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Happy birthday, Florida. On March 3, the Sunshine State turned 180. Florida became the 27th state in the United States on March 3, 1845. William D. Moseley was elected the new state’s first governor, and David Levy Yulee, one of Florida’s leading proponents for statehood, became a U.S. Senator.
The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is home to a diverse community of underwater habitats. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly.
DESANTIS AXES MARINE SANCTUARY RESTORATION PLAN IN STATE WATERS
Governor cites preservation of FWC’s fisheries authority, artificial reef support as drivers of veto
After 14 years of drafting, input and review by sanctuary officials, Keys residents and stakeholder organizations, Gov. Ron DeSantis’ veto will block changes in Restoration Blueprint from taking effect in state waters. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
In a move striking a critical blow to the Florida Keys’ marine ecosystem, Gov. Ron DeSantis has vetoed all components of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary’s (FKNMS’) newly-finalized Restoration Blueprint in state waters.
In a March 3 letter to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, DeSantis wrote that the final proposed plan “repeals longstanding references to the State of Florida’s sovereign right to manage marine life and sovereign submerged lands within the state’s jurisdictional waters. Further, NOAA’s regulations will prevent the expedited restoration of coral reefs using artificial habitats.”
Restoration Blueprint is a comprehensive proposal to restore the sanctuary, ignited by a worrisome 2011 condition report on the state of Florida Keys waters. After 14 years of drafting and input by the public and stakeholder organizations, the final rule for Restoration Blueprint was signed on Jan. 16, kicking off a 45-day review period on DeSantis’ desk.
The document was the first overhaul of regulations within the FKNMS since the sanctuary’s establishment in 1990. Under the new rule, sanctuary boundaries expand by roughly 20%, mostly along the FKNMS’ Atlantic edge.
Included in the document’s laundry list of changes are: alterations, eliminations and additions of Sanctuary Preservation Areas (SPAs); new Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) to protect nearshore habitats and vulnerable species; changes to catch-and-release fishing inside SPAs; prohibition of discharges by cruise ships; prohibitions on attracting and feeding wild fish and sharks by boaters and divers; and protection of areas undergoing active coral restoration, among others.
Both items specifically cited by DeSantis in Monday’s letter, signed on the final day of his review period, were points of contention between officials with NOAA and FWC during the final stages of Restoration Blueprint’s revisions.
In November, a letter sent from FWC chairman Rodney Barreto to then-Sanctuary Superintendent Matt Stout reignited a debate from earlier in the year over regulatory language in the blueprint, criticizing a change that would only allow DeSantis to veto fisheries regulations in state waters.
It ultimately listed 10 remaining “essential” items of disagreement between FWC and sanctuary officials slated for inclusion in the final rule, including continued allowance of drift fishing, bait fishing and catch-and-
release trolling in certain portions of SPAs, and new artificial reefs within sanctuary boundaries.
“While FKNMS has consistently stated that it does not intend to circumvent FWC’s authority over fisheries regulations in state waters … (the changes are) contrary to how fisheries regulatory authority is set up in the State of Florida,” Barreto wrote.
DeSantis’ letter on Monday echoed the prominent sticking points from Barreto’s statement.
Tension from the November letter carried over into a December meeting of the Sanctuary Advisory Council (SAC), where sanctuary officials said the letter was received too late in the review process to make significant changes to the Blueprint. But FWC federal fisheries section leader CJ Sweetman said the sticking points raised in the letter were “common knowledge … throughout the entire process. So nothing in that letter should have been a surprise in any capacity.”
Both sides pledged to meet in the weeks following December’s SAC session, but in follow-up emails and calls by the Weekly, FWC representatives would not confirm the outcome of the meeting, or if it took place.
KEY LARGO MAN ARRESTED FOR ALLEGEDLY ATTACKING DEPUTY
David Ray Wyrick. MCSO/ Contributed
A58-yearold Key Largo man was arrested on Feb. 27 after he allegedly attacked Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Robert Dosh by attempting to grab his service gun and stabbing him in the face.
According to the sheriff’s office, Dosh and other members of the sheriff’s office responded to a 4:45 p.m. call to County Road 905 in Key Largo regarding a man — later identified as David Ray Wyrick — putting boulders in the road and tampering with fire hydrants. Wyrick brandished a pocketknife while speaking to deputies. He resisted arrest and was shocked with a Taser, but continued to resist.
Sheriffs say Wyrick allegedly struck Dosh in the face with a metal pipe with a nail attached to it while the sheriff’s office was attempting to place him in custody. Wyrick also allegedly attempted to pull Dosh’s firearm from its holster during the struggle. Wyrick also grabbed the firearm of another deputy attempting to control him. He never gained full control of either weapon.
Wyrick was charged with attempted manslaughter, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, battery on a law enforcement officer, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and resisting arrest with violence.
Dosh was taken to Mariners Hospital in Tavernier and then to Kendall Medical Center in Miami due to injuries to an eye.
“I am grateful the serious injuries to Sgt. Robert Dosh do not appear to be life-threatening, and that this suspect is in jail,” said Sheriff Rick Ramsay. “This incident is a reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face each and every day they put on their uniform.”
Wyrick was taken to jail. His bond was set at $250,000.
— Keys Weekly staff report
LEGISLATIVE SESSION BEGINS AT STATE CAPITAL
Despite past reforms, property insurance issues
still loom
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
At the state capital, legislative session kicked off March 4 as leaders in the Florida House and Senate, as well as Gov. Ron DeSantis, presented their priorities and larger issues facing the Sunshine State.
For legislators, a return to Tallahassee for a 60day session comes on the heels of a bombshell report regarding the state’s insurance crisis and how executives likely caused it by diverting hundreds of millions to shareholders and billions of dollars to affiliate companies between 2017 and 2019. As a result, it left insurers in a weak financial position — some were even unable to pay claims.
The 2022 report commissioned by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation was never given to legislators, according to a report by The Tampa Bay Times. OIR told the Times the study was not given to lawmakers because it was “not a formal examination report.” It was produced months before lawmakers met in emergency legislative sessions in 2022 and left in a “draft” status.
In his address to the House, new Speaker Danny Perez, a Republican from Miami, was met with applause when he said the Insurance & Banking Subcommittee will be digging into the matter.
“They (the subcommittee) will have access to the full range of tools — including issuing subpoenas, putting witnesses under oath, and hiring outside experts,” Perez said.
Insurance companies’ profits are regulated and limited to about 4.5%, which is not enticing to investors, especially with the risk of hurricanes any given year. But as the Times reported, insurance executives in Florida have used financial workarounds to reward not only themselves, but also investors. Profits and executive compensation of the insurance company may be capped, but the profits of affiliate and parent companies are not.
DeSantis never touched on the 2022 report during his address to the House and Senate. In-
Gov. Ron DeSantis lauded past reforms surrounding property insurance during his address to state legislators. GOVERNOR’S OFFICE/Contributed
stead, he lauded various property insurance reforms by previous legislatures, including the elimination of one-way attorney fees related to assignment of benefits and ending the incentive for attorneys to mislead claimants. Legislation also prohibited roofers from paying or absorbing insurance deductibles.
Another bill tightened eligibility for those insured through Citizens Property Insurance Corp. by steering potential and existing policyholders to private carriers if a comparable policy was available.
“The fact is that the Legislature has devoted more time and effort to address insurance reforms over the past few years than at any other time in the history of Florida,” DeSantis said.
Senate President Ben Albritton, a Republican from Wauchula, stated in his address that the Senate will hold insurance companies accountable for rates they charge and services they provide when disaster strikes.
“They aren’t going to manipulate the system. And, neither is any other industry,” he said.
Last month, state insurance regulators approved rate increases averaging 6.6% for Citizens policyholders who have the more common multi-peril coverage. Details weren’t provided in the order on specifically how much more policyholders in the Keys would pay. They can expect an increase, however, as the new rates take effect June 1.
Last June, Citizens’ board of directors approved asking OIR for a 13.5% increase for all policyholders. As prescribed by law, Citizens must charge actuarially sound rates which aren’t competitive with the private market. The insurer must also comply with a glide path that only allows annual rate increases of 1%; in 2025, that cap was 14%.
Bills filed by state Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez and Rep. Jim Mooney would provide for rate increases not exceeding 10% in areas like the Florida Keys where there isn’t a reasonable degree of competition among property insurers. According to Fair Insurance Rates for Monroe (FIRM), 95% of Monroe County’s wind policies are insured by Citizens. Monroe has 15,000 wind-only policies with Citizens, second only to Miami-Dade. FIRM has long advocated legislators to get Monroe County to the 10% glide path.
“Monroe’s strict building codes and past loss history support this,” says FIRM.
New House Speaker Danny Perez addresses fellow members. MEREDITH GEDDINGS/Contributed
COCA-COLA BEVERAGES FLORIDA DONATES LAPTOPS TO KEYS CHILDREN’S SHELTER
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Agroup of kids strolled up to the second floor to a conference room at the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter on Feb. 18. Not only did they find some tasty soda drinks awaiting them courtesy of Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, but they were also delighted to see a table with new laptops for their use.
“Hopefully you get to use them not only for school but also entertainment purposes,” Kemmer told the kids as they took a seat.
Coca-Cola is the fourth-largest black-owned business in the U.S. To recognize Black History Month in February, Coke Florida collaborated with community organizations to provide more than 300 laptops to students and community members. Ten of those laptops were presented to the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter.
With a local office on Big Pine Key, Coke Florida initially reached out to Monroe County Commissioner Holly Raschein regarding community organizations in need of technological resources. Raschein was quick to mention the children’s shelter located on Plantation Key in Islamorada.
“I was really excited when Coke Florida reached out to me for input. I’m delighted this partnership worked out,” Raschein said.
A 19-bed home for kids ages 10 to 18, the shelter provides a safe place for local youth and teens. As
Coke Florida representatives saw during a tour, the shelter is more like a dormitory where kids can go outside and play basketball or stay inside and watch some movies or video games. There are also spots to sit and do homework.
The shelter features a full-time counselor and a full-time chef. Rooms are artfully decorated thanks to the likes of Wyland, Pasta Pantaleo and Stacie Krupa. One wall in the hall depicts a Keys bridge outlooking the ocean. Among the vehicles on the road is a Coca-Cola truck.
Whether kids stay a day or several years, the shelter provides a home with caring people who listen.
Upon grabbing an ice-cold CocaCola product, the kids took seats and proceeded to their favorite websites, like Tik Tok. Coke Florida representatives took a few minutes to quiz the kids about Coca-Cola; one question had students looking up how many beverages are in the Coca-Cola Company. One student found the answer to be more than 3,500 beverages, from sodas and juices to water, coffees and teas.
Percy L. Wells II, spokesman for Coke Florida, said initiatives such as the laptop donations are helping people and communities reach their full potential.
“Whether it be through the creation of new learning opportunities for an elementary school student or helping an adult in their job search, Coke Florida has stepped in to help foster these opportunities,” he said.
MEET RISING COUNTRY MUSICIAN BRETT YOUNG
Singer-songwriter joins Keys Weekly Podcast before March 8 concert
Brett Young's star is shining bright, and the country star is just getting started.
Young's piercing eyes and 6'6” athletic frame are a prototype for Hollywood. Instead, the family man and country star made a run at professional baseball before an elbow injury took him down his journey as a singer-songwriter.
Today, the music icon has recorded six No. 1 hits and doesn't appear to be slowing down.
Young joins the Florida Keys Weekly podcast to discuss his love for music and family, while juggling a career from the road. Tickets are at thekeywestamp.com to see Young on Saturday, March 8 at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater.
— Keys Weekly staff report
Country star Brett Young joins the Keys Weekly Podcast (scan the QR code) before his March 8 concert at Coffee Butler Amphitheater. CONTRIBUTED
Local representatives from Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, Monroe County Commissioner Michelle Lincoln and Florida Keys Children’s Shelter employees gather as kids enjoy new laptops. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
ISLAMORADA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
B lueprint for B alance c harrette
p u B lic K ic K - o ff & h ands - o n d esign s ession
Monday, March 24 | 6 pm
Join us for an informative presentation on town planning and community visioning. Following the presentation, work alongside your neighbors to draw your vision for the future of Islamorada! This is a family-friendly event - bring your children!
o pen d esign s tudio
Tuesday, March 25 - Thursday, March 27 | 9 am - 6 pm
Stop by the studio during the day to talk with the design team and provide input as the plan evolves. This will be a unique opportunity to provide feedback as the initial plan ideas are being developed.
W or K - in - p rogress p resentation
Friday, March 28 | 6 pm
See all of the work completed during the charrette week at the “Work-in-Progress” presentation. These are the concepts that will form the Comprehensive Plan.
All events to take place at: Founders Park Community Center 87000 Overseas Highway, Founders Park, Islamorada, FL 33036
What is a Public Design Charrette?
Public Design Charrettes bring all stakeholders to the table over a short, focused period of time to work intensively with the planning team to reach consensus over the future evolution of a place. The Charrette is rapid, intensive, and includes a series of creative work sessions between the public and the planning team to produce a draft comprehensive plan for the future.
Why should you participate?
Please visit : planislamorada.com for updates and information on meeting locations as the dates draw near!
Participating in the Charrette will give you a chance to express your vision for the future of the Islamorada and set the goals and priorities for the community moving forward. Your participation will make the difference between a good plan and a great plan. Come Out & Get
500 OR 3,500?
Mooney, Rodriguez bills differ on evacuation, permit numbers, timelines
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
Ayear of debate among Florida Keys residents and government officials over the future of development in the islands will spill over to the state level, according to two new bills filed in the Florida House and Senate by state Rep. Jim Mooney and Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez, respectively.
The two bills are the first official glimpse at legislation that could add building allocations to the islands’ dwindling stock. But while both propose additional units, the number and distribution timeline described in each bill vastly differ.
Mooney’s House Bill 995 and Rodriguez’s Senate Bill 1326 tackle amendments to the laws governing the Keys as an Area of Critical State Concern, a designation responsible for several stricter building regulations throughout the island chain.
Among other provisions, they would extend the Keys’ legally-mandated hurricane evacuation clearance time for permanent residents.
Mooney’s bill moves the clearance time from 24 to 24.5 hours and details the award of 500 permit allocations over a period of 10 years. Rodriguez’s bill ups the clearance time to 26 hours, providing for up to 3,550 permit allocations over a minimum of 40 years.
Of the 500 units in HB 995, 220 were already accounted for, but not yet awarded to the Keys, within the previous 24-hour evacuation clearance time, while 280 would come to the islands as additional units directly due to the evacuation time change. Unincorporated Monroe County would receive 283 units, 103 would go to Marathon, 64 to Islamorada and 50 to Key West, the bill states. In SB 1326, Monroe County would receive 2,320 allocations, followed by 803 for Marathon, 307 for Islamorada and 120 for Key West.
In Mooney’s bill, 70% of the units would be reserved for workforce housing, restricted to households deriving
70% of their income “from gainful employment in Monroe County supplying goods or services to Monroe County residents or visitors.” The building allocations could only be used on vacant, buildable properties, with a maximum award of one allocation per property.
Rodriguez’s bill has similar provisions for vacant buildable parcels and reserves the remaining portion of each government’s allocations for permanent residential uses, prioritizing affordable and workforce housing.
In October 2024, the Monroe County Commission sent a request to FloridaCommerce for the 220 building rights already allowed under a 24-hour hurricane evacuation time, but not yet bestowed to the Keys. Two months later, state officials reportedly informed the county that FloridaCommerce was unlikely to award even these first 220 units until Keys municipalities exhausted their remaining supplies of building rights.
In a special session in December, the county commission voted 4-1 to petition state lawmakers to change the hurricane evacuation time from 24 to as many as 26 hours, potentially paving the way for up to 3,550 new units throughout the Keys.
The decision came as each local jurisdiction approached the 2025 state legislative session with varying degrees of urgency to acquire new units and stave off potentially costly takings cases if owners of otherwise-buildable lots were denied the ability to do so.
A complete denial of building rights could leave some municipalities more immediately vulnerable than others. Marathon, which has effectively exhausted its supply of building rights, received a grim reminder of the reality of takings claims earlier this month when a decision from Florida’s Third District Court of Appeals struck a blow to the city in a decades-long legal battle over development on Shands Key.
Two days before the county’s special session in December, Mooney told Keys leaders that he would be in favor of the “ask” later reflected in the new bill – up to 500 new units. He told the Weekly a push to increase development throughout the Keys while asking for appropriations to protect the islands’ fragile ecosystem could be seen as contradictory, jeopardizing funding for other critical initiatives.
In January, Rodriguez told the Weekly she planned to support the 26hour evacuation extension after consultation with municipal leaders and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.
“While it may sound like a large increase when translated into the number of permits, as a Legislature we can set parameters on when these can be issued over the next 40 years,” she said.
Florida’s 2025 regular legislative session began on March 4.
DESANTIS FROM PAGE 4
Former Sanctuary Superintendent Sarah Fangman, who held the post throughout most of Restoration Blueprint’s drafting and review process, repeatedly expressed hope that DeSantis would review the Blueprint with a “scalpel, not a sledgehammer,” vetoing individual items rather than the plan as a whole.
Although DeSantis’ pen nixed updated regulations in state waters, the provisions of Restoration Blueprint remain in effect in federal waters – covering roughly 51% of the sanctuary. In the Keys, state waters extend from shore to three nautical miles in the Atlantic Ocean and to nine nautical miles in the Gulf.
“The new science-based management plan reflects a balanced approach and responds to challenges that are putting the environment and economy of the Florida Keys at risk, including marine heat waves, coral diseases, intensified hurricanes and increased human uses,” said FKNMS communications and outreach manager Scott Atwell in a press release following DeSantis’ letter.
“We believe the actions we are taking in federal waters will support improvement of the sanctuary’s delicate ecosystem and marine resources. We will continue to work with state agencies to protect this critical area for years to come.”
“The reality is that we need both the state and federal partners to get together and comanage the Florida Keys marine ecosystem, for the benefit of all people that live and visit here,” Sanctuary Advisory Council chair Ben Daughtry told the Weekly.
He pointed to a new adaptivemanagement group, established to provide a faster regulatory response to critical events such as 2023’s devastating marine heat wave, as a critical component of increasing communication and finding common ground between agencies moving forward.
“I have high hopes that the adaptive-management group we’ve been working on will be a key component to helping to make that happen,” he said.
Rep. Jim Mooney
Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez
Islamorada, Village of Islands
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Emergency Management Consultant Services
RFP 25-02
Bid Submittal Deadline: 3:00 p.m. March 31,2025
Islamorada, Village of Islands (the “Village”) is seeking formal proposals from qualified proposers for Emergency Management Consultant Services to fill the Village emergency management and disaster recovery services, continuity of operations (COOP) and continuity of government (COG) planning, all hazard training, planning and preparedness, incident management support teams, technical, administrative and training support to assist the Village with damage assessment, disaster recovery project estimation, project worksheet (PW) development, grant management, appeals, FEMA force account and small and large project document assembly, and federal procurement requirements review, etc.
The Village is seeking an experienced Executive Search Firm that is capable of providing all necessary expertise, tools, materials, equipment, staffing, and overall services.
Scan here to view and download the bid documents for complete information including the full scope of services, eligibility criteria and submittal instructions.
islamorada.fl.us/Bids.aspx
Islamorada Village of Islands Meeting Schedule
March 2025
Unless otherwise noted, meetings are held at the Founders Park Community Center, 87000 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada
Scan here to view the full
THE JUDGES DECIDE
Annual art show crowns winners in various mediums
WILLIAM DEPAULA
is an artist, designer and gemologist who believes in the power of art.
On an un-
usu-
ally
hot February afternoon, one of the oldest ongoing events in the Upper Keys happened with great fanfare.
The Art Guild of the Purple Isles held its annual juried art show at the Keys History & Discovery Center in Islamorada.
Held Feb. 18, this juried art show entered its 59th year. Not many events or businesses can say they have been here for that long.
The guild is a close-knit group of artists who support art and each other. While they have other events, this is the jewel on top of the crown. The show was judged and emceed by a very enthusiastic and personable Pasta Pantaleo. He shined his light on the artists of the guild and a great time was had by all. He explained what he liked about each winning work.
“Having Pasta be our judge is
a no-brainer for this event,,” said guild president David Bader. “He is a professional artist that knows what it takes to be an artist as a profession. He is also one of the most well-known artists in Islamorada.”
The oldest artist at the event was a spry and enthusiastic Mickey Frankel, who is 99.
“I love the guild because they help each other,” she said. “You might not be the best at painting something, but you attended the meetings and classes. You have to do it, every year do another work of art. You will get better and better.”
The room was crowded with artists celebrating art and each other. It was so busy, I found it hard to get around and get a good look at each work. While walking I met up with Gisela Llorens, who does a lot of work bringing the art guild to the community with classes and events. My tour around the room ended when I spoke to a longtime member, Kelly Walkotten.
“The Art Guild of the Purple Isles is an essential part of Islamorada,” she said. “It has been around for 59 years. Many of the past members are a who’s who of Islamorada personalities, celebrities and
Art show winners
Mixed media
1st place - Johnette Luxeder 2nd place - Kathy Sperl-Bell 3rd place - Donna Bitton Honorable mention - Karen Kubacki
Watercolor
1st place - Monica Bankowski 2nd place - Mary Jo Hohmann
Pastel and drawing
1st place - Kay Morrow 2nd place - Deborah Spencer
Digital art
1st place - Asta Kraskouskas 2nd place - Marcia Brito
Plein air
1st place - David Bader
2nd place - Jackie Campa 3rd place - K Christine O’Neill Honorable mention - Peter Sterling Turner
Acrylics
1st place - Susan Kay Holler 2nd place - K. Christine O’Neill 3rd place - Gloria Avner Honorable mention - Mary Bonde
Oils
1st place - David Bader 2nd place - Cassandra Clark 3rd place - Cynthia Re Robbins
Sculpture
1st place - David O’Neill
Photography 1st place - Bruce Chambers
2nd place - Kelly Walkotten
3rd place - Louise Lindsay
famous artists,” she said, adding that she is assembling a history of the guild that “should be ready for next year’s 60th anniversary show.”
The Best in Show was awarded to Carol Ubben for her work “Pizza Palace.”
The show is at the Keys History & Discovery Center at the Islander Resort. More information is at www.agpi.us.
ART GUILD’S WILDLIFE OF KEYS SHOW BEGINS MARCH 8
On Saturday, March 8, the Art Guild of the Purple Isles will have an opening reception of a new art show called “Wildlife of the Keys.”
The show, at Our Place in Paradise Gallery at 88711 Overseas Highway, will go from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. The show’s visiting hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“This show celebrates a wonderful aspect of the Keys, our great wildlife community,” said Laurie Richardson, show chair. “The theme of the show is the same every year, but the entries are new for each show.
“This show used to be called the ‘Joe Cella Birds of the Keys,’ named after a deceased AGPI member who sculpted birds,” Richardson said. “After several decades, AGPI members decided to expand the show to include all forms of wildlife in the Keys.”
More than 20 artists will participate. Visitors of the show are encouraged to vote for their favorite art piece. A “People’s Choice” award will be presented at the end of the show. Many original works will be available for purchase.
More information is at www. agpi.us.
Artist Mickey Frankel, 99, stands next to her artwork during a Feb. 18 art show and awards ceremony inside the Keys History & Discovery Center. WILLIAM DePAULA/Keys Weekly
The Best in Show was awarded to Carol Ubben for her work ‘Pizza Palace.’
Artwork featuring wildlife of the Florida Keys will be on display beginning March at Our Place in Paradise art gallery in Islamorada. CONTRIBUTED
UPPER KEYS WATER LINE PROJECT RESUMES
KEYS LAST STAND SUPPORTS BILL FOR 500 NEW BUILDING PERMITS
To the Editor:
Crews shift to begin work near Snake Creek Bridge
Contractors for the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority placed a new water main transmission on Windley Key last year. Work to replace aged pipes continues on Plantation Key. FKAA/Contributed
McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Aproject to replace six miles of aged water main resumed in the Upper Keys the evening of March 2, as crews began preparations to work just north of Snake Creek Bridge at MM 86 in Islamorada.
Motorists traveling north through the work zone this week were diverted to the median on U.S. 1, as a 3,000-foot rolling lane was created to allow crews room to dig a trench and place a new pipe along the northbound side of the road. Southbound traffic largely remained uninterrupted from the work.
A week before, crews were preparing to install a new transmission pipe underwater at Tavernier Creek Bridge around MM 91. To allow for the work, U.S. 1 northbound lanes were completely closed off for roughly a mile between Coral Shores High School and Tavernier Towne Center. Northbound traffic was diverted to a southbound lane on U.S. 1 — four lanes of traffic in the area were essentially reduced to two. The new traffic pattern brought backups extending several miles during certain points of the day on Feb. 24 and 25.
Florida Department of Transportation officials ultimately stepped in, telling the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority and its contractors to postpone work at MM 91 and reopen all lanes of traffic to alleviate the congestion. FDOT said it remains committed to working with FKAA to minimize the effects on drivers. Motorists, however, should still ex-
pect delays as crews work north from Snake Creek Bridge.
Greg Veliz, FKAA executive director, recently told Keys Weekly the project was timed so that work to install the water main across from Coral Shores High School would take place in the summer, so it wouldn’t affect students and staff in the fall. Veliz also said they’re looking to open up a northbound lane on U.S. 1 when crews return to MM 91 to install pipes underwater at Tavernier Creek Bridge.
Crews are expected to be working around the clock Monday through Friday, with exception of major holidays, events and inclement weather. FKAA says crews will move north in 1,000-foot increments as the pipes get installed. Access to all businesses will be maintained. Businesses will also be notified in advance of work taking place in their area.
FDOT says left-hand turns are not permitted in the work zone. Motorists should continue past the intended destination, make a U-turn when it’s safe and legal to do so, then turn right into the destination.
According to FKAA, the project to install some 22,000 feet of new pipe from Snake Creek Bridge to Julep Road in Tavernier will last through November 2026. FKAA says the current water main carrying drinking water from a plant in Florida City to Keys faucets has reached its lifespan. Crews are replacing the old 30-inch main with a new 36-inch pipe.
Keys Last Stand strongly supports House Bill 995, introduced by Representative Jim Mooney, as a responsible and balanced approach to managing development in the Florida Keys. At the same time, we oppose Senate Bill 1326, introduced by Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez, and Senate Bill 1730, introduced by Senator Alexis Calatayud — both of which threaten to accelerate overdevelopment, strain infrastructure and permanently alter the character of the Keys.
HB 995 responsibly allocates 500 new Rate of Growth Ordinance (ROGO) permits over 10 years, ensuring that development remains measured and adaptable to future conditions. The vast majority of these permits must be used for workforce housing or affordable housing, addressing the severe housing needs of working families. Additionally, more than 600 existing unallocated affordable housing ROGOs, along with hundreds of future affordable housing units on ROGO-exempt properties, already exist to support responsible growth.
In contrast, SB 1326 authorizes 3,550 new ROGOs over the next 40 years, with nearly half open to market-rate housing that is neither workforce housing nor affordable housing. This would create a dramatic spike in development, increasing traffic congestion, environmental degradation and infrastructure stress.
SB 1730 is even more concerning. Unlike SB 1326, which at least defines the number of ROGOs, SB 1730 raises the hurricane evacuation time to 26 hours without specifying how many ROGOs can be issued or when, with no requirements for affordable or workforce housing. This could lead to more than 4,000 new ROGOs and would effectively remove all guardrails on development, giving big developers free rein to overbuild the Keys faster than ever before. It is an open invitation to unchecked growth, eliminating decades of carefullyplanned regulations that protect our fragile environment and livability.
Based on Monroe County’s own
surveys, Keys residents overwhelmingly prefer Rep. Mooney’s bill over the two Senate bills. The community has made it clear that they support responsible growth — not a developer-driven expansion. Yet, despite this, Monroe County and the Keys municipalities continue to push for the maximum possible ROGO allocations. Furthermore, claims that limiting ROGOs will lead to a surge in takings lawsuits are unfounded. Public statements from both the Monroe County Attorney and the Marathon City Attorney confirm that HB 995 presents no takings liability risk over the 10-year period. Meanwhile, the excessive ROGO allocations in the Senate bills far exceed the number of buildable lots in the Keys, proving that the takings argument has been a red herring used to justify unsustainable development.
“This fight is about overdevelopment, plain and simple,” said Chris Massicotte, president of Keys Last Stand. “Representative Jim Mooney is taking a stand against the unchecked growth being pushed by Monroe County and the Keys municipalities. His bill protects our islands’ future by ensuring measured, responsible growth focused on affordable and workforce housing. On the other hand, SB 1326 and SB 1730 open the door for large-scale development with no meaningful checks in place — prioritizing profits over the long-term sustainability of our community.”
Keys Last Stand is committed to working with state legislators to educate them on the importance of regulating growth responsibly and ensuring that building permits are allocated over a 10-year period rather than locking in unchecked development. We urge residents to contact their state representatives and demand support for HB 995 while rejecting SB 1326 and SB 1730 to prevent overdevelopment from jeopardizing the future of the Florida Keys.
For more information, visit www. keyslaststand.org.
– Chris Massicotte, president, Keys Last Stand
JIM
FEDERAL TURMOIL AFFECTS FLORIDA KEYS
Tariffs & travel boycotts could impact tourism; chaotic cuts threaten jobs
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
The news comes out of the nation’s capital — firings, funding freezes, tariffs and trade wars — but federal turmoil is finding its way to the Florida Keys, where the island economy depends on out-of-town visitors, including those from Canada, who are declaring a US travel boycott in response to President Donald Trump’s recent decision to enact hefty tariffs on all Canadian goods.
Could trickle-down turmoil affect tourism?
Trump’s tariffs and the resulting trade war between the neighboring countries have prompted Canadians to reconsider U.S. travel plans, which often include Florida vacations in the winter months.
A U.S. travel boycott by Canadians could have an outsized impact on Florida, where, in 2023, Canadians made up 38% of all foreign tourists to the state, according to Visit Florida, the state’s tourism marketing agency.
“We have seen that people are starting to pivot away and avoid the U.S.,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, the chief executive of WestJet, the second-largest airline in Canada, according to a Feb. 25 article in the New York Times. “We see also an increase of bookings into Mexico, into the Caribbean, into other non-U.S. destinations.”
Florida Keys tourism officials are closely monitoring the situation with Canada as well as European countries. International tourists make up 12.6% of all visitors to the island chain.
Many European countries were angered last week by Trump’s pivot away from U.S. support of Ukraine as it continues to defend itself in a war against Russia, which invaded the country three years ago.
The Keys’ Tourist Development Council “remains committed to welcoming Canadian and European travelers and will continue targeted marketing efforts to keep the destination top of mind in key international markets,” Heidi Barfels, the TDC’s vice president of marketing and communications, told the Keys Weekly on March 4. “International travelers are considered high-value visitors as they stay longer and spend more in the destination. We are monitoring the situation with tariffs and impacts on international travel closely and
will remain nimble to adjust marketing spend as necessary to support. Our strategic approach includes a mix of print, television and programmatic digital advertising being run in Canada, the U.K., Ireland, Germany, Italy, France and Scandinavia.”
When asked whether the TDC plans to tailor its advertising message to address Canadians’ concerns about the U.S. president and his trade war, Barfels said, “We are planning to maintain our current creative (material) which is tailored to the interests of each market or outlet. The beauty of the Keys is pretty alluring during the colder months.”
She added that the TDC is closely monitoring potential impacts, and “will execute a measured response based on how this all goes.”
The TDC is not currently planning any financial incentives or discounts to lure Canadian visitors to the Florida Keys, “but we are ready to launch efforts like this if needed. The beauty of shifting toward more digital marketing means we can turn on a campaign pretty quickly,” Barfels said.
What about federal cuts to government agencies?
The Florida Keys may be 1,100 miles away from Washington, D.C., but plenty of critical agencies here in the island chain start with the word “national.”
National Park Service. National Weather Service. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. All play significant roles in the island chain, where employees are bracing for staffing reductions and lease terminations.
The National Park Service, which operates Everglades National Park at the top of the Keys and Dry Tortugas National Park at the very bottom, lost 1,000 employees on Feb. 14 and an additional 700 accepted the early buyouts offered by the new Department of Government Efficiency.
The Everglades park lost 15 employees, while the Tortugas was down one staff member as of late February, according to a list of lost jobs compiled by the Association of National Park Rangers and published by Outside magazine on Feb. 28 and updated March 3.
An email from the Keys Weekly to the public affairs specialist at Everglades National Park was not answered this week.
The consequence of federal cuts
Key West drew more than 60 demonstrators holding signs in support of Ukraine and opposing President Donald Trump and billionaire adviser Elon Musk.
to NOAA in the Florida Keys could be twofold, as the agency oversees both the National Ocean Service, which includes the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, and the National Weather Service, which operates a forecast office on White Street in Key West.
Keys residents, visitors, business owners and government officials rely on the weather service for severe weather warnings, including for tropical storms and hurricanes.
A local forecasting meteorologist participates in all countywide storm coordination calls when a hurricane is on the horizon.
A spokeswoman for the National Weather Service declined to comment on any specific potential reductions within the agency.
“Per long-standing practice, we are not discussing internal personnel and management matters,” Susan Buchanan, NWS public affairs officer, wrote in an email to the Keys Weekly on March 3. “NOAA remains dedi-
and
cated to its mission, providing timely information, research and resources that serve the American public and ensure our nation’s environmental and economic resilience. We continue to provide weather information, forecasts and warnings pursuant to our public safety mission. Thanks for your understanding.”
The initial impacts were more immediate for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
Since Feb. 28, the Trump administration and DOGE, under the direction of billionaire Elon Musk, moved to terminate one in 10 federal commercial real estate leases, or about 748 leases, including the marine sanctuary’s Key Largo office, an 8,000-square-foot building at 95230 Overseas Hwy. According to DOGE, the rent for the building was $252,011 per year. The Monroe County Property Appraiser website lists the owner of the building as Key Largo Ace Hardware Inc. 1 2 3 4
The Florida National Marine Sanctuary building in Key Largo is one of hundreds of federal commercial leases that have been terminated in the past week by billionaire Elon Musk’s new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
1-4: A March 3 protest in front of the federal building in
Photos by LARRY BLACKBURN
MANDY MILES
Wood-Fired Wow Moments
MEMBERS IN MOTION
TAPPING INTO SUCCESS
Florida Keys Brewing Co. celebrates a decade
KELLIE
BUTLER FARRELL www.keysweekly.com
When asked how many hours a week he and his wife put into their beloved Florida Keys Brewing Co. (FKBC), Craig McBay was quick to respond.
“All of them,” he said with a laugh. “When you own a small business, you’re never off.”
“Even when we’re not here, we’re still here,” added his wife and business partner, Cheryl McBay.
In 10 short years, the owners of the Florida Keys Brewing Co. have managed to turn a passion for beer into a hotspot for beer enthusiasts, tourists and locals alike. At any given time, FKBC offers 40 to 50 different brews and some of them are also distributed across the state.
Colorful cans of Spiny Hopster made their way down the canning line and onto a pallet for distribution.
“It’s a little play on words and it’s actually our second-best selling beer. It’s just a really good IPA; people love it,” said Cheryl.
The brewery pumps out some 3,200 barrels of beer a year, roughly 5,000 cans a month. About 70% of the product goes out for distribution across the state with the remainder being sold in the FKBC taproom.
Both McBays are 100% handson.
“Craig still does brew days, which means he gets here at 3 o’clock in the morning,” Cheryl said. “A brew day usually goes from 3 o’clock in the morning until about 6 o’clock in the evening; he’s here at least two or three days a week at that time.”
“One of the very few good things to come out of there,” joked Cheryl.
Who knew that chance encounter between a Conch and a Canadian would lead to a prosperous business that has become a pillar of the community?
“Cheryl’s mom got me a home brew kit for my birthday right before we got married. At the time she was like, ‘Well, he’s drinking a lot of beer, maybe he wants to make some beer too,’” recalled Craig.
McBay’s mother-in-law, Linda Barrett, still works in the beer garden. She’s in charge of the plants, arranging the orchids and creating the enchanting island vibe.
Craig McBay’s background is in engineering. He went to school for fire protection engineering back in Canada, designing fire sprinkler systems.
“So that sort of technical side of things has helped me along,” he said.
no doubt in my mind,” said Cheryl.
With success comes social responsibility. The McBays have embraced giving back to the community.
“We have a saying as far as what we sponsor throughout the Florida Keys: anything that has seas or fleas,” said Cheryl.
“Anything to do with the ocean we’ll sponsor and we’ll gladly help out, and anything to do with animals,” she continued.
As for what the next 10 years will hold, who knows? But one thing is certain: the McBays and their Florida Keys Brewing Company are here to stay.
“We’ve always said we never want to take over the world, we’re trying to find that right size,” said Craig.
“We want to keep making our beer here,” he said. “We’re a Keys brewery so we want to make our beer in the Keys.” 1 2 4 3
“Iguana Bait kills it,” said Cheryl of their best-selling beer. “It’s pretty much at every bar and restaurant down here, and if they don’t have it, they’re missing out,” she said.
All of FKBC’s beer is brewed and canned locally, right in the heart of the Morada Way Arts District in Islamorada.
On the day of this interview, a new canning line machine made in Nebraska was being delivered. This machine is capable of filling 50 cans of beer a minute, as opposed to the sometimes-unreliable prior one that could produce 32 cans a minute.
“It’s a big upgrade and it’s not going to break down because it’s new – cross your fingers,” Cheryl said.
While Craig is the one making the beer taste so good, Cheryl fills the creative role, designing the cans, T-shirts and other merchandise.
Over the last decade, Florida Keys Brewing Co. has also distinguished itself as a hot venue for live music, offering a wide variety of genres seven days a week, sometimes twice a day.
“We knew we wanted to make a really good live venue for music,” said Cheryl.
To understand the McBays’ success, it helps to know their back stories.
Cheryl is a self-described Conch, born and raised in Islamorada. Craig is a Canadian, who happened to meet Cheryl during a vacation to the Keys.
“We met at Hog Heaven, late night,” Craig said.
Cheryl’s background is in hospitality. She always suspected there was a real thirst for locally brewed beer.
Before they opened the Florida Keys Brewing Company in 2015, Craig began crafting his concoctions in their garage and giving out samples to friends and family. After rave reviews, the couple decided to go all in.
“Within a year, we bought a house, quit our jobs, had twins, signed a lease here and cashed in our retirements,” recalled Craig.
“We both do not remember the first two years of business because it was just crazy,” added Cheryl.
Those twins, a boy and a girl, are now 10 years old and fifth graders at Plantation Key School.
“Those two will 100 hundred percent run this place one day, I have
1: Craig McBay works the canning line inside the Florida Keys Brewing Company’s production facility in the heart of Islamorada. These cans of Spiny Hopster will be distributed mostly across the southeast part of the state. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys Weekly. 2: Cheryl and Craig McBay stand in their brewhouse. Behind them is operations manager Chris Jordahl. The McBays have more than 20 employees and they consider them all to be family. 3: Cheryl McBay’s mother, Linda Barrett, tends to the orchids in the lush beer garden. CONTRIBUTED. 4. Twins Rose and Arlo McBay, both 10, are the same age as the brewery. Mom Cheryl believes the two will one day run Florida Keys Brewing Co.
LET THE READING BEGIN
Children’s center hosts annual event
CRITICAL RESEARCH & RESTORATION ON DISPLAY
Keys Marine Lab’s scientific work showcased at open house
Keys Marine Laboratory (KML) welcomed more than 200 visitors to its annual open house on March 1, showcasing the work KML facilitates for coral reef restoration and research.
Attendees engaged in hands-on demonstrations, including lionfish dissection, coral fragging, sponge filtration and guided tours of seawater systems housing sponge and coral restoration, long-spined sea urchin aquaculture and more.
St. James Children’s Center’s fourth annual read-a-thon is taking place throughout March. This fundraiser encourages students to read while raising money for the nonprofit preschool and voluntary pre-kindergarten program.
During the read-a-thon, students will log the books they read and collect pledges based on their reading progress. Donations directly support instructional materials, books, arts and crafts supplies, playground equipment, nutritious snacks and health and safety resources that enrich students’ daily experiences.
“The read-a-thon is a special tradition at St. James that not only fosters a lifelong love of reading but also strengthens our school community,” said Michelle Lane, director of the children’s center.
“It’s inspiring to see our young learners so engaged with books while making a meaningful impact on their school.”
Community members can support the students’ efforts at https:// stjames.rallyup.com/read. Supporters can make a flat donation, pledge a specific amount per book read or contribute to a class or general fund. Event sponsorships are also available.
St. James Children’s Center was founded in 1984 and is a nonprofit preschool, a ministry of St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church to the Upper Keys community. The objective is to provide each child with a healthy environment in which to grow.
More information is available at stjamespreschoolfundraising@ gmail.com or 305-852-2161.
— Contributed
“It was a pleasure to welcome everyone to KML’s campus and highlight our collaborations with local, statewide and national partners,” said Cindy Lewis, director of Keys Marine Laboratory. “Our scientific community, including undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and researchers, has been integral to KML since we opened 34 years ago.
“We are looking forward to our annual open house where we can share our unique offerings with the Keys community and beyond, highlighting KML as an unrecognized treasure in the Middle Keys that is making a significant impact on the marine ecosystem,” Lewis said.
KML’s team of five scientists led tours and shared information on the year-round visiting academic undergraduate marine biology and ecology classes, master’s and doctoral research programs. The laboratory is a hub for a variety of projects, including long-term seasonal ciguatera monitoring and sampling, long-term sawfish population monitoring and tagging, seagrass bed assessments and restora-
tion, sponge spawning and restoration, long spined urchin aquaculture and grow out, coral spawning and disease research, and ocean current monitoring.
Established in 1991, KML operates on 8 acres surrounded by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, supporting research across subtropical/ tropical marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Managed by the Florida Institute of Oceanography at the University of South Florida, KML collaborates with a consortium of 33 public and private institutions, state and federal agencies and marine research organizations, serving nearly 800 students and researchers annually.
The facility has over 60 temperature-controlled seawater tables and tanks, four near-shore research vessels, and a team of administrative, operations and science staff.
The lab is launching a $60 million capital campaign aimed at modernizing and expanding facilities to address the evolving environmental challenges facing the oceans. This initiative will include the construction of new stormresistant and additional on-site housing, laboratories and classrooms.
This year’s event featured nine partners: Florida Institute of Oceanography, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Reef Renewal USA, Coral Restoration Foundation, I.CARE, Florida Fish & Wildlife Research Institute, REEF, Surfrider Foundation Florida Keys and Designer Ecosystems/ ReefStarter.
— Contributed
Students at St. James Children’s Center hold books to kickoff the fourth annual Read-A-Thon. The fundraiser, taking place throughout March, encourages reading while generating money for the preschool. CONTRIBUTED
Cindy Lewis, KML director, speaks to Key Colony Beach residents Dean and Aleta Williamson. CONTRIBUTED
Naxelly Vega | Agency Owner
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Now Hiring FINANCE MANAGER
The Keys Weekly Newspapers and Overseas Media Group are seeking an organized, detail-orientated and responsible professional to manage the organizations’ financial tasks including intercompany accounting while supporting an active sales team.
Qualified candidates are proficient with Quickbooks, possess great communication skills, are able to track income and expenses across multiple revenue streams along with the ability to create budgets and establish efficient processes.
This is a full time, salaried, administrative position with health benefits, IRA contributions and more.
Send your confidential resume and credentials to jobs@keysweekly.com.
DEDICATION TO ANIMALS & CHILDREN
Pawsitive Beginnings founder named social media manager for local shelter
REEF THE FOX
Reef is a red fox that was saved from a fur farm. He now lives in Key Largo with his human, Nicole Navarro.
Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.”
My mom, Nicole Navarro, has officially taken on a new role as the social media manager for the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter. That’s right, folks, she’s expanding her empire beyond foxes and into the world of helping kids who need safety, love and a fresh start.
Now, let’s get one thing straight. I fully support my mom’s never-ending quest to make the world a better place. After all, she literally saved my life and has dedicated herself to giving foxes like me the second chance we deserve. She’s all about turning pain into purpose, and if she can use her magic to help kiddos the way she’s helped the rescued residents of Pawsitive Beginnings, then I guess I can allow this new adventure.
But. Let’s discuss the impact of this development on the most important creature in her life, me! The potential issues at hand: Quality time concerns. Will there be a decrease in “Reef Snuggle Time?” I require a certain amount of ear scratches, dramatic zoomies, and being told I’m the most handsome fox in existence
to function at my best. If this job cuts into my daily affirmations, we’re gonna have words. Social media priorities: As a fox-fluencer, I expect my brand to be maintained at its usual five-star standard. Will my perfectly crafted Instagram posts suffer? Will the world still get their daily dose of my ridiculous antics and devastating good looks? I demand reassurance.
The obvious upside: If there’s anyone who understands what it’s like to feel lost and in need of love, it’s me. I was tossed aside by humans who saw me as nothing more than a product, and my mom fought like crazy to give me a new life. The kids at the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter? They’re also searching for safety, love and a place where they can finally feel at home. And if my mom can give them even a fraction of the dedication she gives to us foxes, then I know they’re in good hands. She’s going to be out there telling their stories, shining a light on their resilience, and making sure the world knows how incredible they are, just like she does for us at Pawsitive Beginnings.
Final verdict: Even though I may have to share my mom with even more humans now, I get it. She’s meant to do this work. She was born to be a voice for the voiceless, whether they have fur, feathers, or just big hearts in need of healing.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to dramatically flop onto my bed and sigh for dramatic effect.
Until next time, Reef, over and out!
BUBBLES
At 3-½ months old, this charming little furball is ready to bring love and laughter into your life. With a playful personality and a heart full of affection, Bubbles is the perfect companion for cozy snuggles and sunny adventures. Adopt Bubbles today and discover the joy of unconditional friendship. Schedule a meet-and-greet by calling MarrVelous Pet Rescues at 305-453-1315.
SAVE THE DATE
March 6-9
• Key Players present “Almost, Maine” at the Murray Nelson Government & Cultural Center, Key Largo. Visit thekeyplayers.org for tickets and information.
Thursday, March 6
• 2025-26 Coral Shores High School Hurricane Showcase at 6:30 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center.
• MarrVelous Pet Rescue’s Yappy Hour from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Islamorada Brewery & Distillery, Islamorada. Dogs must be vaccinated, leashed and well socialized.
Friday, March 7
• Beats on the Bay music series features the Freebirds, Sounds of Lynyrd Skynyrd, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Founders Park Amphitheater. $10 parking fee.
• First Friday Concert featuring the Kennedys at 6 p.m. at Key Largo library.
March 8-9
• Marathon Seafood Festival at Marathon Community Park. Visit marathonseafoodfestival.com for more information.
• Vintage Dive Weekend at Jules Undersea Lodge, Key Largo. Scan the QR code to sign up.
Saturday, March 8
• Coral outplanting with I.CARE at 8:30 a.m. at Key Dives, Islamorada. Visit icareaboutcoral.org to learn more and sign up.
• Art Guild of the Purple Isles’ “Wildlife of the Keys” show opens with a public reception from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Our Place in Paradise, 88711 Overseas Highway, Islamorada.
Monday, March 10
• Islamorada Nature Walks & Talks with naturalist Susan Kolterman at 8:30 a.m. at Founders Park and Plantation Hammock Preserve, Islamorada. Pre-registration required, call 305-853-1685.
• Free, hands-only CPR class led by certified registered nurses from Baptist Health from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Key Largo library. Register by emailing Tania.Barnett@BaptistHealth.net. Space is limited.
Nicole Navarro, Pawsitive Beginnings founder and new social media manager for the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter, with Ben Kemmer, CEO for the children’s shelter. CONTRIBUTED
THE GREAT FLORIDA KEYS ROAD TRIP: JEWFISH CREEK BRIDGE INTO KEY LARGO
Caribbean Club had a big role in a classic film
Because Key Largo is the largest of the Florida Keys, and the Overseas Highway stretches 19.2 miles over the island, it has a lot of stories to tell. We will take it slow because this is the Florida Keys, and that’s the whole point, right?
With just one road, there is only so fast a car can safely go. However, every year, speed, coupled with impatience and bad decisions, wrecks vehicles and kills people (and Key deer). Take a breath, slow down and enjoy the drive, especially over the Jewfish Creek Bridge. At 65 feet, it is the highest point in the Keys.
However, it is not the only place along the island chain that is 65 feet high. If you are feeling energetic, at the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum near Mallory Square, there is a 65-foot-tall tower you can climb for another spectacular view.
The modern, arching Jewfish Creek Bridge is its third incarnation. The first was a swing bridge built for the Key West Extension of Henry Flagler’s East Coast Railway. It linked Key Largo to the mainland in 1907. The original railroad bridge was replaced by a bascule bridge when the third incarnation of the Overseas Highway, the one that incorporated the 18-Mile Stretch, opened in 1944.
The drawbridge was in operation until the modern Jewfish Creek Bridge opened in 2008. When driving over it and traveling down Key Largo, the southbound lane of the Overseas Highway follows the original right-of-way of Henry Flagler’s train. Be on alert, just a mile or two down the road is a world-famous roadside attraction, the Caribbean Club.
Found at MM 104, there are a lot of stories told about the club. Spoiler alert: not all of them are true. The good news is that the Caribbean Club is absolutely connected to Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall’s classic film “Key Largo.” Though some locals might try to argue, no scenes for the movie were filmed at the property. According to stories written by the people involved with the movie or those writing about them, with the exception of the opening scene of a bus traveling over the Overseas High-
FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI
is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.
way, the rest of the movie was filmed on a soundstage back in Los Angeles. However, the Caribbean Club played a significant role in the film’s pre-production. The movie was adapted from the 1939 Maxwell Anderson play of the same name. The director, John Huston, liked the title but not the content, so he hired screenwriter Richard Brooks to rework the screenplay to better suit his vision. Huston brought Brooks to Key Largo for inspiration. The two men spent about two weeks at the Caribbean Club. Though the club was officially closed for the summer, Mr. Hanley, the club’s manager, brought in help to cook and keep their rooms clean. He also opened up gaming tables where Huston and Brooks spent time gambling. In the stories written about their stay, it is alleged that Huston lost about $25,000 playing craps and roulette, and Brooks gambled away around $6,000.
For Brooks, the sum roughly equaled what he was being paid to rewrite the screenplay.
On the day they left the club and drove home to the mainland, Huston and Brooks tried their luck at Hanley’s tables one last time. While they gambled, a storm was building. By the time they left, both men had managed to win back a good chunk of their losses. Also, with the weather outside getting worse, parts of the road were underwater.
The film left an impression on the local community that is still felt. Back when Brooks was rewriting the screenplay, and doing a little gambling on the side, the postal address for the Caribbean Club was Rock Harbor, Florida. In those days, Rock Harbor and Tavernier were the two towns recognized by the post office on the island. Because of the movie’s success, people
were drawn to Key Largo. However, one of the problems with the trip was that, after arriving on Key Largo, it was not possible to send a postcard with a Key Largo postmark to friends and family to commemorate their visit.
The notoriety of the Caribbean Club brought money into the Rock Harbor community. So, the community banded together, as Florida Keys’ communities up and down the island chain have always done, and circulated a petition to change the official postal address from Rock Harbor to Key Largo. Successful in their efforts, the Rock Harbor Post Office ceased to exist on May 31, 1952. The Key Largo Post Office opened on June 1, 1952. From that point forward, when a postcard or letter was sent, it was postmarked with the words “Key Largo, Florida.”
More than just a cool place to tip one back or catch one of those world-famous Florida Keys sunsets, there is an original mile marker from the Henry Flagler era that has been restored and stands behind the club. There are only two left in the Keys, neither of which is in its original location. The other is on Big Pine Key.
After leaving the club and continuing down the road, you will come to a bridge where, prior to 1960, there was no need for a bridge. In an effort to cut through the island and create a quick passage between Florida Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, the island was cut into two pieces.
The idea was conceived by Marvin Dow Adams, who worked in the insurance industry and developed the nearby Anglers Park subdivision, which borders the cut on the Atlantic side of the highway. The exposed coral rock walls of the one-half-mile-long manmade canal are 15 feet tall. The passage, which opened on Feb. 26, 1961, has an average depth of 25 feet.
There are still more Rock Harbor stories to tell before reaching Tavernier, Tavernier Creek and the next island in the chain, Plantation Key. Don’t worry. We’ll get there.
In 2025, I’ll be exploring the Overseas Highway, its history, attractions and points I find interesting.
Brad
The original railroad swing bridge over Jewfish Creek. JERRY WILKINSON COLLECTION/Contributed
BIRD FLU CONCERNS IN THE KEYS
Many species visit island chain during migration
is the University of Florida, IFAS Monroe County Extension Director and Community Development Agent
We have been hearing a lot about avian influenza, or H5N1, and the price of eggs in the news recently. It got me thinking: should we be worried about bird flu here in the Keys? As it turns out, we should.
Although the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has not reported cases here in the Keys as of November 2024, our northern neighbors are seeing effects. The cases are wide-reaching across the U.S., with more than 8,000 birds affected in Miami-Dade alone.
This H5N1 strain of avian influenza virus affects not just poultry but a wide variety of wild birds, including hawks, eagles, falcons, owls, crows, vultures, shorebirds, game birds and seabirds, including egrets. The virus was even found in a bottlenose dolphin, cows and domestic cats. These mammal infections can happen when exposed to feces or an infected dead bird.
The virus is shed in infected birds’ saliva, mucus and feces and transmitted to other birds via ingestion or inhalation. The virus can cause severe illness and death in birds, but also it has been found in a wide variety of mammals.
Bird flu spreads through contact with infected birds, contaminated equipment, droppings or secretions. It can also spread through the air or by humans carrying the virus on their clothes or tools. Wild birds are common carriers. This is important because more than 100 species of birds fly over the Florida Keys every spring and fall in the Atlantic Flyway migration. Many use the island chain to take a break and recuperate before continuing their journey. Wild birds can represent a significant factor in influenza viruses due to their migration patterns, allowing viruses to spread quickly over large geographic regions.
What should we be doing? The first thing is to limit interaction
The H5N1 strain of the avian influenza virus is shed in infected birds’ saliva, mucus and feces and transmitted to other birds via ingestion or inhalation. ADOBE STOCK/Contributed
between domestic birds or cats with wild bird populations. Interestingly, the National Wildlife Disease Program does not recommend taking down feeders unless you keep domestic poultry. Small birds like songbirds shed less virus and are much less susceptible. They do suggest putting feeders out of a line of sight for wild birds and cleaning them often. If you have backyard poultry, make their food and water inaccessible to wild birds. Keep poultry indoors or otherwise physically separated from wild birds, if possible. Additionally, change your clothes and wash your hands before and after tending to them.
Are eggs safe to eat? Yes, eggs are safe to eat. However, experts say you should avoid eating them raw or undercooked; cook them to 165 degrees to be safe.
Any wild or backyard bird exhibiting signs of sickness should be reported for testing to determine whether the bird has been infected. Bird flu can cause symptoms such as:
• Sudden death without any prior symptoms.
• Respiratory distress: gasping for air, coughing, sneezing or nasal discharge.
• Swollen eyelids, combs, wattles and shanks.
• Blue or purple discoloration of their combs, wattles and legs.
• Neurological signs: twisting their necks, circling or stumbling.
• Diarrhea.
• Reduced egg production or eggs that are misshapen.
• Low energy or appetite.
What should you do if you suspect avian influenza? If you see a dead chicken, do not touch it or try to investigate yourself. Instead, report it to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services by emailing RAD@FDACS.gov. Report dead wildlife, including migratory birds, to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission at myfwc.com.
BRIEFLY
Talk highlights history of volunteer fire service
The Historic Preservation Society of the Upper Keys’ upcoming presentation features Frank Conklin for a talk on the history of Key Largo’s volunteer fire rescue service on Monday, March 10 at 7 p.m. at Coral Isles Church, 90001 Overseas Highway on Plantation Key in Islamorada. Learn about the service and what’s happening with the museum being created in the small original 1955 fire station at MM 99, oceanside. The talk is free and open to the public.
League of Women Voters hosts United Way
On Monday, March 10 at 6 p.m., the Upper Keys League of Women Voters will meet at the Keys Jewish Community Center, located at MM 93, oceanside. Guest speaker will be Leah Stockton, Keys Area president of the United Way of Collier and the Keys, who will explain the many ways the United Way serves the Keys.
The league is a nonpartisan organization focused on voter education and services. More information is at the Upper Keys League of Women Voters’ page on Facebook or via email to uklwvtreasurer@gmail.com.
Historian to speak on stereography
The Matecumbe Historical Trust and the Islamorada library will host a free lecture in the Islamorada library on Tuesday, March 11 starting at 6 p.m. Corey Malcom, lead historian for the Florida Keys History Center, will present “The Old Florida Keys in 3D.” This presentation will explore the art of stereophotography as practiced in the Keys over the past 160 years, and he will explain the history and technology behind the technique. Using
special software, Malcom has converted the center’s collection of 19th- and 20th-century Keys stereo photographs to an audience-friendly format. 3D glasses will be provided.
The Florida Keys History Center is a division of the Monroe County Public Library System tasked with the following mission: “To explore, preserve, promote, and make accessible the history of Monroe County, Florida.”
The presentation is free and open to the public. More information is at matecumbehistoricaltrust.org or 305-393-0940.
Orchid Society hosts Bill Peters
The Florida Keys Orchid Society will host Bill Peters of Whimsy Orchids for a hands-on demonstration of orchid care on Tuesday, March 11 at 6 p.m. at the Key Largo Civic Club. Peters has been commercially involved in the orchid-growing business for 44 years. Raffles and refreshments will be available. The public is welcome.
Signups open now for conch shell blowing class
Sign up now for the conch shell blowing class at the Key Largo Library. “Wavy Davey” Adamusko will teach the finer points of making a joyful noise to 15 adults. The conch shell blowing class is March 28 at 4 p.m., but signup is open from Monday, March 10 through March 20. Classes fill up fast and there could be a waiting list. Shell World has sponsored this class and donates a conch shell to go home with each student. Sign up at the library for the March class.
ALICIA BETANCOURT
Frank Conklin
Conch shell blowing class members.
IN OUR BACKYARD
HELPING BIRDS HELPS US
Tricia Keffer educates locals on ‘food trucks’ for migrating birds
MELINDA VAN FLEET
is a confidence & peak performance coach, bestselling author of “Confidence Mastery for Couples,” and speaker, who works with businesswomen to believe in themselves, take action and get results.
Have you ever wondered how birds feed along their migration trail? I had this conversation with my husband a few months before meeting Tricia Keffer, founder of the educational nonprofit Food Trucks for Birds, at the Native Plant Day at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
Keffer had a vendor table during the event. My husband and I both felt like we had seen fewer birds in the Keys this year, so we were curious.
“We are the last stop for them to add some fat and make it on their way. It’s 90 miles to Cuba and 130 miles to the Bahamas — no service coming down the plane aisle,” Keffer said.
Keffer is entrepreneurial to the core. She began her career studies in psychology, which led to dolphin training, and then she created a successful vacation portrait business that took her back and forth from Florida to Paris. As technology and the economy shifted, so did Keffer, and she went on to receive a master’s in landscape architecture from Florida International University in 2018.
“‘Food Trucks for Birds — on the Migration Highway’ started as an independent study of plants in Key Largo in 2022,” Keffer said. “The Florida Keys have the most diverse native trees and shrubs in the continental U.S. — 120 species. As I was studying the trees, I took a tree identification class with Florida State Park forest ranger Janice Duquesnel, who mentioned it being ‘about the birds.’
“The ‘food truck’ idea was born when I was traveling down the 18-mile Stretch into Key Largo one evening,” Keffer continued. “The sky was gray, and a rock song, ‘Highway to Hell’ by AC/DC, came on the radio, and I realized these birds were on a highway that was rough.” They had no stops like she did for coffee or gas.
Food Trucks for Birds is educationbased. Keffer meets with libraries, organizations and churches and attends local events to spread awareness about bird migration and simple native planting solutions so people can create their own “food truck” for birds on their migration pathway.
“It’s migration education for the DIY person,” she said.
Why do migrating birds matter?
Birds are integral to our ecological system for several reasons — they plant seeds through their feces, eat or peck at bugs, which helps keep trees and plants free from bugs that can destroy them, and more. So, we need birds to help maintain balance in nature.
“Everything has an ecological function and consequence,” Keffer
said. “Birds learn to eat small bits of new food over time. So, it could take generations for birds to learn to eat new food versus native.”
“We have changed our ecology faster than they can adapt,” she added. “So planting native trees and shrubs can jump-start our ecology.”
Three-hundred-fifty bird species travel from Alaska to Brazil and are considered neotropical migrants. The Keys are in line with what’s referred to as the Mid-Atlantic Highway; however, they don’t always take the same path.
Keffer also educates people on the importance of tropical hardwood hammocks for birds, which need a place to stop for native food. A hammock is a dense forest of hardwood trees that grow on slightly elevated ground. They are found in tropical and coastal areas and support a wide variety of plants and animals.
In simplest terms, a hammock is a plant (tree) community. Each hammock is named for the dominant plant in the community. As many locals would agree, there is an importance in the sense of community — awareness of the hammocks is just as important.
The Food Trucks for Birds website has a wealth of knowledge, and you can easily download the suggestions and instructions for wherever you live. The plan takes into account three factors: sun to shade, wet to dry, and salt spray. The native plant suggestions take these factors into account. To get started, Keffer recommended pulling up your address on Google Earth Maps to learn about your yard.
Once you understand your yard (ground or pot), you can start as simple as two wild coffee plants and a firebush. Her presentation shares seven native plant suggestions (lignumvitae, locustberry, white stopper, Keys thatch palm, Bahama nightshade, snowberry and wild coffee), but even starting at three plants is a step in the right direction. Use this list to visit your local garden center (such as Island Home MM 88.7) to see if they have them available or can order them for you.
“Find the plants that work together and look pretty. Also, understand your property and any utility lines, above or below ground, before digging,” Keffer said.
If you are interested in watching bird migration, as it tends to happen in the evening, Keffer recommended www.birdcast.info from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Colorado State University and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. According to the site, in Monroe County, migration starts to track on March 1 and goes through June 15. Another suggestion is Ebird, an app that you can also use to keep track of sightings.
In Keffer’s presentation, she has a slide with a bird and the quote, “Save the humans — the earth will be fine.” The way we can do this is to also help the birds.
More information is at www. foodtrucksforbirds.com, on Facebook @foodtrucksforbirds, via email to foodtrucksforbirds@gmail.com or at 850-585-3242.
An American kestrel captured by Cindy Smith. CONTRIBUTED.
Tricia Keffer presents her Food Trucks for Birds during a Morada Art Walk event in Islamorada. CONTRIBUTED
THE DOCTOR IS IN
CAROLYN DEPAULA www.keysweekly.com
From the nurse and the grocer to the teacher and landscaper, the Upper Keys community can’t thrive without the skills and talents of local workers who serve, produce, repair, research, advocate for, fundraise or build. We like to call them the “Mile Makers.”
The second “Mile Maker” of 2025 is Dr. Brian Magrane of South Florida Baptist Health’s Mariners Hospital in Tavernier.
When was the first time you said to yourself, “I’m going to become a physician.” I think I’ve known I’ve wanted to be a physician since I was a little kid.
What would someone be surprised to find out about your chosen career? You lose sleep often. You’re on call and may have long nights.
If you would have specialized in only one age group, which one would it have been? The answer’s all of them: I like treating a variety of age groups.
What attributes make a good medical doctor? Humility. Consistency.
Does one need a good memory to be able to be a good physician? You need lifelong learning to be a good physician. Lifelong learning is the buzz word.
What is the greatest satisfaction? Helping others.
What’s most intriguing when looking at the future of medicine, 10, 20 years from now? It’s going to be, probably, artificial intelligence, AI, and more of the viral engineering. If you don’t embrace it you’re going to be left behind.
What would you advise to anyone contemplating a career in medicine? Follow your passion. If you don’t have passion you’ll never be a doctor, no matter how smart you are.
If not a medical doctor, what other occupation would you have considered, or think you’d enjoy, and why? Something in health care ... maybe a nurse. Just something in health care.
‘TREMENDOUS SUCCESS’
Boat show support scholarships
The 10th annual Island Boat Show, held Jan. 24-26 at the Island Community Church north campus in Islamorada, attracted more than 2,500 participants and featured live music that added to the atmosphere.
With participation from most boat dealers throughout the Keys, the event showcased more than 130 boats.
In addition to the boats were dozens of exhibitors displaying merchandise, as well as food vendors. The show also featured a silent auction with a total value of more than $24,000, raffles, including a cooler filled with fishing supplies, and various prize money.
This year’s event was made possible with over 100 dedicated volunteers along with numerous members of the event planning committee.
Proceeds from the boat show directly support local student college scholarships and fund missions
and ministries of Island Community Church. Over the past several years, the show has enabled the church to award $50,000 annually in scholarships to qualifying college students from Monroe County. The 2025 student scholarship application process opened Feb. 24 and closes March 28. Visit IslandCommunityChurch. org/scholarships to learn more.
“This was the largest and most successful boat show ever,” said Dave Makepeace, boat show committee chair. “We are thrilled to continue our support for local students with the same $50,000 in scholarships this year, thanks to the tremendous success of the show.”
The next Island Boat Show is scheduled for Jan. 23-25, 2026, at the Island Community Church in Islamorada.
More information is available from Annie Reckwerdt at annier@islandcommunitychurch.org, on social media or at islandboatshow.com. — Contributed
n article on Col. Lou Caputo’s retirement in the Feb. 27 edition incorrectly stated that he served in the U.S. Army before the Vietnam War. Caputo joined the Army in 1969 during the Vietnam War. The involvement of the United States in the Vietnam War began in the 1950s and greatly escalated in 1965 until its withdrawal in 1973.
More than 130 boats were on display during the Island Community Church’s 10th annual boat show, held Jan. 24-26 in Islamorada. CONTRIBUTED
Brian Magrane followed passion to a medical career
Dr. Brian Magrane with his dog, Pixie. CONTRIBUTED
Advisor (RIA)
Islamorada Investment Management (est. 2008) recently acquired another veteran-owned RIA to expand client services and capabilities. The new firm is branded Bastion Fiduciary.
Steak
in
Founded by Betty Debnam
A Slave No More
I was the conductor of the Underground Railroad for eight years, and I can say what most conductors can’t say — I never ran my train off the track and I never lost a passenger.
—
Harriet Tubman
Do you know about the Underground Railroad? This was an organized network of people who helped enslaved people escape to the northern United States and Canada in the late 1700s and through the end of the Civil War.
Harriet Tubman, a former slave herself, helped more than 300 people escape slavery over 10 years. This week, The Mini Page learns more about this important abolitionist*
EARLY DAYS
Harriet Tubman was born Araminta Ross around March 1822 in Maryland. Her parents were enslaved people on a plantation there. She had eight brothers and sisters.
Harriet worked as a nursemaid and muskrat trapper as a child. When she was older, she did field and forest work and hauled wood.
In 1844, she married John Tubman and changed her first name to Harriet, after her mother. While John was a free man, Harriet was
still enslaved. In October 1849, she escaped. However, John refused to go with her.
ON THE ROAD TO FREEDOM
Harriet had to travel by night, using the North Star to guide her. She got help from the Underground Railroad as she made her way into Pennsylvania.
AT HOME
In 1859, Harriet bought a farm in Fleming, New York, where she often took in family members and friends. Later, during the Civil War, she worked as a nurse and helped gather intelligence for the Union Army in South Carolina.
After the war ended, she returned to New York and married Nelson Davis. She continued to work for the abolition of slavery and for the right to vote for women.
LATER LIFE
Back in New York, Harriet struggled in poverty. She was mostly unpaid for her own work with the military, and in 1880 her house burned down. When her husband died, she received his pension, or pay, from his time in the Union army. Finally, in 1899, she was awarded her own pension of $20 per month.
In the early 1900s, Harriet worked with the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church in Auburn, New York, to open the Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged. Three years after it opened, Harriet became a resident there herself. She died there in 1913 of pneumonia at about 90 years old.
Harriet worked in Philadelphia to save money. Starting in 1850, she returned to southern states again and again to help others run to freedom. By 1860, she had made 19 trips to slave territory, including one in which she rescued her 70-year-old parents. People started calling her “Moses,” after the biblical prophet who led the Hebrews to freedom.
NO TURNING BACK
Harriet had no patience for enslaved people who lost their nerve on the road to freedom. She was known to pull out a pistol and threaten their lives if they tried to turn back.
Harriet knew that if someone gave up and returned to slavery, they might be tortured into giving up information about how Harriet helped
Words that remind us of Harriet Tubman are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
RESOURCES
On the Web: • bit.ly/MPTubman
At the library:
• “Harriet Tubman: Union Spy” by Christina Leaf
• “Go Free or Die: A Story About Harriet Tubman” by Jeri Ferris
ECO NOTE
A “ghost” island in the Caspian Sea reappeared in early 2023 near Azerbaijan, only to nearly vanish again by the end of 2024, continuing a centuries-long pattern of temporary appearances. Formed by eruptions of the Kumani mud volcano, the island briefly emerged without the dramatic jets of fire such eruptions often produce, making its sudden arrival and quiet disappearance even more surprising. Australian geophysicist and mud volcano expert Mark Tingay noted that despite being close to the mainland, its emergence since 2023 had gone largely unnoticed.
Mini Fact: Harriet Tubman, far left, had to care for babies when she was just a child.
* An abolitionist is a person who wants to stop or outlaw slavery.
Harriet Tubman around 1868
Lady Fins plate 75 in 3 games | P.5
THE SCOREBOARD
Team Sport Opponent Date Result
Coral Shores Baseball Coral Park 2/25 W, 15-4
Key West Girls Lacrosse Archbishop McCarthy 2/25 L, 13-9
Coral Shores Boys Lacrosse Coral Reef 2/26 W, 14-5
Coral Shores Softball Pinecrest 2/26 W, 25-22
Marathon Softball Ransom Everglades 2/26 W, 19-9
Coral Shores Boys Lacrosse Westminster Academy 2/26 L, 12-2
Marathon Baseball NSU University 2/27 L, 9-0
Key West Softball Schoolhouse Prep 2/27 L, 11-2
Key West Girls Lacrosse Westminster Christian 2/28 L, 20-9
Coral Shores Boys Lacrosse Westminster Christian 2/28 W, 15-4
Coral Shores Baseball Hialeah 2/28 W, 15-0
Key West Boys Lacrosse Coral Reef 2/28 W, 16-11
Marathon Baseball Miami Country Day 2/28 W, 25-6
Key West Baseball NSU University School 2/28 W, 6-4
Key West Baseball NSU University School 3/1 L, 5-0
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
3/7
MARCH 6 THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS
DROZDETSKAIA
On
the tennis court Eva is focused, easy to coach and driven.”
– Joie Switzer, Lady Conchs tennis coach
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CONTRIBUTED
Last week, Key West’s Eva Drozdetskaia faced a giant at Gulliver Prep, and rather than losing her resolve, methodically went about dispatching her opponent. “Her composure, poise and positive attitude were steady throughout the match,” said head coach Joie Switzer. “She chose correct shots at the right time and continued to hit powerful shots, giving her the opportunities she needed to win points.” Drozdetskaia, who remains undefeated this season in both singles and doubles action, holds court for her team in the No. 1 singles spot and on the No. 1 doubles team, using her positive attitude and attention to detail to win points. For her relentless work ethic and astute practice of the nuances needed to make her the best, Key West’s Eva Drozdetskaia is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
THIS WEEK Eva
Junior, Key West Tennis
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.
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.
Se habla español THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES.
All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.
After eight top-four finishes at regionals, four Conchs and a Lady Conch, above, and three Hurricanes, below, will head to Kissimmee to battle through the brackets in the 2025 FHSAA State Wrestling Championships. CONTRIBUTED
EIGHT FOR STATE
Corrales captures regional gold as Keys grapplers secure spots in Kissimmee
Key West and Coral Shores sent their best wrestlers to Cardinal Gibbons High School in Fort Lauderdale on March 1 for the FHSAA 1A Region 4 championships. There, the Conchs and Hurricanes competed against the top talent from a pool of 34 teams.
When the final match was scored, Key West was third in the region, with Coral Shores in eighth. Key West’s impressive team placement was fueled, in part, with a first-place finisher in 175-pound Alfredo Corrales. Corrales, a senior, is the new regional champ, and will represent the Southernmost City at the FHSAA 1A State Championships at Silver Spurs Arena in Kissimmee this week.
Corrales will not be the only athlete wearing a Conch singlet at states; three more Key West grapplers qualified with top-four finishes at regionals. Abram Canet was the regional runner-up at 132 pounds and Jake Ferguson (120) and James Searcy (150) each placed fourth for an automatic bid to the big show. Joining the gentlemen will be Maria Halushka, who placed third in the girls competition on Feb. 22.
Also making the trip will be a trio of talent from the Upper Keys. Coral Shores’ Sebastian McCoy punched his ticket by securing the regional runner-up spot at 120 pounds. Costa Tuttle at 106 pounds and David Beltran (150) each finished in the third-place spot in their weight classes, making it a total of eight athletes from the Keys competing at the highest level in prep wrestling.
Weigh-ins and round one begin Thursday, March 6, with later rounds and the semifinals on March 7. Finals are scheduled for March 8, when state medalists will be determined.
tracy mcdonald
sean mcdonald
TRAIN KEEPS ROLLING FOR LADY FINS
Marathon brings home 46 runs in two games
Less than a week after opening their season with a 27-14 onslaught, Marathon’s softball team traveled to Ransom Everglades on Feb. 26 to take on the Raiders in Miami – and showed no signs of slowing down. The Lady Fins racked up seven hits against Ransom, including three from Madelyn Thornton, who homered and tripled, plus two from seventh-grader Shaina Robinson, who doubled.
Dani Perdomo and Elena Eubank each added a hit for Marathon. The Lady Fins stole a dozen bases, with Perdomo leading the pilfering with four. Thornton teamed up with Sara Robinson in the circle to strike out five Raiders. The 19-9 win put the Fins at 2-0 in early-season action with 46 runs scored in just two games.
Coral Shores found success at Pine Crest School
Coral Shores found success at Pine Crest School on Feb. 26, defeating the Panthers 25-22. According to the coaching staff, the Hurricanes had an impressive showing at the plate, with consistent hitting and solid base running. Addison Grady led the charge with four base hits. Melanie Estevez registered two singles and a double, and Presley Bagwell and Abby Vogt each added a pair of hits to the total.
The Lady ’Canes have struggled the past two seasons, but coach Lesa Bonee is confident this year’s group is headed in the right direction.
“We’re excited,” she said, adding that her group of athletes has plenty of talent.
struggled with numbers, but the 17-athlete roster
“They’re young, they’re learning the game, but they’re athletic,” she said. Last season, the team struggled with numbers, but the 17-athlete roster this season, with the majority being freshmen, gives the Hurricanes a lot to look forward to in the coming seasons.
The Lady Conchs fell to 3-2 after a loss to Schoolhouse Prep in Miami. Aaliyah Mcleod, Tavyn Gage and Vera Rodger each had a base hit for Key West in the 11-2 defeat.
Madelyn Thornton, left, and Shaina Robinson. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly
DROZDETSKAIA & AGUERO
REBUFF RAIDERS Hurricanes breeze past Dolphins
Key West’s tennis teams traveled to Gulliver Prep on Feb. 25 to play against some of the best competition in South Florida. The Raiders are renowned for their prowess on the courts, with 21 state titles between their girls and boys teams in the past 30 years. The Gulliver program’s reputation is enough to shake the resolve of most athletes, but not Key West’s Eva Drozdetskaia and Gabriela Aguero, who defeated Gulliver’s No. 1 doubles team 6-2 on Gulliver’s home court.
Drozdetskaia made it two wins for the Lady Conchs by winning her No. 1 singles match 8-5 over the Raiders’ top player, an athlete ranked No. 32 in women’s tennis for the country of Chile. The Lady Conchs’ head coach Joie Switzer was very excited about her team’s wins over Gulliver, attributing much of the success to her athletes’ positive attitudes and tennis savvy.
“They (Eva and Gaby) are friends off the court and that showed with how well they communicated, had fun, covered the court and encouraged each other after every point,” she said. “They did a great job of taking control of the points with their powerful serves and groundstrokes, which allowed them to be on offense for a majority of the match.”
While Key West was busy in Miami, Monroe County’s other two teams played closer to home. Coral Shores made the quick trip Feb. 27 to take on the Fins on the courts at Marathon Community Park. The Hurricane boys defeated the Dolphins 5-2 with wins from Zach Bolano, Max Smith and Tony Khioni in singles action plus both doubles teams, consisting of Bolano and Aidan Althouse and Smith and Merrick Dunn. The Dolphins did have a pair of bright spots, first in No. 1 singles player Adrien Holdinga, and in Anthony Iarocci, who captured a win in the No. 5 singles spot.
The Lady Fins started off strong, with a win from No. 1 singles player Emily Alvear. Alvear defeated her opponent 8-4, but it would be the only win for the Fins. Coral Shores’ Chloe Koval, Emma Sogegeian, Harlee Beeler and Kameron Vetter won their singles matches. Koval teamed up with Vanessa Gabriel to win the No. 1 doubles match and Sogegeian paired with Emily Rosu to take the No. 2 doubles win to beat the Dolphins 6-1.
Coral Shores’ Vanessa Gabriel, Tony Khioni and Max Smith.
Photos by DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
REGAN ROTH PUTS THE EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT ON
STACKING UP
Lifters adding more plates as district competition nears
Gulliver Prep and Coral Shores visited Marathon on Feb. 26 for a boys weightlifting meet with one month to go before districts. Marathon won both the traditional and Olympic events, with Coral Shores taking second place and Gulliver placing third. The Hurricanes had individual winners in Nick Brown and Tyler Bettner, who each won both events in their weight classes. Brown competes at 119 pounds while Bettner is in the 139-pound category.
Marathon had a half-dozen double winners, starting with senior Chase Leird in the 129-pound class. Damian Stasiewicz (169), Vitalii Konyk (183), Max Childress (199), Tanner Ross (229) and Braulio Garcia (238) all won both Olympic and traditional in their weight classes. Matthias Martinez-Velez won the traditional event in the 154-pound class.
Athletes continue to perfect their form and add more weight. Childress and Ross surpassed the 500-pound mark last week in the traditional event. Childress combined 250-pound lifts in the clean and jerk and bench press to hit 500. Ross benched 280 and added a 265-pound clean to make 545 pounds in total weight lifted.
GRIMI BETANCOURT
“I love working for Regan Roth Insurance, managing the Marathon office and selling insurance. This is a tight knit working family. I’ve seen and have personally experienced the generosity of this organization. They always make the employees feel appreciated! Regan Roth Insurance was voted the best Insurance agency! Let’s keep it that way!"
A Keys resident since 1987, Grimi joined Regan Roth Insurance in the Marathon o ce nearly six years ago. She is the o ce manager and handles sales. In the insurance business since 1978, Grimi got her start in high school working part time for the life insurance department at the American Bankers Insurance Company in Miami. When not in the o ce or out networking, Grimi can be found exercising, dancing or socializing. She plans to learn to play pickleball in 2025 and take more time for herself enjoying her home just like the vacationers do. She is a member of the Marathon Rotary Club and a past board member of the Marathon Chamber of Commerce.
Coral Shores’ Nick Brown, left, and Marathon senior Chase Leird topped the leaderboard in both events for their weight classes on Feb. 26. Photos by Barry Gaukel and Doug Finger.
HOME FIELD ADVANTAGE
Hurricanes double up on wins; Carballo nets five goals against Warriors
The home field made all the difference in lacrosse for the Hurricanes last week, as Coral Shores improved to 4-2 on the season, thanks to wins against Coral Reef and Westminster Christian.
After a resounding 14-5 win against Coral Reef on Feb. 24, the Hurricanes traveled to Fort Lauderdale’s Westminster Academy on Feb. 26, where the Lions had the upper hand, defeating Coral Shores 12-2. On Feb. 28, the Hurricanes reclaimed the homefield advantage, using it to dismantle the Warriors of Westminster Christian 15-4. Lucas Carballo scored five goals and added two assists. Reed Tudor netted four goals and one assist. Lucas Hajec and Yandel Chaguaseda had two goals apiece, with Hajec adding an assist.
Zane Martinez scored one with an assist and Noah Myers accounted for one. Nathaniel Shugarman was credited with an assist in the big win. In goal, Brock Bynum had 13 saves for the ’Canes, and coach Chris Carrow praised Jace Jackson for his outstanding faceoffs. After a
three-game week, Coral Shores will find no rest for the weary – three more games are scheduled for this week.
Key West’s boys split the week, with a 16-11 win against Coral Reef on Feb. 28, then a 13-11 loss to Westminster Christian in Miami. Key West also stands at 4-2 on the season.
Both of Monroe County’s girls teams struggled last week. Coral Shores’ girls are still in the hunt for win number one this season after a loss to Coral Reef. Key West slipped to 2-4 after losses to Archbishop McCarthy and Westminster Christian.
In the loss to McCarthy, Kaitlyn Piloto accounted for five of the Conchs’ nine goals plus a pair of assists. The Lady Conchs played four games in seven days and succumbed to fatigue.
“We were gassed and couldn’t keep up,” said Key West coach Marissa Giacopuzzi. “When we connected, beautiful things happened.”
Lucas Carballo’s five goals and two assists powered Coral Shores’ 15-4 thrashing of Westminster Christian. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
HEAVY HITTERS
Hurricane offense explodes for 28 knocks in two games
Coral Shores upped their baseball wins last week after two impressive offensive onslaughts over their opponents.
On Feb. 25, the ’Canes defeated Coral Park in a 15-4 road win, racking up 15 hits against the Rams. AJ Putetti and Riley O’Berry had three hits each, with two apiece coming off the bats of Donovan Thiery and Campbell Lavoie. Lavoie earned the win pitching for the Hurricanes in three innings on the mound. Glade Harrelson and Eddie Holly teamed up to finish off the Rams in win number one of the week.
Win number two came on Feb. 28 at home against the Thoroughbreds of Hialeah. Thiery continued his spectacular season on the mound, striking out 12, walking none and giving up a single hit in four innings. Four frames was all the Hurricanes would need before the mercy rule applied, ending the game at 15-0. Thiery was 4-4 at the plate with a single, a pair of doubles and a triple, with five RBIs. Maykol Bonito added three hits and Putetti notched two of the 13-hit total for Coral Shores.
Marathon went 2-1 last week, evening out their record to 4-4. The Fins started off strong at Ransom Everglades on Feb. 25, beating the rival Raiders 6-5 in a late-game rally. A Gavin Leal home run scored two in inning six, and a three-run push in the seventh iced the win. The Fins registered seven hits, including two each from Dylan Williams and Jack Chapman, and were error-free in the field. Williams got the start against Ransom, striking out five in two innings; Mason Thornton earned the win, striking out six in the final five frames.
Two nights later, NSU University School paid a visit to the Keys, stopping in Marathon before going to Key West for a pair of games. Against Marathon, the Sharks had a no-hitter and were a single error from a perfect game in their 9-0 win against the Dolphins.
Marathon quickly recovered with a Feb. 28 win over Miami Country Day. The Fins beat the Spartans 25-6 in Miami, amassing 19 hits, four walks and seven hit batters. Roco Piscetello, Bryan Broche, Jack Chapman, Jack Dunn, Jason Stubblefield and Gavin Leal had two hits apiece in the Fins’ romp. Piscetello was 3-3 at the plate and accounted for two of the Fins’ seven stolen bases. Four Dolphins saw time on the mound, collectively striking out nine batters, walking eight and surrendering six hits. Chapman started for the Fins, earning the win. Broche, Curren Nicolay and Shane Dieguez pitched in for the road win.
Key West handed NSU University School its first loss of the season on Feb. 28 after taking advantage of a pair of Shark errors in inning two. The Conchs capitalized on the NSU miscues, adding three hits and a pair of walks to score four in the second frame. A back-and-forth game kept Key West fans on the edge of their seats, but the Conchs would not need their final at-bat to put a blemish on the Sharks’ record.
Nelson Ong’s three hits and two RBIs were clutch in the 6-4 victory. Freshman Kade Maltz added a pair of hits to the team total of nine. Vinnie Moline pitched the first three and two-thirds innings, striking out six batters, walking four and surrendering five hits. Jon Carlos LampasGormley came in to close it out for the Conchs.
The following night, the Sharks cleaned up their defense, and their error-free play helped contribute to a different outcome. University School strung together a trio of pitchers to put a damper on the Conchs’ batting, walking four and giving up just two hits the entire game. Sam Holland’s double and Kaine Dickerson’s single were not enough to get the Conchs on the board in the 5-0 loss, which put Key West at 4-2 on the season.
Clockwise from top: AJ Putetti, Donovan Thiery, Riley O’Berry, Maykol Bonito and Campbell Lavoie. JOY SMITH/Contributed
THROWING THE DISTANCE
Conch boys dominate tosses at Panther Relays
Key West’s track and field team made the trip to Fort Lauderdale on March 1 for the 19th annual Pine Crest Panther Relays, where athletes were able to show off their skills in their usual events as well as some relays not held during regular meets.
The boys showed their strength with impressive results in the field events, particularly in throwing. Shane Lavallee was the lone Conch to bring home an overall win for Key West. His 157’6” toss was the best of 32 competitors. Teammates Anthony Jenner and Jeremiah Harvey finished second and third, with all three athletes’ best distances separated by just over four feet – a foot closer than the nearest competitor from another school could manage.
Also proving their prowess in the throwing events were Josh Johnson and Noah Mercer, who finished second in the shot put and discus events, respectively. The Conchs had a good showing in the jumping events, too; Jeff Dejean had third-place finishes in long and triple jump while Malachi Telisma was third in high jump.
The Lady Conchs’ best finish was also in a field event. Ariel Newton was second in the pole vault. On the track, Violet Jangraw, Emerson Jackson, Naima Thomas and Caylaa Makimaa went the distance, running a mile each to capture third place in the 4x1600 meter relay. Alyssandra Camargo, Lilia Mook, Jordan Greene and Newton did the same in the 4x200.
This week, the Conchs competed against their nearest neighbors in a meet at Coral Shores on March 4, which included Marathon as well as Barbara Goleman High. Results were not available at press time.
Shane
Lavallee. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
11TH STREET OCEAN MINI
STORAGE
Notice is here by given that on March 8th, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., 11th Street Ocean Mini Storage 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. 11th Street Ocean Mini Storage does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will be held at 200 11th Street, Ocean, Marathon, Florida 33050. Units to be sold: Unit #20
Publish: February 27 and March 6, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
DISTRICT I ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC I) (encompasses the City Limits of Key West) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council has an opening for a TOURIST RELATED BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVE - Shall be persons involved in business which is interdependent upon the tourist industry who have demonstrated an interest in tourist development but who shall not be employed in any position within the lodging industry (motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks, and other tourist accommodations and whose business is in the tax collection district for which they are applying).
Any person wishing to participate on the District I Advisory Committee of
the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys. com. Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@ fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address below: Department DAC Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040
The deadline for receipt of application at the above address is 5:00 p.m. on Friday March 21, 2025. A resume may be attached to the application.
Publish: March 6, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENTS HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the CITY COMMISSION of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida will hold a Public Hearing First Reading on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 9:30 a.m., or as soon thereafter as the agenda permits. This meeting will be at the Key Colony Beach City Hall Commission room located at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida, 33051. The City Commission will hear the following Ordinance:
ORDINANCE NO. 2025-497
AN ORDINANCE OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES OF THE FUTURE LAND USE, TRANSPORTATION, HOUSING, INFRASTRUCTURE, COASTAL MANAGEMENT, CONSERVATION, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE, INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION, AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS, ELEMENTS OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN; ADDING A PROPERTY RIGHTS ELEMENT AND ACCOMPANYING GOAL, OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES; AS MANDATED BY FLORIDA STATUTES 163.3177; PROVIDING FOR TRANSMITTAL TO THE STATE LAND PLANNING AGENCY; PROVIDING A CONFLICTS CLAUSE AND SEVERABILITY CLAUSE, PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. This meeting will be available virtually via ZOOM Meetings. Members of the public who wish to attend virtually may join the Zoom Meeting at https://us02web. zoom.us/j/81251683838?pwd =1HgjibnvJbgl2KifRl405qoStVCWae.1
Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach.
The City Commission requests an amendment to the City’s Comprehensive Plan in order to guide and control the future development of the City to preserve, promote, and protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare. This proposed amendment is required by Florida law in areas of critical state concern. Interested parties may attend the Hearing and be heard with respect to the requested code amendment.
If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. If you are unable to attend the Hearing on Thursday, March 20th, 2025, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to: City Clerk, P.O. Box. 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net and your comments will be entered into the record.
Silvia Roussin
Publish: March 6, 2025.
DISTRICT III ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC III) (from the West End of the Seven Mile Bridge to the Long Key Bridge) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL
has an opening for an “At Large” representative - Any resident who is not directly involved in a tourism business and who shall represent the general public and shall live or work within the tax collection district for which they are applying. (The operative word within this description is directly. This word means someone who is not in business, nor whose business or economic activity is dependent upon tourists.)
Any person wishing to participate on the District III Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys. com. Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@ fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address below:
Department DAC Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040
The deadline for receipt of application at the above address is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025. A resume may be attached to the application.
Publish: March 6, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
DISTRICT III ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC III) (from the West End of the Seven Mile Bridge to the Long Key Bridge) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL has an opening for a LODGING INDUSTRY REPRESENTATIVE – Shall be owners or operating/general managers of motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks, or other tourist accommodations which are subject to bed tax in the tax collection district for which they are applying. Any person wishing to participate on the District III Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys. com. Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@ fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address below:
Department DAC
Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040
Deadline for receipt of
application at the above address is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 21, 2025. A resume may be attached to the application.
Publish: March 6, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
FISHING ADVISORY COMMITTEE (District III Representative) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL has an opening for a District III Fishing Advisory Committee Representative (from the West End of the Seven Mile Bridge to the Long Key Bridge) Must reside full time in the Florida Keys and have a fishing related business or represent and have knowledge of fishing tournaments that utilize/ request funding from the specific bed tax district they are representing. Any person wishing to participate in the Fishing Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys. com. Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@ fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address below:
Department FAC
Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040
The deadline for receipt of application at the above email address is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 21, 2025. A resume may be attached to the application. It is the applicant’s responsibility to confirm the email was received.
Publish: March 6, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at 10:00 A.M., at the Murray Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway Key Largo, FL 33037, the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners is providing an opportunity, if requested, to receive public comment on: Monroe County’s Intent to Submit an Application to FDOT for Grant Funding pursuant to 49 U.S.C. Section 5310, “Formula Grants for Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities.”
All interested parties within Monroe County are hereby advised that Monroe County, by and through the Social Services Department, is applying to the Florida
Department of Transportation for a capital grant under Section 5310 of the Federal Transit Act of 1991, as amended, for the purchase of two (2) para-transit vehicles (to wit: ADA Chrysler Voyager minivans, with an estimated Federal Funding: $126,000; Cost to Monroe County: $14,000 = aggregate cost of $140,000) to be used for the provision of public transit services within Monroe County.
This notice is to provide an opportunity for a Public Hearing on this application/ project. This public notice is to ensure that this application/ project and the contemplated services will not duplicate current or proposed services provided by existing transit or paratransit operators in the area.
This hearing will be conducted if and only if a written request for the hearing is received by 03/13/2025.
Requests for a hearing must be addressed to Sheryl Graham, Sr. Director, Monroe County Social Services, at 1100 Simonton Street, Suite 2-257, Key West, FL 33040 (or sent by email to GrahamSheryl@MonroeCounty-FL. Gov) and a copy sent to Raymond Freeman, Passenger Operations Manager, FDOT District Office, 1000 N.W. 111th Avenue, Room 6108, Miami, FL 33172. Please Note: Florida Law and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 Prohibits Discrimination in Public accommodation on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability,income or of marital status.
Persons believing they have been discriminated against on these conditions may file a complaint with the Florida Commission on Human Relations at 850-488-7082 or 800-342-8170 (voice messaging).
Publish: March 6, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF CODE AMENDMENT HEARING “SECOND/FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 2025-498” NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances.
DATE/TIME: Thursday, March 20th, 2025, 9:35 am OR at the conclusion of the Public Hearing
LOCATION: City of Key Colony Beach, Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach. The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2025-498],
The following is an upcoming GMX procurement opportunity:
City Clerk, City of Key Colony Beach REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ)
PROCUREMENT/CONTRACT NO.: RFQ-25-06 GMX WORK PROGRAM NO.: 83618-001.013
PROJECT/SERVICE TITLE: ENVIRONMENTAL SITE ASSESSMENT SERVICES FOR KENDALL PARKWAY SEGMENTS 1 AND 2
For detailed information please visit the Procurement Department website at www.gmx-way.com/business/solicitations, or call the Procurement Department at 305-637-3277 for assistance.
Publish: March 6, 2025. The Weekly Newspapers
entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH FLORIDA, AMENDING CODE OF ORDINANCE ARTICLE VI – FINANCE, SECTION 2-75 TO INCREASE THE DISCRETIONARY SPENDING THRESHOLD; REPEALING CONFLICTING ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.”
The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www.keycolonybeach.net and at City Hall at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.
If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing on Thursday, March 20th, 2025, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to: City Clerk, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, and your comments will be entered into the record. To be published: On or before March 10th, 2025 City Clerk City of Key Colony Beach, Florida Publish: March 6, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, THAT THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH WILL BE HOLDING PUBLIC HEARINGS ON:
City Commission Public Hearing: Thursday, April 17th, 2025, 9:30 A.M. LOCATION: City of Key Colony Beach City Hall Auditorium ‘Marble Hall’ 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051 To hear a Variance Request from Joseph Suarez, Agent to the Property Owner 15th Circle LLC, Owner of the property located at 230 15th Circle, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051. This meeting will be available via Zoom Meetings. Members of the public who wish to attend virtually may email the City Clerk at cityclerk@ keycolonybeach.net or call 305-289-1212, Ext. 2 for further instructions on attending via Zoom Meetings. The applicant requests a variance to the Key Colony Beach Land Development Regulations, Chapter 2, Section 101-8, to construct a 5-foot reinforced concrete retaining wall at 230 15th Circle. The wall will allow the builder to stabilize the shoreline and prevent erosion. It is consistent with neighboring homes that have similar 5-foot retaining walls. Interested parties may attend the Hearing and be heard with respect to the requested variance.
If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach with respect to any matter considered at the Variance Hearing, that person will need a record of the
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •
proceedings and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.
If you are unable to attend the Hearings on Wednesday, March 19th, 2025, or Thursday, April 17th, 2025, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to the City Clerk at P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or via email at cityclerk@ keycolonybeach.net, and your comments will be entered into the record.
Published: On or before March 9th, 2025 City Clerk, City of Key Colony Beach
Publish: March 6, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH WILL BE HOLDING THE FOLLOWING PUBLIC
HEARINGS:
DATE/TIME:
Planning & Zoning Hearing:
Wednesday, March 19th, 2025, 9:30 A.M.
City Commission Public Hearing: Thursday, April 17th, 2025, 9:30 A.M.
LOCATION:
City of Key Colony Beach City Hall Auditorium ‘Marble Hall’
600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051
To hear a Variance Request from Joseph Suarez, Agent to the Property Owner 15th Circle LLC, Owner of the property located at 260 15th Circle, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051. This meeting will be available via Zoom Meetings. Members of the public who wish to attend virtually may email the City Clerk at cityclerk@ keycolonybeach.net or call 305-289-1212, Ext. 2 for further instructions on attending via Zoom Meetings. The applicant requests a variance to the City of Key Colony Beach Code of Ordinances, Chapter 5, Article III, Division 3, Sec. 5-35, requesting to construct 2 (two) “T”-shaped docks along the existing seawall, maintaining compliance with the setback requirements and avoiding encroachment on neighboring properties. Current regulations specify no more than one (1) dock per lot Interested parties may attend the Hearing and be heard with respect to the requested variance.
If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach with respect to any matter considered at the Variance Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.
If you are unable to attend the Hearings on Wednesday, March 19th, 2025, or Thursday, April 17th, 2025, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to the City Clerk at P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or via email at cityclerk@ keycolonybeach.net, and your comments will be entered into the record.
Published: On or before March 9th, 2025 City Clerk, City of Key Colony Beach Publish: March 6, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 24-CP-445-M IN RE: THE ESTATE OF RICHARD KAUFFMAN, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of RICHARD KAUFFMAN, deceased, whose date of death was July 22, 2024, Case: 24-CP-445-M, is pending in the Circuit Court, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
The date of first publication of this Notice is: March 6, 2025.
Personal Representative: KATHY LYNN KNIGHT
c/o Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq. Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A. 3130 Northside Drive Key West, Florida 33040
Attorney for Personal Representative: Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0144304
Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A. 3130 Northside Drive Key West, Florida 33040 Email designation for service: Service.Probate@ samkaufmanlaw.com Telephone: (305) 292-3926
Fax: (305) 295-7947
Publish: March 6 & 13, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-58-K DIVISION: LOWER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF EDGAR FRANKLIN MOORE III aka FRANKLIN MOORE III, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of EDGAR FRANKLIN MOORE III aka FRANKLIN MOORE III, deceased, whose date of death was November 5, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE
OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is: March 6, 2025.
Personal Representative: Glenda M. Moore 3901 Osprey Lane Big Torch Key, Florida 33042
Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner
Attorney
Florida Bar Number: 283134
RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050
Telephone: (305) 743-6022
Fax: (305) 743-6216
E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com
Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com
Publish:
March 6 & 13, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-56-M
DIVISION: MARATHON
IN RE: ESTATE OF BONNIE KEYS CARL Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Bonnie Keys Carl, deceased, whose date of death was December 29, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representatives and the personal representatives’ attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate
must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is: March 6, 2025.
Personal Representatives: Margot E. Everett 650 Delancey St, Apt 217 San Francisco, California 94107
Lauren Carl 1806 Laguna St, Santa Barbara, California 93101
Attorney for Personal Representatives: Robert K. Miller, Esq.
Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173
Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938
Marathon, FL 33050
Telephone: (305) 743-9428
Fax: (305) 743-8800
E-Mail: service@ floridakeyslaw.com
Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com
Publish: March 6 & 13, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO. 25-CP-13-K IN RE: ESTATE OF MARY ANN FINLAY, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS OR DEMANDS AGAINST THE ABOVE ESTATE: The administration of the Estate of Mary Ann Finlay, deceased, File No. 25-CP-13-K, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 502 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040. The name and address of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served, must file their claims with the clerk of the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Address: 502 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040 ON OR BEFORE 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 persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The Personal Representative or Curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property
to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, 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 February 27, 2025. Dated at Miami-Dade County, Florida this 12th day of February, 2025. Personal Representative: EDWARD W. FINLAY Attorney for Personal Representative: M. BARBARA AMARO ESQ. FBN 611298 156 Hillside Dr., Neptune, NJ 07753 8950 SW 74 Court, Suite 2201, A-19 Miami, FL 33156 (305) 384-7213 (888) 508-5215 Fax Barbara@AmaroProbateLaw. com
Publish:
February 27 & March 6, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24-DR-941-P JON KONRAD, Petitioner, and JONATHON RANDOLPH, Respondent.
NOTICE OF ACTION FOR ADOPTION TO: JONATHON RANDOLPH RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 9323 WELBY TERRACE, THORNTON, CO 80229
YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Adoption has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Jon Konrad, whose address is 103041 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 on or before March 27, 2025, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Tavernier, 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.
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: February 18, 2025 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Jennifer Havengar Deputy Clerk Publish: February 27 and March 6, 13 & 20, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-DR-914-K
DIVISION: FAMILY TOMAS ZINDULKA, Petitioner, and WARD LEROY HAFNER, Respondent.
NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: WARD LEROY HAFNER Respondent LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 3806 CINDY AVENUE KEY WEST, FLORIDA 33040 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on the Petitioner, TOMAS ZINDULKA, through his counsel of record Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq., The Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A., whose address is 3130 Northside Drive, Key West, Florida 33040 on or before March 13, 2025, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at the following address: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on the 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: February 6, 2025 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Destiny Johnson Deputy Clerk Publish: February 13, 20 & 27 and March 6, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY THE CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 21ST day of March 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: THE WESTERLY 40 FEET OF LOT 12, LOT 13 AND LOT 14, BLOCK 29, SANDS SUBDIVISION, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 1, PAGE 65, IN THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA. Property Address: 31132 AVENUE E, BIG PINE KEY, FL 33043
Pursuant to FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 3rd day of February 2025 Style of which is: U.S. BANK N.A., SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., SUCCESSOR TO LASALLE BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF
OF THE HOLDERS OF THE WASHINGTON MUTUAL MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, WMALT SERIES 2005-5 Plaintiff
vs. MATTHEW RYAN PARROTT A/K/A MATTHEW R. PARROTT; WORTHY H. MAYNARD; VALDINE S. PARROTTMAYNARD A/K/A VALDINE SCHWILM PARROTTMAYNARD A/K/A VALDINE PARROTT MAYNARD; UNKNOWN TENANT IN POSSESSION OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CA001080-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 5TH day of February 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming as interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: March 6 & 13, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF ACTION RE: MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB II ASSOCIATION, INC MONROE County, Florida NON-JUDICIAL TIMESHARE FORECLOSURE PROCESS TO: Unit Owner(s) Last Known Address Unit Week(s)
John W Cummings 109 Poland Hill Place Lafayette, IN 47909
B201/03
$6,443.14 B201/04
$6,443.14 B201/47 $6,443.14 A202/21
$6,443.14
David B Denholtz and Rhonda J Denholtz 13231 Shetland Lane Ft Myers, FL 33912 D202/31 $2,951.14 D202/32 $2,951.14 Troy Gonyea and Michelle Gonyea 16 Silver Street Meriden, CT 06450 E102/20 $1,514.85 Jennifer L Hill 931 Cordova Avenue Ormond Beach, FL 32174 C101/21 $5,402.08 Ralph W Hoffman 21225 Railroad Avenue High Springs, FL 32643 B102/25 $1,517.30 Anita Holt 12 N 269 Factly Road West Sycamore, IL 60178 B102/50 $4,047.55
Lorraine Khoury 7545 Oso Blanca Road Las Vegas, NV 89149 B101/05 $4,712.06 B101/06 $4,712.06 Isadoro Perez and Miladys Perez 13460 SW 66th Street Southwest Ranches, FL 33330 A102/27 $2,960.14 Porter, LeVay & Rose, Inc
E101/12
$4,048.94
Anne E Richardson 5000 S Centinela Ave #213 Los Angeles, CA 90066
B102/36
$2,960.14
Kennella L Rowzie
604 Deen Road
Bunnell, FL 32110
C102/01
$1,516.58
Joseph A Viani and Mary Viani
7263 Halleck Street
Viera, FL 32940
C201/40
$1,517.30
Louis J Wilder
405 Southwind Drive, Apt 1 North Palm Beach, FL 33408
YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED of an action for non-judicial foreclosure of timeshare units on the Claim of Lien on the following described real property, located in MONROE County, Florida, to-wit: Unit Numbers and Annual Timeshare Use Periods (as set forth above) in MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB CONDOMINIUM II, and all appurtenances thereto, according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof, as recorded in Official Records Book 859, Page 786 of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida and all amendments and exhibits thereto. has been filed against you. If you fail to cure the default as set forth in this notice or take other appropriate action with regard to this foreclosure matter, you risk losing ownership of your timeshare interest through the trustee foreclosure procedure established in Section 721.855, Florida Statutes. You may choose to sign and send to the trustee an objection form, exercising your right to object to the use of the trustee foreclosure procedure. If you would like an Objection form, you should contact the undersigned Trustee, Thomas L Avrutis, Esquire, in writing. Upon the trustee’s receipt of your signed objection form, the foreclosure of the lien with respect to the default specified in this notice shall be subject to the judicial foreclosure procedure only. You have the right to cure your default in the manner set forth in this notice at any time before the trustee’s sale of your timeshare interest. Objections must be made in writing to:
Thomas L Avrutis, Esquire
TRUSTEE FOR MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB II ASSOCIATION, INC 201 Fletcher Avenue, Second Floor Sarasota, FL 34237 within 30 days of the first date of publication of this Notice. If you do not object to the use of the trustee foreclosure procedure, you will not be subject to a deficiency judgment even if the proceeds from the sale of your timeshare interest are insufficient to offset the amounts secured by the lien. Dated this _19th__ day of ___FEBRUARY_______, 2025.
Thomas L Avrutis, Esquire, TRUSTEE TRUSTEE for MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB II ASSOCIATION, INC
Publish: February 27 and March 6, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIRCUIT CIVIL DIVISION
CASE NO.: 25-CA-000047-P JAVIER CERVERA, Plaintiff,
v. ERIC SOULAVY AND CRISTINA BEHRENS DE SOULAVY, Defendants. ____________________/ NOTICE OF ACTION
TO DEFENDANTS, ERIC SOULAVY AND CRISTINA BEHRENS DE SOULAVY, AND ALL OTHERS WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose a mortgage on the following property in Monroe County, Florida:
Legal Description: Condominium Unit No. 33, of ANGLERS CLUB, a Condominium, according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof, as recorded in Official Records Book 1028, at Page 2375, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all amendments thereto, together with its undivided share in the common elements.
a/k/a 50 Clubhouse Road #33, Key Largo, FL 33037 has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on JORGE L. FORS, JR., FORS | ATTORNEYS AT LAW, the Plaintiff’s attorney, whose address is 1108 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables, FL 33134, on or before 27th day of March, 2025 and file the original with the clerk of this court either before service on the Plaintiff's attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition.
DATED on this 18th day of February, 2025.
KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Court
By: Jennifer Havengar Deputy Clerk Publish: February 27 & March 6, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CIVIL DIVISION
Case#: 2012-CA-000363-K Federal National Mortgage Association
Plaintiff,
-vs.Joseph Patrick Clements a/k/a Joseph P. Clements and Debra Lynn Clements a/k/a Debra L. Clements a/k/a Debbie L. Clements; Branch Banking and Trust Company, Successor by Merger to Republic Bank; Iberiabank; Unknown Parties in Possession #1, If living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) who are not known to be dead or alive, whether said Unknown Parties may claim an interest as Spouse, Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, or Other Claimants; Unknown Parties in Possession #2, If living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) who are not known to be dead or alive, whether said Unknown Parties may claim an interest as Spouse, Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, or Other Claimants Defendant(s).
NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to order rescheduling foreclosure sale or Final Judgment, entered in Civil Case No. 2012-CA000363-K of the Circuit Court of the 16th Judicial Circuit in and for Monroe County, Florida, wherein Federal National Mortgage Association, Plaintiff and Joseph Patrick Clements
a/k/a Joseph P. Clements and Debra Lynn Clements
a/k/a Debra L. Clements
a/k/a Debbie L. Clements are defendant(s), I, Clerk of Court, Kevin Madok,CPA, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash AT THE MONROE COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040, AT 11:00
A.M. on March 12, 2025, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to-wit: Property Address: 728 Prado Circle, Key West, FL 33040 LOT 23, BLOCK 2, AMENDED PLAT OF COPPITT SUBDIVISION, (A RESUBDIVISION OF PLAT BOOK 3, AT PAGE 116) LOCATED IN GOVERNMENT LOT 5, SECTION 27, TOWNSHIP 67 S., RANGE 26 E., BIG COPPITT KEY, MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 4, AT PAGE 50, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA. ANY PERSON CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THE SURPLUS FROM THE SALE, IF ANY, OTHER THAN THE PROPERTY OWNER AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MUST FILE A CLAIM NO LATER THAN THE DATE THAT THE CLERK REPORTS THE FUNDS AS UNCLAIMED. Florida Rules of Judicial Administration Rule 2.540 Notices to Persons With Disabilities If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Cheryl Alfonso, ADA Coordinator, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.
SPANISH: Si usted es una persona discapacitada que necesita alguna adaptación para poder participar de este procedimiento o evento; usted tiene derecho, sin costo alguno a que se le provea cierta ayuda. Favor de comunicarse con Cheryl Alfonso, Coordinadora de A.D.A Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 por lo menos 7 días antes de que tenga que comparecer en corte o inmediatamente después de haber recibido ésta notificación si es que falta menos de 7 días para su comparecencia. Si tiene una discapacidad auditiva ó de habla, llame al 711.
KREYOL: Si ou se yon moun ki kokobé ki bezwen asistans ou aparêy pou ou ka patisipé nan prosedu sa-a, ou gen dwa san ou pa bezwen péyé anyen pou ou jwen on seri de èd. Tanpri kontakté Cheryl Alfonso, Co-ordinator ADA, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652O'mwen 7 jou avan ke ou gen pou-ou parèt nan tribunal, ou imediatman ke ou resevwa avis sa-a ou si lè ke ou gen pou-ou alé nan tribunal-la mwens ke 7 jou; Si ou pa ka tandé ou palé byen, rélé 711.
Kevin Madok, CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk of Court
Publish: February 27 and March 6, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CIVIL ACTION CASE NO.: 24-CA-000958-K CANDANCE ILENE VALLADARES Individually Plaintiff, vs. Equity Link, INC.
A California Incorporated Company NuView IRA, Inc. f/k/a/ Entrust Administration Services, Inc. A Florida Profit Corporation Warren Lloyd Holtzman IRA, MINDY SILVERSTEIN, Individually JOSE MIRANDA, Individually Defendants _____________/ AMENDED NOTICE OF ACTION FOR PUBLICATION To: Equity Link, Inc., Registered Agent Kevin Costa Last known address: 4522 Old Spanish Trail, Jacksonville, FL 32257 YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to Quiet Title and to remove the cloud from title of the real property described as: PART OF LOT 51 ACCORDING TO MCDONALD’S SURVEY OF PART OF STOCK ISLAND RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 1, PAGE 55 OF MONROE COUNTY PUBLIC RECORDS AND IS MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: FROM THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID BLOCK 51, GO WESTERLY ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF THIRD AVENUE A DISTANCE OF 250 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE AT RIGHT ANGLES AND NORTHERLY A DISTANCE OF 200 FEET TO A POINT; WHICH POINT IS THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUE NORTHERLY ALONG THE PROLONGATION OF THE PREVIOUSLY DESCRIBED COURSE A DISTANCE OF 70 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE AT RIGHT ANGLES AND WESTERLY A DISTANCE OF 125 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE AT RIGHT ANGLES AND SOUTHERLY A DISTANCE OF 70 FEET; THENCE AT RIGHT ANGLES EASTERLY A DISTANCE OF 125 FEET BACK TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA with a physical address of: 6430 Sunshine Street, Key West, FL 33040. Folio Number: 00126510-000000 has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it, on Eric J. Sanchez PA, Attorney for Plaintiff, whose address is 4960 SW 72nd Avenue, Suite 206, Miami, FL 33155, (786) 408-9681 on or before March 31, 2025, a date which is within thirty (30) days after the first publication of this Notice in The Keys Weekly and file the original with the Clerk of this Court at Freeman Justice Center, 302 Fleming Street., Key West, FL 33040, either before service on Plaintiff's attorney or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default and judgment will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.
Dated: February 19, 2025
KEVIN MADOK, CPA, Clerk CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk
Publish: February 27 and March 6, 13 & 20, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
WANTED
ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks.
Truck For SaleHandyman's special: '07 F350 Utility Truck with tools on truck. Located in Key West. $12,000 305-393-6253
PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD FOR ONLY $25/WEEK FOR UP TO 5 LINES OF COPY. CALL 305-743-0844 TODAY!
BOATS FOR SALE
2021 325 CC World Catlow hours, very clean, new Spot Lock, new anchor puller, life raft, full cover, on a lift at Key Colony Beach. Call Harry 724-689-9085
GREAT DEAL: Key Largo 21' Deep V Center Console w/trailer. New 150hp motor & electronics. Ready to fish. PRICE REDUCED TO $20,000. Located in Marathon. 201-696-8906
BOAT SLIP FOR RENT
Boat Dockage for rent in Marathon. Private bay bottom, up to 40' boat, self containing, offshore water, car & dingy parking space provided. 305-610-8002
EMPLOYMENT
ALL KEYS GUTTER HIRING INSTALLERS $25/$35hrMajor Holidays Off - Benefits - Tavernier. Apply: call or text Jay 305-587-1581
Night Monitor – FREE Private Room in exchange for overnight availability at our Assisted Living Facility. 5 nights on, 5 nights off 10pm-8am plus weekly stipend, Drug & background screen required. www.westcare. com/join-our-team/
All Keys Yamaha hiring a Technician Marine Repair specializing in Yamaha outboard engines. Also hiring: Retail Parts/Counter Help - Marine outboard knowledge a plus. Quickbook experience a plus. Hours M-F 8a- 5p for both positions. Apply in person at 2001 Overseas Highway, Marathon. 305-743-3530
Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time line cook. Private club, friendly atmosphere. Flexible lunch/ dinner shifts available Tuesday – Saturday, some Sundays. English proficiency required. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Email office@ marathonyachtclub.com to schedule an interview.
Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time bookkeeper. QuickBooks experience required. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Email office@ marathonyachtclub.com to schedule an interview.
Groundskeeper/ Maintenance person, KCB, Sea Isle Condominium, 20 hrs. per week, $25 per hr., apply by e-mail to HardingThomasL@aol.com, text or call 734-476-0531.
Receptionist for law firm in Marathon. Computer and writing skills. Call or email 305743-9428 or service@ floridakeyslaw.com.
Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am- 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.
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Resident Care Supervisor with min. 3 yrs. experience of an LPN, CarpenterFT-KeyWest, Housing Manager- FT-Marathon, Housing Assistant FTKey West Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha.org or 305-296-5621. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www. kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968
Specialty Hardware of Marathon is looking for a full time person, hardware knowledge a must. Apply in person at 10730 Overseas Hwy Marathon. 305-743-3382 HIRED!!!
PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD FOR ONLY $25/WEEK FOR UP TO 5 LINES OF COPY. CALL 305-743-0844
Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches.
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Engineering Department:
PROJECT
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $131,081/annually$134,751/annually
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications,
priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.
IN HOME SUPPORT LIVE-IN CARETAKER (FT) – Key West
Seeking a full-time, live-in, In-Home Support Coach/Trainer to provide companionship and assist clients with training/support. HSD/GED & 1 yr. exp in a related field. 1 year of college can substitute for experience. Must be able to use a tablet for documentation purposes. The shift for this job is split shift with hours in the morning and the evening. We can be flexible on the hours but must be available to work both days and evenings as needed. *
SUPPORTED LIVING COACH (FT)
Responsibilities include management of developmentally disabled clients in independent living environments, management of office and in-home support staff. Must be available for some evenings and weekends. Bachelor’s degree in related field or experience working with developmentally disabled clients in lieu of degree. Must have a valid FL driver’s license. Salary commensurate with experience.*
GROUP HOME MANAGER – (FT) – Key West
FT administrative, salaried position. Responsible for operations of Group Homes in accordance with State and Fed regulations. Oversight of staff and clients. Bachelor’s degree and Florida DL w/clean driving record req. At least 2 years of mgmt and admin experience req, and direct or comparable experience w/same or similar population preferred. Computer skills: moderate to advanced.*
*ALSO REQUIRED FOR ALL POSTIONS
Fluent in English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Level 2 background screening and valid Florida driver’s license. EOE
1401 Seminary St., Key West. Or online at www.marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org Phone: 305-294-9526 *32
DUI FRONT DESK CLERK & EVALUATOR/INSTRUCTOR
The Advocate Program DUI school is
THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. IS HIRING!
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.
KEY LARGO
Lead Certified Recovery Peer Support Specialist
Advocate (FT)
Front Desk Specialist
Behavioral Health Counselor (Children)
KEY WEST
Case Manager (Adult PT, Child FT)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)
Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Advocate MARATHON Care Coordinator (PT)
Driver – PT (CDL not required)
RN/Licensed Practical Nurse (FT/PT) Advocate (PT)
*Behavioral Health Technicians – 3 shifts (FT/PT)
*Support Worker (Assisted Living, PT)
*Night Monitor (Assisted Living - Free Housing)
*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.
Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP
EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Apply at guidancecarecenter.org
Search Employment/Portal/Location/zip
MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE
We are now hiring for the following positions:
Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers
CDL Drivers
Applicants must apply in person to be considered.
4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
NOW HIRING
HVAC TECH WANTED
Upper Keys position, reporting in Tavernier. Full time job with benefits, vacation time, and holidays.
Apply at keysschools.com or call 305-293-1400 ext. 53398
OPENINGS AVAILABLE
PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN-PA-C)Surgical, Ortho, Tavernier
- Social Work Case Manager, Case Management, $10k Bonus
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
THEME: MARCH MADNESS
ACROSS
1. Giant Himalayan
5. *M in MAC
8. Bathtub libation
11. Joie de vivre
12. Do like fly fisherman
13. East side of Jersey
15. Tucked in 16. Diva’s solo
17. Length of a forearm
18. *____ Sunday
20. Osiris’ wife
21. Freshwater fish
22. Stir fry pan
23. Victorian era overcoat
26. Smallest
30. *Like attending band at the NCAA Tournament
31. Kaa of “The Jungle Book”
34. Great Lake
35. Prep mushrooms for steak, e.g.
37. Cooking fat
38. Bible song
39. Second to last word in some fairytales
40. False
42. Dip oreo into milk, e.g.
43. Tiresome
45. Hoariest
47. NBC’s sketch comedy show
48. Misrepresent
50. South American monkey
52. *2025 NCAA Championship game venue
56. Renaissance fiddle
57. “To ____ and to hold”
58. ____-friendly
59. Founding Father Thomas ____
60. Damien’s prediction
61. Reunion group
62. Bancroft to Hoffman in “The Graduate”
63. Agreement word
64. Ages and ages
DOWN
1. Nay opposers
2. River in Bohemia
3. 1.3 ounces, in Asia
4. Owes money (2 words)
5. Angelina Jolie’s 2024 singing role
6. “Kick the bucket,” e.g.
7. *____ Smith, coach of 2 champs and 11 Final Four teams
