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The Florida Panthers are Stanley Cup champions for the first time in the team’s history, beating the Edmonton Oilers 2-1 in Game 7 on June 24. The Panthers, after winning the first three games, had to stave off a fast and furious Oilers team which won three straight games to force a Game 7.
Members of
Jimmy Johnson, former University of Miami head football coach, attends a meet-and-greet on June 20 at Islamorada’s Ocean View Inn & Sports Pub for the UM Sports Hall of Fame & Museum Celebrity Fishing Tournament. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
PROPERTY INSURANCE RATES COULD RISE AGAIN
Keys’ largest policy writer seeks big premium hike for 2025
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Florida Keys property owners who are insured through Citizens Property Insurance Corporation could witness another double-digit increase when they renew their policies in 2025.
At a June 19 meeting, the ninemember Citizens Board of Governors unanimously approved a request for an array of rate hikes, which average 14% statewide for homeowners and those living in condominium units.
The state Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) must approve the rate increase proposals before they would take effect Jan. 1, 2025. A pub-
lic hearing is expected before OIR makes a decision.
In the Florida Keys, roughly 20,000 homes, duplexes, condo units and commercial properties are insured through Citizens. Those policies range from coverage for wind-only damage from hurricanes and tropical storms to coverage for a multitude of perils.
Per the current proposal, more than 18,000 Monroe County homeowners and condominium owners, whose current average premiums cost roughly $5,000, would see a 16.6% bump in their rates. It’s the second highest increase in the state; 480 policyholders in Glades County
are facing an 18.1% hike in their rates.
While state law caps base rate hikes to 14%, Mel Montagne, the president of Fair Insurance Rates in Monroe (FIRM), said added fees and surcharges push the increase to about 16%.
“It’s very disappointing to see the upward spiral,” said Montagne, who continues to lobby state officials to institute a 10% rate increase cap for Monroe County. “We have major issues here with housing and all these guys can do is pump increases.”
CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
ONE-DAY FRAY
Locals react to lobster sport season extension
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
Floridians will have one extra day of “bughunting” in July with an expansion of the annual lobster mini-season – and it’s leaving several Keys locals and officials scratching their heads at the reasons for, and impacts of, the change.
Gov. Ron DeSantis announced at a June 19 press conference at Dockside Boot Key Harbor in Marathon that Sunday, July 14 will mark a one-day Floridians-only addition to the traditional lobster sport season, set for July 24 and 25 this year. The regular spiny lobster season begins Aug. 6 and runs through March 31 each year.
“I hope everybody is able to do that, and I hope they have fun with it,” DeSantis told a crowd of Keys leaders and dignitaries.
“This is an excellent opportunity for residents here in Florida and for locals here in the Florida Keys to enjoy their time with our resources, making those memories that will last lifetimes and generations,” said FWC executive director Roger Young.
A locals-only day to target the prized crustaceans follows a series of moves by the governor to give Florida residents greater access to the state’s resources at a reduced cost. Earlier this month, DeSantis announced that a toll relief program providing a 50% credit to frequent highway drivers has so far saved $42 million for more than 1.2 million SunPass users. In 2023, House Bill 109 allowed state residents to make reservations at Florida’s state parks an extra month in advance.
The one-day expansion of lobster mini-season will reportedly be made possible by an executive order from DeSantis. But the vast majority of Keys officials and business leaders told the Keys Weekly that they had learned of the extra day at the same time as, or just barely before, the public.
“None of us knew that was coming,” said FWC Capt. David Dipre.
Ordinarily, FWC law enforcement brings 20 additional officers to the Keys for increased patrols during mini-season week and the start of the regular season, with 10 extra officers coming down in the week prior to mini-season to head off poaching attempts.
That’s still the plan, Dipre said, but the first group will now head to the Keys before the expanded weekend.
“We are 100% behind our governor, and we’re going to make it work,” he added. “We don’t know what to expect, whether there will be thousands of people or just a couple thousand people. Mostly, we expect there will be more day trippers than people coming for an extended stay.”
A shot in the arm for tourism?
With the driving forces behind the extra day still unclear, popular theories among Keys residents suggested the increased tourist traffic could provide a boost to area businesses, hotels and vacation rentals during a “down week” of the summer, or
only extension of
that the Floridians-only designation would allow residents a prized “first shot” at lobster “honey holes” in the Gulf or Atlantic. But according to some vacation rental professionals, that’s not the case.
Of the 85 Middle and Lower Keys rental units managed by the team at American Coastal Vacation Rentals, agent Leslie Christensen said “maybe 10 to 15” were still available for the week of the new harvest day, consistent with other summer weeks. And of the crews booking for the traditional mini-season, “probably 95%” are already in-state rentals.
“I was really curious to see if this week was going to fill up really quickly, and it hasn’t,” she said. “I think with the timing this year, it doesn’t seem that it’s really going to make any difference for us. We’ve had maybe three bookings since it was announced.”
Keys Ocean Vacation Rentals’ Mallory Pinto said that of the 16 rentals she manages during mini-season week, five are booked with Florida renters, with another four filled with out-of-state groups. Seven rentals block off the week from renters entirely due to a higher likelihood of overcrowding and damage to the home, she said.
Consequences for the catch
In an island chain where increasing numbers of locals have soured on mini-season in recent years with ever-growing traffic and environmental concerns, those who directly depend on the lobster fishery for their livelihoods share the concern.
“We know from the existing two-day mini-season that some of the greatest environmental damage in the Keys takes place during that period, and this is only going to increase it even more,” said Bill Kelly, the recently-retired executive director of the Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen’s Association. “It could have a substantial impact on our commercial catches, but I think our biggest concern is the environmental impact.”
“I understand what the governor is trying to do, but we’re subject to pretty strict fisheries management plans, and all of the limitations we have are based on years of catches and research,” added commercial fisherman Jerome Young, who took over the FKCFA’s executive director reins from Kelly in January.
Young said that to his knowledge, the decision
on Sunday, July 14 with a new
for the extra day was made after minimal consultation with fisheries management professionals. He emphasized that his opinions weren’t a case of a clash between commercial and recreational lobstering, but a comment on a need for measured changes to the fishery.
“If we wanted to throw our traps in the water a week earlier, we’d have to go through the entire regulatory process,” he said. “I can assure you that biologists and fisheries management planners would be up in arms. … The reason we don’t throw our traps earlier in the month, and the reason we were pushed back into August, was because of egg-bearing females. Once you catch them, who knows what happens?”
Keys Weekly reached out to FWC Commissioner Rodney Barreto for a comment about the change on June 24, but as of presstime, had not received a response. Similarly, a public record request sent to FWC on June 24 sought documentation of the additional mini-season day. The agency confirmed receipt of the request, but replied in an automated email, “Due to an increased number of public records requests … you may experience a delay of a few weeks or more.”
Is the season ‘one and
done?’
As of press time, it is still unclear whether the 2024 mini-season expansion will continue in future years and if the date will remain fixed, as the full text of DeSantis’ executive order is not yet available. The Keys Weekly has submitted a request to the governor’s press office for clarification on these items.
“It will be really interesting to see how it shakes out next year,” said Christensen. “Will the die-hard mini-season people come for their regular dates, or is it going to be more of a priority to have ‘first pick’ on the opening mini-season day?”
Early indications are that rules for July 14 will mirror already-established mini-season regulations, including municipality-specific requirements. And while the Florida-residents-only restriction at first begged questions of enforcement, Dipre said routine stops on the water will look largely the same.
Knowing the rules for a legal harvest will be as important as ever
one-day Floridians-
lobster mini season. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
CRITICAL VOTE FOR CRUCIAL CARE
Islamorada council approves redevelopment of store into marine mammal ICU
Critical care pools such as the one pictured allow sick and injured dolphins and whales to be medically treated and provide a second chance at life. DPMMR/Contributed
JIM McCARTHY
jim@keysweekly.com
Anew intensive care unit in Islamorada will give injured dolphins and whales in the Florida Keys a fighting chance of survival without needing to be transported to SeaWorld or the Clearwater Aquarium.
Recently, Islamorada council members unanimously approved Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder’s request to redevelop the former Latitude 25 building at MM 82 into a critical care facility for dolphins needing immediate treatment. Known as the Protect Center, the hospital will house a 40-foot-diameter, 56,000-gallon pool to facilitate long-term rehabilitation of marine mammals, specifically dolphins and whales.
DPMMR is the only federallylicensed response unit for injured dolphins and whales. DPMMR covers the seas between Ocean Reef and the Dry Tortugas, and all the way to the Everglades National Park. The team has responded to more than 700 marine mammals.
For years, the team had no choice but to transport the sick marine mammals out of the Keys for care or humanely euthanize in cases when no rehab facilities had space. A new hospital in Islamorada will provide the immediate care necessary to keep the marine mammals alive.
Art Cooper, DPMMR founder and primary responder, said the hospital’s goal is rehabbing and releasing healthy marine mammals into the ocean. DPMMR works with the National Marine Fisheries Services in determining whether the marine mammal needs extended care at a facility outside the Keys.
“The goal is to get injured animals well as quickly as possible,” Cooper said. “The idea isn’t to keep them in the pool for too long. The longer we have them in the pool the more time the pool is shut down for critical care.”
Cooper added the facility won’t house injured manatees, as the rescue and recovery efforts are led by Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission. Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters, located in Marathon, serves as a manatee rehabilitation facility.
Per a list of conditions outlined in the approved resolution, about 10,500 square feet of space will be redeveloped into a critical care facility for marine mammals. In addition to the above-ground pool, the hospital will contain a salt water well and sleeping quarters for 24-hour surveillance and treatment of sick marine mammals. Cooper said the marine mammal rehabilitation will not be on public display. The Protect Center has a retail space and an area dedicated to educational programming.
Per village procedure, notices were mailed to adjacent property owners informing them of the project. The village received no letter of objections from nearby neighbors.
Councilman Henry Rosenthal, who later voted yes on the proposal, said he wasn’t sure the facility would fit on the property.
“I’m surprised you’re looking at that property for your objectives, truthfully,” he said.
Responding to Rosenthal, Cooper acknowledged it’s the only property they have at their disposal to conduct critical rehabilitative work.
“The most difficult thing for us to do is respond to the animal, pick it up and stabilize and call another facility and hear there’s no pool space available,” he said.
Before voting in favor of the proposal, Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney said the facility is much needed to save the lives of animals.
“I don’t think people realize when you’re in a triage situation you have to do what you have to do to save the animal,” said Mahoney, who’s worked to stabilize the vulnerable cat population through spaying and neutering.
CITIZENS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4
“While Citizens is statutorily required to increase its rates, and I understand the importance of the corporation being actuarially sound, my goal during the hearing is to ensure that all options were considered to have the least impact on policyholders.”
- Tasha Carter, Florida insurance advocate
Tasha Carter, Florida’s insurance consumer advocate, is planning to participate in OIR’s public hearing on the rate proposals to determine how it affects policyholders throughout the state and the Keys. Created by the Florida Legislature in 1992, the insurance consumer advocate actively engages with consumers and works with stakeholders to find consumer-focused solutions on all insurance matters.
“While Citizens is statutorily required to increase its rates, and I understand the importance of the corporation being actuarily sound, my goal during the hearing is to ensure that all options were considered to have the least impact on policyholders,” Carter said in a statement to Keys Weekly.
Considered an insurer of last resort, Citizens Insurance provides coverage to property owners who are in good faith and can’t obtain a policy through the private market. Citizens Insurance is required by law to charge rates sufficient enough to fund liabilities, all while complying with the glide path which caps rate increases at 14% in 2025.
Officials with Citizens Insurance say Citizens’ premium rates remain “well below” other private insurance companies providing coverage.
“Eighteen companies are actively writing policies in Florida,” said Brian Donovan, chief actuary for Citizens.
Citizens Insurance officials say the insurance market continues to improve due in part to the state Legislature’s approval of Senate Bill 2-A in 2022. Taking effect in June 2023, the legislation eliminated assignment of benefits under residential or commercial property insurance policies. Litigation costs also were addressed through the removal of one-way attorney fees.
On top of that, Citizens chief financial officer Jennifer Montero
said roughly 360,000 policyholders were moved to other private market insurance companies. It’s due to the state’s efforts to move policyholders away from Citizens when a private insurer offers them a premium that’s within 20% of their Citizens premium.
Tim Cerio, Citizens CEO, said policies could be below a million before the end of the year.
“That’s all because of the success of the reforms,” Cerio said.
Rate hikes, however, are straining many single-family homes and renters who continue to see their rents rise by the year. During the 2021 legislative session, state legislators approved a glidepath which capped annual rate increases for the ensuing five years. By 2026, rates can increase as high as 15%.
Those who renewed their policies with Citizens in 2024 were forced to pull more money out of their accounts, following the state Office of Insurance’s approval last December of a 10.7% increase on wind-only policies for primary homes. Condo owners with a wind-only policy had a 5% to 14.9% increase in their rates.
Citizens Insurance was initially seeking a higher average rate hike until Florida Insurance Commissioner Michael Yaworksy directed Citizens to calculate new, reduced rate increases across the state.
More dollars could be coming out of the pockets of policyholders if OIR approves Citizens’ request later this year. Montagne said Citizens’ rate calculations fail to reflect Monroe County’s rigorous building standards.
The board’s approval could also see non-primary residences facing increases as high as 50%. Secondary homeowners aren’t subject to a glidepath, meaning their rate hikes could go beyond 14% when they renew in 2025.
KEY LARGO WASTEWATER TREATMENT DISTRICT
JULY 2024 MEETINGS
Tuesday, July 16, 4 p.m.
The full agenda is available at www.klwtd.com or scan here
To provide public comment prior to the meeting, send an email to clerk@klwtd.com. The Mission of the Key Largo Wastewater Treatment District is to preserve and protect the delicate ecosystem of the Florida
Your support has made a world of difference.The community raised money to support Julian Garcia and his family during this challenging time. Your generosity will help provide necessary support and bring hope and comfort to Julian and his loved ones.
We couldn't have achieved this without your kindness and contributions. Thank you for coming together and making a positive impact.
If you would like to donate to the Julian Garcia fundraiser, please scan the QR code.
‘THE
U’ AT THE OCEAN VIEW
Sports Hall of Fame’s celebrity fish tournament returns to Keys
Islamorada’s Ocean View Inn & Sports Bar welcomed a large contingent of Miami Hurricane fans for a welcome party and meet-and-greet with some UM Sports Hall of Famers on June 20. For the first time in several years, the University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame & Museum’s Celebrity Fishing Tournament returned to the Keys after a stint on mainland Florida. The party was hosted by Gary Dunn, Ocean View Inn owner, UM Sports Hall of Famer and two-time Super Bowl champion with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Fans and members of the public had the chance to meet some sports greats, including Jimmy Johnson, Spencer “Doc” Kellogg, K.C. Jones, J.D. Arteaga and Randal Hill. The fishing began June 22. The Coastal Ink Printing Team of anglers Tyler Webb, Kendra Paulson of Tavernier, Emalee Taylor of Clearwater and Alissa Keiler weighed in three fish totaling 52.4 pounds to secure the tournament win and a $7,000 check.
1. Attendees get a picture with the Hurricanes’ mascot. Second from left is John Routh, executive director for the UM Sports Hall of Fame & Museum. 2. Gary Dunn, former University of Miami and NFL football player and owner of the Ocean View Inn and Sports Pub, hosts a meet and greet for the UM Sports Hall of Fame & Museum Celebrity Fishing Tournament. 3. Lee Young, legislative aide to Jim Mooney, and Cindy Webb pose with Sebastian the Ibis. 4. Sisters Hannah, 22, at left, and Rachel Furshman, 21, of Hollywood, pose Sebastian the Ibis. 5. Rhonda Johnson, wife of former University of Miami head football coach Jimmy Johnson, listens to her husband speak. 6. Former University of Miami head football coach Jimmy Johnson points to his wife Rhonda, not pictured, while acknowledging her support. DOUG FINGER. Visit keysweekly.com for a full gallery.
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Julian Garcia says he’s ‘blown away’ by the support
COMMUNITY BACKS INJURED DEPUTY WITH A BIG BENEFIT
Crowds of local community members, dignitaries and business leaders packed Islander Resort on June 23 to support injured sheriff’s deputy Julian Garcia. From auctions and fun games to food trucks and a car show, the benefit was one to remember for Garcia, his family and the community.
Islamorada Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney, the event organizer, said the benefit wouldn’t have been possible without support from local businesses, organizations and residents who stepped forward to donate or volunteer.
“It’s one of the best events I’ve ever organized,” she said. “Every time I picked up the phone and needed something, the community was there.”
Garcia wasn’t sure how he was going to react as he arrived at the benefit in Islamorada. It was his first time being in a large crowd since he was injured during a traffic stop in Islamorada on the evening of April 9. Following several surgeries, the decision was made to amputate his left leg from the knee down. He’s now on the path to recovery and working with a prosthetic leg.
Despite all Garcia’s been through, his spirits remain high and his outlook on the future is positive. Garcia said it’s all due to the support he’s received, from his immediate family, his colleagues in the sheriff’s office and the Keys community.
Garcia told Keys Weekly he was blown away by the event supporting him.
“Having the chance to meet new people and receiving all the prayers and well wishes for me to get better was amazing,” Garcia said. “What they did, from the organizers and volunteers to those who took time Sunday to come out and have a good time, it was amazing.”
Garcia said he’d love to get back into the fold as a sheriff’s deputy. “This is a career I chose and something I’ll never give up on. I want to be out there with my partners and law enforcement family.”
The event concluded at 6 p.m. Mahoney said she was leaving with some boxes around 7:30 p.m. She peered out toward the ocean to find Garcia and his girlfriend still there. They were together looking out at the water. Mahoney said she couldn’t believe he was still there, to which he said, “I don’t ever want to leave. This was the best day of my life.”
“I was so touched and blessed to be part of this community benefit,” Mahoney said.
1. Monroe County sheriff’s deputy Julian Garcia with family members. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
Donations are still flowing into an account for Garcia established by Mahoney. Those wishing to support Garcia can mail a check to P.O. Box 650, Islamorada, 33036. People can also donate to Garcia via GoFundMe by scanning the QR code here.
2. From left, Capt. Derek Paul, Lt. Charlene Sprinkle and her son, “Little Mark,” and Capt. Spenser Bryan with daughter, Emma.
3. Sheriff’s Col. Lou Caputo enters a wooden jail constructed with help from Native Construction. Sheriff Rick Ramsay was spotted bailing Caputo out with a monetary donation to Garcia’s cause.
4. Artist Wyland, center, auctions off an original painting, held by emcee Capt. Skip Bradeen.
SWIM WARNINGS ISSUED AT KEYS BEACHES
Bacteria presence sparks health department advisories
Founders Park is under a swim advisory due to high levels of bacteria in the nearshore waters. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly
Several Florida Keys beaches are under swim warnings due to the high presence of bacteria in the nearshore waters.
On June 20, the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County said beach water quality testing performed at beaches and parks found elevated levels of enteric bacteria (enterococci) in the nearshore waters at six locations. They include Founders Park Beach in Islamorada, Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Bahia Honda oceanside beach, as well as Higgs, Smathers and South beaches in Key West.
“The presence of enteric bacteria is an indication of fecal pollution, which may come from stormwater runoff, pets, wildlife and human sewage,” states a press release from the health department. “These bacteria may cause human disease, infections or rashes.”
The health department continues to advise the public to avoid swimming or practicing other waterrelated activities in the nearshore waters at these locations until bacteriological results show the water is safe for recreating. High concentrations of bacteria in waters could cause swimmers to have rashes and infections.
The U.S. EPA’s recommended standards classify water containing 0-35 enterococcus bacteria per 100 milliliters of water as “good,” 36-70 as “moderate” and 71 or greater as “poor.” Though a “poor” water quality test may not close a beach, the department issues an advisory for potential health risks in areas with water in the “poor” range.
Per the beach monitoring report, high levels of enterococcus were
Marathon’s Sombrero Beach had elevated bacteria levels in its nearshore waters, per a June 20 water quality monitoring report.
KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO
The nearshore waters at Key West’s Higgs Beach had high levels of bacteria, per a recent water quality report by the health department. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly
found at Higgs Beach, 659, and South Beach, 483. Poor water quality was also reported at Bahia Honda oceanside, 124, Smathers Beach, 99, Sombrero Beach, 87, and Founders Park, 75. While no advisories were issued, water quality was deemed “moderate” at Harry Harris Park, 42, and Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, 53. Bahia Honda bayside beach, 1, and John Pennekamp State Park, 31, had relatively low levels of enterococcus and water quality deemed “good.” Anne’s Beach in Islamorada wasn’t tested at the time of publication.
— Keys Weekly staff report
Ben Daughtry, CEO of Marathon’s Aquarium Encounters and newly elected chair of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council, brings four years of experience as vice chair to his new role.
DAUGHTRY TO LEAD SANCTUARY ADVISORY COUNCIL
The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council elected a new chair and vice chair at its June 18 meeting in Marathon while also welcoming five new members. Ben Daughtry, CEO of Marathon’s Aquarium Encounters, was elected chair of the council after serving the last four years as vice chair. Daughtry is a voting member of the council in the conservation and environment seat.
“I admire how active Ben Daughtry is in the community,” said sanctuary superintendent Sarah Fangman. “Whatever he gets involved with, he’s willing to step up and make a difference.”
The gavel was passed to Daughtry by Marathon City Manager George Garrett, who served as chair for the last four years. “I’ve known and worked with George well before in this position and consider him a friend,” said Fangman. “I admire him greatly, and I am pleased he will continue in his new council role as representative of the City of Marathon.”
Erinn Muller, associate vice president of research for Mote Marine Laboratory, was elected vice chair. Muller sits on the council in the research and monitoring seat.
The council represents a variety of user groups, serving as a liaison between the sanctuary and the community and also advising the superintendent.
New members on the council include:
Citizen at large
Middle Keys:
Kelly McKinnon, executive director, Pigeon Key Foundation
Lower Keys alternate: Kim Roney, owner, Captain Hook's Marina and Dive Center
Fishing
Charter flats: Richard Black, flats captain
KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO
AAA: Gas prices on the rise
Florida gas prices have rebounded after sinking to multimonth lows. The state average rose 15 cents last week, then declined two pennies over the weekend.
On June 23, the state average was $3.35 per gallon. That’s 10 cents more than a week ago. The price hike ended a 26-day streak of declines, which delivered a 33 cent discount.
“Oil and gasoline futures prices rose the past two consecutive weeks, which raised the cost of producing gasoline,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman at AAA, the Auto Club Group. “Future prices reportedly increased on data that fuel demand is outpacing fuel inventories. Price fluctuations like this are very common during the summer travel season.”
Fleeing driver arrested after crash
A 19-year-old Boca Raton man was arrested June 23 for hit-and-run and multiple other charges after fleeing from the sheriff’s deputies on U.S. 1 in the Upper Keys, police said.
Maxwell Daniel Burgan was charged with DUI, DUI causing property damage, fleeing-and-eluding, reckless driving, leaving the scene of a crash and possession of a fake ID.
Burgan was seen speeding through a construction zone in a Chevrolet pickup truck northbound near MM 84 at 12:21 a.m. Burgan fled from deputies while continuing to speed — driving recklessly in wrong lanes and swerving through traffic. He struck another vehicle but did not stop.
The pickup truck’s tires were successfully spiked near MM 89, but Burgan did not stop and continued driving on two rims. Burgan continued to drive recklessly through a construction zone at MM 97 to 99. The pickup truck’s remaining two tires were successfully spiked near MM 99, whereupon Burgan crashed into two separate vehicles as well as trees in a median before coming to a stop. None of the other drivers or passengers suffered serious injuries. Burgan was taken to Mariners Hospital prior to jail for injuries to his arm.
Burgan admitted to drinking prior to the incident and fleeing from officers.
Man arrested for drugs
A 43-year-old Key Largo man was arrested for cocaine and mari-
juana possession on June 20 following a traffic stop on U.S. 1, police said.
Adrian Luis Demblans was charged with possessing 0.5 grams of cocaine, 0.5 grams of marijuana, and drug paraphernalia, as well as operating an unregistered motor vehicle.
The sheriff’s office stopped a GMC Yukon, driven by Demblans, at 10:46 p.m. near MM 100, due to the registration not being assigned to that vehicle. Cocaine-related paraphernalia was observed in clear view as the sheriff’s office attempted to identify the vehicle’s VIN number, which had been covered. The drugs were found in a subsequent search.
Demblans was released from a Florida prison in 2023 after serving about eight years for his role in the 2015 murders of Tara Rosado, 26, and Carlos Ortiz, 30, in Tavernier.
Man arrested following scam investigation
A 29-year-old Miramar, Florida man was arrested on June 20 as part of a fraud investigation following a traffic stop in which fake credit cards, IDs, phones, computers and the personal information of others were found, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.
Jackie Webster faces multiple charges of fraud, forgery, larceny and counterfeiting.
The sheriff’s office stopped a Volkswagen sedan in September 2023 in which Webster was a passenger. The car was unregistered and the tag was not assigned to the vehicle. A search turned up numerous fake credit cards and IDs as well as a printer used to create fake cards. Also found were phones, tablets and computers, including one computer labeled “scams.”
Webster was also in possession of hundreds of sets of personal identification information such as names, social security numbers, dates of birth, addresses, bank account numbers and bank log-in numbers.
A warrant was obtained for Webster’s arrest and he was booked into jail on June 20.
Suspected drugs found
A person removing trash at a beach near MM 92 on the oceanside in Key Largo located a single brick of suspected cocaine at about 10:10 a.m. June 19.
The suspected narcotics were turned over to the U.S. Border Patrol.
NFL PLAYER ARRESTED FOR DUI AFTER CRASH IN KEY WEST
A drunk driver crashed an SUV into the Red Shoe Island Bistro, 411 Petronia St., on June 19, Key West police said. JEAN THORNTON/Contributed
Red Shoe Island Bistro reopened in short order
GWEN FILOSA
gwen@keysweekly.com
A23-year-old NFL player was arrested June 19 for driving under the influence after Key West police said he crashed an SUV into the Red Shoe Island Bistro, 411 Petronia St.
Lonnie Phelps Jr., of Cincinnati, who at the time was a defensive end for the Cleveland Browns, was booked into the county jail on Stock Island, where he spent the night.
No injuries were reported in the crash that happened at about 9:20 p.m. The restaurant was closed at the time, with the owners having planned to reopen Friday.
“It could’ve been really bad,” states the restaurant’s Facebook page. “Angels were looking out for us all.”
The Bistro indeed reopened within days, after first posting a video that showed the restaurant’s dining room left in tatters by the SUV’s impact.
But on the night of June 19, the restaurant drew a large police and fire rescue presence as well as a crowd of onlookers who were stunned by the damage.
After the black Hyundai SUV with Florida plates crashed into the building, Phelps and a woman got out of the vehicle and began arguing in the street, witnesses told police.
“He said it happened and asked what does he have to pay for,” the police report states.
While talking to Phelps, police observed he had “glassy, watery blood-shot eyes, droopy eyelids and a strong odor of alcohol coming from his breath. Phelps was slurring his words and leaning on the fence. Phelps turned around and placed his hands behind his back (without being asked to do so), stumbled and almost fell over,” the report states.
Officers described Phelps as uncooperative, talking over them and shouting at times. He agreed to the field sobriety exercises, but when he wouldn’t follow through with instructions, police stopped the exercises and arrested him.
Phelps faces a misdemeanor charge of DUI with property damage. He was very talkative on the ride to jail, police said.
“Phelps talked about how thirsty he was, how he did not know what I was going to do to him because females are the worst, asked me not to kill him, asked me how long it takes to bail out, how long I was the detective and informed me I was Russian,” Officer Andrea Bernatova wrote in the report. “Phelps complained about the handcuffs and took his seatbelt off.”
At the jail, Phelps refused a breathalyzer test as police brought him to the breath test operator room.
“Phelps requested to go to the bathroom,” an officer wrote in the report. “I explained to Phelps again that he can use the bathroom after the breath test part is over and Phelps insisted, he had to go now. Phelps said, ‘I’m peeing, bro,’ and he did. Phelps urinated while seated on a chair in the (breath test room).”
Phelps was released from jail the following afternoon. The bond amount was listed as zero on the MCSO website. He has a court date set for 9 a.m. on July 2 before Monroe County Judge Albert Kelley.
Phelps, who had been on the Browns’ practice team wearing a No. 63 jersey, was dropped by the NFL team hours after his arrest made headlines on June 20.
Phelps first signed with the Browns as an undrafted free agent in May 2023 and spent the entire season on the team’s practice squad, the Browns said on their website.
“The Cleveland Browns have waived DE Lonnie Phelps,” the team posted on Facebook without explanation.
SOCIAL NETWORKING LUNCHEON
Thursday, July 11, 11:45 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
BAKER’S CAY 97000 OVERSEAS HWY. PRESENTATION
The Future of ROGO and BPAs in Monroe County by Kimberly Ma hews, Senior Director of Strategic Planning
MEMBERS IN MOTION
Thursday, July 25, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Event proceeds go to United Way of Collier & The Keys for their Dolly Parton Imagination Library, a program providing a free book to any Monroe County child each month from their birth until age 5.
CO-HOSTED BY FIRST HORIZON AND FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
91980 Overseas Hwy., Tavernier
RSVP ONLINE FOR ALL EVENTS OR CALL
WHY JOIN THE KEY LARGO CHAMBER?
Joining the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce is an outstanding way to be part of the community and grow your network.
FOURTH FESTIVITIES
Just remember, you get out what you put in, so participate in events, network, and raise your voice for the community!
CONTACT THE CHAMBER TODAY FOR MORE DETAILS!
LEGENDARY KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & FLORIDA KEYS VISITOR CENTER
Parade & fireworks displays highlight celebration of freedom
ZACK WOLTANSKI www.keysweekly.com
Bayside and oceanside skies will light up across the Upper Keys for this year’s Fourth of July celebration next Thursday. Throughout the day and into the weekend, a wide array of festivities will be open to the public, from beach parties to patriotic parades, in celebration of our nation’s 248th year of independence.
Parade in Key Largo
Beginning at 10 a.m., Key Largo will hold its 48th annual Independence Day parade. With a route running from Anthony’s Clothing Store to Laguna Avenue near Key Largo Community Park, the event offers a morning of patriotic colors and decorated floats to kick off the July Fourth festivities. The parade is presented by Key West International Airport; Key Largo School principal Darren Pais will be the parade marshal. The theme is “Freedom” and floats will be awarded prizes in several categories. Signup for volunteers and float entrants is available at the Key Largo Chamber website.
Fireworks at Rowell’s Park
In the evening, Key Largo’s festivities will continue at Rowell’s
Waterfront Park, with live music, activities and games, and food and beverage tents. The Rowell’s celebration starts at 5 p.m., with its annual Blackwater Sound fireworks show at 9:15. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets. Tickets are also available for a “VIP Tent,” including food and drinks, for adults 21 and older with a $50 admission. Free parking with a shuttle service is available at Key Largo School.
Festivities at Founders Park
The Upper Keys Rotary Club and the Village of Islamorada will co-host a celebration from 6 to 10 p.m. at Founders Park. The event will include food and drink vendors, live music, and face painting, as well as a Puppy Parade beginning at 7:30 p.m., as well as fireworks. Attendance is free with a $10 donation for parking, and attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets.
Hog Heaven celebration
Hog Heaven Sport Bar and Grill presents its 20th annual Fourth of July party and fireworks display on Saturday, July 6. The event will feature music by Jason Aldean tribute band “Wide Open” and views of fireworks over the Atlantic Ocean.
KEYS COMEDY SHOW WILL BE A ‘HOOT’
Joint fundraiser benefits birds & foxes
REEF
THE FOX
Reef is a red fox that was saved from a fur farm. He now lives in Key Largo with his human, Nicole Navarro.
Hi friends!
Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.”
I have some exciting news to share. Our friends at the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center and Pawsitive Beginnings are hosting a joint fundraiser on Aug. 2 at the Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo.
This fundraiser is going to be a hoot (pun intended) as Gwen Filosa hosts a comedy night that is sure to leave your cheeks hurting from laughter. This is a 21-and-older show due to adult content.
There will be a cash bar, raffle items and just plain old fun. Tickets are $35 for general admission
and $50 for a charitable ticket that includes one drink and five raffle tickets. Make sure to get your tickets soon, as there are only 250 seats available for this event. You can head to our website at pawsitivebeginnings.org and wait for the pop-up window, then click the link to purchase tickets.
Our friends at the Barker Shop grooming have a new groomer on hand. The owner, Cesar, groomed Jasper years ago when he first arrived at Pawsitive Beginnings. It was quite the sight, mom said, to see Jasper getting a bath in the front yard and a hair trim in the dining room. This new groomer’s name is Williams and he is a graduate of Merryfield School of Pet Grooming. If I thought I could behave during a nail trim, I would have mom take me in to meet him, but let’s face it: I am not well-behaved, ever. Even when I’m sleeping, I’m dreaming of causing chaos. But if any of your domestic pets need a groom, check out the Barker Shop.
Anywho, that’s all for this week. Until next time, Reef, over and out!
UPPER KEYS ROTARY SUPPORTS INJURED DEPUTY
The Upper Keys Rotary Foundation was one of several organizations donating to Monroe County Sheriff’s deputy Julian Garcia’s benefit fund. On June 23, Frank Derfler, Rotary past president, presented Garcia with a check with sheriff’s Lt. Charlene Sprinkle and Anna Richards, current Rotary president. CONTRIBUTED
SAVE THE DATE
Friday, June 28
• Marine science learning at the Key Largo library with MarineLab, 2:30 to 4 p.m., with recommended ages of 6-11.
• Create a “River of Bonnets” with artist Brittany Parker at Jellyfish Daydreams, beginning at 6 p.m. Supplies are included and registration is $45.
Saturday, June 29
• Summer Saturdays volunteering with Habitat for Humanity at the Gardenia Project, with shifts from 9 a.m. to noon or noon to 3 p.m. Sign up at habitatupperkeys.org.
Tuesday, July 2
• Video Game Club meeting at the Key Largo library, beginning at 4 p.m.
Wednesday, July 3
• “Plant Clinic,” plant identification and gardening help with master gardener volunteers, 9 to 12 p.m. at the Key Largo library.
• MarrVelous Pet Rescues’ “Pack Walk,” pet training event with behaviorist Franco Sicheri, beginning 6 p.m. at the Rescue House.
Thursday, July 4
• Key Largo’s 48th annual Fourth of July parade, 9:45 to 11:45 a.m., beginning at Anthony’s Clothing store.
• Fourth of July celebration at Founders Park, 6 to 10 p.m., with a $10 parking donation.
• Fourth of July fireworks “VIP Experience” at Rowell’s Waterfront Park, including drinks and entertainment, with offsite parking at Key Largo School. The VIP tent is exclusively for adults 21 and older, and admission is $50.
• Watch the Fourth of July fireworks at Mote Marine Laboratory’s Key Largo coral nursery, located behind the Reef House Resort Conference Center. The nursery opens at 8 p.m. and the fireworks will begin at 9:15 p.m. Walk-in admission is $5 per person and $50 per vehicle.
Saturday, July 6
• Summer Saturdays volunteering with Habitat for Humanity at the Gardenia Project, with shifts from 9 a.m. to noon or noon to 3 p.m. Sign up at habitatupperkeys.org.
Monday, July 8
• Summer adventure camp for young writers, ages 8-12, begins at the College of the Florida Keys.
• Alzheimer’s Association Care Support Group, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Key Largo library.
• Free Marketing 101 workshop with local business consultants, 6 to 7 p.m. at the Key Largo library.
Key West comedian Gwen Filosa will take the microphone for a comedy night fundraiser on Aug. 2 at the Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo. CONTRIBUTED
BLIND BIRTHDAYSFAITH,& HURRICANE HAM
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.
The only way I could have arrived in Florida the way I did and accomplished what I have so far is blind faith. The thing about trusting something, a feeling, is that you can’t know the direction it might lead. For those who believe, faith, blind or otherwise, goes where it has to go, and you trust that if there is worse, it is for the better.
Most of the time, I just put one foot in front of the other and move forward. However, when it comes time for the birthday clock to ring, I tend to become reflective and question things. I don’t usually think about getting older and where I am in my life versus where I think I should be. Birthdays are historically tricky and dredge up ideas that do not usually grow in the fields I tend to cultivate. That kind of thinking generally produces a particular type of fertilizer, which I find no benefit in spreading.
Through my 30s and 40s, it seemed like I was taking my birthdays in stride. As the numbers have grown, I have stumbled a bit at the annual June marker. More and more, this time of year, I get pensive, which influences my work and is at least one of the reasons I have been inserting more of myself into the column. It does not help that I started writing about the chain of
events that brought me to Florida, landed me on Captiva Island, and led me to the Florida Keys for my new Patreon page. On that platform, I share history, sneak peeks into future projects, write about my trek to South Florida, and my as-yetunfinished novel, “Wrestling Alligators.”
I’ll be 60 this time next year, and I hope that there is no tripping when it happens. I am certain that the 60s will be a banner decade, and if not, on my 70th birthday, I will have a banner made that says something like “Sayonara 60s.” In the meantime, there is still some last-minute business to take care of before blowing out the ceremonious candle marking the end of my 50s (11 months, one week, and counting).
A great deal can happen in a year. The evidence has been mounting since I left Southern California in 1989 and landed in the Sunshine State. Putting one foot in front of the other and trusting I was headed in the right direction has been a faithful act. Looking back, I have a solid track record of forward progress. As they always do, even the blips have provided excellent learning experiences and only one or two regrets.
Leaving everything I knew and coming to Florida with nothing was a giant leap. Hitchhiking out to Captiva Island was a big leap. Borrowing a little extra on my student loans and moving to Plantation Key after graduating from the University of Miami was a leap. Marrying Michelle was a no-brainer, as was buying our little house when the market crashed.
The trip has led to some interesting destinations, and all these decades later, I still feel like I’m just getting started.
It is time to shake off the birthday blues
and see what attractions are waiting to pop up a little farther down the line. Unfortunately, my birthday coincides with the opening week of hurricane season, so other things come to mind at this time of year, too. One of the things I was not expecting to learn about was the idea of hurricane ham.
Because of my affinity for local history, I am not infrequently contacted regarding questions about historical topics via email, phone calls, texts and direct messages through social media platforms. Recently, I was asked to review a novel set in the Keys in general and Indian Key in particular. While reading the story, I came across the term “hurricane ham,” which I did not recognize. I ignored the phrase the first time I read it. The second time the writer mentioned it, my eyebrows furrowed. Just because I had never heard of it didn’t mean it wasn’t a real thing, right?
Hurricane ham was once part of hurricane preparedness in the islands, at least in the Bahamas. Hurricane ham is cured conch. To prepare for hurricane season, Bahamians (and Conchs?) would gather a bunch of conchs, remove their shells, tenderize the snails, soak them in salt water and let them dry in the sun for two or three weeks. Should a storm develop and island residents become unable to gather fresh food, they had salted, dried conch to chew on.
While I could not find any references to the term relating to the Keys, I am hoping that after reading this, the old Conchs will reach out, share their hurricane ham stories and set me straight. Also, to answer the lingering question, it is called hurricane ham because they say the conch turns pink when it is cured.
Conch shells in Key West. BRAD BERTELLI/Contributed
A WATERCOLOR LEGEND
Artist Millard Wells’ works captivated the Keys
WILLIAM DEPAULA
is an artist, designer and gemologist who believes in the power of art.
One of the greatest artists to live and paint in the Florida Keys was Millard Wells. Wells was a great painter in all mediums, but was among giants when it came to his watercolor paintings.
He was an accomplished member of the American Watercolor Society and the founder of the Florida Watercolor Society. Besides his many artistic achievements, Wells, an avid fisherman, loved the Keys community. Wells passed away in 2012.
When my first child was old enough, I took him to the Indian Key Festival, and it was there I first met Wells. He was at the dock with his trademark glasses, a white button-up sporting shirt and a handkerchief tied stylishly around his neck.
By the time I met Wells he’d already made a name for himself as an Upper Keys painting legend. He was full of energy, spoke to me about life and gave me advice about art. He had an old-world type of personality and he helped a lot of artists who would come into his circle. He painted in a plein air style and held watercolor classes to teach his award-winning style to anyone who wanted to learn.
In 1966, Wells was invited by a friend to come down to the Keys. It was the first time he encountered the lovely islands. After the visit, Wells grew tired of the cold Chicago winters and moved down to the Keys in 1968. He fell in love with the Keys, the natural wild beauty and the colorful characters who inhabit the islands.
the American Watercolor Society, Wells passed away in 2012.
His artwork captures the iconography of the community, from the Key West-style architecture to the old pioneer houses in the Upper Keys. He painted Keys locals and their occupations – shrimpers, fishermen and cigar makers. He celebrated the Keys culture by painting tarpon, bonefish and sailfish. His watercolors let viewers know what it felt like to live in a wild landscape with overgrown trees,
REEL RECS
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “Summertime” (1955) Why: Can’t take that luxurious summer vacation you wanted? Let Katharine Hepburn take it for you, and in Venice, no less. Under the direction of David Lean, this film is a true love letter to the city, beautifully showcasing its architecture and sun-drenched atmosphere in glorious technicolor. It’s not just a travelogue, however, as it also offers an effective examination of loneliness and the midlife crisis. If that may sound daunting and depressing, don’t worry. There’s plenty of humor milked out of the fish-out-of-water trope, not to mention a steamy romance at its center with Rossano Brazzi.
Where: This film is available on Kanopy, the library’s streaming app.
clear waters and spoonbills or herons passing by.
Wells’ paintings often carry deeper thought beneath their beautiful veneers, and many of his paintings are based on his studies of Keys history. If you get a chance, take the time to look at his paintings — there are still many of them displayed throughout the Keys. Wells left a tremendous legacy in his portrayals of island life.
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.
