ELITE DANCERS ON THE NATIONAL STAGE On Your Toes team puts on successful performance | P. 6
STORM & SUPPORT Islamorada community picks up after a rare microburst | P. 4 THE HEAT IS ON Coral community prepares amid warming water temperatures | P. 12
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23M
According to the Associated Press, Florida’s population has surpassed 23 million residents for the first time. The state Demographic Estimating Conference said the state had 23,002,597 residents — the third-most populous state in the U.S.
Coral Shores senior and On Your Toes dancer Brookelyn Zlockie received recognition as NRG’s 2024 National Prodigy. Read more on page 6. CONTRIBUTED
MICROBURST, NOT TORNADO, RIPS THROUGH ISLAMORADA COMMUNITY
Members of
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
One would have concluded a tornado touched down around MM 89 by the sound of the wind and view of the destruction left in and around the Indian Mound community in Islamorada.
The surprising sequence of events occurred during the late night hours of July 21, when residents in the neighborhood, located on Plantation Key, were awakened to the sounds of wicked winds and a strong downpour around 11 p.m. on Sunday. When the storm passed, residents opened their doors to see all sorts of destruction. Large limbs were down, power lines dangled and garbage cans, mailboxes, outdoor furniture and other debris lined the street. A trampoline was sent into the trees.
Power was cut to hundreds of residents for several hours until it was restored by Florida Keys Electric Cooperative crews during the early hours of Monday morning.
Jon Rizzo, warning coordination meteorologist with the National Weather Service out of Key West, said the activity wasn’t a tornado as many initially thought. Rizzo said damage assessments suggest it was a wet microburst, or a localized column of sinking air within a thunderstorm roughly 2.5 miles in diameter. Wind from microbursts can reach 100 mph or higher — equivalent to an EF-1 tornado.
From the damage he’s seen from Iroquois, Sioux and Navajo streets via photographs and videos, Rizzo said the winds within the microburst ranged anywhere between 60 and 85 mph.
“These events are rare in the Florida Keys, but not unprecedented,” Rizzo told Keys Weekly. “There wasn’t an impact to the whole length of Plantation Key. It was generally over an
A microburst event on the night of July 21 damaged this Sioux Street residence. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
Crews and neighbors respond to a downed tree at a Sioux Street residence on July 22, after a microburst event the night before ripped through the Islamorada community of Indian Mound. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
INSURANCE RATE HIKE HEADS TO A HEARING
Keys advocacy group to oppose proposed increases
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Officials with Citizens Property Insurance Corporation will outline what they say is the need for a double-digit rate hike on policyholders in the Florida Keys and across the state who renew their coverage in 2025, during an upcoming public hearing in Tallahassee.
On the other side, representatives with Fair Insurance Rates in Monroe, or FIRM, plan to attend the hearing on Thursday, Aug. 1 at the state capital’s Knott Building to push back against the hike.
“Citizens is not just the insurer of last resort for Monroe County, it is in most cases our only option,” reads a letter by FIRM.
State insurance regulators recently announced the hearing for Citizens’ rate filings, which detail average increases of 14% for personal lines policies for homeowners, condo unit owners, dwellings and mobile homes. The nine-member Citizens board of governors unanimously approved the rate hikes during a June 19 meeting.
Once the public hearing concludes next month, the state Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) will decide whether to approve or deny Citizens’ request. If the request is granted, the new rates would take effect when people renew their policies in 2025.
Roughly 20,000 homes, duplexes, condo units and commercial properties in the Keys are covered through Citizens for storm damage. Those policies vary in coverage, for wind-only damage from hurricanes and tropical storms to coverage for various perils.
Per Citizens’ latest rate filings, wind-only homeowner policies could see an average increase of 16.6%. State law caps base rate hikes for primary owners to 14%. There’s no cap on secondary homeowners, however, meaning their rate hikes could be higher — upward of 50% excluding coverage changes and surcharges.
Wind-only coverage for condominium unit owners in Monroe County would increase by 20.9%.
Mel Montagne, FIRM president, will be attending a public hearing on Thursday, Aug. 1 in Tallahassee to oppose Citizens Property Insurance Corporation’s proposed rate hikes on Monroe County policyholders. CONTRIBUTED
Condominiums are treated the same as commercial policies and have a higher rate cap.
Mel Montagne, FIRM president, will be joined at the Aug. 1 public hearing by FIRM vice president Joe Walsh. Montagne told Keys Weekly they plan to discuss the catastrophe models, reinsurance and getting Citizens back to insuring wind-only policies.
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 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.
“This has been taken into account in developing the proposed capped rate indications,” Citizens stated in June.
But FIRM wants no Citizens rate increase for residents of Monroe County, who, since 2003, have contributed nearly $900 million in premiums over claims.
“Monroe County residents consistently shoulder the burden of fraud and Citizens’ inconsistencies in addressing these circumstances for the rest of the state,” FIRM’s letter reads.
Citizens’ $1 million coverage limit has caused many homes in Monroe County to be dropped from Citizens’ rolls with no other option, FIRM added.
Those who can’t attend the Aug. 1 public hearing in person can submit comments on the rate requests to the state insurance regulation office by 5 p.m. on Aug. 15. A link for public comment will be posted to OIR’s webpage.
VILLAGE CONTINUES PAUSE ON NEW PERMIT APPLICATIONS
Council members seek moratorium for administrative relief pool
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Islamorada council members continue to seek a pause on any new applications coming into the village’s planning department for a building permit.
Coming off approval in May to extend a moratorium on new market rate building permits from August to February 2025, council members on July 9 voted 5-0 in favor of an ordinance to place a six-month pause on any new applications seeking administrative relief. Property owners who want a building permit and submit an application into the village’s system, known as BPAS, can apply for administrative relief if they haven’t received a permit during four consecutive allocation periods.
Then, council members can grant the administrative relief request and either dole out a building permit, offer to purchase the property at fair market value or suggest “other relief as may be necessary and appropriate.”
Council members discussed a moratorium in May as they mulled administrative relief applications for two village property owners. Those applications will be heard at an October meeting; they won’t be affected by the moratorium, which pauses the acceptance of new applications for administrative relief.
Village Attorney John Quick said the moratorium on new administrative relief applications likely wouldn’t take effect until February or March of 2025. That means property owners who are eligible for administrative relief could still file applications until that time. Council members still must approve the ordinance on second reading before it’s sent to the Florida
Department of Commerce for review and approval.
“This is just for new applications. If anyone has submitted applications for administrative relief before the effective date, they would not be subject to the moratorium,” Quick told council members.
Islamorada’s Local Planning Agency voted 6-1 to support the sixmonth pause on the acceptance of new applications from those applying for administrative relief. Chairwoman Deb Gillis was the lone “no” vote.
“It’s just my personal belief that we’re kicking a lot down the road,” Gillis said.
A proposed moratorium seeks to give Jennifer DeBoisbriand, planning director, and her staff time to come up with a comprehensive plan on how the remaining permits through administrative relief would be doled out to applicants. The village has 58 applications from property owners seeking a market rate building permit and five applications from those seeking a market rate permit who donated land to the village.
As for administrative relief permits, the village says only 23 remain. Per the proposal, “nothing in the ordinance should be construed or applied to abrogate the vested right of a property owner to complete development of a parcel when the property owner can demonstrate by substantial, competent evidence that a government act of development approval was obtained prior to the ordinance’s effective date; the property owner has detrimentally relied, on good faith, by making substantial expenditures; or that it would be highly inequitable to deny the property owner the right to complete the development.”
DANCING ON THE NATIONAL STAGE
On Your Toes studio caps off successful season
The On Your Toes elite team won the judge’s choice jazz award for their routine, ‘Justice for ArtPop.’ CONTRIBUTED
ZACK WOLTANSKI www.keysweekly.com
Tavernier’s On Your Toes dance studio brought its talent to the national level at the 2024 NRG Dance Project competition in Orlando, capping off a successful dance season.
In a competition that lasted from June 29 to July 4, local dancers from OYT’s elite team, going against some of the biggest dance studios in the state and country, received national recognition, including Brookelyn Zlockie, who won NRG National Prodigy.
Within the junior division, Abbigail Stevens received first place in the lyrical category, and Camryn Keller had the highest score in the jazz category. Sisters Brookelyn and Isla Zlockie won for best overall high school duet or trio with their “The Flowers” routine, with Isla qualifying as a National Prodigy finalist and receiving a $500 scholarship to the CLI conservatory dance program. The elite team won for the second-highest jazz score, third overall small group, and the judge’s choice jazz award for their performance “Justice for ArtPop.”
The team’s wins were the culmination of more than 10 months of hard work and practice since they received their choreography in August. The elite team, consisting of dancers ages 10 to 17, won a judge’s favorite award at January’s regional competition in Chicago, which qualified them for Orlando’s national competition. In Orlando, they performed alongside more than 50 studios from around the country.
Instructor Stephanie Zlockie said she’s proud of her team’s national representation, something that is unusual for a comparatively small studio.
“We’re not a very big studio compared to who we compete with. Our studio had one group routine versus others that had maybe 40 group routines,” she said.
“The fact that we had one duet and it took the top score, two finalists and a winner for prodigies … it’s pretty amazing to think about the pool of talent that we have here, coming from a small town,” said Zlockie. “We are extremely proud of how hard the dancers work, and they’re seeing the results of their work, and that’s always rewarding.”
COUNTY SEEKS STATE GRANTS FOR RESILIENCE PROJECTS
GWEN FILOSA gwen@keysweekly.com
How will Monroe County pay the exponential costs of raising roads and other projects to help the Keys stand up to routine flooding?
By bringing home one state and federal grant at a time, amid competition from other cities and counties also grappling with sea-level rise and living under the threat of hurricanes.
Monroe County has secured more than $200 million in federal and state awards for Florida Keys resilience projects.
Since the start of the state’s Resilient Florida program in 2021, Monroe County has been awarded $45.2 million for projects like the Stillwright Point road elevation design, Twin Lakes road elevation and stormwater project, Harry Harris Park resilience redesign, road elevation projects in Winston Waterways, Conch Key and Big Coppitt and shoreline adaptations on Long Key and Duck Key.
County staff also brought home $12.2 million in state funding for a project in the Sands neighborhood on Big Pine Key.
But all of these funds took a decade of work from county workers to obtain. Nothing indicates the Resilient funding will be scrapped any time soon, but the amount of state money available from the program isn’t growing.
“The amount of funding the state is putting into this program is diminishing,” county consultant Erin Deady told the BOCC. “The first two years of the program it was close to half a billion dollars. The third year it was down to $300 million dollars.”
This year, Resilient Florida’s funding is down to $125 million, she said.
That funding source would be reauthorized next in the Legislature session 2025.
So far, Monroe County has received more than $57 million from the state.
“These grant awards represent the culmination of a decade of planning work by county staff,” said Rhonda Haag, the Monroe County chief resilience officer. “Additional awards may be more challenging due to limited funding and increased competition.”
But staff continues to submit appli-
The Stillwright Point subdivision in Key Largo experiences prolonged flooding of its roads due to seasonal king tides and other events. MONROE COUNTY/Contributed
cations to Resilient Florida, a program signed into law by the state in 2021 to make available grants to counties, municipalities and special districts for projects to protect coastlines and shores – Florida’s natural defenses against sea-level rise.
At the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners last week at the Marathon Government Center, county staff shared details on three grant applications, each due by Sept. 1.
Stillwright Point road adaptation in Key Largo
Design and permitting for road elevation in the Stillwright Point neighborhood in Key Largo is already underway and funded by grants. The county says they expect to finish the project in March 2025.
But staff wants to apply for construction funding for 50 percent of the $40 million cost. “A federal match for 50 percent has already been identified and is on reserve for the project,” said county spokeswoman Kristen Livengood.
Sands neighborhood on Big Pine Key
The design and permits for the project are complete and the county secured $8.1 million in grant funding. Staff will apply for the additional $12.2 million from Resilient Florida. An award may be pending because the county applied for one last year.
Planning grant for sea-level projections
Staff wants to apply for a planning grant in response to new sea-level rise projections signed into law this year.
On Your Toes represented their talent at the national NRG Dance Project competition in Orlando.
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OCEAN STUDIES SCHOOL ACQUIRES PROPERTY FOR EXPANSION
ZACK WOLTANSKI www.keysweekly.com
Arecent property purchase will open up new opportunities for students and teachers at Ocean Studies Charter School.
The property, located at Key Largo’s former Church of the Nazarene and acquired on June 28, will give neighboring Ocean Studies’ students access to an art room and indoor gym in the upcoming school year, says principal Trisha Woods.
Formerly, the school lacked a dedicated art room, with the art teacher having to cart materials among the K-8 classrooms. Similarly, indoor athletic opportunities were limited.
“The indoor gym will give students the opportunity to learn to play additional sports and games that we didn’t have room for in the outdoor space we currently have,” Woods said.
After minor renovations over the summer, the former church will function as an extension of the main property. An expanded play area will also be built around the back of the building.
Other plans are in development on the future of the acquisition.
“In three to five years we plan to knock down the existing structure and build something that includes a full-size gym with some creative added classrooms,” Woods said. “We are so excited to have added this space to our school.”
Ocean Studies, located in Key Largo, is a free public charter school with a focus on marine science education. Beginning in 2021, it incorporated a middle school, and the new acquisition is one in a series of many new developments and changes the school has made over the past four years.
Studies, located in Key Largo, is a free public charter school with a focus on marine science education.
the storm event.
area 1 mile wide. During microbursts, the rise in wind is fast. It’s literally a matter of seconds.”
Rizzo said the radar didn’t show any deep rotation in the storm system that would suggest it was a tornado. In some of the hardest-hit sections on Iroquois and Sioux streets, residents and their friendly neighbors continued the cleanup on Monday morning.
No injuries were reported from the wild weather, per Islamorada Fire Chief Terry Abel and Village Manager Rob Cole. A response to clear roads and conduct safety checks began during the early overnight hours and into Monday afternoon, Cole said.
“Assessment efforts have included personnel from fire, building and code and public works departments,” Cole said.
Property owners in the affected areas of Indian Mound are advised to place compact vegetative debris in standard yard waste containers, with larger debris placed roadside for pickup by the village, Cole added.
Recounting the events
Sioux Street resident Brad Bertelli, whose front porch was struck by a tree, said the thunder and lightning started around 11 o’clock.
“It was raining and I was happy our yard was getting rain,” Bertelli said.
The wind soon picked up, and at the height of the storm a gumbo limbo fell into his patio.
“By 11:30 it was done. I couldn’t go out the front door; the trees blocked access to the front door,” he said.
Residents and yard maintenance crews showed up quickly to help with the damage, working with chainsaws and excavators throughout the night and into the next morning.
“This was worse than Irma (for our neighborhood); we had more damage for sure,” said Bertelli. “It was super concentrated.”
A resident on Ojibway Street said everything started flying everywhere. A screen cage over her raised pool is completely gone, said Debbie (who requested her last name not be used).
“All our furniture was over here, the furniture from our neighbor’s was over here, the furniture was over there. The BBQ ended up in the pool, just like my neighbor over there whose upstairs chair ended up in our pool,” she said.
More about a microburst
Per the National Weather Service, it all starts with the development of a thunderstorm and the water droplets/ hailstones being suspended within an updraft.
“Sometimes an updraft is so strong it suspends large amounts of these droplets and hailstones in the upper portions of the thunderstorm. There are many factors that can lead to evaporational cooling (sinking air) and therefore weakening of the updraft. Once this occurs, it is no longer capable of holding the large core of rain/hail up in the thunderstorm. As a result, the core plummets to the ground. As it hits the ground, it spreads out in all directions. The location in which the microburst first hits the ground experiences the highest winds and greatest damage.”
Above: Ocean Studies Charter School recently acquired the neighboring property which formerly was home to the Church of Nazarene. ZACK WOLTANSKI/Keys Weekly. Left: Ocean
Large tree limbs and other debris fell on properties and streets in the Indian Mound community, near MM 89, bayside, in Islamorada. ZACK WOLTANSKI/Keys Weekly
A decorative hammerhead shark had its face ripped off from
TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly
Seven Ways Your Social Med ia Habits
Make You a Target for Ident it y Theft
By Firs t Horizon Bank
Think ident it y theft can’t happen to you?
Think again.
I n 2022, 15 4 m illion A mer icans fell vict i m to ident it y
thef t, accordi ng to Javeli n St rateg y’s 2023 Ident it y
Fraud St udy Ident it y th ieves made of f with $20 billion, though there is a silver lining, as that amount represents
a 15% decrease f rom the previous st udy.1
social media If you reg ula rly check i n on I nst ag ram or
Ti kTok, you could u n k nowi ngly be put t i ng you rself at r isk for ident it y thef t Before loggi ng on, t a ke a look at the social media habits that can ma ke you a potent ial t a rget and steps you can t a ke to help protect you rself.
1. Cl ic ki ng Unfa mil ia r Links
I n the ever- evolvi ng landscape of social media, the r isk of falli ng prey to soph ist icated
on a li n k without ver if yi ng its authent icit y Scam mers a re bet ter than ever at reeli ng us i n usi ng what looks
i ntelligence (A I)
Bewa re of emails that appea r to come f rom social net works li ke Met a (for merly Facebook) or X (for merly
upd ate you r password Click i ng on u n k now n li n ks i n suspicious messages can lead to downloading malwa re to you r computer or mobile device that allows an ident it y th ief to steal i nfor mat ion Be su re to ver if y the sender’s authent icit y, scr ut i n ize the message for any inconsistencies, and hover over links to check for matching U R Ls, ensuring they star t with “ht t ps” for securit y
Tu r n i ng on t wo -fa ct or aut he nt icat ion (2FA) for you r so cial media is a sma r t move to prevent scams It creates a second li ne of defense agai nst I D thef t by requi r i ng you to log i n with a u n ique code that you receive via text or email Also, be sure to regularly adjust you r pr ivacy set t i ngs to keep you r personal det ails u nder w raps and keep up with browser extensions and secu r it y apps that can help double - check the li n ks you come across If you th i n k you’ve been t a rgeted by an email ph ish i ng scam, repor t the message to you r email prov ide r You ca n also re p or t t he me ssage a s spa m a nd /or block the sender’s add ress
2 . Us i ng We a k Pa s sword s
St rong pa ssword s ca n be a good defe n sive b a r r ie r a g a i n s t id e n t it y t h ie ve s C o n sid e r u p d a t i n g yo u r s o c i a l m e d i a p a s s wo r d s t o i n cl u d e le t te r s , n u m b e r s , s p e c i a l c h a r a c te r s , o r ac r o ny m s t o m a ke t he m ha rde r t o g ue ss
It’s also wise to avoid usi ng these same social media passwords for you r email, ban k accou nt, credit ca rd , or
Using the same password across multiple channels – even
sier for an ident it y th ief to hack thei r way i nto mult iple accou nts I f you s t r u g g le t o r e m e mb e r mu lt iple p a s s wo r d s , con side r u si ng a se cu re d
Dashlane Password Manager or 1Password Tools like these allow you to create st rong passwords for ever y site you visit, without having to com mit them all to memor y 3 O ve r sha r i ng
Social media makes people feel connected, but when it comes to sharing personal informat ion,
i nfor mat ion T hat can i nclude th i ngs li ke you r:
Physical add ress
Phone nu mber Email
Place of work
From there, they may be able to get you r d r iver’s license nu mber and Social Secu r it y nu mber – givi ng them all the infor mation they need to set up a f raudulent credit ca rd accou nt or ma ke of f with you r t ax ref u nd It’s impor tant to educate yourself on social engineeri ng, i n wh ich ident it y th ieves of ten t r y to t r ick you i nto sha r i ng you r personal i nfor mat ion Be wa r y of social media quizzes and games – they may seem f u n, but they of ten collect a su r pr isi ng amou nt of personal d at a u nde r t he g u ise of ha r m le ss e nt e r t ai n me nt. To help protect you rself, be su re to mai nt ai n you r pr ivacy set t i ngs so that on ly f r iends or cer t ai n g roups can view you r posts ( public posts a re a no -no). By givi ng away
increase your v ulnerabilit y to identit y thef t Steer clear! 4 . Us i ng Geoloc a t ion Tags
Geolocat ion t ags essent ially tell you r f r iends and followers where you a re at any given t i me If you snap a photo at home and post it to one of you r social media accou nts, the t ag may list you r act ual add ress as the locat ion, versus just the cit y
T he level of det ail is what ident it y th ieves a re cou nt i ng on to steal you r personal i nfor mat ion To keep you r home add ress pr ivate, adjust the locat ion ser vices set t i ngs on you r social media accou nts before you post Facebook, Twit ter and I nst ag ram all allow you to t u r n locat ion d at a of f so you r home sweet home isn’t comprom ised Also, be awa re of new platfor ms and upd ates to exist i ng ones, as set t i ngs and feat u res can change, requi r i ng a reg ula r check to mai nt ai n you r pr ivacy
5 Checki ng In Eve r y whe re You G o Usi ng geot ags i n social posts can potent ially
to check i n when you’re hangi ng out with f r iends or t raveli ng, r ig ht? Not so fast Check i ng i n at the places you f requent most of ten – li ke the ban k, you r job, or the gy m – gives ident it y th ieves a wi ndow i nto you r
personal life If a cybercr im i nal k nows where you ban k, for example, and they’re able to get you r home add ress or other personal i nfor mat ion, they could use it
You may also want to th i n k t wice about t aggi ng people
If a th ief is able to see who’s on you r f r iends list or gai n access to thei r accou nt, they m ig ht be able to use that
Also, t aggi ng others can i nadver tently expose you r net work and personal i nfor mat ion
6 Sha r i ng Your Bi r t hday
Accept i ng bi r thd ay wishes th roug h social media puts you i n the spotlig ht for the d ay, but there may be an u n i ntended consequence if an ident it y th ief m isuses that i nfor mat ion
Consider this: 59% of adults in the U S use their birthdays and names to create online passwords 2 By shari ng you r bi r thd ay, you could be givi ng th ieves a f ree pass to access you r ban k or email accou nt, especially if you’re usi ng the same password for mult iple logi ns
Here’s another t ip: Watch out for social media memes that a re bi r thd ay-focused – those social engi neer i ng scams we ment ioned ea rlier For example, you m ig ht come across a meme ent itled , “W hat k i nd of cat a re you?” on Facebook (Alt: Met a) To get you r results, you have to sha re you r bi r th month and d ay i n the com ments It’s a silly, m i ndless way to have a lit tle f u n on li ne T he t rouble is that ident it y th ieves can use passwords or dig up other personal i nfor mat ion for potent ial t a rgets
7. Be i ng Fr ie nd s W i t h Eve r yone
Hav i ng a la rge social me d ia net work is
great – if you act ually k now the people you’re con necting with However, it could get you into t rouble if you’re accepting invites f rom ever yone without taking
up fa ke social media accou nts T hese accou nts can act as a lau nch i ng poi nt for ph ish i ng scams or f raud at tempts T he next t i me you get a f r iend request f rom someone you don’t k now, you may want to th i n k t wice before accept i ng
Un for t u n at ely, ide nt it y t hef t isn’t goi ng away St ay v ig ilant! T he more proact ive you a re about keepi ng you r i nfor mat ion safe, the bet ter
To learn more about the secur it y processes we have i n place for your protect ion, contact Fi rst Hor i zon or 305 - 80 8 -2223.
Second Quarter Top Producer
KEYS CORAL GROUPS GET PROACTIVE IN BEATING THE HEAT
More funding, more emergency systems & more protocols
As summer continues to blaze on, it’s getting hotter and weirder. After last year’s coral calamities, the Florida Keys scientific and restoration community is again bracing for the heat.
This year, they’re more prepared.
“Last year we were caught a bit by surprise and had to react quickly,” said Mission: Iconic Reefs (MIR) co-lead Jennifer Moore. “But we learned a great deal and are much more prepared this year. Our program is simultaneously a restoration project and a research project. From the beginning, our intention was to create new knowledge and put it into practice in the field.”
In mid-July 2023, amid an intense marine heat wave, people began reporting signs of distress and death in various marine species. Many corals bleached and died. The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS) and coral practitioners throughout the Keys launched emergency efforts to move corals from nurseries in the ocean to deeper waters and/or holding tanks at Florida Institute of Oceanography’s Keys Marine Laboratory (KML) in Layton.
MIR partner Reef Renewal USA found that temporary deep water nurseries kept twice as many corals alive compared to inshore, shallow sites. On shore, KML’s 60 seawater tanks served as a triage station for more than 5,000 corals until it was safe for them to return to the waters in fall 2023. Both solutions proved vital to salvage efforts.
This year, NOAA already confirmed a fourth global coral bleaching event in April, and Keys coral caretakers are preparing.
In late June, the government agency took emergency steps to facilitate moving corals deeper in the ocean – should the need arise again. Building off Reef Renewal’s 2023 success, NOAA proposed three emergency nursery sites throughout the Keys.
To fund installation of the anchors for these zones, FKNMS turned to the community. Marine Preservation Society
of the Florida Keys (MPS) and the Ocean Reef Conservation Association stepped up to meet the challenge.
“The collaborative funding demonstrates just how much the local community cares and can work towards solving our complex challenges,” said MPS vice chairman Kurt Tidd.
On land, KML has similarly been preparing since last year’s corals left the building for this year’s heat.
“Last year, we definitely needed more landside capacity for the corals. Restoration groups were forced to crowd seawater tables in an effort to remove as many genotypes as possible from their offshore nurseries during the bleaching event,” said Emily Becker, senior biological scientist and seawater systems manager.
Every possible table that could house corals was full. In response and in preparation, KML is expanding its seawater system capacity, securing money to build a fourth system with an additional 20 to 24 seawater tables. The buildout will start this summer and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
For this summer, KML hosted a preparation and orientation workshop for all restoration partners. Becker reviewed many lessons from last year’s heat emergency:
• Regulatory agencies need a wellarticulated emergency management plan.
• Trigger points and criteria need to be defined, as well as what actions follow (genetic banking, moving select trees to deeper water, evacuating selected critical corals to landbased facilities).
• Have permits in place and sites prepped.
• React before corals are severely stressed.
• Don’t overload land-based tables. KML has already purchased support supplies ahead of bleach events, so it can stand at the ready. This includes everything from coral food to improved
The Marine Preservation Society was founded to respond real-time to emergent marine situations. Their board is made of locals who are dedicated to the local reefs. MARINE PRESERVATION SOCIETY/Contributed
tank pumps to algae-eating animals for the tanks.
“All of these items were purchased based on what we learned we needed after last year’s bleaching event,” Becker said.
KML also added remote alarm systems into all its seawater tables to detect temperature spikes and water flow interruptions. It also installed a new backup generator capable of powering the entire KML property, including all seawater systems, for seven to 10 days. These backups and alarms increase KML’s ability to serve as a safe haven for corals, said KML director and coral biologist Cynthia Lewis.
Finally, it is actively seeking funding for its regional oceanographic center in the Keys, a new multipurpose facility to serve the academic, research and restoration communities in the decades to come, Lewis said.
“Since the rescue of 2023, every effort has been made to prepare for a 2024 marine heating event,” said MPS volunteer director Sara Rankin. “Our coral practitioners should be lauded for collaboration and cooperation.”
But she added, “Moving corals to deep water or to land-based facilities for the summer is not a long-term solution. They are a short-term solution to preserve genetic lines from extinction. The bigger question we ask is what is the long-term plan for the corals and the various restoration programs.”
ELECT MARGARET ROMERO
LOOKING FOR A PULSE
These corals could invade Keys waters
SHELLY KRUEGER
is the University of Florida, IFAS Monroe County Extension Florida Sea Grant Agent. Shelly is a marine biologist and provides sciencebased education about coastal environments.
There is the potential for a new aquatic invader in the waters surrounding the Florida Keys.
Pulse corals are bright-colored soft corals that are very popular in the saltwater aquarium trade. Common native soft corals in the U.S. are sea fans, sea whips and sea pens. The pulse corals can be identified apart from our native soft corals because the polyps are much larger and the polyps are constantly opening and closing to feed in a pulsing rhythm.
Like the invasive lionfish, pulse corals are also native to the Red Sea and the Indo-Pacific Ocean. Since the temperatures in the Florida Keys are like their native range, there is good reason to believe if they arrive, they could be very successful at spreading rapidly if not controlled at once. Pulse corals were introduced illegally in Venezuela 20 years ago and the invasion there has devastated thousands of acres of coral reef and seagrass meadows.
In the past two years, another species has been found in northern Cuba and Puerto Rico. Pulse corals can smother coral reefs and seagrasses because they grow rapidly and have no known native predators.
Since the early 2000s, there have been numerous outbreaks of pulse corals in both the Pacific and Caribbean. The suspected causes of these outbreaks include intentional releases by marine aquarists, illegal aquaculture activities where they were likely grown in the wild to be sold in the aquarium trade, fragments of soft corals attaching to boats, ships and fishing gear, and possibly spread via ship ballast water.
Due to their asexual reproduction, removal is difficult without fragmenting and accidentally spreading these octocorals to new areas to colonize. As
There have been numerous outbreaks of pulse corals in both the Pacific and Caribbean. DIEGO DELSO/Contributed
of 2024, invasive soft corals have been identified in Venezuela, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii (2020), Cuba (2022) and Puerto Rico (2023). These soft corals are very popular in the saltwater aquarium trade where they are known by the common names “Pulsing Xenia” and “Pom-Pom Xenia.” This is such a popular saltwater aquarium soft coral because it grows rapidly, can handle a wide range of poor water quality conditions and is easily fragmented and sold online to other aquarists with a high price range for colorful specimens.
Soft corals are soft and flexible compared to the hard stony corals that build coral reefs. Soft corals may also be called gorgonians from Greek mythology and the Gorgon Medusa, who had a head of writhing snakes. They are also called octo-corals because each individual polyp has eight symmetrical feathery tentacles. Hard corals like brain corals, star corals and pillar coral are distinguished by having six tentacles and secrete a hard calcium carbonate skeleton that creates the three-dimensional structure of a coral reef.
As we have seen with the invasive lionfish, aquatic invaders are very difficult to eradicate if they are allowed to become established. This is why we are looking for scuba divers and snorkelers to keep an eye out and report it if found. If you see it, please do not touch it, since small fragments easily break off and float away to regrow in new areas. Please send all reports to the U.S. Geological Survey Nonindigenous Aquatic Species “report a sighting” tool at https:// nas.er.usgs.gov/SightingReport.aspx or to the Atlantic and Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment (AGRRA) Unomia Learning Exchange portal. Both of these sites have maps to drop a pin with latitude and longitude information and a place to upload photos.
The Monroe County Extension is working closely with both of these partners, and you can always call our office at 305-292-4501 or email mon
BRIEFLY
Free meals for students
All students at the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter will receive free breakfast and lunch during the upcoming school year, thanks to the community eligibility provision of the National School Lunch Program. This initiative ensures all students, regardless of their economic status, have access to nutritious meals every school day.
“We believe that no child should start the school day hungry,” said Ben Kemmer, shelter CEO. “By providing free meals to all our students, we are taking an important step toward supporting their health and academic success.”
Parents and guardians are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity. More information is available from Karen Martinez at 305-849-3808 ext. 237 or kmartinez@ fkcs.org.
Wesley House changes date for pickleball tournament
Wesley House Family Services has changed the date of its inaugural pickleball tournament to Saturday, Sept. 21 beginning at 9 a.m. at the
PUBLIC NOTICE
new pickleball courts at Key Largo Park.
Early registration is encouraged as the tournament is limited to 72 players. The registration deadline is Sept. 13.
Get ready for a day filled with friendly competition and community spirit. The tournament will feature a round-robin style format based on skill level, with the top teams advancing to the playoff rounds. All registration fees include an event shirt, swag bag (while supplies last), complimentary hot dogs and hamburgers, beer, mimosas, and bloody Marys.
Wesley House is seeking sponsorships and gift certificates for prizes.
Wesley House Family Services is dedicated to protecting and nurturing children and strengthening families with programs and services that promote safe, supportive, and healthy environments. With the opening of its new office this fall at 5 Homestead Ave. in Key Largo, the organization continues to expand its reach.
To register, sponsor, or donate a raffle prize please visit www.WesleyHouse.org/Pickleball.
ISLAMORADA, VILLAGE OF ISLANDS, FLORIDA SPECIAL CALL VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JULY 31, 2024 5:30 P M
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Florida Statutes, Section 286 0105, all interested persons are advised that the Village Council will meet for a Special Call Village Council Meeting on Wednesday July 31 2024 at 5 30 p.m at the Founders Park Community Center 87000 Overseas Highway Islamorada Florida The public is encouraged to attend or participate remotely via the Zoom video conferencing application Details for partic pating via Zoom, are as follows:
• If phoning in, dial 305-224-1968 and enter the webinar ID 911 0656 4166 followed by # When the Mayor opens public comment pertaining to the agenda item you are interested in dial *9 to be recognized by the Zoom meeting monitor.
FUNDING CUT FOR THE ARTS HURTS AT-RISK KIDS
To the editor:
The 32 million dollars in budgetary cuts to the Cultural Arts Programs in the state of Florida by Governor Ron DeSantis will cause children to be driven from their enriching skill centered activities.
The children we’ve been providing a “Theatrical Summer Camp Experience” for at our Theater Company come from economically depressed neighborhoods riddled with crime and violence. These children have been acquiring academic and technical skills, as they shed the yokes of poverty, achieving and advancing themselves towards a bright and positive future. Now, these innocent and eager to learn children will be stricken from their pursuits, as they become the next casualties of these injurious budget cuts.
These types of destructive scenarios have become the “new norm” and “standard” that will propagate the forthcoming “toxic reality,” which is being imposed upon the children of Florida as relegated by Governor Ron DeSantis.
During our 53 years of consecutive theatrical service in schools and the extended communities of Miami-Dade County, many lives have been healed and saved. We’ve been publicly recognized for the superlative and distinguished service we’ve steadfastly delivered to the Greater Miami Area.
On the floor of the United States House of Representatives the Republican Colleague of Governor DeSantis, Congresswoman Ileana RosLehtinen took center stage and proclaimed to the world the wondrous works and magnificent impact that our “theater company” is having upon students and families throughout Miami’s extended communities.
Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen was gracious enough to provide us with a brilliant video and marbleized plaque depicting and memorializing her historic comments. The theatrical excellence emanating from our productions include “Carbonell Award” recognitions for many, if not all, of the “performance arts categories” registered in South Florida.
As a combat wounded and disabled United States Marine, being meritoriously promoted in combat and awarded the Purple Heart; this thoughtless and unprecedentedly harmful action taken by my governor and my combat brother-in-arms is startling, heart-wrenching and bewildering.
• Marne McGrath Village Clerk
If watching online via Zoom, scan the QR code and follow the prompts to join the webinar. When the Mayor opens public comment, use the “raise your hand” feature to be recognized by the village clerk.
Anyone wishing to appea any dec sion made by the Is amorada Village Counc l w th respect to any matter cons dered at such meet ng or hearing wi l need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose, may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceeding is made wh ch record inc udes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal s to be based
Two or more members from var ous Village Committees may be present at this meet ng These meet ngs are open to the publ c In accordance w th the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, all persons who are d sab ed and who need specia accommodat ons to participate in th s meet ng because of that disability should contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA@Islamorada fl.us or by phone at (305) 664-6448 at least 48 hours before the scheduled meeting
Upon my return home from war with combat injuries, I was aided in my healing and rehabilitation, as I processed through the anguishing discomforts and torments of battlefield experiences via the “theatrical remedies” graciously afforded me, from the very theater company that has privileged me with the honor of being their board president.
Since my return to the United States, our theater company has published a “full color page tribute” honoring our nation’s veterans in every theater program, for each one of our Broadway shows, over the last 53 years.
Governor Ron DeSantis, please mobilize/spearhead and institute an immediate solution that will reinstate the lost funding we’re seeking. This budgetary enhancement is critical in nature and of the utmost importance. The safety, protection and well-being of our vulnerable children and families in the state of Florida are in jeopardy. They will be wounded and harmed without a rapid response and remedy authored by our chief executive.
— John Donnelly, Key Largo resident and board of directors president for The M Ensemble Theater Company, Miami
SIDEWALK SALE
HABITAT RESTORE
Up to 50% off select ReStore merchandise
Furniture, home décor, building materials, appliances and more
$20+ purchase/donation eligible to win a $100 ReStore gift certificate
Every purchase directly contributes to building stronger communities and brighter futures.
Eligibility criteria, benefits of homeownership, and how to apply for a home.
Habitat for Humanity Qualified Loan Originator on site
Homes in Islamorada, Tavernier and Key Largo Rentals also available
FLORIDA ECO-FRIENDLY VACATIONS
These places are easy on the budget and environment
MELODY TUSCHEL
is the Monroe County recycling coordinator and outreach liaison.
Florida offers ecofriendly vacation options catering to nature lovers and those looking to minimize their environmental impact. Here are some ideas for eco-friendly vacations in Florida.
Everglades National Park
Activities: Kayaking, canoeing, bird watching, hiking, and guided eco-tours.
Lodging: Eco-friendly lodges, camping, and eco-tents.
Highlights: Unique wildlife, mangrove forests, and wetland ecosystems.
Dry Tortugas National Park
Activities: Snorkeling, diving, bird watching, and exploring historic Fort Jefferson.
Lodging: Primitive camping on Garden Key.
Highlights: Pristine coral reefs, marine life and remote island beauty.
Crystal River
Activities: Swimming with manatees, kayaking and visiting the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge.
Lodging: Eco-friendly resorts and vacation rentals.
Highlights: Manatee encounters, clear springs and diverse aquatic life.
Amelia Island
Activities: Biking, hiking, kayaking, and horseback riding on the beach.
Lodging: Green-certified hotels, eco-lodges, and sustainable vacation rentals.
Highlights: Beautiful beaches, maritime forests and historic sites.
Ocala National Forest Activities: Hiking, swimming in natural springs, canoeing, and wildlife viewing.
Lodging: Eco-friendly cabins, camping, and lodges.
Highlights: Natural springs, diverse wildlife and forest trails.
St. Augustine
Activities: Historical tours, kayaking, biking, and exploring nature reserves.
Lodging: Eco-friendly bed and breakfasts, green-certified hotels and sustainable vacation rentals.
Highlights: Historic sites, beautiful beaches and coastal ecosystems.
GOT AN ITCHY BUG BITE?
Rub the affected area with the inside of a banana skin to reduce swelling and itching.
Here are some tips for an eco-friendly vacation:
Choose green accommodation: Look for hotels and lodges with green certifications or sustainability practices.
Reduce carbon footprint: Use public transportation, bike rentals or electric vehicles where possible.
Environmental clean-up: Sign up for a beach clean-up with a local organization.
Support local: Dine at local restaurants, buy from local markets and support eco-friendly tour operators.
Practice leave no trace: Respect nature by following “Leave No Trace” principles, including proper waste disposal and minimizing your impact.
Minimize plastic use: To reduce plastic waste, bring reusable water bottles, bags and containers.
Respect wildlife: Keep a safe distance from wildlife and avoid disturbing their natural habitats.
Conserve water and energy: Be mindful of your water and energy use, especially in areas with limited resources.
RECYCLE TALK
Recently, a resident asked how she could recycle pallets from a shipment. That type of debris is considered construction debris. If the distributor does not take them back to recycle, the resident may need to contact their trash hauler to schedule a “bulk pick-up.” Once the pallets are delivered to the transfer station, they are separated and added to other construction debris. This debris is hauled to the mainland for processing and recycling when possible. Remember, your actions matter. Plastic bags are only recyclable at Publix and Winn-Dixie, not in your curbside tote. Also, please be sure to flatten all cardboard.
UPCOMING WASTE DIVERSION EVENTS
• Key Largo hazardous waste collection: second and fourth Wednesday at the Key Largo Community Park, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Long Key Transfer Station hazardous waste collection: First and third Friday at MM 68 Long Key, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Cudjoe Transfer Station hazardous waste collection: first and third Wednesday at MM 21.5 Blimp Road from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Community recycling forum: July 26 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Big Pine Key Community Center
• Food Waste to Flowers plant sale and food waste collection for compost: third Saturday of each month at Key West Botanical Gardens from 9 a.m. to noon.
The historic Fort Jefferson at Dry Tortugas National Park. CONTRIBUTED
SHARKS, THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE BITTEN
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 year was 1975. I had just turned 10 when the Steven Spielberg classic “Jaws” came out. On a hot summer day, I sat in a dark, air-conditioned movie theater while the terrifying fish swam back and forth across the screen. I had a bucket of popcorn dripping with butter between my legs.
Suffice it to say, the film stayed with me long after the credits rolled. For the rest of the summer, I was afraid of the water. I would not wade into the ocean or jump in the waves at the beach. I still swam in backyard pools but was always a little nervous for a second or two when I jumped in. Once or twice, even the bathroom shower made me shake a little. I remember standing in the shower, warm jets of water hitting my head and dripping off my cheeks. I remember staring down at the shower drain and imagining a killer shark breaking up through the little silver cover. Stupid, right?
I had not yet read the Peter Benchley novel on which the production was based. Most people who saw the film had not. Benchley’s seminal tale pricked a fearful nerve in the collective conscience that demonized the species as a whole to a worldwide audience. While writing a great story, he portrayed the toothy fish as a cold-blooded killer, and it became some of the most dangerous shark fiction ever written. According to him, if he knew what the book would do, he never would have written it.
When I moved to the Keys in 2001 and started snorkeling around the coral reefs, I felt a sharky tug of apprehension in the back of my mind. It was absolutely irrational, but a dorsal fin pierced the surface of my subconscious.
The first time I saw a real shark was thrilling. I had seen nurse sharks swimming by or resting on the bottom, but nurse sharks do not have that classic shark design. My first experience with one of the big fish that looks like a sleek predator at the top of the food chain was with a Caribbean reef shark. It is not the biggest shark, and this one was about 5 feet long, but the fish swished its tail back and forth and swam low and slow over the shallow coral reef like a boss.
I posted about sharks on my Facebook group, Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli, last week, and controversy erupted. It was a big picture to post, not for its clarity or resolution but for the rows of shark fins left out to dry on wooden tables. Back in the 1920s, Big Pine Key made a name for itself when it became home to the Hydenoil Products Company. Hydenoil was based out of New York and arrived on the island circa 1923.
The plant is said to have been located where Bogie Channel flows between Big Pine and No Name Key. A Miami News article, dated Nov. 16, 1930 and headlined “Shark Industry is Lusty One,” described aspects of the operation. According to the writer Cecil R. Warren, who interviewed the company’s Florida representative Mr. Eddy, Hydenoil planned to establish shark processing plants up and down the Florida coastline.
By 1930, the Big Pine plant had processed 20,000 sharks, including sawfish. Some 6,000 sharks had gone through the plant the previous summer. According to Eddy, nearly every part of the shark was used: “Hide for leather, liver for oils, fins for delicacies highly enjoyed by the Chinese,
white meat for food, eyes and teeth for bead, buttons, and jewelry, bone for ornaments (sharks have cartilage, not bones), and dark meat and residue for chicken meal and fertilizer.”
After posting the image of the shark fins drying on the wooden tables, fishermen called for the practice to be brought back. Hunt down the sharks. Get them out of the water because the sharks were taking nearly every fish being reeled back to the boat. “It’s an epidemic.”
No one likes hearing from the IRS. However, sometimes you have to pay the tax man.
In most parts of the world, the tax man refers to an agency demanding their dues. For fishermen in the Florida Keys, the tax man comes dressed in a form-fitting sharkskin suit. Some fishermen, at least locally, are complaining about having to compete with sharks for the fish they have hooked.
The problem is threefold for the fishermen because you can’t blame a shark for being a shark. First, the sound of the boat’s motor churning through the water is a beacon. Second, when a fish is hooked, it wriggles and thrashes in the water in an attempt to break the line or the hook, and those are precisely the kinds of vibrations that alert sharks to the presence of vulnerable prey. Also, a fish biting a hook and struggling to free itself releases blood into the water.
According to NOAA, worldwide about one in four species of sharks and rays is threatened with extinction. Locally, the small-toothed sawfish is a species of critical concern, but it is not the only one. Apex predators, sharks play an essential role in the balance of the ecosystems where they live. Remove them from the equation, and the imbalance will begin to compound.
Sure, no one is saying cull them all, just enough of them to make it easier to reel a fish back to the boat. If you remove the inconvenience factor, live sharks contribute mightily to Florida’s economy. Based on a 2016 study, recreational divers and snorkelers seeking shark encounters brought $221 million into the Florida economy. The sale of shark fins nationwide brought in $1.03 million, making it clear that a live shark is worth more to the Florida economy than a dead one.
Playing the part of devil’s advocate, perhaps one of the reasons there has been more competition between fishermen and sharks is the pressure being put on the fisheries by commercial and recreational fishermen.
Shark fins drying on tables at Big Pine Key circa 1940. STETSON KENNEDY COLLECTION/ Florida Keys History Center
GATHERING FOR GOOD JOINT FUNDRAISER DRAWS NEAR
Alyssa Courant of Blue House Airbrushing created this mural commissioned by Nicole Navarro, founder of Pawsitive Beginnings. CONTRIBUTED
Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” Boy oh boy did we have an amazing thing happen last week.
Reef is a red fox that was saved from a fur farm. He now lives in Key Largo with his human, Nicole Navarro.
My good friend Alyssa Courant, who is the sole talent behind Blue House Airbrushing, completed the mural my mom, Nicole Navarro, had commissioned. It is a beautiful image of a woman and a fox sitting on a dock staring at the sunset, or sunrise; that is left to the interpretation of those who see it. I was a little miffed the fox doesn’t look like me but hey, can’t win them all, right?
I must admit, this Florida Keys community is pretty cool. I mean, where else in the world would a group of foxes be so widely accepted? Not just as animals, but now as “therapy” animals? I have to clarify that we are not therapy animals in the traditional sense. Our stories of survival are being used as a therapeutic tool by licensed therapists and counselors to help those in the community to heal from trauma.
I got wind that the Bubba awards happened last weekend down at the Key West Theater. I also heard that
my BFF, Sam Steele, won “Best Elected Official,” and Kai’s BFF, Nick Doll, won “Best Photographer.” Seems the tone is set, doesn’t it? All my favorite people are winning so that means everyone’s favorite fox will win for the third year in a row at the Best of the Upper Keys awards this November!
We are only 8 days away from our joint fundraiser with the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center. On Friday, Aug. 2 at 6:30 p.m., come out to support both of our nonprofits by attending “Comedy for a Cause” at the Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo, hosted by the one and only Gwen Filosa. She is bringing her comedic friends Andy Griffiths, Aubrey Urban and Dean Rashdi for a night of laughs. There will be specialty themed cocktails served up at the cash bar as well as tons of amazing raffle prizes, like a swim with dolphins from our friends at Dolphins Plus Bayside, a snorkel trip for four provided by Sundiver, half-day fishing for two on Sailor’s Choice, and so much more. There are still tickets available at pawsitivebeginnings.org or at the door the night of the event. If you have any trouble with the ticket link on our website, you can text 305-3761887 and we will take care of you.
A $50 charitable ticket includes one free drink and five raffle tickets, and general admission is $35.
Anywho, that’s all for this week. My mom hopes to see you all next Friday at “Comedy for a Cause.”
Until next time, Reef, over and out!
A gourmet speciality store established in 2010, Keys Chocolate and Ice Cream has been locally owned and operated since its founding. Visitors to the shop are greeted with delightful smells and tastes including 36 flavors of ice cream, key lime pies and pie bars, chocolate tru es, fudge, carmels and so much more!
Owned by Key Largo residents Rich and Bronna Peterson, they pride themselves on using the best ingredients in their products, employing locals, including trained chocolatiers. The tru es are handmade with the finest Belgian chocolate and natural flavors.
“Our best selling product is by far the chocolate covered tru es,” Bronna said. “Each day we o er a variety of flavors that are made in the Key Largo shop. We have the only chocolate factory in the Keys.”
In addition to their membership with Key Largo Chamber, they are members of Ocean Reef Chamber and Islamorada Chamber of Commerce.
With 19 employees in two locals, don’t drive though the Upper Keys without a stop of Keys Chocolates and Ice Cream.
Sundays through Thursdays, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.,
Islamorada MM 81.9 Oceanside 305-440-3178 keylargochocolates@gmail.com Key Largo MM 100.5 Bayside 305-453-6613 keylargochocolates@gmail.com
REEL IN THE FLAVOR
Restaurant at Amara Cay is open to locals
is a Keys native who has a passion for all things food. She runs the local food blog, “Florida Keys Eats.”
Resorts typically occupy prime waterfront locations with impeccable detail put into all of their décor. Growing up down here, locals were often invited to enjoy the resorts as long as you did your due diligence of purchasing a few drinks or a couple of meals. Nowadays, you’re usually met by a security guard instructing you to turn around unless you have a confirmed reservation at an onsite restaurant. Talk about spontaneity buzzkill.
I’m thrilled to report we have an exception to the rule. Amara Cay Resort at MM 80 not only welcomes locals with open arms to eat, drink and explore their property, but they also reward you with a generous local’s discount of 15% off of food and drink, including alcohol, seven days a week. I decided to check out their newly revamped “Reel Catch” restaurant and I have to tell you, I felt like I was on a mini-vacation the couple of hours I was there.
We opted to sit outside where live music played, which you can find on Thursdays through Saturdays, from 6 to 9 p.m. My hopes were high since the ambiance was a 10 with string lights, tiki torches, fire pits and the strum of the acoustic singer.
When the cocktails arrived, I was even more enamored. We sampled a few libations and I can’t rave enough about the “I Need A Hot One.” Served in a lowball glass with tajin salt, it featured Ilegal Mezcal, Ancho Reyes chile liqueur and Grand Marnier, finished with pineapple and lime juice. It was vibrant with a sophisticated evening feel brought by the smokiness of the mezcal.
Their martini menu was impressive. A crowd pleaser for those undecided on what to drink when
Above: Located at Amara Cay Resort, Reel Catch is perfect for date night. SAMANTHA DELLILO/Keys Weekly Right: A Mezcal cocktail.
the waiter arrives is the 305 martini, filled to the brim with guava rum. On my next visit, I’ll definitely order the Thyme Splash martini with Tanqueray gin, cucumber, white cranberry juice and fresh thyme, which is right up my alley.
As the sky painted hues of purple and pink, courtesy of the bayside generously sharing its sunset remnants from across Overseas highway, our appetizers arrived at our table. The crispy calamari, coated in buttermilk batter mixed in with a couple welcomed little fried surprises of artichokes and sweet peppers, was complimented perfectly with citrus caper aioli. The harissa honey chicken wings I’ll dream about for days to come. The half-dozen sweet and spicy plump wings served with house-made tzatziki were irresistible. Lastly, the sautéed mussels were cooked just right and swimming in this flavorful white wine butter sauce with chunks of bacon, garlic, onion and tomato, and served alongside charred herbed crostini to soak up all
of the yumminess.
I was such a fan of the cocktails, appetizers and all-around vibes that I found the entrées didn’t quite match the same standard. For a perfect date night, I recommend rekindling the romance under the moonlight with live music, drinks and delicious starters. We wrapped up the evening with an oceanfront stroll and savored dessert in the lobby bar. The pistachio ricotta cream cake was delightfully creative and light. The chocolate Marquis had a thick fudgy top with an airy mousse and was a spot-on pairing to my nightcap of merlot. Overall, I would 100% return to Reel Catch at Amara Cay on a live music night for another date. It felt new, relaxing and exactly our type of fun. Feel free to enjoy a variety of experiences beyond a romantic evening, as it is an ideal location for a family friendly outing and you can even bring your pup along in the outdoor seating area.
I’m very excited to add this gorgeous sandy spot to our date night rotation.
REEL RECS
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
WHAT: Victory (1981)
WHY: Imagine a movie directed by two-time Oscar winner John Huston, the man behind classics like “The Treasure of the Sierra Madre,” “Key Largo” and “The African Queen.” Imagine a cast that includes Max von Sydow and Michael Caine and – because this is a movie about soccer – Pelé. Now imagine that the person who receives top billing is … Sylvester Stallone. This movie exists. It is called “Victory.” This is not a great or even a good movie. It is a movie so gloriously dumb that people remember it for decades after a single viewing. It’s set in a World War II Nazi prison camp and the plot revolves around a soccer game between the German national team and Allied POWs. The game is to be held in Paris for some reason, giving the Allied prisoners an opportunity to try to escape. Caine is a former England soccer player and Pelé is passed off as a Trinidadian, while von Sydow is the German officer who dreams up the event. Stallone is an American with no clue about how to play soccer but he’s the star so he has to be involved, obviously.
WHERE: This film is available on Kanopy, the library’s streaming service. 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: Nancy Klingener, community affairs manager.
See previous Reel Recs at keyslibraries.org/reel-recs.
On this day: In 1952, Puerto Rico became a self-governing U.S. co onwealth.
Ca ing Agent 99! Samsung is cha eling the 1960s TV series “Get Smart” with its newest tech release: the Shortcut Sneaker, with which one can make phone ca s. Gizmodo reported that the phone is operated with discrete f t movements, recognized by mo on sensors in the soles. Sadly, you’re not likely to get your dogs into them any me s n: The company is making just six pairs, available only to Samsung members in the Netherlands who enter to win by July 9.
Adam
In The Bleachers
Brevity
News of the Weird
Founded by Betty Debnam
The Paris Games
Thousands of athletes are coming together in Paris, France, to compete in the Games of the XXXIII
The opening ceremony will take place on July 26. Will you be watching the festivities?
Most of the events will take place in the city or nearby; there are 35 venues, or sites, for the games.
The medals
For the Olympic and Paralympic Games, designers included iron that had been removed and preserved from the Eiffel Tower over the years. The iron is marked with the emblem of the Games and set in the middle of gold, silver and bronze disks. On the reverse of the Olympic disks are images of Nike, the goddess of victory.
The mascots
The Phryges (FREEZH) are the mascots of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
During the time of the French Revolution, the red Phrygian cap was a symbol of freedom. Olympic officials said the design was chosen because it is a “strong symbol for the French Republic.”
Pictogram puzzle
A pictogram (PIC-toe-gram) is a symbol that represents something. For example, in ancient times, people drew pictograms (or pictographs) on rock walls to tell stories about their lives.
With each Olympics, pictograms are used to identify the events. The 2024 pictograms identify each of the Olympic sports as a coat of arms that includes a tool used in the event and the field of play.
The Mini Page challenges you to a matching game! Try to match these pictograms to the following Olympic events: 3x3 basketball, beach volleyball, breaking, canoe slalom, cycling BMX freestyle, diving, equestrian jumping, hockey, skateboarding and surfing.
Residents of northern Nevada and parts of neighboring Idaho are being plagued by millions of Mormon crickets, which blanketed at least one highway so heavily that a tractor was needed to clear them. Social media video showed countless crickets crawling over a house, a church and other properties in Spring Creek, Nevada. The insects can inflict significant damage to crops and rangeland and are notorious for having destroyed the fields of early Mormon settlers.
Mini Fact: Rugby player Antoine Dupont lighted the cauldron in Toulouse, France, along the torch relay route.
Olympiad.
TRY ’N’ FIND
Words that remind us of the Summer Olympics are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
EARLY NOTICE AND PUBLIC REVIEW OF A PROPOSED ACTIVITY IN THE 100YEAR FLOODPLAIN AND WETLAND
MONROE COUNTY VOLUNTARY HOME BUYOUT PROGRAM
To: All Interested Parties, Groups & Individuals
This is to give notice that Monroe County Board of County Commissioners has determined that the following proposed action under the Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR), Federally-Funded Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) Voluntary Home Buyout Program, HUD Grant No. B-17-DM-12- 001, is located in a Floodplain and Wetland. Monroe County Board of County Commissioners will be identifying and evaluating practicable alternatives to locating the action in the floodplain and wetland and the potential impacts on the floodplain and wetland from the proposed action, as required by Executive Order 11988, in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 Subpart C Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands. The project, Project ID ID070, is within Monroe County and previously contained a residence damaged by Hurricane Irma. The project is located at 31549 Old State Road 4A; 24.70130 -81.33548. The activity involves the voluntary buyout of the approximately 10.73 acre property at the above listed address, where the residence received damage due to Hurricane Irma and was subsequently demolished prior to program application. Monroe County proposes to retain a walkway within the property boundaries. Previously the damaged walkway was proposed to be removed, however after further site visits and greater consideration, the determination has been made that removal of the walkway would cause greater disturbance to the floodplain and wetland than to leave the structure as is. Removal of the walkway would potentially result in damage to the shallow estuarian environment where the walkway is located. The property has been dedicated in perpetuity to open space uses, storm water improvements or to restore and conserve the natural floodplain functions through a permanent restrictive covenant As previously planned, the offshore storm-damaged dock remnants will be removed. The entire parcel, approximately 10.73 acres, is within the 100 Year Floodplain Zone AE (A) Panel Number: 12087C1329K with an effective date 02/18/2005.
There are three primary purposes for this notice. First, people who may be affected by activities in floodplains and wetlands and those who have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas. Commenters are encouraged to offer alternative sites outside of the floodplain and wetland, alternative methods to serve the same project purpose, and methods to minimize and mitigate impacts. Second, an adequate public notice program can be an important public educational tool. The dissemination of information and request for public comment about floodplains and wetlands can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks and impacts associated with the occupancy and modification of these special areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will participate in actions taking place in floodplains and wetlands, it must inform those who may be put at greater or continued risk.
Monroe County will consider all comments received on or before August 12, 2024. To learn more about the Monroe County Voluntary Buyout Program, please visit our website at Voluntary Home Buyout Program | Monroe County, FL - Official Website (monroecounty-fl.gov). Monroe County encourages electronic submittal of comments at Guerra-Cynthia@monroecounty-fl.gov (include subject: Early Floodplain/Wetland Notice Comments). As an alternative, comments may be submitted by mail to Monroe County, to the following address: Voluntary Home Buyout Program, attn: Cynthia Guerra, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037. If you need additional information or have questions, please contact Cynthia Guerra, VHBP Grant Manager, at Guerra-Cynthia@monroecounty-fl.gov or (305) 453-8756.
Publish: July 25, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers
AVISO PRELIMINAR Y REVISIÓN PÚBLICA DE UNA ACTIVIDAD PROPUESTA ACTIVIDAD EN ÁREAS DE INUNDABLES Y EL HUMEDAL DE 100 AÑOS
PROGRAMA DE COMPRA VOLUNTARIA DE VIVIENDAS DEL CONDADO DE MONROE
Para: Todas las partes interesadas, grupos e individuos
Por la presente se notifica que la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Monroe ha determinado que la siguiente acción propuesta bajo el Programa de Compra Voluntaria de Viviendas del Subsidio en Bloque para el Desarrollo Comunitario - Recuperación de Desastres (CDBG-DR), financiado federalmente por el Subsidio en Bloque para el Desarrollo ComunitarioRecuperación de Desastres (CDBG-DR), Numero de Subsidio HUD B-17-DM-12-001, está ubicada en una área plana inundable y humedal. La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Monroe estará identificando y evaluando alternativas viables para ubicar la acción en la el área plana inundable y pantanosa y los posibles impactos en la acción de la propuesta del área plana inundable y humedal, según lo requerido por la Orden Ejecutiva 11988, de acuerdo con las regulaciones de HUD en 24 CFR 55.20 Subparte C Procedimientos para Hacer Determinaciones sobre la Gestión de Llanuras de Inundación y Protección de Humedales. El proyecto, ID de proyecto ID070, se encuentra dentro del condado de Monroe y anteriormente contenía una residencia dañada por el huracán Irma. El proyecto está ubicado en 31549 Old State Road 4A; 24.70130 hasta el 81.33548. La actividad implica la compra voluntaria de la propiedad de aproximadamente 10,73 acres en la dirección mencionada anteriormente, donde la residencia sufrió daños debido al huracán Irma y posteriormente fue demolida antes de la solicitud del programa. El condado de Monroe propone conservar un sendero dentro de los límites de la propiedad. Anteriormente se propuso eliminar la pasarela dañada, sin embargo, después de múltiples visitas al sitio y una mayor consideración, se determinó que la eliminación de la pasarela causaría una mayor perturbación a la llanura aluvial y al humedal que dejar la estructura como está. La remoción de la pasarela potencialmente resultaría en daños al ambiente del estuario poco profundo donde se encuentra la pasarela. La propiedad se ha dedicado a perpetuidad a usos de espacios abiertos, mejoras de aguas pluviales o para restaurar y conservar las funciones naturales de la llanura aluvial a través de un convenio restrictivo permanente. Como se planeó previamente, los restos del muelle en alta mar dañados por la tormenta serán eliminados. La parcela completa, aproximadamente 10,73 acres, se encuentra dentro de la zona de llanura aluvial de 100 años AE (A) Número de panel: 12087C1329K con fecha de vigencia el 18/02/2005. Hay tres propósitos principales para este aviso. Primero, las personas que puedan verse afectadas por actividades en áreas planas inundables y humedales y aquellas que tengan un interés en la protección del entorno natural deben tener la oportunidad de expresar sus preocupaciones y proporcionar información sobre estas áreas. Se alienta a los comentaristas a ofrecer sitios alternativos fuera de las áreas planas inundables y el humedal, métodos alternativos para cumplir con el mismo propósito del proyecto y métodos para minimizar y mitigar los impactos. Segundo, un programa adecuado de aviso público puede ser una herramienta educativa pública e importante. La difusión de información y la solicitud de comentarios públicos sobre áreas planas inundables y humedales pueden facilitar y mejorar los esfuerzos federales para reducir los riesgos y los impactos asociados con la ocupación y modificación de estas áreas especiales. Tercero, como cuestión de equidad, cuando el gobierno federal determina que participará en acciones que se llevarán a cabo en áreas planas inundables y humedales, debe informar a aquellos que puedan estar en mayor o continuo riesgo.
El Condado de Monroe considerará todos los comentarios recibidos en o antes del 12 de agosto de 2024. Para obtener más información sobre el Programa de Compra Voluntaria del Condado, visite nuestro sitio web en Voluntary Home Buyout Program | Monroe County, FL - Official Website (monroecounty-fl.gov). El condado de Monroe fomenta el envío electrónico de comentarios en Guerra-Cynthia@monroecounty-fl.gov (incluya el asunto: Comentarios sobre el aviso temprano sobre llanuras aluviales/humedales). Como alternativa, los comentarios pueden enviarse por correo al condado de Monroe, a la siguiente dirección: Voluntary Home Buyout Program, a la atención de: Cynthia Guerra, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037. Si necesita información adicional o tiene preguntas, comuníquese con Cynthia Guerra, VHBP Grant Manager, a Guerra-Cynthia@monroecounty-fl.gov or (305) 453-8756.
Fechas de publicación: 25 de julio de 2024 en El Keys Weekly
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI
Notice is hereby given that on August 12th, 2024, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold. The names of whose units will be sold are as follows: 103530 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037
Sheila Chamberlain – 1167
$424.15
Sherrian Cotter – 1732
$566.34
Publish: July 25 and August 1, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
LEGAL NOTICE
Pursuant to the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA), the South Florida Local Emergency Planning Committee (SoFlaLEPC) announces the availability of the following information: Hazardous Chemical Inventory (Tier 2) Forms, Hazards Analyses for Facilities with Extremely Hazardous Substances, SoFlaLEPC Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan, How-to-Comply Information for Hazardous Materials Users, and other public education materials. The SoFlaLEPC serves MiamiDade, Broward, and Monroe Counties. To obtain information, please contact the SoFlaLEPC Coordinator at (954) 924-3653. Publish: July 25, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2024-CP-000352-P IN RE: ESTATE OF HARLAN LEONARD-POTTS WENDELL Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Harlan Leonard-Potts Wendell, deceased, whose date of death was February 11, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Hwy., Tavernier, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representatives and the personal representatives’ attorneys are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court 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: July 25, 2024.
Attorneys for Personal Representatives:
Shaina Kamen
Florida Bar Number: 70539
Cristina Papanikos
Florida Bar Number: 715832
Holland & Knight LLP
Attorney for Thayer W. McKenzie,
Personal Representative
701 Brickell Ave., Suite 3300
Miami, Florida 33131
Telephone: (305) 789-7686
Fax: (305) 789-7799
E-Mail: shaina.kamen@hklaw. com
E-Mail: cristina.papanikos@ hklaw.com
Secondary E-Mail: diana.musa@ hklaw.com
Secondary E-Mail: brenda.scott@ hklaw.com
Matthew Turko
Florida Bar Number: 30261
Cummings & Lockwood, LLC
Attorney for Harlan L.P. Wendell, Jr., Personal Representative
3001 PGA Boulevard, Suite 104
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
Telephone: (561) 214-8502
Fax: (239) 430-3338
E-Mail: mturko@cl-law.com
Publish: July 25 and August 1, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2024-CP-000359-P IN RE: ESTATE OF LAWRENCE P. BRADY, JR. Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of LAWRENCE P. BRADY, JR., deceased, whose date of death was May 11, 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 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
NOTICE OF HEARING TO IMPOSE AND PROVIDE FOR COLLECTION OF STORMWATER SERVICE SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS
Notice is hereby given that the City Commission of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will conduct a public hearing to consider imposing stormwater service assessments for the Fiscal Year beginning October 1, 2024, against properties located within the incorporated area of the City, to fund the cost of stormwater management services, facilities and programs provided to such properties and to authorize collection of such assessments on the tax bill.
The public hearing will be held at 9:30 a.m. on August 15, 2024, at the City of Key Colony Beach – Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051 for the purpose of receiving public comment on the proposed assessments. All affected property owners have a right to appear at the hearing and to file written objections with the City Commission within 20 calendar days of the date of this notice. If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the hearing, such person will need a record of the proceedings and may need to ensure that a verbatim record is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be made. It is the policy of the City of Key Colony Beach to comply with all requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Persons who need accommodations in order to attend or participate in this meeting should contact the City Clerk at 305-289-1212 at least 48 hours prior to this meeting in order to request such assistance.
The Stormwater Service Assessments are proposed to fund the City's cost to provide Stormwater Management Services in the area shown above. The Stormwater Service Assessments are imposed upon each lot and parcel within the City for services and facilities provided by the stormwater management utility. For purposes of imposing the Stormwater Service Assessment, all lots and parcels within the City are classified into the following two customer classes: (1) Residential, which includes vacant properties zoned residential and (2) Commercial, which includes governmental, hotels and other.
The Stormwater Service Assessment imposed shall be the rate of eighty dollars ($80.00) per residential unit or residential vacant lot or one hundred sixty-five dollars ($165.00) per commercial parcel. The total annual stormwater assessment revenue to be collected within the City of Key Colony Beach for the upcoming fiscal year is estimated to be $125,000.
Copies of the ordinance and other legal documentation for the assessment program are available for inspection at the City Clerk's office, located at City Hall600 West Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051.
If you have any questions, please contact the City at 305-289-1212, Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
The assessments will be collected on the ad valorem tax bill to be mailed in November 2024, as authorized by section 197.3632, Florida Statutes. Failure to pay the assessments will cause a tax certificate to be issued against the property which may result in a loss of title.
CITY COMMISSION OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FLORIDA
Publish: July 25, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers
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 personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211.
The date of first publication of this notice is: July 25, 2024.
Personal Representative: Melissa B. Hemmert 5633 Strand Blvd. Suite 306
Naples, Florida 34110
Attorney for Personal Representative: Jeffrey R. Grant
Attorney
Florida Bar Number: 63918
Grant Cottrell, PLLC 5147 Castello Drive Naples, FL 34103
Telephone: (239) 649-4848
Fax: (239) 643-9810
E-Mail: jeff@grantcottrell.com
Secondary E-Mail: jennifer@ grantcottrell.com
Publish: July 25 and August 1, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
UPPER KEYS PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 24-CP-000287-P
IN RE: ESTATE OF SCARLETT R. MILLER, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of SCARLETT R. MILLER, deceased, whose date of death was November 28, 2023, 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 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
INVITATION TO BID (ITB)
The City of Key Colony Beach cordially invites interested contractors to complete and submit sealed bids by August 29th, 2024, no later than 9:30 a.m., for the following project.
PICKLEBALL/TENNIS COURT PROJECT
ITB 2024-03
THE PROJECT CONSISTS OF: Construct two (2) tennis courts and six (6) pickleball courts at 7th and 8th Street Parks to be submitted by August 29, 2024 at 9:30 a.m.
All bids must be submitted in a sealed envelope to City Administrator John Bartus at 600 W. Ocean, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051 (mailing address PO Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051), no later than August 29th, 2024 at 9:30 am clearly marked ‘Sealed Bid for the City of Key Colony Beach ITB 2024-03’ along with the name of your rm. Each bid must have one original and three copies. 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 Administrator John Bartus at cityadministrator@keycolonybeach.net
DATE TIME ACTION
07-29-2024 9:30 a.m. Release Solicitation
08-08-2024 9:30 a.m. Non-Mandatory Site Visit
(Open to Public –7th and 8th Street Parks, Key Colony Beach, FL)
08-15-2024 4:00 p.m. Last day for submission of written questions to the City
08-22-2024 4:00 p.m. Last day for the City to post answers to questions
08-29-2024 9:30 a.m. Bid Due & Opening (Open to Public – Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach, FL)
09-13-2024 9:30 a.m. Review Committee Meeting Recommendation to Award*
*Can be posted on or before date (Open to Public – Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach, FL)
09-19-2024 9:30 a.m. City Commission Meeting – Final Award (Open to Public – 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach, FL)
City of Key Colony Beach
600 W Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051
Contact
Mailing Address
John Bartus, City Administrator PO Box 510141 cityadministrator@keycolonybeach.net Key Colony Beach, FL 33051
Publish: July 25 & August 1, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers
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: July 25, 2024. Personal Representative: JOSEPH L. BERTOLAMI 80908 Overseas Highway Islamorada, FL 33036 Attorney for Personal Representative: VICTORIA MIRANDA, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 1015363 HERSHOFF, LUPINO & YAGEL, LLP 88539 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070
E-Mail: VMiranda@HLYlaw.com
Publish:
July 25 and August 1, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-279-P
DIVISION: PLANTATION KEY IN RE: ESTATE OF SELBY GREGORIE VENNING, III Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Selby Gregorie Venning, III, deceased, whose date of death was January 4, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representatives and the personal representatives’ attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211.
The date
Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938
Marathon, FL 33050
Telephone: (305) 743-9428
Fax: (305) 743-8800
E-Mail: rmiller@floridakeyslaw. com
Secondary E-Mail: service@ floridakeyslaw.com
Publish:
July 25 and August 1, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-DR-516-M DIVISION: FAMILY
PAUL DUDLEY ROWE, Petitioner, and SUSAN ALBRECHT, Respondent.
NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT)
TO: SUSAN ALBRECHT
RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 296 66TH STREET, APT. B, MARATHON, FL 33050
YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on August 22, 2024, Petitioner’s Attorney, at The Manz Law Firm, 5701 Overseas Highway, Suite 7, Marathon, FL 33050, Phone 305-743-2351, on or before September 30, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this court at 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 before service on Petitioner’s attorney or immediately thereafter. IF YOU FAIL TO DO SO, A DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU FOR THE RELIEF DEMANDED IN THE PETITION.
The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: N/A Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.
WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.
Dated: July 22, 2024
Kevin Madok, CPA
Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Leslie Rodriguez Deputy Clerk
Publish: July 25 and August 1, 8 & 15 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CASE NO.: 24-DR-535-K
DIVISION: FAMILY
SUYAPA Y. DUARTE, Petitioner, and MARIO ROBERTO GARCIA, Respondent.
NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL
SUPPORT)
TO: MARIO ROBERTO GARCIA
RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN
ADDRESS: GOLF CLUB DRIVE #112, KEY WEST, FL 33040
YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of
your written defenses, if any, to it on Suyapa Y. Duarte, whose address is 3215 Duck Avenue, Key West, FL 33040 on or before August 12, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.
The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: N/A
Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.
You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.
WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.
Dated: July 3, 2024
Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Jaquelyn Fonseca Deputy Clerk Publish:
July 11, 18 & 25 and August 1, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-000166-P DIVISION: PROBATE IN RE: ESTATE OF SOFIA GARCIA, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of SOFIA GARCIA, deceased, whose date of death was August 11, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 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: July 18, 2024.
Personal Representative: CARLOS GARCIA
3857 Donna Road
Big Pine Key, FL 33043
Attorney for Personal Representative: Mark A. Gotlieb, Esq.
Florida Bar Number: 55891
The Law Office of Mark A. Gotlieb, P.A.
1200 N. Federal Highway, Suite 200
Boca Raton, FL 33432
Telephone: (561) 250-7256
Email Address: mark@ gotlieblaw.com
Secondary email: kfeeleylas@ gmail.com
Publish: July 18 & 25, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-350-M
DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF KATHERINE E. WALKER
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of KATHERINE E. WALKER, deceased, whose date of death was June 11, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS 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: July 18, 2024.
Personal Representative: G. Peter Walker 38 Crosswood Road Farmington, CT 06032
Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner
Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134
RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050
Telephone: (305) 743-6022
Fax: (305) 743-6216
E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com
Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com
Publish: July 18 & 25, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA DIVISION: PROBATE
FILE NO.: 24-CP-220-M
IN RE: ESTATE OF SUSAN W. CLAIR A/K/A SUSAN CLAIR
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Susan W. Clair a/k/a Susan Clair, deceased, whose date of death was January 9, 2024, is pending in the
Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is July 18, 2024. The date of the second publication of this notice is July 25, 2024.
Personal Representative: Amy C. Bilyeu 901 Trout Road State College, PA 16801
Attorney for Personal Representative: Anthony J. Barrows
Attorney for Carl C. Moore, III Florida Bar Number: 662569
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
DIVISION: PROBATE FILE NO.: 24-CP-86-K IN RE: ESTATE OF NICOLE AMANDA HARDING Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Nicole A. Harding, deceased, whose date of death was July 9, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 303 Fleming Street,
Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is July 18, 2024. The date of the second publication of this notice is July 25, 2024. Personal Representative: Derrick A. Johnson 3663 Louisa Street Marathon, FL 33050 Attorney for Personal Representative: Anthony J. Barrows Attorney for Carl C. Moore, III Florida Bar Number: 662569 WRIGHT BARROWS PLLC 9711 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-8118
Fax: (305) 489-0307
E-mail: Tony@keysclosings. com
Publish:
July 18 & 25, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-000029-K IN RE: ESTATE OF CARLOS ENRIQUE ALVAREZ Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of CARLOS ENRIQUE ALVAREZ, deceased, whose date of death was June 10, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent
and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211.
The date of first publication of this notice is: July 18, 2024.
Personal Representative: MILAGROS D. BUENO 10215 SW 24TH ST, APT A405 MIAMI, FL 33165
Attorney for Personal Representative: Stephanie A. Cruz, Esq.
Flexible lunch/dinner shifts available Tuesday – Sunday. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com.
For a detailed description of the position, please visit klfirerescueems.com All interested individuals kindly submit your resume with a cover letter to clerk@klfrems.org
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
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Housekeeper at Poinciana Gardens, Server at Poinciana Gardens, Med Tech PT/Nights, 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.
HOBBIES/COLLECT.
PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
HOUSING FOR RENT
ANNUAL RENTAL - Key Largo - 2BR/2BA Spacious Doublewide, 1400 sq ft modular on canal w/40’ dock, direct ocean access. Very nice community. $3,500/month 786-258-3127
Single family, elevated canal-front home for long term rental in Marathon. 3BR/2BA, furnished (optional), wrap around balcony, pool, jacuzzi, 40 ft dock, W/D. $5,500/mo. Call Maria 305-725-8150
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. $1,850/ month F/L/S 305-853-3779
STORAGE AVAILABLE
Gated storage & parking available in Marathon for boats, trailers & RV's - across from boat ramp - MM 54. $8-$10/foot. 305-610-8002
VACATION RENTAL
Key West House For Rent - 28 day minimum. Recently renovated. 2 Units: 3BR/3BA or 2BR/2.5BA. 1 block to Schooner Wharf @ Historic Seaport. Starting $214/night. Sweet CarolineSeaport.com
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.
WE ARE HIRING!
DIRECT CARE STAFF AT ADULT DAY TRAINING PROGRAM FT
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. *
DIRECT CARE STAFF GROUP HOMES 24/7 FT/PT
These positions are available at our Group Homes; evening shift. This position provide direct care services and support to our clients in their home. This position requires the minimum of high school completion or GED and 1 year of experience with care giving or 30 hours or college coursework. *
IN HOME SUPPORT
FT
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. *
*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
or email info@floridakeysaquariumencounters.com 11710 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON
DUI EVALUATOR/ INSTRUCTOR
Send resume to admin@cbtconstruction.com Or call 305-852-3002
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
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.
Moorings Village is seeking friendly, self motivated, team players for the position:
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
GCC offers excellent benefits for full-time employment, but we realize some would prefer part-time to enjoy the Florida Keys lifestyle more. All positions can be considered for full or part-time unless notated. Apply at westcare.com and enter your availability.
KEY LARGO Advocate (PT)
KEY WEST
Peer Support Specialist Advocate (PT)
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 PRACTICE
OPENINGS
- Nurse Practitioner, Primary Care Marathon, FT
- Physician Assistant, Surgical Ortho, Tavernier, FT
- Medical Assistant, Concierge Of ce, $3,000 Bonus, Key West, FT
- Radiology Technologist, Imaging-MRI, $15,000 Bonus, FT
- Registered Nurse, ICU, $25,000 Bonus, FT
- Registered Nurse, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, FT
MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
- ED Team Coordinator, Emergency Department, FT
- Experience Advisor, FT
- First Cook, Dietary, $5,000 Bonus, FT
- Lead Med Technologist, Laboratory, $15,000 Bonus, FT
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Radiology, $20,000 Bonus, FT
- Medical Technologist, Laboratory, $15,000 Bonus, FT
- Radiology Technologist, Radiology, $15,000 Bonus, FT
- Security Of cer, Security/Safety, Per Diem
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
*Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience. APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507
MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE
We are now hiring for the following positions:
Applicants must apply in person to be considered. 4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
