Key West Weekly - 20-0109

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Cold fronts aren’t as cold any more.

January 9, 2020

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FOR A E S U A SC

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PORT R I A T S . 28 EY WE OFF | P

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ME, WELWCAOR R I O R S | P. 4

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

Strata B by John Bunker

Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to announce the expansion of our presence in the Florida Keys with the acquisition of Jo Ann Cook’s outstanding team.

Jo Ann will continue to manage the office and operations in Marathon, FL. This partnership will allow us to further service the entire Florida Keys and build on our accomplishments as leaders in luxury real estate.

Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty 10055 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050 t 305.735.4095 oceansir.com © MMXX Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Strata B is used with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a licensed trademark to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.

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KEY WEST

KEYS

NEWSPAPERS

5450 MacDonald Ave. No.5 Key West, FL 33040 Office: 305.453.6928 www.keysweekly.com

Publisher

Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner

Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Editor

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

550

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

ON THE COVER

Bealls has more than 550 stores in 17 states, including the three in the Florida Keys. The umbrella company covers Bealls, Bealls Outlet, Burkes Outlet, Home Centric and Bunulu. On Jan. 3, the retailer announced that Matt Beall will take over as CEO of the Bradenton, Florida-based company. It did $1.39 billion in sales in 2018. (By the way, it’s pronounced “bells,” NOT “bee-alls.”)

SOLDIERING ON...

KEY WEST WELCOMES 44 WOUNDED WARRIORS

Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor

Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Account Executives

Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com Lesley Aaron lesley@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers

Sara Matthis sara@keysweekly.com Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Tiffany Duong tiffany@keysweekly.com

Production Manager

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Circulation Manager

Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Design / Web Master

Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

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Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Classifieds

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

Se habla español

THE KEY WEST WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

POSTMASTER:

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News Deadline

Tuesday Noon

Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.

Participants in last year’s Soldier Ride pedal down Duval Street. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

T

he Key West Military Affairs Committee will host Soldier Ride 2020, a division of the Wounded Warrior Project, starting at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 11.

Forty-four Wounded Warriors will pedal from Naval Air Station Key West at Boca Chica, down U.S. 1 to Key West, where they’ll circle much of the island’s Old Town area before finishing at Bayview Park for an 11:45 a.m. welcome ceremony.

A community ride around Key West is then open to warriors and supporters and will leave from Bayview Park at 1 p.m.

Key West’s Military Affairs Committee is asking residents and visitors to show their support by lining the route and cheering on the warriors while waving American flags.

Individuals and groups, or teams, may adopt a section of the route and line it with supporters. Organizers suggest being in place by 10 a.m. to avoid road closures and traffic delays.

American flags and other banners line the light poles on Key West’s North Roosevelt Boulevard from the Triangle to Ibis Bay, and more welcome signs, drawing and banners will be added in the coming days.

Vocalist Grace Potter performs Sunday, Jan. 12 at the Sunset Green Event Lawn in Key West. PAMELA NEAL/Contributed

“The Military Affairs Committee has been presenting the Soldier Ride in Key West for nine or 10 years now,” said MAC president Abe Conn., “It’s our biggest event and it keeps getting bigger through the generosity of this town, the committee, Wounded Warriors and the local military.”

The Wounded Warriors Project provides several types of free support for veterans and service members who incurred a physical or mental injury, illness or wound while serving in the military on or after Sept. 11, 2001.

“You are our focus. You are our mission,” states the organization’s website. “Here, you’re not a member – you’re an alumnus, a valued part of a community that’s been where you’ve been, and understands what you need.

Everything we offer is free because there’s no dollar value to finding recovery and no limit to what you can achieve.”

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

CARRIE NEWCOMER Old Town New Folk Series

THU JAN 16, 8PM Carrie Newcomer is a singer/ songwriter, poet & author at the intersection of folk, Americana & progressive spirituality. She’s described as a “prairie mystic” by the Boston Globe and one who asks “all the right questions” by Rolling Stone.

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LOCAL CHATTER

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

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KIRBY MYERS

www.keysweekly.com

H

ard to believe it’s really 2020. Yes, the 1990s are as far away as the year 2050. Weird, right? So many decades and so many changes.

From the roaring ‘20s to the sock hop and shared milkshake days of the ‘50s to ‘80s hair bands and of course the last decade during which we spent more time looking at our screens than each other, a lot has changed. It’s always fun to think about going back in time and reliving memorable moments or experiencing the world at a time before we were in it. So we asked:

2020 Season

If you could travel back to any decade, when would it be?

“I’d have to say the 1970s — amazing music, hot cars and funky/hip fashion.

And I’d probably be a groupie ... have you seen the Banger Sisters?”

— Victoria Formico

Jan 12 - Blake Pouliot, Violinist Mozart • Bartók • Kreisler • Janáček • Prokofiev • Sarasate

at St. Paul’s Church• 4pm keywestimpromptu.org

“I would return to the ‘70s, mostly for the amazing rock, funk and R&B music.

The vinyl album format may actually make its return and I am waiting with my turntable!” — Scott Barry

“I think I’d be a natural fit with the flower children of the late ‘60s/early ‘70s. Wouldn’t it be great to live in an era in which peace, love and individual freedom are valued instead of selfies, Instagram and smartphones?”

— Erika Dooley Stokes

“I’d like to go back and experience the ‘90s so I can enjoy my kids being little again. I miss hanging at the ball, soccer and hockey rink.”

— Debby Commander

“I would have enjoyed the 1920s.

I would’ve been the edgy woman looking to break the rules and push the boundaries of society. I could’ve been a flapper, dancing and doing ‘inappropriate’ things.”

— Theresa Heidenreich

PART TIME SEASONAL SALES ASSOCIATE Small Dog ELECTRONICS is a Premier Apple Partner specializing in the sales of Apple products, third party accessories and Smart Home devices.

Potential applicants should have experience with Apple products, comfortable with technology, a background in customer service and the ability to multitask. Training is provided.

Please send resumes to jobs@smalldog.com

1001 Truman Ave. | www.smalldog.com

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COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

ARMY CORPS STUDY ALMOST FINISHED

Results will determine which flood/ sea level projects to prioritize TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

T

here may be a new tool in the county’s toolbox against sea-level rise.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is finishing a threeyear study to produce a plan and federal cost-sharing for adaptation and mitigation projects in the county.

At the recent Southeast Florida Regional Climate Leadership Summit in Key West, new sea-level rise projections of 10 to 17 inches near Key West by 2040 and 21 to 40 inches by 2070 set off a few alarm bells. And it’s no wonder: the entire island chain currently averages between 3 and 4 feet above sea-level.

Rhonda Haag, the county’s chief resilience officer, oversees mitigation and adaptation efforts for Monroe County. She explained the difference: adaptation is building higher, and mitigation is lessening our greenhouse gas emissions. “We will feel the effects of sea-level rise first and most, so we should do everything we can to adapt our way of life and reduce our emissions to slow sea-level rise,” she said. “We are the canary in the coal mine.”

The Army Corps’ study will examine how to make the Keys more resilient, Haag told the Weekly. At each site, it will consider strategies like shoreline resilience to ensure that U.S. 1 doesn’t wash out, natural features like mangroves to slow waves during hurricanes, and buyouts, flood-proofing or elevation of critical infrastructure.

Taking into account what needs restoration or adaptation and the value of the property being protected, the Army Corps will do a cost-benefit analysis to prioritize the most important projects. “The Corps has been doing this for hundreds of years,” said Haag. “This is what they do.”

So, what’s next? The threeyear study will conclude soon with a list of recommended projects, Haag said. She anticipates taking the recommendations to the February BOCC meeting for review and discussion. After getting the

Army Corps’ results, the county will have a short time frame in 2020 to settle on which projects to move forward with, she said.

Then comes the federal regulation process to finalize plans.

Haag concluded, “So, the decisions on which projects to participate in will be in the next three months.”

As Commissioner David Rice noted at the December BOCC meeting, funding is the elephant in the room to the successful implementation of any resilience strategies. Haag confirmed that the Army Corps will foot 65% of the bill for projects it recommends. Local governments would cover the remaining 35%.

Once projects are finalized, exactly where the funding will come from will also become clearer. Haag cautioned that it could take several years and up to a decade for funding to show up.

“Just like the Everglades project.

All these projects are good and there’s potential, but I don’t want to get too excited just yet,” she said. “If it does work, though, there will be a plan and potential cost-sharing of 65%.”

“All this will move the county forward to become more resilient, which is a good and necessary thing,” Haag said.

Elevation Above Sea-Level in the Florida Keys Keys-wide highest elevation: 18 feet (Windley Key) Upper Keys average elevation: 4.8 feet (Ocean Reef to Tavernier Creek) Middle Keys average elevation: 4.29 feet (Plantation Key to Knights Key) Lower Keys average elevation: 3.17 feet (Ohio Key to Stock Island) Key West average elevation: 4.7 feet Source: Monroe County GreenKeys! Program

HISTORICAL SOCIETY GOES BACK IN TIME BEATLES TRIBUTE BAND TO PERFORM AT SAN CARLOS

The Key West Art & Historical Society’s Back in Time fundraiser will feature Beatles tribute band ‘Let It Be.’ CONTRIBUTED

T

he Magical Custom House Mystery Tour is coming to take you away with Key West Art & Historical Society’s 4th annual Back in Time fundraiser from 6 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 6 at the historic San Carlos Institute.

Break out your bellbottoms, go-go boots, Nehru jackets and tie-dyes for this costumed ‘60sthemed event that opens with a cocktail reception and includes a silent auction, 50/50 raffle, and prizes for the best dressed, and features a live performance at 7 p.m. by the Beatles tribute band, Let It Be. Let It Be offers a theatrical live recreation of the Beatles music, with an auditory and costume extravaganza that captures the songs, sounds and classic tunes made famous by the most celebrated band in history. Let It Be suspends reality to help audi-

ences Get Back to the magical ‘60s as if it were the real thing.

Proceeds from the annual Back in Time event support the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys’ Custom House Preservation Fund.

Come together to help support the 128-year-old Custom House building’s ongoing preservation needs and step “Back in Time” to invest in the future.

Tickets are $75 for general admission; $100 for preferred seating on the first floor which includes a complimentary drink, hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar; and $150 for second floor VIP seating, which includes open bar, hors d’oeuvres, and an after-party. All funds raised will be matched by the Dogwood Foundation.

More information is at KWAHS.org.

— Contributed

EVENTS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

POLE-VAULTING IN PARADISE HIGH-FLYING FUN, FALLING AND FUNDRAISING

Pole vaulter Scott Houston wows the crowd of onlookers at the inaugural 2019 Pole Vault in Paradise. BRETT GORDON/KeyWesterPhotography.com

The Key West Track & Field Club will host a highflying weekend of Pole Vault in Paradise Friday through Saturday, Jan. 10-12 at Key West’s Truman Waterfront Park.

The nonprofit club raises money for the Key West High School track and field team and works to promote the sport in the Lower Keys.

Pole Vault in Paradise features fundraisers on Friday and Sunday, and a free event for everyone on Saturday, all at Truman Waterfront Park.

Friday features a huge barbecue from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., featuring live music by the Shanty Hounds. Tickets and information are available at kwtfc.org.

Saturday’s event is free and all are invited to bring a lawn chair and spend the day on the waterfront.

Elite men and women with Olympic pole-vaulting dreams will be soaring past a high bar, configuring and contorting

their bodies. High school athletes, kids as young as 12 and masters as old as 76 will be pole vaulting.

A special event will feature local celebrities, including the Weekly’s own Britt Myers, attempting to pole vault for the very first time, “attempting” being the key word.

The competition starts at 9 a.m., with opening ceremonies at 11 a.m.

Food and drinks, including adult beverages, will be available for sale, with proceeds benefitting the KWHS track team.

A fundraising pancake breakfast will take place from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 12 at Truman Waterfront. The KWHS Steel Pan Band will perform while attendees mingle with athletes.

Tickets for the barbecue and/or breakfast are available at kwtfc.org Funds raised at the event will be used in a variety of ways to further the club’s mission.

“Some kids cannot compete because there are not enough funds for buses and drivers for all the kids that want to compete in an away track meet,” said club president Steve Hanes. “Those who do

compete often are forced to use old and dilapidated equipment, such as the KWHS pole vault pit that’s more than 20 years old and was completely flooded during Hurricane Wilma. The foam is turning to dust. The rain cover has large holes. There are many needs for a program that is not funded by the school district.”

To promote the sport in the community, the club wants to create a track-andfield program for middle school students, Hanes said.

“Other than a citywide track meet for fifth graders run by the Masonic Lodge, there is no developmental program for track and field before high school,” he said, adding that the club also wants to establish an organized track and field program for masters-level competitors who are 30 and older.

Last year was the first year of the Pole Vault in Paradise event and featured dozens of athletes.

“What better place is there to vault than Key West in January?” Hanes said.

“Come check us out.”

— Contributed

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COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

SAVE THE REEF – AND MONEY CORAL PLANTING COULD BE COMMUNITY PROJECT

EDIBLE HISTORY

CONCH REVIVAL PICNIC CELEBRATES LOCAL RECIPES AT KEY WEST LIGHTHOUSE

(Editor’s note: Key West commercial fisherman and activist “Lobster Lee” Starling submitted the following open letter to Jessica McCawley of Florida Fish & Wildlife’s Marine Resources Division, as well as to local media outlets.)

Dear Jessica, I hope you had a great Christmas and wonderful upcoming New Year.

Here is my proposal: For years, the sanctuary has been maneuvering to get rich by creating this coral-planting plan.

As I recall, they even legislated to close permitting for marine life endorsements permitting to then-existing holders, many of whom sat or currently sit on the advisory council and various panels.

If planting coral will supposedly “save the reef,” then it should be a statewide effort by volunteers, costing the minimum.

There are so many dive shops that would welcome this as an alternative to a regular reef dive. It would also be a great new marketing tool.

Countless volunteers with private boats would participate, form groups and work to restore the reef at no cost.

Massive funding that profits only the few is not necessary or even moral, if the goal is truly altruistic. Some folks speak of the greater good, but then profit from it?

Let’s take the profit margin out of the equation. Permits to grow corals should be easily available and affordable. They should be issued to groups and dive operators who take a class to teach the basics.

The permits would not allow for any sales of corals or marine life, only planting, but they would allow for trading corals among other permit holders.

Where would we plant and grow these corals? Some corals need a period of protected care, others don’t.

Sigsbee Charter School in Key West is a perfect place to start the program. It is adjacent to a protected bay. This school already has a great marine science program and a relationship with Mote Marine.

They could provide and distribute anchored corals to permit holders, basically for free.

Putting the restoration of our reefs back into the hands of the state’s citizens and the visiting public would garner great support for the Florid Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and would empower the public stakeholder to create awareness and enlist additional volunteers, participants and resource protectors.

This is a win-win proposal, with little cost, unlike the sanctuary’s $97 million restoration plan.

It also takes control away from the sanctuary and their attitude of “We are here to save you from yourself,” which only creates disdain from stakeholders.

The public has spoken.

They don’t trust the sanctuary; this is an opportunity to bolster public support for FWC. Lee Starling Key West

The Conch Revival Picnic celebrates historic recipes from the Conch Republic. CAROL TEDESCO/Contributed

T

he fourth annual Conch Revival Picnic, an informal Conch heritage dinner prepared by chefs Martha Hubbard and Dave Furman featuring a variety of classic Key West/Conch recipes, will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 21 on the grounds of the Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters.

Hubbard and Furman will present a feast starting with passed hors d’oeuvres of conch salad shooters, rice croquettes with Key lime mustard, and beef, chorizo and creole sauce empanadas; a buffet featuring chopped salad with Florida citrus, a vegetarian roulade, a crawfish enchalau, Louie’s Backyard conch chowder, shrimp and grits with Creole sauce; a carving station with whole roasted fish and pig; and a dessert of Key lime pie squares and guava tarts with Ol’ Sour whipped cream.

Inspired by former society board member and late island native Dianne Zolotow, the Conch Revival Picnic tradition was launched in 2016 to increase awareness of Key West/Conch culture by preserving and promoting historic recipes created and consumed by Conch families for generations that have been disappearing from memory and tables. Some of the recipes are inspired by the postwar Key West Woman’s Club Cookbook edited by original Conch and first Florida Keys woman mayor Wilhelmina Harvey, as well as recipes from other books located in the Key West Public Library collection.

Tickets are available at kwahs.org and are $45 for members, $55 for non-members; kids under 12 are admitted free.

— Contributed

11

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

GOOD DEEDS Monroe County Property Transfers

Listing Office

Selling Office

American Caribbean Real Estate Star Properties Star Properties Coldwell Banker Schmitt

Century 21 Island Life Engel & Volkers Islamorada Star Properties Illustrated Properties

1/6/2020 12/31/2019 1/6/2020 1/3/2020

$ $ $ $

639,000.00 200,000.00 460,000.00 600,000.00

$ $ $ $

620,000.00 195,000.00 455,000.00 564,000.00

Ocean Sotheby's International Ocean Sotheby's International Coldwell Banker Schmitt

Ocean Sotheby's International Coastal Realty BHHS Freewheeler Realty

12/31/2019 1/6/2020 1/2/2020

$ $ $

1,475,000.00 1,590,000.00 375,000.00

$ $ $

1,475,000.00 1,200,000.00 350,000.00

Ocean Sotheby's International

Ocean Sotheby's International

12/30/2019

$

3,899,000.00

$

2,350,000.00

Coldwell Banker Schmitt

Ocean Sotheby's International

1/3/2020

$

195,000.00

$

190,000.00

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Coldwell Banker Schmitt

Florida Keys Realty Group Coldwell Banker Schmitt

1/2/2020 1/4/2020

$ $

55,000.00 699,000.00

$ $

48,500.00 590,000.00

12411 Overseas Hwy, 1A 748 30th Street Ocean St

2006 1963

Single Fam

Century 21 Island Life Coldwell Banker Schmitt

Century 21 Island Life Coldwell Banker Schmitt

1/7/2020 1/3/2020

$ $

262,500.00 424,500.00

$ $

262,500.00 400,000.00

30932 Watson Blvd 30867 Delgado Ln

1948 1979

Keller Williams KW Compass

Keller Williams KW Compass

1/7/2020

$

329,000.00

$

275,000.00

27722 Astrangia Ave

Preferred Properties

At Home in Key West

1/7/2020

$

699,000.00

$

650,000.00

Coldwell Banker Schmitt

Truman & Co.

1/3/2020

$

539,000.00

$

510,000.00

RE/MAX Keys Connection

Florida Keys Realty

1/7/2020

$

230,000.00

$

205,000.00

RE/MAX All Keys Real Estate Century 21 Island Life Sellstate Island Properties Keller Williams KW Compass Truman & Co.

RE/MAX All Keys Real Estate Keller Williams KW Compass Sellstate Island Properties Coastal Collection Real Estate Keller Williams KW Compass

12/30/2019 1/3/2020 1/1/2020 1/2/2020 1/7/2020

$ $ $ $ $

1,200.00 779,000.00 197,500.00 1,900,000.00 649,000.00

$ $ $ $ $

13,100.00 754,500.00 216,300.00 1,900,000.00 644,000.00

Key Largo

Plantation Key

Upper Matecumbe Key Key Colony Beach Marathon

Big Pine Key

Little Torch Key

Summerland Key Cudjoe Key Geiger Key Key West

Sold Date

List Price

Sold Price

Street #

Yr Blt

Style

2019 1980 1991 2018

Single Fam Mobile Hom Condo Single Fam

5 2 2 3

No No Yes No

103.5 96 92.5 91

1978 1980

Single Fam Condo

3 2

Yes Yes Yes

90 90 87

0

Mis Prp Rt

3

Yes

82.5

No

53.5

3

Yes Yes

53 49.5

Single Fam Single Fam

2 3

No Yes

31 30.5

1985

Mobile Hom

2

Yes

28

869 Lagoon Dr

1973

Single Fam

2

Yes

25.5

22941 Blackbeard Ln

2006

Single Fam

3

Yes

23

1978

Mobile Hom

2

Yes

9

1978 1958

Commercial Single Fam

0 3

2019 1933

Single Fam Duplex

3 3

No No No No No

2 2 1 1 1

65 903 500 262

Street Name Bonefish Ave Emerald Dr Burton Dr, #5314 Lincoln Ave

436 Coconut Palm Blvd 204 Plantation Shores Dr 87200 Overseas Hwy, S9 109 Carroll St, #9 180 15th Circle

245 Geiger Rd 1010 1618 1316 1/2 1316 814

Kennedy Dr, #305 Laird St Whalton St Whaton St Whitehead St

Tot Beds Wtrfrnt MM

Lots

Based on information found in the Key West Association of Realtors® MLS from December 31st, 2019 to January 7th , 2019.

THE UNDISPUTED LEADER IN KEY WEST FOR THE LAST 6 DECADES Based on Sales Volume

BUYING OR SELLING?

CALL US TODAY TO SPEAK TO YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTATE EXPERTS! 336 Duval Street • Key West, FL 33040 • 305.294.5155 • www.KeysRealEstate.com/OpenHouses

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

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ON STAGE

ERIN STOVER SICKMEN www.keysweekly.com

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

‘Talley’s Folly’ FRINGE THEATER WELCOMES THE START OF SEASON

T

The company of ‘Talley’s Folly,’ presented

by Fringe Theater, features, from left, Ross Pipkin, Director Mathias Maloff and Lauren Thompson. FRINGE THEATER/Contributed

he term “community theater” has, over the years, inherited a connotation of provinciality. It’s generally spoken with a sneer of condescension. And that’s unfortunate.

Communities across the country produce great little gems of theater, pieces that rely on community members and the skills of local creatives. In Key West, Fringe Theater has mastered this art. While the company regularly pulls in national artists, it also has developed an impressive troupe of local talent. Their latest production, “Talley’s Folly,” showcases a wealth of homegrown creative capacity. From set to stage, the entirely Key West-based crew has crafted the kind of intimate, charming work that can only come from teams whose members know each other well enough to be able to swirl around one another as they build, argue, compromise and create.

“Talley’s Folly” is the middle piece of a trilogy by Lanford Wilson, but stands on its own. A romantic comedy, the play follows Matt Friedman and Sally Talley, two mismatched potential partners, as they banter over the course of a real-time 97-minute conversation. The smitten (and relentlessly optimistic) Friedman has returned to the Ozarks after meeting Talley the previous summer and hopes to rekindle a spark that may or may not have appeared in the first place. “Talley’s Folly” was originally staged at the Circle Repertory Company in 1979, winning the 1980 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. It then went on to Broadway, where it ran for 286 performances. The play then lay dormant until an Off-Broadway revival pitted Sarah Paulson against Denny Burnstein.

The small, tight piece is a great selection for Fringe — intimate enough to fit into a smaller space without feeling claustrophobic, but broad enough to touch on concepts of human interaction and vulnerability. To recreate the atmosphere of the original piece, set in a Missouri boathouse in the 1940s, the long-time constructive dream team of Don Lynch, Jim Beyl and Charlie Bengal crafted a spot-on creaky-

floored set complete with all the necessary nautical trappings and cast-off nostalgia.

Scenic artist Monica Brook and lighting designers Kendall Cameron, Daashia Cochrin, Jerry Ginsberg and Aramis Ikatu complete the look with warm washes and cool, moody moonlight.

As leads Friedman and Talley, Ross Pipkin and Lauren Thompson navigate a relationship that begins as a prickly affair before veering into more companionable territory. Pipkin brings humor to the role, engaging directly with the audience at the start of the play and then holding attention throughout. Thompson provides a sharp counterweight, bringing a healthy dose of sharp wit and skepticism to the role of Sally Talley.

Drawing from a well of local talent also allows companies, like Fringe, to take chances on newcomers. Such is the case with “Talley’s Folly,” which also serves as the directorial debut for Mathias Maloff, who delivers a steady-handed presentation of the material buoyed by humor and ambiance.

“Talley’s Folly” is a conventional piece, a straightforward representation of the moment two people come together. It shows some trappings of the era in which it was written, but overall, steers clear of oversentimentality. I personally — in spite of my calcified feminist cynicism — still found myself rooting for the lovable Friedman. The actors, and overall production, are solid enough to create a space in which a sweet, intimate story is perfectly satisfying. Bravo to local (and dare I say community?) creativity.

‘Talley’s Folly’ Jan. 8-18, Shows at 7 p.m.

Back Room at the Key West Theater 512 Eaton St. Tickets: fringetheater.org/talleys-folly

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

17

HOW HIGH? REVIEW FLOOD MAPS AT COUNTYWIDE MEETINGS

M

embers of the public can drop in to review new preliminary floodplain maps and learn about flood risks in their communities.

Residents are invited to attend an upcoming public flood risk open house to learn about their flood risk, view the newly updated preliminary flood insurance rate maps and find out how the information may impact their property.

At the flood risk open house events, a variety of specialists will be available to answer questions about flood insurance, engineering, and more. All Monroe County residents -- including home and business owners, renters, Realtors, mortgage lenders, surveyors and insurance agents -- are encouraged to attend an open house. There will be four held throughout the county, the first of which is in Key West.

No appointment is necessary but residents planning to attend should bring their elevation certificates, if possible.

The new preliminary rate maps were developed through a partnership among Monroe County, local municipalities, and the Federal Emergency

Management Agency. The preliminary rate map is based on updated modeling and data and shows more precise flood hazard information than older maps. The new maps aim to help protect property owners and communities from the risks associated with flooding. Over time, flood risks change due to construction and development, environmental changes, floodplains widening or shifting, and other factors. Flood insurance rate maps are updated periodically to reflect these changes.

By law, federally regulated or insured mortgage lenders require flood insurance on buildings that are in areas at high risk of flooding. Standard homeowners’, business owners’, and renters’ insurance policies typically don’t cover flood damage, so flood insurance is an important consideration for everyone. Flood insurance policies can be purchased from any state-licensed property and casualty insurance agent.

Visit www.floodsmart.gov or call 1-888-379-9531 for more information about flood insurance and to locate a local agent.

— Contributed

THE OPEN HOUSE SCHEDULE IS AS FOLLOWS: MONDAY, JAN, 27 4 to 7 p.m.

Key West City Hall 1300 White Street

TUESDAY, JAN. 28 9 a.m. to noon Bernstein Park Community Room 6751 5th St. Stock Island

4 to 7 p.m.

Big Pine Park Community Room 31009 Atlantis Drive Big Pine Key

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 29 4 to 7 p.m.

Marathon City Hall 9805 Overseas Highway

THURSDAY, JAN. 30 9 a.m. to noon Islamorada Community Center at Founders Park 87000 Overseas Highway 4 TO 7 P.M. Nelson Government Center: B.O.C.C. Chambers 102050 Overseas Highway Key Largo

KEY WEST HISTORY ‘The Coffins’ sit off the Channel 2 Bridge. BRAD BERTELLI/Contributed

‘COFFINS’ MARK DEATH OF PLANNED HIGHWAY BRAD BERTELLI www.keysweekly.com

E

ight concrete structures sit somewhat ominously in the shallows off the Channel 2 Bridge. All eight are not always visible, especially at high tide. Fishermen in skiffs can be seen casting their lines around them. It is not just because fish like the structures; these concrete pilings have been sitting in the water for the better part of 100 years and ecosystems have grown around them. Locals refer to them as “the coffins.” A metaphorically apt descriptor, they contain no actual bodies – even if some of the local barstool historians tell tales to the contrary. The concrete structures do, however, mark the death of a plan to build a series of automobile bridges that would have paralleled bridges supporting Henry Flagler’s Over-Sea Railroad.

It became possible to drive a car from Miami to Key West when the first incarnation of the Overseas Highway, officially recognized as State Road 4A, opened to traffic on Jan. 22, 1928. It was not possible to drive directly to Key West, as the first version of the road was ultimately incomplete and ended, at least for a distance, at Lower Matecumbe Key. For drivers wishing to travel beyond Lower Matecumbe, it was necessary to board an automobile ferry that brought drivers to No Name Key, where the road picked back up again and continued the rest of the way to Key West. Ferries departed twice daily, at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. The crossing took four hours, providing the weather and tides cooperated. In 1931, two additional ferry terminals were constructed, one on Grassy Key and one on Hog Key, as well as 13.5 miles of road on Vaca Key to help connect them. The addition of these two terminals shortened the ferry ride to two 14-mile trips.

Monroe County officials believed that a solid bridge system connecting Key West to mainland America could represent a boon to the economy. The Overseas Highway Bridge Corporation was formed. Efforts to bridge the gap were thwarted with the collapse of the

American economy and emergence of the Great Depression. In October 1932, for instance, a plan was submitted for congressional approval calling for a $10.7 million loan to build the automobile bridge system. The request was ignored.

When Franklin Delano Roosevelt was elected president in 1932, one of his early acts was the implementation of the New Deal promising relief, recovery and reform. To put the New Deal’s plan into motion, he created the Federal Emergency Relief Administration or FERA. Florida’s first FERA administrator was Julius Stone. Stone had an affinity for Key West and opened an office in the Southernmost City. He was convinced Key West could become a tourism mecca.

Stone posited to FERA officials the use of veterans to help build the bridge project. The idea prevailed and ultimately, three work camps were established in the Upper Keys. Each was capable of housing 250 men, largely out of work World War I veterans. Camps Three and Five were located on Lower Matecumbe. Camp One, located near the foot of the Snake Creek Bridge, on the Windley Key side, included a hospital facility. The introduction of the workers effectively doubled the population of the Upper Keys. Workers were provided room and board as well as $1 per day. One dollar in 1935 had the buying power of about $18 in 2017.

The first bridge under construction would link Lower Matecumbe Key to the island known today as Fiesta Key. The project was halted by the arrival of the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane that would take the lives of hundreds of veterans and locals alike. Up to the arrival of the hurricane, workers had built eight concrete bridge piers in the shallows off what is today the Channel 2 Bridge. Those are the eight bridge piers locals sometimes refer to as “the coffins” that may contain the sweat and spirit of some of those workers, but no actual bodies. The same cannot be said, however, for the piers supporting the iconic Bahia Honda railroad bridge.

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

18

WEEKLY INTERVIEW

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

CRAIG CATES TALKS ABOUT TRANSITION FROM CITY TO COUNTY GOVERNMENT

ASKED ANSWERED MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

H

aving served five terms as mayor of Key West, Craig Cates has a new job — County Commissioner for District 1, where the early retirement of Commissioner Danny Kolhage had left a vacancy.

Ron DeSantis appointed Cates to complete Kolhage’s term.

Cates had already announced his candidacy for that seat when he was appointed.

He and Monroe County Tax Collector Danise “Dee Dee” Henriquez will face each other in the 2020 race for the District 1 seat.

Cates will participate in his first County Commission meeting on Jan. 22 in Marathon.

And check back soon for a similar “chat” with Danise Henriquez.

How did you, as a longtime business owner, decide to enter local politics for your very first Key West mayor’s race?

Was there an individual or group that encouraged you to run? My family has a long history of service in Monroe County dating back to the 19th century. ... After Cheryl and I sold our business, giving back to the community through public service was a logical next step for me.

What surprised you most when you became an elected official? I find it amazing how engaged and proactive our citizens are. We have an incredible community with a lot of smart people. Working together, there’s no challenge we can’t tackle using common sense, proper planning and smart use of our resources.

Have you always been a registered Republican? And what principles of the party do you value most? Civic duty, personal freedom and mutual respect are cornerstones of strong communities and are values that form my political philosophy.

Although Key West city elections are nonpartisan, you were five times elected mayor by a predominantly Democratic Key West populace. To what do you attribute this support? I have always maintained an open- door policy and listened to all sides of the issues. I am honored and humbled by the support I’ve received. I will continue to work every day to earn the support and trust of our Keys community. I ask residents to please reach out to me anytime with their questions or concerns.

Countywide, Republicans represent the majority of registered voters. How might this shift affect your approach to issues and decisions? In the Florida Keys we vote for the person, not the party. I will continue to approach the issues with an open mind and bring people from all sides together. I will always vote for the best interests of the people of Monroe County. We are all in it together here in the Keys. Hurricanes don’t care what party you’re in. Neither does flooding nor many of the other challenges we will have to confront over the next several years.

Keys Democrats have accused the governor of unfairly creating an artificial incumbency by appointing you to finish out Commissioner Kolhage’s term. How might the appointment help and/or hurt you in the 2020 election? I’m proud to have earned the governor’s endorsement.

I’m ready to hit the ground running on day one and will work hard every day to earn the support of voters in Monroe County in the November election.

Who are your most trusted local political advisers? My wife Cheryl and my grandkids.

What two issues should be the County Commission’s greatest priorities in the coming year? Quality of life for residents and protecting our environment. Without those two things we can’t live here.

WEEKLY INTERVIEW

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

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The Key West City Commission and the Board of County Commissioners are two vastly different bodies. What do you expect will be the biggest difference?

The biggest difference will be representing people from a larger geographic area. I look forward to the challenge and to using my skills and experience to improve the lives of the residents of the Florida Keys.

What benefits does your experience as a business owner in Key West bring to the County Commission dais? I understand the challenges that people face here every day. I know how to make a payroll and I’ve dealt firsthand with the loss of friends and employees forced to leave by the high cost of housing. I will apply the same principles of service, problem solving and efficiency that made me successful in business to help solve the important issues in the county.

What do you foresee as the two toughest decisions facing the County Commission in the coming year? I don’t see just two decisions, but multiple decisions on two major issues: Affordable housing and flooding from sea level rise.

What have you been doing in recent weeks to prepare for your first County Commission meeting on Jan. 22 in Marathon? I have been working hard to gather input from as many stakeholders as possible. I invite everyone to share their ideas at my first community meeting on Jan. 16 at 5:30 p.m. at Bernstein Park on Stock Island.

On the national level, Republicans seem to have made climate change and sea level rise less

of a priority than other political parties. What’s your position on how the Keys should address the issues? As the former mayor of Key West, I’ve been on the frontlines of this issue for a long time. We need to adopt and implement a strategic plan to confront and mitigate this existential threat to our very ability to survive and thrive here. Steps we can take right away include incentives for green building, encouraging eco-friendly transportation, and sensible building regulations. As a county commissioner, I will leverage my skills, relationships and experience to work with our representatives in Tallahassee to change the laws that are disincentivizing large-scale adoption of green energy at the local level.

What steps could be taken to better unify the island chain and make each district more aware of the others’ concerns and priorities? The Florida Keys diversity is one of its greatest strengths. That said, the overarching challenges of the next several years will require the whole community working all together. I have faith that the residents of Monroe County will embrace their diversity and put our collective talents together to find solutions to even the toughest problems.

What’s the biggest challenge in simultaneously being a commissioner and a candidate? How does one run a county AND a campaign? Both public service and campaigning require a big personal commitment. I applaud anyone who is willing to put forth their talents and ideas to improve the lives of others.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

TWO-FACED ACTORS WANTED THEATREXP HOLDS AUDITIONS FOR ‘TWICE TOLD TALES’

Gladys Bates is one of the characters highlighted on the upcoming Cemetery Stroll. ALYSON CREAN/City of Key West

HISTORY IS NOT DEAD CEMETERY STROLL CELEBRATES

This composite photo shows several participants in recent performances of ‘Twice Told Tales.’ LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

KEY WEST CHARACTERS

K

ey West’s TheatreXP, in association with The Studios of Key West, will hold auditions for the alwayspopular “Twice Told Tales,” an evening of contrasting monologues, at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 12 at The Studios, 533 Eaton St. The performance needs 16 actors of any age and any gender. Actors will be paid if cast.

The production dates are Friday and Saturday, March 6 and 7, at The Studios.

“Twice Told Tales” has been the hit of the past two Summer Stage seasons – so much so that The Studios of Key West asked TheatreXP to produce the event in-season.

The evening features eight monologues, each developed

by a separate director with two different actors, who must deliver the monologue in two completely different ways.

“It’s a fun, surprising and often illuminating evening of theatre,” said TheatreXP’s Bob Bowersox. “The audiences have really loved the show.

And it reveals how direction and actor interpretation can completely change a piece of writing. It really shows the magic of theater.”

Anyone interested in auditioning may read for the directors at the auditions.

Monologues will be provided.

More information is available at 302-540-6102 or by email to theatrexpkeywest@ gmail.com.

— Contributed

T

he first cemetery stroll to be offered at the Historic Key West Cemetery this season will take place on Saturday,

Jan. 25.

During the stroll, small groups of visitors will be escorted to gravesites where interpreters will tell the stories of the deceased in brief monologues. The groups are scheduled for departures at 9:30, 9:50, and 10:10 a.m. Reservations are necessary, and can be made by calling 305-304-1453.

Among the gravesites to be visited are those of Huie Wing Lee, Gladys Bates, Nelson English, Frank Adams, Sheldon Yates, the Gato plot, the Babies plot in the Catholic section, and the Spottswood mausoleum.

The tour takes about 90 minutes. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and plan to walk over a mile on uneven ground.

Bottled water will be provided.

The tour is an excellent opportunity to learn about some of the fascinating people who have given Key West its colorful and significant character.

Space is limited for the tours and pre-registration is required. A donation of $20 (cash or check) per person to the Historic Florida Keys Foundation is recommended with all proceeds devoted to cemetery restoration.

Participants should enter the cemetery by either the Windsor Street or Frances Street gate and go to the registration table on 2nd Avenue.

Additional strolls featuring other gravesites will take place on Feb. 22 and March 21..

The cemetery strolls are sponsored by the City of Key West and the Historic Florida Keys Foundation.

— Contributed

KEY WEST

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

MUSICAL CELEBRATION

BAHAMA VILLAGE MUSIC PROGRAM PREPARES FOR 20TH BIRTHDAY

Capt. Alex Osborn is a commercial fisherman in Key West who will help feed the masses at the Florida Keys Seafood Festival. FLORIDA KEYS COMMERCIAL FISHERMAN’S ASSOCIATION/Contributed

FOOD AND MUSIC

AEROSMITH TRIBUTE BAND HEADLINES SEAFOOD FESTIVAL

D

The Bahama Village Music Program soon will celebrate 20 years of providing music lessons to underprivileged kids. CRICKET DESMARAIS/ Contributed

T

he Bahama Village Music Program is seeking artisans and vendors for its 20th birthday bash at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater at Key West’s Truman Waterfront Park.

Jewelry makers, food crafters, artisans and alchemists of all imaginings are invited to show and sell their creations at the event that will take place from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday, March 29.

The free, family-friendly event celebrates 20 years of free music lessons taught by more than a dozen student teachers, professional instructors and dedicated volunteers to over 2,000 children who could not otherwise afford them with a day filled with music and performances by Key West’s finest musicians and BVMP students, audience jam-alongs, an artisan market, a cash bar, food trucks, a silent auction, a kids’ zone, and of course, birthday cake.

The event also will include the inaugural induction of four iconic locals into the Key West Music Hall of Fame: Coffee Butler, Ellen Sanchez, Fats Navarro and Buddy Chavez.

For more information email cricket@bvmp.org.

— Contributed

elicious, fresh seafood, nautical vendors, hands-on kids activities, great live music and much more!

The annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival celebrates the Key West community by bringing families and friends together in a joyful and fun environment to sample the local catch.

This family-friendly event was created to showcase local seafood and the Keys’ commercial fishing industry by providing the freshest seafood available.

Each year our fishermen and women are proud to offer the community a variety of seafood at reasonable prices along with celebrity chef demonstrations, hands-on eco activities, boats on display, kids’ activities and live entertainment all day long.

The festival takes place Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 18 and 19 at Key West’s Bayview Park.

Included with the two-day, $5 admission to the 15th annu-

al Florida Keys Seafood Festival is a live entertainment lineup featuring music as diverse as the Florida Keys themselves.

The festival takes place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday 19 at Bayview Park in Key West.

Musical acts for Saturday include The Shanty Hounds, Coconut Victrola, Myles Mancuso and Aerosmith tribute band ERASMITH. The look-alike, sound-alike group of musicians from the mainland will blow guests away with their authentic performance.

On Sunday, Jan. 19, performers include The 3Amigos, The Happy Dog and Fairweather Friends.

The Florida Keys Seafood Festival is organized by the Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen’s Association in partnership with the Florida Keys Tourism Development Council.

More information is at floridakeysseafoodfestival.com.

— Contributed

The popular Shanty Hounds duo will perform at this year’s seafood festival. DANI HOY/Contributed

21

22

ENVIRONMENT

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

GROWING OPPOSITION LOCAL GROUP HIRES LOBBYISTS TO OPPOSE SANCTUARY PLAN

O

rganized opposition to the marine sanctuary’s draft management plan is gaining momentum.

Having reviewed the 1997 legislation that formed the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Key West attorney David Paul Horan said the governor of Florida has the authority to veto any parts of the sanctuary’s management plan that pertain to state waters.

Now, a group of Keys-based charter boat captains, recreational boaters, fishermen and others, led by Horan, has hired a powerful lobbying firm to persuade the governor to do just that.

The All Keys Boaters’ Alliance last month hired The Southern Group lobbying firm to meet with Gov. Ron DeSantis and his staff to encourage him to oppose and veto the sanctuary’s proposed new management plan, which is still in draft form.

Horan points to a 1997 agreement between the state of Florida and the federal National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) outlining the powers and authority of the state and the federal governments in creating and managing the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, which 55% of Keys voters opposed.

The agreement states, “The Florida Trustees have not conveyed title to or relinquished authority over any stateowned lands or state-owned resources by agreeing to include state-owned lands and state-owned resources within the sanctuary boundary.”

The state of Florida’s trustees include department heads such as the state treasurer, the commissioner of agriculture, the commission of education and others appointed by the governor, Horan said.

State waters extend either three or nine miles from land, depending on the location, Horan said, adding that state waters make up about 90% of the marine sanctuary.

“In a May 19, 1997 document between the State of Florida and the Sanctuary titled: ‘Co-Trustees Agreement for Cooperative Management,’ two provisions of that document are of vital importance to us all,” Horan said. “Section 4(A) states: The Sanctuary Management Plan applies to both state and federal waters ... except those terms (restrictions) certified by the Governor of Florida as unacceptable; and Section 4(E) states: Any amendments to sanctuary regulations require the approval of the governor on behalf and with the approval of the Florida Trustees in order to be effective in the state’s waters and submerged lands.

“This means Governor DeSantis has the power to stop any future sanctuary restrictions,” Horan said. “And any amendments that are proposed require the state’s approval in order for them to apply in state waters.”

He added that the All Keys Boaters Alliance, which also includes Rick Gage and Tony Nalli, has retained The Southern Group lobbying firm “to set up meetings with Gov. DeSantis and members of the Florida Trustees.”

Upon learning of the alliance’s actions, local sanctuary officials declined to comment except to emphasize that the new management plan remains in its earliest draft form and will be revised once the current public comment period ends on Jan. 31. The release of the next draft will trigger another public comment period.

But Kris Sarri, president of the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, a support organization for marine sanctuaries, said, “Maintaining the status quo is harmful to the Florida economy, the quality of life of residents and the marine environment. We must work cooperatively at the local, regional, state and national levels to protect and restore this iconic place through the stakeholder-driven public process. Narrow special interests that disregard the long-term health of the environment and the economy should not dictate the outcome.”

The public comment period for the sanctuary’s Restoration Blueprint runs through Jan. 31. Comments may be submitted online at regulations.gov and by mail to Superintendent Sarah Fangman, 33 E. Quay Rd., Key West, FL 33040. Specific proposed regulations are available online at floridakeys.noaa. gov/blueprint.

Designated in 1990, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary protects the 2.900 square nautical miles of waters surrounding the islands of the Florida Keys, from Miami to the Tortugas. CONTRIBUTED.

23

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

SEARS Optical Is Closing.

Thank You Key West For 14 Great Years!

Beginning January 20, 2020, Dr. Reed West and Dr. Nicole Cremata (and your medical records) will be located at:

Precision Eye Care 2357 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050 Phone 305-743-6939 www.keysprecisioneyecare.com

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

WINNER BEST LUNCH AND NOMINATED FOR: BEST RESTAURANT, BEST SEAFOOD, BEST BAR, BEST BARTENDER, BEST MARTINI, BEST MARGARITA, BEST DESSERT, BEST BEER SELECTION AND BEST KEY LIME PIE

THANK YOU FOR THE OVERWHELMING SUPPORT!

MARATHON

Marathon Middle High School 350 Sombrero Beach Rd Marathon, 33050

BIG PINE KEY

Big Pine United Methodist & First Baptist Churches 280 Key Deer Blvd, Big Pine Key 33043 *Pre-register at Senior Center*

KEY WEST

Key West High School 2100 Flager Ave., Key West, 33040

MICHAEL POSADA and KIDS COME FIRST

Kids Come First ensures youth experiencing financial adversity have school supplies and basic necessities.

Optional Pre-Registration 2 Weeks Before the Fairs January 18th, 9AM - 2PM

Michael wears many hats and with only a few minutes warning.

He is the official snow cone man for fundraisers and has picked up hundreds of Christmas gifts for children.

Same addresses as above for Marathon & Key West Big Pine Key Pre-Registration held at Senior Center (380 Key Deer Blvd., Big Pine Key, 33043)

For anyone needing special assistance, please make arrangements prior to the fair by pre-registering your special need at least 1 week beforehand by emailing DOCS@med.miami.edu or calling (305) 243-4898

Keys Weekly, Ocean Wellness Spa, and CFFK.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

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KEY WEST

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020 MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

CLEARED FOR TAKEOFF AIRPORT MASTER PLAN ANTICIPATES MORE PLANS, PASSENGERS

N

ew arrivals landing at Key West International Airport inevitably smile as they exit the aircraft and step, not into a portable jetway corridor, but directly onto the humid tarmac.

As the hot breeze tangles their hair, newcomers dig for sunglasses in their carry-on bags and remark upon the quaintness of a tiny island airport But more of those passengers arrive every year. And while the island location of Key West International Airport (airport code EYW) lends itself to an easy walk across the tarmac, the increasing air traffic will likely prompt safety upgrades that eliminate that hot and windy walk.

The “new” terminal building at Key West International Airport opened more than 10 years ago, in 2009, and nearly doubled the capacity of the county-owned airport on South Roosevelt Boulevard.

But passenger counts have taken off in the past decade and continue to climb. Recent studies project that the airport will be operating at or near capacity — serving 1.1 million to 1.2 million annual passengers — by 2035.

With additional flights serving new cities, the airport exceeded projections in 2018 and served 870,000 passengers — about 100,000 more than anticipated.

“During the 2018 calendar year, Key West International Airport saw a 14% growth in total passengers,” while 2019 experienced a 12% increase, county documents state. “Key West International Airport is expecting air traffic to continue to increase by an average annual growth rate of 2.4% over the next 20 years.”

In August 2018, the County Commission approved the Key West International Airport master plan update, a comprehensive study of the airport. The last such update was done in 2003 — six years before the “new” terminal opened in February 2009.

The master plan update includes short- and long-term plans for airport improvements and expansions.

The existing terminal building, which locals continue to describe as “new,” was included in the 2003 master plan, while the 2018 plan calls for another terminal expansion in the next six to 10 years.

“The terminal expansion will complement the new terminal that was built in 2009,” the plan states.

“It will include a new departure lounge, with more space for passengers and concessions, and connections to jet bridges that will increase passenger safety.”

The master plan also emphasizes that “future projects will continue the airport’s commitment to take into account sea level rise.

The recent runway improvement project elevated the runway by 6 inches,” the plan states.

MORE FLIGHTS TO NEW CITIES

Plenty of Keys residents can still recall a time when the only flights leaving Key West were bound for Miami, Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach, where passengers would then make connecting flights to “the rest of the world.”

But those days are long gone, and airlines operating at Key West International Airport now offer more flights to more cities than ever.

Delta has been offering multiple direct flights to Atlanta since 2009, and those flights remain the most popular for passengers leaving the island.

But routes were added in 2019 with more coming this year.

Starting Feb. 15, American Airlines will offer nonstop service between Key West and Boston’s Logan Airport on Saturdays through May. “This is the first time this route will be offered nonstop,” said Richard Strickland, Monroe County’s director of airports. “It will be a nice addition for travelers in the Northeast looking to escape the cold, or for our residents looking to visit New England.”

The newly added flight will be operated on a 76-passenger plane.

In addition to the new, direct Boston flights, the Key West airport provides direct service to Philadelphia, Chicago, Charlotte, Newark, Washington, D.C., Dallas, Atlanta, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Tampa.

“Top markets include New York/Newark, Washington/Baltimore, Philadelphia, South Florida and Chicago,” county records state.

KEY WEST

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

AIRPORT BASICS

Key West International Airport encompasses 334 acres and, despite its location within the city limits, sits on land owned by Monroe County, which also operates the facility.

Originally called Meacham Field, the airport’s first scheduled flight occurred in 1928.

“During the WWII era, the airport was used by the United States Army,” states the county’s website. “In 1953, the city of Key West granted Monroe County clear title to Meacham Field.

Shortly thereafter, Meacham Field became Key West International Airport, which now handles 50 to 60 commercial flights per day.”

As that figure continues to increase, the new master plan will guide the necessary improvements, including a new “new” terminal building.

1

2 3

1. Arriving passengers at Key West International Airport are greeted by a Conch Republic flag and sculpture by artist Seward Johnson. 2. The Key West airport served 870,000 passengers in 2018. 3. Diagram shows some of the changes planned for Key West International Airport. MONROE COUNTY/Contributed

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TRAVEL

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

Cuba is known for its classic American cars. The streets of Havana are filled with them, and many visitors will opt for these cool rides instead of traditional taxis. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly

Learn about how to travel to Cuba at Marathon Library talk TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

e all know that Cuba is a hop, skip and 90 miles off the Southernmost Point in Key West. But, what most of us don’t know is that it’s relatively easy to visit our nearby neighbor.

Gigi Varnum of Key Westbased Amiga Travel will speak at the Marathon Library’s weekly speaker series on Thursday, Jan. 16.

Varnum’s talk will take place at the St. Columba Episcopal Church in Marathon (451 52nd St., gulfside) at 2 p.m.

Arrive early for the meet and greet at 1:30 p.m.

Her presentation will highlight how to travel to Cuba and what to see and do there.

“Anything that customers want to do, it’s my job to source that and match it with an ideal experience,” says Varnum. The experiences that Cuba has to offer, though, are quite different from your run-of-the-mill island vacation.

On one trip, a widow and her two sons were on vacation in Havana. The youngest son had restored a classic car with his late dad and remained very interested in antique cars.

Varnum arranged for him to spend the day with the president of the private classic car

club of Havana, who inducted him into the club as its first American (and youngest) member. Then, a mechanic taught him how they keep antique American cars running in Cuba when they can’t get parts. “Travel in Cuba is very experiential; we do everything with local Cubans,” explains Varnum. “It humanizes a place that has mystique for some Americans.”

Varnum, who accompanies clients on trips, also loves to bring them to the different art outlets around Havana. In the small fishing town of Jaimanitas, local artist José Fuster has covered what seems like his entire neighborhood with mosaic tiles. “It’s Seuss-ical almost,” describes Varnum. “There are fantastic curves and swirls; absolutely stunning art. It’s so exciting to wander around his house and neighborhood.”

Varnum first visited Cuba in 2016. Amiga Travel was founded to share this rich culture and history with others.

“Americans can go to Cuba, they just can’t 12 CATEGORIES OF TRAVEL go for tourism,” Varnum said. “People QUALIFYING FOR GENERAL don’t know that all you need is a U.S. passLICENSES TO TRAVEL TO CUBA: port and a qualifying reason for travel.”

• Family visits The Office of Foreign Assets Control • Official business of the U.S. (OFAC) of the U.S. Department of the Treagovernment, foreign governments sury regulates travel to Cuba and requires and certain intergovernmental that travel fall under one of 12 categories. organizations “Supporting the Cuban people – our trips • Journalistic activity do that directly because we stay in private • Professional research and residences, use private drivers, and eat professional meetings at paladares – private restaurants,” said • Educational activities Varnum. To ensure no snags, Amiga holds • Religious activities an American tourism license, an OFAC • Public performances, clinics, general license allowing them to do busiworkshops, athletic and other ness in Cuba, and a license with a tourist competitions, and exhibitions agency in Havana.

• Support for the Cuban Varnum hopes her talk will dispel this people biggest misconception about Cuba – that • Humanitarian projects Americans aren’t allowed to go. “I spent • Activities of private a lot of time and energy explaining that foundations or research or yes, you can go to Cuba. You can’t lay on a educational institutes beach there, but you can do that in South • Exportation, importation, Beach already. If you want to learn about or transmission of information or another culture and way of living, Cuba is informational materials an incredible educational tool for that.”

• Certain authorized export For more information or to reach transactions Amiga Travel, call 630-309-4747 or email Gigi@amigatravel.com.

Herald reporter speaks in Marathon Fabiola Santiago, a Miami Herald reporter and columnist since 1980, will speak on Thursday, Jan. 9 at the Friends of Marathon Speakers’ Series. There is a meet-and-greet at 1:30 p.m. and the talk gets underway at 2 p.m. This talk will be held at the St. Columba church sanctuary, not the parish hall. It’s free to attend.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

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COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020 VALSIN A. MARMILLION www.keysweekly.com

WHAT WE VALUE IS WHAT WE PROTECT

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while we buy time with ar too often, the plans we now have critical issues bein place to adapt to the come siloed into change. Governments conversations must have adaptation about winners and losplans and the private ers. Dividing everything sector must act reimportant into political sponsibly to maintain divisions is a sure way to a healthy and growing resolve nothing. economy that is affordSea level rise needs Valsin A. Marmillion able for residents. to escape the clutches Key West has a unique opporof anyone who will use it for any tunity in 2020 to lead in adapting purpose other than uniting us and to environmental change. Granted, coming together to rise to meet the the stakes are high, but if we build a most crucial challenge of our time. cooperative approach and address Here is a checklist of what to the three-legged stool just menwatch out for as we seek to maintioned, our little island sends an tain our community values and important message that retreat is quality of life in the face of the not an option. The perception that rising tide. the stigma of sea level rise is being The environment is our friend. addressed will clearly demonstrate Why did we ever allow political that the rewards of living in our discourse to pit us against Mother island community far outweigh the Earth? Every economic success challenges that lie ahead. enjoyed by America can be traced A month ago, I remember takto our wealth of natural resources. ing a holiday trolley ride through Key West has the rich ecosystem the streets of Key West. Here we required to push the impacts of sea had lights and displays twinkling level rise further into the future if we are smart to allow them to flour- across our community. The community pride and creativity were ish – sand, the reef, mangroves, obvious. Some homes were owned seagrasses, and, yes, water can be and some rented. Our parade effectively used to sustain our lives. was filled with spirited delights as Everyone’s living standard is kids and adults alike united under tied to a community’s home values the Conch Republic stars. We are and here’s why. When our market a town of lavish gifts and others is devalued because of the stigma collected to make sure no one caused by sea level rise projecwas empty-handed. These are the tions, we all lose value. Property values we have to protect, all workvalues are tied to public finance, ing together in the coming year to essential to providing basic services make our city sea safe. and infrastructure that affects us Keeping this in mind, let’s imagall. If a community cannot begin to ine a new year’s resolution by which adapt to known risks, then lending we commit to displaying unity for freezes, insurance increases, investour higher purpose of protecting ments wither and both mortgages and rents cost more. This isn’t about what we value, living with water and building our future in concert what’s good for banks or Realtors, with nature. but for anyone living along the coast. If we manage our risks, our Valsin A. Marmillion is managing living costs can remain predictable. director of America’s WETLAND FounGovernment can only do so dation, adjunct instructor at Univermuch. It would be so easy if we sity of Florida, and leads an effort to could just throw all responsibility to help coastal communities adapt to the public sector and task governsea level rise with the Sea Safe Comment with creating innovative solumunity Certification program. He and tions to address the new normal of living with the rising tide. New ideas his partner own The Peace Store in Key West. americaswetland.com and inventions will come from a combination of public and private sources. Research will get us there

SAVE THE DATE Thursday, Jan. 9 • Truman Waterfront Farmers Market at Truman Waterfront, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. near the Coast Guard ship INGHAM, Key West.

• City Commission District VI town hall meeting with Commissioner Clayton Lopez & Bahama Village Committee Chair Patricia Eables, 6 p.m. at 830 Emma St., Key West.

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CELEBRATION OF LIFE FOR EMALYN MERCER

Saturday, Jan. 11 • Stock Island Arts District Second Saturday Art Stroll, see ILoveStockIsland.org for participating galleries.

• A Positive Step hosts a free ‘Fun Day for Dads and Kids,’ from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.at Willie Ward Park, Key West.

Tuesday, Jan. 14 • Sinbad performs, 6:30 and 9 p.m. at Key West Theater.

Thursday, Jan. 16 • Carrie Newcomer with pianist Gary Walters, 8 p.m., The Studios of Key West Jan. 17 & Jan. 31 • Vocalist Libby York performs at Little Room Jazz Club, 8 p.m., Key West.

Friday, Jan. 17 • Tommy Castro, 8 p.m. at Key West Theater.

Jan. 18-19 • Florida Keys Seafood Festival, 11 a.m. at Bayview Park, Key West.

Saturday, Jan. 18 Discovery Saturday for kids aged 5-10 at Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, 10-11 a.m. Key West.

Tuesday, Jan. 21 • Key West Art & Historical Society presents Conch Revival Picnic, 6-8 p.m. at Key West Lighthouse.

• Todd Snider, 8 p.m. at Key West Theater.

Jan. 25-26 • Key West Craft Show, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Whitehead and Caroline streets.

Wednesday, Jan. 29 • Key West Citizens’ Police Academy begins 10-week session.

Applications available at www. cityofkeywest-fl.gov.

I

n September 2019, Emalyn Mercer lost her battle with cancer. She fought it hard.

She was an extraordinary person, special in every way imaginable. A one of a kind.

Emma arrived in Key West 15 years ago to help her friend open Salsa Loca restaurant, where she was a smiling fixture for a number of years before joining Lynn Kaufelt as a Realtor. Emma had a big impact on a lot of people in our Key West community.

As per Emma’s wishes, there will be a memorial service for her at the Green Parrot Bar from 2 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Jan 11.

Emalyn did not want to have a sad, somber service.

This is to be a true celebration of a life that overflowed with love, laughter and generosity.

Music, food, drinks and laughter will be flowing.

Following the Green Parrot, the gathering will proceed to Truman Waterfront Park to spread her ashes, in a uniquely Emma kind of way.

This event is open to all and “RSVPs” are not required, but it would be nice to get an approximate indication of how many people to expect. So please visit the Facebook event (Celebration of the life of Emalyn Mercer) and comment with your name and # of people in your group.

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STATE NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

SESSION PREVIEW Nuñez, Flores preparing for another busy year

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t. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez and the administration of Gov. Ron DeSantis prepare for what they hope will be a productive and successful session in Tallahassee. For state Sen. Anitere Flores, several Keys-related issues top her priorities list as she enters her last year in office.

In just five days, legislators will commence another year of debating bills and passing an on-time spending plan.

Lawmakers like Flores have been hard at work filing bills on a whole host of issues.

Notably, Flores has again filed a bill to divvy the costs from lawsuits anticipated when the state no longer hands out building permits in the Keys in 2023.

If passed this year, the state and local governments located in an area of critical state of the concern, like the Keys, would share judgments to defendants who are successful in property-rights litigation.

Flores said it would solidify what’s long been a handshake agreement between the state and Monroe County. Senate Bill 748 currently sits in committee.

“This is a real issue for the Keys as we bump up against the deadline,” Flores said. “As we get closer and closer, it is important for Monroe County officials to know that the agreement will be more formalized.”

State Sen. Anitere Flores speaks during last year’s legislative session.

CONTRIBUTED

Legislation didn’t pass through the House for different reasons last year, Flores said. She hopes the result is different this time around.

On the administrative side, a $91.4 billion budget proposal was unveiled in lead-up to session with key investments in K-12 education, the environment and public safety. Nuñez said the administration has been laser-focused on a number of matters facing the state over the past year. With priorities outlined by DeSantis in motion, and some even accomplished, Nuñez said there’s never a shortage of issues and budget items to hone in on.

“Since day one, we’ve been focused

“It would be terrible if at a time teachers talk about increases in salary that Monroe County wouldn’t really see any.”

- State Sen. Anitere Flores on working on the issues,” Nuñez said.

“The governor is focused on doing what he set out to do and what he campaigned to do.”

Nuñez said she was particularly excited to see the administration’s environmental agenda take off during session last year, with more than $400 million for Everglades restoration, $40 million

to expedite the Tamiami Trail project to restore clean water south and $25 million to combat blue-green algae and red tide.

Locally, canal restoration was added as a priority of the Florida Keys Area of Critical State Concern program.

Nuñez said she expects more investments in water quality this session with recurring funds in the governor’s budget proposal for the Everglades and water resources. And Nuñez said the governor’s not shy to call up the administration in Washington D.C., to pony up its fair share.

“The governor really relies on his relationship with the president,” Nuñez said. “The president always jokes on how he’s always calling for more money. It just shows the amount of effort and intensity the governor has to fulfill the vision of Florida.”

On the education side, pay raises for teachers are gaining attention from many educators across the state. The governor’s budget includes hundreds of millions to recruit and retain teachers as well as bonus programs. Concerns have been brought forth over how the plan rewards long-time teachers. And here in the Keys, teachers are already at a higher salary rate.

“We recognize and will look at those inequities to make sure we’re addressing the overall issue, which everyone can agree there is a deficiency in starting teacher pay,” Nuñez said. “On top of that, what are things that we can do

STATE NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

that won’t break the bank? Each district has unique challenges, and they’ve done things to address those challenges. As we look at the profession, there’s a shortage. We really want to attract the best in the industry, attract those stellar teachers and mold our future generation.”

Flores said she’s already brought up teacher pay concerns during meetings.

“It would be terrible if at a time teachers talk about increases in salary that Monroe County wouldn’t really see any,” she said. “The governor is aware and listening.”

Another key matter facing the Keys surrounds wind insurance.

Flores has filed a bill yet again to cap wind insurance rates for policies issued by Citizens Property Insurance Corporation. Senate Bill 1204, which has been referred to various Senate committees, would prevent increases that exceed 10 percent on a single policy. Flores has taken up the issue every year to no avail, having only seen passage in the Senate and not the House.

“Organizations like FIRM have been able to show to the commis-

“The governor really relies on his relationship with the president, the president always jokes on how he’s always calling for more money.

It just shows the amount of effort and intensity the governor has to fulfill the vision of Florida.”

- Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez

sioner of insurance that right now, rates are not fair,” she said. “I’m going to continue to work on it at the legislative level.”

With this being Flores’ final year in office, she says she’s going to fight hard.

“This (the Keys) is an area that needs a lot of help from an environmental standpoint with climate change and rising sea levels. These are things that effect Monroe County before they get to the rest of the state,” she said. “It’s been a fun ride.

It’s been fantastic working with Rep. (Holly) Raschein. We talked about we’re going out strong this year.”

Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez listens to Michael Crosby of Mote Marine Laboratory during a water policy announcement in Sarasota last year. Pictured next to Nuñez is First Lady Casey DeSantis. CONTRIBUTED

A Touch of Grey and a Ton of Music

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COOL STUFF

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

I

t seems nearly about every American has an opinion about U.S. and Iranian tensions following the Trump Administration’s decision to eliminate Iranian General Qasem Soleimani this past week. And as tensions continue to boil over, so, too, has the rhetoric between America’s liberal and conservative cultures.

For many in the U.S., much of the historical perspective on the former Persian Empire is narrowly based on events stemming from the past two or three presidential terms, yet the historical conflict between the U.S. and Iran (a country with more than 80 million people) dates back to well before the early 1950s.

So before you engage in office politics based on the latest MSNBC vs. Fox News rhetoric, be sure to seek out your own historical perspectives and by all means, don’t be that guy or gal who simply regurgitates party talking points.

Always here to help, we encourage anyone who has little or no understanding of the topic to avoid aggressive debates — and we offer...

SIGNS YOU PROBABLY DON’T UNDERSTAND THE IRANIAN CONFLICT 10. You commonly tell people at parties, “I think Alan Jackson said it best when he said, ‘I’m not a real political man. I watch CNN. But I’m not sure I can tell you the difference between Iraq and Iran.’”

And then you do a mic drop gesture as you open another Coors Light.

6. You believe any and all military action against Iran is justified based on a childhood grudge relating to the Iron Sheik’s illegal use of brass knuckles during a match with Hulk Hogan in the late ‘80s.

9. You commonly get Ali Khamenei confused with a gluten-free ingredient that you aggressively demand servers include in your pizza crust.

4. You would have a better chance at locating a leprechaun riding a unicorn than you would Iran on a map.

8. When asked if you can name any of the seven countries that border Iran —you can’t.

7. You still think Ben Affleck is the root of most diplomatic turmoil between the U.S. and Iran.

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by Parker Posey. On Netflix.

READ | THE JOHN MILTON SERIES BY MARK DAWSON If you like Jack Reacher, you’re going to enjoy John Milton.

Same basic deal: lone exmilitary guy stumbles into situations that require him to kick ass and take names.

Big difference: Milton was an assassin for a secret British group. This is not always helpful. The books are best read in order.

5. Everything you know about Iran comes from the movie “Argo.”

3. You commonly get Iran’s Revolutionary Guard confused with the Imperial Royal Guard in Star Wars.

2. You blame Iraq for the Sept. 11 attacks.

1. You use the term “Arab” to describe everyone from any Middle Eastern country.

WHAT TO DO THIS WEEK

LISTEN | CONAN O’BRIEN NEEDS A FRIEND This podcast from the television host features a who’s who of guests, most but not all from the world of comedy — so you’ll hear from Stephen Colbert but also from Michelle Obama. There are laughs in every episode, but it gets deep in there, too. Wherever you get your podcasts, or at teamcoco.com.

BOOKS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

ROMANCE OF THE YEAR

Is Dr. Liberty based on a specific physician in the Keys?

No, Liberty is probably Leslie and Carly from the NAET clinic I spent many afternoons in! Liberty is a very special name though. One of the lacrosse moms has a daughter named Liberty, and I fell in love with the name. I get a lot of my names this way. Just meeting people randomly. Voila!

A chat with author of novel set in Islamorada

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KAREN NEWFIELD First and foremost a reader, she has reviewed hundreds of books on her blog www. readingandeating. com. And, more recently, this new Keys resident has also begun writing.

perfect way to start the New Year is to devour a swoon-worthy read with a hot chef set in the beautiful Florida Keys. Grab your beach chair, hammock or cozy spot on the couch — this dreamy love story will have you begging for more. Check out my review, as well as some questions I had the chance to ask author Rochelle B. Weinstein about the book!

What do you know now that you wish you’d known at the beginning of your writing/publishing journey?

The writing life is a wild ride. There will be good days and there will be bad.

There’s satisfaction and there’s self-doubt. Rejection is part of the process and what separates success from failure. It’s all about getting back up again. You will never feel more joy and gratitude than touching a reader. The author community is mostly supportive.

Knowing all this in advance will help any aspiring writer.

This Is Not How It Ends

By Rochelle B. Weinstein Charlotte Myers has an unexpected seatmate on her flight back to Kansas City. This pretty, small town schoolteacher is immediately captivated

by Philip’s charm, good looks and irresistible British accent. He is more sophisticated and generous than any man she has ever known and Charlotte is quickly swept off her feet — all the way to Islamorada, in the Florida Keys.

Philip’s frequent business trips leave Charlotte lonely with too much time to contemplate her future. The ring placed firmly on her finger may not represent the life she once dreamed of. As Mother Nature tests the couple’s resilience with a hurricane approaching, a handsome chef at Morada Bay tempts Charlotte’s desires and it is the calm after the storm that slowly tears her apart. Have the tissues ready for this heartbreakingly beautiful story.

Did you spend a lot of time in the Keys? Why Islamorada?

My family and I love the Keys.

It’s not a far drive from our home in Miami, and we treasure the beauty and simplicity. Morada Bay is one of our favorite spots and everything about it in the novel is authentic.

Rochelle B. Weinstein

Was extensive research required to write this book?

I was introduced to NAET therapy because of some pesky late-in-life allergies and quickly became a patient of Carly Rachman, DOM and Leslie Fergang, DC. Through my own personal treatments and curious nature, this mother-daughter duo provided me with a wide breadth of information.

The medical issues in the novel were, unfortunately, based on personal experience with someone I loved and lost.

What can we look forward to next?

My sixth book is with my agent. I’m actually sitting here on pins and needles waiting to hear her assessment. It’s a love story within a love story and nothing is ever what it seems!

Join the fun and meet author Rochelle B. Weinstein at Hooked on Books in Islamorada. She will be presenting her new romance novel set in Islamorada on Monday, Feb. 10 at noon at the book shop located at MM 81. All are welcome and no RSVP is necessary!

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ENVIRONMENT

TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

RESTORATION BLUEPRINT Stakeholders weigh in on Sanctuary proposal NOAA’s Restoration Blueprint was introduced at the Sanctuary Advisory Council’s meeting in August, and the community has been buzzing about it since.

The proposal seeks to balance the need to bring our marine environments back to health while still promoting the economies and industries depending on those resources.

Four alternatives were presented, but constituents were invited to comment upon as much or as little of the proposals as they wanted – whether that be a specific reef, certain regulations, or an entire alternative. Alternative 3, the sanctuary’s preferred plan, would result in major changes in terms of expanded boundaries, additional zoning, tighter regulation and a new management plan.

Keys Weekly spoke with environmentalists and stakeholders in affected industries about NOAA’s Restoration Blueprint.

Here’s what the community has to say:

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

GLIMMER OF HOPE FOR THE RESTORATION BLUEPRINT? Having attended or viewed all of the public meetings held in the Keys since the unveiling of the Restoration Blueprint, and listening to all the public comments, it is safe to say it is unanimous the fisherman in the Florida Keys would like to see the Restoration Blueprint, as written, be rolled up and responsibly sunk to the bottom of the ocean.

The Restoration Blueprint requires a major overhaul. There are many areas and restrictions that simply do not make sense, cannot be enforced and will create overcrowding, user conflict and more habitat destruction than perceived or intended. We can sit back and wait for the Restoration Blueprint plan to disappear, but that is not likely to happen. A better choice is to get involved and stay engaged through public comment.

At the last sanctuary advisory council meeting I heard a glimmer of hope. The sanctuary staff promises a fair and transparent process moving forward. They have admitted to mistakes in the plans and they have begun to speak about dismantling the “alternatives.” A presentation was made regarding major coral restoration plans.

This is a movement in the right direction. The coral restoration project is a proactive plan within the scope of the FKNMS that the community can embrace and support.

In the Restoration Blueprint, the FKNMS was reaching beyond their scope with regulations imposed on fisheries. The fisheries regulations should be determined by the state and federal fisheries management councils and not to be decided by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary or the SAC. Adding mooring buoys to popular anchoring areas will ensure improvement in coral protection and is another positive action that can be embraced and supported by all. It is essential to the preservation of our coral resources, and anyone who enjoys the waters of our Florida Keys will gladly utilize them! Proper mooring buoy placement within the Key Largo management area will eliminate the need for the 132-square-mile proposed no-anchor zone restriction. This vast closure area is nearly equivalent to the size of the 137-square-mile land mass of the entire Florida Keys. The proposed closure would cause increased, devastating pressure on areas just outside of the boundaries, such as Pickles Reef and beyond.

We must not forget the three essential elements in our groundwork toward solutions: • Adequate law enforcement and focus on the water patrols.

• Education programs like the Blue Star program, which should be available to all.

• Water quality, the number 1 impactor on the health of our reefs. Without clean water, nothing will ever improve.

My involvement with the marine sanctuary began back when decisions were being made where to put the yellow balls to mark SPA boundaries. I have been a member of the sanctuary advisory council representing charter/sport fishing for almost 10 years. I have always trusted the process and I have great respect for all the members of the SAC. Just like many Keys residents, my wife and I have enjoyed the beautiful waters of the Florida Keys and all they have to offer since we were kids. Our two daughters were born here and they greatly respect and enjoy our surrounding waters as we do. No doubt my grandson, due to be born in May, will follow the same.

I am 100% committed to conservation and preservation of our land and water resources and will continue doing the right thing to protect them!

Captain Steve Leopold Offshore Charter Fishing Guide

The Restoration Blueprint is available at floridakeys.noaa. gov/blueprint. NOAA is taking public comment on the proposals through Jan. 31, 2020.

Comments may be submitted online at www.regulations. gov (docket number NOAANOS-2019-0094).

Steven Leopold is a long-time offshore charter fishing guide in Islamorada and sanctuary advisory council member.

To review the Weekly’s coverage of the Restoration Blueprint and community opinions about it, visit keysweekly.com/42/ category/sanctuaryblueprint/.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

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MUSIC

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

KIRBY MYERS

Girl crush www.keysweekly.com

THE RETURN AND RISE OF GRACE POTTER

R

emember the scene in “Wayne’s World” when Wayne sees Cassandra on stage for the first time?

Everything fades away and stars float around her body as Gary Wright’s “Dream Weaver” plays in his head? I had the same experience the first time I saw Grace Potter live almost 13 years ago.

No matter what genre of music you prefer, do yourself a favor and go see this woman. Her albums, including the latest, “Daylight” from 2019 (her first in four years), are incredible, but to see her live is a gift. Every hair will stand up on the back of your neck as she wails into the microphone with one of the best voices you’ve ever heard in real life. Long, dirty blonde hair blinds her eyes as she whips her head in a fashion that makes you wonder if she brings a chiropractor on tour.

There’s no denying her music comes from a place deep in her soul. She plays the organ, yes, but that’s an inadequate description. She commands it, sometimes stands on it, and always owns it. Her undeniable natural beauty is surpassed only by her mega-talent, making one wonder what it must feel like to be her, for a moment, on stage.

Potter almost quit music for good. At 19 as a freshman at St. Lawrence University, drummer and now ex-husband Matt Burr saw her at an open-mic night and asked to start a band. They formed the Nocturnals and had independent, followed by mainstream, success.

After a tough time, she and Burr officially divorced in 2017. The band’s descent followed suit, and Potter retreated to gardening, painting, crafting and not touching a piano or guitar for months at a time.

Now 36 and married to her music producer husband Eric Valentine, with whom she has a 2-year-old son, Sagan, Potter has embarked on a journey of self-discovery with a cathartic and deeply personal new album.

If fans were wondering where she has been, she has answered us. Just listen to the lyrics. And please, enjoy the show.

Did you know growing up as a musical child that you were destined for this, or was it after you formed the Nocturnals? I thought I might be an actor, there was a moment I got into filmmaking, but I noticed music always got me out of trouble. I wasn’t necessarily chasing the dream of being a rock star and touring, but exploring a lot of things. I do have to credit my former husband and band member for recognizing that what I did when on stage was the most compelling version of me.

to feel that this is a really wonderful way of paying respect to my perspective.

You’ve had a few collaborations with Kenny Chesney with ‘You and Tequila’ and ‘Wild Child.’ How did you two hook up? Back when I was trying to make money to record my first album, I used to spend summers on Martha’s Vineyard painting houses and I ran into a family friend who was actually Kenny’s publicist and gave her one of my early, rough CDs. She threw it on his boat in a pile of others. He was on a trip floating around the Caribbean, had the CDs on shuffle and heard ‘Apologies.’ He already had ‘You and Tequila’ in the hopper, but was feeling like it was a duet and decided then he wanted me on the song.

Favorite lyric you’ve ever written? “I could never change my heart after being where it’s been”- from “Release”

“Daylight” wasn’t meant to be an album. You were journaling for yourself, and your producer husband was quietly recording you singing in the living room and bathtub. How did the album transpire? I knew if I was going to get into music again it had to be for myself. And really, what he was doing was being an archivist, because if that truly had been some of the last music I ever made, it would be a shame for it never to be captured. It gave me a sense of confidence. Had I been thinking about it going out onto the radio or how it would be received by someone, I wouldn’t have written those words. All of these things flash into my mind and suddenly I’m writing for everyone, from this place of trying to hold a universal thread, and he knew that’s my psychology. So ultimately my emotion was

What would you go back and tell 19year old-Grace? That she doesn’t owe anybody anything.

What would you have 19-year-old Grace tell 36-year-old you? Don’t take things so seriously and that whiskey is awesome.

Piano or guitar? Piano

You are multi-talented, way beyond music. It’s not fair. So tell us about something you wish you were good at, but aren’t? Oh, I’d be a really good acrobat. And better at doing my taxes.

As a mom I have to ask, do you sing Sagan nursery rhymes? Or are you teaching him the classics? Queen! His very first lullaby was “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

And he doesn’t like the quiet part…

You are coming to perform in Key West, so I have to ask, what are you drinking? I’m going to start early and then cut it off. I’m thinking spritzers through midafternoon and then go to the heavier stuff for one mixed cocktail. I don’t really drink liquor any more, but my mom is going to be here and she loves tequila, so maybe a tropical version of a margarita. Then it would behoove me to stop there — if you guys want to see a good concert.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

MUSIC

POTTER PERFORMS ON SUNDAY, JAN. 12, 7 P.M. AT THE SUNSET GREEN EVENT LAWN IN KEY WEST.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

KEY WEST

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

A FEW FINAL WORDS..

KEY WEST LITERARY SEMINAR OFFERS FREE LECTURES BY TOP WRITERS

1

K

ey West Literary Seminar (KWLS) launches nine days of events beginning Thursday, Jan. 9. Programs include the 38th annual seminar, “Reading Between the Lines: Sports and Literature” (Jan. 9-12); the Writers’ Workshop Program (Jan. 13-17); and a series of free public events that bring writers to audiences throughout the community.

“Many people in Key West have heard about the annual seminar,” said KWLS executive director Arlo Haskell of the annual fourday program that has become known as one of the country’s leading literary events. “But because it’s so high-profile and typically sells out a year in advance, people may not realize the amount of free programming that’s available after the seminar itself ends.”

The free series begins on Sunday, Jan. 12, and continues through Wednesday, Jan. 15, featuring Pulitzer Prize winners Buzz Bissinger (“Friday Night Lights”) and Gregory Pardlo (“Digest” ); New York Times bestselling authors Daniel James Brown (“The Boys in the Boat”), Claire Messud (“The Emperor’s Children”), Lauren Groff (“Florida”), and Francine Prose (“Reading Like a Writer” ); New Yorker poetry editor Kevin Young; and other leading American authors.

As in the past, the public is invited to the final session from 2 to 5:15 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 12 at the San Carlos Institute, 516 Duval St., Key West.

2 Presenters on Jan. 12 will include Bissinger, Brown, two-time U.S. poet laureate Billy Collins, National Book Critics Circle Award-winner Leanne Shapton and Kevin Young.

On Monday, Jan. 13, KWLS and Friends of the Key West Library welcome acclaimed poet, translator and sportswriter Rowan Ricardo Phillips to the season opener of the Friends of the Library Lecture Series. The event begins at 6 p.m. at the Tropic Cinema, 416 Eaton St. On Tuesday, Jan. 14, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., KWLS features “Writers on Writing,” an evening of conversation and reading by the faculty of its Writers’ Workshop Program, at the Helmerich Theater in The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. The event includes presentations by former Guggenheim Fellow Lauren Groff, whose novel “Florida” was a finalist for the National Book Award; Luis Alberto Urrea, a member of the Latino Literature Hall of Fame; and a discussion with Collins and Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Pardlo about “A Life in Poetry.”

“Writers on Writing II” begins at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 15 with a conversation between novelist and cultural critic Fernanda Eberstadt, Harvard University creative writing instructor Claire Messud, and Dayton Literary Peace Prize winner Francine Prose; and concludes with a talk about the relationship between Frank Merlo and Tennessee Williams by novelist Christopher Castellani.

3 Additional events include an appearance at Key West High School by Amy Bass, the Emmy Award-winning author of “One Goal: A Coach, a Team, and the Game That Brought a Divided Town Together.”

A complete schedule is at www.kwls. org/2020-free-programs. All listed events are first-come, first-seated and free of charge.

More information is at 305-293-9291 or kwls. org.

— Contributed

1. Author Buzz Bissinger wrote ‘Friday Night Lights’ about the all-encompassing culture of Texas high school football. DOM SAVINI/ Contributed 2. Lauren Groff’s book ‘Florida’ was a National Book Award finalist.

KRISTEN KOZELSKY/Contributed 3. ‘The Boys in the Boat’ bestselling author Daniel James Brown is a featured author at the upcoming Key West Literary Seminar. ROBIN V. BROWN/Contributed

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ON STAGE

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

‘LIFE SUCKS’

George DiBraud, Jessica Miano Kruel, David Black, Susannah Wells, Aaron Duclos, Carolyn Taylor and Karl Stahl star in Aaron Posner’s LIFE SUCKS at the Red Barn. LARRY BLACKBURN/Red Barn Theater

RED BARN REIMAGINES CHEKHOV IN A HILARIOUS PLAY

A

n alcoholic doctor, a lovedeprived bachelor, a pedantic academic, a seductive young woman, a plain, hardworking, loveless girl and a broken-hearted artist.

Any student of classic theater would probably recognize these characters as pure Anton Chekhov, and more specifically, from Chekhov’s definitive “Uncle Vanya.”

And those students would be correct.

However, in the hands of another great modern-day playwright – Philadelphia’s Aaron Posner – the characteres show themselves to be anything but.

Posner, who has delved into re-imaginings of other Chekhov masterpieces in his “No Sisters” (“Three Sisters”), and “Stupid F**king Bird” (“The Seagull”), knows his territory, and knows it well enough to take any sedate Chekhovian trope and turn it into a direct and flat-out funny theatrical moment.

Posner does that in spades in the upcoming production of his “Life Sucks,” which opens Tuesday, Jan. 14 at the Red Barn Theatre in Key West for a four-week run.

Starring a bevy of top Key West talent and directed by Red Barn Artistic Director Joy Hawkins, the play takes Chekhov places he probably never meant to go.

Seriously, there is no way Chekhov would have begun a scene by having a character – the “seductive young woman” – directly address the audience with the line, “How many of you would just … pretty much like to have sex with me?” But Posner does, and it’s indicative of the kind of fun contained in this play.

Posner hasn’t substantially changed Chekhov’s plot from “Uncle Vanya.” As in the original, an aging professor brings his beautiful wife back to his family’s rural estate. She immediately becomes the center of everyone’s attention – including everyone in the audience. (In fact, Posner gives every character a chance to address the audience.)

The professor compounds the situation by sending everyone into a frenzy when he announces his plans to sell the estate, signaling dire implications for all the other characters. At this point, things begin to unravel spectacularly.

The brilliance of Posner’s take on Chekhov’s introspective study of relationships is how he opens it up, energizes it, and, in doing so, gives us a modern view of unfulfilled desires feeding unattainable wishes that ignore obvious blessings right in front of us.

A giggle plays into a laugh that begets a guffaw that leads to an outright explosion of laughter. It’s a great time, with Posner giving his actors plenty of room to show off exquisite timing and pitchperfect delivery of gut-punch lines.

“Life Sucks” stars a dream cast for such a play – David Black, George DiBraud, Aaron Duclos, Jessica Miano Kruel, Karl M. Stahl, Caroline Taylor and Susannah Wells.

Tickets are available at redbarntheatre.com or by calling 305-296-9911.

A reduced-price preview will take place on Monday, Jan. 13, and those with tickets to opening night on Jan. 14 are invited to join cast and crew at the catered party following that evening’s performance.

An “Artists In Conversation” talkback with the cast and director will follow the Saturday, Jan. 18 performance. Audience members are invited to remain to discuss the play.

— Contributed

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI Notice is here by given that on January 20, 2020, 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: Robert Gedman Unit #1558 $830.20 Ann Wade Unit #1187 $601.90 Don Hansen Unit #0008 $658.68 Publish: January 2 & 9, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

UNITED STATE DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA KEY WEST DIVISION “IN ADMIRALTY” CASE NO.: 4:19-CV-10160-KING/ BECERRA In the Matter of the Complaint for Exoneration from or Limitation of Liability by Chris Jennett, as owner of the 1981 41’ Morgan Sailing Yacht bearing Hull Identification No. MRY31024M81I, Petitioner.

NOTICE TO CLAIMANTS OF COMPLAINT FOR EXONERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY Notice is given that the above-named Petitioner has filed a Complaint, pursuant to 46 U.S.C. §30505 et. seq. for exoneration from or limitation of liability for all claims for any damages or injuries, arising out of or occurring as a result of an incident involving the 1981 41’ Morgan Sailing Yacht bearing Hull Identification No. MRY31024M8I on the navigable waters near Islamorada, Florida, on or about April 9, 2019, as more fully described in the Complaint.

All persons having such claims must file their respective claims, as provided in Supplemental Rule F of the Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Claims of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, with the Clerk of this Court at the United States District Courthouse for the Southern District of Florida, 301 Simonton Street, Key West, FL 33040 and must serve a copy thereof on attorneys for Petitioner on or before the 31st day of January, 2020 or be defaulted.

If any claimant desires to contest either the right to Exoneration From or the right to Limitation of Liability he shall file and serve on the attorneys for Petitioner an answer to the complaint on or before the aforesaid date unless his claim has included an answer, so designated, or be defaulted.

DATED this 12th day of December, 2019.

James Lawrence King /s/_J. Lawrence King Clerk of Court Publish: December 19 & 26, 2019, January 2 & 9, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

Supplemental Rule F of the Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Claims of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, with the Clerk of this Court at the United States District Courthouse for the Southern District of Florida, 301 Simonton Street, Key West, FL 33040 and must serve a copy thereof on attorneys for Petitioner on or before the 31st day of January, 2020 or be defaulted.

If any claimant desires to contest either the right to Exoneration From or the right to Limitation of Liability he shall file and serve on the attorneys for Petitioner an answer to the complaint on or before the aforesaid date unless his claim has included an answer, so designated, or be defaulted.

DATED this 17th day of December, 2019.

K. Michael Moore /s/_K. Michael Moore United States Chief District Judge Publish: January 2, 9, 16 & 23, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Wheatons Towing gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell thes¬e vehicles on 1/29/2020, 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.

1HGCD5631TA145502 1996 HONDA Publish: January 2 & 9, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Wheatons Towing gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell thes¬e vehicles on 1/26/2020, 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.

1JCCF87EXFT057517 1985 JEEP Publish: January 2 & 9, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, February 4, 2020, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: BIG COPPITT FIRE STATION #9 BUILDING REPAIRS MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar by Onvia at www. demandstar.com OR www. monroecountybids.com. The Public Record is available at the Monroe County Purchasing Office located in the Gato Building, 1100 Simonton Street, Room 2-213, Key West, Florida.

All responses must be sealed and must be submitted to the Monroe County Purchasing Office.

Publish: January 9, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

UNITED STATE DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA KEY WEST DIVISION “IN ADMIRALTY” CASE NO.: 4:19-CV-10192-KMM IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPLAINT FOR EXONERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY BY GERVASIO FOLGUEIRA, AS OWNER OF THE 2009 MAKO MARINE MOTORBOAT BEARING HULL IDENTIFICATION NO. MRKR0229I809, Petitioner.

NOTICE TO CLAIMANTS OF COMPLAINT FOR EXONERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY Notice is given that the above-named Petitioner has filed a Petition, pursuant to 46 U.S.C. §30505 et. seq. for exoneration from or limitation of liability for all claims for any damages or injuries, arising out of or occurring as a result of an incident involving the 2009 Mako Marine motorboat bearing Hull Identification Number MRKR0229I809 on the navigable waters of Monroe County, Florida, on or about June 27, 2019, as more fully described in the Petition.

All persons having such claims must file their respective claims, as provided in

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of DOMAIN LINKS, located at 5409 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, PMB 337, MARATHON, FL 33050, intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: NATIONAL DOMAINS LLC Publish: January 9, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No.: 19-CP-139-P Division: Upper Keys IN RE: ESTATE OF JAMES TIMOTHY SPENCER, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of James Timothy Spencer, deceased, whose date of death was October 13, 2019, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against 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: January 9, 2020.

Personal Representative:

LEGAL NOTICES Nadia Pakhomoff-Spencer 6 Atlantic Circle Key Largo, Florida 33037 Attorney for Personal Representative: RICHARD E. WARNER Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@ rewarnerlaw.com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: January 9 & 16, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 19-CP-000110-P IN RE: ESTATE OF HELEN OWEN FRYE, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of HELEN OWEN FRYE, deceased, whose date of death was April 9, 2018, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representatives and the personal representatives’ attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. 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: January 2, 2020 Co-Personal Representatives: LORI FRYE PHYFER and JAMES C. FRYE, III Attorney for Co-Personal Representatives: DIANA WATEROUS CENTORINO, ESQ. Florida Bar Number: 611778 Diana Waterous Centorino, P.A. 1230 S.E 4th Avenue Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316 (954) 462-7760 telephone (954) 462-7761 fax Email: DWC@dianawaterous entorino.com Secondary Email: Staff. staff@dianawaterous centorino.com Publish: January 2 & 9, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2019-CP-000089-P

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

IN RE: ESTATE OF VICTOR MANUEL GODOY, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Victor Manuel Godoy, deceased, whose date of death was March 12, 2019, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Plantation Key Courthouse, 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent 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 SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: January 2, 2020 Personal Representative: Julissa Godoy 250 Taylor Drive Key Largo, Florida 33037 Attorney for Personal Representative: Janet J. Ostroff, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 355811 11900 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 720 Miami, FL 33181 Telephone: (305) 895-3404 Fax: (305) 895-4602 E-Mail: jjostroff@jandolaw.com Secondary E-Mail: dbuckridge@jandolaw.com Publish: January 2 & 9, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

Judgment, entered in Civil Case No. 2018-CA-000385-M of the Circuit Court of the 16th Judicial Circuit in and for Monroe County, Florida, wherein JP Morgan Chase Bank, National Association, Plaintiff and David B. Marciniak are defendant(s), I, Clerk of Court, Kevin Madok, CPA, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash AT THE MONROE COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040, AT 11:00 A.M. on January 22, 2020, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to-wit: LOT 11, BLOCK 1, LIDA SUBDIVISION, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 3, PAGE 95, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA. ANY PERSON CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THE SURPLUS FROM THE SALE, IF ANY, OTHER THAN THE PROPERTY OWNER AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MUST FILE A CLAIM WITHIN 60 DAYS AFTER THE SALE. Florida Rules of Judicial Administration Rule 2.540 Notices to Persons With Disabilities If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Cheryl Alfonso, ADA Coordinator, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.

SPANISH: Si usted es una persona discapacitada que necesita alguna adaptación para poder participar de este procedimiento o evento; usted tiene derecho, sin costo alguno a que se le provea cierta ayuda. Favor de comunicarse con Cheryl Alfonso, Coordinadora de A.D.A Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 por lo menos 7 días antes de que tenga que comparecer en corte o inmediatamente después de haber recibido ésta notificación si es que falta menos de 7 días para su comparecencia. Si tiene una discapacidad auditiva ó de habla, llame al 711.

KREYOL: Si ou se yon moun ki kokobé ki bezwen asistans ou aparêy pou ou ka patisipé nan prosedu sa-a, ou gen dwa san ou pa bezwen péyé anyen pou ou jwen on seri de èd. Tanpri kontakté Cheryl Alfonso, Co-ordinator ADA, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652O’mwen 7 jou avan ke ou gen pouou parèt nan tribunal, ou imediatman ke ou resevwa avis sa-a ou si lè ke ou gen pou-ou alé nan tribunal-la mwens ke 7 jou; Si ou pa ka tandé ou palé byen, rélé 711.

WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 26th day of September, 2019.

KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Publish: January 2 & 9, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, Lienholder, vs.

MARIUSZ SURMA Obligor _________________/ TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING TO: Mariusz Surma San Fernando 46, 3 D 03001 Alicante Spain YOU ARE NOTIFIED that a TRUSTEE’S NON-JUDICIAL PROCEEDING to enforce a Lien has been instituted on the following Timeshare Ownership Interest at Windward Pointe Condominium described as: Unit 5812, Week 24, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

The default giving rise to these proceedings is the failure to pay condominium assessments and dues resulting in a Claim of Lien encumbering the Timeshare Ownership Interest as recorded in the Official Records of Monroe County, Florida. The Obligor has the right to object to this Trustee proceeding by serving written objection on the Trustee named below. The Obligor has the right to cure the default and any junior interest holder may redeem its interest, for a minimum period of forty-five (45) days until the Trustee issues the Certificate of Sale. The Lien may be cured by sending certified funds to the Trustee payable to the Lienholder in the amount of $6,435.22, plus interest (calculated by multiplying $2.64 times the number of days that have elapsed since December 18, 2019), plus the costs of this proceeding. Said funds for cure or redemption must be received by the Trustee before the Certificate of Sale is issued.

Nicholas A. Woo, Esq. Valerie N. Edgecombe Brown, Esq. Cynthia David, Esq. Michael E. Carleton, Esq. as Trustee pursuant to Fla. Stat. §721.82 P. O. Box 165028 Columbus, OH 43216-5028 Telephone: 407-404-5266 Telecopier: 614-220-5613 Publish: January 9 & 16, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION Case No: 2018-CA-000385-M JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association Plaintiff, -vs.David B. Marciniak; Lisa A. Marciniak a/k/a Lisa Ann Freeman; Unknown Parties in Possession #1, if living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) who are not known to be dead or alive, whether said Unknown Parties may claim an interest as Spouse, Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, or Other Claimants; Unknown Parties in Possession #2, if living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) who are not known to be dead or alive, whether said Unknown Parties may claim an interest as Spouse, Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, or Other Claimants Defendant(s).

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to order rescheduling foreclosure sale or Final

NONJUDICIAL PROCEEDING TO FORECLOSE CLAIM OF LIEN BY TRUSTEE FILE NO.: 18-001476

NONJUDICIAL PROCEEDING TO FORECLOSE CLAIM OF LIEN BY TRUSTEE FILE NO.: 18-031383 WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, Lienholder, vs.

CONNIE JO BREIG; CHARLES JOSEPH BREIG Obligor _________________/ TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING TO: Connie Jo Breig 8789 Wendy Lane South West Palm Beach, FL 33411 Charles Joseph Breig 8789 Wendy Lane South West Palm Beach, FL 33411 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that a TRUSTEE’S NON-JUDICIAL

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

EMPLOYMENT

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

HOUSING FOR RENT

OFFICE SPACE

PROCEEDING to enforce a Lien has been instituted on the following Timeshare Ownership Interest at Windward Pointe Condominium described as: Unit 5611, Week 16, Annual Windward Pointe Condominium, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

The default giving rise to these proceedings is the failure to pay condominium assessments and dues resulting in a Claim of Lien encumbering the Timeshare Ownership Interest as recorded in the Official Records of Monroe County, Florida. The Obligor has the right to object to this Trustee proceeding by serving written objection on the Trustee named below. The Obligor has the right to cure the default and any junior interest holder may redeem its interest, for a minimum period of forty-five (45) days until the Trustee issues the Certificate of Sale. The Lien may be cured by sending certified funds to the Trustee payable to the Lienholder in the amount of $2,221.99, plus interest (calculated by multiplying $0.00 times the number of days that have elapsed since December 18, 2019), plus the costs of this proceeding. Said funds for cure or redemption must be received by the Trustee before the Certificate of Sale is issued.

Nicholas A. Woo, Esq. Valerie N. Edgecombe Brown, Esq. Cynthia David, Esq. Michael E. Carleton, Esq. as Trustee pursuant to Fla. Stat. §721.82 P. O. Box 165028 Columbus, OH 43216-5028 Telephone: 407-404-5266 Telecopier: 614-220-5613 Publish: January 9 & 16, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

condominium assessments and dues resulting in a Claim of Lien encumbering the Timeshare Ownership Interest as recorded in the Official Records of Monroe County, Florida. The Obligor has the right to object to this Trustee proceeding by serving written objection on the Trustee named below. The Obligor has the right to cure the default and any junior interest holder may redeem its interest, for a minimum period of forty-five (45) days until the Trustee issues the Certificate of Sale. The Lien may be cured by sending certified funds to the Trustee payable to the Lienholder in the amount of $4,103.99, plus interest (calculated by multiplying $0.00 times the number of days that have elapsed since January 2, 2020), plus the costs of this proceeding. Said funds for cure or redemption must be received by the Trustee before the Certificate of Sale is issued.

Nicholas A. Woo, Esq. Valerie N. Edgecombe Brown, Esq. Cynthia David, Esq. Michael E. Carleton, Esq. as Trustee pursuant to Fla. Stat. §721.82 P. O. Box 165028 Columbus, OH 43216-5028 Telephone: 407-404-5266 Telecopier: 614-220-5613 Publish: January 9 & 16, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

the Lienholder in the amount of $2,292.74, plus interest (calculated by multiplying $0.00 times the number of days that have elapsed since December 18, 2019), plus the costs of this proceeding. Said funds for cure or redemption must be received by the Trustee before the Certificate of Sale is issued.

Nicholas A. Woo, Esq. Valerie N. Edgecombe Brown, Esq. Cynthia David, Esq. Michael E. Carleton, Esq. as Trustee pursuant to Fla. Stat. §721.82 P. O. Box 165028 Columbus, OH 43216-5028 Telephone: 407-404-5266 Telecopier: 614-220-5613 Publish: January 9 & 16, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

NOW HIRING: RNs, LPNs, PTs and Aids in the Mid to Upper Keys. Call between 8amNoon 305-446-6120 and ask for Cari - Human Resources.

PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches.

Call 305-743-4578

Small office space available for rent. Great location on U.S. 1 in Tavernier.

Conveniently located to everything. 305-394-0530

Receptionist - Full time position with established Marathon law office.

Negotiable salary and benefits. Opportunity for growth. Email resume and references to stevens@ marathonlaw.com.

No walk-ins will be considered.

HOMES FOR SALE

back yard, homeowners park w/boat ramp/dock, new A/C, W/D, screened in patio. Avail.

February 1st. $2,500/mo.

Best to email: slgrisham@ icloud.com to set up time to see the house or use WhatAp or FaceTime to call: 011.501.614.1234

NONJUDICIAL PROCEEDING TO FORECLOSE CLAIM OF LIEN BY TRUSTEE FILE NO.: 18-031522 SUNSET HARBOR RESORT CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, Lienholder, vs.

ANNA MARIE COLEMAN; ROBERT CLARENCE WEISHEIT Obligor __________________/ TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING TO: Anna Marie Coleman 11 Morgans Run Schuylerville, NY 12871 Robert Clarence Weisheit 11 Morgans Run Schuylerville, NY 12871 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that a TRUSTEE’S NON-JUDICIAL PROCEEDING to enforce a Lien has been instituted on the following Timeshare Ownership Interest at Sunset Harbor Resort Condominium described as: Unit 413, Week 43, Sunset Harbor Resort Condominium Resort, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof as recorded in Official Records Book 1376, Page 1093, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (hereafter the “Declaration”).

The default giving rise to these proceedings is the failure to pay

NONJUDICIAL PROCEEDING TO FORECLOSE CLAIM OF LIEN BY TRUSTEE FILE NO.: 18-032105 WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, Lienholder, vs.

DARIO MORELL; CONCEPCION C MORELL Obligor __________________/ TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING TO: Dario Morell 13405 Southwest 1 Terrace Miami, FL 33184 Concepcion C Morell 13405 Southwest 1 Terrace Miami, FL 33184 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that a TRUSTEE’S NON-JUDICIAL PROCEEDING to enforce a Lien has been instituted on the following Timeshare Ownership Interest at Windward Pointe Condominium described as: Unit 5614, Week 46, Odd Year Biennial Windward Pointe Condominium, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

The default giving rise to these proceedings is the failure to pay condominium assessments and dues resulting in a Claim of Lien encumbering the Timeshare Ownership Interest as recorded in the Official Records of Monroe County, Florida. The Obligor has the right to object to this Trustee proceeding by serving written objection on the Trustee named below. The Obligor has the right to cure the default and any junior interest holder may redeem its interest, for a minimum period of forty-five (45) days until the Trustee issues the Certificate of Sale. The Lien may be cured by sending certified funds to the Trustee payable to

AUTOS WANTED ALL YEARS! Junk or Used. Cars - Vans Trucks- Running or Not. $CASH$ 305-332-0483

BOAT SLIPS FOR RENT Boat Slips for rent in Marathon. Up to 50’ - 20’ wide. Starting at $750. Please call 305-304-3610 Liveaboard Boat Slips available in Marathon.

Protected dockage, parking, bathrooms, laundry on premises, pool. $1,200/month incl. utilities.

305-393-1999

EMPLOYMENT UPPER KEYS MARC is hiring a Program Coordinator Tavernier location.

FT Position requires oversight of program as well as working with clients. A minimum of an associate’s degree or 2 yrs exp with DD clients. MARC, 1401 Seminary St, Key West, FL, 305-294-9526 x318 Come join our family!

EOE Project Manager -Upper Keys. Must have ability to schedule & organize multiple people & trades. and pass background check. Send resume to admin@cbtconstruct. com 305-852-3002 Rock Reef Resort hiring P/T Front Desk Associate. $13.00/hour, vacation & incentive pay. Starting 2030 hrs/week, weekends/ holidays a must, some nights.

Requirements: Computer skills (MS Office) user level; PC Reservations system – will train; Non-smoker; Able to multi task within a “small office” operation; Reliable, trustworthy person w/people skills; Reliable transportation.

97850 Overseas Highway, Key Largo (305) 852-2401

EMPLOYMENT MIDDLE KEYS Construction Company Office Help Wanted in Marathon.

Experience with Quickbooks, payroll, answering phones and customer service, Emailing, permits, Accounts Payable and Receivable , etc. 8-5 and hour lunch. Please fax inquiries to 305-289-9394 and we will contact you to make an appointment!

KCB FSBO east facing 1/2 duplex, 4 bd 3.5 ba, 15,000 lb boat lift, Lg 1st floor patio, lg balcony. New roof, spalling, paint, A/C, appliances. $ 7 7 7 , 0 0 0 .

3 0 2 - 3 8 1 - 0 6 0 1

HELP WANTED IN MARATHON. Personal assistant, computer (MAC) competent, part time, days or evenings. Call 207-483-6146

HOUSING FOR RENT

Keys Fisheries hiring Accounts Receivable.

Excel and accounting background required.

Good compensation and benefits provided.

Send resume to kristin@ keysfisheries.com DFW/EEO

2BR/2BA Large Apt for Rent. 10828 5th Avenue Gulf, Marathon. $1,850/ month plus utilities. F/L/S. Taking applications.

Call (305) 394-4545

Keys Fisheries hiring well qualified Kitchen Manager.

Good compensation and benefits.

Apply within 3502 Gulfview Avenue, Marathon.

EOE/DFWP

2BR/2BA Single Family Waterfront Home for rent in Marathon. Fully furnished. $3,100/month includes utilities. Available for 2 months - Feb. & March.

727-278-1105

Keys Fisheries hiring Night Receiving Manager, night receivers and freezer help. Apply in person at 3390 Gulfview Avenue, Marathon.

EOE/DFWP SWEET SAVANNAH’S is now hiring part-time or full-time positions. Must be available for weekend shifts and have a clean driving record for event deliveries.

Position will be crossed trained for FOH, baking and deliveries.

Other positions available are day-time sales clerk and part-time baker. Please apply in person at 8919 overseas Hwy, Marathon Fl. NO CALLS. We are looking for some Bartenders.

Apply in person at American Legion Post 0154, 4115 Overseas Highway, Marathon Experienced Diesel Technician wanted. Tools and experience is a must.

Electronic engine diagnostic experience preferred.

Opportunity for growth and training available for qualified applicants. Florida Keys Diesel Repair, 531 107th Street, Marathon.

305-289-2070 City of Marathon - Job Openings: Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee , Public Works Maintenance Worker. 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.

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 Experienced help only needed for all positions.

Apply in person Mon-Fri 1011am at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, Knights Key Blvd.

M a r a t h o n

HOBBIES /COLLECT.

MIDDLE KEYS

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT in Marathon: Office/Retail Space, 1500sf w/ additional 2 covered porches incl. Open water views, US-1 frontage, $2700/month. Also small Office Space $500/ month. Wifi & Utilities included. Onsite storage & or yard space available - prices by size. Call 305-743-7277

ROGO LOTS FOR SALE FOR SALE: 2 Marathon ROGO lots with letters.

4 ROGO points. $30,000 Text LOTS to 305-393-2515 and leave name & number.

RV LOTS FOR RENT Large RV Lot for Rent in Marathon. Full hook up. $800/month plus utilities.

305-943-0789

AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN MARATHON: Rooms available for short or long term rentals. Single: $720/month; Double $1,150/month; Plus tax; F/L/S. Units provide an ideal option to temporary or long term housing.

Furnished with bunk beds, full kitchen with all utensils, tables, desks, coin operated washer & dryer. Residents share the kitchen, bathroom and dining areas. Linens, towels ,consumables, not provided. For information: Bob Brayman 305-743-5929 bbrayman@hallsdiving.com 3BR/2BA New Construction Duplex on stilts in Key Colony Beach. Annual lease. Call 786-970-4905 3BR / 2 1/2 BA Townhome in Marathon - Sister’s Creek.

Available Jan. 1, 2020. $2,200 month 618-559-9143

HOUSING FOR RENT UPPER KEYS LONG TERM RENTAL in Plantation Lake Estates, Private community, two story 3BR/3BA unfurn. concrete block home, large carport &

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

FOR SALE 2014 Dusky model 278 with T-top, 2013 Suzuki 300 h.p.

4-stroke outboard, Garmin 741XS GPSmap and VHF radio. Contact Keith Douglass, Boy Scout Sea Base at 305-664-5613

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844

Short Notice Auction Tuesday January14th @ 11AM

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

2171 N Dixie Hwy., Pompano Beach, FL 33060 Truck load of New & Used Equipment just delivered!!

NEW: 2 Dr & 3 Dr S/S Coolers, 100lb Ice Maker, Mug Chiller, 6 Burner Range, Fryers, Sushi Case, Desert Cases, Convection Ovens, 2 Dr Glass Cooler, 48” Refrigerated Equipment Stands PLUS USED: (5) 6 Burner Ranges, 4 DBL Stack Convection Ovens, 20 QT, 30 QT, & 60 QT Mixers, Assorted Coolers & Freezers, 24”-60” Sandwich Prep Tables, Fryers, 24” & 36” Griddles, 24” & 36” Char-Broilers, Back Bars, Keg Coolers, 5x10 & 5x6 Cooler Freezer Combo Walk-In, Work Top Coolers & Freezers, Lg Quantity of China & Small Wares, Bar Stools, Bamboo Tables, Bottle Coolers, Cappuccino Machine, Hobart Buffalo Chopper & MUCH MORE…

www.neverettauctions.com Toby Neverett Auctioneers 561-706-7218 * au872 ab628

MAINTENANCE MECHANIC Salary Range: $48,247. - $73,876.

Location: Lower Keys

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for a Wastewater Maintenance Mechanic to perform specialized maintenance and repair of buildings, grounds, equipment, valves, diesel engines, pumps, treatment units, chemical feed systems, and collection systems at our expanding wastewater treatment facilities. MUST HAVE: high school diploma or GED; AND training in pipefitting, mechanical, pumps and electrical. Must have a valid FL driver’s license and be able to obtain a CDL Class A driver license within 12 months from hire date. Great Benefits! Must complete on-line application found at: http://www.fkaa.com/employment.htm EEO, VPE, ADA

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER 58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL Teaching... Learning...Caring

Dolphin Research Center is Hiring!

Education Program Host Facilities Maintenance Apprentice Media & Marketing Staff School Programs & Outreach Curriculum Specialist Visual Communications Staff Volunteer Resources Administrative Assistant Benefits include medical, life & disability insurance, 401(k) plan, paid vacation, sick time & Holidays Full job descriptions available at www.dolphins.org/career_opportunities

Email cover letter, DRC application & resume to drc-hr@dolphins.org EOE

KEY WEST

Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) Case Manager Crisis Counselor Front Desk Specialist

MARATHON

RNs and LPNs (3 shifts) (PT& FT) (Lead) & Behavioral Health Technicians (3 shifts) Peer Support Specialist Driver CDL (base location flexible) Crisis Counselor Assisted Living Direct Care Worker (PT) Drop In Technician Research Assistant

KEY LARGO

Behavioral Health Therapist Care Coordinator

Background and drug screen req.

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

TEMPORARY WASTEWATER PROJECT SMOKE TESTING Salary Range: $31,742. - $48,601.

Location: Lower Keys

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for a Temporary Wastewater Worker to perform tasks related to gravity sewer collection system smoke testing and repair. You will be provided with the training and knowledge needed to ensure that these tasks are properly and safely carried out. The work area for this position runs from Layton to Key West. MUST HAVE: high school diploma or GED; AND one (1) year as a construction laborer. Must have a valid FL driver’s license. Must complete on-line application found at: http://www.fkaa.com/employment.htm EEO, VPE, ADA

HIDEAWAY CAFE At Rainbow Bend Resort on Grassy Key

IMMEDIATE

HIRING! • Kitchen Help • Dining Room Help Breakfast & Dinner Positions Call for appointment 305-289-1554

PART-TIME & FULL-TIME ASSOCIATES

Florida Keys’ Newest 4 Diamond AAA Resort Is Hiring!

We are looking for part-time & full-time associates that would like to be part of an award-winning team. Many great benefits including employee meal program, resort discounts and more.

Please apply online for our positions: islabellabeachresort.oasisrecruit.com 1 Knight’s Key Blvd (MM 47) Marathon, FL 33050

CoCo’s General Store

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

Must be available on weekends.

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

Sweet Savannah’s Bake Shop

is now hiring for Afternoon & Evening Shifts.

Please Apply In Person 8919 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

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

NOW HIRING NIGHT AUDIT $15/hr • 11pm to 7am • P/T or F/T HOUSEMAN, HOUSEKEEPER & LAUNDRY $13/hr • 9am to 3pm • P/T Please come in and apply in person.

Hampton Inn

13351 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, Fl 33050

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC && LEGAL NOTICES • • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844

NOW HIRING OCEAN KEY RESORT & SPA IS HIRING! Sous Chef Front Desk Agent Bell/Valet Attendant Part-time & Full-time

FL Licensed Massage Therapist Apply online at:

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

Front Desk Agent Reservation Sales Agent Bellman Servers Steward Overnight Prep Cook Line Cooks Houseman Room Attendants Engineering Spa Attendant Spa Coordinator Water Sports

If you have a passion for guest service and hospitality, please apply

careers@bungalowskeylargo.com

Bungalows Key Largo is an EOE

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

NOW HIRING

Marathon, Big Pine Key & Stock Island Locations $15 per hour to start 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.

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS NEEDED!

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

Excellent Benefit Package

Monroe County School District

Apply in person at 1996 Overseas Highway, Marathon or email resume to hr@spottswood.com

Salary $15.80- $23.20/hour

EOE/m/f/d/v

Key West, Sugarloaf and Upper Keys (3 work locations)

JOB OPENINGS

• No Experience Required

GUEST SERVICE AGENT TELEPHONE AGENT NIGHT AUDITOR BELLMAN

• Benefits • CDL Training Provided work as a Bus Aide while training • Full Time or Flexible

Excellent Benefit Package EOE M/F/D/V

Part Time Hours 6 to 9 am or 1 or 2 to 5 pm Apply online: www.keysschools.com

EOE m/f/d/v

SCAN FOR JOB

Please email resume to hr@spottswood.com

ADVERTISEMENT

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

The All Keys Boater’s Alliance hopes that everyone is cognizant of the tremendous (and very costly) effort the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary “Foundation” is making to change public perception of the “Sanctuary Restoration Blueprint”. This extensive and expensive effort was envisioned by Chairman Mao Tse Tung, Founder of the Peoples Republic of China. Chairman Mao is quoted as saying in 1964: “Any Concept, no matter how abhorrent, if kept in front of the people, will soon be tolerated and then embraced.”

Now we see Sanctuary propaganda in our schools, on the radio, national television, and newspapers. Webster’s Dictionary defines “propaganda” as: “Ideas, facts, or allegations spread deliberately to further one’s cause or to damage an opposing cause”.

The Sanctuary propaganda is to point to obvious facts: pollution, coral death, etc. and then fail to address the facts while proposing restrictions on the use of our reef, our fishery resources and use of the back country.

If any of the proposed Sanctuary Restoration restrictions could help stop Florida Bay pollution or slow down the world wide death of tropical and subtropical coral, all of us would gladly work with the Sanctuary. Only Mote Marine and a few others are actually “planting” corals on our reef. In the past month or so, the Sanctuary announced a 95 Million Dollar initiative to repopulate our coral reef. The questions are: 1) why did they wait so long, and 2) is the funding actually available for this new “effort”?

If any of us start believing that the Sanctuary Restoration Blueprint will actually help solve our problems with coral death and pollution, then Chairman Mao was correct, “Soon tolerated and then embraced”.

Do not assume that the overwhelming opposition to further Sanctuary restrictions will deter the Sanctuary from what was decided years ago.

Remember: “The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is the government and (like it or not) they are here to help us.” We cannot wait to criticize until after the regulations are in place.

The All Keys Boaters Alliance has retained “The Southern Group”, one of the largest and most effective lobbying organizations in Florida to set up meetings with Governor DeSantis and members of the Florida Trustees.

In a May 19th, 1997 document between the State of Florida and the Sanctuary titled: “Co-Trustees Agreement for Cooperative Management”, two provisions of that document are of vital importance to us all: Section 4(A) states: The Sanctuary Management Plan applies to both state and federal waters... except those terms [restrictions] certified by the Governor of Florida as unacceptable”; Section 4(E) states: Any Amendments to Sanctuary Regulations require the approval of the Governor on behalf and with the approval of the Florida Trustees in order to be effective in the State’s waters and submerged lands”.

This means Governor DeSantis has the power to stop any future sanctuary restrictions.

All Keys Boaters Alliance need your voices and the financial support of everyone opposing additional restrictions by the Sanctuary. A few people cannot do it alone, but all of us contributing even a small amount can make a big difference. To find out how you can help, contact Rick Gage or Tony Nalli (phone 305-414-1410 or email Allkeysboatersalliance@gmail.com). You can also find All Keys Boater’s Alliance on Facebook.

DAVID PAUL HORAN Member All Keys Boaters Alliance 608 Whitehead Street Key West, FL 3304

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KEY WEST

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

WORDS ABOUT WILLIAMS

POETS, WRITERS INVITED TO CELEBRATE LITERARY ICON

The annual Tennessee Williams Birthday Celebration in March includes poetry and short story contests that are now accepting submissions.

IDA WOODWARD BARRON COLLECTION/Monroe County Public Library

A

s the Tennessee Williams Birthday Celebration nears, Key West Art & Historical Society invites poets and writers to submit original works for the 2020 Poetry and Short Story writing contests, which are components of the annual celebration held each March in honor of the Pulitzer Prize-winning literary icon that moved to Key West in 1949 and remained a resident for 34 years.

All poems and stories must reference “The Women of Tennessee Williams,” which can be loosely interpreted. The

cost is $20 per submission and is limited to one poem and/ or one short story per person.

The first-place winner in each contest will be awarded $200 while the second-place winner will receive $100. Submissions will be accepted through March 8, 2020.

For full contest information, guidelines and a submission link, visit KWAHS.ORG and click on ‘tickets.’

The Tennessee Williams Museum at 513 Truman Ave. is open daily for self-guided tours from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

— Contributed

COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

PAYING IT FORWARD

Dive instructor prepares youths for success with scuba

As part of their training, Michael Midling and Austin Bailey had to learn to care for and use their new scuba equipment. The program is designed to teach life skills and responsibility along with scuba skills. TIFFANY DUONG/ Keys Weekly

Instructor Daniel Blezio stands proudly with his inaugural students in the Neptune Project, Michael Midling, 16, and Austin Bailey, 15. Midling and Bailey are local Keys kids. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly.

TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

D

aniel Blezio uses scuba diving to give local youths a path forward. Through a scholarship by Neptune Scuba Ventures, Blezio’s Key Largo-based company, the master scuba diver trainer provides vocational scuba training, equipment and leadership life skills to local kids.

“I hear people complain a lot about kids these days, saying they are good-for-nothings with no future, but nobody is doing anything about it,” says Blezio. “If something’s wrong, I fix it.”

Blezio is motivated by his past. From the rough Malvin Norte neighborhood in Montevideo, Uruguay, Blezio says, “I grew up in a third-world country, like a war zone.” He credits diving and coming to the U.S. with affording him a better life. “I didn’t have opportunities like this growing up. It would have made all the difference, so I want to help as many people as possible. It’s the right thing to do.”

Blezio’s passion project focuses on dive training and life skills.

The vocational program will allow the kids to work as professional divers anywhere in the world. The leadership and life skills will help them succeed in all aspects of life. “The most important thing I can teach them is accountability; be punctual, work as a team, be responsible for your work and attitude, and know the consequences of your actions,” Blezio says. “I want them to become skillful professionals and good citizens.”

The initial Neptune Project scholarships were fully funded by Kathe Davis, a regular client of Blezio’s. “The entire course, which will run over almost two years and result in dive master certifications for the kids, would usually cost between $5,000 to 6,000,” said Blezio. “The kids pay nothing.” Materials, instruction, full scuba equipment, and dive trips are covered by the scholarship.

The application process is simple: Blezio will meet potential students and their parents, the student will write an essay about how they would benefit from the program, and the student will commit to finishing the entire course. “It’s their first lesson in accountability,” said Blezio.

Blezio hopes to reach kids who don’t come from flourishing households, who have maybe gotten into trouble at school, and who have some sort of obstacle when it comes to getting ahead in life. “We want kids who can’t financially afford a career; we want to give those kids a chance.”

The first two recipients, Michael Midling, 16, and Austin Bailey, 15, began training in August and have since completed their open water and underwater maintenance certifications. This month, they will earn their advanced open water certifications.

Blezio has timed the course to be flexible with the boys’ school schedule and to give them time to practice their new skills. The program could be finished in 60 dives, but Blezio wants his kids to have double or triple that number before graduating. “That way, they have double or triple the experience,” he said. “They’ll be dive masters with so many other specialties under their belts.” The instructor hopes that those additions will enhance his students’ ability to get employment and work underwater because they’ll have a bigger resume than the average candidate.

Midling, a sophomore at Coral Shores High School, applied because he realized the opportunity would provide him with viable employment options if he can’t get a job after high school. “Without this, if I don’t go to college, it’ll be harder for me to get a real good job. So it’s great that this opportunity came up. Now I always have a backup plan.” Never having dived before the program, he is already dreaming of working on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

Bailey echoes his friend. “It’s a lot of money to become a dive master.

I didn’t ever think I’d be able to do this. It’s hard having to learn at school and then come and learn scuba after school, but it’s all worth it in the end,” he said. “I know this will help me for my entire life, so I’m paying attention.”

More information about the Neptune Project is available from Blezio at 786-287-6196 or neptunescubaventures@gmail.com. Blezio will be accepting his next student in June.

Michael Midling and Austin Bailey surface after one of their certification dives. The scholarship recipients are on track to earn their advanced open water certifications this month. DANIEL BLEZIO/Contributed

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 9, 2020