Upper Keys Weekly – 7/18/19

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PSA: Betsy is not for the taking.

WISH GRANTED

Boy fulfills dream, swims with dolphins| P. 14

WETSUIT WRANGLE Event upcycles 100-plus suits| P. 24

Examining the Everglades and ways you can help | P. 16

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

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MONROE COUNTY

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

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CARD SOUND SAFETY A speed limit sign of 45 mph is posted on Tea Table Key. The Florida Department of Transportation recently announced its decision to reduce the speed limit on U.S. 1 from 50 mph to 45 mph from MM 77 to MM80. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

SLOWER SPEED New signs installed on Fills JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

C

alls to reduce the speed limit at the Fills were heeded by the Florida Department of Transportation as 45 mph signs began to be installed this week.

The roadway connecting Upper Matecumbe and Lower Matecumbe Keys was once a 55-mph zone. But that changed last year after Sheriff Rick Ramsay urged FDOT to reduce the speed limit with dangerous crashes resulting from speeding, as well as passing and distracted driving. FDOT responded, but only reduced it to 50 mph. Serious crashes continued.

On June 21, FDOT representatives met with Ramsay and Islamorada to discuss the Fills, the road and adjacent land along Overseas Highway. At the meeting, Secretary James Wolfe expressed a commitment to improve safety at the Fills. A traffic study evaluating the 50 mph commenced.

“We committed to conducting a traffic study through the area, and the results indicate that it would be prudent to reduce the current speed limit to 45 mph,” Wolfe said in a statement.

Ramsay told the Weekly recently that his priorities going into the June meeting included reducing the speed limit, no left turns and nopassing zones.

“I’ve been saying for a while, and to this day, that the 3-mile stretch should be 45 mph,” he said.

Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez said the administration of Gov. Ron DeSantis is committed to ensuring safety on the road. “The residents and visitors of the Florida Keys will benefit from the proposed speed reductions,” she said.

With the speed limit now 45 mph, Mayor Deb Gillis said it provides consistency when driving through Islamorada.

“This up and down change in speed causes problems, I believe. It’s 45 mph here, then 50 mph there and back to 45,” she said. “That causes problems because people don’t read every sign. I think consistency will improve the situation.”

FDOT says all signs would be posted by Friday, July 19.

M

onroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay recently sent Miami-Dade County officials a letter asking for a traffic study of Card Sound Road and offered his help in mitigating the serious and fatal crashes that have long plagued the road.

“Even though many of these horrific crashes occur on the MiamiDade County side of Card Sound Road, they tie up both counties’ resources and often shut down a much needed road system,” Ramsay said. “I want to be a good partner with our neighbors to the north and that means reaching out and finding ways to work together to curb these serious accidents.”

Monroe County has started improving its side of Card Sound Road by widening shoulders, repaving and stepping up traffic enforcement.

Ramsay cited the following data regarding crashes on the MiamiDade County side of Card Sound Road for the past two and half years: 2017: 24 crashes, two of which were fatal; 2018: 27 crashes, one of which was fatal; 2019: 11 so far, two of which were fatal (one was medical related).

Ramsay hopes that a traffic study will help both counties better understand and resolve these traffic concerns.

The effort is part of Ramsay’s goal to make Monroe County safe for motorists.

— Contributed

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Xavier Figuredo and Elizabeth Jolin head out on the Florida Bay toward the Everglades. The two are Florida Bay Forever members.

Read more about the Everglades and ways you can help on page 16-17. IAN WILSON/Keys Weekly

TRANSPORTATION AND HOUSING

Freebee contract, apartment development on the docket JIM McCARTHY

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jim@keysweekly.com

contract with the ride service Freebee and a request to develop an affordable housing apartment and renovate an existing hotel are on the docket for Islamorada Village Council’s meeting on Thursday, July 18.

Council members will consider a resolution for a minor conditional use approval for property located at 82200 Overseas Highway. The request from Sunset Ventures LLC seeks approval to develop a 24-unit, affordable housing apartment complex and renovate an existing 30-unit hotel, Sunset Inn, as well as restaurant and retail space.

Initially, Sunset Ventures was looking to develop 41 units for its affordable housing complex, but a majority of adjacent property owners objected.

During a May 30 meeting, a request was made for a continuation of a public hearing until July 18 to address concerns from property owners. The applicant then submitted revised plans that reduce the number of units from 41 to 24 and eliminates the exit access for residents onto Madeira Road, as well as the emergency access.

According to a memo from village staff to council, the property is about 2.75 acres. It has been developed with a 30-unit hotel, Sunset Inn, 2,500 square feet of restaurant space, and 3,700 square feet of retail space. The area of development for the proposed improvements is about one acre.

“We need workforce housing,” said Councilman Ken Davis. “I think what Sunset Ventures has planned will be a much nicer improvement for the neighborhood. I know Sunset Ventures has worked hard with the neighbors to try to get together and have something they can all be happy with.”

As for a contract with the ride service Freebee, council will consider three options put together by

village staff, with two larger vans and one smaller vehicle servicing all of Islamorada.

Freebee is funded through a combination of municipal funds and private advertising dollars. The company will look to secure advertising, via wrapping around vehicles.

With each option outlined, an advertising credit guaranteed by Freebee of $40,000 per vehicle is applied. Option A shows 37 hours of labor per vehicle weekly, Thursday through Sunday, at an annual cost to the village of $230,296; option B at 70 hours a week, Monday through Sunday, at $317,275; and option C showing 140 hours of labor per vehicle weekly, Monday through Sunday, for the two larger vans and 70 hours of operation a week for the smaller vehicle at $460,391. Each option would require a two-year agreement for selected services.

The 50-50 shared advertising revenue would continue, so costs could be lower if annual advertising revenues exceed $80,000.

Vans could be ready for service in 12 to 16 weeks. Until then, current services could continue through a second extension of the trial program, which currently provides door-to-door service on Upper Matecumbe Key. The council will meet at 5:30 p.m. at Founders Park Community Center.

“We need workforce housing, I think what Sunset Ventures has planned will be a much nicer improvement for the neighborhood.”

— Councilman Ken Davis

BRIEFLY

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

Diving Museum staff to visit kids at the library On Monday, July 22, at 1 p.m., the History of Diving Museum staff will give a presentation geared toward children at Islamorada Library. They will talk about mankind’s efforts to explore the dark and mysterious depths of the ocean. This program is free and part of the library’s 2019 Summer Reading Program for Children, “A Universe of Stories.”

Single lane closures at Snake Creek bridge High-pressure sandblasting work started Sunday and will occur between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. at Snake Creek bridge. The sandblasting will be very loud in the area near the bridge. The work will be completed during the first 30 days of the project.

Boaters will also be affected by the project. A containment system has been installed under the bridge to contain paint and sand during sandblasting. Vessels that might otherwise have been able to pass under the bridge may need to wait for it to open. After 8 p.m., bridge openings will be limited to 10 p.m. and 3 a.m.

Residents may wish to sign up for text alerts to receive real-time information: https:fl511.com/personalizedservices.

Training sessions set for early re-entry placard Four trainings are scheduled for those who want early re-entry into the Upper Keys and want to be trained in disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact the area. To receive the early re-entry placard, people must complete four community emergency response team training sessions, participate in basic first aid and fire

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hands-on training and complete the online IS-317 Introduction to Community Emergency Response.

Training takes place in four sessions: July 29, Aug. 5, Aug. 12 and Aug. 19 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Islamorada Library, MM 81.8, bayside. Call the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce to register: 305-6644503.

Pre-qualification applications for affordable, rentals, homeownership Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys is accepting pre-qualification applications for affordable rentals and affordable home ownership for two projects in Islamorada, Windley Point, at MM 84.5 and Key Heights/Esslinger Corner at MM 89. Income limits and the application are at habitatupperkeys.org.

Windley Point, which is scheduled to be completed in August 2020, will offer 16 attached units at MM 84.5, just north of Theater of the Sea. Eight of the units will be affordable rentals and eight are designated for home ownership.

Each unit will be an elevated twostory home with two bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms and space to park two cars underneath.

The Key Heights/Esslinger Corner completion date has not been determined. The complex will offer two single-family homes and one duplex at MM 89; all will be designated for home ownership. Construction is not underway.

The pre-application period for Key Heights/Esslinger Corner will remain open for some time beyond Aug. 31.

The application and more information are at habitatupperkeys. org/home-ownership.

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MONROE COUNTY

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

PUBLIC: ‘NO’ TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING Plan to build 5 units in Port Largo meets resistance

“I feel like I’ve been sucker punched,” said Key Largo resident Marlen Weeks, who said she was surprised the site was proposed for affordable housing. “I don’t feel like you’ve been transparent.

Once you make this decision, we’re stuck with it.”

County staff told the commissioners that chance to comment on the development of affordable housing would come after the grant is approved. However this particular piece of property, which is already properly zoned, wouldn’t trigger a traffic analysis.

Nancy Bean, an Upper Keys resident and spokesperson for a homeowners association, said, “We want to firmly state that we are totally against anything done in that area without community involvement.”

The BOCC is applying for a grant to buy this parcel and develop five, 3-bedroom affordable housing units, adjacent to the Key Largo Community Park. GOOGLE/Contributed

SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

T

here are a few members of the public who don’t want to build affordable housing. Not even five units, not even on undeveloped property located next to the Key Largo Community Park. But on July 17, the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners prevailed, and voted to approve going ahead with a grant request.

“All of us who live next to an empty lot feel a cloud hanging over our head.

We fear what may go there one day. Affordable housing or non-affordable housing, our preference is that nothing change,” said Councilman David Rice. “I recognize that human condition. I feel the same way. But we have a need, and affordable housing is our number one priority.”

The commission also approved the $1,500 application fee for the proposal to be submitted by Tuesday, Aug. 6. The land would be leased to the Monroe County Land Authority that would serve as both the developer and the operator of the affordable housing if the grant is approved.

The vote was unanimous to submit two proposals to the Florida Housing Finance Corporation — up to $2 million for land acquisition, and up to $8 million for affordable housing construction of 25 units spread over three parcels in the Keys, including the one in Key Largo.

Gov. Ron DeSantis’ recent announcement of $35 million set aside for the Keys to build affordable or workforce housing, is part of the Community Development Block Grant, Disaster Recovery Grant Program funded by the federal government. The county proposes to build five 3-bedroom units on the Key Largo site; eight 1-bedroom and two 2-bedroom units on Conch Key; and 10 1-bedroom units at Howard’s Haven on Big Pine Key. The sites on Conch Key and Howard Haven are currently trailer parks.

Usually, the Florida Housing Finance Corporation acts like a bank by giving out loans. This program, using the CBDG-DRG grant, will be “forgiven” after 20 years.

The Key Largo site, located along Atlantic Boulevard, is currently zoned for 18 affordable housing units, but speakers at the July 17 meeting would rather have more parking or more park amenities.

In other news: • The county’s lease on the former Big Pine Road Prison for hurricane debris storage is set to expire. The College of the Florida Keys has expressed an interest in developing the site, according to college spokesman Frank Wood. He said that, according to state law, the college could be first in-line for the state-owned property. He said the FKCC is developing plans that could entail a sporting complex, motor vehicle tactical training, a sheriff substation, room for community meetings.

“Our goal is to start the discussion with stakeholders,” he said.

Monroe County Mayor Sylvia Murphy laughingly recalls the days of the “book mobile” arriving in Tavernier. She is pictured with County Administrator Roman Gastesi for the groundbreaking of the $7 million Marathon library, set to be complete in a little over a year. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

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COMMUNITY NEWS

BLACK CAESAR UPPER KEYS HISTORY

BRAD BERTELLI

www.keysweekly.com

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f all the notorious pirates to never plunder the Florida Keys, Black Caesar might be the most famous. His legend spans nearly two centuries and encompasses, at the bare minimum, two piratical figures who operated nearly 100 years apart. Both are linked to the Northern Keys in general and Elliott Key in particular. Legend has it that Caesar’s Creek and Caesar’s Rock, both found between Elliott and Old Rhoades keys, were named for the former slave turned pirate. What is confusing about this particular pirate is that when researching him, storytellers often confuse and mix the origin stories of both versions of the man, the myth, the pirate Black Caesar.

In his first incarnation, Black Caesar was an African chieftain captured by slave traders, locked up, and shipped to the auction blocks in the Americas. During the Atlantic crossing, the slave ship was swept against the reef during a hurricane. Two men reportedly survived the wreck. Though no records of such a shipwreck exist, the African chieftain and the only man it is said he would accept food or drink from, one of the crew members, escaped in a longboat and managed to find the safety of dry land. Some accounts say it was Elliott Key where the two landed, survived and turned to piracy.

It is this Black Caesar who would “join” the legion of Edward Teach, better known as Blackbeard, and serve as a trusted lieutenant, or so the story is often told. When Blackbeard’s pirate

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

ship was attacked by Lt. Robert Maynard of the Royal Army in November of 1718 off the coast of North Carolina’s Ocracoke Island, Blackbeard’s head was severed and hanged from the bowsprit of a Navy ship, as was the practice of the day. While there is no evidence of any pirate named Black Caesar in the historical record there was a “Cesar” recorded among those captured aboard Blackbeard’s ship.

Technically, he would have been a pirate.

While this seems to be the kernel of truth from which the “proof” of the infamous pirate arose, two things should be noted. First, it is thought that this Cesar was not some lieutenant in Blackbeard’s crew, but more likely one of the pirate’s trusted slaves. Second, Cesar was the most common name given to Carolina slaves, of which there were said to be several aboard Blackbeard’s ship.

The second version of Black Caesar is supposed to have been Henri Arnaut, a child born circa 1765 to slaves belonging to the Arnaut family. This Black Caesar would rise to power after a slave revolt, steal a Spanish ship circa 1805, and embark on a piratical career that is strikingly similar to that of the first specter of Black Caesar.

There is, however, less proof of this being an actual person than the infamous pirate’s first incarnation.

In 1775, somewhere between the tenures of the two legendary pirates, Bernard Romans applied the Black Caesar name to his “Maps of East and West Florida.” Why Romans decided to name a creek in the Northern Keys Black Caesar’s Creek and a rock in the middle of it Black Caesar’s Rock is unclear.

Some theories say the name was chosen because of a story heard through Bahamian oral tradition while others suggest the name was based on a pirate caricature portrayed in period plays.

An often overlooked twist on the Black Caesar story is that there is one documented account of an actual Black Caesar on Elliott Key, written by Kirk Munroe and published in 1886. Munroe makes particular mention of “a gigantic specimen of human ebony” named Black Caesar. Working in the pineapple fields at Elliott Key, Black Caesar would carry twice as much as every other toter — hauling as much as 500 pounds of pineapples at a time.

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

SAVE THE DATE Thursday, July 18 • Town hall meeting to discuss veterans’ care and legislation at 10 a.m. at Murray Nelson Center, Key Largo.

• Regular village council meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Founders Park Community Center.

• Third Thursday Morada Art Walk at 6 p.m. on Morada Way, Islamorada.

• Florida Keys Orchid Society will present Catharine Mannion, University of Florida, at 7 p.m. at the Key Largo Library.

Saturday, July 20 • PADI Women Dive Day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at History of Diving Museum, Islamorada.

• Lobsterpalooza beginning at 11 a.m. at World Wide Sportsman, Islamorada.

Sunday, July 21 • Florida Keys Farmer’s Market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 81001 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada.

Thursday, Aug. 1 • Marrvelous Pet Rescues Yappy Hour from 7 to 9 p.m. at Marker 88, Islamorada.

Monday, Aug. 5 • Village council budget workshop at 2 p.m. at Founders Park Community Center, Islamorada.

Wednesday, Aug. 7 • Plant clinic from 9 a.m. to noon at Murray Government Center, Key Largo.

Aug. 8-11 • Key West Lobsterfest Wednesday, Aug. 21 • Plant clinic from 9 a.m. to noon at Murray Government Center, Key Largo.

Thursday, Aug. 22 • Plant clinic from 9 a.m. to noon at Island Home Nursery, Islamorada.

Aug. 29 through Sept. 4 • Key West Brewfest

July 24-25 • Lobster mini-season.

Wednesday, Sept. 4 • Plant clinic from 9 a.m. to noon at Murray Government Center, Key Largo.

Wednesday, July 24 • Paint-in for artists from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Key Largo Library.

Wednesday, Sept. 18 • Plant clinic from 9 a.m. to noon at Murray Government Center, Key Largo.

Friday, July 26 • Leadership Monroe social for alumni and prospective class at 6 p.m. at Cheeca Lodge, Islamorada.

Thursday, Sept. 26 • Plant clinic from 9 a.m. to noon at Island Home Nursery, Islamorada.

Saturday, July 27 • Monroe County Fire Rescue “Beat the Heat” event, from 10 to 11 a.m., Bay Point Park, Saddlebunch Key. Sunday, July 28 • Florida Keys Farmer’s Market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 81001 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada.

Monday, July 29 • Early re-entry placard training from 6 to 10 p.m. at Helen Wadley Branch Library, Islamorada.

Thursday, Oct. 24 • Plant clinic from 9 a.m. to noon at Island Home Nursery, Islamorada.

To see Keyswide events, sign up for The Weekly’s e-mail at keysweekly.com.

COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

NEW EXHIBIT A look back at Key Largo in the 1930s

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Travis W. Bennett, DMD

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Jack and K. Wilkinson in front of their makeshift tent. CONTRIBUTED

look back to the late 1930s in an area of Key Largo once known as Planter is the topic of “It Had To Be You,” a new exhibit now on display at the Keys History & Discovery Center, at MM 82, on the property of the Islander Resort in Islamorada.

The exhibit is based on the late K. Wilkinson’s book “It Had To Be You,” first published in 1996. It documents some of her fondest memories of years living by the water’s edge with her husband Jack. They moved in the late 1930s, squatting along the Atlantic coast at MM 92.5 (in the general area of the present-day Harry Harris Park). Jack and K. called a makeshift tent their home and lived largely off what the ocean could provide, which included furniture that would occasionally wash up.

“What was so inspiring about all the memories recorded in the book,” said Brad Bertelli, Discovery Center curator who curated the exhibit, “was the simple delight found in everyday life shared by not just the Wilkinsons, but the family and friends, like the Allens and McKinneys, who came to visit, feasted on conch and turtle, and indulged in drink.”

The stories within the exhibit have been excerpted from her book.

The Joe and Lindy Roth Foundation donated the original manuscript to the Florida Keys History and Discovery Foundation, which operates the Discovery Center, in the hopes the Foundation could reprint the book. The book is in the publication phase and will soon be available for

purchase. As was the wish of K and her family, a donation from the sale of each book goes to the American Cancer Society.

A reprinting of the book in 2012 was spearheaded by the Historical Preservation Society of the Upper Keys (HPSUK), an organization for which K. Wilkinson once served as president. Loralea Carrera, HPSUK vice president, provided Bertelli with a selection of photographs to include in the upcoming reprinting.

“It Had To Be You” will be on exhibit through late October. The Discovery Center is open Wednesdays through Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Keys History & Discovery Center, on the property of the Islander Resort, is open Wednesdays through Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It preserves and shares the history of the Upper Keys and explores the ecology of the region. In addition to permanent exhibits on subjects such as Henry Flagler’s Over-Sea Railway, Legends of the Line, First People, and Coral Reef Exploration, the Discovery Center offers a lecture series, educating the public through presentations from a variety of expert speakers.

The museum’s second floor features a theater showing documentaries on topics like the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane and Indian Key, as well as traveling exhibits, and the Jerry Wilkinson Research Library. The center is operated by the Florida Keys History and Discovery Foundation, whose board is made of up volunteers. More information is at www.keysdiscovery. com or 305-922-2237.

Located in The Greeen House 99304 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, Florida 33037

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ISLAMORADA

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

AMPHITHEATER GETS ITS CANOPY It’s a new and improved amphitheater. The project to install the canopy at the Founders Park amphitheater started June 24 and was completed on June 28. It’s the final Hurricane Irma recovery project at the park in Islamorada. “I’m very excited and thrilled that the project was completed for our July 4th celebration at the park,” said Maria Bagiotti, Founders Park director. The Carousers and Leah Sutter entertained the crowd during the festivities at the park. The project, which cost $118,806, was done by Tensile Structure Systems Inc., a Baltimore company specializing in tensile structures. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

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COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

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LETTER TO THE EDITOR

MEETINGS SET IN KEY LARGO, KEY WEST ON NEW LAW ON VETERANS’ HEALTH CARE

M Jace Thompson of First State Bank, left, Anna Marie Haskins of Monroe County Social Services, Margo Thompson of Monroe County Clerk’s Office, and Christela Brevil of Monroe County Florida Department of Health prepare picnic themed food for delivery to homebound Florida Keys residents on July 4. CONTRIBUTED

VOLUNTEERS DELIVER PICNICS ON 4TH

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nna Marie Haskins, special projects coordinator for Monroe County Social Services, volunteered her time on July 4 to share prepared meals with homebound Florida Keys residents. She, along with Jace Thompson, Margo Thompson, and Christela Brevil, spent the day assembling and delivering picnicthemed meals to 20 people.

Several agencies, including the Monroe County Clerk’s Office and Monroe County Florida Department of Health, donated time and items for the deliveries.

“It really makes their day, and ours,” said Haskins, who has been doing this for about 8 or 9 years. She volunteers thinking of her grandmother during the holidays and how much a short visit brightens someone’s day who is homebound.

The Independence Day picnics included hot dogs and hamburgers, chips, carrots with ranch dressing, coleslaw, baked beans, and a red, white, and blue dessert. The package also came with a pinwheel and two handwritten cards. Key West High School volunteer Lauryn Bochenick prepared the handmade cards and helped pick up donations. Her volunteer hours will count toward her community service hours for her high school and college programs.

Haskins coordinates deliveries for all county-closed holidays, including Thanksgiving and Christmas. To volunteer, call 305-797-5389 or email haskins-anna@monroecounty-fl.gov.

— Contributed

FOR THE VETERANS

Inaugural event a success

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ore than 100 people came out to the inaugural Independence Day Weekend Salute to Our Veterans Festival, held July 7 at Coconut Cove in Islamorada.

More than half who came out were veterans and their families.

A lot of the people in the community volunteered their time and services such as massage, counseling, Honor Flight, Leather Neck and Fish with a Hero. Thunder Country was in attendance in addition to all those who took care of setting up, cooking, serving and breaking down.

There were games and prizes for the children as well as use of the pool, and all veterans got a Tshirt and hat as well as a meal for them and their family.

It was a huge success in making more people aware of The Long Walk Home and what we do in addition to giving gym memberships. If any veteran and their family have an issue we can't take care of immediately, we network with other organizations and will find somebody that can.

We look forward to seeing you next year at this event.

- Ron Zaleski, community outreach coordinator with The Long Walk Home

onroe County Veterans Affairs and the Miami VA Healthcare System will co-host two town hall meetings regarding the Mission Act. The first meeting will be Thursday, July 18 at 2 p.m. at Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo and the second meeting will be held Friday, July 19 at 10 a.m. at Harvey Government Center in Key West.

The meetings will identify eligibility for community care, who the providers are in Monroe County, the efforts to increase providers in Monroe County, and how new legislation affects veterans in Monroe County.

“This is an opportunity for not only our veterans to ask questions about VA healthcare, but also for local medical providers wanting to participate as caregivers to make inquiries as well,” said Cathy Crane, director of Monroe County Veterans Affairs.

The Mission Act strengthens Veterans Affairs’ ability to deliver trusted, easy access, high-quality care through facilities, telehealth, and in communities, providing care for veterans where and when they need them.

More information on the Mission Act is at www. missionact.va.gov . Monroe County veterans can visit www.monroecounty-fl.gov/va for more information on local services or call 305-295-5150.

— Contributed

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POLITICS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

INSIDE THE SHELTER

MINISTERS TALK ABOUT UNACCOMPANIED MINORS IN HOMESTEAD FACILITY

On July 12, a group of Hispanic ministers and parishioners called a press conference to correct what they called the misconceptions about the living conditions in the Homestead Temporary Shelter for Unaccompanied Children.

Russell Black of Latino Impact Ministries and Gigi Delgado of Hope 4 Life led the charge.

“This is not a detention center. It is a protection center,” Delgado said. “(The children) are not miserable because of their circumstance (in the shelter). They are miserable because of the story they are carrying.”

Black said all volunteers and employees of the center are required to sign non-disclosure agreements, but said he received special dispensation to speak candidly from officials inside the shelter.

While he declined to answer questions about how the children came to be designated as unaccompanied, he said every kid has a bed, three meals a day, a shower, schooling and is issued two pairs of shoes and clothing upon arrival. The kids are allowed two 10-minute phone calls “home” every week. He also said the kids are separated into gender and age groups and accompanied 24/7 by a youth care worker. He said there are case workers and medical personnel as well.

“They have video games. They have PlayStations and Xboxes,” Black said.

Another speaker said in Spanish, “They play on artificial soccer fields, and those are not cheap.”

Debbie Wehking was born in Homestead and now lives in West Kendall.

She said she has been protesting at the shelter’s entrance for more than a month now. She and colleagues operate under a tent festooned with signs like “Caliburn, Shame on You!” (Caliburn is the company that operates the shelter.)

“The conditions here do not compare to the conditions on that border at all, and I’m grateful for that,” Wehking said.

“But there’s no motivation for the people

who work here to efficiently process the children and get them to the family members and sponsors in this country.”

Delgado and Black both said they have volunteered at the shelter since it opened in 2015. Both said they don’t see the same kids every week during the religious services they conduct inside. Estimates of the number of children inside, according to the volunteers, range from 2,500 to 4,000. Black said there are about two dozen faithful who volunteer inside; 400 kids attend the service at a time, and multiple services are held. Both Black and Delgado said they are not allowed to interview the children to learn more about their circumstances. But Delgado said she gleans something from the prayers they request about how they came to be at the shelter in the first place.

“Sometimes they are separated from their parents at the border. Sometimes they arrive with another family member or an adult and are separated,” she said.

“Some have been abandoned by their families in their own countries and come to the U.S. looking for their parents. Or the parents pay ‘coyotes’ to take the children across the border and the coyotes abandon them.”

One of the most often remarked shelter rules is the “no touching” rule, she said. Children cannot touch each other, nor are staff or volunteers allowed to touch the children in their care.

“What can replace the hug of a mother? Nothing,” Delgado said. “You can’t hug them for their own good. Many of them are traumatized by the time they get here.”

POLITICS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

A group of Spanish-speaking ministers who volunteer inside the Homestead Temporary Shelter for Unaccompanied Children describe the conditions inside the shelter to the media on July 12. SARA MATTHIS/Keys Weekly

The subject of unaccompanied minors has punctuated the national news as of late. On July 1, U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez visited shelters on the Texas border and said detainees were being treated inhumanely, forced to drink water out of the toilet and denied showers for days. A few days earlier, on June 26, U.S. Rep. Debbie MucarselPowell invited all the Democrat presidential candidates to the shelter, just south of Miami where the first debate was held. They were denied entry. On July 5, Mucarsel-Powell sent a letter to the Office of Refugee Resettlement with 51 questions about the shelter, ranging from hurricane evacuation plans to the number of children in the shelter.

The shelter is located adjacent to the Homestead Air Force base and was opened in 2015 during the Obama administration. It closed briefly in 2018, then reopened.

The shelter is operated by Comprehensive Health Services. Black said it employs about 4,000 at the Homestead shelter. Comprehensive Health Services is owned by Caliburn International, which in turn is owned by D.C. Capital Partners. In May 2019, Comprehensive Health Services received a no-bid, seven-month contract worth $341 million. A federal official told the Miami Herald the no-bid aspect was due to “unusual and compelling urgency.” The newspaper also reported Comprehensive Health Services earns $775 per day, per child, according to a representative from the U.S. Health and Human Services Department.

According to a 2016 article from Reveal News, there are 87 shelters across the U.S. for unaccompanied minors. The one in Homestead is thought to be the biggest, or one of the biggest, although there are very few hard numbers.

Speakers at the July 12 press conference said they weren’t sure how many kids were inside. According to shelter officials, all the kids range in age from 13 to 17.

But on July 15, a group from the U.S. House that toured the facility including U.S. Rep Rosa DeLauro and U.S. Rep Debbie Wasserman Shultz were told the numbers were much lower. A spokesperson told the group that the population is currently 1,309 teenagers — down from 2,252 on July 3. Also on July 15, a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services representative told the press that there are no teenagers “being added to the facility,” as quicker reunification of children and parents has opened up space at other shelters.

DeLauro was reported as saying the children did not appear to be mistreated and were smiling. Another elected official on the tour said the classrooms were so noisy as to make learning impossible.

In May, Peter Schey of the Center for Human Rights and Constitutional Law filed suit against the U.S. government for failing to comply with the terms of the Flores Settlement Agreement of 1997. The Flores Agreement outlines how unaccompanied minors are to be treated in situations like these.

In November 2018 and March 2019,

A group of protesters have set up a tent on a corner near the shelter. They hold signs, and use a stepladder to peek over the tall fence.

Schey sent a team of professionals to inspect the Homestead facility. He found four main issues: the children are staying for prolonged periods; it is a secure facility (in other words, more like a jail than a shelter); the children are harmed by the lengthy detention; the children are illegally delayed. According to shelter data provided to Schey, the average length of a child’s stay at Homestead is 62 days, down from 89 days during the period the federal government demanded fingerprints from all adults living in a proposed sponsor’s household. Schey’s exhibits included testimony from shelter children who said it had been weeks since they had spoken to a caseworker, and generally expressed confusion about the process.

“I think the children here are miserable,” said Wehking, the on-site activist protesting the shelter. “They don’t know where they are, how long they will be here for, or when they will ever be reunited. I cry myself to sleep every night.”

The pastors who spoke last week a the press conference in front of the shelter identified themselves as immigrants.

“Twenty-six years ago I was an immigrant,” said Elvin Espinal. “Immigration has rules and a process. We need to see to the needs of the children going through this process.”

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GIVING

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019 JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

T

DOLPHIN SWIM Boy gets wish granted at DPMMR

hirteen-year-old Alex Landskroener had a wish to swim with dolphins.

Thanks to Kids Wish Network and Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder, the Michigan boy, who has a lifelong diagnosis of Chiari malformation, ventured to Key Largo with family to fulfill his dream.

On June 15, Alex and family made their first Keys visit where they stopped by DPMMR for a splash and wade session with senior trainer Hunter Kinney and dolphins Bob and Alfonz. Alex and his brother, Andrew, were fitted for a flotation device.

From there, they went onto a platform that submerged them into the lagoon for a little dolphin time.

“These two dolphins love to make a big splash,” Kinney said.

The session with dolphins was an exhilarating one as Alex had the opportunity to see, touch and get a ride or two from Bob and Alfonz. The best part? Alex says it was “probably the rides.”

Alex was diagnosed in August 2015 with Chiari malformation, a structural defect of the skull that causes the bottom part of the brain to be forced outside the skull. He also had crainiocervical instability in which the junction of his neck does not support his skull. Recently, he was also diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos syndrome, which affects his joints.

Despite the challenges, Alex is a fun, caring young boy who’s good at art and loves to draw. He also enjoys swimming, watching Netflix and learning about history.

“He likes Pokémon and Star Wars, and he loves video games,” says Andrea Sherwood, Alex’s mom. “He’s obsessed with dinosaurs and shark teeth. We’ve bought a few (shark teeth) since we’ve been down here.”

Alex’s wish was granted through the Kids Wish Network, a national charitable organization that grants once-in-a-lifetime wishes for children with life-threatening issues. The trip also included a stay at Islander Resort and activities at Robbie’s Marina.

“Alex is an incredibly brave child with a strong character and incredible personality,” said Nancy Cooper, DPMMR president and director of training.

“We knew the Keys would be the perfect destination for his wish,” said Kimberly Kreiner of Kids Wish Netowrk, “And what better thing to do in while in Florida, than to swim and interact with dolphins?”

Sherwood and Rich Landskroener, Alex’s father, said the experience was amazing. They also thanked Kids Wish Network and DPMMR for going out of their way for Alex.

“It’s much appreciated,” they said.

Alex Landskroener, middle, watches as Hunter Kinney, senior trainer at Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder feeds Bob and Alfonz. Also pictured is Andrew, Alex’s brother. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

Florida Bay dependson EvergladesRestoration Over one hundred years ago, as the first shovel of muck was removed from the River of Grass to turn Florida’s swamp into liquid gold, the state embarked on a transformational approach to water management.

A vision of astounding proportions was undertaken to attract Americans to relocate to Florida. With laser focus and intense ferocity, Florida’s wetlands were dredged, canals were created, and water flow was rerouted to make way for an early-50’s perception of the good life in the sunshine state: real estate boomed and agriculture was king.

For over a century, the best and brightest minds have worked under the supposition that water is best when it is managed in support of urban development, jobs, commerce, and

agriculture. These factors have been driving the ship as Florida leadership has wrangled water to accommodate their own notion of progress.

“Meanwhile water quality, ecological diversity, conservation, and preservation have been an absolute afterthought.”

Much of this progress-focused water management policy has been financially and politically driven by special interest groups who help define progress and thus easily gain the upper hand in manipulating water policy to suit their narrow agendas.

The replumbing of Florida seems a distant problem for the Florida Keys, however, as we observe the changes in

the pristine waters of the Florida Bay, we come to understand that every rivulet of water, diverted from its intended southerly flow, is a drop that starves the Bay of dynamic fresh water influx.

The concept of Everglades Restoration was codified in 2000 and encompasses a web of projects to restore a natural water flow across the state. Preservation of the Florida Bay simply can not exist without completion of a much greater state-wide Restoration effort.

Monroe County is obliged to acknowledge that the water woes facing other Florida coastlines, are intrinsically our own. Everglades Restoration and South Florida water management must be executed with expediency, efficiency and accuracy if Florida Bay is to continue to thrive.

NATURAL WATER FLOW Historically, water from the Kissimmee River Basin flowed south, overflowing Lake Okeechobee, to continue to the southern shores of the state and into Florida Bay.

Population growth, farming, and urban development disrupted historic water flow. Today, Lake Okeechobee is diked.

When levels get too high, water is dumped east and west to tide, while the Florida Bay waits for rain.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

Who’sin Charge?

Let's get to know who makes the rules.

The last thing anyone thinks about when poling the flats, spying a roseate, or soaking up the sun from the bow of the skiff is the fact that the Florida Bay is a managed resource. Policy - dictated by our elected leaders - can make or break the future of the Florida Bay and the future of the Florida Keys economy.

GOVERNOR

FEDERAL

STATE

Dictates when, where, and how Everglades Restoration is prioritized.

Play a key role in pitching the value of Everglades Restoration nationally, and appropriating money in state/federal financial partnership to fund CERP projects.

Key players in pushing an agenda of expediting CERP projects and legislation.

Governor Ron DeSantis

Senator Rick Scott

Senator Marco Rubio

Congresswoman Debbie Mucarsel-Powell

Senator (Dist.39) Anitere Flores

House Rep. Holly Rashcein

400 S. Monroe St. Tallahassee, FL 32399 850-488-7146

B3 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 202-224-5274 help@rickscott.senate.gov

8669 NW 36th St., Suite 110 Doral, FL 33166 407-254-2573 Alyn_fernandez@rubio.senate.gov

1100 Simonton St., Suite 1-213 Key West, FL 33040 305-292-4485 dmp.scheduling@mail.house.gov

11401 SW 40th St., Ste. 465 Miami, FL 33165 305-222-4117 flores.anitere.web@flsentate.gov

99198 Overseas Hwy., Ste.10, Key Largo, FL 33037 305-453-1202 holly.raschein@myfloridahouse.gov

Speak Up!

Follow these easy steps to make your voice heard when you call a policymaker:

1) State your name and where you live 2) Briefly state your concern and what you would like to see happen.

Example: “Thank you for continuing to focus on Everglades Restoration.

My livlihood depends on the Florida Bay and expediting Everglades Restoration is the only way to preserve my backyard.”

3) If you are concerned about a certain bill, state the bill number and how you would like the policymaker to vote on it.

4) Thank the staffer.

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Submit an original photo of your version of Florida Bay perfection to the FaceBook group Florida Bay Forever by July 26 to be eligible for this giveaway!

This Florida Bay series is presented by Florida Bay Forever, dedicated to education and advocacy calling for immediate action on Everglades Restoration and water quality policies to benefit the Florida Bay.

JOIN them at www.FloridaBayForever.org to learn how you can HELP, DONATE, and ENGAGE.

18

ANIMALS & SCIENCE

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

SARAH MANDILE

www.keysweekly.com

STUDY: DOLPHINS LIVE JUST AS LONG, OR LONGER, IN CAPTIVITY A peek inside the science side of Dolphin Research Center

T

Top: In one experiment, dolphins are tasked with coordinating to press underwater buttons simultaneously. By the end, the dolphins were pressing the buttons with a third of a second of one another.

CONTRIBUTED

wo bottlenose dolphins glide underwater as they approach two buttons located on the edge of their enclosure. After simultaneously pushing them, a celebratory buzzer sounds. Both dolphins joyfully leap into the air. Dolphin trainers at the edge of the lagoon clap their hands and cheer before stopping to record the events on clipboards.

This is part of one of many research projects that Kelly Jaakkola, director of research at the Dolphin Research Center, has organized. Exploring the communication and cooperation skills of dolphins, this study tests their ability to coordinate the pressing of two buttons despite approaching them from varying distances. “We wanted to see if dolphins could actively cooperate,� said Jaakkola. “Can

Left: Kelly Jaakkola explains the study as Dolphin Research trainers in the background compile the results.

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ANIMALS & SCIENCE

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

they understand a situation where they have to work together to accomplish a task? The game was that the dolphins had to swim across the lagoon and press the buttons simultaneously – specifically, within a one-second time window.”

The dolphin teams more than succeeded. With only a third of a second in between their button presses on average, they displayed the ability to coordinate and synchronize their behaviors. According to Jaakkola, this concept, known as “behavioral synchronization”, is shown by bottlenose dolphins in the wild when they coordinate activities such as swimming or feeding.

Jaakkola has been organizing research projects like this one at the Dolphin Research Center since becoming director of research in 2002. She hails from Delaware and has studied cognition and psychology, with a focus on human children and chimps. However, she has always had a love for dolphins. “Since I was a kid I thought dolphins were way cool; I still think dolphins are way cool.”

Jaakkola discovered the DRC while she was in college and had the opportunity to participate in Dolphin Lab. She returned a few years later to assist another researcher, Peter Tyact, with a study on dolphin signature whistles.

Since then, Jaakkola has assisted the Dolphin Research Center with many studies, one of the most recent comparing the life spans of dolphins in the wild to dolphins in captivity. The last study on this subject had been done in 1995 when life expectancy for dolphins in captivity was still increasing and scientists were still learning how to care for dolphins properly. Jaakkola worked on this project on and off since 2016, carefully collecting information and making sure to use analysis “It’s not enough methods that would result in to just give people accurate comparisons. information about “Survival rates and life conservation; the expectancies are indicators of moment of connection overall health and well-being,” is the start of marine said Jaakkola. “Critics of zoos and aquariums will frequently conservation.” claim that dolphins in facilities — Mary Stella, Dolphin Research Cendon’t live as long as dolphins in ter director of media and marketing the wild, in an attempt to influence public opinion and even proposed legislation.” Published in the Marine Mammal Science Journal, the study found that bottlenose dolphins living in captivity in the United States live just as long as, or even longer than, dolphins in the wild.

This is affirming news for the Dolphin Research Center which, since its founding in 1984, has been caring for marine animals. “We have a long history of providing homes for animals that need them,” said Mary Stella, director of media and marketing. Not only has the DRC been a home for rehabilitated animals, it also has been the site of many research projects that serve to improve understanding of dolphins and influence legislation. “Having these animals in human care,” said Stella, “allows us to learn about them in various ways that we never would otherwise.”

For those who have ever had doubts about the health and well-being of dolphins living in captivity, this study provides reassurance and brings into perspective the benefits of having marine animals in a location where they can be observed and interacted with. Not only does the presence of the dolphins at the DRC allow scientists to make new discoveries, it also provides the opportunity for visitors to learn and connect with dolphins. It’s these exchanges between humans and dolphins that can truly inspire the public to care about marine life. “It is not enough to just give people information about conservation,” said Stella. “The moment of connection is the start of marine conservation.”

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MINI-SEASON

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

TOP 10 JAIL & FINES STATE ATTORNEY OUTLINES MINI-SEASON PENALTIES

F

lorida’s two-day lobster mini-season arrives near the end of July, and those on the hunt for the savory crustaceans should know there are rules.

Those cited by law enforcement for violating the regulations can choose to fight the allegations in court – and if they lose, penalties for each violation can include up to 60 days in jail and fines up to $500.

The two-day season runs from 12:01 a.m. July 24 to 11:59 p.m. July 25.

In Monroe County, the harvest limit is six lobsters per person per day. A lobster’s carapace, or body, must be greater than three inches long for harvest; divers must have a measuring device with them in the water to measure each lobster.

A lobster’s tail cannot be separated (wrung) from the body while the harvester is in or on the water; lobsters must be brought back to land in whole condition.

When the tail is separated from the body on land, it must be 5.5 inches or greater. Harvesting eggbearing lobsters and spearing lobsters is not allowed. .“Ideally, people would not violate the rules, which are established to protect and maintain our sensitive marine environ-

ment,” said State Attorney Dennis Ward. “But if they do, in most cases, we will offer options to the offenders that are meant to both send them a message and to raise their awareness of the importance of preserving our resources.”

Ward’s office has developed baseline plea offers for those cited for violating the lobster regulations.

One could get 10 days in jail for one lobster over the limit, 10 days for one out-of-season lobster and 10 days for one speared lobster (in each case, it’s three days more for each additional illegal lobster). If the violation is for spearing a lobster combined with another violation, the jail time for the speared lobster is in addition to the jail time for the other violation.

If an offender has two undersized lobster, adjudication could be withheld. For a third undersized lobster, the offer is 10 days in jail and for each undersized lobster after that, it’s three more days.

Having a wrung (detached) tail on the water could be punishable by two days in jail (two days for each wrung tail up to 20 lobsters).

For 20 to 24 wrung tails, it’s 60 days. Twenty-five or more wrung tails could mean 364 days in jail.

Taking an egg-bearing lobster, or stripping a lobster’s eggs from its body, could bring five days in jail. Each additional egg-bearing lobster or lobster stripped of its eggs could be three days.

All offers include probation in addition to any jail time. In addition, recreational harvesters could have their Florida saltwater fishing license and lobster endorsement revoked for a year, and commercial harvesters could have their license suspended.

There could be additional penalties for taking lobster from protected areas of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

The locations of those protected areas can be found at the marine sanctuary website, floridakeys. noaa.gov. Also, unincorporated Monroe County and the municipalities of Key West, Marathon, Islamorada, Key Colony Beach and Layton have local rules prohibiting lobstering nearshore. The specifics for each area are on the marine sanctuary’s website.

The regular recreational and commercial lobster season starts Aug. 6 and ends March 31.

— Contributed

WAYS TO WRECK LOBSTER MINISEASON FOR EVERYONE 10. Bring your tickle stick into the Woody’s.

9. Leave a bunch of festering lobster tails and fish carcasses in your vacation rental’s garbage can.

8. Haggle the price with the marine mechanic who is saving your season.

7. Demand cheddar biscuits with your meal, “like they serve at Red Lobster.”

6. When the FWC officer boards your boat you exclaim, “I’m a big deal in Miami.”

5. Captaining the boat like a “boathole” — an overloaded vessel, improperly equipped, running too fast and too near other boats and divers.

4. Touching the coral (or our women).

3. Not greasing the bearings on the boat trailer before leaving MiamiDade, causing the wheels to lock up and generating a three-hour traffic jam on the 18-Mile Stretch.

2. Using a flare gun to ward off “poachers” at “your” lobster hole.

1. Double dipping — loading up lobsters, running home and dumping them off, and going out again.

COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

FIRST MENTORING MATCH BPW program builds skills, relationships

wo local educators who are passionate about creating new generations of environmental stewards have signed up to be part of a first-ever business mentoring program in the Upper Keys.

Ginette Hughes, CEO of Marine Resources Foundation/ Marine Lab, and Ocean Studies Charter School Principal Trisha Woods are the first matches for the Upper Keys Business and Professional Women’s (BPW) mentorship program. Woods reached out to Hughes to partner in the program.

“I met Hughes through the BPW luncheons and the Professional Development series and quickly realized that our students frequently visit her at the Marine Lab,” she said.

“The focus of our organizations are aligned, and as a new resident of the Keys and principal of Ocean Studies Charter School, I believe that her insight and experiences will help me to grow as a professional and learn about how I can protect our environment and in turn impact the learning of our students,” Woods said.

As for her part, Hughes said she hadn’t considered mentoring until she was approached by Woods.

“I hadn’t really thought about it before that, but upon reflection, I decided that it was an excellent opportunity for my own growth and would be helpful to Trisha as well,” Hughes said. “So, I’m glad to share any experience and expertise I have; I’m paying it forward!”

Both women are relatively new members of BPW, which this year is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its founding as a national organization supporting working women.

Hughes joined the local organization in 2017 to “get to know more people, to get more people to know about my organization. I’m working on increasing our community exposure,” she said.

What does she like best about BPW? “The amazing women I’ve met,” Hughes said. “There’s something so empowering about being in a room full of successful, ambitious, confident women!”

Woods joined last year.

“As a newcomer to the community,” she said, “I thought this would be a great way to become more involved in our community, meet new people,

Ginette Hughes

and learn from other women.”

Since becoming a member, she said she has learned that “BPW provides an opportunity to network, to grow through the professional development programs, and is a support system

for women.”

Launched by the Upper Keys Business and Professional Women’s Club (BPW) in March 2019, the mentorship program brings together people who are interested in building skills, learning best practices and sharing tools to create mutually beneficial professional relationships, said Jackie Harder, BPW vice president of development.

“One thing that hurts women professionally is the lack of a mentor, a guide, someone who can help them navigate office politics or provide an insider’s view into certain industries or help make connections that will help them grow,” Harder said. “This program is designed to give local women – even if they aren’t BPW members

– that extra boost they need to succeed.”

Upper Keys BPW provides professional development workshops Trisha Woods as well as scholarships for adult women who want to further their education. The organization hosts its popular political forum during election years as well as luncheon programs designed to inform and entertain.

Upper Keys BPW alternates luncheon meetings with afterhours gatherings. The luncheons take place at 11:30 a.m. the third Wednesday every other month at the Holiday Inn in Key Largo. The next luncheon is Wednesday, Sept. 18.

The after-hours networking functions are hosted by various businesses at their locations and take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., also the third Wednesday in non-luncheon months. The next one will take place Aug. 21, place to be determined. Sponsorships are welcome.

More about the organization and the mentoring program is at https://ukcbapwc. wildapricot.org/ or from president Ilja Chapman, ilja. chapman@gmail.com; or president-elect Suzi Youngberg, suziyoungberg@gmail.com.

— Contributed

MUSEUM CELEBRATES PADI WOMEN DIVE DAY The History of Diving Museum will celebrate PADI Women Dive Day on Saturday, July 20. At 10 a.m., journalist Karuna Eberl will make a presentation on “Making of the Guerrero” documentary. In the afternoon, there will be a heritage awareness dive/snorkel with Sailfish Scuba. Register for the trip by calling 305-453-3446. Call the History of Diving Museum at 305-664-9737 to reserve a seat for the presentation. CONTRIBUTED

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SEEN AROUND TOWN

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

COLLECTING TRASH Sea Oats Beach gets a cleanup

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1 3

4

2

n July 13, more than 50 people volunteered their time to pick up debris and garbage at Sea Oats Beach on Lower Matecumbe Key. Bags were lined along the road for Islamorada Public Works to take away. Garbage was documented by volunteers to track what was picked up off the beach. Bottles, bottle caps, rope and small plastics were among the items collected. In total, 1,866 pounds of debris was picked up.

The cleanup was put on by Florida International University’s Center for Coastal Oceans Research, National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, Goal: Clean Seas Florida Keys and village of Islamorada. Sheriff’s deputies were on hand to assist in the cleanup and safely get volunteers across U.S. 1. Islamorada Coffee Roasters provided the coffee while Florida Keys Brewing Co. provided free beer vouchers to volunteers.

— Keys Weekly staff report

5

1: Marlies Tumolo, education and outreach coordinator for Blue Star and Goal: Clean Seas Florida Keys, and Analisa Duran, education and outreach coordinator for Florida International University, give volunteers a briefing before heading out on the beach. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly 2: A volunteer sifts through her bucket to document what was collected. CONTRIBUTED 3: A pair of volunteers takes a moment to go through the debris collected on Sea Oats Beach. CONTRIBUTED 4: Rope and chains were among the items picked up off Sea Oats Beach on Lower Matecumbe Key. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly 5: Bags of trash collected by volunteers at Sea Oats Beach line U.S. 1.

Public Works crews came by to pick the bags up. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

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OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY FROM 11:30AM-10PM

Located at Amara Cay Resort 80001 Overseas Highway, Islamorada amaracayresort.com (305) 664-0073

Help protect your friends, family and neighbors from mosquito-borne diseases by walking around your yard and dumping water out weekly!

For service requests or fish, www.keysmosquito.org or 305.292.7190

Live Entertainment

305-664-2692 www.loreleicabanabar.com

Thurs July 18 Webb & Davidson 6 to 10pm Fri July 19 Happy Dog 6 to 10pm Michael Trixx @ Sunset Sat July 20 Micah 12 to 4pm Special Event Shane Duncan Band 6 to 10pm Sun July 21 Webb & Davidson 6 to 10pm Mon July 22 The Carousers 6 to 10pm Michael Trixx @ Sunset Tues July 23 Dennis Holmes 6 to 10pm Wed July 24 Webb & Davidson 6 to 10pm Michael Trixx @ Sunset

The Alliance for Aging, Inc. Area Agency on Aging for Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties

ARE YOU 60 AND OVER AND NEED HELP PAYING YOUR ELECTRIC BILL? O U S E H O L D W H O H A S A M E M B E R A G E 6 0

THE EHEAP PROGRAM CAN HELP HOUSEHOLDS WITH A MEMBER AGE 60 AND OVER WITH ELECTRIC BILLS THAT ARE PAST DUE PLEASE CALL A SPECIALIST AT:

305-671-6317 or

786-862-6078

(Toll Free for Monroe Residents)

24

SEEN AROUND TOWN

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

WETSUITS GET NEW LIFE

K

ey Dives of Islamorada recently hosted its second annual Wetsuit Wrangle at Florida Keys Brewing Company. Participants brought in old wetsuits to be upcycled into yoga mats and coasters. In total, 181 wetsuits were donated by locals and partner dive shops during this year's wrangle. Local artist Victoria Cassar also displayed various sources of debris, which she turns into conversation-sparking jewelry that promote conservation.

1 2

3

— Keys Weekly staff report 1: Danny Ganin and Sharon Coesealy, of Islamorada Coffee Roasters, donate their coffee to Key Dives' raffles and help out in any way they can. Ganin says of the dive shop, "We love everything they do. These are our people; they share our values. It's a community business run by locals, and they care. You feel it right away."

2: Cortney Benson, of Key Dives, and Isabel Miranda, Andres Miranda, and Jesus Mora, of Miami, hold up zippers they've cut from donated wetsuits.

Mora says, "We love contributing as much as we can. It's a great thing, to help Mother Nature, and make her happy."

4

5

3: Local artist Victoria Cassar shows Lee Lee Joiner, of Tavernier, plastic marine debris that Cassar creates her iconic jewelry from. Cassar also uses invasive species and fishing line in her pieces, which spark conversation about conservation.

4: Melissa Heres, Alyssa Reed, and JD Reinbott, interns at Coral Restoration Foundation, show off their wetsuit donations. The wetsuits will be sent to Lava Rubber, a company that upcycles them into yoga mats.

5: Isabel Miranda and Jesus Mora, of Miami, cut zippers out from wetsuits to help the recycling process and to earn raffle tickets. Local artist Victoria Cassar will turn the zippers into a marine sculpture — possibly an osprey.

25

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER 58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL Teaching... Learning...Caring

Dolphin Research Center Training Institute (DRCTI) has a full-time/permanent opening for a Registration and Enrollment Specialist.

Duties are multifaceted, including; planning & operations for registration, admissions/enrollment, marketing, budget, monthly & quarterly executive reports, records maintenance, processing of grades, posting of degrees, graduation, & transcripts evaluation. DRCTI is a licensed, accredited school offering students an Occupational Associates Degree in marine mammal care, behavior and training as well as the Professional Animal Trainer Program, continuing education for those already in the training field. Job description available at www.dolphins.org.

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

305.743.0844

DAYCARE TEACHER Grace Jones Daycare is a well-respected day care facility in Marathon looking for additional staff. We are dedicated to providing memorable experiences, quality child care, and excellent learning opportunities. This is YOUR opportunity to join our team of energetic and friendly teachers. We are looking for a caring, qualified, and professional full time teacher to join us in creating a positive learning environment. If you are, or wish to become, a qualified and passionate early childhood teacher, call the Executive Director, Iris Coe, at 305-743-6064 during normal work hours.

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER 58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL

Providing Sanctuary and a Forever Home Since 1984

Dolphin Research Center has open positions for: • Guest Services Staff (Full-Time Permanent) • Visual Communications Staff (Full-Time Permanent) • Animal Care & Habitat Apprentice (Full-Time Permanent) Job description available at www.dolphins.org. E-mail your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE

NOW HIRING

Front Desk: Front Desk Agent, Night Auditor Activities: Activity Manager, Activity Coordinators/Concierge Housekeeping: All positions Restaurant: All positions Spa: FT/PT Massage, Esthetician, Front Desk Security: FT/PT Guards Please stop by for application, fill out an application online at www.ilsabella.com “careers” or contact us at careers@islabella.com 1 Knight’s Key Blvd (MM 47) Marathon

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

KEY WEST

Behavioral Health Therapist Care Coordinator Case Manager Crisis Counselor

MARATHON

RNs and LPNs (3 shifts) Behavioral Health Technicians (3 shifts) Peer Specialist Maintenance Specialist CDL Driver (base location flexible) Crisis Counselor Night Monitor (free housing!)

KEY LARGO

Community Action Team Leader (base location flexible) Background and drug screen req.

GREAT BENEFITS! Check out all available positions at: www.westcare.com EEOC/DFWP

NOW HIRING

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

Full Time Aquarist

Education Registration and Enrollment Specialist Full-Time/Permanent

The Education Registration & Enrollment Specialist is involved from beginning to end with every group, individual student and/or parent who attends DRC Education programs, including on the phone or emailing, describing & promoting the programs, scheduling & registering students. Responsible for clerical responsibilities related to DRC’s Education department and assist with some administrative tasks for Dolphin Research Center Training Institute. Job description available at: www.dolphins.org. E-mail your resume and a DRC application to: drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

For more information, please email info@floridakeysaquariumencounters.com or call 305-407-3260.

NOW HIRING

Marathon, Big Pine Key & Stock Island Locations

Full or Part Time Guest Services

Answer phones, take reservations and greeting Customers with a smile. Cashier responsibilities, must be able to multi task.

Full or Part Time Dive Instructor

Dive instructor needed to safely guide our guests through in-water encounters. Need to be able to enjoy working with people and have a passion for marine life.

Please apply in person at

Aquarium Encounters 11710 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

$15 per hour to start

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

Sweet Savannah’s Bake Shop

is now hiring for Afternoon & Evening Shifts.

Please Apply In Person 8919 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

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.

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

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

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

26

CAMPER OF THE WEEK

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

Relax and have MORE fun with great rates, fast local service and affordable payments on Keys Debt Consolidation Loans!

Apply today: Call 305-294-6622

Go to KeysFCU.org

Download our

Mobile App

Visit any branch in Key West at 3022 N. Roosevelt Blvd. or 514 Southard St., in Big Pine at MM30, or in Marathon at MM53.5 Gulfside Membership is open to everyone who lives or works in the Florida Keys, their families and our local military community.

Subject to credit approval. Restrictions may apply.

CHARLOTTE MACEACHERN AGE: 9 Summer camps are here for another season of education and excitement. From art and sailing to watersports, activities are bountiful from June to August. With classes out of session and camp season in full swing, Upper Keys Weekly is proud to feature “Camper of the Week.”

Campers are chosen based on their excitement to be outside enjoying all the activities camp has to offer. We wish fellow campers a lot fun, education and excitement this season.

Camp name: TENNIS CAMP AT FOUNDERS What school do you go to? I go to Treasure Village Montessori.

What’s your favorite part of camp? Well, everybody’s really nice. I like playing tennis with my friends.

How did you get into tennis? My brother played when he was little, so I just kind of started.

What grade are you going into next year? I’m going into 5th grade.

Who is your all-time favorite teacher and why? Ms. Hess, she teaches fourth- and fifth-grade reading. She’s really funny and nice.

What is your favorite subject and why? I like reading. My favorite books are Harry Potter.

Do you have a favorite movie?

Harry Potter. I like the magic and wizardry.

What’s your favorite food for lunch? I like to eat rice and beans.

What do you want to be when you grow up and why? I want to be a tennis player. Tennis is really fun.

What is one favorite way to spend your spare time? Playing tennis and reading.

27

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

HIRING:

OCEAN KEY RESORT & SPA IS HIRING! • Banquet Coordinator • Bell Valet Attendant • Sous Chef • Front Desk Manager • Licensed Massage Therapist*

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.

Sweet Savannah’s Bake Shop

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS NEEDED! Monroe County School District Salary $15.80- $23.20/hour Key West, Sugarloaf and Upper Keys (3 work locations) • No Experience Required

*FL License Required

Apply online at: https://www.noblehousehotels.com/careers Apply in person at: Zero Duval St. Come see why our employees love to call Ocean Key home!

Great pay, amazing benefits, & an awesome team!

EOE

The Hammocks at Marathon

FULL TIME JOB OPPORTUNITIES $1,000 Sign-on Bonus!

• Guest Services Associate / Relief Night Auditor

PART TIME HOUSEKEEPER

10-30 hours/week. Must be able to work Saturdays & some Sundays.

Saturday only and Seasonal Workers are welcome to apply.

Call: 305-743-0240 or 305-587-0359 0r apply in person at 109 Coco Plum Dr. Marathon

Diver / Crew Member We’re looking for a few new treasure divers! Housing aboard the vessel provided.

Apply at: http://www.melfisher.com/ SalvageOperations/JoinTheCrew.asp

Today’s the Day!

GREAT BENEFITS: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance 4 Weeks Paid Time Off 401(k) with Company Match & much more

• Benefits • CDL Training Provided work as a Bus Aide while training • Full Time or Flexible Part Time Hours 6 to 9 am or 1 or 2 to 5 pm Apply online: www.keysschools.com

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 eoe

Cash Flow Jewelry and Pawn Townsquare Mall Marathon

Excellent Benefit Package Apply in person at 1996 Overseas Highway or online at www.spottswood.com EOE/m/f/d/v

EOE m/f/d/v

JOB OPENINGS GUEST SERVICE AGENT TELEPHONE AGENT NIGHT AUDITOR BELLMAN

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers 4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

We Buy Gold Locally!

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

We are now hiring for the following positions:

Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

Please Apply In Person 8919 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

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

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

TO APPLY:

is now hiring for Afternoon & Evening Shifts.

Excellent Benefit Package EOE M/F/D/V

SCAN FOR JOB

Apply on line at Spottswood.com/careers

28

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on Monday, July 22, 2019 at 10:00 A.M., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the Monroe County Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Monroe County, Florida, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, intends to consider the following: A PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING THE “HURRICANE IRMA VOLUNTARY HOME BUYOUT PROGRAM”: The State of Florida has allocated $10 Million to Monroe County through the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) Voluntary Home Buyout Program.

The goal of the program is to reduce the risk of flooding through the purchase of properties impacted by Hurricane Irma. Monroe County is seeking citizen participation, public comment, and input for the Florida Voluntary Home Buyout Program at the Public Hearing scheduled for July 22, 2019, at 10:00 A.M., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard. The County is also seeking to determine whether there are additional interested parties for the Rebuild Florida Home Buyout Program in Monroe County.

Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, notice is given that if a person decided to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at such hearings or meetings, such person will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, such person 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 11th day of July, 2019.

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: July 18, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

Margaritaville Resort in Key West.

DAC II will meet on Tuesday, August 6, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. at the Mote Marine Laboratory in Summerland Key. DAC III will meet on Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. at Hyatt Place in Marathon.

DAC IV will meet on Tuesday, August 6, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at the Islander Resort in Islamorada.

DAC V will meet on Tuesday, August 6, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at the Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo.

All DAC meetings are open to the public.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in these proceedings, 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”.

Publish: July 18, 2019 The Weekly Newspaper

that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of OVERSEAS REALTY, located at 22972 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, in the county of MONROE, in the city of SUMMERLAND KEY, FLORIDA 33042, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

OVERSEAS PROPERTY HOLDINGS, LLC Publish: July 18, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING Monroe County Tourist Development Council – District Advisory Committee Meetings DAC 1 will meet on Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. at the

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of BRUTUS RESTAURANT & SEAFOOD MARKET, located at 6950 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, in the county of MONROE, in the city of MARATHON, FLORIDA 33050, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

BRUTUS SEAFOOD INC. Publish: July 18, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of FLORIDA KEYS VACATIONS, located at P.O. BOX 522693, in the county of MONROE, in the city of MARATHON SHORES, FLORIDA 33052, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

TASHJIAN, LLC Publish: July 18, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI Notice is here by given that on July 30th, 2019, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold.

103530 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL. 33037. Names And Last Known Addresses are as Follows: BROOKS BURDICK UNIT #1025 $473.54 DEBRA MAY MADISON UNIT #1216 $449.69 Publish: July 11 & 18, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Wheatons Towing gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 07/26/2019, 10:00 am at 101500 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037, pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes.

Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/ all bids.

1FTDX18WXVNC26911 1997 FORD Publish: July 11 & 18, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Wheatons Towing gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 08/03/2019, 10:00 am at 101500 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037, pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes.

Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/ all bids.

LEGAL NOTICES 4TANM92N9XZ489359 1999 TOYOTA Publish: July 11 & 18, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Wheatons Towing gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 08/06/2019, 10:00 am at 101500 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037, pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes.

Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/ all bids.

1FMPU19556LB02209 2006 FORD Publish: July 11 & 18, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Wheatons Towing gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 08/02/2019, 10:00 am at 101500 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037, pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes.

Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/ all bids.

3GNDA33P17S573282 2007 CHEVROLET Publish: July 11 & 18, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Wheatons Towing gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 08/13/2019, 10:00 am at 101500 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037, pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes.

Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/ all bids.

7KJAAAC13KA015799 2019 ROCKET TRAILER, LTD Publish: July 11 & 18, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2019-10 Notice is hereby given that 5T WEALTH PARTNERS LP holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2016/1238 Alt Key No: 1463230 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2016 RE: 00379540-000000 Description of Property: BK 3 LT 8 DUCK KEY CENTER ISLAND SEC 2

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

PART 1 TOMS HARBOR PB5-82 OR489-364/366 OR737-320 OR8011874/1875 OR803-1577/78 OR805-85/86 OR8361252E OR953-104Q/C OR1432-89 OR1799-2269 OR1815-256C OR19241974 OR2718-1686-87 Name in which assessed: REININGER BRIAN REININGER MISTY All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: September 4th, 2019 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 28th day of June 2019.

KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: July 11, 18, 25 and August 1, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 28th day of June 2019.

KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: July 11, 18, 25 and August 1, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

The administration of the estate of Harry G. Ogden, JR, deceased, whose date of death was September 13th, 2018, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court 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: July 18, 2019.

Personal Representative: Alice Ogden 91 Dartmouth Road Massapequa, NY 11758 Attorney for Personal Representative: Kathleen Hendrickson Florida Bar Number: 379921 5701 Overseas Highway, Suite 12 Marathon, Florida 33050 Telephone: (305) 3932598 E-mail: KHendrickson. atty@gmail.com Publish: July 18 and 25, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2019-11 Notice is hereby given that 5T WEALTH PARTNERS LP holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2016/1457 Alt Key No: 1555584 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2016 RE: 00453475-004900 Description of Property: LT 433 PORT LARGO FIFTH ADDITION KEY LARGO PB6-109OR796-2450 OR805-2475 OR805-2470 OR837-2392 OR2176-770 OR2360-2127/29OR2767239/45C OR2875-1561/62 Name in which assessed: THE LAGUNA BAHIA LLC All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: September 4th, 2019

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2019-12 Notice is hereby given that 5T WEALTH PARTNERS LP holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2016/1481 Alt Key No: 1562335 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2016 RE: 00458800-000000 Description of Property: BK 1 LT 3 KEY LARGO TRAILER VILLAGE KEY LARGO PB5-43 OR363-176 OR703-244 OR1111-1015(CAW) OR1463-1981C/T OR1474-956/57 OR17811844AFF OR1781-1845 OR2839-2087D/C Along with MOBILE HOME: MODEL: GOLDE YEAR: 66 INDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 10055X12E137 TITLE NUMBER: 2305861 Name in which assessed: WILLIAMS MICHAEL O ESTATE C/O CHEYENNE J WILLIAMS P/R All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: September 4th, 2019 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 28th day of June 2019.

KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: July 11, 18, 25 and August 1, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2019-CP-40-M IN RE: ESTATE OF HARRY G. OGDEN, JR, a/k/a HARRY OGDEN Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 19-CP-40-P IN RE: ESTATE OF MARY JO VALENTINE, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of MARY JO VALENTINE, deceased, whose date of death was February 9, 2019, File Number 19-CP-40-P is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate

29

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

BOATS FOR SALE

EMPLOYMENT

HOMES FOR RENT

HOMES FOR RENT

Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: July 18, 2019 Personal Representative: DAVID ALLEN VALENTINE 201 Madrona Way Ben Lomond, CA 95005 Attorney for Personal Representative: Urban J. W. Patterson Email: ujwplaw@gmail. com Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@yahoo.com Florida Bar Number: 382035 Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A. P.O. Box 783 Islamorada, FL 33036 Telephone: 305-664-5065 Publish: July 18 and 25, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this notice, 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 DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. THE DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE IS: July 11, 2019.

Personal Representative: SANDRA T. LYNN 7 Barracuda Lane Key Largo, FL 33037 Attorney for Personal Representative: JOHN MICHAEL LYNN, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 0147273 7 Barracuda Lane Key Largo, Florida 33037 Telephone: (305) 3670911 turnerlynnpa@gmail.com Publish: July 11 & 18, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

whose address is 97 SEA LANE, ISLAMORADA, FL 33036, on or before AUGUST 1, 2019, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 88820 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, PLANTATION KEY, FL 33070, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

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: July 1, 2019 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Gwen Douglass Deputy Clerk Publish: July 4, 11, 18 and 25, 2019 The Weekly Newspapers

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!!

BIKE REPAIR NEEDED. Regular maintenance for 8 spin bikes in Marathon. $$. Call 305-775-9909.

LONG-TERM RENTAL: 3BR/2BA on Duck Key. Call 305-481-1316

Fenced, W/D, Hot tub.

F/L/S $2,200/month – 6 month minimum. Text James at 409-370-0025 RENTED IN LESS THAN A MONTH!

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 19-CP-000065-P IN RE: ESTATE OF J.B. CASPERSEN AKA JOHN B. CASPERSEN, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of J.B. CASPERSEN aka JOHN B. CASPERSEN, deceased, whose date of death was May 30, 2019; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 19-CP000065-P; the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No. 2019-DR-282-P Division: Family GEORGE GREEN, Petitioner, and CHERYL A. GREEN, Respondent, NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE TO: CHERYL A. GREEN Respondent’s last known address: UNKNOWN YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on GEORGE GREEN,

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

2013 Chrysler Convertible - Snowbird car. Only 18k miles, original owner, located in Marathon. $7,500 Text Angie at 409-370-0025 2004 Toyota Camry XLE Sedan, 4 door, Silver, Cold A/C, 130k miles, sunroof, stereo radio, low mileage tires.

Located in Marathon. $4,500 OBO 9 49 - 423 - 470 9 BOATS FOR SALE

‘95 Intrepid CC 28’ ‘98 Yamahas X225 - low hours. Too many options to list. Appraisal was $72,400 w/trailer. Asking $55,000 OBO. Located in Marathon. Please call after 1pm (305) 743-6505

REDUCED 2000 Hydra-Sports 230CC w/225HP Johnson. 470 hours. Many extras.

Located in Big Pine Key. $10,000. 734-904-2818 SOLD EMPLOYMENT Caregiver needed in Marathon area.

Seasonal. 618-779-5900 Full time opportunity at the FKSPCA in Marathon. Clean and care for shelter animals.

Exp. preferred, not required. Must pass criminal background check. Email resume to Tara@fkspca.org Superior Electric Hiring: Office Assistant Must have Quickbooks experience Bilingual a plus . Apply in person at 7849 Overseas Highway, Marathon.

Superintendent needed in Upper KeysMust have ability to schedule & organize multiple people & trades. Send resume to admin@cbtconstruct. com 305-852-3002 Heavy Equipment Operator & Carpenters needed in Upper Keys. Must have valid Driver’s License, Tools & Transportation.

Email admin@ cbtconstruct.com 3 0 5 - 8 5 2 - 3 0 0 2 I M M E DI ATE LY HIRING: Hideaway Cafe on Grassy Key: Food Runner, Busser, Dishwasher & Prep. Call for appointment 305289-1554.

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 th 107 Street, Marathon.

3 0 5 - 2 8 9 - 2 0 7 0 City of Marathon Job Openings: Building Inspector/ Plans Examiner, Code Compliance Officer, Right of Way Technician, Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee .

EOE, FULL BENEFITS www.ci.marathon.fl.us

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 Experienced Help Only needed for all positions.

Apply in person MonFri 10-11am at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, Knights Key Blvd. Marathon NEED EMPLOYEES? Line ads start at $25/ week for 5 lines of copy!

Call 305-743-0844 today Looking for Crew Man for Lobster boat in Marathon area.

Experience preferred.

Call after 5pm 305289-0792 and leave a message.

HIRED IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!!

Looking for a Marine Diesel Mechanic!

We are now taking applications for a fulltime Diesel Mechanic.

Must have 10 years experiences, preferably with a certification.

Please drop off your Resume at our offices: Marathon Diesel Repair, 1350 Ocean View Ave, in Marathon.

HIRED IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!

Furnished Room & Bath for rent in Marathon.

Available now. Full size bed. For Single Person Only. W/D, WIFI, Cable.

Shared living rm & kitchen. No Alcohol/ Drugs. $1000/month incl. all util. $500 Security 305-850-9259 rlmcnavy59@gmail.com Key Colony Beach Seasonal Rental 4BR/4BA Fully furnished townhome 1/2 Duplex w/large pool. 2,200 SF, tile & wood floors. On large canal w/deep dockage.

Call 305-743-3338 Long-term rental available in Marathon August 1st. 1BR/1BA unfurnished 1/2 Duplex. $1,500/month + utilities.

F/L/S 305-481-6887 NEED TENANTS? Line ads start at $25/week for 5 lines of copy!

Call 305-743-0844 today to get your property RENTED! 2/1.5 Duplex off Boot Key Harbor in Marathon.

80’ of canal. Elec. paid*

2/1 Duplex - 28th Street, Marathon. On canal, annual rental, Elec. paid*, W/D, fenced, parking. F/L/S $1,750/month.

Text James at 409-370-0025 RENTED IN LESS THAN THREE WEEKS! MISC. FOR SALE Twin mattress $90, Cherry nightstand $95, Cherry lingerie chest $150, Cherry wardrobe $250, 32 “Sony TV $95 . In Marathon. Call 615-2934076.

Full Size Pillowtop Mattress, Box Spring, Frame and Headboard for Sale. Brand new never used. Located in Key Largo. $300 OBO 954 - 450 - 6 050 RV LOT FOR RENT

Large RV Lot for rent in Marathon. Full hook up. $800/month plus u t i l i t i e s .

305-942-0789

NOTICE Pursuant to the provision of Chapter 194.035(1) of the Florida Statutes, the Clerk of the Value Adjustment Board is now accepting applications from individuals who are willing and qualified to serve as Special Magistrate for the purpose of taking testimony and making recommendations to the Board.

“A special magistrate appointed to hear issues of exemptions and classifications shall be a member of The Florida Bar with no less than 5 years’ experience in the area of ad valorem taxation. A special magistrate appointed to hear issues regarding the valuation of real estate shall be a state certified real estate appraiser with not less than 5 years’ experience in real property valuation. A special magistrate appointed to hear issues regarding the valuation of tangible personal property shall be designated member of a nationally recognized appraiser’s organization with not less than 5 years’ experience in tangible personal property valuation.”

All applicants must complete the Florida Department of Revenue’s Value Adjustment Board Training to qualify to serve.

Please forward resume to:

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

Sally M. Abrams VABClerk@monroe-clerk.com

PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-7434578

Or by mail: Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk to the Value Adjustment Board PO Box 1980 Key West, FL 33041-1980 *Deadline for submission is July 30, 2019

HOMES FOR RENT

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

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

Serving Key Largo to Key West

We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

Cell: 305-363-8330 Office: 305-735-4626 will@cecflk.com www.CECFLK.com

305-998-8953 Insured • Professional • Reliable

Will Campbell President

P.E. Lic. No: 79269 5800 Overseas Hwy. Unit 32 Marathon, FL. 33050

COMPANIES

General Contractors & Engineers

SPALLING REPAIRS CONCRETE RESTORATION

EC 13005589 CGC 1521939

CGC 1515665 • CFC 1428730

New Construction • Remodels • Additions & More!

NEW & REPAIR

305-664-0099

PAINTLESS DENT REPAIR - HEADLIGHT RESTORATION MINOR SCRATCH/SCUFF REPAIR

www.TikiHuts.com

www.FixADentFLKeys.com

STATE CERTIFIED THATCHING CONTRACTOR CYC 000002

MARCH HARE MARINE SERVICES CERTIFIED MARINE SURVEYS MASTER MARINE SURVEYOR SERVING ALL THE KEYS

office: cell: e-mail:

305-743-3368 305-240-4487 mhms@juno.com CAPTAIN DAVID A. FOLEY

Tewes Mortgage

Your local, residential lending expert!

Call 305.495.6000 for a FREE Consultation

Brian Tewes

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

NMLS# 375025 Tewes Mortgage NMLS# 1453791 NMLSConsumerAccess.org

www.TewesMortgage.com

SOLAR DONE RIGHT! CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE

We also service and sell: Marine A/C, Refrigeration, Watermakers, Batteries, Solar Systems, Anything Electrical! • SINCE 1976 •

305-289-1150

Florida Solar Contractor CVC 56734

www.saltenergy.net www.saltservice.net 2992 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050

Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here

Let our 40+ years of experience go to work for you!

For professional, competitive travel planning Call Debbie or Lani at 305 743 7575 Business hours: MON-TUE-THU-FRI 9am to 4pm Appointments by request.

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

The Weekly Newspapers www.KeysWeekly.com

305-743-0844

METAL ROOFING

SPECIALIST 305-664-1010 www.roofer.pro

KEYS EATS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019

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FOR SALE $55,000 OBO • '95 INTREPID CC - 28’ • '98 YAMAHAS X225 LOW HOURS • TOO MANY OPTIONS TO LIST • APPRAISAL WAS $72,400 W/TRAILER • LOCATED IN MARATHON

PLEASE CALL 305.743.6505 AFTER 1PM

Covering All The Keys From Key Largo To Key West Midway Café’s breakfast pita, cinnamon roll and ice cold brew.

JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

Upper Keys Weekly 91760 O/S Hwy, Ste 3 Tavernier, FL 33070 305.363.2957

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

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

Coffee bar and satisfying dishes at Midway JIM McCARTHY

W

jim@keysweekly.com

ith its vibrant colors and relaxing feel, Midway Café and Coffee Bar is a must-stop for breakfast dishes, hot or cold coffee drinks or lunch.

The funky, little café can’t be missed with its outside appeal as you pass by. Located at MM 80.5, oceanside, in Islamorada, Midway Café’s ambiance is unique and unforgettable — and so is the food.

Patrons pick up a menu and order at the counter before taking a seat and letting service staff bring out an ice cold drink or fresh roasted coffee and their breakfast or lunch choice. People can sit outside to enjoy the day, or take a seat inside.

Midway Café offers a host of drinks, with hot options such as fresh roasted brewed coffee, espresso, cappuccino and café white mocha, to name a few. There are also cold choices from iced Americano and iced latte to a café Viennese, which is a chocolate espresso with half-and-half and topped with cinnamon.

For breakfast, there’s the egg pita that’s made up of scrambled eggs, spinach, tomatoes and a choice of mozzarella or goat cheese. It comes warm and with salsa and your choice to add sour cream. Egg plates and sandwiches, avocado toast and burritos are also on the menu.

In addition, there’s a selection of fresh, warm baked goods — there’s no going wrong with the cinnamon roll. If you can’t stop for breakfast, swing by for lunch for some soup, sandwiches, wraps or salads.

With a variety of fresh food options and a chill feel, be sure to stop at Midway Café and Coffee Bar when passing by (if you can’t dine in, order for takeout). The establishment prides itself on fresh, high-quality ingredients with an extensive menu that also includes vegetarian and gluten-free options. Midway Café will make you feel at home.

More information about Midway Café is at midwaycafecoffeebar.com.

There is a better job for you We are growing and looking for talented people to join our team.

Email your resume to jobs@keysweekly.com A stable job with great pay does exist in the Keys. Full-time salaried positions starting at $40,000

Locally owned and operated since 2003.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 18, 2019