Upper Keys Weekly 25-0327

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A wildfire in neighboring south Miami-Dade burned a total of 26,719 natural acres over the course of nine days. That’s larger than the Palisades, California fire, which burned 23,448 acres. As of March 25, the Florida Forest Service said the wildfire was 85% contained.

Young participants race in the “What Floaties Your Boat” race near Founders Park Beach. The race and other Island Fest activities return April 5-6. CONTRIBUTED

THREE KILLED IN TWO VEHICLE-PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS IN ISLAMORADA

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Three pedestrians were killed in two separate accidents in Islamorada late last week.

The first occurred on March 20 just after 8 p.m. at MM 79. According to Florida Highway Patrol, a husband and wife from Ohio were walking from Lazy Days Restaurant across U.S. 1 to Papa Joe’s when they were hit by a 2025 Kia sedan traveling south. A 78-year-old woman died at the scene, and an 81-year-old man was airlifted to Jackson South Hospital, where he later passed away from his injuries.

The sedan was driven by a 71-year-old Florida man. FHP said alcohol/drugs were not a factor in the crash. The road was shut down for several hours; it reopened around 11:50 p.m. FHP doesn’t name those involved in accidents.

The next evening, troopers and Monroe County Sheriff’s deputies responded to MM 90 for a vehicle-

pedestrian accident. The incident happened at 8:42 p.m. According to FHP, a 70-year-old man from North Carolina was walking on the sidewalk by Plantation Boat Mart when a white 2023 Hyundai traveling south on U.S. 1 reportedly drove onto the sidewalk and hit him. The injured man was taken to Baptist Health South Florida Mariners Hospital where he later died from injuries sustained during the incident.

One lane on U.S. 1 was shut down as law enforcement conducted an investigation into the crash. FHP says the Hyundai was driven by a 46-year-old Florida man. The road was closed for roughly two-and-a-half hours. FHP said a criminal investigation is ongoing. Early last week, a California man was hit and killed as he was trying to cross U.S. 1 on his bike at MM 82 in Islamorada.

Florida Highway Patrol responds to a vehicle-pedestrian accident at MM 90 in Islamorada on March 21. CONTRIBUTED

WAITING OUT THE BLAZE

Rescued manatee gets first-ever overnight stay at Dolphin

Research Center

ALEX RICKERT

alex@keysweekly.com

As wildfires torched more than 26,000 acres in South Florida and caused closures of the 18-Mile Stretch entering the Florida Keys last week, angry motorists on U.S. 1 weren’t the only ones who couldn’t make their way out.

On March 20, for the first time in the facility’s history, Grassy Key’s Dolphin Research Center hosted an emergency overnight stay for a 9-foot male manatee with a pneumothorax – commonly known as a collapsed lung – rescued from canals in Marathon’s Coco Plum neighborhood.

Likely caused by a boat strike, a pneumothorax injury causes air from a collapsed lung to fill a space between the lung and the wall of the chest cavity. Unable to release the air from where it doesn’t belong, manatees with this life-threatening condition become positively buoyant and are unable to dive in order to avoid other boats and carry out their daily functions. As the manatee remains tilted at the surface, the other lung can become strained and suffers an increasing risk of collapse.

As the only licensed manatee rescue team in the Keys, a typical rescue for DRC’s crew usually involves a collaborative effort to locate and collect an injured animal, working with members of the public as well as team members from Aquarium Encounters and FWC.

Once secure on land, if an im-

1: Manatee Rescue Team kayakers keep close tabs on the injured male manatee in Marathon’s Coco Plum canals. 2: Rescue team members from DRC and Aquarium Encounters combine their strength to remove the hefty 9-foot manatee from the water in Coco Plum for treatment. 3: Rescue crew members from DRC work to keep the injured manatee damp and cool en route from Coco Plum to a quarantine pool at the research center. 4: Crews from FWC and DRC work in the early morning hours of March 21 to load up the injured manatee for transport from Grassy Key to SeaWorld. DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER/Contributed.

mediate treatment and release isn’t possible, the injured animal is immediately transported to a mainland rehabilitation and critical care facility in FWC’s animal transport truck. Closures of the Stretch threw a wrench in those plans last Thursday as the fires prevented FWC’s transport crew from reaching the Middle Keys until the morning of March 21. Led by medical director Dr. Scott Gearhart, the DRC team repurposed a quarantine pool to provide a onenight stay for the overly-buoyant sea cow.

Visit keysweekly.com for the full story.

WILDFIRE WREAKS HAVOC IN THE FLORIDA KEYS

Massive inferno shut down roads, causing traffic backups

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Asmall blaze in south MiamiDade County — initially reported on March 12 — spiraled out of control into an inferno that burned 26,000 acres by March 21.

Despite the flames remaining on the Miami-Dade side between the 18-Mile Stretch and Card Sound Road, the wildfire brought the heat to the Florida Keys as the workday was ending on March 18. As the smoke and flames encroached on the only two thoroughfares between mainland Florida and Key Largo, the rapidlyspreading wildfire closed Card Sound Road on four straight days. Police were also forced to shut down the 18-Mile Stretch intermittently between Florida City and Key Largo from March 18 to March 21 to give crews space to fight the flames.

There were moments where no cars were entering or leaving via the 18-Mile Stretch or Card Sound Road. Closures hindered locals from reaching their homes and outside workers from getting to and from their jobs in the Keys. Visitors faced troubles reaching their destinations, whether it be their hotel on the island chain or the airport in Miami.

Intense firefighting — from the ground and air — over the course of five days resulted in the wildfire being 80% contained by March 22. Road closures ceased as traffic moved again on the Stretch and Card Sound Road. Smoky conditions remained for several days.

The cause of the blaze remains unknown as of press time on March 26, but weather conditions weren’t helping Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and the Florida Forest Service crews’ battle. The National Weather Service in Miami said a long spurt of dry weather, mixed with low humidity and windy conditions aided the wildfire’s wrath on more than 26,000 acres of natural land in between the 18-Mile Stretch and Card Sound Road.

The forest service said its helicopters made roughly 1,435 water drops, while large air tankers made seven retardant drops at 3,000 gallons per drop. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue also had its helicopters conducting many water drops, while tankers and fire trucks sprayed water on fires near the highways.

On Card Sound Road, flames charred and damaged power poles spanning 4 miles. While electricity never went out for Keys residents, Comcast customers saw an internet and TV outage beginning the evening of March 18 due to downed lines. When deemed safe, Comcast crews deployed to restore service to customers. The lines were back up and service was back by 9 a.m. the next day.

“It was a pretty big restoration,” said Jorge Nieves, Comcast tech operations supervisor. “The biggest obstacle was the fire and making sure it was safe for us to go in there and get to work.”

Despite the fire being reported a week prior as minimal and 80% contained, Monroe County emergency management officials didn’t receive notification that the wildfire was affecting Monroe County, namely through the closure of U.S. 1, until 8 p.m. on March 18.

“We made contact with the State Watch Office to stress the importance that if there's any impact Florida City south that is going to affect U.S. 1 in any shape or form, that we need to be notified just as a precaution,” Cory Schwisow, county emergency management deputy director, said during a March 25 county commission meeting in Key Largo.

In addition, Schwisow said information coming out of Miami-Dade County was contradictory for the first 24 hours. An incident command center was set up in Miami-Dade on March 19, which was when county emergency officials started receiving effective communication.

Florida Forest Service helicopters made 1,435 water drops to help quell the wildfire in south Miami-Dade County. FLORIDA FOREST SERVICE/Via X

BUILDING CONSENSUS

Bills to reflect new permit allocation figure

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Bills originally filed by State Rep. Jim Mooney and state Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez were noticeably different in the proposed number of additional building permit allocations for the Florida Keys. Now, the two representatives for the island chain are amending their pieces of legislation to reflect similar requests for allocations – no more than 825 or a figure allowed under a 24.5 hurricane evacuation time window, whichever is less.

Changes to the bills came after the governor’s staff recently informed Monroe County officials the 3,550 additional building permits doled out over a 40-year period, as the county supported and reflected in Rodriguez’s bill, was “a little too long” and “not supportable.”

In addition, county officials say FloridaCommerce re-ran an evacuation model to determine the maximum allocations that would be allowed within a 24-hour hurricane evacuation time window. A model run by FloridaCommerce several years ago determined 220 units, but now it says 825 allocations would be allowed under the 24 hours.

Lisa Tennyson, county legislative affairs director, told county commissioners during a March 25 meeting in Key Largo that Rodriguez agreed to change her legislation. That same morning, Rodriguez’s amended bill cleared the Environment and Natural Resources Committee via 8-0 vote.

Mooney confirmed to the Keys Weekly he, too, will amend his bill in the Florida House to fall in line with Rodriguez’s bill in the Senate. Mooney’s bill will go before the House Ways & Means Committee on Thursday, March 27.

Bills by Mooney and Rodriguez sought to change the laws governing the Keys as an Area of Critical State Concern, a designation responsible for several stricter building regulations throughout the island chain. The original bills were vastly different, however.

Mooney’s original HB 995 sought an evacuation clearance time of 24.5 hours and 500 units over at least 10 years. Of those units, 220 were accounted for but not awarded to Keys municipalities. The 280 additional

units, as a result of the evacuation time change to 24.5 hours, would be spread among unincorporated Monroe County, Marathon, Islamorada and Key West.

Rodriguez’s original SB 1626 detailed 3,550 additional allocations with a hurricane evacuation time change from 24 to 26 hours.

Both bills had similar guardrails as requested by Monroe County, with additional units steered to workforce housing. Allocations could only be used on vacant, buildable properties, with one allocation per property.

County Administrator Christine Hurley told commissioners that they’re unsure how many new allocations will be given to unincorporated Monroe County under the amended proposal.

“As we knew with the 220 that 100 of those would be for the county, in the 825 number, we don’t know what that would yield for the county,” she said. “Because the model evacuates island by island, they have to drill down further to tell us what our share of the 825 would be and we don’t know that number right now.”

Hurley said she asked Commerce what the maximum allocation number would be under 24.5 hours as reflected in the amended bills. She said they didn’t run the maximum number, but they did run a scenario with 1,100 additional building permit allocations. That model stayed under 24.5 hours.

Additional tweaks to Mooney and Rodriguez’s bills would be needed to allow for 1,100 additional units under the 24.5-hour evacuation window.

“(FloridaCommerce) indicated there are probably more than that under 24.5 but unless they do another model run, which costs money and takes time with a consultant, they can’t answer the maximum number of units at 24.5 hours,” Hurley explained to commissioners.

Chris Massicotte, president of Last Stand, told commissioners via Zoom that the group supports Mooney’s original HB 995.

“We believe it strikes the most responsible balance between growth, public input and long-term flexibility,” he said, adding he was encouraged to see Rodriguez was going to amend her bill to shorten the time frame from 40 to 10 years.

County commissioners said they appreciate the cooperation between Mooney and Rodriguez to have similar bills. They also acknowledged the importance of the guardrails within the bill to bring housing for the local workforce.

U.S. Border Patrol Miami Sector announced the arrests of 10 undocumented migrants with convictions of sex crimes during a recent roundup in the Florida Keys. In addition, an undocumented migrant convicted of a major crime was arrested during the sweep. CBP/Contributed

FEDERAL AGENTS ARREST 10 UNDOCUMENTED MIGRANTS CONVICTED OF SEX CRIMES IN FLORIDA KEYS SWEEP

U.S. Border Patrol Miami Sector, in collaboration with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, arrested 10 illegal aliens over the past three weeks — each with a criminal history as previously convicted sex offenders.

CBP says these arrests were part of a focused, multi-agency effort aimed at securing the Keys and removing dangerous individuals from local communities.

All 10 individuals, who were living throughout the Keys, are registered sex offenders with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The subjects had criminal convictions to include: lewd and lascivious acts on a child under age 16; lewd and lascivious sexual battery with a victim 12-15 years old; statutory sexual seduction and solicitation of a child.

In addition to these arrests, Border Patrol agents with support from ICE made two more significant apprehensions last week. One of the individuals, a Cuban national, had a history of violent crime, including a conviction for homicide. The other, also from Cuba, was arrested on

charges of animal cruelty after witnesses reported seeing him brutally choke and kick a small dog.

CBP says these arrests highlight the ongoing threat posed by individuals who enter the U.S. illegally with violent criminal backgrounds, and demonstrate the strength of the partnership among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies in tackling this critical issue.

“Each of these individuals posed a threat to the communities which we live in. The Miami Sector Border Patrol remains committed to protecting our communities and enforcing our immigration laws. I am grateful for the work of our agents and law enforcement partners who supported this effort,” said Jeffrey Dinise, chief patrol agent of the Miami Sector.

All illegal aliens arrested were processed and transferred to ICE custody, where they are currently detained pending removal from the United States.

The Miami Sector welcomes assistance from the community. To report suspicious border activity in Florida, contact the Miami Sector at 877-7728146.

— Keys Weekly staff report

KEY LARGO WASTEWATER TREATMENT DISTRICT

District Board of Commissioners

103355 Overseas Highway, Key Largo 305.451.4019

APRIL 2025 MEETINGS

Tuesday, Apr. 1, 4 p.m.

Tuesday, Apr. 15, 4 p.m.

The full agenda is available at www.klwtd.com or scan here

To provide public comment prior to the meeting, send an email to clerk@klwtd.com.

Islamorada, Village of Islands

NOTICE OF CANCELLATION OF BID EXECUTIVE SEARCH FIRM (RFP 25-01)

CANCELLATION DATE: March 21, 2025

Potential bidders and all interested parties are advised that RFP 25-01 is cancelled.

The Village at the present time has decided to use our Human Resources Department to prescreen and process all the applications for eligibility for the position.

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ISLAMORADA SETTLES WITH FORMER DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DIRECTOR

Councilman seeks resolution to set new policies and procedures on staff complaints against the manager

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Alawsuit spanning more than a year between the village of Islamorada and a former development services director has reached an agreement.

During a March 18 meeting, council members approved a settlement in a lawsuit filed by Daniel Gulizio against the village via 4-1 vote; Vice Mayor Don Horton was the lone “no.”

A complaint filed by Gulizio’s attorney Robert Bernstein, of the Coral Gables-based Annesser Armenteros, in November 2023 stems from the village’s termination of Gulizio on May 30, 2023. The complaint characterized Gulizio’s termination as an “adverse personnel action.” Hired in 2021, Gulizio oversaw the planning and development services department.

Per the complaint, it states then-village manager Ted Yates was pressured by certain council members to fire Gulizio due to apparent frustration with the planning department’s refusal to approve permits for “certain council members and/

or their associates within the local development community.”

Gulizio had a whistleblower claim and a breach-of-contract claim against the village. There was also a claim against Yates, although he was never served.

“The council members repeatedly and unjustifiably interfered with the administration of the department of planning and development services and the responsibilities of Gulizio,” the complaint states.

“Council members and the village manager repeatedly pressured Gulizio to approve individual applications, despite the failure to meet relevant code requirements.”

Gulizio spoke publicly at a council meeting on May 18, 2023 about the threats of being fired and his concerns regarding the hostile workplace. Gulizio was handed a termination notice on May 30, 2023.

According to court documents, Gulizio informed the village shortly after his termination that he wished to receive severance in a lump sum. The village refused to pay the severance, however.

Insurance defense counsel Brian Koji defended the village against Gulizio’s claim. He told council members via Zoom the sides reached a principle agreement last fall. Per the settlement, the village will pay Gulizio $80,000 in damages. Gulizio will dismiss all pending claims against the village and Yates.

While Gulizio has signed the agreement, he has up to seven days to revoke it.

“There were some discussions over the language in the agreement and ultimately Mr. Gulizio did not sign the agreement until after the election,” Koji said. “We met again in executive session and we essentially gave Mr. Gulizio a deadline to

VILLAGE COUNCIL SETS INTERVIEWS FOR MANAGER SEARCH

16 candidates apply; six are from Florida

Interviews with six village manager candidates will take place on Saturday, March 29 at village hall. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Asearch for Islamorada’s next village manager drew 16 candidates, of whom six are from Florida. Village council members will conduct interviews with the Florida applicants on Saturday, March 29 with the hope of selecting the next manager during an April 8 meeting.

“I believe it’s a good pool of candidates to start from,” Jaime Terry, village human resources director, told council members at the March 18 meeting. “We actually got a lot more than I was anticipating from Florida.”

Among candidates from the Florida Keys are Ron Saunders, former Florida state representative who ran for supervisor of elections last year; Jennifer DeBoisbriand, current village planning director; Plantation Key resident Theodore Munchmeyer, former senior military officer and current chief inspector and engineer with Certified Inspections Services; and Mark Sohaney, Key West resident who’s held a command role at Naval Air Station Key West.

Other candidates from Florida include Peggy Costano, assistant city manager with Lauderdale Lakes, and Timothy Day, Cape Coral resident and district manager for Inframark Corporation.

In addition to the Florida can-

didates, councilman Steve Friedman said, he’s interested in speaking to some from outside the state.

“I just think there might be other viable candidates that I don’t want to overlook,” he said.

Vice Mayor Don Horton said past councils always seemed to select people who have no Florida experience.

“That’s why I thought we start off with the ones who are Florida candidates that have experience here in Florida. We’re not relocating someone or flying them in for interviews,” he said.

Council members will conduct interviews via a round-robin format at village hall on Saturday, March 29. Each council member will be set up in different rooms as candidates enter to answer questions. From there, the council members will look to whittle their candidate lists to three or four. Before the decision is made next month, the public will have a chance to speak to candidates at a meet-and-greet; a date and time haven’t been set.

A request for executive search firms to support the village manager search was canceled, according to the village. All applications are being screened and processed by the village’s human resources department.

Former village development services director Dan Gulizio. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

‘THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE’ COMES TO CORAL SHORES

Musical comedy promises laughter plus audience participation

1: Cast members of ‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ are looking forward to opening night on Friday, April 4. Many say they love the fact that the show has a lot of improvisation, forcing them to think on their feet. 2: Coral Shores High School students Mallory Hughes and Troy Register rehearse a number as choreographer Andrea Galvan looks on. 3: Coral Shores High School drama teacher Caitlin Yong helps students perfect their roles for the upcoming musical, ‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.’ KELLIE FARRELL BUTLER/Keys Weekly

Since December, actors from the Coral Shores High School Drama Club have been hard at work, memorizing their lines, rehearsing their singing solos and perfecting their dance moves for their most recent show, scheduled to open on Friday, April 4.

“They’re eager to learn, which is fun,” said show choreographer Andrea Galvan, who owns Spotlight Dance Studio in Key Largo. “They come into rehearsal and they’re ready to dance.”

“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” is a lively musical comedy centered on a fictional spelling bee set in Putnam Valley Middle School, where half a dozen quirky kids compete in the Bee, run by equally outlandish adults.

“This is a very improv-heavy play, so every night you come to a show it’s going to be different,” said Coral Shores High School drama teacher Caitlin Yong.

As fate would have it, Coral Shores High School assistant principal Jacob Poelma and his wife Brittany, who also works at the school, were in the Key Players production of the same musical back in 2018.

“We’re really excited to see how the kids tackle it,” said Poelma.

“It is neat seeing them excited about it and it blows their mind that I did it before,” he added.

A unique part of this show involves audience members being invited on stage to compete alongside the six spelling bee contestants.

“So if you are into that kind of stuff and you want to be a part of theater, you can come and watch the show and be a part of the show,” said Yong.

The 11 cast members from Coral Shores High School range from freshmen to seniors. Some have been on stage before; for others, this is a totally new experience.

“I’ve really loved the idea of being on a stage ever since I was a little kid,” said sophomore Miranda Anderson. “I just took the chance and I went and auditioned for the musical.” Anderson moved to the Keys from Cocoa Beach in July and said this experience has been a great way to meet people.

CSHS freshman Cameron Bourbeau plays the host of the spelling bee. She thought being on stage, under the bright lights, would be intimidating.

“I thought it would be more scary and I’d be more nervous, but I’m actually comfortable because everybody is so welcoming and nice,” said Bourbeau.

This is freshman Garrett Gomila’s first time in a show and already, he’s hooked.

“The acting industry doesn’t give you limits,” said Gomila. “I don’t know what I want to be yet, but acting is definitely something I would consider.”

Sophomore Mallory Hughes starred in last year’s CSHS smash hit, “Mamma Mia.” This musical has a much smaller cast and Hughes sees that as a positive.

“Everyone that was cast in this play is just so, so talented and because it’s such a small production, it gives everyone the chance to truly shine,” said Hughes.

Senior Sloan Prouty was also in last year’s “Mamma Mia.” She really loves the unpredictability of this show.

“There’s a lot more improv, as opposed to ‘Mamma Mia,’ which was a pretty scripted show,” said Prouty.

Poelma says audiences are in for a real treat.

“I love the audience interaction. It’s a highenergy play, it’s funny, the music is great, overall it’s just great,” said Poelma.

“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” opens in the Coral Shores High School Performing Arts Center on Friday, April 4. There will be a total of six performances over two weekends. Tickets can be bought in advance for $7 and at the door for $10. Scan the QR to purchase tickets. Purchased tickets are not date-specific and can be used for any of the six performances.

Wood-Fired Wow Moments

OPEN HOUSE EXTRAVAGANZA

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BEACH FESTIVITIES

Races,

TIsland Fest

he Islamorada Chamber of Commerce’s 33rd annual Island Fest will take place on Saturday and Sunday, April 5-6, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Founders Park, MM 87, bayside.

The event will feature a juried art show, live music, food, classic cars, homemade boat races, the Keys Kids Business Fair and more.

The Arts & Crafts Show will spotlight a diverse range of local artists, including painters, sculptors, jewelers and creators of fine crafts and green market items. This year’s poster artist is local artist Jane Wood of Big Pine Key.

Returning for another year is the All-American Road Vintage Cruisers Car Show, which will feature a collection of antique cars, featuring different makes and models plus classic and custom designs.

The music lineup covers everything from tropical Americana and Southern rock to classic hits and crowd favorites from the main stage set on the Founders Park beach.

Kids (and kids at heart) can join in painting a life-sized dolphin statue, participate in hula hoop contests or watch giant kites soaring above. Saturday will also feature a sand sculpture competition, where teams will craft masterpieces inspired by this year’s theme, “Octopus and Jellyfish Jubilee.”

The first day of the event will highlight the “What Floats Your Boat?” homemade boat race. Participants can enter by creating their own boat, with the race taking place on Saturday. Entry is free, and the Chamber of Commerce is seeking participants. The grand champion will be awarded the Lucky Ducky Admiral Award — a perpetual roaming trophy that is updated each year with the winning team’s name. Other teams can paddle away with awards like Most Spirited, FantaSEA, or Crowd Pleaser, celebrating creativity, spirit and fun on the water.

Kids 10 and under can join the fun in the ‘What Floaties Your Boat?’ race, paddling their floaties to the finish line for prizes like the Duckiest Award, Super Star and Scallywag.

After a long hiatus, the Keys Kids Business Fair is back. This event allows young entrepreneurs to showcase their creativity and business skills, offering a platform for kids to sell crafts, treats and unique products. Young vendors will have the chance to engage with customers, gain business experience and compete for cash prizes.

Admission to Island Fest is free and on-site parking is available for a $10 donation. The Islamorada Chamber of Commerce encourages the public to “Keep the Scene Green” and bring a reusable drink container to reduce plastic use during the event. Events will take place rain or shine. Lawn chairs and blankets are welcome. More information is available from the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce at 305664-4503.

— Contributed

1: A sculpted sand castle along the beach. 2: Kids — and kids at heart — can join in painting a life-sized dolphin statue during Island Fest. 3: The ‘What Floats Your Boat’ race returns to Founders Park Beach on Saturday, April 5. The chamber is seeking participants for the popular race. 4: Young kids check out a 2013 Camaro 2SS Hot Wheels special edition. CONTRIBUTED

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UNDERWATER PIPE INSTALLATION UNDERWAY AT TAVERNIER CREEK CROSSING

Traffic pattern will remain in place

24/7 until work is complete

Contractors for the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority work to install a new water main underwater near Tavernier Creek Crossing. FKAA/Contributed

Acrew is working at Tavernier Creek Crossing to install new water main. The pipe is being installed underwater to protect it from high winds and storm surges.

Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority says directional drill work is complicated and working during the day helps reduce the chances of frac-outs — the unintended return of drilling fluids during the directional drilling process, which could cause environmental harm and project delays. If the drill end point is not reached by the end of the workday, the crew must continue drilling into the night until they reach it.

The drill rig must remain in place for six to eight weeks until this work is complete. As a result, the traffic control plan is required to remain in place around the clock.

At Tavernier Creek Crossing, the work area runs from Royal Poinciana Boulevard to just south of Ocean Boulevard. In the work zone, the crew needs room to operate the directional drill rig, bring large seg-

file earlier in March to get it on this public meeting agenda or we would move forward with litigation. He did sign the agreement.”

Councilman seeks procedure for complaints against council, staff Councilman Steve Friedman requested the council direct the village attorney to present the village council with proposed personnel policies and procedures to address and resolve any future staff complaints against the village manager, council members or the attorney. As it currently stands, the employee handbook contains employee complaint procedures but nothing is outlined related to complaints by staff against the village manager, attorney or council.

process that resulted in presenting such complaints directly to the village council for action before any investigation was performed or recommendation made to council members regarding such complaints,” Friedman said.

His motion didn’t get a second from fellow council members, some of whom said staff already was working on what Friedman was requesting. Jaime Terry, village human resources director, told council that staff is conducting a complete revision of policies and procedures within the employee handbook, including adding procedures when complaints are lodged against the village manager.

ments of pipe in and out, and weld them together.

At Woods Avenue, northbound traffic is already one lane. At Royal Poinciana Boulevard, the traffic normally shifts to two lanes.

If the northbound lane shift were to begin north of Royal Poinciana, then traffic would go from single lane to double lane for a very short stretch and need to be transitioned back to single lane to meet the Florida Department of Transportation’s required buffer zone of about 500 feet as motorists approach the rig. This would cause added congestion and encroach on the Bessie Road intersection. Therefore, the Florida Department of Transportation has approved the single northbound lane to continue from Woods Avenue through the work zone. More information is at fkaa.com (click on “Projects in progress”), or via email to community@fkaa.com. After-hours support is at 305-2962454.

— Contributed

Friedman’s request comes after the village council voted 4-1 during a Jan. 7 meeting to approve a severance-for-resignation agreement with former manager Rob Cole. Friedman, who voted no, said during the meeting that Cole never wanted to leave his post. Friedman said he received a phone call on Dec. 18 from attorney John Quick concerning a written complaint made by a village employee against Cole. Friedman was given a brief summary of the complaint.

Friedman said he had no knowledge of any conduct by Cole that would have “justified coercing him to resign in return for several weeks of severance.” Friedman said he wasn’t in favor of the proposal offering Cole severance when it was initially presented; rather, Friedman wanted to keep Cole.

Friedman added the policies and procedures should require an investigation when complaints are filed, and due process should also be afforded to all parties. Friedman’s request also included the requirement for a written report with findings from the investigation and recommendations for the village council before being asked to consider or take action on such complaints.

“The goal is to avoid the previous

Terry said they’re hoping to have a proposal before the council in roughly two months. Village Attorney John Quick reaffirmed Terry’s comments.

“We’ve been working on it for a little while; we identified a number of things, this being one of them,” he said.

Friedman asked Quick if he ever received authorization from the council to update the policies and procedures.

‘It seems like a formality to do this,” Friedman said in relation to a resolution directing staff from council.

Quick said he has been working with the village manager on it.

“Staff does create things to present to the village council in terms of things we believe are required by law or best practice or updates. This is one of those types of things,” he said.

Acting Village Manager Sheila Denoncourt said a draft policy of procedures for the employee manual is in the hands of department heads for review and recommendations. It will then go to Quick for further review.

Despite failing to support Friedman’s motion, Mayor Sharon Mahoney, councilwoman Deb Gillis and Horton said they supported his efforts.

Mayor Sharon Mahoney and Vice Mayor Don Horton during the March 18 meeting inside the Founders Park Community Center. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

COMEDIANS TAKE STAGE IN KEY LARGO

Wildfires didn’t stop the laughter and fundraising

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.”

Let’s get one thing straight: not even a 26,000-acre brush fire could stop Key Largo from having a good time last Friday night at Comedy for a Cause.

While the flames raged up the road, people showed up, laughed until they cried and raised thousands of dollars for two incredible nonprofits: Pawsitive Beginnings, my kingdom, and the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center, a fine establishment, despite not being run by foxes.

This night of hilarity was brought to you by Gwen Filosa, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, comedian and all-around fox enthusiast, who wrangled two of her funniest friends from Comedy Key West, Ian Lauritzen and Steven Crane. These heroes drove 100 miles just to remind everyone that comedy is, in fact, fireproof. And let’s talk about the real MVPs of the night. The Key Largo Princess Glass Bottom Boat stepped up as our event sponsor, proving

TEDDY

Tonce again that good people, and boats, make the world go round.

The Murray Nelson Government Center team kept everything running smoothly. And the bartenders? They did their job so well that the crowd was practically levitating by the time the show started, thanks to a certain Screaming Reefy espresso martini, a dangerously delicious concoction named after yours truly. (Obviously, I was the inspiration. I scream. A lot.)

Then there was Tess Marra, our 50/50 raffle winner, who pulled a move so generous it nearly made my fur stand on end. She donated her entire winnings back to support Pawsitive Beginnings and the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center. That’s what we call a class act.

At the end of the night, the message was clear: fire can try, but it can’t stop a community that’s determined to do good. So to all the wonderful humans who showed up, donated, laughed and supported the cause, you’re the real stars.

I also need to remind you that Thursday, March 28, is my 4th birthday. Can you believe it? I am middleaged (in fox years). So feel free to send me a birthday card, some scratch-off lottery tickets, a package of fig newtons or the key to my own luxury condo in Ocean Reef. Whatever floats your boat. My personal P.O. Box is 1165 Tavernier, FL 33070. Anywho, that’s all for this week, Until next time, Reef, over and out!

eddy is a spirited 3-year-old, 40-pound pup with a big heart and an adventurous spirit. Although he might be a little shy at first, Teddy warms up quickly and will soon become your loyal sidekick. He loves spending his days at the beach, enjoying both playtime and quiet moments just hanging out. Whether you’re exploring the outdoors or relaxing at home, Teddy will be your best friend, always ready to bring a smile to your face. Teddy is looking for a loving home where he can share his zest for life — could that be with you? If you are interested in meeting him, please reach out to MarrVelous Pet Rescues at 305-453-1315.

SAVE THE DATE

March 27-28

• Islamorada Comprehensive Plan Blueprint for Balance charette at Founders Park Community Center. Visit planislamorada.com for more information.

Friday, March 28

• Conch blowing class at 4 p.m. at Key Largo library. Class maximum is 15. Register at the library or keyslibraries. org.

Saturday, March 29

• Florida Keys Community Concert Band performs from 4 to 5 p.m. at Founders Park, Islamorada.

• Plantation Key School PTA’s Dueling Pianos fundraiser from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, MM 92, Tavernier. Learn more at pkspta.com.

Sunday, March 30

• Keyzee Jamboree from noon to 9 p.m. at Florida Keys Brewing Co., Islamorada.

Monday, March 31

• Birding in Islamorada with naturalist and bird expert Rachel DiPietro from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at Green Turtle Hammock Preserve, MM 81.2, Islamorada. For adults 18 and up. $9 per class. Call 305-853-1685 to reserve a spot.

April 1-2

• JOY Center activities from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Monroe County Plantation Key Community Center, 53 High Point Road, Islamorada.

Wednesday, April 2

• Plant clinic from 9 a.m. to noon at Key Largo library.

• Small Business Development Center at Florida International University offers no-cost consulting from 2 to 5 p.m. at Key Largo library. Email bbarnes@fiu.edu to reserve a spot.

Thursday, April 3

• Great Decisions discussion on “Between China, the West and the Global South” at 2 p.m. at Key Largo library.

• MarrVelous Pet Rescue’s “Yappy Hour” from 6 to 8 p.m. at Sharkeys, Key Largo. Dogs must be well-socialized, leashed and vaccinated.

Friday, April 4

• First Friday Concert finale welcomes musician Katherine Archer at 6 p.m. at Key Largo library.

April 5-6

• 33rd annual Island Fest at Founders Park, Islamorada. Visit islamoradachamber.com/islandfest to learn more.

From left, comedian Gwen Filosa; Nicole Navarro, Pawsitive Beginnings founder; and Erin Allison, executive director for the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center at the second Comedy for a Cause on March 21. CONTRIBUTED

THE CONCH TALES

Explore the stories of a shipwrecked Spanish boy, No Name Pub and treasure hunting

FLORIDA

KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI

Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.

It’s exciting to write that volume 3 of my “Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli” book series is now available. With each book, I’ve worked to create a deeper understanding of the island chain so many people love (and some of us are lucky enough to call home). These islands are a great place to escape, watch the sunset and have a slice of Key lime pie, but there is tremendous history, too.

I chose to call volume 3 “The Conch Tales” because conch, in all its forms, became a recurring theme throughout the book’s eight chapters. They are filled with unexpected local history, including a story about Strombus gigas, the queen conch, why the state shell is a conch imposter, Conch culture, and everyone’s favorite micro-nation, the Conch Republic.

One of my favorites is a 16thcentury story about a shipwrecked Spanish boy who washed ashore in the Keys and lived with the Calusa Indians for 17 years. There are stories about dog-sized deer, treasure hunting, sponge pirates, the No Name Pub, the conch fritters at Alabama Jack’s, a bat tower and so much more. The book ends with A Jimmy Buffett

Tribute Story, where I share how his music influenced my life and why I may or may not have a reason to feel connected to the last shows he played in Key West — spoiler alert, I do.

Watching the series evolve has been interesting because these are not the books I came to the Florida Keys to write. In 2001, when I moved to Plantation Key, I came to finish the island novel I started in graduate school. At first, I did work on it. However, my path forked, I opened a door — took a peek at the local history — and stumbled down a rabbit hole that turned out to be velveteen.

It was my first paying gig as a writer that got the history ball rolling. I was hired as a staff writer for the Florida Scuba News. Once a month, I wrote an article about someone or something related to the dive community in the Florida Keys. The first story I was ever paid to write was about one of the last great local pirates, Carl Fismer.

That gig opened the door to my first book deal with the University Press of Florida.

“Snorkeling Florida” was a guidebook to 50 snorkeling spots around the state. While researching the snorkeling sites in the Keys, I discovered that every dive captain, mate and local had their own story about the area’s shipwrecks and how the coral reefs came upon their names. Hearing all the different stories, I became curious and started to do a little investigating.

Ever since, it’s been all about the Florida Keys history hole. When

that first book led to the follow-up, “Snorkeling the Florida Keys,” its working title was “Snorkeling into History” because I focused on a great deal of the history behind some of the island chain’s best snorkeling sites. I also partnered with Jerry Wilkinson to write two books for Arcadia Publishing and their Images of America series, “Key Largo” and “Islamorada.” Those books and the history columns I started writing for the now-defunct The Reporter newspaper led to the second fork in my path I never saw coming.

For eight years, I had the privilege of creating a museum from scratch. During my time as the curator at Islamorada’s Keys History & Discovery Center, I developed the history exhibits on the facility’s first floor and the Cuban refugee boat history outside. When I chose to leave that position, and it was a difficult choice to make, I developed my “Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli” platform. It is one of the best things I’ve ever done — thank you for the push, Jill Miranda Baker.

What started as a Facebook group grew into something bigger and faster than I could have imagined; it was not a horrible thing to watch happen. Based on the group’s popularity, I decided to write the first “Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli.” Understanding there were a bunch of stories to tell, I offered it as volume 1.

In volume 1, among other stories, I shared my favorite Florida Keys love story, the one between Ed and Fern

Butters. As a bonus, the history of the island chain’s favorite dessert, Key lime pie, is intertwined with their story. In volume 2, I explored the history of piracy in the Florida Keys and took a super deep dive into the legendary pirate, Black Caesar.

With each volume, the goal has been to share fascinating local history and tell better stories. It has been interesting watching each book evolve. When I started working on volume 3, I wasn’t sure where it was headed, but I’m sure happy with where it went. “The Conch Tales” is a little longer and a little more personal than the first two. Also, it might be my best collection yet.

“The Conch Tales,” as well as volumes 1 and 2, can be found in Key Largo at the Florida Keys Visitor Center (MM 106) and Shell World (MM 97); in Islamorada at the Kayak Shack at Robbie’s Marina (77.5); on Cudjoe Key, at Mary Jane’s Closet (MM 27); and, in Key West at Key West Island Books, Fort East Martello Museum, Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters Museum, and the Oldest House Museum.

My books are notably missing from the Middle Keys. If you have a retail space that would like to carry my titles, please reach out. In the meantime, you can help support my work and local history by checking out my Facebook group, picking up a copy of one of my books, and continuing to read my column in the Keys Weekly, because local history matters and I am having a tremendous time sharing it.

The ‘Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli’ book series. ‘The Conch Tales’ explores the island chain’s past as told by Brad Bertelli. CONTRIBUTED

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Founded by Betty Debnam

Florida is a southeastern state that borders both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.

About two-thirds of it is a peninsula, or a piece of land that juts out into the water.

Florida is our 27th state and was admitted to the Union in March 1845. Today, more than 21 million people live there.

FLORIDA HISTORY

Florida was claimed for Spain by explorer Juan Ponce de Leon in 1513. He named it “La Florida,” or “land of flowers.”

Before Europeans arrived, Native American tribes lived in the area for about 14,000 years. These tribes included the Apalachee and the Mayaimi — names that are now found in the Florida place names Apalachicola and Miami.

With Spain in control of Florida, many native people died from diseases brought from Europe, for which they had no natural immunity.

Florida was admitted to the United States as a slave state, and it seceded, or separated, from the U.S. in 1861, becoming one of the first Confederate States of America. After the Civil War, Florida rejoined the Union in 1868.

NATURAL FLORIDA

Florida’s peninsula stretches north and west into a panhandle. The state lies the farthest

Sunny Florida

TRY ’N’ FIND

ALLIGATOR, BEACH, COAST, CONTIGUOUS, FLORIDA, GULF, MANGOES, MANGROVE, MARSH, OCEAN, ORANGES, PALM, PANHANDLE, PANTHER, PENINSULA, SECEDE, SOUTH, TALLAHASSEE.

south of the 48 contiguous, or connected, states. Most of Florida is at sea level, which means the land barely rises above the level of the ocean. The land is mostly flat, with the highest point being just 345 feet above sea level.

The state is home to palm and mangrove trees, marshes and freshwater lakes. Alligators, Florida panthers, otters and deer are just some of the animals who live in the hot, humid climate. It’s common to see brown pelicans and seagulls flying by when visiting the coasts.

FLORIDA LIVING

While Tallahassee is the capital of Florida, Miami is the largest city, with about 6 million people. Most Floridians live in cities and within 10 miles of the coast.

An alligator in the Florida Everglades.

Tourism is important to the economy of Florida. Orlando is home to Walt Disney World, Harry Potter World and EPCOT. The warm climate and beaches draw many visitors to the state’s coasts.

Florida also is home to aerospace industries and military bases. Agricultural products include oranges, mangoes, tomatoes, sugar, strawberries and more.

Words that remind us of Florida are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward. See if you can find:

FAMOUS FLORIDIANS

• Author Carl Hiaasen was born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He has written several middle-grade books, including the Newbery Award-winning “Hoot” and “Wrecker,” which is set in Key West, Florida, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Singer Gloria Estefan was born in Havana, Cuba, and lives in Miami Beach. She’s the winner of three Grammy Awards and is known as the queen of Latin pop music.

• Olympic surfer

Caroline Marks was born in Boca Raton, Florida. She won the gold medal at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. She’s the youngest woman to qualify for the women’s championship tour in surfing.

RESOURCES

On the Web:

• nasa.gov/learning-resources

• bit.ly/MPFlorida

At the library:

• “Florida Is for Food” by Jillian R. Childs

• “Otto’s Special Mission in the Florida Everglades” by Travis Hoefle

Urban rat populations are rising in many of the world’s major cities, a trend researchers at the University of Richmond in Virginia link to global warming. Analyzing data from 13 U.S. cities as well as Tokyo, Amsterdam and Toronto, they found rat numbers increased the most in cities that have warmed the fastest. San Francisco, Toronto, New York, Amsterdam and Washington, D.C., saw the highest growth. The researchers suggest that securing food waste to limit the pests’ access to it is the most effective way to curb rat populations.

Mini Fact: The Kennedy Space Center at Merritt Island is the main launch site for American spaceflight.

photo by NASA/Joel Kowsky

Carl Hiaasen

Gloria Estefan

Caroline Marks photo © Elena Siebert

Saturday & Sunday 10 to 5

Plantation Yacht Harbor Arts & Crafts Show

Saturday, April 5

Live performan ces all day long on the s tage on the beach

Micah - Barstool Sailor Band - Tropical Americana

I Land Vibes - Beach Tunes

while Noel Skiba paints to the rhythm of the islands

Electric Mayhem - Southern Rock

Saturday Highlights: WHAT FLOATS YOUR BOAT

Homemade Boat Race Adults & Kids Divisions

Plantation Yacht Harbor Arts & Crafts Show

Stroll along the Bay and enjoy the best collection of juried arts and crafts from around the state, in all mediums and all price ranges.

2025 Poster "Out To Sea" by Jane Wood

All-American Vintage Cruisers

“Octopus andJellyfish Jubilee”

Sand Sculpting Contest on the Beach!

A Round-Up of Food Trucks

Serving up BOLD BITES and ISLAND DELIGHTS

Satisfying Every Appetite!

Sunday, April 6

Live performan ces all day long on the s tage on the beach

The Tim Dressing Band - "Old and New"

The Pit Bull of Blues Band - Blues while Pasta paints to the rhythm of the blues

Koty James & The KeyBillies - Country

"How Do You Smoke a Fish"

Featuring all makes and models plus classic & custom designs (cars, trucks, motorcycles & more)!

Music, Art, Food & These Activities (both days): Kite Flying

Sand Sculpting on the Beach

Paint the Dolphin: Art for Kids

Hula Hooping & Contests

8-ft. Sand Castle — Photo Op

Mermaids will be on the beach and swimming in the bay!

Swim with a mermaid

Meet a mermaid

Mermaid photo ops

Sponsor: Florida Keys Brewing Co.

BOTH SATURDAY & SUNDAY!

Showcasing kids creativity, business savvy, and innovative products.

Judges and People's Choice Awards

Vote for the Best! Sunday Highlight: SMOKED FISH DIP CONTEST

Meet the All-Keys basketball and girls soccer teams

THE SCOREBOARD

Team

Key

Key

Coral

Key

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

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ON THE COVER

MARCH 27

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

MARCH 27

BRENNER

— Jason Garcia, Lady Conchs head coach

When the going gets tough, Key West’s Breanna Brenner gets gaming. The sophomore pitcher delivers every single pitch with competition in mind, never giving in despite the pitch count or situation. Last week, Brenner secured two wins for Key West, striking out a dozen batters and walking just two without giving up a single earned run. Her focus and resolve are unmatched, and with two more seasons of competition in front of her, Brenner has what it takes to be legendary. For her intensity in the circle and willingness to battle for every strike, Key West’s Breanna Brenner is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week. Breanna is a gamer, the ultimate competitor.”

Sophomore, Key West Softball

Photo by: MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys Weekly

With

pause

spring sports

torrid, pace, it’s time to meet some All-Keys teams from the winter season. Top row, from left: Colleen Barter, Jordan MacDonald, Addison Collins. Second row: Elena Eubank, Austin Vogt. Third row: Jack Chapman, Daeshawn Holmes, Ali Beth Wilson. Fourth row: Gisselle ‘Jazzy’ Dieguez, Monica Bueno. Photos by Barry Gaukel, Doug Finger, Maicey Malgrat and Jim McCarthy.

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.

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Managing Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Business Development

Patti Childress patti@keysweekly.com

Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com

Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com

Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Graphic Design Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

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.

MEET THE 2024-25 ALL-KEYS BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM

Hard

work on the court was an investment for young teams

D24

9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050 Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

espite no Keys basketball team earning a winning record last season, all three had moments of hardwood heroism. Marathon tested its skills in its new Rural District 8 classification and won a quarterfinal play-in game in its first season of competition in the division. The 11-15 Fins won against Key West at home and beat Coral Shores twice in a three-game series. Key West conquered the Hurricanes twice and Marathon once for a 9-12 record that had all the makings of a Cinderella season until their star playmaker was sidelined with injuries. Coral Shores finished 4-17, including a win against Marathon. And though it was ultimately classified as a JV squad, the Mariners of Basilica School put the Keys on notice that there would be a new contender in the 2025-26 season.

This season was a tale of two teams for the Conchs: one with guard James Osborne, and one without. And while Key West found some success while their leading man was sidelined with injuries, the team was simply not the same when he was on the bench. Osborne’s athletic dominance, soft touch and commanding leadership were a crucial part of Key West’s winning recipe, and with him in the game, the Conchs were at a different level. Osborne scored 210 points for the Conchs in just 10 games for an average of 21 points per game. He had 24 assists and 25 steals to add to his stats – not bad for missing half the season. Now recovering and already working in the offseason, Osborne’s on-court dominance is something Conch fans look forward to next season.

tracy mcdonald

sean mcdonald

James Osborne JUNIOR KEY WEST

MVP

Photos by Barry Gaukel, Maicey Malgrat, Rachel Rusch and Doug Finger

Key West’s David Aviles stepped up and became the senior leader the Conchs needed during a tumultuous season. Aviles’ defensive play frustrated opponents and kept other teams honest, while his 132 points and 28 assists are a testament to his offensive contributions.

Described by one opposing coach as “a beast on the boards,” Key West’s Tramane Scott led the Conchs in rebounds, averaging 9.6 per game for 153 total this season. Scott made his presence known in the paint and never shied away from going up for a rebound, regardless of who else might be there with him. A key ball distributor, Scott’s keen understanding of when to shoot and when to dish was evident in his 62% shot accuracy.

Coral Shores’ Austin Vogt was described as “a workhorse” by his coaches, and his ability to lock down defenses was crucial for the ’Canes this season. When opposing teams keyed in on other players, Vogt was able to step up and carry the load offensively as well. The junior scored 93 points this season, averaging 5.1 points per game.

Though just a freshman, Chapman was the Dolphins’ top scorer this season, netting 280 points, 171 of which came from behind the three-point line. Chapman tied Marathon’s single-game record this season by hitting 10 threes and ended the season with 57 total. His 12.7 points per game are a testament to his strong work ethic and year-round practice, making for an exciting three-year future with

Coral Shores junior Donovan Thiery averaged 16 points per game this season, amassing 304 total points and leading the Hurricanes in scoring, assists, rebounds, steals, threes and free-throw percentage. Thiery’s on-court dominance forced opposing teams to work around him, yet he still managed to get to the hoop and capitalize under double coverage.

Marathon’s top rebounder held it down under the basket this season, proving to be the top big guy in the county with a dozen doubledoubles. Holmes averaged 10.8 points per game and 10.8 rebounds per game, stacking 250 points, 249 rebounds and 46 blocks this season. The junior is already working hard in the offseason to make a statement in his senior campaign.

Hurricane hoopster Ayden Lane came into his senior season as an established defenseman and added 224 points, an average of 14 per game, to his repertoire. His offensive growth helped the Hurricanes tremendously this season. Lane’s aggressive drives to the basket showed a willingness to take his man to the paint and do the work needed to get points on the board.

Described by his coach as “the heart and soul” of Marathon’s team, Carlos Lezcano’s leadership paid dividends for the Fins this season. On the court, he scored a total of 165 points, had 48 assists and pulled down 104 rebounds, all while serving as the team’s mentor and enforcer. Lezcano’s hustle and heart set a positive example for the young team.

MEET THE 2024-25 ALL-KEYS GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM

Marathon dominated new classification, young Conchs and ’Canes built experience

Marathon won the title of Queens of the Court in Monroe County this season, earning a 10-8 record and an FHSAA Rural District 8 title in their first season competing in the division. The underrated Fins picked off the No. 2 seed in the semifinals, then overcame the top-seeded team to bring home the hardware. In local action, Marathon beat Key West twice and split wins with Coral Shores to earn their Keys Champs status.

The Hurricanes split wins against the Dolphins and Conchs. Coral Shores finished 5-6 in 202425, and though they’ll lose four seniors to graduation, they will return their top offensive threat in Melanie Estevez alongside their top defensive stat holder in London Atkins. The pair of freshmen gained experience and grew in talent as the season wore on.

Key West went 1-20, but began to click as a unit and show promise as the season progressed. The young team graduates a single senior, and the chemistry they worked to create will benefit them in the coming years.

A defensive force, Marathon’s Marti’yana Kilbourne never met a rebound she didn’t like. Kilbourne led the Fins in rebounds and steals, taking control of the ball and redirecting it to where her team needed it all season long. The senior was second in scoring and assists, making her a dynamic asset to the Dolphins’ lineup.

basketball rivals likely feel as if senior Elena Eubank has been making shots and outhustling them for what seems like forever. That’s because the talented hoopster has graced the Fins’ roster and received significant playing time since she was still in middle school. The multi-sport athlete is a natural leader whose style of both play and guidance can be described as intense or easygoing, depending on the situation she faces. Eubank led the Fins in both scoring and assists, and her unselfish play combined with superior ball handling made her deadly to opposing teams’ defenses.

Atkins may just be a freshman, but she plays with the style and command of an upperclassmen. She led the Hurricanes in rebounds, pulling down 20 in the team’s win against Marathon alone. Hardworking and willing to be physical no matter what she faces, Atkins’ defensive play will continue to benefit the Hurricanes in the seasons to come.

Described by her coach as a “clutch player,” Leffler was dependable to shine when her team needed it most. The senior leader was second for the ’Canes in scoring and in rebounds, and her leadership was as vital to Coral Shores’ success as her athleticism. In just her first year of varsity play, Conchs sophomore Damarla Thompson earned a spot in the starting five via hustle and athleticism. Thompson is willing to dive for loose balls and lock down on defense. She understands ball control, not only pulling down plenty of rebounds but making intelligent passes afterward. Her game knowledge will only continue to grow with her experience.

Photos by Barry Gaukel, Maicey Malgrat and Doug Finger

A three-year player for the Conchs, junior Colleen Barter is all over Key West’s top three stat categories, proving to be a well-rounded player and asset to the team. Barter is praised for her hustle for loose balls, her willingness to be physical and grab rebounds and for her shot blocking – and offensively, she has no problem finding the basket. Barter’s experience and work ethic set the tone for an exciting senior campaign.

Conchs guard Monica Bueno’s contributions to Key West’s basketball team the past three seasons have been monumental. Her leadership and communication were vital in bringing a very young team around this season and she leads by example, giving her all in every situation.

A natural athlete, Marathon’s Daysi Williams was able to outmaneuver and outsprint opponents all season long. Williams led the Fins in blocks and was second in rebounding. She plays with an unmatched intensity and often stepped up and made big plays when the game was on the line, particularly in the Fins’ district championship showdown.

Freshman Melanie Estevez was the top-scoring player for the Hurricanes this season, and she got better as the season progressed. The sharpshooter can find the net from just about anywhere, making it impossible for opposing teams to leave her unguarded. Despite what often amounted to double coverage, Estevez found ways to evade defenses and continue to pile on the points.

MEET THE 2024-25 ALL-KEYS GIRLS SOCCER TEAM

High-scoring Hurricanes revel in winning season

Coral Shores finished with a winning 10-5 record, with six of those wins being shutouts. The Lady ’Canes outscored their opponents 42-20, and their successful season included a playoff win in the quarterfinals, two wins over Marathon and one against Key West for some in-county bragging rights.

Key West finished with an 8-11 record, picking up steam after a slow start. The Lady Conchs lost to Coral Shores early in the season, then blanked them in a 1-0 win a month later and defeated Marathon in a pair of shutouts. The Dolphins finished the season 4-111, and look to improve their wins next season when they return all but one athlete on their roster.

Kaitlyn Franco SENIOR KEY WEST

A three-year varsity player, Kaitlyn Franco’s leadership has been as much of an asset to the Lady Conchs’ success as her athleticism. Franco led with her actions, and mid-season she made the unusual transition from one of the Conchs’ top-scoring offensive threats to the final line of defense. Franco’s willingness to play where her team needed her most was evident when she moved from midfielder to goalkeeper, proving to be a dynamic and talented all-around athlete with a selfless nature that stood out in a positive manner. Prior to her stint as goalie, she netted five goals and five assists as a field player, and her foot skills transferred seamlessly to her play in goal, making her an asset whose cleats will be difficult to fill next season.

Marathon’s Jordan MacDonald scored a dozen goals and assisted on six more this season. The senior center midfielder was a four-year starter and two-year captain for the Fins. MacDonald is praised for being an excellent ball distributor and finding the net or an open teammate regardless of pressure.

The Lady Fins’ right wing netted one goal and two assists this season, but it was her leadership and work ethic that set her apart. Merryman never shied away from a workout or drill, no matter how intense, and exhibited patience and kindness toward her teammates, providing stability when needed.

Dolphins defender Addison Collins has been a member of the starting lineup for Marathon since middle school. Collins played stopper and sweeper this season, and her strength and accuracy were evident in her scoring a pair of goals and assists as well as taking a majority of the team’s corner kicks. Collins was also praised for her leadership and level-headedness on the field.

Sofia Jans had an outstanding senior season with the Hurricanes, scoring a dozen goals and assisting on four more. Jans scored a hat trick in her final game with the Hurricanes and as a team captain, her leadership on the field proved to be as important as her athletic accomplishments.

SHORES

Photos by Maicey Malgrat, Barry Gaukel and Jim McCarthy

Madison Kilduff

13 9

JUNIOR KEY WEST

Maddie Kilduff’s years of hard work and practice have made her a mainstay of the Conchs’ midfield. The junior has already signed a letter of intent to play at Frostburg University. This season, she combined her excellence in passing with a solid shot to score 13 goals and assist seven more to lead the team in both. Kilduff plays with patience and a deep understanding of the game.

WEST

Praised for her ability to see the open pass and complete it accurately, Key West’s Jazzy Dieguez has been a staple on Key West’s roster for years. This season, the senior netted seven goals while also serving as an active defender when necessary. Her play in the midfield was excellent, and her experience kept her on whichever side of the field the Conchs needed her most.

Maicee Gage

SOPHOMORE KEY WEST

In her sophomore campaign, Key West’s Maicee Gage netted 12 goals and one assist – and yet, head coach Scott Paul believes her best play is yet to come. Gage is effective in the midfield and as a striker, with a strong, accurate shot that will serve her well in the seasons to come.

Gisselle ’Jazzy’ Dieguez Molly McKnight Mya Champigny Ali Beth Wilson

Junior defender Mya Champigny was a mainstay for the Hurricanes this year. Champigny played every minute of the season, helping to lead the defense and netting one goal as well. Her leadership will be crucial next season as she most certainly will have a stellar senior campaign.

Coral Shores junior Noelle Engelmeyer was a staple of the team’s defensive wall which achieved six shutouts this season. Engelmeyer’s leadership was also noted as one of her greatest attributes.

Coral Shores senior Ali Beth Wilson served as a team captain this season, providing leadership and guidance for the underclassmen. Wilson’s footwork and passing skills were key in feeding the ball to teammates, and she scored one goal and assisted on another in her final season with the Hurricanes.

14

JUNIOR KEY WEST

McKnight started at sweeper but moved into a new defensive role when the Conchs needed to change their lineup. She was a standout in that role, too, using her athleticism to outmaneuver other athletes physically. Her intelligence and understanding of the game also proved to be assets to the Conchs.

NO BREAK FOR BASEBALL

Fins and ’Canes play two apiece; Conchs take on five during week off from school

Coral Shores turned the P.K. Yonge Blue Wave green last week, sending them back to Gainesville with a pair of losses and improving their own record to 12-11. On March 20, Donovan Thiery got the start, striking out seven batters in three innings before Glade Harrelson, Derek Ramos, Riley O’Berry and Eddie Holly each took an inning against the Blue Wave. Maykol Bonito had two singles and Campbell Lavoie had a double and three RBIs to spark the offense. The ’Canes piled on 10 hits in total, adding six walks and six stolen bases to beat the Blue Wave 10-4.

The following day, the Hurricanes needed just five innings to defeat them again, scoring 10 runs off eight hits. Thiery and Ramos had two apiece to lead the charge and Thiery stole a pair of bases. Lavoie spent four innings on the mound, earning the win by striking out nine batters, walking one and surrendering just two hits. O’Berry fanned two in his inning of relief in the 10-0 win.

Port St. Joe traveled from the panhandle to play Marathon March 15 and 17 in a two-game series. In game number one, the Tiger Sharks beat the Dolphins 15-1, requiring just five frames before the mercy rule kicked in. Lights-out pitching from Port St. Joe led to just three base hits from the Fins. Jack Chapman, Bryan Broche and Dylan Williams each singled and the Dolphins were perfect in the field, but the Tiger Sharks combined 12 hits with seven walks and five hit batters to overcome Marathon.

Undeterred by the loss, Marathon came back two nights later and gave the Tiger Sharks some much-needed extra travel time. The Fins came away with the mercy-rule win this time, piling on the runs to destroy Port St. Joe 18-8. Chapman led the charge with three hits and five RBIs. Roco Piscetello, Gavin Leal, Gabe Leal and Williams had two each. Mason Thornton struck out three, walked two and surrendered 11 hits over five frames before Gabe Leal fanned two in an inning of relief. The Fins stand at 10-6 with just two weeks to go

before their conference playoffs begin.

Key West was the busiest Keys team last week, playing five games in as many days. They started their spring break against Lake Mary March 17 and 19. Key West’s bats were quiet with just one hit, a double, coming from Caden Pichardo. Kasey Kasper went five innings on the mound for the Conchs, striking out five batters, walking one and giving up four hits in a game that went scoreless until the third, when Lake Mary put one run on the board. Key West did the same in inning four. An exciting seventh frame saw both teams battling for points, and despite a three-run rally in the bottom of the final inning, Key West fell to the Rams 6-4.

Two days later, the Conchs managed four hits and a dozen walks helped Key West in their offensive endeavors. Nelson Ong tripled while Sam Holland, Caden Pichardo and Jackie Niles each doubled. A trio of underclassmen pitched in on the mound. Sophomore Cruz Holmes got the start and fellow sophomore Darreld Tremino and freshman Cade Maltz added to the efforts, combining for eight strikeouts for the Conchs. Lake Mary’s bats were strong, though, and a dozen hits helped them beat the Conchs 10-8.

Key West’s slide continued March 21 against John Carroll Catholic in a heartbreaking 5-3 loss. Key West struck first, scoring two in the first and adding another in the third off a Kade Maltz home run. The Conchs effectively shut out the Rams until inning six when an unlucky series of hits scored two for John Carroll. More of the same in the final frame gave the Rams the win. John Carroll held Key West to just four hits.

On March 22, Key West’s luck changed, first in a 4-2 win over Tampa’s Berkeley Prep, then in a decisive 8-3 victory over Dade Christian later that same day. Against Berkeley, Sam Holland and Roman Garcia each doubled in a five-hit game in which the Conchs were perfect in the field. Vinnie Moline shut down the Bucs, going the distance and striking out seven, walking three and surrendering four hits over seven innings. Jon Carlos Lampas-Gormley did the same

that night, striking out eight with zero walks and five hits against the Warriors of Dade Christian. Holland had three hits including a double plus an RBI to lead the offensive onslaught. Pichardo and Xavier Perez each added a pair of hits and Maltz added one for the win. The pair of wins put the Conchs at 11-6 on the season with eight regular-season games to go prior to playoffs.

Maykol Bonito had a pair of hits for the ’Canes against P.K. Yonge last week. JOY SMITH/Keys Weekly

Marathon’s Roco Piscetello turned in a pair of hits against the Port St. Joe Tiger Sharks on March 17. SEAN WESTERBAND/Keys Weekly

From left: Campbell Lavoie held back the Blue Wave last week, striking out nine in a 10-0 win. JOY SMITH/Keys Weekly

NO DAYS OFF

Key West softball forgoes spring break to play trio of games

While Monroe County’s other teams were enjoying spring break, the Lady Conchs enjoyed a pair of wins over three games played during the week off from school.

On March 17 the Conchs hosted the Scorpions of Satellite, winning 2-0 after a masterful performance by sophomore slinger Breanna Brenner. Brenner struck out eight, walked two and allowed a single hit over seven innings. While Brenner was extinguishing any hopes of the Scorpions getting on the board, Vera Rodger went 2-2 with a double and a triple while Tavyn Gage doubled and Ariana Garcia and Alexa Condella singled.

On March 21 and 22, the team turned its focus to a two-game series against the Falcons of Palmer Trinity School. In game one, the Conchs dispatched the Falcons in five innings, winning via mercy rule. Brenner fanned four with no walks and surrendered five hits in the 12-2 victory, with none of the runs being earned. Rodger had three hits, including a triple and two RBIs, and Lilee Gage banged out two doubles, a single and two RBIs. In total, the Conchs piled on nine hits, 10 walks and a hit batter to overcome the Falcons.

The following day, the Falcons came back with vengeance. Despite five hits, two from the bat of Skye Sterling, Key West fell to Palmer Trinity 5-1 as fewer walks, and base runners stranded at inopportune times, were hardships Key West could not overcome. Ryleigh Harnish went seven innings in the circle, striking out five, walking two and giving up four hits, but four untimely errors gave the Falcons the upper hand. Key West improved to 6-5 during their extra week of work as they look toward the second half of their schedule to make the final adjustments prior to playoffs.

Top: Key West’s pitching staff, including Breanna Brenner, left, and Ryleigh Harnish, have been stingy with hits all season long. Bottom: Skye Sterling added two more hits to her season total of 10 against Palmer Trinity last week. MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys Weekly

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

MONROE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Notice of Sale of Surplus Vehicles

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office will be auctioning off a multiple surplus vehicles and equipment via sealed bids. All bids must be received by 10:00am on Wednesday April 16th, 2025. The bids will be opened publicly on Wednesday at 10:30am on April 16th, 2025. A list of vehicles to be sold may be viewed on our website; www.keysso.net/ auction.

Vehicle list is subject to change. Bidding instructions and required bid forms are available on the website or can be picked up at the Sheriff’s Office Headquarters building 1st floor reception, or by contacting: Michael Cabot, MCSO Fleet Manager Phone- (305) 293-7477 Cell- (305) 797-0115

Monroe County Sheriff’s Office 5525 College Road Key West, FL 33040

The Property to be sold is open to the public for inspection at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Headquarters building at 5525 College Road, Key West, FL 33040 on the following dates and times below: April 8th, 2025 8:00am –10:00am April 10th, 2025 2:00pm –4:00pm The Sheriff’s Office makes no representation or guarantee of mechanical condition. All sales are, as is, no warranty. All sales are final. Vehicle List is subject to change.

Publish: March 27 & April 3, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI

Notice is hereby given that on April 7th, 2025, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold. The names of whose units will be sold are as follows: 103530 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 Trent, Cheryl 1180 & 1203 Guido, Daniel 1176 Yetman, John 1200 Schofield, Brian 1316

Publish: March 20 & 27, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-000115-P DIVISION: PROBATE IN RE: ESTATE OF RICHARD KEITH CELMER Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Richard Keith Celmer, deceased, whose date of death was January 29, 2025, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent

The Monroe County Tourist Development Council has funding available to governmental entities and non-profit organizations for capital projects.

The project/facility must have the primary purpose of promoting tourism and must fall into one of the following categories:

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 27, 2025.

Personal Representative: Carly Falgout 200 Coral Road Islamorada, Florida 33036

Attorney for Personal Representative: Brian C. Perlin

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 357898

Law Office of Brian C. Perlin, P.A. 201 Alhambra Circle, Suite 503 Coral Gables, FL 33134

Telephone: (305) 443-3104

Fax: (305) 443-0106

E-Mail: brian@ perlinestateplanning.com

Secondary E-Mail: florencia@ perlinestateplanning.com

Publish: March 27 and April 3, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

DIVISION: PROBATE FILE NO.: 2024-CP-433-M IN RE: ESTATE OF KATHLEEN E. POWELL A/K/A KATHLEEN ELAINE POWELL

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

LEGAL NOTICES

Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is March 20, 2025.

this notice is: March 20, 2025.

Personal Representative: Annabel Majewski 2950 SW 3rd Avenue

Apt. 9-D Miami, Florida 33129

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:

Convention Center, Sports Stadium, Sports Arena, Coliseum, Auditorium, Aquarium, Museum, Zoological Park, Nature Center, Fishing Pier, Beach or Beach Park Facility, Channel, Estuary, or Lagoon, Public Facilities in Accordance with Conditions set forth in the Florida Statutes.

The deadline for receipt of applications is April 22, 2025, and applications must be downloaded from the County’s Bonfire platform.

For more information, please email Maxine@fla-keys.com.

Publish: February 13 & 27, March 13 & 27 and April 10, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

Visit Florida Keys has funding available for those interested in applying for Destination or Turnkey event funding for events to take place between October 1, 2025 and September 30, 2026; or for pre-promotion funding for Destination events to take place between October 1, 2026 and December 31, 2026.

The deadline for receipt of applications is April 8, 2025, and applications must be downloaded from the County’s Bonfire platform.

For more information, please email Maxine@fla-keys.com.

Publish: February 13 & 27, March 13 & 27 and April 10, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

The administration of the estate of Kathleen E. Powell a/k/a Kathleen Elaine Powell, deceased, whose date of death was December 3, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is March 27, 2025. The date of the second publication of this notice is April 3, 2025.

Personal Representative: Valerie Powell Brown 200 Trenton Street Cambridge, MD 21613

Attorney for Personal Representative: Anthony J. Barrows

Attorney for Personal Representative Florida Bar Number: 662569 WRIGHT BARROWS PLLC 9711 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-8118

Fax: (305) 489-0307

E-mail: Tony@keysclosings. com

Publish: March 27 & April 3, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-78-M

DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS

IN RE: ESTATE OF MAUREEN E. CUMMINS, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of MAUREEN E. CUMMINS, deceased, whose date of death was January 24, 2025, is pending in the

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 20, 2025. Personal Representative: Martin J. Cummins III 2110 Captains Walk Vero Beach, Florida 32966

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 20 & 27, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO. 24-CP-000461-P IN RE: ESTATE OF JOHN M. GILBERT, JR. Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of JOHN M. GILBERT, JR., deceased, whose date of death was August 13, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The 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, 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.

Personal Representative: Candace Hoffman 3304 W 17th Ave Denver, Colorado 80204

Attorney for Personal Representative: Ryan G. Nagle

Attorney Florida Bar Number 1017917

ADRIAN PHILIP THOMAS, P.A. 515 East Las Olas Boulevard Suite 1050 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

Telephone: (954) 764-7273

Fax: (954) 764-7274

E-Mail: legal-service@aptpa. com

Secondary E-Mail: magle@ aptpa.com; vnieto@aptpa. com

Publish: March 20 & 27, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 25-CP-89-K DIVISION: LOWER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF JOHN A. MAJEWSKI III

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of John A. Majewski III, deceased, whose date of death was February 1, 2025, 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

March 20 & 27, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 25-CP-68-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF CHARLES E. DAVIS

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of CHARLES E. DAVIS, deceased, whose date of death was August 22, 2024, Case: 25-CP-68-K, is pending in the Circuit Court, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, 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 20, 2025. Personal Representative: JOAN F. DAVIS 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 20 & 27, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 25-DR-315-K MONIKA BANDOVA, Petitioner, and MICHAEL DAVID CARBON, Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD

TO: MICHAEL DAVID CARBON RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN

ADDRESS: UNKNOWN

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 Monika Bandova, whose address is 3 Casa Roma Lane, Apt. 3, Key West, FL 33040 on or before April 28, 2025, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 530 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: N/A

Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: March 17, 2025 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Publish: March 27 and April 3, 10 & 17, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION CASE NO.: 25-CA-0291-K BANKS G. PREVATT, PATTY L. PEERY-PREVATT and JILL NOTTKE, Plaintiffs, vs. LITTLE TORCH PROPERTIES, INC.,(A DISSOLVED FLORIDA CORPORATION),JOSEPH PARDO, AS RECEIVER OF LITTLE TORCH PROPERTIES, INC.,(DECEASED), AND ALL UNKNOWN PERSONS OR BUSINESS ENTITIES HAVING OR CLAIMING TO HAVE ANY RIGHT, TITLE, OR INTEREST IN THE DISPUTED PROPERTY IN THIS CASE, WHETHER THROUGH OR DERIVED FROM LITTLE TORCH PROPERTIES INC., OR OTHERWISE, Defendants. ___________ / NOTICE OF ACTION TO QUIET TITLE To: LITTLE TORCH PROPERTIES, INC., (A DISSOLVED FLORIDA CORPORATION), C/O JOSEPH PARDO (DECEASED), AS RECEIVER OF LITTLE TORCH PROPERTIES, INC., AND ALL UNKNOWN PERSONS OR BUSINESS ENTITIES HAVING, OR CLAIMING TO HAVE, ANY RIGHT, TITLE, OR INTEREST IN THE DISPUTED PROPERTY IN THIS CASE, WHETHER THROUGH OR DERIVED FROM LITTLE TORCH PROPERTIES INC., OR OTHERWISE, YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to quiet title of the following described property in the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Key West Division, has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to Kevin Hoyes, of Kevin Hoyes Attorney, P.A,

at 422 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida, 33040, Phone (305) 731 3349 (Plaintiffs Attorney), on or before DATE: April 28, 2025, and file the original with the Clerk of this Court either before service on the Plaintiffs' attorney or immediately thereafter, including your full name and address; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

The Property at issue in this case is formally described as follows:

1. The disputed property lies at the rear of 141 Pirates Road, Little Torch Key, is of a size of approximately 750 square Feet, has a parcel ID number of 00215471-000000 (and an Alternate Key Number of 9036754) according to the Monroe County Property Appraiser's website.

2. The upland property is also more fully described (according to a survey dated February 19, 2025 by Reece & Associates (of 31193 Avenue A, Big Pine Key, FL. 33043), as follows:

Parcel 1

A portion of the northerly 25 feet of Lot 30, Block 1 of Jolly Roger Estates, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 5, Page 34, of the public records of Monroe County, Florida, and being more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows:

Commence at Southwest corner of Lot 30, Block 1 of Jolly Roger Estates, Plat book 5, Page 34, thence bear N00°00'00"E along the west line of said Lot 30 and the east right-of-way line of Pirates Road, as shown on said Plat, for a distance of 85 feet to the point of beginning.

Thence, continue N00°00'00"E for a distance of 10.22 Feet to a point on the edge of an existing canal and the intersection of the westerly projection of an existing concrete seawall; Thence leaving said right of way line, bear S89°54'0l"E along said canal edge and seawall for a distance of 24.32 feet to a point on the northwest corner of an existing boat basin; Thence bear S00°40'33"W for a distance of 10.18 feet to a point that is 25 feet south of and parallel to the north line of said Lot 30, Block 1; Thence bear N90°00'00"W, along said line, for a distance of 24.44 feet back to the point of the beginning.

Together with Parcel 2

A portion of the northerly 25 feet of Lot 30, Block 1, Jolly Roger Estates, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 5, Page 34, of the public records of Monroe County, Florida, and being more particularly described by metes and bounds as follows:

Commence at Southwest corner of Lot 30, Block 1 of Jolly Roger Estates, Plat book 5, Page 34, thence bear N00°00'00"E along the west line of said Lot 30 and the east right-of-way line of Pirates Road, as shown on said Plat, for a distance of 85 feet to a point of intersection with a line that is 25 feet south of and parallel to the north line of said Lot 30, Block 1; then bear S90°00'00''E, along said line, for a distance of 49.60 to a point on the east line of an existing boat basin and the point of beginning.

Thence, bear N00°55'28", along said basin, for a distance of 9.73 feet to the northwest corner thereof, said corner also being on the face of an existing concrete seawall on the southerly side of an existing canal; Thence S89°06'33"E, along said seawall, for a distance of 50.24 feet to a point on line of said lot 30; Thence bear S00°00'00"W, along said east line for a distance of 8.95 feet

to s point that is 25 feet south of and parallel to the north line of said Lot 30, Block 1; Thence bear N90°00'00"W, along said line, for as distance of 50.39 feet back to the point of the beginning. Containing 469.85 Sq. Ft., more or less. 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, 302 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida 33040; (305) 292-3423, 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.

Dated: March 17, 2025

Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Court for Circuit Court of Monroe County Key West, Florida By: Shonta McLeod As Deputy Clerk

Publish: March 27 and April 3, 10 & 17, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

AUTOS WANTED

AUTOS ALL YEARS!

Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483

AUTOS FOR SALE

Your Classified Auto For Sale ad here for $25/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

BOATS FOR SALE

21' Key Largo Deep V Center Console w/ trailer. New 150hp motor & electronics. Great Deal - PRICE REDUCED TO $20,000. Located in Marathon. 201-696-8906

BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

19’x40’ slip in Marathon, could handle somewhat larger boat with approval from dockmaster. Desirable location in marina, easy in, easy out. Electricity, available, free water, pump out, WiFi. Available 1 May 25 thru Oct 25, possibly long term lease. Please contact Vern Rozier, 904 626 5279, or 904 626 8224 and leave call back info. Or email vrrozier@yahoo.com.

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/

Part time experienced office assistant with strong computer skills, KCB Condominium, $25 per hr., apply by e-mail to HardingThomasL@aol.com, text or call 734-476-0531.

Part Time Supervisor/ Housekeeper Position Available Immediately in Key Colony Beach. Hours may vary depending on need including weekends. Responsibilities include oversee housekeeping staff, inspecting rooms prior to guest occupancy, making up laundry bags, cleaning rooms, etc. Physical demands: ability to lift and carry laundry bags ~ 35 lb. **Must have reliable transportation** Please call/text or email to discuss pay and to request application. Michelle - 952-208-2850 Cheryl -305-505-8747

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.

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.

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 FT- Key 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

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.

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 HIRED IN LESS THAN ONE MONTH!!

Your Classified Employment ad here for $25/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

PRIVATE COLLECTOR

WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578

HOUSING FOR RENT

2BR/1.5BA Mobile on canal in Key Largo. Single- wide, unfurn, w/40' dockdavits. No pets. $2,500/mo + $2,500 security. References needed. 616-813-9755

Downstairs apartment of a duplex to rent to 1 person (no pets). Large living room/bedroom and separate kitchen. Large screened porch with its own washer/dryer and driveway. Utilities include wifi/tv. 150 ft to the ocean. MM 96 Key Largo $1600/ month. F/L/S 305-853-3779

1 upstairs bedroom for rent in Grassy Key (East Marathon). Unfurnished. Mostly private bathroom with shared W/D. Other upstairs occupants are the homeowners: A probation officer, his wife, and their very small dog. $1200/ month F/S 305-393-5049

1BR/1BA fully furnished Apt. for rent in Marathon. Ideally one person. On canal w/boat lift, W/D, Wifi. $1,950/mo. 850-376-7137

Rental in Marathon: 4/2 pool waterfront tiki bar home with dock for up to 50 ft. Steps to Sombrero Beach, ocean in under 10 mins. Seasonal or annual. Furnished. Thania Moses, MBA & Realtor 954.683.2150

Studio House with Queen size bed available in Marathon. Furnished, kitchen, dining, newly renovated. No pets. $1,299 + utilities F/L/S 305-610-8002

Your Classified Housing For Rent ad here for $25/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

RV SITE FOR RENT

RV Site For Rent in Marathon. Very quiet, gated property. Dockage available for sep. fee. No pets. 305-610-8002

VACATION RENTAL

Key West House For Rent - 28 day minimum. Recently renovated. 2 Units: 3BR/3BA or 2BR/2.5BA. 1 block to Schooner Wharf @ Historic Seaport. Starting $214/night. Sweet CarolineSeaport.com

YARD SALES

YARD SALE Rain or Shine Saturday, March 29 8:00am to 1:00pm 116 Avenue E, Marathon (off Coco Plum Drive) Clothing (adults & kids), household items & more.

THE YARD SALE! If you don't see something you want, consult your Optometrist & then come back. Fri April 4 - Sun April 6 from 8AM - 4PM 565 Copa D'Oro, Marathon

Place your Classified Yard Sale ad here for $25/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

NOW HIRING

DIRECTOR

Nationally accredited preschool seeking a Director. A faith-based Episcopal preschool renowned for its high-quality program and effective kindergarten preparedness is seeking a Director with relevant credentials and prior experience. Must be a team player work well with church and advisory school boards. Competitive salary and benefits.

TEACHER

Instill the love of learning and social skills while preparing children to succeed. Must have effective communication skills, patience and compassion suitable for working with young children-- and the ability to develop age-appropriate activities that are fun and educational. Child development associate credential and prior experience required. Competitive salary and benefits including free tuition for your preschool age child.

Contact Thomas Hallett at 305-852-8468 to schedule an in-person interview. St James the Fisherman Church and Children's Center, MM87.5 Overseas Highway, Islamorada.

Call 305-407-3262 or email info@floridakeysaquariumencounters.com 11710 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON

SOLAR

SALES FOR SALT ENERGY, LLC. - Dynamic, local company looking for good people to grow with us. Located in Marathon, we have been engineering, installing and servicing solar energy systems in the Keys, South Florida and Caribbean for over 30 years. We are looking for a Team player with a great attitude, excellent communication and sales skills, who is excited to share the benefits of solar energy. Initially, this position will be representing the residential and small commercial sector of the company, focused primarily in the Florida Keys.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Visit customers’ homes to perform site surveys and provide tailored solar solutions.

• Prepare and deliver compelling sales proposals and negotiate terms to close deals.

• Communicate and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless project implementation and complete customer satisfaction.

REQUIREMENTS

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to build rapport with customers.

• Self-motivated, target-driven and able to work independently as well as part of a team.

• Results-oriented mindset with a focus on delivering an outstanding customer experience.

• Strong understanding of solar energy systems and industry best practices, preferred.

EDUCATION: High school diploma required. College degree in business or communication preferred.

JOB TYPE: Full-time. WORK LOCATION: In person.

PAY: Base pay plus bonus commissions. Benefits: 401(k) matching, PTO. SALT Energy, LLC., 2992 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050. Send resume and cover letter to Lisak@saltenergy.net.

WE ARE HIRING!

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.*

DIRECT

CARE STAFF – NIGHTS/WEEKENDS - GROUP HOMES 24/7 (FT)

These positions are available at our Windsor and Von Phister Group Homes. Providing direct-care services and support to our clients in their home. Must be willing to work flexible shifts including overnights. This position requires a minimum of high school completion or GED and 1 year of experience with care giving or 30 hours of college coursework.*

*ALSO REQUIRED FOR ALL POSITIONS

Fluent in English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Level 2 background screening and valid Florida driver’s license. EOE

Come join our family!

Apply at the MARC office, 1401 Seminary St., Key West. Or online at www.marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org Phone: 305-294-9526 *32

e Turtle Hospital in Marathon wants you to join their team!

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM GUIDES/GIFT SHOP SALES

Full and part-time. Public speaking and & retail sales experience helpful. $19/hour to start.

Send resume to: turtlehospital@turtlehospital.org

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

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Engineering Department:

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, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com. KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace. Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.

The Advocate Program DUI school is hiring for part time positions. Front desk: 3 days a week, high school diploma required.

DUI instructors and evaluators: 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse eld required. Of ce located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

LIVE IN PARADISE AND SEE DOLPHINS PLAY EVERYDAY!

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER is a fun, environmentally friendly non-profit 501(c)(3) Corporation specializing in education, research, and rescue of marine mammals.

We have the following openings available. Scan the QR code to visit the careers page on our website.

FACILITIES MAINTENANCE

APPRENTICE

(Full-Time, Permanent)

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

(Full-Time, Part-Time, Permanent)

DRC seeks to provide for the well-being of its employees by offering a competitive total package. DRC currently offers a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays, vacation, sick and an employee assistance program. DRC also provides life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee.

COME JOIN THE FAMILY!

Email your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL Teaching... Learning... Caring

JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT 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.

OPENINGS AVAILABLE

PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS

- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN-PA-C)Surgical, Ortho, Tavernier

- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN-PA-C), BHMG Multispecialty - Marathon, $5k Bonus

- Medical Assistant, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus

MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST

- Radiation Therapist, $12k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Chemotherapy Infusion, $15k Bonus

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Cook, Dietary

- Group Exercise Instructor, Mariners Wellness Center

- Radiology Technologist 1, Imaging-MRI, $40k Bonus

- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (Mammo & X Ray), Radiology, $50k Bonus

- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (X Ray & CT), Radiology, $50k Bonus

- Radiology Technologist 1, $40k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department

- Patient Scheduler, Radiology

- Pool Yoga Instructor, Mariners Wellness Center

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray) Radiology, $50k Bonus

- Radiology Technologist 1, $40k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, $15k Bonus

- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (Mammo & X Ray) Radiology, $50k Bonus

- ED Team Coordinator, Emergency Department

- Nurse Practitioner, Full Time

- Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Care

- Registered Nurse, Oncology-Outpatient

- 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

Case Manager (Children)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)

Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Advocate MARATHON Care Coordinator (PT)

Driver – PT (CDL not required)

RN/Licensed Practical Nurse (PT)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult)

*Behavioral Health Technicians – 3 shifts (FT/PT)

*Support Worker (Assisted Living, FT)

*Night Monitor (Assisted Living - Free Housing)

*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

Proudly serving Key West to Islamorada as the ONLY locally owned and operated concrete company in the Florida Keys.

Whether you’re building a large commercial building, FDOT bridge, or a customdesigned home, we have concrete mix designs for every project. Thanks to decades of experience, our team can create custom mixes with high-quality additives for specific project needs. We offer the largest variety of materials and operate the only FDOT-certified ready-mix plants in the Florida Keys. Call us for all ready-mix concrete, block, aggregate, rebar and bagged good needs.