16 0729 uk

Nurse Shark 1, NFL 0.

Local woman Casey Dressler, is debuting her one-woman show ‘The Wedding Warrior’ in Islamorada this weekend, before it moves on to New York City and Chicago. For the story, see page 13.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

CO CO P LU M R E A L E S TAT E, I N C . • 10 8 7 5 O V E R S E A S H W Y D R I F T W O O D P L A Z A , MA R AT H O N

97501 Overseas Hwy, 711, Key Largo

2000 Coco Plum Dr, 903, Coco Plum

1133 W Ocean Dr, 15, Key Colony

3/3 • 2,124 SF • $469,900 MLS# 568167 Call Kelly at 305-432-9754

1/1 • 797 SF • $340,000 MLS# 570159 Call Kelly at 305-432-9754

2/2 • 1,750 SF • $579,900 MLS# 571140 Call Kelly at 305-432-9754

11600 1st Avenue Gulf 14, Marathon

10877 Overseas Hwy 94, Marathon

540 80th St, Ocean, Marathon

3/2 • 1,600 SF • $750,00 MLS# 570804 Call Kelly at 305-432-9754

1/1 • 286 SF • $165,000 MLS# 570712 Call Kelly at 305-432-9754

3/2 • 1,250 SF • $358,500 MLS# 570541 Call Kelly at 305-432-9754

31035 Avenue C, Big Pine Key

10877 Overseas Hwy 53, Marathon

173 30th Street, Marathon

3/2 • 1584 SF • $315,000 MLS# 571258 Call Kelly at 305-432-9754

1/1 • 554 SF • $265,000 MLS# 570619 Call Derrick at 305-767-4976

2/2 • 1,477 SF • $475,000 MLS# 571289 Call Derrick at 305-767-4976

VACATION RENTALS

1119 27th Street, Marathon

185 25th Street, A,, Marathon

2/2 • 1,008 SF • $410,000 MLS# 570678 Call Derrick at 305-767-4976

2/3 • 1,132 SF • $233,000 MLS# 571007 Call Derrick at 305-767-4976

305-390-2315 KeysRentalsOnline.com "We can help you to buy and manage your Keys dream home!"

Kelly Willey, Broker 305-432-9754 Jim Willey, Broker 410-937-5561

Derrick Johnson, Sales Associate 305-767-4976

LOCAL CHATTER

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

GABRIEL SANCHEZ

gabriel@keysweekly.com

There’s nothing scarier than not being prepared for a hurricane. Homeowners throughout the Keys have all felt the anxiety of seeing that multicolored blob swirling towards Florida on the TV. Just thinking about the work involved could make anybody’s head hurt. Hurricanes are like in-laws, they visit every so often, appear unexpectedly, and make you run to the store to stock up on emergency equipment (rum, ice, limes). Fittingly, The Weekly asked brave locals …

“Which would you rather have drop in, a hurricane, or your in-laws?”

“A Category 1 Hurricane, so that way I can stay home and party,” said Anna Arroyo.

Cory Nelson, of Otherside Boardsports, would rather have the storm, but not for reasons that are readily obvious to the average local. “Hurricane, because it brings in some pretty sweet swells.”

“Hurricanes, as long as there is a stocked fridge, though,” said Paola Arroyo.

“In-laws. I get along really good with my in-laws,” said Saul Facio, of Puerto Vallarta Mexican Bar & Grill.

Victoria Conley said, “Hurricane. Hurricanes don’t linger, they come and go.”

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UPPER KEYS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

GABRIEL SANCHEZ

T

gabriel@keysweekly.com

91831 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier, FL 33070 Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

Publisher

Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner

Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Editor

Sara Matthis sara@keysweekly.com

Director, Sales & Marketing Lesley Aaron lesley@keysweekly.com

Account Executives

Hollie Will hollie@keysweekly.com Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com Ben Elliott ben@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers

Kristen Livengood kristen@keysweekly.com Hays Blinckmann hays@keysweekly.com Gabriel Sanchez gabriel@keysweekly.com Theresa Java theresa@keysweekly.com

Office Manager

Lynn Ritli lynn@keysweekly.com

Design / Web Master

“BRAINS & BUILDINGS UNDERCONS TRUCTION” Plantation Key School gets upgrade

Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classifieds

Ovidio Santistevan ovidio@keysweekly.com

Design / Pre-Press

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Se habla español

Keys Weekly Newspapers (ISSN 1944-0812) are a community newspaper group published every Friday by Keys Weekly Newspapers, 9709 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050.

Subscription rates are $100.00 per year outside of Monroe County. Please call for all other subscription rates including overseas mail.

Periodicals postage pending at Marathon, FL and additional mailing offices. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

POSTMASTER:

Send address changes to Keys Weekly Newspapers 9709 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050.

News Deadline

Tuesday Noon

Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.

Four new portable trailers will serve to accommodate students while construction is under way.

he demolition of Plantation Key School’s old facilities gives way to a new vision. Where the multipurpose room, art, music, and locker rooms once stood, the last bit of rubble is being cleared out. The three portable trailers that were visible from Overseas Highway have also been removed.

By August 2019, Plantation Key School will be educating students with the tools and facilities of a 21st century school. School administrators are progressing toward using the S.T.E.A.M approach to instructing students, which focuses on using science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math as areas in which to guide them.

“Our theme this year will be ‘brains and building under construction’,” said Principal Lisa Taylor.

Throughout the construction, classes will be consolidated into the elementary and middle school buildings. Four new portable trailers have been installed that will be used for language arts classes, a music room, gifted student programs, and a resource room.

What does this mean for students? “We think the transition is going to minimally affect students,” said Jay Hillman, officer manager.

Principal Taylor agrees. She’s adamant about minimizing distractions. “We are focused on not allowing construction to get in the way of the excellent education our students receive every day,” said Taylor.

Biltmore Construction’s three-year plan consists of two main phases. The first phase includes the construction of the new academic building, slated to finish in August, 2018. The next phase begins with the demolition of the old elementary school, originally constructed in the early 1970s. The project will be finalized once the new athletic courts, parking lots, bus loops, and field have been completed. Architects are also working to reconfigure the current parent pickup and parking layout.

“Throughout the process, Biltmore Construction has made it one of their main goals to separate everything that can be recycled from the demolished buildings, and to have them sent to the proper facilities for repurposing,” said Taylor.

Plantation Key School has also made a conscious effort to be aware of the surrounding ecosystems as the transition to newer facilities happens. Assistance from the Florida Keys Electric Cooperative, FWC, and Biltmore Construction has allowed the school to safely relocate indigenous flora and fauna away from the construction and remove invasive species.

The new academic building will expand capacity to 600 students, 100 more than its predecessor. The infrastructure of the building is also cleverly designed for any anticipated expansion. Students can look forward to a new gym, art lab, fully functioning classroom kitchen, and marine science lab complete with aquarium.

In keeping with the goal of innovation, a new “maker’s lab” will give students access to 3D printers to aid in their creative process. A media center equipped with the most modern technology will give students the resources they need, plus a reading porch to peruse the materials.

The most sophisticated addition, however, may be the “Science on a Sphere” globe. The 6-foot diameter sphere uses projectors and computers to display planetary data. The room-sized global display system was originally created by researchers at NOAA to be used as an educational tool.

The construction of the new Plantation Key School has been a culmination of efforts by the county, school district, school administrators, community, and local businesses. “The district school board, and executive leadership team have done a lot to support making this a state of the art facility for kids in the Upper Keys,” said Taylor.

Stay up to date with developments and upcoming community meeting time and dates on the official Plantation construction Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ groups/1187219701329355/.

CAMMY CLARK/Contributed

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

Crews worked in the wee hours of the morning to place two 120-foot, 108,000-pound beams over Marvin D. Adams Waterway in Key Largo for a new pedestrian bridge this past weekend.

A

t about 4 a.m. this past Friday, after hours of work by nearly 30 people, Parsons Brinckerhoff Senior Project Engineer Pom Chakkaphak declared with a thumbs up: “We are done.”

Two large cranes had just lifted the second 120-foot-long, 108,000-pound concrete beam onto concrete slabs previously constructed at each end of Marvin D. Adams Waterway in Key Largo.

Putting the two monster-sized beams successfully into place was the biggest challenge of building Monroe County’s new pedestrian bridge, said Jim Hennigar, Project Manager with Douglas N. Higgins, the construction contractor. Parson Brinckerhoff is the Construction, Engineering and Inspection firm for the project.

“These are the ‘premiere league’ of beams,” said Hennigar, who hails from Ireland. He explained that they had to be that long because support structures could not be placed in the middle of the popular waterway for boat traffic traveling between Florida Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

The $1.18 million, 11.5-foot wide pedestrian bridge at MM 103.3 on U.S. 1 is expected to be finished in December, said Debra London, the project’s manager for Monroe County.

The pedestrian bridge is the final piece of the U.S. 1 Bayside Shared Use Path, which stretches from approximately MM 99 to 106 and provides a safe, paved route for people to walk, run and bike.

The project is funded with a $475,000 Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) grant, impact fees and infrastructure sales tax revenues.

To put the two beams into place took a small army. The Florida Keys Electric Cooperative depowered the overhead electrical line for the safety of all personnel. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office controlled vehicle traffic on U.S. 1 and marine traffic on Adams Cut. And crews from Parsons Brinckerhoff, Douglas N. Higgins and subcontractor American Empire Builders worked together to get the long and heavy beams moved from special trucks, up and over the bridge railing and into place over the waterway.

— Contributed

Broad in the beam Two structural supports placed for pedestrian bridge over Adams Cut

MONROE COUNTY

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ELECTION SEASON

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

83%

Monroe County Supervisor of Elections

Going back to 1954, the highest recorded turnout in a general election in Florida was in 1992.

The presidential election featured the contest between Democrat Bill Clinton and incumbent Republican President George Bush. Independent candidate Ross Perot secured nearly 19 percent of the vote — the highest percentage of any third-party candidate in a U.S. presidential election in 80 years.

Clinton won.

also oversees voting for local events like Fantasy Fest King and Queen, Chamber of Commerce, Homecoming at KWHS and MHS, Electric Cooperative and Key West Business Guild.

In recent memory, Sheriff Ramsay has raised the most campaign funds: $148,454.71

3,000

A WELL-OILED MACHINE

Monroe County voters were moved from active to inactive due to address change. Voters can check their status by visiting www. keys-elections.org and clicking on the “My Registration Status” button.

The Supervisor Office is a well-oiled machine and doesn’t change hands often. W.M. Billy Freeman and Harry Sawyer both served 28 years. Joyce Griffin, above, was elected in 2012, but has been an employee of the office for 32 years.

Polling places In Florida and the Keys, polling places are pretty standard — municipal facilities, churches and high school auditoriums.

Elections in other countries, however, feature some pretty strange places to cast a vote.

During the “Brexit” vote earlier this year, British citizens cast votes in pubs, Laundromats and boxing gyms.

Teddy Roosevelt’s Progressive Party, nicknamed the Bull Moose Party, appeared after Roosevelt lost the Republican Party’s nomination to William Taft in 1912.

Roosevelt formed a third party and entered the race.

It was not enough, although Roosevelt received about 4.1 million votes — 27 percent. The party earned its nickname after Roosevelt was famously quoted saying that he felt “fit as a bull moose.”

$7,686.15 each

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Monroe County received new ballot machines in 2013 — 76 of them. The entire purchase cost approximately $600,000 including software, maintenance and licensing. This machine offers voters complete privacy — including those with disabilities. Hearing, sight, and physically impaired people can roll right up to the machine and use a combination of keypad and handheld remote to mark their choices.

The number of Keys officials who were reelected unopposed.

ELECTION SEASON

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

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Votes

In the 2008 election, the race between Teagan Slayton and Mary Van Den Brook for circuit court judge, group four, was very close — nine votes.

DON’T LIKE THE PARTY?

Prior to the 12th Amendment of the Constitution in 1804, the presidential candidate who received the second highest number of electoral votes was named the vicepresident. The amendment mandated that electors vote for the offices of president and vice-president separately.

random and amusing facts about the

VOTE Absentee ballots

that were not mailed back, CANNOT be dropped off at polling places. However, they can be turned in at the closest Supervisor of Elections office on election day by 7 p.m. to be counted.

Monroe County has 153 registered Libertarian voters.

Change your affiliation JASON KOLER

jason@keysweekly.com

‘The Best Party’

In 2010, a satirical political party in Reykjavik, Iceland, named the “The Best Party” won various seats of the local council elections with 34.7 percent of the city’s overall vote. Their founder, a comedian named Jon Gnarr, became mayor. The party had such fruitful results by assuring constituents they would not keep a single campaign promise. While campaigning, Gnarr had promised free towels at all hot springs and a polar bear for Reykjavik's zoo.

Looking to make extra cash for the holidays? Poll workers make

$210-$240 per day.

2,185,397

According to the Tampa Bay Tribune, voters in Florida have requested 2,185,397 absentee ballots. In the Keys, 13,000 ballots are being mailed. Once an after thought, now absentee and early voting results are crucial to the election process. “In 2014, for the first time, the combination of absentee and early voters in the state of Florida was higher than the number of voters actually going to the poll on election day,” said Monroe County Supervisor of Election Joyce Griffin. Absentee votes are opened over a specified period of time by employees of the office. They sign confidentiality agreements and can be charged with a felony if they leak information about the results.

A

re you socially liberal and fiscally conservative with libertarian sensibilities?

There is relief.

Monroe County residents have until 5 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 1 to switch their party affiliation if they feel strongly about a certain candidate running outside of their preferred political party. (Florida is a closed primary election state, which means registered voters can only vote for their registered party’s candidates in the primary election.)

Republican voters will rule on the senate seat currently held by Marco Rubio, and several local races including Clerk of Court, County Commission, and two Mosquito Control districts. Democrats have the senate and congressional races and will decide which candidate will face state representative Holly Raschein (R) in the general election. Since there is no democratic challenger for County Commission, District IV, all voters will cast ballots on the race between incumbent Sylvia Murphy (R) and her challenger, Robby Majeska (R). And according to Monroe County Supervisor of Elections Joyce Griffin, this year marks the first time Libertarians will get their own ballot due to the candidates running for US Senate.

Near the bottom of the form, applicants can choose between Democratic, Republican, no party afflation and a blank space to write in their preference. Griffin encourages applicants who consider themselves as “independent” to choose “no party affiliation.”

“Most of the voters who consider themselves as independent are not independent of any party,” Griffin said. “They are members of the Independent Party of Florida.”

Griffin said the bulk of the absentee ballot were mailed this past Tuesday and those requesting an absentee ballot should have them by Friday, Aug. 5 or request a new ballot. Early voting will begin Monday, Aug. 15. The primary election will take place on Tuesday, August 30 with polls open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.

For more info, visit keys-elections.org.

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WEEKLY PROFILE

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

GABRIEL SANCHEZ

S

gabriel@keysweekly.com

ince relocating to the Upper Keys in 2003, Claudia Stober has loved every bit of acclimating to her surroundings. The Miami native is no stranger to tropical living.

Growing up in South Florida made family trips to Keys on the weekend commonplace. However, it wasn’t until attending the University of Florida in Gainesville, that Stober realized how vital the ocean was in her life. Years later, when she returned to South Florida and decided to broker mortgages, Stober found a new passion in guiding others to achieve home ownership. For more than a year, a strong sense of family has kept Claudia motivated and optimistic in balancing her ambitions and the welcomed trials of living “campaign life” — her husband, Rob Stober, is running for county judge, 16th circuit.

Questions with

CLAUDIA STOBER Roof over your head, smile on her face

You’ve been a mortgage broker for 11 years. What do you like most about working with first-time homebuyers? I love holding their hands through the process. There are so many emotions … these buyers are putting themselves in tremendous debt through a process they generally know very little about.

It can be very intimidating. I love teaching them about mortgages, as they usually are very eager to learn. It is most satisfying when you can close with a buyer who never envisioned him/herself being able to qualify for a mortgage. I help people achieve part of the American Dream and I think that’s awesome.

Being a homeowner, how does that affect your approach to guiding clients through the buying process? I know what it’s like to drain your bank account for the down payment. I, too, wanted to vomit on the teller’s counter when I asked her to wire the funds from our account to the title company the day of closing. I also like to warn the first time homebuyers that they are going to feel the financial pressure. I wish someone had told me that …

How can someone tell that you grew up in Miami, with Cuban parents? My volume. I was not equipped with an inside voice.

Who do you look up to? My grandmother. She left Cuba in her early 40s with two teenagers and an ailing husband and mother. She moved to a country where she did not know the language nor did she have a support system. She and my grandfather had to leave everything behind.

She was a CPA equivalent in Cuba but worked in a sweatshop in Miami. She managed to put both kids through college as a single mother with one going on to graduate from medical school.

She instilled a strong work ethic in my family and it resonated with me.

What’s the biggest fish you’ve ever caught? Biggest: A 207-pound Rob Stober. Second biggest: An 80-pound yellowfin tuna.

Describe your dream house.

My ideal Keys home would be in my neighborhood (I love our neighbors). It would look like it belongs on the cover of Coastal Living. I would also have my own bathroom with a secret code on the door so no one else could use it.

What’s the housing market like right now? We have a very limited supply of real estate, which helps to keep our market stronger than the national markets. Interest rates will eventually go up; they can only stay this low for a period of time.

Describe your relationship with local Realtors and former clients. Realtors like that I get the difficult loans closed. Often I am called in to save a deal that the previous mortgage broker couldn’t do. My realtors are loyal to me as their livelihood depends on my success. My former clients like that I am honest and make the process as painless as possible, which is value added in this lending environment. Those who start as clients usually end up as friends.

If you could wake up tomorrow with any special ability, which would it be, and why? The ability to clone myself. Think of how much I could get done in a given day! Think of all the practical jokes I could play on people. Think of how much therapy my family would need.

You’ve traveled all over. Cuba, France, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Argentina, to name a few. The Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador is next on your bucket list, why? The insane variety of animals, fish, birds, etc. Realistically, though, I foresee our next trip will be with the girls to see The Mouse. Parent guilt is a powerful thing.

You attended both the University of Miami and the University of Florida, so who do you root for when they face off in football? Easy. I always root for Miami. I saw Jim Kelley play in the Orange Bowl for the first time when I was 5. I was raised to believe that orange/blue and crimson/gold are the colors of the devil. Although University of Florida is an exceptional institution, when it comes to sports, I bleed orange and green.

Would you rather visit the Museum of Natural History or the National Air and Space Museum?

The “dead zoo,” as my father calls it.

How’s the campaign trail? I have made so many friends on the campaign trail I probably would not have made otherwise. Traveling up and down this county for the last year, I have come to appreciate the different “flavors” of the different regions. After the election, however, I am looking forward to saying whatever the **bleep** I want.

What’s your favorite inspirational quote? Thomas Jefferson: “I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have.”

What is your favorite Cuban dish? Ropa Vieja, made the old school way … by an abuelita.

Which comedian can you always count on to make you laugh? Jimmy Fallon.

Which TV character is your alter ego? Julia Sugarbaker from “Designing Women.”

Name one famous person you would bring back to life, why? JFK Jr., simply because he’s hot.

COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

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NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

Mark your calendars and have some fun!

O

n Tuesday, Aug. 2, the Sheriff's Office will sponsor National Night Out events in the Upper, Middle and Lower Keys. All of the events will feature food, refreshments, and a great chance to meet your neighbors, members of the Sheriff’s Office from a wide variety of divisions, departments and special teams and many others who are involved in the field of public safety here in the Florida Keys.

The goal of National Night Out is to bring the community together to discuss how we can all make our neighborhoods cleaner, safer and more secure. The Sheriff's Office will have crime prevention information to share at the event. Community members will learn how to heighten their crime and drug prevention awareness.

The Sheriff’s Office hopes to

generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime programs and strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships.

Everyone participating will send a message to criminals letting them know that Monroe County neighborhoods are organized and fighting back against crime.

“This yearly event is an important one for our agency. We get the opportunity to meet the people we are charged with serving and protecting in a less formal, more fun setting,” said Sheriff Rick Ramsay. “I hope everyone will take this opportunity to meet their neighbors, learn about crime prevention and meet the deputies who are out there patrolling our community and keeping it safe,” he said.

• The Key Largo event will be Tuesday, Aug. 2 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Key Largo Community Park.

Captain Don Fanelli and Lieutenant Al Ramirez want to invite the entire community to attend their free event.

Members of the Sheriff’s Office will be on hand, along with others from the public safety community.

Harborview

Café & Bar Now Open for Lunch & Dinner!

Daily Chef’s Specials

Tues: All Your Can Eat Snow Crab Wed: Italian Night Thurs: Karaoke Fri: Open Mic w/ John Bartus, Prime Rib Happy Hour Daily 3 -7 Special Drink Prices

Cafe: 305-809-7210 Pro Shop: 305-743-2551 4000 Sombrero Blvd floridakeyscc.com

Florida Highway Patrol officers Joe Sanchez, right, and Jackson Morrisseau are the stars of the show last year with a spinning car rigged to throw seatbelt-less crash dummies.

• The Marathon event will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 2 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Stanley Switlik School. Captain Gene Thompson and Lt. Derek Paul invite everyone to join them and have some fun. There will be free food and refreshments, live music and residents will be able to visit many law enforcement, public safety and community groups at the event.

• The Stock Island event will be at Sheriffs Headquarters Building, 5525 College Road on Stock Island, Tuesday, Aug. 2 from 5 – 7 p.m. Captain Don Hiller and Lieutenant Donnie Catala want to welcome the Lower Keys community to come on out for a great time.

— Contributed

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GIVING

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

Purple Pumpkins

Art auction and gala raise funds for Rett Syndrome

THERESA JAVA

theresa@keysweekly.com

“L

ast year, we were in a dark place. We had no idea what it was we were up against,” said Michelle Bennett, speaking for her husband, dentist Travis Bennett. They have two children and the youngest, 4-year-old Stella, had just been diagnosed with Rett syndrome.

Less than 12 months later, Michelle is hard at work to raise awareness of the disorder and raise funds for research. That’s what the pumpkins are about. So far, there are 13 pumpkins, hand painted by local artists scattered throughout Upper Keys’ businesses. (Purple is the banner color of Rett Syndrome awareness). The pumpkins are sponsored by local philanthropists, painted by local artists, and the local public casts $1 “votes” to elect a winner that will be announced at an October gala. The pumpkins will be auctioned off at the event.

On July 8, the Bennett’s hosted an inaugural sponsorship soiree at Pasta Pantaleo Signature Gallery in Islamorada and local businesses stepped up to sponsor all of the 13 pumpkins by donating $350 each.

“I didn’t think that they’d all get sponsored in one night, it was amazing,” said Michelle.

More good news: Stella is doing very well.

“Stella is doing physical and occupational therapy three to five times a week. We’ll slow down if she ever shows signs of not wanting to push herself so hard but, for now, she’s fully into it. Muscle memory is really important,” said Michelle.

“I’m an educator at heart so I was looking for something to do to help.

The most important part of this campaign is spreading knowledge of this disorder,” said Michelle.

The gala is set for Oct. 1 at the Islander Resort in Islamorada. There will be silent and live auctions, dinner and music, and a special guest appearance by country music star Clint Black, who lost a 16-year-old niece to the disorder.

For more information about the gala, or sponsoring another pumpkin, call 305-434-5062 or visit the Facebook page by searching Purple Pumpkin Gala.

Michelle Lowe displays a pumpkin she painted on display at Pasta Pantaleo Signature Gallery in Islamorada.

VOTE TODAY

The pumpkins are displayed at the following locations and the public is encouraged to vote with dollar bills.

• Everyone Loves a Gentle Dentist Artist: Susi Trottnow • Florida Keys Jewelry Artist: Lisa Lee • Capital Bank, Tavernier Artist: Carol Ross • Pasta Pantaleo Gallery (Morada Way) Artist: Stella Bennett • Blue Marlin Jewelry Artist: Pasta Pantaleo • Green Turtle Wine and Spirits Artist: Stacie Krupa

• Ocean Sotheby's Artist: Morna Strengholt • Ocean Sotheby's Art Gallery Artist: Michelle Lowe • Mangrove Mike's Artist: Wyland • Robbie's Marina (Tim Rahn Gallery) Artist: Barbara Weingardt • Mariners Hospital Artist: Jason Barth • Dr. Zuba's office Artist: B.J. Royster • Shell World Artist: Carmen Kelley

ABOUT THE DISORDER: Rett Syndrome is a rare and random genetic mutation of the X chromosome, which almost exclusively affects girls. It strikes one out of every 10,000 to 15,000 babies worldwide regardless of race. According to rettsyndrome.org, the disease causes problems in brain function that are responsible for cognitive, sensory, emotional, motor and autonomic function. These can include learning, speech, sensory sensations, mood, movement, breathing, cardiac function, and even digestion. The difficulties can appear gradually, or all at once. The diagnosis, including a prenatal diagnosis, involves a simple blood test.

KIDS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

THERESA JAVA

theresa@keysweekly.com

Key Largo camp shows compassion to wayward teens

D

riving along U.S. 1 in Key Largo, there is are two signs, one reading “North Carolina Outward Bound” and the other “Outward Bound.”

Recently, some trees have been removed and these two signs have become significantly more visible, yet the program has been operating in the Keys since the early 1990s.

North Carolina Outward Bound is an international program that offers help to teens ages 12-17 who have problems specific to family, school and or substance abuse. There are 16 camps in the U.S., and some serve adults and entire families. In Key Largo, the camp organizes more than a dozen wilderness expeditions that last 20 days just for kids. It’s 20 days without electronics, without showers, without flushing toilets.

“We take kids out of their home environment, their daily peer groups and push them to learn how to survive,” said Amy Ambachtsheer, program director, adding that Outward Bound is not a boot camp. “We take a compassionate approach. If a kid wants to walk away and take some time to themselves, they’re welcome.”

Mike Bohnenkamp, the logistics coordinator was gearing up for the upcoming Aug. 2 expedition with 11 boys. He was creating bulk dry-good snack packs. He’s responsible for ensuring the canoes and camping gear are operational and figuring out what’s needed for each expedition. He’s been with Outward Bound for five years now, with a degree in Parks and Recreation.

“We have gear and clothing for kids who don’t have it. Sometimes people donate them or sometimes kids leave them behind, so we reuse them,” Bohnenkamp said.

After the expedition, kids are required to follow up with three to five hours of community service. Many want to volunteer at the Key Largo camp.

“I’ve had kids that want to come back and work here because of their experience,” Bohnenkamp said.

Wanda Roberts is the intake coordinator. She’s responsible for vetting kids into the program, to make sure they’re good candidates. Kids must be enrolled in school, cannot have a sexual misconduct or violent behavior records. They also must be physically fit. She interviews them at the beginning, and at the completion of the expedition.

“Sometimes I have kids tell me this is what they want to do. They want to be involved in programs like this,” Roberts said.

Although it varies year to year, about 80-90 percent of the program is a state funded and the Key Largo operation serves Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. To qualify, the student must be referred by school, a social services agency or a community organization ranging from teen courts to runaway shelters.

The other small percentage is private enrollments.

To learn more about the camp, or donate, call 800-327-2995 or email wroberts@ncobs.org.

Mike Bohnenkamp makes up bulk drygood snack packs for the upcoming trip.

Not Just Your Breakfast Stop Wednesday Ladies Night ALL Night 7 till 2 DJ/Dancing/Drink and Food Specials 97630 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo • (305)440-2023

FLORIDA KEYS

Guitar Festival Friday, August 5 MIKE EMERSON Little Room Jazz Club @ 8PM

(Donations suggested) Saturday, August 6 MATEO JAMPOL Old Stone Church @ 3PM

Sunday, August 7 GUITAR SUMMIT

LARRY BAEDER, MIKE EMERSON, MATEO The Gardens Hotel @ 6:30PM

Saturday, August 6 MATEO JAMPOL Little Room Jazz Club @ 10PM

FloridaKeysGuitarFestival.com KeysTix.com • $25

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

Just imagine….

Let’s Get Together to Build a Better Future

Sunset Park could be the Mallory Square for the Middle Keys.

Join us and let’s make this park a world class attraction for everyone to enjoy.

Community Foundation of the Florida Keys

Grant Info Session and Meet & Greet Thursday, August 11th from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.

Florida Keys History & Discovery Center 82100 Overseas Highway in Islamorada The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys (CFFK) wants to learn more about our friends in the Middle and Upper Keys and we want you to get to know us better. Please join us for an informal ‘Grant Info Session and Meet & Greet’ to see how we can work together to build a better future for our incredible Keys community.

Complimentary hors d’oeuvres, water and soda.

Cash bar available. RSVP by August 5th to mbhurd@cffk.org or call 305.292.1502.

www.cffk.org

www.friendsofoldseven.org

We will be serving free food and drinks.

CHI SCHOOL PHYSICAL DAY LOCATIONS Marathon Health Center 2855 Overseas Highway, Marathon Mile Marker 48.5 (305) 743-4000

Tavernier Health Center 91200 Overseas Highway, #17, Tavernier Tavernier Towne Shopping Center (305) 743-0383

ON THE STAGE

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

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ONE WOMAN SHOW

Local woman debuts ‘The Wedding Warrior’ in Islamorada THERESA JAVA

Snappers Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar

theresa@keysweekly.com

C

asey Dressler, a.k.a. the Wedding Warrior, will preview her play, “The Wedding Warrior,” this weekend in Islamorada. The local woman wrote the play and will also star.

Casey is a Keys kid. She was born and raised in Islamorada and graduated Coral Shores High School in 2001. She’s held a few jobs down here, namely the Pink Junktique but she attributes her love of acting to the time when she was working at Anthony’s Italian Restaurant, where Denny’s is now in Key Largo. She worked there from the time she was 14 well into her 20’s. Her ability to do different dialects and accents comes from meeting people all over the world who dined there and especially her former boss, Anthony Colarusso, who recently passed.

“Anthony was from the Bronx.

He was so funny, bigger than life.

We had a lot of fun together,” said Dressler.

Now, Casey works full-time in performing arts in South Florida.

Of course, the entire show is based on her experiences as a wedding coordinator in her hometown.

Better off wed? That is just one of the questions Casey poses as she passes the torch to an incoming wedding coordinator in this uplifting, comedic peek into the chaos that ensues before vows are taken.

The preview of the play is a pretty big deal. “The Wedding Warrior” and Casey have already been booked for the New York Fringe Festival in August and the Chicago Fringe Festival in early September. The selection process is rigorous — judges choose from thousands of submissions, whittling the field to 200.

Currently, Dressler is working on a new, full-length play — “Fat Cat Carwash.”

“It’s going to be a comedy set in the Keys. I’m inspired by the Keys, it’s such a unique place and there is so much beauty,” Dressler said. “I put my whole heart into everything I do.”

THIS WEEKEND See ‘The Wedding Warrior’ Friday to Sunday, July 29-31 @ 7 p.m. at The Florida Keys History & Discovery Center at The Islander Resort at MM 82. Tickets are $25 at www.theweddingwarriorplay.com or by phone 305-879-7282.

“Casey Dressler’s solo show … as a single, love-shy wedding coordinator in the Keys, is a gem.

Dressler’s play has heart, soul and lots and lots of laughs.”

— Mary Damiano, theater critic

FUN FACT: Casey Dressler recently made her SAG debut in an Italian commercial with Bruce Willis.

139 Seaside Avenue, MM 94.5, Key Largo • (305) 852-5956 • www.SnappersKeyLargo.com SNAPPERS OCEANFRONT RESTAURANT offers quality dining with a Florida Keys feel at moderate prices in a casual atmosphere. Both locals and visitors alike are treated to a truly enjoyable Keys experience when visiting Snappers. Open daily from 11am, Sunday Brunch 10am.

OCEANFRONT • DAILY CHEF’S SPECIALS • LIVE MUSIC

OCEANFRONT

1450 Ne 1st Ave, Florida City, FL 33034

305-246-4229

7603 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050

305-743-6000

We Repair STIHL Products

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

RAW BAR

Fresh Shucked Oysters Peel And Eat Shrimp Chilled 1/2 Maine Lobster FRESH SHUCKED GRILLED OYSTERS

SIC LIVE MULY T NIGH

HAPPY HOUR 4:20p – 6:30p Happy Hour Menu!

Regular Menu & Raw Bar!

Come check out our New Menu!

Tues: $6 Tito’s Tinis Wed: is Ladies Night Wine-O Wednesday $6/glass Fondue Mania $12 per person Thur: $6 Tequila Madness Fri: EVERCHANGING Beer Special Sat: $6 glass/$28 pitcher red or white Sangria

Open 4:20 – Midnight Tues – Sat • MM 22.5 Oceanside Cudjoe Key • 305-745-8880 www.mynewjoint420lounge.com .com

Covering All The Keys From Key Largo To Key West Upper Keys Weekly 91831 O/S Hwy, Ste 3 Tavernier, FL 33070 305.743.0844

Marathon Weekly 9709 O/S Hwy Marathon, FL 33050 305.743.0844

Key West Weekly 5450 MacDonald Ave, Ste 5 Key West, FL 33040 305.453.6928

SERVING COCKTAIL S Winner of the Lower Keys and Winner IC the Sof U M Key West People’s Choice E V I L LowerLY Keys T for Awards 2016 Best Lunch NIGH and Key West People’s Choice Awards 2016 for Best Lunch

and 2015 for Best Seafood Serving innovative fresh local seafood, sumptuous steaks, house grown greens, magical desserts and our Daily LUNCH Blue Plate Special $10

This J oint i s FRIE Every D… Friday Night !

Crunchy Fried Butterflied Hogfish with Cilantro, Sweet Chili & Lime Dipping Sauce

Dr. True Lansden When selecting a doctor for skin cancer treatment, you want to find an expert that you can trust.

Dr. True is a double board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who has treated skin cancers for over thirty years. He is dedicated to his patients and accepts medicare and most insurance.

Ranked #1 Restaurant in the Florida Keys on Lunch 11:00-2:30 • Dinner 5:00-10:00 Closed on Sundays and Mondays until January MM 22.5 Oceanside, Cudjoe Key • 305-745-8880

TruePlasticSurgery.com 5701 O/S Highway, Suite 4 Marathon, Florida 33050 Phone (305) 453-6807

605 United Street, Suite B Key West, Florida 33040 (305) 509-7535

COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

BRIEFLY Citizens insurance seminar set for Aug. 1 Representatives from Citizens Property Insurance will be on hand to answer personal policy questions on Monday, Aug. 1 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Holly Raschein’s District Office at 99198 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo. Bring a copy of the policy or policy number for review. Appointments are required, so call 305-453-1202 to schedule.

‘Stuff the Bus’ with United Way

This summer, United Way of the Florida Keys will collect school supplies to distribute to more than 8,000 Keys students. Local companies can become sponsors of “Stuff the Bus” by pledging a minimum amount of $250 worth of school supplies through a supply drive with their employees or customers, or by making a contribution of $250 or more, or a combination of both. Supplies will be collected through the first week of September.

Individuals can participate in “Stuff the Bus” by taking school supplies to a sponsor’s business, making a donation online at gofundme.com/StufftheBus2016, shopping at Publix and buying “Tools for Schools” gift cards at the checkout counter, or by bringing donated supplies to various community gatherings. Every dollar donated to the Stuff the Bus school supply drive will be used directly to purchase additional bulk supplies for children in Keys schools. For more information, call the UWFK office at 305-735-1929.

SAVE THE DATE July 29-31 ‘Wedding Warrior’ one-woman show at 7 p.m. at The Florida Keys History and Discovery Center, MM 82.

Monday, Aug. 1 • REEF’s Ocean Explorer Day Camp all day at REEF headquarters, Key Largo.

• Citizens Property Insurance meeting from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Holly Rashein’s office in Key Largo.

Tuesday, Aug. 2 • National Night out at Key Largo Community Park; at Founders Park in Islamorada; at Stanley Switlik Elementary in Marathon; at Sheriff’s Headquarters on Stock Island. All events begin at 5:30 p.m. except Stock Island which begins at 5 p.m.

Thursday, Aug 4 • Marvelous Pet Rescue’s Yappy Hour at 7 to 9 p.m. at the Island Grill at Mandalay, Key Largo.

Aug. 5-7 • Florida free sales tax weekend for school supplies.

Wednesday, Aug. 10 • Key Largo Chamber of Commerce Luncheon at 11:30 at Pilot House Restaurant, Key Largo.

Aug. 11-14 • Key West Lobsterfest, events at various venues.

Saturday, Aug. 13 • First Annual Florida Keys Poker Paddle at 9 a.m. at Post Card Inn Beach Resort, Islamorada.

• Coral Reef Restoration Project at 9:30 a.m. at Amy Slate’s Amoray Dive Resort, Key Largo.

Wednesday, Aug. 17 • Immerse Yourself Series, Tech & Cave Diving at the History of Diving Museum, Islamorada.

• Monroe County School District start for students.

Saturday, Aug. 20 • Coral Spawning Night Dive at 6 p.m. at Amy Slate’s Amoray Dive Resort, Key Largo.

Thursday, Aug. 25 • Key Largo Chamber of Commerce Members in Motion at 5:30 p.m. at Freewheeler Realty, Key Largo.

Email your community events to gabriel@ keysweekly.com.

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BTS SHOPPING Buy basics. Treat yourself. Give extra.

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mid the flurry of lobster mini-season and lobster opening weekend, backto-school season is in full swing. The sales tax free weekend runs Aug. 5-7 which is the perfect time to outfit your kids and check off their school supply list. During the sales tax free weekend, no Florida sales tax will be collected on clothing, footwear, and certain accessories selling for $60 or less per item and on school supplies selling for $15 or less per item. Below are a few tips to help you take advantage of this 3-day sales tax holiday.

• Make a list. Start with a list of all the school supplies you need for each child as well as a list of wardrobe essentials each child will need for school. Don’t forget to add a few items for yourself on the list. After all, you deserve something new as well. (More on that later.)

• Think ahead. If you’re buying clothing for kids, remember to buy not only for right now but also for the size they’ll be in a few months.

There is no need for them to wear pants that resemble clam diggers just because they had a growth spurt.

• Give back.

Now through the end of is a fashion-obAugust, United sessed style Keys blogger, formerly Way of the Florfrom Minnesoida Keys will be ta. Her current collecting school infatuations include statement supplies to distribute to 8,000 pieces, dramatic heels, red lipstick students in and vintage Monroe County. costume jewelry.

As you’re Visit LeahsFabushopping for lousFinds.com your own kid’s for more of her musings. school supplies, consider buying a few extra notebooks, pencils, crayons, binders, or backpacks for a child in need. There are a number of convenient drop-off locations throughout the Keys including Wells Fargo Banks, Mariners Hospital, Key Largo Chamber of Commerce and Amara Cay in Islamorada. Go to KeysUnitedWay.org for more information and additional drop-off locations.

LEAH MAKI

• Take advantage of sales. Many stores are offering additional sales during the sales tax free weekend. The Banyan Tree Boutique in Islamorada is offering 25 percent off all clothing during this time. DLuxe Boutique in Islamorada is offering 15 percent off purchases over $25 and 25 percent off purchases over $100. Miss Monroe Boutique in Islamorada is offering a buy-one, get-one deal on their reversible tote bags. Available in 10 colors, these are the perfect backpack alternative for high school girls.

• Stock up on basics. Basics are the building blocks of every wardrobe. For kids, this is T-shirts and shorts. For teenage girls and women, it means wardrobe staples such as jeans, black heels, white tees, sandals, shorts, underwear, and little black dresses. These are often the pieces that are worn the most and therefore may need to be updated or replaced on a yearly basis. (Remember, moms, treat yourself.)

ENTERTAINMENT

SNAPPER’S Dwayne McGregor – Friday, July 29 Dwayne McGregor – Saturday, July 30 Snappers Reggae Sunday – Sunday, July 31 Steve Venini – Monday, Aug 1 Billy Davidson– Tuesday, Aug 2 The Dana Collins Band– Wednesday, Aug 3 Dangerous Dave– Thursday, Aug 4 Dangerous Dave– Friday, Aug 5 Dangerous Dave– Saturday, Aug 6 Snappers Reggae Sunday– Sunday, Aug 7 Steve Venini– Monday, Aug 8 Billy Davidson – Tuesday, Aug 9 The Dana Collins Band – Wednesday, Aug 10 GILBERT’S Baga Tricks – Friday, July 29 Shane Duncan Band – Saturday, July 30 Eclipse – Sunday, July 31 Kevin Hurley – Tuesday, Aug 2 Bobbe Brown – Wednesday, Aug 3 DJ Reggae Ronnie – Thursday, Aug 4 Rough Shot– Friday, Aug 5 Jimmy Stowe & the Stowaways – Saturday, Aug 6 3RG – Sunday, Aug 7 Kevin Hurley – Tuesday, Aug 9 Bobbe Brown – Wednesday, Aug 10 SKIPPER’S DOCKSIDE Lee Sharp –Mondays, Saturdays Bob Bonnen – Tuesdays Ronnie Molyneaux –Wednesdays Scott Youngburg −Thursdays Bobbe Brown –Fridays Reggie Paul – Sundays LORELEI’S CABANA BAR AND RESTAURANT The Cat Daddies – Friday, July 29 Brothers of Others – Saturday, July 30 Webb & Davidson – Sunday, July 31 Daft Like Jack– Monday, Aug 1 Dennis Holmes– Tuesday, Aug 2 Webb & Davidson– Wednesday, Aug 3 Webb & Davidson – Thursday, Aug 4 Storm Watch w/ Adrienne – Friday, Aug 5 Brothers of Others – Saturday, Aug 6 Webb & Davidson – Sunday, Aug 7 Daft Like Jack – Monday, Aug 8 Dennis Holmes – Tuesday, Aug 9 Webb & Davidson – Wednesday, Aug 10

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

‘Grateful Ted’ Hyde GABRIEL SANCHEZ

gabriel@keysweekly.com

S

ince the 1970’s Ted Hyde has been jamming around the Keys. Hyde grew up in a family of artists near the Atlantic City beach area, and lived in Margate, New Jersey until moving to the Keys at 18. It was the “chill and laid back environment” that brought the Jersey native south, Hyde said. It could be that easy going approach to life and music that make Ted Hyde a natural performer.

In the Keys, he’s known as “Grateful Ted,” and worked with a number of different musicians over the years. “’Grateful Ted and Fiddlin’ Red’ is an act a lot of people probably remember,” said Hyde. Fiddlin’ Red Seidman has since passed on, but Ted remembers him kindly.

Over the years, the professed Dead Head has added blue grass, reggae, rock, and country music, to his repertoire of performing genres. “I like to mix it up.

I don’t use a backing or looping track — and I’m proud of that,” said Hyde. “I play for the music lovers and try to keep it real and keep it loose.” Hyde said he’s been influenced by bands such as Little Feat, The Band, The Allman Brothers, and the Grateful Dead, of course. His first love, however, was Bob Dylan and his lyricis.

“Bob Dylan’s lyrics spoke to me,” said Hyde. The feeling of freedom Hyde gets from jamming is what drives his live performances he says.

Grateful Ted is excited to play the Jerry Garcia gig on Monday, Aug. 1 at the Florida Keys Brewing Company. The brewery is hosting a celebration in honor of Jerry Garcia’s life and music. Grateful Ted also plays Sharky’s Pub and Galley Restaurant, Lazy Dayz Restaurant, and Shipwreck’s Bar and Grill.

Grateful Ted will perform at the Florida Keys Brewing Company Aug. 1 in celebration of Jerry Garcia’s birthday.

THERESA JAVA/Keys Weekly

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LIBATION

Kaiyo Grill & Sushi

K

ISLAMORADA FISH COMPANY Jeanette Conklin – Friday, July 29 Kenny Channels – Saturday, July 30 Jeanette Conklin – Saturday, July 30 Reggie Paul – Sunday, July 31

Danielle Price says to sip sake with your sushi.

GABRIEL SANCHEZ

gabriel@keysweekly.com

aiyo Grill & Sushi have a broad selection of wine and beer but Danielle Price recommends a cold sake to accompany your next sushi night. Made from fermented rice, this traditional Japanese drink is slightly sweet when served cold. It may also be served hot for winter months. Sake is also used as a mixer for cocktails like saketinis and the sake bomb.

Like sake’s versatility, so is Danielle. She’s lived in multiple places including Nashville, Chicago, Amherst, France, and for the last two years, Islamorada.

She loves to travel so much that last year she spent 10 weeks living on a James Wharrem Catamaran, adventuring around the Bahamas.

When asked to name one thing

she learned she said, “I learned how to live on nature’s time.”

Danielle is preparing to depart on adventure again, this time in the form of a 10-week road trip to Glacier National Park, Oregon, California, and Arizona. She won’t travel alone, she’s bringing along her new Blue Heeler puppy, Maggie, for moral support.

Danielle says she’s going to miss her friends while away, especially those at Kaiyo Grill and Lorelei. Come bid farewell and try a chilled sake with your meal at Kaiyo Grill & Sushi located at 81701 Old Highway in Islamorada.

Hours are between 5 and 9 p.m.

Monday through Thursday, and until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

SEEN AROUND TOWN

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

Locals meet on Wednesdays for submerged hockey game

UNDERWATER FUN

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Interested players can email floridakeysuwh@gmail.com for more information or to sign up. Players can also sign up at Jacobs Aquatic Center located at 320 Laguna Ave, Key Largo.

Games begin at 7 p.m. and last until about 8:30 p.m.

GABRIEL SANCHEZ/Keys Weekly

very Wednesday evening, Jacobs Aquatic Center is home to a submerged hockey competition in Key Largo. And the competition is fierce.

The rules are simple: two teams, with six players each, must maneuver the puck down at the pool’s depth to try to score in the opposing side’s goal net with limited contact. No using your free arm, no grabbing an opponent’s mask or fins, no free diving fins, and players must use safety head gear. Players must also use regulation underwater hockey sticks.

“Usually, we have a good turnout of about 15-20 people, on slower nights we have around 10,” said Rion Hunter, a lifeguard at Jacobs Aquatic Center.

The first three games are free of charge for underwater hockey players. After that, players pay only the minimal upkeep fee for the facilities. “We want to teach people about the sport, and are looking for eager volunteers,” said Nicole Fabian, who often coordinates the evening games.

— Weekly Staff report

1. Both teams race to the center for possession following a point.

2. Taylor Bamber, top, and Reese Robertson Sr. hunt down the puck.

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3. Jeffery Rojas zeros in on the puck and swims into action.

4. Jeffery Rojas, left, Taylor Bamber, Reese Robertson Sr., Elissa Connolly-Randazzo, and Nicole Fabian set up after scoring a point.

5. Alana Robles, left, Brian Reckenbeil, and Kurt Wagner talk strategy before the next point.

6. Alana Robles makes her way through the crowd to take possession of the puck.

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POLITICAL SCENE AROUND TOWN

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

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FEATURED BOAT 2016 Edgewater 240 In Shore Center Console It’s Better On The Edge.

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Hometown PAC questions primary candidates

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panelist of local news editors and commentators asked tough questions at Monday’s first Hometown PAC candidate forum at The Studios of Key West. The candidates, who are in the primaries, went head to head in the fast paced question and answer set with their opponents in the event.

Hometown PAC’s objective is to encourage qualified residents to run for elected office, to provide a platform for the candidates to explain their goals, and to encourage higher levels of voter participation in the election. To see the forum in its entirety, visit hometownkeywest.com. The next forum is Friday, Aug. 8 at TSKW. — Weekly Staff report

305-743-6341 2 0 5 9 O V E R S E A S H W Y, M A R AT H O N , F L W W W. M A R AT H O N B O AT YA R D . C O M

HOT MIC

KRISTEN LIVENGOOD/Keys Weekly 1. Robby Majeska and Sylvia Murphy discuss political platforms for Monroe County Commissioner. Murphy gets a chuckle from the audience when Bill Becker asks her if she foresees any health issues arising in the next four years. She replied, “Well, how do I look?!”

2. Mosquito Control candidates Janet Wood, left, Larry Zettwoch, Brandon Pinder and Stephen Hammond listen intently.

3. Ed Russo and future panelist Jennifer Russo came by to listen to the candidates speak at the event. The next Hometown PAC forum is Monday, Aug. 8 at The Studios of Key West.

SEEN AROUND TOWN

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

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AMARA CAY HOSTS LEADERSHIP MONROE

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n accomplished collection of Leadership Monroe County (LMC) alumni filled the lobby of Amara Cay this past Friday for the final recruitment social of what will become Class XXV. Launched in 1992, the program’s design focuses on education and creates a network of those in positions to affect change in Monroe County.

Program director Michael Shields (Class XVI) expects the next class to be named by the end of September. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more info, visit leadershipmonroecounty.org.

— Weekly Staff report JASON KOLER/Keys Weekly 1. It is not unusual for spouses to encourage their partners to apply to Leadership Monroe once they complete the program. Pictured, from left: Audra Hill (XVII), Ron Saunders (XVI), Jolynn Reynolds and her husband Jim (XVIII).

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2. Leadership Monroe County seems to be a right of passage for our county’s top administrators and the alumni has tremendous influencing power. Pictured, from left: CenterState Bank’s Margie Smith (XX), United Way president Kate Bauer-Jones and Monroe County Assistant Public Defender Trish Gibson (XXIII).

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3. Politics easily mix with business and current affairs during LMC events.

Mariners Hospital CEO Rick Freeburg (XIX) confers with Assistant Monroe County State Attorney Demetrious Efstratiou (XXIII) and Upper Keys activist and political strategist Erin Muir (XXIII).

4. Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Colonel Lou Caputo (XIV) and former LMC president offers some fatherly advice to MCSO Captain Jonathan Crane (XX).

5. Pictured, from left: Buddy Pinder, LMC president Henry Rosenthal (XIX), Capital Bank’s Wendy Coffman, Brandon Pinder and Kelly Sullivan.

Page 19 • Upper Keys Weekly • April 00, 2016

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

CLASSIFIEDS * 305.743.0844

A multi-program youth service agency serving Monroe County (Florida Keys) seeks qualified applicants for the following positions at our tavernier location:

Youth Support Staff – If you are interested in a career working with children, this could be the opportunity for you. You must be at least 21 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent to apply. Bachelors Degree preferred. Some nights and weekends required. Pay rate is $10.50 to $12.50 an hour depending on ability and qualifications. Licensure and quality assurance standards require both male and female staff

THEME: SUMMER OLYMPICS ACROSS 1. Mexican cuisine staple 6. Pres. Obama, formerly 9. Notebook place holders 13. Spy name 14. Princess’ cause of insomnia 15. Chocolate source 16. British peers 17. Also known as 18. Pine or long 19. *Rugby ____ 21. *Olympic sport on both track and road 23. Miner’s bounty 24. October birthstone 25. Masseuse’s office 28. Seaside bird 30. Jazz subculture hipster 35. Three-____ sloth 37. Actress Cameron 39. Aussie’s petrol station 40. Additional 41. European finch 43. Malicious look 44. Garlic mayo 46. Mischievous Scandinavian god 47. Cleopatra’s necklace 48. *Reason for Olympic banning 50. Mary’s little one 52. To the ____ degree 53. Alexander Hamilton - Aaron Burr incident

55. Women’s undergarment 57. *Dressage, Eventing and ____ 61. Broadband predecessor 64. Abraham’s sacrifice 65. “____ Goo Dolls” rock band 67. Relating to zones 69. 1.067 km, in Russia 70. As opposed to rent 71. Not mainstream art 72. Formerly 73. Clinton ____ Rodham 74. “Spaghetti Western” director Sergio DOWN 1. Sigma Alpha Epsilon 2. “Oh, my!”

3. *Spent at the 1960 Summer Olympics 4. Sound of battle 5. Declare with confidence 6. Plural of #25 Across 7. Cry of horror, in comics 8. Civil rights org.

9. 1.3 ounces, in Asia 10. Antioxidants-rich berry 11. Owl’s hangout 12. Price for something very cheap?

15. Hertz = ____ / second 20. Must-haves 22. Kum Ba ____

24. Having a streak of good luck 25. Lieu 26. Paralyzing disease 27. “The Tortoise and the Hare” author 29. Cambodian currency 31. Trapper’s prize 32. Oedipus’ successor 33. Deflect 34. *Official Olympics starter 36. Sub station 38. *Health concern in Rio 42. Nimbus, pl.

45. Charge with crime 49. *Shooter’s Olympic tool 51. *2016 Summer Olympics travel destination 54. Incite 56. Solo 57. “Born to Hand ____,” from “Grease” 58. ____-friendly 59. Matt Damon’s landing spot, 2015 60. Ghost of Christmas ____ 61. Fully cooked 62. Ctrl + Z 63. Sacrifice for gain 66. Be in the red 68. *1968 gold winner Evans

All employees must retain a valid Florida driver’s license and receive background check and drug screening.

Please send resume via e-mail: pmurray@fkcs.org or fax 305-852-6902 or mail to Florida Keys Children’s Shelter, Inc. 73 High Point Road, Tavernier, FL 33070

Equal Opportunity Employer

We Buy Gold Locally!

Cash Flow Jewelry and Pawn Townsquare Mall Marathon

The Hammocks at Marathon

FULL TIME JOB OPPORTUNITIES $250 Sign-On Bonus!

• Maintenance/Handyman • Recreation Associate

GREAT BENEFITS:

4 premier properties, 4 distinct styles — Find the perfect fit for you

JOIN OUR TEAM TODAY! We are hiring for several positions in the following areas:

FOOD & BEVERAGE • GUEST SERVICES BEACH SERVICES • RETAIL • SALES ACCOUNTING • ENGINEERING • MARINA APPLY IN PERSON AT POSTCARD INN 84001 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada • Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Questions: 305.433.9937 or recruitment@holidayisle.com

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE We are now hiring for the following positions:

Secretary Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Driver Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

Medical, dental, and vision insurance, 4 weeks’ vacation, 401k match & much more.

TO APPLY:

Online: jobs.bluegreenvacations.com In Person at The Hammocks: 1688 Overseas Highway, Gulf Side, Mile Marker 48, Marathon Or Call Carlos 305-743-9009 eoe

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844 AUTOS FOR SALE

AUTOS WANTED

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

HOMES FOR RENT

ALL YEARS! Junk or Used.

Cars - Vans - Trucks. Running or Not. CASH 305-332-0483

or fax 305-296-0054. Ask for Elizabeth or David Servers & Bartenders Needed Full Time Please apply during business hours. Key Colony Inn, 700 W. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Landscaping and Maintenance position at small resort. Interviewing for PT Landscaping & Maintenance position. 30 - 35 hours per week. Duties include maintaining and cleaning of property grounds. Light maintenance on property and rooms. Must be able to lifet 50+lbs. English speaking required. Apply in person Mon-Thur. from 8 am-3pm at La Jolla Resort.

MARATHON - Diversified full time position Tuesday through Saturday 9 to 5 for an outgoing people person with solid Microsoft programs background and skills as well as a self-starter. Middle Keys resident preferred.

Call Drenda 305-2896489 or email resume drenda@cbschmitt.com NEED HELP NOW! Leigh Ann’s Coffee House is hiring a Full-time Barista and full time Dishwasher. Apply in person.

301 Sadowski Causeway, Key Colony Beach, MM 54, Ocean 305743-2001 NOW HIRING!!!

Appliance Maintenance job with travel in south Fla. Must have exp, van truck pref, tools, good customer service. $12hr.

VentPlug 305-783-4557 Marvin.

Seeking stable happy energetic personality for PT sales position in fun gift shop. Must be yearround Marathon resident; retirees welcome. Stop in to schedule appointment at 11528 Overseas Highway Marathon LOOKING FOR Wait Staff, Food Runners & Hosts. Established busy restaurant - must apply in Person. Sparky’s Landing, Key Colony Beach Sweet Savannah’s Bake Shop NOW HIRING: AM Baker and Counter Help.

Competitive Pay- Fun Atmosphere. Please Apply In Person. 8919 Overseas Hwy in Marathon Construction Foreman wanted. Needs Vehicle.

Pay commensurate with experience. Call 305304-7995 NOW HIRING Lunch & Dinner Shifts, Full Time Only with Experience.

Apply in person, Grassy Key Outpost, MM 58 EXP. HELP ONLY needed for all positions.

Apply in person Mon-Fri

10-11am @ Sunset Grille & Raw Bar Knights Key Blvd.

Marathon.

available Aug 1 in Midtown.

Key West - 1/1 available Sept 1st. in Midtown. Call Steve 747-4468

EMPLOYMENT

KEY WEST KIA A Wellings Automotive Company 2826 North Roosevelt Blvd.

Key West, FL (305) 295-8646 www.KeyWestKia.com

WELLINGS AUTOMOTIVE 9200 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL (305) 509-7499 www.KeyWestKia.com

Call us and SAVE, SAVE, SAVE 2007 Lincoln Town Car Loaded, clean car $6,995

2012 Honda Accord Like new, 35,000 miles $13,490

2014 Chev Impala Low miles, loaded $13,990

2015 Kia Optima LX Low miles $15,290

2016 Malibu LT Low, low miles. $15,990

2015 Jeep Cherokee Latitude Like new, low miles $16,490

2014 Honda CRV EX-l Fully loaded, 31,000 miles $20,990

2015 Ram Quad Cab Pickup White, like new $26,990

2015 Ram 4dr Pickup With a Hemi $27,990

2015 Nissan Armada Fully loaded, clean car 41,000 miles $29,990 Tax, tag and DOC fee not included in sale price.

KEY WEST KIA A Wellings Automotive Company 2826 North Roosevelt Blvd.

Key West, FL (305) 295-8646 www.KeyWestKia.com

WELLINGS AUTOMOTIVE 9200 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL (305) 509-7499 www.KeyWestKia.com

Call us and SAVE, SAVE, SAVE

Looking for independent worker.

Must have vehicle.

Great pay and training included.

Call 305-304-7995 Mechanic, P/T or F/T! SMALL ENGINES Some exp. helpful. Long term employment for the right person. Islamorada.

(305) 852-0600 EXPERIENCED FT PLUMBER NEEDED Also able to perform rough ins and service calls in the Lower Keys. Moes Plumbing: Send resume with best daytime contact phone number to: lpvra1@bellsouth.net or call Robert 305-797-3419 PARALEGAL/ADMIN. Assistant Fulltime MonFri 8:30 - 5:30. Benefit Pkg./401K. FL. Real EstateClosing/Processing Exp./ Current & Familiar with TRID Rule. References required. Salary based upon exp. Previous applicants need not to apply. Apply to resume@ firstintitle.com. EOE/DFW GRACE JONES DAYCARE. Teacher needed; 45 State Hrs, ProfessionalCaring individual.

Summer-School year.

(305) 743-6064 Iris. ***KEYS FISHERIES*** NOW HIRING In all positions for our 2016-17 Lobster Season.

Apply in person at 3390 Gulfview Ave., Marathon.

EOE/DFWP SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS NEEDED. Monroe County School District Salary range 15.50-$21.30 an hour. DRIVERS WANTED in Key West, Sugarloaf, Marathon and Tavernier.

No experience required.

Benefits. CDL Training Provided. $12/hour starting wage working as a bus aide while training.

Flexible part-time hours approx. 6-9 am and/or 2-5 pm. Must be at least 21 years of age. Have valid driver’s license.

Pre employment drug screening, criminal background check and motor vehicle records checks.

Must pass a physical examination. Professional demeanor and appearance. Call 305-293-1400 Ext 53401 for more information. Apply online at: www.keysschools.com The Porter Allen Co. Insurance Agent is looking for a experienced customer service rep. Licenced preferred 2-20 or 4-40 Florida 8-5 Mon - Fri, Salary position.

Please call 305-294-2542

HOBBIES/ COLLECTIBLES Selling Old Nautical Items. Lanterns, Chelsea Ship Clocks, Ship Wheels, Binnacles, Vents, Signs & 1/2 Hulls. ALSO BUYING. Call Lou 603-455-6106 PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive watches and Pilot watches. Old model Military clocks & watches. Call 305-743-4578 YARD SALE DUCK KEY/MARATHON - Garage Moving Sale.

Sat Aug 6th, 9am-5pm.

Livingroom and bedroom furniture, carpet and household items, TV, fishing reels and rods, and more! 308 Cocoplum Beach, Duck Key. FISHING MISC. ALL TYPES OF PERMITS! Rock Shrimp, King Fish, Atlantic Snapper, Grouper Gulf, 6 Pack Reef & Pelagic. Commercial Gulf Reef Fish, Gulf Snapper IFQ’s, Long Line pkg. Many other permits avail. We buy, sell & broker all types of permits. Call before you buy or sell! Please call for prices.

Licensed & Bonded. All permits guaranteed valid for transfer. Many ref’s avail. John Potts Jr. 321784-5982 or 321-302-3630 www.shipwusa.com COMMERCIAL FOR RENT FOR RENT! 2,500 - 10,000 sf Warehouse space available with 20’ ceiling plus 400 sf office and bathroom with central air conditioning. 4 bay doors and forklift ramp door, above flood. Approved for military storage. 305923-1358. www.toppino.net/rentals Marathon Storage and Parking. Boat Trailer $55105.00/tx MO. RV-Storage $105-150.00/tx MO. Gated, facing US-1. (305) 610-8002 Marathon Commercial Space. US1-MM50. Ideal location at Mid Town Center-next to Wendy’s.

2,800 sq ft divided into offices, kitchen, 2 restrooms, 2nd floor, elevator, plenty of parking. Contact Jim Chaplin.

305-481-7557. jim@chappytimes.com HOMES FOR RENT Key West - 2/2 Beautiful with a pool

LEGAL NOTICES FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of QUIXOTIC TRAVEL GUIDES, located at 316 Sawyer Drive, Cudjoe Key, FL 33042 in the county of Monroe, intends to register said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Karuna Eberl Published: July 29, 2016 The Weekly Newspapers.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2016-CP-000075 IN RE: ESTATE OF DONALD H. TRAVIS, Deceased.

LEGAL NOTICES FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is: July 29, 2016.

Personal Representative: TYLER H. TRAVIS 300 Maypole Road Upper Darby, PA 19082 Attorney for Personal Representative: Michael A. Siefert, Esquire Florida Bar No. 042315 Michael A. Siefert, P.A. 351 NE Eighth Avenue Ocala, FL 34470 Telephone: (352) 7320141 E-mail: msiefert@aol.com Publish: July 29 and August 5, 2016 The Weekly Newspapers

MARATHON YACHT CLUB

NOW HIRING Part-Time

CLERICAL ASSISTANT 12-20 Hrs/Week Tues-Fri Must Have Exp. With Microsoft Suite.

Send resume to commodore@marathonyachtclub.com

EOE

OFFICE SPACES FOR RENT Office spaces FOR RENT starting at $250/mo.

Parking spaces also available.

Located on US 1, Cudjoe Key. 305-304-0776

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of DONALD H. TRAVIS, deceased, whose date of death was June 18, 2016, and whose Social Security Number is 523-34-9514, File No. 2016-CP-000075, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, Florida, 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this Court 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

Hiring for the following positions: Room Attendants • Housemen Banquet Captain

Bartenders • Servers Building Engineer

Apply online at Spottswood.com/careers or in person at Faro Blanco Resort

EOE m/f/d/v

!

THE MOORINGS MM 81.5

Seeking self-motivated people for

General Housekeeping Fax Resumes to

1-305-664-4242

or pick up an application at 123 Beach Rd. Islamorada

Full Time Maintenance Worker/Supervisor

Experience with electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. Competitive Salary Vacation and benefits.

Weekends and Holidays a must

Please Email resume to mooringsmike@gmail.com

22

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844

Applicants must be open minded & personable with the ability to lead others.

Should enjoy interacting with customers, and be a responsible self-starter with computer skills & the ability to focus on details.

Reply to this job posting by sending all of the following to Cherie@fairvilla.com: Letter of interest on the available position • Current resume & your availability & include your favorite joke PLEASE NOTE: Emails that only include a resume without a letter of interest will NOT be considered. • Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

Sales Associates

Full Time / 40 Hours / Set Schedules Keyholder Experience is a plus!

Starting Wage $10.50 per hour Great Benefits!

Fun work environment Apply:

P/T PM HOST/HOSTESS P/T MAINTENANCE

Baker & Counter Help Competitive Pay – Fun Atmosphere

Please apply in person at 28500 Overseas Highway, Little Torch Key

Please Apply In Person 8919 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

Plantation Key Nursing Center

Full Time / 40 Hours / Set Schedules 1 Year Management Experience Great Benefits!

Fun work environment Starting Wage $14.00 per hour.

located in Tavernier, is seeking

C.N.A, LPN, RN,

Apply:

www.ronjonsurfshop.com

EOE/DFWP

EOE/DFWP

HIRING

GREAT PAY INCENTIVES. PAID VACATIONS BENEFITS AFTER 90 DAYS

3rd Key Associate

www.ronjonsurfshop.com

Sweet Savannah’s Bake Shop

HELP WANTED

Management positions @ Fairvilla's Sexy Things (524 Front Street, Key West Florida 33040)

12 hr shifts days and nights available

Rewarding stable jobs with excellent benefits!!!

DIETARY AIDS

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. in MARATHON is looking for: • Medical Director/ Psychiatrist

We offer a competitive

wage and benefits program.

To apply for position,

• Care Coordinator • Direct Care Worker

Please submit your Resume to

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc, a division of

BOL@PLANTATIONKEYNC.COM

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. in KEY WEST is looking for: • Driver • Behavioral Health Therapist II • Child Case Manager Visit www.guidancecarecenter.org or http://careers.westcare.com to apply.

EEOC/DFWP, Bilingual a plus; Drug & background screening required.

HIRING FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS: Bartenders, Servers, Busperson, and Food Runners.

Please apply on line at www.spottswood.com/careers or on site 13201 Overseas Highway. EOE m/f/d/v

Immediate opening for a HVAC Service Technician Upper & Middle Keys.

Great Pay • Paid Holidays • Sick Pay • Medical Insurance • Paid Vacation

Apply in person 171 Hood Ave • MM 91.5 • Tavernier p 305-852-2960 • f 305-852-0656

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

let’s do business - (305) 743-0844

Vacation Rental Property Managers We maximize owners income while maintaining homes to the strictest standards.

th Wi ! st Fa lass e ’r r G W e Yo u

S Sa l A L G nti

Y S• R e s i d e E K cial L L A mmer Co

Licensed & Insured #SP3799 & MV62849

MM 52 Oceanside

743-7800

DEALER FOR

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED AUTO GLASS

• Work with all Ins. Comps. • Windshield Replacement • Free Mobile Service • Stone Chip Repair

• PGT Windows & Doors Sales & Installation • Store Fronts • Tub & Shower Enclosures • Safety & Tempered Glass

305-390-2315

www.KeysRentalsOnline.com

23

• Furniture Glass • Marine Glass • Lexan • Custom Sand Blasting • Mirrors & Mirror Walls

Spalling Repairs

Lic. #CGC 1515665 #CFC 1428730

Concrete Restoration Concrete Butterfly Steps New Construction Floors/Tile Docks

Specializing in Concrete Restoration

(305) 735-4042

WWW.ROYAL-CREST.COM

Barbara Sanchez Home & Offices Expertly Cleaned Fast Dependable Service “We Clean Your Place, Like it Was Our Place”

Excellent References Upon Request

305-766-0819 305-924-0179

FEATURED DESTINATION

CUBA

We can customize your independent Cuba experience... from start to finish. Call us at 305 743 7575 Business hours: MON-TUE-THU-FRI 9am to 4pm Appointments by request.

MARINE & RESIDENTIAL AUTOMATION SYSTEMS Audiovisual.

Lighting & Control.

Navigation & Satellite.

Residential.

NMEA certified.

sales@starlightmarine.com / 954-745-7992

Nails by Ivis

Manicures • Pedicures Acrylics • Gelish • Facials • Waxing

5177 Overseas Highway

(Between Office Depot & Main Post Office)

Marathon, FL 33050 305-289-1631

NEW & REPAIR

305-664-0099 www.TikiHuts.com

STATE CERTIFIED THATCHING CONTRACTOR CYC 000002

OVER THE SEAS PROPERTIES • Condo & HOA Management • Property Management • Commercial & Residential Real Estate • Home Watch & Maintenance

305-304-9373 otsproperties.com Randy Currelly & Thea Knott

www.marathonhairandnailsalon.com

Specializing in Color and Highlights Haircuts Keratin Treatments 5177 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 (Between Office Depot and Main Post Office)

305-289-1631 www.marathonhairandnailsalon.com

Business Cards Published In 10,000 Copies Weekly

The Weekly Newspapers www.KeysWeekly.com

305-743-0844

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 29, 2016

New Tile in Stock!

Brand New Area Rugs!

Huge New Laminates Selection!