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October 3, 2024
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NUMBER OF THE WEEK
Hurricane Helene’s destruction throughout the Southeast resulted in 166 deaths as of Oct. 2, per a report by The Associated Press. Helene, a Category 4 storm, made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region before making its way through Georgia and the Carolinas.
Tats for Tatas breast cancer benefit raises money for free mammograms Oct. 9 at Tattoos & Scars. See below. Artwork by Danielle Larrabee, of DKL Looking Glass Designs, LLC
BEST BOOB JOB IN TOWN GETS EVEN BIGGER
Tats for Tatas breast cancer benefit balloons into a block party
MANDY MILES
mandy@keysweekly.com
Breast cancer is deadly serious, but raising tons of money to prevent it doesn’t have to be.
Maria Gonzalez, bartender at Tattoos & Scars, has proven that for the past two years with Tats for Tatas, the breast cancer benefit she created to raise money to provide mammograms for Key West women.
“The first year we raised $42,000; last year we raised $69,000 and this year, we’re thrilled to have joined forces with Womankind and are expecting to continue increasing the total,” said Gonzalez, who has “augmented” this year’s event, which takes place Wednesday, Oct. 9 from 7-10 p.m. at Tattoos & Scars, 512 Greene St.
Tats for Tatas will spill out from the bar into a block party along Ann Street, featuring a DJ, satellite bars, Vegas-style showgirls and a giant silent auction selection of hotel stays, fishing charters, boat trips, original artwork and more. The event will also include raffle drawings every half hour starting at 7:30 p.m., with
prizes that include a new bike, twonight stays at the Southernmost Mansion and Rum Bar guesthouse and a fishing charter with Double Down Charters.
But wait, there’s more.
Inside the bar, Tats for Tatas will bring back its now-infamous “motorboating booth,” where for a $20 donation, enthusiastic breast cancer warriors can “motorboat” a willing volunteer wearing pasties.
“But we’re not sexist, so the final volunteer in the booth will be a guy being motorboated,” Gonzalez said, laughing.
“And this year, I’m excited that Womankind will have a booth where women can sign up for and schedule their free mammograms, which is truly what this whole event is about.”
Tattoos & Scars owner Casey Vinall will donate all proceeds from drink sales between 7 and 10 p.m. to Womankind for the mammograms, along with proceeds from the sale of the bar’s Boobie Koozies and event t-shirts.
In addition, Kirby Myers, owner of Kirby’s Closet, is donating 15% of the proceeds of the “boob shirts” she sells by Never Fully Dressed to the same cause.
And again, while breast cancer is no laughing matter, the event that inspired Tats for Tatas was pretty funny — but only now, in hindsight. It all started when Gonzalez was arrested during Christmas week in December 2021.
“It was a super busy week and I was leaving work at Tats, riding my bike down Ann Street at 2 a.m.,” she recalled. “A girlfriend of mine leaned out of the bar to wave, and I flashed her for a split second — one boob.
“A cop saw me. I got arrested for indecent exposure and resisting arrest and spent 18 hours in jail,” she said. “It was crazy, and people got really upset when they heard what had happened. They started giving me money to pay for my bail, lawyers, legal defense, or whatever. I couldn’t believe it,” said Gonzalez, who later got the charges expunged from her record.
But she wanted to pass on everyone’s donations to a good cause and Womankind fit the bill perfectly, as all the money it raises stays in the community and helps local women. Tats for Tatas was born — and grows every year — to provide free mammograms to local women.
Tats for Tatas takes place Wednesday, Oct. 9 at Tattoos & Scars, 512 Greene St., and outside on Ann Street.
Tattoos & Scars owner Casey Vinall and bartender Maria Gonzalez, who created Tats for Tatas, show off the Boobie Koozies in preparation for the breast cancer benefit on Oct. 9. CONTRIBUTED
Kelly Lever of Key West Pottery poses in her ‘boob shirt,’ for breast cancer awareness. The shirts are available at Kirby’s Closet, which will donate a portion of all sales to Womankind. KIRBY MYERS/Contributed
COUNTY TERMINATES INDICTED TRAUMA STAR DIVISION CHIEF
Andrea Thompson’s attorney says decision ignores
‘actual evidence’
ALEX RICKERT
alex@keysweekly.com
Monroe County Administrator Christine Hurley last Friday elected to terminate the employment of indicted Monroe County Fire Rescue Division Chief Andrea Thompson, county spokeswoman Kristen Livengood told the Weekly on Sept. 27.
The decision to terminate Thompson follows the recommendation in an August grand jury report that indicted Thompson, former County Administrator Roman Gastesi and former Trauma Star medical director Dr. Sandra Schwemmer for their alleged roles in the 2022 theft and loss of more than 600 vials of controlled substances from Monroe County Fire Rescue, which oversees the county’s Trauma Star air ambulance service.
The grand jury recommended the county “immediately terminate” Thompson and forbid her from returning or holding any position with MCFR. She was suspended without pay after a 11-count indictment, including charges of official misconduct, providing false information to law enforcement, tampering with physical evidence and tampering with witnesses.
Backed by more than two dozen others wearing custom “I Stand with Andrea Thompson” shirts, Thompson attended the Monroe County BOCC’s meeting on Sept. 11 in Key Largo. County Attorney Bob Shillinger and human resources director Bryan Cook outlined the process for Thompson’s first pre-determination hearing, used by the county in disciplinary cases to investigate an employee’s charges and determine whether the individual can
return to work as charges are pending.
Speaking to the commission, Thompson’s attorney Kendall Coffey told the board he hoped the predetermination hearing would be less “one-sided” than a grand jury report, which he called “an instrumentality of investigation for prosecution.”
“There are other processes, ultimately including a jury trial, which are conceived to hear both sides and bring out the truth,” he said.
“The hearing officer made the recommendation after conducting a pre-determination hearing as well as reviewing pertinent documents pursuant to the county’s personnel policies and procedures manual,” Livengood wrote in Friday’s statement. “The hearing officer determined that Thompson violated county policy, which constituted a breach of the public trust, particularly given her leadership role.”
“Monroe County remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and accountability,” said Hurley. “We want to ensure public trust and safety throughout Monroe County Fire Rescue and all county departments.”
In an emailed statement, attorney Sean Parys told the Weekly that Friday’s decision “was made solely based on her arrest and indictment, without consideration of the actual evidence in the case.”
“As she has throughout her career, Thompson acted with professionalism and integrity during this incident, and all decisions were made by or with her colleagues and superiors,” he said. “When the actual evidence is tested in court, it will show Andrea Thompson is innocent.”
According to Monroe County court records, the next hearing in Thompson’s case is set for Wednesday, Oct. 30 at 10 a.m. in Key West before Judge Mark Jones.
YOUR KEY WEST PARKING PERMIT IS ABOUT TO EXPIRE
All residential stickers expire Oct. 31; renew online for $39
All residential parking stickers expire on Oct. 31. Renew your current permit or obtain a new one online at cityofkeywestpermits. rmcpay.com or by visiting city hall, 1300 White St. CONTRIBUTED
Hey, Key West residents, it’s time to renew your Residential Parking Permit for Old Town. All residential parking stickers expire on Oct. 31, no matter when you bought it. The stickers on your windshield helps ensure marked residential parking spaces are reserved for residents.
If you already have last year’s permit, you can just renew it online for another year. Visit cityofkeywestpermits. rmcpay.com, scan the QR code below or stop by the rear entrance to City Hall, 1300 White St., Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
After Oct. 31 last year’s permits will no longer be valid for parking in the spaces marked “Residential” in the historic neighborhoods, nor will they grant residents their 4 hours of free parking (one time per day) in select city parking lots.
This year’s Residential Parking Permits will be mailed to the address on file when you apply or renew online.
The permits cost $39.13 for a full year of parking. First-time applicants will need to upload proof of residency, a valid driver’s license and vehicle registration to qualify for a residential permit.
In addition to ensuring that residents can park in the marked residential spaces, the permit allows for free parking for up to four hours, one time per day, by redeeming that time at the pay station or in the Passport parking app. The free four hours of parking is available in the following lots:
• Fire Station #2 in the 600 block of Simonton — Zone 33054
• Key West Bight main lot in the 800 block of Caroline — Zone 33046
• Park N Ride garage in the 300 block of Grinnell — Zone 33048
• Truman Waterfront Park (except during events) — Zone 33051
• Smathers Beach on-street parking on South Roosevelt Blvd — Zone 33053
• Jackson Square behind the county courthouse, nights and weekends only — Zone 33049
— Contributed
Hover your phone’s camera over the QR code to be taken to the city’s online portal for residential parking permits.
Supporters accompany former MCFR Division Chief Andrea Thompson to a county commission meeting on Sept. 11 before her pre-determination hearing. CONTRIBUTED
island inspired
Our bright and and airy space is a treasure trove of carefully curated clothing & accessories that embrace the island lifestyle.
Offering fabulous brands such as Farm Rio, Trina Turk, Oliphant and more, stop by and check out our island inspired collections.
LEADERSHIP MATTERS
• Former Commanding Of cer of Naval Air Station Key West and F-14 Naval Flight Of cer (Retired)
• Key West City Manager 2007-2012 and 2014-2019
• Appointed Monroe County Commissioner District 3 in 2022
• 2024 Graduate of the Florida Association of Counties (certi ed) County Commissioner Program COMMUNITY ENGAGED
• Florida Defense Support Commission Member
• Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council Member
• Former Sigsbee Charter School Board Member (11 years) and President (5 years)
• Military Affairs Committee Member
• Florida Federal Executive Board Member (3 years)
• Key West Sunrise Rotary Club member and past President
• Navy League of the United States Key West Council Member
• International Propeller Club of the U.S. Port of Key West Member
• Life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
3
Are Supporting RON SAUNDERS for Supervisor of Elections!
Sheriff Rick Ramsay (R) Supervisor of Elections (D) Joyce Griffin
“I think Ron could do a great job and definitely ensure the integrity of our elections.”
“I believe Ron Saunders has the integrity, qualifications, and experience needed for the position.”
County Commissioner (R) Craig Cates
“I have worked with Ron Saunders on many occasions and he has always been there for his community!”
PLEASE VOTE RON SAUNDERS. LEADERSHIP YOU CAN TRUST!
Paid and approved by Ron Saunders, Democrat, for Supervisor of Elections
Paid and approved by Ron Saunders, Democratic, for Supervisor of Elections
“As Chairman of Keys Energy, I will continue to work for lower rates, reliable infrastructure, and a clean energy future.”
-TIM ROOT Chairman, Keys Energy
PRIORITIES
#1 Ensuring ALL residents have power restored as soon as possible during hurricanes.
#2 Securing an additional $15 million in grants for storm hardening pole replacement projects and upgrading the resiliency of our transformers.
#3 Lowering rates, reducing the budget and proper strategic planning.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
#1 Completed the James Street main office renovation on time and in budget.
#2 Over $200,000 in negotiated construction contract savings on new Stock Island facility.
#3 Installed solar at city hall parking lot and secured an additional 3.5 gigawatts of solar power.
BILLS
-TIM ROOT Chairman, Keys Energy
KEY WEST’S HOLIDAY PARADE IS DEC. 7
Enter your float now
It’s time to plan your float for the upcoming Key West Holiday Parade on December 7th!
Floats can be of any length but must be maneuverable and no more than 15 feet wide and 12 feet high. Each entry requires monitors. A mandatory safety meeting for all float entrants will take place Dec. 4th at 4 p.m. Both meetings will be held in the commission chambers at City Hall, 1300 White St.
Entry forms must be received by no later than Thursday, Nov. 21 at 3 p.m.
The parade takes place on Saturday, Dec. 7th beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the corner of White Street and Truman Avenue.
Applications and details are available on the city’s web site at cityofkeywest-fl.gov under special events or you can call Dorian at 305-809-3782.
— Contributed
TAKE A NEW LOOK AT THE TANGO
‘Gate 54B’ is a dance performance like no other
‘Gate 54B,’ presented by Key West International Dance Co. reimagines the tango Oct. 3-5 at the San Carlos Institute. CONTRIBUTED
KIRBY MYERS www.keysweekly.com
Breathtaking. Captivating. Tantalizing.
“Gate 54B,” the enthralling dance performance by Key West International Dance Co. is tango with a twist. The world’s most romantic dance features two stars, Juan Manuel Acosta and Laisa Souza, with a chemistry that is palpable as they move effortlessly as one around the stage.
But make no mistake, this isn’t your average tango show. The performance is set in Newark airport and are inspired by a reallife Facebook group that connects travelers who meet up to tango while stuck in airports.
In “Gate 54B,” a storm rages and halts flights, turning the terminal into an unlikely dance floor amid the commotion. With eight main characters, the insanely talented group of internationally acclaimed dancers from the Key West International Dance Co. dazzle.
Their infectious energy and fast feet are beyond impressive — you’ll realize at the end of the show that your face is sore from smiling the entire time. With no shortage of spins, lifts and extremely technical moves, this is a production worthy of any New York City stage.
It’s no surprise this show comes from the multi-talented director Pamela Connolly whose company ‘Pasion’ Project’ wowed our island with its production of “Bum Farto,” which will return Oct. 17-26. With Pamela’s knack for perfection and professionalism (it’s worth looking up her extraordinary resume) and her dancers’ unmatched talent, this show is beyond impressive. From humorous and heartfelt to frustration and doubt, the audience experiences each character’s sensations through movement.
“This is a show in which audiences are given a chance to experience the magic that can happen when human beings are humbled by forces of nature. Surprising bonds develop, and there is the drama of clashing personalities and styles…a story told through brilliant dance in an unusual contemporary setting. I’m proud to present a homegrown Key West product, devised and developed on an island that has always supported innovative artistic endeavors,” said Connolly. With only three nights at the San Carlos Institute on Duval Street, dance your way to the box office as fast as you can.
“Gate 54B” is showing Oct. 3-5. Tickets are available at keystix.com and kwinternationaldancecompany.com.
Clinton Curry spreads Christmas cheer at last year’s holiday parade, which takes place this year on Dec. 7. CONTRIBUTED
FLORIDA VOTERS WILL ANSWER ABORTION QUESTION
Proposed amendment expected to increase voter turnout
MANDY MILES
mandy@keysweekly.com
Florida voters will decide in the coming weeks whether to end the state’s six-week abortion ban, which prohibits the procedure if six or more weeks have passed since conception, before most women know they’re pregnant.
Amendment 4, titled “Amendment to Limit Government Interference with Abortion,” would change the state constitution to read, “No law shall prohibit, penalize, delay, or restrict abortion before viability or when necessary to protect the patient’s health, as determined by the patient’s healthcare provider. This amendment does not change the Legislature’s constitutional authority to require notification to a parent or guardian before a minor has an abortion.”
Viability is defined in Florida law as “the stage of fetal development when the life of a fetus is sustainable outside the womb through standard medical measures.” It generally occurs around 23 or 24 weeks of pregnancy.
The amendment is expected to result in increased voter turnout throughout the state, and requires 60% approval to pass.
If it passes on Nov. 5, according to Florida law, “It shall be effective as an amendment to or revision of the constitution of the state on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in January following the election, or on such other date as may be specified in the amendment or revision.”
The current six-week ban was enacted by the Florida Legislature, and went into effect May 1.
The proposed initiative to allow abortions until viability was initiated by a group of citizens known as Floridians Protecting Freedom. The campaign to protect women’s access to abortion spent a year gathering the required number of signatures to put the proposed constitutional amendment on the 2024 ballot.. The group collected 996,512 signatures — more than 100,000 above the 891,523 that were needed by Feb. 1 to place the question on the ballot.
Financial Impact controversy
Additional language that will appear on the ballot — a required financial impact statement that estimates costs of any proposed amendment — has prompted controversy and legal action.
Floridians Protecting Freedom contends that the statement drafted by the state is biased, politicized and misleading to voters.
“The state of Florida weaponized this process to add deceptive and confusing language to the ballot,” the group’s website states.
“The Financial Impact Estimating Conference … must complete an analysis … of the estimated increase or decrease in any revenues or costs to state or local governments… . The analysis cannot be speculative, must be neutral, and should only include direct costs. However, the state of Florida weaponized a neutral democratic process and is using taxpayer dollars to deceive voters…,” the group’s website states.
The contested Financial Impact Statement that will be included on the ballot states, in part, that there is “uncertainty about whether the amendment will require the state to subsidize abortions with public funds. Litigation to resolve those and other uncertainties will result in additional costs to the state government and state courts that will negatively impact the state budget. An increase in abortions may negatively affect the growth of state and local revenues over time. Because the fiscal impact of increased abortions on state and local revenues and costs cannot be estimated with precision, the total impact of the proposed amendment is indeterminate.”
The Florida ACLU also opposed the financial impact statement and criticized the Florida Supreme Court that allowed it to appear on the ballot.
For more information about support of and opposition to Amendment 4, visit floridiansprotectingfreedom.com and the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops at flaccb.org/abortion-amendment.
DOWNTOWN VOTERS WILL DECIDE
Marci Rose & Aaron Castillo vie for District 6 commission seat
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
While an estimated 244 million Americans can vote in the upcoming presidential election, Key West’s District 6 city commission race could be determined by about 2,500 people.
As of 2022, there were 2,549 registered voters in District 6 — 1,356 Democrats, 531 republicans and 586 non-party affiliates.
The downtown district stretches from Bahama Village to the cemetery, over upper Duval and through the residential neighborhoods encompassing Catherine, United and South streets.
Marci Rose and Aaron Castillo are competing in a runoff election to fill the District 6 seat being vacated by longtime commissioner Clayton Lopez, who is term-limited out. Neither of them achieved more than 50% of the vote to win the seat outright in the Aug. 20 primary, which also included a third candidate, Thaddeus Cohen. Castillo received 49.8% and Rose received 39.8% of the votes.
So as the top two vote-getters, Rose and Castillo headed to a runoff.
The two faced off at the Oct. 1 candidate forum, presented by Hometown Key West at the Tennessee Williams Theatre, where the candidates expressed different views about the question of whether Key West should issue $200 million of bonds to provide long-term funding for major projects and priorities over the next 30 years.
The bond question will appear on all Key West ballots in Novem-
ber, asking voters to approve or deny the issuance of general obligation bonds for various categories of expenditures, including infrastructure, transportation, sustainability and public safety.
Rose expressed tentative support for the bonds, likening them to a line of credit that would be available if needed to get priorities completed in less time and without having to delay them year by year when the city budget can’t afford it.
“And interest only starts accruing when we draw down some of the funds to be used,” Rose said, adding that every use of bond money would still have to go through the same review and approval process as any other city project. “So I do believe the bonds could be a good thing, especially because it wouldn’t prevent us from still seeking grants or budgeting funds to pay for the projects.”
Castillo said he wasn’t on board with the bond issue, and questioned the wisdom of putting Key Westers “on the hook” for hundreds of millions of dollars. But he also emphasized the importance of getting certain projects, including street paving and sidewalk replacement, completed in a timely manner, although he didn’t offer an alternative funding source to pay for the paving without bond money.
In terms of campaign funding, Castillo has raised about $88,000, garnering significant donations from leading business owners, including Ed Swift, owner of Historic Tours of America, hotelier Mark Meisel and the Spottswood family’s businesses.
Rose’s donations have come mainly from individuals, including $1,000 donations from residents Amy Bondurant, David Dunn, George Cooper, Doug Hamilton, William Regardie and others.
When asked on Oct. 1 about how he would balance the needs of residents with the priorities of his business supporters, Castillo pointed to the role his donors play in providing local residents with jobs and employee housing and emphasized that he is a lifelong Key West resident who will listen to and work for the people of Key West and District 6.
Read more about each candidate at voteaaroncastillo.com and votemarcirose.com.
Marci Rose and Aaron Castillo. PHIL DODDERIDGE/Contributed
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
REPUBLICAN DIVIDE DEEPENS AFTER CONTENTIOUS MEETING
GOP chair ejects elected official
Along-simmering feud within the local Republican Executive Committee boiled over at a recent meeting, then found its way to Facebook, revealing a divide over the party’s leadership and direction that reflects the similar rift in the national GOP between ardent supporters of Donald Trump’s MAGA movement and more moderate Republicans.
Friction has been mounting for months within the Monroe County Republican Executive Committee. Rhonda Rebman Lopez, a MAGA Republican, chairs the committee with similarly aligned board members. Committee members represent both groups.
The infighting has intensified since May, when the REC board held a vote to endorse its treasurer Sherri Hodies for supervisor of elections without mentioning the option of endorsing the other Republican candidate in the primary, Margaret Romero, who was not then an REC member. Several members objected, saying the vote to endorse fell short of the 60% or two-thirds approval required by the bylaws. Additionally, several members opposed the committee’s unprecedented endorsement of a candidate in a primary that included another Republican.
Complaints sent to the Republican Party of Florida (RPOF) prompted Lopez to ask the state party’s leadership for clarification. The state party acknowledged that primary endorsements were permitted.
When the Keys Weekly asked Lopez this week what the RPOF had said about the 60% vote requirement, she said, “The vote tallies were taken to the highest levels of the RPOF, by me, and they told me, as chairman, to make the call.”
Hodies’ endorsement stood. It came with a $20,000 campaign donation from the REC and she defeated Romero in the Aug. 20 primary. Hodies faces Democrat Ron Saunders in the November general election.
Some REC members have drawn the ire of Lopez and others because they personally and publicly endorsed Romero over Hodies in the primary. Some have also quietly signaled their support for Saunders over the Republican Hodies in the November election. Dissent continued within the committee over the summer when Lopez reportedly
canceled scheduled meetings, or closed them at the last minute to anyone except active members.
Committee meetings are closed to the public, the bylaws state, but allow “guests who are vouched for and accompanied by an REC member; elected Republican officials whose district encompasses Monroe County; registered candidates for an office in a district encompassing Monroe County;” invited speakers; members of local Republican clubs; members of RECs outside Monroe County and state party officers.
Contentious meeting
Jill Cranney-Black is one such Republican elected official whose district includes Monroe County. She has been a mosquito control commissioner for 12 years and made plans to attend the Sept. 21 REC meeting in Islamorada, along with two other local Republicans, non-committee members, who were guests of and sponsored by an REC member. Things did not go smoothly.
Cranney-Black told the Keys Weekly after the meeting:
“Saturday, I attended the REC meeting … to witness reported division between the leadership and the members ....I’d been told the current chair closes meetings last minute, which suppresses membership for Republicans who want to assist in the mission of getting qualified Republicans into office. I’d also been told she was not following rules that are set in place for a reason. I found her to be rude, dismissive, unprofessional and frivolous when speaking with her. I was essentially thrown out of the meeting by the chair for asking a simple question and having an opinion that didn’t align with hers. … My concerns were unfortunately confirmed. Current REC members and my fellow elected officials have done everything in their power to keep the discontent of the local REC leadership issues in house and a private matter. In these times, more than ever, we need to be united as a party. Under the current local leadership of the REC, the exact opposite seems to be happening and division seems to be occurring.”
Cranney-Black posted a similar summary of her experience at the meeting on Facebook, prompting a war of words that continued for several days. Here’s a selection of comments following her Facebook post:
“I witnessed the events firsthand. What Jill stated was an accurate account of what took place. There is more to come where a member was verbally accosted and had her personal space violated. The temperament and actions of the chair and some particular board members were an embarrassment, not just to a political party, but as human beings. This little piece of power that is currently retained will be short lived. Time to take the executive committee back and put it in the hands of reasonable and sane people. Jill, we appreciate your moral courage and honesty. We got your back and the backs of those members who seek change. — Jonathan Crane
As a member of the REC, I witnessed Rhonda Lopez’ attack on Jill and it was horrible. There was an Agenda item which called for Elected Officials to talk but, without any authority, Rhonda confronted and evicted Jill (who is an elected official). Rhonda acted crazed and after her 20+ minute attack on Jill, she came into the meeting room, still yelling and slamming her shoe on the table. She insulted Commissioner Jim Scholl and Commissioner Lincoln. Jill handled herself like the professional she is. But Rhonda Lopez lacks maturity, integrity and professionalism; she has become an embarrassment to the organization.
When I voted against the endorsement and campaign contribution for Sherri Hodies, I explained that my reasoning was because it violated the RPOF Rule 8. That caused Rhonda to alienate me and Stephen Hammond and tap candidates Bethany Bartlett and Michael Washam to run against us for State Commit-
tee. We will find a way to restore the Monroe County REC to the wonderful organization it once was. Rhonda dug her hole and now the walls are caving in. — Kathy White Ovide
“So the local republican party has adopted the policies of the national party. Very sad. I am so proud to have left the Republican party after being a republican for 40 plus years.” — Robert Cintron
“Throwing Republicans out of Republican meetings is becoming a regular occurrence at the REC meetings. Betty Chaplin & KW Jess told me I was not welcome and tried to throw me and 10 other republicans out of a meeting this past June. … The REC is not all bad, I would estimate it’s less than 50% and most are on the board. I attended my first meeting at the request of several members that want new leadership. Based on my personal experience, I totally agree that it is desperately needed. The current leadership has caused a major rift in the party. — Kevin Talbott
“When you are part of the ‘fake Republicans’ that actually endorse and support Democratic candidates, maybe you shouldn’t be speaking on corruption in our Republican Executive Committee. … This is the catalyst for ALL the drama in our Republican executive committee. You have taken no interest in our REC, but showed up Saturday because you were most likely sought by those “Republicans in name only” to bring more drama to the Republican executive committee and then acted like a victim when our Chair said “hell no”. The
true corruption in our local party are those poisoning the well, to get a democrat elected… Just an observation but playing the victim is not a very conservative value. It’s a tell-tale leftist play. There are wolves in sheeps clothing infiltrating our Monroe county Republican Party. — Stand With Bethany
“There is nothing wrong with voting your conscience if you believe the far better candidate happens to be a Democrat. Blind allegiance to a party if foolish. It certainly does not warrant the unprofessional, nasty behavior we are seeing. … Why was Sherrie endorsed over Romero against party rules? Why wasn’t she ethical enough to return the $10,000? Why is she hosting a fundraiser for a known election denier who has no proof of any fraud?”
— Steve Tepper, replying to Stand with Bethany
“When an election denier runs for the office overseeing elections, people will see the truth and vote with their conscience, not along party lines. Personally, I don’t think this job should be partisan as election integrity is important to us all. I’m not sure how long you’ve lived in the Keys, or know the history Ron Saunders has here, but you may need to look into that a bit. He’s the person for the job, no matter his party affiliation. The fact that you continue to push party-line voting only is shameful, and a real problem with our current political climate. Your attempts to belittle Jill and demean Ron are showing your own lack of integrity,”
— Julie Brown, replying to Stand with Bethany
“As an American, many of us see parties as groups of like minded people supporting a political goal. They have a structure to serve their members. The board serves the members.
This party changed massively into conspiracy and pretend victimization in my humble opinion. If this is what the present leadership calls real Republicans, many of us part ways with the party.
The support of one primary Republican over another was not we the people. It was a power trip. Listening to the rants on cherry picked and twisted truths is not for many.
I respect that we differ, as I have supported Americans who are not the sad tabloid folk. My candidates are both republicans and democrats this election season. I support those elected to represent us who stand up for those they serve, not this mess I see.
— Jack Norris, replying to Stand with Bethany ·
(Joyce Griffin) endorsed you because she is a Democrat and wants to pass the torch to another Democrat. If Sherri gets in there and does some digging she may find some unfavorable ‘standards.’ With her dedication to transparency that ‘experience’ may be under attack. Of course unless you get in there… — Stand with Bethany, replying Ron Saunders
When asked by the Keys Weekly about the Sept. 21 meeting, Lopez said, “Only statewide legislative officials are allowed into closed meetings, along with inducted REC members. My son graduated from Yale Law. I know my stuff.”
The bylaws, under the heading, “Guests and Invitees,” do not make any distinction between a closed meeting and a regular meeting.
“It was a closed meeting because we had things to discuss — some financial matters and confidential strategies,” Lopez told the Keys Weekly on Sept. 24.
Lopez also sent a text message to REC members after the Sept. 21 meeting, writing:
“Mosquito Board Jill with her high school education was a disgrace interrupting our closed meeting yesterday. I can’t believe my tax dollars pay her & many of the other public officials, but here we are. She would have had an argument to stay if she hadn’t come in insulting the Chair by saying I wasn’t an elected official & she was & that I tried to be. That insult was met w/my response that I own a multi-million dollar company and that I don’t need the taxpayer money to pay my insurance or salaries like she & many of the others do. She also screamed at Sherri (Hodies) telling her she was going to lose. RPOF knows ALL of this and more.
And for those texting during the meeting slandering Sherri & myself — someone was over your shoulder reading & committing to memory each & every text. I know so much more & seen the proof in texts that I’m just like WoW! And, there’s a recording that blew my mind. Unbeknownst, there was a mole in the group.”
(Note: Cranney-Black has a master’s degree in business administration and has worked for the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office as executive director of finance for 11 years.)
The Hemingway Look-Alike Society, joined by representatives of the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys, recently donated $5,000 to the Key West High School Band. Shown here are (from left) Kevin Bowes of the Community Foundation, Hemingway Look-Alike Tim Stockwell, band director Gary Fernandez, Hemingway Look-Alike Society’s Joe Maxey, the Community Foundation’s Elizabeth Brown, and Hemingway Look-Alike Dusty Rhodes — backed by members of the band. CAROL SHAUGHNESSY/Florida Keys News Bureau
The Hemingway Look-Alike Society on Sept. 30 donated $5,000 to the Key West High School marching band in support of the band’s performances and upcoming touring schedule.
The donation was inspired in part by the band’s invitation to participate in the 2024 London New Year’s Day Parade, the Key West community’s enthusiastic support in raising funds to underwrite the trip to London, and the band’s stellar performance in the international parade.
The society is composed of winners of Sloppy Joe’s Hemingway® Look-Alike Contest that highlights Key West’s annual Hemingway Days, a celebration of Ernest Hemingway’s literary talent, exuberant lifestyle and 1930s residence on the island. Each year, the contest draws more than 125 competitors who emulate the author’s stocky, bearded later-life appearance.
Joe Maxey, the 2019 Look-Alike
Contest winner and a current judge of the competition, presented the ceremonial check Monday to band director Gary Hernandez at the high school. Other Hemingway Look-Alikes, representatives of Sloppy Joe’s and the Community Foundation, and band students were on hand for the donation.
The society began awarding scholarship funds to Florida Keys students in 1999. Since then, more than $1 million has been raised through efforts of the Look-Alikes and their supporters. The society’s scholarship endowment fund with the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys is now the organization’s second largest.
According to Maxey, the LookAlike Society is expanding its philanthropic efforts to support worthy organizations in Key West and the Florida Keys as well as providing scholarships. The donation to the band is among its 2024 activities to carry out that enhanced mission.
THE 16TH ANNUAL PUMPKIN PATCH 2024
OCTOBER 1ST - 31ST
75 YEARS OF SERVICE
Keys Mosquito Control District continues the battle with new technology
1-2. A low-flying DC 3 sprays for mosquitoes over the Florida Keys. The old planes were retired in the 1990s and replaced by a fleet of helicopters. CONTRIBUTED. 3. The Florida Keys Mosquito Control District now operates a fleet of five helicopters. This photograph was in the summer of 2020 during the Dengue outbreak. 4. John Carson, seen on the job, is the longest tenured FKMCD employee. He’s been with the agency for more than 30 years and is a Lower Keys field inspector. 5. The mosquito control district once used a Bell 47 helicopter for treatment.
In 1949, the Florida state legislature passed a bill paving the way for the creation of what is now known as the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District (FKMCD). A few years later, in 1951, the fledgling operation consisted of one full-time employee who served as the executive director and entomologist, overseeing 14 part-time employees tasked with covering the entire 120-mile long island chain.
Today, FKMCD has a 2024-2025 budget of approximately 20 million dollars and employs roughly 71 full-time workers, half of whom are field inspectors. Mosquito control has three boats used to target mosquitoes on the offshore islands, and it now has an arsenal of five sophisticated helicopters to keep the blood-sucking insects at bay.
“We’ve come an awful long way,” acknowledged Dr. Larry Hribar, who serves as the mosquito district’s director of research. Hribar has been with mosquito control for 26 years and is credited with establishing its surveillance program, which utilizes around 70 trapping sites to identify the types of mosquitoes found throughout the Florida Keys.
“When I got here there were 45 mosquito species that had been reported in the Florida Keys, we’re up over 50 now,” said Hribar.
Executive Director Andrea Leal has been with the district for more than 20 years. Over her tenure with the agency, the focus has shifted from eradicating nuisance mosquitoes to fighting a public health battle.
“We didn’t really see a lot of diseases until about 15 years ago, when we saw Dengue fever introduced into the Florida Keys for the first time since the 1930s,” said Leal. “And that really changed our perspective on the importance of what we’re doing around here.”
The way the agency fights mosquitoes has evolved as well. Today the focus is on larviciding, targeting the immature mosquitoes living in water before they become biting adults.
“That’s been a general trend of ours for the last 15 or 20 years and we’re really proud of that,” said Leal.
“The more larviciding we’ve been doing, the less adulticiding we needed to do,” she explained. Adulticiding targets the flying, blood-sucking mosquitoes.
“We really push whatever we can do to be as environmentally sensitive as we can,” added Leal.
John Carson is a field inspector in the Lower Keys and is the longest serving FKMCD employee. He’s been with the agency for over 30 years and remembers when mosquito control had only one helicopter and two thundering World War II-era DC 3s. The low flying planes were real attention-getters.
“A lot of questions, is that plane crashing or something?” recalled John of inquiries he would field from Keys residents and visitors. “I think we’re doing
a lot better now, that’s for sure,” he added. FKMCD stopped flying the old DC 3s in the late 1990s and slowly transitioned to an all helicopter fleet used for granular and liquid missions.
Back in the day, Carson logged a few thousand hours as a passenger in the helicopters with the pilots, showing them where to go to make their drops.
Now, the pilots fly the mosquito missions solo due to advances in technology.
“Computer models are on board that will show pilots exactly where the droplet cloud will come down,” said Hribar, who recalled his hair-raising early days of flying in the helicopters without the doors on.
“I said to the pilot, what’s going on? He said we can carry more product if we take the doors off,” recalled Hribar with a laugh.
When asked what living in the Florida Keys would be like without mosquito control, Hribar quickly responded, “ It would be miserable.”
Despite the advances in technology and efficiencies, field inspectors still utilize good old-fashioned footwork to help them locate areas of concern and educate residents.
“We knock on a lot of doors,” said Carson. “We walk around and dump out water and also educate them about the diseases that can come about if they’re around in the area,” he added.
The busy mosquito season coincides with hurricane season when heavy rains can lead to optimal mosquito breeding grounds.
Over the last 75 years, the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District has learned a lot about fighting the tiny disease-carrying creatures and now employees are eager to share what they’ve learned with the public they serve.
That’s why FKMCD will host its first ever open house on Tuesday, Oct. 8. There will be various educational stations showing what inspectors do daily and ways to prevent or reduce mosquitoes on your own property. Laboratory personnel will display all the different life stages of mosquitoes under microscopes. There will be arts and crafts for the kids. There will also be a naming contest for mosquito control’s new mascot. On top of that, all of the mosquitofighting equipment will be on display, including the agency’s trucks and helicopters. Then, around 5:30 p.m. there will be an aerial demonstration.
“You’ll be able to see the helicopter just spraying water so you can get a good visual of exactly what it is that we do when we’re out there,” said Leal. “After that we’ll do a cake cutting and it should be a really great time,” she added.
The Florida Keys Mosquito Control District’s open house is free to the public and will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 8 from 4 to 7 p.m. at 503 107th St. Gulf in Marathon.
On Thursday, October 17, 2024, join Keys FCU in celebrating 76 years of International Credit Union Day® with treats and give aways in our branches.
Credit Unions bring people together to grow financial inclusion and make local communities stronger, even in our divided times.
All Candidate Fundraisers
MONDAYS 9/30 – 10/14
Royal Aqua Idol
6pm @Aquaplex, 711 Duval Street
Free event! Come in and “vote” for your favorite candidates!
WEDNESDAY 10/9/24
All Candidate Fundraiser
5-7pm @ The Gardens Hotel 526 Angela Street
The King and Queen Candidates that raise the most money will win $2500 each towards their campaign thanks to Sponsor Kate Miano!
FRIDAY 10/18/24
ROYAL CORONATION
6pm doors / 7 pm show Coffee Butler Amphitheater
Kick off Fantasy Fest to see who becomes the King & Queen of Fantasy Fest 2024!
This fabulous 2-hour stage show includes entertainment by local celebrities and the candidates themselves!
Tickets include reserved seating, a 3-course plated dinner and two votes for the candidates of your choice. Tickets are $100 per seat and are available now: keystix.com/fantasyfest/#royalcoronation
General admission entry is FREE with open lawn space for self-seating, cash bar for all.
2024 FANTASY FEST KING CANDIDATES
LISA ZEE
WEDNESDAY 10/2/24
Lisa's Speak-e-Zee, 6-10pm @ The Roost, 508 Fleming Street
Join us for an exclusive speakeasy experience! Dress to impress in enjoy specialty craft cocktails. Choose your time (6-7pm/7-8pm /8-9pm/ 9-10pm). Password is REQUIRED for entry and will be emailed directly to you once you register! $10 entrance fee early bird (on line purchase only), $20 donation at the door.
2024 FANTASY FEST QUEEN CANDIDATES
paired with specially priced Italian wines, raffles, cork count, bottle pull and snap a pic in the “gondola” with your fur babies or friends! Donation for admission.
$50 to put your prisoner in, $1,000 to get them out. Watch out! $50 will get you back in again!
SUNDAY 10/6/24
Tea Dance, 4-6:30pm La Te Da, 1125 Duval Street.
ELLE TAYLOR
Vibrator Races, 6pm
Mary Ellen’s Bar, 420 Appelrouth Street
Purchase tickets at maryellensbar.com
Blind Wine Tasting, 5-7pm Vinos on Duval, 810 Duval Street. Donation for admission ($25 suggested). Blind painting too!
SUNDAY 10/6/24
Group Vow Renewal & Commitment Ceremony 3-5pm @ The Gardens Hotel, 526 Angela Street $100/couple. Includes a champagne toast and a certificate of your commitment. The event will conclude with Michael blowing a conch shell, symbolizing a new chapter in each couple's love story. Friends and guests by donation; cash bar.
Donations
Donations & tickets
MARJORY LEE
SATURDAY 10/5/24
Ultimate 90's DJ Dance Party, 6-10pm @ Sunset Pier, 0 Duval Street. $50/ ticket. Live entertainment by some of your favorite local DJs, lighting by Audio Images, glow sticks & more! 90's theme drinks, 90's dance contests with cash prizes.
SUNDAY 10/6/24
Mojito's March, 2-4pm
Second Line Parade honoring our Keys pets that have crossed the rainbow bridge Hank's Hair of the Dog Saloon, 409 Caroline Street.
SUNDAY 10/6/24
Drag Queen Bingo with QMitch, 5pm @ 22&Co, 504 Angela Street
WEDNESDAY 10/9/24
Cirque du Drag,9-11pm @ Birdcage Cabaret
504 Angela Street $20 admission
Registration 11am12:30pm @ Conch Republic Seafood Company (corner of Greene and Elizabeth) Parade departs at 1pm and arrives at Hank's at 2pm: raffles, giveaways and more! Pets are welcome to participate.
TUESDAY 10/8/24
Marjory Lee presents “Local Stars & New Shine”, 7pm doors open, 8pm show
The Key West Theater, 512 Eaton Street Tickets: $75 - $125. Includes 2 drink tickets, party favors, raffles, silent auction, and one person's lucky chance to win $2,500 cash
Donations & tickets
Donations & tickets
REEF THE FOX CHECKS IN WITH KEY WEST POLICE K9 JIGSAW
K9
Hi friends!
Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” Boy oh boy, do I have a treat for you this week. I was able to sit down with K9 Jigsaw who works for Key West Police Department (KWPD).
from a fur farm. He now lives in Key Largo with his human, Nicole Navarro.
Jigsaw came to KWPD in October 2020 when a very kind family donated the money for the department to acquire a new K9. We conducted our interview at KWPD headquarters under cover in the midst of a rain band from Hurricane Helene. When I tell you I go the distance for my readers, I really go the distance. Let’s get into it.
Reef: Hey there, Jigsaw. Thanks for taking time out of your extremely busy schedule for this interview. I’ll get right to the questions so you can go on duty. First, Where were you born?
Jigsaw: Hi there, Reef! I’ve heard a lot about you, read your column and saw you interviewed our KWPD mounted unit. I was wondering when you would get around to the K9s. To answer your question, I was born in Slovakia!
Reef: Woah! That’s a new one.
Okay so I know one thing and one thing only about Slovakia. Since my human mother is from Pittsburgh, she talks about it often (boring). A super famous artist named Andy Warhol was born in Pittsburgh and his parents were from Slovakia. That’s the end of my Slovak knowledge. Next question. What are your specialities as far as training?
Jigsaw: Well, I just learned something new that I will never use but I like learning new things. I am skilled in the arts of tracking, apprehension and narcotics detection.
Reef: That’s pretty darn cool. I am skilled in the art of screaming, napping and annoying the other foxes at Pawsitive Beginnings. So what is your favorite snack?
Jigsaw: So here’s the thing Reef. I love all snacks. From ice cubes to carrots and everything in between. I have a diverse pallet and do not discriminate when it comes to treats.
Reef: Wow, I am so picky and my mom gets annoyed. Good for you buddy, good for you. Now what is your silliest quirk when you are not on duty?
Jigsaw: I have two cat siblings at home and one dog sibling. I like to instigate cats. It may be wrong, don’t really care.
Reef: That is what I like to hear. Can’t show weakness or they walk all over you, those cats! We are almost done here. What is your favorite hobby outside of work?
Jigsaw: I love to swim and cuddle with my humans, or anyone who is a good person. You know us canines can sense those things.
Reef: Oh yes I do know. People have come to visit us foxes before and we can tell immediately if we are going to like them or not. Last question, I know there are other K9 officers that work for KWPD, do you all get along?
Jigsaw: Here’s the thing, Reef. Us K9 officers are so intelligent and so expertly trained at our jobs that if they let us mingle we might just take over the entire department. So they tend to keep us separated for fear of a total canine revolution.
Reef: Oh I like the sound of that. If that ever happens, give me a call. Chief Reef has a nice ring to it.
Jigsaw: Deal.
Special thanks to Chief Sean Brandenburg and Officer Thomas Anglin for allowing my mother, Nicole Navarro, to visit KWPD for this interview.
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WHEN LOCAL NEWS MATTERS –
DO YOU HAVE A PASSION FOR WRITING, NEWS AND JOURNALISM? CONTACT US TODAY OR SEND YOUR RESUME/ PORTFOLIO TO MANDY@KEYSWEEKLY.COM
Reef is a red fox that was saved
Key West Police Department’s
Jigsaw poses with Reef plush toy. CONTRIBUTED
If
Accepting new patients. Most major health plans are welcome.
Stanley Santiago, M.D. OBGYN
Christiaan A. Webb, M.D. OBGYN Naomi Andrews, M.S. Nurse Midwife Margaret “Margo” Von Mauw, MSN Nurse Midwife
MARINE SANCTUARY HONORS VOLUNTEER STEPHEN PATTEN WALK ON WHITE RETURNS OCT. 17
Patten serves as docent at Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center
Stephen Patten is two-timing us—in a good way. The 68-year-old retiree, whose first name is pronounced Stef-an, has been named Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Volunteer of the Year for a second time, reprising the honor he first earned in 2019. “I guess I’m on a roll every five years,” Patten quipped, “so I have 2029 to look forward to.” By that time, Patten will have multiplied the 1,000 volunteer hours he’s logged as a docent at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, not to mention his time serving as a member of the Sanctuary Advisory Council.
“Stephen is an authority on the environmental history and communities of the Keys,” said EcoDiscovery Center manager Kristina Agard, “and does a wonderful job introducing visitors to not only the Eco-Discovery Center, but to the environment around it as well. Stephen ensures everyone walks away with a deeper understanding of our delicate ecosystems and how we can all help to preserve them.”
You could say that Patten labored for half a century to get here. In the early 1970s, he enrolled at
Oregon State University to pursue a career as a park ranger, but a dearth of jobs at the time forced him into the military. He became an Army medic on the way to a nursing career that made him a leader in the liver transplant movement as president of the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists. “All of us are born with responsibility before we get privileges,” Patten said, “and it’s a responsibility of every individual to find where they can make a difference in society and do it. It’s one of the reasons I was a nurse for 40 years, and the reason I’m volunteering and trying to give back to the environment I love so much.”
Patten is in his third term on the Sanctuary Advisory Council, serving as the primary Lower Keys Citizen at Large. A scuba diver since 1972, you can also find him in the water on occasion, enjoying the coral reefs and generating first-hand knowledge for his tours at the Eco-Discovery Center. “As volunteer coordinator, I love when I can match a volunteer with the right opportunity for them to feel like they are making a difference— giving back to their community, and having fun at the same time,” said the sanctuary’s Liz Trueblood. “Our volunteers allow us to reach more people with the important message of protecting the unique ecosystems in the Keys.”
— Contributed
Art stroll takes place every 3rd Thursday
Walk on White, one of Key West’s most popular ongoing “art stroll” experiences, will kick off its 2024 season on Oct. 17, and will continue monthly every third Thursday through May from 6-9 p.m.
Launched in 1999 to promote and celebrate Key West’s midtown galleries and showcase the range and caliber of their artists, WOW has evolved and expanded, and now also includes multiple businesses in the White Street district that will open to the arts loving public during the strolls. Additionally, the WOW organization is now leveraging the event’s popularity by serving as a fundraising vehicle for local non-profit organizations. Easily navigable for most walkers and bikers, the WOW district encompasses the stretch of White Street running from Southard to United and extends along several of its cross-streets. Art lovers can explore an array of offerings at more than 20 destinations showcasing the works of painters, photographers, sculptors, ceramic and mixed media artists, and artisan jewelry makers while enjoying island architecture, exhibit openings, creative demonstrations, musical, literary and performance offerings, libation and food samples and the pleasure of connecting with community.
October WOW highlights include a 6:15 p.m. live performance by the Key West High School Conchettes dance group at the Dairy Queen, 1207 United St., and a 6:45 p.m. performance at Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Co., 1201 White St., where those of legal age can sample a selection of J.F. Haden’s craft liqueurs. While at Coldwell Banker, attendees can purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win a prize basket full of goodies donated by area businesses and vendors. Raffle proceeds benefit the KWHS Conchettes and ticket holders need not be present to win.
Other special October event features include complimentary tasting samples served up at Mo’s Restaurant, Sandy’s Café, Oasis Mediterranean Cuisine and White Street Pizza, all located on White Street. Visitors to Truman & Co. Real Estate, 1205 Truman Ave., can enjoy Key West’s First Legal Rum Distillery samples compliments of Zintsmaster and team, and Mutiny Vodka samples at the Golden Heron House, 1106 Georgia St. Haven’t had a chance yet to meet and congratulate the “Island of the Arts” new mayor, Danise “Dee Dee” Henriquez? Event organizers report that the mayor has set a goal to visit all of the nearly two-dozen participating locations on Oct. 17.
For a list of participating locations and more information, visit WalkOnWhiteKeyWest.com.
— Contributed
Kristina Agard, Superintndent Sarah Fangman and Liz Trueblood honor Stephen Patten with his second Volunteer of the Year plaque. CONTRIBUTED
Key West’s popular Walk on White monthly art stroll kicks off its 2024 season Thursday, Oct. 17. CAROL TEDESCO/WalkOnWhiteKeyWest.com
clickers used to count the
MARK HEDDEN
... is a photographer, writer, and semi-professional birdwatcher. He has lived in Key West for more than 25 years and may no longer be employable in the real world. He is also executive director of the Florida Keys Audubon Society.
APeregrine falcon is not an off-the-shelf bird. There are very few places in the world where you can decide you want to see a Peregrine falcon, and then go out and see one. They are just too mobile and elusive. The very word “peregrine” means one who wanders.
There are two main workarounds for this. During the nesting season, peregrines are behaviorally tied to the area of their nest. Both parents share in the raising of their chicks, and they have to make multiple sorties each day for food. So one way to game the system and lay eyes on them is to figure out where there’s a nest. Usually it’s on a rocky cliffside, though in recent years quite a few have shown up on towering buildings in urbanized areas, such as atop the 286-foot 4 ¼-inch tall library at UMass Amherst, or in the gray 548-foot-high tower of Philadelphia’s City Hall, not too far below Willie Penn’s boots. And then just wait for them to fly in and out.
Seeing them this way tends to leave you in a state of simultaneous wonder and loneliness, as most people won’t be as thrilled as you are, no matter how much you try to exhort them to. (In my experience, public exhortation in urbanized areas is generally taken as a sign of mental instability.)
The other way to be almost guaranteed to see a peregrine is to be in the Florida Keys during the next month and paying attention. I say this simultaneously too often and not often enough, but every fall the Florida Keys become the Peregrine falcon capital of the world – the world! – as more of them pass through here than any other spot on the planet.
There are multiple ways to approach seeing them here. The easiest is to make a trip to Curry Hammock State Park on Little Crawl Key, home of the Florida Keys Hawkwatch. There, even if you find one yourself, one of the hawkwatchers will no doubt let you know when they see one.
You can also make your way to one of the tall radio towers in the Keys. Peregrines like to perch on them – the highest things in the landscape – late in the day. So if you scan them up and down with a pair of binoculars, you’ve got a good chance of seeing them. Look for the things that break up the rhythms of the structures, the odd shapes that don’t look manmade. A perched peregrine looks something like a skinny football with a head and a fleshtearing bill. I counted 19 of them in the same tower near Truman Waterfront once. Keep in mind these are birds that do not enjoy the company of other birds, outside of their mate and offspring for three months every year. They just don’t have many options to perch. (The rooftop
of The Studios of Key West can be a good place to see them in flight, usually in the late morning. Check TSKW’s schedule to see when they’re open.)
I was up in the northeast for most of the last month. I visited five different hawkwatches between New Hampshire and Virginia while there, and I saw a lot of raptors – northern harriers, merlins, red-tailed hawks, red-shouldered hawks, American kestrels and others. But the species I hadn’t seen this fall somehow was, of course, the Peregrine falcon.
While the Florida Keys Hawkwatch has the best numbers, peregrines do get seen in smaller numbers in other places. Just not, apparently, by me this fall.
I suppose I could have taken my own Key West-based suggestions and gone to the roof of the Studios, or gone to the trusty tower at Truman Waterfront. But I was heading to Miami to see the avant garde, post-prog rock, postpunk, kind-of-hard-to-describe-it’s-better-tojust-listen-to-them band, Sigur Ros, play with a 40-plus piece orchestra, and I had a little time. So I decided to stop by the hawkwatch.
When I got there, the three hawk counters – Gianna Arcuri, Chris Payne and Adrianna Nelson – were all standing in a line, as if posing, bent with their eyes to their spotting scopes, staring at something in the distance.
I always think of that Bruce Springsteen line, “one step up and two steps back,” at the beginning of every hawk-watching season. Springsteen was singing about a disintegrating marriage, but I’m thinking more in terms of the attrition of skills, and the proper ratio for me is probably two steps up and one step back. But I just forget so much, and lose so much acuity, between seasons. Birds I could identify quickly, with an amazingly minuscule amount of information, 10 months before, require a good amount of thought, and sometimes still sometimes stump me.
I figured out where their scopes were pointing, and saw what they were looking at. It was apparently a broad-winged hawk, but it was just a speck to me, getting lighter and
2 STEPS UP AND 1 STEP BACK
darker as it got closer and farther from the wispy cloud in the background. (The beginning of hawk season is also when I get reacquainted with my eye floaters every year.)
The flight line was way off, somewhere beyond the highway. In the next 20 minutes there were other birds, notably a northern harrier, an American kestrel, a merlin and finally a peregrine falcon. But I was taking their word for it. I wanted that click in my brain, that dopamine hit that comes with seeing a challenging bird and knowing what it is.
I was beating myself up a bit, but in my defense, Gianna, Chris and Adrianna all had young eyes and had been working together at Curry Hammock for close to two months, which was a pretty solid route to clarity and sharpness. They knew where, and apparently when, to look.
They have actually counted a record 5,100 swallow-tailed kites since the start of the season, though swallow-tails migrate earlier than most of the other raptors that come through the Keys, and their numbers are petering out. A few other peregrines were called out during a conversation about how they wanted 7 or 38 more swallow-tails, because if they saw exactly 5,100 swallow-tails in a season, it might look a little dubious.
Finally, as the discussion of what the most authentic looking number would be for their very authentic data, I caught sight of a bird relatively low on the horizon. It moved quick and straight, and I was worried it was going to be another question mark for me, but then, almost as if it were throwing its ID to me underhanded, it banked, and there were the telltale pointed wingtips, and that damp flash went off in my hypothalamus. Peregrine!
My brain was back. Or on the road to being back. Probably. Why define it? It just felt good. I got so giddy that they let me push the button on the clicker to record it.
It was their 12th peregrine that hour, on what would turn out to be a 147-peregrine day.
They’d count 160 the next, and probably more the day after that.
The
raptors at the Florida Keys Hawkwatch at Curry Hammock State Park in Marathon. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly
TRINITY WITHOUT BORDERS AREA RESOURCE CENTER AND RE-STORE
HAS ONCE AGAIN OPENED IN BIG PINE KEY
The Trinity Without Borders Area Resource Center and Re-Store has proudly reopened on Big Pine Key, ready to serve the community with renewed vigor. A ribbon-cutting event was held the evening of Sept. 16 to commemorate the milestone, and executive director Vallerie Claar was ecstatic about the event turnout.
“The community showed up and showed out,” said Claar. “We had offers to help with upgrades of the inside mechanical systems, offers to help in our outside Serenity Garden and the local church reached out in regard to our emergency relief program. We are also assembling an art team to create a mural on the side of the donation station bus. I felt the threads of a safety net winding through the people that will bring us closer together.”
As a non-profit 501(c)(3) Community Organization Active in Disasters (COAD) in Florida, Trinity Without Borders was established in 2006 to provide vital emergency relief: food, housing, donations and essential resources. The organization has a rich history in Big Pine Key, having previously operated from 2007 to 2012 at the Seahorse RV Park near the Avenues and then later at the local Big Pine Key Flea Market. With its reopening, Trinity Without Borders is excited to once again be a beacon of hope and assistance for the local community.
A treasure trove of new and gently used goods, all at incredibly affordable prices, line
the shelves of the resource center. Moreover, the organization distributes certain donations free of charge to those in dire need. Trinity Without Borders is continually seeking to expand its offerings and welcomes volunteers with open arms.
“We are always looking for volunteers to help us out,” said Claar. “We need people to help with disaster relief sign ups, donation sorting, staging and pricing of donated items that will be sold and distributed, help in the Serenity Garden, help with the bus mural – and just those that can make good coffee.”
Trinity Without Borders is actively involved in a diverse range of initiatives, from providing critical emergency and disaster relief to offering educational and health-related programs, such as CPR and first aid classes. The organization also hosts recreational workshops focused on hobbies and crafts, supports small business startups and much more. A wealth of donations and distributions awaits, including new and used goods like furniture, toiletries, artwork, marine supplies and essential household items.
“We assist the community by having a large umbrella of services and resources, but also by caring that people are safe and okay,” said Claar. “Sometimes people need help and they are too shy to ask for it. Maybe a person they love has cancer and is out of work and needs rental or utility assistance. If we don’t have the funds in hand, we connect them with those who do. We had a local person bring an elderly woman here who was in the early stages of dementia (and) would forget what happened yesterday. She had substantial income, yet was afraid of where she was living and very vulnerable. We were able to bring the Adult Protective Services here and she willingly went into a safe, caring living situation. It’s all about helping one person or family at a time.”
Trinity Without Borders Inc. is committed to providing indispensable support and services to those in need. The Area Resource Center, affectionately known as The ARC, is a corner-
stone facility of the organization. Nestled at 1668 Bogie Road, off Watson Blvd. in Big Pine Key, the ARC has always been dedicated to promoting homeownership and eradicating food insecurity. Their mission is to assist neighbors and Keys residents in achieving sustainability, whatever their specific needs may be. For more information, call 786-627-1915.
1. From left, Marney Brown, Charlotte Palmer, Valerie Claar, Colleen Fuller, Tina Bass and Fran Martini cut the ribbon to commemorate the reopening of Trinity Without Borders’ Area Resource Center. DANI ECHOLS/Contributed
2. Trinity Without Borders volunteers welcome guests to the grand reopening of the Area Resource Center. JEN ALEXANDER/Contributed
3, 4, 5. The Area Resource Center in Big Pine Key is stocked not with household essentials along with furniture, decorations and other supplies. JEN ALEXANDER/Contributed
JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com
LES
Florida Keys’ & Cuba’s Finest Regional Art “Art washes away from the soul the dust of
Happy Birthday Mario
Born October 7th 1908, Mario Sanchez would be 116 this year. He lived to be 96. At the time of his passing in 2005 he had lived half of Key West’s history! His historic legacy relating the heritage of Key West and Tampa’s everyday fascinating people and the incredible lives and times they lived in are recorded forever by his intaglios, carved painted cedar or white pine. Who knew Key West founded the rst integrated industry in the USA?
Next month a new documentary will be screened about Mario at the Key West Film Festival titled, “Over the Beautiful Florida Keys”. If you are in town, don’t miss it. A great lm about Mario and Key West and it’s fascinating people.
Pee-Roo-Lee & Spanish Limes Forget shoveling
|
CHRIS McNULTY
is an astrologer, wanderer, bartender and advocate for queer justice. He is a loquacious Gemini with a cozy Cancer rising. Find him at hearthandheraldastrology.com
The final eclipse of this year occurred Oct. 2, so you can let your guard down a bit and start to integrate the radical changes that have taken place over the past few weeks.
Yesterday’s solar eclipse in Libra heralds a new beginning through letting go. An old skin is being shed and a cumbersome weight is being dropped, all so that we might experience the world with a new gait or a new choreography. The fact that this eclipse took place in Libra alludes to a social ballast that we are releasing. This eclipse welcomes a realization of how we might have been putting others before ourselves, losing ourselves to keep the peace, forgetting we are part of something bigger than ourselves, or realizing our words and actions may not have been in alignment. Let this metamorphosis move through you as we all begin to regain our footing after the tectonic shifts that have taken place. Soon enough you’ll have the distance from eclipse season to look back and say, “Oh THAT’S why I was all over the place!”
Here are your horoscopes for the Solar Eclipse in Libra. Read for your rising and sun signs.
LIBRA
Sept. 23 - Oct. 23
You naturally find yourself in your relationships to other people, Libra, but this eclipse has you wondering where your intrinsic sense of self arises in that social soup. Where is the me in the we? Something has been released in this regard, and you have a chance to step into the world with a new skin. No more living to respond. Your voice is more than an echo.
SCORPIO
Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
We don’t even need to be around others to be affected by our own notions of social expectation, and that is particularly true for you, Scorpio. Have you been realizing that your own subconscious cage of social norms is holding you back? We build our own cages, and you have the key to yours. Your own expectations for yourself are what matter most, so fly out that door.
SAGITTARIUS
Nov. 22 - Dec. 21
You are naturally the life of the party AND the one who makes sure everyone is having a good time. No one is left behind in your social circle. This eclipse asks you if that is necessarily your responsibility. When you focus on the needs of others, do you gain more for yourself than they get in return? Certainly not always, but perhaps there is a “mind ya business” energy that could benefit your own integration.
CAPRICORN
Dec. 22 - Jan. 19
Taylor Swift, born with Mercury in Capricorn, said that we only know the version of someone that they have chosen to show us. This eclipse season had you grappling with reputation, and yesterday’s eclipse had you shedding a reputation for others in order to build a reputation for yourself. Maybe your work and your image should not be crafted by the perception of others, but for the reception of others.
AQUARIUS
Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
You are an incredibly independent innovator, Aquarius. Learning new things and chasing the horizon come with the territory of Aquarian ingenuity. Novelty for novelty’s sake, however, can be a never-ending escape. Do you run towards new territory and new people to avoid the responsibility of being authentic in familiar surroundings? Escape has its own weight. Stop running.
PISCES
Feb. 19 - March 20
Investing in other people is a way for you to throw out lifelines. It’s easy for you to get swept into dreamy, metaphysical wanderings, and developing responsibilities and obligations to others can keep you tethered in a grounded place. Do those tethers always reflect your values, though? This eclipse offers you a chance to let some obligations go and to make new ones that represent you better.
ARIES
March 21 - April 19
Partnership does not have a singular definition. There are many ways to be in partnership with another person, and this eclipse season had you growing into a new pattern of self and other. Perhaps it is time for some new partners, or perhaps it is time to renegotiate your partnership terms. Letting go of old patterns is the primary focus right now, and there are myriad ways to do so.
TAURUS
April 20 - May 20
Doing things with other people is a motivating factor for you to get active, Taurus. Your hands and your labor are made for peacekeeping, and it is precisely this aspect of your life that is going through major change. What is the peace that you are working for? Are there greater purposes that your powerful hands can contribute to?
GEMINI
May 21 - June 20
Your creative bliss is a social project, Gemini. Your innovative self-expression is inherently about connecting with others and creating balance in the world. How you do that can take many forms, however. Bending over backwards to make sure everyone gets what they want out of you is inherently unsustainable. How can you renegotiate your creative projects to make sure your own voice doesn’t get lost?
SHEDDING CONVENTIONS
CANCER
June 21 - July 22
Family ain’t what it used to be. We tend to think that our past is set in stone, and yet new information or a new perspective can entirely change the material nature of our history. How has your experience of family become new, and what do you need to let go of to move forward with healthy integrity? Sometimes, it’s what we carry that prevents us from finding our footing.
LEO
July 23 - Aug. 22
It’s your local environment where you are the caretaker, and big adventures where you find your sense of self. However, it is your familiar world where you spend most of your time, so it is important to have an integrated sense of self in your community. Something is shifting in this regard. How can you be a person for others on your home turf and infuse that quality with independence?
VIRGO
Aug. 23 - Sept. 22
Our finances are more than just money in the bank. How we make money and how we spend money reflect our values (or lack thereof). Your money flow tends to be about keeping balance in the social sphere, but this eclipse has you making changes. Your financial health is as much about yourself as it is about others, and there are ways to ensure that you can have income while also being a giver.
DRAMA ON NO NAME KEY
Heated neighbor disputes lead to a shooting
FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI
Poet Robert Frost used the line “good fences make good neighbors” in his 1914 poem “Mending Fences.”
While he was not the first to speak to the idea, it was certainly not the case with No Name Key’s Carlton Craig and Mosby Matcovich.
For a little backstory, the first version of the Overseas Highway was officially called State Road 4A. Significantly different than it appears today, the road had a 40mile gap requiring passage aboard an automobile ferry. Two ferry terminals, one at Lower Matecumbe Key and one at No Name Key, were operable when the road opened to traffic in 1927. The ferries remained in use until the new and improved Overseas Highway opened in 1938 eliminated the need for the ferry system. The No Name Key ferry landing was subsequently abandoned.
During the road’s construction, a work camp was established next to the ferry landing. Carlton Craig bought the property circa 1933, expanded it and developed the No Name Key Fishing Lodge. Craig had a brother named Roland, who also moved to the Keys and developed his own fisherman’s paradise. His property was on a stretch of railroad fill between Lower Matecumbe and Fiesta Keys, now known as Craig Key.
Unlike Roland, Carlton Craig had a difficult neighbor named Mosby Matcovich whose father, Nicholas Matcovich, was once known as the Hermit of No Name Key. Nicholas farmed his homestead until he passed in 1919. Mosby, born circa 1872, moved to the family home-
stead and, like his father, worked as a farmer. The border between the properties of Craig and Matcovich was State Road 4A as it led to the ferry terminal.
According to a story in The Key West Citizen dated Feb. 25, 1936, Mosby Matcovich appeared before Justice of the Peace Rogelio Gomez over complaints levied by Carlton Craig. He alleged that Matcovich interfered with his work at the No Name Fishing Lodge and made threats against him. Matcovich was ordered to “deposit a peace bond of $200 or spend 10 days in county jail.” Failing to pay the bond, he was placed in custody and taken to the county jail.
It was not his last time in court. The Key West Citizen reported that Mosby Matcovich was again in front of a judge in the June 21, 1938, edition of the paper. This time, it was more serious. Matcovich stood before County Judge Raymond R. Lord for an incident with Captain Jimmie Saunders, who charted fishing trips from Craig’s fish camp. On the evening of June 16, it was alleged that Saunders trespassed onto Matcovich’s property and threatened him with bodily harm.
According to Matcovich, feeling threatened, he leveled a single-barrel shotgun at Saunders and shot him in self-defense. The victim was brought to Key West and delivered to the Marine Hospital by the Lopez Funeral Home ambulance. Dr. Ralph Braund operated on Saunders and removed the slug that broke his pelvis. On June 17, 1938, The Key West Citizen reported that Saunders was “evidently not shot by buckshot for when the trousers were removed from Saunders there was only one hole in his trousers indicating where the charge entered. The wound is just above the buttocks.”
The “badly mashed” slug was not buckshot from a shotgun but from a .32 caliber revolver. Not only had Matcovich not used a shotgun, but also shot Saunders when his back was turned. Charged with attempted murder,
Aerial of No Name Key showing No Name Key Fishing Lodge by Ferry landing circa 1936. MONROE COUNTY LIBRARY COLLECTION
Matcovich was initially sentenced to five years in the state prison, but his sentence was later reduced to one year in county jail and a $500 fine. If he could not pay the fine, Judge William Albury said he would tack on one more year to his sentence.
Life on No Name Key continued to be uncomfortable between the two neighbors. According to a story in the June 10, 1943, edition of The Miami Herald, the abandoned roadway and ferry terminal were being used in unauthorized ways. A Miami shark fishing operation had been using the docks at the ferry landing. Craig erected both a chicken coup and a chicken run or pen on the old road bordering his No Name Key Fishing Lodge. Matcovich erected fence polls. County Attorney Julius Stone ordered the obstructions be removed within 30 days. Matcovich told county commissioners he had only constructed the fence to keep Craig off his property.
Craig sold off parcels of his No Name Key property from 1945-1947. In April 1945, Vilma Walden purchased 95 feet of waterfront property for $1,500. In May 1945, John D. Dillon bought a 123-by-1,320 foot tract for $1,200. In February 1946, a 220-by-1,320 foot waterfront lot was sold to Thomas R. Mullen, Jr., Richard Leslie Mullen and Ruth E. Mullen for $1,300. In September 1947, Mr. and Mrs. Lyman purchased Craig’s No Name Key Fishing Lodge for $12,000.
After selling his No Name Key properties, Craig moved to Miami. He passed away in 1975. Mosby Matcovich’s No Name Key property appeared for sale over several years. In 1947, 20 acres of the Matcovich homestead advertised as being “at the old Ferry landing” was listed for sale in The Key West Citizen for $6,000. On Feb. 15, 1950, there was a newspaper advertising “property at old Ferry landing, southside shore and road frontage, deep water and use of 1,000-foot pier – Mosby Matcovich, Key West.” No price was listed.
According to a September 27, 1944, advertisement, he was living in Key West. “Acreage for sale on No Name Key at the old ferry landing, on right-hand side going out. M. Matcovich, 1405 Division St. Key West, Fla.”
Division Street has since been renamed Truman Avenue. Mosby Matcovich passed away in June 1964.
Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.
CREEPY CAMPUS
TAKE ME HOME?
FIND A FRIEND AT THE FLORIDA KEYS SPCA
The Keys Weekly family loves animals as much as our friends at the Florida Keys SPCA do, and we’re honored each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for adoption at the organization’s Key West campus.
From cats and dogs to Guinea
Captain America is a sweet 2-yearold tabby who’s a bit shy around new faces. Once he warms up, his playful personality shines, and he’s ready to bring joy to your home. This gentle hero needs a patient and loving companion to help him feel safe.
Tahini is a 3-year-old tortie cat with a unique personality. While she’s a bit timid and not a fan of too much affection, she enjoys quietly being in the presence of people. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance companion, Tahini could be your perfect match.
Meet Kia, our sweet 4-year-old pumpkin-colored kitty. With her soft fur and gentle nature, she’s the perfect companion for cozy days and quiet moments. Kia loves a calm environ
ment where she
and enjoy the company of her favorite humans.
pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.
The SPCA’s Golden Paw program also provides special assistance with vet bills and medications for special-needs and older animals that require a little extra TLC.
Check these pages each week for just a few of the animals waiting for a home and see them all at fkspca.org.
Meet Waddles, a 9-year-old Basset hound mix who’s been patiently waiting for his forever home. With his droopy ears and gentle heart, Waddles is a sweet soul who’s ready to settle into a comfy spot by your side. He’s been with us for a while and truly deserves a loving home to call his own.
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and
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
SWOOPING INTO THE FINALIST STAGE
Voting begins for Best of Upper Keys
After two weeks of online polling, the field of finalists is set for the third annual Best of Upper Keys. Voting officially begins at noon on Thursday, Oct. 3.
Nominations officially opened to the community on Sept. 5. With nominations closing Sept. 22, the top three — and in some instances four due to ties or close tallies — now seek to grab bragging rights and a beautiful plaque.
Residents from the Keys and people throughout the world nominated their favorites in the food and drink, community and business divisions. Now, they’ll decide who wins in each of the 85 categories. The winners will be announced Nov. 1 at Playa Largo Resort in Key Largo.
Around 51,600 nominations were cast during the 2024 Best of Upper Keys — up from 25,000 the previous year.
“Landing on the ballot is a big deal,” said Keys Weekly publisher Jason Koler. “To be nominated as one of the best in your industry by your community is an accomplishment of its own.”
Finalist voting ends Sunday, Oct. 20 at 11:59 p.m. During this stage, voters can submit one ballot per day. People must place votes for 75% of the categories to cast a valid ballot.
“A majority of the votes came from the Florida Keys,” Koler said. “We’re excited to
have a global audience voicing their say on the contest, as this shows how our community is appreciated and celebrated around the world.”
Visit keysweekly.com/buk24 or check out the back page of this paper to view the finalists and submit your votes for the best in town. Updates and reminders will be provided at keysweekly.com, in our daily eblast, Upper Keys Weekly print editions and social media.
In the last two years, more than $45,000 raised from the Best of Upper Keys supported the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter. With extensive programs to help and counsel children and families in a time of need, the shelter will again be the beneficiary of the Best of Upper Keys.
Tickets to attend the Best of Upper Keys awards ceremony aren’t generally made available to the public due to demand. Winners, nominees and dignitaries are invited to attend and additional attendees are selected from a first-come, firstserved waiting list. Email Jill@ keysweekly.com to be placed on the list.
Event sponsors include Baptist Health Mariners Hospital, Going Aire, Dr. Michelle, audiologist, HNO Productions, First Horizon Bank, Playa Largo Resort and Hotwire Communications.
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WELCOMING NEW PATIENTS
Dr. Christopher Forsee, DMD is seamlessly taking the reins from the iconic “Barefoot Dentist,” Dr. Troxel, where the laid-back vibe extends even to the choice of footwear.
Dr. Forsee delivers personalized comprehensive dental care tailored to your needs. Whether it's routine maintenance or advanced procedures, trust Dr. Forsee to rejuvenate your smile with meticulous precision and compassionate care.
Northbound
FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Northbound Travel Lane on SR 5/US 1/Overseas Highway Nighttime Closure. Detour to Card Sound Road: October 10 and October 14 through October 17
Nightly road closures and detours will be implemented on SR 5/US 1/Overseas Highway from Jewfish Creek Bridge MM 108.4 to the Miami-Dade County Line Mile Marker (MM) 112.8. The northbound travel lane will be closed in Key Largo from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Thursday, October 10 and again on Monday, October 14 through Thursday, October 17. During these road closures, northbound traffic will be detoured to Card Sound Road and tolls will be suspended. Truck drivers are reminded that Monroe County has posted new weight restrictions on Card Sound Road on the approach to Mosquito Creek and Tubby’s Creek Bridges. Please plan ahead.
Cierre Nocturno en Carril de Circulación en Dirección Rumbo Norte Sobre la Ruta SR 5/US 1/Overseas Highway. Desvío a Card Sound Road: 10 de octubre y del 14 al 17 de octubre Se implementarán cierres de carreteras y desvíos nocturnos sobre la ruta SR 5/US 1/Overseas Highway desde el puente Jewfish Creek marcador de milla (MM) 108.4 hasta la línea MM 112.8 la línea del condado de Miami-Dade. El carril de circulación en dirección norte estará cerrado en Key Largo a partir de las 8 p.m. a 6 a.m. el jueves 10 de octubre y nuevamente del lunes 14 de octubre al jueves 17 de octubre. Durante estos cierres de carreteras, el tráfico en dirección norte se desviará a Card Sound Road y se suspenderán los peajes. Se recuerda a los conductores de camiones que el condado de Monroe ha publicado nuevas restricciones de peso en Card Sound Road en el acceso a los puentes Mosquito Creek y Tubby's Creek. Por favor planifique con anticipación.
Liy vwayaj nan direksyon Nò sou SR 5/US 1/Otowout Otowout Fèmti lannwit. Detou nan Card Sound Road: 10 oktòb ak 14 oktòb jiska 17 oktòb Fèmti wout ak detou chak swa yo pral aplike sou SR 5/US 1/Overseas Highway soti nan Jewfish Creek Bridge makè mil (MM) 108.4 rive nan Liy Konte Miami-Dade MM 112.8. Liy vwayaj nan direksyon nò a pral fèmen nan vil Key Largo apati 8 p.m. jiska 6 a.m. nan Jedi 10 Oktòb
jiska Jedi 17 Oktòb. Pandan wout fèmen sa yo, trafik nan direksyon nò yo pral detounen nan Card Sound Road
lendi 14
SR 5/US 1/Overseas Highway Detour
MIAMI MAN FOUND GUILTY IN MASSIVE COUNTY MARINE THEFT CASE
The Monroe County State’s Attorney’s Office successfully prosecuted a member of a theft ring responsible for a string of vessel burglaries in Monroe County from late 2022 to mid2023 targeting GPS systems.
Denzel Varona, the driver for the group on one of the Upper Keys theft sprees, was sentenced recently following an open plea before the Honorable Judge James Morgan.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office uncovered a group of thieves traveling from Miami to target boatyards, marinas and waterfront homes. The group specifically sought to steal Garmin GPS units from vessels, which were later sold in Miami. Multiple individuals were arrested as a result of this investigation in a joint operation with Miami Dade law enforcement.
Denzel Varona, 19, a key participant, was adjudicated guilty on the following charges: racketeering, organized dealing in stolen property, unlawful use of a two-way communication device, four counts of burglary of a conveyance and five counts of grand theft.
Varona, who was the getaway driver and assisted in the loading of stolen property during the Upper Keys raids, was sentenced as a youthful offender to three years in Florida state prison. His sentence includes a subsequent three years of supervision with electronic monitoring, which will be split into 18 months of community control followed by 18 months of probation. Additionally, Varona is required to complete 200 hours of community service and attend an antitheft course. Three other cases
PASSIONATE ABOUT HELPING PEOPLE AND MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY?
Want to make a difference supporting a nonprofit homeless shelter for women and children?
Samuel's House seeking a full-time dynamic and creative Event & Fundraising Coordinator to plan and execute fundraising events, manage donor relations, and contribute to the growth of our fundraising efforts. The ideal candidate is a people-person, highly organized, and has a proven track record of success in nonpro t fundraising and event planning.
Denzel Varona. MCSO/Contributed
remain pending against other members of the theft ring.
This case highlights the diligent work of local law enforcement and their commitment to protecting the Florida Keys from organized crime. Monroe County State’s Attorney Dennis Ward commended the efforts of both Monroe and Miami-Dade law enforcement agencies.
“This is a clear message that coordinated criminal activity crossing county lines will not be tolerated,” Ward said. “We remain vigilant in protecting our communities and holding offenders accountable. Assistant State Attorney Trey Evans continues to work with law enforcement to prosecute additional members of this theft ring, ensuring that all responsible parties face justice”.
Chief Assistant State Attorney Joseph Mansfield added, “The investigation is far from over. We are continuing to follow leads and work closely with law enforcement to ensure that every individual involved in this theft ring is brought to justice. This is about more than stolen property — it’s about protecting our community from those who seek to exploit it.”
— Contributed
Key Responsibilities
• Plan, manage, and execute fundraising events from concept to completion.
• Manage donor databases, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records.
• Coordinate mailing campaigns, including direct mail appeals for fundraising.
• Prepare and distribute event materials, including registration lists and donor correspondence.
Qualifications
• Experience in nonpro t fundraising or event planning.
• Strong communication and networking skills, with the ability to engage donors and stakeholders.
• Pro ciency in Microsoft Of ce and ability to learn new software for donor management.
• Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• A valid driver’s license.
Salary negotiable and to apply send your resume to tara@samuelshouse.org and maria@samuelshouse.org
KEVIN McCAULAY PRESENTS
IN PARADISE
HELP KEEP KEY WEST CLEAN
JOIN A 1- HOUR CLEANUP FRIDAY MORNINGS
One hour a week makes a huge difference, and volunteers are welcome every Friday and some Saturday mornings, from 8 to 9 a.m., when the Key West Ploggers clean up a designated area of the island.
Gloves, pickers, buckets, vests, hand sanitizer and a parking pass are provided to all volunteers.
A troubling number of cigarette butts and plastic bags have been included in recent hauls. Please remember your reusable bags when shopping so we can keep the plastic off the streets, parking lots and, most importantly, out of the water. And dispose of cigarette butts in any receptacle rather than the street or sidewalk, as from there, they easily end up in the ocean.
The city of Key West and its residents ask everyone to do their part to help keep Key West beautiful. With simple steps like making sure you bag your trash before putting it in your Waste Management trash cans or Dumpsters, and making sure the lids on Dumpsters are closed, will keep a lot of trash from blowing into the streets. Call Waste Management at 305-296-8297 for any furniture items left on the city right of way.
Please pick up around your home or apartment complex. Every piece of trash picked up is one less that may end up in the ocean that surrounds and
sustains our island community. It is not just the large items you can see easily when you are walking, but the smaller items such as bottle caps and cigarette butts that are collected by the volunteers that make the biggest difference.
It takes committed community involvement to keep Key West beautiful and we are making progress with every cleanup event and every spot that’s adopted. Call Dorian Patton at 305-809-3782 to find out how your business, nonprofit or club can help.
— Contributed
Join a one-hour Friday morning cleanup at the following locations. All times are 8 to 9 a.m. unless otherwise noted.
Oct. 4: Mallory Square. Meet in the parking lot closest to the dumpster. Hosted by Ocean Key Resort & Spa
Oct 11: Atlantic Blvd. & White Street. Meet at the bocce courts. Hosted by Chris Massicotte.
Oct. 18: Duval & Eaton streets. Meet on Eaton next to Berkshire Hathaway. Hosted by Berkshire Hathaway Knight & Gardner Realty.
Oct. 25: White & United streets. Meet in the back of the city hall parking lot.
Investigators say GoPro footage taken from victim Israel Boza’s friend shows defendant Palmer Long Jr. observing and acknowledging divers in the water as he passes close by at high speeds. FWC/ Contributed
BOAT DRIVER ARRESTED AFTER FATAL JULY STRIKE ON SPEAR FISHERMAN
Palmer Long Jr. faces vessel homicide charges
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
Nearly three months after a boat strike off Bahia Honda State Park over the Fourth of July weekend proved fatal for a spear fisherman, authorities with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) have apprehended the man they say is responsible, arresting 72-year-old Placida, Florida resident Palmer Reid Long Jr. and charging him with vessel homicide on Sept. 23.
According to Long’s FWC arrest warrant, eyewitnesses aboard the victim’s boat, as well as bystanders on another boat who discovered 56-yearold victim Israel Boza’s body floating in the water, say Long’s 32-foot Contender vessel was the only boat traveling at a high rate of speed through the area when Boza was killed, likely dying within minutes from injuries to his head, abdomen, thigh and leg consistent with a high-speed propeller strike.
In July, a screenshot taken from GoPro footage recorded by Boza’s fellow snorkeler in the water and posted to social media quickly identified Long’s vessel at his residence in Key Colony Beach. Other stills from the same footage show Long’s vessel passing through the area where Boza was swimming and within roughly 30 feet of the camera operator in the water, FWC investigator Glen Wray wrote in the warrant.
Other images, Wray said, show Long appearing to face directly towards the other occupants of Boza’s boat and the camera operator in the water, acknowledging the latter as he made hand signals to warn Long, but continuing without slowing down or changing course.
Though Long’s boat was the only vessel of the three mentioned in the arrest warrant to not have active tracks
engaged in its at the time of Boza’s death, Wray wrote that based on a waypoint created in Long’s boat’s GPS in the minutes before the strike, as well as a second waypoint created in Long’s passenger’s phone 12 minutes later and 9.8 miles away, “it can be deduced that (Long’s boat) was traveling at approximately 49 miles per hour on its return trip to Mr. Long’s residence.”
A projected direct track from Long’s boat’s last location to the entrance of Key Colony Beach’s canals “showed he transited directly through the dive area,” Wray wrote.
Early reports following the incident called into question the display of a dive flag aboard Boza’s boat, an element addressed in Long’s warrant. GoPro stills confirm, and the report admits, that while an appropriately-sized flag was displayed, it lacked a required stiffening rod and was displayed from the rod holders behind the operator’s seat, not from the legally-required highest point of the vessel.
However, the warrant states, the flag should have been clearly visible as Long’s boat approached Boza’s from the stern, and wind conditions on the day of the strike kept the flag unfurled naturally.
“Mr. Long failed to use ordinary, reasonable and due care toward Mr. Boza and eventually caused his death,” Wray concluded. “Mr. Long consciously and intentionally operated (his boat) without a proper lookout and at an unsafe speed with known hazards in the area and should have reasonably known that operating … through a dive area with multiple swimmers in the water would likely cause death or bodily injury to others in the water.”
According to Florida statute, vessel homicide is a second-degree felony, elevated to a first-degree felony if the perpetrator knew, or should have known, that an accident occurred and failed to render aid to the victim.
The Keys Weekly contacted Long’s attorney Hal Schuhmacher by phone for comment on the arrest, but did not receive a statement before press time.
REEL RECS
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “Pinball: The Man Who Saved The Game” (2022)
Why: Most biopics follow a tried-and-true formula, and this one is so aware of that that it constantly breaks the fourth wall to poke fun at it. Flashy editing and a catchy score help keep the pace flying, and there’s a cheekiness to its humor that ensures it never takes itself too seriously. Mike Faist as the younger Roger Sharpe convincingly sells the sweet and awkward persona of the subject (even with an unconvincing mustache). Meanwhile, Dennis Boutsikaris as the older, fourthwall-breaking Roger acting as our narrator is clearly having a great and sassy time. Regardless of your appreciation, or lack thereof, of pinball, the story is fun and stylish.
Where: This film is available on Kanopy, the Library’s streaming app.
How: You can browse and request DVDs online by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. To view our collection of streaming movies and TV, go to kanopy.com/keyslibraries and set up an account with your library card. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? info@keyslibraries.org.
See previous Reel Recs at keyslibraries.org/reel-recs.
SHELF HELP
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “Playground” by Richard Powers
Why: “Playground” is a stunner with more beautiful writing than you’ll find in a dozen other completely respectable novels combined. The story is sprawling and interconnected and seemingly about everything — from artificial intelligence to dying oceans to the tenuous connections between human beings — which is to say it’s complex, but infinitely rewarding.
Because the narrative is a bit scattershot and the reader is dropped into different times and places with several characters and minimal explanation early in the novel, the audiobook version with its multiple narrators makes the early sections of the novel far less disorienting. However, “Playground” is a work that lends itself to be read, and then read again.
Where: You can get this novel as a print book, eBook and eAudiobook from the Monroe County Public Library system.
How: You can request books, including eBooks and eAudiobooks, online by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? info@keyslibraries.org
Recommended by: Michael Nelson, acting director of libraries
See previous recommendations at keyslibraries.org/shelfhelp.
What’s new in the Southernmost City?
Fall in Key West is an ideal time to live, visit and participate in a wide variety of outdoor activities as temperatures begin to cool. Here’s what’s new:
AIRPORT IMPROVEMENTS
At Key West International Airport (EYW), a 49,000-square-foot Concourse A expansion — with completion set for spring 2025 and overall project completion in summer 2026 — includes eight passenger boarding jet bridges, with the first bridge installed this summer; a 446-panel electrochromic glass curtain wall; state-of-theart baggage carousels; extended TSA lanes; and additional restrooms. New venues include a First Call Beach Bar at baggage claim, a Southern Point Bar, Chili’s restaurant and Farm 2 Air Market. The facility is designed to withstand 200 mph winds while addressing long-term passenger needs. Six carriers - Allegiant, American, Delta, JetBlue, United and Silver - serve EYW with 21 destinations and more than 20 nonstop flights. The airport tallied a 10.3% passenger increase through August 2024, compared with the same eight months in 2023. For more information, visit eyw.com/concourse-a or call 305-809-5200.
ACCOMMODATIONS
The downtown 160-room La Concha Key West, an Autograph Collection Hotel at 430 Duval St., has unveiled its new Grand Dame Villas at the Rooftop. The property’s seventh floor now offers seven rooftop villas with a concierge-level experience. Villas feature floorto-ceiling windows, balconies and a dedicated concierge. They include the Hemingway Suite, the largest, with a sunroom and guest copy of “To Have and To Have Not,” written by Hemingway and set primarily in Key West; and the Sunrise, Sunset, Havana, Hibiscus, Tortuga and Flagler villas. Units feature amenities such as fresh flowers, stocked fridge, welcome gift, sea-
FALL IN KEY WEST
sonal fruit, assorted beverages and handcrafted Panama hats. The property’s public spaces, including the lobby and exterior façade, are undergoing a full restoration set for completion by year’s end. Food and libation venues include Tropicado with classic crafted cocktails; Perla and El Dom Coffee Shop with fine and casual Cuban cuisine; and Epicurean, a market with Key West goods and gourmet dining options. La Concha originally opened in 1926 with marble floors, private baths and ocean views.
Key West’s downtown 178-unit Opal Key Resort & Marina, located at 245 Front St., is undergoing renovations to its lobby, pool deck and restaurant Bistro 245, slated for completion as a new venue in December. The popular restaurant is to be unveiled as Lolitas, with a new dining concept. Guests currently can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner from a tented waterfront pop-up location by the marina.
ATTRACTIONS
The Key West Wildlife Center is unveiling a new elevated lime-green avian clinic and a welcome center, both targeted for completion in early 2025, within the 7-acre Sonny McCoy Indigenous Park at 1801 White St., near Atlantic Boulevard. The clinic will offer therapy baths
La Concha Key West recently unveiled its seven new rooftop suites with sweeping views of Key West. CONTRIBUTED
and digital X-rays to better serve native and injured wildlife. The new $2.4 million facility features a dedicated treatment area with additional interior space for patient care, more exterior space for rehabilitation and protected space for education and outreach. The wildlife rescue and rehabilitation facility, with a 24-hour wildlife rescue line, also provides rehabilitation for non-avian species. Some 1,500 native wildlife patients were rescued in 2023, said executive director Tom Sweets. The facility is currently open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends, with variable hours during the week; visitors should call ahead. Visit keywestwildlifecenter. org or call 305-292-1008.
The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, 200 Greene St., is unveiling a “Spirits of the Passage” exhibit that documents the history of the transatlantic slave trade, its legacy and Florida Keys heritage — including Key West’s 19-century role as headquarters for the U.S. Navy’s antislavery squadron. The exhibit’s centerpiece is an extensive collection of artifacts recovered from the English merchant slave ship Henrietta Marie, which sank 35 miles west of Key West in 1700 after unloading enslaved Africans in Jamaica. Exhibit modules place the transatlantic trade in the context of its time, re-creating portions of the Henrietta Marie as well as depicting captured Africans’ homeland, the Jamaican plantation experience and Florida Keys elements ranging from Key West’s African Cemetery to the Cuban slave shipwreck Guerrero discovered off Key Largo. Plans call for the exhibit’s soft opening in October and a grand opening in mid to late November. Visit melfisher.org or call 305-294-2633.
The Key West Art & Historical Society has acquired the woodcarving “Elegant Lady,” hand-carved by Cuban-American folk artist Mario Sanchez, a Key West resident who died in 2005. “Elegant Lady” portrays a Bahama Village street scene at the intersection of Petronia and Thomas streets with Blue Heaven restaurant as a backdrop. With 200 works by Sanchez in its permanent collection, KWAHS has the world’s largest assemblage of the artist’s works and personal artifacts, ranging from paper bag sketches to handcrafted paper kites to intricate woodcarvings. The society operates the Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House, Fort East Martello Museum, the Tennessee Williams Museum and the Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters. Visit kwahs. org/exhibit/mario-sanchez or call 305-295-6166. — Contributed
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BEATING THE HEAT AND STAYING HEALTHY
Signs and remedies for heat-related illnesses
is the University ofFlorida, IFAS Monroe County Extension coordinator BRYNN MOREY
Another morning in the Keys, my cell phone lights up with the weather alert “Heat Advisory.” Although it’s October, and many areas around the U.S. are starting to cool off, it still feels like it’s boiling down here. Many of us are used to the heat, and most are not afraid to complain about it, but do we understand how dangerous it can be? This question weighs on my mind because two weeks ago, my husband came home from a day’s work in the sun, suffering from a severe case of heart exhaustion.
It is common for most households in the Keys to have several family members who work outdoors. Whether in construction, fishing, landscape or tourism, they spend most of their day battling the intense heat. As global warming continues and temperatures rise, the risk for heat-related emergencies increases. Understanding the signs and symptoms is crucial for prevention and timely intervention.
Some of the first signs you may be heading toward a heat-related emergency are dehydration and heat cramps. Dehydration occurs when your body loses more fluids than it takes in and can be recognized by symptoms such as extreme thirst, dry mouth, little or no urination, rapid heartbeat and breathing, sunken eyes, fatigue and confusion. Heat cramps are painful, involuntary muscle contractions that typically occur in the legs, arms and abdomen. They are usually caused by the body losing water and essential electrolytes due to excessive sweat-
ing. If you are experiencing dehydration or muscle cramps, drink water or an electrolyte drink to help replenish lost fluids and minerals, move to a cool area, apply cool towels and gently massage the cramping muscles.
Heat exhaustion is a more serious heatrelated illness which occurs when the body becomes too hot and loses a significant amount of water and electrolytes due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures and/ or intense physical activity. Heat exhaustion can be recognized by symptoms such as heavy sweating, weakness, fatigue, dizziness or lightheadedness, nausea or vomiting, throbbing headache, muscle cramps, and pale, cool or moist skin. If you are experiencing heat exhaustion, move to a cooler place, drink cool water or an electrolyte drink, and apply cool, damp cloths to your skin. If symptoms worsen, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Heat stroke is the most severe heat-related emergency and can potentially be lifethreatening. Heat stroke occurs when the body’s core temperature rises to dangerous levels. Unlike heat exhaustion, heat stroke involves failure of the body’s temperature regulation system and can rapidly become a medical emergency. Heat stroke can be recognized by symptoms such as high body temperature (above 104°), confusion, hallucinations, loss of consciousness, hot or dry skin, a rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing, severe headache and nausea or vomiting. If a person is experiencing heat stroke, you should seek emergency medical help immediately. Then, cool the body rapidly, immerse the person in a cool bath or shower, or place ice packs on the armpits, neck and groin to help reduce body temperature. If the person is conscious and can drink, provide water or an electrolyte drink.
Heat-related emergencies are frightening and can come on very quickly. Here are some simple steps you can take to prevent them from happening to you:
• Stay hydrated.
• Take frequent breaks.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting and light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Utilize fans and apply cool, damp cloths to the skin.
• Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine.
• Consume foods that help cool the body, such as fruits with high water content.
Be proactive about hydrating when working outside in the heat. GÜNTER ALBERS/Adobe Stock
Wear lightweight clothing and wide-brimmed hats to stay cool under the sun. PRAEWPAILYN/Adobe Stock
TRY ’N’ FIND
Words that remind us of Illinois are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
Our 21st state is Illinois (ill-uh-NOY), a Midwestern state that joined the Union in 1818. With almost 13 million people, Illinois is ranked sixth in population.
ILLINOIS HISTORY
Some of the earliest known Native American settlements in North America were in the area. French explorers Louis Jolliet and Jacques Marquette first claimed the land for the French in 1673. The British and the state of Virginia also claimed it at times.Illinois is named for the Illinois Indians, a group of Algonquin tribes. They called their group Illiniwek, or “superior men.” The French changed the pronunciation to Illinois.
CHICAGO
AROUND ILLINOIS
Springfield is the capital. Abraham Lincoln and his wife, Mary, lived there with their children before moving to Washington, D.C.
Chicago, a city in the northeast that lies on the shores of Lake Michigan, is the third-largest city in the United States, with about 2.7 million people.
The city is a center for culture, finance, industry and transportation. For example, the Field Museum is known for its dinosaur exhibits, including Sue, the largest T-rex fossil ever found.
FAMOUS ILLINOISANS
• Ronald Reagan served as president of the United States from 1981 to 1989. He was born in Tampico, Illinois. He went to high school in Dixon and to college in Eureka
After graduation, he became a radio sports announcer in Iowa. He then became a movie actor. He appeared in more than 50 films. In 1966, Reagan was elected governor of California. He served two terms.
In 1980, he was elected to his first term as president. His presidency was known for his economic policies and for his contribution to ending the Cold War with the Soviet Union.
Corn, soybeans, hogs, cattle, dairy products and wheat are the top farm products in Illinois. Food companies such as Quaker Oats and McDonald’s are there. Manufacturers also make machinery, transportation equipment and computer and electronic equipment.
The Lincoln-Douglas Debate Museum in Charleston, Illinois, highlights the famous 1858 debates between two Senate candidates, Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas. Lincoln lost that election, but two years later he became president.
The Art Institute of Chicago is not only a museum but also a school. Chicago is one of the country’s main railroad hubs.
Architect Frank Lloyd Wright lived in and designed many of his famous buildings in Oak Park, Illinois. More of his buildings are there than anywhere else in the world.
SPORTS
Illinois has two MLB teams, the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox. Fans cheer for the Chicago Bears (NFL) and the Chicago Bulls (NBA), along with the Chicago Blackhawks (NHL) and Chicago Fire FC (MLS).
• Ulysses S. Grant led the Union armies to victory in the Civil War. He was elected president in 1868.
Grant grew up in Georgetown, Ohio, and later moved to Galena, Illinois. When the Civil War began, he led troops from Illinois.
• Walt Disney, who created Mickey Mouse and went on to build Disneyland and Disney World, was born in Chicago in 1901. At McKinely High School, he was the school newspaper’s cartoonist.
Women’s teams include the Chicago Red Stars (soccer) and Chicago Sky (WNBA).
Staff at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute are proposing that a genetic backup of endangered life on Earth be placed in a permanently dark location on the moon, where no power would be needed to store it for millions of years. The scheme could allow scientists to restore the organisms should they die out for whatever reason. The sub-zero Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway’s Arctic was designed as a similar backup, but melting permafrost due to global heating is threatening its long-term security.
Mini Fact: The Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois, was the only home he owned during his life. photo by artistmac
photo by C.V. Vick
Wright’s Robie House in Chicago.
Ronald Reagan
Walt Disney
Ulysses S. Grant
BATTLE OF THE KEYS
Inside the 55th annual clash | P.10
THE SCOREBOARD
Team
Coral Shores Volleyball Silver Palms 9/23 W, 3-2
Marathon Volleyball Posnack 9/23 L, 3-1
Basilica Volleyball Spanish River 9/27 L, 2-0
Coral
THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS
OCT. 3
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
She did a tremendous job spreading the ball around and ultimately getting it to the right spot for kills.”
– Hurricanes coach Jarrrod Mandozzi
In Coral Shores’ victory against Somerset Silver Palms, junior setter Shelby Lynn was integral in the team’s win. Lynn’s precision and game savvy gave the ‘Canes the edge last week, as she distributed the ball exactly where it needed to be for a match that gave Coral Shores their ninth straight victory.
“It was a pretty special match for her,” said head coach Jarrod Mandozzi, who praised Lynn’s ingenious play. “In one of the tight sets that we won by two, I think she had three or four straight sets to Niveah Howard and Celene (Walker) to really get us going. Then everyone thought she was going back to Niveah for her third straight kill and she dumped the ball over.”
That point gave the ‘Canes the lead in the set and ultimately led to a team victory. Lynn had 8 digs and an incredible 19 assists in the match. For her athleticism, unselfish play and quick thinking on the court, Shelby Lynn is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week
THIS WEEK Shelby
Junior, Coral Shores Volleyball
Photo by DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
This Friday, the Marathon Dolphins will make the trip north to take on the Coral Shores Hurricanes in the 55th annual Battle of the Keys. See page 10. Clockwise from top: Marathon’s Eddie Garcia, Coral Shores’ Yemcel Moreno and AJ Putetti, Marathon’s Shamar Wright.
Photos by Barry Gaukel and Doug Finger.
fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.
sean mcdonald
grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.
Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com
Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com
Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com
The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.
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Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com
STORM CREATES MINOR HAVOC FOR SPORTS Hurricane Helene impacts athletics despite
missing island chain
Fall sports in Florida are particularly vulnerable to the elements, beginning with late summer practices sanctioned by heat guidelines and culminating with hurricane season. It was the latter which impacted sports county-wide last week. Hurricane Helene’s outer bands whipped across the Keys, forcing a one-day school closure and numerous events to be postponed or canceled entirely.
Key West and Coral Shores will need to wait an extra week and a half to find out who the county volleyball champs will be this year; their Sept. 26 match was canceled with the school closure. Practices were a no-go for Keys teams, and a rainy week prior forced some creative solutions from coaches.
Golfers took the week off from competition and found little time to practice on swampy courses. Marathon’s Florida Keys Country Club was closed for the better part of the week, and at press time, a Sept. 30 match was in jeopardy if the course could not shed its unintended water hazards.
Cross country teams were set to toe the line for the Conch Crawl 5K at the Key West Country Club on Sept. 28, but the course conditions forced the event to be pushed back one week. And with streets flooded in areas and grassy patches looking more like rice paddies, runners had to change their routes and still finished training runs with soaking feet.
Marathon’s home football game Sept. 27 was less than ideal for players, spectators and homecoming candidates alike. A downpour began in the second quarter and let up just after the final whistle blew, soaking all in attendance. Key West was forced to play on Saturday, Sept. 28 rather than the 26th. The Conchs were set to travel to Miami for their game against St. Brendan School the day the storm impacted the area the worst.
With districts fast approaching, the storm could not have come at a worse time for coaches and athletes hoping to make the most of the postseason, yet anyone who has been a resident of Monroe County for a direct hit cannot help but feel relief. After all, a few schedule changes and missed games is very little in comparison to what the victims of Helene’s full wrath are experiencing.
tracy mcdonald
Though Hurricane Helene largely spared the Keys, effects of the storm forced a quiet week for school and sporting events. WIKIPEDIA/Contributed
JIM McCARTHY
KEY LARGO FOOTBALL ENTERS YEAR 2
Middle school fought hard against Miami opponents
The Key Largo Tornados middle school football program entered season two with a pair of home games against skilled Miami opponents. On Sept. 12, the Tornados welcomed the Westminster Warriors at the Coral Shores High School field. Led by sixth-grader Mako Savage at quarterback, the Tornados battled tough in a loss. The Tornados returned to the field against Florida Christian on Sept. 25 at the Coral Shores field. The teams exchanged leads with big plays from both sides, including a touchdown run and a fumble recovery and return by Charles Royal, as well as kickoff return for a touchdown by Dylan Perez Brenes. The game went into overtime with the Patriots edging out the victory in rainy conditions. The Tornados entered week three play against True North on Oct. 2 before visiting Marathon on Friday, Oct. 11. The Tornados, which include players from the various Upper Keys schools, are coached by Raymond Turner, Sean Savage and Ryan Raschein.
1. The Key Largo Tornados take the field.
2. Tornados quarterback Mako Savage throws a pass during the opening game against Westminster Christian.
3. Running back Charles Royal attempts a stiff arm on defenders.
4. Tornados defenders try to bring down the Warriors’ quarterback.
5. Center Chase Groh.
6. Wide receiver Brayden Turner (1) goes up for the catch.
7. Dylan Perez Brenes (26) disrupts a pass play.
Photos by DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly.
Visit keysweekly. com for a full gallery.
LADY ‘CANES’ PERFECT SEASON INTACT
Hurricane Helene cancels Key West/Coral Shores showdown
The weather was not cooperative last week, with many athletic events postponed or canceled state-wide. A much-anticipated volleyball match between Coral Shores and Key West fell victim to the storm, and rescheduling does not look good as the start of playoffs looms just over a week out.
The Hurricanes made the most of their single match last week, when they hosted district rival Somerset Silver Palms on Sept. 23. It took the ‘Canes five sets to defeat the Stallions for their ninth win of the season, maintaining their unblemished record and giving Coral Shores some breathing room in the district seedings. Later this month, the 3A District 16 ‘Canes will make their postseason debut. The higher their ranking, the longer they will delay the inevitable matches against perennial powerhouses Gulliver and Ransom, and the better their odds at an at-large bid to regionals should they fail to pull off a dark horse-style upset in the district. But that’s getting ahead of things.
A more pressing concern was the win over the Stallions, which coach Jarrod Mandozzi and his Hurricanes accomplished despite not playing their best ball this season.
“I told the girls that good teams find ways to win these games. We weren’t at our best with execution tonight, and a lesser team would not have found a way to win this one, which is a real testament to the heart of this team. I’m just really proud of our resiliency,” he said.
It was clear from the start that the Lady ‘Canes had their work cut out for them, as the two teams battled back and forth, with the Stallions coming from behind to take the first set, 25-23. The Lady ‘Canes came back strong in the second set, taking it 25-20 to even things up in another back-and-forth contest. After the two teams swapped leads a number of times early, the Hurricanes found themselves down 16-11 in the third set before pulling it closer, ultimately winning 28-26 in a battle of wills. Set four belonged to the Stallions, putting it all on the line in set five. Coral Shores gave Somerset no hope in that one, easily defeating the Stallions 15-4 to seal the win and remain undefeated.
Part of the success of this year’s Hurricane squad has been their tenacity. “We had a couple of great hustle plays there that stood out,” said Mandozzi. “Celene Walker dove to keep a ball alive, and after a little rally with a lot of hustle, Ivy Tiedemann caught them off guard with a beautiful dump kill right over their blockers.” Walker finished the night with 14 kills, 20 digs and 3 blocks. Tiedemann had a dozen assists and 7 digs and served up sorrow to the Stallions with 3 aces and a 2.5 service rating.
Abbie Bergeron matched Tiedemann at the baseline and Lily Hitchcock added a pair of aces for a 2.32 service rating. The Hurricanes’ ability to serve with both force and accuracy has made them a tough team to beat, and their explosiveness at the hitter position has made them unstoppable. In addition to Walker’s kills, Hitchcock and Niveah Howard added 9 each.
Just three matches remain in the regular season for Coral Shores, and they have a shot at keeping their record impeccable. They faced Marathon Oct. 2, then Somerset South Homestead the following night, both of which the ‘Canes have beaten earlier this season. Their final regular season match is Oct. 7 at Key West, when their possible undefeated season is on the line along with their Queens of the Keys status. Both the Conchs and ‘Canes have beaten all their remaining Keys opponents this season, and with their earlier match spoiled by the weather, it all comes down to this one.
Marathon played David Posnack Jewish Day School on Sept. 23, hosting the Rams for their second matchup of the season. Marathon lost, but kept it close the entire match, winning set three and losing sets two and four by just 2 points. The Lady Fins will be busy playing five matches in 11 days before their regular season closes out. They will then travel to Moore Haven Oct. 18 for their district tournament. This season is the first in which the Fins are part of the FHSAA Region 4 District 8 Rural classification.
Basilica School traveled a few counties north for the Palm Beach Classic Varsity Tournament Sept. 27 and 28. The Mariners lost to Spanish River on Sept. 27. The following day, they picked up win number six of the season against Berean Christian, then lost to Oxbridge Academy. Basilica School will play their final home game of their inaugural season against Key West Oct. 4 and close out their season Oct. 10 at Marathon.
Key West got in four matches despite the rough weather last week; they traveled to Florida Christian for a tournament against some of the best competition in South Florida. The Lady Conchs lost two on Sept. 27 when they played Sagemont and Miami Palmetto. They picked up some steam the following day, winning a set against Reagan but losing the match, then winning against TERRA Environmental School. Coach Kim Butler found a lot to be encouraged by at the tourney, particularly with her team’s serving. Molly McKnight’s accuracy over the course of the four matches was 92%. Gabby Garcia dialed it in at 93.8% and Reese Haggard seemingly could not miss, with 98.1% of her serves hitting their mark. McKnight was credited with 25 assists and Audrey Smith stacked up 21 kills and 5 blocks for the weekend. Key West plays their final home match of the season Oct. 7 against Coral Shores, then they complete their regular season in Boca Raton.
“We weren’t at our best with execution tonight, and a lesser team would not have found a way to win this one, which is a real testament to the heart of this team.”
— Jarrod Mandozzi, Hurricanes volleyball coach
From left: Coral Shores’ Lily Hitchcock, Abbie Bergeron and Celene Walker. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
Key West traveled to Miami for their first district game of the season, taking on St. Brendan School on Sept. 28. Their Sept. 26 game was rescheduled due to inclement weather, and a referee shortage due to numerous games being rescheduled forced the Conchs to play in the hottest part of the day, with kickoff at 3:30 p.m.
“According to the sensors, we were playing in 120 degree heat,” said head coach Johnny Hughes, whose Conchs bested the Sabres 35-14. “When (Jaden) Fox goes down with cramps, you know it’s hot.”
Fox battled through the extreme temperatures to rack up 197 yards and 3 touchdowns. Walson Morin had a short TD run and freshman Chase Gardner caught a pass for his first varsity touchdown. “We wore them down,” said Hughes, whose Conchs were not the only ones feeling the afternoon heat.
KEYS TEAMS 2 FOR 3 IN WEEK 6
Putetti reaches 1,000 yards in ’Canes’ first loss
The Sabres’ only scores of the game came off a kickoff return and in the final minutes of play when Key West’s starters were on the bench after another impressive defensive showing. The Conchs’ defense has played particularly well this season and will need to continue doing so if they want to make it past round one of districts. FHSAA’s 3A District 16 is home to Miami Northwestern and Jackson, two historically tough South Florida teams.
The win gives the Fighting Conchs a 4-2 record as they head into a Week 7 home matchup against the Cougars of Killian, a team Key West has not played since 2021. The following week the Conchs will have perhaps their greatest test of the season when they play Northwestern at Tommy Roberts Memorial Stadium for a battle for the top seed in the district.
Marathon’s homecoming theme this year was Disney, and the Fins enjoyed a bit of Disney magic on Sept. 27, capturing their third straight victory. Marathon got out to a quick lead against Somerset South Homestead, dominating on both sides of the ball for a 21-7 first quarter lead. A purple sunset radiating across the sky added yet another touch of magic, but dark gray quickly blotted out the vibrancy as the barometer dropped. Then the rains came, and they did not let up until the Hurricanes were on their way back to Homestead nursing a 42-20 loss.
Carlos Lezcano led the scoring for the Dolphins, making his way into the endzone three times. Lezcano scored twice on offense and took a kick return to the house in a dazzling 80-yard show of athleticism. Fabbianho Louis Jeune scored twice for the Fins and added 6 extra points, and Shamar Wright reached the end zone on a run. Marathon ran for a total of 433 yards distributed across six athletes, leading to a true team victory.
Defensively, Israel Gonzalez was credited with 6 solo tackles and another 5 assists. Two were for a loss. Braulio Garcia had 3 tackles for a loss with 5 solos and 4 assists. Garcia also had one carry offensively, barreling 36 yards and setting up one of Lezcano’s TDs.
Up next for Marathon is the 55th Battle of the Keys, in which they will need another team effort if they hope to take down the Hurricanes of Coral Shores in Week 7.
The Hurricanes will not enter the Battle of the Keys
undefeated; Coral Shores fell to the Patriots of Florida Christian on Sept. 27, dropping their first contest of the season, 21-7.
“We played hard, we played well, we just came up a little short,” said head coach Ed Holly on the loss to the Patriots.
It wasn’t all doom and gloom for the ‘Canes, though. Running back A.J. Putetti hit the 1,000-yard milestone for his senior season in the game, and the team did not let up until the final buzzer.
“Yemcel played an unbelievable game at quarterback,” said Holly, “and the O-line did everything we asked them to do. They are great competitors.”
Holly praised the play of Xico Reynoso, Dennis Hernandez, Jarmoris Davis, Eddie Holly and Micah Carr, whose “lights out” play on defense helped keep the ‘Canes in the game against a team that typically puts up 40-plus points on their competitors.
The Hurricanes will have the home field advantage Oct. 4 when they face longtime rival Marathon in their 55th meeting since 1970. Kickoff is 7 p.m. at Barley Field in Tavernier. For full coverage of this storied rivalry, see page 10.
Top: The referee signals that Fab Louis Jeune has crossed the goal line in Marathon’s homecoming victory on Sept. 27.
Bottom, from left: Fab Louis Jeune (2) patiently follows his blocker Tanner Ross (5) on a first-down run.
Carlos Lezcano races toward the end zone for Marathon’s first TD of the night.
Key West linebacker Jaden Fox. Aiden Gilday brings down the Somerset South Homestead ball carrier for a loss of yardage.
by Barry Gaukel and Maicey Malgrat.
See more game photos at keysweekly.com.
Photos
CWHO WILL WIN 55?
’Canes,
Fins meet in Tavernier for longest-running rivalry in Keys sports
oral Shores and Marathon have faced one another across the line of scrimmage 55 times since their first meeting in 1970. Since then, the teams have played one another every year, sometimes more than once, with the exception of 2005 and 2014. The first hiatus was due to Hurricane Wilma, according to Marathon athletic director Lance Martin, who was the head coach that year. Wilma, plus a series of smaller storms, wreaked havoc on sports schedules, and the Battle of the Keys could not be played as teams had to make up district games first. In 2014, there was a torrential downpour, lightning and otherwise unplayable conditions.
For over 50 years, the teams have enjoyed a healthy rivalry, prompting both the ‘Canes and the Fins to focus their efforts for a win that means more than any other in regularseason play. Coach Ed Holly’s Hurricanes hold the slight advantage over Sean McDonald’s Dolphins; Coral Shores has won 29 of the matchups and is on a five-game winning streak in the series.
Both teams have looked forward to this game all season.
“It’s going to be a heck of a ballgame,” said Holly. “It’s always a packed house and it’s always chippy – respectful, but chippy.”
He recalled his first Battle of the Keys, when he was fresh off a bowl game with Mississippi Community College. “From the minute I got there, everyone kept asking if we were going to beat Marathon this year. I was thinking that it was just one game in a 10-game schedule. I started to understand when a guy told me his kid was 6 years old and we hadn’t beaten Marathon in his entire life.”
That was 2011, and Coral Shores won that game, breaking an eight-year dry spell to begin the ‘Canes’ own four-year, three-game streak.
McDonald’s favorite Battle of the Keys memory came six years later, when Marathon faced what seemed to be insurmountable adversity. McDonald was an assistant coach under Paul Davis at the time, and his son, Jackson, was a junior.
“It was right after Irma hit the Keys. We didn’t know if we would even have a season. Some of our guys lost their homes. A few guys never came back after they evacuated and just moved somewhere else. Marathon lost its field,” he said. “We had about three weeks of uncertainty but we prac-
Clockwise from top: Marathon’s Eddie Garcia and Tanner Ross, Coral Shores’ Eddie Holly and Yemcel Moreno.
Photos by Barry Gaukel and Doug Finger.
ticed anyway at the park. There was a little grass, but it was brown and really mostly dirt and ant piles. Our first game back was at Coral Shores. Winning was such a boost for the community. We had lost so much so that win meant a lot.”
So how will this year’s Battle of the Keys play out? This season, the ‘Canes are 5-1 while the Fins are 4-2. Against common opponents, both teams pulled off wins against Palm Glades Prep and South Homestead. Likewise, Florida Christian bested both teams. When it comes to those common opponents, the ‘Canes have put up 65 points and allowed 49. The Fins scored 102 and allowed 107, nearly half of which came from Florida Christian in their week two loss. But everybody knows that records don’t mean much when it comes to rivalry games, and neither team seems to have a clear advantage.
Coach Holly’s Hurricanes have been formidable on defense this season, allowing just over 10 points per game on average. The Hurricanes will need to be extra stingy if they hope to stop Marathon's brutal single wing offense, which has been prolific this season, scoring an average of 36 points per game.
But the Fins’ defense has struggled at times, allowing an average of 35 points per game against predominantly spread-style offenses. Holly’s Wing T offense is yet-untested against the Fins this season.
As far as Keys matchups go, the last season all three teams played to create a true King of the Keys scenario was 2010. That year, Marathon earned one of its 25 victories over Coral Shores, but Key West dominated both teams in a pair of shutout wins. This season, Marathon and Key West are not scheduled to play one another, but Coral Shores will make the 90-mile trek to the Southernmost City to play the Conchs on Nov. 1 in their final game of the season. In the Battle of the Bookends, Key West holds an 11-1 advantage over Coral Shores, with the ‘Canes’ only win coming in a 47-45 thriller in 2002. That year, then-coach Jeff Meyers managed to win against Key West and Marathon in a 7-3 season for the Hurricanes.
As far as the Conchsversus-Fins record goes, Key West is ahead 7-2 in wins against their closest neighbor. Marathon’s only wins came in ‘07 and ‘08. In their first-ever win against the Conchs, Dolphin standout Sergio Howard took the
opening kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown to set the tone of the game, which was played in Marathon that year.
McDonald was at that game. “The stands were packed,” he said. “I was on Key West’s sidelines with Jackson, who was only six at the time. It was the only place there was any space and it was intense.” McDonald, who was coaching in the Key West Junior Football League at the time, added, “I was secretly rooting for Marathon to win.”
Martin, the coach for Marathon that year, concurred. “The sidelines were 10 people deep. The balconies were full of fans,” he said, adding that the estimated attendance was over 2,000. The following season, there was plenty of talking from both teams for weeks leading up to the rematch, which was played in Key West. Fins running back AJ Freeman tore up 225 yards that night to silence the trash-talkers. The celebration following the 21-14 victory was, as coach Martin put it, one of the “wildest scenes ever” as anyone fortunate enough to have attended the contest can attest.
Rivalry season on the gridiron will kick off this Friday, Oct. 4 at 7 p.m. at Coral Shores.
CONCRETE MADE TO LAST
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844
NOTICE OF ELECTION
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2024, IN MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT AN ELECTION HAS BEEN CALLED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA AT THE REQUEST OF THE SCHOOL BOARD OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA FROM 7:00 A.M. UNTIL 7:00 P.M. ON TUESDAY, THE FIFTH DAY NOVEMBER, 2024, AT WHICH TIME THERE SHALL BE SUBMITTED TO THE DULY QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA THE FOLLOWING QUESTION:
RENEWAL OF OPERATIONAL FUNDING FOR MONROE COUNTY SCHOOLS:
The School District seeks to continue its current funding for operational expenses including teacher salaries and safe-school officers. Such funds will be shared with local charter schools proportionally based on their full-time student enrollment.
Shall the District continue to enact a yearly ad valorem tax of no more than 0.5625 mill, for four (4) years beginning January 1, 2027, to fund safe-school officers and operational expenses of Monroe County Schools? ______ YES ______ NO
September 26, October 3, 10 & 17, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers.
AVISO DE PLEBISCITO
MARTES, 5 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2024, EN EL CONDADO DE MONROE, FLORIDA
POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA QUE LA JUNTA DE COMISIONADOS DEL CONDADO DE MONROE, FLORIDA, HA CONVOCADO A UN PLEBISCITO A SOLICITUD DE LA JUNTA ESCOLAR DEL CONDADO DE MONROE, FLORIDA, EL CUAL SE CELEBRARÁ DESDE LAS 7:00 A. M. HASTA LAS 7:00 P. M. DEL MARTES 5 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2024, EN CUYO MOMENTO SE PRESENTARÁ A LOS ELECTORES DEBIDAMENTE CALIFICADOS DEL CONDADO DE MONROE, FLORIDA, LA SIGUIENTE PREGUNTA:
REFINANCIAMIENTO OPERATIVO PARA LAS ESCUELAS DEL CONDADO DE MONROE:
El distrito escolar busca continuar con el financiamiento actual para los gastos operativos, incluidos los salarios de los docentes y de los funcionarios de seguridad escolar. Los fondos se compartirán con las escuelas subsidiadas locales proporcionalmente en función del número de estudiantes matriculados a tiempo completo.
¿Deberá el distrito continuar promulgando un impuesto anual ad valorem de no más de 0.5625 mill, por cuatro (4) años a partir del 1 de enero de 2027, para financiar a los funcionarios de seguridad escolar y los gastos operativos de las escuelas del condado de Monroe?
NOTICE OF ELECTION
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2024, IN MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT AN ELECTION HAS BEEN CALLED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA AT THE REQUEST OF THE SCHOOL BOARD OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA FROM 7:00 A.M. UNTIL 7:00 P.M. ON TUESDAY, THE FIFTH DAY NOVEMBER, 2024, AT WHICH TIME THERE SHALL BE SUBMITTED TO THE DULY QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA THE FOLLOWING QUESTION:
FACILITATING SCHOOL DISTRICT CAPITAL PROJECTS THROUGH SALES TAX LEVY RATHER THAN RAISING LOCAL PROPERTY TAXES:
Renewed funding is required for the School District's capital improvement plan such as new construction, renovations, additions, security needs, technology implementation, school buses, and permitted capital improvements. The revenues collected must be shared with eligible charter schools based on their proportionate share of the total school district enrollment.
Shall the School Board of Monroe County, Florida continue to levy a one-half cent sales surtax for a period of ten (10) years beginning January 1, 2026?
______ FOR THE ONE-HALF CENT TAX
______ AGAINST THE ONE-HALF CENT TAX
September 26, October 3, 10 & 17, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers.
AVISO DE PLEBISCITO
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2024, IN MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA QUE LA JUNTA DE COMISIONADOS DEL CONDADO DE MONROE, FLORIDA, HA CONVOCADO A UN PLEBISCITO A SOLICITUD DE LA JUNTA ESCOLAR DEL CONDADO DE MONROE, FLORIDA, EL CUAL SE CELEBRARÁ DESDE LAS 7:00 A. M. HASTA LAS 7:00 P. M. DEL MARTES 5 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2024, EN CUYO MOMENTO SE PRESENTARÁ A LOS ELECTORES DEBIDAMENTE CALIFICADOS DEL CONDADO DE MONROE, FLORIDA, LA SIGUIENTE PREGUNTA: FACILITAR LOS PROYECTOS DE CAPITAL DE LOS DISTRITOS ESCOLARES MEDIANTE LA RECAUDACIÓN DE IMPUESTOS A LAS VENTAS EN LUGAR DE AUMENTAR LOS IMPUESTOS LOCALES DE DERECHO INMOBILIARIO:
Se requiere refinanciamiento para el plan de mejoras de capital en el distrito escolar, el cual abarca construcciones, renovaciones, ampliaciones, seguridad, tecnología, autobuses escolares y mejoras permitidas de capital. Los ingresos recaudados deberán compartirse con las escuelas subsidiadas que califiquen en función de su participación proporcional de la matrícula total del distrito escolar.
¿Debe la Junta Escolar del condado de Monroe, Florida, continuar recaudando un impuesto a las ventas de medio céntimo por un período de diez (10) años, contados a partir del 1 de enero de 2026? ______ A FAVOR DEL IMPUESTO DE MEDIO CÉNTIMO ______ EN CONTRA DEL IMPUESTO DE MEDIO CÉNTIMO
CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF CODE AMENDMENT
HEARING
“SECOND/FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 2024-492” NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances. DATE/TIME: Thursday, October 17th, 2024, 9:35 AM or after the Public Hearing
LOCATION: City of Key Colony Beach, Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach. The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2024-492], entitled: “AN ORDINANCE BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH AMENDING CHAPTER SIX OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, AMENDMENTS TO THE FLORIDA BUILDING CODE; THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH CODE OF ORDINANCES TO MODIFY CHAPTER 6 – BUILDINGS AMENDMENTS TO THE FLORIDA BUILDING CODE; AND PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; REPEALING ANY INCONSISTENT PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www. keycolonybeach.net and at City Hall at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.
If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing on Thursday, October 17th, 2024, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to the City Clerk, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@keycolonybeach. net and your comments will be entered into the record. To be published: On or before October 7th, 2024 City Clerk City of Key Colony Beach, Florida Publish: October 3, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF CODE AMENDMENT HEARING
“SECOND/FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 2024-493” NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances.
DATE/TIME: Thursday, October 17th, 2024, 9:35 AM or after the Public Hearing LOCATION: City of Key Colony Beach, Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach. The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2024-493], entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH FLORIDA, AMENDING THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ARTICLE III – DISTRICT REGULATIONS, AMENDING FREEBOARD REQUIREMENTS; AND PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; REPEALING ANY INCONSISTENT PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE..” The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www. keycolonybeach.net
September 26, October 3, 10 & 17, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers.
September 26, October 3, 10 & 17, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers.
at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach.
If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.
If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing on Thursday, October 17th, 2024, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to the City Clerk, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@keycolonybeach. net and your comments will be entered into the record.
To be published: On or before October 7th, 2024 City Clerk City of Key Colony Beach, Florida Publish: October 3, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH
NOTICE OF CODE AMENDMENT
HEARING
“SECOND/FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 2024-494” NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances.
DATE/TIME: Thursday, October 17th, 2024, 9:35 AM or after the Public Hearing
LOCATION: City of Key Colony Beach, Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach. The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2024-494], entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE VII, SECTIONS 2-86 AND 2-88 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH RELATED TO MEETINGS OF THE CITY COMMISSION; PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF FOUND TO BE IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY, REPEAL, AND CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN THE CODE OF ORDINANCES AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.”
The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www. keycolonybeach.net and at City Hall at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.
If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing on Thursday, October 17th, 2024, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to the City Clerk, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@keycolonybeach. net and your comments will be entered into the record.
To be published: On or before October 7th, 2024 City Clerk City of Key Colony Beach, Florida Publish: October 3, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Jacobs Aquatic Center Filtration System Upgrade Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request. Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Emailed/mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/ responses WILL NOT be accepted.
The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https:// monroecounty-fl.bonfirehub. com, no later than 3:00P.M. on Thursday, October 24, 2024. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. In the event of a discrepancy between the bid amount on the Proposal Form and the bid amount entered in Bonfire, the bid amount listed in the “Proposal Form” provided by Monroe County in the RFP is the amount that will be utilized by the County when considering the bid proposal. The County reserves the right to waive any proposal/bid irregularity.
The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Thursday, October 24, 2024. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156
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Publish: October 3, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2023-CA-268-M NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 22ND day of October, 2024 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Property Address: 329 63rd Court Gulf, Marathon,
Florida 33050; and 57468 and 57478 Overseas Highway, Grassy Key, Florida 33050. Pursuant to ORDER GRANTING PLAINTIFF’S THIRD MOTION TO CANCEL AND RESCHEDULE 9/20/24 FORECLOSURE SALE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 19th day of September 2024 Style of which is: RED MANGROVE HOLDINGS, LLC, A FLORIDA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
Plaintiff, VS. MARATHON DEVELOPMENT
PARTNERS, LLC, A FLORIDA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, CEDAR OAK REI, INC., AN IDAHO FOR-PROFIT CORPORATION, MARK RAY GERENGER, PERSONAL GUARANTOR, ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER, AND AGAINST THE HEREIN NAMED INDIVIDUAL DEFENDANT(S)WHO ARE NOT KNOWN TO BE DEAD OR ALIVE, WHETHER SAID UNKNOWN PARTIES MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, OR OTHER CLAIMANTS, AND ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN OCCUPANT(S) OR TENANT(S) OF 329 63RD COURT GULF, MARATHON, FLORIDA 33050 AND 57468 AND 57478 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, GRASSY KEY, FLORIDA 33050,
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2023-CA268-M
WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 23RD day of September 2024 KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court
By: Shonta McLeod
As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within sixty (60) days after the sale.
Publish: October 3 & 10, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-452-M DIVISION: MARATHON IN RE: ESTATE OF DAVID MICHAEL RILE Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of David Michael Rile, deceased, whose date of death was October 19, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 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.
The personal representative 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 ss. 732.216732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. 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: October 3, 2024.
Personal Representative: Beatrice Rile 97 Coco Plum Drive Slip B28
Marathon, Florida 33050
Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert K. Miller, Esq.
Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173
Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938
Marathon, FL 33050
Telephone: (305) 743-9428
Fax: (305) 743-8800
E-Mail: service@floridakeyslaw. com
Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com
Publish:
October 3 & 10, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION
CASE NO.: 24-CP-000364-P
IN RE: ESTATE OF KAREN LEE BECKER
A/K/A KAREN L. BECKER, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of KAREN LEE BECKER AKA KAREN L. BECKER, (“Decedent”) deceased, whose date of death was December 9, 2023, and whose Social Security Number is XXX-XX-8954, 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 Petitioner and the Petitioner’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 SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. A 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 FLORIDA STATUTE 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 October 3, 2024.
Petitioner: STACY RUTER
A/K/A STACY B. RUTER
566 Decker Road
Wallkill, NY 12589
Attorney for Petitioner:
ALFRED V. NICOLETTI, ESQ.
Florida Bar No.: 125446
LAW OFFICES OF AL NICOLETTI
7512 Dr. Phillips Blvd. Suite 50-647
Orlando, Florida 32819
Publish: October 3 & 10, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR
MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA DIVISION: PROBATE FILE NO.: 2024-CP-446-K IN RE: ESTATE OF JOHN WILSON, JR. Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of John Wilson, Jr., deceased, whose date of death was June 30, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead 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 October 3, 2024. The date of the second publication of this notice is October 10, 2024.
Personal Representative: Donna L. Wilson 27382 Anguila Road Ramrod Key, FL 33042 Attorney for Personal Representative: Anthony J. Barrows Attorney for Personal Representative 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: October 3 & 10, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2024-09
Notice is hereby given that BEAMIF A LLC holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/1636 Alt Key No: 1632856 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00513550-000000
Description of Property: BK 3 LT 6 PARADISE POINT PB3-16 KEY LARGO OR7287/288 OR782-1101 OR816748 OR860-1917 OR860-1919 OR3064-1060
Name in which assessed: MAESTRE LUZ ELENA MORENO DE MAESTRE EDYS C All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.
Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL
Sale Date: October 30th, 2024 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 5th day of August 2024
KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY,
FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy
Clerk
Publish: September 12, 19 & 26 and October 3, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED
2024-10
Notice is hereby given that VINMAS HOLDINGS, LLC
VINMAS HOLDINGS, LLC holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate Number: 2020/1973
Alt Key No: 1650439
Date of Issuance: June 1, 2020
RE: 00531240-000000
Description of Property: BK 9 LT 2 HOLIDAY HOMESITES
PB2-168 KEY LARGO OR87491 OR782-1315 OR783372-381 OR2348-1974/75
OR2380-335D/C OR2380-337 OR2389-84 OR2543-1198
Name in which assessed: GRAVES FRANCIS LECLAIR III
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.
Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: October 30th, 2024
Sale Time: 10:00am
Dated this 5th day of August 2024
KEVIN MADOK
CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: September 12, 19 & 26 and October 3, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED
2024-11
Notice is hereby given that BEAMIF A LLC holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/1635 Alt Key No: 1632813 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00513510-000000
Description of Property: BK 3 LT 2 PARADISE POINT PB3-16 KEY LARGO OR75-278 OR3033-1875 Name in which assessed:
MAESTRE LUZ ELENA
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL
Sale Date: October 30th, 2024 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 5th day of August 2024
KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish:
September 12, 19 & 26 and October 3, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2024-12
Notice is hereby given that MATTHEW A WASILESKK holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/685 Alt Key No: 1216569
Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00167570-000000
Name in which assessed: GLADSTONE STEVEN D LIVING TRUST 08/06/2013 KLASFELD ILENE C/O NEIL GORDON CO TRUSTEE
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: October 30th, 2024 Sale Time: 10:00am
Dated this 5th day of August 2024
KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish: September 12, 19 & 26 and October 3, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483
Place your CLASSIFIED AD HERE! $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today.
COMMERCIAL SPACE
Commercial office/ medical/retail space for rent/lease available in Marathon. High highway visibility, 2100-3500 sq. ft. Call for more information 305-481-3198 or email drice519@aol.com
Place your CLASSIFIED AD HERE! $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today.
EMPLOYMENT
Hiring: Lead Gutter
Installer - EXPERIENCE REQUIRED – valid Driver’s License - must be comfortable with heights - located in Tavernier. To apply, please call or text Jay 305-587-1581.
SERVERS WANTED: Apply in person between 5 pm & 7 pm every night at Plaza Grill Steak & Seafood, 5101 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
The S.S. Wreck and Galley Grill mile marker 59 is looking for Line Cooks, full or part time. Self-motivated, quick learner, and team player. Salary commensurate with experience and includes 401k match up to 6%. Please call Nicole at 305-433-0515
Marathon Yacht Club is hiring part-time servers and bartenders. Private club, friendly atmosphere, guaranteed gratuities. Flexible lunch/dinner shifts available Tuesday – Sunday. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Call 305743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com.
Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.
Place your CLASSIFIED AD HERE! $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today.
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Engineering Department:
MAINTENANCE PERSON
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $31.22/hr. - $34.96/hr. For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit our website at www.KeysEnergy.com. KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Administrative Asst. to Executive Director, Resident Care Supervisor with min. 3 yrs. experience of an LPN, Housing Choice Voucher Asst., Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha.org or 305-296-5621. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www. kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.
Place your CLASSIFIED AD HERE! $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today.
HOBBIES/COLLECT
PRIVATE COLLECTOR
WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
The Harry Truman Little White House Museum is looking for OLD FISHING GEAR to be used as a display in the museum. Fishing gear MUST be donated. Please contact Dean at 305294-8346 or email: Dean. Taylor@HistoricTours.com
ANNUAL RENTALKey Largo - 2BR/2BA Spacious Doublewide, 1400 sq ft modular on canal w/40’ dock, direct ocean access. Very nice community. $3,500/ month 786-258-3127
Downstairs apartment of a duplex to rent to 1 person (no pets). Large living room/bedroom and separate kitchen. Large screened porch with its own washer/dryer and driveway. Utilities include wifi/tv. 150 ft to the ocean. MM96 Key Largo. $1850/ month. F/L/S 305-853-3779
ISLAMORADA:
Very Large 2 BR apt. for rent. Furnished or unfurnished. Utilities & cable included. $2,200/month. First/ Security. Available Sept. 1st. Yearly lease. 305-5222702 Leave message. RENTED!!
RV SITES FOR RENT
RIKON Band Saw, $150.00. Located in Key West (Old Town). 305-849-1080
Heavy duty, hard wood Futon Bed for sale in Marathon. Excellent condition. Couch turns into double bed. $250.00 305-849-0975
Place your CLASSIFIED AD HERE! $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today.
WE ARE HIRING!
BEACH HOUSE VACATION! Caretaker couple needed for Bahamas Beach House for 3-4 months. Call or text 305-439-9991
RV SITES FOR RENT
Large RV Lots for Rent in Marathon. Full hook up. $1500/ month plus utilities. F/L/S 3065-731-5042
RV site / Camping available at marina in Marathon. Monthly/ Daily rates. Free use of dingy & fishing on dock. No Pets. 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
Place your CLASSIFIED AD HERE! $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today.
YARD SALES
Place your CLASSIFIED AD HERE! $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today.
CLIENT MEDICAL SERVICES ASSISTANT CNA
Full-time assisting our clients with dental, medical and transportation appointments. Act as liaison between clients, families and support staff. Requires some on-call responsibility. Minimum requirement Florida certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant.
Also required for this position: Fluent in English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Level 2 background screening and valid Florida driver’s license. EOE
Come join our family!
Apply at the MARC office, 1401 Seminary St., Key West. Or online at www.marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org Phone: 305-294-9526 *32
NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA
MARINA CASHIERS
Must have customer service experience working in a retail environment and using a point of sale system. Additional duties include restocking, completing purchase orders, daily ordering of basic items in the store, and maintaining a clean appearance in the store. This is an hourly position and compensation is based on experience. Work hours are flexible and we try to maintain a set weekly schedule.
DOCKHANDS
Duties include customer service, helping customers with bait and ice and helping cashiers with restocking. Morning & a ernoon hours available.
Please respond by email (Ma at islamarinama @gmail.com) with any relevant previous experience and at least two references.
KEY LARGO FIRE RESCUE & EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES DISTRICT IS SEEKING AN EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT/CLERK
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
DUI EVALUATOR/ INSTRUCTOR
The Advocate DUI Program is hiring for part time positions. DUI instructors and evaluators - 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse eld required. Bilingual preferred, not required. Of ce located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.
FRONT DESK
OPENINGS AVAILABLE
PHYSICIAN PRACTICE
OPENINGS
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN/PA-C), Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
KEY
Peer Support Specialist
Case Manager (Adult, Child)
Substance Abuse Counselor Prevention Specialist (HIV)
MARATHON
Care Coordinator (PT)
Driver – PT (CDL not required)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Child)
RN/Licensed Practical Nurse (FT/PT)
Peer Support Specialist/BHT
*Behavioral Health Technicians – 3 shifts (FT/PT)
*Support Worker (Assisted Living, FT)
*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.
Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP
PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!
Apply at guidancecarecenter.org
Search Employment/Portal/Location/zip
- Medical Assistant 1, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant 1, Upper Keys Internal Medicine, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant 2, General Surgery Tavernier, $3k Bonus
- Medical Assistant 2, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Lead Medical Technologist, Laboratory, $50k Bonus
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray) Radiology, $50k Bonus
- Medical Technologist 2, Laboratory, $50k Bonus
- Patient Scheduler 3, Radiology-Diagnostic
- Radiology Technologist 1, Radiology, $40k Bonus
- Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care Center
- Registered Nurse, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, $15k Bonus
- Security Officer 1, Security/Safety
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.
