishing rods. Also: boat parts (12v and 24v), electronics, tanks, vests, regs, gaffs, Ryobi tools, 30-g air compressor, acetylene torch and more. Inside see the fully stocked “pool” kitchen packed with designer, casual entertaining dish & glassware. Also full-size bed and bedroom set

and a queen-size bed and bedroom set and nautical antique reproductions, faux potted plants, designer bamboo accent chairs, tropical art & light fixtures, a stunning driftwood base console and a Hollywood Regency faux bamboo (metal) étagère plus 3 TVs ranging up to 60”. Follow signs, park with consideration. More photos: estatesales.net.

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

IS HIRING!

DIRECT CARE STAFF/DRIVER (FT/PT) KEY WEST OFFICE

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

This position is available at our Adult Day program. Providing direct care service & support to our clients in the day program. This position 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, pre-employment training online and in person. Ability to pass a Level II background screening and references.

Apply at the MARC office, 1401 Seminary St., Key West, or online at www.marchouse.org.

For more information contact hr@marchouse.org Phone: 305-294-9526 *32. Come join our family! EOE

NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA

MARINA CASHIERS

Must have customer service experience working in a retail environment and using a point of sale system. Additional duties include restocking, completing purchase orders, daily ordering of basic items in the store, and maintaining a clean appearance in the store. This is an hourly position and compensation is based on experience. Work hours are flexible and we try to maintain a set weekly schedule.

DOCKHANDS

Duties include customer service, helping customers with bait and ice and helping cashiers with restocking. Morning & a ernoon hours available.

Please respond by email (Ma at islamarinama @gmail.com) with any relevant previous experience and at least two references.

NOW HIRING ADMINISTRATION/OFFICE HELP

Fast paced, busy resort in need of Of ce Help. Must be able to multi-task, stay calm under pressure and have great communication skills. Be dependable, able to work weekends, 3 to 4 days a week, hours til 7pm.

If you want to be part of a great team, please apply!

Send resume to captpips@aol.com or come into the of ce at 1480 Overseas Highway, Marathon to ll out an application.

CAPTAIN PIP’S IS AN AWESOME PLACE TO WORK, WE TREAT OUR EMPLOYEES GREAT. COME JOIN OUR TEAM.

LEGAL

CLIENT CARE COORDINATOR

The ideal candidate will possess excellent phone skills and a passion for helping people. The role involves phone call follow-up, scheduling appointments, and utilizing strong computer skills. The hours are up to 30 per week, and the pay rate is $25 per hour. After successful training in Marathon, the role may permit working from home. Call 305-783-3395 to schedule an interview.

MARATHON COMMUNITY THEATRE IS NOW HIRING:

GENERAL / BUSINESS MANAGER

Full-Time, Permanent, Salary Commensurate with Experience

Oversees all business operations of Marathon Community Theatre including the Playhouse and Cinema. Ensures the theatre venue is ready for events by adhering to prescribed timelines and requirements and by coordinating with staff, production crews, volunteer committees, and outside vendors. Meet deadlines for grant submittals, compliance reporting, and production needs. Responsible for accounting processes including bank deposits, invoice payment, and budget adherence. Coordinate with the building committee chair to ensure the building is safe and maintenance needs are met.

A candidate should possess:

• Strong management skills with ability to delegate (supervise 4-6 employees and many volunteers)

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Self-Motivation

• Strong working knowledge of common computer applications (Gmail, Google Sheets, GoDaddy, Canva, Excel, Word) and ability to learn unique industry applications (Audience View, Veezi etc.)

• Strong organizational skills

CUSTODIAL TECHNICIAN

Part-Time, Permanent, 30 hours per week

Reports to the General/Business Manager. Responsible for the day-today custodial maintenance and minor repairs/maintenance of the playhouse and cinema.

To apply for either position:

Email/mail a cover letter and resume to: gm@marathontheater.org Marathon Community Theatre, 5101 Overseas Highway, Marathon.

FULL-TIME POSITION POLICE OFFICER

The City of Key Colony Beach is accepting applications for a FULL-TIME Police Officer.

Experience

•

•

•

•

•

Applicants must posses a current Florida Certification as a police officer. Applicants will undergo a thorough background investigation, including drug screening, medical, polygraph and a psychological exam.

Salary: $60,000.

Full Health & Dental Insurance, 457 (b) Participation.

Email resume to:

Chief of Police at: chief@keycolonybeach.net

Or call for additional information:

305-289-1212 ext. 1

Preference in the selection of vacant positions will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of veterans. The Key Colony Beach Police Department is an EEO employer, drug-free and nicotine-free workplace.

DUI

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 eld required. Bilingual preferred, not required. Of ce located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

Competitive

Job

PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS

- Medical Assistant, Marathon, Orthopedics, Part Time

- Ortho Support Tech, Tavernier, Orthopedics, Part Time

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Cook, Per Diem

- Exercise Physiologist, Per Diem

- Medical Technologist, $15k Sign-on Bonus*

- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, $20k Sign-on Bonus*

- Nuclear Medicine Tech, Per Diem

- Pool Group Exercise Instructor, Per Diem

- Pool Yoga Instructor, Per Diem

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, $25k Sign-on Bonus*

- Registered Nurse, Surgery, $15k Sign-on Bonus*

- Registered Respiratory Therapist, Part Time

- Wellness Center Manager

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- ED Team Coordinator

- Environment Tech, $5k Sign-on Bonus*

- First Cook, $5k Sign-on Bonus*

- Medical Technologist, $15k Sign-on Bonus*

- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, $20k Sign-on Bonus*

- Patient Experience Advocate

- Radiology Tech, $15k Sign-on Bonus*

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, $25k Sign-on Bonus*

- Security Of cer

All

APPLY AND LEARN MORE

careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507

KEY WEST

Peer Support Specialist

Prevention Specialist (any location)

(PT)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult)

Behavioral Health Counselor (Child)

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)

Visual Communications Coordinator (Full-Time, Permanent) Trainer (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

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL Teaching... Learning... Caring

DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATORS

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 transmission systems. We provide on the job training for qualified applicants. 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. aa.com/212/opportunities

EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

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