Upper Keys Weekly – 3/28/19

“The Little Mermaid” and Bay Jam 25 … get out and enjoy the arts!

BREAKFAST BOUND Key Largo establishment brings $2.99 special | P.20

COMMUNITY NEWS

LAKE O LEVELS Army Corps meets with Keys community| P. 16-17

DOMINATING Lady Canes’ varsity softball on a roll| P. 10

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

Thank You! 2019 Florida Keys Day sponsors

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Special Thanks to Audra Hill Wallace, Erin Muir, Jason Koler, Bob Stoky, Kate DeLoach, Mike Forster & John Bartus.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

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MONROE COUNTY

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

ON THE COVER

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

15 91760 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier, FL 33070 Office: 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com

The number of Gaba receptor subtypes in the human brain which respond to alcohol. British scientist David Nutt and partner David Orren are attempting to create “Alcarelle” — a synthetic version of alcohol — with all of the good stuff (like feeling tipsy or socially lubricated) and none of the bad stuff (hangovers, blackouts, etc.) The men are trying to raise about $26 million to bring Alcarelle to market, according to The Guardian.

Coral Shores’ varsity softball coach Lesa Bonee has her team rolling this year. See more on page 10.

CONTRIBUTED

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Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

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JIM McCARTHY

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Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

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Account Executives

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COMMISSION RESPONDS Ordinance approved to limit park problems

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Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.

A

n emergency ordinance to confront problems seen frequently at the park behind the Murray Nelson Government & Cultural Center gained the Board of County Commissioners’ approval on March 21.

The ordinance, which was placed on the agenda following concerns from top county officials and commissioners, would forbid boats, like dinghies, from pulling up and docking at the waterfront. County Mayor Sylvia Murphy said it effectively prevents them from coming onshore and using the facilities that they have been “misusing for too long.”

“The people who are very much against it are the cruisers, and they aren’t at fault,” Murphy said. “If we had nothing but cruisers stopping there, we’d be happy. But the problem is with those living out in the woods, the homeless who are squatting. We had to do this.”

A motion to declare an emergency passed unanimously, more than the four-fifths majority needed to declare that an emergency exists and immediate enactment of an ordinance is necessary. The clerk of the county commissioners board sends certified copies of the ordinance to the Department of State. It takes effect when the copy is accepted and confirmed.

Before passage, County Administrator Roman Gastesi told commission-

ers it’s a park that can’t be utilized.

“Guys have to deal with engine parts and trash and alcohol bottles and all kinds of stuff almost on a daily basis, especially now during the winter months now that we have so many boats back there,” he said.

The county’s been at the Nelson Government & Cultural Center since 2009, and Murphy acknowledged that park misuse has been a problem ever since.

“It’s not pleasant. The taxpayers of the county are paying for this building and upkeep of this building and the custodians who take care of it,” she said. “We’re giving a group of people a free lifestyle and it’s not fair to the taxpayers.”

Two months ago, Assistant County Administrator Kevin Wilson noted there was a car fire in the back parking lot involving a motor in the back of pickup truck.

“Public works and facilities folks and the staff and I will start asking stringent enforcement by various law enforcement agencies if we put appropriate ordinances in place,” he said.

Murphy said the county tried the “let’s be nice and let’s share and let them use whatever water they needed and put garbage in the Dumpster.” But it has not worked. Murphy said signs are currently up letting people know what’s coming. The ordinance could take effect in two weeks.

Dinghies are docked at the Murray Nelson Park. Soon, that won’t be allowed. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

JIM McCARTHY

50-50 BILL jim@keysweekly.com

County attorney cites pros to legislation

C

ounty Attorney Bob Shillinger told county commissioners during a recent meeting that progress is being made on a bill that would split liability on takings cases 50-50.

Shillinger said he was asked to come before local officials to discuss and answer questions on the bill that awaits consideration. Shillinger told Islamorada council members during a meeting earlier this month that the bill would codify a long standing, informal agreement that the state and county have had in defending ongoing takings cases for the last 15 years.

The state and local governments would share potential liability equally if a person claims his prop“By working erty rights were infringed, sues the government entities and wins. With cooperatively with no building permits to be issued in the state, we’ve the Keys beginning in 2023, takings shared witnesses lawsuits could very well take off. and divided “By working cooperatively with litigation burden.” the state, we’ve shared witnesses and divided litigation burden,” Shillinger said. “We’ll take responsibility and the state also takes responsibility. It’s worked phenomenally well.”

Shillinger went on to note a past case involving property owners on No Name Key who wanted $6 million. Going in front of a jury, the defense asked for $1 million. The jury came back with $3 million. The case ended up going back to court in front of a new jury, which returned a verdict of $285,000.

“That’s a $2.7 million reduction in taxpayers’ liability because we’ve been working with the state and developing a team strategy as opposed to a divide-and-conquer strategy where we’re pointing fingers at each other,” Shillinger said.

The 50-50 bill went before the Senate Judiciary Committee for hearing earlier in the week. Shillinger said while there’s pushback in the House, the county thinks it’ll ultimately go through.

MONROE COUNTY

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MONROE COUNTY

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

GUIDE TO FUTURE STRATEGIC PLAN APPROVED

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

doption of the 2020 Monroe County Strategic Plan passed without objection or any lengthy discussion during the Board of County Commissioners’ March 21 meeting at the Murray Nelson Government & Cultural Center in Key Largo.

Taking effect Oct. 1, 2019, the five-year plan will guide priorities and direction of county services through future annual budgets. The plan, based on priorities from the BOCC and the public, was created using 18 months of research and feedback from the community, collected before and after Hurricane Irma in 2017.

“The 2020 Strategic Plan is a 30,000-foot view of the largest issues, biggest concerns and most daunting challenges facing our Keys community,” said Kimberly Matthews, Monroe County’s senior director of strategic planning. “The next step is to create programs, solutions and actions focused on the priorities and areas of concern that are detailed in this plan.”

Results from a public survey showed affordable housing at the top of the list throughout the Keys, followed by growth control/lack of open space, U.S. 1 traffic and safety and water quality. The initial 2017 survey and Community Input sessions gathered 443 residential and 21 business responses. Hundreds of residents also provided feedback during 13 community input sessions. The 2018 process included: 23 interactive presentations with nearly 850 attendees, 826 (non-duplicated resident) responses to the online survey, meetings with 96 people, more than 41 individual or group stakeholder meetings, and six Facebook polls with more than 1,500 votes cast.

“This detailed plan guides the future of Monroe County and it was an immense project that our Strategic Planner Kimberly Matthews worked very hard for more than a year,” said Monroe County Administrator Roman Gastesi.

The complete 2020 Monroe County Strategic Plan, detailed areas of concern and priority, potential initiatives and next steps and more are at www.monroecounty-fl.gov/strategicplanning.

In other news: PAVING CR 905 IN KEY LARGO Monroe County commissioners approved an agreement with the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority for additional paving under FKAA’s CR 905 project in Key Largo, which involves replacement of a line to Ocean Reef. The county wanted additional paving to be added to the project to allow for the full width overlay of the road and bike lane. FKAA is currently under contract for the construction of this project and has provided the cost for the additional paving, which the county will be responsible for reimbursing. The county will reimburse FKAA for $995,324 for the work.

Assistant County Administrator Kevin Wilson said the repaving is from U.S. 1 to the three-way stop heading up to Ocean Reef.

NEW LIBRARY IN MARATHON Commissioners gave approval to award a contract to the highest-ranked respondent, PedroFalcon Construction, to build a new Monroe County Library in Marathon. The contract total cost is $7,016,385. Construction will be paid for through the one-cent infrastructure sales tax. On Feb. 20, the county opened sealed responses to the request for proposals for construction. On March 4, a ranking committee meeting resulted in the award. As part of the Monroe County emissions reduction goal of 40 percent below 2012 by 2030, an alternate item for a solar voltaic panel system

Top: Commissioners hear a presentation from Helene Wetherington, county disaster recovery director, during a March 21 meeting inside the Murray Nelson Government & Cultural Center in Key Largo. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

MONROE COUNTY

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

BRIEFLY Coral Shores Drama Club’s 'The Little Mermaid' is included with this recommendation in the amount of $153,500.

Additionally, an alternate for terrazzo flooring in the main stairwell is being recommended.

IRMA RECOVERY Helene Wetherington, who heads local disaster recovery for the county, gave commissioners a presentation regarding Irma recovery progress. She noted that a total of 1,178 total applications were submitted to date for Rebuild Florida, a federally-funded, state-run program to help Floridians recover from Hurricane Irma.

People can visit floridajobs.org/rebuildflorida for more information. Wetherington also discussed $35 million available for land acquisition and construction of new workforce housing. The county is preparing to submit an application for five units in Key Largo, 15 at Conch Key, 13 at Howard’s Haven and nine for scattered sites on Big Pine Key. Wetherington said officials are also working to secure funds through Volunteer Florida, which has $8 million specifically set aside for Irma, for affordable housing initiatives.

MORE CANALS TO CLEAN Approval was given to issue a request for proposals for marine debris removal and related services, funded by grant funds from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, from plugged canals in unincorporated “The 2020 Strategic Monroe County. The Plan is a 30,000-foot county is in the midst of view of the largest marine debris clearing issues, biggest and monitoring of 171 concerns and most canals under the U.S. daunting challenges Department of Agriculture Natural Resources facing our Key’s Conservation Service Community. The program. That program next step is to create did not approve 105 of programs, solutions the affected canals in and actions focused on unincorporated Monthe priorities and areas roe, nor the remaining plugged canals. Of the of concern that are 105, the county has five detailed in this plan.” plugged canals that are ­— Kimberly Matthews, Monroe County’s approved for current Senior Director of Strategic Planning DEP funding for clearing.

In addition, an estimated 50 canals remain that have been affected and may be eligible for future DEP funding for clearing and/or dredging in unincorporated Monroe County. Efforts will be focused only on the five plugged canals first, as at DEP funds are only available for the plugged canals at this time. If additional DEP funds become available, then some of the remaining estimated 50 additional canals will be added, dependent on the available funding.

FIREFIGHTER RECOGNITION The meeting began with a recognition for the professional firefighters of Monroe County. Mayor Sylvia Murphy presented a proclamation to firefighters for selflessly contributing their time and energy fighting for kids and adults with muscular dystrophy, ALS and related life-threatening diseases that severely limit muscle strength and mobility by raising money each year for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). Last year, the Professional Firefighters of Monroe County raised $21,544 for MDA through the annual Fill the Boot campaign.

The Coral Shores Drama Club’s production of “The Little Mermaid” is set for March 29-31 and April 5-7.

Show times are March 29-30 at 7 p.m., March 31 at 2 p.m., April 5-6 at 7 p.m. and April 7 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $5 in advance or $10 at the door.

Next trolley ride set by Matecumbe trust The Matecumbe Historical Trust “Trolley Tour Through Time” will start at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 30, at the Islamorada Moose Lodge, 81573 Old Highway. A monitor in the trolley shows more than 90 photos of the past as passengers see what they are today.

Tours take about an hour. Reservations are available. Admission is $15 for adults; children 6 and under are free. Tickets may be purchased on site.

A pop up shop will provide information, books, T-shirts, historic photographs and memorabilia for sale.

For more information or reservations, contact Barbara at 305-3930940.

Final meeting for Art Guild this season The final meeting of the season of the Art Guild of the Purple Isles will be held on April 3 at the Elks Club in Tavernier. Social time is at 9:30 a.m., with the meeting at 10 a.m.

More than $60,000 up for grabs at tournament Captains, mates, ladies, juniors and seniors are all eligible to fish the fifth annual Skippers Dolphin Tournament on Friday, May 31, through Sunday, June 2.

The prize money up for grabs among the event’s top six teams includes $20,000 cash to the first-place team, $10,000 for second and $5,000 for third.

A kickoff and final registration party is to be held Friday, May 31, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Skippers Dockside Restaurant. Serving as tournament headquarters, the restaurant is located at 528 Caribbean Drive behind the Holiday Inn at MM 100.

Entry fees received after May 11 but before May 31 are $225 for adult anglers. Anglers who register before May 11 can save $50 off individual registration. Junior anglers must be under the age of 16 and seniors at least age 65 on the first day of the tournament.

An unlimited number of anglers is allowed per boat.

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BEFORE THERE WAS HEMINGWAY KEYS HISTORY

BRAD BERTELLI

N

www.keysweekly.com

early 100 years be-

fore Ernest Hemingway set foot on Key West, Edward Zane Carroll Judson arrived in the Keys.

Edward Zane Judson ran Carroll Judson off to join the U.S. Navy as a teenager and served aboard the U.S. Cutter Ostego. The Ostego visited Fort Paulding, a Navy “fort” established on Indian Key after the 1840 Indian attack during the Seminole War. Like Hemingway, Judson served time in the military, liked to fight and liked to write. Judson would write a piece called “Sketches of the Florida War” that was published in the Pensacola Gazette on March 29, 1845 and originally credited to the Western Literary Journal and Monthly Review.

Included in the piece were words about the dubious Jacob Housman of Indian Key. He wrote, “wrecks came rapidly and as his purse swelled, his importance likewise extending. He took great care to let none except those who were subservient to his will, reside upon the island, this literally making himself a monarch of all he surveyed. After his return from Charleston, was doubly successful in his calling, and his property rapidly increased on the one hundred thousand principal three or four times multiplied.” Judson wrote that Housman “spent such care upon its (Indian Key’s) improvements, that it soon became a miniature eden.”

About the attack on Indian Key he wrote, “The attacking party was led by Chico and Chikika, two celebrated and bloody chiefs. They were supposed to consist of from two hundred to two hundred and fifty to three hundred in number.”

Judson became a celebrated writer more commonly recognized by his pen name, Ned Buntline. It was Buntline who brought to life the times and adventures of William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody.

Brad Bertelli is curator of the Keys History & Discovery Center.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

SAVE THE DATE Thursday, March 28 • Ocean Life Series lecture at 7 p.m. at Murray Nelson Government Center, Key Largo.

March 29-30 • Coral Shores High School Drama Club’s “The Little Mermaid” at 7 p.m.

Friday, March 29 • Acrylic painting class with Pam Gode from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Islamorada library.

GROWING

Saturday, March 30 • Pops in the Park from 4 to 5 p.m. at Murray Nelson Government Center, Key Largo.

• Swords & Tails — A Seaside Soiree benefit for Florida Keys Community College at 6 p.m. at Islander Resort, Islamorada.

• Fun '50s Dance from 7 to 11 p.m. at Key Largo Civic Club.

Sunday, March 31 • Bay Jam 25 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Founders Park, Islamorada.

• Coral Shores High School Drama Club’s “The Little Mermaid” at 2 p.m. at Coral Shores High School, Islamorada.

• Bay Jam from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Founders Park, Islamorada.

Monday, April 1 • Tax preparation assistance for low- to middle-income from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Islamorada Library.

Wednesday, April 3 • Master gardener plant clinic from 9 a.m. to noon, Murray Nelson Center, Key Largo.

• Art Guild of the Purple Isles general meeting beginning at 9:30 a.m. at Elks Club, Tavernier.

April 5-6 • Coral Shores High School Drama Club’s “The Little Mermaid” at 7 p.m. at Coral Shores High School, Islamorada.

Friday, April 5 • Acrylic painting class in Islamorada with local artist Pam Gode from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

April 6-7 • Island Fest from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Founders Park, Islamorada.

Saturday, April 6 • Coral Restoration Foundation Raise the Reef 2019 seventh annual gala at 6 p.m. (VIP 5 p.m.) at Ocean Reef Club, Key Largo.

Sunday, April 7 • Coral Shores High School Drama Club’s “The Little Mermaid” at 2 p.m.

S

Key Largo Rotary numbers rising

even local professionals have joined Rotary clubs in Key Largo.

The Rotary Satellite Club of Key Largo Sunset, which was chartered in October and meets on Monday evenings, added four new members this week for a total of 40 members. Three new members joined the original Rotary Club of Key Largo, which meets at Playa Largo Resort & Spa for breakfast every Wednesday. This brings its total to 47 members, for a total of 87 Key Largo Rotarians.

Installed on March 18 were four employees of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office: Deputy Jean Gonzalez, a school resource officer with Ocean Studies Charter School, Detective Gil Gonzalez of Districts 6 & 7, Sergeant Nick Whiteman of District 6, and Ser-

geant James Hager of District 7. Gonzalez was sponsored for membership by Rotarian Christina Boilini and the other three new members were sponsored by Key Largo Rotary Sunset club secretary Detective Sergeant Scott Ward.

Business owner Daniel O’Connell; attorney Stephanie Russo, who is a partner with Nelson, Mullins, Broad and Cassel; and financial planner Alina Huffman with Raymond James Financial Services were sworn in as new members to the breakfast club on March 20. O’Connell is a past president of the Rotary Club of Kent Island, Maryland and was sponsored by Rotarian Bob Thomas. Key Largo Rotary Sergeant of Arms Christina Cosme sponsored Russo and Huffman.

“We’re thrilled to have doubled the number of Key Largo Rotarians during the last six months,” said club president Jennifer McComb. “By adding the happy hour meetings, we’re able to reach more Key Largo residents who want to do good in the community,” More information is at KeyLargoRotary.org.

Top: From left to right are Monroe County Sheriff’s Office District Commander Don Fanelli, a Key Largo Rotary board member; new Rotarians Deputy Jean Gonzalez and Detective Gil Gonzalez; Detective Sergeant Scott Ward, secretary of the Key Largo Sunset Rotary; new Rotarians Sergeant Nick Whiteman and Sergeant James Hager; and Key Largo Rotary president Jennifer McComb.

CONTRIBUTED

— Contributed

Left: From left to right Key Largo Rotary president Jennifer McComb; new members Stephanie Russo and Alina Huffman; Key Largo Rotary sergeant at arms Christina Cosme; new Key Largo Rotary member Daniel O’Connell; and board member Bob Thomas.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

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KEYS SPORTS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

DOMINANT Girls softball undefeated in conference

U

ndefeated in conference play with only one loss on the season so far. If there’s a word to describe this year’s Coral Shores’ girls varsity softball team, it’s dominant.

With a 9-1 record, and 6-0 in conference, the lady Canes are clicking offensively and holding stout defensively alongside some stellar pitching. Coach Lesa Bonee told the Weekly during a recent interview that she had high expectations for the team, coming off a 15-2 season last year and a 9-5 record in 2017, the year she took over as coach. With five seniors providing the leadership and a group of young talent, Bonee said, the team’s meeting and exceeding expectations having run-ruled every team except three. “We’re doing a great job offensively and we’re aggressive on the bases, which is something we preach every day,� she said. “We’re going to run until they can show they can throw us out. Offensively, we’re hitting the ball and we’re manufacturing runs.�

The girl’s softball program has seen success dating back to the late ‘70s, when the team made a charge to the state finals and lost by a run in ‘78. Fast forward to today, Athletic Director Rich Russell said coach Bonee has been “absolutely amazing in what she has done with the program.� “She was a lady who won 400 games at the collegiate level,�

Russell said. “I love seeing them practice and how structured they are and their attention to detail. It translates to what they’re doing on the field. She couldn’t be happier with what’s happening.�

From the first season to today, Bonee said, she’s really enjoyed witnessing the team’s improvement — a byproduct of senior

From top: The Coral Shores seniors.

Pictured are Rachel Medina, Dallas Christmas, Anna Langley and Atlantis Hofstetter. Missing is Keely Flannigan. NADA KHALAF-JONES PHOTOGRAPHY/Contributed Coach Bonee convenes players at the pitcher’s mound.

leadership and some great communication. “Listening to them in the dugout talk about the game, and telling the young ones this happened because of this, it puts a huge smile on my face,� she said. “They’re learning and they’re getting it. They’ve come so far from first year.�

The group of seniors includes Anna Langley, Atlantis Hofstetter, Rachel Medina, Keely Flanagan and Dallas Christmas. Bonee said they bought into the culture and system from day one, and they’ve all done well. “Medina has been sidelined with injury, but her leadership off the field has been huge,� she said. “Flanagan came in last year from Connecticut, and she has had a big impact.�

For the first time since she took over coaching, Bonee has an assistant coach in Kevin Williams. Bonee said WIlliams and her work well together, and the athletes see that. “They enjoy working with him,� she said, With senior leadership comes strong play from junior Lexi Brito, who Bonee says anchors first base and is aggressive on the basepaths; junior Emma Lovell, who Bonee said has a strong running game; and Jenna Jones, who Bonee said has grown tremendously. Freshman Madde Langley pitches and plays shortstop when her sister Anna is pitching.

Bonee said the team doesn’t talk about winning. More, they’re competing at a high level and play every game as if it’s the championship. “If we do that, when the championship game comes, we’re ready,� Bonee said. “My job and focus is to keep them grounded. It doesn’t matter the score and record. It’s all about getting better and building. I always tell them process over outcome. If we stick to the process, the outcome will come.�

The team’s home to face St. Brendan on Friday, March 29 before heading on the road for a game at Colonial Christian on Tuesday, April 2.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

OPEN FOR LUNCH, HAPPY HOUR & DINNER 7 DAYS A WEEK! 11AM – 10PM DAILY

VOTED BEST HAPPY HOUR 10 YEARS IN A ROW & BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE!

SATURDAY & SUNDAY

Regular Menu Available and BRUNCH items including Chorizo Breakfast Burrito, Guava French Toast, Crab Benedict and BOGO Mimosas and Glasses of Champagne 11am - 4pm

SUNDAY NIGHT!

Thank You!

Good Health Clinic would like to thank the participants and sponsors of the 8th Annual Big Kahuna Award Ceremony. Uninsured and low income locals of the Keys in need of medical care appreciate your contributions and efforts.

2019 Kahuna’s

LIVE MUSIC

28th Thurs - John Bartus 6:30-10pm 29th Fri - Four Sheets to the Wind 6:30-10pm Spaghetti and 30th Sat - Roger Jokela 6:30-10pm Meatballs 31st Sun - Adrienne Zolondick 11:30am-3pm 1st Mon - Wyatt Hurts 6:30-10pm 2nd Tue - Roger Jokela 6:30-10pm 3rd Wed - Leigh Guest 6:30-10pm 4th Thurs John Bartus 6:30-10pm Fried Green Tomato B.L.T. Wood-Fired Pizzas

The Big Kahuna Dr. Thomas Morrison of Mariners & Fishermen’s Hospital, Walt Stephens of FKEC, Alina Davis of Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company, and the Team from The Upper Keys Weekly Newspaper

DAILY SPECIALS

MARCH MADNESS, CATCH ALL THE GAMES HERE!

Our 2019 Sponsors

Coconut Cay Staff, Florida Keys Electric Company, Capital Bank, Coldwell Banker, TGM Medical Corp Center State Bank, Brown Wood Preserving Co., Inc., Ronald & Annette Plattner, VF Workwear WE WIL COOK YOUL R CATCH! FISH or LOBST

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Dr. Travis Bennett, Rotary Club of Key Largo, Robert Foley, Florida Keys Board of Realtors, Islamorada Charter Boat Association, Peter Koeppel & Holly Keller Koeppel, Richard & Charlotte Cummings, Tom Woods, Blue Chip Too Charters, Houston Air, Dillon’s Pub & Grill, Houston Air, Islamorada Investment Management, Scott Huffman Coastal Realty of the Florida Keys, Webb Brothers Contracting, inc., Cale & Margaret Smith, REX AIR, Charter Pest Control, DeMoss Financial

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

• TAX TALK • TAG TALK •

APRIL • Real Estate and Tangible Personal Property tax installment plan applications are due by April 30, 2019.Taxes must be over $100.00 to qualify for the plan.

• Real Estate tax payments POSTMARKED after March 31st must be in CERTIFIED FUNDS and must include 3% interest on the March amount.

• Tangible Tax payments postmarked after March 31st must include interest at a rate of one and one half percent per month and a $10.00 collection fee.

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

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

• Transient Rental Fraud Hotline 1-855-422-4540, Remain Anonymous

The deadline for receipt of applications is April 24, 2019 and applications must be downloaded from Demandstar (www.monroecountybids.com)

• The Monroe County Tax Collector offices will be closed on April 19, 2019 in observance of Good Friday.

For more information please call the TDC Administrative Office at (305) 296-1552 and ask to speak with Ammie or Maxine

14

GIVING

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

QUILTS FOR CAUSES Donations go to variety of recipients AUDREY LEE BERG www.keysweekly.com

W

hen Marcia Swain of the Florida Keys Quilters presented the idea of a charity quilt challenge to the membership, she had no idea that a few months later she would be in charge of giving away more than a few dozen beautifully made quilts. The members aren’t strangers to giving their lovely donations to those who need them, but this many all at once presented its own sort of challenge to Swain.

She had brought the fabric for the quilts from her North Carolina quilt group, which had surplus older fabrics that had been designated for charities.

The challenge was to make that fabric into beautiful quilts that anyone would love to have. After the quilts were displayed in the Key Largo Library in January, Swain’s job began. She received assistance from other members of the Florida Keys Quilters who had knowledge of places and people who would value the guild’s generosity as well as the quilts.

Lizzie Stebbins, the editor of the group’s monthly newsletter, immediately suggested that one of the quilts be given to Mary Ann Gowen, whose home had recently been destroyed by a fire, which also took the life of her beloved pet. A “Go Fund Me” page has been created for Gowen: gofundme.com/maryann-gowen-fire-recovery. There is also a donation jar for that purpose in the office of chiropractor Dr. Lu Elaine Johnson at 99353 Overseas Highway.

Anne O’Neil and Connie Akers contacted the Upper Keys advocate for the Domestic Abuse Shelter in Key West. At the Key Largo Library where the Florida Keys Quilters hold a weekly “Sit and Sew” on Fridays, the advocate, Laura, was greeted by O’Neil, Akers and another of the group’s members, Eileen Sylvester.

Laura told the group that many of those in the shelter have left everything behind and that getting a thoughtfully made item like a quilt means a great deal. She also said the Marathon Domestic Abuse Shelter had been destroyed by Hurricane Irma, and that fundraisers were being held to support the rebuilding of that shelter. She also told us that when the new Marathon facility was completed, plans would begin for a shelter in the Upper Keys. Until then, operations are continuing in Key West, where she said that both funds and donations of items such as toiletries and household supplies were badly needed. Anyone who wants to donate can contact the Domestic Abuse Hotline at 305-7414440 or the administration number, 305-743-5452.

Eileen Sylvester, Connie Akers, and Anne O’Neil from the Florida Keys Quilters and Laura, the Domestic Abuse Shelter advocate to whom they were given.

Stella Diaz with a resident of Crystal Health and Rehab.

In addition to the quilts that went to the shelter, four quilts were given to Crystal Health and Rehab by friends of the quilters Stella, Mighel and David Doaz, who visit this facility every Thursday. It’s their routine to show up regularly for the purpose of giving out hugs or lending an ear to those who don’t often have visitors. The Doaz family said that because the elderly and sick often feel cold, they also need knitted items such as shawls, hats and lap blankets.

An especially lovely quilt was donated to the Key Largo School to be auctioned off as a fundraiser for the Safety Patrol annual trip to Washington, D.C. The Florida Keys Quilters also gave quilts to the San Pedro Catholic Church in Tavernier, to Saint Justin the Martyr Catholic Church in Key Largo and to Immanuel Lutheran Church in Islamorada. Those quilts will be distributed as the churches think best.

The quilters meet the first Saturday of every month at the Key Largo Library in the Publix shopping center.

The meetings start at 10 a.m. and generally end at noon.

Refreshments are served and anyone interested, whether a beginner or experienced, is welcome. If you’d just like to check the group out in a more informal setting, the group holds a “sit and sew” on Wednesdays in the Islamorada Library and on Fridays at the Key Largo Library. Each begins at 10 a.m.

ENVIRONMENT

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

OPEN LAB

A glimpse into how to save Florida’s corals TIFFANY DUONG

www.keysweekly.com

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n a quiet Saturday afternoon, community members come by and visit Keys Marine Lab in Layton. Set against the Oceanside, the lab has its back fence open, welcoming in passers-by and community members for its annual open house. The marine field station is normally restricted, but opens up once a year to share the conservation work it does. People trickle in throughout the afternoon, in pairs and small groups, to tour the research facilities, to support the lab, and to ask questions.

“Is it dead?” asks a visitor? “No! It’s an upside-down jellyfish called a Cassiopea. It settles like that on the ocean floor and is a part of the ecosystem, just like an ant or a gnat,” explains Cindy Lewis. Lewis, a scientific researcher and the deputy director at the lab, has been affiliated with it since she got her master’s there in 2008.

As the visitors pass by pillar coral tanks outside, Lewis said, “It’s pillar coral; very endangered. We’ve started a rescue effort of known genotypes so we can breed them and save them.” Catching her breath and grinning ear to ear, she continues, “I’m gonna get excited now. They’re the only corals in the world that grow in big pillars, and they’re only found in the Caribbean, and here in the Florida Keys; they’re super-endangered.”

As the group leans in to get a better look at the coral polyps, Lewis continues, “we’re down to about 30 of them in the wild, which is pretty good, all things considered.” The pillars were hit by the mysterious stony coral tissue loss disease, which started in Miami

Cindy Lewis, scientific researcher and the deputy director at Keys Marine Lab, speaks during a recent open house.

Alan Anderson shows rescued coral. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly

in 2014 and has spread down to Key West. Lewis explains, “The Pillars have given us six legs up to be able to treat other corals,” said Lewis. Pillar corals showed the disease first, and so experimental treatments on them have been tried for the longest. The current most effective is a polymer base which leeches antibiotic over three to four days. For the open house, a movie about the devastating disease plays in the classroom and the indoor lab is set up with coral specimens on which different treatments were tried. In this way, visitors can compare treatment methods and effectiveness.

As the group moves on to coral tanks closer to the ocean, Alan Anderson, coral caretaker, explains how the corals were collected west of Key West, beyond the disease margin, by a team from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The effort, which will continue over the next few months, gives Anderson a lot of hope.

“There’s so many entities involved for a common goal, with lots of people with lots of influence. It’s exciting … plus, I love corals!”

Georgeanna and Kris Tebbetts, who live across the street from the lab, explain why they stopped in: “We wanted to see the open house and support the lab – support the community, really. It’s really neat and really important work.”

Lewis, agreeing, said, “This is the hope of the future, is what this is.”

“They’re the only corals in the world that grow in big pillars, and they’re only found in the Caribbean, and here in the Florida Keys; they’re superendangered.”

15

16

ENVIRONMENT

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

PUBLIC COMMENT ENDS MARCH 31 According to the Army Corps of Engineers, almost 2,000 members of the public have attended these “scoping meetings” to offer comment on the Lake Okeechobee System Operating Manual (LOSOM) currently in process. The corps has extended the public comment period which will close on Sunday, March 31.

OKEECHOBEE lake levels Army Corps of Engineers hosts meeting in the Keys SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

N

ot many residents understand that the Army Corps of Engineers controls the water level in Lake Okeechobee — when to conserve it, when to let it go, and in which direction. Lt. Colonel Jennifer Reynolds, dressed in fatigues, told the audience in Marathon on March 20 the Corps’ first duty was to dispel rumors.

“There is this perception that the Corps is driving the lake level down to 10.5 feet. We have not been told to drive the lake toward any particular level,” she said. “We are looking at everything we can do to mitigate algae blooms in any part of the system.”

The meeting was the beginning of a four-year process to rewrite the manual for the lake’s operation, otherwise known as the Lake Okeechobee System Operating Manual (LOSOM).

The last plan was done in 2008. It includes a schedule of public comments, like this meeting, workshops, drafts, and more before the plan is finalized in 2022. Plus, it must incorporate elements of the rehabilitation project for the Herbert Hoover Dike that are not even under construction yet.

The corps added the public comment session to the schedule at the request of U.S. Rep. Debbie MucarselPowell. She was late to the meeting in Marathon, read a prepared statement and left immediately after.

Tim Gysan, with the corps, explained the LOSOM update is required by the 2018 Water Resources Development Act. “And as we complete the C-43 and C-44 we need to understand what will be happening in the next four years,” said Gysan, an engineer with the corps.

The C-43 and C-44 reservoirs are located on either side of Lake Okeechobee and would serve to filter the waters of the reoccurring blue-green algae bloom before they enter the Caloosahatchee River to the west of Lake Okeechobee, and the St. Lucie River to the east. To the members of the audience in Marathon, however, the focus was on the importance of filtering water south, to drain into Florida Bay. “We need more fresh water discharge into Florida Bay during rainy season, and a lot more in dry season,” said Ross Boucek, a scientist with Bonefish and Tarpon Trust. “Florida Bay is vulnerable during droughts like the one of 2015. The salinities then were so high, they reached salinities that would be recorded in the Great Salt Lake. The seagrass died, rotted and fueled algae blooms.”

Boucek went on to say the trust regularly invests in research.

During 2015, the organization was in the middle of sponge research and the species died. “We can’t invest in restoration until these water issues are resolved.”

Other audience members stressed cleaning up the lake waters first, before worrying about releasing the water south to feed Everglades National Park and Florida Bay. Alina Davis, an Upper Keys resident and Realtor, said, “We need to come together to help the lake recover its health. If the water coming downstream is clean, if we can get it downstream, that would help Florida Bay. Until then, we have nothing.”

Not only are the Keys the last literal (geographical) stop for the water draining from Lake Okeechobee, its needs are also far down on the priority scale. One of the corps’ handouts emphasizes

Lake Okeechobee was the subject of a Keys meeting where citizens spoke on the four-years-in-the-making management plan for lake levels. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS

the priorities of “public health and safety and flood control first. Other authorized project purposes evaluated include water supply, runoff, weather, ecological conditions of the lake its surrounding area, navigation, salinity and groundwater control.”

The last purpose to be listed is “recreation.”

Capt. Fred Ferreira read aloud a letter from a former client canceling a group charter. He said the cost to the guides alone would total about $38,000, more if the lost bookings and reservations for air, hotel and restaurants were counted. Others encouraged the corps to examine safe lake levels that would preserve

ENVIRONMENT

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

17

ILLUMINATING TOXINS

• Email: lakeocomments@usace.army.mil • Mail: Dr. Ann Hodgson U.S. Army Corps of Engineers P.O. Box 4970 Jacksonville, Fl 32232-0019 • Visit: www.saj.usace.army.mil/LOSOM

FIU professor to discuss harms The year-long Ocean Life Series brings marine science researchers and academics to the Keys to educate, entertain, and inspire audiences of all ages. Hosted by Florida International University’s Center for Coastal Oceans Research (CCOR) and John Berry is a professor at the the Friends of the Key Biomolecular Sciences Institute Largo Cultural Center at Florida International Univer(FKLCC), the series feasity. CONTRIBUTED tures interdisciplinary experts from FIU and the Keys.

On Thursday, March 28, John Berry, a professor at Florida International University, will be discussing algal toxins in the water around us and the use of fish as a model to determine the algae and the potential harms to environmental and human health.

The series is free and open to the public. Hosted at the Murray E. Nelson Government and Cultural Center in Key Largo, 102050 Overseas Highway. All lecture events begin at 6 p.m. with a happy hour/meet and greet until 7 p.m. During this time drinks will be sold and snacks will be provided. The lecture will begin at 7 p.m.

The Friends of the Key Largo Cultural Center is a non-profit organization that works to use the theater/ auditorium at the Murray E. Nelson Government and Cultural Center.

The Center for Coastal Oceans Research is within the Institute for Water and Environment, which is part of the College of Arts, Science and Education at Florida International University.

— Contributed quality drinking water by preventing saltwater intrusion into aquifers.

Steve Thomas, an Upper Keys charter captain, questioned the timeline of LOSOM. “I’m looking at where (the health of Florida Bay) was four years ago, to where we are now … In another four years I’m afraid we’re going to be in big trouble,” he said.

The Herbert Hoover Dike rehabilitation and Everglades Restoration Plans are huge endeavors. In January, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced a $625 million plan for Everglades restoration and water resource protection.

In February, DeSantis, and U.S. Sens. Marco Rubio and Rick Scott,

requested President Donald Trump commit $200 million to Everglades Restoration plan. Instead, the federal government committed $68 million. According to the South Florida Water Management District, the state of Florida has outspent the federal government by almost double. From 2000 to 2018, the state and SWFMD have spent $2.34 billion, while the feds have contributed $1.3 billion on the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan.

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WEEKLY INTERVIEW

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

Full name? Nickname? Susie Velasco.

Susie. A long time ago, they used to call me Q, for Susie Q, but that’s been 20 years since I’ve been called that. I can’t believe how old I am!

How long have you lived in the Keys? I have lived in the Keys three years full-time. Retirement brought me down here.

What’s your idea of a good workout?

I like to go hard and have my body feel like jelly when I’m done. That’s when I know it’s a good workout… when I can’t get up.

SUPER SUSIE ‘I’m no one’s sidekick’ JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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es, she helps people sign up for a gym membership. And yes, she takes calls and tidies up the gym before closing time. More than that, she’s a Keys mom to many who frequent Mariners gym on the second of the Tassell Building. A conversation with the personable, energetic and outgoing Susie Valesco is always a good start before hitting the treadmill or pumping some weights.

She has a zest for life and she’s loving life. She also takes care of her husband, her daughter and her dogs.

Susie has been a physically active person her whole life and understands that eating right and exercise are a way of life.

Your favorite machine to use at Mariners? My favorite is the cable because you can do a lot of things with cables. You can do arms, legs, back, shoulders, I mean everything with a cable machine.

What TV or movie character do you admire? I like superheroes. I like Wonder Woman because she has powers but she has ethics, she has morals and she has empathy. She’s not just about hurting people. She was taught well by the Amazonians.

Do you wish you were Wonder Woman’s sidekick? I’m no one’s sidekick. I don’t want to be Wonder Woman, but I’d be friends with her. I’d get all the perks without having to deal with the other problems.

What’s your guilty pleasure? Chocolate. Lots, lots, lots and lots of milk chocolate. People are like dark chocolate, and I’m like nope it’s all about that full on milk chocolate. And reality TV. I like to eat chocolate as I watch reality TV. It’s a sandwich of goodness.

What’s your go-to drink? First is wine, 100 percent cabernets if I can get that.

Second is green iced tea from Starbucks.

What’s your morning routine look like? My routine is coffee, wash my face, brush my teeth, put on my running clothes and go out on my walk and run. That’s my day every morning.

Sundays are my off day. That’s when I eat what I want. I try not to eat more calories than I burn.

Nerdiest passion? Reading and collecting my tinker bells. I’ve been collecting them for 20 years. I’m on a hiatus right now because I don’t know where to fit them. I used to buy all

collectors pieces. I have them stored. I just can’t take them out.

Have you ever had any close brushes with danger? I almost hit a tree once skiing in Colorado. That was scary. I ended up throwing myself. It was either that or die. I couldn’t make the turn fast enough. I got hurt but not as bad as I could have.

If you could have any superpower in the world, what it would? Power to heal.

If you could have lunch with any one person, dead or alive, who would it be and what would you eat? I would love to meet my grandfather. I never met the man. I’d definitely have a very nice bottle of wine and filet mignon, which is all I eat anyway.

Where’s your favorite spot to go in the Keys? I like Lighthouse Grill because the food is very good, the service is great, the location is awesome, it has pool, it has free parking for boaters and it’s really pretty with a bay view. And no one knows about because it’s in the back.

What’s your day of relaxation look like? It looks like a 4-mile walk/run and then watch a movie with my husband or go to the beach.

Finish these sentences …

People don’t know that I like to … make jewelry.

My husband would tell you I am … crazy!

My favorite restaurant in the Keys is … Ziggie Mad Dog’s.

The title of my autobiography would be … The devil made me do it. LOL My life would be complete if I could … travel all over the world.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

U.S. GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

Four historic reef lighthouses located offshore of the Florida Keys have been declared excess by the United States Coast Guard and are being made available to Federal agencies, State and local governments, nonprofit corporations, educational agencies, and community development organizations in accordance with the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act (NHLPA). For more information please visit https://go.usa.gov/xEQ6F or contact Eric Stavely at eric.stavely@gsa.gov or (404) 803-3128.

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KEYS EATS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

The Mediterranean omelet comes with spinach, tomato, onion and feta cheese as well as Cuban bread.

Make sure to order fresh-squeezed juice with it (mango flavor is good).JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

A FULL PLATE

The Juice House Cuban Restaurant

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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ooking for a hearty breakfast with some hot Cuban bread and fresh-squeezed juice? Stop by The Juice House Cuban Restaurant in Key Largo.

Located near MM 103, bayside, grab a seat inside and enjoy the food or order from the take-out window if you’re on the run.

Emilio Ruiz bought the restaurant in November 2013.

“Since then, we’ve continued to improve here,” Ruiz said.

“Eveybyody knows this as a Cuban restaurant, but we can do a lot more.”

Open for breakfast and lunch, the menu features a whole host of dishes to enjoy. Come in during the morning and get The Key Largo, which comes with two eggs, ham steak, bacon or sausage, three fluffy pancakes and your choice of bread.

Grab a medium café, leche or American coffee with it.

Patrons can order one of several omelets from the menu such as the Mediterranean omelet, which comes with spinach, tomato, onion and feta cheese. Make sure to order it with fresh-squeezed juice. From orange and watermelon to coconut and mango, prepare to feel refreshed. Ruiz said the juices are a favorite as they tend to run out of flavors from time to time.

“We make the juices every day, and it’s hard to keep up.

The watermelon, pineapple and orange are done from actual fruit we buy from the wholesaler,” Ruiz said. ”The other ones are done through frozen pulp. We’re very careful and work to get consistency.”

Also on the breakfast menu are breakfast sandwiches, French toast, specialty items such as biscuits and gravy and Cuban eggs benedict and local favorites like The Frenchies, The Potato and El Ranchero, which comes with two eggs, flour tortilla, cheddar and Monterey jack cheese, homemade salsa and homemade beans.

According to Ruiz, the biggest seller is the $2.99 breakfast special. With two eggs scrambled, a choice of sausage, bacon or ham, some Cuban toast and an 8-ounce American coffee or café leche, Ruiz says you’re not going to find this kind of breakfast anywhere else.

There’s also a Sunday all-you-can-eat buffet for $9.99.

From 7 a.m. to noon, come in and get all kinds of breakfast foods that include sausage, bacon and ham. Home fries, Spanish omelets, croquettes, toast and bananas are also available.

“We set up tables and everyone comes and gets what they want,” Ruiz said. “There’s a lot of options from pastries and mini doughnuts, two types of cereal, and toast.”

For lunch, come in and get one of many sandwiches like the Elena Ruth, which is made with midnight bread, turkey, cream cheese and strawberry. Or get the Croqueta Preparada, made with three croquettes, ham, cheese and choice to add mayo, mustard and pickles on pressed Cuban bread.

On the entrée menu are various beef plates, chicken and seafood, which come with your choice of white rice and beans.

The Juice House Cuban Restaurant is open seven days a week from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, visit The Juice House Cuban Restaurant’s Facebook page.

Ruiz also does on-site catering for events with his 6-foot by 2-foot pig roaster. He said he can roast a 160-pound pig, do 40 to 50 chickens or cook up 24 baby back ribs, among other things.

MONROE COUNTY

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

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KEYS TO THE CAPITOL Locals take message to Tallahassee JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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ith seafood, rum drinks and Key lime pie, state legislators in Tallahassee were immersed in Keys culture. They also heard about some of the issues happening 500 miles away from the Capitol.

The annual pilgrimage to the state capital, known as Florida Keys Day, saw a large Keys contingent, from council members and private sector leaders to department heads and citizens. Arranged every year, it’s meant to ensure that legislators — especially those new to the office — understand the issues going on in the Keys while also relaying funding needs.

County Mayor Sylvia Murphy said she enjoys seeing people she only sees when she makes the trip up for Florida Keys Day. What she takes away from the trip? How people feel or think about something, mainly money.

“You can tell by talking to them whether they’re going to get out

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, left, receives an Honorary Conch certificate from Monroe County Mayor Sylvia Murphy, center, while Florida State Rep. Holly Raschein, right, gets ready to present him a conch shell on March 19 in Tallahassee. ANDY NEWMAN/ Contributed

The next generation of leaders get a picture in with DeSantis. Pictured, from left, are state Rep. Holly Raschein and son, Drake; Audra Wallace and daughter, Quinn; DeSantis and Erin Dunn and daughter, Violet. CONTRIBUTED

and speak for it or be ho hum,” she said. “By all accounts, I think we did very well getting them to understand our needs.”

State Rep. Holly Raschein said it’s always a pleasure to inject a little Keys flair to Tallahassee and host local government representatives and other stakeholders. Raschein said many top state officials devoted some time out of their day to meet with the Keys group.

“Many people made time with our delegation, and we were able to recognize Gov. Ron DeSantis as an “Honorary Conch,” she said. “While there were many highlights of the day, I think that many would agree that they Key Lime pies on a stick were an amazing end to a successful event,” she said.

Islamorada councilman Ken Davis said he enjoyed seeing everyone from the Keys in one place in Tallahassee, from Key West Mayor Teri Johnston, who Davis said “is an amazing person,” to county commissioners David Rice and Michelle Coldiron and others from the county.

“I was particularly impressed that Islamorada had citizens who went up there for it. We’ve got so many people involved,” Davis said.

Davis said he was hoping for some funding to address dredg-

ing some of the canals and getting silt and sand to make them passable again. Everyone seems to be on board for cleaning out the debris, but not the sand and silt.

“If you can have $1 million toward lionfish eradication, we should be able to find some money to help people who are on canals,” Davis. “It’s not only a problem for them but it devalues property tax base.”

Islamorada Mayor Deb Gillis said the village had nine group meetings and four private gatherings to discuss various issues. One of the best things she found was with emergency management and its new director and the way the agency is working to make FEMA payments and reimbursement easier.

“In Islamorada, we’re actually starting to see our stuff trickle in.

It’s some of the little stuff, but it’s coming through,” she said. “They’re well aware of the need to push it through as quick as they can.”

Gillis said conversations were also had regarding the 50-50 bill, which would have the county and state partnering to gear up for the last building permits in 2023. It’s currently going through Senate committee.

“So many of the people are new and do not really understand the ROGO system and what we have down here,” she said. “It’s a lot of education we do up there yet. But we’re moving ahead on it.”

22

ENVIRONMENT

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

2 3 1

MANATEE SAVED Citizens, agencies credited for young male’s survival JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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young, 400-pound manatee is alive and back in the ocean thanks to a call from a concerned Key Largo citizen and a multi-agency rescue and response.

Just last week, the manatee named “Key Lime Pie” was successfully released after being hit by a boat several months ago. Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission received the call and sent its rescue team. Dolphin Research Center and Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder also sent out their resources. The manatee was sent to Miami Seaquarium, one of three manatee rehab facilities in the state, for treatment of five broken ribs and a punctured lung.

Steven McCulloch, executive director of stranding operations for DPMMR, said manatees are under the purview of FWC in the state. Within the region, the first responder for manatees is Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key. With FWC four hours away from arrival and DRC an hour out, McCulloch said, DPMMR was able to respond and maintain a sustained observation.

“Because the Florida Keys is so expansive, the various orga-

1. DPMMR assistant stranding coordinator Brandon Paquin, left, and Steven McCulloch, DPMMR director of stranding operations, are all smiles as they pose with “Key Lime Pie.” CONTRIBUTED

nizations that rescue birds, turtles, whales and manatees work with each other,” he said. “We’re here in Key Largo in readiness for a dolphin or manatee call. If FWC calls us, we’re going to go up and watch until resources can arrive.”

McCulloch said rescue organizations rely on the public in instances of animals in trouble. He also noted that it’s important to know how to respond upon observation.

“The immediate and good observation of one of the citizens who knew what to look for helped save this manatee,” he said.

“They knew the manatee wasn’t acting right and that it looked like injury. It was because of the community and the people who are educated in this community who care about this environment.”

After the manatee was released, it was observed in the company of several other wild manatees.

If you see a manatee, sea turtle, dolphin, or whale in trouble, call 1-888-404-FWCC, which has a 24/7 dispatch capability.

2. Rescuers from FWC, Miami Seaquarium, DPMMR and DRC get the 400-pound “Key Lime Pie” into the ocean.

3. Rescuers gather to release “Key Lime Pie” back into the ocean after healing from five broken ribs suffered months ago after being hit by a boat.

KEYS ARTS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

Original Living in Color Artist Jen Callahan is the poster artist for the 28th annual Island Fest.

CONTRIBUTED

O

POSTER ARTIST Callahan poster artist for Island Fest

Also among the participants will be Donna Elias, a watercolor painter with an affinity for depicting seaside landscapes, lighthouses, and life-saving stations.

riginal Living in Color Artist Jen Callahan is the poster artist for the 28th annual Island Fest.

Presented by the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce, the two-day festival will offer live music, gourmet cuisine, vintage cars and plenty of fine art and craft. The festival takes place on Saturday and Sunday, April 6 and April 7, at Founders Park.

“I am so happy to have been selected as the Poster Artist this year at Island Fest,” said Callahan. She said her childhood love for animals was “later cultivated into a need to express my fascination with animals and color.”

This fascination can be seen in her 2019 Island Fest poster piece “Manatee”, a whimsical and colorful depiction of the sea-dwelling mammal.

Callahan describes her technique as “between watercolor and acrylics as well as experimenting with different painting surfaces and styles. My emotions come out with each painting and I tend to use colors that make me happy, sometimes disregarding what is presented in real life.”

Callahan is just one of approximately 100 artists whose works will be on display at Island Fest. The juried Arts & Crafts show will feature local and national artists whose creations run the gamut from paintings and sculptures to jewelry and photography.

Also among the participants will be Donna Elias, a watercolor painter with an affinity for depicting seaside landscapes, lighthouses and life-saving stations.

When asked about participating in Island Fest, she says, “I’ve been traveling to the Florida Keys every winter for over 25 years. I guess I’ve painted (and played) on just about every island down the chain. Even so, this will be my very first appearance at Island Fest and I’m very excited! I’ll be bringing a wide variety of my work, including paintings from my “By the Seaside” series and some pieces from my “Great American Lighthouses Collection.” I look forward to meeting everyone and to having a great time!”

For those looking for craft with more depth, one of the artists featured this is Isaac Brooks, who creates threedimensional sculptures of marine life from driftwood.

“I am excited and honored to have been chosen to participate in Island Fest this year,” said Brooks. “I discovered my passion for sculpture and painting roughly 6 years ago. Marine life, the sea and all things beachy inspire me to create works of art that can be used in the home, or even out by the pool. For me, the beauty of what I create is not the finished product, it is in the natural essence of the wood I create it from.”

On-site at the Island Fest art show for the fourth time will be the Plein Art Paint Out. During both days of the show, artists will set up at various venues, including the beach and near the music stage, where they will paint complete works. The artists will then frame their creations before putting them up for sale near the Chamber of Commerce information booth.

Other Island Fest offerings include live music, a vintage car show, a homemade boat race, and the Taste of Islamorada competition.

It all happens at Founders Park, mile marker 87, bayside on Saturday and Sunday, April 6-7. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Admission is free and on-site parking is available for a $5 donation. The Islamorada Chamber of Commerce encourages visitors to “Keep the Scene Green” and bring their own water bottles to reduce plastic use, as well lawn chairs and blankets. Events will take place rain or shine. For more information or to volunteer, call the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce at 305-664-4503.

— Contributed

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24

COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

BREAK OUT THE ZIG-ZAGS

State passes bill making medical marijuana ‘smokeable’ SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

O

n March 18, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a law making it legal for patients who have prescriptions for medical marijuana to smoke it.

Previously, patients with prescriptions could only receive low-THC cannabis in pill, patch or tincture forms. According to the state Department of Health, there are currently 15 doctors in Monroe County who have qualified to prescribe marijuana.

In 2016, more than 70 percent of voters in Florida approved a constitutional amendment legalizing medical marijuana, but the Legislature passed a bill a year later that year that banned it in smokeable forms.

After signing the new law, DeSantis moved to dismiss a lawsuit that named the state Department of Health and undo a lower court decision which held the law to be unconstitutional.

Other bills currently under consideration: • Recycling, HB 771: The House Agriculture & Natural Resources Subcommittee will take up a proposal that would

require cities and counties to address the issue of nonhazardous contamination of recyclable materials. Local governments would have to address the issue in contracts with recycling collectors and processing facilities.

• Felons' rights, CB CRJ 19-03: a house bill that codifies 2018’s Amendment 4 that relates to felon rights. The amendment restores voting rights of Floridians with felony convictions (except for murder and sexual offenses) after they complete all terms of their sentence and probation. The bill currently before the Florida legislature would expand the definition of sex offenders, as well as require felons to pay back all court fees and fines before having voting rights restored.

• Animal cruelty, SB 1738: This Senate bill would make it a first-degree misdemeanor to leave a dog restrained outside and unattended during a manmade or a natural disaster, such as a hurricane.

• Maritime law, SB 1666: This Senate bill could limit the stay of vessels outside of permitted, public mooring fields such as the outskirts of Boot Key Harbor in Marathon. It would prohibit the owner, operator or person in charge of a vessel from anchoring or mooring outside of public mooring fields for longer than a specified period of time, perhaps 60 days, before requiring the relocation or removal of the vessel.

BIG BUNNY Underwater Easter Egg Hunt April 21

D

ivers and snorkelers visiting the Florida Keys can become deep-sea “egg-splorers” while supporting a Keys charity during the 2019 Underwater Easter Egg Hunt. The 24th annual event is to be staged Easter Sunday, April 21, in warm waters off Islamorada.

The unique Easter “egg-stravaganza” is hosted by Captain “Cottontail” Spencer Slate. Since 1978 Slate has offered dive, snorkel and underwater wedding experiences in Florida Keys waters, promoting ocean conservation among divers and encouraging them to be active stewards of the undersea environment.

The popular underwater game of hide and seek rewards participants with prizes, with the most valuable goodie basket reserved for the fortunate hunter who discovers a “golden egg.”

Preceding the search, Captain Slate dons a giant bunny suit and dive gear and hides brightly colored Easter eggs underwater for the eager bounty hunters.

Real eggs and nontoxic dyes are used to avoid negative environmental impacts.

Boats full of egg seekers then take the plunge to find the hard-boiled hoard, exploring a secret location adjacent to shallow reefs in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

Interested divers and snorkelers can join the morning excursion with Captain Slate’s Scuba Adventures, located at mile marker 90.7 oceanside in Tavernier at the Casa Mar Village shopping enclave.

The two-tank trip is specially priced at $85 per certified diver including tanks and weights, $35 per adult snorkeler and $25 per child snorkeler under age 13 (including gear). Divers and snorkelers are asked to check in at 8 a.m. and boats are scheduled to depart at 8:30 a.m. Participants must preregister for the event.

Money raised during the annual undersea hunt benefits Kids In Special Situations, providing the area’s needy children gifts and holiday cheer throughout the year.

Event information: captainslate.com or 305-4513020 — Contributed

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

Travis W. Bennett, DMD

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25

26

COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

BRIEFLY

Coral Shores’ JV, varsity teams win

State parks highlight volunteer opportunities The Keys Connections Lecture Series’ program on Monday, April 1, will delve into Dagny Johnson Park and Pennekamp State Park and ways to learn and stay active as a volunteer.

Hosted by Friends of the Key Largo Library, the program will run from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Call 305-451-2396 for more information.

LACROSSE

Screening, discussion set for ‘A Plastic Ocean’

C

oral Shores’ junior varsity and varsity lacrosse teams each came away with a victory against Gulliver Prep on March 14.

The Canes’ JV team won 6-0. Kaila Jorgensen had four goals, eight ground balls, and one caused turnover. Maggie Scott had two goals and Bridget Rader had seven ground balls.

“The girls really came together and played like I haven’t seen them before,” said coach Dominique Colarusso.

“Their skills are up and coming and these girls are really learning the game wonderfully.”

Holding down defense were Katie Pooley, Coral DiMartino, Samantha Simon and Lillia Adrian. On attack was Alexis Kumar, Alyssa Webb, Sarah Nakhaila and Nola Frank. Goalie Arianna Oliver had five saves.

Macey Harrelson led the varsity Canes’ 10-4 victory with five goals and one assist. Kaylee Stoky had two goals; Ella Marsden, Ava Swanson and Natalie Dixon had one goal each; Dixon and Alexis Martin each had one assist.

Holding the defense strong was Shannon McCormick, Ria del Pino, Skylynn Lindback and Anna Reckwerdt.

Colarusso said they did a fantastic job holding their own when Gulliver offense took a different path than the normal zone offense the team practices for. “Their game is evolving and their adapting to this change was impeccable to my standards, especially

The Coral Shores’ girls varsity lacrosse team came away with a 10-4 victory over Gulliver Prep at home on March 14. CONTRIBUTED

since we have yet to practice anything but zone offense,” said Colarusso.

On attack, Ella Marsden, Alexis Martin, Sara Roth/Allie Ancheta (switched out for a 50/50 game) Macey Harrelson along with midfielders Ava Swanson, Kaylee Stoky and Natalie Dixon set up and moved the ball “absoluety 100 percent better than I have seen them in any of their other games,” Colarussa said.

“We were able to move the ball and work the defense to get in 10 goals working plays that we have been working hard on,” Colarusso said. “After tonight they have seen what they are able to accomplish and I hope they take this into the games to come.”

Arianna Oliver also played for varsity this game, and after not letting in a single goal in the JV, she only allowed 4 in and saved 6.

— Contributed

A free screening of the film “A Plastic Ocean” will take place Thursday, April 11, at 5:30 p.m. at the Founders Park Community Center, followed by a panel discussion to address green solutions in the Florida Keys.

The event is sponsored by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Surfrider Foundation, Reef Relief, Islamorada and the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce.

A Lead-By-Example Expo will be from 3:30 to 5p.m. on the Great Lawn at Founders Park. No registration is required. The expo is an opportunity for local businesses to meet with vendors of biodegradable and other green alternatives to learn how to decrease single-use plastics and make the switch to more environmentally conscious products.

In the center of the Pacific Ocean gyre, researchers found more plastic than plankton. “A Plastic Ocean” documents the newest science, proving how plastics, once they enter the oceans, break up into small particulates that enter the food chain where they attract toxins like a magnet. These toxins are stored in seafood’s fatty tissues, and eventually consumed by us.

“A Plastic Ocean” was filmed in 20 locations around the world to document the global effects of plastic pollution and introduce workable technology and policy solutions that can, if implemented in time, change things for the better. Seating is limited. Please register to attend.

FKCC hosts open house Florida Keys Community College invites prospective students and their families to any of three open house events at the following FKCC locations, dates, and starting times: • Upper Keys Center: Tuesday, April 2 at 5:30 p.m.

• Middle Keys Center: Wednesday, April 3 at 5:30 p.m.

• Key West Campus: Saturday, April 6 at 10 a.m.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

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28

STATE NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

SARAH THOMAS

sthomas@keysweekly.com

BILL WOULD IMPROVE TREATMENT FOR FEMALE INMATES MONROE COUNTY ALREADY AHEAD OF PROPOSAL

80 percent of incarcerated women are mothers.

T

he Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act is receiving attention statewide, calling for reforms on how women are treated in Florida prisons. The state Senate Criminal Justice Committee unanimously approved the bill, and it will be up for a vote by the full senate.

The bill covers several concerns that fall under the umbrella of “dignity:” availability of feminine hygiene products, as well as barring male deputies from performing strip and body cavity searches on female inmates.

In 2015, Lowell Correctional Institution in Ocala came under fire after the Miami Herald reported female inmates’ claims that they had been put in positions to barter sexual favors from guards in exchange for hygiene products.

It certainly paints a distressing picture. The good news? Well, it’s threefold. First, some of these guidelines are already rules of the U.S. Department of Corrections. However, advocacy groups claim that they have not been effectively enforced in Florida prisons.

Now female prisoners have advocates in Florida elected officials. Broward state Rep. Shevrin Jones and Orange County Rep. Amy Mercado sponsored the House bill that will go to vote next month when the legislature reconvenes.

The other good news? It appears that the Monroe County Jail is ahead of the pack when it comes to policy for how female inmates are treated.

Media Relations Director Adam Linhardt said the policy this bill outlines is already the norm for Monroe County: “For a long time, all female inmates have been provided free hygiene products, which would include feminine hygiene products.”

This is true of male and female inmates — as of press time, the Monroe County Correctional Facility Houses 601 total inmates, of whom 69 are female.

The jail on Stock Island houses all inmates in the Keys, while the corrections facilities at Plantation Key and Marathon are male only.

Linhardt added, the jail provides female inmates with hygiene products “with no questions asked.”

He also spoke on the strip and body cavity search stipulations of the Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act.

“Deputies do not perform cavity searches here,” Linhardt said.“We have body scanners; if a part of your body does need to be searched, we take inmates to the hospital, so that’s not a factor here.”

There is also a Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act at the federal level, sponsored by New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker, that is still with the Committee on the Judiciary. It takes a broader stance, addressing consideration of the incarcerated woman’s status as a parent — 80 percent of incarcerated women are mothers — and making practices like punishing pregnant women with solitary confinement illegal.

Linhardt said that while the state bill doesn’t address pregnant women, the Monroe County Jail also has stricter standards for treatment on that front.

“We do have one pregnant female,” he said, “and they go to medical in the jail daily, and they are on a special diet, and we take them to the doctor or hospital outside of the jail.” Per Monroe County Sheriff’s Office policy, if a pregnant woman is arrested, she would — and does, in the case of their incarcerated female — receive regular ultrasounds, doctor’s visits, and pre-natal care. “We contract with doctors in town, and if there is a specialist they require, we take them to Miami, and we pay the bill. If a baby is delivered, it would be at Lower Keys Medical Center.

They don’t deliver babies at the jail.”

That seems prudent.

“This is something Sheriff (Rick) Ramsay would have instilled regardless, so I don’t foresee this law impacting us.

The way I read the law, we are ahead of the curve on this, and it’s really an issue of decent medical care.”

Considering the state of medical care outside of jail, it sounds like incarcerated women expecting children could actually receive better medical care than those outside of corrections facilities. Perhaps the Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act could inspire legislation that promotes medical dignity for women, period.

STUDENT OF THE WEEK

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

29

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VALERIE BARROW The Upper KeysWeekly is proud to partner with Coral Shores’ faculty and students in choosing “The Student of the Week.” Recipients are chosen on qualifications including academic standing, athletics, outstanding achievements, community involvement, individuality and moral fortitude. We thank our future leaders and CSHS for allowing us to share in a weekly dose of “Hurricane Pride,” and for giving us a glimpse into their world.

What is something most people don’t know about you? I love socks!

What does “a good education” mean to you? Having a safe environment with caring staff.

Who is your all-time favorite teacher and why? Ms. Kathy — we spend a lot of one-on-one time over the years. She created lots of interactive lessons for me to use and devices for me to grow my mind with.

What do you hope to be remembered for at CSHS? Spending lots of time at my sister’s sports games.

What is one favorite way to spend your spare time? I love lying in the sunroom at home and going out to eat.

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30

KEYS ARTS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019 The March 29 open house will showcase new works by the gallery’s artists, highlighted by a painting demonstration by artist Kathleen Denis. CONTRIBUTED

RESIDENT ARTISTS Open House highlighted

by Denis’ painting

O

ur Place in Paradise Gallery is holding an open house, with desserts and beverages, on Friday, March 29 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The open house will showcase new works by the gallery’s many talented artists, highlighted by a painting demonstration by noted artist Kathleen Denis.

“The U.S. Coast Guard recently honored Kathleen by selected her painting, ‘Setting Markers,’ for the Guard’s permanent fine art collection,” said Joanne Kolb, gallery co-founder. “We are so proud of Kathleen for that achievement.”

Denis will put on a painting demonstration during the open house, taking questions and explaining her craft while she paints. She will be joined by other resident artists and teachers at the gallery.

New works on display will include oil paintings by Kirk Larsen from New York, Linda Apriletti from Miami Springs, and pencil and oils by Claudia Moriarty from the Keys. Also on display are batiks and pastels by Gloria Avner, watercolors by Monica Bankowski, photography by Louise Lindsay and Patrick Foley, and ceramics by Allison Ferguson , Frank Shaw ,Sandra Humphrey, and Susi Trottnow – all Keys residents.

Our Place in Paradise Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The gallery is supported by Share All Our Blessings, a non-profit organization that provides art education, spiritual encouragement, and charitable activities in the community. For more information, call 305-916-5828 or go to ourplaceinparadise. com. The gallery is located at 88711 Overseas Highway in Islamorada.

— Contributed

Live Entertainment Thur March 28 Webb & Meyer 6-10PM Fri March 29 Special Event No Filter 6-10PM Magic by Michael Trixx after Sunset Sat March 30 Roger Jaeger 12-3:30PM Spank the Band 6-10PM Sun March 31 Harry French 12-3:30PM Barstool Sailors 6-10PM

NOT YOUR GRANDPA’S MARKEY’S!

Mon April 1 The Carousers 6-10PM Tues April 2 Harry French 6-10PM

305-664-2692 www.loreleicabanabar.com

Wed April 3 Webb & Davidson 6-10PM Magic by Michael Trixx after Sunset

Featuring clothing lines and accessories such as Miss Me, Costa, Mercury, and Olukai

Just too cute to miss!

MM98.7 Overseas Highway in the median

305-780-7120 A Boutique for her!

And for the hubby’s you can find great deals on RTIC, Yeti, Traeger and the Man Cave full of new and used marine parts and supplies.

31

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

Your place for family fun since 1976 The best souvenirs are the ones you leave behind.

Down here in The Keys, you can swim in pristine waters, kayak through unspoiled mangroves, delve into the Everglades or help restore our precious coral reefs. In fact, we’re so focused on preservation, even your memories will last forever. fla-keys.com/sustain

Come join us at mm 77.5

305 664-8070

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+ Free Kitchen Design with Materials Purchase!*

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FREE OUTDOOR BAND CONCERT Saturday • 4 PM

March 30 Swaying Sounds of Paradise

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Kitchen design require a $1,500 deposit that will be refunded upon materials purchase.

Offers cannot be applied to previous purchases; additional exclusions may apply.

Peace Park at the Murray Nelson Center MM 102, Bayside, Key Largo

Free Admission • Outdoors: Bring a Blanket or Lawn Chair Fun-filled Family Entertainment

— New Band Members Welcome — Co-sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department, Village of Islamorada, with support from Islamorada Community Entertainment

305-451-4530 • w w w . k e y s c o m m u n i t y c o n c e r t b a n d . o r g

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF SEIZURE Tavernier Mini Storage, 135 Hood Ave, Tavernier, FL 33070, will sell or otherwise dispose of the contents of the following unit to satisfy the delinquent storage lien.

All contents in: Unit B-8 – Dave Golie Sale of all Goods, April 8, 2019 at 10:00AM. Publish: March 21 & March 28, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers NONJUDICIAL PROCEEDING TO FORECLOSE CLAIM OF LIEN BY TRUSTEE FILE NO.: 18-001704 WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FOR-PROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, Lienholder, vs.

CASEY RHIANNON GELSTON Obligor TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING TO: Casey Rhiannon Gelston 909 North Conant Avenue Crystal River, FL 34429 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that a TRUSTEE’S NON-JUDICIAL PROCEEDING to enforce a Lien has been instituted on the following Timeshare Ownership Interest at Windward Pointe Condominium described as: Unit 5521, Week 50, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

The default giving rise to these proceedings is the failure to pay condominium assessments and dues resulting in a Claim of Lien encumbering the Timeshare Ownership Interest as recorded in the Official Records of Monroe County, Florida. The Obligor has the right to object to this Trustee proceeding by serving written objection on the Trustee named below. The Obligor has the right to cure the default and any junior interestholder may redeem its interest, for a minimum period of forty-five (45) days until the Trustee issues the Certificate of Sale. The Lien may be cured by sending certified funds to the Trustee payable to the Lienholder in the amount of $7,374.06, plus interest (calculated by multiplying $2.64 times the number of days that have elapsed since March 4, 2019), plus the costs of this proceeding. Said funds for cure or redemption must be received by the Trustee before the Certificate of Sale is issued.

David Cramer, Esq. Valerie N. Edgecombe Brown, Esq. Cynthia David, Esq. Nicholas A. Woo, Esq. Michael E. Carleton, Esq. as Trustee pursuant to Fla. Stat. §721.82 P. O. Box 165028 Columbus, OH 43216-5028 Telephone: 407-404-5266 Telecopier: 614-220-5613 Publish: March 21 and 28, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF ADOPTION MONROE COUNTY EMEGENCY ORDINANCE NO. 010-2019 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on March 21, 2019 at the Murray E. Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Monroe County, Florida, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, after unanimous vote declaring that an emergency exists and waiving notice of a public hearing pursuant to F. S. 125.66(3), adopted Emergency Ordinance No. 010-2019 as follows: AN EMERGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA AMENDING SECTION 18-27 OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE; PROVIDING FOR RESTRICTED ACCESS TO THE MURRAY E. NELSON GOVERNMENT CENTER PARK; PROVIDING FOR PERMISSIBLE AND PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES; PROVIDING FOR PENALTIES; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, notice is given that if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at such hearings or meetings, he will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

Dated at Key West, Florida, this 25th day of March, 2019.

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: March 28, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

CONFINEMENT AND LEASH REQUIREMENTS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES INCONSISTENT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION INTO THE MONROE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, notice is given that if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at such hearings or meetings, he will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”. Live Closed Captioning is available via our web portal @ http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2. com for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners.

Dated at Key Largo, Florida, this 21st day of March, 2019.

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: March 28, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

MONROE COUNTY CODE, SEWAGE AND SEWAGE DISPOSAL; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR FILING AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL INCONSISTENT ORDINANCES; AND PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION IN THE MONROE COUNTY CODE Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, notice is given that if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at such hearings or meetings, he will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”. Live Closed Captioning is available via our web portal @ http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2. com for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners.

Dated at Key West, Florida, this 21st day of March, 2019.

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: March 28, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

waive any irregularities or informalities, and to award to any party considered to be in the best interest of the Authority.

Kirk C. Zuelch, Executive Director Publish: March 28, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on April 17, 2019 at 3:00 P.M., or as soon thereafter as may be heard, in the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Monroe County, Florida, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, intends to consider the adoption of the following County ordinance: AN ORDINANCE OF THE MONROE COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AMENDING SECTION 4-1 AND 4-67 OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE; PROVIDING FOR REVISIONS TO THE ANIMAL CONTROL PROVISIONS REGARDING ANIMALS RUNNING AT LARGE, ANIMAL

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on April 17, 2019 at 3:00 P.M., or as soon thereafter as may be heard, in the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Monroe County, Florida, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, intends to consider the adoption of the following County ordinance: AN ORDINANCE BY THE MONROE COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS REVISING ARTICLES III (CONNECTIONS OF ONSITE SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM TO CENTRAL SEWERAGE SYSTEM), IV (CONNECTION OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL; SYSTEMS TO FACILITIES OF FLORIDA KEYS AQUEDUCT AUTHORITY) AND V (WASTEWATER CONNECTION STANDARDS) OF CHAPTER 20 OF THE

Request for Qualifications FKAA-RFQ-0003-19 Sealed qualifications packages will be received by the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority at its Purchasing Office located at 7000 Front St, Key West, Florida 33040, until 4:00 P.M., April 9, 2019 at which time and place they will be publicly read aloud. Such packages shall be for the following: Professional Services for the Repair and Improvement of Water Transmission Main Cathodic Protection Systems As contained in documents on file at the office of the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority, Finance Division, Purchasing Offices, 7000 Front St, Key West, Florida 33040.

Any questions should be directed to David Jackson, Purchasing Manager at djackson@fkaa.com.

The Governing Board of Directors of the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority reserves the right to reject any and all qualifications packages, in whole or in part, to

Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings & Workshops Cultural Umbrella Event Funding Workshop Tuesday, April 2nd 2019, at 11:00 a.m.

Gato Building, First Floor Conference Room, 1st floor, Key West, FL Cultural Umbrella Event Funding Workshop Wednesday, April 3rd, 2019, at 2 p.m.

History of Diving Museum, Meeting Room, Islamorada, FL Membership Committee Meeting Wednesday, April 10th, 2019, at 3:00 p.m.

Gato Building, First Floor Conference Room, 1st floor, Key West, FL Art in Public Places Committee Meeting Tuesday, April 30th, 2019, at 4:00 p.m.

Marathon Gov’t Center, First Floor Conference Room, 1st floor, Marathon, FL Meetings are open to the public and all are invited to attend.

Questions? Call the Arts Council office at 305-2954369.

Publish: March 28, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of VALENCIA’S CAR WASH, located at 10845 6TH AVENUE GULF, MARATHON, FLORIDA 33050, intends to register the said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: ALEXANDER VALENCIA Publish: March 28, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of BLUE BUBBLE CHARTERS, located at 10 OAKWOOD AVENUE, KEY LARGO, FLORIDA 33037, intends to register the said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: DANIEL C. HARVEY Publish: March 28, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No. 19-DR-275-K

LEGAL NOTICES Division: Family ATAJAN ALLABERDIYEV, Petitioner, and MAIREL U. PACHECO, Respondent, NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE TO: MAIREL U. PACHECO Respondent’s last known address: 1815 W. 56TH STREET, APT. 301, HIALEAH, FL 33012 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on ATAJAN ALLABERDIYEV, whose address is 3314 NORTHSIDE DRIVE, APT. 55, KEY WEST, FL 33040, on or before APRIL 29, 2019, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 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.

Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the office of 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 Notice of Current Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed to the address 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 22, 2019 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Jaquelyn Fonseca Deputy Clerk Publish: March 28, April 4, 11 and 18, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 19-CP-24-P Upper Keys IN RE: ESTATE OF MARTIN J. MCGREEVY, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Martin J. McGreevy, deceased, whose date of death was February 21, 2019, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against

LEGAL NOTICES 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 21, 2019.

Personal Representative: Ellen Leonard P.O. Box 865 Palmetto, Florida 34220 Attorney for Personal Representative: RICHARD E. WARNER Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway Marathon, FLORIDA 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: March 21 and 28, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 19-CP-000014-P IN RE: ESTATE OF EDWIN J. DETTLING, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of EDWIN J. DETTLING, deceased, whose date of death was June 14, 2018, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702

33

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

BOATS FOR SALE

EMPLOYMENT

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 21, 2019 Personal Representative: NORTHERN TRUST COMPANY Thomas M. Lara, V.P. 1515 Ringling Blvd., Suite 1100 Sarasota, FL 34236 Attorney for Personal Representative: FRANK T. PILOTTE, ESQUIRE Florida Bar Number: 0239801 MURPHY REID, L.L.P. 11300 U.S. Highway One, Suite 401 Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33408 E-SERVICE: fpilotte@ murphyreid.com eservice@murphyreid.com Telephone: 561-355-8800 Publish: March 21 and 28, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

WITHIN THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS, DEMANDS AND OBJECTIONS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. The date of the first publication of this Notice is March 28, 2019.

Attorney for Personal Representative: JOHN CAMPBELL Florida Bar # 443972 CAMPBELL & MALAFY 10887 Overseas Highway Suite #201 Marathon, Florida 33050 305-743-2492 305-743-2432 (fax) Personal Representative: JACOB TESCHENDORF Care of: CAMPBELL & MALAFY 10887 Overseas Highway Suite #201 Marathon, Florida 33050 305-743-2492 305-743-2432 (fax) Publish: March 28 and April 4, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

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 28, 2019.

Personal Representative: JACQUELINE DUDDY 56 Oak Avenue Metuchen, NJ 08840 Attorney for Personal Representative: JERROLD SLUTZKY, ESQ. Florida Bar Number: 95747 Slutzky Law Firm 853 Main Street, Suite A Safety Harbor, FL 34695 Telephone: (727) 475-6200 Email: jerryslulaw@gmail. com Publish: March 28 and April 4, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

trailer. $14,800. Located in Marathon. 305-743-3075.

proven record as a positive, extremely reliable, self-starter capable of interacting with and supporting a wide range of individuals and diverse job requirements. Strong computer knowledge and competency required.

Full Time Position.

Please email resume to keyshumanresources61 @gmail.com

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 2018-CP-085-M IN RE: ESTATE OF JACK TESCHENDORF, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Estate of JACK TESCHENDORF, Deceased, whose date of death was September 4, 2018, File Number 2018-CP-085-M, is pending in the Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE NOTIFIED THAT: All persons of whom this notice is served and who have objections that challenge the validity of the will, the qualifications of the petitioner, venue, or jurisdiction of this Court are required to file their objections with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All creditors of the decedent and any other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is served within three months after the date of the first publication of this notice must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 19-CP-000011-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF DAVID GIRARD Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Estate of David Girard, deceased, whose date of death was February 28, 2017, File Number 19-CP00011-K, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; the address of which is Clerk of the Circuit Court, Monroe County, Probate Division, 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 the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE TIME 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 FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE

AUTOS WANTED

ALL YEARS! Junk or Used. Cars - Vans - Trucks- Running or Not. $ C A S H $ 3 0 5 - 3 3 2 - 0 4 8 3 AUTOS FOR SALE

Red 1986 Corvette convertible.

Has its idiosyncrasies (it’s 33 years old!) but it sure is fun to drive, especially in the Keys. 118,000 miles. New transmission at 78,000, according to previous owner (a police officer in Illinois). New A/C compressor and condenser; new U-joint; roof is 4 years old; new tires. Automatic transmission.

AM-FM CD AUX USB stereo with remote and detachable face. Get it before I drive it back to Illinois. Located in Marathon. $7,500 obo.

217-649-0007.

1971 35’ Erickson S/V Mark II –Bruce King Design, Racer/Cruiser Rigged Sloop, extra sails, misc. extras. 12’ Beam, 6’ Draft Lead Keel, 3 GM Yanmar Diesel, 8’ fiberglass row boat incl. Book value $25k, Asking $12,500 OBO. Located in Marathon. Call Debbie 305-399-0515.

SELL YOUR BOAT HERE - Line ads start at $25/ week for 5 lines of copy!

Call 305-743-0844 to get your boat SOLD!! SOLD!! SOLD!!

REDUCED 2000 HydraSports 230CC w/225HP Johnson. 470 hours. Many extras. Located in Big Pine Key. $10,000. 734-904-2818 SOLD REDUCED: 2009 J14 Carolina Skiff-Mercury 25HP motor, trailer, custom cover. Located in Marathon. $3,750.

205746-6489 SOLD EMPLOYMENT

Housekeeping position available. Apply in person at Blackfin Resort & Marina, 4650 Overseas Highway, Marathon. 305-743-2393 Captain Pip’s Marina & Hideway - NOW HIRING: Full-Time Office Help, Dockhand, PartTime Landscaping, and Housekeeper. Drop off or mail application to: 1480 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050

GOLF CART FOR SALE

Golf Cart, very good condition, 4 passenger, batteries approx..1 yr old.

Located in Marathon. $2,100.00 JERRY (305) 6641286.

BOATS FOR SALE

Boat for Sale Boat Slip for Sale or Both!

- Hi-Dry Slip at Marathon BoatHouse - 2004 Wellcraft 21CC 150HP Yamaha, many extras. $17,000 Both, $6,000 Boat only. 305-2895467.

19’ Bayliner CTR Console, 250 Suzuki, 150 HP 4 stroke, Bimini top, located in Marathon. $15,000.

John 732-668-7060 1996 Parker 23’ Cuddy Cabin, 200 Yamaha, 800 hours, professionally maintained, Hard top, full canvas, GPS, aluminum

Cooks, Dishwashers and Food Preps needed.

Good pay and benefits.

EEO & Drug Free. Apply within at Keys Fisheries Restaurant 3390 Gulfview Ave, Marathon Sea Dog Charters hiring Captains & Mates. Captains must have Master’s license.

People with great, fun personalities wanted.

Must be located near Marathon. Excellent pay for the right people.

305-743-8255.

ADMIN Support Position for Real Estate Office in Marathon - Monday thru Thursday 8:30 - 1:30.

Phone communications, Microsoft excel and word required. Please send resume to joanncook@ remax.net.

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR – Marathon. If you have a

Experienced Bartender needed for DAV - Disabled American Veterans.

Please inquire at the DAV Hall at 7280 Overseas Highway, Marathon or call 305-743-4705 or 305-481-3259. We would love to interview you!

Experienced Diesel Technician wanted.

Tools and experience is a must. Electronic engine diagnostic experience preferred.

Opportunity for growth and training available for qualified applicants. Florida Keys Diesel Repair, 531 107th Street, Marathon. 305-2892070 City of Marathon - Job Openings: Building Inspector/Plans Examiner, Fi re f i g h te r / Pa ra m e d i c and Turtle Nest Surveyor.

EOE FULL BENEFITS Also hiring: Part-time (Temporary) Scanner. w w w.ci.marathon.fl.us FOOD FOR THOUGHT Organic Cafe hiring kitchen staff. Experience preferred, but willing to train. Apply in person. 5800 O/S Hwy. #23 Marathon BIKE REPAIR NEEDED. Regular maintenance for 8 spin bikes in Marathon. $$.

Call 305-775-9909.

The Island Gift Shops (Marooned In Marathon 1 & 2) are looking for happy responsible employees to complement our current staff. PART TIME HOURS in a fun environment (good fit for second job) and retirees are welcome! Apply in person at Marooned In Marathon, 11528 Overseas Highway.

Landscaping company seeking full-time laborers in Marathon.

Call 305-395-8294 Key Colony Inn NOW HIRING AM/PM SERVERS. Apply in person: 700 Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, FL or call for details: (305) 743-0100 SWEET SAVANNAH’S is now hiring for Afternoon and Evening shifts. Please apply in person 8919 Overseas Hwy. Marathon

EMPLOYMENT

HOMES FOR RENT

Experienced Help Only needed for all positions.

Apply in person MonFri 10-11am at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, Knights Key Blvd.

Marathon

Marathon Waterfront rental - 2BR/2BA, Central AC, W/D included. Full furnished. 50’ Dock. No pets/No smoking. $1,500/ month F/L/S. 443-520-9485 RENTED IN LESS THAN A WEEK!

NEED EMPLOYEES? Line ads start at $25/ week for 5 lines of copy!

Call 305-743-0844 today Sea Dell Motel hiring Evening Desk Clerk.

Some basic computer skills needed. Personable & outgoing.

Great working environment.

5000 Overseas Hwy, Marathon. 216-509-4400 HIRED IN LESS THAN A WEEK! HELP WANTED: PT/FT Cook and PT Server at small Tiki bar located on the water. Apply in person at Barnacle Barneys located behind Bluegreen Resort, 1688 Overseas Hwy, MM48, Marathon (305)743-7928 HIRED HOBBIES/COLLECT.

PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive watches and Pilot watches. Old model Military clocks & watches. Call 305-743-4578 HOUSING FOR RENT

3BR/2BA For Rent in Key Largo. Unfurnished, Open plan, W/D, Blinds. Very large lot. $2,625/month + utilities. F/L/S 305-807-5338 2 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath Plantation Key condo furnished with modern coastal décor. Pool and sauna. Electric and cable are tenants responsibility. $50 background fee for association approval.

No pets per association. $2000 month.

F-L-S. Available April 1, 2019 Call 305-664-7328 1BR/1BA House with detached Studio Apartment for rent in Key Largo (near Holiday Inn). Fenced parking for boat/RV/ 2-3 cars. $1,500/ month F/L/S House is for sale-month to month lease.

216-509-4400 1BR/1BA Duplex $1,700/monthly + Utilities.

Centrally located in Islamorada, MM 80, 6 Month Lease, First/Security required.

Call 305-664-5023 9am-5pm, Mon-Fri NEED TENANTS? Line ads start at $25/week for 5 lines of copy!

Call 305-743-0844 today to get your property RENTED!

Marathon 1/2 Duplex 2BR/1BA. New construction.

Central AC, W/D in unit. $2,000/ month F/L/S. 305-664-1204 RENTED IN LESS THAN A WEEK! 2BR/1.5BA - 1/2 Duplex.

Centrally located in Marathon. Furnished, W/D, dock, waterfront, covered parking. Long term - min.

6 month lease. Avail April 1. $2,100/month + utilities & security. 305-743-6463 RENTED LOT FOR SALE

Lot for Sale: Sombrero Beach Road - 75’ X 100’ canalfront, oceanview. 312-617-5665 SOLD IN LESS THAN A WEEK! RV FOR SALE

NEW 2019 RV Trailer for sale. Premier waterfront lot in well-maintained park in Marathon. Boat dock at your door with FREE 6-month dockage.

Never occupied, sleeps 4, electric fireplace, hardwood flooring, one slide-out, power awning, outside refrig. & stove built-in, LED lighting, and more. $39,900 – lot rent not included. Call (305) 743-6020 2BR/1BA Mobile Home for Sale in Galway Bay, Marathon. 55+ Community.

Completely remodeled in 2014. New A/C. $53,900 OBO - Lot rent $1,240/ month.

928-580-3243

RV LOT FOR RENT

Large RV Lot for rent in Marathon. Full hook up. $800/month plus utilities.

3 0 5 - 9 4 2 - 0 7 8 9 YARD SALES

A BIG Treasures & Trash Yard Sale - Rain or Shine - This Friday & Saturday, March 29 & 30 from 8am-3pm.

Everything must go! 419 Sombrero Beach Road, Marathon.

Sat & Sun, March 30 & 31 from 8a-3p. Boats, marine, tools, clothing, etc. 539 95th Street, Ocean, Marathon.

34

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

THEME: THE 1940s ACROSS 1. *Japanese attack locale 5. *Chairman of the Communist Party of China 8. Parent group 11. Horsefly 12. Voldemort’s title 13. Ohio city 15. Saintly glow 16. Never a UK currency 17. Disapproved by audience 18. *American concentration camp 20. Peters out 21. *Harry Truman to Margaret 22. Feedbag morsel 23. Mountain climber’s tool 26. Overplay in front of audience 30. Negative conjunction 31. Within a building 34. Leafy green 35. Captain America actor 37. Party bowlful 38. Dictum, pl.

39. Network of nerves 40. Native Americans of the Pacific Northwest 42. “To ____ is human” 43. *#23 Across victim 45. Like a human 47. “Never ____ never” 48. Raccoon’s South American cousin 50. Mount Olympus’ famous dweller 52. *Manhattan Project site 55. Does like a sponge 56. Horizontal wall beam 57. Pelvic parts 59. Actress Parker 60. Geologic time divisions 61. Steve Urkel, e.g.

62. Eat, past tense 63. Lt.’s subordinate 64. “____ Louise”

DOWN 1. Mozart’s “L’___ del Cairo” 2. Homecoming guest 3. #50 Across wife 4. Kenya’s neighbor 5. Native American earthen structure 6. Orderly arrangement 7. Shoe emanation 8. Circus trainer’s poker 9. Zac Brown Band’s body part hit 10. A in FANBOYS 12. Like weighed down with metal 13. At right angle to a ship 14. *Thor Heyerdahl’s raft 19. Third axis 22. Dinghy propeller 23. Unable to move 24. Don’t judge a book by it 25. Muse of love poetry 26. Shoshonean people 27. “It is silent” in sheet music 28. U in UV 29. *____ Harbor 32. *a.k.a. Operation Neptune 33. Black gold 36. Miniature Japanese carving 38. Hindu garment 40. Blue overhead 41. Intelligence 44. Impudent 46. Horse-involved activity 48. Man-made stone pile 49. Ladies’ fingers 50. *Popular 1940s suit 51. “Ill at ____” 52. Type of molding 53. High school club 54. Ireland’s previous name 55. Hot springs 58. Wood-shaping tool

305.743.0844

Tuesday April 2nd @ 11AM 2171 N Dixie Hwy., Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Contents of famous Orlando Restaurant

(2) Perlick S/S Bottle Coolers, (2) Perlick S/S Back Bars, True U/C Cooler, Perlick Wine Cooler, Max Cold 2dr S/S Cooler, True 3dr S/S Freezer, True 27” Sandwich Prep Table, Delfield Pizza Prep Table, True 5’ Sandwich Prep Table, 4’ Sandwich Prep Table, 1, 2 & 3 Door Glass Coolers, Blodgett Convection Oven, Victory 72” Sandwich Prep Table, Fryers, Beverage Air Back Bar, (2) True Keg Coolers, 4’ & 8’ Bottle Coolers, 24” & 48” Char-Broilers, 48” Griddle, Hoshizaki Ice Machine, Imperial Pasta Cooker, (2) 48” Pizza Preps, 100 Bar Stools, Outdoor Patio Chairs, Small Wares & MORE…

www.neverettauctions.com

Toby Neverett Auctioneers • 561-706-7218 • au872 ab628

NEW 2019 RV TRAILER FOR SALE Located on premier waterfront lot in well-maintained park in Marathon. Boat dock at your door with FREE 6-month dockage.

Never occupied. Sleeps four, electric fireplace, hardwood flooring, one slide-out, power awning, outside built-in refrigerator and stove, LED lighting. $39,900*

Call (305) 743-6020 *Lot rent not included.

35

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844 CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH

FULL TIME OPENINGS LINE SERVICE PERSONNEL Greet and fuel aircraft.

Prior aviation experience preferred.

Clean driving record required.

CUSTOMER SERVICE Coordinate aircraft transactions.

Prior customer service experience a plus.

Competitive wages, excellent benefits and a fun work environment.

Contact Kris Later kris@marathonaviation.com (305) 743-3717 EOE/Drug-free workplace

Job Title: IR Salesperson Mel Fisher Expeditions, the worldwide leader in historic shipwreck recovery, is seeking a charismatic, proactive salesperson to be a part of our growing Investor Relations Department sales team. The ideal candidate will be a self-motivated individual, have a proven record of accomplishments in sales, a passion for the sea, nautical history and shipwrecks, and exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.

Our mission is to locate, recover, and conserve these historic and priceless treasures of the deep and make them available to the general public.

Full-time position with benefits, a bonus plan, and 401k. We are family owned and have instilled a supportive family atmosphere in our workplace. Proven sales experience and history is necessary.

Training will be provided.

Please send resume to: hr@melfisher.com.

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

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

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

Full-Time Position Assistant City Clerk

The Turtle Hospital Systems Specialist

The Turtle Hospital has a PT/ FT opening for a Systems Specialist.

Major duties consist of: maintenan ce,

repair and cle aning for water filtrations systems, water quality monitoring, Habitat maintenance and cleaning. Must be physically fit, able to lift 75 pounds and work outdoors. Handyman skills and knowledge of plumbing and electrical systems required.

Compensation dependent on experience. Stop by to complete an application or email your resume to turtlehosp@aol.com The Turtle Hospital, 2396 Overseas Highway, Marathon 305-743-2552

Duties include but are not limited to: full charge bookkeeping includes accounts payable, multiple bank reconciliations, deposit coding, payroll processing including funding federal deposits and filing quarterly reports, credit card reconciliations, petty cash disbursements and reconciliations.

Process rental applications, schedule safety inspections and issue business tax licenses. Administer property manager certification course and issue certifications. Attend committee meetings and record and transcribe minutes of proceedings. Provide staff support to code enforcement and law enforcement officers. Respond to public questions and requests.

Provide administrative support to City Clerk.

Salary: $48,000 minimum, DOQ Benefits include: Medical, Dental, and Life Insurance; Paid Vacation, Sick Leave, and Holidays; and Retirement Qualifications: Business-related Associates Degree; requires high level of financial/accounting skills; must be proficient in QuickBooks and Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook; excellent customer service skills; ability to multi-task, ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; requires a high degree of initiative and independent judgment; ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with commission, staff, and public.

Application form can be found at www.keycolonybeach.net; see “City Government” then “Forms” Equal Opportunity Employer Submit resume and application by mail or in person to: City of Key Colony Beach City Hall 600 West Ocean Drive & 7th St. P.O. Box 510141 Key Colony Beach, FL 33051 Or email to clerk2@keycolonybeach.net

HIRING:

Maintenance position with busy non-profit. FT with benefits.

Long-term position w/room for growth. Valid DL required. Must have maintenance or related experience, computer skills and relate well with people. Very physical position, heavy lifting, heat, etc. Drug-free workplace, EOE. Please send resume and cover letter to sholt@fkoc.org.

No phone calls.

Like working in a fun, fast paced environment?

Starting pay averaging $14.00/hour.

NOW HIRING

FULL-TIME OFFICE HELP • DOCKHAND PART-TIME LANDSCAPING • HOUSEKEEPER DROP OFF OR MAIL APPLICATION TO

1480 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON, FL 33050

NOW HIRING

Full or Part Time Guest Services

Answer phones, take reservations, greet customers with a smile.

Cashier responsibilities, must be able to multi task.

Full or Part Time Dive Instructor

Established retailer now hiring Part-Time & Full-Time Retail Associates to work in our Marathon & Key West locations.

Responsible for safely guiding guests through in-water encounters.

Must enjoy working with people and have a passion for marine life.

Full-Time Benefits: Commissions, Health Ins., Paid Time Off, 401k Plan, Profit Sharing, Generous Employee Merchandise Discounts.

Duties include taking orders from customers, handling cash, cooking and serving. Must be 18 yrs. or older.

Part-Time Benefits: Flexible Schedules, Generous Employee Merchandise Discounts.

Please call 786-351-0208 or 305-453-9604.

Part Time Café Help

Part Time Morning Landscaping & Maintenance Please apply in person at Aquarium Encounters 11710 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

36

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

NEW 2019 RV TRAILER FOR SALE Located on premier waterfront lot in well-maintained park in Marathon. Boat dock at your door with FREE 6-month dockage.

OCEAN KEY RESORT & SPA IS HIRING! • FT Assistant Controller • FT Engineer • FT Front Desk Agent • FT Sous Chef • FT Reservations Agent • FT Bell Valet Attendant • PT Shirt Shack Sales @ at Sunset Pier

Top pay for Trim Carpenter.

Must have own tools/transportation and bilingual a plus. Call Sammy @ 305-522-4166.

Come see why our employees love to call Ocean Key home!

Great pay, amazing benefits, & an awesome team!

EOE

Shell World Key Largo, seeking engaging, dependable, experienced person(s) to work with the team at Mile Marker 97.5, Full-time and part-time opportunities available, some weekend and evening hours. Opportunities for advancement, great benefits, competitive salary and flexible hours.

Please stop by and fill out application or Fax resume to 305-852-9639.

SUDOKU

SOLUTION

Call (305) 743-6020 *Lot rent not included.

Tuesday April 2nd @ 11AM 2171 N Dixie Hwy., Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Contents of famous Orlando Restaurant

Apply online at: https://www.noblehousehotels.com/careers Apply in person at: Zero Duval St.

Never occupied. Sleeps four, electric fireplace, hardwood flooring, one slide-out, power awning, outside built-in refrigerator and stove, LED lighting. $39,900*

D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals.

Overtime and benefits are available.

For full details & additional openings, please visit DAsignSource.com/careers

(2) Perlick S/S Bottle Coolers, (2) Perlick S/S Back Bars, True U/C Cooler, Perlick Wine Cooler, Max Cold 2dr S/S Cooler, True 3dr S/S Freezer, True 27” Sandwich Prep Table, Delfield Pizza Prep Table, True 5’ Sandwich Prep Table, 4’ Sandwich Prep Table, 1, 2 & 3 Door Glass Coolers, Blodgett Convection Oven, Victory 72” Sandwich Prep Table, Fryers, Beverage Air Back Bar, (2) True Keg Coolers, 4’ & 8’ Bottle Coolers, 24” & 48” Char-Broilers, 48” Griddle, Hoshizaki Ice Machine, Imperial Pasta Cooker, (2) 48” Pizza Preps, 100 Bar Stools, Outdoor Patio Chairs, Small Wares & MORE…

www.neverettauctions.com

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Warehouse & Delivery Crew D’Asign Source is looking for a hardworking Warehouse & Delivery Crew member. Must have reliable transportation, be on time and organized. Must have a valid driver’s license. CDL a plus.

Home Décor Sales Assists customers on the sales floor, determines needs, designs and proposes solutions, helps with selections, processes sales orders, follows through until delivery and installation to customers’ satisfaction.

We Buy Gold Locally!

Cash Flow Jewelry and Pawn

Interior Designer Apply knowledge & creative skills to contribute to the success of our high-end design center. Must possess a good sales background and a history of achievement in quality projects.

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

Apply in person Townsquare Mall Marathon

Landscape & Outdoor Environments Sales An outdoor design and decor specialist that works well with clients.

Producing designs, selections, and sales processing. Follows through with support for install teams and client expectations.

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

CROSSWORD

Sweet Savannah’s Bake Shop

is now hiring for Afternoon & Evening Shifts.

Please Apply In Person 8919 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

SOLUTION

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• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

CoCo’s General Store

NOW HIRING: Full-time & Part-time Deli and/or Retail Sales.

Must be available on weekends.

Apply in person at 50 Coco Plum Drive, Marathon 305-743-7743

We Buy Gold Locally!

305.743.0844

Sweet Savannah’s Bake Shop

is now hiring for Afternoon & Evening Shifts.

Please Apply In Person 8919 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

Sports Officials Needed Baseball, Softball, Football, Volleyball, Soccer, & Basketball

Cash Flow Jewelry and Pawn

Levels: Youth, Middle, & High School Contest pay $45-65 per contest, Plus Travel & Insurance w/ registration.

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Townsquare Mall Marathon

For more information email Board@Midkeysofficials.com www.KeysRefs.com Call 305.360.3054

The Hammocks at Marathon

Bungalows Key Largo NOW HIRING Bartenders Servers Room Attendants Line Cooks Bellman Reservations Sales Agent Spa Coordinator If you have a passion for guest service and hospitality, please apply online at www.bungalowskeylargo.com Bungalows Key Largo is an EOE

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Online > jobs.bluegreenvacations.com In Person > The Hammocks at Marathon 1688 Overseas Highway, Gulf Side, Mile Marker 48, Marathon Or Call > Andre at 305.743.9009

NOW HIRING

Both full or part time positions available at Hyatt Place at Faro Blanco Resort.

Line Cook, Servers, Host, Housekeepers, Night Auditor, Reservations Agent and Food Runners.

FULL TIME JOB OPPORTUNITIES

ASSISTANT MANAGER / MANAGER DEVELOPMENT CANDIDATES $15 per hour Immediate Openings available at all locations.

FT Employees are eligible to participate in our health, dental, vision, Life Insurance. PTO and Profit Sharing is available to every member of our team (conditions apply).

HOW TO APPLY: Go to mytomthumb.com or call Cleveland (786) 295-5307.

eoe

Front Desk; Doormen/Greeters; Spa & Retail; Activity Coordinators; Housekeepers; House-Person; Public Area Attendant; Laundry Attendant; Host; Bartender; Servers; Bar Backs; Food Runners; Cashier; Line Cook; Pizza Cook; Pantry Cook; Stewarding; Storeroom attendant and more.

Please stop by for application or contact us at 305.481.9451 Isla Bella Beach Resort 1 Knights Key Blvd, (MM 47) • Marathon, FL, 33050

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LET’S DO BUSINESS - 305.363.2957 y’s www.KeysSlidingGlassDoorRepair.com d n A Sliding Glass Door Repair Roller Maintenance Track Maintenance Door Alignment Security Pins Safety Locks Handles

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STATE CERTIFIED THATCHING CONTRACTOR CYC 000002

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We also service and sell: Marine A/C, Refrigeration, Watermakers, Batteries, Solar Systems, Anything Electrical!

• SINCE 1976 •

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Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here

Sportfishing Adventures

Dolphin-Tuna-Wahoo-Billfish-Snapper-Grouper-Shark Deep Sea –Off Shore-Reef-Wrecks-Gulf

info@johnnymaddoxcharters.com

305-481-3259

Keys Fisheries Market & Marina Mile Marker 48.5, Marathon End of 35th Street Bayside

Tewes Mortgage

Your local, residential lending expert!

Call 305.495.6000 for a FREE Consultation

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METAL ROOFING

SPECIALIST 305-664-1010 www.roofer.pro

BUSINESS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 28, 2019

Islamorada Distilling gets award

L

ocal distillers of rum, vodka, and gin Islamorada Distilling were recognized with one gold, three silver, and two bronze medals in a national competition among distilleries organized by the American Distilling Institute.

Islamorada native and resident Chris Trentine, his wife Whitney, and college friends Tyrone Bradley, Jose Herrera and Keys local Nik Schroth started the local distillery, building on the success of their brewery, Islamorada Beer Company, which occupies the bright yellow building next door.

When the company began producing rum on its 40 gallon still in 2017, the co-founders hardly anticipated winning one prestigious distilling award within the first year, much less two. They could only dream that a year later they would be operating a full-time distillery with a lineup of multiple rums, vodka, and gins and walking away with six medals in the sought-after National Judging of Craft Spirits. But that's exactly what happened on March 20 at the trade group's conference in Denver.

It was an incredible moment for CEO Tyrone Bradley andhead distillers Stephanie Harper and Pat Byrne.

"It's an honor for us to receive this level of recognition so early on, and to represent the Florida Keys on this national stage" Bradley said. "There are so many craft distillers producing high-quality spirits, and we are proud to be among the best of the best."

If you've stopped by the Islamorada Brewery & Distillery lately, you've probably seen Harper — also an Islamorada resident — overseeing the distillation or tinkering with the different valves and equipment on the shiny 100-gallon still that was installed last year to increase production. In coordination with Bradley and Byrne, she helms the local operations "from molasses to glasses," since the company produces rums that are distilled, aged and bottled right in the building. The gold medalwinning Reserve Rum, for example, spent one year and nine days aging in the new American oak barrels lining the distillery's walls.

"The island air in Islamorada plays a part in the process," Harper said. "There's a little magic and a lot of hard work in everything we do."

The other products recognized at the event include Barrel Aged Rum (Silver), Dark Barrel Aged Rum (Silver), Gin (Silver), Vodka (Bronze), and Hibiscus Gin (Bronze).

Islamorada Brewery & Distillery is located at mile marker 82.2 oceanside.

— Contributed

Head distiller Stephanie Harper, CEO Tyrone Bradley and head distiller Pat Byrne hold up their awards at the National Judging of Craft Spirits in Denver. CONTRIBUTED

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