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The Florida Keys set a record for Sunday turnout during early voting on Oct. 27, with 393 voters showing up to cast their ballots. The mark eclipses the 2020 record of 387 voters and 2016 turnout of 221 voters. As of Tuesday morning, nearly 22,000 voters had cast their ballots, equating to 42.24% voter turnout for the county.
393 PASCAL WEISBERGER STABBING DEATH CASE HEADS TO TRIAL NOV. 7
Following years of evaluations, the brother accused in the killing deemed competent
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
More than four years have passed since the Upper Florida Keys community lost a young and bright Pascal Weisberger. And more than four years later, a trial is set for Daniel Weisberger, the brother accused of killing his younger brother and injuring his father the morning of May, 7, 2020.
Daniel, now 21, is facing charges of second-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder. He’s accused of stabbing his brother to death inside their apartment at Executive Bay Club in Islamorada during the early morning hours. He’s also accused of stabbing and choking his father inside their home.
He initially filed a plea of not guilty in June 2020. The case was originally slated for a jury trial in September 2020, but questions about whether Daniel was competent to stand trial pushed it back several years. A trial is now set for Thursday, Nov. 7 at the Plantation Key Courthouse.
Members of
Ariel Poholek, the father, was airlifted for injuries he suffered during the 2020 attack. He’s spent the past several years grieving while hosting days of service with the Keys community to honor the life and legacy of Pascal. Poholek has also been fighting to keep his only remaining son, Daniel, from potentially spending decades behind bars.
Poholek, who’s long criticized the state attorney’s office for charging his son as an adult and not a juvenile,
believes the psychotic attack was the result of years of physical and emotional cruelty he faced during his early years. He also placed blame on an inadequate mental health system to help him overcome the psychological issues, and multiple state agencies for failing to place Daniel in a safe and stable environment.
“Pascal’s death was an incomprehensible tragedy for us as a family and the community at large, but that doesn’t mean that Daniel doesn’t deserve our empathy and a second chance,” Poholek told Keys Weekly in an interview on Oct. 13.
On May 28, 2020, the Monroe County state attorney’s office announced Daniel would be charged as an adult. Gail Connolly, then assistant state attorney, told Keys Weekly in an interview following the announcement that several factors determined whether to charge him as a teenager or adult, one being the seriousness of the offense. The other factor was the fact he was 17 at the time and there wouldn’t be much time left for the department of juvenile justice to supervise him.
Upcoming trial brings back a horrific day
A chaotic scene erupted as helicopters, tactical teams and law enforcement agencies from Monroe and Miami-Dade descended upon
Coral Shores homecoming court members Grace Leffler and Jamoris Davis parade up the Old Highway in a convertible. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly.
Islamorada and Tavernier, searching for Daniel the morning of May 7, 2020. Hours before, neighbors heard a disturbance inside the family’s Executive Bay Club apartment where the alleged incident occurred.
A press conference by Sheriff Rick Ramsay later that afternoon revealed details surrounding the attack which took the life of Pascal, 14, and severely injured Poholek. Daniel fled following the alleged attack. A massive search for Daniel ensued, as agencies scoured wooded areas and neighborhoods near Executive Bay Club.
Daniel was taken into custody the next day after he ran into the path of a truck on U.S. 1 near Executive Bay. He was taken to a hospital for treatment and transported to the Monroe County Jail on Stock Island. According to court documents, Weisberger was deteriorating during his incarceration inside the Stock Island facility. By the direction of the court, he was eventually transferred to the state Department of Children and Families.
Daniel’s competency in question
On July 24, 2021, the defense requested a hearing to determine whether Daniel was competent to stand trial. Per court documents, Daniel had an extensive history of mental illness. The defense retained psychiatric expert Dr. Mark Mills, who visited Daniel July 12, 2021.
During an evaluation, Mills contacted Daniel’s defense lawyers to express his concerns regarding his mental state. Mills also described Daniel as “actively psychotic” and “clearly in no mental state to assist his attorneys in his defense.” Mills shared concerns that the medication he was receiving at the jail since he arrived in 2020 was inadequate to treat his mental illness. By order granted by the court in October 2021, Mills was able to conduct another mental health evaluation
CONTINUED ON PAGE 9
Daniel Weisberger
From the Desk of Henry Rosenthal
In 1958, I came to the Florida Keys and never wanted to leave. I'm so proud to call Islamorada home and you my friends. Let's not destroy what we have.
IS THIS WHY YOU’RE HERE? OR THIS? My Choices for Village Council: Development Opp. The Beauty TOM RAFFANELLO | STEVE FRIEDMAN MARY BARLEY | VAN CADENHEAD
Pd. Pol. Adv. paid for by Henry Rosenthal, independent of any candidate. The ad was not approved by any candidate.
We will work to protect our water and guard against overdevelopment. I ho e.
EARLY VOTING CONTINUES DAILY THRU
Steve
“Steve Friedman is a long-time friend to the clean-water cause He understands how crucial clean water is to the “Capt. Steve Friedman embodies the leadership we need. His passion for protecting our waters is driven by an Steve is endorsed by legendary Islamorada fishing icons and lifelong Republicans Stu Apte & Sandy Moret
TRIAL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4
on Daniel via Zoom. Mills wasn’t able to provide the evaluation until January 2022 due to COVID restrictions and other issues. Mills’ report concluded that Daniel was incompetent to stand trial due to his mental state. In February 2022, the court ruled Daniel incompetent to stand trial and committed him to the Department of Children and Families for treatment to restore his competence.
As requested by the defense, evaluations on Daniel were also done by neurologists Dr. Michele Quiroga and Dr. David Ross. A report by Ross stated he witnessed “a frank psychotic episode with visual/auditory hallucinations, delusions and some apathy/ withdrawal toward me.”
On May 15, 2022, the court ruled Daniel was still incompetent to stand trial. Daniel was committed to the South Florida Evaluation and Treatment Center for competency restoration.
By July 2023, the South Florida State Hospital filed an evaluation stating Daniel was competent. The court ordered Weisberger to remain with DCF to receive appropriate care and treatment until his case is resolved so his competency can be assured at the time of trial.
By October 2023, the court found Daniel competent to stand trial.
Court hearing seeks gag order on Poholek and family
Recently, a court hearing saw a motion by the state attorney’s office to place a gag order on Poholek and his immediate family. Colleen Dunne, assistant state attorney who presented the request to Judge Luis Garcia via Zoom, acknowledged they didn’t want any more publicity on the case amid
Two arrested on fentanyl charges
Two men were arrested on Oct. 25 for trafficking fentanyl following a traffic stop on U.S. 1 in Key Largo.
Keyonbie Nashamba Humphrey, 43, of Key West, and Shane Jarell Smith, 40, of Homestead, were also charged with possession of drug paraphernalia.
The sheriff’s office stopped a Chevrolet sedan near MM 106 at 5:38 p.m. for failure to maintain a lane, passing into oncoming traffic, and following too closely.
K9 Mako alerted to the presence of narcotics and 4.8 ounces of fentanyl were found. Both men were taken to jail.
Two arrested on drug charges
Two men were arrested on Oct.
fears that more posts by Poholek and media exposure could taint the jury pool.
“Whether or not we pick a jury now in the Upper Keys, Key West or another jurisdiction, that won’t affect the state’s position in this case,” Dunne said.
Garcia ultimately agreed to prevent Poholek and his immediate family from providing comments to media outlets on details surrounding the case.
“That exposure in a very small community will possibly make jury selection in his son’s case much more difficult,” Garcia said.
Garcia didn’t stop Poholek from expressing his emotions and feelings to social media ahead of the Nov. 7 jury trial involving his son Daniel. Poholek told Keys Weekly before the hearing that the gag order was, in his opinion, “a form of harassment and intimidation” against him.
Poholek has taken to social media urging the public to contact the state attorney’s office and express support to give Daniel a second chance at life. A petition on change.org expressing support for Daniel having his case resolved by a plea agreement of not guilty by reason of insanity garnered more than 7,800 signatures. Poholek said if the case were resolved by a plea of not guilty by reason of insanity, Daniel would be able to receive long-term mental health treatment and rehabilitation as opposed to incarceration. When asked about the petition, State Attorney Dennis Ward told Keys Weekly on Oct. 30 that the case “will go to trial.”
CHARGES FILED IN KEYS HUMAN TRAFFICKING CASE
Sheriff blasts U.S. attorneys for declining to prosecute the case
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and law enforcement partners, along with the Monroe County office of the state attorney, are filing human trafficking charges against two Miami men accused based on an incident on the waters off the Florida Keys.
Charges stem from a July incident in which the U.S. Coast Guard stopped a boat en route to Cuba earlier this year in waters just off Islamorada.
Oscar Alfredo BustamanteSemeren, 29, and Alejandro Gauche-Valdez, 35, are both currently in jail in Miami on other charges related to firearms, battery and grand theft auto. The sheriff’s office has obtained warrants for their arrest in Monroe County upon their release in Miami-Dade County.
Bustamante-Semeren is linked to the violent gang, “Tren De Aragua” of Venezuela.
“Another great job by Sgt. Joel Slough, the Monroe County state attorney’s office and our law enforcement partners to arrest these two criminals,” said Sheriff Rick Ramsay. “We will continue to take a hard stance on crime even when the U.S. Attorney’s Office fails to do its job. The U.S. Attorney’s Office unwillingness to pursue criminal offenders who traffic humans is sad. These offenders continue to wreak havoc in our community and other communities.”
24 on multiple drug-related charges following a traffic stop near MM 96 on U.S. 1.
The sheriff’s office stopped a truck that was unable to maintain a lane and impeding traffic. Joshua Gomez, 21, of Hialeah was the driver. Cristian Isai Perez, 23, of West Park was the passenger. There was a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. The drugs were found in a search.
Perez was charged with possession of 0.4 grams of alprazolam without a prescription, possession of 0.5 grams of quetiapine without a prescription, possession of 0.2 grams of buprenorphine without a prescription, and possession of a synthetic cannabinoid without a prescription.
Gomez was charged with DUI, tampering with evidence, and possession of 1.9 grams of buprenorphine without a prescription.
The incident occurred at about 10:10 p.m. on July 15, in the Cotton Key Basin area near MM 86. The U.S. Coast Guard stopped and boarded a vessel before terminating its voyage due to numerous safety violations. A GPS on the boat showed an active track to Cuba. Bustamante-Semeren admitted he and Gauche-Valdez were en route to Cuba to pick up nationals there.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office subsequently declined to prosecute the suspects. Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Joel Slough continued to investigate the case as per state charges alongside the office of the state attorney. Examination of the GPS and other evidence supported BustamanteSemeren’s admission. Warrants (each with a $60,000 bond) were obtained on Oct. 21 by the sheriff’s office as a result of the investigation.
The U.S. Border Patrol and U.S. Homeland Security Investigations assisted in the case. The investigation also showed
Bustamante-Semerene is being held in a Miami-Dade detention center on numerous charges, including fleeing and eluding police, resisting arrest, use of a firearm while committing a felony, grand theft, burglary, transportation of drug paraphernalia and recklessing driving.
In an email to Keys Weekly, the U.S. Attorney’s Office declined comment on active investigations and any charging decisions.
“What we can say is that we are in regular contact with our federal partners, to include Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Coast Guard, FBI, ATF, and DEA, as we collaborate with our state and local partners to thwart, combat and prosecute crimes that threaten our South Florida communities,” said Sarah Schall, special counsel and public information officer for the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Southern District of Florida. “We encourage the public to continue to report suspected crimes to 911.”
For the 2024 fiscal year, the office has charged at least 75 defendants with alien-smuggling related offenses. This includes 25 smugglers and over 50 migrants who attempted to enter on the vessels.
BRIEFLY
ISLAMORADA’S FUTURE FORECAST
Candidates talk vision for the village
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
An Islamorada community faced with a workforce housing shortage, traffic backups and deteriorating infrastructure will have a chance to cast votes for four open council seats in the November election. The Keys Weekly posed the following questions to the candidates, who were asked to provide their response in roughly 150 words. (Answers appear as submitted.)
What’s your vision for the future of Islamorada?
SEAT 1
Buddy Pinder
A place that future generations can afford to live in with all the great things we have as a community still in place. Healthy water, healthy environment, long term goals for sustainability actually implemented.
Van Cadenhead
Unless the citizens of Islamorada become more aware of their precarious situation and more involved in its solutions, my vision for Islamorada’s future is dark indeed. The Sportfishing Capital of the World, my old stomping grounds since age 7, has turned, by virtue of a Tsunami of Greed, financed by deep pockets of crass commercial cretins, charlatan carpetbaggers from Somewhere Else into the Horrible Whoredom of Property Prostitution. The new owners of Islamorada, masters of the exclusive elitist enclave, care not a whit about the residents, environment or cultural heritage of the town; they worship at the shrine of Ben Franklin, not the guy who discovered electricity but the guy on the $100 bill. Unless the residents of Islamorada perceive their peril and rise up en masse to oppose it, the future is dark indeed. Don’t let it be so. RISE UP!
SEAT 2
Anna Richards
My vision for the future of Islamorada is one of sustainable growth and community prosperity. I envision a vibrant and inclusive community that preserves our natural beauty and marine resources while fostering economic development and opportunities for all residents. By prioritizing environmental conservation, promoting tourism in a responsible manner, and investing in infrastructure and services that enhance the quality of life for residents, we can create a thriving and resilient community. Collaboration with residents, transparent governance, and a commitment to innovation will be key in shaping a future where Islamorada remains a desirable place to live, work, and visit for generations to come.
Capt. Steve Friedman
We must protect our local economy by protecting our water and guarding against overdevelopment.
It’s been a quarter-of-a-century since the Village updated its comprehensive plan. Fortunately the Village has retained a consulting firm to help update the comprehensive plan.
I’m a big believer in planning your work, then working your plan.
Our goal is to make our planning process a community conversation. We should encourage more engagement from our local residents in our planning process.
Finally, my belief is all future development must be fair and equitable; respectful of property rights; responsive to strains on our infrastructure; fiscally responsible; compliant with state and federal statutes that protect our fisheries, migratory and nesting birds, etc.; and most importantly: extremely sensitive to our environment and water quality.
We want our local government to be efficient and fiscally responsible while providing quality public services and protecting our local waters from pollution and overdevelopment.
SEAT 3
Deb Gillis
My vision for Islamorada is to protect our smalltown way of life while addressing the pressing issues we face, like affordable housing and maintaining unity in our community. I’m committed to completing the Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Regulations (LDRs) rewrite to ensure that any future development aligns with our values and preserves the character of our village. I’ve always believed in bringing people together, even when there are differences of opinion, because when we work as one, we can create a future that benefits everyone. My goal is to balance progress with the preservation of what makes Islamorada unique and special. TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Mary Barley
Good policy makes good vision. Good decisions are good vision. Spending taxpayers hard earned dollars wisely and efficiently at the lowest rate possible is good vision our mission statement states our values and should be the guiding light.
SEAT 4
Don Horton
My vision is to have a council that doesn’t “govern by crisis or personal agendas” but makes smart decision for long term results. I recently met with younger community members that are involved with family businesses or starting their own. Their concerns were related to new or renovation of homes and affordability. I encouraged them to participate in the Comprehensive Plan process. This document will guide us for the next 15 to 20 years, they need to take part in the discussion. I envision workforce housing that doesn’t detract from the quaint atmosphere in the Village, more municipal parking so people stop park randomly in Village ROWs, the possibility of a looped inner-city transit system that is clean, reliable, and timely. One that can move our citizens around the traffic caused by folks travelling south. I also envision cutting overhead and operational cost without interfering with essential services.
Tom Raffanello
The Village suffers from a lack of leadership and strategic planning. It has been run into the ground by builders, advocates of developers and self serving council persons over the past two decades. MY VISION is to “Protect the Residents’ Right to Quiet Enjoyment of Life; To Plan for Enhancing Our Village Character; To Preserve Our Community; Its People, Natural Resources, and Pride; To Provide Basic Services to Support our Quality of Life.” That is Islamorada’s mission, which has gotten lost. This will be my ONLY full time job. I will have no distractions. This election is critical to the survival of Islamorada.
We are told to believe that those who took advantage of the holes in our comprehensive plan now know how to fix it twenty years later. Why now? Don’t believe it.
Elections have consequences. Vote for a candidate with 20 years of executive management and skills necessary to understand and impact all aspects of government. I solve problems and make decisions.
There is more to managing a Village than rezoning and building permits, so much more.
VILLAGE VOTERS TO DECIDE ON COUNCIL PAY BUMP & TERM LIMITS
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
In addition to deciding which four will sit on the Islamorada Village Council, voters heading to the polls will also weigh in on a pair of referendums, for term limits and a pay raise.
Earlier in the year, council members mulled and eventually passed two ordinances to send the questions of term limits and council pay increases to referendum at the Nov. 5 election. Specifically, voters will decide whether they support council members serving eight cumulative years before having to move on and if council members should see their pay rise from $1,000 to $1,500 a month.
Currently, council members can serve eight consecutive years, which equates to four two-year terms, before having to step away. A termedout councilperson could step away for a year, two years or more, make another run for office and serve another eight years.
Council members originally expressed support to make the question of term limits retroactive.
The proposal passed via a 3-2 vote during a Nov. 7, 2023 meeting. Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney, councilwoman Elizabeth Jolin and councilman Henry Rosenthal supported the term limit referendum. Two days later at a Nov. 9, 2023 meeting, Rosenthal asked council members to reconsider the previous vote to send the term limits question to voters. Sure enough, the council voted 3-2 for a reconsideration in December.
During council’s meeting on Dec. 14, Gregg asked fellow council members to eliminate the retroactive part of language within the referendum.
“This has an impact on those who might want to serve in the future,” he said.
Rosenthal reversed course from his prior vote and told council members at the Dec. 14 meeting that he didn’t support sending a term limit question of eight years retroactive to the voters. He said the proposal
UNSPLASH
wasn’t fair to council members who previously served and could be affected by the new proposal. Rosenthal went on to say his first vote went along with the dissension seen and faced within the Islamorada council and community in recent times.
“That is not pulling us together as a body,” Rosenthal said. “I don’t care if they’re (council members) here 150 years, the public will make that choice.”
Mahoney commended Rosenthal for changing his mind and “pulling everyone together.” Council members voted 5-0 to alter language to eight cumulative years that wouldn’t be retroactive.
If approved by voters in November, the new eight-year cumulative term limit would begin once the newly-elected council is seated.
As for the council pay referendum, voters will essentially be asked if they support a $500 monthly pay increase for council members from $1,000 to $1,500. Compensation was originally set at $300 until 2005, when the council approved an ordinance to pay council members $1,000 per month. The new pay took effect in March 2006 following voter approval and has remained at $1,000 since then.
The referendum also includes language that council members would be entitled to a cost of living adjustment that village staff receive annually.
TDC CANCELS WEBSITE CONTRACT WITH TWO OCEANS DIGITAL
Board votes to seek proposals from ad agencies & digital managers
MANDY MILES
mandy@keysweekly.com
Florida Keys tourism officials acknowledged this week that contracts negotiated 30 years ago haven’t aged well for the local Tourist Development Council (TDC) — particularly as they involve internet technology, websites, digital marketing and advertising.
The TDC board on Oct. 29 voted to cancel its contract with Two Oceans Digital, the company that manages the Keys’ tourism website, fla-keys.com; handles all digital marketing and retains all advertising revenue from the website. The move was recommended by a county audit of Two Oceans’ contract with the TDC, which revealed that the TDC was significantly overpaying for website and digital services given the payment structure of the contract.
The TDC board also voted to issue a new RFP to seek bids from advertising agencies, but board members opted not to cancel its current, 40-year-old contract with Tinsley Advertising yet. More on that in a bit.
The county clerk’s audit of the TDC’s contract with Two Oceans found that the outdated and lopsided payment structure in which Two Oceans keeps all ad revenue from the TDC’s website made more sense for the TDC in 1995, when the internet was in its infancy and online advertising was nearly non-existent.
“This contract has been in place since 1995, when the TDC had no money and digital advertising had no value” so the then-TDC board agreed to give the vendor all ad revenue in exchange for the website, TDC chair Diane Schmidt said at the Oct. 29 meeting.
Times have changed Times — and technology — have changed dramatically since 1995.
And while the contract for the TDC’s website and digital services has been renewed every three to five years, the compensation terms have never changed.
The audit report estimates that Two Oceans likely now earns $1 million to $1.5 million a year from online advertising on fla-keys.com.
Two Oceans representatives told auditors the company makes an estimated $600,000 a year in ad revenue, but refused to provide auditors with documentation to support that claim, the audit report states.
“I think this board should consider what steps we need to take to regain control and ownership of this website,” Kara Franker, the TDC’s new president and CEO, who started work in September, told the board before they voted to cancel the Two Oceans contract. “We can now do some of these things in-house, so the new RFP we issue for the website and digital services can look very different.”
Franker and Schmidt both said they had spoken with attorney Robert Spottswood, who is representing Two Oceans. He told them his client is willing to renegotiate and wants to try to work things out.
“But I think this is a time to start fresh,” Franker said. “They, of course, are welcome to compete, submit a bid and see what happens.”
The board then voted unanimously to terminate the current contract with Two Oceans Digital, effective in 90 days. The board also authorized Franker to issue a new RFP and finalize a transition plan that includes solidifying the TDC’s ownership of its domain names and intellectual property, such as photos, videos and editorial content on the website.
TDC HIRES NEW VP OF MARKETING/ COMMUNICATIONS
Heidi Barfels to oversee Florida Keys’ tourism strategy
Heidi Barfels, a veteran tourism marketing executive, is the new vice president of marketing and communications for Visit Florida Keys, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council’s operations organization.
Barfels is overseeing the island chain’s tourism marketing and communications strategy for advertising, branding, public relations, social media, website and content marketing. Previously, she was chief marketing officer of Colorado’s Visit Estes Park for three years.
“Heidi is a proven go-getter in the tourism industry and is the kind of innovative leader we need on the team,” said Kara Franker, president and chief executive officer for Visit Florida Keys. “Her first assignment is to breathe new life into our marketing plan and initiatives, and I have all the confidence in the world that she is going to knock it out of the park.”
Among other honors, Barfels’ work has earned the Hotel Sales & Marketing Association International’s Adrian Awards and the Colorado Tourism Office’s Governor’s Award.
She serves on Destinations International’s public relations & communications committee and is a member of the Public Relations Society of America. She co-authored a pioneering white paper on generative AI and is known as a technology and des-
tination branding expert.
“The Florida Keys & Key West are a place where people disconnect from the ordinary and immerse themselves in something truly special,” Barfels said. “I’m honored to have the opportunity to build onto the already strong marketing efforts to highlight this wonderful community.”
Barfels previously held marketing management roles with Visit Lauderdale in Fort Lauderdale, and Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group in Miami. She was principal of her own communications company, and also worked with Lou Hammond Group publicizing luxury hotels and destinations including Panama City Beach and Charleston, South Carolina.
— Contributed
Heidi Barfels
INVESTING WHERE WE LIVE, WORK & PLAY
Assistance Available As REALTORS® we believe everyone should be proud of their community and have a safe place to call home. That's why Florida Keys Board of REALTOR members invest in communities where we live, work, and play.
The FKBR REALTORS® Charitable Foundation (FKBRCF) is the 501(c)3 charitable arm of FKBR. It's a testament to the collective efforts of our community, providing funding for individuals and not-for-profit organizations in the Upper Keys of Monroe County who enhance the quality of life in the community and prioritize supporting REALTOR members in need. The Foundation, established in 2015, is a result of our community's commitment to consolidate FKBR community-giving programs and significantly impact the local community.
MISSION
Our mission is clear and unwavering: to provide outreach programs and charitable donations within the local community and support REALTOR members in need as a priority.
VISION
To be a foundation that dramatically impacts our members and our local community as the philanthropic arm of the Florida Keys Board of REALTORS®
PLEDGE TO ISLAMORADA AS YOUR COUNCILWOMAN
Represent you – Act on your behalf when you can’t
Remain fair and objective – Be professional and ethical Make decisions on facts – Find the truth
Govern with common sense – Be reasonable
Keep our Village economy strong – Build resilience
Put community needs first – Quality of life matters
I want to thank you for your past support. I ask for your support in the upcoming election, November 5
VOTE TOM RAFFANELLO ISLAMORADA VILLAGE COUNCIL SEAT 4
• Founder, Mariners Hospital
• Upper Keys Athletic Foundation - CSHS
• Diamond Sponsor, Voices for Florida Keys Children
• Silver Hammer, Habitat for Humanity
• Tsunami Wave, Good Health Clinic
• Lifetime Member, International Ass’n of Chiefs of Police
RESIDENTS HAVE A CH OICE!
THE CHOICE IS SIMPLE -- AN EXPERIENCED EXECUTIVE MANAGER OR ANOTHER RECYCLED BUILDER/DEVELOPERS’ ADVOCATE?
♦ I Have 20-years Executive Management Experience
♦ I Solve Complex Problems & Bring Needed New Energy, New Ideas
♦ I Stand for Re- Development, not New Development
♦ Residents’ Needs Should Set the Agenda
I W ILL HOLD VILLAGE COUNCIL ACCOUNTABLE TO ITS MISSION:
♦ To Protect the Residents' Right to Quiet Enjoyment of Life
♦ To Plan for Enhancing Our Village Character
♦ To Preserve Our Community; Its People, Natural Resources, & Pride
♦ To Provide Basic Services to Support our Quality of Life”
I NEED YOUR VOTE! LET’S GET TO W ORK.
Paid by Tom Raffanello for Islamorada Village Council – Seat 4
WILD BIRD CENTER LENDS HELPING HAND DURING HURRICANES
RECORD NUMBER OF TAKE STOCK SCHOLARS NEED VOLUNTEER MENTORS
40 eligible kids unable to enter scholarship program
TThe Florida Keys Wild Bird Center has taken in more bird patients as a part of its hurricane relief efforts within the bird sanctuary community.
Due to the mandatory evacuations and the devastating outcomes of hurricanes Helene and Milton on the west coast of the state, the Wild Bird Center accepted 20 evacuating birds from three wildlife rehabilitation facilities.
On Oct. 6, the Tavernier facility received five birds from Seaside Seabird Sanctuary and five birds from CROW on Sanibel Island. A volunteer from Seaside Seabird was able to transport all 10 birds to the Tavernier bird hospital, including three masked boobies, three osprey, two red-shouldered hawks, a laughing gull and a brown pelican. Both sites sustained damage from Hurricane Milton; Seaside Seabird is still recovering from hard hits from both hurricanes. CROW was able to take all but one of its patients back on Oct. 16; the laughing gull has stayed in Tavernier to be released when he is ready. The birds from Seaside Seabird Sanctuary will reside here until they are to be released too.
Top: A fish crow from Peace River Wildlife Center was transported to the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center in Tavernier ahead of the recent hurricanes. CONTRIBUTED. Left: A red-shouldered hawk taken into care at the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary.
Peace River Wildlife Center sent down 10 non-releasable permanent residents on Oct. 13 after the significant damages from Milton caused relocations during recovery. Various songbirds, two fish crows and a redshouldered hawk were taken into care at the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary where they are all out on display. All these patients will be returned to Peace River once the facility is recovered. Signs on the enclosures of these temporary patients explain their story with a QR code linking to Peace River Wildlife Center’s website, where more information is available and donations can be made.
On top of the influx of patients from sanctuaries in the state, the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center had an increase of admissions from the storms. Migrating warblers that were blown off course and other birds weak from the storms have been recent patients. The sanctuary also experienced flooding from Helene and Milton, causing evacuations of permanent bird residents to the hospital site.
More information is at www.keepthemflying.org.
— Keys Weekly staff report
he Monroe County Education Foundation has accepted 100 new students who have applied for the Take Stock in Children scholarship program. This marks a record number of new students in the program’s history. It is also a significant milestone that represents an investment of nearly $2 million in Florida Prepaid scholarships, which provides these students with the opportunity to pursue their dream of going to college.
Many of the 100 new scholars, ranging from grades 6 to 11 and representing 13 county schools, are waiting to be matched with a volunteer mentor. “We have reviewed over 150 applications and are ready to welcome 100 eligible students into the Take Stock program,” said Chuck Licis-Masson, executive director of the Monroe County Education Foundation. “However, nearly 40 of the eligible and accepted students are unable to enter the program due to a mentor shortage.” Mentors are especially needed in the Lower Keys.
Volunteer mentors commit 30 minutes each week during the school day to meet with their Take Stock student at school. Mentors are not tutors, ATMs or Ubers; rather, they are caring adults who help guide and empower the student to engage in school, to set college and career goals, and to acquire important lifeskills.
“We need volunteers from our communities, now more than ever, to help make the possibility of a college education and career path a reality for our most deserving students in Monroe County,” said Bryan Green, president of the Monroe County Education Foundation. “Our program’s success is attributed to the unwavering support of our dedicated community volunteers as well as of our financial supporters.”
Take Stock mentors come from public and private institutions and local businesses, and include retired professionals. Mentors play a vital role in guiding and empowering the Take Stock scholars.
ROSS SMITH/Keys Weekly
The Take Stock in Children program of Monroe County is dedicated to fostering personal growth, developing self-confidence and building self-advocacy skills among its scholars as they strive to reach their goal of a college education or career certificate. By providing them with the necessary tools and resources, the program aims to empower students to overcome any obstacles they may encounter on their educational journey.
More information is available from Licis-Masson at Chuck.Licis@ monroecountyedfound.com or 305293-1546.
About Take Stock in Children Monroe
Take Stock in Children Monroe is committed to providing deserving students in Monroe County with the opportunity to break the cycle of poverty through education. By pairing students with mentors, providing college scholarships and supporting them throughout their academic journey, Take Stock in Children Monroe empowers students to achieve their full potential and become the leaders of tomorrow. Take Stock Monroe is the flagship program of the Monroe County Education Foundation, a nonprofit organization.
More information is at www. monroecountyedfound.com.
Mentor Daniel Clark, left, celebrates Key West mentee Carlos Aliz Rodriguez at Take Stock’s 2024 graduation ceremony. Take Stock is in need of new mentors to pair with eligible students in the scholarship program.
LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISE WITH LOCAL FACES
Established in 1991, Thomas Anthony Furniture Service provides custom furniture and yachting services with a commitment to customer satisfaction. The services include a range of custom solutions, including upholstery, refinishing, custom carpentry and surface protection for residential and yachting clients. We also provide flooring, wallpaper installation and specialized yachting services such as wraps and custom cabinetry.
"We have a dedication to cra smanship, a ention to detail and personalized service for each unique client," said Linda Saylor, general manager. "We pride ourselves on our expertise in creating tailored, high-quality furniture and yacht services, ensuring durability and aesthetic excellence."
With 18 employees, services are provided in Monroe, Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
CAPT ED & SANDI B
THOMAS ANTHONY FURNITURE SERVICE | 954-421-4911 info@thomasanthonyfurnitureservice.com www.thomasanthonyfurnitureservice.com
CANDIDATES WHO WILL LISTEN TO LOCAL CITIZENS INSTEAD OF COMMERCIALIZATION AND DEVELOPMENT INTERESTS, AS MOST RECENT COUNCILMEN HAVE DONE FAR TOO OFTEN. WE ENDORSE: Seat 1 VAN
HISTORY AND EXPERIENCE
• 47 year Plantation Key resident
• 32 years Small Business Owner
• 15 years in Local Government as Building Official of Monroe County & Islamorada
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
• Current Key Largo Rotary President
• Current Monroe County Contractors
• Examining Board Member
• Islamorada Chamber Member & Ambassador
• Create a Charter Review Committee
• Develop a Strategic Plan for the Future of Islamorada
• Address Traffic Concerns
• Push for Fiscally Conservative Spending in the Budget
• Support Local First Responders, Deputies and Essential Workers
• Work to Build Consensus throughout our Community
• Address issues on the Fills for good
• Leadership Monroe County past Board President
• Mariners Hospital Council past Board Member
• Florida Keys History and Discovery Center Board Member Emeritus
• Tavernier Volunteer Fire and Ambulance Corp past Board Member PRIORITIES
Paid by Don Horton for Islamorada Village Council
HURRICANES CELEBRATE HOMECOMING
Athletes, musicians & performers parade on the Old Highway
Coral Shores homecoming festivities were in full gear on Oct. 25 as Miss Coral Shores contestants, homecoming court and musicians and athletes from the various Upper Keys schools paraded on the Old Highway. A sea of spectators watched the procession of floats, bands and performers from both sides of the highway. Young parade spectators eagerly awaited the candy tossing, and some floats even engaged in some water gun warfare. Laura Lietaert, Coral Shores principal who was named 2023 Principal of the Year in Monroe County, served as homecoming parade marshal. The parade also featured athletes, musicians and performers from Key Largo School, Ocean Studies Charter School, Plantation Key School and Treasure Village Montessori.
— Keys Weekly staff report
Coral Shores homecoming parade participants proceed up the Old Highway past the high school on Oct. 25. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
EDUCATION FOR STUDENTS TODAY
BE THE B.E.S.T. VOTE YES BACK
ON NOVEMBER BALLOTS, VOTERS WILL SEE TWO REFERENDUMS RELATED TO FUNDING FOR OUR SCHOOLS.
PASSING THESE TWO REFERENDUMS IS CRUCIAL FOR OUR SCHOOL DISTRICT TO SECURE ESSENTIAL FUNDING FOR TEACHERS SALARIES AND CAPITAL PROJECTS.
REFERENDUM 1.) 1/2 MILLREFERENDUM 2.) 1/2 CENT-
The Coven of The 11th Annual Key Largo Witches Ride would like to express our deepest gratitude & appreciation to our amazing sponsors, donors, & volunteers who, along with our Wonderful Witches and Warlocks made this year a
Wicked Success !
SPONORS
K. Shy Martin, Jeannine Cook, Kelly Randin, Shellworld, Price Automotive, Houston Insurance Agency, Evolution Pool & Spa, Monroe County Bail Bonds,Key Largo Kampground, Mrs. Mac’s, Playa Largo, Keys Sanitation, Key Largo Canvas, Salon Dete, Advanced Aesthetic Care, Christy Hughes, Lisa & Randy Wetzel, Wire Nuts Electric, Danielle Harrison/Keys to Wellness Fitness, Miss Monroe, The Wasmund Team, Doc on the Rock, Yvette Doherty.
OUR HOSTS
The Catch Restaurant (Cathy, Page, & the BOOS Crew) The Caribbean Club (Whitehurst/Katie Schweiss & Family & the BOOS Crew).
OUR VOLUNTEERS
Tina Cash, Deb, Lowell, Carolyn & Ivy Donofrio, Eva Brown, Anna Askins, Cathy Hardison, Danielle Harrison and her Keys to Wellness Witch Dancers, Kathy Snow, Sophie, Joey, & Scott Caputo, Linda Signorelli, Necie Moore, Kyle Harrison, Connie Kruger, Cindy Davidson, Tisa Lall, Joann Casella, Krista Hillman, Cindy Hughes, Julia Murray, Ellen Senkbeil, Kim McDaniel, Lena Nyman, Leslie Lazo, The Leigh Family, Joanna Spodnick, Jessica Shafer, Tessa Vergara, Kristal Frimpter, Kristy Parrish.
DONORS
GOLFCARTMAX Chris & Haley Doherty, Jeannine Cook, Danielle Harrison (Keys to Wellness Fitness), Freckled Blondie, Soggy Paws, Shellworld, Kelly Hershey, Jami Horvat, Advanced Aesthetic Care, Jennifer Baker Keyzcrafts, Monaco Beauty Studio, Island Nails by Tania, Bleu Salon, Cirque Salon Studios, Jeanne Foulon, Pilates in Paradise, Ginger Hill, Keys Salt Scrub, Florida Keys Jewelry, Tacos Jalisco, Adam Hill (Eat Florida Seafood,) Key Largo Fisheries, DePaula’s Jewelry, Mrs. Mac’s, The Fish House, Doc’s Diner, Key Largo Conch House, Cap’t Craig’s, Hobo’s, The Banyan Tree, Bloom, Pat Baker, Keys Deep, Playa Largo, Fero Blanco, Outdoor Adventures, Mother Earth, Key Largo Kampground, The Juice House, High Tide, Lazy Days, Lazy Lobster, Uppercrust Pizza, Sundowner’s, Keysbites, Crooked Palm, Eris Smits, Key Largo Adirondack, Bernice Dionne & Shen Health, Seaside Glassworks, Mallory’s Bakery, Elizabeth Bonness, Key Largo Pickleball, Marty Leone, First State Bank, Old Road Gallery, Juanita’s Orchids, Big Digital Graphics (Skip), Roz Paragus, Damian Goark, Cindy’s Hair Place, MissChief Charters, Chelsea Riggs, Forever Salty Charters, Tavernier ACE Hardware, Bill’s Liquors, Sam Nekilia (Wendy’s, Dairy Queen, Old Tavernier, Towne Cinema), Brittany Richards, Froggy’s Gym, Plantation Key School, Skip & Karen Ciampa, Key Largo Yoga, Janna Charette, Flamingo Adventures, Upper Keys Sailing Club, Ed Maldonado, MC/DJ Tony Tone.
AND OF COURSE OUR MORE THAN 380 REGISTERED WITCHES & WARLOCKS who came dressed and ready to RIDE! If we have forgotten anyone who donated to our cause, we are gravely sorry-but please know you are appreciated more than words can say!
STAY WICKED MY PRETTIES !
Pam Caputo & Kara Banks
Implementation of the Project/Activity
• Principle 1...long-term political leadership on climate resilience and net-zero emissions pathways
• Principle 2...integrating sustainability priorities into policy and planning
• Principle 3...measure sustainable development goals progress through tracking and reporting
• Principle 4...implement concrete initiatives
On October 16, 2024, our Monroe County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) swiftly passed a motion for Monroe County to join the United Nations-backed Local2030 Islands Network — with no meaningful opportunity for community input. This decision has sparked concerns among Monroe County residents, many of whom feel sidelined in a process that could bring significant outside influence into our local governance. Your support is needed!
Join your fellow Monroe County residents in calling on the BOCC to prioritize transparency and local input.
Sign the petition today to demand that our county’s participation in the UN’s Local2030 initiative be reconsidered— with the people’s voice leading the way.
Together, we can ensure Monroe County’s future remains in the hands of its residents.
Scan to sign the petition now!
are the voters voices?? r
* Local2030 Islands Network members and partners must commit to the Network’s Four Principles and signal their commitment in an open letter to the Local2030 Islands Network Secretariat.
FINAL ROGO/BPAS SURVEY TACKLES NUMBERS, DISTRIBUTION OF NEW UNITS
Over the next few months, county and municipal leaders will be tasked with arriving at a final number of building allocations to request from the state in 2025. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO
Input open through Nov. 8
The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is seeking public participation regarding the statemandated hurricane evacuation modeling discussions that will continue through January 2025.
Survey #5 is currently available and is designed to gauge public opinions and ideas concerning planning considerations for the future growth of the Florida Keys, including how many new residential units are preferred and how they ought to be distributed. The survey will remain open until Friday, Nov. 8 at 5 p.m. Monroe County community members are invited to take this short survey, the fifth and final one. The survey is at https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/rogosurvey5 and should take five to six minutes to complete.
This and past surveys will help officials learn more about community members’ basic knowledge of ROGO/BPAS, how locals live and commute, when residents evacuate during a
hurricane, legal considerations and public opinion on additional residential growth. (Note: The first five questions of each survey are the same.)
Monroe County is also hosting town hall meetings on Nov. 4, 6 and 7; an upcoming workshop on Nov. 20; and a special BOCC meeting on Dec. 19 regarding the Department of Commerce’s hurricane evacuation modeling to gauge public opinions on everything that affects evacuation timing and the number of additional ROGO/BPAS allocations the county and municipalities should request from the state. The hurricane evacuation modeling is based on a Florida Statute requiring that Monroe County residents be able to evacuate the Keys within 24 hours before a storm. To learn more about these terms, view upcoming meeting details, or see past survey results, visit https://www.monroecounty-fl. gov/1321/ROGOBPAS-2024-Updates.
— Contributed Scan the QR code to take the survey:
TDC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12
What about the ad agency?
Now back to the advertising agency and its contract.
Later in the meeting, board member Vicki Tashjian asked Franker how the TDC would pay for the four new positions and temporary consultants Franker is hiring, as well as the hiring of a legal team for the TDC, which has previously relied on the county attorney’s office.
Franker quickly agreed with the board members, who emphasized that no funding should come out of the TDC’s advertising budget, which could jeopardize tourism.
“Vicki has pointed out the elephant in the room, and this will be a tough, but necessary conversation,” Franker said. “As we’ve dug into finances, we’ve become aware of how much money certain agencies are making in fees. There’s been a lot of negotiations, but no one wants to give up the money they’ve always made. To get control of our budget, we need to get a hold of the fees we’re paying.”
She then suggested that she prepare a new RFP for the TDC’s advertising services to re-bid its 40year contract with Tinsley Advertising, at the same time the RFP for the website and digital service is being prepared.
“We need contracts that aren’t from 1995, that are built for today,” Franker said, getting immediate support from county Mayor Holly Raschein and Key West Mayor DeeDee Henriquez, who are both on the TDC board.
“In our effort to be more transparent and accountable I don’t know why we wouldn’t take that same step with the advertising contract,” Raschein said. “I know change is hard, but it’s the business we’re in. I mean, we were in high school in the ’90s.”
Henriquez agreed, saying, “We should go out for RFPs for everyone. We can’t have contracts from the ’90s, and our current vendors are welcome to apply.”
But the momentum of that discussion waned when other board members hesitated to cancel the contract with Tinsley Advertising — whether out of allegiance to the agency, whose owner, John Underwood, was in the room, or out of concern for the TDC’s marketing and advertising efforts.
In the end, the board agreed to issue a new RFP for advertising, but
to keep the Tinsley contract in place while that occurs.
During the meeting, Franker never specified the agency whose fees concerned her, but the Keys Weekly submitted a public records request after the meeting, seeking the amount of commission fees Tinsley Advertising receives according to its contract with the TDC.
According to the records Franker provided, Tinsley Advertising received $4.5 million in commission fees from the TDC this year, an amount that is significantly more than what other tourism bureaus in Florida pay for advertising services, Franker told the Keys Weekly.
But she is currently gathering information from other Florida TDCs about their costs for advertising and website-related services.
According to its current contract, Tinsley is entitled to a 15% commission fee on all advertising Tinsley buys and places for the TDC, be it magazine ads, TV commercials, digital videos and other forms of advertising. In other words, if Tinsley buys an ad placement that costs $7,000, they charge the TDC $7,000 plus 15%, or $8,050.
Each year during the budget process, the TDC provides Tinsley with an advertising budget based on the county’s tourism revenue. In 2023, Tinsley was allotted an advertising budget of $31 million, all of which was spent, meaning Tinsley received 15% of $31 million, or $4.5 million, in commission fees.
That figure has been increasing each year as tourism revenue — and the TDC’s advertising budget — has increased in the Florida Keys.
In fact, the advertising budget for Tinsley increased more than 60% between 2022 and 2023, while the TDC’s overall budget increased by 45% during this same period, according to a February audit of the TDC’s contract with Tinsley. That audit found no compliance issues or concerns on the part of Tinsley, but auditors did question the large increases in the TDC’s advertising budget, upon which Tinsley’s income is based.
“The TDC’s advertising budget for Tinsley increased almost 88% from 2019 to 2024,” the county audit states.
Franker expects to present the revised RFPs for digital services and advertising to the board at their next meeting in December.
KAI THE FOX VISITS KEY WEST POLICE
the fox leaves a present in deputy chief Randy Smith’s office at the Key West Police Department. CONTRIBUTED
REEF THE FOX
Reef is a red fox that was saved from a fur farm. He now lives in Key Largo with his human, Nicole Navarro.
Hfriends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” Let me tell you about my little meeting with Kai before he went off to do some bigshot stuff down at the Key West Police Department (KWPD) last week. Now, before he went, I made it crystal clear that he needed to go in there strong. I said, “Kai, you gotta let ’em know who’s boss, show some backbone.” I even gave him some tips on how to assert a bit of ... well, let’s call it “foxy authority.” KWPD and us foxes? We’ve got a nice friendship going, and I wanted to make sure Kai left a memorable impression. Something they’d be talking about for days.
And what did Kai do? Well, he went right into the deputy chief of police’s office, gave his best innocent fox look, and — wait for it — took a big ol’ poop right there on the floor. Nailed it, in my opinion. Because let’s face it, nothing says, “We’re here to stay!” like leaving a
WILLOW
Willow is a Lab mix who will always be by your side. CONTRIBUTED
little reminder on the carpet, am I right?
The deputy chief laughed it off, opened a window (because our poops are rancid) and allowed Kai to roam around his office some more. What a guy! I would say we have wiggled our way right into the hearts of everyone at KWPD.
On Friday, Nov. 1, the Best of the Upper Keys awards will be at the luxurious Playa Largo Resort. My mom will be all dolled up (at least I told her she needed to be) and anxiously awaiting to see if yours truly will take home the Best Local Celebrity plaque for the third year in a row. I know I had fans from all over the world voting for me and it warms my little heart to know I am so loved. Stay tuned to the Keys Weekly website to find who wins in all categories.
The real winners will be our friends at the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter. This award ceremony is all about raising money for them. Last year the amount raised was $26,350, so I hope this year it’s even more.
Anywho, that’s all for this week. Stay up-to-date with all things fox by visiting our website at pawsitivebeginnings.org. All of our good content is on our social media platforms and those are linked right in the footer of our website.
Until next time, Reef, over and out!
Willow is a Lab mix around 2 to 3 years old, weighing 52 pounds. Her friendly demeanor with other dogs, cats and kids makes her a great family dog. Willow is an incredibly loyal girl who will stand by your side no matter what. She has a heart of gold. If you are interested, get in contact by calling 305-453-1315 or going to www. mprescues.org/application.
SAVE THE DATE
Nov. 1-3
• Key Players “The Addams Family” musical comedy at 7 p.m. (2 p.m. on Nov. 3) at Coral Shores High School. Visit TheKeysPlayers.org for more information.
Friday, Nov. 1
• First Friday Concert series welcomes local musician David Feder at 6 p.m. at Key Largo library.
Saturday, Nov. 2
• Free Monroe County tire recycling event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at county transfer stations on Long Key, MM 68, and Key Largo, 11180 Overseas Highway. Up to six passenger tires (20-inch limit).
Wednesday, Nov. 6
• Plant clinic featuring master gardeners to answer questions on gardening and landscaping from 9 a.m. to noon at Key Largo library.
Thursday, Nov. 7
• Small Business Development Center at Florida International University holds no-cost workshop for
anyone in or starting business from noon to 1:30 p.m. at Marathon library. Register at go.fiu.edu/truist.
• Foreign Policy Association’s Great Decisions: Pandemic Preparedness at 2 p.m. at Key Largo library.
• MarrVelous Pet Rescues “Yappy Hour” from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Caribbean Club, Key Largo. Pets must be vaccinated, leashed and well-socialized.
Friday, Nov. 8
• 13th annual Spayghetti & No Balls Gala at 6:30 p.m. at Snook’s Bayside, Key Largo. Visit spaghetti.com to learn more.
Saturday, Nov. 9
• Free food waste prevention and composting workshop at 11 a.m. at Key Largo library. Bring a 13-gallon or larger storage tote with a secure lid and food scraps.
• Reignite the Light, a fundraising gala to benefit the restoration of Alligator Reef Lighthouse, at 6 p.m. at Tea Table Key. Visit savealligatorlighthouse.org to learn more.
Kai
THE CROCODILES ARE COMING BACK
FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI
Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.
Spoiler alert: the Florida Keys are a unique string of islands. To add one more reason, South Florida and the Keys are the only places in the world where alligators and crocodiles coexist. Both have been living here since before the first people arrived all those thousands of years ago. They live elsewhere. The natural range of Crocodylus acutus, the American crocodile, stretches from the Florida mainland to Caribbean islands like Hispaniola and Jamaica and south from Mexico to Peru. In the first half of the 20th century, it was not uncommon to see references to them in newspapers. The Miami News reported on June 26, 1908: “A monster crocodile measuring 9 feet, 4 inches was killed by Capt. Chas. Anderson on the 17th, on Matecumbe. A few moments more and the saurian would have devoured the captain’s fine bird dog.”
The Pensacola News Journal’s May 20, 1906 edition told an interesting story about Warren Frazee, known as Alligator Joe. Frazee claimed to have the world’s largest collection of alligators and crocodiles. The newspaper story was about “over 2,000 crocodiles and alligators” from Alligator Joe’s collection being transported aboard railroad cars to Kansas City, Missouri, where they would be exhibited at Electric Park over the summer. “In the collection is the mammoth crocodile ‘Miami Joe,’ which is said to be the largest in captivity. It is seventeen and a half feet in length and tips the beam at 1,700 pounds. This monster man-eater was captured by none other than Alligator Joe himself about six months ago in the Florida Keys, and its owner says that soon after it was placed in captivity, it threw up quantities of human bones and large portions of red shirts.”
Some species of crocodiles are absolute man-
eaters; the Nile crocodile and Australia’s saltwater crocs rack up body counts every year. Our local crocodiles are not as aggressive or even as aggressive as alligators, which account for about eight attacks yearly. American crocodiles are a generally reclusive species, and their natural inclination is to avoid people, making negative encounters with them rare events.
There could be several reasons for the anecdote in Alligator Joe’s story. The bones could have belonged to someone who had made the mistake of attempting to capture the reptile. Also, he was promoting an exhibition, and having a “man-eater” in the collection might certainly boost audience attendance. It could have been Alligator Joe puffing.
Stories told about man-eating crocodiles make an impression. The Key West Citizen published a story on April 9, 1926, that included this nugget about the Civil War years: “The horrors of the Dry Tortugas were heightened in public imagination by the story that the wide and deep moat about Fort Jefferson was thickly inhabited by man-eating crocodiles eager to nip off the legs of escaping prisoners. It was not revealed upon what these guardians fed when escaping prisoners were few.”
Once hunted for their hides and nearly to extinction, stories of expeditions into the Keys appear not infrequently in the old newspapers. The Miami Herald on March 16, 1916 reported: “Messrs. M.G. Heim and L.J. Stranahan returned yesterday on Heim’s yacht, Dragon, from a trip to the Florida Keys, where they caught several crocodiles, some tarpon, sawfish, and a porpoise.” The Palm Beach Post on Nov. 28, 1916 said: “Samuel A. Barfield, accompanied by his wife, were expected yesterday from his alligator and crocodile hunt down in the Florida Keys.”
The hunting expeditions took their toll. The Palm Beach Post said on April 11, 1922: “Just now crocodiles are scarce and very high in price, due to the fact that they have almost been exterminated in the canals and creeks.” Because their hides were coveted, the hunting continued. On Dec. 11, 1949, the Miami Herald published a story that included this note: “Crocodiles are found in the wild state
now only in the Cape Sable and Lake Surprise area and near the junction of the Florida Keys and the mainland. At one time, crocodiles were numerous from Lake Worth to Key West.”
For a long time, they became rare visitors to the Florida Keys, and for decades, stories about crocodiles in the Keys went relatively untold. The American crocodile has been slowly reclaiming its old stomping grounds in the Keys. These days, they are no longer unusual, and that’s a good thing. In the 1970s, it was looking less than rosy for them. Nesting sites were limited to the northeast reaches of Florida Bay and North Key Largo. Presumably, there was a smattering of nesting sites on the hundreds of islands between the Overseas Highway and Cape Sable.
With only a few hundred left in the wild, the American crocodile became officially protected when it was listed as an endangered species in 1975. As development continued to encroach on their native habitat, measures were taken to offer a reprieve. The good news is that their population numbers have risen. Establishing the Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge at North Key Largo in 1980 was an important step.
Because the crocodile population had increased and its range expanded, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service downgraded the reptile from endangered to threatened in 2007. Currently, South Florida and the Keys are home to about 2,000 crocodiles, and they are once again being sighted up and down the island chain.
Between 2003 and 2017, the Dry Tortugas were home to a resident crocodile. Though it usually kept to itself, the solitary croc began to hang out around Fort Jefferson more frequently, and people wanted to take pictures. In 2017, it was captured and released in the Everglades. Today, they are regularly seen in Upper Keys’ canals and from the Overseas Highway to Cape Sable.
The American crocodile is not all the way back, not by a long shot, but its populations are moving in the right direction, and with so many species losing the fight, it should be celebrated as a conservation success story.
Left to right an unknown man, Phil Pfluger and Al Pfluger (famous Miami taxidermists) with crocodiles hunted on Key Largo in August 1929. FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY CENTER/Monroe County Library
jill@keysweekly.com
GET THE LATEST ELECTION RESULTS
Keys Weekly & Keys Talk team up to provide new, expanded coverage
The Keys Weekly Newspapers and Keys Talk 96.9/102.5 FM are teaming up to provide new, expanded and live coverage of Election Night 2024 results.
The collaboration of the locally-owned newspaper and radio station will bring all the latest news and results live from the Monroe County election headquarters in the Harvey Government Center. People can listen to the coverage beginning at 7 p.m. as Keys Talk 96.9/102.5 Good Morning Keys host Michael Stapleford and Key West Weekly editor Mandy Miles report on the latest local, state and national election results.
Stapleford and Miles will be joined by Marathon Weekly editor Alex Rickert and Upper Keys Weekly editor Jim McCarthy to break down and analyze the races in Marathon, Islamorada and Key Largo. Local candidates will also join in as they either declare victory or concede.
Enjoy the expert analysis — backed by decades of local election reporting — and immediate results. People can also find the latest results on Election Night by visiting the Keys Weekly Newspapers’ Facebook page.
— Keys Weekly staff report
OPINION
SAYONARA, SARAH
A fond farewell to our sanctuary superintendent
RACHEL BOWMAN
www.keysweekly.com
If you took a peek inside the day planner of the superintendent of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, it might look like this:
Take over the role of superintendent of a barrier reef just in time to watch a Category 4 hurricane plow through it. You’ll be responding to an unprecedented fast-moving stony coral tissue loss disease – we will also need this to be done during a global pandemic – and then mitigate a heatwave and coral bleaching event (also unprecedented). Also, there’s going to be a massive migrant influx and a derelict vessel issue. And while you’re at it, we need you to completely overhaul and update the sanctuary’s management program, too.
Oh, and on Tuesdays we have spinning sawfish.
Our Florida Keys have been through a lot in the past eight years, and I wonder if we realize just how damn fortunate we have been to have Sarah Fangman as our sanctuary superintendent. She has been the steady hand on the wheel, guiding us through the map of tumultuous processes we knew lay ahead (Restoration Blueprint) and the unexpected last-minute swerves around resource impacts (another mini-season?).
“Sarah brought a calm, empathetic leadership style to the sanctuary,” according to Beth Dieveney, FKNMS’ policy analyst. “Her commitment to the people, the mission, the community and the ecosystem is inspiring.”
If you ever had the privilege of attending a public comment session during the drafting of Restoration Blueprint, you saw firsthand the grace and quiet dignity that Sarah possesses, and you witnessed her determination and reserve when she spoke on contentious issues. She could respond to an emotional outburst with compassion and thoughtfulness, and you could see an understanding on the other side of the table. I know fishermen who disagree with sanctuary policies, but they applaud
Sarah’s motives. She comes across as genuine and as someone who is affected by everything and everyone around her.
Liz Trueblood, community engagement coordinator with the FKNMS, said about Sarah, “She remains calm when faced with tough and complicated issues. She has a knack for listening and that has helped her build relationships within the community and also grow a strong sense of teamwork within her staff.”
As a member of the Sanctuary Advisory Council, my Notes app on my phone contains a list of single sentences that Sarah has spoken during the last eight years of meetings that resonated so powerfully with me, I had to write them down. At an FWC meeting at Hawks Cay in October, she asked the commissioners to address the issues in the Restoration Blueprint “with a scalpel, not a sledgehammer,” and I wanted to stand up and cheer. Sarah’s way with words cannot be appreciated enough.
At Sarah’s last council meeting this month, she described her new position as the West Coast regional director of national marine sanctuaries as “getting closer to being able to pull the bigger levers.” While she won’t be living here in the Keys, she’s leaving a little bit of her heart here with us. I firmly believe that she will continue to look after us, in her own Sarah style: calm and determined. And most likely, wearing a very pretty dress.
Editor’s note: Alex Rickert had the honor of getting to know Sarah as a classmate in Leadership Monroe County’s Class XXX. “Although I’ve witnessed a fraction of what Rachel describes here – she introduced Sarah to me as her “girl crush” for all things marine conservation – I cannot echo her sentiments enough.”
Sanctuary Advisory Council member and lionfish huntress Rachel Bowman, left, and former FKNMS Superintendent Sarah Fangman. CONTRIBUTED
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REVAMPED RESORT OPENS IN ISLAMORADA
Refreshed rooms, new culinary options and a seaplane experience
Islamorada Resort Collection (IRC) recently announced the opening of Three Waters Resort & Marina, formerly known as Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina.
Joining the IRC’s existing properties, Amara Cay Resort and La Siesta Resort & Villas, the new, upscale resort in Islamorada offers 214 guest rooms, nine culinary destinations and destinationbased experiences that celebrate its location within the sportfishing capital.
“The newest addition to the Islamorada Resort Collection has quickly become the crown jewel of the collection,” said resort manager Hicham El Ibrik. “From the outstanding culinary experiences and renowned marina offerings to the watersport adventures, Three Waters Resort gives guests and locals unmatched access to experience the destination in their own way.”
Three Waters Resort & Marina is a member of Marriott’s Tribute portfolio, which allows guests to
portfolio. THREE WATERS RESORT & MARINA/Contributed
earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points during their stays and enjoy all the benefits of staying as a member.
Three Waters Resort & Marina is named for the three bodies of water surrounding the Florida Keys: the Gulf of Mexico, Florida Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Guests are greeted by a modern lobby featuring a design providing a feeling of nature, using coral stone and vegetation that reflects the native mangroves. A rum library, in partnership with Key West First Legal Rum Distillery, welcomes guests to sample locally-made spirits while checking in and throughout their stay.
The resort also features the Cove, an adultcentric, resort-within-a-resort that features only king rooms and suites. The Cove is tucked away from the main resort and offers a quieter hideaway, featuring a tranquil private beach lagoon and pool along with the Wave Motion Studio. The Cove will open later in 2024.
Three Waters Resort offers activities and programming designed to encourage guests to get in and out on the water. The popular “Fish Like a Local” class, also offered at Amara Cay Resort, will debut at Three Waters Resort. The class helps beginners and more advanced anglers learn proper techniques and best practices for fishing, specifically tailored to the Keys. Led by an experienced local guide, guests can learn fly casting, fileting fish, lobstering and more. The resort also offers a paddle cast and catch version of the class for those looking to learn how to fish directly on the water.
The resort has partnered with BOTE, a premium watersports brand offering high-quality stand-up paddleboards, floats and other water accessories.
Guests can take advantage of the Three Waters Resort Marina, which offers the deepest channel in the Upper Keys. It features 72 slips along with a fleet of experienced offshore and backcountry fishing captains, as well as a new boat valet service.
Guests can ride the all-new Rum Runner water taxi between the Islamorada Collection Resorts, and Miami Seaplane will be based at the resort to offer private charters to Key West, Miami and around Islamorada. Guests can book personal watercraft tours and guided eco-tours with Spray Watersports, located at the Cove’s marina. Three Waters is also home to the Islamorada Dive Center, where guests can arrange scuba diving charters, take scuba courses and enjoy snorkeling, spearfishing, sunset cruises, sandbar outings and more. When guests stay at one of the resorts in the collection, they will have access to the amenities, events and restaurants of all three resorts. Later this year, the resort will unveil an arcade experience where guests can enjoy classic video games, tabletop games and more.
Nine new culinary outlets will open along with the resort, offering a wide selection of cuisines to guests and locals alike that are not found anywhere else in the destination. They include the Tiki Bar; the raw bar and cocktail lounge Little Limón; the swim-up bar Kokomo; Mercado Morada, which features Central American street cuisine; Islamorada Pizza Co.; Lucky Twist, which serves up soft serve ice cream; Hideaway; Starbucks; and a signature restaurant yet to be named.
— Keys Weekly staff report
Three Waters Resort & Marina is a member of Marriott’s Tribute
Miami Seaplane will be based at the resort to offer private charters to Key West, Miami and around Islamorada.
Three Waters Resort features the swim-up bar Kokomo.
HISTORY OF DIVING MUSEUM OFFERS GUIDED TOURS
Visit the History of Diving Museum on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. for guided tours included with an admission ticket. Visits to the museum are self-guided, with special in-depth guided tours being offered once a month through the end of the year.
November’s guided tours will coincide with Art McKee’s birthday, Nov. 2, 1910. McKee was a renowned Florida Keys treasure diver, famous for salvaging the wrecks of numerous Spanish galleons. Many of the artifacts he retrieved are on display at the History of Diving Museum, and his exhibit will receive a
UPPER KEYS BPW GIVES AWARDS, SCHOLARSHIPS
More than 50 honorees, members and guests attended the Upper Keys Business & Professional Women (BPW) “Celebration of Working Women” on Oct. 16 at Pilot House Restaurant in Key Largo.
Victoria Leonard, an employee of Florida Keys Electric Co-op and BPW board member, was named 2024 Woman of the Year. Leonard was recognized for her years of service as BPW treasurer, passion for the organization’s mission and dedication to local causes.
Houston Insurance Agency, owned by BPW member Mary Houston, was selected as 2024 Business of the Year. The agency was recognized for its business success, support and mentorship of female employees, and generous contributions to local causes and organizations, including BPW.
Business & Professional Women nominees for 2024 Woman of the Year from left: Jill Kuehnert, Upper Keys BPW president, Ilja Chapman, past president and 2023 Business of the Year recipient, Megan Scallan, nominee, Victoria Leonard, 2024 Woman of the Year, Bonnie Barnes, nominee, Bernice Dionne, nominee, Mary Beth Harris, nominee, Barbara Overton, nominee, and Patricia Milian, Upper Keys BPW president-elect and 2023 Woman of the Year. CONTRIBUTED
Top: History of Diving Museum will be offering guided tours on Saturday, Nov. 2. CONTRIBUTED.
Left: History of Diving Museum tours are family-friendly with activities for kids.
special highlight during this tour. Museum members are admitted free and Florida Keys residents receive a discount.
Kids can enjoy a scavenger hunt, free bookmarks and takehome activity guides. The next guided tours will be on Saturday, Dec. 7.
The History of Diving Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Located in Islamorada, at MM 83, it chronicles over 4,000 years of “the quest to explore under the sea.” The museum has 14 core exhibits plus two annual limited-time featured exhibits and a museum store. More information is at divingmuseum.org.
— Contributed
“Victoria and Mary represent the best of what BPW is all about. They are empowered working women who support and empower other working women and contribute generously to the community,” said Jill Kuehnert, Upper Keys BPW president. “In fact, all of the nominees serve as inspirations to the working women of the Upper Keys.”
The other nominees for 2024 Woman of the Year were Bonnie Barnes, Bernice Dionne, Vivian Dodge, Mary Beth Harris, Barbara Overton and Megan Scallan.
Also nominated for 2024 Business of the Year were Cirque Salon Studios (Whitney MacEachern), First State Bank (Lori Bailey) and Jellyfish Daydreams Tattoo (Cassandra Clark).
Women’s scholarships awarded
At the same event, a total of $4,500 in scholarships was awarded to three local women: Angie Alvarez, Kelsey Shannon and Veronika Valdes.
The Upper Keys BPW Adult Women’s Scholarship Program, in partnership with the Holly Given Fund, provides financial assistance to working women who live in the Upper Keys and are seeking to advance their career goals through education and training. Scholarships are awarded twice a year, in May and October.
“We share the Holly Given Fund’s commitment to empowering bright futures in our Upper Keys community and are proud to support the cur-
Business & Professional Women fall scholarship recipients from left to right: Patricia Milian, Upper Keys BPW president-elect, Angie Alvarez, scholarship recipient, Veronika Valdes, scholarship recipient, Annie Hagen, Holly Given Fund, and Leslie Leopold, Holly Given Fund.
rent and next generation of working women alongside them,” said Kuehnert.
The Oct. 16 event and the 2024 Woman of the Year and Business of the Year awards were sponsored by SouthState Bank.
About BPW
The Upper Keys BPW, an affiliate of BPW/Florida, is the largest membership organization supporting professional women in the Florida Keys, with over 120 members from Islamorada to Ocean Reef. Its mission is to achieve equity for all working women through advocacy, education and connections. More information is at upperkeysbpw.org.
— Contributed
TRY ’N’ FIND
Words that remind us of military honors are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: AIR FORCE, ARMISTICE, ARMY, AWARD, BRONZE, COAST GUARD, CONGRESS, CROSS, DAY, GALLANTRY, HEART, HONOR, MILITARY, NAVY, POSTHUMOUSLY, SERVICE, SILVER, STAR, VETERANS.
Founded by Betty Debnam
Honoring Service
Each Nov. 11, we celebrate Veterans Day.
The U.S. Congress approved the holiday in 1938: “a day to be dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be thereafter celebrated and known as Armistice Day.” In 1954, the name was changed to Veterans Day. (“Armistice” means a temporary stopping of acts of war.)
This week, The Mini Page examines the many honors that are awarded to members of the military for their service.
MEDAL OF HONOR
The U.S. Army, Navy (including the Marine Corps and Coast Guard) and Air Force each award a Medal of Honor. As the highest military decoration in our country, it is given for “conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty.”
Word Break: Look up conspicuous, gallantry and intrepidity in the dictionary.
•More than 3,500 servicemembers have received the Medal of Honor.
•Theodore Roosevelt (right) is the only president to have received the Medal of Honor, for his service during the Spanish-American War. It was awarded posthumously, or after his death, in 2001.
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE CROSS
The Distinguished Service Cross is the U.S. Army’s secondhighest honor. It is awarded for extraordinary heroism while “engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States.”
The other branches award the Navy Cross, the Air Force Cross and the Coast Guard Cross.
•During World War I, more than 6,300 medals were awarded.
•Gen. Richard Cavazos, the first Hispanic four-star general of the U.S. Army, received the honor twice, in 1953 and 1967.
SILVER STAR
The Silver Star is the military’s third-highest combat decoration. It is awarded for gallantry in action. The medal was originally called the Citation Star.
•Three U.S. Army nurses who served in World War I — Jane Rignel, Linnie Leckrone and Irene Robar — were awarded the Citation Star in 1919 and 1920.
•Former Sen. John McCain of Arizona received the U.S. Navy’s Silver Star Medal.
Climate change appears to be driving a shift in jet streams toward the poles, according to researchers at University College London. In the Northern Hemisphere, this shift could lead to dramatic changes in weather patterns from the western United States to the Mediterranean. Researchers found that the wintertime polar jet stream above the North Pacific has moved northward by 18 to 50 miles per decade since 1980. However, they pointed out that jet streams in some regions have not moved at all, while others are drifting toward the equator.
PURPLE HEART
The Purple Heart is the oldest military honor. Once called the Badge of Military Merit, it was established by Gen. George Washington in 1782.
Recipients of the award are those who have been wounded or killed serving in any of the armed forces.
• Sen. Tammy Duckworth of Illinois is a recipient of the Purple Heart. She served in Iraq in 2004, where she lost both her legs.
• Almost 2 million Purple Hearts have been awarded; over 1 million of those were during World War II.
BRONZE STAR MEDAL
The Bronze Star is awarded by the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force and Department of Homeland Security. It honors those who have demonstrated heroic or meritorious achievement or service.
• Civilians who are serving with military forces in combat, such as journalists, are also eligible for the award.
Mini Fact: The Medal of Honor is presented by the president of the United States on behalf of Congress.
U.S. Army Distinguished Service Cross
U.S. Army Silver Star
Sen. Tammy Duckworth
U.S. Bronze Star Medal
EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY
Key Largo Chamber’s Taste the Keys event a success
Ris a Keys native who has a passion for all things food. She runs the local food blog, “Florida Keys Eats.”
ecently, yours truly had the privilege of contributing a small part of the planning and execution of the Key Largo Chamber’s Taste the Keys event. It was an exciting opportunity to be part of such a fantastic celebration of local flavors.
On a breezy Thursday night, we boarded the Island Time Trolley for our first stop at Key Largo Fisheries. Upon arrival, we were treated to a delicious raw bar featuring oysters perfectly paired with prosecco. Additional food and drink options were available for purchase, and I couldn’t resist picking up some freshly cracked stone crab. The housemade mustard sauce at the Fisheries is downright addictive.
Then we headed over to Playa Largo’s Sol by The Sea just in time to witness one of the top 10 sunsets I’ve ever seen. The butter-poached lobster with butternut squash purée and pearl onions was absolutely incredible. Playa Largo, if you’re reading this, please make it a permanent menu item … seriously, wow. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we sipped on mai tais that mirrored the sunset’s array of
colors. They were expertly crafted by the in-house bartender, Javier. If you followed Florida Keys Eats, you know I’ve mentioned Javi before. When he’s behind the bar, you’re in good hands.
Next up was The Catch, where the party truly kicked off. We gathered together in this familiar pub to escape the wind and warmed up with a comforting cup of cream of artichoke soup and shrimp scampi dip served with toast points. Cathy from The Catch was on top of things, making sure everyone had their choice of wine or beer in hand. The Catch is always a great time, and this was no exception.
Stop 4 was in the vibrantly decorated Italian Food Company, and boy, were they ready for us. Rosé was flowing and pizza was hot and ready. They served montanaras, which as the owner of IFC enlightened me, were invented in the 1920s in Italy. It consists of fried dough topped with a simple wholesome marinara and the best basil I’ve ever had. I purchased the meatball appetizer as well as the specialty bruschetta topped with burrata and prosciutto. As the kids now would say, this was a whole vibe. The music, the breeze, the meatballs, I was a happy camper.
The last stop was at Mrs. Mac’s to end the night on a sweet note with rum punch and their famous Key lime pie. The event was a complete success, in my opinion, with everyone leaving full and happy. I told a friend it was the perfect balance of food, drinks and stops. I had the pleasure of meeting
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “Suspiria” (1977)
1. Fresh cracked stone crabs at stop 1, Key Largo Fisheries. SAMANTHA DELLILO/ Keys Weekly. 2. Grab your plate while you can! Butter-poached lobster at Sol by The Sea. 3. Butter-poached lobster with butternut squash purée and pearl onions at Sol by The Sea. 4. Pizza hot and ready at Italian Food Company.
some incredible locals, and we spent the night being silly, chatting, eating and drinking. It was the ultimate eat, drink and be merry experience.
Events like Taste the Keys remind me how lucky I am to call this town home. Suzi Youngberg and Manuela Carrillo Mobley were rock stars leading the two trolleys. Local legend Henry Menendez did such a great job helping bring this event to life as well as everyone else at the chamber. I want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who attended and indulged me by joining in all my antics. The fun and lively attendees truly made the event what it was. You can definitely count me in for all future food tours.
Why: Perhaps the most colorful horror film ever made, every frame of “Suspiria” is filled with bold primary hues that would make Douglas Sirk jealous. Director Dario Argento purposely wanted to make a horror film that feels like a fairy tale, citing Walt Disney’s “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” and the original versions of “Pinocchio” and “Alice in Wonderland” as inspiration. That approach makes this film not so much terrifying as it is mesmerizing, and the percussion-heavy score by Italian rock group Goblin adds to the hypnosis. With a body count that’s more creative than ghastly, this is a good Halloween watch for those not usually keen on this genre.
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.
SAMANTHA
Who’s the top dog in the Keys? | P.8
Monroe County football fans will be treated to a seldom-played rivalry match under Friday night lights when the Coral Shores Hurricanes make the trip south to play the Key West Conchs on Friday, Nov. 1. See page 8. Pictured, clockwise from top: Coral Shores’ Yemcel Moreno, Eddie Holly and Jhonathan Mesa; Key West’s Shane Lavallee, Jaden Fox and Cole Jackson. Photos by Doug Finger and Maicey Malgrat.
Jayden is a twoway player who has become an invaluable part of the team.”
–
Key West head coach
Johnny Hughes
Key West senior Jayden Gist has quietly become a game changer for the Conchs this season. He is a strong option in Key West’s dynamic offense, running the ball with a force perfect for short-yardage situations. Defensively, Gist leads the team in interceptions with seven this season. In Key West’s victory Oct. 25 against Miami Jackson, Gist’s pick helped shift the momentum in the Conchs’ favor. His athleticism and leadership on the field have made him integral to Key West’s winning this season. For his uncanny ability to create a spark at exactly the right moment all season long, Jayden Gist is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
Photos by Maicey Malgrat and Mark Hedden.
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
This week, two Monroe County athletes approach the end of not just their prep running careers, but a journey that began long before they stepped into the halls of their respective schools.
Like most long distance runners, Key West’s Caylaa Makimaa and Marathon’s Vance Bursa are driven, but anyone who has followed their stories over the past few seasons can attest that there is something special about the pair. Their similarities are striking and yet each has forged their own path leading up to, perhaps, the most exciting race of their lives.
Caylaa Makimaa
After her parents got her hooked by running the local 5K races with her, Makimaa was enamored with the sport. “My parents inspired me to become a distance runner. I grew up watching my parents compete in triathlons, half marathons, marathons, Ironmans and more,” she said. “I ran my first 5K with my mom at age 7, and since then I have been hooked.”
Many kids are dragged along with their well-meaning parents, but unlike most sports, distance running is not something one can like half-heartedly if there is any hope for glory. The training is grueling and unforgiving on the body. Makimaa’s training includes strength training, intervals, paced runs, tempo runs, long runs and shorter runs she calls “easy.”
The “easy” runs she describes would leave most of us gasping for breath and praying for the end. Yet Makimaa, despite the challenges to her body, enjoys it all in some form. “I am driven by my love of running because it has always been a place where I feel so free and happy,” she said. “I enjoy going out for my runs. I love the feeling of stress slowly fading away the longer I run and I love the accomplished feeling I get when I finish a hard workout.”
Makimaa said she grew up watching another Lady Conch dominating the sport. “I watched Nicole Matysik,” she said, “and I wanted to grow up to be just like her.” Matysik, too, was a regular on the local 5K circuit and went on to medal at states during her four years with the Conchs. As Matysik was signing to run at Furman University, Makimaa was an impressionable middle schooler, and she could not have chosen a better role model.
Makimaa hopes to continue her running after high school as well, but is undecided on her path. It’s unsurprising that a studentathlete disciplined enough to get this far in cross country is also disciplined in the classroom, and the scholarly Makimaa has a lot of options to weigh. She applied to over 20 schools and was accepted to all.
tracy mcdonald
ALL ON THE LINE
Senior standouts Makimaa, Bursa have one more shot at state glory
Regardless of her choice, Makimaa is certain of one thing: Her future will include the sport she loves in some capacity.
Caylaa Makimaa, far left, leads the pack during the 2023 track season. ELLA HALL/Keys Weekly
Vance Bursa, left, makes his way through a cross country course at Coral Shores in 2022. DOUG FINGER/ Keys Weekly
“I never want to disappoint myself by not giving my 100% at every single practice and race, because when I don't leave it all out there, I can't live with myself.”
—
senior Vance Bursa on his training
“After high school, I plan on pursuing a degree in health science, then getting a master's in physician assistant studies and entering the medical field post-college,” she said. “I don't know exactly what running will look like. Still, whether I am granted the opportunity to run collegiately or I join my college's run club, I will most certainly be spending most of my free time running.”
Last season, Makimaa set two goals, meeting them both. She wanted to make it to the state meet, which she did individually by meeting her second goal, a sub-20-minute 5K at regionals. This season, she registered a new PR of 19:07 in Marathon a few weeks ago. Her pace was so fast that Coral Shores’ Ali Wheatley and Naima Thomas, her teammate and training partner, also PRed trying to keep up. Makimaa’s drive is good for everyone who takes the line against her, and her positivity is infectious.
After a breakout season last year and the success she has steadily made in this one, she said she “absolutely” feels the pressure as all eyes are on her this postseason.
“This is my last chance to race as a Conch, so I want to soak up every single moment and accomplish as much as possible, and hopefully take home a state medal this year,” she said.
To manage the pressure, Makimaa said she will trust the process, believing in the training that coach Keara McGraw and the Lady Conchs have completed thus far. “I have worked incredibly hard with my team this year and feel confident we all will perform excellently at these championship meets,” she said, adding, “In addition, I am just trying to have fun. With my time on the cross country team coming to a rapid close, I am making as many memories as possible with the amazing family that I have the honor to run with every day.” Vaclav “Vance” Bursa
Bursa also took up running at a young age. The name Bursa has been prolific in the local racing community for many years.
Vance’s mother, Helena, and his brothers Jakub and Antonin are all extremely talented and typically win their respective age groups when they don’t just win races outright.
Vance began his journey in a similar fashion to Makimaa. “My mom, who is an amazing runner and inspiration, pushed my brothers and I into running, and what inspired me to continue the sport was how rewarding distance running is; the more work you put in, the better you get,” he said.
The Bursa household is certainly a very active one. With three boys, all athletically gifted and competitive, there is never a dull moment. The Bursa brothers grew up in the relative freedom of the woods of Big Pine Key and the surrounding waters where they run, dive, fish and enjoy the outdoors. Both Bursa parents are natives of Czech Republic, and the family spends summers in Europe as well as enjoying adventures to Costa Rica and Mexico. Somehow, between world travels, free diving and
even power hang gliding, Bursa has found the time to train and dedicate himself to become one of the fastest runners in school history.
Middle children are often described as independent, easy-going, adaptable, mature and confident. Bursa perfectly epitomizes each of those qualities. Vance has never met a stranger, and his smile and happy-go-lucky attitude quickly draw people in. He is one of the friendliest people you will ever meet, quick to laugh and make others feel welcome and at ease. Yet he is competitive to the core.
“I would really love a sub-16 and hopefully a school record at any of the upcoming races,” he said. “But from now on it's all about placing and not so much about running for time.”
In order to meet his goals, Bursa will need to strategize his races and figure out a balance between training and rest. Balance might just be the only thing at which Bursa does not excel; he goes 100% all of the time in all that he does, and though this attitude has gotten him far, it has taken a toll on his body. He has battled through injuries to his feet and legs, and a stoic refusal to lay off of training has exacerbated those injuries throughout his career. But Bursa’s adaptability may prove to be a saving grace this season.
“Because I'm so injury-prone, I've been doing less miles on the road and a lot of cross training this season,” he said. “I swim 30 minutes or about a mile every morning and I run about 35 miles per week and take a day off on the weekend,” he said. “This is a lot less than last track season, where I ran about 65 miles per week at peak mileage. I also do a bunch of elliptical and stair stepper work at the gym on the weekends to take some running load off of my legs.”
Bursa also feels the pressure of being a repeat state qualifier as a senior. “Running at this level puts a lot of weight on our shoulders because we want to represent our community the best we can,” he said. “I don't want to let everyone down, especially my teammates, parents and coaches. At these high-level races I'm always thinking about not letting the entire community down by not doing good, and it's really tough sometimes.”
With the immense pressure he has placed on himself, Bursa has figured out a way to deal with the encumbrance the only way he knows how: with more hard work. “I always tell myself that I will do my absolute best and leave every single bit of strength out there on the course, even if it means collapsing at the finish line,” he said. “Knowing I couldn't have done any better or run any faster is the only way I can be content with myself.”
Like many high-achieving distance runners, Bursa is also a driven student. He has taken college-level courses for years, amassing well above a 4.6 GPA and numerous options for his future. His love of entrepreneurship will be the driving force behind his college selection, as he has a multitude of ideas for businesses, all of which are compelling and full of ingenuity.
When asked about his proudest accomplishment as a runner, Bursa struggled with an answer. “This is a very tough question because I'm always super proud when any of my boys PR or have a good race,” he said. Bursa’s positivity toward others and his team are infectiously motivating and make him both respected and loved by his teammates.
Despite nagging injuries and the weight of the world on his shoulders, Bursa has everything in his makeup to pull off a top performance in Tallahassee this year. He is accustomed to running through pain, and though the community views him as a shoe-in for a state medal, he is actually a bit of an underdog. This year’s 1A classification is full of talent, and currently 13 runners are seeded in front of him, but that shouldn’t bother Bursa; he likes the fun of the chase and of-
ten does best when he’s got someone to hawk down.
If he pulls off the perfect performance at states this season, it won’t be the first time he proved the numbers wrong. As a sophomore, Bursa had what many believed to be zero chance in the 3200 meter race. His personal best in that race was over 20 seconds slower than the runner ranked eighth, the last medal-earning position. Bursa beat his PR by 24 seconds and earned the eighth-place medal to add to his collection.
In 2022, Bursa claimed 10th place at the state cross country meet, clocking in at 16:18. Last season, he hit a wall in the final mile, watching dozens of competitors – and with them, his hopes at a medal – pass him by. He finished a minute slower than the previous year. This season, he has already run three sub-17 races, with his last effort breaking his 2022 state mark, but the flat concrete course he PRed on is vastly different from the course in Tallahassee.
“I always think about how if you told 7-, 8-, or 9-year-old me what I was doing today, she would be beaming with pride, and I most certainly can't let her down.”
Both Makimaa and Bursa have expressed the pressure they feel to bring pride home to their respective communities, which they both thanked for their encouragement and support these past few years. But regardless of the perceived pressures, the marks the pair, who just happen to be a couple, have made on their schools and Keyswide are indelible. Like Matysik’s journey shaped Makimaa and Marathon’s rich history of runners did for Bursa, the pair are already making an impact on the sport’s future stars. And despite what the clock reads at the end of the course at Apalachee Regional Park on Nov. 16, their stories are not shaped by a single race or performance. A legacy, after all, is not created in a single day.
– senior Conch harrier Caylaa Makimaa on her relentless pursuit of a state medal
MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly
WEEKLY FILE PHOTO
“They’re big up front, especially the defensive line. It should be a fun game to play.”
— Key West coach Johnny Hughes
CONCHS, ’CANES WIN IN WEEK 10
Marathon falls to undefeated John Carroll
Coral Shores improved to 8-1 in a homecoming win that delighted an energized crowd on Oct. 25. The ’Canes were scheduled to play a markedly weaker Tradition Prep for their big game, but when that fell apart, St. John Neumann out of Naples answered the call and made the big trip to the Keys. Neumann was 5-1 heading into the game against a 7-1 Coral Shores, making for an even matchup that went into overtime before a winner could be decided.
The Hurricanes struggled offensively in the first half, stalling and then settling for three in quarter one. Freshman William Hudson’s field goal was the first this season for Coral Shores. That would be all the ’Canes would put on the board for the first half. St. John Neumann scored once and added a 2-point conversion in quarter two, sending the teams into the locker room with the score 8-3 at halftime.
Coach Ed Holly made some quick adjustments before sending his team back onto the field. “We had to settle down,” he said.
“We had a great crowd for homecoming and came out excited.”
Holly said he mixed up his team’s coverage defensively to add more pressure on Neumann’s quarterback. The adjustments made the difference in quarter three, where the ’Canes
The Coral Shores Hurricanes pull out an overtime thriller over St. John Neumann on homecoming night, securing a 25-18 win. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly. See more game photos at keysweekly.com.
from page 7
held Neumann to a field goal. When the Hurricanes got the ball back on offense, AJ Putetti ran one in for 6 and Yemcel Moreno added a 2-point conversion to tie up the game. Neumann scored again, and things looked bleak until Moreno connected with Putetti on a 31-yard touchdown pass to tie it up again, sending the game into overtime.
Neumann chose to play defense first in overtime, and Moreno found the end zone to give the ’Canes the advantage. Holly’s defensive adjustments continued to prevail, and Neumann had just one chance left to extend the game. Putetti put an end to any hopes Neumann had, batting down a pass in the end zone to seal the homecoming victory, 25-18.
The Hurricanes already secured at least a shared FIFC championship this season and will finish with one of the best records in school history. Their sights are now set on doing what only one Hurricane team in history has ever done: beat Key West.
“We like playing good teams, and Key West is a very good football team.”
— Coral Shores coach Ed Holly
“Key West is a very good team,” Holly said. “We’re going to have to play our best game of the year to compete with them. We’re looking forward to it.”
Key West stayed alive in their hopes for a postseason game when they beat Miami Jackson on Oct. 25 in a road win. The Conchs traveled to Curtis Park, where they beat the Generals 24-19, picking up what Conch historian Judd Wise says was the team’s 400th win.
Walson Morin got the scoring started for Key West with a 35-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. Jaden Fox’s pick-6 put the Conchs ahead 12-0 and Key West’s uncompromising defense kept Jackson scoreless until quarter two. In the second, Roman Van Loon connected with Daniel Oviedo for their solo score of the quarter. Jackson scored its lone TD of the half as well, making the score 18-7 at halftime with Key West on top.
Conchs coach Johnny Hughes knew Jackson was not a team to take lightly, though. “It was a tough game with an athletic team,” he said. The Generals were stocked with tall, strong targets at wide receiver, and despite the Conchs’ best efforts, Jackson hit those targets once in each of the final quarters. Key West managed to score one more and secure the win when Fox punched one in during the fourth quarter.
Up next for Key West is the home game against Coral Shores. “It’s great for the county,” Hughes said of the game. “It’s going to be fun. We’re fighting for a home playoff game so it definitely matters. We want to put ourselves in the best situation we can.”
Both Coral Shores and Key West have been playing great defense this season, and their offenses are similarly heavy on the run, making the matchup an exciting one. Key West holds the clear edge in all-time play against the ’Canes. The Conchs have won 11 of the 12 times the
two teams have faced off, with Coral Shores’ only win coming in 2002. Kickoff is Friday, Nov. 1 at 7 p.m. at Tommy Roberts Memorial Stadium
Marathon had less luck last week, losing to the undefeated 4A John Carroll Catholic Rams from Fort Pierce. The sizable Rams were as advertised, and the Fins quickly found themselves at a disadvantage. On Marathon’s first possession, a fumble could not have bounced more perfectly for the Carroll defense, and the Fins were down 7-0 just seconds into the game. The Dolphins then drove the ball a few yards at a time, using the power of their offense to overcome the Rams’ defense.
A dropped pass in the end zone forced the Fins to settle for 3, and Fabbianho Louis Jeune’s kick cut the deficit to 7-3. Carroll scored again in the first quarter to make it 14-3. Quarter two was a replay offensively for Marathon, with Louis Jeune splitting the uprights for the only score the Dolphins could manage, while Carroll added 7 to send the teams to the halftime break with the score 21-6.
In the third quarter, Carroll scored a pair of TDs, but the Fins’ offense began to chip away at the Rams’ fortitude. Louis Jeune found the endzone for 6, then added the extra point to give Marathon some confidence heading into the final quarter. Tanner Ross willed himself across the goal line and Louis Jeune’s kick was, as usual, good for the Fins. Carroll scored one more time in quarter four to make the final score 42-20.
Coach Sean McDonald concluded that the hoped-for upset was flawed by “early mistakes and an inability to create a big play on either side of the ball.” He credited Ross with his refusal to let up regardless of the situation and Louis Jeune’s play against Carroll’s four-star offensive tackle.
“Fab held his own against the best that Florida has to offer, and that speaks volumes about his abilities,” McDonald said. Louis Jeune leads the team in multiple categories on offense, defense and special teams.
Despite the loss, Carroll’s considerably higher classification over the Fins and their unbeaten record could prove favorable to Marathon in the elusive and oftentimes fickle rankings. A last-minute decision by the FHSAA to change its playoff brackets for the 1A rural classification puts a Marathon playoff game in jeopardy, and a loss next week to Pine Crest would be catastrophic. Marathon travels to Fort Lauderdale to take on the Panthers on Nov. 1 for a 3 p.m. kickoff.
Top: Carlos Lezcano (1) does his best to find a gap in the John Carroll defense. Bottom left: Shamar Wright (13) carries the ball. Bottom right: Marathon’s varsity cheer team entertains the crowd at halftime. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly
2 BIRDIES, 2 WINS FOR CARROLL
Golfers enter postseason play this week with regional hopes
Marathon and Coral Shores put in a few rounds of final practice leading up to their district matches this week. On Oct. 22, both teams met in Marathon for nine holes at Florida Keys Country Club. Coral Shores’ Gabby Thomas was first overall in the girls competition with a 46. Thomas, a senior, has led the ’Canes the past few seasons. Marathon’s Makenna Haines and Justice Lee Isom were second and third and Coral Shores’ Amber Ender was fourth.
In the boys competition, Coral Shores’ Preston Carroll shot a 39. His birdie on hole 2 helped Carroll secure the win. Marathon’s Mason Thornton was in second place, shooting a 42 over nine holes. Coral Shores’ Brock Bynum and Marathon’s Roco Piscetello tied at 44 in third place. Aidan Althouse was fifth for the ’Canes (45), then Fins Emmett Merryman, Jackson Millard, Jack Dunn and Aiden Richard and Hurricane Derek Ramos rounded out the top 10.
The following day, both teams traveled to Redland Golf and Country Club for 18 holes. The boys district event is held there, giving the athletes a bit of an edge in postseason play. Carroll’s birdie on hole 9 gave him an 88 for the day. The single-stroke advantage proved to be exactly what he needed for the win. Thornton was second again, with Merryman in third, then Coral Shores’ Jacob Bohnstedt in fourth. Bynum, Althouse and Piscetello were fifth through seventh. Luca Picariello of Marathon and Derek Ramos of Coral Shores all broke 100 over the 18 holes.
Thomas was the only female golfer to make the trip. She shot a 100 in her final round prior to district action. Thomas and the rest of the Hurricane and Dolphin girls golfers play their district match at Normandy Shores in Miami Beach.
Key West’s boys did a little traveling last week, with two rounds for their district warmup. On Oct. 21, they traveled to Coral Springs for the Maverick Invitational, which was postponed earlier this season. Peyton Zubieta and Geo Twyman tied for the top spot on the Conchs’ team. Both shot a respectable 89 over 18 holes. Jackson Barroso was two strokes behind and Andrew Bassett broke 100 at the match. Two days later, the Conchs headed to Palm Beach Gardens to the PGA National Resort, where they participated in the Wolverine Classic. Bassett was first for his team with an 83. Twyman was one stroke away. Zubieta finished the day with an 89 while Mason Titensor and Barroso each shot a 93.
If one of Monroe County’s teams or an individual golfer advances past districts, it will be an improvement from last season. No athletes made the cut to regionals in 2023.
Preston Carroll. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
FICTITIOUS NAME
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of DemonaLisa Designs, located at 22993 Calico Jack Circle, Cudjoe Key, FL 33042, intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
By:
Terri Grinnik
Publish: October 31, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
Notice of Seizure that in accordance with Florida Statues 83.805 / 83.506, Tavernier Mini Storage, 135 Hood Ave., Tavernier, Florida 33070 will sell or otherwise will dispose of the personal contents of the following unit to satisfy the delinquent storage lien.
All Contents in:
Unit B-13 –Tyler Drakas
Sale of all goods will be 11/18/24 at 10:00 am at 135 Hood Ave., Tavernier, Florida 33070. Tavernier Mini Storage reserves the right to accept or reject any and all bids.
Publish: October 31 and November 7, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI
Notice is hereby given that on November 11th, 2024, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold. The names of whose units will be sold are as follows:
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on November 19, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the Harvey Government Center, 1200 Truman Avenue, Key West, FL 33040, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, will hold a public hearing to consider approval of the following County Resolution: A RESOLUTION OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA ELECTING TO USE THE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS LEVIED WITHIN THE COUNTY FOR THE PROVISION OF ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS, FLOOD MITIGATION PROJECTS AND ADDRESSING SEA LEVEL RISE IMPACTS FOR TWIN LAKES; STATING A NEED FOR SUCH LEVY; PROVIDING FOR THE MAILING OF THIS RESOLUTION; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The public hearing is being held for the purpose of receiving public comment on the proposed assessments and collection of the assessment on the ad valorem tax bills. All affected property owners have the right to appear and provide input at the hearing, and may file written objections with the County Administrator at any time prior to the public meeting or within twenty (20) days following publication of this notice, whichever is greater. The assessments will be collected
on the ad valorem tax bill, commencing with the tax bill to be mailed in November 2024, as authorized by Section 197.3632, Florida Statutes. Failure to pay the assessments will cause a tax certificate to be issued against the real property which may result in a loss of title. If you have any questions, please contact Rhonda Haag at (305) 453-8774 Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
The public can participate in the November 19, 20024 meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida by attending in person or via Zoom. The zoom link can be found in the agenda at: http://monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/citizens.default.aspx. Pursuant to Section 286.0105, F.S., if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at the hearing, such person will need a record of the proceedings and may need to ensure that a verbatim record is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be made. ADA Assistance: In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person needing a special accommodation or an interpreter to participate in this proceeding should contact the Administrator'sCountyoffice at (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) days prior to the date of the hearing. If you are hearing or voice impaired, call ‘711.’
Dated at Key West this 19th day of October, 2024.
KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court an ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: October 24 & 31 and November 7 & 14, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, December 12, 2024, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Construction, Engineering and Inspection Services for Card Sound Road at Tubby’s Creek Bridge #904982 and Card Sound Road at Mosquito Creek Bridge #904984 Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at bonfirehub.comhttps://monroecounty-fl. OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request. Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Emailed/mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/ responses WILL NOT be accepted. The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https:// monroecounty-fl.bonfirehub. com, no later than 3:00P.M. on Thursday, December 12, 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, December 12, 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 31, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION
CASE NO.: 2024-CP-451-P IN RE: ESTATE OF HAROLD L. YOH, JR., Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
OU ARE NOTIFIED that the administration of the estate of Harold L. Yoh, Jr., deceased, whose date of death was June 21, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, File Number 2024-CP-451-P, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Hwy., Suite 1, Tavernier, FL 33070.
The name and address of the personal representatives and the personal representatives’ attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons, who have claims or demands against the estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this notice must file their claims WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The personal representatives have 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. 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211. THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE IS: OCTOBER 31, 2024.
Personal Representatives: Harold L. Yoh, III 309 Winfield Road Devon, PA 19333
Michael H. Yoh 41 Tunbridge Road Haverford, PA 19041
Jeffrey M. Yoh
5631 Quail Trail Lane Clover, SC 29710
William C. Yoh
9 Allens Lane
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Attorney to Personal Representatives: Leon N. Patricios, Esq.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, PROBATE DIVISION
CASE NO: 24-CP-529-P
IN RE: ESTATE OF MARGARET A. WALSTON Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of, MARGARET A. WALSTON, deceased, whose date of death was 17 September 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative's attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is October 31, 2024.
Personal Representative Meg Pizzano aka Meg SimonPizzano 65 Nathan Blvd. Parlin, NJ 08859
Attorney for Personal Representative Tom Woods, Esq. Florida Bar No.: 0525197 116 Porto Salvo Drive Islamorada, Florida 33036 Phone 305.664.2200 Fax 2205 email: tom@tomwoodslaw. com
Publish: October 31 & November 7, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF PUBLICATION
NATURAL FATHER
ORDER OF PUBLICATION HARRISON COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA
IN RE: P.F. 24-JA-28-1
TO: ARTHUR GASSER or UNKNOWN FATHER
The purpose of the above action is to determine guardianship of the child, P.F. born on October 25, 2022, to Nicole Faraco.
The petitioner, the West Virginia Department of Human Services, is seeking
permanent legal and physical custody of the said infant child. It is ORDERED that Arthur Gasser or the unknown biological father, appear in the Harrison County Circuit Court, Division I, 4th Floor, Harrison County Courthouse, Clarksburg, West Virginia on the 17th day of December 2024 at 11:00 o’clock a.m., or as soon thereafter as it may be heard, for the adjudicatory hearing of Arthur Gasser or the unknown biological father. Said person is instructed that he has thirty (30) days from this Notice to answer the Petition herein. Said person is given notice that he must object, or, otherwise permanent legal and physical custody of the said infant child may be granted to the West Virginia Department of Human Services and his parental rights may be permanently terminated. Said Arthur Gasser or unknown biological father, shall have the right to be represented by counsel and if he cannot pay for the services of counsel, counsel will be appointed. Said Arthur Gasser or unknown biological father is represented by Christopher Wilson, Esquire, at 300 Adams Street, Fairmont, WV 26554-3104, at phone number 304-333-1500.
Publish: October 31 & November 7, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24-DR-189-P DIVISION: FAMILY TERESITA PEREZ, Petitioner, and ANAIS LORENZO, WILLIAM GONZALEZ, Respondents.
NOTICE OF ACTION FOR MOTION FOR MODIFICATION OF LEGAL GUARDIAN TO: WILLIAM GONZALEZ RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 416 E 27TH STREET, HIALEAH, FL 33013 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Custody Case has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Teresita Perez, whose address is 142 Dickie Way, Apt. 1, Tavernier, FL 33070 on or before December 2, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 88770 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.
Dated: October 25, 2024
Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court
Monroe County, Florida By: Jennifer
Havengar
Deputy Clerk
Publish: October 31 and November 7, 14 & 21, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24-DR-971-K
DIVISION: FAMILY
JOSEPH MOISE, Petitioner, and LUCRETIA GREEN, Respondent.
NOTICE OF ACTION FOR EMERGENCY PETITION FOR TEMPORARY CUSTODY TO: LUCRETIA GREEN
RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN
ADDRESS: UNKNOWN
YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Emergency Petition for Temporary Custody has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Joseph Moise, whose address is 126 Avenue F, Key West, FL 33040 on or before November 17, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 530 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.
WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.
Dated: October 15, 2024
Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Jaquelyn Fonseca
Deputy Clerk
Publish: October 17, 24 & 31 and November 7, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483
AUTOS FOR SALE
1964 Ford Galaxy, 427 Big Block, 5-speed, located in Key Largo. $50,000 954-445-6647
BOATS FOR SALE
FOR SALE: 2019 Walker Bay fiberglass RIB mod. 325ST LOA 11’ with 9.9 HP Yamaha. Located in Marathon. $3,995.00 970-901-1138
2006 Bluewater 23 1/2 ft. CC with T-Top, outriggers, rod holders, rear deck light, electronic box, 200 HD Evinrude, Continental trailer. Everything in execellent shape - too much to list. Located in Lower Keys. 305-481-6980
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
One acre commercial space for rent in Big Pine. Fenced, electric, water, sewage hookup, easy access. Rent all or part. Option to buy. 305-481-6980
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.
Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a full-time line cook. Private club, friendly atmosphere, afternoon/ evening hours Tuesday – Sunday. Must provide checking account for direct deposit, photo ID, and social security card or passport. Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com.
Marathon Yacht Club is hiring part-time servers and bartenders. Private club, friendly atmosphere, guaranteed gratuities. Flexible lunch/dinner shifts available Tuesday – Sunday. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com.
PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE FOR $25/WEEK FOR UP TO FIVE LINES OF COPY. CALL 305-743-0844 TODAY AND FIND YOUR STAFF!
- EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.
Serve/Bartend
on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am-7pm daily. Full time/Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.
HOBBIES/COLLECT
WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578 HOUSING FOR RENT
1BR/1BA Unfurnished upstairs apt. for rent in Key Largo. W/D hookup or common use W/D. $2000/ month F/L/S 909-831-5841
2BR/1.5BA Mobile Home for rent in Tavernier. Unfurn. W/D, No Pets. $2800/month F/L/S 786-263-8433
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
2BR/1BA Condo Unit for rent in Marathon. Canal view. Close to Sombrero Beach. No Pets. $3900/ month 305-431-0577
Conch House - Studio for rent, newly furnished in Marathon. $960/ month + utilities. Dockage avail. for additional $. No Pets. 305-610-8002
BEACH HOUSE VACATION! Caretaker couple needed for Bahamas Beach House for
D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals. Overtime and benefits are available. For full details, please visit: DAsignSource.com/careers
Competitive Salary Opportunity for Growth
Landscape Designer/Sales
Seeking a talented Landscape Designer/Sales professional. Bring your creativity and passion for outdoor spaces to our company! Ideal candidates will have design experience, hardscaping and soft scaping and strong sales skills.
Residential Lead A/V Tech
Responsible for the integration of Audio & Video, Lighting Control, low-voltage project installation, programming, and crew management to ensure the usability and stable operation of all systems.
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Executive Department:
SYSTEMS ANALYST AUTOMATED METERING INFRASTRUCTURE AMI
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $102,164$105,024/annually
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their 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.
SUNSET GRILLE IS HIRING
• Hosts
• Waitstaff • Bartenders
• Bar Backs
• Bussers
• Line Cooks • Dishwashers
Marathon
MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE
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.
THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.
JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 52 YEARS!
We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.
*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.
Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!
Apply at guidancecarecenter.org
Search Employment/Portal/Location/zip
LIVE IN
PARADISE
AND SEE DOLPHINS PLAY EVERYDAY!
DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER is a fun, environmentally friendly non-profit 501(c)(3) Corporation specializing in education, research, and rescue of marine mammals.
We have the following openings available. Please scan the QR code to visit the careers page on our website.
FACILITIES MAINTENANCE
APPRENTICE
(Full-Time, Permanent)
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
(Full-Time, Part-Time, Permanent)
OPENINGS AVAILABLE
PHYSICIAN PRACTICE
OPENINGS
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN/PA-C), Urology Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant 1, Upper Keys Internal Medicine, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant 2, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray) Radiology, $50k Bonus
- Medical Technologist 2, Laboratory, $50k Bonus
COME JOIN THE FAMILY!
Email your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE
DRC seeks to provide for the well-being of its employees by offering a competitive total package. DRC currently offers a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays, vacation, sick and an employee assistance program. DRC also provides life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee. DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER
58901 O/S Hwy -
- 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.
APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507
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.
ALMANAC | Oct. 31
On this day: In 1517, Mar n Luther nailed his “Ninety- ve Theses” on the d r of the Castle Church in Wi enberg, Germany, in protest of the se ing of papal indulgences.
In The Bleachers
If the wai ng list isn’t t long, you may s have a chance to visit McKamey Manor in Su ertown, Te e , an “i ersive ho or” experience that is personalized to each guest and involves a six-hour-long tour. People magazine reported on Oct. 8 that guests are required to sign a 40-page waiver and must be over 21; in a i on, they may have to complete a “sports physical” and provide pr f of medical insurance before a iving. “We’re known for no qui ing and no safe word,” said owner and Navy veteran Ru McKamey. “Your hair may be cho ed o , den stry may be done, you may have a t th extracted.” McKamey was a ested in July for second-degr a empted murder, rape and domes c violence a er an incident with his girlfriend, but the charges were dro ed in September, and McKamey Manor is up and ru ing.
In 1950, Earl Lloyd became the first African American to play in an NBA game.
Brevity
TODAY’S SPORTS
News of the Weird
7 bi ion — es mated popula on of the world on Oct. 31, 2011, which was o icia y designated the “Day of Seven Bi ion” by the United Na ons Popula on Fund.
In 1941, the Mount Rushmore Na onal Memorial in Keystone, South Dakota, was declared complete
TODAY’S BIRTHDAYS
John Keats (1795-1821), poet; Julie e Gordon Low (1860-1927), Girl Scouts founder; Chiang Kai-shek (1887-1975), Chinese/ Taiwanese leader; Dale Evans (1912-2001), actre /singersongwriter; Dan Rather (1931- ), TV journalist; Michael Landon (1936-1991), actor; John Candy (1950-1994), actor; Jane Pauley (1950- ), TV journalist; Nick Saban (1951- ), f tba coach; Peter Jackson (1961- ), l aker.
