Key West Weekly 24-0620

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June 20, 2024 1¢ “Say Hey Kid” AND THE NOMINEES ARE… MEET THE 2024 BUBBA AWARDS FINALISTS | P. 9 CITY HALL IS IN TURMOIL 4 LAWMAKERS WANT TO FIRE CITY MANAGER ON JUNE 26 | P. 4 GOVERNOR VETOES CRITICAL KEYS FUNDING DISABLED ADULTS & ARTS PROGRAMS GET AXED FROM BUDGET | P. 12
KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 2

Nothing compares to Old Town Key West

Charmingly restored and updated historic home on a quiet street in the heart of Old Town, one of the best neighborhoods. This island oasis is spacious with plenty of storage and ample off street parking. The primary bedroom with ensuite bath is on the first floor. There is plenty of room to entertain around the pool or relax on the front porch. The property is very private with a lush tropical landscape, visible from the open kitchen which has accordion hurricane impact windows and a full size hurricane impact pocket door that transforms the inside to outside.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 3 1075 Duval Street | Suite 15C | Key West 305.294.1117 | oceansir.com Each office is independently owned and operated. KEY WEST |
| LISTING ID: 609981
$2,700,000

5450 MacDonald Ave. No.5

Key West, FL 33040

Office: 305.453.6928 www.keysweekly.com

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On June 17, the Boston Celtics beat the Dallas Mavericks in Game 5 to secure their 18th NBA title. It breaks a tie with the Los Angeles Lakers for the most in league history.

Key West athlete Grace Andrew knows competition. And the 2024 Bubbas: Key West People’s Choice Awards is a fierce, but fun contest. Meet this year’s finalists on page 9. Vote daily for the winners at keysweekly.com starting at noon on Thursday, June 20 through Sunday, July 7. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

WILL 4 KEY WEST LAWMAKERS FIRE THE CITY MANAGER ON JUNE 26? 18

If so, who will replace top official as new commission & mayor take office?

Three Key West lawmakers who are leaving office in a few months want to fire the city manager on their way out the door. But the man they hoped would replace the city’s top official just resigned on Monday, June 17, effective immediately.

The commission is scheduled to vote on terminating City Manager Al Childress’ contract during a special meeting at 2 p.m on Wednesday, June 26 at city hall. Commissioners Lissette Carey, Jimmy Weekley, Clayton Lopez and Billy Wardlow are allegedly the four votes it would take to oust Childress.

But let’s back up a few days. How did we get here?

Childress, who started the city manager job in April 2023 with a fouryear contract, got a call the evening of June 14 from city attorney Ron Ramsingh.

“He called to tell me there are four votes from commissioners to fire me; that they’re planning to call a special meeting to do it,” Childress told the Keys Weekly shortly after the conversation and still reeling from the news. He named Weekley, Lopez, Wardlow and Carey as the four votes to oust him.

Weekley, Lopez and Wardlow are term-limited out of office after the upcoming election, and Mayor Teri Johnston, who supports Childress, chose not to run again, meaning four of the seven city lawmakers will be brand new in November — and possibly in need of a new city manager.

Commissioners Carey, Sam Kaufman and Mary Lou Hoover will remain on the dais. They’ll be joined after the Aug. 20 primary by incoming Mayor DeeDee Henriquez, new Commissioner Donie Lee, who replaces Wardlow, and the winner of the District 1 race for Weekley’s seat — either Monica Haskell or Ben Hennington. Lopez’s successor in District 6 will be determined in the November general election unless one of the three candidates — Aaron Castillo, Thaddeus Cohen and Marci Rose — earns more than 50% of the vote in the August primary.

The June 14 news of Childress’ opposition came two days after assistant city manager Todd Stoughton tendered his resignation, initially writing that he’d leave his last day “open-ended to allow enough time for a replacement to be named.”

“The hope would be that Todd would step in as interim city manager so we have some stability for the new mayor and commissioners,” Carey said the night of June 14, acknowledging that she will vote to fire Childress.

But just a few days later, on Monday, June 17, Stoughton made his resignation effective immediately, telling the Keys Weekly that the decision to leave was entirely his own, but declining to comment further.

Weekley told the Keys Weekly the next day he didn’t believe it.

“I’m hearing the mayor and Commissioner Kaufman pressured him to leave,” Weekley said on June 18. “So I would hope we could bring Todd back on an interim basis. If Todd declines, then perhaps the city attorney could step in until the new commission finds a replacement.”

When asked whether the decision to fire the city’s top official is one that should be left to the new commission,

Weekley said, “It’s better to get this resolved now. I hate seeing it happen like this, but this is something that has to be done, and right now, the incoming commission is still on the outside looking in.”

Weekley said he’s heard of morale problems among city employees, “who have told me things in confidence that have led to my decision.”

Carey frequently has been critical of Childress at commission meetings and in her evaluation of him in April, writing, “The city manager needs to work on a better understanding of the needs of the Keys community and the will of the residents. While his previous experience in Miami provides him with relevant experience in municipal government, the initiatives he is attempting to duplicate in Key West are out of touch with what our citizens want.”

Johnston, on the other hand, wrote of Childress in April, “I have worked with six city managers, and Al Childress is the most qualified, transparent, equitable, efficient and principled city manager I have had the pleasure of working with.”

Johnston again commended Childress over the past week when speaking with the Keys Weekly. Hoover lamented Stoughton’s resignation and commended his work, while echoing the mayor’s support for Childress and the turmoil his ouster would cause for the new leaders.

If the vote to fire Childress occurs on June 26, it will cost the city about $100,000. His contract provides for 20 weeks of pay if the commissioners end his contract early. With an annual salary of $225,000, five months of pay equals $93,000.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 4
OF THE WEEK ON THE COVER KEYS NEWSPAPERS
Al Childress. CONTRIBUTED
KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 5 ALL SERVING THE FOOD YOU KNOW & LOVE INCLUDING OUR FAMOUS LOBSTER ROLL & CLAM CHOWDER KEY WEST 629 DUVAL STREET ST. AUGUSTINE 21 HYPOLITA STREET | 904.217.0291 INDIAN SHORES 19705 GULF BLVD | 727.474.7407 A S FEA WORK ’ S FEATURING GUYFIERI THE LARGEST & MOST TRUSTED PROFESSIONALLY CONDUCTED ESTATE & MOVING SALES IN THE FLORIDA KEYS SINCE 1997 SusiesKeyWestEstateSales.net We LOVE what we do it shows in our work! − Susie

HELP WANTED: NEW TDC PRESIDENT/CEO

Keys tourism agency begins looking for new boss

GWEN FILOSA

gwen@keysweekly.com

The Florida Keys is hiring for a brand-new position leading Monroe County’s multimillion-dollar tourism agency: president and CEO of the Tourist Development Council.

It pays $210,000 to $250,000, but this job comes with pages filled with duties and responsibilities, high expectations and a new public scrutiny created after the fallout from failed audits.

Just a few duties listed in the job description assembled by the executive recruitment firm SearchWide Global include: preparing the budget, managing invoices and expenditures, developing marketing strategies, media relations, recruiting employees, working with the chambers of commerce Keyswide and “oversight of every aspect of the organization’s operations.”

Also, the TDC president/CEO must handle crises from “hurricanes, health-related incidents, environment-related incidents, social unrest, mass shootings or policy-generated travel boycotts, among others,” the job description reads.

What’s not in the glossy, 8-page job ad prepared by SearchWide Global is that the last TDC director was fired amid a series of scathing audits.

In the first TDC audit released Oct. 31, 2023, County Clerk Kevin Madok’s office found instances of questionable spending, noncompliance with policy and failures in following financial protocols.

Under pressure from the Board of County Commissioners, the TDC board in March fired marketing director Stacey Mitchell by a unanimous vote.

Mitchell’s attorney, Zachary Z. Zermay, told Keys Weekly he’s putting together a wrongful termination lawsuit against Visit Florida Keys, the nonprofit charged with handling the use of the tourism development taxes on lodging and hotel rooms, known locally as the “bed tax.”

The TDC’s millions come from taxes paid by overnight tourists who

stay at all lodging establishments in the county.

Searchwide Global has not yet provided the county search committee with the names of any candidates or applicants.

“They’re receiving résumés,” said Roman Gastesi, the former county administrator who serves on the selection committee. “The job has evolved, it’s grown.”

County commissioner Jim Scholl, of Key West, chairs the selection committee. Other members are Daniel Samess, Laura Ciampa, Jodi Weinhofer, Joshua Tomai and Diane Schmidt.

They next meet on Friday, June 28 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Marathon Government Center. There will also be a Zoom option to join and watch the meeting.

“I want to see them all, every applicant’s résumé,” Gastesi said.

Gastesi, who has worked in Monroe County government for 15 years and recently retired as county administrator, said the TDC outgrew the top-boss marketing director job that Mitchell held.

“When I started they had about $13-$14 million in revenues annually,” he said. “After (the COVID pandemic shutdown) they’re probably going to level off in the $60-$70 million range.

“It’s tough to find one person with a marketing background who can also run a $60 million operation,” Gastesi said.

“That’s where it was unfair for Stacey,” Gastesi said of Mitchell. “She’s a good marketer. She had never run a $60-$70 million operation. That was totally unfair. It outgrew her.”

Minimum qualifications for the president/CEO job start with a bachelor’s degree and at least 10 years’ experience at the executive level.

At the moment, the TDC president/CEO is the only position being advertised. But Gastesi said the agency needs at least one more executive to focus on the financial side.

“If they try to combine the two, they’re going to have the same problem,” Gastesi said. “They’re going to need a leader – an executive director – and probably going to need a CFO.”

FLORIDA TO VOTE ON POTABORTION, & PARTISAN SCHOOL BOARDS

3 other ballot measures involve property values, hunting & campaign finance

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

Should Florida legalize marijuana for people over 21?

Should abortion be allowed up until fetal viability (usually around 23 weeks)? And should school board elections become partisan races as of 2026?

Those are three of the six questions that will appear on ballots from the Keys to the Panhandle in November. These questions are in addition to any local referendums placed on ballots by county or city governments. The measures would need 60% approval to pass.

Abortion access

Florida Amendment 4, Right to Abortion Initiative (2024) is a proposed change to the Florida constitution that would override the state’s current ban on abortions after six weeks of pregnancy and guarantee the right to an abortion up until the point of fetal viability, when the fetus can survive outside the mother’s uterus.

The current six-week ban was enacted by the Florida Legislature, and the proposed initiative to allow abortions until viability was initiated by a group of citizens known as Floridians Protecting Freedom. The campaign to protect women’s access to abortion spent a year gathering the required number of signatures to put the proposed constitutional amendment on the 2024 ballot.. The group collected 996,512 signatures — more than 100,000 above the 891,523 that were needed by Feb. 1.

Marijuana legalization

If passed in November, then Florida Amendment 3, Marijuana Legalization Initiative (2024) will legalize marijuana in Florida for people over 21.

According to Ballotpedia, “The initiative would legalize recreation-

al marijuana for adults 21 years old and older. Individuals would be allowed to possess up to three ounces of marijuana (about 85 grams), with up to five grams in the form of concentrate. Existing Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers would be authorized under the initiative to sell marijuana to adults for personal use. The Florida State Legislature could provide by state law for the licensure of entities other than existing Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers to cultivate and sell marijuana products.

“Medical marijuana was adopted by Florida voters in 2016 by a vote of 71% to 29%.”

Partisan school board elections

Florida Amendment 1, Partisan School Board Elections Amendment (2024) would make school board elections partisan beginning in 2026, states Ballotpedia.com.

“Candidates would be nominated for the general election through partisan primaries and be featured on the ballot with partisan labels, such as Democrat and Republican.

Republican State Sen. Joe Gruters supports the amendment, saying, “There’s no such thing as a non-partisan race anymore. These races are partisan, and the only ones that aren’t informed are being tricked. And what happens is, there are games that are played all the time in these races. And what I’m trying to do is pull the bag off of the voters’ heads.”

On the other hand, Democratic State Rep. Angie Nixon has said, “I believe this bill is not about transparency at all. This bill is about making our school-board elections and our school boards more contentious, more like D.C., which (Republicans) honestly always try to oppose.”

See keysweekly.com for the full story.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 6
KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 7 Paid political advertisement. Paid for by Mark Rossi, 24 Hilton Haven Dr., Key West, FL 33040. No candidate has approved this advertisement. SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS JOYCE GRIFFIN WARNS CANDIDATE AGAINST MISREPRESENTATION 526 ANGELA STREET | GARDENSHOTEL.COM WE’D BE HONORED TO BE VOTED BEST BED & BREAKFAST/ GUESTHOUSE

MARGARET ROMERO SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS

The annual Bubba Awards at Key West Theater are a night to remember and celebrate the best of the Southernmost City. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

And then there were three…

That’s right, we asked you to nominate your Key West favorites for the 2024 Bubbas: Key West People’s Choice Awards — and you answered, submitting thousands of online nominations in nearly 100 categories.

The top three nominees in each category are announced on the next page, and voting for the winners starts at noon on Thursday, June 20. And so begins the only-in-Key-West campaign for votes in the hopes of taking home a 2024 Bubba Award

Visit keysweekly.com once a day through midnight on July 7 to cast your votes. There’s no sub-

scription required, just your email address.

Who makes the best Cuban sandwich? Who has the best margarita? Best happy hour? Best bar bathroom? Who’s your favorite bartender, boat captain or barber? Which business has the best customer service? And what’s the best place to take the kids?

All these and dozens more categories are waiting for you to choose the winners of this year’s Bubbas: Key West People’s Choice Awards.

Voting ends at midnight on July 7, and the winners will be announced at the annual awards show on Saturday, July 20.

Updates and reminders will be provided at keysweekly.com, in our daily e-blast, Key West Weekly print editions and social media.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 8 BUBBAS: AND THE
MIND ALTERING LUBRICANTS FOR SOCIAL INTERCOURSE PLEASE VOTE VIRGILIO’S FOR BEST MARTINI BEST LATE NIGHT SPOT BEST BARTENDERALEX TOLMACHENKO SCAN TO VOTE Vote for your favorite finalists through July 7 at keysweekly.com
NOMINEES ARE…
I WILL PROTECT YOUR VOTE … FROM START TO FINISH RECOGNIZED & PROVEN FACT BASED & IMPARTIAL • MATHEMATICS DEGREE HIGH ETHICAL STANDARDS OPEN & HONEST COMMUNICATIONS PRIOR ELECTED OFFICIAL • KEYS BORN & RAISED Paid for by
for Supervisor of Elections
Margaret Romero, Republican,

ONLY ONE CAN WIN!

VOTING ENDS JULY 7 @ MIDNIGHT

Best Local Band: Ca eine Carl and the Buzz / Marshall Morlock Band / The Durtbags

Best Local DJ: DJ Sanaris / DJ Top Jimmy / El Grace

Best In Drag: QMitch / Inga / Sushi / Christopher Peterson (tie for 3rd)

Best Artist: Lance Berry / Lucy Hawk / Teresa Chiechi

Best Thespian/Performing Artist: Erin McKenna / Lauren Thompson / Carolyn Cooper

FOOD & DRINKS

Best Key Lime Pie: Blue Heaven / Red Shoe Bistro / Kermit’s Key Lime Shop

Best Cuban Sandwich: Kim's Kuban / Frita's Cuban Burger Cafe / Sandy’s Cafe

Best International Restaurant: Benihana / El Siboney / Atlas Izakaya

Best Cup of Co ee: Keys Co ee Co / Sandy’s Cafe / Cuban Co ee Queen

Best Breakfast: Goldman’s Deli / Harpoon Harry’s / Blue Heaven

Best Brunch: Morning Joint / Hot Tin Roof / Azur

Best Lunch: Moondog Cafe / Hogfish Bar & Grill / Miami Subs

Best Bar: Green Parrot / Bearded Lady / General Horseplay

Best Gay Bar: 22&Co / 801 Bourbon Bar / Aqua Plex

Best Wine Selection: Grand Vin Wine Bar / La Trattoria / ViV Wine Bistro

Best Beer Selection: My New Joint / Bearded Lady / Cayo Hueso Brewing

Best Mojito: El Meson De Pepe / Willie T’s / Pepe’s Cafe

Best Bloody Mary: Two Friends Patio Restaurant / Rams Head Southernmost / Breakfast Club Too

Best Margarita: Pepe’s Cafe / Tipsy Rooster Liquor Store & Bar / Tiki House

Best Martini: Virgilio’s / Martin’s / Berlins Cocktail Bar & Lounge

Best Bartender: Neil Lindley - Orchid Key Inn / Micaela Elechko - Green Parrot / Alex Tolmachenko - Virgilio’s

Best Waterfront Dining: Latitudes / Louie’s Backyard / La Trattoria

Best Pizza: Roostica / Clemente’s / Onlywood Grill

Best Seafood: Hogfish Bar & Grill / The Docks Restaurant + Raw Bar / Square Grouper Bar and Grill

Best Steak: Prime Steakhouse / Broil / A&B Lobster House

Best Taco: Garbo’s Grill @ Hank’s / Amigos Tortilla Bar / Sinz Burritos

Best Food Truck: Garbo’s Grill @ Hank’s / One Love Food Truck / Frita's Cuban Burger Cafe

Best Dessert Spot: Better Than Sex / Moondog Cafe & Bakery / Kilwins Key West

Best Ice Cream / Gelato: Flamingo Crossing / Kilwins Key West / Rooster Treats

Best Conch Chowder: Conch Republic Seafood Co. / Island Dogs Bar / Half Shell Raw Bar

Best Wings: Roostica / Big Cheezees Pub and Grub / Brady’s Pub

Best Smoothie: Smoothie Shuttle / Morning Joint / Fuel Bar @ FYT

Best BBQ: Smoked BBQ / Eaton Good / Big Cheezees Pub and Grub

Best Sushi: Misohappy Sushi and Thai / Origami / Benihana

Best Raw Bar/Oysters: Half Shell Raw Bar / Thirsty Mermaid / Pepe’s Cafe

Best Ceviche: The Docks Restaurant + Raw Bar / Bel Mare / Thirsty Mermaid

Best Hamburger: Black Fin Bistro / Moondog Cafe & Bakery / Island Dogs Bar

Best Late Night Spot: Mary Ellen’s Bar & Restaurant / Green Parrot Bar / Virgilio’s

Best Catering Company: Catered A airs of Key West / Great Events Catering / Destination Catering

Best Organic Health Food: The Cafe / Date & Thyme / Sugar Apple

Best Bar or Restaurant Restroom: Tavern N Town / 22&Co / General Horseplay

Best Happy Hour: Boat House Bar & Grill / Martin’s / Tavern n Town

Best Service & Sta : La Trattoria / Boat House Bar & Grill / Miami Subs

Best Overall Restaurant: A&B Lobster House / La Trattoria / Red Shoe Island Bistro

OUR COMMUNITY

Best Place to Take the Kids: Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory / The Waterfront Brewery / Lagerheads Beach Bar & Watersports

Best Event/Local Festival: Key West Songwriters Festival / The Vibrator Races at Mary Ellen’s / Mile 0 Fest

Best Tourist Attraction: The Hemingway Home and Museum / Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory / Fury Water Adventures

Best Local Celebrity: Mike Stack / Bill Hoebee / QMitch

Best Teacher - Professor - School Admin: Ali Ferguson - Poinciana / Keiawanna Hughes - HOB / Amy Lindley - Sigsbee Charter School

Best Nonprofit Organization: Florida Keys SPCA / Queer Keys / Reef Relief

Best Elected O cial: Sam Steele - Monroe County Tax Collector / Craig Cates - Monroe County

Commissioner / Teri Johnston - Key West Mayor

Best Local Musician: Ca eine Carl / Oren Polak / Marjory Lee

Best Volunteer/Community Activist: Kirby Myers / Chris Schultz / Steve Miller

Best Live Music Venue: Green Parrot Bar / Co ee Butler Amphitheater / Hank’s Hair of the Dog Saloon

Best Performing Arts Venue: Key West Theater / Red Barn Theatre / Waterfront Playhouse Theater

Best Art Gallery or Studio: The Studios of Key West / Jag Gallery / Sacred Space Key West

THE BUSINESSES

Best Accounting Firm: Oropeza & Parks / Zuelch & ZuelchAccounting & Tax Services / Denise Rohrer & Associates

Best Law Firm: Oropeza Stones & Cardenas / Reed Palacios Law / Horan Law

Best Charter Fishing Captain or Guide: Rough Shot Charters - Captain DJ Barrios /

Peak Charters - Captain Tyler Peak / Reef Runner Charters - Captain Edward Gartenmayer

Best Furniture Store: Royal Furniture & Design / Fast Buck Freddies / Soul House

Best Dive Shop: Captain’s Corner Dive Center / Capt Hook’s Dive Key West / Divers Direct

Best Bait & Tackle Shop: Key West Bait & Tackle / Esky Rods / Key West Marine Hardware

Best Watersports Company: Fury Water Adventures / Honest Eco Tours / Sebago Watersports

Best Marina: A&B Marina / Happy Landings Marina / The Perry Hotel & Marina

Best Customer Service: Strunk Ace Hardware / Monroe County Tax Collector / First State Bank /

We Cycle Key West Bike Shop (tie for 3rd)

Best Resort/Hotel: Opal Key Resort & Marina / The Perry Hotel & Marina / Casa Marina Key West / Beachside Resort & Residences

Best Grocery Store: Fausto’s Food Palace / Publix / Winn-Dixie

Best Contractor: Keystar Construction / Kenna Construction / Charley Toppino & Sons

Best Photographer: Nick Doll Photography / Iris Moore Photography / Mayra Bryant Photography

Best Doctor: Dr. Melanie Youschak / Dr. Jack Norris / Dr. Gannon Dudlar

Best Veterinarian: Lower Keys Animal Clinic / All Animal Clinic / Keys Animal Care Center

Best Realtor: Bascom Grooms / Krystal Thomas / Will Langley

Best Real Estate O ce: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Knight & Gardner Realty / Bascom Grooms Realty / Island Home Realty

Best Bank or Credit Union: First State Bank of the Florida Keys / Keys Federal Credit Union / Centennial Bank

Best Jewelry Store: Je ’s Gems & Nautical Designs / Mine Shaft Jewelry Designs / Neptune Designs

Best Car Dealer: Key West Adventures / Keys Auto Center / Kia of Key West

Best Bed & Breakfast/Guesthouse: The Gardens Hotel / Southernmost Point Guesthouse / The Conch House

Best Chiropractor: Oropeza Chiropractic Center - Dr. Oropeza / Southernmost Sports Chiropractic - Dr. Stern / Florida Keys Chiropractic & Therapy - Dr. Leto

Best Dentist: Dr. Hector Guzman / Dr. Claude Harris / Dr. Carter Weber

Best Florist: Love in Bloom Florist / Kutchey’s Flowers / Petals & Vines

Best Insurance Company: United Atlantic Insurance Group / Fullers Insurance of Key West / The Porter Allen Company

Best Liquor Store: Tipsy Rooster Liquor Store & Bar / Jolly’s / Lost Weekend Liquor Store

Best Local Retailer: Kirby’s Closet / Float Key West / Ramona’s Conch Creations

Best Fitness Center/Gym: FYT / BodyZone Fitness / Evolve Key West

Best Nail Salon: Nail Bar and Lounge / Lee Nails / Nailtini Nail Bar & Day Spa

Best Spa: Prana Spa / Flow Spa / Ocean Wellness Spa & Salon

Best Hair Salon: Salty Roots / Spoil Me Rotten Salon / Blush.

Best Barber: Beards & Brews Barbershop & Bar / Cottar Cuts / Moore Than Fades

Best Summer Camp: Reef Relief / SeaCamp / Camp Bravo

Best Family-Owned Business: Fausto’s Food Palace / Miami Subs / Timmy Tuxedos

Best Overall Business: La Trattoria / Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Knight & Gardner Realty / Miami Subs

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 9
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GOP CANDIDATE SEEKING TO CHALLENGE INCUMBENT STATE REP. IS DISQUALIFIED

Three Republicans vie for county commission’s Upper Keys seat

Before a qualifying period concluded on June 14, Key Largo resident Jose Peixoto withdrew his name for the county commission’s District 5 seat to challenge Republican incumbent state Rep. Jim Mooney in the August primary.

Peixoto was shown as qualified for the District 120 race for a brief moment on the Florida Division of Elections website. By the time a noon deadline approached, Peixoto’s name was taken off the site as a candidate for District 120.

“We don’t know,” Peixoto told Keys Weekly on June 17. He said he became aware five minutes before the noon qualifying deadline.

“It’s some inside work, I think. We have lawyers looking at it, so I can’t say anything more at this time.”

Keys Weekly reached out to the state elections office regarding Peixoto’s disqualification. No official response was received as of press time.

Peixoto, who ran for county commission in 2020 and 2022, told Keys Weekly on June 14 he believes he had a better chance of winning Florida’s District 120 seat, which represents the Florida Keys and a portion of Miami-Dade.

“I think I have a great chance, especially in South Miami-Dade because I’m Spanish. A great percentage of those voters are Spanish.”

Mooney was qualified as of noon Friday, according to the Florida Division of Elections. A former Islamorada mayor, Mooney is seeking a third term representing the Keys in Tallahassee. Mooney has served as Republican Committee whip for the past two sessions.

Democrat Michael “Erika Rose” Travis, of Key West, filed for candidacy last July. Travis is qualified and will face Mooney in the general election.

Even with Peixoto’s exit, the race for the county commission’s District 5 seat will see three Republicans vying for the seat in the August primary. Incumbent

Holly Raschein, the county mayor; Melissa Ptomey, Tavernier mother of two and local business owner; and Paul Wunderlich, Key Largo resident, have officially qualified. The winner will go on to take the seat with no challengers from other parties.

Voters throughout Monroe County vote for all county commissioners.

Raschein said the county is at a pivotal point amid the ongoing hurricane evacuation model talks, ROGO, transit and infrastructure, among other issues. She believes experience is important in the race.

“Right now, experience counts and we gotta keep moving in the right direction,” Raschein said. “I will spend the next two months sharing the vision and taking in thoughts and input from everybody.”

A former state representative who served eight years, Raschein was appointed in 2021 by Gov. Ron DeSantis to fill the remainder of the late County Commissioner Mike Forster’s term. In 2022, she was elected to the board of county commissioners. Raschein, the government relations director for AshBritt, sits on a variety of boards including the Florida National Parks Association, Florida Association of Counties, Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition, and the Greater Miami and the Keys chapter of the American Red Cross.

The state of the coral reefs, the fisheries and economy are other big-ticket items for Raschein.

“None of this works without a middle class. If you ask some people, the middle class is gone already. I can’t take that for an answer,” Raschein told Keys Weekly.

Ptomey officially announced her campaign for District 5 on June 14. She owns an environmental consulting firm and Island Music School on Plantation Key. She co-founded the Florida Keys Young Republican Club. She formerly worked at the county Planning and Environmental Resources Department.

Ptomey said her campaign will focus on curbing over-development and its numerous detrimental impacts, cutting annual county spending and promptly fixing citizens’ problems.

“As an environmental consultant and former research diver with thousands of dives, I’ve seen the Keys from the land, the sea and underwater, and I know these islands are in dire straits,” Ptomey said.

She was also critical of Raschein’s vote of support for the proposed Publix and

workforce housing project in Tavernier.

“Raschein didn’t listen; instead, she voted to approve it,” Ptomey said. “Working with local residents and community organizations, we were able to get the Florida Department of Commerce to stop the commissioners’ plan.”

Raschein told Keys Weekly in February the project’s 86 new workforce housing units would have a huge effect on the Upper Keys.

“We’ve heard from all those entities, whether it’s the sheriff’s office, the school district and the hospital, that they’re able to hire good employees who are ready to hit the ground, but they end up not making it through the final process because there’s no affordable, safe space to live,” Raschein said.

Ptomey said she will be focusing on innovative workforce housing strategies.

“The county’s current efforts for affordable housing are a total failure,” she said. “We need a completely new approach, and I’ve got one.”

Peixoto told Keys Weekly that Ptomey’s entrance into the race to challenge Raschein also factored into his decision to withdraw from the race.

“I think she (Ptomey) has a better chance,” Peixoto said. “She’s a female. She knows a lot about the issues.”

Wunderlich, the Key Largo resident who recently launched his candidacy bid, didn’t immediately respond to comments regarding his campaign.

The only other contested race for county commission is between Democrat Chris Massicotte and Republican incumbent Jim Scholl for District 3, which covers the west part of Key West. As for Monroe County School Board, the only contested race is between Zach Bentley and Yvette Mira-Talbott for District 2.

All candidates for supervisor of elections are qualified. Republicans Sherri Hodies and Margaret Romero will face off in the Aug. 20 primary. The winner will go against Democrat Ron Saunders in the November general election.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 11

UNOPPOSED CANDIDATES GET EASY WINS

Keyswide, 20 people won office June 14 in uncontested races

Key West’s next mayor is Danise “Dee Dee” Henriquez, who was automatically elected on June 14, as no one else signed up to run for the city’s top office.

Henriquez raised $51,695 for her campaign and spent $17,458, according to campaign finance records. She will succeed Mayor Teri Johnston, who chose not to seek reelection.

In another uncontested race, Donie Lee, the former Key West police chief, won the City Commission District 3 seat to succeed Commissioner Billy Wardlow, a former fire chief.

Across the Florida Keys, 20 political races were settled outright on June 14, when the qualifying period for county and state races ended with no other opponents on the ballot. The uncontested races handed many Keyswide officials automatic victories.

Monroe County Commissioner Craig Cates of Key West won another term, along with Monroe County Judge James Morgan III, school board member Mindy Conn and Key West Utility Board member Patrick Labrada.

Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay, who enters his fourth term as sheriff, said he’s thankful he was unopposed.

“Coming out uncontested only shows a sign of support and confidence from the community and the work my team and I are doing to keep you safe and secure,” Ramsay said in a video posted on Facebook.

“I’m proud of this agency and this community, the men and women I work with and the people I work for,” Ramsay said.

In Key Colony Beach, all four candidates who had signed up for individual seats on the nonpartisan city council were elected with no opposition: Doug Colonell, Thomas DiFransico, Thomas Harding and Joey Raspe.

The Florida Keys Mosquito Control Board’s Jill CranneyBlack, Brandon Pinder and Dr. Stan Zuba will all return having seen no challengers. Nick Rodriguez and Phillip Schwartz will return to the Key Largo Wastewater District having garnered no additional candidates.

Property Appraiser Scott Russell, County Clerk Kevin Madok and Tax Collector Sam Steele will all return to their posts having gone unopposed.

Michael McDonald, a professor of political science at the University of Florida, said small jurisdictions are much less likely to hold contested elections than big cities.

“You’ve got people fairly satisfied with how local government is being run,” McDonald told Keys Weekly. “Without controversy, you’re not going to get a lot of interest. Local elections aren’t particularly ideological. They’re not about abortion. They’re more about filling potholes. They’re not going to really rouse a lot of passions.”

Two particular races saw a bit of shuffling just before the deadline as one candidate withdrew from a county race to announce his candidacy for state representative.

Republican Jose Peixoto withdrew from the race for Monroe County Commission’s District 5 in an attempt to challenge Republican State Rep. Jim Mooney in the Aug. 20 primary election.

BUDGET VETOES HIT ARTS & THEATER COMMUNITIES

Governor slashes almost $1 billion from legislatively-approved spending plan

Several organizations in the Florida Keys will need to seek funds from another source following Gov. Ron DeSantis’ vetoes of almost a billion dollars from the state Legislature’s 2024-25 spending plan on June 12.

DeSantis signed a $116 billion budget and axed a long list of projects, ranging from education and homeless initiatives to sewer improvement projects and new facilities throughout Florida.

The arts community was especially shocked to see $26 million in grants cut from the budget.

Elizabeth Young, executive director for the Florida Keys Council of the Arts, said the funds go toward salaries, new exhibit programming and other operating expenses for local galleries and theaters. The nearly $26 million in slashed funds, from which the Florida Keys Council of the Arts was hoping to receive around $22,000, represented a tiny piece of the total budget.

Young said the veto has upset more than 650 cultural organizations throughout the state.

“It’s hard to quantify the loss of culture and arts in the community,” Young said. “It does speak to people having jobs in the state. For us, it’s jobs.”

State spending cuts hit 13 local organizations in the arts community to the tune of more than $1 million, including Red Barn Actor’s Studio, Key West Literary Seminar, the Studios of Key West, Bahama Village Music Program and Marathon Community Theater.

“Like most nonprofits, the Studios (of Key West) already operates with a lean budget, and a hit like this is a significant one for us all — especially coming with so little notice,” wrote Jed Dodds, executive director, to friends of the Studios.

A special meeting among organizations and individuals in the arts and theater communities is set for Monday, June 24 at 10 a.m. via Zoom. The meeting will be hosted by the Florida Cultural Alliance, a nonprofit created in 1985 to develop a statewide, nonpartisan advocacy network among the arts

and culture groups and policymakers at the local, state and federal levels.

“Once the governor vetoes it, it’s vetoed. We can’t change it,” Young said. “We’ll be advocating to other foundations and funders and philanthropists.”

DeSantis said the $949.6 million in cuts will result in a budget reserve of more than $17 billion.

The governor also vetoed $1.5 million for repairs to the San Carlos Institute in Key West, $300,000 for a marine emergency response vessel for Islamorada, $250,000 for the Good Health Clinic’s building project and $150,000 for the Monroe Association of ReMARCable Citizens for supported employment.

State Rep. Jim Mooney said he was a bit surprised by the governor’s veto of the marine vessel for Islamorada Fire Rescue. The appropriation request was made by fellow state Rep. Lauren Melo, of Naples, to mitigate tragedies on the Florida Keys waters.

As for San Carlos Institute, Mooney said litigation issues over the building’s ownership — the Cuban government claims it’s theirs — may have deterred the governor.

“I’m not sure the governor was in a position to throw a million at the project, although they (San Carlos Institute) needed it,” he said.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 12
Disney princesses take to the stage for ‘Disenchanted’ at Marathon Community Theatre in March. ALEX RICKERT/ Keys Weekly

KEY LIME PIE-EATING CHAMPIONSHIP SET FOR JULY 4

Joshua Mogle, of Altoona, Iowa, triumphed in last year’s World Famous Key Lime Pie Eating Championship by devouring a complete pie in 3 minutes and 35 seconds, without the use of his hands. CAROL TEDESCO/keylimefestival.com

Participants in the 2023 World Famous Key Lime Pie Eating Championship prepare to take the plunge. Pie-eating competitors take their position, face down, into Key lime pie.

fruit July 3-7

Competitors and spectators will converge July 4 on the beach of the Southernmost Beach Café, 1405 Duval St., for the 2024 World Famous Key Lime Pie Eating Championship, Key West’s popular tropical takeoff on New York City’s traditional Fourth of July hot dogeating contest.

Founded in 2013, up to 25 contestants compete in a timed race to consume a 9-inch Key lime pie, topped with whipped cream, without using their hands. Winners claim a trophy and championship belt, along with sweet fame, glory and bragging rights for a year.

Last year, Joshua Mogle of Altoona, Iowa, triumphed with a winning time of 3 minutes, 35 seconds. The fastest recorded winning time is a blistering 40.57 seconds, achieved in 2018 by attorney Trey Bergman of Houston, Texas. Berman also triumphed in 2017 with a time of 51.92 seconds.

Five Key West residents have won in past years: Chris Shultz in 2022, David Johnson in 2019, Steve Carr in 2015, Tony Mantia in 2014 and Gary Delos Santos in 2013.

“While there’s any number of eating competitions held throughout the year, we believe ours takes the cake (so to speak), not only as the southernmost event, but as the most spectacularly sloppy,” said Nadene Grossman Orr, Key Lime Festival director and president/CEO of We’ve Got the Keys.

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FIRST CLASS SEAFOOD

Cudjoe

Key market offers local favorites and distant delicacies

TRINITY JACOX

www.keysweekly.com

Walk through the doors of First Class Seafood market, and the family-owned feel is instantly apparent. Co-owner Devin Barber proudly rattles off the cousins, brothers, wives, girlfriends and in-laws who have over 100 years of combined experience in the seafood industry, with each member contributing to the family’s legacy on the water, at the dock and behind the counter at their Cudjoe Key seafood market.

What started as a small shrimp business has grown into a thriving enterprise that can source almost anything that swims, floats or crawls along the ocean floor. Devin Barber’s father, Adam Barber, long known affectionately in the Lower Keys as the “Shrimp Pimp,” laid the foundation for the family-run operation.

“After college, I moved down and got into this with him, and realized we needed a name,” Devin said. “‘Shrimp Pimp.’ That was our first name. Then we grew the business enough to where we were able to get a store location in 2022.”

From humble beginnings, the business evolved into today’s fullservice market at 22290 Overseas Hwy., Cudjoe Key.

“All of us are deeply rooted in this industry,” he added.

In speaking with Devin and his girlfriend Shaina Maldonado, one quickly loses count of how many times they said the word “fresh.”

“You’re going to get the freshest product. I know everybody says it, but we move stuff very quickly,” Devin said. Specializing in wholesaling, the market supplies the seafood that graces the tables of many

local restaurants – and the entire process from dockside to dinner table typically happens within one to three days.

The market always has Keys classics like snapper, grouper, pink shrimp and royal reds in stock. But the family business goes beyond local offerings, tapping into a network of vendors to bring in fresh seafood from across the country. Whether it’s halibut from Seattle or scallops from Boston, the market can satisfy cravings for distant delicacies.

The market thrives on family collaboration, with Maldonado adding her chef services to the mix both through First Class and her own business, Florida Keys Personal Chef. At the market or in your home, she crafts dishes like poke bowls and sushi platters using First Class seafood.

“The idea is to host without the responsibilities of cooking,” she said. “We bring everything to make a great meal.”

And of course, summertime in the Florida Keys always brings seasonal specials to First Class Seafood.

“We love being a part of the community and seeing people’s positive responses when they come in,” said Maldonado. The market recently hosted a seafood boil for the Lower Keys community.

“Everyone has been really kind, welcoming, and honestly excited about everything that is going on,” Maldonado said.

Visit First Class Seafood Market on Cudjoe Key for pickup, or opt for delivery throughout the Lower Keys. They also offer overnight shipping nationwide. For more information and ordering options, visit firstclass-seafood.com or call 305-745-3887.

TOURIST STEALS FROM TIP JAR

Woman’s arrest prompts social media outrage from hospitality workers

ANew Jersey woman was arrested June 16 after police said she reached into a tip jar on the counter of a Key West store and helped herself to the cash inside.

The incident, at the Funky Rooster Coffee House & Wine Bar, 713 Caroline St., was captured on the store’s security video.

Key West police officers responded to the store around 12:30 p.m. and found the suspect, Elaine A. Earlywine, 63, of Morristown, N.J., on Duval Street a few hours later. She was arrested her on a misdemeanor charge of theft and taken to the county jail on Stock Island.

Earlywine is accused of taking about $20 from the tip jar.

Twenty bucks is 20 bucks, but the amount wasn’t included in the original social media posts.

Outraged commenters focused on the crime itself after seeing the image of a tourist dipping into service workers’ earnings in the Florida Keys, with its tourism-dependent economy. From Key Largo to Key West, many count on tips to pay the bills.

“My girls work hard for tips,” the Funky Rooster’s owner Artur Bakala said in an interview. “She stole food from their table.”

Bakala put the video of the incident on Facebook. After the arrest, he posted a still image of Earlywine being arrested.

The video shows a woman with short hair in a multicolored striped top and shorts walking up to the counter. She calmly reaches her hand into the tip jar and removes cash. Twice.

Within seconds, an employee walks by behind the counter where

the woman is waiting to buy a card.

“So cute,” she tells the cashier, holding up the card.

She used a credit card to pay for the merchandise, Bakala said.

Arrest made on Duval Street

Police caught up with Earlywine and her daughter, who was at the Funky Rooster with her mother at the time of the incident. They were walking in the 800 block of Duval Street.

Earlywine denied taking money from the tip jar, police said, even after an officer showed her the security video.

“She still denied taking money and stated that maybe she bumped the jar, but never took out money,” police writer.

Once handcuffed and in the police cruiser, Earlywine told an officer she would give the Funky Rooster employee $20 and “demanded to speak with her,” according to the arrest report.

Earlywine was arrested in front of the Funky Chicken store, 814 Duval St., which Bakala also owns.

“What a coincidence,” he said of the location of her arrest, several blocks from the scene of the theft, but in front of a business owned by the same person.

‘Only a couple of dollars’

After Earlywine bought merchandise at the Funky Rooster, the employee who rang up her sale noticed money was missing from the tip jar and confronted Earlywine and her daughter while they were still in the shop.

Earlywine turned red and said she didn’t steal anything, the employee told police. Then her daughter said, “it was only a couple of dollars,” the arrest report states.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 14
GWEN FILOSA gwen@keysweekly.com Left: A still image from security video at the Funky Rooster Coffee House & Wine Bar, shows a woman reaching into the tip jar. ARTUR BAKALA/contributed Right: A New Jersey woman was arrested June 16 after police said she stole cash from a tip jar at a Key West store. CONTRIBUTED The family behind First Class Seafood, from left, Patricia Barber, Adam Barber, Barbra Nickerson, Devin Barber, Shaina Maldonado. TRINITY JACOX/Keys Weekly
KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 15
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HOMEGROWN — A COUNTRY BAND BORN ON AN ISLAND HEAD OF THE CLASS

Roan Milelli takes top honors as Key West High School’s valedictorian

Roan Milelli speaks to his classmates as valedictorian of Key West High School’s Class of 2024. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

ZACK WOLTANSKI

www.keysweekly.com

The Key West High School Class of 2024 earned many achievements in the fields of athletics, academics and community service. Within a competitive class, Roan Milelli emerged as the year’s valedictorian. The honor was the result of four years of hard work and dedication, and accomplishments both within and outside the academic realm.

Milelli will continue his education at the University of Florida, where he’ll be a second-generation Gator. The Keys Weekly caught up with Milelli to discuss his plans and the conclusion to his high school career.

What will you be studying? Civil engineering. I enjoy the design process and I think it’s a unique way to help people and give back to our community.

What was your fondest memory of high school? I have countless amazing memories with my friends, but one that stands out was seeing my films on the big screen at King’s Theater NYC during the All-American High School Film Festival.

How would you characterize your high school? KWHS offers a lot of opportunities and has so many different programs and pathways for success.

What difficulties and challenges have you faced over the past four years? Time management, because I have so much going on and I take on a lot. Sometimes it’s just too much.

How have you changed over the past few years? I’ve become more outgoing and comfortable taking on new opportunities and challenges.

How did you work through them? With a lot of hard work and determination.

To whom do you attribute your success (besides yourself)? To my family for their constant love and support.

What will you miss most about your high school experience? I was lucky to have an amazing group of friends. I will miss them all very much. What message would you want to give incoming students? Enjoy your time in high school while working hard to find balance with classes and activities.

The quartet won Best Country Act at this year’s Key West Music Awards

When people think of Key West music, names like Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney or the Beach Boys undoubtedly come to mind, along with others in the “trop rock” or some other “yacht rock” genre.

But one band in Key West is hoping to add its name to that list: Homegrown.

An original country group based in Key West, Homegrown was founded by Michael Hall, known for his signature wad of dip, and Tommy Bray. The two have known each other for over a decade, and with a shared passion for music, they knew they had something special.

Originally a duo, Hall and Bray recently expanded the band to include two other local musicians, Preston Higgs and Luke Berces. Their collective love for country music and Key West binds the group together.

“Key West is such a huge part of our band. The community is a family down here and it’s what brought us together.” said Hall.

In March, Homegrown won the “Country Act of the Year” award at the Key West Music Awards. It was their second nomination and first win.

“We came in thinking we weren’t going to win at all and prepared ourselves for the loss,” said Bray. “When they called our name, we couldn’t even talk to each other because we couldn’t believe it.”

Local votes determine the nominations for the awards, also known as

the Iggys, and once nominated, judges from the Key West Music Awards attend the nominees’ shows to make their final decision. Homegrown felt honored to be mentioned alongside their local music heroes like Cliff Cody and other Key West musicians. According to Hall, Homegrown’s music stems from a place of healing rather than a grab for fame. One of his biggest inspirations for music and songwriting was the tragic passing of his brother, who played a significant role in his love for music. Originally not a fan of the country genre, Hall was introduced to country by his youth pastor’s kids at Glad Tidings Church in Key West.

Key West is central to Homegrown’s identity and sound. The connection is clear in their music, particularly in their latest single, “Dirt Road Revival,” whose music video was shot right on Government Road off Flagler Avenue. The video captures scenery that only a second-generation Conch might notice, but it’s a tribute to a place the band proudly calls home.

You can listen to Homegrown on popular streaming platforms such as Spotify and YouTube. For locals or visitors trying to find some live music, they frequently perform at Kiki’s Sandbar on Little Torch Key and RockHouse Live on Duval Street, where they play original songs and country classics.The band promises a lot more in store for Key West locals, including new music releases and more performances in town.

Follow them on instagram @ homegrownmusicofficial and Facebook @Homegrownmusic.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 19
Homegrown is composed of Key West natives Michael Hall, Tommy Bray, Preston Higgs and Luke Berces. WYATT SAMUELSON/Keys Weekly

Florida Keys’ & Cuba’s Finest Regional Art “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” – Pablo Picasso HAVANA ART BIENNIAL TOUR –

WPA Townsend Morgan

Townsend Morgan 1883-1965 was an etcher and artist of recognized national prominence. His etchings record cities throughout the United States and the West Indies. In 1934, as Key West was su ering through the Depression, Morgan came to the island as part of a Federal Relief Agency sponsored Key West Art Project. Morgan became director of the Art Project in 1935 and worked with the Project through 1941 as director of the Key West Community Art Center.

Mr. Morgan is represented in the collections of the New York Public Library, Library of Congress, Art Museums in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and the Treasury Department of the United States. Designs from his work board appear in many private collections throughout the United States. He was chosen o cial artist for the Tercentenary, May 22 through 27, 1949, and the United States postage stamp commemorating the Tercentenary is his design. Mr. Morgan was born in Brooklyn, New York, and studied at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, N.Y., and the Art Students League in New York City. Since he began printmaking in 1912, Mr. Morgan had produced plates of the Far West, New England, the Atlantic seaboard, Florida and the West Indies.

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MARK HEDDEN

... 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.

If you drive north into the rest of America, especially if you haven’t been there for a while, it can feel like surfacing in a pool after an overlong submersion. Everything is familiar and strange all at once, but also maybe a little blurred, as if your eyes are fogged by chlorine. This applies to the human-made landscape – the strip malls and parking lots and fast-food places – but also to birds. Living in the Keys we see a good number of bird species. Mostly we see them as migrants passing through, or as winter birds. We see their vacation selves, when they are almost off duty, when they are not trying to find a mate or stake out territory or raise and protect some chicks. Also, they generally don’t sing here. You hear chips and contact calls, but you don’t really get their full songs or their full selves.

I can’t tell you how (internally) excited I was to drive through Arkansas and see the occasional scissor-tailed flycatcher on a wire. Or to hear a common yellowthroat singing in a bush. Or to see the occasionally lone turkey vulture flying slow loops overhead. It was like getting to see the home lives of beloved celebrities.

Delving deeper into the continent, I found myself taken aback by just how much bird noise there is. There is the dawn chorus, when birds seem compelled by some genetic need to tell the rest of the world that they are awake. (I know a few people like this.) But there is also just a day-long twitter conversation, even when the sun is at its highest point. A singsong talk, talk, talk, all day long.

The most common and commonly heard bird? The killdeer. We see a few of them in the winter here in open fields, in parking lots, at beaches, along the edges of runways. But we have nowhere near the number as on the mainland. I really did not understand how common they are. The route of my road trip was a zigzaggy one, from Key West to Denver. And pretty much any time I got out of the car, I heard a killdeer.

Killdeer are shorebirds whose lives are not shore-dependent. A cornfield is as good as a beach for them. I’m pretty sure every baseball field in America is home to at least two of them. (The northern population migrates. Their southern population doesn’t.)

They are rather easy to recognize — about ankle high on a human, with a tendency to run 10 yards, stop, then run another 10 yards, as if given commands in a game of freeze tag only they can hear. A lot of shore birds will have a black collar around their neck or the upper part of their breast. Killdeer have a double collar.

STEPPING CAREFULLY AROUND THE MAINLAND

Killdeer are one of the few birds we have in North America with a monotypic name. No modifiers like common, northern, black-throated, greater, lesser or pileated. They get away with a single word, like Madonna or Columbo. The name does not derive from a murderous attitude toward hoofed ruminant ungulates, but to their flight display call, which, if you’re in the right frame of mine, does sound like their name.

Midway through this trip I found myself in a backlot in an industrial area of Wichita, Kansas. It was a very cool place with about an acre full of vintage cars, most of them in terrible shape, rusting and dented, with smashed windows and the occasional bullet hole. Basically a photographer’s dream. I was busy taking pictures when I heard my 50th or 60th killdeer of the trip.

I ignored it, walking around, gravel crunching under my feet, focused on a cool-looking flat-tired pink 1959 Chevy Bel Air lying belly down on the ground. But the bird kept getting more insistent, coming into my peripheral view, and then running away. Its call went from the clear, strong notes that give them their distinct sound, to a bubbly, staccato series of weaker notes.

Finally, when the killdeer came into my vision again, I looked away from the Bel Air and followed as it walked across the gravel. It was dragging one wing, and lying down every few steps as if it couldn’t go on. When I didn’t move, the killdeer came back and did the same thing again. The message was clear, even if the bird was, in theatrical terms, chewing the scenery, the message being, “Hello Mr. Predator! Look how vulnerable I am. It would be so easy for you to catch me if you just followed me over here. How could I fly away with a broken wing?”

Birds are not known for their subtlety, largely because they don’t need it. And what the bird was doing was called a distraction dis-

Natural camouflage helps conceal three eggs in a killdeer nest in a scrape in the gravel. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

play – trying to draw me away from a nest that was, no doubt, somewhere near where I stood. Killdeer don’t make much of a nest. It’s usually a scrape surrounded by a couple rocks or some weeds. You may not even notice if you stepped on one.

The first thing I did when I realized what was going on was look at the bottom of my sneakers, which were mercifully clean. Then I started walking away, surveying the ground carefully before each footstep.

I did eventually spot the nest – three speckled green eggs about an inch and a half long each – and managed to avoid it. Then I went to the car and put the long lens on my camera, taking a few pictures of the killdeer, which was still carrying on, despite me moving away.

They’re not the only birds that do distraction displays. In the Keys I’ve seen Antillean nighthawks and black-necked stilts do them, too.

But I’m glad this bird did me the honor of going through such histrionics. I don’t care how many killdeer there are in the world. There’s always room for a few more. And I had enough shots of that pink Bel Air anyhow.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 21
A killdeer performs a distraction display to draw predators away from its nearby nest.
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Key Wester recalls local impact of 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis

Florida Keys residents were paying particularly close attention to news reports last week that showed Russian warships in Havana Harbor, just 90 miles from Key West.

The four Russian ships, which include a nuclear-powered submarine and a frigate, reportedly passed offshore of Key Largo while en route to the communist island nation, which has long been a key Russian ally. The Associated Press reported that the ships arrived in Havana on June 12 and departed on June 17.

The news prompted vivid memories of historical parallels for some longtime Key West residents who recalled the nail-biting tension during the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, when the U.S. and Russia were on the brink of a nuclear war that could have started in Cuba.

“I was in second or third grade at the time, and I remember convoys of Army trucks rolling down Flagler Avenue,” recalled resident Kurt Lewin, whose father, Kermit, was a former Key West mayor. “The Army took over Key West. There were Hawk missiles and barbed wire at the beaches. Soldiers in Army tents were set up all over Wickers Field and military aircraft were leaving from Boca Chica 24 hours a day.”

Lewin remembers the nuns at his Catholic grade school leading his class in daily duck-andcover drills.

“It was an interesting time,” he added. “It was all-consuming in a way, because the presence of the Army was so undeniable, but I was too young to be afraid, and life went on. We still went to school every day. The bars downtown were doing a booming business, with people being so worried. But I probably think about those days now more than I did back then, even though I know my parents were scared to death.”

The U.S. and Russian governments both made public statements last week downplaying any risk or aggression the ships’ visit represents, saying the Russian presence in Cuba was part of a planned five-day military exercise that may next take them to Venezuela.

But tensions between the two countries have been precariously high since February 2022, when Russia invaded Ukraine, which has received support from the U.S. to aid in its defense.

“Based upon the international principles of freedom of navigation, we don’t anticipate any impact or influence on Coast Guard District Seven’s operations related to the presence of any allied or foreign vessels in the joint operating area,” Lt. Cmdr. John William Beal, public affairs officer for the U.S. Coast Guard District Seven, told the Keys Weekly on June 12. “The U.S. Coast Guard, in conjunction with our Department of Defense partners and other government agencies, constantly monitors the activity of foreign vessels operating near U.S. territorial waters in support of national defense and homeland security efforts.”

In a statement to the Keys Weekly, Cubanborn U.S. Rep. Carlos Gimenez, whose South Florida district includes the Florida Keys, tied the presence of the Russian ships to the oppressive communist regime that has been in place in Cuba since Fidel Castro took over the country in 1959.

“Make no mistake, the murderous military regime in Havana poses a direct national security threat to America,” Gimenez said. “Our community understands this firsthand being only 90 miles away from the shores of the very same dictatorship that supports Putin’s barbaric, illegal invasion of Ukraine. Instead of granting concession after concession to the Castro regime in Cuba, which is actively inviting Russian warships to our seas, President Biden must impose consequences on Communist Cuba to curb this pathetic, dangerous behavior.”

Despite the Russian ships’ nuclear war capability, the Russian government said none of the ships are currently carrying nuclear weapons, according to a BBC News report.

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

“We of course take it seriously, but these exercises don’t pose a threat to the United States,” the Pentagon said, according to the BBC.

“‘The Russian moves were consistent with routine naval visits that we’ve seen under different administrations,” press secretary Sabrina Singh added.

“Russia has sent warships to Cuba in the past and the two nations are long-standing allies — but the timing of these particular exercises stands out. Coming amid growing tensions over Russia’s fullscale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the operation is being interpreted by some as saber-rattling by Moscow,” states the BBC story.

Keys Weekly’s Jim McCarthy contributed to this report.

1. A Hawk missile on the beach in 1962. WRIGHT LANGLEY COLLECTION/Contributed

2. Hotel Casa Marina as Army headquarters for the Hawk Missile Battalion during October 1962. MONROE COUNTY LIBRARY COLLECTION/ Contributed

3. Russia’s Admiral Gorshkov frigate, shown here in 2018, is one of the Russian warships positioned in Havana Harbor, 90 miles from Key West, until June 17. WIKIPEDIA/Contributed

4. Russia’s nuclear-powered Kazan submarine, seen here in Russia in 2021, was 90 miles from Key West in Havana, Cuba, until it departed June 17. WIKIPEDIA/Contributed

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 28
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CHRIS McNULTY

is an astrologer, wanderer, bartender and advocate for queer justice. He is a loquacious Gemini with a cozy Cancer rising. Find him at hearthandheraldastrology.com

We’ve arrived at the summer solstice, everyone! This is the longest day of the year and the day the sun moves into the sign of Cancer. The light has been growing since the winter solstice on Dec. 21, helping us each to discover anew our independence, courage, and uniqueness. As the dark half of the year takes over, we are reminded that we are always in relationship to others, and we will be able to utilize our newfound autonomy in a way that can relate to the collective. This summer solstice is special because it is also a full moon in a 90-degree square to Neptune. Today is a day of heightened self-awareness and heightened emotional awareness. Stand in your confidence of who you are and what you need. Claim these things. With Neptune in the mix, there is the strong possibility of illusion and disenchantment, but there is an equally strong possibility of faith and wonder. So, have your wits about you and trust your deepest instincts. Engage with your innermost sense of self, then let your imagination run wild.

Here are your horoscopes for the summer solstice full moon. Read for your rising and sun signs.

CANCER

June 21 - July 22

Your position in an important relationship is becoming incredibly clear, Cancer, and you know exactly where you stand. It is up to you to be honest with yourself. If your needs are being fulfilled, double down. If not, look for alternatives. If this relationship offers pipe dreams, walk away. But if it promises the real-life epic adventures that dreams are made of, trust that it is meant to be. Listen to your body.

LEO

July 23 - Aug. 22

Falling into routine can either offer freedom or entrapment. Under this full moon, letting your body do the regular things it does as if on auto-pilot will free you to enter into deep meditation. You don’t have to sit cross-legged; rather, your spirit can release when your body enters muscle memory. Beware of the fantasy that everything is yours, but accept that truth that you can have all you dream of.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 - Sept. 22

You can balance being part of a social circle while also fulfilling your personal creative goals. These two parts of your life can be quite complementary when you learn the dance. Right now, you can feel this balance and integrate it. An important relationship in your life is showing itself to be either a distracting mirage or an ideal partnership. Be honest about which one it is.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 - Oct. 23

Our public selves and our private selves can be very different, but for you they are syncing up in a powerful way. There is an uncanny balance between your work life and your home life. Take some time to integrate this moment so you can maintain it going forward. Be careful not to blur the boundaries, however. We all need respite from work. Dream up the perfect routine.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 - Nov. 21

You need familiarity to feel grounded, but your soul is ready for something new. These are not mutually exclusive possibilities, particularly under this full moon. If you focus on your creative opportunities that may seem out of reach and work to make them manifest, you can walk the line between comfort and adventure. Perhaps identifying those projects is your full moon goal.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 - Dec. 21

You’re seeking a communal purpose to bring meaning into your life, but you also need to get your own ducks in a row. Is there a project you can work on that can fulfill both needs simultaneously? My guess is that dreaming an ideal version of “home” will lead you in the right direction. Be mindful not to invest your time in illusory visions; rather, live into a utopia that is also practical.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 - Jan. 19

Your focus on an important relationship in your life is actually shining a light on your own needs. How is this person allowing or disallowing you to rest comfortably in your own skin? Do they keep you on edge or do they allow your parasympathetic nervous system to take over? Focus on your communication to determine what’s true. If you feel as though you’re communicating across boundaries, stick with it.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 - Feb. 18

You may feel a strong need for isolation under this full moon, compelled to literally separate your body from other people. Take the time for yourself. As you focus on selfimprovement by shining a light on your daily habits, take a respite from your social obligations to really sit with your usual patterns. Beware of snake oil salesmen, but feel free to spend your money on the means to your dreams.

PISCES

Feb. 19 - March 20

You’ve entered your creative season, when it seems like a light is shining on your creative goal and all you need to do is set it free. You can feel intuitively who in your circle is going to support you on your creative journey, so lean into them. Envision your ideal self or persona, and let that guide your artistry. However, try to maintain some semblance of practicality.

A STRONG IMAGINATION

ARIES

March 21 - April 19

Work and home are major themes under this full moon. You’ve achieved something important at work, and the counterbalance is actually helping you to see yourself with home and family more. Find your flow between these two spheres of life. Be wary not to idealize alone time too much, but do take time to yourself to dream about your perfect work-home dynamic.

TAURUS

April 20 - May 20

As you naturally focus on your immediate surroundings and your familiar neighborhood, you also feel an intense need to get away and explore the world beyond. Perhaps doing something different in your hometown is just the ticket. What have you been telling yourself you need to try? Be careful of brownnosers who are trying to get on your good side. They are not your friends.

GEMINI

May 21 - June 20

As you feel the need to get your things in order and to organize your finances, you are also turning your focus to ways in which you can contribute to collective projects. These are mutually supportive endeavors. You can help others while also maintaining your own needs. Visualize your perfect career or gig mixture and live into it. But be mindful of work opportunities that are simply too good to be true.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 30
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NEW LAW SUPPORTS FLORIDA CORRECTIONS OFFICERS

State Rep. Jim Mooney visits detention center after bill’s passage

Florida Keys State Rep. Jim Mooney made a visit to the Monroe County Detention Center on Stock Island to celebrate with command and frontline officers the signing of House Bill 1415, which expanded the state’s definition of first responders to include correctional and probation officers. First responders are often exposed to traumatic events that can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and suicide. “Peer support” is a specific type of communication between a first responder and a designated specialist, and is often preferred by responders over traditional mental health services. Peer support can reduce the stigma, scheduling difficulties, lack of trust, and fear or repercussions that may prevent first responders from seeking traditional mental health care.

Under HB 1415, correctional officers are now eligible to use peer support services, which are kept confidential by law and cannot be used in criminal or disciplinary proceedings.

The new designation provided by the bill represents a huge step forward for corrections officers in Florida, who face life and death decisions — and the consequences of them — on a daily basis.

Mooney, who represents Florida House District 120, co-sponsored HB 1415 with State Rep. Ryan Chamberlin. The bill unanimously passed the state Legislature. CONTRIBUTED

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 35

REGGAE JAM

BENEFITS KEY WEST POLICE ATHLETIC LEAGUE

PAL boxing helps local with Parkinson’s disease; now he’s healping PAL

Reggae Lou, pictured, and Fivecoate will perform at Ocean Key Resort’s Sunset Pier on June 28 from 6 to 8 p.m. for a Reggae Jam fundraiser for the Key West Police Athletic League. REGGAE LOU/ Facebook

Key West resident and reigning Fantasy Fest King Ben Hennington is known for hosting dozens of fundraisers to help Key West animals and people.

He is the founder of the Sunset Social Drinking Club (SSDC), Wienerpalooza and cofounder of POSH (Paws Often Steal Hearts), all of which raise money to help shelter animals at the Florida Keys SPCA.

The SSDC has helped raise over $150,000 for the local SPCA and over $300,000 for other local charities.

Hennington, who is living with Parkinson’s disease, is now hosting an event to help a group that has helped him manage the tremors, balance issues and other symptoms of the progressive nervous system disorder.

The Key West Police Athletic League (PAL) provides local kids with free sports programs and other activities designed to help them develop skills, discipline, self esteem and respect. The goal is to create positive relationships among local kids, police and the community.

But Hennington, who admittedly is not a local youth, recently discovered that the PAL boxing program and its dedicated coaches help him with balance issues, strength and flexibility. And he doesn’t mind that he’s the eldest boxer in the program.

Hennington’s SSDC will sponsor a Reggae Jam fundraiser for PAL at Ocean Key Resort’s Sunset Pier on Friday, June 28 from 6 to 8 p.m.

The event will feature live music by Reggae Lou and Jack Fivecoate, as well as food, drinks, raffle prizes and a silent auction. Papa’s Pilar rum company is a sponsor, and will donate the proceeds of all Papa’s Pilar drinks to Key West’s Police Athletic League.

More information is available from Hennington at 305304-1232.

MUSIC WITH HEART DONATES $7,500 TO FIGHT HOMELESSNESSHUNGER,

Nonprofit raises money through musical events & donations

Kim Gordon donates $2,500 each to the Domestic Abuse Shelter, SOS Foundation food pantry and Cornerstone Resource Alliance, which operates the homeless shelter on Stock Island. CONTRIBUTED

Local nonprofit Music With Heart Inc. has donated $7,500 to help organizations that provide vitally needed food and shelter here in our Keys community. Three donations of $2,500 each will directly support the ongoing work of the S.O.S. Foundation, which distributes 2 million pounds of food each year; the Domestic Abuse Shelter Inc., which provides safe refuge and counseling; and Cornerstone Resource Alliance Inc., the Keys shelter that feeds and houses more than 100 women and men every day.

“Our sole mission is to provide grassroots help for people in this

community, and food and shelter are our most basic needs,” said Kim Gordon, founder of Music With Heart Inc., which raises funds through music events and private donations.

Gordon, a former author and national columnist who has been fundraising in the Keys for the past 20 years, points to “escalating costs making it increasingly difficult for many families and individuals to survive in the Florida Keys without these essential support services.”

More information is at keysmusicwithheart.com.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 36
— Contributed

HELP KEEP KEY WEST CLEAN

JOIN A 1- HOUR CLEANUP FRIDAY MORNINGS

A special cleanup was held June 12 for the opening day of the I Love Stock Island Festival. Each year Keep Key West Beautiful does the city of Key West’s side of Stock Island to kick off the festival. This year the chance of rain shrank the usually large group down to 13 volunteers. In one hour, they collected 139 pounds of trash, 60 pounds of recycling and 0.75 gallon of cigarette butts. Thank you to everyone who volunteered. CONTRIBUTED

The weekly cleanup on June 14 was on South Roosevelt Boulevard, across from the liveaboard boats. In one hour, 19 dedicated volunteers pulled trash from the water, the mangroves and sidewalks. A record 1,132 pounds of trash was collected in one hour, beating the previous records by almost 300 pounds. The group also collected 151 pounds of recycling and 0.25 gallon of cigarette butts.

One hour a week makes a huge difference, and volunteers are welcome every Friday and some Saturday mornings, from 8 to 9 a.m., when the Key West Ploggers clean up a designated area of the island.

Gloves, pickers, buckets, vests, hand sanitizer and a parking pass are provided to all volunteers.

A troubling number of cigarette butts and plastic bags have been included in recent hauls. Please remember your reusable bags when shopping so we can keep the plastic off the streets, parking lots and, most importantly, out of the water. And dispose of cigarette butts in any receptacle rather than the street or sidewalk, as from there, they easily end up in the ocean.

The city of Key West and its residents ask everyone to do their part to help keep Key West beautiful. With simple steps like making sure you bag your trash before putting it in your Waste Management trash cans or Dumpsters, and making sure the lids on Dumpsters are closed, will keep a lot of trash from blowing into the streets. Call Waste Management at 305-296-8297 for any furniture items left on the city right of way.

Please pick up around your home or apartment complex. Every piece of trash picked up is one less that may end up in the ocean that

surrounds and sustains our island community. It is not just the large items you can see easily when you are walking, but the smaller items such as bottle caps and cigarette butts that are collected by the volunteers that make the biggest difference.

It takes committed community involvement to keep Key West beautiful and we are making progress with every cleanup event and every spot that’s adopted. Call Dorian Patton at 305-809-3782 to find out how your business, nonprofit or club can help.

— Contributed

Join a morning cleanup each week from 8 to 9 a.m.

Friday, June 21: Casa Marina area at Seminole & Alberta streets. Meet at the John & Marv Spottswood Waterfront Park. Hosted by the Casa Marina Resort.

Saturday, June 22: South Roosevelt Boulevard, next to Margaritaville Resort for the annual PHADE Beach Cleanup. Meet in the gravel parking lot next to the hotel. (8-9:30 a.m.)

June 28: Lazy Way and the Key West Bight. Meet next to the Wyland Wall at the end of William Street. Hosted by Schooner Wharf Bar.

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JULIE HANSON

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Julie (Fielder) Hanson. She was courageous with a great attitude.

Our island has lost a true heroine and fierce fairy godmother. She was compassionate and dedicated to this community through her efforts with Sister Season Fund and other organizations. Julie prevented untold thousands from becoming homeless, which was her mission.

Jules first arrived in Key West in the 1970s. She lived and worked at Eden House guest house and the Esquire Lounge on the boulevard. She was the inspiration for the novella “Criss Cross” by Scott Somers, who was staying at the Eden House. It was made into a movie in 1992 starring Goldie Hawn.

Julie worked tirelessly on fundraising for the locals, earning her the title of Duchess. Even in her off hours Julie would hold court from her window on Duval at Bourbon Street Pub and 801 to keep tabs on everyone — of course with a glass of pinot grigio.

She leaves her four children, Beverly Hanks, Nick Hanson, Brian Broom and Nicolas Broom, as well as grandchildren.

Thank you all for your thoughts and contributions that kept her comfortable.

It takes an Island and Key West is much better because of Julie Hanson.

A celebration will be determined later.

“The most important thing is to live a fabulous life. As long as it’s fabulous I don’t care how long it is.” — Freddie Mercury

PERFORMER PATTY SHUKLA APPEARS AT KEYS LIBRARIES

Creator of ‘Patty’s Primary Songs’ has more than 2M online followers

Songwriter Patty Shukla, who delights more than 2 million young online followers and their parents, will appear this week at all branches of the Monroe County Public Library. CONTRIBUTED

Patty Shukla, of the popular YouTube channel “Patty’s Primary Songs,” will appear at every branch of the Monroe County Public Library this week as part of the system’s Summer Reading program.

Songwriter and performer Shukla has more than 2 million followers on her YouTube channel, @pattyshukla. Shukla brings out the rhythm and fun in early childhood learning. The multi-talented American artist is an expert in educational-interactive music, blending it into an adventure filled with singing, dancing and learning.

Shukla will be at the following libraries at the following times:

Key Largo library branch, 101485 Overseas Highway - Thursday, June 20, 10:30 a.m.

Islamorada library branch, 81830 Overseas Highway - Thursday, June 20, 4:30 p.m.

Marathon library branch, 3490 Overseas Highway - Friday, June 21, 11 a.m.

Big Pine Key library branch, 213 Key Deer Blvd. - Friday, June 21, 2 p.m.

Key West library, 700 Fleming St. - Saturday, June 22, 10:30 a.m.

You can find out more about Patty Shukla at pattysprimarysongs.com and at her YouTube channel, youtube.com/@pattyshukla

For more information about summer reading programs at the Monroe County Public Library, go to keyslibraries.org/summer-reading-2024. If you have questions, visit or call your local branch or email info@keyslibraries.org. — Contributed

GOVERNOR VETOES $150K FOR MARC

Monroe Association for ReMARCable Citizens, a nonprofit which is the only provider of services to adults with developmental disabilities in the Keys, learned last week that Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed a $150,000 funding initiative for the program that had been championed by state Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez and Rep. Jim Mooney. The funding would have provided vocational training and supported employment services to our clients in our programs in Key West and Tavernier. MARC officials contacted their legislators and the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, but no one knew why the funding was denied. All funding is at the discretion of the governor, and MARC is grateful that he did approve an 11% across-the-board rate increase for organizations that serve the developmentally disabled. For MARC, that increase, known as the Live Healthy Legislation, comes to about $180,000. What is so confusing is that MARC has always met all of its deliverables on time and within the funding cycle for past legislative funding and has been audited for such and was always found in compliance.

Monroe Association for ReMARCable Citizens works constantly to supplement its budget through its plant store at 1401 Seminary St., Key West and its thrift store at the Coral

Shores Church in Tavernier. Additional fundraising efforts are on the MARC Facebook pages @MARC Key West or @MARC Upper Keys, and on its website at marchouse.org, but none of our fundraisers has ever raised the amount of money that was vetoed. The governor’s rate increase will be eaten up by the elimination of the $150,000. It will leave little room for staff raises, new staff or even the basic increases in insurance, gas, utilities or maintenance of our buildings and vehicles. “It is so heartbreaking that I cannot pay my staff the same wage as someone working at the local Starbucks, yet their love and support of the most vulnerable is so valuable,” said longtime MARC director Diana Flenard.

This $150,000 may not seem like a lot of money, but for MARC it is a make or break amount for this next fiscal year. We are asking that anyone who wishes to help us fill in the funding gap, please visit marchouse.org to make a donation or mail checks to MARC, PO Box 428, Key West, Florida 33041 or MARC, Box 851 Tavernier, Florida 33070. We are reaching out to anyone who can help. For more information, contact Diana Flenard at 305-294-9526 ext. 28.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 38
LETTER TO THE EDITOR OBITUARY
KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 Lov Lo Weekly We’re Bringin Famil 2 Pieces of Fried Cole Slaw st Cole Slaw 2 Asian Tuna Sweet Soy & Wasabi Aioli | Kimchi Wednesday Prime Rib Night 12oz $60 | 16oz $70 Mashed Potatoes | Green Beans Thursday Jumbo Shrimp & Grits: $32 Friday Swordfish Rockefeller: $48 Potato Croquette | Grilled Asparagus Saturday Seafood Strudel with Broccolini: $42 L O C A L S O N L Y : 2 0 % O F F D I N N E R & 1 5 % O F F D R I N K S E V E R Y D A Y Reservations recommended Must show valid local ID Cannot be combined with any other discount or offer Subject to blackout dates Pi er House Resort & Spa 1 Duval St | Key West 305.295.3255 | pierhouse.com SAVOR THE NEW FLAVORS OF KEY WEST SPECIAL TREAT FOR LOCALS AT ONE DUVAL FOR LOCALS ON TOTAL DINNER BILL 20% OFF (local ID required; excludes holidays) Reservations recommended on OpenTable or call 305.295.3255

Recycle Right Every Day.

Remember these three simple rules each time you recycle:

Need A BAGSTER®? BUY. FILL. GONE.

• Bagster® bags are available at home improvement stores and online.

• Bagster® bags are easy to use dumpsters in a bag that are strong enough to hold up to 3,300 pounds of debris or waste.

• Schedule your collection online or by phone.

Friday July 12th 5pm - 8pm

Saturday July 13th 9am - 3pm

Sunday July 14th 11am at Sunday Worship 5pm the children will take part in our Christmas concert followed by an optional Christmas dinner

Children ages PK - 5th grade are invited to join us for a weekend of Bible learning and fun! Experience Bethlehem the night Jesus was born and learn how a tiny baby changed the world! Crafts, games, snacks (lunch on Saturday), music, Bible fun and much more!

Methodist

SUGGESTED DONATION OF $10 PER CHILD

Register online at: https://bit.ly/3X7PDyw

Or scan the QR code

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 40
To learn more, visit wm.com/recycleright bottles, cans, paper, cardboard and glass Keep food and liquid out of your recycling No loose plastic bags and no bagged recyclables
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West
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ARMY’S 10TH SPECIAL FORCES GROUP WINS COMBAT DIVER CONTEST

Events included memorial dedication for soldiers who died in training

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

The Army’s Special Forces Underwater Operations School at Fleming Key hosted the second annual Best Combat Diver Competition June 10-12. But before the grueling competition among the military’s most elite forces began, all branches paused to honor the eight soldiers who have died during the high-risk training program since the Fleming Key compound opened in 1964. The most recent death was in 2021.

“To build the best skilled maritime operators for such dangerous missions, the training these soldiers undergo is inherently dangerous,” Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jim Dougherty of the Special Forces Underwater Operations (SFUWO) said at the ceremony. “Until now, no memorial existed to honor the memory of the brave soldiers who took their last breath.”

Following the dedication and an opening ceremony, the competition began.

Twelve two-man teams from across U.S. Army Special Forces, U.S. Marine Forces Special Operations, and U.S. Air Force Special Operations competed in a 10-event, multiple-day and night competition to demonstrate skill and capability through performance.

Events included underwater swims in the pool, a helicopter jump into Key West Harbor to test their navigation skills, a 4-mile run and other challenges.

The competition included rigorous tactical underwater events, boat movements and airborne insertion related to real-world combat dive operations, states an Army release.

The combat diver team from the Army’s 10th Special Forces Group won this year’s contest. The 1st Marine Raider Battalion took second place.

More information about the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School in Key West is at swcs.mil.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 41
The Army’s Special Forces Underwater Operations School at Fleming Key hosted the second annual Best Combat Diver Competition June 10-12. Two-person teams from the most elite forces of each military branch competed in 10 grueling events. K. KASSENS/U.S. Army
KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 42 Sponsored by Monroe County Coalition, Inc , Thriving Mind South Florida and the State of Florida, Department of Children and Families
to your teen about alcohol and other drug-free activities this summer.
the questions: Who are you with? What are you doing? Will there be alcohol or other drugs there? Let them know you will pick them up from any unsafe place with alcohol, drugs, guns, etc. Have those “ What to Do If ” conversations. Talk they hear you.... MUSIC | BEVERAGES | HOTDOGS & BURGERS SERVICE ABOVE SELF SINCE 1916 www.keywestrotary.com THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2024 AT THE EDWARD B. KNIGHT PIER FESTIVITIES BEGIN AT 5PM A Rotary Club of Key West Tradition Since 1976 BLAST All proceeds benefit local Scholarship Programs JOIN US! FOR A FREE 4TH OF JULY FIREWORK DISPLAY COME HAVE A WITH US! SERVICE ABOVE SELF SINCE 1916 www.keywestrotary.com All proceeds benefit local Scholarship Programs THANK YOU, CITY OF KEY WEST!
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The Rotary Club of Key West thanks the City and staff for your ongoing efforts and support
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Cement-filled pickle barrels near Pickles Reef. Archaeologists suspect the barrels can be dated much later than the 1860s. FLORIDA KEYS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY/Contributed

WRESTLING WITH WRITING

Pickles Reef’s cement barrels pique interest

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.

Iattended graduate school in my 30s. It was a vastly different experience than what I expected, but managing expectations has been a longstanding effort. I did not attend a history program at the University of Miami; my master’s degree is in creative writing. While in the university’s writing program, I experienced several eye-opening moments. I was excited to be surrounded by like-minded people who loved to write, and it was weird to learn that many of the people in the program did not write every day. The group often met for drinks at the Coral Gables watering hole, The Bar. Not infrequently, someone in the group would announce that they needed to get home and write something for class the next day. I spent weeks crafting the short stories I presented for the workshop.

During a workshop, the writer sits quietly while everyone around the table critiques the work and tells the writer everything wrong with it, and the bits and pieces they liked. One professor in particular, Lester Goran, routinely savaged my work. Once, when he attacked my story, he asked, “Do you think you’re God? Do you think you can just do anything you want?”

He did not treat the other writers in the program or the work they presented with the same vigor. Either I was an exceptionally sh*tty writer, or another issue was at play. So, I sat down with the department head and voiced my concerns.

At the end of the first year, all of the graduating writers performed a reading on campus. Afterward, the writers and the professors went to the T.G.I. Friday’s across from campus; we stood around the bar and drank as we talked. The department head, a poet named Fred something,

was there, and we found ourselves standing next to each other at the bar. He was drinking a scotch on the rocks, and I was drinking a bottle of beer.

It wasn’t my first drink, and it wasn’t his first drink that late afternoon. He said, “No one here likes you.”

I looked at him and said, “Well, I know you don’t.”

In year two, Goran, the head of the creative writing program and the professor I had complained about, sat me down in his office and said, “No one wanted you in the program. Everyone thought your writing was weird.”

And then, he said something I have never believed. “I was the only one who wanted you here.”

Also, in the last month of the two-year program, Goran did two extraordinary things.

After I turned in my final story, he left a note in my English Department mailbox. It read,

“Congratulations; this version of your story is everything the last was not.”

The following week, Goran and the class workshopped the story. Goran began the proceedings by standing up and addressing me directly. “How could you do this?” he asked. “How could you turn the previous version into this? I have been harder on you than anyone in all my years with the program, and you do this? You are the one, son. You are the one who is going to make it.”

It is a powerful memory. Goran went on to say glowing things about the story, a scene from my as-yet unfinished novel, “Wrestling Alligators.” After graduation, when I moved to Plantation Key in 2001, I intended to finish my novel. It is now 2024; I still plan to finish it.

One thing I’ve learned since moving to the Florida Keys is that writers are as common as Key lime pie. They come to live in paradise and write their poems, plays and novels. Rarely do they move to the islands, abandon their fiction and their stories,

and write about the local history — which makes me a bit of a unicorn.

While I have hardly “made it” as a writer, my love for the act has never waned, and it serves the local history well. There is a particular subject that initially piqued my interest. While researching my first book, “Snorkeling Florida” (University Press of Florida), I was introduced to Pickles Reef. The relatively shallow spur and groove reef is found southeast of Key Largo (24 59.26N/080 24.84W). Dive captains, divers and locals had several stories about the origin of the name — as did travel writers and Wikipedia: “The name comes from cement-filled pickle barrels sunk here during the Civil War.”

During the event, the load of barrels sank to the Atlantic floor, where the cement mixed with the water and hardened. Over time, the barrels’ wooden staves rotted away, leaving only the barrel-shaped forms behind. As many as 50 barrelshaped features have been identified around the reef.

Archaeologists suspect the barrels can be dated much later than the 1860s. It has been suggested the cement had been destined for construction projects associated with the building of the Over-Sea Railway. It has also been posited that the barrels were to have been used in the construction of what would become the Red Cross or hurricane houses built in response to the 1935 Labor Day Storm.

In the end, it does not matter so much when the barrels sank at that particular reef as it does that they settled on the bottom at that site. First, the name Pickles Reef appears in historical records dating back to the late 1820s. Second, and perhaps the more exciting factoid regarding any of the thousands of individual reefs that make up the Florida Reef, the odds that a bunch of barrels that may or may not have once held pickles and sank at a reef already called Pickles Reef have to be staggering.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 43

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REEL RECS

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

What: “The Third Man” (1949)

Why: Celebrating its 75th anniversary, this has all the elements of a perfect film noir: Oscar-winning cinematography of postwar Vienna bathed in rich shadows, a plot with more twists than a Chubby Checker song, delightfully droll one-liners, and an enticingly magnetic supporting performance from Orson Welles. Even with its psychologically dark elements, there’s a cheekiness to it found in the best Hitchcock films – no surprise, given that this is actually a British production rather than Hollywood. If none of that is enough to entice you, it’s worth pointing out the zither-infused score directly inspired the music for “Spongebob Squarepants.”

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.

SHELF HELP

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

What: “The Girl Who Was Taken” by Charlie Donlea

Why: Nic and Megan are two high-school seniors who have been abducted in North Carolina during a beach party. While Megan is lauded as a hero for defying all odds and escaping her captors, Nic’s case goes unsolved. One year later, Megan has authored a book about her harrowing experience while Nic’s sister Liv – dissatisfied with the investigation and now a forensic pathology fellow – uses her skills to follow clues to uncover the twisted details about the girls’ abductions. Shifting between several points of view, readers follow the mystery to uncover just what really happened the day Nic and Megan were abducted, and where the grisly path of their stories ended ... or rather, where they didn’t.

Where: You can get this book from the Monroe County Public Library system in regular and large print.

How: You can request books, including e-books and e-audiobooks, online by logging in to your account at 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: Amanda Howard, library associate, Marathon library branch

See previous recommendations at keyslibraries.org/shelf-help.

TAKE ME HOME?

FIND A FRIEND AT THE FLORIDA KEYS SPCA

The Keys Weekly family loves animals as much as our friends at the Florida Keys SPCA do, and we’re honored each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for adoption at the organization’s Key West campus.

From cats and dogs to Guinea

pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.

The SPCA’s Golden Paw program also provides special assistance with vet bills and medications for special-needs and older animals that require a little extra TLC.

Check these pages each week for just a few of the animals waiting for a home and see them all at fkspca.org.

ready to find her forever home. She is available for adoption at the Key West campus.

Tiny Tina is a 6-year-old orange kitty with a zest for life. She’s a toy-chasing dynamo who thinks she’s a lion in disguise. When she’s not busy ruling her kingdom, she enjoys sunbathing and plotting her next adventure.

Nox is a 2-year-old all-black cat who can be a little shy at first, but warms up quickly. He loves hanging out with his black cat buddies, making him a social feline. Nox is looking for a patient and loving home where he can thrive.

Babs is a lively 3-year-old rabbit who loves to run back and forth in her pen. Her playful energy is contagious, and she enjoys exploring her surroundings.

Soul is a 1-year-old female tabby cat with stunning markings and a sweet demeanor. She loves to play and explore, and is always ready for a cuddle.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 45
Diamond is an 8½-year-old gray pit bull with a gentle and loving nature. She enjoys walks and is great with children. Despite her age, Diamond is full of life and affection,
KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 46 LET’S DO BUSINESS - 305.453.6928 GENERAL CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS Proud member of: INTERNATIONAL CONCRETE REPAIR INSTITUTE SPALLING EXPERTS CGC1523838 CGC1523838 Andy’sSliding Gl ass D oo r Re p a i r R oll er Ma in te n a n c e T rack Ma in te n a n c e D oo r A lign me n t S ec u r i ty Pin s S afety Lo ck s Ha ndl e s 305-998-895 3 www.KeysSlidingGlassDoorRepair.com Insured • Professional • Reliable We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens 2728 North Roosevelt Blvd. Overseas Market Key West - Full Hooks Ups - Waterfront Camping - Marina & Boat Slips Mile Marker 5, US Hwy1 6401 Maloney Ave, Key West 305-294-1465 www.boydscampground.com info@boydscampground.com Instagram: @boydscampground - RV & Tent Camping - Pool & Tiki Hut - Kayak Rentals Sales - Service - Installation 1706 N. Roosevelt Blvd, Key West 305-294-0090 • www.kolhages.com $60 ONLY PUTS YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE 305.743.0844 Licensed & Insured #SP33799 ALL KEYS GLASS Sales & Installation • Tub & Shower Enclosures Safety & Tempered Glass • Mirror & Mirror Walls Plexi-Glass & Lexan RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors 305-743-7800 WE SELL EVERYTHING FOR YOUR HOME OVERSEAS MARKET - 2730 N. ROOSEVELT BLVD KEY WEST - 305.296.4066 Mon-Fri 9am-7pm - Sat 9am-2pm - Sun Closed 10%off With Coupon Free Estimates SP4392 William Reighard MBA Tax Advisor & Preparer S CORP FILING SPECIALIST In person & tele-interviews available 570-560-1661 | wreighard@gmail.com When It Rains It Pours! Need 7” Gutters? We have 6” & 7” Seamless • Copper Specialists Key West 305-292-2666 MARATHON 305-743-0506 KEY LARGO 305-852-5356 Lic No. SP1481 KITCHEN & BATH Manufacturing & Installation Danny Ocampo 1708 N. Roosevelt Blvd Key West, FL 33040 305-339-8092 Dannygandarakitchen@gmail.com Snowbird Pet Sitting 813-334-0584 snowbird.petsitting@gmail.com Judy Noone & Florie Burke Co-owners and Pet Enthusiasts Insured and Certified in Pet CPR "Loving care when you're not there" KeyWest WILLIAM JONES HOME INSPECTOR 305-619-2754 wjones2@terminix.com 625 U.S. Hwy 1, Ste. 101 * Key West, FL 33040 TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM FLORIDA KEYS Airports: EYW, MIA & FLL PARTY BUS • VAN • SUV | fkes2011@gmail.com 305.743.7454
KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 47 UPCOMING EVENTS THEKEYWESTAMP.COM JAMES TAYLOR STORY KEY WEST THEATER NOVEMBER 9TH ANDY SUMMERS OF THE POLICE KEY WEST THEATER NOVEMBER 12TH SEPTEMBER 15TH ENJOY 10% OFF AT RAMS HEAD SOUTHERNMOST BEFORE A CONCERT OR AT BRUNCH THE FOLLOWING DAY!
KEY WEST WEEKLY / JUNE 20, 2024 48

ALMANAC | June 20

On this day: In 1967, boxer Muha ad Ali was convicted of viola ng Selec ve Service laws by refusing to be inducted into the armed forces. The Supreme Court overturned his convic on in 1971.

In The Bleachers

The last four years have brought about 700 reports of orcas a acking boats. On May 12, in the Strait of Gibraltar, a 49-f t-long ve el ca ed Alboran Cognac sank a er repeated blows from a group of orcas, Reuters reported. The yacht ca ied two people, who felt the shocks before water started s ping in. They alerted rescue services, and a nearby oil tanker t k them in.

Adam Brevity Brevity Nancy News of the Weird
1 KEYS WEEKLY COMICS & GAMES / JUNE 20, 2024

TODAY’S HISTORY

In 1863, West Virginia was admi ed as the 35th U.S. state.

TODAY’S QUOTE

"Since when do we have to agr with people to defend them from injus ce?"
— Li ian He man

TODAY’S BIRTHDAYS

Li ian He man (1905-1984), playwright; E ol Fly (19091959), actor; Chet Atkins (19242001), singer-songwriter; Audie Murphy (1925-1971), war hero/ actor; Mar n Landau (19282017), actor; Brian Wilson (1942), musician/singer-songwriter; A e Mu ay (1945- ), singer; Bob Vila (1946- ), handyman/TV personality; Lionel Richie (1949- ), singer-songwriter; John G dman (1952- ), actor; Nicole Kidman (1967- ), actre ; Robert Rodriguez (1968- ), l aker; Christopher Mintz-Pla e (1989- ), actor.

2 KEYS WEEKLY COMICS & GAMES / JUNE 20, 2024
Adam Nancy

Homes Under Water

Have you ever hunted for seashells at the beach? Did you know that they were once the homes of animals from a watery world?

This week, The Mini Page learns more about our world’s beautiful seashells.

A big family

Sea animals with shells belong to a group known as mollusks (MAH-lusks). Mollusks also include some animals with no shells, such as the octopus.

Protection

Shells help protect animals with soft bodies and no backbones, or vertebrae (VER-tuhbray). Soft-bodied animals with no backbone are called invertebrates (in-VER-tuh-brits). Most animals are invertebrates.

Seashells protect invertebrate sea animals. These marine animals, or creatures living in the water, build shell homes and live inside them. Some animals move into the shells of other animals after the original owner dies.

Building a home

Shells are made of a rocklike material formed from calcium and other minerals, like our bones are. Sea animals get these minerals from the water.

Shelled marine animals have a special skinlike covering over their bodies. This is called a mantle. The mantle secretes (siKREETS), or produces and spreads, the material for the shell all around the animal’s body.

Sea animals build their shells over time, layer by layer. You can tell how old a shellfish was by counting the layers spreading out

ECO NOTE

over the shell, much like counting the rings of a tree. Shellfish don’t build their shells at a steady rate. They have growth spurts.

Colors

The beautiful colors on the shell vary depending on the animals’ diets and how fast they are secreting the shell material.

Shellfish in warmer waters, where there is a big variety of food, will usually have many more colors than shellfish in colder waters.

How many shells?

Animals such as snails build single shells to live in. Sea snails such as the conch or whelk usually build shells in a spiral shape.

Other mollusks, such as clams and oysters, have two shells joined together with a kind of hinge. This type of shellfish is called a bivalve (BY-valve).

Have you noticed that you usually find only one half of a shell? When the animal dies or is eaten, the hinge usually breaks, and the two halves of the shell separate.

Record-breaking ocean heat of the past year appears to have caused a never-before-seen decline in phytoplankton, algae and bacteria, which many marine species depend upon for food. A study examined 21 years of satellite data and found that by April 2023, there had been a 22% drop in the microorganisms compared to the 21-year average. The study found that almost three-quarters of the global ocean surface saw such a decline. While marine ecosystems can sometimes recover, one scientists called these results “very concerning.”

SHELLFISH LIFE

Shellfish have a strawlike organ called a siphon (SY-fun) that they use to pull water across their gills. They breathe and feed with their gills. They get their oxygen and food from the water.

Some shellfish also have a type of tiny plant called algae (AL- jee) living with them. The algae can make energy from sunlight and nutrients they get from the water. They share this energy with the shellfish.

Bivalves open their shells when they are eating or breathing. They close their shells when they feel threatened.

Shellfish that live in areas close to the coast may close their shells during low tide. This keeps the animal from drying out. When the tide comes back in, the animal opens up its house and lets the water in.

Collecting shells

Never take a shell that is home to a living animal. All living things are important to the environment.

Some living shellfish can sting you. The nose area of some cone shellfish has a kind of harpoon. They inject their prey with venom to paralyze it, then they eat it. Sometimes people can have serious reactions to the stings.

RESOURCES

On the Web:

• bit.ly/MPmollusks

At the library:

• “Seashells: More Than a Home” by Melissa Stewart

• “Seashells and Beachcombing for Kids” by Stephanie Panlasigui and Erika Zambello

3 KEYS WEEKLY COMICS & GAMES / JUNE 20, 2024
The Mini Page® © 2024 Andrews McMeel Syndication Mini Fact: The giant clam is the largest bivalve on Earth. It can weigh up to 500 pounds.
by a, courtesy NPS photo ourtesy
Islands
the Sea 2002 NOAA/OER
photo
of
in
Tropical cone shell
Sinuous whelk photo courtesy of NOAA

TRY ’N’ FIND

Words that remind us of seashells are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:

ALGAE, ANIMAL, BEACH, BIVALVE, CALCIUM, COLOR, HOME, INVERTEBRATE, LAYER, MANTLE, MOLLUSK, SEA, SECRETE, SHELL, SIPHON, SPIRAL, STING, VERTEBRAE.

4 KEYS WEEKLY COMICS & GAMES / JUNE 20, 2024 Managing all the details of your financial life. Financial Advice • Personal Service Investment Management We’ll watch the market... you watch the grandkids. Securities o ered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory services o ered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Chapman & Cardwell Capital Management is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services, Inc.
X E A G L A E T E R C E S V V R E Y A L B E A C H T K S S G T K Q G U C A L C I U M J K P A S L E T A R B E T R E V N I O U E M E A E A R B E T R E V S L L H R N L A R I P S W O P T L T V O I M D L N O H P I S I O N K K M W J E C O L O R D N M A C Y A E B I V A L V E X G V M X I L L L E H S E A H Z

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI

Notice is hereby given that on July 8th, 2024, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold. The names of whose units will be sold are as follows: |103530 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 Yasser Mesa - 1158 $599.25

Dean Todd - 1332 $587.75

Alex Murgas - 1580 $528.40

Sharon Pele - 1200 $425.45| Anthony Atty - 1577 $731.80

Publish:

June 20 & 27, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING:

MONROE COUNTY CONTRACTORS EXAMINING

BOARD

MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

Notice is Hereby Given To Whom it may concern, that on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 the Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (CEB) will hold a scheduled meeting at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Second Floor, BOCC Room, Marathon, Florida scheduled to commence at 9:30 A.M. This meeting is to hear the following: any person(s) to come before the board; any reports from Monroe County Assistant Attorney; any reports from Monroe County Building Official; any reports from Staff. The Monroe County Contractors Examining

Board (“CEB”) will review Certificate of Competency Trade applications and the Industry Input Section. All public participation in this meeting may be conducted via Communication Media Technology (“CMT”) using Zoom Webinar platform, during the scheduled meeting. Meeting Agenda and Zoom Webinar information is available 7 days prior to meeting date on the Monroe County Web Calendar and the Contractors Examining Board webpage: www. monroecounty-fl.gov

PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTE SECTION 286.0105, be advised that, if a person decides to appeal the decision made by the Contractors’ Examining Board with respect to any matter considered at today’s hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he or she 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 recommendations 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”.

NOTICE:  It shall be the responsibility of each Respondent or other person addressing the Board to have an interpreter if the party is not able to understand or speak the English language. Rick Griffin, Building Official/

INVITATION TO BID

Board Secretary Jamie Gross, Senior Contractor Licensing Coordinator – CEB Board Monroe County Building Department Publish: June 20, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Parking Lot Management Services at Key West International Airport Monroe County, Florida

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

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

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com, no later than

The City of Key Colony Beach cordially invites interested contractors to complete and submit sealed bids by July 25th, 2024, no later than 9:30 am, for the following project. WRF UV CONTACT TANK REHABILITATION ITB 2024-02

THE PROJECT CONSISTS OF: Temporary tankage with associated components to allow bypassing of the City’s existing UV Contact Tank (design, procurement, installation, and demolition/removal of system by contractor and contractor’s engineer of record); existing UV Contact Tank removal; construction of replacement UV Contact Tank with interior and exterior coatings; replacement of all existing control systems (ultrasonic level detector, transducers, floats, etc.); miscellaneous restoration; and other improvements.

All bids must be submitted in a sealed envelope to City Clerk Silvia Gransee at 600 W. Ocean, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051 (mailing address PO Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051), no later than July 25th, 2024 at 9:30 am clearly marked ‘Sealed Bid for the City of Key Colony Beach ITB 2024-02’ along with the name of your firm. 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 2024-02

06-18-2024 Release Solicitation

07-08-2024 10:00 am Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Site Visit (600 N. 8th Street, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051)

07-11-2024 4:00 pm

07-18-2024 4:00 pm

07-25-2024 9:30 am

08-08-2024 9:30 am

3:00P.M. on Tuesday, July 30, 2024. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/ proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Tuesday, July 30, 2024. You may call in by phone or internet using the following:

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

Meeting ID: 4509326156

One tap mobile:

+16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York)

+16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location:

+1 646 518 9805 US (New York)

+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

MANDATORY IN-PERSON, ONSITE PRE-BID MEETING:

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

Date: July 9, 2024

Time: 2:00 P.M. Location: 3491 S. Roosevelt Blvd., (2nd Floor Airport Administration Conference Room, above Baggage Claim), Key West, Florida Publish: June 20, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 23-CA-320-P KENNETH STEVENS and CLIFFORD BROWN, Plaintiffs, -v.WOLF CAPITAL FUNDING, LLC, LEOPOLD BALESTRIERI, POOL TECH OF MIAMI, INC., EL MAMEYAL NURSERY, INC., CLOSET PROS, INC., ISLAMORADA VILLAGE OF ISLANDS, CHARLES VIRGIL ROGERS, ONLY AUTHENTICS, LLC, and, AMERICAN ENGINEERS & CONTRACTORS, INC., Defendants.

________________/ FIRST AMENDED NOTICE OF ACTION TO: LEOPOLD BALESTRIERI

By: Daniella Lafontant Deputy Clerk Publish: June 20 & 27, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 23-CA-320-P KENNETH STEVENS and CLIFFORD BROWN, Plaintiffs, -v.WOLF CAPITAL FUNDING, LLC, LEOPOLD BALESTRIERI, POOL TECH OF MIAMI, INC., EL MAMEYAL NURSERY, INC., CLOSET PROS, INC., ISLAMORADA VILLAGE OF ISLANDS, CHARLES VIRGIL ROGERS, ONLY AUTHENTICS, LLC, and, AMERICAN ENGINEERS & CONTRACTORS, INC., Defendants.

________________/ FIRST AMENDED NOTICE OF ACTION TO: WOLF CAPITAL FUNDING, LLC

Last Known Address: 101 N. Clematis Street, Suite #306 West Palm Beach, FL 33401

YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action seeking the foreclosure of a mortgage upon the real property located at 81975 Old Highway, Islamorada, Florida 33036, has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Richard A. Malafy, of the law firm of Campbell & Malafy, Plaintiffs’ attorney, whose address is 10887 Overseas Highway, Suite #201, Marathon, Florida 33050, on or before July 15, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this court either before service on Plaintiffs’ attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition. Dated on: May 21st, 2024 KEVIN MADOK, CPA, Clerk Clerk of the Court By: Daniella Lafontant Deputy Clerk Publish: June 20 & 27, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

Dated: June 13th, 2024

Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Leslie Rodriguez

Deputy Clerk

Publish:

June 20 & 27, 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

Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

Unit A 102, Week 01

$2,219.69

Unit A 102, Week 02

$2,219.69

Cure My Mommy’s Breast Cancer C/O Ellen Schreiber 9 Endo Blvd, # FL 1

Garden City, NY 11530-6748

Unit D 102, Week 36

$3,571.14

Edward Daniel and Mary Daniel P.O. Box 351853 Miami, FL 33135 Unit E 102, Week 36

$4,580.62

Jennifer Edwards f/k/a

Jennifer Leanna and Zachary Edwards 2688 Whispering Drive Largo, FL 33771 Unit E 202, Week 39

$6,702.41 Unit B 202, Week 47

$6,702.41

Maria George 3215 N 65th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85033-5216 Unit D 102, Week 50

$3,585.74

Lowell Higgins and Janine Sanders-Higgins 64 Kilworth PK Drive RR #5 Komoka, ON N0L 1R0 Canada Unit A 102, Week 47

$6,705.00

Bid Due & Opening (Open to Public – 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051) Last Day for submission of written questions to the City Last day for the City to post answers to questions

Recommendation to Award Utility Board Meeting

08-15-2024 9:30 am City Commission meeting

Award of Bid

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

Last Known Address: 10055 Yamato Road, Suite 110 Boca Raton, FL 33498 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action seeking the foreclosure of a mortgage upon the real property located at 81975 Old Highway, Islamorada, Florida 33036, has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Richard A. Malafy, of the law firm of Campbell & Malafy, Plaintiffs’ attorney, whose address is 10887 Overseas Highway, Suite #201, Marathon, Florida 33050, on or before July 15, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this court either before service on Plaintiffs’ attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition.

Dated on: May 21st, 2024 KEVIN MADOK, CPA, Clerk Clerk of the Court

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO. 2022-CA-239-M HAWKS NEST BOARD OF TRUSTEES President, GARY TUCKER, Plaintiff, vs. NON-VOTING GROUP OF HAWKS NEST, Defendants. ___________________/ NOTICE OF ACTION TO: NON-VOTING MEMBERS OF HAWKS NEST BALLOT TO REBUILD DESTROYED CONDOMINIUM

Lots 9 & 10, KNIGHTS KEY VILLAGE, as recorded in Plat Book 5, at Page 84, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida

YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action seeking the partition upon real property located at 1 Kyle Way South, Marathon FL 33050, has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on James J Dorl, Esquire of the law firm James J Dorl PA, Plaintiffs’ attorney whose address is 5701 Overseas Highway, Suite 12, Marathon FL 33050, on or before July 15th, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this court either before service on Plaintiffs’ attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition.

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

NOTICE OF ACTION RE: MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB II ASSOCIATION, INC MONROE County, Florida NON-JUDICIAL TIMESHARE FORECLOSURE PROCESS TO: Unit Owner(s) Last Known Address Unit Week(s)

Amount due:

Robert A Bradley and Stefane B Bradley 1303 Chestnut Street Murray, KY 42071 Unit E 202, Week 48

$6,703.35

Marion Canty and Remelda Canty 26521 SW 124 Avenue Naranja, FL 33032 Unit E 102, Week 50

$4,601.12

Richard Chosid and Cherie Chosid 3110 NE 48th Street

Dewane L Hose Greystone House Lockton, N Yorkshire YO187QB United Kingdom Unit D 102, Week 42 $3,585.74

Charles Khoury 7343 Brisbane Hills Street Las Vegas, NV 89166 Unit B 102, Week 46

$7,225.00 Unit B 102, Week 47

$7,225.00

Gehard Jacob, Anneliese Bentjerodt & Arquiyecto Eusebio Celi 5150 Comuna Vitacura Santiago Chile Unit C 201, Week 44

$3,585.74

Mary E McHenry, Michael B McHenry & Tina M McHenry 46 Hodgson Avenue Pittsburg, PA 15205 Unit A 102, Week 40

$4,601.12 Unit A 102, Week 41 $4,601.12

Lee M Purcifull 18406 Turning Point Drive Lutz, FL 33549 Unit A 202, Week 36

$6,675.25 Shaki Rehman 11711 SW 130 Avenue Miami, FL 33186 Unit B 201, Week 42

$6,701.46

Jane Rosenthal 444 E 75th Street, Apt #3-B New York, NY 10021 Unit E 101, Week 48 $5,597.15 Unit E 102, Week 48 $5,597.15

Vincent T Salvato and Angela Salvato 4700 Casswell Drive New Port Richey, FL 34652 Unit A 101, Week 43

$3,585.74

Frank Schultz, Trustee of the Frank Schultz Living Trust Agreement Dated March 24, 2000 1751 Beach Road, Apt 202 Englewood, FL 34223 Unit D 202, Week 49

$3,585.74

Frank Stewart and Jeanne C Stewart 3101 82nd Way North St Petersburg, FL 33710 Unit B 202, Week 40 $7,698.79 Chelsa Aran Taggart 1841 E 9th Street, Apt 2 Duluth, MN 55812 Unit D 102, Week 21 $5,619.22 Penny Weiss and Lynne Arnault 105 Kensington Road Syracuse,

5 KEYS WEEKLY COMICS & GAMES / JUNE 20, 2024 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844
LEGAL NOTICES
NY 13210 Unit E 202, Week 41 $5,597.15 Henry Zima, Halina Zima & Joanna D Ricci 2388 Carlanne Place Mississauga, ON L5E 2M2 LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

Canada Unit B 101, Week 46

$3,585.74

Unit B 101, Week 47

$3,585.74

YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED of an action for non-judicial foreclosure of timeshare units on the Claim of Lien on the following described real property, located in MONROE County, Florida, to-wit: Unit Numbers and Annual Timeshare Use Periods (as set forth above) in MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB CONDOMINIUM II, and all appurtenances thereto, according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof, as recorded in Official Records Book 859, Page 786 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida and all amendments and exhibits thereto. has been filed against you. If you fail to cure the default as set forth in this notice or take other appropriate action with regard to this foreclosure matter, you risk losing ownership of your timeshare interest through the trustee foreclosure procedure established in Section 721.855, Florida Statutes. You may choose to sign and send to the trustee an objection form, exercising your right to object to the use of the trustee foreclosure procedure. If you would like an Objection form, you should contact the undersigned Trustee, Thomas L Avrutis, Esquire, in writing. Upon the trustee’s receipt of your signed objection form, the foreclosure of the lien with respect to the default specified in this notice shall be subject to the judicial foreclosure procedure only. You have the right to cure your default in the manner set forth in this notice at any time before the trustee’s sale of your timeshare interest. Objections must be made in writing to:

Thomas L Avrutis, Esquire

TRUSTEE FOR MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB II ASSOCIATION, INC 201 Fletcher Avenue, Second Floor Sarasota, FL 34237 within 30 days of the first date of publication of this Notice. If you do not object to the use of the trustee foreclosure procedure, you will not be subject to a deficiency judgment even if the proceeds from the sale of your timeshare interest are insufficient to offset the amounts secured by the lien.

Dated this 3rd day of JUNE, 2024.

Thomas L Avrutis, Esquire, TRUSTEE TRUSTEE for MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB II ASSOCIATION, INC

Publish: June 13 & 20, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-275-P IN RE: ESTATE OF DORIS LAW

A/K/A DORIS B. LAW, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of DORIS LAW A/K/A DORIS B. LAW, deceased, whose date of death was March 5, 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 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 has been

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 PERIOIDS 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: June 20, 2024. Personal Representative: RICHARD LAW 111 East Ridgewood Avenue, Apt. 1A Ridgewood, NJ 07450

Attorney for Personal Representative: THOMAS R. WALSER, ESQ.

E-mail Addresses: trwalser@ floridaprobatefirm.com

Florida Bar No. 116596

Florida Probate Law Firm, PLLC 6751 N. Federal Highway, Ste. 101 Boca Raton, FL 33487

Telephone: (561) 210-5500

Publish:

June 20 & 27, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-272-P IN RE: ESTATE OF MARIE F. COTTON, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of MARIE F. COTTON, deceased, whose date of death was April 16, 2024, File Number 24-CP-272-P is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Plantation Key Government Center, 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, 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 has been served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE TIME 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 SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD 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: June 20, 2024. Personal Representative: CHARLES R. MCWHIRTER 253 Sunset Drive Islamorada, FL 33036 Attorney for Personal Representative: JOE A. CATARINEAU

Florida Bar Number: 0517291

91750 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070

Telephone: (305) 852-4833

Publish:

June 20 & 27, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-000299-PK

IN RE: ESTATE OF ANN PARKER FLYNNLAMPMAN

Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of ANN PARKER FLYNNLAMPMAN, deceased, whose date of death was April 28, 2024; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 24-CP-000299-PK, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this notice, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (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 the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED 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: JUNE 20, 2024.

Personal Representative: MARK PARKER 44 Sea Meadow Drive Little Egg Harbor, NJ 08087 Attorney for Personal Representative: JOHN MICHAEL LYNN, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 0147273 Turner & Lynn, P.A. 7 Barracuda Lane Key Largo, Florida 33037 Telephone: (305) 367-0911 turnerlynnpa@gmail.com Publish: June 20 & 27, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF FLORIDA, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 24-CP-000247-P IN RE: THE ESTATE OF RAYMOND H. LEWIS, JR. Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Raymond H. Lewis, Jr. deceased, whose date of death was January 30, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Ste. 2, Plantation Key, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME

OF 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 June 20, 2024.

Personal Representative: John C. Lewis 831 SE 13 CT Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Attorney for Personal Representative: Nicholas W. Mulick

E-mail Address: reception@ mulicklaw.com

Florida Bar No. 337757

Nicholas W. Mulick P.A. 91645 Overseas Highway Tavernier, Florida 33070

Telephone: (305) 852-9292

Publish:

June 20 & 27, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

AUTOS WANTED

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

AUTOS FOR SALE

2004 Chevy 2500 4X4 LT, 110k miles, original owner. Truck is located in Marathon. $9,500 305-481-4838

Place your AUTO FOR SALE ad here. $25.00/ week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 BOATS FOR SALE Rampage 25X10 Diesel Center Console. Charter fish rigged. 20 Rods & Reels + equip. Located in Marathon. 305-619-5282

Place your BOAT 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

EMPLOYMENT

Marathon: Looking for 2 College Students interested in 2-3 hours of work for 1 day restoring a Trawler Boat. May lead to additional hours. Cleaning, sanding, staining, scraping and painting outside of Boat $25.00 an hour. Contact a Friend and apply together. Call (508) 566-3538

Seeking full-time dedicated experienced inhome caregiver to provide care to our loved one in a comfortable home environment in Marathon. Please send resume to dale@marathonlumber. com or contact 305-7433688 and ask for Dale or Tricia for more information.

SKILLED PLUMBERS Full Service & Construction. Immediate Openings in Upper Keys. Full-time & Part-time. Motivated - Great Mechanical & Problem Solving Skills – Read & Speak EnglishClean driving record. Pay Rate based on experience, ownership of working tools, and transportation. E-mail: PlumbersinParadise@ outlook.com for application.

ATTENTION- Marathon 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.

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 305743-6739 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 305743-6739 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 PT/Nights, PT Housing Assistant, Housing Choice Voucher Asst., PT Receptionist, Housing Manager-Middle Keys, Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker, and HVAC Maintenance Mechanic $64.480-$72,800/yr. plus benefits. 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.

Saturday front desk office person needed to answer phones and greet walk in customers at Big Pine Real Estate Office. Call Frank 561-2839969 or DD 305-289-6486

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, 9:30am7pm 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.

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 305-743-7334 for more information.

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

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

PRIVATE COLLECTOR

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

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

Available for 1 person. 2 1/2 rooms + 8' X 22' screened porch. All utilities incl. wifi, satellite TV, washer/dryer. 2nd house from ocean. Off-street parking. Private & quiet. MM 96 Key Largo. $1,950/ month F/L/S 305-853-3779

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

Conch House - Studio for Rent in Marathon. $960/month furnished + utilities. Dockage available. No Pets. 305-610-8002

Large One Bedroom Suite, Conch House, carpet, tile, appliances, available for rent in Marathon. $2,000/month furnished all included. Weekly payments possible. Dockage available. No Pets. 305-610-8002

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!!!

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

RV SITE FOR RENT

RV site at marina available in Marathon. Monthly 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

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. SweetCarolineSeaport.com

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

Coast Guard Exchange

Miami is looking to fill a MWR Lodge Host position for our beautiful Marathon, Florida location.

The job has diverse duties caring for 4 cottages and our boat program. These include business management, grounds maintenance, customer service, and supervising the boating program. Please visit INDEED or the CGX Careers page and search “Lodge Host 5661”.

The MWR position is for Marathon, FL. $18-$23 an hour, full time. 305-363-9361

6 KEYS WEEKLY COMICS & GAMES / JUNE 20, 2024 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844
RENTAL
VACATION
Key
YARD SALES
LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES EMPLOYMENT LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES HOUSING FOR RENT EMPLOYMENT

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

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

WE ARE HIRING!

DIRECT CARE STAFF / DRIVER AT ADULT DAY TRAINING PROGRAM FT

KEY WEST

This position is available at our Adult Day program. This position provided direct care service and support to our clients in the day program. This position requires the minimum of high school completion or GED. *

SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT COACH FT  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. *

PLANT STORE MANAGER FT  KEY WEST

MARC is looking for a 40-hr/wk. manager. Good social/business skills, above average computer skills required (knowledge of POS a plus). Knowledge of tropical plants is helpful. Requires a lot of manual labor and must be able to lift at least 50 pounds. Must be able to work weekends and evenings as the season requires.*

IN HOME SUPPORT FT  KEY WEST

MARC is 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. This is a rewarding position for the right person. *

CLIENT MEDICAL SERVICES ASSISTANT

Full-time assisting our clients with dental, medical and transpor-tation appts. Act as liaison between clients, families and support staff. Requires some on-call responsibility. Min. requirement Florida certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant. *

*ALSO REQUIRED FOR ALL POSITIONS:

Fluent in English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. 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.

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

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

7 KEYS WEEKLY COMICS & GAMES / JUNE 20, 2024 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844
Please email your resume to Lindsey@MooringsVillage.com or call the reception office at 305.664.4708 The
MULTI-TASKED OFFICE POSITION Competitive salary
great benefits. Weekends are a must. Job Types: Full-time, Part-time Apply in person at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, 7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon
and
• Hosts • Waitstaff • Bartenders • Bar Backs • Bussers • Line Cooks • Dishwashers
Join
e Turtle Hospital in Marathon

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.

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

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. IS HIRING!

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

KEY WEST

Peer Support Specialist Advocate (PT)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult) Case Manager (Adult, Child) Substance Abuse Counselor Prevention Specialist

MARATHON 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.

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

- 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

available positions at: www.westcare.com (search by zip code) EEOC/DFWP

APPLY AND LEARN MORE

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

We are now hiring for the following positions:

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

8 KEYS WEEKLY COMICS & GAMES / JUNE 20, 2024 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844
PRACTICE OPENINGS
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. *Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience.
or call 786-243-8507
careers.baptisthealth.net
“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973” The Guidance/Care Cente Inc a division of Background and drug screen req. COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Check out all
Diesel
EOE-M/F/V/D Equal Housing Lender Member FDIC Key West Customer Service Representative Customer Service Representative/Online Banking Islamorada Full Time Teller Apply Online at KeysBank.com/Careers •Quarterly Cash Profit Sharing •Fun, Fast-Paced Environment •Great Hours •Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance •Tuition Reimbursement •Paid Holidays, Vacation & Sick Time •401K Employer Match Voted Best Bank 2014 - 2023 Work with the BEST! The City of Key Colony Beach is accepting applications for a FULL-TIME Police Officer. Applicants must posses a current Florida Certification as a police officer. Applicants will undergo a thorough background investigation, including drug screening, medical, polygraph and a psychological exam. Salary: $60,000. Full Health & Dental Insurance, 457 (b) Participation. Preference in the selection of vacant positions will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of veterans. The Key Colony Beach Police Department is an EEO employer, drug-free and nicotine-free workplace. FULL-TIME POSITION POLICE OFFICER Email resume to: Chief of Police at: chief@keycolonybeach.net Or call for additional information: 305-289-1212 ext. 1

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