Key West Weekly 20-0521

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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Nothing to see here.

SHAPE UP OR SHIPS OUT? CRUISE SHIP DEBATE HEATS UP | P. 20

EXPENSIVE EMERGENCIES COUNTY PAY POLICY GETS PRICEY | P. 5

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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ISLAMORADA

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

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

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31

The percentage of Florida voters who cast ballots by mail in 2018. That’s 2,585,359, and one percentage point below the number of those who voted in-person early, which was 2,681,708 or 32%.

FOR UPDATES, WATCH THE WEB Events related to the coronavirus are changing rapidly as national, state and local governments make decisions aimed at controlling the spread of the virus. For updated information, please see keysweekly.com.

PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE NEAR FOUNDERS PARK ENTERS DESIGN PHASE Some raise cost concerns; others say project a must for safety JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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pedestrian bridge over U.S. 1 near Founders Park enters the design phase beginning May 22, the Florida Department of Transportation announced last week.

While some are concerned about escalating project costs since initial talks, others believe the pedestrian bridge is a must for public safety.

Founders Park plays host to a number of events each year that bring large crowds and traffic. The Gigantic Nautical Flea Market and Holiday Fest see high attendance numbers, with many cars up and down the Old Highway parking and people crossing safely thanks to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. And near Founders and the location of the pedestrian bridge is Treasure Village Montessori School.

Discussions early on over a pedestrian bridge had costs between $1.7 million and $2.9 million. The cost estimate for the state-funded project stands at $4.68 million today.

Nick Hoffman, FDOT construction senior project manager, said a meeting was held on May 20 to go over details regarding the design phase and a construction start date. No further specifics had come out yet as of presstime.

With costs exponentially higher than before, Councilman Chris Sante is calling for discussion during the meeting of Islamorada Village Council on Thursday, May 21, set for 5:30 p.m., to give the council what he says is “one last shot at turning it down.” Instead of spending what soon could be $5 million-plus for the project, Sante will suggest installation of a pedestrian crosswalk with hash marks to alert drivers.

“Originally when it was a lowmillion-dollar project… I was fine with that,” he said. “But in reality, we’re going to be spending $5 million or more because it’s going to cost more than what they say.

“The bridge will do nothing to speed up traffic,” he continued. “With events like Gigantic Nautical Flea Market, what’s going to happen is what happens every year; there will be a

giant cluster trying to walk across the bridge on the north side of the stairwell. They’re going to say ‘I'm not walking all the way north 200 feet to get on the stairwell to come back.’ They’re not going to use it, they’re going to be crossing the road.”

Last January, it was learned that utility lines near the site of the project were in conflict and needed to be moved. Overhead and underground facilities located on the north edge of the FDOT right-of-way next to Founders were to be relocated. Estimates at that time were anywhere from $250,000 and $300,000 for the overhead work and $700,000 to $800,000 for the underground work.

Since the initial examination of the project, FKEC said it was able to put together a more efficient design for the transmission pole so crews don’t have to move it. With that design change, FKEC estimates the overhead cost to be closer to $150,000 and $200,000.

The cost estimate associated with the underground work hasn’t changed.

Moving costs incurred from the elevated bridge won’t be reimbursed

by FDOT, meaning FKEC shareholders will pay.

For Vice Mayor Ken Davis, public safety is his priority. He says he’s supporting the project for the safety of village residents, the students who attend Treasure Village Montessori and the public at large.

“I don’t believe we are a community that will ignore the safety of our children over aesthetics,” he said. “We are responsible for the children in this village even when they can’t vote.”

Davis added that the $4.68 million allocated for the project will head back to FDOT and could go somewhere else

other than the village if they don’t take it.

With work to install a pedestrian bridge and relocate utilities, the path along the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail will be realigned. The widening of shoulders will also take place, as well as construction of concrete barrier walls, installation of a sidewalk along Old Highway from the pedestrian bridge to Treasure Village Montessori and repaving and restriping the roadway.

In 2016, Monroe County and municipalities submitted a request to the state for a mobile pedestrian bridge for safe crossing during large public events in the Keys. Following the submission of proposed locations for use, detailed discussions took place between Keys representatives and FDOT staff.

Upon consideration over where to store the bridge and costs to place it for each event, FDOT decided to build one permanent pedestrian bridge.

That location was Founders Park in Islamorada.

In October 2017, village council voted to proceed with FDOT’s proposed design for a bridge with elevators and stairs. Costs were around $2 million. In 2018, village council requested approval to FDOT for the design and a slight variation to stamp into the design the village seal on the bridge’s elevator towers. By then, the estimated cost elevated to around $2.5 million.

In January 2020, the project cost estimate was $4.4 million. The project had been expected to start in November 2019, but relocation of utilities delayed it further.

If the project continues and all goes as planned, completion is expect-

MONROE COUNTY

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

EMERGENCY PAY GETS PRICEY County is still paying Irma-related overtime during COVID crisis

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

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ounty officials last month rescinded the disaster-related pay policy that enabled county workers to accrue $1.5 million in overtime pay in the first four weeks of the pandemic.

Lawmakers on May 20 voted to “fix” the costly pay policy, although some employees still working on Hurricane Irma-related tasks continue to receive regular overtime for work beyond 40 hours a week.

The 2017 hurricane and current health crisis, according to payroll records, have cost the county and taxpayers a total of $5.3 million in overtime pay to workers, many of whom are salaried employees who wouldn’t be eligible for overtime under the regular pay policy.

In fact, the county has paid multiple employees some amount of Irma-related overtime in every pay period since September 2017.

As recently as January 2020, the county paid 16 employees a total of $16,598 for Irma-related overtime in one pay period. And in early March, just a week before the pandemic brought the Florida Keys’ economy to a halt, eight county workers were paid a total of $6,379 in Irma-related overtime, according to payroll documents. The highest amount of Irma-related pay understandably occurred immediately following the storm in September 2017, when the emergency pay totaled $1.5 million for a single pay period.

County finance director Tina Boan emphasized to the Board of County Commissioners at their May 20 meeting that the continuing Irma-related overtime has been necessary to ensure the proper paperwork filings for FEMA reimbursement of expenses.

“I have to have the man-hours to get the FEMA payments,” Boan said. “I feel completely justified in every hour of overtime incurred in order for us to be responsive to the state and federal requirements.”

Although accounting procedures in the clerk’s office label the special pay as “Irma overtime” and “COVID overtime,” under the county’s emergency response pay policy, there is no requirement that an employee work more than 40 hours in a week to receive additional pay when the emergency policy is implemented and authorized by the county administrator. The administrator also has the authority to end emergency pay policy when an emergency is determined to be over, county spokeswoman Kristen Livengood told the Keys Weekly.

Editor’s note: The Board of County Commissioners voted Wednesday afternoon to approve a new emergency pay policy. See keysweekly.com for further coverage of the new policy.

The emergency response pay rate is equal to an employee’s usual hourly pay, plus time and a half, which amounts to “double time and a half,” as County Commissioner Craig Cates has repeatedly reminded the community and his fellow commissioners.

In normal circumstances, an hourly worker who makes $20 per hour would get time and a half, or $30 an hour, for every hour worked beyond 40 hours. But under the emergency response pay policy, the same worker earns the base pay of $20 per hour plus time and a half, for a total of $50 an hour for every hour worked on emergency-related tasks, even, Cates said, during a typical eighthour workday..

The emergency response pay policy first came under fire in 2018, when Irma-related payments to county workers totaled more than $3 million. The same policy again drew criticism and outrage last month when the County Commission voted reluctantly to pay the $1.5 million in special COVID pay. In the same four weeks, 61 county workers were furloughed and received four weeks of paid administrative leave rather than the four weeks of emergency pay accrued by their colleagues.

State Attorney Dennis Ward told The Weekly on Tuesday that the county’s emergency pay policy is “on our radar.”

“I don’t know if it’s something a grand jury would investigate, but it is something my office is aware of and is hoping to see resolved,” Ward said.

Officials last month drafted a resolution that enabled workers to decline the extra COVID pay if they desired. County records show that 44 employees decided to decline the additional pay. The refusals total about $53,278 of the $1.5 million overtime total.

The highest overtime amount that was declined by an employee would have gone to the assistant county administrator, who accrued $10,572 in emergency pay in the first four weeks of the pandemic. The same employee received $56,354 in Irma-related emergency pay.

The county’s emergency management director in April told The Weekly she planned to decline the $12,665 accrued in special COVID pay, but records from the county clerk’s office do not show a waiver from that employee.

The same worker also earned $13,344 in Irma-related emergency pay.

County administrators and elected commissioners have repeatedly said the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) and the state will reimburse the county for 87.5% of the emergency response overtime, but as of this week, FEMA has only reimbursed the county for $2.7 million of the $3.8 million for Irma-related work, leaving about $1 million in payroll reimbursement still outstanding.

In examining payroll spreadsheets for Irma and COVID overtime, The Weekly has learned that some employees have earned both Irma- and COVID-related emergency pay in the same pay periods.

For instance, for the two-week pay period ending April 11, 2020, records show that an executive administrator in the finance department was paid for 43 hours of Irma-related emergency pay totaling $2,057. In the same pay period, the same employee also was paid for 118 hours of COVID-related emergency pay totaling $5,683. Records do not show that employee having waived the extra COVID pay.

“The person you are referring to puts together all the documentation requests required by the state to get FEMA reimbursement payments,” Livengood explained. “Without the documents, the state will not release payment. The county has been successful in receiving reimbursement payments because of its dedicated staff. Since March 28 through the end of April, the county has received 18 separate payments totaling more than $2.2 million.”

Similarly, for the same pay period ending April 11, the county’s senior budget director earned $1,056 for 11 hours of Irma-related emergency pay and $10,229 for 106 hours of COVID-related emergency pay.

Commissioners have repeatedly emphasized that the exorbitant pay policy is not the fault of county employees, but have agreed that the overtime payments are not financially sustainable.

County Administrator Roman Gastesi offered to resign last month over the emergency pay policy, but commissioners instead directed him to “fix” the situation.

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MONROE COUNTY

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

BOCC ‘reluctantly’ approves $5M system to keep county operating TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

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onroe County Clerk of Court and Comptroller Kevin Madok came back in front of the Board of County Commissioners virtually on May 20 to explain a very expensive ask at a time the county is reeling from lost tourism income. After extensive back-and-forth, the BOCC ‘reluctantly’ approved his $5 million request in a 4-1 vote.

The system “is essential to the operations of the Clerk’s comptroller functions as well as the BOCC’s OMB and HR functions,” the meeting agenda said.

Madok said the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system handles “all of the back-office functionality that a county and the clerk run to make sure county operations run as efficiently as possible.”

The clerk said the ERP covers “a variety of areas” from budgeting, accounts receivable, cash receipts, grants management, project management, etc. and manages all money the county brings in that needs to be properly accounted for to ensure the county can fulfill purchasing and contractual obligations effectively.

The current system, Finance Plus, is sunsetting because its software vendor will cease to support or maintain the program on Dec. 31, 2021, the agenda said. Systems typically need replacing every 15 to 20 years, Madok said. Migrating to a new system takes a year to a year and a half, which puts the commission against a tight timeline to begin the switch.

Madok noted that Finance Plus, implemented in 2004, is heavily paperbased, lacks adequate management

Clerk of Courts and County Comptroller Kevin Madok explained the need for a costly ERP system update to the BOCC at its virtual May meeting. TIFFANY DUONG/ Keys Weekly

reporting abilities and requires repetitive data entry to maintain other administrative systems used by the BOCC and the Clerk.

Madok presented ERP software Workday as the suggested replacement and requested the ability to begin implementation at the May 20 BOCC meeting.

Madok said that $1.5 million in the clerk’s 2020 excess fees would be used for phase 1 of implementation and that the bulk $3.5 million would appear in his 2021 budget, which will come before the board this summer.

Commissioners and some staff expressed concern at a fixed implementation price when the end package had yet to be decided. Others noted that their departments may opt not to use new Workday modules or could remain paper-based, if needed, to save money. Mayor Heather Carruthers, particularly, wanted to ensure this was a “necessary expense” during the health and financial crisis.

County Administrator Roman Gastesi said, “The clerk recognizes it’s probably the worst time to ask for a big-ticket item,” before presenting a list of potential capital projects to

be deferred to come up with money.

Some of those include: Big Pine Key swimming hole, Rowell’s bathroom, tiny homes, Key West senior nutrition and Higgs Beach Road.

Carruthers, frustrated, said, “So the seniors in Key West won’t get nutrition? How many years ago did we promise them this? And we’re going to defer it again?” The mayor asked whether there were aspects of the system that could be deferred or moved back to avoid sacrificing current projects.

Madok reminded the BOCC that Finance Plus was already on “life support” and that “they’re pulling the plug next year.”

Commissioner Sylvia Murphy noted, “Ok, then, can we wait until next year? We’re getting ready on June 1 to open the county and it could be a disaster. We may need that money for other things.”

Madok said that the long implementation process meant the county was nearing its “go or no-go” deadline.

He said, “The ERP is a central nervous system of the county, so we need some sort of solution. The timeline for it is a year, year and a half. It’s unfortunate, but no one intended to put us in this situation.”

Madok added that without a new system, the county could not function efficiently. He said, “(Non-implementation) would take us backward. I’m trying to avoid a very bad future situation.”

The impasse finally broke when Commissioner David Rice noted that the clerk’s office cannot complete its functions and financial reporting without a software backup, that implementation takes 15 months and that allowing the software to expire without replacement was not a way forward.

“Frankly, we’re between a rock and a hard place,” he said. “I don’t like where we are, but I don’t see a different way. We can’t expect the clerk to go out of business when this expires. I don’t want to spend the money either, but the alternative doesn’t appear to be very responsible either.”

Commissioner Michelle Coldiron requested that Rice’s motion to approve include direction to search for modules to cut to save money, which Rice included.

In a 4-1 vote, all commissioners other than Murphy voted “reluctantly” to approve Madok’s request with the caveat to explore what can be delayed to save money.

Commissioner Rice concluded, “We’re all reluctant, but it’s a one-way street.”

The 55-week project, if completed on time, is scheduled to go live July 1, 2021.

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

Happy birthday Shirlee!

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The whole team wishes you the happiest day and year.

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SEEN AROUND TOWN

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

LOVE FEST

Well wishers salute EMS, LEO parade

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n Monday, a parade of emergency vehicles from Monroe County and Marathon blasted their sirens as they passed a small crowd of properly masked and social-distancing supporters in front of Fishermen’s Community Hospital, including nurses. The mutual appreciation event attracted the attention of passersby who also honked in recognition of everyone’s collective work to combat the spread of COVID19 and care for its sufferers.

— Weekly staff report

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SARA MATTHIS/Keys Weekly 1. Jane Packard receives plenty of attention for her “honk” sign — passing traffic also signaled support for frontline workers.

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2. The event took place on the sidewalk in front of the temporary Fishermen’s Community Hospital.

Exterior walls of the new hospital are already in place.

3. Fishermen’s Community Hospital’s Melissa Richards holds a pineapple cutout — the logo of Baptist Health South Florida — and a heartbeat sign to encourage the Middle Keys’ other frontline personnel including EMTs and law enforcement officers.

4. Look who got haircuts! That’s Marathon Fire Chief John Johnson, right, and Mike Leonard.

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5. Lindsay Rabito-Leonard, right, and friend cheer the parade of passing vehicles.

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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CORONAVIRUS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

GROUP DRAFTS VACATION RENTAL PLAN

Task force forwards suggestions to county legal team

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by executive order in the rest of the state; instead, he sugn March 22, Monroe County took the gested they stay open to serve essential workers.) step of shutting the doors to vacation “Vacation rental homes do not have the same issues rentals, hotels and resorts to contain as hotels. Vacation rentals have private pools. There are the spread of COVID19. The county has no common areas where guests would mingle with other suggested reopening hotels and resorts at 50% guest groups and risk spreading the coronavirus,” Schmitt occupancy come June 1. But what about vacation said. He said the group did discuss how to define occurentals? pancy as it relates to vacation rentals — whether limiting Gov. Ron DeSantis has said that every county the amount of days, or the number of bedrooms that must submit a plan to the state Department of could be utilized or even the number of units. The draft, Business and Professional Regulation. however, makes no mention of occupancy.

“If you tell me you’re going to rent them out The state does suggest limiting face-to-face contact to people from New York City, I’m probably not between vacation rental agents and guests by using going to approve that, OK?” the governor said of mobile and digital platforms for communication and paythe short-term rentals on May 15. “If you’re saying ments and remote check-in and check-out procedures. that you’re going to rent it out to people in other Wendy Zintsmaster of Truman and Co. also served on parts of Florida or something that would be manthe task force. ageable, if there’s ways in there that clearly you “Our plan hasn’t been approved yet, but we are have an eye to safety, then I’m fine.” hoping they give us time to open responsibly,” she said.

The Keys task force has sent a draft proposal “We’re all in this together; there was never a divide beto County officials. The plan suggested that no tween the vacation rental people and the hotel people. renters from areas with a high level of COVID-19 The common theme was let’s just do this safely.” infection — more than 700 cases per 100,000 She said once the readiness or safety plans are in residents — be allowed to rent in Monroe County. place, it will be up to the lodging industry to inform guests Currently that excludes Illinois, Michigan, New “how to live like a local.”

York, New Jersey, Massachucetts, Delaware and “We might have guests coming from places where Maryland. It also suggested a ban on rentals to they don’t wear masks into hardware stores or grocery international travelers, or to residents from areas stores like we do in the Keys,” Zintsmaster said. the governor has deemed a hot spot. Monroe Since the county’s order to close vacation rentals, County’s task force met twice and drafted this agents have been living on pins and needles. Almost all of plan over the weekend. them began accepting short-term reservations beginning One worry was that state officials would June 1, with a side dish of heavy explaining. require vacation rentals to sit empty for days until “We told them we weren’t they could be rented again. exactly sure when the Keys would Lost revenue and disruptMONROE COUNTY TRANSIENT reopen,” said Leslie Christensen of ing weekly rental windows RENTAL FACILITIES TASK FORCE: American Coastal Vacations. in Marathon, for example, • Diane Schmidt of Margaritaville Zintsmaster agreed. “These are were of concern. Instead, Resort absolutely refundable reservations. the draft plan says “extra • Troy Talpas of the Perry Hotel Everyone in the industry has been time must be allowed • Robert Spottswood of Spottvery sensitive and understanding for enhanced cleaning swood Companies and allowing either refunds or anprocedures to take place • Brian Schmitt of Coldwell Banker other set of dates,” she said. between stays …”

• John El-Koury of Coastal Vacation Twenty-five counties (including “We are following the Rentals Monroe) account for almost 90% state’s best practices and it • Eddie Sipple of Postcard Inn of registered vacation rentals in doesn’t mention a specific • Wendy Zintsmaster of Truman & Florida. According to a study contime period for sanitation Company ducted by the University of Central processes,” said Brian • Jodi Weinhofer of The Florida Florida, 11% of visitors to Florida Schmitt of Schmitt ColdKeys and Key West Lodging Asstay in vacation rentals, or about well Banker. sociation 14 million guests. According to the Neither does the state • Jamie Esterline of Bayside Inn study, the 2018 economic impact of mention occupancy rates • Michael Knowles of Doubletree the vacation home rental industry for vacation rentals, similar • Harry Appel of Deer Run B&B represented $16.6 billion in direct to what Monroe County • Yunior Rodriguez of Hawks Cay spending and $10.8 billion in indirect is asking of hotels and • James Bernardin of Pines and spending. resorts — 50%. (The govPalms ernor never closed hotels • Kimmeron Lisle • Mimi Young

11

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CORONAVIRUS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

By Jim McCarthy, Sara Matthis and Mandy Miles

WELCOME BACK

PREPARATION AS FLORIDA REOPENS, KEYS GET READY FOR VISITORS

G

ov. Ron DeSantis characterized Florida’s next reopening step as a “full phase one” during a May 15 press conference in Jacksonville. On May 18, DeSantis announced that restaurants and retail stores could increase capacities, while gyms, libraries and museums received the green light to welcome back the public.

DeSantis’ initial reopening on May 4 was called a “baby step” with restaurants reopening outdoor dining with tables 6 feet apart and dine-in at 25%. Retailers were also able to flip their closed signs, so long as they maintained 25% capacity. On May 18, DeSantis moved restaurants to a 50% dine-in capacity.

“I really appreciate all the folks who own restaurants who’ve been thinking deeply about this,” he said. “A lot stayed open to do takeout, but some didn’t as some are more conducive to dining. I think that’s something a lot of people in the restaurant business were hoping for. I think it can be done safely.”

Retail shops are also getting the green light to move to 50% capacity.

DeSantis said there’s clear guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to ensure everyone is staying safe.

Those wanting to get back to the weights or the treadmill are now able to, as DeSantis gave the go-ahead for gyms and fitness centers to open up at 50%, so

Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks about the next phase in reopening during a Friday press conference in Jacksonville. CONTRIBUTED

long as they follow CDC and OSHA guidelines and people are social distancing and sanitizing machines.

“The CDC was really about to close the gyms. I tried to work instructively, but if you think about it, this is a respiratory virus that tends to attack people with health problems or who are not in good physical condition,” he said. “Don’t we want people to be getting exercise and don’t we want people to stay in shape?

It’s going to actually make them more resistant to severe consequences, so I think this is good and important.”

Libraries were able to go to 50% capacity on May 18, per DeSantis, but that will ultimately be a call for local governments. Museums will also be able to open at 50% capacity.

As for summer camps, DeSantis said, “we need to move forward with that.”

Depriving kids of summer activities would be a mistake, he said.

“It’s high on my agenda,” DeSantis said.

Bars and theaters remain closed under DeSantis’ reopening plan.

MONROE COUNTY PREPARES Less than two weeks remain before checkpoints come down and visitors return to hotels, parks and tourist spots up and down the islands. Officials are reminding the public to protect their health through social distancing and other safeguarding measures.

Leaders throughout the islands convened for a May 18 meeting led by the county emergency management staff and Shannon Weiner, emergency management director. A day before, the county announced that it would be ending the checkpoints on Card Sound Road and MM 112.5 in Key Largo effective June 1.

Mayor Heather Carruthers said during the call that the county continues to coordinate with Miami-Dade and Broward county leaders as those areas begin to open up business to locals. Carruthers acknowledged that the county has been successful in its control of cases, and it’s highly attributable to the checkpoints.

“Clearly, there’s a lot of pressure for things to start moving again as our

CORONAVIRUS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

A dolphin buddy swim at Theater of the Sea in Islamorada. CONTRIBUTED

Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters will have a soft opening for locals on Monday, May 25, before opening to the general public in June. FILE PHOTO

In Key West, the iconic Southernmost Point monument has been uncovered and open for photo ops for the past two weeks. FILE PHOTO

economy is starting to falter,” she said. “We feel like this is the time to do this prudently, but we’ll have a lot of new processes in place for hotels and transient rentals.”

As visitors come back to the islands, Carruthers said the public should “not let down their guard” and maintain protective measures.

Lodging establishments will be able to welcome back guests at 50% capacity, the county said on May 17.

Vacation rentals could open pending the county’s written request to the state and approval. Counties will need to submit their plan to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation secretary for approval.

(See page 10.)

Airport screenings and bus restrictions would also be lifted beginning June 1.

Positive cases stood at 100 as of May 20.

Five new cases were reported to the Florida Health Department last weekend, and Bob Eadie, health officer for Monroe County, attributed the jump to results that came back from tests conducted at Crystal Health & Rehab Center last Friday. Eadie said the tests were conducted on people whose results had been inconclusive when they were tested the first time.

The state’s latest report shows 15 positive residents and six staff members at the long-term care facility.

The health department isn’t tracking active cases currently, but a sign of encouraging news, per Eadie, is that there are no hospitalizations seen at local hospitals in recent weeks. No in-house patients with COVID-19 have been seen at Mariners Hospital in 13 days, hospital officials said on May 18, while Lower Keys Medical Center said it didn’t have anyone in-house or under investigation as of May 18. Hospital officials say they’re ready

should the county experience any surges when a reopening commences.

Antibody testing from the health department is also showing encouraging signs with none deemed positive, besides a reconfirmation of those known to be positive before, Eadie said.

“It seems we have the virus in check in Monroe County,” he said. “Obviously, our concern will be the influx of individuals from outside Monroe County, but we can’t live in a bubble forever.”

Eadie said the message of “protect your own health” is now more important than ever. Social distancing, hand washing and staying home if ill are among the measures Eadie highlighted.

“It’s not just individuals at risk, but the community can be at risk,” Eadie said. “We’re entering a new phase but we’re as prepared as we can be.”

County emergency management staff is slowly transitioning from the Emergency Operations Center back to their respective offices.

for reopening the island safely while preparing for a potential influx of coronavirus cases from out-of-town visitors.

Doctors Bruce Boros, Jack Norris and Mark Whiteside each emphasized during their five-minute presentations the importance of widespread testing, temperature checks and contact tracing to protect people from asymptomatic carriers of the virus.

Key West hoteliers and guest house owners are preparing their properties for what many are calling “the new normal.”

Michael Knowles, general manager of the Doubletree Grand Key Resort, has said, “Preparing for the new normal requires a delicate dance between guest expectations and government guidance to provide a safe environment.”

Meanwhile, Sam Holland, whose family has long owned the Conch House Inn, acknowledged that the entire concept of the bed and breakfast is about to change and Holland is leading the charge “to rebrand the high-touch experience in the era of lowtouch requirements,” said Key West Chamber of Commerce executive director Scott Atwell.

The city of Key West government has amended its emergency orders to align with those of the governor. Businesses are required to have procedures in place for employees to sanitize frequent touch points throughout the day. It also requires temperature screenings and evaluations of employees as well as alcohol-based hand sanitizers for use by customers and employees, the city directive states.

Restaurants must monitor entrances and exits to ensure they do not exceed the 50% occupancy load. Bar seating and self-serve food stations, such as salad bars, remain closed.

RESORTS, TOURIST ATTRACTIONS GEAR UP In Key West, the iconic Southernmost Point monument has been uncovered and open for photo ops for two weeks, while local tour operators, restaurants, museums and other attractions prepare to welcome back visitors. Throughout the city, employees at various businesses have been cleaning, painting and otherwise preparing for a different way of doing things.

At their meeting on May 19, Key West city commissioners heard presentations from three local doctors about their vision

Continued on page 47

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CORONAVIRUS

‘NO RHYME OR REASON’

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

I

t’s taken weeks and gotten her virtually nowhere, but Carol Tedesco isn’t giving up on trying to claim unemployment benefits.

And she’s not alone.

Since the beginning of April, the Key West resident has compiled eight pages of notes (5,000 words) documenting her attempts to receive unemployment benefits. The self-employed gig worker — photographer and publicist — has struggled to complete the forms necessary for what’s called the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits that are part of the federal CARES Act. She’s chronicled system crashes and call center employees who can’t help.

Tedesco said she started taking notes early on and first applied for unemployment on April 8. In Florida, the self-employed first have to be denied for state benefits before they can apply for federal unemployment benefits through the state portal.

So far, she’s received $1,200. In a perfect world, she would have received $5,250.

“It wasn’t long before I realized how dysfunctional it all was. In the beginning, I thought it was a database issue. Now, I’m seeing it as a combination of database issues, incompetence and smokeand-mirror tactics,” Tedesco said.

On April 15, Gov. Ron DeSantis named a new director of the unemployment system, separating its management from the rest of the state Department of Economic Opportunity. At the time, he called the current system “unacceptable” and spent $120 million to fix it, some on hardware but the lion’s share on call center contracts to handle the volume. On May 18, the governor backtracked and said 9 out of 10 applicants who haven’t received benefits have made a mistake on their application.

Gig workers: Unemployment benefits still unpaid SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

Yet, the numbers tell a different story. According to a report by Volusion (a small business consulting firm), Florida has the 4th highest percentage of self-employed workers in the U.S. — 140,508 are self employed. On its dashboard, the state reports that 105,000 PUA claims have been processed and 62,000 PUA claimants have been paid as of May 20.

Tedesco said she knows some self-employed workers who were able to collect one or two payments before the system “reset,” but none who have received everything to which they are legally entitled.

While she received a direct deposit of two $600 payments, the system shows she has two debit cards headed her way (“I have no idea when I’ll get them”) for $125 each. The latest glitch, she said, was that selfemployed applicants had to provide pay stubs “showing taxes.”

“What freelancer gets checks showing taxes? I suspect none do,” she said. “While our pantry is in good shape, we still have to pay our rent and other monthly bills; I’ve paid taxes since I was 15 years old and shouldn’t have to fight tooth and nail for federal benefits that are there, but are being mishandled by the state.”

Jennifer Miller, an unemployed Realtor in the Upper Keys, has had completely the opposite experience.

“When the state advised everyone to reapply, I did. Since then I’ve been receiving state and federal benefits. The only reason I can think why I was successful is because my real estate company is a limited liability corporation (LLC),” Miller said. “But there’s no rhyme or reason.”

Miller went on to say that her daughter, who was employed as a bartender in Tallahassee — a regular employee who has W-2s to show her income — hasn’t been successful in obtaining unemployment benefits.

Oh, but that’s not all. A mysterious $1,000 was also deposited into her account. She suspects it’s a state economic disaster injury loan.

“I never got one email like, ‘Hey, congratulations, you’ve been approved. Really, there’s no explanation,” she said about the program that touted “up to” $10,000 in three days. “It was actually more like $1,000 in three or four weeks.”

As part of the May 18 press conference, DeSantis noted that the state of Florida has paid $2 billion in economic claims — $1.2 billion in federal CARES Act funds and $840 million in state funds. The Tampa Tribune reported that the big number is actually not as impressive as in other states: “Michigan, with a population less than half Florida’s size, has paid out $5.6 billion. California … has paid out $11.1 billion in state benefits, but just $1.2 billion in federal benefits.”

Tedesco said she is starting a new regimen.

“I’m going to keep trying to apply for PUA but I am going to do it a little bit more systematically. Rather than just telling myself ‘I’ll only spend an hour’ and then falling down a rabbit hole, I am going to take action and then wait a few days,” said Tedesco, adding she thinks she’s finally in touch with state employees who can help. “But it can’t be my focus anymore. I’m taking two classes this week — one to learn how to be a Covid-19 contact ‘tracer.’ But there are other people who can’t feed their children. There are so many people being … just … destroyed.”

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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ELECTION 2020

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

State representative candidate Jim Mooney and Lee Young, campaign manager, spend time with Violet Wahba, owner of Key Lime Tree, handing out hot meals last week. CONTRIBUTED

RASCHEIN ENDORSES MOONEY FOR STATE REP.

State Rep. Holly Raschein endorses Islamorada Councilman Jim Mooney, who’s running for state representative. CONTRIBUTED

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

F

lorida State Rep. Holly Raschein knows what it takes to represent the unique 120th district, which comprises the Florida Keys and a portion of southern MiamiDade. She’s served nearly two decades advocating for her constituents, from her time as a legislative aide to when she was elected in 2012. Last week she endorsed longtime resident and current Islamorada councilman Jim Mooney in the race for District 120.

In her endorsement announced May 15, Raschein says she’s confident that Mooney’s knowledge, experience and passion for service will best serve the district.

Raschein added that Mooney is a “tremendous steward of the environment,” community-minded and an overall “good fit in Tallahassee” as an advocate for residents.

“As someone who’s lived down here for many years, he understands

Raschein calls Mooney a “tremendous steward of the environment,” community-minded and an overall “good fit in Tallahassee” as an advocate for residents.

— Florida State Rep. Holly Raschein

what it means to represent an area with such unique challenges we have,” Raschein told the Weekly. “He knows the fabric of the local community and he shares that through his leadership at the local level. Jim has earned my whole-hearted endorsement.”

Raschein has served as representative for District 120 since 2012 and is set to term out at the end of this year.

Mooney, who’s one of three on the Republican side vying for the seat, told

the Weekly that Raschein’s endorsement “means everything.”

“To have her put her trust and faith in me, that alone speaks volumes,” he said. “The fact that she takes it the next step further and understands the efforts I’ve put in the Keys over my lifetime — trying to be a steward of pretty much everything that has to do with South Florida in general — it means a lot to me.”

The Republican candidate told the Weekly when he announced his run in May 2019 that he heard from a number of residents and leaders who thought he should pursue the seat.

He's lived in the Keys his entire life and has been a school teacher, coach and small business owner.

Serving on the Islamorada dais for a number of years, and serving twice as mayor — notably during and after Hurricane Irma — Mooney said he thought long and hard about running for the state seat.

Mooney said he’s continuing to get out in the community, but in a different way in the current pandemic as a volunteer at meal and food distributions throughout the Keys. Mooney said he had a decision to make: knock on doors in a time of crisis to campaign and secure petition signatures or give a helping hand where it’s needed.

“I think I made the right decision in helping people in a time of need,” he said. “The job situation is dire.”

Mooney is also working alongside the other four village council members as a slow reopening continues.

Mooney says he’s not running for office to get his “name on the door in Tallahassee.” More, he says he’s doing it for the love of the state as a fifthgeneration Floridian and a resident of the Keys since he was young.

“I’m a guy who just cares. I love the Florida Keys,” he said.

Mooney said there are plenty of challenges to tackle, from the Everglades to saltwater intrusion.

“I will have no problem leaning on Holly’s expertise to help me through some difficult, mind boggling situations. I’m sure it gets very convoluted quickly. I’m just going to get up there, if elected, and do what I can do and learn from those who she helped teach,” he said.

Mooney is joined in the race on the Republican side by Key Largo resident Rhonda Rebman Lopez and attorney Alexandria Suarez. On the Democratic side, Key West’s Clint Barras is vying for the seat.

19

20

KEY WEST NEWS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

SHAPE UP OR SHIPS OUT? Key West’s cruise ship debate heats up

N

o cruise ships have visited Key West since March, when the effects of the global pandemic reached the United States and, more specifically, the Florida Keys.

The ensuing period of business shutdowns and safer-at-home directives led some people in the Southernmost City to form the Key West Committee for Safer Cleaner Ships, with a goal to reduce the size and number of ships that are allowed to visit Key West annually.

The issue is a divisive one, pitting business owners and employees who depend on cruise passengers’ spending for their income and livelihoods against others who view the behemoth ships as environmental dangers and economic detractors.

The Committee for Safer Cleaner Ships, led by Evan Haskell and Jolly Benson, in recent months launched a petition drive to obtain the required 1,600 signatures to place a voter referendum, or question, on the August ballot to change the city charter to limit cruise ships. The deadline for signatures is June 1.

The campaign includes three separate petitions that must be signed in person in the committee’s headquarters at 720 B Caroline St. Fewer, smaller, cleaner ships The petitions summarize the committee’s three primary goals: Limit the number of cruise passengers who can disembark in Key West to 1,500 per day; prohibit ships with a capacity greater than 1,300 passengers from docking in Key West; and give priority to cruise lines with the best environmental and health records.

The website for Safer Cleaner Ships details a case study of the cruise ship industry and concludes that “cruise ships are a risk to public health; cruise ships threaten the environment and cruise ships put our economy in jeopardy.”

The study, which is labeled a “paid political advertisement by the Committee for Safer Cleaner Ships,” concludes that cruise ships contribute $91,000 per year to the city government coffers, a figure that is disputed by many who support a rational approach to continuing cruise ship visits.

In explanation of the conclusions, the committee states, “Centers for Disease Control (CDC) found cruise ship-linked cases of COVID-19 accounted for 17% of all known cases in the U.S. during February and March. Twelve percent of all COVID-19 cases in Australia came from a single cruise ship, Carnival’s Ruby Princess. Key West now allows more than 390 cruise ships every year, over 10,000 passengers and crew per day, and more than 1.2 million annually,” the website states.

With regard to the environment, the committee states, “Cruise ships are 1% of global shipping, but generate 25% of all waste. Cruise ships create silt clouds around our reef that threaten the survival of juvenile corals. Carnival Cruise Line was fined $40

million and put on probation in 2016 for dumping plastics and oily discharges. They violated probation by falsifying records and were fined an additional $20 million in 2019. More than 130 Carnival ships docked in Key West last year, carrying over 450,000 people.”

As for the economic jeopardy, the committee states, “More than 50% of Americans say they will avoid crowded destinations until the COVID-19 threat is resolved. ‘More’ cruise ships are no longer ‘better’ in Key West. One cruise ship-imported infection can destroy an entire tourist season for Key West, and permanently damage our safe tourism brand.

“Cruise ship passengers make up 50% of all tourists in Key West but only 8% of all tourist spending.

Cruise ship passengers spend an average of only $32 in Key West vs. $550 by all other tourists. It takes 17 cruise ship passengers to match the spending of one non-cruise tourist.”

The solution, according to the committee, is fewer, safer and cleaner ships.

“We must balance the limited benefits of cruise ships against larger health, environmental, and economic interests of Key West. The new policy reduces both the capacity of ships and the maximum number of disembarking visitors by approximately 50% per year. These safer, cleaner, smaller ships attract higher-spending customers and have less impact on the marine environment.”

Business owners weigh in “I truly believe there is still a fighting chance for diplomacy and compromise,” said George Fernandez, who owns the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory on upper Duval Street with business partner Sam Trophia, as well as a gift shop and art gallery in The Shops at Mallory Square, in the downtown epicenter of cruise ship passenger foot traffic.

Fernandez recently presented to the Key West Chamber of Commerce some issues he feels must be addressed “or we are heading in for a serious legal war.”

He also emphasized an eagerness to compromise and to “work together to bring a better quality of life to our Key West community.”

“Over the years we have seen firsthand the crucial impact the cruise industry plays in the economy of the lower Duval Street business community,” Fernandez said. “Between 73% and as much as 95% of our business at this location is specifically cruise ship-driven.

“The cruise ship industry will provide substantial revenue to the City of Key West of over $6 million for their 2020-21 budget fiscal year, according to the Key West Port Authority budget summary,” Fernandez said.

“After every hurricane, the return of the cruise ships has proven to be the first source of revenue to help the trickle-down effect for the struggling community,” he said, adding, “The 2005 Cruise Ship Impact Study showed that passengers spent $28.4 million, crew members $13.1 million, and cruise ship

purchases totaled $14 million for a grand total of more than $55.6 million during their annual visits.”

Fernandez recommends the city consider a “feasible three- to five-year, long-term plan that would include a gradual limitation in the number of port calls and passengers.”

“Increasing the number of cruise ship visits/passenger counts has shown that it does not directly equate to a linear economic response,” Fernandez wrote.

That long-term plan could include blackout periods during peak tourism events when no ships would be permitted to visit Key West.

Fernandez also recommends increasing the minimum length of stay for the cruise ships and gradually increasing the disembarkation fees paid by the cruise lines to the city on a per-passenger basis.

“Many passengers on average are only able to spend 3.1 hours on their shore visit, while research showed that an ideal ninehour ship visit would increase passenger purchases by 50%.

Finally, Fernandez suggests “tighter controls to ensure best management practices are put forward. We must hold all cruise ships accountable as necessary for

KEY WEST NEWS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

water quality and their environmental impact by periodically evaluating management actions and validating quantitative models used to closely monitor and fine those culpable with punitive monetary repercussions to be paid to the City of Key West, and suspend their future port visitation status for a period of time.”

Business owner Ed Swift, whose company, Historic Tours of America, operates the Conch Tour Train, Old Town Trolley and several downtown attractions, called the timing of the petition drive “inconsiderate at a time when people are losing their jobs and businesses.”

Swift also questions the legality of some of the committee’s proposals as well as the full economic impact of cruise ship limitations.

“I would hope before they put this on a ballot, someone would check the proposal for legality,” Swift said, adding that the cruise ship passengers’ impact is largely limited to a fourblock radius in the downtown area.

“But I will say I believe Key West may be in a better position now to negotiate better agreements with the cruise lines given the decreased desirability of Mexico and the closure of Cuba,” Swift added. “But eliminating the ships entirely seems very short-sighted.”

Scott Saunders’ business, Fury Water Adventures, also depends on cruise ship passengers to

fill his snorkel boats and other water excursions.

Saunders declined to comment specifically on the issue at this time, saying he first needs to “better understand the options that are available to us. I think this is just one piece of a larger conversation about what we want our island to be for visitors and residents.”

Elected officials weigh in Key West city commissioners are fully aware of the emerging cruise ship debate, but not all were prepared this week to comment on the issue.

“I’ve easily gotten more emails and calls about this topic than any other subject since I was elected,” Commissioner Mary Lou Hoover told The Weekly on May 20. “A lot of the emails I’ve gotten are from workers in downtown businesses that depend on cruise ships for their income.”

Hoover observed that Key West’s Duval Street is actually three separate economic zones, for upper, middle and lower Duval, each with individual needs and priorities.

“I’m excited by the fact that we can reimagine tourism,” she said, but said now is not the time to be limiting any sort of revenues coming into the city or its private businesses.

“There are a lot of other things we’re going to have to deal with in the wake of this pandemic — suicide, substance abuse and physical abuse — and I don’t believe that taking people’s livelihoods away should be one of them.”

“Any changes would have to occur over a lengthy period of time to allow business owners to adjust their business plans,” Hoover said.

Commissioner Jimmy Weekley agreed with a gradual implementation of any changes to the city’s cruise ship policies.

“This discussion is long overdue and one we need to have,” Weekley said. “I’ve only heard a few people say, ‘Let’s get rid of cruise ships completely.’ But any changes made need to be done gradually. Perhaps we should, in fact, be marketing to the smaller, more upscale cruise ships, but we need to fully understand the economic impacts of any decisions.”

Weekley said, ”To my knowledge, the city has no control over what ships dock at the privately owned Pier B, which is owned by the Margaritaville Key West Resort & Marina.”

Pier B is the only one of the city’s three cruise ship docks that is privately owned. The U.S. Navy owns the Outer Mole and works with the city to share revenue. The city owns the Mallory Square mooring.

“But there’s nothing to stop us from negotiating with the owners of Pier B to see what sort of agreements we can negotiate,” Weekley said.

Mayor Teri Johnston declined to discuss her position on the issue, as it will come before voters.

“Our job is to educate our voting public on both sides of the issue,” Johnston said. “Just like channel widening, the height referendum and every other referendum that has come in front of us as elected officials, we are not allowed to take a side because we represent both sides of the issue, so we are educators.”

Johnston said she is sitting down with both sides of the issue and trying to gather as much data as possible and to understand both sides of the issue.

“Our role is to provide facts so the public can make their own voting decision on this issue,” she said.

The Norwegian Sun cruise ship docks in Key West in 2015. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

The Key West Committee for Safer Cleaner Ships is collecting signatures for petitions to limit the size and number of cruise ships visiting Key West at an office on Caroline Street. MANDY MILES/ Keys Weekly

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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24

CORONAVIRUS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

LAWSUIT ASKS JUDGE TO LIFT ‘UNCONSTITUTIONAL’ CHECKPOINT

CHECKPOINT FACES LEGAL CHALLENGE

T

he checkpoint that since March 27 has limited access to the Florida Keys is facing a legal challenge of its constitutionality and the authority of county officials to establish and maintain it.

Homestead attorney Angelo Martin and Key West attorney Alan Fowler filed a lawsuit on May 14 on behalf of Key West residents and business owners Jessica and Jonathan Haim and Jonathan’s mother, Bettina Haim, who lives in Seminole County, Florida.

Days later, Monroe County officials announced a plan to end the checkpoint and reopen the Keys to visitors on June 1.

On May 19, Circuit Judge Timothy Koenig held a scheduling conference at the Key West courthouse and gave the Monroe County defendants 20 days to respond to the lawsuit.

Koenig set an evidentiary hearing for June 9, eight days after the county has agreed to end the checkpoint.

“In light of the recent actions of defendant Monroe County taken under the guise of emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which included closing ... the Florida Keys, to other American citizens,” the lawsuit states, “plaintiffs’ rights have been deprived without due process and hereby challenge the authority of such action by the county as being without statutory or constitutional authority to enact a law to establish a checkpoint that prevents selected citizens from entering the Florida Keys.”

Jessica Haim and attorney Martin spoke with The Weekly on May 15, when Haim acknowledged the public backlash she’s received from a vocal group of concerned residents.

Sheriff’s deputies staff the checkpoint on U.S. 1 in late March. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

“I was raised in Key West since I was 3,” she said. “I think a lot of the pushback is because people are scared. They think we’re being greedy and are not considering the health and protection of Monroe County residents, but that’s not true. We’re not horrible people. So many people are so quick to judge, but there are thousands of people down here who are losing absolutely everything, and they don’t have the means or the voice to fight this.”

Haim and her husband own five retail shops in Key West, and while she hesitated to name them for fear of retail retaliation, she said, “They are 80% high-end, brandname items and 20% tourist-related items.”

Haim, who created the Facebook group Restoring Paradise Safely for people to voice opinions without fear of harassment, added that she is nearly nine months into a highrisk pregnancy.

“I know I’m vulnerable and I’m able to take serious actions to protect myself,” she said. “But I also know people who can’t provide basic necessities for their families.

Their savings is gone; their credit cards are completely maxed and they’re waiting in food distribution lines for hours.

“There has to be some middle ground,” she said. “My biggest issue is that people cannot continue with this indefinite timeline.”

Martin expresses the same sentiment in the 53-page lawsuit that names as defendants Monroe County, the Board of County Commissioners, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Rick Ramsay, County Mayor Heather Carruthers and Emergency Management Director Shannon Weiner.

“The elected and appointed officials simply do not have carte blanche authority to infringe the constitutional rights of others, because those officials have declared an emergency,” the lawsuit states. “The enactment and enforcement of the emergency directives by the defendants have caused plaintiffs to suffer incalculable emotional and financial losses.”

The Haims are not seeking any financial damages in the lawsuit, Jessica Haim emphasized.

“We are only focused on our ability to earn our own living down here, and allow others to do the same in a smart and safe manner,” she said.

When asked what, if anything, gives county officials the authority to limit access to the Keys following a hurricane or evacuation, Martin said, “that’s comparing apples to oranges, and I don’t want to speculate about hypotheticals.”

The lawsuit asks Koenig for an emergency injunction that would end the checkpoint, but, Martin said, the judge has the option either to rule on the case as filed, or to hear oral arguments. Koenig declined to rule on the case on an emergency basis, but said he would expedite the proceedings.

The county’s usual policy is not to comment on pending litigation, and County Administrator Roman Gastesi declined to comment. Carruthers and Weiner did not respond to requests for comment. County Commissioners Michelle Coldiron and Craig Cates declined to comment.

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CORONAVIRUS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

CONGRESSWOMAN’S VISIT HIGHLIGHTS CORONAVIRUS CHALLENGES MUCARSEL-POWELL TALKS REOPENING, CRYSTAL HEALTH, FINANCIAL STRUGGLES JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

K

eys fishermen who’ve been out of work for two months still wait for response on their loan and unemployment applications, while families wait to hear the test results on their loved ones who live inside an Upper Keys longterm care facility.

The topics were among conversations U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell conducted with constituents during a visit to Islamorada throughout the morning and early afternoon of May 19. In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic and in anticipation of a Keys reopening, Mucarsel-Powell held a series of discussions to gather concerns while outlining federal response plans geared to support the public through the Heroes Act, which passed the House last week. It awaits consideration in the Senate, but it’s unknown if or when that chamber will take up the bill.

Debbie Mucarsel-Powell speaks with Islamorada Mayor Mike Forster and Leah Stockton, area president of the United Way of Collier and the Keys, at Founders Park on May 19. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell listens to family members whose loved ones reside at Crystal Health & Rehab Center during a sit-down inside the Roth Building in Islamorada on May 19.

Fishermen speak to Debbie Mucarsel-Powell on the challenges they’re facing, during a socially-distant roundtable at the Roth Building on May 19.

Among those financially hurting from the pandemic are many Keys fishermen. For the fishing industry nationwide, few dollars were seen in the initial round of relief through the CARES Act — $300 million.

On May 7, Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross said those funds, of which a little over $23 million was awarded to Florida, will be disbursed.

The second round of funding through the Heroes Act proposes an additional $100 million for commercial and charter fishermen.

“I asked for more,” Mucarsel-Powell told the small group of fishermen in the room.

Local fishermen continue to wait for response to unemployment and loan applications. Mucarsel-Powell said the Heroes Act

does include improvements to the Payroll Protection Program loan forgiveness. Under the Heroes Act, the program, which aims to provide loans to businesses hurt by the pandemic, would extend the amount of time borrowers can use to spend the loans, from June 30 to Dec. 31, 2020. Small businesses affected by coronavirus-related issues between Feb. 15 and June 30 can apply.

Florida Keys Fishing Guides Association Commodore Steve Friedman said the key word in all of it is “loans.” He said guides already have lots of loans and “we don’t need any more debt.” Mucarsel-Powell said that loans from PPP are forgivable.

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

As for the state’s shaky unemployment system, MurcarselPowell said the money’s there but “they’re not disbursing it.”

“I’ve been putting pressure on the governor. He is the leader right now,” she said. “We are providing our staff to help out and see if there’s anything (the state) needs, and there’s been no communication.”

Following a conversation with fishermen, Mucarsel-Powell welcomed a few families to speak about the ongoing issues they’re facing over test results of their loved ones who live at the Crystal Health & Rehab Center on Plantation Key. So far, 15 residents and six staff at the long-term care facility have tested positive for COVID-19. But not all results are back yet, after some were found inconclusive when the state first tested residents earlier in the month.

Residents and their families waited more than a week for response.

Among those awaiting results is Jennifer Baker, mother of 30-year-old Brittany, who resides at the facility. Jennifer told Mucarsel-Powell that Brittany’s been at the facility for seven years following a car accident.

Jennifer said she was told that her daughter’s results were inconclusive as they were “damaged.”

She said the communication at the outset from the administration at the facility has been “honestly disgusting,” while testing has been a “joke.”

“I’ve gotten the administrator on the phone one time,” Baker said.

Mucarsel-Powell called the situation “totally unacceptable,” and following the conversation, she went to Crystal Health & Rehab Center to speak with the executive director, Ruth Robinson. Coming out of the facility, Mucarsel-Powell said she was assured by the director that they were going to provide the necessary communication to families.

Speaking on the Heroes Act, Mucarsel-Powell said it codifies the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines requiring any nursing facility to communicate with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention within 72 hours when they have positive cases in senior living facilities. It also requires that facilities communicate with families within 24 hours.

“Those guidelines exist; what we did in the House is to make sure we enacted guidelines into law,” she said.

Emerald Health, which runs Crystal Health & Rehab Center, said last week that a hotline was set up for families to call for updated information. That number is 305-363-0252.

As the noon hour hit, the congresswoman made her way to Founders Park where a food distribution event was held in collaboration with Feeding South Florida, Monroe County, Ocean Reef Community Foundation and United Way of Collier and the Keys.

After handing out a few hot meals to locals, she held a press conference to discuss a reopening of the Keys that will happen in less than two weeks.

While Monroe County is a piece of paradise, Mucarsel-Powell said, visitors need to keep in mind that the area is vulnerable, with limited hospital capacity.

“We welcome you (visitors) to come and visit us because our livelihood depends on tourism. Please take into account it’s a vulnerable community where everyone (here) has stepped up, taking these decisions seriously to protect each other, and we need to do the same as we come down the Keys to visit,” she said.

Joining the press conference was Dr. Jack Norris, chief of staff at Lower Keys Medical Center. Norris said the county checkpoint and strict social distancing protected health care workers in the Keys. He credits the many locals throughout the islands for the sacrifice they made.

Norris said health care professionals will be monitoring the situation as the Keys reopen to visitors, and they will inform leadership if a surge is seen.

“We want this open, but we want everyone safe,” he said. “We don’t want a day where limited resources cause deaths beyond that the disease would have taken away. We are Keys strong and we are Keys healthy.”

CORONAVIRUS

27

28

HEALTH

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

“Once you're addicted to an exercise high, nothing else will do.”

— Ralph Lucignano, the owner of Keys Fitness in Marathon.

Keys Fitness in Marathon reopened Monday with some new machines.

RALPH LUCIGNANO/Contributed

GET YOUR SWEAT ON

Gyms reopen cautiously as antsy clients rejoice TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

“F

itness freaks” and those craving some familiarity in their daily routines are rejoicing as Keys facilities are reopening with new safety measures in place.

May 18 was the official first day that gyms and fitness centers were able to reopen.

“Once you're addicted to an exercise high, nothing else will do,” said Ralph Lucignano, the owner of Keys Fitness in Marathon.

Lucignano used the forced closure during the last few months to revamp his gym, which has served the community for 30 years.

“I bought some new equipment,” Lucignano said. “I used the time to spruce up the place, expand the areas. We’re all ready to go.” He added, “Everyone is happy we're back in action.”

Under Gov. Ron DeSantis’ order, capacity is limited to 50 percent, and facilities must follow CDC and OSHA guidelines which include social distancing and extra sanitization.

Calvin Paquette, the owner of Body Zone in Key West, also noted that many of his clients were eager to get back to the gym. “Working out is part of a routine and how people maintain health over the years,” he said. “When you take that away, it throws people off.”

Body Zone reopened Monday, with taped-off machines to keep patrons 6 feet apart. Paquette also asks members to wear masks com-

ing into and out of the gym, especially when talking to staff or walking around. He has asked people to take extra precautions to clean machines before and after use, and is closing the gym 1.5 hours earlier each night for a deep clean.

In the few days since reopening, Paquette has noticed a shift in gym use. Pre-coronavirus, it was packed around 5:30 p.m., after people got out of work. Now, with people getting used to new routines, working from home, and not having daycare, he’s seeing 3 p.m. as his peak hour and just a few

Kate Hornik uses the battleropes outdoors at BTW in Tavernier. CHRIS MERRELL/Contributed

trickling in after 4:30 p.m, he said.

Chris Merrell, owner of boutique fitness center Beyond Traditional Wellness (BTW) in Islamorada, has adapted the structure of his group classes for safety. Instead of rotating stations with different gear, clients bring their own mat and weights to ensure there’s no cross-contamination, and Merrell adapts the workouts to be effective using just those tools. He also is opting, for now, to hold all group classes outdoors, with markers for clients the required 6 feet apart.

“I will see when I feel comfortable bringing people inside,” Merrell said.

“For now, I can accommodate eight people outside, and am looking into offering more group classes.”

Merrell continues to offer byappointment-only personal training, which allows him to further limit capacity inside and thoroughly clean after each client.

“The ‘new norm’ for me might mean I’m busier than before because people might feel more comfortable here than going to a traditional gym,” he added.

“It was an interesting time to be closed when gyms are such an important thing for people’s bodies to stay healthy,” said Liz Kuck, owner of Keys Strength and Conditioning in Marathon.

Her gym reopened Monday, with limited capacity classes and floor markings indicating where people should work out in group classes and remain socially distant. She also increased sanitization to “bring people’s awareness to it.”

“We didn’t change the schedule, just the number of people who can come to classes,” she said. “We’re just trying to go back to our old schedule.”

Mariners Wellness Center took a slower approach, with a phased reopening that began Wednesday. Over the next three weeks, members on annual, 6-month, and 3-month memberships will be reintroduced weekly.

Capacity will be limited to 25 members at a time, with 1-hour time limits for workouts, a member email said.

Members must bring and wear face masks upon entering the facility and in common areas. Showers will not be available, and members will have mandatory temperature checks and screenings.

Everyone agreed that having gyms and fitness options available is a much-needed step toward community health.

Merrell said, “Exercise is probably the most natural de-stresser available, so even now when you can’t go to work or cash a paycheck, it feels good knowing you took care of yourself, that you were still productive and used your day’s worth of energy.”

Lucignano concluded, “I've been here 40 years, and the gym 30 years.

We're not going anywhere. It’s a sunny day and the roof isn't leaking, so it’s not bad.”

Body Zone in Key West opened up Monday with additional sanitization methods in place.

CALVIN PAQUETTE/Contributed

29

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

#PASCALSWAY

SPREADS THROUGHOUT KEYS

T

1

SERVICE DAY HONORS YOUNG VICTIM

2

3

4

he internet on May 13 was flooded with positivity and goodness as people took to the streets to do random acts of kindness in memory of Pascal Weisberger. Weisberger, 14, a student at Treasure Village Montessori Charter School, passed away from a violent tragedy on May 7.

As the community grappled with how to honor his legacy, TVM Principal Kelly Mangel announced May 13 as the first annual Pascal Weisberger Day of Service.

Clean up the shoreline, donate blood, write a letter to an elderly neighbor or rake their leaves, Mangel urged her students and the community. Do things that Pascal did to make the world better, and get creative and do more, to honor his memory, she said.

People up and down the Keys answered her call, with acts of service reported from Key West all the way to Ocean Reef.

“I was overwhelmed with emotions at the response to our first day of service,” Mangel told the Weekly.

“It was amazing how our community rallied together to show support for Pascal.”

Mangel donated blood at the

TVM-organized blood drive and did a local cleanup with her daughters. Weisberger’s classmates brought food to first responders, volunteered at animal shelters and cleaned up some of his favorite spots. His fellow Boy Scouts from Troops 912 and 914 cleaned up local shorelines and wrote chalk reminders to “Be Kind! #PascalsWay.” Even the dolphins and crocodiles at Theatre of the Sea took part, holding up signs urging kindness.

“I knew he was an inspiring soul, but it wasn’t until I saw so much good happening in celebration of him that I truly realized the scope of his influence,” Mangel said.

“Pascal would be so proud, honored and, I am sure, humbled by the response.

The day of service will repeat annually on Weisberger’s birthday, Feb. 2.

Visit pascalsway.org for a longer-term way to connect and do kind acts in Weisberger’s memory.

Mangel concluded, “I don’t think I will ever stop mourning him, but now at least I can say that I have also found ways to celebrate him.”

1. Down in Key West, Reef Relief and Honest Eco did a clean up in Pascal Weisberger’s honor. Weisberger traveled to Key West to speak to the city commissioners about the harms of plastic pollution. Fixing our marine debris problem was one of his passions.

DORA DEMARIA/Contributed

3. Katharine Wheatley’s daughter Ali honored Weisberger by donating blood and giving time to the Upper Keys Humane Society, one of Weisberger’s favorite charities. “We’ve made a promise to try to do good every day, not just today,” Wheatley said.

Ali did tae kwon do with Weisberger.

KATHARINE WHEATLEY/Contributed

2. Treasure Village Montessori principal Kelly Mangel, who kick-started the day of service in Pascal Weisberger’s honor, participated in a cleanup with her daughters and then gave blood in tribute. KELLY MANGEL/Contributed

4. Several scouts and parents from BSA Troop 912, Pascal Weisberger and Ari Poholek’s home troop, went out a day early to start doing things in tribute to their friend. SUE WOLTANSKI/ Contributed

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020 PAID ADVERTISEMENT

BULL SHIP

On May 7, 2020, Mayor Johnston and the Key West City Commission received “Case Study on Limiting Cruise Ships in Key West” from the Key West Committee for Safer, Cleaner Ships. Why would a group of our neighbors want to amend the City Charter limiting what historically is the first major influx of tourists after a natural disaster in Key West? Fortunately, it isn’t necessary to delve into the timing of this Matter: The Case Study’s own words are its own worst enemy, and we will comment on each: “Executive Summary: Cruise ships are uniquely prone to the spread of infectious disease, as recent reports from U.S. Centers for Disease Control, Miami Herald, Washington Post, and Wall Street Journal make clear.

The destructive environmental impacts of cruise ships on air and water quality are well-established. A return to previous cruiseship size and disembarkation numbers in Key West would resume its negative impacts on the local environment and pose a serious risk to the health, safety, and economy of its citizens. Overcrowding from cruise ships would threaten the recovery of Key West’s $1 billion tourist industry, 92% of which is generated by multi-day tourists. Cruise ships account for 50% of visitors to the island, but contribute just 8% of tourism revenues.

Cruise ships present Key West with a highrisk/low-reward proposition that must be urgently addressed.”

1) Airports are al so uniquely prone to the spread of infectious disease; as are sporting events (football, anyone?), concerts, movie theaters, and even the U. S. Navy. The USS “Roosevelt” and USS “Kidd” are recent examples.

2) Cruise Ships do not “threaten the recovery of Key West’s $1 billion tourist industry”; historically cruise ships are the first major influx of tourists to return after a disaster. See “Back from the Brink: Air and cruise lines lead drive to revive Bahamas after Dorian disaster” (South Florida Sun Sentinel, 12/28/19) for one such example.

3) 92% for multi-day tourists vs. 8% for cruise? The Case Study counted one cruise passenger as equal to one multiday tourist: A multi-day tourist has to pay for hotel/accommodations, meals, drinks, excursions, entertainment, etc. (think about the room rates in Key West). Later in the Case Study, it cites “…the average Key West visitor spends $550 during their stay, while cruise ship passengers spend only $32.10 each.” A ticket to the Butterfly Conservatory or Fury is much more than $32 ($50 & $69, respectively) and the same is true for the restaurants, bars, and retail shops frequented by cruise ship passengers.

Historic Tours alone reported last year that of the $3.3 Million in ticket sales they received from cruise ship passengers; they paid 5% to The City of Key West.

This is in addition to $5.1 Million from their Mallory Square operations, of which 10% is paid to The City of Key West. Think of the jobs lost from this one Employer alone…

Executive Summary aside, the Case Study is chock-full of other misinformation and absence of facts. For the sake of brevity, this writer will just pick up on just a few:

“Marine Policy reports that “cruise ships represent less than 1% of the global merchant fleet yet … are responsible for 25% of all waste generated by merchant vessels.”

“Global Merchant Fleet?” So I guess the Case Study lumped-in cruise ships with oil tankers, tugboats, container ships, grain haulers, Ro-Ro vessels, etc.,? Comparing the Disney Wonder cruise ship to a Maersk Triple-E Class container ship with 18,000 containers and 12 crew is like comparing apples to wombats. Speaking of The Environment, Friends of the Earth generated a “Cruise Ship Report Card”: It clearly shows that in many cases, larger, newer ships are more environmentally-friendly. Reason: Newer ships have to adhere to stricter environmental regulations. Examples include the following:

33 71

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020 PAID ADVERTISEMENT

SUMMING IT UP

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A

Spirit

Carnival

3054

B+

Wonder

Disney

3754

A

Breeze

Carnival

5076

B

“Cruise ships are not a significant contributor to the City’s budget. Key West has the lowest dockage rates among comparable ports in Florida and the Caribbean. Half of all the fees paid by cruise ships in Key West go to private contractors. After accounting for expenses, the City earns only $91,000 per year.”

“Accounting for expenses…?” Is the Case Study talking about the portion of the fees that help pay for Police, Fire Fighters, Public Works personnel, City Government, and other City employees? What of the Service Industry employees that would lose their jobs – or what the Case Study calls “private contractors” Does the Key West Committee for Safer, Cleaner Ships propose that those people be added to the Unemployment statistics?

WHATEVER HAPPENED TO “ONE HUMAN FAMILY”?

Larger ships are often frequented by low-tomiddle income passengers. Will our position now be that we will turn away certain income groups from visiting Key West? There are words for that, the nicest being “Elitist”.

INTERSTATE COMMERCE & LAWSUITS Cruise Ships are part of and are protected under Interstate Commerce. The U. S. Navy has already indicated that if The City departs the Outer Mole prior to the Lease ending in 2024, they will seek roughly $2 Million from The City (The Citizen, 4/30/20). The Navy will certainly re-bid the Outer Mole, and in the meantime, The City will lose the Powerboat Races. Remember when The City lost a $10 Million Case in the Duck Boat debacle. The City cannot afford any onslaught of lawsuits from businesses, even if COVID-19 hadn’t happened.

BUDGETS & THE WEATHER Unfortunately, COVID-19 did happen, and now we face a Hurricane Season that is much worse than an average Season. According to Accuweather: “Based on the newest forecasting models, AccuWeather forecasters have extended the upper range of hurricanes predicted for the Atlantic hurricane season.

The hurricane team is now predicting 14 to 20 tropical storms, with additions also to the number of storms that become hurricanes: seven to 11 this season (5/7/20)”.

PEOPLE IN NEED Currently, the Star of the Seas Foundation has increased food banks from 15 tons of food/ week to 45 tons/week. 30.3 Million Americans filed for Unemployment between March 15th and April 30th (CNN 4/30/20). There is a worldwide uptick in domestic abuse, drug & alcohol abuse, suicide hotline calls, undiagnosed preventable diseases, and depression. “Compassion”, not “Social Engineering” should be the focus of our beautiful Community.

34

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

Dr. George vonHilsheimer, M.D.

How Often Should You Get A Skin Exam?

ILLAR'S A CATERLPIN S LONE AETSION AND ISOALRDED IS REW INGS. WITH W

Dermatologists recommend that you schedule a skin exam once every year. This yearly exam enables your dermatologist to thoroughly check your body for the presence of any suspicious spots. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S., but annual exams can help detect it at its earliest and most treatable stages. This allows your dermatologist to find and remove precancerous lesions before they develop into skin cance This is especially true if you have one or more of the cancer. following risk factors: blonde or red hair, light eye color, skin that freckles or sunburns easily, family history of melanoma, tanning bed use, or if you have more than 50 moles.

After your first exam, the results of subsequent exams will also be compared to the one before it to look for any changes.

Your dermatologist may also make a note of a suspicious spot so it can be monitored over time. Photos may be taken so this skin exam can be compared with the next one. Your doctor may also want to take a small tissue sample of the lesion (a biopsy) to send to a lab for testing.

www.KeysDermatology.com Keys_Dermatology https://www.facebook.com/KeysDermatology/

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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GIVING

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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V

olunteers place fresh produce into the back of a truck at a food distribution on May 19. Several organizations from South Florida and the Keys joined forces for the event at Founders Park in Islamorada. Dozens of volunteers gathered to hand out produce boxes, gallons of milk and hot meals to the hundreds of cars that drove up. Teaming up were Feeding South Florida, Monroe County, Ocean Reef Community Foundation, United Way of Collier and the Keys and Mangrove Mike’s Endeavors. “We remain committed to helping in the community, the most basic needs like food. The most critical need there is, we are committed to helping,” said Leah Stockton, area president of United Way of Collier and the Keys. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

BANNERS HUNG TO RECOGNIZE SENIORS

Forty-five banners recognizing the Coral Shores High School Class of 2020 were recently installed on poles on U.S.1 from Tavernier to Islamorada. The idea originated from a Facebook post by Kimberly Gray, and thanks to local businesses like All Things Graphic in Key Largo, the banners were designed and printed. Each banner showcases four seniors, with two on each side. They were hung by the Florida Keys Electric Cooperative on May 13. The banners appear from just beyond Tavernier Creek Bridge on Plantation Key to Mangrove Mike’s Cafe. Owner Mike Forster’s nonprofit Mangrove Mike’s Endeavors paid for the banners. Pictured front are Kimberly Gray, left, and Anna Richards. Pictured back are Florida Keys Electric Cooperative employees who donated their time to install the banners. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

FINANCIAL EDUCATION PAYS OFF Keys students take first, third in regionals

Verity Pond and Ashley Pond, both from Somerset Island Prep in Key West, placed first and third respectively in the regional finals of the Financial Fitness Tournament by Keys Federal Credit Union and the League of Southeastern Credit Unions.

Keys Federal Credit Union organized and sponsored the local qualifying rounds, but due to Covid-19 the format at the state and regional level had to be reconfigured. All nine Keys winners from the three area tournaments were invited to compete, solo, in a regional online event against students from Florida, Georgia and Alabama.

Verity and Ashley were both part of an original team whose tournament entry was sponsored by the Keys Weekly Newspapers. In addition to the $500 they each won for being the Lower Keys Champions, Verity wins an additional $1,000 and Ashley, an additional, $300.

Keys Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial institution open to everyone who lives or works in the Florida Keys. More information is at 305-294-6622, KeysFCU.org or the branches in Key West, Big Pine or Marathon.

— Contributed

Verity Pond won first place in the regional finals of the Financial Fitness Tournament.

CONTRIBUTED

Ashley Pond won third place in the regional finals of the Financial Fitness Tournament. CONTRIBUTED

37

History and Discovery Center takes museum online

A

s a part of the Keys History & Discovery Center’s ongoing efforts to provide access to the museum during the COVID-19 pandemic, it has made available online the content contained in its permanent exhibit monitors. Each week will feature the content from a different museum exhibit kiosk, which is accessible at www.keysdiscovery.com/exhibits.

The first week’s content will focus on Legends of the Line, which details the history of fishing in the Upper Keys, from 1915 through the 1960s.

Following weeks will include: Week of May 25: Stories of the Upper Keys: Communities of Key Largo.

Week of June 1: Stories of the Upper Keys: Plantation Key through Long Key. Week of June 8: Stories of the Upper Keys: The Hurricane Edition.

The online access is another method by which the Discovery Center staff is providing access to the museum and offering lessons specific to Upper Keys history and ecology, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Other virtual programming includes: Aquarium biologist Blake Terry goes live on Facebook, Mondays at 1 p.m., looking at Coral Reef Exploration exhibit in partnership with Mote Marine Laboratory.

Museum virtual visits occur live on Facebook on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m., with Discovery Center curator Brad Bertelli, who provides a specific lesson from the museum’s permanent exhibits.

Field Trip Fridays, live on Facebook at 10 a.m., is when Bertelli visits a different historic site in the Upper Keys and provides a brief history lesson.

All livestream and program recordings are available on-demand on the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center YouTube channel, which houses the center’s digital media offerings.

In addition to Facebook and YouTube, Keys History & Discovery Center can be found on Instagram @ flkeyshistorydiscovery and Twitter @ keyshistory.

More information is at 305-9222237 or info@keysdiscovery.com.

38

COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

BRIEFLY Two testing days set for Key West Community Health of South Florida Inc. (CHI) will offer free, walk-up COVID-19 testing, by appointment, on Saturday, May 30 and Saturday, June 6 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Frederick Douglass Community Center Gym in Key West. To qualify, patients must be a resident of Monroe County and have ID, and make an appointment by calling ahead to 305-252-4820 or emailing KeysCovid19@chisouthfl.org.

CHI’s COVID-19 testing continues to be free for those who meet the testing criteria: They have recently traveled to any of the high-risk countries or have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19. In addition, they might be experiencing the following symptoms: fever, cough or shortness of breath.

CHI also offers drive-through testing on Saturdays in Marathon at its facility from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Again, to qualify, patients must be a resident of Monroe County and have ID, and make an appointment by calling ahead to 305-252-4820 or emailing KeysCovid19@chisouthfl.org.

CHI has pledged to care for the people of Key West as it continues to lay the groundwork for a new health center located in Key West’s Bahama Village.

NHC director to address Keys conference The nation’s top hurricane warning official, Ken Graham, is slated to kick off the Florida Keys’ annual Hurricane Preparedness Workshop for the Tourism Industry, set to begin at 1 p.m.

Thursday, May 28.

Unlike past conferences, the 2020 gathering is to take place virtually because of COVID-19.

Graham, who is entering his third year as director of the National Hurricane Center, will highlight several of the agency’s new programs and tools that are being introduced in 2020.

Among them are a graphical depiction of storm surge inundation values as well as 60-hour track, intensity, and 34knot and 50-knot wind radii forecast information.

Other presenters include Jon Rizzo, warning coordination meteorologist for the Florida Keys National Weather Service Office; Shannon Weiner, Monroe County’s emergency management director, who is detailing new post-storm re-entry procedures and sheltering in place amid coronavirus pandemic concern; and Andy Newman, who is to introduce a new TDC accommodations web portal designed to provide lodging information to first

responders and recovery workers following a storm impact.

The final presenter is Summer D. DeBastiani, who will focus on stress and other psychological issues when people are faced with major crises such as hurricanes or COVID-19, or both together.

A former Islamorada resident, DeBastiani is director of project management services for West Virginia University’s state university partnership with the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources. She also is an adjunct assistant professor in WVU’s school of public health.

DeBastiani’s dissertation research focused on understanding social factors that contribute to suicide in Monroe County. The results of her research helped Monroe County obtain community grants to increase mental health providers.

There is no cost to register for the online conference, but there is limited capacity. To request a GoToMeeting invitation, send an email to floridakeys@ newmanpr.com.

Virtual plant clinics continue in the Keys Staying consistent with social distancing and following the CDC guidelines, UF/IFAS, Monroe County Extension Service is offering free online plant clinics to address residents’ plant, insect and gardening questions. The Saturday plant clinics will be held on the second Saturday of every month from 10 to 11 a.m. via Zoom. Join the Zoom meeting at zoom.us; click “join a meeting,” and enter this meeting ID: 154 161 568.

The extension service can be reached by phone and/or email: mastergardener@monroecounty-fl. gov or 305-292-4501. Please include a detailed description of the problem.

Photos are very useful.

FKEC opens lobbies; please visit only if necessary Florida Keys Electric Cooperative reopened its Tavernier and Marathon office lobbies to the public on May 18. The co-op has asked members to visit only if “absolutely necessary” and encourages members to conduct FKEC business online at www.fkec.com or by phone at 305-852-2431.

Look for signs outlining the rules to follow inside the lobby: mask, sanitation and social distancing. For now, the Tavernier office will have a maximum occupancy of three members, and the smaller lobby in Marathon will allow two.

BRAYDON BRABENEC SIXTH GRADE

The Keys Weekly is proud to partner with Marathon Middle School faculty and students in choosing “The Student of the Week.” Recipients are chosen on qualifications including academic standing, athletics, outstanding achievements, community involvement, individuality and moral fortitude. We thank our future leaders and MMHS for allowing us to share in a weekly dose of “Fin Pride” and for giving us a glimpse into their world.

What is something most people don’t know about you? I used to live in upstate New York and I started playing ice hockey when I was 3 years old.

Who is your all-time favorite teacher and why? I can’t say just one. All my teachers this year have been amazing in helping me in sixth grade, especially now with all this craziness. Thank you, Mrs. Dorl, Mrs. Coleman, Mrs. Sokolosky, Mr. Hare and Mrs. Hayes. Oh, and also Ms. Dennington too, from 3rd grade!

What does “a good education” mean to you? A good education means that I am learning something new every day that I did not know before.

What organizations and activities are you involved with at MMHS and why are they important to you? I am not yet involved in too many organizations with the school.

I do play for the Marathon Youth Football Team, Marathon Youth Basketball and Southernmost Hockey Club in Key West.

What are your plans after high school? I plan on going to college to continue my education.

What do you hope to be remembered for at MMHS? I want people to remember me for being funny and always trying to make people laugh and smile.

What is one favorite way to spend your spare time? I like to play sports, play with my friends on Xbox, spend time with my family and play with my dog, Rhett.

Will you make the Keys your permanent home? I am not sure; I still have a long time to decide that, but I do love it here.

What three things would you like to accomplish before your 10-year reunion? I would like to have graduated college, start my career and find someone special.

39

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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The City of Marathon, located in Monroe County is seeking a City Attorney to serve as the chief legal advisor to elected and appointed officials, City boards, and employees in the scope of their official duties. The City Attorney is appointed by a majority vote of the full Council and serves at the pleasure of the Council. The City is creating an in-house legal department, responsible for all management aspects of the legal department such as hiring a paralegal.

The City Attorney position requires being present at City Hall a minimum of 40 hours per week (in office) plus attendance at other meetings to provide legal services in addition to attending City Council and other board meetings and be available at all times for advice and counsel.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, EXPERIENCE: • Must have a Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.

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42

COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

BRIEFLY

NEW BOSS @ WESLEY HOUSE

Says Keys job is ‘dream come true’

Aleida Jacobo. CONTRIBUTED

SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

H

er first day on the job was March 9.

On March 11, the spread of coronavirus was declared a pandemic. Aleida Jacobo had already signed on for a challenging job, made infinitely more demanding by the current situation.

“Coming into this crisis, I had heard how the Keys community pulls together, but now I have seen it in action,” said Jacobo, who has spent her career in South Florida. “But this is a dream come true for me. I am living two blocks away from my childhood vacation home in Key Largo.”

Jacobo comes to Wesley House after 30 years of experience in exactly this field. Although she started her career as a tax attorney (a graduate of University of Miami), she quickly switched her focus to child welfare and began as a part-time attorney for Guardian Ad Litem.

Then she moved to the state Department of Children and Families as an attorney, and then supervising attorney overseeing the prosecution of child abuse cases. Most recently, she was the chief operating officer for the Center for Family and Child Enrichment in Miami Gardens. That organization serves troubled or abused children and their families.

Jacobo said when the position of chief executive officer came available at Wesley House, it was time to stretch her wings.

“I was ready for the next chapter,” she said.

Jacobo and her partner, as well as her brother with special needs, have settled in Key Largo.

Wesley House is the Keys nonprofit that handles important community functions — case management for foster children and adoptions (24 adoptions this year!), prevention services to stabilize at-risk families, a health program for new and expecting moms, and the Inez Martin child care center in Key West. The Wesley House team hasn’t missed a step since the pandemic was declared.

“We have been open and providing services and didn’t even shut down for a day. All employees are working and we continue to offer child care for frontline workers at Inez Martin,” she said.

On the other hand, her normal getting-toknow-the-community goals have been severely hampered by the coronavirus shut down.

“Except the checkpoint. I’ve met a lot of people at the checkpoint,” she said, laughing.

Jacobo said she entered the child welfare arena after an experience working pro-bono for Guardian Ad Litem. “I was representing a child who had been sexually abused by her uncle. The mom was incarcerated, and the girl had no one to speak for her. A caseworker told me I had a knack for this and encouraged me to pursue this line of work,” Jacobo said.

Jacobo said one of her main objectives is to increase the profile of Wesley House, and its programs, in the Middle and Upper Keys. She also wishes to strengthen the organization’s ties with partner agencies in the Keys, and find solutions to the shortage of family services she has noted in the Keys.

“Wesley House should be visible to the entire community so that they know we are here for them,” Jacobo said.

Virtual Memorial Day ceremony set for May 25 The 2020 Memorial Day Ceremony at the Islamorada Hurricane Monument at MM 81.5 will go virtual on May 25 at 9 a.m.

The ceremony will include an introductory presentation and invocation by Pastor Bob Pavey of the Matecumbe United Methodist Church.

There will also be a presentation of colors and a message

by Islamorada Village Mayor Mike Forster.

There will also be presentations by the American Legion Post 145 and the Daughters of the American Revolution and placement of the Memorial wreath sponsored by Centennial Bank.

The National Anthem and “God Bless the USA” will be sung by country western recording artist Dan Furmanik. A special presentation and benediction will be done by Pastor Emeritus Tony Hammon of Island Community Church.

Viewing of the pre-recorded ceremony will be available beginning at 9 a.m. online via Matecumbe Historical Trust Facebook, on YouTube as “Islamorada Memorial Day Service 2020 by Matecumbe Historical Trust” and on the official village of Islamorada website.

The Matecumbe Historical Trust invites all to observe the “National Moment of Remembrance,” a minute of silence at 3 p.m. observed by people everywhere, as established by the government in December 2000.

More information is available from Barbara Edgar at 305-393-0940.

43

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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Michael and Blair Nealis said, “Whether you’re a local or just passing through, we can help guide you on your journey to optimal health. We often wait until we’re sick to make healthy lifestyle changes. Food for Thought helps customers take a proactive approach to your overall wellness.”

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44

HISTORY

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

THE BUM FARTO FILES:

TOO MANY CHIEFS 3 1 2

4

DAVID SLOAN is a Key West storyteller, publisher and producer.

Key West Fire Chief Joseph “Bum” Farto disappeared on Feb. 16, 1976, while awaiting sentencing for a drug trafficking conviction stemming from Operation Conch – a sting operation that found Farto allegedly selling cocaine from the city’s fire station. Bum became the Jimmy Hoffa of Key West, and the island has swirled with rumors of his fate since he disappeared. David Sloan and Quincy Perkins have launched an unparalleled investigation into Chief Farto’s life, legends and disappearance in an attempt to find the truth. Each week they will share elements of their research here in the Keys Weekly while working to solve one of the greatest mysteries in the history of Key West. Share your Bum Farto tips and stories at www.findbumfarto.com.

T

here was only one “El Jefe” born in Key West, and his name was Joseph “Bum” Farto.

But in December 1955, another “El Jefe” stirred things up in the island city when he arrived to garner support for a planned takeover of the Batista regime in Cuba. His name was Fidel Castro, and he came to Key West to paint the town red.

Bum Farto saw this as a call to action.

Key West is closer to Cuba than it is to a Walmart. That’s the easiest way to tell visitors about Key West’s unique location, but it tells an incomplete story.

The people of Cuba shaped the island of Key West. Yet, today’s marketed Cuban culture is reduced to cigars, pressed sandwiches and strong coffee, sweeping the significant political impacts, social contributions and struggles of Key West’s Cuban people under the rug.

Key West provided a well-worn trail for hopeful Cuban leaders. Jose Marti

5 1. Fidel Castro, in dark suit, and Dr. Julio dePoo, in wheelchair, at The Key West Kennel Club on Stock Island on Dec. 7, 1955. KEY WEST LIBRARY ARCHIVES, WRIGHT LANGLEY COLLECTION/Contributed 2. With the new threat from communist Cuba, HAWK missiles replaced sunbathers on Key West beaches in 1962. 3. A January 1956 passenger list supports a local source’s claim that Key West bail bondsman Ismael ‘Terry Lee’ Garcia tracked down Fidel Castro in the mountains of Cuba to collect on a surety bond. 4&5 : Headlines from a 1960 Fort Lauderdale News issue.

campaigned on the island in 1892. Police officer Bienvenido Perez was seriously injured leading a motorcade for Fulgencio Batista in 1938. Fidel Castro sought to walk in the steps of Marti in 1955, but Castro’s trip did not go as planned. By the time he arrived, Officer Bienvenido Perez was Police Chief Bienvenido Perez.

Perez and Batista became fast friends after the motorcycle accident, and Castro was not welcome in Perez’s Key West.

Castro supporters attempted to set up speaking engagements for the revolutionary at several locations in town, but the owners of promised venues backed out as word of the police chief’s loyalties spread through the city. Castro spoke at the dog track on Stock Island. His friend, Dr. Julio dePoo, arranged the last-minute engagement, but even a prominent Key West doctor such as dePoo could not keep Castro safe.

Local sources say Chief Perez arrested Fidel Castro, but Bum’s friend, bondsman Ismael “Terry Lee” Garcia, bailed the future dictator out of jail. The sources say Castro skipped town without paying his bond, and Garcia hunted him down in the mountains of Cuba. By all accounts, Garcia collected. Castro rose to power in 1959, and tensions flared on both sides of the Florida Straits.

Castro teamed up with communist Russia, and the threat of a third World War loomed. It was a move that turned most of his Key West supporters against him.

The CIA set up secret bases with Brigade 2506 and other anti-Castro groups throughout the Florida Keys and Key West. The U.S. government, under the presidency of John F. Kennedy, leased the Casa Marina hotel from Jimmy Hoffa’s associates to house soldiers for

an impending war. Meanwhile, the Bay of Pigs disaster and the Cuban Missile Crisis created a steady stream of Cuban exiles crossing the Florida Straits to Key West as they escaped their own “El Jefe” and the threat of communism known as the “red scare.”

An “El Jefe” cloaked in the red of communism sent thousands of exiles across the Florida Straits, but according to sources, Bum Farto greeted countless hundreds of them. Bum was Key West’s “El Jefe,” cloaked in the red of his leisure suits and armed with a dedication to help Cubans suffering under Fidel Castro’s rule.

With his friend Arturo Cobo, Bum Farto became an unofficial welcome wagon for Cuban exiles. He provided food and hydration, helped relay news of their safe arrival to family members and arranged for medical assistance through his hospital connections. Bum helped the exiles find jobs. He helped them start a new life. Bum Farto was life support to strangers in a strange land.

People love to throw stones at Bum Farto and label him a two-bit drug pusher, but those stories discount a passionate freedom fighter who earned the name “El Jefe” on and off his job as fire chief.

But Castro’s Cuba wasn’t the only threat lurking for Bum Farto. Another danger was brewing for him, but this time it was coming from the chambers of Key West’s City Commission.

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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46

WEEKLY INTERVIEW

‘I NEED TO TEACH’ A

my Bradshaw has been working in the health and fitness industry for 23 years. She received her license in massage therapy from Boulder School of Massage Therapy in 1995 and has expanded her practice by specializing in sports injury.

Over the years she has added additional certifications including group fitness, triathlon coaching, Pilates and spin instructor, all to serve and help her clients better. She enjoys using these skills to help people stay healthy.

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

ERIN STOVER SICKMEN www.keysweekly.com

What’s your hometown? Holtsville, New York (Long Island).

How long have you lived in the Keys? Going on 19 years this lobster mini-season.

What brought you here? I was living out west and decided to move closer to home. Most of my family had migrated to Florida, so my mom thought I would love Key West.

What do you like most about life in the Keys? The people.

What’s on your bucket list? Iron Man. You’re a very active human. What have you been doing to stay busy during isolation? I have set up a home gym for sanity — and lots of running and indoor cycling.

Speaking of health, you must have a guilty pleasure.

C’mon, what is it? Wine, for sure.

What are you looking forward to doing this summer once things (hopefully) open up? Travel (hopefully).

It’s been great to see you teaching remotely. (thank you) What have you learned from that experience? That I’m probably not meant to be a movie star! Oh — and that I need to teach!

What are three things you couldn’t live without? My family, exercise and wine.

Assuming all high school experiences resemble ’80s movie tropes, who were you … the mean girl, the jock, the nerd? I was actually kind of a combo, I would have to say!

What’s your favorite Sunday Funday activity? Biking with friends to Baby’s Coffee and brunch.

Take-out or cook at home? Cook at home, for sure. I have enjoyed actually having more time for it.

Any secret talents or party tricks? It’s kind of embarrassing, and I try not to do it anymore, but my husband will tell you I can open a beer bottle with my back teeth.

You have a lovely brood. What do you guys enjoy doing most as a family? I would say traveling. It’s when we really get uninterrupted time together.

What’s the best concert you’ve ever attended? My first Grateful Dead concert. The first time I saw them live I became a fan for life, but I do love live music in general.

Whom do you most admire? My mom. She was a single mom and raised my brother and me on her own. She is amazing.

Any pets? Two cats: Con Leche and Tucker.

Amy Bradshaw, a Key West health and fitness instructor, enjoys one of her athletic, outdoor adventures. CONTRIBUTED

Finish these sentences: My friends and family would describe me as … caring and energetic.

I can never refuse … wine.

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

CORONAVIRUS

47

Continued from page 13

WELCOME BACK PREPARATION “Restaurants must remove all unnecessary, frequently touched items like service menus. Disposable menus are encouraged and must be thrown away or recycled after each use. Menus can be displayed if they cannot be handled by the customers,” the latest Key West regulations state.

June 1 was the date many were anticipating for a Keys reopening, and Islamorada Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Judy Hill said local hotels and service-related businesses are now gathering staff and putting a plan in place to keep guests and employees safe. Hull said resorts and hotels are following guidelines of the American Hotel and Lodging Association.

“I’m so pleased they have two weeks to be working on this,” Hull said. “Safety has to be our major concern. The virus didn’t go away and we have to live safely. We can do this, but we cannot forget that the virus didn’t vanish.”

Theater of the Sea, located at MM 84.7 in Islamorada, will open its dolphin, sea turtle, shark and other animal interaction programs beginning June 1. Rachel Moss, assistant curator, said interactions will be kept to one family/friend group per program. Space is limited and visitors are urged to call or book online.

In Key Largo, Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder is taking steps to ensure that staff, guests and dolphins are staying safe as they get set to open. Nancy Cooper, president and director of training at DPMMR, said animal care staff has been at the property throughout the pandemic taking care of the dolphins. Guest services staff are now coming back to conduct some upkeep around the facility.

“We will have mandatory masks, obviously, that must be worn by trainers and guests. My trainers are wearing them full-time and so will guest services,” Cooper said. “We will have thermometers as guests come in to make sure nobody has a temperature above 99 (degrees). We will stagger our groups to come in and swim with dolphins so people are not congregating in the gift shop. Our facility is outdoors, so we don’t have to worry about being inside.”

“We’re appreciative that we have a two-week window to pre-

“You are only as young as your spine is flexible" - Joseph Pilates.

A car stops at the checkpoint at MM 112.5 to provide documentation to the sheriff’s deputy. Effective June 1, the two checkpoints in Key Largo will end.

WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

pare, get our staff back and adjust to the new normal,” said Daniel Samess, CEO of the Marathon Chamber of Commerce. “The 50% capacity for restaurants is a bit more palatable for some restaurateurs.”

Still, Sunset Grille and Raw Bar in Marathon won’t open just yet.

Owner John Kotch said it will be a “calculated opening,” adding that it still doesn’t make sense for the restaurant he owns, one of the largest in the Middle Keys, to start serving.

Dolphin Research Center is preparing to open on June 1. Next week, Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters will have a soft opening for locals on Monday, May 25, before opening to the general public in June.

City of Marathon officials are somewhat wary of the June 1 reopen date. “As to the beaches, it’s my guess that we could be overrun from counties to our north.

The only thing we can do at that point is behave prudently and maybe follow what our neighbors in Lee County (Naples) did, which is to close the beaches again,” said Marathon Mayor Steve Cook.

“I don’t think there is one right answer. But I do see that the (COVID-19 case) numbers are not going crazy in Georgia because the state reopened. Reopening can actually be good for Keys folks that are so financially hurt at this point.”

Marathon City Manager Chuck Lindsey said he’s proud of how residents have responded to the epidemic.

“Regardless of when the Keys open, we will be faced with challenges and Marathon is prepared to react to each of them with appropriate, measured responses,” Lindsey said.

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

51

DOING THE RIGHT THING?

FINGERS CROSSED AS WE BEGIN OUR LONG-AWAITED REOPENING

A

MY CORONA CAR “Is that what you’re driving now?” asked Dave Rodriguez of Superior Electric when he spotted me outside the Marathon Shores post office last week.

Yes, that’s what I am driving now.

I traded my 2011 mom SUV/station wagon for my oldest daughter’s 2004 Hyundai Tiburon with 185,000 miles. It was a spur-of-the-moment switch when it became abundantly clear that she SARA could no longer quarantine with her parents and MATTHIS little sister. Not for one more second. Although there was some discussion about the inequality thinks commuof the trade, I was secretly pleased — I had come nity journalism is important, but to hate my car and wanted it gone. (“Honey, I not serious; likes am afraid I am gonna hurt it,” was met with my weird and wonhusband’s customary stoic silence.) derful children I call the Tiburon my “corona car.” (she has two).

First the cons: Occasionally she tortures herself It looks like it has leprosy. The clear gel coat with sprint-dishas melted off in places. It has the unfortunate tance triathlons, but only if she has tendency to grow mold on the porous surface.

The front and back bumpers are, uh, misshapen. a good chance of There are key parts to the automobile that beating her sister. are not functioning. For example, the driver’s side door handle is gone. My husband made me a “key” which is a long metal hook that one inserts into the opening, chants the right order of cuss words, and then pulls back to release a latch.

Also, the struts for the hatchback are no longer operational.

I worry that it will cut me in half as I try to load groceries into the back one-handed while the other hand is holding up the inexplicably heavy hatchback.

Gunshots randomly ring out from the back seat, causing the driver’s heart to cease beating. The source is a hidden leak that soaks the back speakers, causing them to “pop,” although that seems like a mild description of the violent noise.

Finally, you better have your seatbelt on by the time the corona car hits third gear. The transmission bucks and judders like a prizewinning rodeo bull.

Now the pros: It’s a SPORTS CAR, for god's sake, and I have never owned one.

The car weighs the same as a sleeper sofa and has six cylinders. It can FLY. I don’t owe anything on it and it’s not worth fixing up. There’s something incredibly freeing about driving a car that is worth exactly the dollar amount that is currently in the gas tank. For example, when I fill it up it’s worth $20. Two weeks later, it is worth $12.50.

When the transmission does give out — next week or next year — I am prepared to walk home with some fond memories and no worries. In the meantime, I will continue to drive it like I stole it.

JOHN BARTUS is a City of Marathon councilman. He also is a musician who performs around town. For more see johnbartus. com

s time moves on while COVID-19 still affects just about everything, we have come to the point many of us have been awaiting for weeks: the gradual reopening and hopeful resumption of our lives. With cautious optimism, we have begun venturing out into the world as restaurants and “non-essential” businesses can

reopen.

And on June 1, the roadblock comes down and the Keys will once again open to visitors.

A couple of things I’d like to remind everyone about as we begin to regain normalcy: vigilance and kindness.

As we do reopen, it won’t be at 100%. Social distancing, wearing masks, and reduced capacity will still be in effect. We have been blessed because we’ve been somewhat isolated.

An influx of visitors from northern hotspots could increase the number of cases we have here in the islands, and has the potential to overwhelm local health care providers. I am not suggesting that this is going to happen; remaining vigilant and cautious can keep our case count low.

That’s why hand washing, mask wearing, and social distancing will be our new normal for at least a while. It may be necessary to educate visitors on mask and distance requirements, as people from other areas might not understand the need. (Hopefully, frequent hand washing will remain the new normal.) After all we’ve already been through, I hope that all of us realize the need to stay safe. Not wearing a mask doesn’t make you a rebel — but it certainly ensures that everyone knows that you’re ignorant or stupid (or both).

Kindness is the other essential quality I hope we all practice. First of all, please remember that many of us aren’t 100% back to work. When dining out, please take really good care of your servers (that means TIP).

So many of us locals have been out of work for quite a while, and are all just

trying to play catch-up at this point.

The same goes for all of our local businesses just reopening. If you are one of the lucky ones who remained employed (or are just in good shape), patronizing local businesses is the best way to get our economy going. Conventional wisdom states that a dollar spent locally circulates through the community seven times. I’d rather keep that money here in the islands — wouldn’t you?

Kindness also might come in handy when dealing with our visitors who may not be observing our mask and social distancing requirements back from where they came. The signs on the doors of most businesses are good reminders; a friendly reminder from staff or management may be all that’s needed to encourage compliance.

For other holdouts — for whatever reason — a somewhat harsher tone may be required. A local Realtor (whose name I won’t mention but his initials are Josh Mothner) shared a post from Science Badger that answered the popular social media question, “So because the CDC said it, you’re just going to blindly listen to them without doing your own research?”

The answer basically destroyed the questioner’s ability to rationally draw a breath, much less think: “Do you honestly think your Google skills are worth six and a half billion dollars a year of scientific research by scientists specializing in that field?”

This is one of the parts of that answer I can quote in a family newspaper; the rest certainly bears reading.

So be calm, vigilant and kind.

Mike Forster & Co. will be back at Brutus Seafood to distribute free hot lunches and bags of produce this Saturday starting at 11 a.m. I will perform live this Thursday, May 21, at Sparky’s Landing in Marathon, at 6:30 p.m. And I will be playing my latest Social Distancing Concert 9 on Facebook Live, this Friday, May 22, at 7:30 p.m. from my Facebook page: www.facebook.com/john.bartus.

— Catch John Thursdays at Sparky’s Landing, and Fridays at his Social Distancing Concerts on Facebook Live.

Music available on CDBaby.com and iTunes, and wherever you get your streaming music. www.facebook.com/ john.bartus

52

COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT

Doctor Smith saved my life — twice

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A

bout 10 years ago things were so dire friends called my family to tell them they better get down here if they wanted to see me again.

Recently there was an issue with my heart. I am blessed because both times Doctor Steven Smith saved my life.

But this isn’t about me. Even his saving my life twice doesn’t make me special, because saving lives is what he does.

If you’ve lived in the Keys for a while (27 years for me) you learn that there should be a “Doctor Smith Saved My Life Club” and that “club” would have multiple chapters up and down the Keys. If I may, I will speak for all the members. We know we are blessed and we are beyond grateful because for decades Doctor Smith has been our doctor.

Some of us know from experience that he is a brilliant surgeon.

He is far more than that. Thousands of times, more like hundreds of thousands of times, from 1979 to today we have shown up at his office with any and every imaginable minor or major ailment, mishap or injury and he has doctored and fixed us. He is the definition of caregiver.

According to the never-fakenews Coconut Telegraph, Doctor Smith is contemplating retirement.

Whatever he decides, I wish him well. However, for once in his life I hope he’s indecisive. I hope he continues only to think about retiring at some later time because then the Keys prognosis for health and happiness will continue for many years to come.

— Rita Rose

Penelope Gonzalez, 4, kisses her new little brother, Luis Antonio “Trey” Gonzalez III, as parents Ryana Gonzalez and Luis Gonzalez Jr. look on.

RIDER PHOTOGRAPHY/Contributed

Luis Antonio Gonzalez III Luis Antonio “Trey” Gonzalez III was born on April 17, 2020 at 10:06 p.m. at Lower Keys Medical Center, weighing 7 pounds 13 ounces and measuring 20 inches long.

His parents are Ryana Gonzalez and Luis Gonzalez Jr., both teachers at Marathon High School. He has a sister, Penelope Gonzalez, 4.

Maternal grandparents are Ryan and Gina Frederick and Zoraida Collazo. Paternal grandparents are Luis and Jackie Gonzalez.

He’s the first boy born on the Frederick side in 34 years and has five greatgrandmothers.

53

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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54

SUMMER CAMPS 2020

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

W

ith the virtual school year ending, Keys parents are now beginning to wonder about summer camps. In years past, Keys kids have enjoyed summer sessions devoted to everything from art to sailing to sports. While some camps are proceeding as normal, many camps are uncertain what the future will hold. Here is a list of camps that will be open, camps that are undecided (with contact details so parents can give them an encouraging bump) and camps that are struck off the calendar. The Weekly plans to continue to update this list as more information becomes available. (Camps that want their details included on the list should email sara@keysweekly.com.)

— Weekly staff report

KEY WEST SAILING CAMP Ten one-week camps, June 1 through Aug. 3, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for ages 5-17. All different skill levels learn sailing and racing on a variety of boats including Opti prams, Hobie Waves, Sunfish, Lasers and 420s, depending on age group. $250/week. Register at keywestsailingcenter.org or call Heidi Ruse, KWCSC instructors. 804-832-4731 or 314349-9929 for more information.

KEY WEST

KEY WEST SPORTS ACADEMY Ten one-week camps June 1-Aug. 10, Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Ages 5-14, ranging from $215 to $330 per week. Weekly themes with obstacle courses, games, arts and crafts and more. Themes nclude ninja camp, “Frozen” dance camp, “Candy Crush” camp, princess camp, rock and roll summer camp, and more. Prices vary. Half-day camps also available for morning and afternoon sessions. For more information, visit keywestsportsacademy.com or call 305-896-2458.

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB Key West and Big Pine Key Summer camps will begin June 1 and end Aug. 12, Mondays through Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., for ages 5 to 18. Activities include sports, swimming, movies, beaches, dance, art, STEM, gardening and nutrition.

The cost is $95/week plus a $10 membership fee for each child (siblings are half price), children 13 and over are free. Fee includes breakfast, lunch, snack and field trips. For registration in Key West, the address is 1316 Reynolds Street, or call 305-296-2258 for more information. Big Pine Key Camp will be located at 280 Key Deer Blvd. in the Big Pine United Methodist Church. Facebook: bgckeysarea

FKCC 2020 SUMMER CAMPS The College of the Florida Keys invites kids, tweens and teens to take part in Summer Adventure Camps. All camps will be virtual this year. Campers will have the opportunity to tap their creative talents, explore careers, expand their academic interests, develop technical skills and make new friends. Parents and guardians can trust CFK to deliver a high-quality camp experience in the safety of their home. The daily schedule will be similar to usual camp day – campers will attend from 9 a.m. to noon, break for lunch and return to camp at 12:45 p.m. until 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Cost is $125 per week. For more information, email SummerCamps@fkcc.edu or visit www.fkcc.edu/ summer-camps

REEF RELIEF’S CORAL CAMP Nine one-week camps, June 1 through Aug. 3, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m, ages 6-12. Activities include science and art projects in addition to field trips around Key West. Campers also

SUMMER CAMPS 2020

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

experience four days of snorkeling: one day practicing their snorkeling skills at the beach, one day in the seagrass beds and sponge gardens, and two days snorkeling at the reef. $225 per week or $200 per week for multiple weeks or registering with siblings; limited scholarships available. “Big Kids Camp” is from Aug. 3-7 for 6th- to 9th-grade students with previous snorkel experience and costs $375. Call Reef Relief at 305-294-3100 or email reefrelief@gmail.com.

ST. MARY’S BASILICA SCHOOL MARINER SUMMER CAMP The tentative start date for camp will be Monday, June 8. The last day of camp is on Friday, July 31. There is no camp on July 4.

Camp hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Camp size is very limited this summer; preference will be given to current Basilica School students. If you are currently a non-Basilica family and are not entering the school this fall, you are NOT required to pay a camp deposit. Fees for non-Basilica families will only be collected in the event the student is able to be placed in the camp. For more details, visit basilicaschoolkeywest.com or call 305294-1031.

UNDECIDED • Coffee Mill Dance Studio, call 305-296-9982 or email coffeemilldance@aol.com.

• Camp Bravo, call 305-296-9982 or email bravotheatre@aol.com.

• ArtCamp! 2019, visit kwahs.org.

CANCELED • Waterfront Theater youth summer camp.

• Summer art school at Studios of Key West.

• Key West Golf Club camp.

• Key West Literary Seminar Young Writers Studio.

LOWER KEYS SEACAMP Seacamp is offering two long sessions for children ages 12-17 on June 24-July 11 and July 14-July 31 and two week-long sessions

for ages 10-17 on Aug. 4-10 and Aug. 1117. The camp fee for the 18-day session is $4,400 with an additional fee of $525 for participation in the SCUBA program. The cost of the one-week session is $1,900 with an additional fee of $525 for participation in the SCUBA program. Campers participate in field-based marine science courses taught by instructors with college degrees in related fields. The SCUBA program includes basic and advanced certification. Aquatic activities include windsurfing, snorkeling and kayaking. In addition, the camp offers creative expression classes in arts and crafts, creative writing, and photography. During evening programs, campers participate in dances, movies, campfires and science activities. For more information, visit www.seacamp.org or call 1-877-SEACAMP.

MARATHON CRANE POINT HAMMOCK Starts June 1 through the end of summer, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (early dropoff at 8 a.m. available). Activities include fishing, hiking, games and education.

Cost $100 per week. For more information, contact Charlotte Quinn Cranepointmuseum@gmail.com or call 395-393-9501.

Deadline to register is Saturday, May 30.

ART STUDIO CAMPS Weeklong art camps for ages 5-7 from June 15-19 and July 6-10; and ages 8 and up from June 22-26 and July 13-17. Camps are from 9 a.m. to noon and cost $190 per week.

Activities include clay hand building, painting on canvas, wearable wears, glass fusion, fun surprises and tasty treats. Email jesse@ theartstudiomarathon.com to reserve a spot.

PIGEON KEY MARINE SCIENCE SUMMER CAMP Marine Science Summer Camp; July 6-10 (day camp), July 13-17 (day and overnight camp), July 20-24 (overnight camp), and July 27-31 (day camp) • Day Camp runs Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., costs $350, and is open to anyone between the ages of 8-16. Overnight camp runs 9 a.m. Monday to 5 p.m. Friday, costs $950, and is open to campers 10-16 years old. Campers will learn reef fish identification, invertebrate collection, snorkel at Sombrero Reef, compete in an underwater obstacle course, dissections, fishing and enjoy their own private island.

More information and registration forms at pigeonkey.net email casey@pigeonkey.net.

Camp counselors are considering adding June camp dates as well; inquire.

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER Dolphin day camp sessions are June 29-July

3 and July 6-10 day sessions for children ages 7 to 10 years old. Camps run Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Activities include time with the dolphins (Dolphin Splash, Meet the Dolphin, and a signal session), plus games, crafts and more. The cost is $200 per week for Keys residents and $300 for non-residents. For more information, go to www.dolphins.org/dolphinday_ camp or email education@dolphins.org for enrollment information.

UNDECIDED • Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters, email info@floridakeysencounters.com • Marathon Rec Center, email marathonreccenter@comcast.net or call 305-393-0903.

• St. Columba summer camp, call 305-7436412 or visit stcolumbamarathon.org • Keys Dance Academy, email jamie@kdastudios.com CANCELED • Marathon Yacht Club sailing camp.

• City of Marathon summer camp.

• Marathon Community theater camp.

UPPER KEYS MARINELAB Summer camp from June 8-12 and June 15-19 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for those in 4th through 8th grades. Camp will be held at the MarineLab campus in Key Largo. Each day, campers will be taken on a snorkel excursion guided by local marine biologists. They’ll participate in marine ecology discussions and hands-on labs with live sea critters. Lunch and snacks will be provided. The cost is $250 per camper for the week; additional siblings, $225 each. Single-day enrollment is unavailable. More info at info@marinelab.org or 305-451-1139 ext 201.

UNDECIDED • Village Summer Recreation Camp, call 305853-1685.

• Summer Swim Camp, call 305-393-5855.

• Junior Tennis Camp, call 954-290-7502.

• Swimming Lessons at Founders Park, call 305-393-2513.

• Synchro Splash, call 856-473-4752.

• Reef Ocean Explorers Camp, explorers@ REEF.org or call 305-852-0030.

• Dolphins Plus Summer Camp, Marylou@ dolphinsplus.com or call 866-860-7946.

• Mark Sorensen Youth Sailing Camp, msysp. org, info@msysp.org or call 305-747-2600.

• Otherside Adventure Camp, othersideboardsports.com.

• Our Place Art Camp, call 305-916-5828.

CANCELED • Florida Bay Outfitters’ Paddle Camp.

• Jacobs Aquatic Center Camp.

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Island Storage, Inc., 10730 4th Avenue, Gulf, Marathon, Florida 33050, will sell or otherwise dispose of the contents of the following units to satisfy delinquent storage liens.

The following unit contains commercial kitchen items: Simone Stanton Unit #13 $1,610.00 Auction will occur from 8:00AM – 10:00AM on Friday, May 29, 2020 at Island Storage, Inc., 10730 4th Avenue, Gulf, Marathon, FL 33050. The terms of the sale will be cash only.

Island Storage, Inc. reserves the right to refuse any bids.

Publish: May 14 & 21, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING The Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold their regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday, June 10, 2020 at 10:00 AM via Communications Media Technology (“CMT”) using a Zoom webinar platform.

Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the June 10, 2020 meeting of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council, will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. Executive Order 20112 extends EO 20-69. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will provide updates on the County Website at MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/89580139434 Meeting ID: 895 8013 9434 One tap mobile +13017158592,, 89580139434# US (Germantown) +13126266799,, 89580139434# US (Chicago) Dial by your location +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Meeting ID: 895 8013 9434 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom. us/u/kcxGGF92Qa Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at PaciniMaxine@monroecounty-fl. gov, or by calling (305)296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m.

– 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on June 5th, 2020 The Visit Florida Keys Corporation will also convene during this meeting.

All Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”.

Publish: May 21, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

County Tourist Development Council Website and Digital Services Contract Negotiation Committee, will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. Executive Order 20-112 extends EO 2069. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will provide updates on the County Website at MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/85394008271 Meeting ID: 853 9400 8271 One tap mobile +13126266799,, 85394008271# US (Chicago) +19292056099,, 85394008271# US (New York) Dial by your location +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) Meeting ID: 853 9400 8271 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom. us/u/keqVSFkgu7 Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at PaciniMaxine@monroecounty-fl. gov, or by calling (305)296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m.

– 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on June 5th, 2020 All Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”.

Publish: May 21, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

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: May 14, 2020.

Personal Representative: William F. Nolf 184 Indian Mound Trail Tavernier, FL 33070 Attorney for Personal Representative: Victoria Miranda, Esquire Florida Bar No. 1015363 Email: VMiranda@HLYlaw.com HERSHOFF, LUPINO & YAGEL, LLP 88539 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 Publish: May 14 & 21, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

FILE NO.: 2020-CP-25-P IN RE: ESTATE OF DONALD HUGH DAVIS Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of DONALD HUGH DAVIS, deceased, whose date of death was November 30, 2019, 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 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 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: May 21, 2020 Personal Representative: KENNETH S. DAVIS 4338 McColley Rd. Milford, Delaware 19963 Attorney for Personal Representative: Urban J. W. Patterson, Esq. Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@ yahoo.com Florida Bar Number: 382035 Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A. P.O. Box 783 Islamorada, FL 33036 Telephone: 305-664-5065 Publish: May 21 & 28, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

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: May 21, 2020.

Personal Representative: NICOLE ROZING c/o Bryant Law Firm 28 West Flagler Street, Suite 1200 Miami, Florida 33130 Attorney for Personal Representative: RANDY A. BRYANT Florida Bar Number: 157945 SOFIA HENSHAW Florida Bar Number: 1019556 Bryant Law Firm 28 West Flagler Street, Suite 1200 Miami, Florida 33130 Telephone: (305) 456-2777 Fax: (305) 675-6153 E-Mail: rbryant@ miamiprobatefirm.com Publish: May 21 & 28, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Wheatons Towing gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 06/07/2020, 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.

2T1BR32E56C584810 2006 TOYOTA 3N1AB7AP8DL697819 2013 NISSAN 5WKBE1218F1031211 2015 FREEDOM Publish: May 21 & 28, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers PUBLIC NOTICE On May 13, 2020, Philip Von Kahle, assignee for the benefit of creditors, filed an application with the Federal Communications Commission seeking consent to assign the license of station WKEZ-FM, 96.9 MHz, Tavernier, Florida, from Philip Von Kahle to Magnum Broadcasting, Inc..

Michael Stapleford is the President and 100% owner of Magnum Broadcasting, Inc. A copy of this application is available for public inspection on the FCC’s public inspection website at: https:// publicfiles.fcc.gov/.

Publish: May 21, 28 & June 4, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following committee meeting via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed.

Art in Public Places Committee Meeting May 26, 2020 3:00PM Eastern Time Meeting ID: 779 8984 2232 Password: 4BkJgn Please RSVP to Elizabeth Young, Executive Director at either 305296-4369 OR director@keysarts. com to attend the meeting or for additional information. ADA Assistance: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in these proceedings, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by calling 305-292-4441 between the hours of 8:30 am – 5:00 pm no later than 5 days prior to the scheduled meeting. If you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.

Meetings are open to the public and all are invited to attend.

Publish: May 21, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING The Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold their Website and Digital Services Contract Negotiation meeting on Wednesday, June 10, 2020 at 1:30 PM via Communications Media Technology (“CMT”) using a Zoom webinar platform.

Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the June 10, 2020 meeting of the Monroe

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 20-CP-000019-P IN RE: ESTATE OF KENNETH J. NOLF, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of KENNETH J. NOLF deceased, whose date of death was October 5, 2018, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Hwy., Tavernier, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2020-CP-27-P IN RE: ESTATE OF JAMES HENRY RAIFORD Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of JAMES HENRY RAIFORD, deceased, whose date of death was February 27, 2020, 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 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 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: May 14, 2020 Personal Representative: JAMES N. RAIFORD 11718 Cielo Court Richmond, TX 77406 Attorney for Personal Representative: Urban J. W. Patterson Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@ yahoo.com Florida Bar Number: 382035 Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A. P.O. Box 783 Islamorada, FL 33036 Telephone: 305-664-5065 Publish: May 14 & 21, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 20-CP-000089-K IN RE: ESTATE OF DEBRA ANNE TOBIN, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Debra Anne Tobin, deceased, whose date of death was March 1, 2020, at this time is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 20-CP-000008-M IN RE: ESTATE OF WILLIAM C. NICHOLS, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of William C. Nichols, deceased, whose date of death was November 5, 2019, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. 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 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: May 21, 2020.

Personal Representatives: William J. Nichols 4323 43rd Avenue NE Seattle, Washington 98105 Marjorie L. Nichols Keith 14 Willow Road Carmel, New York 10512 Neta Nichols Sacks 58 Kitchawan Road Pound Ridge, New York 10576 Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert K. Miller, Esquire Florida Bar Number: 359173 Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938 Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-9428 Fax: (305) 743-8800 E-mail: service@ floridakeyslaw.com Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com Publish:

LEGAL NOTICES May 21 & 28, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA DIVISION: PROBATE FILE NO.: 20-CP-000033-P IN RE: ESTATE OF DONNA J. STRAHM A/K/A DONNA JEAN STRAHM, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Donna J. Strahm a/k/a Donna Jean Strahm, deceased, whose date of death was March 18, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Hwy., Tavernier, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court 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: May 21, 2020.

Personal Representative: Robert C. Strahm 141 Marina Avenue Key Largo, FL 33037 Attorney for Personal Representative: Anthony A. Velardi, Esq. Florida Bar No. 113917 Patricia Gessel, Esq. Florida Bar No. 84328 Patricia Gessel, PL 99530 Overseas Hwy., Suite 2 Key Largo, FL 33037 Tel: (305) 453-5277 Fax: (305) 453-4985 E-Mail: anthony@keylargolaw. com & alonso.at12@aol.com Publish: May 21 & 28, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 19-CA001049-K DIVISION: Civil Sunset Harbor Resort Condominium Association, Inc., a nonprofit corporation under the laws of the State of Florida, Plaintiff, vs.

The Estate of Edward J. Higgins, et al.

Defendants. _______________/ NOTICE OF ACTION AGAINST DEFENDANT TRACY MYERS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF EDWARD J. HIGGINS To: TRACY MYERS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF EDWARD J. HIGGINS 708 LINDEN RIDGE DRIVE HOLLY SPRINGS, NC 27540 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and all parties claiming interest by, through, under or against Defendant(s) TRACY MYERS, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO THE ESTATE

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

MEMORIAL WEEKEND SALE

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SURVEY SAYS...

E ach week the Keys Weekly will conduct reader surveys on a variety of issues ranging from local politics to national trends. Our results and findings can be found right here in our print editions each week — offering our readership a snapshot of local public opinions.

MAY 14-20

SHOULD THE FATHER AND SON ARRESTED IN THE AHMAUD ARBERY SLAYING BE CONVICTED OF MURDER? (208 VOTES) 68% YES.

Arbery was murdered in cold blood and they should be convicted of a hate crime.

18% NOT SURE.

I don’t believe we have all of the evidence in this case.

10% YES.

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Arbery was murdered in cold blood but this was not racially motivated.

3% NO.

Arbery is to blame for resisting the alleged shooter and other armed men.

1% NO.

The father and son were acting within their rights to make a citizen’s arrest.

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

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

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

OF EDWARD J. HIGGINS, and all parties having or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property herein described; YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to enforce a lien on the following described property in Monroe County, Florida: Unit 114, Week 15, 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 thereof, and any amendments thereto (hereafter the “Declaration”).

Contract No.: 1-6782 has been filed against you; and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on NICHOLAS A. WOO, Plaintiff’s attorney, P. O. Box 165028, Columbus, OH 43216-5028, within thirty (30) days after the first publication of this Notice and file the original with the Clerk of this Court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

WITNESS my hand and seal of this Court on the 5th day of May, 2020.

Kevin Madok CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Civil Division By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk NOTICE TO PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in court proceedings you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Not later than five working days prior to the proceeding, please contact the Court Administrator’s office, at the Freeman Justice Center, 302 St. 2nd Floor, Key West, FL 33040.

Telephone: (305) 292-3423 or via the Florida Relay Center. To make calls through the Florida Relay Center, you may dial 7-1-1 or use the following toll free access numbers: 1-800-9558771 (TTY); 1-877-955-8260 (VCO); 1-800-955-8770 (Voice); 1-800-955-1339 (ASCII); 1-877955-5334 (STS); 1-877-955-8707 (French Creole – available from 8 a.m. – 2 a.m. daily) Publish: May 14 & 21, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

Beach House Condominium Association of Key West, Inc., a nonprofit corporation under the laws of the State of Florida, Plaintiff, vs.

The Estate of Karen Kay Becker, AKA Karen Kay Campbell, et al.

Defendants. _______________/ NOTICE OF ACTION AGAINST DEFENDANT DENNIS DORRIES, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF KAREN KAY BECKER, AKA KAREN KAY CAMPBELL To: DENNIS DORRIES, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF KAREN KAY BECKER, AKA KAREN KAY CAMPBELL 128 GEORGE STREET CADILLAC, MI 49601-9202 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and all parties claiming interest by, through, under or against Defendant(s) DENNIS DORRIES, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF KAREN KAY BECKER, AKA KAREN KAY CAMPBELL, and all parties having or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property herein described; YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to enforce a lien on the following described property in Monroe County, Florida: Unit E13, Week 4, Beach House Condominium, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Contract No.: 3-5750 has been filed against you; and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on NICHOLAS A. WOO, Plaintiff’s attorney, P. O. Box 165028, Columbus, OH 43216-5028, within thirty (30) days after the first publication of this Notice and file the original with the Clerk of this Court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

WITNESS my hand and seal of this Court on the 5th day of May, 2020.

Kevin Madok CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Civil Division By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk NOTICE TO PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in court proceedings you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Not later than five working days prior to the

proceeding, please contact the Court Administrator’s office, at the Freeman Justice Center, 302 St. 2nd Floor, Key West, FL 33040.

Telephone: (305) 292-3423 or via the Florida Relay Center. To make calls through the Florida Relay Center, you may dial 7-1-1 or use the following toll free access numbers: 1-800-9558771 (TTY); 1-877-955-8260 (VCO); 1-800-955-8770 (Voice); 1-800-955-1339 (ASCII); 1-877955-5334 (STS); 1-877-955-8707 (French Creole – available from 8 a.m. – 2 a.m. daily) Publish: May 14 & 21, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 19-CA001034-K DIVISION: Civil

NONJUDICIAL PROCEEDING TO FORECLOSE CLAIM OF LIEN BY TRUSTEE FILE NO.: 20-001586 WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, Lienholder, vs.

ROBERT BRETT FINKELSTEIN; KEVRA DENISE FINKELSTEIN Obligor ________________/ TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING TO: Robert Brett Finkelstein 11750 Island Lakes Lane Boca Raton, FL 33498 Kevra Denise Finkelstein 11750 Island Lakes Lane Boca Raton, FL 33498 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 5214, Week 26, 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 interestholder may redeem its interest, for a minimum period of forty-five (45) days until the Trustee issues the Certificate of Sale. The Lien may be cured by sending certified funds to the Trustee payable to the Lienholder in the amount

Meeting Notice Monroe County Land Authority The Monroe County Land Authority Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting using Communications Media Technology (CMT) in the form of a conference telephone call on May 27, 2020 at 9:00 AM. Members of the public wishing to access the meeting should call 888-585-9008 and enter access code 177-166-577. The meeting agenda is available online at www.monroecounty-fl.gov. For additional information or to submit written or other physical evidence for consideration at the meeting, contact Dina Gambuzza via phone at 305-295-5180; via email at gambuzza-dina@monroecounty-fl.gov; or via mail to Monroe County Land Authority, 1200 Truman Avenue, Suite 207, Key West, FL 33040.

ADA ASSISTANCE If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in these proceedings, please contact the County Administrator's Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call "711".

LEGAL NOTICES of $5,072.39, plus interest (calculated by multiplying $0.00 times the number of days that have elapsed since May 8, 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: May 21 & 28, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

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

BOATS FOR SALE 1965 Bruiel Express Sportfish - Built for Charter Fishing in the Keys. $14,000 or Best Offer. Excellent hull condition. 2 Detroit 6V53 engines one fresh rebuilt.

Twin Disk 506 transmissions one fresh. We’ve just installed: 1 New trany, 2 new 1 1/2 in shafts,2 new shaft logs, 2 new rebuilt struts, 2 new props nibril, New bottom paint, 1 engine new rebuild 5hrs.

Located in Marathon. Call 305-481-3259 for details.

EMPLOYMENT City of Marathon - Job Openings: Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee , Recreational Specialist, Street Maintenance and Utilities Maintenance.

EOE, FULL BENEFITS www.ci.marathon.fl.us Shelter Bay Marine in Marathon hiring Qualified Marine Parts Dept/ General Office. Contact Steve at 305-743-7008 Security Guard needed Full-time in Islamorada. Keys Security, Lic# B2000155.

Call 305-684-0033.

Come Join Our Family and Have Fun At Work! Hiring: Host, Hostess & Servers - Full &/or part-time. AM & PM Shifts. Apply in person at Castaway Restaurant, end of

CROSSWORD

EMPLOYMENT 15th Street, Oceanside, Marathon or email: lobstercrawl@gmail.com.

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

Call 305-743-4578

HOUSING FOR RENT AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN MARATHON. Shared 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 for 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 are not provided. For information: Bob Brayman 305-743-5929 bbrayman@ h a l l s d i v i n g. co m 2BR/1.5BA Single Family Home for rent available in Marathon. On canal, dockage available. $2,200/ month F/L/S 508-958-2590 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

OFFICE SPACE

NOW HIRING

Apprentice - No Exp $15/hr Installer - 6 mos to 1 yr exp $15–$22/hr Lead Installer - 3+ yrs exp plus leadership traits $22-$30/hr Maintenance Tech - 1+ yrs exp in service $16-$19/hr Service Tech (On-Call) 3+ yrs $25-$30/hr Looking for a career? Want to be part of a team orientated company? Want to make more money and have more time to spend with your family? Apply today via email: Joey@ellingtonac.com. Call 321-482-3158 to schedule meeting for employment.

NOW HIRING HOUSEKEEPERS Experience preferred, not required.

Competitive wages. FT/PT. Email resumes to reservations@grassyflats.com or stop by to fill out an application.

58182 Overseas Hwy, Grassy Key

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

Conveniently located to everything.

3 0 5 - 3 9 4 - 0 5 3 0

RV LOT FOR RENT RV Large Lot for Rent in Marathon.

Available now. $1,400/month + util.

Key RV, 6099 Overseas Hwy #15-E. 760-5657210 or 760-574-4915

SOLUTION

D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals. Overtime and benefits are available. For full details & additional openings, please visit DAsignSource.com/careers

Finish Carpenter Framing & drywall repairs, kitchen & bathroom remodeling, etc. Must present high attention to detail; the finish work must be perfect!

NOW HIRING A & B Exterminators is looking for a part-time Pest Control Technician for the Middle Keys. Hourly pay, commission, expenses and transportation provided.

Call Andy 561-212-3045.

60

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC && LEGAL NOTICES • • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS STILL HIRING!

Want a fresh start? Need a new career?

NOW HIRING Competitive wages for all levels of experience Local and family oriented Apply in person 1-305-289-9515 to schedule an appointment

NOW HIRING HOUSEKEEPERS Experience preferred, not required.

Competitive wages. FT/PT. Email resumes to reservations@grassyflats.com or stop by to fill out an application.

58182 Overseas Hwy, Grassy Key

KEY WEST

Behavioral Health Therapist (Children & Adult) Case Manager (Forensic & Adult) Substance Abuse Counselor

MARATHON

RNs and LPNs (3 shifts) (PT& FT) *Behavioral Health Technicians (3 shifts) (PT/FT) Peer Support Specialist *Assisted Living Direct Care Worker (2 shifts) (PT/FT) Drop In Technician (PT) Research Assistant

*No experience necessary. Will train.

A caring heart & helpful hands required.

Ability to work some evening or weekend shifts a plus.

If you’ve wanted to get into the medical field but don’t have the education, this is the job for you!

Background and drug screen req.

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

THEME: ARMY AND NAVY ACROSS 1. Smoothing tool 5. Broadband access overseeing org.

8. Attorneys’ org.

11. Length times width 12. *Lined up single ____ 13. Lump of stuff 14. Carpet attribute 15. Cut the crop 16. Lingo 17. *Entire ship’s company 19. Toothy wheel 20. Gives a helping hand 21. They’re from mars?

22. Language family, includes Turkic and Mongolian 25. Indian spice mix, pl.

29. Bachelor’s last words 30. Baby Ruth component 33. One of the Earnhardts 34. She goes by Lo? 36. Actors’ grp.

37. Mister in Madrid 38. Colossal 39. With no effort 41. American cuckoo 42. Leave hastily, two words 44. *Commissioned officer of the lowest rank 46. “____, drink, and be merry” 47. *Omaha ____ 49. Baby whale 51. *It’s a wall to a civilian 54. Hands, to #12 Down 55. Check out 56. Cambodian money 58. Welcoming sign 59. Went down slippery slope 60. *Date of Allied landing 61. *Opposite of stern 62. “For ____ a jolly good..”

63. Dried-up

DOWN 1. Grammy category 2. Diva’s solo 3. Unload 4. Saffron-flavored rice dish 5. Evil one 6. Wears 7. Porcini mushrooms 8. Aquarium scum 9. Uncouth one 10. Address abbreviation 12. Spanish dictator, 1939-1975 13. *Throwing weapon 16. Ice, dark, and middle, e.g.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers’ ____ Field 21. Dojo turf 22. Was sick 23. Parkinson’s disease drug 24. African antelope, pl.

25. Gaspar, Balthasar and Melchior 26. Veranda in Honolulu 27. “____ came a spider...”

28. European finch 31. *”Excellent in all we do” org.

32. None left when on E 35. *____ formation, or on diagonal 37. Make synchronous 39. Credit card payment alternative, acr.

40. What Deep Throat did 43. Stumblebums 45. Type of shards 47. *Announcement device 48. Island off Manhattan 49. Head of family 50. All over again 51. Silly talk or writing 52. *____-de-camp 53. Letter opening 54. Flash dancers 57. NaOH

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

NOW HIRING

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

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

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.

61

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

LET’S DO BUSINESS - 305.453.6928 Licensed & Insured #SP33799

ALL KEYS GLASS

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors

305-743-7800

NEW & REPAIR

Authorized Dealer

305-664-0099

Sales & Installation • Tub & Shower Enclosures Safety & Tempered Glass • Mirror & Mirror Walls Plexi-Glass & Lexan

www.TikiHuts.com

STATE CERTIFIED THATCHING CONTRACTOR CYC 000002

Sportfishing Adventures

To order call 908.797.9430

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

info@johnnymaddoxcharters.com

305-481-3259

Corporate accounts welcome, call (908) 797-9430 Ravi.Vaithinathan@tendbar.us - www.tendbar.us

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

y’s www.KeysSlidingGlassDoorRepair.com And Sliding Glass Door Repair We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

Please remember, you must be 21 to purchase alcohol.

Operating Since 2004 Appliance and Air Conditioning

Sales - Service - Installation 1700 N. Roosevelt Blvd #2, Key West 305-294-0090 • www.kolhages.com

305-998-8953 Insured • Professional • Reliable

PROP DOC

KEY WEST,

inc.

Roller Maintenance Track Maintenance Door Alignment Security Pins Safety Locks Handles

Delivering groceries, beer, wine & spirits and other provisions to you in the Florida Keys from Marathon to Key West.

New & Used / Sales & Service Propellers, Shafts, Struts, Rudders

Only Laser Scanner in the Keys No Need to Send Your Prop to the Mainland & Waste Valuable Fishing Time Outboard Shafts 305-292-0012 Inboard and Outboard Straightened on Boat 6003 Peninsular Ave. Stock Island-FL Free Propeller Analysis

propdrkw@gmail.com

SOLAR DONE RIGHT! CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE

Sewer Connections 305

872-1876

• New Construction • Remodeling • Irrigation

305

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

NOW HIRING!

• SINCE 1989 •

296-BLUE

305-289-1150

• Heavy Equipment • Solar Lic## RF11067168

PC 606

Florida Solar Contractor CVC 56734

Serving Monroe, Dade & Broward Including Airports & Ports.

SUV, Van & Limousine options available Call us for special events.

1075 Duval St Located in Duval Square 305.433.1290

3229 Flager Ave Suite 102 305.517.6582

305-743-7454

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

Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here

fkes2011@gmail.com floridakeysexpressshuttle.com

Liz Samess Interiors

Design, Decorating, Drafting, & More…

Liz Samess Interior Designer

CELL: Email:

(954) 801-7883 interiordesignbyliz@gmail.com

Marathon, FL 33050

METAL ROOFING

SPECIALIST 305-664-1010 www.roofer.pro

62

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

LET’S DO BUSINESS - 305.743.0844 Licensed & Insured #SP33799

Open M-F 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

2001 O/S Hwy, Marathon

305-743-3530

sales@alkeysyamaha.com

METAL ROOFING

SPECIALIST 305-664-1010 www.roofer.pro

ALL KEYS GLASS

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors

305-743-7800

Authorized Dealer

FULL SERVICE YAMAHA DEALER • Yamaha Outboard Motor Repair, Sales & Service

Sales & Installation • Tub & Shower Enclosures Safety & Tempered Glass • Mirror & Mirror Walls Plexi-Glass & Lexan

• Certified Yamaha Technicians • Do it Yourself? Fully-stocked all Yamaha Parts & Accessories

Sportfishing Adventures

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

info@johnnymaddoxcharters.com

305-481-3259

SOLAR DONE RIGHT! CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE

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

• SINCE 1989 •

305-289-1150

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

Florida Solar Contractor CVC 56734

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

Tewes Mortgage

Your local, residential lending expert!

Call 305.495.6000

Kitchen Cabinets Sales REAL Wood Cabinets at Particle Board Prices KitchenKorner/Fred's Beds 1333 O/S Hwy, MM 53.5 • 305-743-7277

for a FREE Consultation

Brian Tewes

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

NMLS# 375025 Tewes Mortgage NMLS# 1453791 NMLSConsumerAccess.org

www.TewesMortgage.com

Liz Samess Interiors

Licensed & Insured Contractor # CACO53827

Design, Decorating, Drafting, & More…

ARTIC TEMP, INC.

Liz Samess

Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Interior Designer

CELL: Email:

(954) 801-7883 interiordesignbyliz@gmail.com

Residential, Commercial & Marine Ice Machine - Sales - Service

Marathon, FL 33050

Serving Key Largo to Key West

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

Phone: (305) 743-5288

Fax: (305) 743-6887

Will Campbell President

Floor & Wall Tiles Porcelain/Planks Marble Carpets Quartz & Granite Countertops

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

Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here

Lic#SP-3562

SAT math tutoring e

at all math subjects: priv oup gr & • calculus ons less • precalculus audrey • geometry ajmatthis3@gmail.com • trigonometry 305.395.9461.

• algebra group & private lessons • pre-algebra • etc.

We Do Installations!

Licensed & Insured

FREE ESTIMATES U.S.1 & 109th St, Marathon (Across from Beall’s Outlet)

289-3019

63

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

LET’S DO BUSINESS - 305.743.0844 MARATHON • KEY COLONY OWNERS

START EARNING 305 3902315

WWW.KEYSRENTALSONLINE.COM OFFER YOUR ENJOY EXPERT MAXIMIZE GUESTS A VIP PROPERTY YOUR INCOME EXPERIENCE MAINTENANCE POTENTIAL

NEW & REPAIR

305-664-0099 www.TikiHuts.com

Karen Raspe

Realtor 305-393-9010 karenraspe@bellsouth.net

9141 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050 www.karenraspe.com

STATE CERTIFIED THATCHING CONTRACTOR CYC 000002

Petersen Repair & Maintenance Serving Monroe, Dade & Broward Including Airports & Ports.

SUV, Van & Limousine options available Call us for special events.

305-743-7454

fkes2011@gmail.com floridakeysexpressshuttle.com

• Flooring • Inside Trim Work • Door Replacement • Landscaping • Fencing

• Plastering & Stucco • Masonry & Spalling Repair • Waterproof & Roof Painting • Interior & Exterior Painting • Parking Lot Striping

SP# 4434, 4435, 4436, 4437, 4438. 4439. 4448, 4449, 4450, 4451

Charlie Petersen 920-371-3107 | PetersenRepair@yahoo.com

y’s www.KeysSlidingGlassDoorRepair.com And Sliding Glass Door Repair Roller Maintenance Track Maintenance Door Alignment Security Pins Safety Locks Handles

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

We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

305-998-8953 Insured • Professional • Reliable

Excellent References Upon Request

305-766-0819 305-924-0179

Nails by Ivis

Manicures • Pedicures Acrylics • Gelish • Facials • Waxing

When It Rains It Pours!

Need 7” Gutters? We have 6” & 7” Seamless • Copper Specialists MARATHON

305-743-0506 KEY LARGO 305-852-5356 rainsavergutters@gmail.com

Rachel Sanderson Rachellynnes94@gmail.com 305.393.3076

5177 Overseas Highway

(Between Office Depot & Main Post Office)

Marathon, FL 33050 305-289-1631

10700 5TH AVENUE GULF P. O. BOX 500995 MARATHON, FLORIDA KEYS 33050

www.marathonhairandnailsalon.com

The Weekly Newspapers

Specializing in Color and Highlights Haircuts Keratin Treatments 5177 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050

SALES

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

LICENSED CFC1427241

(Between Office Depot and Main Post Office)

305-289-1631

www.KeysWeekly.com

305-743-0844

www.marathonhairandnailsalon.com

QUICK & RELIABLE OPEN WATER MARINE SERVICES JARED FRANK

OWNER

(305) 289-1551 towboatusmarathon.com

Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here

64

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MAY 21, 2020

Kellie Alpert 305.923.1696

Amanda Garcia 305.240.0704

Jessica Blass 305.393.2518

Kathleen Burns 305.304.5007

Debbie Cardenas 305.304.9434

Vince Taporowski 305.394.3420

From all of us at Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty, our warmest thoughts and highest hopes are with the graduating class of 2020.

Matt Carlson 612.791.2345

Ellen Gvili 305.304.2933

The real estate team you choose to represent your property Everett Smith 305.304.2651 should be as exceptional as you are, and your next journey.

Gina Kennedy PA 305.240.0707

Stacy Stahl 305.731.9510

Jenna Stauffer 260.433.2319

Karen Taporowski 305.304.1804

Bob Cardenas Broker/Owner

305.304.8292

All together for a safe and healthy future.

305.294.1117 | oceansir.com

Russell Post Broker/Owner