Upper Keys Weekly 24-0530

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For the second year in a row, Josef Newgarden was first to cross the finish line during the Indianapolis 500 on May 26. Kissing the bricks yet again with his crew, Newgarden passed Pato O’Ward on the last lap to win the race.

Members of

Models of all ages take to the runway during the Sizzling Summer Fashion Show at Village Square at the Trading Post in Islamorada on May 25. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

ISLAMORADA PLANNING BOARD RECOMMENDS COUNCIL DENY RESORT PROPOSAL ON TEA TABLE

A rendering shows a resort on Tea Table Key in Islamorada. The property, which has a vacation rental home, is owned by Integra Investments and principal Victor Ballestas. CONTRIBUTED

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Afive-bedroom, four-bathroom vacation rental home sits on a 15-acre private island in Islamorada. Roughly 2,000 feet of private driveway leads to Tea Table Key, an exclusive island where vacationers can break away from the hustle and bustle for a bit of relaxation and views of the Atlantic Ocean — all at a weekly price of $25,000 to $35,000, depending on the time of year.

The property sat on the market for several years until 2021, when Miamibased Integra Investments and principal Victor Ballestas purchased the island for $8 million. With the transaction, Ballestas saw an opportunity to potentially transform the property into an eco-friendly, villa-style resort. The plan, however, has several members of Islamorada’s Local Planning Agency (LPA) concerned about the effects a development of that scale could have on the surrounding waters. Applications to the village seek changes to the future land use map (FLUM) from native residential to tourist commercial for Tea Table Key. There’s also a request for a zoning change from residential conservation to mixed. Both requests, as well as a development agreement, need council approval in order for Ballestas to construct a 24-unit resort on the island. Ballestas was originally seeking to

build 30 units on the resort, but public comments about his plans during a LPA meeting last September nixed the idea.

“It was clear to us after the last meeting that the original plan we presented wasn’t as well thought out as we thought it was,” Ballestas told LPA members. “We went back to the drawing board and tried to address the comments so it’s less impactful.”

Proposals would allow transfer of motel units

Per a staff analysis, the proposed changes to the FLUM and zoning map would allow the owner to pursue transferring 24 motel units from Sunset Inn onto Tea Table Key. Located at 82200 Overseas Highway, Ballestas purchased the property from then-owner Deb Gillis in 2018 for $3.7 million.

If the transfer is successful, Ballestas will turn the 24 motel units at Sunset Inn into workforce housing units. A development agreement prepared by Ballestas’ attorney Bart Smith states Ballestas is seeking to purchase the Casa Morada property, located at 136 Madeira Road. The property was once a part of the Sunset Inn parcel. In unifying the two properties, the development agreement states the units can be transferred from one waterfront property to another.

“Sunset Inn and Casa Morada

were previously identified as a single property, and the Village has confirmed that the Properties can be unified and will be a single waterfront property for future development review purposes,” a development agreement reads.

Staff recommends approval, but LPA has issues

Village planning staff are recommending Islamorada council members approve the request, which is expected to be heard at a future meeting. A staff analysis states the proposed map amendment would be consistent with the historical trend of a mixeduse development pattern within the village. The properties along Overseas Highway contain mixed uses, including commercial, recreation and residential uses.

The LPA majority, however, recommends the council say “no” to the requests.

On May 13, Ballestas’ project came back to the LPA, the seven-person group charged with recommending proposed changes to the village’s comprehensive plan, zoning map and land development regulations. Following hours of conversations and questions, the LPA voted 4-3 to recommend the council members deny Ballestas’

BUCKLE UP: HURRICANE SEASON COULD BE BUSY

NOAA forecasts 17 to 25 named storms

NOAA National Weather Service forecasters at the Climate Prediction Center predict above-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin this year. NOAA’s outlook for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which spans from June 1 to Nov. 30, predicts an 85% chance of an above-normal season, a 10% chance of a near-normal season and a 5% chance of a below-normal season.

NOAA is forecasting a range of 17 to 25 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher). Of those, eight to 13 are forecast to become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including four to seven major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; winds of 111 mph or higher). Forecasters have a 70% confidence in these ranges.

The upcoming Atlantic hurricane season is expected to have above-normal activity due to a confluence of factors, including near-record warm temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean, development of La Niña conditions in the Pacific, reduced Atlantic trade winds and less wind shear, all of which tend to favor tropical storm formation.

“With another active hurricane season approaching, NOAA’s commitment to keeping every American informed with life-saving information is unwavering,” said NOAA administrator Rick Spinrad. “AI-enabled language translations and a new depiction of inland wind threats in the forecast cone are just two examples of the proactive steps our agency is taking to meet our mission of saving lives and protecting property.”

“Severe weather and emergencies can happen at any moment, which is why individuals and communities need to be prepared today,” said FEMA deputy administrator Erik A. Hooks. “Already, we are seeing storms move across the country that can bring additional hazards like tornadoes, flooding and hail. Taking a proactive approach to our increasingly challenging climate landscape today can make a difference in how people can recover tomorrow.”

As one of the strongest El Niños ever observed nears its end, NOAA scientists predict a quick transition to La Nina conditions, which are conducive to Atlantic hurricane activity because La Niña tends to lessen wind shear in the tropics. At the same time, abundant oceanic heat in the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea creates more energy to fuel storm development.

A summary infographic showing hurricane season probability and numbers of named storms predicted from NOAA’s

This hurricane season also features the potential for an above-normal west African monsoon, which can produce African easterly waves that seed some of the strongest and longer-lived Atlantic storms. Finally, light trade winds allow hurricanes to grow in strength without the disruption of strong wind shear, and also minimize ocean cooling

Enhanced communications in store

NOAA will implement improvements to its forecast communications, decision support and storm recovery efforts this season. These include:

• The National Hurricane Center (NHC) will expand its offering of Spanish language text products to include all Public Advisories, the Tropical Cyclone Discussion, the Tropical Cyclone Update and Key Messages in the Atlantic basin.

• On or around Aug. 15, NHC will start to issue an experimental version of the forecast cone graphic that includes a depiction of inland tropical storm and hurricane watches and warnings in effect for the continental U.S. Research indicates that the addition of inland watches and warnings to the cone graphic will help communicate inland hazards during tropical cyclone events without overcomplicating the current version of the graphic.

• This season, the NHC will be able to issue U.S. tropical cyclone watches and warnings with regular or intermediate public advisories. This means that if updates to watches and warnings for storm surge or winds are needed, the NHC will be able to notify the public in an intermediate advisory instead of having to wait for the next full advisory issued every six hours.

New tools for analysis and forecasting

Two new forecast models developed by NOAA researchers will go into operation this season: The Modular Ocean Model or MOM6 will be added to the Hurricane Analysis and Forecast System to improve the representation of the key role the ocean plays in driving hurricane intensity. Another model, SDCON, will predict the probability of tropical cyclone rapid intensification.

NOAA’s new generation of Flood Inundation Mapping, made possible through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will provide information to emergency and water managers to prepare and respond to potential flooding and help local officials better prepare to protect people and infrastructure.

NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center, in partnership with the NHC, will issue an experimental rainfall graphic for the Caribbean and Central America during the 2024 hurricane season. This graphic provides forecast rainfall totals associated with a tropical cyclone or disturbance for a specified time period.

System upgrades in operation

NOAA will upgrade its observing systems critical in understanding and forecasting hurricanes. These projects will provide more observations of the ocean and atmosphere in the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, on the U.S. East Coast and in the tropical Atlantic.

NOAA’s National Data Buoy Center recently upgraded many coastal weather buoys in the tropical western Atlantic and Caribbean to include time of occurrence and measurements of one-minute wind speed and direction, 5-second peak wind gust and direction and lowest 1-minute barometric pressure to support tropical cyclone forecasting.

New this year, NOAA will gather additional observations using Directional Wave Spectra Drifters (DWSDs), deployed from the NOAA P-3 hurricane hunter aircraft and in the vicinity of Saildrones, uncrewed surface vehicles which will be deployed at the start of the hurricane season, providing one-minute data in real time. Eleven to 12 Saildrones are planned for deployment in 2024.

Starting in June, dozens of observational underwater gliders are planned to deploy in waters off the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico and the eastern U.S. coast. Additionally, a new lightweight dropsonde called Streamsonde will be deployed into developing tropical storms, collecting multiple real-time observations to collect valuable wind data.

The Coordinated Hurricane AtmosphereOcean Sampling (CHAOS) research experiment aims to improve the understanding of air-sea interactions, providing sustained monitoring of key ocean features.

About NOAA seasonal outlooks

NOAA’s outlook is for overall seasonal activity and is not a landfall forecast. In addition to the Atlantic seasonal outlook, NOAA issues seasonal hurricane outlooks for the eastern Pacific, central Pacific and western north Pacific hurricane basins.

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center will update the 2024 Atlantic seasonal outlook in early August, prior to the historical peak of the season.

NOAA’s GOES-16 satellite captured Hurricane Idalia approaching the western coast of Florida while Hurricane Franklin churned in the Atlantic Ocean at 5:01 p.m. EDT on Aug. 29, 2023. NOAA/Contributed

2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook.

mandy@keysweekly.com

Elwell family’s Royal Furniture celebrates 40 years

MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME

Ross and Janice Elwell’s first furniture store in the Florida Keys likely carried at least a few lacquer dressers, Lucite tables and a variety of vertical blinds.

It was 1984, and Prince’s “Purple Rain” album was topping the charts. Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” was panicking parents and kids were getting “Footloose” with Kevin Bacon.

Meanwhile, the Elwell family was founding a furniture dynasty that would spread throughout the Keys and continue to grow for four decades — and counting.

The single store in Marathon gave way to what is now the Royal Furniture empire — with sprawling showrooms in Key West, Marathon and Key Largo and a distribution warehouse in Florida City that enables same- or next-day delivery for most items.

In 1990, six years after opening their first store in Marathon, the Elwells opened a second location in Key Largo. That’s also when Ross and Janice Elwell’s son, Christopher, joined the family business full-time. His brother Ryan followed suit in 2002 and the Key West store opened in 2005.

“We now have the three stores and distribution center, plus the business has also expanded to include a home improvement division, offering complete remodels, kitchens and bathrooms, flooring, window treatments and complementary interior design services,” Christopher Elwell told the Keys Weekly, adding that Royal Furniture is celebrating its 40th anniversary all year with “fun specials” and anniversary promotions.

The company caters to a variety of clients: second- and thirdhome owners seeking to furnish and design their dream vacation home in the Keys; investor owners of high-end rental properties; “and then we always have our locals, the people who live here full time” and will actually be the ones using the furniture and accessories in their home.

And the Elwells are proud to carry a multitude of brands for all budgets.

“We have fantastic Ashley furniture that’s more affordable, all the way up to Lexington and Tommy Bahama,” he said.

The choices are endless and a quick walk around any of the three showrooms immediately makes anyone despise their current living room or bedroom and want one of each sofa, chair-and-a-half and bedroom set.

Ryan Elwell celebrating Royal Furniture’s 2019 win as ‘Best Furniture Store’ in Marathon. The family-owned business is consistently at the top of the people’s choice awards voting.

“For 40 years we’ve been entirely family-owned, with no outside investors,” Christopher Elwell said. “You don’t see that sort of longevity very often with family businesses, especially in the Florida Keys.”

The family takes pride in both their company and their communities, sponsoring regular charity cookouts to support various causes, while also supporting the local arts culture, scholarships and storm recovery efforts.

The lacquer dressers may be gone, and design trends will always change, but the Elwells and Royal Furniture aren’t going anywhere.

From Fishermen’s Community Hospital to Waterfront Playhouse and Habitat for Humanity, Royal Furniture is synonymous with community contributions through volunteerism and philanthropy.

The Elwell family spans three generations including, from left: Ryan, Tammy, Janice, Christopher, Reece and Ross. CONTRIBUTED

MANDY MILES

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Claire Johnson

2024 President

Karen Williams deCastro

President Elect

Corie McGraw-Abel

Sec./Treas

Kathe Kaile Director Erin Kiel Director

Christine Garcia Castellanos Director

Amy Bruggeman Director

Lindsey Davis Director

Michael Rojewski Director

David Lazcos Director

Michaela Walters Director

Lynda Anthony CEO

Dear Florida Keys Residents,

If you’ve been reading about real estate lately, you’ve no doubt heard about antitrust lawsuits and settlements by real estate brokerages and the National Association of REALTORS®. You’ve also heard about the settlements resulting in certain changes in how agents will be compensated for their work. Recent coverage by media entities, industry insiders and anyone with an opinion and a smartphone have offered up a mix of fact and fiction. All this noise has caused confusion, fear and, in some instances, panic about the process of buying and selling a home.

We thought it was time to speak directly with you. We’re local REALTORS® in the Florida Keys, and we know a thing or two about real estate. In fact, it’s precisely because of our knowledge about the complexities of what is arguably the most important purchase people make in their lives that we want to say this first: It’ll be okay. Yes, some real estate practices will change as a result of these settlements, but Florida Keys REALTORS® know how to adapt to changing market realities. We always have. And, while we understand that uncertainty can be deeply unsettling, especially when there are few answers and many opinions, we know we’ll figure it out together, as an industry and with our clients.

Here’s the bottom line: There is one major change resulting from this litigation. Homebuyers who want to work with an agent will need to sign a written agreement with that agent prior to touring any homes. This means before you start your home search, you’ll need to discuss and agree with your agent what the agent will do on your behalf, and you’ll need to decide how that agent will be compensated.

Of course, it’s not that simple. How consumers work with agents in this new environment will need to work itself out, and there will be differing approaches between agents and their clients. Numerous professionals in this industry, including ourselves at the Florida Keys Board of Realtors, are actively deciphering and communicating the newly introduced procedures as swiftly as we can. We received information about the settlement simultaneously with the public, prompting us to start revising our contracts while upholding the protection of buyers' interests in property deals. An emerging concern revolves around our veterans, who are currently restricted from compensating their agents. Consequently, we are deeply committed to ensuring that veterans, as well as any buyer, have the opportunity to be adequately represented in one of their largest financial transactions. While implementing practice changes resulting from this settlement may be new, the spirit behind them is not — at least not in the Florida Keys. Buyer representation will now need to be agreed upon by all parties involved in the transaction; this will be critical for most buyers, especially first time home buyers. We’re all for transparency because we believe it’s in our clients’ best interests and we know the value we bring to the transaction.

We’re in this business because we believe in putting people not just in houses, but in homes. You may regard us as the organization that fights to protect property rights and homeownership for all. That’s true. As a matter of fact, we were just in Washington, DC meeting with our legislative delegates. A couple of our advocacy efforts are for Veterans being able to have representation when purchasing a home and increase the capital gain exemption for homeowners selling their primary residence to twice its current amount. The existing capital gain thresholds have failed to adjust for inflation.

But more likely, you know us because we’re your neighbors. We live in the same communities as you. We volunteer alongside you at our kids’ schools, we show up to serve at local civic and charitable organizations, and we sit on city councils to make our communities better. And while we’re known as the neighborhood experts, we’re also trained in all facets of a real estate transaction, meaning we know what it takes to successfully conduct a home purchase or sale. Our jobs are far more involved — and far less glamorous — than what you see on real estate “reality” shows. The truth is that real estate transactions are complicated. That’s why we have to be well-versed in myriad financial and legal requirements to guide you through such a complex process. We negotiate on our buyers’ behalf to get them the right home at the right price, and we help sellers determine the best listing price based on market and neighborhood fundamentals. We guide our clients through the nitty-gritty of home inspections and innumerable other details, and we support our clients through what can be a stressful time. We come to this job because we love putting people in homes. We stay in this job because we love working with our clients, who become our friends and neighbors.

As we’ve done for decades, through up markets and down markets and periods of industry change, we will stand by our clients, serve our communities, and continue to do what we do best—work to create a future that enables homeownership for all who want it.

Sincerely,

Claire Johnson 2024 President, Florida Keys Board of Realtors®

‘RICH’ FISHERIES SUPPORT

Bonefish & Tarpon Trust honors Islamorada angler

Bonefish & Tarpon Trust will honor business leader and author Robert E. “Bob” Rich Jr. at the 13th Annual NYC Dinner & Awards ceremony on Oct. 15.

Rich, senior chairman of Rich Products Corporation, will receive the Lefty Kreh Award for Lifetime Achievement in Conservation, which is BTT’s highest honor, in recognition of his support of fisheries conservation. He will be joined at the event by the cast of the forthcoming film, “Blood Knot,” which is based on his 2015 novel, “Looking Through Water,” and stars Oscar-winner Michael Douglas and Douglas’ son Cameron.

An avid flats angler and BTT founding member, Rich was exposed to the art of storytelling around campfires in northern Ontario. Growing up reading Hemingway, Melville and Cervantes inspired him to write, and living on the shores of Lake Erie and the Florida Keys provided a wealth of his own tales to tell. In addition to “Looking Through Water,” he is the author of “Fish Fights,” “The Fishing Club” and “The Right Angle,” and is the co-author of “Secrets from the Delphi Café.”

In addition to his leadership of Rich Products Corporation, the

Avid flats angler and Bonefish & Tarpon Trust founding member Robert E. ‘Bob’ Rich Jr. will be honored at BTT’s 13th annual NYC Dinner & Awards ceremony on Oct. 15. BTT/Contributed

largest family-owned frozen food manufacturer in the United States, Rich owns three minor league baseball teams and is a member of the South Florida Fishing Hall of Fame. With his wife, Mindy, Rich founded the Rich Entertainment Group, which produces theatrical entertainment, including the Broadway show, “Water for Elephants.”

“Bob Rich is known for his dynamic leadership of one of the country’s largest corporations, yet it’s his passion for fishing that’s played an important role in shaping his life,” said Jim McDuffie, BTT president and CEO. “Bob has taken that ‘pull’ he feels from the water and channeled it into stories that entertain and inspire. We appreciate all that he has done to celebrate fishing and to conserve the resources on which it depends.”

The BTT Circle of Honor recognizes legendary anglers, fishing guides and conservation leaders who have made significant contributions to the conservation of the flats fishery. It is housed in the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center, located in Islamorada, and features an annually rotating exhibit about those honored and educational content about the significance of the flats fishery.

— Contributed

COUNTY TRASH RATE COULD RISE 20%

BOCC and trash haulers negotiating a new contract

GWEN FILOSA

gwen@keysweekly.com

Monroe County is negotiating a new contract with trash hauling companies. CONTRIBUTED

County officials are in the midst of negotiations for a new contract with the three trash hauling companies that handle the dirty work, as the previous 10-year contract runs out this year.

When the dust settles, the county residential trash bill will most likely go up, but the total can’t exceed an increase of $91 per year.

In a 5-0 vote May 15, the Board of County Commissioners tentatively approved a 20% increase – $91 more per year for an annual total of about $550 per household.

Officials had to put down a number for the Truth in Millage (TRIM) tax notices, so they can still reduce that figure, but now can’t exceed it.

The BOCC will set the final rate in August for a 5-year contract. Their next regular meeting is July 17 in Marathon.

The current annual household bill for trash, recycling and yard waste pickup plus disposal is $457 per year.

Key West and Islamorada have their own contracts with haulers like Waste Management and Island Disposal Company. The rest of the county is covered by Waste Management, Marathon Garbage Service and Keys Sanitary. The companies negotiate together with the county.

County staff had recommended a 10% increase – a bump of $45.71–that would add up to $502.86 per year for 35,200 homes serviced by the county contract. That would amount to a $17.7 million trash contract overall.

After discussion, the BOCC settled on 20% after commissioner Craig Cates, of Key West, asked for 18%, calling it fair.

“Our garbage companies do an incredible job,” Cates said. “We gave them a special increase of 12% two

years ago to help compensate for that. They deserved it.”

Commissioners noted the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which in April the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported had risen 3.4% over the last 12 months, plus the rising cost of workforce housing in the Keys and the garbage haulers’ working conditions.

“I get how difficult it is for these businesses to find employees to do a job that no one wants to do,” said commissioner Michelle Lincoln, of Marathon.

A 10% increase just isn’t enough, Waste Management district manager Greg Sullivan said.

“The cost of trucks, labor and fuel, it’s expensive,” Sullivan said. “And I don’t have to tell you how much it costs to live down here.”

Sullivan manages Waste Management’s business from Stock Island up to the Seven Mile Bridge. He has 74 employees, including the hourly workers who ride the trucks hauling out rotting garbage for shifts up to 10 hours.

“Last week when it rained 7 inches, guess where my guys were?” Sullivan told Keys Weekly. “Out in the street today, the heat index was 103. Guess where they are?”

Commissioners have shown interest in changing pickups to only once a week and providing a new 96-gallon trash can to each household.

Sullivan said the trucks average 85 miles per day, four days per week. They have to make two pickups a week under the current contract.

“We do 100 tons on Monday and Tuesday each day and we only do 40 tons on Thursday and Friday,” Sullivan said. “It’s a lot of windshield time. We still have to go up and down every street.”

HOMELESS MAN FACING MURDER CHARGES AFTER COMMUNITY PARK BRAWL

Fight began with an argument over military service

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

A37-year-old homeless Marathon man is facing murder charges after a fight in Marathon Community Park that began over allegations of stolen valor, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

As of press time, Lee Charles Quinn remains in custody as he prepares to face second-degree murder charges after repeatedly punching 54-year-old William “Bill” Claude Prichett in a pavilion at Marathon Community Park on May 25, according to MCSO records. After being discovered unconscious and unresponsive, Prichett was transported to Fishermen’s Community Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

According to Quinn’s arrest report, multiple witnesses said the two men had been in a verbal confrontation over Quinn’s claims of military service. When Pritchett challenged those claims, they said, Quinn attacked him, continuing to punch him multiple times in the head and neck area after Pritchett had already fallen to the ground. One of the witnesses attempted to pull Quinn away to protect Pritchett, at which point Quinn began punching him in the face and arms as well, the report states.

A second witness said that after leaving the area of the fight, he was approached by an “irate” Quinn near the park’s bathrooms, with Quinn yelling statements like “Do you want to be next?” before throwing two unopened pocket knives at him.

When confronted by deputies on his bicycle nearby, the report states, Quinn initially blamed the victim’s injuries on the other witnesses before changing his story and saying he began punching Pritchett after Pritchett had pulled him by his hair into the bushes.

In later interviews, the report says, Quinn admitted he “may have gone ‘overboard’” in punching a “frail” man, that he was a “professional fighter,” and that his first punch may have rendered Pritchett unconscious.

Quinn’s bond is set at $750,000, and it is unclear if he has legal representation. He has an extensive criminal record in Monroe County, including a March 2024 felony conviction from a November 2023 incident in which Quinn was arrested for allegedly punching another man. As he resisted arrest, Quinn threatened to kill multiple deputies and attempted to disarm one. After pleading no contest to the charges, Quinn was sentenced to 150 days in jail on March 11, 2024, with credit for 111 days served.

While initial reports listed Pritchett as homeless, acquaintances who contacted the Weekly identified him as an Army veteran and member of the Boot Key Harbor liveaboard community for more than 10 years.

“He was just a quiet guy, and had a mind like a steel trap,” Marathon city marina technician Karen Diehl, who was a friend of Pritchett’s, told the Weekly. “He was just a good guy, and I talked to him almost every day.”

Skippers Dolphin Tournament this weekend

Captains, mates, ladies, juniors and seniors will fish the 10th annual Skippers Dolphin Tournament, one of the Upper Keys’ popular summer fishing tournaments, from Friday, May 31 to Sunday, June 2.

Prize money will be shared by the event’s top six teams, including $20,000 cash to the overall first-place team, $10,000 for second place and $5,000 for third place. Cash prizes will also go to the leading daily angler and leading lady, senior and junior anglers, the first-, second- and thirdlargest fish caught each day; and for the largest tuna, wahoo and kingfish caught during the tournament.

A kickoff, final registration party and captains meeting are set for 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, May 31, at Skippers Dockside Restaurant. Serving as tournament headquarters, the restaurant is located at 528 Caribbean Drive behind the Holiday Inn Key Largo at MM 100. Fishing begins at 8 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, followed by a daily dockside party and an awards event after Sunday’s weigh-in and party.

Author talks organized Florida crime

Author Doug Kelly will discuss his book “Sunshine State Mafia: A History of Florida’s Mobsters, Hit Men and Wise Guys” at the Key Largo library branch on Thursday, June 6, at 2 p.m

“A vivid, wild ride through a century of Mafia lore, this book tells stories of organized crime rings that have settled in Florida and made the state their base of operations for bootlegging, gambling, extortion, money laundering, and drug running. Sunshine State Mafia divulges the hidden history of the mob from the Keys to Pensacola and Jacksonville,” according to the publisher, University Press of Florida.

The program is free and open to the public. You do not need to have a library card to attend. The Key Largo library branch is at 101485 Overseas Highway, in the Tradewinds Shopping Center.

Islamorada ADU workshop canceled

The village of Islamorada has canceled its accessory dwelling unit workshop, originally scheduled for Tuesday, June 4 at Founders Park Community Center. A new date hasn’t been set for the workshop. The village says updates will be posted as soon as they become available.

County Earth Day tire amnesty events successful Monroe County Solid Waste Department’s Earth Day tire amnesty events were a success, according to recycling coordinator Melody Tuschel. “We couldn’t be prouder of its positive impact on our environment,” she said. “With the support of the local media, the hard work of the transfer station staff, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and FP Tire Disposal, we collected 5,740 pounds of tires.”

This equates to about 240 tires now out of the Florida Keys environment and on their way to becoming rubber mesh granules for playgrounds, among other things. This recycling process is a significant step in combating the environmental issue of tire waste, which leads to habitat destruction, pollution and increased mosquito breeding. The project was grant-funded, and future tire amnesty programs will be scheduled if more funding becomes available.

Another environmental initiative is Monroe County Solid Waste’s collaboration with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to install Dumpsters at the Spanish Harbor and Little Duck Key boat ramps. This pioneering project aims to be complete for the upcoming busy summer season.

Lincoln appointed to transportation committee Monroe County Commissioner Michelle Lincoln was recently appointed to the Florida Department of Transportation’s Florida Transportation Plan (FTP) steering committee. The plan is updated every five years to ensure Florida communities have guidance and vision into the improvements the transportation network has experienced statewide and empowers local communities to develop strategies complementing statewide efforts to meet the needs of growing infrastructure.

The committee will guide the development of the goals and policies that will make up the FTP supported by focus groups designed to address more targeted discussions.

“This is a great opportunity for Monroe County to be represented statewide on this committee,” Lincoln said.

Michelle Lincoln

Lee Charles Quinn remains in MCSO’s custody after allegedly punching another man until he died at Marathon Community Park. MCSO/Contributed

Monroe County has new MCTV app

Monroe County Television (MCTV) offers digital options for watching county programming and recently revamped its mobile phone application. In addition to watching MCTV locally on Channel 76 on Comcast, Channel 99 on AT&T U-verse, Hotwire Fision TV Channel 1615, Roku, and Amazon Fire TV, the mobile app was added to watch meetings live or access MCTV’s video-on-demand content. If you have the older version of the app, it must be deleted and re-downloaded to your phone. The mobile app (“Monroe County TV” on iOS and Android) allows easy access to live and video-on-demand features. Additional details are at www.monroecounty-fl.gov/ MCTV.

Federal grants for flood mitigation

Are you interested in obtaining grant funds to elevate, demolish/reconstruct, or sell your home that is below base flood elevation, at risk of flooding, or has flooded before with a National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) flood insurance claim?

If so, Monroe County is participating in a national grant program known as Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) to help with the costs of elevating, or demolishing and reconstructing your home. Buying out your home is also an eligible grant activity. This program is available to all Monroe County homeowners. The program cannot buy any properties that are condominiums or cooperatives or have common-area maintenance requirements. Mobile homes do not

Monroe County is accepting applications for the fiscal 2024 FMA grant program. The deadline to apply is Oct. 30.

This is a federal program administered by the state in partnership with Monroe County; it can be a process with slow turnaround times. More information is available from program administrator Mike Lalbachan at 305-453-8796 or at www.monroecounty-fl.gov/ fma.

AAA: ‘100 Deadliest Days’ have begun

Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer and a period known as the “100 Deadliest Days for Teen Drivers,” which runs through Labor Day weekend. This is a time when there is an increase in the number of fatal crashes involving teen drivers.

“The risk gets higher during the summer for teen drivers and everyone else they share the road with,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Now that school is out, these young, inexperienced drivers will spend more time on the road with their friends.”

According to NHTSA, nearly half of teen driver-related deaths occur during the 100 Deadliest Days. A total of nearly 6,700 people were killed during this period, from 2013-2022. In 2022 alone, 707 people were killed in these types of crashes – a 10% increase over pre-pandemic 2019.

Last year in Florida, teenagers were involved in nearly 20,000 crashes during the 100 Deadliest Days. Sixty-eight of these crashes were fatal, resulting in 83 deaths.

requests. LPA chairwoman Gillis and fellow members Cheryl Culberson, Susan Raffanello and Patrick Foley voted to recommend the council deny the requests. Culberson was quick to provide her response to the proposal.

“Let me start at no. Not only that, hell no,” she said.

Culberson’s response was in relation to a premiere bonefish flat not far from the island where the resort would sit.

“Nothing makes life worse for a bonefish flat than boat traffic,” Culberson said. “You’re already looking at destroying a place that has 100 bonefish a day that are valued in the county at $150,000 each annually.”

Ballestas told the LPA his resort would be eco-friendly with plans to reuse rainwater for irrigation and reduce vehicles driving onto Tea Table Key. He decided to alter plans and move guest check-in to Sunset Inn — the Islamorada hotel he bought from Gillis in 2018 — to address concerns of traffic on a narrow road leading to the island. Following check-in, guests would be transported to the island via boat or car. Guest vehicles would remain at the Sunset Inn.

Village resident Sue Miller told the LPA she didn’t believe the road to the island would support fire trucks in times of an emergency.

“It’s unbelievable the village would allow such a project in an environmentally-sensitive area,” Miller said.

Bart Smith, attorney representing Ballestas, told the LPA the road is wide enough to accommodate fire trucks.

“We already had preliminary meetings with all the staff, including fire, as to the sufficiency of the entrance way. It’s wide enough. We’re not going to impact mangroves. A fire truck can drive out there just fine.”

No marina would be constructed, nor would there be any dredging. The existing dock on the island would remain for licensed charter guides to pick up their guests, Ballestas said.

If his requests proceed, Ballestas is intending to pledge $250,000 to support improvements to the Fills, the three islands connecting Upper and Lower Matecumbe Keys. The area was once a day-tripper destination and the subject of much public

island. Trash covered the Fills and ally, the village council decided to limit parking on Fills with village staff

Before his vote, Hammon shared concerns over the property’s historic relevance.

“There may or may not be human remains on there. I think you’re going to spend a ton of time or money … and someone from (the University of) Florida or Florida State will come back with a historic document and say ‘No, this is a sacred site.’ And then you’re dead in the water at that point,” he said.

A transformational project & workforce housing

Several business owners expressed their support for Ballestas’ vision for a resort and his intent to bring 24 workforce housing units to what’s now Sunset Inn, located in the heart of Islamorada.

“The project that Victor’s doing will be a great benefit to the community,” said Armando Gonzalez, owner of Blue Marlin Jewelry. “The workforce housing … my employees can’t afford housing. I think it’s a great thing that he’s doing it.

LPA member Patrick Foley said the affordable housing is generally a ploy to get projects through the approval process.

“The only way we should change any zoning or categories of properties is if there’s an extraordinary rationale, like we cheated them 30 to 40 years ago out of this position. Just because we’re going to bring a world-class resort to this place is not an extraordinary rationale to change the setting here,” Foley said.

Ballestas replied there was no extraordinary rationale for the FLUM and zoning changes. But he followed by stating he bought the island with the dream of opening it to others through a resort.

“The idea of a resort was me coming up with something everyone would love and would be a great addition to the village, period,” he said. “If it doesn’t get approved by the council, then we will probably tear down the house, bring in fill and build a bigger house. At that point, nobody gets to enjoy the island. My dream of a resort is gone, but it is what it is.”

Pierre-Marc Bellion, owner of Cafe Moka, alluded to the transformation of property now known as the Moorings in Islamorada. Bellion said it was then-owner Hubert Baudoin’s vision in the 1990s to turn it from a dump to what’s now Pierre’s and Morada Bay.

voted to recommend the changes receive council approval. He was joined by Lorie Lalonde and James Rhyne.

“He (Baudoin) had a vision just like Victor had a vision, and he (Baudoin) wanted to do something extraordinary that was on par with what people liked,” he said. “I think we’re all proud of the Moorings.” TEA

JUNE 2024 MEETINGS

full agenda is available at www.klwtd.com or scan here

To provide public comment prior to the meeting, send an email to clerk@klwtd.com.

MEMORIAL DAY SERVICE HONORS SACRIFICES & COMMITMENTS

The superb coverage provided by the Upper Keys Weekly for our Memorial Day Ceremony ensured the nearcapacity crowd at the auditorium inside the Upper Keys Government Center in Key Largo on May 27.

The Keys Community Concert Band performed before the start of the ceremony. The United States Coast Guard Honor Guard initiated the proceedings, followed by the Scouts of Troop 914, who led the Pledge of Allegiance, Scout Oath and Scout Law.

Coast Guard Station Islamorada Commanding Officer Matthew James; Monroe County Capt. Spenser Bryan and his deputies; firefighters, rescue workers, EMS/EMT first responders; American Legion Post 145 and their Blood Drive Bus; along with Key Largo Fire Chief Don Bock; Mayor Holly Raschein; and school board chairwoman Sue Woltanski were among the attendees.

Purple Heart Special Recognition awards were given to Ron Saunders, Veteran Affairs county director Cathy Crane, Sheriff Rick Ramsay, State Attorney Dennis Ward and band director/teacher Susan Bazin.

After a 10-year battle in the Florida House of Representatives, Saunders was the only legislator finally able to secure the passage of our Purple Heart License Plate Bill. The fees are used to support veteran domiciliary and nursing home care facilities for veterans at no taxpayer expense.

Crane, Ramsay and Ward were recognized for organizing and maintaining the safe and orderly management of our “Therapeutic Wounded Warrior Bicycle Ride” for the last 20 years. Bazin was also recognized for the coordination of the community band, which has played during many Memorial Day services.

Eagle Scout and author Zachary Woltanski delivered a speech on the meaning of Memorial Day, which was met with a standing ovation.

A series of videos, paying tribute to the sacrifices of veterans killed in action, was played for the audience. The playing of taps concluded the ceremony. Thank you all so very, very much for making this a dignified and illustrious event.

— John Donnelly, Key Largo

Purple Heart Special Recognition Awards were presented to Ron Saunders, left; Cathy Crane, county Veterans Affairs director; and Sheriff Rick Ramsay. Also pictured is John Donnelly, Purple Heart recipient, second from left. Recipients not pictured are State Attorney Dennis Ward and Susan Bazin, community band director. CONTRIBUTED

Top: Divers tend to Coral Restoration Foundation’s tree nursery off Tavernier. Coralpalooza divers will care for the corals surviving the recent coral bleaching event. CRF/ Contributed. Bottom: Attendees of the annual Coralpalooza enjoy the festivities.

WAVES OF CHANGE

Annual Coralpalooza shifts focus amid coral bleaching

As the summer heat looms, Coral Restoration Foundation (CRF) is gearing up for its annual World Oceans Day celebration — Coralpalooza. But this year, for the first time in its nine-year history, this hands-on, reef-saving event is shifting its focus.

Historically, Coralpalooza in the Keys has been focused on coral outplanting — returning nursery-raised corals to the degraded reefs where these animals once thrived.

In years past, Coralpalooza would see more than a thousand corals returned to degraded reefs in Florida in a single day. However, because of the number of corals that were lost during the global bleaching event in the summer of 2023, and in anticipation of another summer of ecological disturbances, CRF has paused the majority of its outplanting work in 2024.

From June 6-8, Coralpalooza will instead see armies of recreational divers in the Upper Keys and Key West spending three full days working alongside the CRF coral crew in the world’s largest open ocean coral nurseries, helping to care for the corals that survived the 2023 bleaching event.

“In 2023 we lost around half of the 50,000 corals we were raising in the ocean. This year, our restoration program is almost entirely devoted to rebuilding coral stock and preparing for another potentially challenging summer,” said Roxane Boonstra, CRF dive training administrator and the coordinator of Coralpalooza. “Coralpalooza 2024 dive days are going to look a bit different, but they have never been so important. We are at an inflection point that will determine the future of these critical ecosystems. …

We need everyone to be paying attention and to get involved.”

The Keys’ Coralpalooza has now grown into an international movement for coral reefs. In 2023 alone, over 15,200 new corals were returned to wild habitats across the globe, thanks to the efforts of more than 20 organizations from 13 countries, from Australia to Colombia, Hawaii to Indonesia.

In Florida, with Coralpalooza dive days now fully booked, CRF is inviting everyone to join them for a week of fun, social, land-based events. The celebrations kick off on Friday, June 1 with Captain Coral at the CRF Coral Village at Zoo Miami. Then, a “Sips n’ Science” evening is scheduled for Wednesday, June 5 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the CRF Exploration Center at 5 Seagate Blvd., Key Largo. Attendees will enjoy complimentary drinks while learning from experts in marine science. Tampa Bay Brewing Company will also be there providing samples of their craft beers.

On World Oceans Day, Saturday, June 8, CRF is inviting everyone back to the Exploration Center for an open house from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Activities include hands-on coral outplanting demonstrations, a coral slime workshop, a virtual reality restoration dive, a create-your-own “reef art” session, various interactive learning stations, and fun photo opportunities.

The unique focus of Coralpalooza 2024 dive days – tending to the corals that survived the bleaching in 2023 –can be a reminder of the need to protect and restore our coral reefs and, in turn, safeguard the communities that rely on them.

— Contributed

DIPLOMAS IN HAND & CAPS IN THE AIR

Coral Shores graduates conclude high school careers

ZACK WOLTANSKI www.keysweekly.com

Alongside an exultant crowd of teachers, friends and family, Coral Shores seniors concluded their high-school years with a triumphant graduation ceremony at the school gymnasium on May 22. Principal Laura Lietaert and Superintendent Theresa Axford handed students their diplomas, while members of the Monroe County school board stood by to congratulate graduates on their many accomplishments. In their speeches, valedictorian Jordan Lubis and salutatorian Nathan Duckworth reminisced about the past four years and reflected on the future to come, while class president Olivia Hughes spoke movingly of this transitional period.

The event began with speeches by Lietart and Axford. A moment of silence was given in solemn remembrance of the late Pascal Weisberger, who would’ve graduated with the class, by student body president Iona Holmquist and treasurer Victoria Peña. The class song, “Vienna’’ by Billy Joel, was performed by Coral Shores’ drama club stars Chrislyn Lowell and Lola Yong. Many students were recognized for their individual achievements, including the seven seniors graduating summa cum laude (with a weighted GPA of above 4.5), and 10 graduates heading off to the military. As the event concluded, 176 students left with diplomas in hand, their high-school careers completed and bright futures ahead of them.

1. Graduating seniors throw their caps to conclude the ceremony. 2. Coral Shores administrators and staff gather for a photo. 3. Seniors Malia Alana and Lisny Cedillo together make their grand entrance to graduation. 4. Valedictorian Jordan Lubis congratulates students, thanks teachers and inspires incoming students during his speech. 5. Graduate Savanna Rawluk takes the stage to receive her diploma. 6. Coral Shores graduate Leif Diaz celebrates with mom Ilene Perez. JAVIER EXPOSITO/Keys Weekly

FUNDING THE FUTURE

Community doles out millions in scholarships to graduates

ZACK WOLTANSKI

www.keysweekly.com

Hard work paid off for Coral Shores High School students on May 22, when students were awarded scholarships for their perseverance and academic prowess during senior night at the Performing Arts Center.

The community raised more than $2.2 million in support of college and technical scholarships, with more than $430,000 in prepaid scholarships being awarded to 19 members of Take Stock in Children. Students were also recognized for their individual achievements in business, environmental work and community service. Several scholar-

ships, awarded on the basis of character, were given in honor of former students including Pascal Weisberger and Joey Patterson, whose legacies of kindness and dedication to local causes have made permanent impacts on the community.

Special recognition was given to seven students training for the U.S. Marines. The event concluded with an announcement of the school’s valedictorian and salutatorian, which were Jordan Lubis, with a 4.67 grade point average, and Nathan Duckworth, with a grade point average of 4.60, respectively.

1. The Take Stock in Children foundation seeks to mentor and support highly motivated students through their pursuit of higher education. This year, 19 students received support from Take Stock. 2. Former Key Largo School students Valerie Randall and Artorious “AJ” Johnson received scholarships from KLS principal Darren Pais. 3. The 2023 Miss Coral Shores, Leyla Ochoa (pictured center), and First Princess Lola Yong (pictured fourth from right) were recognized alongside fellow talented nominees. Miss Coral Shores is an annual competition that highlights the accomplishments of bright young female students. 4. Students were recognized for their patriotic dedication after undergoing months of intense training for the U.S. Marines. 5. Recipients of the Nick Sheahan scholarship are recognized for their achievements.

Photos by ZACK WOLTANSKI/Keys Weekly

See more senior night photos at keysweekly.com

SIZZLING SUMMER FASHION

Models showcase latest collections on the runway

Models strolled and strutted down the runway as a gallery of viewers had a chance to check out some of the latest summer fashions at Village Square at Trading Post in Islamorada. This year’s Sizzling Summer Fashion Show on May 25 had a Barbie theme, and it brought some of the hottest dresses, suits and accessories from local boutique shops, including Miss Monroe, Otherside Boardsports, Mayu, Wild Lily and Evolve. — Keys Weekly Staff Report

Models of all ages strolled down the runway wearing some of the hottest summer collections during the annual Sizzling Summer Fashion Show on May 25 in Islamorada.

Photos by Doug Finger Visit keysweekly.com for a full gallery.

THE BIG SCREEN

Video simulations help train police for various scenarios

The operator can alter the responses of the on-screen characters.

Ayoung man sits in an empty playground, wearing headphones over the hood of his sweatshirt, his hands in the pocket of the hoodie. Nearby is a woman who has called the police. The woman says the man hasn’t done anything, but he makes her nervous.

The man, who has ignored the woman, also ignores a police officer’s attempts to communicate, seeming lost in whatever he hears on the headphones. Asked to show his hands, the man brings an angular silver object out of his sweatshirt pocket.

Now what?

This situation played out recently at the Marathon headquarters of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. But it was on a large, panoramic video screen in a training room where, in one corner, Deputy Frank Westerband operated a computer that displayed the simulated scenario from the point of view of the officer.

Deputies in the county are getting advanced help in working through their possible reactions to a variety of scenarios, thanks to video simulation equipment that can reproduce a city street, a church, a bank lobby and more.

The equipment allows more deputies to be trained in less time, at lower cost and in more types of situations. Scenarios can be paused for discussion of specific moments.

1. A computerized video depicts a church to members of the Citizens Police Academy, run by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. MIKE HOWIE/Keys Weekly

2. Frank Westerband operates the video simulation equipment.

3. The simulator depicts an active shooter inside a building.

4. Frank Westerband explains a scenario to the members of the Citizens Police Academy

Sheriff Rick Ramsay saw the system on display at a law enforcement conference.

“It can create any scenario you want,” he said, “on the water, on the land, on traffic, on a building search, in a school.”

The computer-driven simulation, based in Marathon and portable to the Upper and Lower Keys, uses one to three floor-to-ceiling screens that, joined together, produce a panoramic view. It features hundreds of situations.

“It allows deputies to decide when to use what type of force and why,” said Westerband.

One scenario, just seven seconds long, depicts a traffic stop. A woman driving the car has gotten out and is holding her license.

That video helps train officers’ powers of observation, said Westerband. In the pocket of the open car door, a handgun is visible. The driver’s license is in a vertical format, which means the driver is under 21 –too young to own a handgun under Florida law. There is a passenger in the car.

Deputies need to absorb all those things quickly.

The scenario also allows a discussion of the legal situation. Is the gun stored properly? To whom does it belong? Is the driver under arrest?

Westerband will ask those questions, while reminding trainees about the driver: “She has rights.”

The trainees have electronic

pistols, Tasers, shotguns and pepper spray, which all interact with the screen.

“We can see where the rounds are hitting,” Ramsay said. “Are they on target?”

Part of the training is about not using weapons at all, but helping deputies learn how to talk to people.

“The job (of being an officer) is a lot of listening and understanding,” Westerband said.

“We’re able to evaluate their verbal skills to de-escalate, command presence, decision-making,” Ramsay said.

In the scenario at the playground, Westerband said, the young man is on the autism spectrum. The park is a public place and he hasn’t broken any laws. The item he brings from his pocket is a toy. He is no threat.

The operator of the training has some control over how the characters react, even how they answer questions.

“Engaging with people, that’s a value of the system,” said Lt. Trevor Wirth, director of the training division and of school resource officers for MCSO. “You’re going to encounter difficult people.” The video training

allows a deputy “to sit there and talk to a screen and teach yourself to keep your composure.”

The video simulation equipment, which cost about $145,000 in November, was paid for using money forfeited in drug cases. It has repaid much of its cost already, by reducing the use – and cost – of live ammunition and by reducing the time it takes to set up training scenarios.

It’s not the only training deputies receive, Wirth noted. They use a firing range in Marathon, which is large enough to be set up as a home or business. They are trained in driving under different situations. They have classroom sessions on how to write reports. Deputies also learn selfdefense tactics – “You can’t really get that on a simulator,” he said.

While many officers praise the video training, Westerband finds that younger deputies take to it more easily – they’ve grown up interacting with video screens. Older officers tend to prefer live interaction, he said.

The training not only allows development of habits and reflexes, but also helps deputies “to talk about what we’re allowed to do,” Westerband said. “People think cops are able to do whatever they want.” While officers have leeway, “We have to follow the law. … The main thing is we are concerned about rights.”

“We don’t want to have our officers in a deadly-force situation,” Ramsay said, “but if they are in a deadly-force situation, they’ll more likely be successful and go home at the end of their shift to their families.”

MIKE HOWIE mike@keysweekly.com

ISLAMORADA CHAMBER VISITS

KEYS DEEP APPAREL FOR RIBBON-CUTTING

The Islamorada Chamber of Commerce recently visited Keys Deep Apparel for an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony. SHIMA provided the hors d’oeuvres while Keys Deep had everyone donning their signature caps for the ribbon cutting — a “hats off” moment to the Keys Deep team. The chamber extends its warmest wishes to Carlos and Amanda Lorenzo and the entire crew. Keys Deep is located at 81650 Oversea Highway in Islamorada. ISLAMORADA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE/Contributed

SHELF HELP

Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.

What: “Euphoria” by Lily King

Why: When it’s been almost a decade since you read a novel and it’s still in your head – that’s a damned good novel. “Euphoria” is the story of a love triangle among three anthropologists in 1930s New Guinea – loosely based on a period of the life of Margaret Mead, but if you’re expecting a “Wolf Hall”-like adherence to historical fact, this is not it.

Instead, it’s an enthralling love story that also examines the ethics of anthropology and what it means to try to observe, understand and potentially appropriate another culture. Like the best novels, it provides illumination into the human condition through the stories of

individuals and all their complexities and desires.

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: Nancy Klingener, community affairs manager.

See previous recommendations at keyslibraries.org/shelfhelp.

Located on 17 lush island acres, Reefhouse Resort & Marina is a destination unto itself: waterfront on Florida Bay with a private beach and onsite marina/dive shop. While on property, visitors can gear up for diving, boating, shing and parasailing. Bask in the Florida sun, explore the neighboring Florida Keys and swim with the dolphins.

Resort amenities include By The Bay Spa, heated outdoor pool, 24/7 tness center and a marina. Dining and drink options include Breezer's Tiki Bar and Gus' Grille, both with bay views.

“As one of the most luxurious Key Largo resorts on the beach, many of our stylishly appointed rooms and suites feature balconies and stunning bay views,” said General Manager Shannon Burdge. “Our resort also o ers 50,000 square-feet of elegant indoor and private outdoor event venues.”

Reefhouse Resort will be grounds for Mote Marine Laboratory’s new land-based coral nursery – the rst and only in Key Largo. With the addition of the coral nursery comes a focus of Mote’s resilience-focused restoration e orts in Key Largo to residents and visitors.

103800 Overseas Highway, Key Largo

305.453.0000 info@reefhousekeylargo.com

HURRICANES TAKE TALENTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Two more Coral Shores athletes are taking their talents to the collegiate level.

Coral Shores’ Gillanda “Gia” Carbin served as cheerleading captain during her junior and senior years. She was also selected as an All-American in cheerleading on three occasions.

Carbin, a four-year varsity cheerleader, was recently joined by her family and coaches as she signed a letter of intent to continue her cheerleading career at the Division II Edward Waters University in Jacksonville, Florida.

“I am so happy to get to start this new chapter in my life at EWU,” Carbin said.

“I enjoyed learning new skills and having fun with my team. They will always be my second family.”

Lauran Hall, head cheer coach during the 2023-24 season, said coaching Gia was an absolute honor.

“It has been a pleasure to watch her talent evolve over the past two years to where she is today,” Hall said. “Gia has been a huge asset to Coral Shores High School’s cheerleading team, and I know she will be invaluable to EWU as well.”

Carbin recognized her parents, Yolanda and Gillis, for their continued support over the years. Carbin’s parents say they couldn’t be prouder of their daughter.

“Learn from everything you can. Be the woman I know you can be,” Yolanda told Carbin.

In addition to cheerleading, Carbin participated in track and field for the Hurricanes from 2021 to 2023.

The Hurricanes’ basketball standout Isaac Rivera signed a letter of intent to begin his collegiate career at TTB Preparatory School. Rivera started playing for the varsity squad during his sophomore year. Last season, he was team co-captain.

During his senior year, Rivera registered 15.6 points, 6.2 assists per game

and 7.3 rebounds per game.

“Coral Shores is a very special school. I will have lasting memories of being able to play the game I love with some of my best friends,” Rivera said. “I’m truly looking forward to this opportunity. This is about me taking steps to further improve what I enjoy most. My goal is to be the best version of myself.”

Tony Simmons, head basketball coach, said it’s been a privilege to coach a talented player in Rivera, who loved the game and contributed to the team.

“His ability to play the game is strong and his commitment to get better ensures that his game will even get better. We will miss his contributions here,” Simmons said.

Rivera’s parents say they are elated at their son’s achievements and his journey ahead.

“It’s a gift to be Isaac’s mom. Watching him do what he loves is a wonderful feeling,” said Jennifer Torres.

1. Gia Carbin Signs with Edward Waters University. CONTRIBUTED. 2. Isaac Rivera signs his national letter of intent to play basketball at TBB Preparatory School. 3. From left, Gillis Carbin, Gia’s dad; Sara Beeler, head cheerleading coach; Gia Carbin; Lauran Hall, coach; and Yolanda Carbin, Gia’s mom. 4. Coral Shores’ basketball standout Isaac Rivera celebrates with his parents. From left, Jennifer Torres, mom; Rivera; and Iscancel Perez, dad.

DISCOVERY SATURDAY RETURNS TO ECO-DISCOVERY CENTER

Saturdays in June include free presentations about the marine world

Lobsters, turtles and hurricanes are on the agenda when the popular Discovery Saturday returns to Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center beginning in June. The first session, set for June 8 at 10:30 a.m., will feature a presentation by the National Park Service on the Dry Tortugas.

“Discovery Saturday was a cherished program in the Key West community until COVID shut down the monthly sessions,” said Sarah Fangman, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary superintendent. “After that, the center remained closed during renovations, but now, with the makeover complete and the facility buzzing with activity again, it seemed natural to bring back this popular program.”

Discovery Saturday is a free, monthly activity designed for children in grades 1-5. The sessions last 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the presenter, with new subjects slated for each month.

“The lineup is an awesome and diverse look at the people who participate in the community, and take care of the sanctuary,” said Kristina Agard, Eco-Discovery Center manager. “There’s not a lot to do in Key West for the littles. I have people who come every week because it’s free. Having somewhere for local families to be and things to do is really important.”

The presenters for 2024 include National Park Service (June 8/Dry Tortugas), FWC Lobster Lab (July 13/lobsters), Force Blue (August 10/sea turtles), National Weather Service (September 21/hurricanes), Reef Relief (October 19/marine ecosystems), Monroe County Sheriff’s Animal Farm (November 9/responsible pet ownership), and Key West Art & Historical Society (December 14/the whole Key West).

Discovery Saturday sessions take place inside the classroom at Florida Keys EcoDiscovery Center, located at 35 East Quay Drive along the Truman Waterfront. Capacity is limited, and parents are encouraged to pre-register by email at FKECD@noaa.gov. The Eco-Discovery Center is open Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and admission is free.

— Contributed

HOPE HEALING EDUCATION

The Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center will bring back its Discovery Saturday through June, featuring presentations about lobsters, turtles, hurricanes and more. CONTRIBUTED

... is a photographer, writer, and semi-professional birdwatcher. He has lived in Key West for more than 25 years and may no longer be employable in the real world. He is also executive director of the Florida Keys Audubon Society.

Birds are not necessarily the first thing on most people’s minds when a hurricane is churning toward them. But birders have some unique personalities, and I’ve received more than the occasional text from mainland birder friends wanting to know what I was seeing as the barometer dropped and the wind came up.

My usual response was that I was mostly seeing a lot of plywood and drill bits, and that boarding up the house was taking the priority to looking for stray birds, which usually earned me a lot of “What kind of half-assed birder are you?” Snark. Over the years, though, I’ve made it down to the beach a few times to scan the horizon for a while, while a hurricane or tropical storm comes in.

What birders are looking for in hurricane and tropical storm situations are weird and exotic things from foreign lands. Birds get caught in storms pretty often — usually pelagic birds, which spend their life at sea, but also the occasional migrant just trying to make it from one place to another. Birds living in tropical oceans, such as bridled terns, sooty terns, magnificent frigatebirds and brown noddies, end up in places like New Jersey, Wisconsin and Montana. Sometimes they are pushed by the front of the storm, sometimes they are caught up in it, and sometimes they ride in the eye of the storm.

In 2005, during Hurricane Wilma, a number of chimney swifts — a North American species, most likely from Canada — were blown across the Atlantic to sites in Portugal, Ireland and England. In 2011 there was a migrating whimbrel — a long-billed shorebird that breeds in Alaska and Canada — with a satellite tracker strapped to her back, who took off in Nova Scotia, most likely trying to get to her wintering territory in St. Croix, but got caught in Tropical Storm Gert. She flew for a solid 27 hours into a headwind, moving at about 7 mph, until she broke through the other side of the storm, where she was pushed by a 90-mph tailwind back to Cape Cod.

BIRDS & STORMS

Last year, more than 100 American flamingos, birds from the Yucatan most likely migrating to a destination like Cuba, were instead blown to various spots in the United States, among them Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Michigan, Wisconsin and Kansas, though the vast bulk of them — at least 90 birds — landed in Florida.

Honestly, most times I’ve made it out to look for birds in a hurricane or a tropical storm, I haven’t seen much by way of storm-tossed rare birds, which in the birder world are officially called accidentals.

The morning Hurricane Irma was passing, while it was still blowing pretty hard, I went out and did see some birds, but mostly laughing gulls and royal terns, local species which could have landed and ducked out of the wind, but had decided not to. I also saw things like rain drenched mourning doves sitting miserably in downed trees, waiting for the sun to come out so they could dry off.

What non-migratory birds do during hurricanes is actually not well-studied. Most of what

is known is anecdotal. For instance, I’ve seen chickens hiding behind the tires of parked cars, and I’ve seen mourning doves ducking the wind behind parking blocks. Cavity nesters, such as woodpeckers, are thought to just ride things out in their trees.

The folks at the Avian Research and Conservation Institute did gain some interesting insight during Hurricane Irma. They were satellite-tracking a half-dozen reddish egrets to see how they used their habitat when the storm hit. Most of them simply went to their most commonly used roosting sites — midisland uplands and mangrove forests — and rode the storm out. All of them survived. It was essentially the same story for four snail kites and one short-tailed hawk they were tracking.

Some birds do inevitably die during big storms, though it is not as many as you would think. They generally know what to do, which is get out of the wind. If any creatures in the world understand the full value of being in the lee of things, it’s birds.

A dove during Hurricane Irma in 2017. MARK HEDDEN/Contributed

MARK HEDDEN

HEMINGWAY, PIRATES AND THE OLDEST LIVING SURVIVOR OF THE 1935 LABOR DAY HURRICANE

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.

Iwas invited to speak at the 2024 Ernest Hemingway Seminar at the Community Library in Ketchum, Idaho. Hemingway’s last home was in Ketchum, and it was there where things ended. When I was in graduate school, the father of one of my classmates performed the autopsy on the writer.

At the inaugural 2009 seminar, that old classmate, David Earle, was featured as a speaker. Key West’s own Arlo Haskell, author and executive director of the Key West Literary Seminar, presented at the 2017 Hemingway Seminar.

The reason their committee reached out to ask if I was interested in speaking at the three-day event had nothing to do with Hemingway. In September, I’ll be flying out to give the seminar’s closing talk on piracy and smuggling in the Florida Keys. I could not be more honored or more stoked.

You can’t talk about piracy in these waters without talking about the island chain’s legendary pirate, Black Caesar. While exploring the pirate’s storied history for Volume 2 of my “Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli” book series, I was able to include a connection to Hemingway – sort of.

The earliest literary account of Black Caesar that I have uncovered is a story called “Jack Weatherwax: The Wrecker of Caesar’s Creek, A Tale Of The Florida Reef in the Olden Time,” which appeared in The Jackson (Ohio) Standard on April 22, 1858. The story describes the creek flowing between two of the Northern Keys above Key

Largo, Old Rhodes and Elliott Keys: “Black Caesar’s Creek because it was formerly the hiding place and rendezvous of a noted pirate known as Black Caesar, who was destroyed, and his gang broken up, by Commodore Porter’s expedition, in 1822 or 3 — perhaps by the same gallant ‘Old Plug,’ of whom I spoke in the Mercury not long since. It is a dark and crooked lane of water, leading to the inner bay, shaded by shelter on either side by high mangroves, and afforded an excellent hiding place for the pirates, who could suddenly dart out upon the merchant vessels passing up or down the Gulf Stream. Ah, were but all the records of the deeds done by those who once lurked there written, what a thrilling book of horrors that would make! One’s soul shudders to think of the murderous acts performed by the black-hearted pirates, whose motto was ‘Dead men tell no tales,’ and who only spared young and beautiful maidens, who fell into their hands, for sufferings worse a thousand times than death!”

Ned Buntline, a contemporary of Mark Twain, wrote the story. Like the name Mark Twain, Buntline was a nom de plume. His real name was Edward Zane Carroll Judson. His connection to the Keys comes through his service as a midshipman with the Navy during the second escalation of the Seminole War (1835-1842). Occasionally, he was stationed at Indian Key. Though he arrived in the Keys nearly 100 years before Hemingway, he shared traits with him, including the love of a good fight, good women and writing.

You cannot work in the realm of Keys history without the subject of Hemingway eventually entering the conversation. Because I’ll be speaking at a Hemingway seminar, I’ll share an anecdote or two that I’ve picked up. For instance, when I was hired to curate Islamorada’s Keys History & Discovery Center in 2013, one of my first assignments was to

fly to Tallahassee and interview the 101-year-old Wilbur Jones. At the time, he was the oldest living survivor of the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane.

Jones worked as a safety officer during building of automobile bridges to eliminate the need for car ferries bridging the 40-mile gap in the first version of the Overseas Highway. The workers, many of them World War I veterans, were housed in three work camps, one on Windley Key and two on Lower Matecumbe Key. One of Jones’ jobs was to pick up nails and other potentially hazardous objects so no one stepped on them.

In our interview, he also said that every Friday, one of his jobs was to go to each of the work camps and offer a one-dollar advance on their pay. Jones said they rarely took the dollar and worked to send the money home to their families. At one point, toward the end of the interview, Jones asked, “Who was that writer in Key West who wrote all those things after the hurricane?”

“Hemingway?”

“Yes,” he said. “Hemingway.”

Hemingway wrote scathing critiques of the handling of the evacuation of the veterans in the work camps ahead of the killer Labor Day Hurricane. More than 250 veterans died in the storm because the relief train sent to evacuate them arrived too late. Jones raised his fist in the air and shook it a little. “He made me so angry. I was in the office when the calls for the rescue train were made.”

I have not listened to the interview in a decade, and I’ll have to revisit it and take a few notes before September because he was there when Hemingway loaded up the Pilar with supplies and motored up to the Matecumbe Keys to help. I’ll also have to do a little shopping, as my wardrobe is ideal for September in the Florida Keys. I have been told that September in Idaho will require something more than shorts and Kino sandals.

Ernest Hemingway on his boat Pilar. IDA WOODWARD BARRON COLLECTION/Contributed

ART COLLECTION BRINGS THE HEAT

Museum’s ‘Summer Palette’ show features local artists

Summer in the Florida Keys is here, and so are some hot, new exhibits and shows.

is an artist, designer and gemologist who believes in the power of art.

The opening reception for “Summer Palette,” a new exhibit featuring a vibrant collection by local artists, was held on May 23 at the Florida Keys History and Discovery Center. The reception was a lively event, especially for an art show, as locals and semi-locals crowded the gallery.

The show featured standout talent from local artists in a diversity of mediums, from ceramics to photography and paintings; works connected by an overarching summer theme. Shows like this are a great way to get to know local artists. Even if you know most of them, there are always surprises. For those who love art, it’s a great way to see the amazing variety of art the Upper Keys community has to offer.

The opening reception was a good chance to meet the featured artists like ceramic artist Bev Blitzer.

“I was thrilled to be invited to be in the Summer Palette show,” she said. There were a lot of interesting people who had never seen my work and it was fun to see their reactions. Most were surprised and intrigued. It was very gratifying.”

Featured artists were Jessica Ann, Beata “Bob” Vavrova, Blitzer, Brianna Wilson, Deanna Jorgensen, Ellen Summers, Emma Putney, Jill Strickland, Judy and Skip, Kelly Walkotten, Lisa Lee, Shannon Gilson, Tim Rahn, Trista Travis and Valerie Perreault.

Jessica Ann watched over the crowd and made sure the event went smoothly, much like a parent looking after a child. She has done

a great job showing the community many talented artists.

If you missed the reception, this is only the beginning. The show runs through the beginning of August, so escape the heat and check out the artwork inside the Keys History & Discovery Center.

Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.

What: “Summer Stock” (1950)

Why: Kick off summer with one of MGM’s most charming musicals starring two of the studio’s greatest stars – Judy Garland (in her last film for them) and Gene Kelly. You’re probably familiar with the iconic number “Get Happy,” featuring Garland in a waistcoat and fedora. That alone should be reason enough to recommend this film, but luckily it features much more than that. Where else can you see comedian Phil Silvers lose control of a tractor? Or Gene Kelly use newspapers as part of his choreography? It’s a feelgood piece of cozy Americana, and sometimes that’s just what the doctor ordered.

Where: This film is available on Kanopy, the library’s streaming app.

How: You can browse and request DVDs online by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. To view our collection of streaming movies and TV, go to kanopy.com/keyslibraries and set up an account with your library card. 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: Kelvin Cedeño, library assistant, Islamorada library branch

See previous Reel Recs at keyslibraries.org/reel-recs.

Tim Rahn seeks to capture the stunning beauty of the Florida Keys and its marine life.

The work of Jessica Ann is inspired by her conservation efforts and environmental concerns.

Paintings by Shannon Gilson. Gilson, an accomplished artist whose work has been featured in ‘Vanity Fair,’ seeks to evoke nostalgia and happy emotions through her art.

Beata Vavrova explores relationships through her colorful and oftentimes personal paintings.

The work of Ellen Summers evokes the beauty of the Florida Keys’ seashore and wildlife.

Valerie Perreault sees her abstract art as going hand-in-hand with her acclaimed poettry.

WILLIAM DEPAULA

CELEBRATE WORLD OCEANS DAY WITH US! Join the GLOBAL MOVEMENT to save and restore our coral reefs, with a week of reef-saving adventure, activities, and edutainment for all ages! PRESENTS

KICK-OFF AT ZOO

MIAMI

Join Captain Coral and his crew on World Reef Awareness Day, with family-friendly activities and interactive lear ning experiences at the CRF™ Coral Village inside Zoo Miami.

JUNE 1, 2024, 10AM - 4PM

ZOO MIAMI - 12400 SW 152ND ST, MIAMI, FL 33177

SIPS AND SCIENCE

Enjoy free beer, wine, and other beverages, while our esteemed guests discuss the science of coral reef conservation. Tampa Bay Brewing Company will also be offering samples of their craft beer. Bring your own reusable cup for extra sustainability points!

JUNE 5, 2024, 5PM - 7PM

CRF™ EXPLORATION CENTER - 5 SEAGATE BLVD, KEY LARGO, FL 33037

OPEN HOUSE 2024

On World Oceans Day, we are excited to host a land-based extravaganza! Join in the fun with our Coral Slime Workshop, try our Virtual Reality Dive, or create your own Coral Art and Jewelry

JUNE 8, 2024, 11AM - 3PM

CRF™ EXPLORATION CENTER - 5 SEAGATE BLVD, KEY LARGO, FL 33037

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

THIS WEEK

ROSS

SPORTS WRAP TAKES A BREATHER FOR THE SUMMER

To our readers:

This edition marks the close of the 2023-24 athletic year with the Keys Weekly Sports Wrap. Since August, we have been proud to serve as your most comprehensive source for prep sports coverage and photography in the Florida Keys.

First things first: Don’t worry. The Sports Wrap isn’t going anywhere. But as school lets out for the summer and prep sports take a short hiatus, we are giving our staff a breather as well to recharge and come back ready to hit the ground running for the 2024-25 school year.

Over the next two months, this section will look a bit different. Instead of weekly prep sports content, the pullout insert will include a variety of content including comics, games and puzzles, many of which our readers have asked for or told us they enjoyed in the past.

We haven’t forgotten about a few of our All-Keys teams from the 2024 spring season, which we will celebrate as they are completed within the pages of our regular editions during the month of June. And when practices resume in August for fall sports, we’ll go right back to the full-blown Sports Wrap coverage our readers have come to love and expect.

So … enjoy the summer, let us know your feedback, and always: Go ’Canes, Fins and Conchs!

Sincerely,

The Sports Wrap Staff

ON THE COVER

Though both Coral Shores’ and Key West’s girls lacrosse teams underwent rebuilding years in 2024, there was no shortage of talent on the field for both

Mikkel has always been a leader on the team. She was always there to encourage the other girls, but all while maintaining hard work and a great attitude.”

— Darby Sheehan, Fins track & field coach.

Marathon’s Mikkel Ross has been a staple for the Lady Fins every season since she was a seventh-grader. Ross has made a multitude of state appearances in cross country, weightlifting and track and field. The multitalented athlete was recently selected as one of just 12 female studentathletes named to the Florida Dairy Farmers FHSAA Academic All-State Team, the highest award given to student-athletes in Florida. Ross was selected for excellence in both athletics and academics. For her outstanding accomplishments on and off the field, Marathon’s Mikkel Ross is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Mikkel

Senior | Marathon Track & Field

Photo by: BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

squads. See page 4. Photos by Mark Hedden and Doug Finger.

donald

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.

sean mcdonald

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

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

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All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

Described by Lady Conchs head coach Marisa Giacopuzzi as “a force,” senior defender Maeve O’Hearn earned First Team All-District honors by scooping up 40 ground balls, winning 5 draw controls, causing 23 turnovers and then netting 9 goals to show she can attack as well as defend. “She held us together and was instrumental in making game-time change-ups,” said Giacopuzzi of her senior captain.

8

Kaitlyn Piloto

JUNIOR | KWHS MIDFIELDER

Midfielder Kaitlyn Piloto led the Conchs in total offensive points, totaling 23 goals and 3 assists this season. Praised for her stick skills and ability to read the field, the talented junior was credited with 31 ground balls, 11 caused turnovers and 25 draw controls, making her equally effective on offense and defense.

JUNIOR |

With an incredible 86% save rate, Key West goalie Courtney Grabus racked up 139 saves this season.The First Team All-District and Second Team All-Region selectee also tallied 25 ground balls and 11 caused turnovers for the Conchs and will return in goal for one more season to try to reclaim the district title in her senior campaign.

JUNIOR | KWHS MIDFIELDER

Praised for her patientlytimed shots and valuable teamwork, midfielder Deanna Mercier was key offensively and defensively for the Conchs this season. The junior led her team in caused turnovers with 26. Mercier was also credited with 28 draw controls, 28 ground balls, 23 goals and an assist.

9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050 Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

tracy mc

PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Colbie Turner

SOPHOMORE | KWHS DEFENDER

Colbie Turner led the Conchs with 29 draw controls, proving to be a relentless defender willing to fight for every possession. Praised for playing with heart and putting everything she had into every play of the season, Turner managed to net 18 goals, pick up 26 ground balls and cause 15 turnovers in her sophomore season

Leyla Ochoa

SENIOR | CSHS ATTACKER

Hurricane attacker Leyla Ochoa’s keen understanding of the game and ability to read the opposing team’s defense made her an asset to Coral Shores. The twotime team captain was a natural leader for her team’s offense, and with 17 goals and 23 assists this season, she proved to be both accurate and selfless at the net. 2 7

MEET THE 2024 ALL-KEYS GIRLS LACROSSE TEAM

Local stars shine in rebuilding season

The Lady Conchs came out of the gates this season knowing it would be difficult to match the magical season they enjoyed one year ago. The reigning district champions had lost a slew of senior talent and were well aware that 2024 would serve as a rebuild season. But Key West used a healthy combination of desire, determination and love of the game to bring home six wins, including one in the playoffs. The Lady Conchs beat neighboring Coral Shores twice this year, once in the regular season and once in the FHSAA 1A District 16 quarterfinals, to finish 6-10. The Conchs return 14 underclassmen who know what it will take to reclaim their district title.

Coral Shores endured its own rebuild in 2024. The ’Canes managed to fill the gaps and pull out a pair of wins in their 2-8 season, with half of those losses ending in scores close enough to feel confident heading into next season. The Lady ’Canes return seven game-seasoned underclassmen to their roster next season.

Photos by Mark Hedden and Doug Finger

23

Vicky Peña SENIOR | CSHS DEFENDER

A three-year starter for Coral Shores, Vicky Peña helped anchor the ’Canes’ defense. Peña caused 9 turnovers and picked up 23 ground balls during her senior campaign.

27

Iona Holmquist

SENIOR | CSHS

MIDFIELDER

Coral Shores midfielder Iona Holmquist served her team in the role of captain, leading them on and off the field. Holmquist scored 13 goals and 6 assists this season. The senior scooped up 48 ground balls, caused a dozen turnovers and won 53% of draw control situations, making her clutch in transition situations for the ’Canes.

SENIOR | CSHS DEFENDER

Senior captain Makayla Hann led the ’Canes in caused turnovers, stealing the ball 20 times this season. Hann was credited with 45 ground balls to further disrupt opponents’ offenses all season long.

Makayla Hann Shay Stober

SOPHOMORE | CSHS ATTACKER

Coral Shores’ top scorer this season will return for two more, and she just keeps getting better. Shay Stober scored 22 goals plus a pair of assists this season, and an offseason practice routine is already honing her shot for next year. Praised for her solid work ethic and being a supportive teammate, Stober has a bright future with the Lady ’Canes.

Suharevskis

Niks Davis

SENIOR | KWHS

POLE VAULT

As talented as he is hardworking, Key West’s Suharevskis Niks-Davis vaulted his way into Key West’s record books this season. Niks-Davis brought home gold medals from both districts and regionals in the pole vault this season, and won bronze at the FHSAA 2A State Championships. He also holds the school record in the 400 hurdles and is third in 110 high hurdles.

Jay Marshall

JUNIOR | MHS SPRINTING

Mikail “Jay” Marshall is indisputably the fastest athlete in the Keys this year and set school records in both the 100- and 200-meter events. Marshall claimed a pair of gold medals at districts and sprinted fast enough at regionals to qualify for the state meet in both events. He also boasts a blazing 400 and ran a leg of Marathon’s regional-qualifying 4x400 relay.

MEET THE 2024 ALL-KEYS BOYS TRACK & FIELD TEAM

Island athletes prove they can compete with the best in the state

This season, Keys teams fared well on the track, but it was in the field events where the stars of Monroe County were the brightest. Coral Shores produced one district champion and finished sixth overall in FHSAA 2A District 16 competition. Key West, also in the 2A division, produced four district champions and claimed the FHSAA District 16 title for the second year in a row. The Conchs qualified five athletes for the state championships, securing two medals for the southernmost school. 1A Marathon was the runnerup in their district, claiming three district gold medals and sending two athletes to states. One Fins medaled at states this season, making it three state medals for Monroe County’s boys competing at the highest level of competition in Florida.

Jeff Dejean

JUNIOR | KWHS JUMPING

Junior Jeff Dejean brought home silver medals from districts in long and triple jump, and went on to place in the top 10 in both events at regionals. The junior appears in the top five in Key West’s record books for three events: third in long jump, fifth in triple jump and fourth on the 4x100 relay team. Dejean’s jumps got better as the season progressed, setting the stage for a stellar senior campaign.

Shane Lavallee

JUNIOR | KWHS THROWING/SPRINTING

Key West’s Shane Lavallee claimed the No. 2 spot in the Conchs’ record books with a mid-season javelin toss. He earned a fourth-place medal at districts, improved to a bronze at regionals and earned a sixth-place medal at the state championships. Lavallee ran a leg of Key West’s regional-qualifying 4x100 relay, and his individual 100 time won bronze at districts and a lane at the regional race.

Clerf Alexandre

SENIOR | KWHS SPRINTER/JUMPING

Conch jumper Clerf Alexandre won the FHSAA 2A District 16 Championship in triple jump, then placed fifth at regionals. He holds the fourth-best triple jump in school history. Alexandre qualified for regionals in the 100-meter race with a fourth-place finish at districts and ran a leg of Key West’s regional-qualifying 4x100 relay. He appears in Key West’s top-five records in both events.

Jean Louis

SENIOR | KWHS THROWING

Senior strongman Jean Louis made the school record book this season. Louis took first place at districts and brought home bronze at regionals in the shot put, where he claimed the school record and qualified for the state meet, as well. He won the silver medal at districts in discus, qualifying for regionals in that event, too.

Photos by Barry Gaukel, Mark Hedden and Doug Finger

SOPHOMORE | KWHS THROWING

Noah Mercer threw the shot put and discus better than most upperclassmen this season, winning the district championship in discus and a fourth-place medal in shot, qualifying for regionals in both events. Mercer took fourth place at regionals in discus, earning a spot at the state meet in that event. He is top five in both events in the school record books and as the season progressed, so did his distances.

SENIOR | MHS UTILITY

For three years, Mason Buxton has been a member of the Dolphins’ distance domination squad. But he has been able to find success in a variety of events. Buxton brought home a bronze medal at districts in javelin, then did the same at regionals with a toss that qualified for the state championships, where he placed eighth. He has multiple top-five places in Marathon’s all-time record book.

JUNIOR | KWHS

With one more year to develop his skills, Ian Newton is set to continue Key West’s domination in the pole vault. Newton placed second at districts behind his own teammate, then took third at regionals, clearing a height good enough for an at-large bid to the state championships. There, the culmination of his work this season paid off in a personal best and 10th-place finish, indicating that the best is yet to come.

SENIOR | CSHS MIDDLE DISTANCE

Most athletes who prevail in distance events on the track spend their fall seasons running cross country, but not Marguet, the kicker for the football team. An unlikely candidate for taking the No. 23 spot on Coral Shores’ all-time records in the 800. Marguet won silver at districts and finished eighth at regionals. He also ran a leg of the Hurricanes’ 4x400 relay this season, setting the school record in the event.

SOPHOMORE | CSHS MIDDLE DISTANCE

Coral Shores’ distance and middle-distance specialist

Alaric Rodriguez has been steadily climbing the ’Canes’ record charts, and with two seasons to go, the sky’s the limit. Rodriguez finished fourth at districts in the 1600-meter event, a race for which he now owns the school record. He claimed record number two with the Hurricane 4x400 relay team, and he shows promise in the 800 and 3200 as well.

SOPHOMORE | CSHS HURDLES

Xavier Johnson sailed over the 110 high hurdles, claiming a district gold medal this season and an automatic bid to regionals, where he finished ninth. The speedy sophomore’s time broke the school record, which had stood for a dozen years prior to Johnson’s exceptional season.

GETTING TECHNICAL Conchs

focus on form and technique in Red-White

Showcase

Key West held its annual Red-White game on May 23, electing to forgo an outside competitor and instead participating in an intrasquad scrimmage.

Head coach Johnny Hughes explained the rationale behind the scrimmage, stating “We can spend more time on some technical stuff. We can spend two weeks on tackling dummies and work on form instead of putting in a scheme.”

Hughes said the team spent a lot of time “breaking down the nuts and bolts of each position, especially with so many new kids out there.”

Many of the newer players referenced by Hughes currently attend Horace O’Bryant and Sugarloaf schools, whose eighth-graders were welcome to practice with Key West’s current ninth- through 11th-grade athletes. Hughes praised the young players, describing them as “a good eighth-grade group out there. Some of them have a chance to play next year.”

“I thought it went well,” Hughes said of his spring campaign. “We were very focused on the teaching aspect, not so much the scheme aspect. Overall it was very productive for us.”

He credited returning talent with hard work in the offseason and for stepping into leadership roles on the field. He will look to that crew, including Walson Morin, Jaden Fox and Jeff Dejean, to help spark the Conchs’ offense, but noted many of his talented athletes are playing two ways, making things more challenging for a school unable to recruit in the same manner as mainland schools. Hughes anticipates big things from RJ Brown and Shane Lavallee, though Lavallee missed much of the spring for an extended track-and-field season.

“I thought it went well. We were very focused on the teaching aspect, not so much the scheme aspect. Overall it was very productive for us.”

—

Head coach Johnny Hughes

The Conchs also used the spring to sort out their quarterback situation. The vacancy will most likely be filled by Teak Guyet, who showed a lot of promise heading into the fall. Protecting Guyet will be an offensive line with a lot of potential but lacking depth. Hughes hopes a strong summer lifting program will benefit the offensive and defensive lines and more athletes will be technically and physically ready to serve as backups for the existing linemen.

Key West ended the spring with about four dozen athletes in uniform, and the focus on technique and proper form will be crucial come fall.

“Aside from one team in our district, we match up pretty well as long as we stay healthy. Our front-line guys will be competitive but depth will be a challenge,” Hughes said, on his prospects for the 2024 season.

That “one team” referenced is Miami Northwestern, coached by former Miami Dolphin Teddy Bridgewater. Northwestern is new to Key West’s district this season after redistricting added the Bulls to FHSAA’s 3A District 16 group. The Conchs have until October to figure out how to handle Northwestern; Key West’s kickoff classic is scheduled for home on Aug. 16 against the Coyotes of Cypress Creek.

’CANES BEST MIAMI BEACH 20-7

Coral Shores uses spring football to find identity

Coral Shores’ first opponent wisely backed out of a spring matchup, setting the ’Canes scrambling for an opponent. They found one in the Hi-Tides of Miami Beach, who traveled to Tavernier to face the Hurricanes for some gridiron action on May 21. Coral Shores defeated Miami Beach 20-7 in two quarters of quality football, to the satisfaction of head coach Ed Holly.

“I was very happy with the way our guys competed.” Holly said, adding, “The kids were energized and excited to be there.”

The Hurricanes used their spring session to find out who they were as a team. The ’Canes played just one half against Miami Beach, using the time as a scrimmage situation. “We just wanted to get some good work in,” Holly said.

“It’s very important to use spring football to spring into the fall season,” Holly said. “We use it to find our identity.”

Most recently, that identity has been one of a scrappy team with intensity from kickoff to the final whistle. Part of that package has been quarterback Yemcel Moreno, who missed a portion of last season with a knee injury. Moreno, who is back at full strength, connected for a 32-yard reception in limited time out of an abundance of caution.

“Yemcel played great. We were guarded with the reps he got,” Holly said.

Like Moreno, AJ Putetti was spared to ensure an ankle injury would be fully recovered in the fall, giving Jhonathan Mesa a majority of the reps carrying the ball. Mesa scored all three of the ’Canes’ touchdowns and had 145 yards on 11 carries.

Other standouts mentioned were Lucas Carballo, the Hurricanes’ lacrosse player of the year. Carballo stepped into the free safety role and garnered immediate respect from the ’Canes coaching staff. Eddie Holly’s play at linebacker showed great improvement and, coupled with his offensive play, stands to make him a dual threat his senior season. Coach Holly also praised Jamoris Davis, saying that he should have a phenomenal year.

“He worked hard and took on a leadership role. He was all over the field,” Holly said.

The greatest challenge the Hurricanes face this fall is getting their offensive line together. After losing key athletes to graduation, Holly will need to get his three returners to mesh with the freshmen filling the roles left vacant by last year’s seniors. The beginnings of a cohesive unit were already showing last week, when Coral Shores accumulated over 200 offensive yards in just one half of a game of football.

“Spring is very important because it sets up your summer program,” Holly said. “We’re going to work really hard in the weight room this summer so we can have a great fall.”

Coral Shores participates in the Florida Independent Football Conference, which had a pair of teams added to the group this season. Smarten Academy and ABF Academy will join the ’Canes in a quest to bring home a conference championship. Coral Shores’ first matchup is scheduled for Aug. 23 at home against Somerset South Homestead.

Hurricanes running back Jhonathan Mesa escapes defenders on his way to the end zone. Mesa scored the ’Canes’ three touchdowns against the Miami Beach Hi-Tides during a spring game on May 21. JOY SMITH/Purely Joyous Photography

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Keys Wide Appraisal Co. And Property Services located at 2000 Overseas Highway, Apt. 3G, Marathon, FL 33050 intends to register the said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, FL, USA.

By: Denise Peterson

Publish: May 30, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of KEYS YARD

MAINTENANCE & HANDYMAN, located at 58160 Howe Street, Monroe County in the City of Marathon, Florida 330505702, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Marathon, Florida this 23rd day of May, 2024. By: Deamion Duwayne Aubyn Stewart

Publish:

May 30, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE 11TH STREET OCEAN MINI

STORAGE

Notice is here by given that on June 8th, 2024 at 10:00 a.m., 11th Street Ocean Mini Storage will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, by Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. 11th Street Ocean Mini Storage does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will be held at 200 11th Street, Ocean, Marathon, Florida 33050. Units to be sold: Unit #19

Publish:

May 23 & 30, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

INVITATION TO BID

The City of Key Colony Beach cordially invites interested contractors to complete and submit sealed bids by June 26th, 2024, no later than 9:30 am, for the following project.

CLEAN AND CAMERA APPROXIMATELY 38,000 FEET OF 8-INCH SEWER GRAVITY MAIN LINE ITB 2024-01

SCOPE: Clean and camera sewer the gravity main line within the City of Key Colony Beach, consisting of one hundred twenty (120) manholes and approximately 38,000 feet of eight (8”) inch width pipe of the City’s main wastewater gravity conveyance line. Debris must be removed, and area cleaned to pre-construction conditions.

All bids must be received no later than June 26th, at 9:30 am, City of Key Colony Beach, Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051. Bids must be delivered in a sealed envelope clearly marked ‘Sealed Bid for the City of Key Colony Beach ITB 2024-01’ along with the name of your rm.

The bid manual, requirements, and specifications are available on DemandStar at www.Demandstar.com.

All questions regarding the bid process should be directed to City Clerk Silvia Gransee at cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net

CALENDAR OF EVENTS ITB 2024-01

05-22-2024 10:00 am Release Solicitation

05-29-2024 10:00 am Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference and Site Visit (600 8th Street, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051)

06-12-2024 4:00 pm Last Day for submission of written questions to the City

06-18-2024 4:00 pm Last day for the City to post answers to questions

06-26-2024 9:30 am Bid Due & Opening

(Open to Public – 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051)

07-11-2024 9:30 am Utility Board Meeting

Recommendation to Award 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051

07-18-2024 9:30 am City Commission meeting Award of Bid

(Open to the Public – 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051)

City of Key Colony Beach PO Box 510141, 600 W Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051

Contact Mailing Address

Silvia Gransee, City Clerk PO Box 510141 Phone: 305-289-1212 Ext. 2 Key Colony Beach, FL 33051

Publish: May 30 & June 6, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice is hereby given that the following vessel will be sold at public sale on the date listed below at 10AM for monies owed on vessel storage pursuant to Florida Statutes 713.78.

Sale: June 6, 2024 at 10:00 AM

Location: Mile Marker 31 Boat & RV Storage, LLC, 79 Industrial Road, Big Pine Key, FL 33043

Vessel: 1996 Hunter Sail Boat

VIN# HUNF0589E696

Mile Marker 31 Boat & RV Storage, LLC reserves the right to accept or reject any and/ all bids.

Publish:

May 23 & 30, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice is hereby given that the following vessel will be sold at public sale on the date listed below at 10AM for monies owed on vessel storage pursuant to Florida Statutes 713.78.

Sale: June 6, 2024 at 10:00 AM

Location: Mile Marker 31 Boat & RV Storage, LLC, 79 Industrial Road, Big Pine Key, FL 33043

Vessel: 2007 Cadillac STS

(Wrecked)

VIN# 1GSDC67A77015403

Mile Marker 31 Boat & RV Storage, LLC reserves the right to accept or reject any and/ all bids.

Publish:

May 23 & 30, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice is hereby given that the following vessel will be sold at public sale on the date listed below at 10AM for monies owed on vessel storage pursuant to Florida Statutes 713.78.

Sale: June 6, 2024 at 10:00 AM

Location: Mile Marker 31 Boat & RV Storage, LLC, 79 Industrial Road, Big Pine Key, FL 33043

Vessel: 2018 Coachmen Catalina VIN# 5ZT2CAMB1JU028237

Mile Marker 31 Boat & RV Storage, LLC reserves the right to accept or reject any and/ all bids.

Publish:

May 23 & 30, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings & Workshops

The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings and workshops via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform. The access points to view the Zoom meetings or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@keysarts.com

Cultural Umbrella Committee

Meeting Time: June 4, 2024 11:00 AM

Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 899 2219 1315

Passcode: 738375

Art in Public Places

Committee Meeting Time: June 18, 2024 12:00 PM

Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting

Meeting ID: 873 1198 9645

Passcode: 952842

Executive Committee Meeting

Time: June 27, 2024 03:00 PM

Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting

Meeting ID: 871 6765 0056

Passcode: 157466

Publish:

May30, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District I Advisory Committee (DAC I) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at

3:00 p.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom. us/j/92732703334

Meeting ID: 927 3270 3334

One tap mobile +13052241968,, 92732703334# US +13092053325,, 92732703334# US

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance. If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the board with respect to any matter considered at such meeting or hearing, they will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, they may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the 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: May 30, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District II Advisory Committee (DAC II) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom. us/j/96603792745 Meeting ID: 966 0379 2745 One tap mobile +13052241968,, 96603792745# US +13017158592,, 96603792745# US (Washington DC) All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance. If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the board with respect to any matter considered at such meeting or hearing, they will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, they may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the 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: May 30, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District III Advisory Committee (DAC III) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom. us/j/98510798721

Meeting ID: 985 1079 8721

One tap mobile +13052241968,, 98510798721# US +19292056099,, 98510798721# US (New York)

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance. If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the board with respect to any matter considered at such meeting or hearing, they will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, they may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the 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: May 30, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District IV Advisory Committee (DAC IV) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom. us/j/92950853097

Meeting ID: 929 5085 3097

One tap mobile +13052241968,, 92950853097# US +16469313860,, 92950853097# US

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance. If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the board with respect to any matter considered at such meeting or hearing, they will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, they may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the 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: May 30, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District V Advisory Committee (DAC V) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom. us/j/92115212058 Meeting ID: 921 1521 2058 One tap mobile +13052241968,, 92115212058# US +13126266799,, 92115212058# US (Chicago) All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance. If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the board with respect to any matter considered at such meeting or hearing, they will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, they may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disabilit2y who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the 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: May 30, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Garrison Bight Bridge Navigation Lighting Replacement 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 bonfirehub.comhttps://monroecounty-fl. 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 bonfirehub.com,https://monroecounty-fl. no later than 3:00P.M. on Thursday, June 27, 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, June 27, 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:

May 30, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA KEY WEST DIVISION

CASE NO: 4:23-cv-10093-JEM NAUTILUS INSURANCE COMPANY, Plaintiff, v. CAPTAIN PIP’S HOLDINGS, LLC, DANIEL COUCH, TANNER HELMER, SRINIVASRAO ALAPARTHI, as P.R. of the Estate of SUPRAJA ALAPARTHI and as parent and natural guardian of Ak.A, a minor child, and RAVIKUMAR SADDA and ASRITHA RAVALA, as parents and natural guardians of V.S., a minor child, Defendants.

NOTICE OF ACTION (NOTICE BY PUBLICATION)

TO: DANIEL COUCH

Last known address of: 213 ANGLERS DR. S., APT. 1 MARATHON, FL 33050

You are notified that Nautilus Insurance Company (“Nautilus”) has initiated an action for declaratory relief under 28 U.S.C. § 2201 against you in the United States District Court, Southern District of Florida, Key West Division, captioned Nautilus Insurance Company v. Captain Pip’s Holdings, LLC, Daniel Couch, Tanner Helmer, Srinivasrao Alaparthi, as P.R. Of The Estate of Supraja Alaparthi and as parent and natural guardian of Ak.A, a minor child, and Ravikumar Sadda and Asritha Ravala, as parents and natural guardians of V.S., a minor child, bearing Case Number 4:23-cv-10093-JEM. You are required to serve a copy of your written defense, if any, on Michele Vargas, Esq., an attorney at Clyde & Co US LLP, whose address is 1221 Brickell Avenue, Suite 1600, Miami, Florida 33131, on or before July 17, 2024 and file the original with the Clerk of this Court, at 301 Simonton St., Key West, Florida 33040, either before service on Ms. Vargas or immediately after. Otherwise, a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded against you in the complaint.

Dated at Florida on this 20th day of May, 2024

Clerk of the Court

Angela E. Noble, Clerk United States District Court

Southern District of Florida

By: Ketly Pierre Deputy Clerk

Publish: May 30, June 6, 13 & 20, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-DR-95-K DIVISION: FAMILY MANOL DELVA Petitioner, and, MARIE ELCANA ANILUS Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: MARIE ELCANA ANILUS RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 281 NORTH WARREN AVENUE, COLUMBUS, OH 43204

YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Manol Delva, whose address is 5B 8th Avenue, Stock Island, FL 33040 on or before June 24, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: N/A Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on 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: May 10, 2024 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Destiny Johnson Deputy Clerk Publish: May 23 & 30 and June 6 & 13 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24-DR-223-K

DIVISION: FAMILY FATIMA HERRERA Petitioner, and, MATEO DIAZ MUNOZ Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT)

TO: MATEO DIAZ MUNOZ

LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 278 King Avenue, Key Largo, FL 33037

CURRENT ADDRESS: Unknown YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Sylvia E. Fernandez, P.A., Petitioners’s Attorney, at 1501 Venera Avenue, Suite

230, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, Phone Number (305) 461-6060, on or before June 17, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this court at 88770 Overseas Highway, Ste 2, Plantation Key, Florida 33070 before service on Petitioner’s attorney or immediately thereafter. IF YOU FAIL TO DO SO, A DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU FOR THE RELIEF DEMANDED IN THE PETITION. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Notice of Current Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved 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 on 10th of May, 2024 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Daniella Lafontant

Deputy Clerk

Publish: May 16, 23 & 30 and June 6, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 24-CP-254-P

DIVISION: UPPER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF GEORGE BORDEN MAKEPEACE, JR. Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of George Borden Makepeace, Jr., deceased, whose date of death was March 27, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required 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: May 30, 2024.

Personal Representative: George Borden Makepeace III 731 N.W. 18th Street Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33311

Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134

RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-6022

Fax: (305) 743-6216

E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com

Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com

Publish:

May 30 & June 6, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 24-CP-000210-P IN RE: ESTATE OF SHAKIR HUSSAIN

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Shakir Hussain, deceased, whose date of death was March 20, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 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: May 30, 2024.

Personal Representatives: Sonia Johanna Zairun Hussain 822 Flatbush Avenue Apt 4C Brooklyn, New York 11226

Rohan Dilwar Hussain 1569 NW 17th Ave Apt 613 Miami, FL 33125

Attorney for Personal Representatives: Monique Lavender Greenberg

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 83834

Lavender Greenberg PLLC 2525 Ponce de Leon Blvd Suite 300

Coral Gables, FL 33134

Telephone: (786) 832-4694

Fax: (786) 249-7096

E-Mail: monique@lglawmiami. com

Secondary E-Mail: office@ lglawmiami.com

Publish: May 30 & June 6, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 24-CP-000238-P IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBIN L. DANEKER Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Robin L. Daneker, deceased, whose date of death was October 20, 2023,

is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 1, Plantation Key, FL 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: May 30, 2024.

Personal Representative: Karrissa Hamilton 1022 Snapper Ln Key Largo, Florida 33037

Attorney for Personal Representative: Ashley T. Steffen, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 0111238 SNYDER & SNYDER, P.A. 7931 S.W. 45th Street DAVIE, FL 33328 Telephone: (954) 475-1139 Fax: (954) 475-2634

E-Mail: Ashley@snyderlawpa. com

Secondary E-Mail: eservice@ snyderlawpa.com Publish: May 30 & June 6, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-246-P DIVISION: UPPER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF WILLIAM R. ALBURY Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of William R. Albury, deceased, whose date of death was April 10, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required 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: May 23, 2024.

Personal Representative: Shawn William Albury 96050 Overseas Highway Key Largo, Florida 33037

Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner

Attorney

Florida Bar Number: 283134

RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-6022

Fax: (305) 743-6216

E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com

Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com

Publish: May 23 & 30, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-216-K

DIVISION: KEY WEST IN RE: ESTATE OF CHARLES S. NATION, III

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Charles S. Nation, III, deceased, whose date of death was April 11, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead 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 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: May 23, 2024.

Personal Representative: Douglas S. Lawes

29971 Pine Channel Road

Big Pine Key, Florida 33043

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: May 23 & 30, 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-000234-K

IN RE: ESTATE OF KARL JOHN JOHNSON Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the Estate of Karl John Johnson, deceased, whose date of death was November 16, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead 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 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: May 23, 2024.

Personal Representative: Karen Johnson 27997 Coral Shores Road Little Torch Key, FL 33042 Attorney for Personal Representative: Seth S. Diamond, Esquire Florida Bar Number: 55714 Sloto & Diamond, PLLC 9100 S. Dadeland Boulevard, Suite 1607 Miami, Florida 33156 Telephone: (305) 379-1792 Fax: (305) 379-2328

E-Mail: eservice@slotolaw.com

Publish: May 23 & 30, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2023-CC-78-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 12th day of June, 2024 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit C34, Week 47, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) 1 UNIT C34, WEEK 47 entered in a case pending in said Court, the 3rd day of May 2024 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST ROBERT I. CASADY, DECEASED, et.al

Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is Number 2023-CC-78-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 16TH day of May 2024.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA

Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Shonta McLeod

As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish:

May 23 & 30, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

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

CASE NO.: 2023-CC-75-K

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 12th day of June, 2024 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5231, Week 14, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) II UNIT 5231, WEEK 14 entered in a case pending in said Court, the 3rd day of May 2024 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST WAYNE NIES ROOT, DECEASED, et.al Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2023-CC-75-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 16TH day of May 2024.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Shonta McLeod As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: May 23 & 30, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

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

CASE NO.: 2023-CC-11-K

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 12th day of June, 2024 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5511, Week 4, Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) I UNIT 5511, WEEK 4 entered in a case pending in said Court, the 3rd day of May 2024 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MICHAEL THOMAS SAVITSKY, DECEASED, et.al

Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2023-CC-11-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 16TH day of May 2024.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Shonta McLeod

As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: May 23 & 30, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2023-CC-11-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 12th day of June, 2024 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5234, Week 19, Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) II UNIT 5234, WEEK 19 entered in a case pending in said Court, the 3rd day of May 2024 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA

Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MICHAEL THOMAS SAVITSKY, DECEASED, et.al

Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2023-CC-11-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 16TH day of May 2024.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: May 23 & 30, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2023-CC-11-K

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 12th day of June, 2024 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5811, Week 29, Even Year Biennial Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) III UNIT 5811, WEEK 29 entered in a case pending in said Court, the 3rd day of May 2024 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MICHAEL THOMAS SAVITSKY, DECEASED, et.al

Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is Number 2023-CC-11-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 16TH day of May 2024. KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: May 23 & 30, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

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

AUTOS FOR SALE

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

BOAT LIFT FOR SALE

Boat Lift For Sale in Marathon - 20,000lb Neptune Atlantic elevator boat lift$7500 407-620-3406

BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

Boat Dockage for rent in Marathon. Private bay bottom, up to 40' boat, self containing, offshore water, car & dingy parking space provided. 305-610-8002

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

CAMPING SITE

Camping site/RV site at marina available in Marathon. Monthly/ Daily rates. Free use of dingy & fishing on dock. 305-610-8002

EMPLOYMENT

Looking for Alarm Technicians with current working knowledge of fire alarm systems in Marathon & Key West. Competitive pay. Hours: M-F 8:30a-4:30p. Email deborahg@ barnesalarmsystems. com or call 305743-7334 for more information.

ATTENTIONMarathon Auto & Marine Services looking for Auto Techs and for Trailer Service Tech.Pay based on experience. Apply in person at 2525 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL. Ask for Steve or Jay.

City of Marathon Current Job Openings: Part-time Custodian/ Maintenance. Full Benefits for full-time positions. EOE Please see City website for details www. ci.marathon.fl.us

Now Hiring Skilled Plumbers. New construction & full service. Upper Keys Plumbing Contractor looking for immediate hires to fill fulltime or part-time positions. Must have great mechanical & problem solving skills and clean driving record. Experience plus ownership of working toos and/or equipment based rate of pay. Email resume or request application to PlumbersinParadise@ outlook.com

FULL-TIME POSITION BUILDING OFFICIAL

The City of Key Colony Beach is accepting applications for the position of Building Official. Applicants must possess a Florida State Certification as a Building Code Administrator through the Florida Department of Professional Regulation, the Building Code Administrators and Inspectors Board or ability to receive certification within one (1) year. Knowledge of fire-rated construction and the Florida Fire Code is required. Thorough knowledge of the Florida Building Code is required.

Work experience must include word processing skills, organizational skills, and excellent written and verbal communication skills. A high level of community interest and familiarity of municipal government is desired. This position is responsible for planning, organizing, managing and directing all building inspection functions of the Building Department. Performs a variety of routine and technical work in connection with enforcement of City Ordinances and Florida Statutes and Building Codes regulating construction.

A full job description is available at www.keycolonybeach.net/apply-for-a-job

Salary: $110,000 +/- Dependent on Qualifications/Experience Full Health & Dental Insurance, 457 (b) Participation

Email resume to:

City Clerk Silvia Gransee at: cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net Or call for additional information: 305-289-1212 ext. 117

The City of Key Colony Beach is an EEO employer, drug-free and nicotine-free workplace

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring part-time servers and bartenders. Private club, friendly atmosphere, guaranteed gratuities. Flexible lunch/ dinner shifts available Tuesday – Sunday. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub. com.

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a full-time line cook. Private club, friendly atmosphere, afternoon/evening hours Tuesday –Sunday. Must provide checking account for direct deposit, photo ID, and social security card or passport. Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub. com.

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Med Tech, FT Receptionist, PT Housing Assistant, Housing Choice Voucher Asst., PT Receptionist, 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.

Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am-7pm daily. Full time/Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

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

PRIVATE COLLECTOR

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

ANNUAL RENTAL -

Key Largo - 2BR/2BA

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

Islamorada 3BR/2B

spacious 1800 sq ft home availalbe for yearly lease. New W/D, new stainless steel appliances, large screened in lanai. $3600/mo. Also available boat slip. 315-405-5202

2/1-Marathon, furn.,duplex, w/d, near Hospital, 30’ on canal.

$2,500/month, 6 mon. minimum , (or) $4,500/ monthly. Pets nego. Call/Text 409-370-0025 RENTED IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!!!

Long-term rental on Lower Matecumbe. 2BR/1BA Tile floors, W/D, 2nd floor w/wrap around balcony on canal. Private beach access. $2,900/mo incl. internet & cable. Call Phil 305-898-2077 RENTED IN THREE WEEKS!!!

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

RV site at marina available in Marathon. Monthly/Daily rates. Free use of dingy & fishing on dock. 305-610-8002

30' X 120' LOT FOR RENT in Marathon. Keys By The Sea, MM50. Cement pad, avail. May-Nov $1000/mo plus utilities. 262-716-8987 RENTED IN THREE WEEKS!!!

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

VACATION RENTAL

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

YARD SALES

SARA’S ESTATE SALE: Bachelor Fisherman’s Estate Sale on Duck Key: Friday, May 31 and Saturday, June 1, 9a to 1p both days, 244 W Seaview Drive, Duck Key. A few fishing rods, pin traps, deep cycle marine battery, buoy, hooks, lures, lines, etc. Plus guitar equipment: amplifier, pedals & cords. Weber BBQ, outdoor loungers, shelves, dock/leaf cart. New 18.3 cu inch refrigerator and new 8000 BTU window AC. New 3- seat couch in leather with electric recliners, 2 side tables, adjustable height coffee table and

66” cathedral arch three-door console. Three full/queen size beds very new, 1 adjustable king sleep number bed and 3 flatscreen TVs, six-chair wood dining table, two desks and chair sets. Nearly new dress shirts, jeans, etc. and 60” fabric wardrobe. Plus small amount of essential kitchenware and appliances, air bed & pump, black out curtains and manly décor.

Place your YARD SALE ad here. $25.00/ week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305743-0844 today AND SELL YOUR STUFF!

LPS Contracting is looking for an EXPERIENCED WELDER proficient in both steel and aluminum.

The job is located in Marathon, FL. Pay will be based on years of experience. We are looking for someone to start as soon as possible. Inquire with Mike at 920-241-1933.

NOW HIRING

LEAD MARINE MECHANIC

Experienced to inspect, service & repair marine engines, boat steering & hydraulic systems. Ability to work at sea.

ADMIN/OFFICE HELP

Part-time. Must be able to multi-task, stay calm under pressure and have great communication skills. Send resume to captpips@aol.com or come in the of ce to ll out application. 1480 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050

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

IS HIRING

FULL TIME PROJECT MANAGER ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE ACCOUNTS PAYABLE IN THE UPPER KEYS

Send resume to admin@cbtconstruction.com Or call 305-852-3002

EXPERIENCED ELECTRICIANS AND HELPERS NEEDED

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

to start. Send resume to: turtlehospital@turtlehospital.org

WE ARE HIRING!

DIRECT CARE STAFF /DRIVER AT ADULT DAY TRAINING PROGRAM

KEY WEST OFFICE

This position is available at our Adult Day program. Providing direct care service and 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. Florida driver’s license w/clean driving record, pre-employment training online and in person. Ability to pass a Level II background screening and references.

SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT COACH

KEY WEST

Responsible for development, implementation and documentation of supported employment strategies, interaction with co-workers, vocational rehab and supervision and any miscellaneous training and/or counseling that is needed for clients to acquire and maintain employment. Computer skills: moderate to advanced. Florida driver’s license with clean driving record required. Pre-employment training online and in person required. Background screening and references required.

IN HOME SUPPORT FT

KEY WEST

We are seeking a full-time, split-shift, In-Home Support Coach/ Trainer to provide companionship and assist clients with training/support. HSD/GED & 1 yr. exp in a related field. 1 year of college can substitute for experience. Must be able to use a tablet for documentation purposes. The shift for this job is split shift 7-9 am then 3-9 pm. We can be flexible. English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Florida driver’s license w/good driving record, references and background screening required. This is a rewarding position for the right person.

CLIENT MEDICAL SERVICES ASSISTANT

Full-time to assist our clients with dental, medical and transportation appts. Act as liaison between clients, families and support staff. Requires some on-call responsibility. Min. requirement Florida certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Fluent in English required. Level 2 background screening and valid Florida driver’s license.

Come join our family! EOE

Apply at the MARC office, 1401 Seminary St., Key West. Or online at www.marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org Phone: 305-294-9526 *32

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

Career-minded individual that can run a crew and take direction in a fast-paced varied environment. Must have current VALID FL Driver’s License. We are willing to train a person with long term goals and will help with education.

Full time position, on-call at times. Partially paid health insurance after 90 days. Benefits also offered. Pay will depend on the interview process. Send resume to: AM Electric, PO Box 510889, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051

E-mail: am.companies@gmail.com Call 305-743-0399

DUI EVALUATOR/ INSTRUCTOR

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.

SUNSET GRILLE IS HIRING

Bussers

Line Cooks

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

and great benefits. Weekends are a must.

LIVE IN PARADISE AND SEE DOLPHINS PLAY EVERYDAY!

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER is a fun, environmentally friendly non-profit 501(c)(3) Corporation specializing in education, research, and rescue of marine mammals.

We have openings in multiple departments. Please scan the QR code to visit the careers page on our website.

OPENINGS AVAILABLE

PHYSICIAN

- Nurse Practitioner, Primary Care Marathon, FT

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Cook, Per Diem

- Director of Nursing Services, Multispecialty Acute Care Center, FL

- Exercise Physiologist, Mariners Wellness Center, Per Diem

DRC seeks to provide for the well-being of its employees by offering a competitive total package. DRC currently offers a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays, vacation, sick and an employee assistance program. DRC also provides life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee.

COME JOIN THE FAMILY!

Email your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

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

ARE CENTER, Inc. IS HIRING!

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

KEY WEST

Peer Support Specialist Advocate (PT)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult)

Behavioral Health Counselor (Child)

Case Manager (Adult, Forensic) Substance Abuse Counselor

MARATHON

Prevention Specialist (any location) Care Coordinator (PT)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child)

RNs/LPNs - 3 shifts (PT/Per Diem)

Peer Support Specialist

*Support Worker – Assisted Living (PT)

*Behavioral Health Technicians 3 shifts (also Per Diem)

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

- Group Exercise Instructor, Mariners Wellness Center, Per Diem

- Lead First Cook, $5,000 Bonus, FT

- Manager Wellness Center, FT

- Multi-Modality Imag Tech, $20,000 Bonus, FT

- Nuclear Medicine Tech, Per Diem

- Performance Improvement Nurse, FT

- Phlebotomist, Laboratory, Per Diem

- Registered Nurse, Cardiac Rehab, Per Diem

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, $25,000 Bonus, FT

- Registered Nurse, ICU, $25,000 Bonus, FT

- Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care Center, $25,000 Bonus, FT

- Yoga Instructor, Mariners Wellness Center, Per Diem

MARATHON

FISHERMEN’S

COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- ED Acute Care Tech, Emergency Department, FT

- Environmental Tech, $5,000 Bonus, FT

- Experience Advisor, Patient Experience, FL

- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Radiology, $20,000 Bonus, FT

- Medical Technologist, Laboratory, $15,000 Bonus, FT, PT and Per Diem

- Radiology Technologist, Radiology, $15,000 Bonus, FT

- Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care Center, Per Diem

- Registered Respiratory Therapist, Per Diem

- Security Of cer, Per Diem

bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience. APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

We are now hiring for the following positions: Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers

Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

THEME: GEOGRAPHY 101

ACROSS

1. Village People’s “____ Man”

6. Certain tray content

9. Little bit, in Mexico

13. Ammo in a quiver, sing.

14. Geological Society of America

15. Young eel

16. Song of praise

17. Snowy ____ or great horned

18. Must-haves

19. *Strait between Russia and Alaska

21. *Smallest of the Great Lakes

23. Crime scene evidence

24. Peter the Great, e.g.

25. Consumer-protecting org.

28. Skiing helmet manufacturer

30. Mother-of-pearl, pl.

35. Type of sail, pl.

37. #29 Down anagram

39. Like Raphael’s cherubs

40. Face shape

41. Tie with a morning coat

43. Dwarf buffalo

44. Short version

46. “At ____, soldier”

47. Supposed giant Himalayan

48. Drool

50. Swimming hole

52. D.C. V.I.P.

53. Jim Acosta’s announcement

55. *Baltic ____

57. *0∫ latitude

61. *Bay east of India

64. Cuban dance

65. John Keats’ “To Autumn,” e.g.

67. Fortune teller’s card

69. Jeered

70. China’s drinkable export

71. Bird-related

72. Dick and Jane’s dog

73. “Slippery” tree

74. Lean, past tense

DOWN

1. *Atlas page

2. Speedy steed

3. First Nation nation

4. Squirrel away

5. Possessing

6. Full of excitement

7. *Opposite of NNE

8. Saintly rings

9. Guilty, e.g.

10. Last word on walkie-talkie

11. Ghana money

12. Guesstimate phrase (2 words)

15. Catch in a snare

20. Nigerian money

22. A Bobbsey twin

24. Steel on boots, pl.

25. *Inlet in Norway

26. Abalone seeker

27. Olden day calculators

29. *Compass ____

31. TV personality Aiken

32. Ancient Scandinavian characters

33. What actors do

34. *Iberian Peninsula country

36. Serb or Croat

38. Comme ci, comme Áa

42. Past or present

45. Group of five

49. Actor DiCaprio

51. Like floss

54. “That’s all she ____”

56. Tequila source

57. Work units

58. Wisecrack

59. Rounded protuberance

60. Aid in crime

61. Show pleasure

62. Cantatrice’s offering

63. Student aid

66. *Tierra ____ Fuego

68. Big bang maker, acr.