Key West Weekly 20-0716

“When Chekhov saw the long winter, he saw a winter bleak and dark and bereft of hope....”

1¢

July 16, 2020

THE END OF AN ERA

SEARS TO CLOSE IN KEY WEST? | P. 42

WILL SCHOOLS REOPEN?

IF NOT, WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS? | P. 52

ROUGH WATERS

CRUISE SHIP DEBATE GETS CHOPPY | P. 23

MASK UP! LOCALS TEAM UP TO COVER UP | P. 27

From left, Deniece McNeill and daughters Nazaria Hernandez and Zamaria Smith sport masks made by Key West resident Jodyrae Campbell and distributed to families in need by local mail carrier Kevin Paul Taylor. KEVIN PAUL TAYLOR/Contributed

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

WE ARE OPEN

SERVING ALL OF MONROE COUNTY

COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER MONDAY-FRIDAY | 8AM-5PM | 305-517-6613 OUR TEAM OF EXPERTS Are here to continue to provide affordable healthcare for all of Monroe County.

Our medical & dental offices are open.

Call us today! 305-517-6613

COVID-19 SCREENINGS COVID-19 TESTING • • • •

Primary medicine • Pharmacy services General dentistry • Finacial Assistance All major insurances accepted Medicaid & Medicare

3706 N. Roosevelt Blvd | Key west | 305-517-6613 | rhnmc.org

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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3

4

CORONAVIRUS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

1.51 9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050 Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

The percentage of deaths among all confirmed COVID-19 cases of Florida residents, per the state health department’s July 15 report. The health department’s latest report shows 4,521 COVID-19-related deaths out of the 297,876 total cases involving Florida residents since the pandemic began. New deaths reported in the July 15 report totaled 112. Six COVID-19-related deaths have been reported in Monroe County, of which all had underlying health conditions.

Publisher

Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

MANDY MILES

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COVER YOUR FACE

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THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR

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News Deadline

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Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.

KEY WEST CLEARS CALENDAR THROUGH OCTOBER MANDY MILES

Tiffany Duong tiffany@keysweekly.com

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

The Masquerade March is one of the most popular — and crowded — Fantasy Fest events, which all have been canceled this year. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

BOAT RACE DECISION EXPECTED SOON

Key West Editor

Design / Pre-Press

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.

The Monroe County Tourist Development Council installed dozens of banners throughout the Florida Keys reminding visitors to wear masks, keep their distance and wash their hands. But recent visitors to Duval Street did not heed the instructions. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

KEY WEST STRENGTHENS MASK RULES

K

ey West officials on July 13 strengthened the city’s mask requirements, now requiring everyone older than 6 to wear a mask any time they are outside their home or hotel room, except while eating, regardless of social distancing capabilities.

“We cannot stress how important it is that we slow this infection rate,” City Manager Greg Veliz said.

“We have limited medical support on this small island, and the counties north of us are major national hot spots. Please, everyone, take personal responsibility and wear a mask.”

“Individuals violating this directive are subject to a second-degree misdemeanor charge, which carries fines up to $500 and potential prison terms of up to 60 days, with higher penalties for repeated offenses,” states the newest directive, the full text of which is available on the city’s website.

ey West officials have cleared the island’s social calendar through October, making the difficult decision to cancel all events requiring a city-issued special event permit.

Fantasy Fest organizers announced on July 9 the cancellation of this year’s festival, originally scheduled for Oct. 17-24. As the coronavirus spreads unchecked through South Florida, a host of other events also fell victim, although fishing tournaments seem to be weathering the storm, given participants’ ability to spread out.

“Right now, we’ve worked our way through the calendar up to Fantasy Fest, and then we obviously have powerboat races scheduled for two weeks later in early November,” Key West city manager Greg Veliz told Keys Weekly on July 14. “Halloween trick-or-treating has not been discussed.” Halloween typically does not involve an event permit.

Veliz is meeting this week with producers of the

Key West Offshore Racing World Championships to discuss the races that are headquartered at the cityowned Truman Waterfront.

Prior to the powerboats was to be the popular Key West Songwriters Festival Oct. 7-11. Hemingway Days, scheduled for this month, has moved online, along with Mel Fisher Days. The Key West Half Marathon is using an app to digitize its Key West courses so runners can participate from their own hometown.

“We’re trying to make educated decisions three months out, when things are changing every three hours,” Veliz said, acknowledging that some crowded events can’t be canceled.

“The city obviously can’t cancel a calendar day such as New Year’s Eve,” Veliz said.

“We’re going to have Dec. 31 and Jan. 1, but what that will look like, I can’t say. I do hold out hope for the Christmas parade — perhaps a smaller version — if things take a turn for the better by December, but time will dictate that.”

MONROE COUNTY

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

BOCC DISCUSSES TRAFFIC, HURRICANE EVACUATION, ROGOS AND HOW IT’S ALL CONNECTED

TO DEVELOP OR NOT? TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

A

t their July meeting, the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) discussed at length many of the concerns that continue to loom over the future development of the Florida Keys: increased traffic, hurricane evacuation and ROGO allocations.

The day began with a presentation by consultant AECOM on its 2019 travel time and delay study of U.S. 1.

“I think we have a major traffic problem, and it backs up for miles. There’s no way we can’t address that today,” said Commissioner Craig Cates.

Dottie Moses, from Key Largo, agreed and advocated against further development of the Keys, saying, “We now have a rush hour. We never had a rush hour in the Keys.”

Moses suggested that traffic is worse than the latest study showed and that it couldn’t all be attributed to construction due to Irma repairs. She also suggested that more “compromised” segments of U.S. 1 be dealt with now, rather than waiting for the new study to get included in reviews and assessments.

Mayor Heather Carruthers added, “I will say no one on this commission is trying to justify additional development.

We all know what the traffic problems are, and we all want to find the solution, but my question is which of these solutions will get us the most mitigation for our traffic problems?”

The mayor also brought up a critical unknown for the future: the recovery of tourism in the Keys in light of the current pandemic and shutdowns, and how that will affect traffic.

“We don’t know what normal life will be,” she said.

After further discussion, the commissioners voted 4-1 (with Craig Cates dissenting) for the staff recommendation regarding the traffic study. The selected option will use a previous 2017 study instead of the new 2019 study because the former will allow for and require actual mitigation of traffic issues, said Emily Schemper, senior director of planning & environmental resources.

Next, the commission received an update from Jon Rizzo, the warning coordination meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Key West.

Rizzo reminded the commissioners and the public about the dangers of rapid intensification of hurricanes and the unpredictability in forecasting weather events.

“Hurricane Dorian in 2019 went from 105 mph to 140 mph in 24 hours,” Rizzo said. “(Hurricane) Rita in 2005 went from 70 mph to 175 mph, a tropical storm to a Cat. 5, in a day. And Charley in 2004 went from 110 to 145 mph in 5 hours.”

Rizzo also explained the challenge in forecasting: 48-hour forecasts based on National Hurricane Center (NHC) measurements aren’t actually “48-hours” in advance due to the way data is measured and shared. They are closer to 45-hour advanced forecasts. They also include normal tracking and intensity measurement errors.

The result, Rizzo said, is that the NHC could only forecast a Category 3 or higher hurricane a full 48 hours ahead for 6% of the surveyed storms (5 out of 78). Four percent (3 out of 78) of the storms did not have any 48-hour forecast available.

“These storms form literally in our backyard and become a Cat. 3 in two days,” Rizzo said, sometimes before NHC forecasts can even pick them up.

Rizzo emphasized that he wanted to help ensure the decision makers understand how important proper communication to the public of risk is and how quickly storms can intensify from relatively benign to Irma-esque.

The mayor said, “That was pretty depressing, sobering.”

Commissioner Sylvia Murphy added, “It was also informative. I’ve seen it before, and I could happily see it again two more times. It has more information than we’ve seen in a long, long time.”

It all came together with the commission’s discussion of the 294 remaining Market Rate ROGO units. The commission discussed whether to direct staff to move a portion of those to the affordable housing allocation pool.

The commissioners discussed the frustrating lack of affordable and workforce housing preventing companies from attracting workers to come to and stay in the Keys. Staff presented seven distinct plans for the BOCC to vote on regarding the county’s 300 ROGO allocations, which included a mix of shifting to workforce and/or affordable allocations, creating new owner-occupied categories to prevent vacation home build-outs and requiring occupants to derive their income primarily in Monroe County.

Stuart Shaffer, representing property owners in Sugarloaf, said, “You heard Rizzo’s presentation — it’s scary; 48-hour evacuation is dangerous.”

Christine Russell, a long-time Lower Keys resident, said, “You cannot allocate ROGOs on the basis of people leaving in 48 hours because the big storm is out there, and we don’t have 48 hours. You will never build your way out of affordable housing. We need to talk about preserving our existing affordable housing. We need to talk about a living wage. Lives are at stake, so I ask you to stop building.

We already can’t get out now. If you think COVID-19 won’t kill us, the big one is out there.”

Murphy and Carruthers agreed, and voted not to take the county’s 300 ROGO allocations to prevent further development. The other commissioners did not agree, proposing instead to accept the 300 and “bank” them for future takings cases and continue discussions with developers to accept deed-restricted allocations with the 48-hour evacuation requirement.

No final selection was made. Staff will review the discussions and suggestions on how to convert market rate allocations into affordable and workforce housing and revisit the issue.

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CORONAVIRUS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

COUNTY

MONROE

MIAMI-DADE

BROWARD

PALM BEACH

Hospitalizations with primary COVID-19 diagnosis

19

1,845

1,170

647

Percentage of beds available

22%

19%

17%

27%

Hospital beds available

96

6,849

4,478

3,075

Total bed capacity with staff

122

8,452

5,403

4,196

ICU beds available

9

831

483

302

Percentage of ICU beds available

18%

14%

6%

27%

Pediatric ICU beds available

0

15

31

20

Percentage of pediatric ICU beds available

—

17%

49%

62%

Location beds Occupied

Available

Fishermen’s Hospital

0

4

DePoo Hospital

19

4

Mariners Hospital

20

5

Lower Keys Medical Center

57

13

Source: state Agency for Health Care Administration as of July 15, 2020.

Monroe County numbers are provided by the state Agency for Health Care Administration. The numbers for Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties are also noted.

HOSPITALIZATION by the NUMBERS As COVID cases rise on mainland, Keys keep track of count

By Sara Matthis and Jim McCarthy

L

ocals are familiar with the phrase “heads in beds.” But when it comes to COVID-19, the touristy words mean something else entirely and Keys officials are tracking it closely. How many hospital beds are in the Keys? Does it even matter, because Keys patients will be “shipped” to the mainland if advanced care is needed? What happens when the mainland hospitals are full?

As of July 15, 81% of hospital beds are occupied in MiamiDade County. In the Keys, it’s 78%.

The Keys Weekly reached out to Lower Keys Medical Center and Baptist Health South Florida (parent company of Fishermen’s Hospital and Mariners Hospital in the Keys) for some answers.

Unfortunately, they aren’t simple answers. While there are 96 hospital beds in Monroe County, across the three hospitals and DePoo Hospital, the capacity has the ability to expand to 118 beds with the proper staffing.

“Our hospital's capacity changes based on current patients and staffing. This is a very fluid situation and the figures can change throughout the day based on patient admissions and discharges,” said David Clay, CEO of LKMC. “The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA), Florida's chief health policy entity, has granted our hospital a waiver to use beds at our behavioral health campus if needed.”

LKMC is currently operating one unit of COVID-19 patients, although it can be expanded if needed. LKMC said it has a dedicated 10-bed ICU. “In the event of a significant surge of cases in our community, we would work collaboratively with county and state health officials to identify other resources to provide care for those who need it,” Clay said.

According to LKMC, patients may be transferred to another facility if the hospital does not offer the specialty service or level of care they require, or because of patient choice. As of the first week of July, LKMC said it had not transferred a COVID-19 patient due to inability to provide care.

As part of each hospital’s charter agreement to operate, it must have a formal “surge” plan. In the event of a surge, Florida hospitals will probably follow the New York state model of canceling elective surgeries and other non-essential medical care.

The Baptist Health South Florida system has seen growing numbers of patients seeking care related to COVID-19. Some hospitals are at full or nearly full capacity, as reported to the state each day.

Mariners Hospital has 25 licensed inpatient beds, while Fishermen's Community Hospital has four licensed inpatient beds.

(Fishermen’s is operating in a temporary facility while a new hospital is being built.) Both hospitals have the availability to surge to more if needed, said Georgi Pipkin, director of media relations.

“We have surge plans in place that allow us to increase our bed capacity; and with 11 hospitals in our system, we have the ability to move patients and staff across our organization to help manage our volume,” Pipkin said.

Since June 1, about 200 patients have been transferred out of Mariners Hospital or Fishermen’s Community Hospital who needed a higher level of care that could not be provided currently at either of these two hospital locations. (This includes COVIDpositive and non-COVID related transfers.) Pipkin said criteria for moving patients out of one of Baptist’s Keys facilities is based on the patient’s needs, specifically a higher level of care or service.

To find the hospitalization numbers for the state of Florida, visit keysweekly.com and click on the active links in this story.

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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Dr. Ryan Barnett is running for Key West City Commission for District Six. Tom Flip sat down with him to ask some questions about why this soon-to-be father would take on the challenges of local politics during a global pandemic.

What changes would you implement in the public health and safety standards that aren't currently being utilized?

It’s critically important that we continue to enforce the necessary safety requirements for Covid-19.

Social distancing, minimizing large gatherings, and wearing masks. If we don’t have that foundationally, nothing else is going to work. People need to hear that over and over again, and know that I’m in line with that. What I think is critically important is that we stop motivating citizens out of fear in relation to Covid, and we start to teach people some of the things that are possible relative to living with it as a part of our community.

One of my foundational principles, in practice, is understanding that the word doctor means teacher.

We are at a crossroads with this virus. More people have to have the understanding to take better care of their health on a regular basis. There are a lot of ways you can boost your resistance to exposure of Covid-19. As a commissioner, I understand I have to take care of the bureaucratic part of government, but I find myself a very valuable asset when it comes to having a platform to teach people to actively take care of their health right now. Having that opportunity can help save lives.

What would you say to someone who believes that as a “free American” they have the right to not want to wear a mask?

People have rights to their own bodies, and they’re allowed to make decisions for their health. You can give them all the advice, but it’s up to them ultimately to decide how they want to take that advice. You come to a crossroads when your behavior starts to affect other people. That is a problem. Should people be able to drink and drive? Of course not, because they are a danger to society. Right now we are in the middle of a pandemic. If we get to the point where our hospitals are overwhelmed and my 86-year-old grandma can’t have access to medical care, then that's a real issue that infringes on her wellbeing and safety. At that point the need for masks becomes more and more critical.

What’s one thing that the city council can do to help small businesses?

I think we’re seeing it right now with what our government can do in negative ways by closing them. I’m a small business owner and am complying with many regulations that negatively affect my bottom line. I’m embracing those changes. Most successful business owners pride themselves on the ability to adapt. We are seeing the result of what kind of impacts government can have on businesses by the regulations and restrictions they enforce. We can very equally acknowledge that there are other things we can do to help support small businesses.

We are seeing it with Duval Street. We’ve fought about the Duval Mall and closing Duval Street for as long as I can remember. Overnight, when social distancing became an issue, we have closed Duval Street for the public during the weekend, and it has positively contributed to the ambiance and foot traffic in a safe way. We have to build on top of that and take that further. We have to allow outside seating for our restaurants to offset closing 50% of their seating.

There are a lot of bars in the district in which you are running. Are you in favor of opening the bars back up during a pandemic?

The bar closure was a state decision, but I am for allowing our small businesses to operate if they follow the guidelines. If a code enforcement officer inspects a business for all of the different regulations relative to Covid-19, and they are in compliance, they have a right to conduct business.

Is there anything that the city council can do to alleviate the high cost of rent in Key West?

Yes, there are things. I am very passionate about this topic for good reason. I have a lot of friends that continually move away from Key West because they can’t afford to live here. We lose so many of our service-oriented citizens every year. We continually lose teachers, nurses, police, firemen and service industry workers to the mainland, and that has to stop. Our community desperately needs more people that are younger to be able to live where they work and work where they live. If you look at Marty's Place, they have been able to create affordable housing for citizens in the range of $1200 to $1400 a month. This is a doable thing, and we have people willing to help with grants and cutting the red tape and bureaucracy for affordable housing. Really what it takes is an unyielding discipline and commitment to allow affordable housing to be possible.

What is one thing the city council can do to help Key West become greener?

We can create a city that is friendlier to those who commute and travel by foot and bicycle. Getting rid of plastic bags. I hate plastic bags. I would love to see plastic bags out the door for good. They kill every turtle that eats them.

One of Clayton Lopez’ campaign slogans is “You Already Know Me.” What is your pitch to voters who buy into that thought process?

I would raise the question, “What do we really know about what is happening to our country?”

Social justice is out of control, our economic system is teetering on the edge of dropping, our healthcare system is no longer viable. Everything we “already know” isn’t good enough. What we do need to be able to do is be as adaptable, enthusiastic, compassionate, and creative as possible about the ability to keep up with the ever-changing landscape that is the world today. If there is anything that is status quo right now, it has to be challenged.

Do you think that we should tax non-resident property owners at a higher rate?

No. I believe that when second and third homeowners have their taxes raised, they automatically pass that on to their tenants.

How do you manage being a full-time doctor, city council member, and father without any one of those things being compromised?

I don’t do anything I can’t handle. It takes incredible efficiency, a shorter sleep cycle, passion, and my desire to contribute.

LET'S REIMAGINE KEY WEST!

Fewer cruise ships, smaller-sized cruise ships, or no cruise ships. Pick one, and why?

I support smaller cruise ships. What I find to be more important is that Key West finds themselves in the driver's seat relative to how cruise ships are allowed to conduct themselves here in Key West.

We have to be in control of the narrative when it comes to the cruise ship situation because whether we like it or not, the small business side is going to be impacted negatively no matter what choice we make.

ryandistrictsix.com | 305.296.5627 PAID FOR BY DR. RYAN BARNETT FOR CITY COMMISSION, DISTRICT 6

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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HEALTH

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020 JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

Florida Keys Mosquito Control District is continuing its air and ground attack to limit breeding possibilities. CONTRIBUTED

MOSQUITO CONTROL MITIGATION EFFORTS INTENSIFY

M

ore confirmed dengue fever cases in Key Largo have brought the total number of infected to 14. Meanwhile, the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District is intensifying its efforts via air and ground in the Upper Keys to thwart potential breeding sites.

Health officials say they received laboratory confirmation of three additional cases on July 11, and all indications are that they were locally acquired. The individuals have received medical treatment and are expected to make a full recovery, according to the health department.

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne tropical disease caused by the dengue virus that presents severe flu-like symptoms, muscle aches and pain, fever and rash in some cases.

Health officials say there are usually no respiratory symptoms associated with the illness. Symptoms usually appear 10 to 14 days after a bite from an infected mosquito.

DENGUE CASES RISE IN KEY LARGO A female resident of Key Largo, who wished to remain anonymous, said she had beginning symptoms on a Monday.

By Tuesday evening, she was down for the rest of the week with body aches and no appetite. It’s taken two full weeks before she started to feel like herself.

“I would never wish dengue on anyone,” she told the Weekly. “It was the sickest I have been in a very long time.”

Dr. Tom Morrison, of Mariners and Fishermen’s hospitals and Advanced Urgent Care in Key Largo, said Monroe County saw its first case of dengue early in the year at MM 99, bayside, in Key Largo. The individual was an isolated case and made a full recovery.

“We started to see more cases in June from Harry Harris to MM 106,” Morrison said.

Dengue fever is not contagious. It is transmitted by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito — one of the most common container-breeding mosquitoes in the Keys. They can be found breeding in artificial containers such as trash cans, flower pots and birdbaths. The mosquito is a vector of other various diseases, including Zika, Chikungunya and yellow fever.

HEALTH

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

11

"We must discover love. The redemptive power of love. And when we do that, we will make of this old world a new world."

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Dengue fever is not contagious, but it is transmitted by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito — one of the most common container-breeding mosquitoes in the Keys. CONTRIBUTED

Discover love, Discover St. Columba The liquid larvicide used by the district is a form of Bti, or Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis, which is a naturally occurring soil bacterium mixed with water and applied as a fine mist. Bti has no effect on non-target organisms when used in the manner employed

by FKMCD. In addition to the aerial larvicide missions, FKMCD continues its enhanced Key Largo dengue response, which includes door-to-door canvassing by FKMCD inspectors to help eliminate mosquito breeding sites and aerial and ground spraying for adult mosquitoes.

Inspectors were in Harry Harris earlier in the week checking properties for standing water.

“FKMCD is committed to protecting public health, and to that end, will dedicate whatever resources are necessary to bring the dengue situation under control,” Huff said.

The emergence of these dengue cases is reinforcing the importance for the public to prevent insect bites and to take basic precautions to help limit exposure. These measures include intact windows and screens and the use of air conditioning, keeping the area around homes free from containers that collect water, wearing protective clothing and the appropriate use of insect repellents.

More information is at www.floridahealth.gov/dengue or www.keysmosquito.org.

Those who are experiencing any symptoms or have additional questions are asked to call DOH-Monroe at 305-2937500 and choose option 3.

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Most dengue virus infections produce mild, nonspecific symptoms or classic dengue fever. Severe dengue, dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF)/ dengue shock syndrome (DSS), occurs in less than 1% of all dengue virus infections.

Morrison said dengue fever has four serotypes (particular virus strains): DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, DENV-4.

“The bad one is DENV-2,” Morrison said. “Currently, we have DENV-1 in Florida.”

On the operations side, Florida Keys Mosquito Control District is continuing its air and ground attack to limit breeding possibilities. Thanks to approval by the local school board, mosquito control is using the Key Largo School grounds as a temporary landing and loading zone.

With use of the site, mosquito control can maximize its time in the area providing mosquito treatments as opposed to flying to and from regular landing zones, which are miles away. All efforts are being made to minimize any disruption to summer school functions and other activities.

It is estimated that FKMCD helicopters will use the school grounds approximately two times per week during the next four to six weeks. FKMCD is also using the field to refill the helicopter with a liquid larvicide that is being used to thwart breeding sites of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. A liquid larvicide mission took place during the early mornings of July 14 and 15.

“FKMCD has been extremely active between MM 98 and 106.5,” said Chad Huff, public information officer for FKMCD.

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12

MARATHON

SARA MATTHIS sara@keysweekly.com

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

MARATHON SETS BUDGET

COUNCIL MAJORITY DECLINES TO SIGN LETTER OF SUPPORT TO CANCEL MINI SEASON

O

n July 14, the City of Marathon passed a preliminary 2021 budget: the millage rate (2.59) stays the same for the fourth year in a row, while the amount of taxes collected increases alongside property values by about 5%. The tax rate will generate $7.3 million in revenue for the general fund.

“The largest change to the general fund budget for FY21 is the movement of the Building Department out of the General Fund and into a Special Revenue Fund,” said Marathon’s financial officer Jennifer Johnson. “This is the result of Florida Statute 553.80, which limits the amount of reserves we can carry for the Building Department Services, and is also a recommendation by our auditor.”

The proposed 2021 budget calls for staff merit raises (up to 3%), anticipated employee insurance benefit increases of 15%, increased software subscriptions, new parks and recreation positions and increased staffing costs for the public works department.

“Overall the FY21 general fund revenues are projected to be approximately $20.1 million, while the estimated expenditures are about $17 million,” Johnson said. “This budget includes the actual FEMA reimbursements received of approximately $4.8 million in 2020 and anticipates another $6.4 million in 2021. If these 2021 reimbursements come through we are projected to end the year with $8.3 million, or more than seven months in reserves.”

The city’s goal is to have 12 months in reserve, a leap from the 6-month reserve that was put aside before Hurricane Irma and exhausted almost immediately.

This is the preliminary tax rate. In subsequent budget meetings, the council can vote to decrease the rate, but not increase it. Councilman Mark Senmartin asked if it wouldn’t be safer to set it higher in case City Manager Chuck Lindsey wanted a deputy manager to “ease” some of Lindsey’s job duties, but the council voted in favor of keeping the 2.59 millage rate it has employed since 2018.

Before the budget discussion, the council had a lengthy discussion about cosigning a letter from the Village of Islamorada asking the governor to cancel lobster mini-season in the Keys. Thousands of visitors descend on the islands every year; some regard it as a nuisance and others as a welcome injection of cash for local businesses. In the end, Senmartin and Councilman Luis Gonzalez voted in favor of the cancellation, but the other three councilmen declined. Senmartin brought the item forward.

“I want to do what’s best for Marathon and what I believe is best is for us to throw our vote to the village and leave the decision to the next level. I’ll stand up,” Senmartin said.

Councilman Dan Zieg said the timing was too short to cancel, or attempt to cancel, mini-season. “I appreciate and understand what you are saying, but I don’t think it’s practical to cancel two weeks before it happens. People have already made travel arrangements. It’s a gallant thought, but useless,” Zieg said.

“If we cancel, they are coming anyway,” said Councilman John Bartus, adding that any move now would be a “paper tiger or straw argument.” Bartus suggested setting new rules for a future season that would require divers to hunt lobster farther from shore to suppress the number of visitors.

Gonzalez was vocal in his support for cancellation. “Our coronavirus cases are continuing to rise and we are supposed to be in the business of protecting our citizens,” he said.

Mayor Steve Cook said canceling mini-season would “put restaurants out of business if we do this.” He also questioned whether the gesture, signing the letter, was futile. “Don’t back a horse that isn’t going to run. We need to mitigate the best that we can.”

City Manager Chuck Lindsey said he looks at mini-season from an emergency management perspective. “The actual issue is COVID-19. Does mini-season increase our risk if we cancel or does it not? It might increase our risk” because then visitors might not be on the water where transmission risk is low, and instead be on land where transmission rates are high.

The rest of the meeting was devoted to housekeeping issues, literally. Discussion focused on the state of roads in the Coco Plum neighborhood, as well garbage generated at Sombrero Beach and vacation rentals. The council also discussed widening 86th Street, adjacent to an almost complete affordable housing and market rate development in Marathon.

“When is the developer going to widen 86th Street like he promised,” asked Angela White during public comments. “Right now two cars cannot pass each other.”

Lynn Landry, who also sits on the city’s planning board, reiterated the plea.

City attorney Dirk Smits said he has reviewed the development agreement and conditional use that was approved by the city, as well as watched the video of the meeting. “It was pretty clear intent there be some design for a widening of the road.

It’s not perfectly clear, but there is enough evidence to warrant more investigation.”

Cook agreed to direct staff to come up with a solution with the developer.

IN OTHER NEWS • Zieg asked his colleagues whether or not Marathon should keep its current sign ordinance, or ask staff to rewrite it. The other members of the council said such changes would not be productive in the current economic climate.

• Cook asked staff what can be done to lessen the amount of “loose trash” associated with vacation rentals.

• Bartus asked almost the identical question about Sombrero Beach. At the beginning of the coronavirus outbreak, the city removed the grills from the pavilions and cut the electricity to them. Now guests are attempting to smuggle grills onto the sand. Staff said the beach is seeing more activity than usual since recreation limitations have been imposed on some areas of the Upper Keys. Staff agreed to try closing all the gates but one, and staff the entrance, as well as put out more garbage cans, emptied more frequently.

• Sarah Cizmas and Melissa Grady were appointed to another term on the Fire Pension Board.

• The council agreed on a method of interviewing a handful of clients for an in-house attorney, including a possible contract with acting attorney Dirk Smits.

13

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

COMMERCE CORNER This business was established in 2020 and says it is a provider of EPA-approved formulas that kill the spread and transmission of COVID-19.

“There is a shortage of EPA-approved formulated products that kill the COVID-19 virus,” said owner Mark Heidrich. “Businesses are forced to use products that do not smell good, may not kill the COVID-19 virus, and are very hard or expensive to obtain. We provide an easy and cost affordable way to purchase these products and have a supply readily on hand.”

The product comes in “ready to use” spray bottles and also concentrate that will disinfect large areas and can be applied to all surfaces.

There is a discount for established Chamber members.

Heidrich says the spray smells good and the cost is affordable. He also said there is inventory on the shelves.

Phone: 513-702-5672 Website: www.killthecovid19virus.com

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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CORONAVIRUS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

Pumping fuel

2

Playing tennis

2

Going camping

3

Grocery shopping

3

Going for a walk, run, or bike ride with others

3

Playing golf

4

At a hotel for two nights

4

At the doctor’s waiting room

4

Going to the library or museum

4

Eating at a restaurant ouside

4

Walking in crowed areas

4

An hour at the playground

5

Having dinner at a friend’s house

5

Attending a backyard barbecue

5

Going to the beach

5

Going shopping

6

Kids going to school, daycare or camps

6

Working a week in an office building

6

Swimming at a public pool

6

Visiting an elderly person

7

Going to the salon or barbershop

7

Eating IN a restaurant

7

Attending a wedding or funeral

7

Traveling by plane

7

Playing baseball

7

Playing basketball

7

Playing football

7

Hugging or shaking hands

8

Eating at a buffet

8

Working out at a gym

8

Going to an amusement park

8

Going to the movies

9

Attending a concert

9

Going to a stadium

9

Religious services with more than 500 people

9

Going to a bar

HIGH RISK

2

MODERATE-HIGH

Getting restaurant takeout

MODERATE RISK

K

eys Weekly staff stumbled over this graph recently. It was developed by the Texas Medical Association and member physicians (the COVID-19 Task Force and the Committee on Infectious Diseases) were asked to rank the danger of everyday activities, from golf to shopping at a mall. How well this translates to the Sunshine State is impossible to tell; but as an exercise in mindfulness, it’s a good start. Think about your choices and be safe out there. GRAPHIC: JAVIER REYES/Keys Weekly

2

LOW-MODERATE

On a scale of 1 to 10 how risky is...

Opening the mail

LOW RISK

KNOW YOUR RISK DURING COVID-19

1

19

20

ELECTION 2020

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

RACE FOR CONGRESS REPUBLICANS LOOK TO CHALLENGE DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT

T

he race to represent Miami-Dade and the Florida Keys in Washington, D.C. is on, as two candidates seek the Republican nod to challenge Democratic incumbent Debbie Mucarsel-Powell in the November election.

Candidates haven’t had all the time in the world to campaign, as their attention has required them to confront the coronavirus pandemic, especially now with South Florida seen as the new epicenter.

Republican candidate and current Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez continues to address matters concerning the pandemic on a policy level, while Republican candidate and Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Lt. Omar Blanco continues to work on the frontlines. The two will square off in an Aug. 18 primary.

Meanwhile, Mucarsel-Powell is hearing concerns from the district, holding frequent Zoom meetings and demanding more action from the state in the way of contact tracing and testing.

Aside from the pandemic, the district continues to confront environmental and economic challenges, from the Everglades and sea level rise to overdevelopment and safeguarding natural resources.

The Keys Weekly asked each of the candidates vying for the House seat the following questions (answers appear as submitted): 1. How would you assess Florida and South Florida’s response to the coronavirus pandemic? What’s something you’d do differently to handle the response better in the district?

2. Everglades restoration efforts are proceeding on several fronts in a bid to improve Florida’s water quality and environment. What actions would you undertake in Washington, D.C. to support the construction of overdue reservoirs and stormwater treatment areas, among other projects?

3. Among the issues that the Keys must confront is sea level rise. What are your proposals and ideas in the way of securing funds and implementing projects to make the island chain more resilient?

4. Development in South Florida continues to boom. What measures would you take to ensure there’s a balance between development, the environment and its resources?

5. What, to you, makes the Keys so unique, and what would you do to support its residents?

Name: Debbie Mucarsel-Powell Age: 49 Professional background: Former Associate Dean at Florida International University College of Medicine Political party: Democratic Current job: Member of Congress 1. I’ve been working closely with doctors across South Florida and holding regular calls with leaders in Monroe County and MiamiDade. We agree that things should have been handled differently. Now we must fix those mistakes before things get worse. We need to listen to and amplify the voices of our public health experts, and implement their recommendations. That includes expanding the testing, contact tracing, and quarantine system, and implementing a statewide mask requirement to slow the spread. It also means stating clearly that everyone can and should get tested, identifying easy to access locations for them to do so.

2. I was appointed Vice Chair of the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee because of my strong history of standing up for clean water and healthy Everglades. I’m working on legislation that includes one of my top priorities: speeding up construction of the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir — a crucial part of Everglades Restoration. We’ve made great progress to expedite the construction of the reservoir, bring more water south through the Everglades, and improve the ecosystem in Florida Bay. I successfully fought for $200 million for Everglades restoration last year, and $250 million this year.

3. I’m working to combat the causes of sea level rise and fund projects to protect our community from rising tides. I helped pass the Moving Forward Act to protect coastal communities from climate change, sea-level rise, and stronger, more frequent storms, and includes my legislation to fund shovel-ready resiliency projects that create jobs in fisheries and tourism-dependent communities hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. I’ve introduced bipartisan legislation to protect our coral reefs, which work as a barrier to safeguard our coasts. Investing in our natural infrastructure, like coral reefs and mangroves, will be critical to secure our coastal communities.

4. The balance in development and the environment is found where we are developing environmentally friendly and resilient infrastructure that can withstand the effects of climate change. That means passing legislation I’ve led that invests in these resiliency projects and ensures all projects are done in a sustainable way. We also must understand the value that nature brings to communities, from flood protection to boosting our communities’ physical and mental health.

Protecting our unique environment in South Florida is critical.

5. I always fall back on the Keys’ slogan: One human family.

This encapsulates exactly what the Keys stand for and why it is one of the most enviable communities in the nation. I am reminded of these values every time I drive over U.S. 1 and am embraced by the loving and unique culture from Key Largo to Key West. But I’m also reminded of the serious challenges our community here faces, from the housing crisis to inaccessible health care.

I’m working in Congress to address these pocketbook issues I hear about every day from constituents.

ELECTION 2020

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

Name: Carlos Gimenez Age: 66 Professional background: Fire Chief, City of Miami; City Manager, City of Miami; Commissioner, Miami-Dade County Political party: Republican Current job: Mayor, MiamiDade County 1. As Mayor of Miami-Dade County, I’ve worked with healthcare leaders and medical experts to create and implement policies that promote the health and safety of our community. And while it pains me to see people’s livelihoods impacted, I’ve worked diligently to strike the appropriate balance between public health and economic needs. There will be plenty of time to look back and evaluate the thousands of daily decisions made in the last few months and it will be very important to study the lessons so our communities can be prepared for future pandemics.

One thing we already know, during this time we’ve seen the very best of South Florida in the tremendous efforts put forward by our health care professionals. The frontline workers are an inspiration to us all and an invaluable asset to our community. It’s important the nurses, doctors, EMTs, and all medical and public safety professions get the recognition they deserve.

2. It’s no secret that our state and water quality needs help.

While there has been progress, Congress and the State of Florida have not delivered to the extent that is required. For many South Floridians, the solution should have come yesterday. I assure residents I will continue to build bipartisan consensus and work with appropriators to ensure these critical projects are included in the budget and other significant legislation.

3. The Keys are defined by their natural beauty which is an economic as well as an environmental draw for many. Reaching across the aisle, I would work to secure federal funds that would help increase resiliency through projects that promote mitigation and re-investment in our economy. I commit to building from the leadership and extensive knowledge I gained overseeing Miami-Dade’s Capital Improvement Project designed to improve environmental sustainability through planning for future climate changes and sea level rise.

4. While development is a way of life in South Florida, as a strong protector of the Urban Development Boundary in Miami-Dade County, I strongly believe that we cannot continue to compromise the integrity of our environment.

Working with environmentalists, government officials, and industry groups, I’d help form a consensus around development so we can strike the needed balance between the economic and environmental needs of our community.

5. The Florida Keys are a slice of paradise unique to this world.

From our military to sea level rise, the federal government plays a vital role in the success of the keys. In Congress, I’ll bring commonsense leadership to policy debates and the bill drafting process so the Keys are included each step of the way.

Though some believe the Keys will be beautiful no matter what we do, I know it requires hard work and a dedication to excellence from us all.

Name: Omar Blanco Age: 48 Professional background: Firefighter Political party: Republican Current job: Firefighter Lieutenant with Miami-Dade Fire Rescue 1. The coronavirus is a serious issue that should not be taken lightly. However, our biggest challenge thus far has been there are more questions then there are answers. While we know more today than we did at the beginning of this pandemic, as we do in my profession as a firefighter, we need to be the calm, not the chaos. Making swift and firm decisions is important, however, knee-jerk reactions like shutting down our economy will have long-term implications that will far outlast this pandemic.

This isn’t about who’s right, this is about doing the right thing. Not a partisan or political issue, it is only a health and safety issue.

The one thing we know about this pandemic, it doesn’t discriminate, and we should all come together to protect our families and our community.

2. I’m proud of the efforts thus far of this administration in regard to Everglades restoration.

I fully support those continued efforts and will work to prioritize and set realistic deadlines along with a budget that will ensure we get the results our community and environment deserve. We cannot do all the projects at once; we will prioritize based on resources, funding and the impact to solving the concerns of the district.

3. In my conversations with the residents and businesses, sea level rise is a concern the people who work and live in the Florida Keys are seeing themselves. Allocating the appropriate funding will be one of my priorities and how those funds are allocated will be based on a collaboration of data, local testimony and good old common sense.

4. The key word there is balance. Too much of one is often at the expense of the others.

We must ensure we continue evolving our communities while looking at the long-term sustainability of our community and economic growth.

5. The Keys as a whole is diverse and unique, it has the small-town look and feel while its paradise to millions who chose to keep her on their bucket list.

While the rest of the world is building skyscrapers, in the Keys we must keep evolving without sacrificing its traditions, authenticity, and festive character.

21

22

OPINION

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

BAR PILOTS SUE TO STOP CRUISE SHIP VOTE

By Arlo Haskell

FEDERAL LAWSUIT SAYS JUDGE, NOT VOTERS, SHOULD DECIDE

T

he Key West Bar Pilots Association filed a lawsuit in federal court last week to keep cruise ship referenda off the November ballot. The suit names Joyce Griffin, Monroe County’s non-partisan supervisor of elections; the City of Key West; and the Committee for Safer, Cleaner Ships, the nonprofit group that organized a successful petition drive to give voters the final word on an issue that has long vexed the community.

The ballot questions ask voters whether or not to limit the capacity of cruise ships and the number of daily disembarkations, and whether or not to prioritize cruise ships with better public health and environmental records. The Key West Chamber of Commerce endorsed one of the three referenda last week. Key West Mayor Teri Johnston described the proposed amendments during a candidates’ forum as a “compromise between the numbers of passengers and the size of ships and the environmental issues we’ve had.”

The pilots’ lawsuit claims the amendments would be the end of cruise ships coming to Key West. They claim no modern cruise ships meet the proposed criteria, despite the fact that such ships have called on Key West in recent years. Their claim is also at odds with recent comments

by Mayor Johnston, who said that executives from Royal

SAFER, CLEANER SHIPS WILL PROTECT JOBS

Caribbean have offered assurances that they are “willing to work with the City of Key West and accommodate the request of the citizens.”

However, if a federal judge agrees with the pilots, the cruise ship questions would be deleted from the November ballot.

The Bar Pilots Association is made up of four captains who contract with the FloridaCaribbean Cruise Association, a conglomerate of 15 member cruise lines. The pilots provide cruise ships with assistance when they come into and out of port and are paid according to the size of the vessel they handle. According to an investigation by the Port of Miami, the four Key West pilots earned over $2 million in 2015.

“This lawsuit is a desperate ploy to stop Key West’s 15,000 voters from exercising their rights,” says Arlo Haskell, treasurer of the Committee for Safer, Cleaner Ships.

“Whatever you think about cruise ships in Key West, everyone has the right to vote on an issue that will impact our public health, our environment, and our economy.

We will fight the Bar Pilots with everything we’ve got to make sure Key West voters are allowed to decide for themselves.”

ARLO HASKELL Treasurer of the Committee for Safer, Cleaner Ships.

T

he Key West Chamber of Commerce has been struggling to discredit a report by my group, the Committee for Safer, Cleaner Ships, that shows cruise ships bring 50% of all visitors to Key West but only 8% of tourist spending. Now they say we were right all along.

The Chamber claims cruise ships generate $90 million, or 8% of our $1.1 billion tourist economy, but they don’t consider the negative economic costs of large cruise ships. Nor does the Chamber acknowledge the environmental damage and health risks of large cruise ships.

In November, voters will decide on amendments that reduce the size of cruise ships allowed in Key West, thus reducing the risks to our environment and public health.

These amendments will promote the smaller, safer cruise ships that are the fastest-growing sector of the cruise industry.

The Chamber says 833 local jobs “supported by” cruise ships are at risk. But read the fine print here.

It’s a clever but misleading statistic.

This is not 833 bartenders, boat captains and line cooks. It’s the Chamber’s best guess at the so-called ripple effect of measuring economic impact. It’s no coincidence that jobs “supported by” cruise ships account for just 8% of jobs supported by tourism.

The vast majority of jobs in Key West see no benefit whatsoever from cruise ships. And for many of those that do, cruise ships make up a fraction of the day-to-day business.

The Chamber assumes a total ban on cruise ships in Key West. But remember, there is no ban. So where does the truth lie?

Well, let’s look at some real jobs that are directly impacted by large cruise ships.

A 2013 study by the Bonefish and Tarpon Trust found charter fishing

brought $740 million into the Florida Keys — more than eight times the amount generated by cruise ships.

Charter fishing alone supports almost 8,000 jobs. Large cruise ships cause chronic water quality issues that kill the coral reefs and seagrass beds the fishery depends on. The reef-dependent economy also includes jobs in commercial fishing, diving, and waterbased tours. These jobs are directly threatened by large cruise ships.

For the foreseeable future, tourist jobs everywhere are threatened by the public health risk associated with large cruise ships.

Over 85% of cruise ships entering U.S. waters after March 1 carried COVID-19. Top medical officials, including Dr. Anthony Fauci and CDC director Robert Redfield, have said the risk of infectious disease outbreak on cruise ships exceeds almost any other group activity. Dr. Martin Cetron at the CDC compares the risk of infection on cruise ships to nursing homes and prisons.

The Chamber wants you to think the referenda will put people out of work. The truth is they represent a few wealthy businessmen who value big profits over the health and safety of our community.

We are learning the hard way that public health is an essential part of a successful tourist industry.

Key West’s workforce literally cannot survive if we keep catering to large cruise ships.

In November, voters can place sensible limits on cruise ships in Key West. Voting yes will have a profoundly positive impact on our environment, our health, and, yes, our economy.

ARLO HASKELL Treasurer of the Committee for Safer, Cleaner Ships.

OPINION

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

By John Wells

T

he Key West Citizen’s June 13th editorial declaring the proposed cruise ship referendums to be “genuine compromise” is misleading to Key West voters. It is difficult to know why the editor chose to simply replicate the dogma offered by Cleaner Safer Ships, rather than present a balanced review of the issue.

The cruise ship referenda are neither a compromise nor smart.

The referenda, if passed, will result in a 95% decrease in cruise ship visits to Key West, based on actual ship reservations through December 2021.

Where I come from (Key West), a compromise solution usually rests somewhere near the middle. The Citizen editor neglected to research the real numbers. Cruise tourism opponents do not want a reasonable compromise – they know their referenda mean the complete demise of cruise tourism in Key West.

The editorial subtly misrepresented a referendum’s criteria for the size of ships. That referendum wants no ship with more than 1,300 “persons” on board to visit Key West. “Persons” means passengers plus crew, who also come ashore and spend their dollars.

The editor inaccurately applied the size criteria as “1,300 passengers.” The subtle difference would exclude even more ships.

The Committee for Safer Cleaner Ships tries to deflect the fact that the referenda will result in the destruction of cruise tourism by touting the availability of smaller ships they say will call on Key West in greater numbers. They will not.

As ships’ agents, we speak with cruise line executives and itinerary planners nearly every week. The smaller “boutique,” or exploration ships typically engage in long duration voyages. They do not trade in the short weekly cruises that are attractive to most tourists. They will continue to occasionally visit Key West, if we retain any port infrastructure at all, but there will never be the numbers CSS projects.

CRUISE SHIP REFERENDUMS NEITHER A COMPROMISE, NOR SMART That is a fact based on actual conversations with the cruise lines and their scheduled port calls.

The most conspicuous example of editorial inaccuracy is the false premise that the City only realized a net revenue gain of $91,000 from cruise ship visits in 2018. If you read the 2018 financial report, you will see that the City dedicated $1,753,553 of cruise ship revenues to support essential City services that year. Specifically, passenger and dockage fees added to the budgets of the Police Department ($974,680), Fire Department ($550,046), Emergency Medical Services ($135,354) and “Other Departments” ($93,472). This boon to the Key West City budget surpassed $2 million in 2019.

Those numbers represent a substantial support of City services for the citizens of Key West by direct cruise ship fees. Failure to report those numbers is deliberate dishonesty by the anti-cruise ship bunch. Failure to fact-check the dishonesty is a disappointing omission.

The referenda will result in an overwhelming cut of cruise tourism, which means higher taxes, reductions in essential city services, or both. The City manager is already planning for that contingency.

The Citizen preaches that long-established businesses need to “change their model or market themselves differently” to adjust to the expulsion of cruise tourists. Unless you have invested your financial and personal capital into devising, planning and nurturing a business to success, patronizing advice about how to manage a business is not useful.

However, I do commend the editorial for avoiding the error of echoing the anti-cruise ship group’s hysterical disinformation program regarding environmental impacts of cruise ships on Keys waters.

Ironically, the referenda would exclude the newest, most advanced ships with state-of-the-art environmental systems.

There has never been an incident of spill or discharge of prohibited substances into Keys waters in all the decades of cruise traffic. The outcry about siltation or turbidity is a false flag. A strong winter nor’wester turns the harbor almost white with silt blown off the flats to the west.

When the Navy had to repair the pilings at their cruise dock, live brain corals had to be removed and transplanted. They flourished immediately alongside the cruise ships. Cruise ships in Key West do not harm corals and there is no study that says they do.

Editorials are statements of opinion and all of us are entitled to our opinions on this important issue.

However, the community will be better served if journalists do not taint the debate by parroting deliberate distortions from one side, while ignoring the other.

JOHN E. WELLS Ships’ Agent, Ret. Key West (John Wells is the 1982 founder and recently retired CEO of Caribe Nautical Services, Inc., Port Agents for all cruise lines that call in Key West. Though retired from operations, he remains chairman of the board of directors.)

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24

ISLAMORADA

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020 JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

C

reation of a swim zone to mitigate issues at a popular Islamorada sandbar will be heard again during the village council’s meeting on Thursday, July 16. The ordinance that would create a 300-foot vessel exclusion and swim zone from the mean water line off Port Antigua and White Marlin Beach shoreline enters second reading.

Some residents who live inside the community who support the move say it’s a good first step, so long as there’s increased enforcement. Other homeowners, however, say the ordinance would affect quality of life for residents and their beach that’s private.

COUNCIL TO CONSIDER WHITE MARLIN SWIM ZONE

IDEAS FOR SOLUTION MIXED AMONG RESIDENTS

Following the reading and hearing of more than 100 comments, council members unanimously approved the first reading of the ordinance at a June meeting, to move the proposed swim zone forward in a bid to move boaters back from the White Marlin sandbar. Talks over the issues of trespassing and trashing from party boaters date back to 2014. Options were presented to mitigate the problems, but no consensus was reached.

Last February, concerns were raised again over escalating boat traffic and activity in the area. That led council members to direct staff to engage in further

discussion with Port Antigua residents on a possible vessel exclusion/swim area.

David Webb is the president of the Port Antigua Property Owners Association, which comprises about 300 homeowners. Webb, who moved into the community around the time the first attempt failed in 2014, said the boat traffic has become “absurd” and some behavior “obscene.”

“If behavior they’re exhibiting was occurring in the parking lot of Walmart, they would be in Stock Island (detention facility) in 15 minutes,” Webb said.

While the majority of the community rejects the status quo, responses from residents on a solution varied. Port Antigua resident Lee Ramirez said the village’s solution isn’t one the area desires. A survey issued to full- and part-time homeowners in September 2019 asked if they would support approaching the village to create a 300-foot no-motor zone at the beach, which would ban all motorized vessels from the beach. Of the responses, 91 said “yes” and 99 said “no.”

In another survey in April 2020, residents were polled to see if they’d support having the entire sandbar off Port Antigua designated as a swim area, with no anchor or vessels from shore to 300 feet out. Sixty-seven responded with “yes” while 100 said “no.” They were also asked if they’d support another option of a no anchor/no vessel, swim area buffer covering the sandbar, but only allowing paddleboards and kayaks from the waterline to the sandbar. A total of 119 respondents said “yes” while 55 said “no.”

Rick Hoskins has been a homeowner at Port Antigua for three years. Hoskins said making the area a swim zone would essentially make the area publicly accessible when it’s a gated beach area. He said he would like to see the noise ordinance enforced and people forced to leave when they walk up to the beach.

“People will still anchor out and wade in,” he said. “Residents shouldn’t be subjected to loud noise and trespassing, but there are already laws in place to address those nuisances.”

Hoskins initiated a petition on change. org to stop the ban on all sandbar boating.

More than 1,900 have signed the petition.

Hoskins said there could be legal action on

the way if the ordinance is passed.

If passed, Webb said the ordinance would be just the first step in confronting the issues at the sandbar. He said it’s the association’s intention to hire offduty sheriff’s deputies during times of increased activity such as weekends and holidays. Hoskins said a group of 50 families and he support hiring private security as “off-duty cops don’t have the authority to bump them off the beach.”

Vice Mayor Ken Davis said there are numerous reasons to enact the ordinance, between the impacts to the environment and the disrespect and disregard among those out on the sandbar.

“All they (sandbar goers) want to do is party their butts off and have a great time and make the lives of Port Antigua residents hell,” he said.

The ordinance doesn’t require any prior approval by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), as Florida statute gives the village the authority to create certain boating restricted areas, including vessel exclusion/swim areas. Regulatory permits would be needed from FWC, U.S. Coast Guard and Army Corps of Engineers, however, for installation of waterway markers and signs.

Estimated cost for signs and markers is around $7,500, according to the village.

Annual upkeep is about $2,500. Costs for additional enforcement by Monroe County sheriffs is unknown. Village Attorney Roget Bryan said staff will conduct a proper survey of the area to determine the number of buoys required for the zone.

Boaters who violate the ordinance and pilot their vessels into the swim zone could be cited with penalties up to $250.

The village council meeting is set for Thursday, July 16 at 5:30 p.m. It will be live-streamed on Comcast, for Islamorada residents only, on Channel 77, and streamed live on the village website and via Zoom. Among the other notable topics are a resolution to determine the proposed millage rate for fiscal year 2020-21, a discussion by Mayor Mike Forster regarding curfew during lobster mini-season and potentially shutting down parks and beaches to nonresidents. There will also be discussion on snorkeling and diving regulations during mini-season by Bryan.

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DARE I SAY IT

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

MILES TO GO

MANDY MILES drops stuff, breaks things and falls down more than any adult should.

She’s married to a saintly — and handy — fisherman, and has been stringing words together in Key West since 1998.

UNDER COVER FOR THE GOOD OF OTHERS

I have mask envy and perhaps a slight case of OCD when it comes to our latest facial fashion accessories.

I realize the disorder hasn’t made the latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, but everyone’s is better than mine.

At any given moment, there are three handmade fabric masks, one stretchy buff and a pack of five disposables with the bendy, metal nose piece, all floating around in my purse.

I bought the disposable masks for our recent trip to see my folks in Ocean City at the South Jersey Shore, in case someone dared to come near me on an airplane with their mouth or nostrils visible. Fortunately, everyone complied easily with the rules and I wasn’t haughtily ejected from a flight for “going Jersey” on someone without a mask, as my friend, Rob, refers to my occasional enthusiastic outbursts.

Some of the masks irritate my ears. Some get sucked into my mouth when I breathe or speak. Others are too hot, too tight, not tight enough or just plain ugly. I’ve even made my own modifications to a few masks, adding a piece of foam, cut from a bathing suit top, to the mask pocket

some wonderful home seamstresses include in their protective creations.

The contour of such foam keeps the mask out of my mouth, but also tends to muffle my voice, which is less than ideal; well, it is for me.

Interestingly, the muffled mask seems to be Stan’s — and my dad’s — favorite. Curiouser and curiouser.

I don’t understand, as I speak with such restrained and refined elegance at all times. (Actually, those two would have preferred me to wear the muffled mask while inside our home and on our front porch all week, but that’s neither here nor there.)

Let me be clear: I wear a mask, all the time, indoors and out, as required. Please do the same and let’s start putting this nightmare behind us. Our parents, friends and neighbors are getting sick and dying.

People are losing everything financially, medically, mentally.

Stop whining and wear a damn mask. And for God’s sake, don’t kill the messenger — literally. The restaurant hostess who asks you to wear a mask when not seated at your table did not single-handedly enact a citywide mask requirement. Please stop screaming at her. This virus is transmitted by water droplets such as the ones coming out of your face when you’re screaming at her without a mask.

But I digress.

It is interesting to me how these things have become an instant fashion accessory — and how quickly we’ve turned protective gear into personal statements, status symbols and marketable merchandise.

I’ve tried several versions, but someone always has a better mask.

One woman in Jersey sported one that looked to be made of neoprene wetsuit material. Even younger folks who are clearly “too cool” to protect themselves and others favor the simple black ninja-style masks that they like to wear ironically, as they do all things.

But at least they’re wearing them.

I’ll continue to seek that perfect face covering for my own needs. But until I find it, I’ll make do with one of the dozen in my purse, muffled or not.

My mission is to represent the citizens of Florida House District 120 with honesty, respect and hard work. I’ve lived and worked beside you my entire life and witnessed many changes in our community over the years. I will use that experience as my driving motivation as I strive to enhance the lives of people in this unique part of our great State now and into the future.

KNOWLEDGEABLE | RESOURCEFUL | TRUSTWORTHY A REPUBLICAN, JIM IS UNIQUELY QUALIFIED TO APPLY HIS CONSERVATIVE APPROACH, TO MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE, FOR OUR COMMUNITY IN TALLAHASSEE. POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT PAID FOR AND APPROVED BY JIM MOONEY, REPUBLICAN, FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE.

ENDORSED TIVE ENTA

BY REPRESASCHEIN HOLLY R ATOR AND SEN RES LO ANITERE F

KEY WEST

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

COUNTY APPROVES ROAD ABANDONMENT FOR WRECKERS CAY PROJECT

O

nly three county commissioners were present for the July 15 vote that approved the county’s abandonment of a portion of Laurel Avenue on Stock Island to enable developers of the Wreckers Cay project to build 280 housing units that will include workforce housing.

The project is located behind CVS and Murray’s Marine on Stock Island, just off U.S. 1.

Commissioners Michelle Coldiron, David Rice and Sylvia Murphy voted 2-1 to approve the abandonment, with Murphy dissenting.

Prior to the vote, eight residents of Stock Island and Key West spoke against the road abandonment measure, reminding commissioners of the county’s commitment to preserve public access to public waterfront areas. Two speakers also reminded the lawmakers of the Hickory House restaurant purchase that effectively eliminated the public’s water access on that property.

“Just because you have the legal right to do this doesn’t mean it’s the right thing to do,” resident Tom Milone told the commissioners.

Key West resident Christine Russell didn’t mince words.

“Developers will lie through their teeth to get what they want,” she said. “If this question was put to the voters, how would they vote? Please represent them and do what’s right.”

“Stock Island has been eaten up by people with money. How can we do this to our citizens,” Murphy said, seeking a way “for both sides to get what they want.”

Attorney Bart Smith, representing the developers, reminded the commissioners that the project’s development agreement is contingent on the road abandonment.

County planners told the commissioners the proposal complies with county rules and regulations because the portion of the road to be given to the developers does not terminate at open water.

“But we have taken everything from Stock Island,” Murphy repeated before voting against the abandonment. “I love everything else about this project. The only part I object to is this little part of water.”

Commissioners Rice and Coldiron echoed the concerts of the residents and the Stock Island community and pledged to identify additional county land resources to provide public water access. Coldiron also pointed out that the Wrecker’s Cay team has agreed to provide the public access to the water with reasonable rules and hours of operation.

“I can appreciate everything Commissioner Murphy said, and I agree it’s important to protect Stock Island and invest more into it as a community, but we also hear constantly the need for workforce housing near the employment centers, and that’s Stock Island,” Coldiron said. “I believe this will provide our residents with a nice place to live.”

Rice and Coldiron also pointed out that the developers’ plans include improvements to the area that has been a source of trouble for the county sheriff’s office, given the challenges of vagrants, drugs and other criminal activity in the area.

COVERING KEY WEST LOCALS TEAM UP ON MASKS

Former Key West Fantasy Fest Queen Jodyrae Campbell, left, has made and donated more than 1,000 face masks to needy families whom postal carrier Kevin Paul Taylor, right, encounters on his daily mail route.

LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

A

Key West mail carrier and a community activist have joined forces to be sure everyone can cover up in these days of mandatory face masks and alarmingly high numbers of COVID-19 cases.

With her trusty sewing machine, former Fantasy Fest Queen Jodyrae Campbell has made more than 1,000 face masks. She gives them to Kevin Paul Taylor, a Key West mail carrier who encounters needy families on his daily mail route and distributes dozens of masks every day.

“I noticed a few months ago that several families in the housing projects on my route weren’t wearing masks,” Taylor said. “When I asked some of them why they weren’t wearing masks, I learned they didn’t have access to any free ones, and with so many people out of work, they didn’t have money to buy masks. I put out a request for help and Jodyrae dove in. She has made 95% of the masks I’ve distributed and refuses to accept any money for them. Maya Montana also stepped up to the plate and started making masks.”

Campbell is still sewing, but supplies are running low, Taylor said.

“I’m trying to find donations of fabric, black and white sewing thread and elastic,” he said.

Audubon House & Tropical Gardens is donating all proceeds from sales of special-edition face masks to Reef Relief. CONTRIBUTED

To donate supplies, email TaylorPaulKevin@gmail.com.

Sales help Reef Relief Audubon House & Tropical Gardens on Whitehead Street is also making good things happen with Key West’s mandatory-mask rule. The Audubon House is selling special-edition masks featuring designs inspired by the drawings of John James Audubon. The organization is giving 100% of the proceeds from mask sales to Reef Relief, a Key West-based nonprofit organization dedicated to improving and protecting the coral reef ecosystem.

Masks cost $12 and are available in the Audubon House gift shop, 205 Whitehead St.

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LAW ENFORCEMENT

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

FRAUD

FORMER DEPUTY ARRESTED FOR ILLEGAL COMPUTER DATABASE USE

A

FIRED

DEPUTY TERMINATED FOR USE-OF-FORCE VIOLATIONS

M

onroe County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Jon Riggs was fired Monday following investigations into excessive use of force and improper conduct.

The sheriff’s office received complaints in December and initiated two separate Internal Affairs investigations.

Riggs worked in the Lower Keys.

There were two separate incidents. In one, Riggs became out of control and used threats and profanity while interacting with a group of teenagers on Big Pine Key. The other incident involved excessive use of force in which Riggs inappropriately and unnecessarily used a Taser and pepper spray on an individual in Key West.

Sheriff Rick Ramsay decided to terminate Riggs.

The investigation was conducted in accordance with the Police Officer’s Bill of Rights, in which Riggs was allowed to dispute the decision via the normal administrative process.

“There is no place in law enforcement for short tempers and disproportionate responses. I require my deputies to treat those they serve professionally and with respect,” Ramsay said. “Mr. Riggs fell short of that and I have lost confidence in his ability to safely enforce the law. I won’t allow the actions of one individual to tarnish the rest of my deputies who are the best law enforcement officers anywhere.”

Riggs was hired on Oct. 6, 2008 and terminated on July 13, 2020.

His salary upon termination was $67,876.

— Contributed

former Ocean Reef public safety department security commander and former Sheriff’s Office deputy was arrested July 14 following a sheriff’s office-led investigation into illegal access to law enforcement computer databases.

Thomas Edward Kiffney, 53, of Homestead, was charged with 30 third-degree felony counts of accessing a computer/electronic device without authorization.

Kiffney was employed as the security commander at the Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo when he learned the club was looking for a new company to run legal background checks on those entering the property. Kiffney, who was then also employed part-time as a sheriff’s office reserve deputy, created a for-profit company called Executive Backgrounds, and pitched the company to club officials without telling them he was the real financial beneficiary. An associate of Kiffney agreed to act as a chief executive officer, also unbeknownst to club officials. Club officials ultimately decided to use Executive Backgrounds following Kiffney’s recommendation.

Kiffney then unlawfully accessed law enforcement databases such as the Drivers and Vehicle Information Databases (D.A.V.I.D.) system as well as the Florida Crime Information Center (F.C.I.C.) system to run background checks using his Sheriff’s Office-issued laptop. Kiffney would create a report based on that information and then forward that Executive Backgrounds report to club officials for their review and payment.

The quality of the Executive Background reports presented to club officials were of poor quality compared to the professional reports typically provided by the legal companies the club formerly used.

The club investigated further and officials notified Sheriff Rick Ramsay in April they believed Kiffney was accessing the computer databases unlawfully.

Ramsay immediately notified his Major Crimes Unit of the allegations against Kiffney.

Ramsay then formed a task force comprising investigators with his own Major Crimes Unit, the State Attorney’s Office and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

The investigation showed that Kiffney had accessed both computer systems many, many times, generating about $131,916 during the course of the investigation.

The task force set up by Ramsay found at least 30 instances, as reflected in the number of felonies Kiffney is facing.

Kiffney turned himself to the sheriff’s office in Plantation Key on July 14.

Kiffney was subsequently fired from the Ocean Reef Club. Kiffney’s status as a reserve deputy was suspended when Ramsay was notified of the allegations. Kiffney then resigned as a reserve deputy soon thereafter while still under investigation.

Kiffney was hired by the sheriff’s office on April 4, 1992. He was promoted to sergeant on July 29, 1996 and then lieutenant on Jan. 3, 2018 before retiring from full-time duty on Jan. 19, 2018. His salary upon retirement was $93,562.

Kiffney worked as a reserve deputy from Jan. 1, 2020 to June 13, 2020.

“Though I am saddened to see a law enforcement officer end their career this way, I will always work to hold those who break the law accountable, especially when it means policing our own,” said Ramsay. “It would be more difficult without the help and the partnerships this agency has with other law enforcement such as the State Attorney’s Office and Florida Department of Law Enforcement who were once again more than stellar with their assistance in this case.”

— Contributed

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SEEN AROUND TOWN

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020 JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Music & Mermaids Music & M Mermaids

36TH ANNUAL EVENT DRAWS ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS

1

2

3

ermaids and music delighted divers beneath the waters at Looe Key Reef for the Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival on July 11.

The annual event saw mermaids positioned along the reef in a sandy patch where they posed for photos, held up ‘Wear a mask’ and ‘Wash your hands’ signs and played musical instruments. Waterproof speakers were placed underneath boats to provide divers with oceanic tunes, like Jimmy Buffett’s “Fins” and “Under the Sea,” from “The Little Mermaid.”

Formed in the early ’80s, the one-of-a-kind festival uses music and mermaids to raise awareness of ways to protect the reefs. The event was coordinated by Charles F. Troxel, a dentist and former county Fine Arts Council member, and Bill Becker, former president of the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce and U.S. 1 Radio news director (he’s set to retire).

Becker, who provided the music playlist during the event, said it all started when Troxel received underwater speakers loaned by the manufacturer Lubell, out of Columbus, Ohio.

“The event we did, we thought we’d do it once. We did it in January, and it was such a success that people said ‘Let’s do it all the time,’” Becker said. “I said ‘Why not?’ We’ve worked with the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce and they’ve taken a lot of the lead in the whole thing too.”

Becker said Troxel and he never dreamed that the event would be continuing some 36 years later, let alone the sheer attention and popularity it garnered since the beginning. More than anything, Becker said, the event brings an important environmen-

tal message.

“We work very closely with the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. We have public service announcements just about every 15 minutes between the music.

The message is about reef protection, the mooring buoys, about running aground and touching coral, where the trash goes into the water and discharges. We try to get people to listen. We figure we have a captive audience under water.”

As for the event’s location, Becker said Looe Key is one of the better reef formations in the Keys. Located some 5.5 nautical miles south of Ramrod Key, Looe Key Reef is a popular dive destination for new and experienced divers alike. A spur-and-groove reef, it’s seen its troubles from the devastating stony coral tissue loss disease.

“It is still a wonderful dive spot. There’s a lot of different kinds of fish out there,” Becker said.

With Becker and Troxel nearing retirement, the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce and David Turner, executive director, have stepped up to carry the underwater music fest forward.

“What makes this event so special is the fact that it’s all about conservation of the reef,” he said. “With the condition of the reef, we work with the National Marine Sanctuary to make sure we do everything correct in the way of promoting growth of the reef and protecting it in any way we can. We just want to make sure everyone understands the event is all about conservation of the reef and nothing else.”

Not only did divers spot mermaids, but they also witnessed two eagle rays and a reef shark during their swim.

TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly 1. Mermaid Lauren Lapham, or “Coral,” swims beneath the surface during the annual Underwater Music Festival at Looe Key Reef.

2. From left, Megan Brandenburg, Tammy Milner, Lauren Lapham and Josh Matalus.

3. Mermaid Megan Brandenburg waves before descending into the deep, blue waters at Looe Key Reef.

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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BUSINESS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

BREWING GOODNESS

Coffee Roasters’ new I.CARE Blend benefits local reefs TIFFANY DUONG

I

Danny Ganim and Sharon Sealy hold up their new “I.CARE Blend” coffee, benefitting Islamorada’s new coral restoration group. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly

tiffany@keysweekly.com

slamorada Coffee Roasters, a boutique coffee truck run by Danny Ganim and Sharon Sealy, has been winning over coffee addicts and aficionados with its unique, air-roasted beans and Islamorada’s best craft coffee. Now, they’ve created a new blend specifically to help restore Islamorada’s coral reefs.

Since the couple opened up shop — or truck, rather — they have been traveling up and down the Keys, hand-delivering fresh brews and beans and creating quite the cult following.

It’s no wonder: the coffee is delicious, and Ganim and Sealy run a value-driven operation.

They only use fair-trade, small-batch beans that support small farms operated by women. Their bags and cups are compostable, and their inks are water-based. They also recycle their coffee grounds to maximize environmental benefits from operations.

Their newest “I.CARE Blend” has one additional benefit — it raises money for its namesake, the newest coral restoration organization in the Keys, one focused specifically on restoring the reefs in Islamorada.

“The blend is on the sweet side, with low acid and notes of caramel, syrup and tropical fruits,” said Ganim.

“It’s a mixture of beans from Honduras, Bali and Costa Rica, together,” the coffee roaster added. “Those are the single-origin beans we carry that are dive destinations, so we created a blend that reflects our love of the oceans and the reefs.”

The brew is “a little dark, a little murky, which is a diver trait, and it’s good,” according to Ganim.

Sealy noted that while Ganim is a diver, she loves pretty places and pretty beaches, and that none of that could be possible without healthy reefs.

“The reefs are in hella trouble,” Sealy said.

“Yes, lots of trouble,” agreed Ganim. “They’re the most diverse ecosystem on the planet. We need things in the water to survive for us to have a better chance.”

The caffeinated couple decided to do their part to restore reefs by highlighting I.CARE and donating $10 a bag (from a $25 1-pound bag of “I.CARE Blend” beans) to their cause.

“This is an impact we can have where we know it makes a difference,” said Ganim. “They’re not MOTE or NOAA. They’re a brand new organization, and they need the money. They need to get started.”

Sealy said customers who buy the benefit bags — which come with an I.CARE sticker and informational packet — have been a healthy mix of divers, coffee snobs, coral conservationists and fans of Islamorada.

The couple’s clientele find the cause an “easy sell” and are eager to help.

I.CARE will focus its citizen-science coral restoration efforts on Cheeca Rocks, a prominent reef near Islamorada and one of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) seven “iconic reefs.”

Ganim added, “It’s in Islamorada specifically, and that’s our home. It’s right here. It’s our people taking action. We’re all about that.”

The I.CARE Blend will be available through Islamorada Coffee Roaster’s website or retail partners around the Upper Keys. Delivery for locals is free Key Largo to Key West.

37

38

COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

BRIEFLY MARATHON GETS $9 MILLION IN FEMA FUNDS FOR IRMA FEMA has approved a grant of $6,309,625 for the State of Florida to help the City of Marathon defray the costs of repairing roads and bridges damaged by Hurricane Irma. It also approved $2,990,968 to help the city defray the costs of repairs to the wastewater treatment system after Hurricane Irma.

The city will be reimbursed for repairing 63 miles of road damaged by the September 2017 storm, including pavement, guardrails, streetlights, street signs, drainage ditches, bridge abutments and stormwater structures. The project also includes increasing the size and changing the shape of signposts to reduce the risk of damage from future storms.

Winds and storm surge from the hurricane caused heavy damage to five wastewater treatment plants and one pumping station.

FEMA Public Assistance funds will reimburse the city for costs of labor, equipment, materials and contracts to restore the system and to provide mitigation from future hazards, including elevating slabs, pumps, tanks and other components.

KEYS ENERGY TO RESUME DISCONNECTIONS Effective Aug. 1, service disconnections for nonpayment will resume for Keys Energy Services (KEYS) residential customers who have not paid their past due balance or signed up for a payment plan. Customers who are unable to pay their bills must call 305-2951110 or email Web.Accounts@KeysEnergy.com to set up a payment plan. Utility bills and/or debt will not be forgiven or erased. To assist customers in paying their energy bills, KEYS created a deferred payment plan that allows customers with a COVID-19 hardship to repay their balance interest-free over 12 months. For more information, call Collections at 305-295-1110, or email Web.Accounts@Keysenergy. com.

LIBRARIES CLOSE, OFFER CURBSIDE PICKUP The Monroe County Public Library System has had an employee of the Key West Branch test positive for COVID-19. The county is working with the Department of Health in Monroe County in support of their contact tracing efforts and all

appropriate steps are being taken for the safety of the public and staff including sanitizing the facility.

In an abundance of caution and for social distancing and safety, all Monroe County library branches will limit library service to curbside pick-up/drop off of material and reference and informational services by telephone and online via chat and email effective immediately and until further notice. In addition, the library system is hosting four live, 30-minute free virtual demonstrations of how to get started with borrowing e-books and audiobooks through the Libby app for both new and experienced users on Thursday, July 16 at 9, 9:30, 10 and 10:30 a.m. For experienced users or general questions, join the 10:30 a.m. session. OverDrive will also be choosing four random attendees to win a $50 credit to shop.overdrive. com. A link to register is at www. keyslibraries.org.

CFK HOLDS VIRTUAL SESSIONS ON OPPORTUNITIES, RESOURCES The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) invites community members to learn more about college opportunities and support resources available locally at CFK through a virtual information session on Tuesday, July 21 at 5:30 p.m. CFK’s fall semester, which will include online and in-person classes, begins Aug. 19. Topics to be covered at the virtual information session include: • Academic programs, including bachelor’s degrees in business, hospitality, marine science and nursing.

• Career training programs, including tuition-free construction technologies apprenticeships.

• Guaranteed transfer to Florida universities with an associate in arts degree.

• Paying for college: cost comparisons, financial aid, scholarships, payment plans.

• New campus safety protocols.

• Steps to become a CFK student.

Attendees will receive a code to waive the $30 application fee. Registration for the event is required.

Visit the College’s website at FKCC. edu to learn more and to register.

For more information, or to schedule a personal information session, contact Marissa Owens, CFK director of recruitment, at recruiter@ fkcc.edu or call 305-809-3207.

PICTURES OF A PANDEMIC

Keys COVID photo book to raise relief funds MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

W

ith no visitors or events in the Florida Keys or Key West from March through June, local photographers found themselves, like thousands of others, with time on their hands — and cameras in them.

Roberta DePiero is one such photographer, who saw her fellow shooters while riding her bike around town, capturing signs of the coronavirus and its incalculable medical, social and financial impacts.

The photographers’ presence — and the images they’ve been capturing of the “COVID Spring” — gave DePiero an idea: A commemorative photo book containing hundreds of images by 25 locals with long lenses.

Proceeds from book sales will benefit Sister Season Fund’s COVID-19 relief efforts on behalf of workers in tourism-related industries including entertainment, hospitality, lodging, and some retail and guest services.

DePiero contacted her friend, fellow photographer and local publicist Carol Tedesco, and the two applied for and received a $1,000 grant from the Key West chapter of Awesome Foundation to help with production and printing costs. Additional donations from Bill and Linda Klipp, Harpoon Harry’s, Simone Lasswell and Michael Blades and Kathy Kilroy raised the production funds to $2,500, nearly meeting the project’s $3,000 goal, Tedesco said.

“We calculate that with $3,000 we can print approximately 200 8.5 x 11, high-quality, soft-cover books,” DePiero said. “If we sell them for $49 each, we’ll raise nearly $10,000 for Sister Season Fund’s crucial outreach during COVID-19.”

“Leveraging the Awesome Foundation’s $1,000 grant to benefit the community at large is exactly the kind of awesome idea our trustees love to support and fund,” said Awesome Foundation Key West ‘Dean’ Michael Shields. “At this time of critical community need we welcome and invite others with such awesome ideas to apply.”

Photographers contributing to the still-to-be-titled book are: Peter Arnow, Susan Bailey, Michael Blades, Lynne Bentley-Kemp, Joe and Ozlem Berg, Larry Blackburn, Kyle Campbell, Jeffrey Cardenas, Alyson Crean, Roberta DePiero, Ralph DePalma, Heather Dow, Todd Feit, Tony Gregory, Connie Groth, Jay Hall, Mark Hedden, Martha Hubbard, Bill Klipp, Linda Klipp, Corey Malcom, Rob O’Neal, Steve Panariello, Carol Tedesco and Sharon Wells.

With a foreword written by local arts advocate Rosi Ware, DePiero and Tedesco hope to have the book available some time in August.

Anyone wishing to contribute to the printing cost and/or place advance orders may contact Roberta DePiero at robertadepiero@gmail.com. More information about the Awesome Foundation Key West Chapter is at awesomefoundationkeywest.org or from Shields at 305-394-3804.

LIVING

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

39

At home, naturally TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

M

any of us have found ourselves stuck at home with a newfound (forced) motivation to renovate and change things up. Some tried gardening or raising houseplants for the first time to add some life to their homes.

Incorporating organic and natural elements into our living spaces, while always desirable, can also be daunting, especially for those of us not known for having a green thumb.

So we asked Sue Wright, the plant mama and decorating genius behind Botanic Boutique by boo kee sue in Islamorada, for her top 10 tips to bring more green, organic and naturally bohemian elements into our homes: Add living plants. It’s all about right plant, right place. Good, hard-to-kill indoor plants include: snake plant or mother-in-law’s tongue, ZZ plant and pothos. They require very little water and can be kept in any light. Pro tip: Overwatering is the biggest mistake with houseplants. Let them dry out between waterings to prevent rot.

Use preserved moss. It looks green and fresh even though it’s no longer alive. “These add green to any space in a zero-maintenance way. You can’t ruin them. They don’t need water or sun.” Pro tip: Put moss in a teak bowl as a centerpiece or fill an old orchid pot with moss. Glue it onto a piece of driftwood next to some air plants.

Palm fronds. Especially in Florida, these are the easiest way to bring nature inside. Cut them from your yard and hose them off. Stick them in a basket or vase or tuck them behind a mirror to add a classy, tropical flair. Pro tip: They can be left to dry as they are or cut into various shapes.

Natural baskets. Plant baskets aren’t just for plants. Use them to store blankets, magazines or toys. Pro tip: Look for baskets made from natural materials like cane, reed, seagrass and rattan to add organic texture.

Wood. Use wood for plant stands, slabs/pedestals for candles, crystals or anything in your home that needs elevating. Pro tip: Teak slabs, driftwood and native wood pieces are beautiful and can be displayed as is or with mineral oil applied to them.

Macramé. This woven art from natural materials comes straight out of the ’70s and can be used as plant hangers, curtains, room dividers or freeform wall hangings to add softness and a natural feel.

Pro tip: There are lots of macramé styles out there. Find the one that best matches your style.

Raw brass, vintage crystal mobiles and hanging art. These handmade pieces bring eye-pleasing light and movement into a room. Pro tip: If you have a small space, hang things from curtain rods, lampshades or fan pulls. Hang crystals in front of mirrors so they reflect themselves.

Rope décor. Upcycled rope décor is a great way to pay homage to our boat and fishing culture here in the Keys. They’re a great architectural and textural element. Pro tip: If hanging outside, decorate with air plants.

Crystals. Depending on the energy you’re seeking, or the look you’re cultivating, crystals can add a different type of natural element to a colder space. “Crystals are very personal. You have to choose the one that calls to you.”

Specimen frames. Place plants or other natural elements like feathers into floating frames to create an organic feel without taking up a lot of space. Pro tip: Find frames at a local thrift store or reuse ones you already have for a free or cheap design project.

For more inspiration and tips on how to green up and liven your space, visit Sue Wright at Botanic Boutique by boo kee sue (81868 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada; located at Village Square at the Trading Post) and on her Instagram @bookeesue or call 305-853-6564.

10 tips for decorating with plants

Preserved moss is Wright’s go-to material for adding no-hassle green to any space. It needs no water and no sun, but looks fresh and alive. SUE WRIGHT/Contributed

Copper and brass metals contrast well with light macrame hangers for a lively plant holder. SUE WRIGHT/Contributed

40

WILDLIFE

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

‘TEAM EFFORT’

Massive endangered turtle rescued off Marathon TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

“I

t takes a village!”

That’s what Bette Zirkelbach, manager of the Turtle Hospital in Marathon had to say about the synchronized efforts to rescue a 266-pound adult male green sea turtle last week.

On the evening of July 9, a recreational boater saw Shelly in distress and called for help.

The little girl who first saw the sea turtle named him “Shelly,” and the name has stuck.

Along with staff from the Turtle Hospital, FWC Officer Bobby Dube responded to the injured sea turtle about 5 miles offshore of Conch Key, bayside. A U.S. Coast Guard boat from Marathon helped with Shelly’s safe recovery.

The turtle was brought to shore at Outdoor Resorts and transported to the Turtle Hospital

for treatment and surgery.

“He was entangled in an abandoned anchor line and may lose his front flipper,” Zirkelbach assessed the morning after the rescue.

On Monday, the Weekly caught up with Zirkelbach for an update.

“Sadly, we are prepping Shelly for a flipper amputation surgery now,” Zirkelbach told the Weekly. “This ancient mariner has been swimming our oceans for 50 to 60 years, so it is hard to see him lose a front flipper to an anchor line entanglement.”

According to NOAA, green sea turtles are one of five endangered marine turtles found in the Florida Keys. They are the largest of the hard-shelled sea turtles, with adults growing to more than three feet long and weighing up to 350 pounds. Healthy green sea turtles can expect to live from 80 to 100 years.

Entanglements in discarded or lost fishing line are a big problem worldwide for wildlife.

The “ghost” lines, nets and traps continue to

float around the oceans catching animals like sea turtles, sharks, whales, dolphins and sea birds, eventually leading to many of them drowning.

“We have to do better in keeping our oceans safe for all our marine life,” Zirkelbach said.

Shelly was lucky for the collaborative effort taken to rescue him, involving concerned citizens, FWC, the U.S. Coast Guard, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and the Turtle Hospital.

“Gratitude all around to the boaters that took the time to call in this sea turtle in distress, FWC, USCG Marathon Station, Monroe County Sheriff and the incredible team at the Turtle Hospital!” Zirkelbach said. “We are lucky to have an incredibly supportive community when it comes to protecting our wildlife.”

If Keys boaters see a distressed sea turtle, they should call The Turtle Hospital’s 24-hour stranding hotline 305-481-7669.

Clockwise from top left: A team effort results in the successful rescue of Shelly, a 266-pound green sea turtle in the Middle Keys on July 9. The turtle is prepared for its trip to the Turtle Hospital. Bette Zirkelbach, manager of The Turtle Hospital in Marathon, smiles with “Shelly,” the injured green sea turtle. The turtle’s flipper became entangled in anchor line, requiring amputation. The turtle is prepared for transport. The injured turtle at the Turtle Hospital. Staff at the Turtle Hospital work with Shelly, the injured turtle. CONTRIBUTED

41

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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BUSINESS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

LAST DAYS:

55 YEARS OF

The department store forever changed life in Key West

By Mandy Miles and Britt Myers

Editor’s note: As of July 15, 2020, Sears corporate has not officially confirmed the closure of the Key West location. The following article is based on conversations with Sears employees, ongoing closeout sales, “store closing” signs and the clearance of all inventory as well as many display fixtures throughout the store.

The Keys Weekly will continue to update readers should the status of the store change or if Sears Corporate responds with further updates. he softer side of Sears is facing the hardest of times.

The Key West Sears, which opened in 1965 in the New Town shopping center that bears its name, will close on Aug. 8, according to employees, joining 3,500 other Sears and Kmart locations that have shuttered in the past 15 years, since the two companies merged in 2005. The Florida Keys Kmarts are, so far, still alive, but no one knows what will replace Sears and its adjacent Auto Center on North Roosevelt Boulevard.

“As crazy as it sounds, we haven’t yet heard anything from (Sears) corporate that they have intentions of leaving,” said Will Langley, principal broker at Berkshire Hathaway Keys Real Estate and Knight & Gardner Realty, which handles leasing at the shopping center.

“We are taking names and information for potential users for Sears and the tire store.”

Langley added that there are some restrictions about what types of business can go into the vacant spaces, but declined to comment specifically.

‘GH’ gets nostagic Gary Hall, known by most locals as “GH,” could have easily preserved the bitter taste that corporate America left in his mouth in 1989. Having worked for Sears in Key West for 25 years, he bore witness to America’s corporate metamorphosis — which he still calls the “beginning of the end” for many large department chains that once operated under family-owned principles.

Next month marks the end of Sears in Key West. But when Hall recalls his career with the iconic store, which began with its opening in 1965,

he drifts back to moments of nostalgia — recounting decades of memories that helped shape modern-day Key West.

“Sears has quite a history in Key West,” said Hall. “We were a family there for so many years. Unfortunately it’s coming to an end.”

As a high school student in the late 1950s, Hall worked at an appliance store at 605 Simonton St. owned by Toby Bruce. There he met mentors like Roosevelt Sands, a Korean War veteran who taught Hall the skills needed for appliance repairs.

“I learned so many traits from my mentors,” said Hall with an obvious sense of pride behind the memories he shared with Mr. Sands, delivering appliances from the backs of pickup trucks on hot summer days in Key West. “Those men instilled a work ethic that would serve me well throughout my life and I’m thankful for that.”

Later, Hall joined the Air Force where he served as a mechanic crew chief on C-130 airplanes. He would go on to serve three tours in Vietnam before returning to Key West. And in 1965, Hall saw a job posting for Sears and was immediately hired as the store opener.

“I began my career with Sears in 1965 at $2 an hour and ended it in 1985 at $60,000 annually,” Hall said

with a faint laugh. “The entire shopping center was built for about $1.5 million.

We had a drugstore on one end and I believe Winn-Dixie was the first grocery store in the shopping center. But Sears was the anchor.”

Hall recalled a day the roof collapsed after about 20 inches of rain, delaying his duties, which included stocking shelves and building displays.

And once the store opened on Nov. 4, 1965 (something Hall recollects with an uncanny memory) Sears gained national attention in Key West.

“There weren't many places for people to shop at here in 1965,” said Hall. “We had the most sales for a Sears of our size than anywhere else in the country. We literally would have customers who would run and jump over counters during sales.”

Hall’s reputation for hard work and management quickly propelled him through the ranks at Sears. After opening the store, he worked as service technician and eventually served as assistant manager during his last 10 years. During that span, he worked for six different store managers, “some good and some not so good.”

“Everyone would tell me there is no way you can go from service technician to assistant manager,” said Hall. “They told me it couldn’t be done, but I did it. And as assistant manager, guess who ends up running the store?

At one point I was handling budgets, books and a $3 million payroll with no computers. It was just a different time.”

At the height of Sears’ retail dominance in Key West, the store boasted over 300 employees with an in-house jeweler for jewelry, watch and clock repairs, a candy department and an appliance department that delivered from Key West to just north of Marathon.

“You could get just about anything done at Sears back then,” said Hall.

“The candy guy would make peanuts and we had 10 service vans. Our service techs would actually come out and repair televisions — back when people would still fix TVs.” Sears will always hold a special place in Hall’s heart. All three of his sons would work in the store at some

BUSINESS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

point. Chris, his youngest, sold appliances. Jay, his oldest, sold furniture, and Gary’s middle son worked delivery.

But Hall began to see the perils of corporate influence seep into the family culture that defined Sears in the mid-’80s. Rather than taking care of its own, Hall says, the company shifted to a profit model that stripped things like profit-sharing plans.

“The corporation started telling us we couldn’t hire full-time employees and I knew it was the beginning of the end,” said Hall. “But it wasn’t just in Key West and it wasn’t just Sears. It was a nationwide corporate mentality.”

Although Sears would eventually buy out Hall in 1989, he held no grudges. He would go on to contract for Sears through his furniture and appliance delivery business for seven more years. From there, he worked for the school district for another 10 years. When asked what he will miss the most about Key West’s most iconic storefront, he paused for a moment and reminisced about the people he worked with for 25 years.

“We would be a family during the good times,” said Hall. “Everyone was friendly with everybody and we had parties together. It was just one big happy family. And that’s what Sears was for so many years.”

Back in the (hey)day Things weren’t always so tough for department stores in America.

Key West’s daily newspaper ran a series of full-page Sears ads filled with furniture, appliances and clothing for weeks prior to the southernmost store’s November 1965 opening.

The store boasted of sofas available in the ever-appealing "rust and gold tweed."

A local newspaper article singing

“They said Key West was too small to support a Sears, I told the executives to send two people down and let me show them around, that there was a different formula for doing business in Key West.” ­— Key West businessman Edward Knight, in a May 2016 interview, three months before his death.

the praises of the new department store — and big-time advertiser — referred to "Mrs. Homemaker," who could, and we quote, "dream and drool over model kitchens with built-in ranges.” Also, “Close by for easy coordination with her new ensemble are the shoes, attractively displayed for the foot-conscious."

The Key West Sears also housed a beauty salon, always identifiable by the unmistakable smell of chemicals used for “perms,” where women thumbed through catalogs while sitting under a domed hair dryer.

It all sounds so innocent, outdated and, yes, sexist. But then, so was 1965.

Catalog Christmases Anyone older than 40 recalls the days before Amazon wish lists and shared gift registries, when every September, before and throughout the 1950s, ’60s, ’70s and ’80s, the Sears Wish Book arrived in every mailbox in America and started the clock on the countdown to Christmas.

The glossy Sears holiday catalog featured its usual clothing, home appliances and Craftsman tools. But none of that mattered.

Wide-eyed and a little breathless, youngsters toted the catalog to the living room floor, sat cross-legged and flipped directly to second half, to the pages just behind the yellow and white mail order forms that now resemble historical documents.

That's where the magic lay. The toy section of the Sears Wish Book featured page upon page of "some assembly required" bicycles, Barbie dolls, Big Wheels, Batman costumes, board games, Easy-Bake Ovens, rocking horses, race car tracks and action figures.

Within a day of its arrival in pristine condition, the Sears Wish Book — well, the toy section — was unrecognizable, marked as it was with circles and initials of various siblings.

Southernmost Sears The opening of Sears was big news for the tiny island of Key West, where shopping largely had been limited to independently owned stores selling single items: shoes, groceries, women’s apparel or tools.

It was Key West businessman Edward Knight who convinced Sears & Roebuck to open a store in Key West’s new New Town area in the 1960s.

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BUSINESS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

“They said Key West was too small to support a Sears,” Knight said in May 2016, three months before his death. “I told the executives to send two people down and let me show them around, that there was a different formula for doing business in Key West.”

Knight said he knew that with Sears as an anchor in the new shopping center, he could easily fill the neighboring, smaller retail shops with local merchants.

Knight was right.

After the store’s first few months in Key West, Sears officials sheepishly called Knight and admitted their mistake. “They said their opening weeks here were better than they’d been in any other location,” Knight said with a wry chuckle.

Local employees recall the softer side Women’s dresses cost $3.15 and Barbie dolls were $1.92 in 1965, when Amazon was just a river in South America.

Key West’s Searstown shopping center also included a supermarket and an F.W. Woolworth's, with its legendary lunch counter.

Key Wester Zenaida Rojas ate countless lunches at that counter, walking down the shopping plaza during her afternoon break from Sears, where she worked from 1970 to 1991.

Longtime former employee Gary ‘GH’ Hall recalls his Sears career with bittersweet nostalgia.

Rojas recalled her days at the former catalog-turnedretail-giant during a 50-year reunion of local Sears employees in 2015.

Although the retail store opened on the boulevard in November 1965, there had been a Sears catalog center downtown for years, Rojas remembered.

At the 2015 reunion, Cleo Rosam, who worked at both the catalog store and the retail department store, was crowned "Queen Bee of Sears" for her decades of service.

And Ed Harris, known to customers and colleagues as "Mr. Ed" was similarly honored as “King of Sears” for his 41-year career.

"We used to have to wear pantyhose and pastel colors, but no pants, ever," said Rojas, whose husband, Gerry, also worked in the store’s furniture department. Her daughter, son, niece and nephew would later take up positions behind cash registers or on the sales floor at the store that gave rise to the island’s New Town shopping district.

Another former employee recalled the rules of customer service in the old days, reminding her fellow colleagues that “when a woman walked into a dressing room with a pair of pants or a skirt, we better have been right behind her with at least two shirts that would match.

“And, of course, all the ladies who worked in the women's department recall the older women coming in to buy their girdles," Rojas said, laughing at the memory of young sales girls dutifully helping to wrestle a woman into the form-fitting undergarments worn to give women a smooth silhouette.

The store may be closing, and online shopping has forever altered the retail industry, but the impacts of Sears on a tiny island remain undeniable.

COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

45

ONE OUT OF FIVE...

Lies, damn lies, and statistics

W

e Baby Boomers will likely remember the old Trident gum commercials that used to start with the phrase, “Four out of five dentists recommend Trident gum for their patients who chew gum.” It always left me wondering about what the other dentist – the one out of five – believed would be better than Trident.

(Taffy? Tire rubber? Red Man chewing tobacco?) Well, dear readers, it seems like the “one out of five” believes some pretty strange things!

A recent poll showed that one out of five Americans can’t identify the United States on a map of the world.

I’m not sure if it’s the same one out of five Americans who don’t know we declared independence from Great Britain back in 1776, but I bet it is.

And I also bet it’s the same one out of five Americans who pee in the pool.

Now some of you may be thinking that one out of five Americans is only 20% of us, and that it’s not really that bad that 20% of us didn’t pay attention in history or geography classes. Fine. Keep on believing it’s not a horrible comment on (the lack of) American intelligence. Just remember that the next time you’re in a swimming pool with 50 of our fellow citizens, inclusive of those one out of five (or 10 in 50) Americans who are peeing in the pool as we speak. Towel, please.

It still doesn’t get better. One out of five of us believes that the sun revolves around the Earth. And you thought it was only pre-Copernican astronomers, popes and Flat Earthers? In concordance with this return to medieval thinking, one out of five Americans believes that witches are real! With the popularity of the teen vampire and werewolf movies and TV shows a few years back — not to mention the wizardry and fantastic beasts in recent productions — I’m sure that belief in all scary monsters has risen exponentially. But it’s only 20%, right?

Running down some more of the improbable statistics, one out of five Americans believes that alien abductions are real (that would explain the appearance of Florida Senator Rick Scott), that the Apocalypse will happen in their lifetime, and that staterun lotteries are a sound financial investment. No wonder people like Bernie Madoff were so successful.

One out of five Americans doesn’t use the Internet. At all. This time, it’s probably not the same one out of five Americans who is unhappy with his or her broadband connection

speed. Although that means that at least one in five of us doesn’t spend way too much time wading through all the Certified Social Media Experts on Everything who JOHN populate Facebook.

BARTUS I’ve been using the “one out of five is a City of MaraAmericans” groupthon counciling like it’s a bad man. He also is thing. (If the helmet a musician who performs around fits…) It’s not always a bad thing, howtown. For more ever, to be outside see johnbartus. com the norm, apart from the great unwashed, above-average, or simply brilliant (like the above-average and brilliant people who read this column).

In a recent survey done by the McCormick Foundation, a majority of Americans were able to name freedom of speech as one of the freedoms protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

That’s good. Just a little over one out of five Americans, however, were able to name freedom of religion as one of them. And only one in a thousand could name all five (freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of the press, freedom of assembly/ right to peaceably assemble, and freedom to petition the government for redress of grievances).

What’s worse, a recent poll has found that 51 percent of Americans agree with this statement: “It is necessary to give up some civil liberties in order to make the country safe from terrorism.” How far are we willing to go?

(By the way, this has nothing to do with wearing masks to help prevent the spread of Covid-19. The abject idiots in the Grand Café in Key West who were calling local police “gestapos” and citing the Constitution have no idea what real repression is all about. Just wear the damn mask.)

Benjamin Franklin once said, “They who would give up an essential liberty for temporary security, deserve neither liberty nor security.” If only more than one out of five Americans actually believed that…

— Catch John Wednesdays at Herbie’s, Thursdays at Sparky’s Landing, this Friday at his Social Distancing Concert on Facebook Live, broadcast live from Boondocks on Ramrod Key. www.facebook. com/john.bartus

BRIEFLY

EPA GRANTS AVAILABLE FOR KEYS WATER QUALITY PROJECTS The Environmental Protection Agency is accepting grant applications for water quality, seagrass and coral healthrelated projects within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and the adjacent areas of Southeast Florida, Florida Bay, Biscayne Bay, Caloosahatchee Estuary and Indian River Lagoon. A total of $3 million is available to fund approximately 20 proposals at amounts ranging from $75,000 to $325,000. Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov (www. grants.gov) no later than Aug. 7, 2020.

Priority action items include research projects or special studies to improve water quality in residential canals, evaluate central wastewater shallow injection wells, investigate stormwater inputs, and demonstrate innovative solutions to reduce impacts to nearshore water quality, and expand marina pump-out services. Outreach projects that increase environmental awareness, partnerships and stewardship of water quality and natural resources within the Florida Keys are also eligible.

Grant funding is also available to support stony coral tissue loss disease response, prevention and mitigation of harmful algal blooms, water quality and seagrass monitoring networks, water quality data analysis, restoration of sponge communities and other aquatic habitats, and marine debris removal, prevention and education.

More information about the grant program is available from Jennifer Shadle at shadle.jennifer@epa.gov or Steven Blackburn at (404) 5629397, blackburn.steven@ epa.gov. Information about water quality initiatives in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is available from Karen Bohnsack at karen. bohnsack@noaa.gov.

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COOL STUFF

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

Mainstreaming

A look at what they're doing on the mainland

NOW TRENDING READ | THIS IS HAPPINESS In very rural Ireland in the late 1950s, Niall Williams’ extraordinarily lyrical novel spins the arrival of electricity into love stories and tales of coming of age. A Washington Post reviewer said of it, “Halfway through, I realized that if I didn't stop underlining passages, the whole book would be underlined.”

As cases spike in South Florida, prompting some to call Miami the new “Wuhan,” folks are considering another round of quarantine, whether self-imposed or not. During the first shutdown, many Americans found the time to learn new skills and indulge in hobbies. What will we do to entertain ourselves during a possible second quarantine?

10. Have a seat on the same couch to complete the list of quarantine projects you started during the first quarantine.

9. Finish counting the ceiling tiles.

8. Adopt a second kitten. Or third.

7. Tear out the dead tomato plants you sprouted with such enthusiasm in the first shutdown, then forgot to water when you went back to work.

QUARANTINE PROJECTS TO FINISH IN THE SECOND SHUTDOWN

6. Kill that bread machine.

Seriously, just burn it ‘cuz you gained so much weight.

5. Design your own video game, like Angry Birds, but with the DuoLingo Owl that is so persistently annoying.

French, Smench.

4. Assemble the crib. (We know what you were doing during quarantine! Wacka, wacka!)

3. String the half-finished deck with caution tape. It’s not safe.

2. Start petitioning Netflix for an appropriate “Tiger King” substitute.

1. Stockpile the booze again; it looks like the kitchen table homeschool is coming back.

WATCH | MONTY PYTHON’S ALMOST THE TRUTH: THE LAWYER’S CUT The five (now four) remaining members of the British comedy troupe recall their own early days as well as the formation of the group, its early television days and the sometimes awkward moves toward film. On Netflix.

LISTEN | THAT’S THE TICKET From the people behind Pod Save America, this is a behindthe-scenes podcast about how presidential campaigns select a running mate, from those who have been there. They reflect on Geraldine Ferraro, Dan Quayle, John Edwards and Sarah Palin, among others. Find it wherever you get your podcasts.

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020 95 Coco Plum Dr. 3A

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To download our treatment notification app or to make a service request go to www.keysmosquito.org or call 305.292.7190.

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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50

STUDENT OF THE WEEK

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

The Keys Weekly is proud to partner with Key West High School to feature a Student/Graduate 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 KWHS for allowing us to share in a regular dose of “Conch Pride,” and for giving us a glimpse into their world. The Key West Weekly also welcomes Ella Hall, a sophomore at Key West High School, as our summer intern, who will be contributing Student of the Week features and other pieces.

NINA BOWEN SOPHOMORE, KWHS ELLA HALL

www.keysweekly.com

Enjoy safe travels with low rates, fast local service and flexible payment plans on new and used Keys Auto Loans.

How long have you lived in Key West/The Florida Keys: I have lived in the Florida Keys all my life.

Clubs/Athletics/Community Service: Drama Club, swim team, girls’ weightlifting

Everyone who lives or works in the Florida Keys is invited to join us!

Call 305-294-6622

Go to KeysFCU.org

Visit any branch in Key West at 3022 N. Roosevelt Blvd. or 514 Southard St., in Big Pine at MM30, or in Marathon at MM53.5 Gulfside Restrictions may apply. Subject to credit approval.

The Latest News on Coronavirus in Monroe County is available every day in our Email Newsletter or on our Facebook page.

www.keysweekly.com/blast www.facebook.com/theweekly • State, Local and Federal Updates delivered to your Inbox • Daily updates on the fast-changing situation in Monroe County including what’s open, what is closed, special offers and resources to y is dedicated The Keys Weekl es we serve, and the communiti to t news directly bringing curren computer. your phone or

Key West 305-453-6928 Marathon 305-743-0844 Tavernier 305-363-2957

What KWHS teacher has had the most influence on you and why? My psychology teacher, Mrs. Gray, taught me so much about the human mind, while making the class inclusive and fun. She taught me not to stress out and to let nature take its course because in time everything will work out as it should.

What class, so far, has best prepared you for life after high school? That would have to be my math class with Mrs. Horner. I always struggled with math, but she explained everything very thoroughly in a way I could understand. After years of frustration, all it took was a little extra help and accessibility, and it clicked. Overcoming my fear of math with Mrs. Horner gave me valuable confidence.

What was the biggest challenge of online learning for you during the pandemic? My biggest challenge has been the scheduling and waiting for assignments to come in at different times.

What's one piece of advice you'd give incoming freshmen? You can’t be worried or stressed out about the outcome of social situations. Trust your instincts and realize that what may seem huge, really isn’t. Also, organization and scheduling is really important if you choose to do sports, clubs or other activities. Choose your focus, and don’t let up!

What are your plans/goals after graduation? My plans are all over the place. I want to move up north and

go to college at New York University (NYU), Boston University or Harvard.

The sky's the limit. I also want to be financially stable by doing something I am passionate about.

What three things would you like to have accomplished by your 10-year high school reunion? I hope to have made an impact on our oceans, and to spread the word that we have the power to change our ecosystems. I also want to be able to say I successfully graduated from a college of my choice.

Where do you get most of your news? The New York Times, Keys Weekly and The Citizen. I also get plenty of regular updates from my parents.

What local, national or global issue concerns you most? The protection of our oceans, coral reefs and marine animals affects me most. At this rate, by 2050, it is estimated our oceans will contain more plastic than fish. We are losing our wildlife at an alarming rate, and if we work together one ecofriendly step at a time, we still have a chance to protect them.

Do you plan to make the Keys your permanent home after high school or college? Even though I love the ocean and this location, I aim to be somewhere far from Florida and in the cold. I love the idea of different seasons, and hope to be somewhere that is more a part of life in the larger world.

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

- KEYS

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52

KEYS SCHOOLS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

Officials in the White House and Tallahassee are encouraging schools to reopen. But Harvard University’s fall semester will be online. The school district of Palm Beach also decided to go virtual in the fall. And, yet, state Commissioner of Education Richard Corcoran signed an emergency order requiring all schools to reopen to students in person when the academic year begins next month. Monroe County School District’s “Summer Boost” program has already been canceled.

In the Keys, uncertainty is building as the students’ first day of school (Aug. 13) gets closer. The Monroe County School District has laid out a draft plan for in-person classes if community spread is low, a hybrid mix of virtual and in-person classes if community spread is moderate, and a completely virtual school if cases are spiking.

The School Board will look at the COVID-19 data and guidance from county’s state Department of Health.

“I think Monroe County is experiencing the upper end of moderate spread currently. This is certainly subject to change,” said Bob Eadie, the health officer for Monroe County.

In a July 14 Youtube program, Superintendent of Schools Theresa Axford said the district has already cancelled a program for students through third grade on the advice of Eadie.

“We want to come back (to face-to-face instruction). Students need school, friends, socialization.

But I am not the real boss right now. COVID-19 is the boss,” she said.

Axford said the case count has to plateau, or fall for two weeks, before schools can reopen to students and teachers in the same building. If the case count doesn’t begin to fall soon, that will mean a hybrid mix of virtual and in-person classes for Keys students.

School board member Sue Woltanski said the draft plan is coming back to the board on July 21. A week later, it will be sent off to Tallahassee for approval. (All public schools, private schools that accept vouchers and charter schools must present a COVID-19 plan to the state.) That gives parents and students about two weeks to make some plans once the state makes a decision. Woltanski said she plans to reach out to the state capitol, as a parent of a senior and freshman, to make another plea: “Can we delay the start of school until Labor day. Is there any flexibility?”

In all likelihood, education in Monroe County — at least some aspect of it, at some point during the school year — is likely to be online. The most optimistic take on this scenario is that students and parents have a choice; especially if they are older, self-directed students capable of navigating online classes.

OPTION 1 ‘Regular’ virtual school If Keys schools must close again, as they did this past spring, each school will be offering its own design of virtual instruction. But better. In fact, it will closely resemble option 3.

According to Kristen Condella, Monroe County School District’s virtual education administrator, the district’s curriculum is all mapped out for a full-time virtual curriculum if needed — a combination of live lessons and independent lessons.

“What happened last spring in the emergency virtual setting was amazing. We flipped everything in two weeks. Teachers were trained in four days before we went live,” Condella said.

If virtual school is necessary, Condella said, “Just like last year, there will be plenty of grace and understanding while still upholding the state standards for opportunity and rigor. We are a high-performing district and we need to make sure students are prepared for the workforce and college.”

If virtual school is necessary, because of the spread of COVID-19, Marathon High School students, for example, will be taught online by Marathon High School’s teachers.

“We want to come back (to face-to-face instruction). Students need school, friends, socialization. But I am not the real boss right now. COVID-19 is the boss.”

— Theresa Axford, superintendent Monroe County School District

KEYS SCHOOLS

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

OPTION 2 Florida Virtual School Florida Virtual School (FLVS) essentially operates as its own district. It is the virtual school that most Keys parents are familiar with, as their children enroll part-time either to accelerate their learning (graduate early) or take classes that may not be offered at their particular school (for example, AP calculus).

There is no deadline to apply for the fall semester and students can transfer any time.

Students can take up to three classes (called flex time) per semester. Or, they can enroll full-time. If they enroll full-time they are withdrawing from the Monroe County School District.

The instruction method doesn’t vary from option 3, but the interactions between student and teacher does. None of the teachers are in-county and, typically, teachers can have charge of more than 100 students.

Sharon Ward of Key West said her daughter has taken Florida Virtual School classes. “It’s just like regular school; some great teachers, some not,” Ward said. “My daughter took AP calc on FLVS and said it was one of her best classes in high school.”

Katie Leigh’s son, a rising seventh grader, is currently involved in a FLVS class. She said her son completes about two lessons per week, does assessments online and also talks to the teacher who reaffirms the student knows the course material.

“This (FLVS) has been around for a long time, so they don’t have to scramble to get it right. It’s not taxing like the Zoom schooling method,” she said.

FLVS is, of course, very screen-oriented.

Students must be self-directed and able to meet various deadlines. Daniel Samess, a parent of elementary age children in Marathon, said FLVS can’t replace face-to-face instruction. “Not a fan, my girls maintained but made no real progress. And, for working parents, good luck.”

In FLVS school, students can work at their own pace. Condella said she’s seen students complete coursework in half the time and other students who needed a few weeks beyond the semester to finish.

OPTION 3 Monroe Virtual School This option works like FLVS, but students stay “in” the county and receive a diploma from the school district.

That means the student can also participate in extracurriculars like sports or drama. (That also means that the money allotted to each student will remain in the local district budget.)

In 2019, 313 students took part in Monroe (County) Virtual School (MCVS): some were full-time students, some doing “recovery” classes, some were taking just one class, and some were homeschooled students. Like FLVS, it’s self-paced, so kids can finish early or take their time to complete coursework. The deadline to apply for MVS is Sept. 10; the timeline will keep students apace with the other students in Monroe County.

Monroe County, like about half the counties in Florida, contracts with the Northeast Florida Educational Consortium to provide courses for kindergarten through 12th grade. Monroe County Virtual School actually uses four different providers to make up a student schedule, according to Condella. Classes designed by FLVS are recommended for AP classes and other high school curriculum; K-12 classes are best for elementary-age students; Apex Learning are for specialized courses ranging from intensive reading to creative writing; and Edmentum offerings are typically core classes for older students.

Students must comply with all the testing ordered by the state. The schedules are designed by Monroe County School District personnel and it starts with a phone call.

“We like to have that conversation with the parent and the student before we enroll them,” said Condella.

“We need to understand if they are just hoping to complete the coursework to graduate, or if they are interested in college classes.”

Condella said district staff regularly checks in with students. “Students aren’t just calling a hotline. They are getting me or their teacher or a counselor dedicated to virtual students,” she said.

One benefit to MVS over the state model is that students find it easier to transfer back into “regular” school if they choose. Condella said staff can make sure their work is counted. Another benefit is that the teachers of MVS are employees of the Keys district for the most part, and held accountable. In highly specialized courses, however, where a Monroe student may be the only Keys person registered, the instruction could “piggy back” with another county’s teacher.

53

WHAT’S FOR 2020?

Condella said that after the spring semester of virtual classes for district students, she expects interest to rise in the more established versions of FLVS and MVS as well.

“Regardless of the COVID-19 situation, I think more families are going to be seeking this out,” she said. “We are prepared at the district and global level.”

Virtual school isn’t for everybody, however. In a recent district survey, only 13% of parents believed screen school to be the best choice. For the parents of young children who need to work outside the home, it’s nigh to impossible.

“Virtual school requires students to work independently and understand when work is due,” Condella said.

For more information about virtual schools, call 305-293-1400, X 53408 or visit keysschools.com and type “monroe virtual school” in the search box.

54

HISTORY

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

LOVE ME DO KEY WEST MINSTREL SHOWS

Advertisements for Key West minstrel shows ran in the local newspaper between 1951 and 1954.

T

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

he Beatles fought racism from a Key West motel.

(See keysweekly.com for the story.) We all can fight racism. While we celebrate Key West as “One Human Family,” we must not forget the island’s history of “un-human family” behavior, lest history repeat itself.

Love Me Do is a weekly feature that invites readers to learn about the past and reflect on how their own actions and attitudes today might be viewed in the future.

There was a time when white people in Key West donned blackface and lampooned African Americans as dim-witted, lazy and superstitious. Minstrel shows were performed across America through much of the 19th and 20th centuries, and helped perpetuate racism in Key West and around the nation.

“Minstrel” originates from the Latin “ministerialis,” meaning “servant.” A May 22, 1933, article in the local daily newspaper promoted the “Merry Makers Minstrel show,” saying, “Don’t miss Bugs Warner in his Ku Klux Klan song. This is going to be a hit. Ed Gray’s portrayal of the colored person in the ‘Coontown Wedding’ is worth the price of a whole row of front seats.”

A search of the newspaper’s daily issues between 1926 and 1954, available from the Library of Congress, finds that minstrel shows are mentioned 292 times.

That’s 28 times a year.

Civic organizations usually produced the plays to raise money for charitable causes, but at what expense?

Some Key West minstrel shows advertised children’s matinees. St. Joseph’s School held a “Benefit Children” minstrel show in 1952. Children who attended that Key West minstrel show matinee are in their 60s today. From an early age, they learned racism is OK. Minstrel shows polarized our community, instilled stereotypes and taught a generation of Key West citizens that whites hold the highest social status. Frederick Douglass reacted to blackface performers in 1848, saying they were “the filthy scum of white society, who have stolen from us a complexion denied them by nature, in which to make money and pander to the corrupt taste of their white fellow citizens.” Key West was part of this unhuman family for more than 100 years after Douglass told the world it was unacceptable.

55

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE The following vessel will be sold at a reserve public auction pursuant to 328.17 F.S. Labor & Storage on 08/04/2020 at 10:00 AM Location: 10544 NW 26 St #E102.

Doral, FL 33172. As is. Where is.

50% Buyer’s premium. Title is not guaranteed. BILL HERRERA Lic #: AU0001502. Lot 37286 2000 MXG VIN: MXGB04MVI900 Owner: ADAM C CONSTANTINE. 7005 SHRIMP RD Key West, FL 33040.

Located at: SH MARINAS 6000, LLC6000 PENINSULAR AVE.KEY WEST, FL 33040 Ph: 305-292-3121 Total Lien $ 24,496.10.

Owner/Lienholder has a right to a hearing prior to date of sale by filing with the clerk of the courts.

Owner/Lienholder may recover vessel without instituting judicial proceedings by posting bond as per 559.917 F.S.Net proceeds in excess of lien amount will be deposited with clerk of courts pursuant to 328.17 F.S. All interested person(s) should contact Professional Lien & Title Service Corp. Ph: 305-592-6090.

Publish: July 16 & 23, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

+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: 852 1771 8378 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 Pacini-Maxine@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 July 31, 2020.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or 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: July 16, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

between the hours of 8:30 a.m.

- 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”.

Publish: July 16, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

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: By joining the Zoom Meeting via weblink: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/84743962907 Meeting ID: 847 4396 2907 One tap mobile +13126266799,, 84743962907# US (Chicago) +19292056099,, 84743962907# 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: 847 4396 2907 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 Pacini-Maxine@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 July 31, 2020.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or 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: July 16, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

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 Pacini-Maxine@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 July 31st, 2020.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or 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: July 16, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows: Mobile Vessel Pumpout Services 08/27/2020 Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, please email: omb-purchasing@ monroecounty-fl.gov. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on August 27, 2020.

You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/J/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,, 4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,, 4509326156# US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: July 16, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Curtis E. Stone, deceased, whose date of death was April 25, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: July 16, 2020.

Personal Representative: Michael Knoblauch 1361 Overseas Hwy E24 Marathon, Florida 33050 Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert K. Miller Attorney 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: rmiller@floridakeyslaw. com Secondary E-Mail: service@ floridakeyslaw.com Publish: July 16 & 23, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING Notice is hereby given that the 2019 Monroe County Value Adjustment Board will hold its Final Meeting Wednesday, July 22, 2020 at 10:00 a.m., at the Harvey Government Center, 2nd floor, BOCC Chambers, 1200 Truman Ave., Key West.

The purpose of this meeting is the Certification of the Tax Roll and any other business that may properly come before the Board.

Any person who decides to appeal a decision made at the Value Adjustment Board meeting or hearing will need a record of the proceedings, and for such purpose he or she may need to ensure a verbatim record of the meeting is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be made.

Kevin Madok, CPA, Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex-officio to the Value Adjustment Board Publish: July 16, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING The District I Advisory Committee (DAC I) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a workshop meeting on Wednesday, August 5, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. via Communications Media Technology 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 August 5, 2020 workshop meeting of the District I Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. Executive Order 20-112 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: By joining the Zoom Meeting via weblink: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/85217718378 Meeting ID: 852 1771 8378 • By joining the Zoom Meeting via one tap mobile: One tap mobile +13017158592,, 85217718378# US (Germantown) +13126266799,, 85217718378# US (Chicago) Dial by your location +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING The District II Advisory Committee (DAC II) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a workshop meeting on Tuesday, August 4, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. via Communications Media Technology 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 23, 2020 meeting of the District II Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform.

Executive Order 20-112 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: By joining the Zoom Meeting via weblink: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/86162292340 Meeting ID: 861 6229 2340 One tap mobile +19292056099,, 86162292340# US (New York) +13017158592,, 86162292340# US (Germantown) Dial by your location +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) Meeting ID: 861 6229 2340 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 Pacini-Maxine@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 July 31, 2020.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or 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,

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING The District III Advisory Committee (DAC III) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a workshop meeting on Wednesday, August 5, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. via Communications Media Technology 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 24, 2020 meeting of the District III Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform.

Executive Order 20-112 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: By joining the Zoom Meeting via weblink: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/89090058428 Meeting ID: 890 9005 8428 One tap mobile +13126266799,, 89090058428# US (Chicago) +19292056099,, 89090058428# 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: 890 9005 8428 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 Pacini-Maxine@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 July 31, 2020.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or 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: July 16, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING The District IV Advisory Committee (DAC IV) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a workshop meeting on Tuesday, August 4, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. via Communications Media Technology 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 23, 2020 meeting of the District IV Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform.

Executive Order 20-112 extends

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING The District V Advisory Committee (DAC V) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a workshop meeting on Tuesday, August 4, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. via Communications Media Technology 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 23, 2020 meeting of the District V Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform.

Executive Order 20-112 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: By joining the Zoom Meeting via weblink: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/87821174971 Meeting ID: 878 2117 4971 One tap mobile +19292056099,, 87821174971# US (New York) +13017158592,, 87821174971# US (Germantown) Dial by your location +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) Meeting ID: 878 2117 4971

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that DL Porter Constructors, Inc is currently seeking qualified DBE subcontractor quotes for the Garden View Apartments. Plans and specifications are available via email (kim@dlporter.com ) . All pricing to be submitted to Kevin@dlporter.com no later than Thursday, August 6th, 2020 @ 1:00pm.

Publish: July 16, 23 & 30, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that DL Porter Constructors, Inc is currently seeking qualified DBE subcontractor quotes for the Florida Keys Marathon Airport – Terminal Building Rehab & Security Site Lighting Rehab.. Plans and specifications are available via email (kim@ dlporter.com ) . All pricing to be submitted to Kevin@dlporter. com no later than Monday, August 10, 2020 @ 1:00pm.

Publish: July 16, 23, 30 & August 6, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, August 27, 2020, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Mobile Vessel Pumpout Services Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices.

Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar at www.demandstar.com OR www.monroecountybids. com. In response to Covid-19, the Monroe County Purchasing Department will be implementing a new electronic process for receiving and opening sealed bids.

Monroe County is committed to continuing to receive and process competitive solicitations while maintaining the health and safety of our employees and those who attend bid openings.

Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids.

Mailed/physically delivered bids/ proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted.

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00P.M., on August 27, 2020. Please submit

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, August 26, 2020, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: 2020 SPECIAL OBLIGATION TERM LOAN $4,000,000 MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA In response to Covid-19, the Monroe County Purchasing Department will be implementing a new electronic process for receiving and opening sealed bids. Monroe County is committed to continuing to receive and process competitive solicitations while maintaining the health and safety of our employees and those who attend bid openings.

Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids.

Mailed/physically delivered bids/ proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted.

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted by no later than 3:00 p.m. on August 26, 2020, via email to: OMB-BIDS@ monroecounty-fl.gov, with copies to: kmadok@monroe-clerk.com pradloff@monroe-clerk.com masvidals@pfm.com varonap@pfm.com Your subject line on all e-mails must read as follows: 2020 SPECIAL OBLIGATION TERM LOAN $4 MILLION 08/26/2020 Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, please email: omb-purchasing @monroecounty-fl.gov. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on August 26, 2020.

You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/J/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,, 4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,, 4509326156# US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: July 16, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 20-CP-000035-M IN RE: ESTATE OF CURTIS E. STONE, Deceased.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 20-CP-18-P IN RE: ESTATE OF SYLVIA SHINER a/k/a SYLVIA K. SHINER, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of SYLVIA SHINER a/k/a SYLVIA K. SHINER, deceased, whose date of death was August 10, 2018, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Plantation Key Government Center, 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

56

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: July 16, 2020.

Personal Representative: Robert C. Stober 88539 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 Attorney for Personal Representative: VICTORIA MIRANDA, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 1015363 HERSHOFF, LUPINO & YAGEL, LLP 88539 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 VMiranda@HLYlaw.com MBrishke@HLYlaw.com Publish: July 16 & 23, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

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 ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: July 16, 2020.

Personal Representative: Frank Gyurtsak 1035 51st Avenue Long Island City, New York 11101-5817 Attorney for Personal Representative: RICHARD E. WARNER Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: July 16 & 23, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

Attorney for Personal Representative: RICHARD E. WARNER Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: July 16 & 23, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: July 9, 2020.

Personal Representative: Rebekah Dunaj 3920 S. Roosevelt Blvd., Apt 301W Key West, FL 33040 Attorney for Personal Representative: Justin Stivers Email Addresses: service@probatefirm.com paralegal@probatefirm.com Florida Bar No. 109585 The Probate Law Firm 1395 Brickell Avenue, Suite 800 Miami, FL 33131 Publish: July 9 & 16, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2019-CA-000222-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will on the 4th day of August, 2020, at 11 0’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit C24, Week 44, Beach House, 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.: 3-7517) Pursuant to ORDER TO CANCEL AND RESCHEDULE SALE AS TO COUNT III entered in a case pending in said Court, the 29TH day of June, 2020 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, Plaintiff, Vs. THE ESTATE OF JOHN ERNEST OTTENS, et al.

Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 44-2019-CA000222-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 30TH day of June, 2020.

KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in surplus from this sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: July 16 & 23, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

which is Number 44-2019-CA000222-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 6TH day of July, 2020.

KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in surplus from this sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: July 16 & 23, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to ORDER TO CANCEL AND RESCHEDULE SALE AS TO COUNT VII entered in a case pending in said Court, the 29TH day of June, 2020 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, Plaintiff, Vs. THE ESTATE OF JOHN ERNEST OTTENS, et al.

Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 44-2019-CA000222-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 30TH day of June, 2020.

KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in surplus from this sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: July 16 & 23, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 20-CP-000030-M DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF WILLIAM EDWARD SMITH, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of WILLIAM EDWARD SMITH, deceased, whose date of death was February 18, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, (File Number 20-CP-000030-M), the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: July 16, 2020.

Personal Representative: Elizabeth Smith 8400 Disputed Road LaSalle, Ontario CA N9H 0H9 Attorney for Personal Representative: Paul E. Roman Florida Bar No. 0586633 hankins northwood roman wenzel p.l.

1800 N. Military Trail – Suite 120 Boca Raton, Florida 33431 Telephone: (561) 862-4139 proman@hnrwlaw.com Publish: July 16 & 23, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No.: 20-CP-125-K Division: Lower Keys IN RE: ESTATE OF JOHN G. GYURTSAK Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of John G. Gyurtsak, deceased, whose date of death was November 4, 2019, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 20-CP-47-M DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF WILLIAM J. SAVAGE, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of William J. Savage, deceased, whose date of death was June 6, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: July 16, 2020.

Personal Representative: Stacey L. Savage 12146 Bayer Drive Waynesboro, Pennsylvania 17267

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 20-CP-21-P IN RE: ESTATE OF JAMES A. NOBLE, SR., Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of JAMES A. NOBLE, SR., deceased, whose date of death was February 4, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: July 9, 2020.

Personal Representative: HEATHER PABOTOY 402 Coconut Dr. Key Largo, FL 33037 Attorney for Personal Representative: VICTORIA MIRANDA, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 1015363 HERSHOFF, LUPINO & YAGEL, LLP 88539 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 VMiranda@HLYlaw.com MBrishke@HLYlaw.com Publish: July 9 & 16, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 20-CP-000091-K IN RE: ESTATE OF KATO LEE WORLEY, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Kato Lee Worley, deceased, whose date of death was March 6, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Freeman Justice Center, 302 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 2020-CP-0014-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JOHN STEVEN RUSSO, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of John Steven Russo, deceased, whose date of death was May 17, 2019, 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 ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is July 9, 2020.

Personal Representative: Amy L. Busko 437 Avenue I Lexington, North Carolina 27292 Attorney for Personal Representative: Alexander A. Stewart Attorney Florida Bar Number: 122110 Dye Harrison Kirkland Petruff Pratt & St. Paul, PLLC 1206 Manatee Avenue West Bradenton, Florida 34205 Telephone: (941) 746-1167 E-Mail: astewart@dyeharrison. com Publish: July 9 & 16, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2019-CA-000222-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will on the 4th day of August, 2020, at 11 0’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit D13, Week 42, Beach House, 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”).

Pursuant to ORDER TO RESCHEDULE SALE AS TO COUNT V entered in a case pending in said Court, the 6TH day of July, 2020 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, Plaintiff, Vs. THE ESTATE OF JOHN ERNEST OTTENS, et al.

Defendant And the Docket Number of

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2019-CA-000222-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will on the 4th day of August, 2020, at 11 0’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit C23, Week 48, Beach House, 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”).

Pursuant to ORDER TO CANCEL AND RESCHEDULE SALE AS TO COUNT VI entered in a case pending in said Court, the 29TH day of June, 2020 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, Plaintiff, Vs. THE ESTATE OF JOHN ERNEST OTTENS, et al.

Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 44-2019-CA000222-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 30TH day of June, 2020.

KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in surplus from this sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: July 16 & 23, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2019-CA-000222-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will on the 4th day of August, 2020, at 11 0’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit B31, Week 37, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2019-CA-000222-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will on the 4th day of August, 2020, at 11 0’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit C25, Week 47, Beach House, 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”).

Pursuant to ORDER TO CANCEL AND RESCHEDULE SALE AS TO COUNT VIII entered in a case pending in said Court, the 29TH day of June, 2020 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, Plaintiff, Vs. THE ESTATE OF JOHN ERNEST OTTENS, et al.

Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 44-2019-CA000222-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 30TH day of June, 2020.

KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in surplus from this sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: July 16 & 23, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

WEEKLY POLL

BUTTERFLY & HORTICULTURE ASSISTANT Part-time and Full-time positions.

Schedules available with early morning prep hours. Dedicated and responsible personality, outgoing, and a good team player.

Offering medical, dental, vision, 401K, Aflac, paid vacations and personal time off.

SURVEY SAYS...

OPINIONS SPLIT ON PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE For years, state and local officials have discussed a pedestrian bridge to be constructed in the Keys.

Among the potential spots, the Florida Department of Transportation picked the bridge to go near Founders Park in Islamorada. During holidays and special events, traffic comes to a standstill due to heavy congestion and visitors trying to cross the road for events like Gigantic Nautical Flea Market, concerts and festivals. The $4.68-million, state-funded bridge project has entered the design phase. The Keys Weekly asked readers the following: “Do you support a pedestrian bridge in the Keys?”

50% No, I don’t support the pedestrian bridge.

25% Yes, I support the pedestrian bridge.

18% Yes, I support a mobile pedestrian bridge that could be moved up and down the Keys during events that congest the road.

5% Yes, I support a pedestrian bridge but at a different location in the Keys where crossing U.S.1 is more dangerous.

2% I have no opinion on a pedestrian bridge.

Total responses: 597

Apply in person daily 9:00 am - 5:30 pm.

Key West Butterfly Conservatory 1316 Duval St.

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844 AUTOS WANTED ALL YEARS! Junk or Used. Cars - Vans Trucks- Running or Not. $CASH$ 305-332-0483

EMPLOYMENT Temporary Maintenance Person required for condominium on Key Colony Beach. Part-time position could become full-time. Must have valid driver’s license and a car. Contact the manager, Karen at 305-743-7700.

Steven Smith, M.D. is no longer practicing with Baptist Health Medical Group at the following location effective July 1, 2020: 5701 Overseas Highway, Suite 8, Marathon, FL 33050. Patients who wish to receive copies of their medical records may call 305-743-3511 or fax 305-743-2765 to request a record release.

Superior Electric Hiring Office Assistant. Must have Quickbooks experience.

Bilingual a plus . Apply in person at 7849 Overseas Highway, Marathon.

Help wanted - Big Time Bait and Tackle - competitive wages and working 1525 hrs a week. Contact John 239-209-7682 NOW HIRING – Full or parttime Administrative Assistant for busy insurance agency in Key Largo, MM 102. Please contact (305) 807-5338.

LINE COOK, PT, Perfect second job!

Looking to pick up some extra hours?

This is a perfect second job for night time cooks. Position hours (approximately) 12-3pm.

Our Ocean Front Swim Club is open 10am - 7pm daily. Located in Key Colony Beach, hourly $15. Beautiful environment, small friendly staff, open year round. Apply in person, email resume or call 305 393-0631 ask for April.

Publish: July 2, 9, 16 & 23, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

THEME: SUMMER OLYMPICS

Alan Netzman, M.D. is no longer practicing with Baptist Health Medical Group at the following location effective July 1, 2020: 5701 Overseas Highway, Suite 8, Marathon, FL 33050. Patients who wish to receive copies of their medical records may call 305-743-3511 or fax 305-743-0942 to request a record release.

Publish: July 2, 9, 16 & 23, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

ACROSS 1. Stockpile 6. More of the same 9. One of Los Lobos 13. Orion’s brightest spot 14. A pop 15. Spur on 16. Another name for a jack 17. Between E and NE 18. For all to see 19. * Location of the first Summer Olympics 21. *____ test 23. Utmost degree 24. Allen Ginsberg’s poem 25. Do this for cardio 28. Chesterfield, e.g.

30. Like “Extra!” news 35. Off-ramp 37. Barbequed slab 39. Right-hand page 40. Infamous Roman tyrant 41. Pandora’s box contents 43. Socially inept one 44. Parachute material 46. And others 47. Kill a dragon 48. Prior to the present, prefix 50. Every which way 52. Swear words 53. Burst of wind 55. High affair 57. *Non-permanent addition to Olympic event roster 60. *Most decorated Olympian 63. Desire 64. Tom and Jerry, e.g.

66. Relating to hair 68. Skip the big wedding 69. Inquire 70. Key material 71. Bears’ hands 72. House vote 73. Chain of hills

DOWN 1. Biblical boat 2. Chinese dynasty (1368-1644) 3. Lab culture 4. *Number of events in a heptathlon 5. Rains and snows at the same time 6. D’Artagnan’s sword 7. *Age of the youngest Olympian ever 8. Words to live by 9. Denim innovator 10. Welcoming store sign 11. Salz____ or St. Peters____ 12. Make a choice 15. Tree used to make paper 20. House duty 22. Great horned one 24. ____ for Humanity 25. *Most decorated U.S. female Olympian Thompson 26. Has daisylike flowers 27. Lena Dunham’s HBO show, 2012-17 29. *Number of countries that participated in every Summer Olympics 31. Nugent and Danson 32. Food contaminant 33. A Stradivari violin 34. *2021 Olympics location 36. Thomas the Engine’s warning 38. Wimbledon is a Grand one 42. Deadly sin 45. Nullify 49. Hard to escape routine 51. Zoo____ or bee____ 54. Type of car 56. Courtroom excuse 57. Caffeine-containing nut tree 58. Swear, not curse 59. Exercise repetitions, for short 60. Annoyingly slow 61. Weary walk 62. Spilled the beans 63. Large edible mushroom 65. *Most decorated Olympic country 67. Whiskey grain

SERVE ON THE OCEAN FT/PT Ocean front private swim club is seeking customer service oriented server. Serve on pool deck, beach and/or bar lounge.

Open year round, 10am 7pm daily. Full time/Part time. Small friendly staff.

Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person or call April (305) 393-0631..

Shelter Bay Marine in Marathon hiring Qualified Mechanics. Contact Steve at 305-743-7008 City of Marathon - Job Openings: Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee , Street Maintenance, Building Permit Tech and Temporary Utilities Maintenance Worker.

EOE, FULL BENEFITS www.ci.marathon.fl.us Key Colony Inn now hiring AM/PM Servers. Apply in person. 700 Ocean Dr, Key Colony Beach or call 305-7430100.

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

PLACE YOUR HELP WANTED AD HERE! Only $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 to place your ad today!

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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

Caregiver – Mary Brown.

Over 20 years experience.

Assistance with every day maintenance. Doctor appointments, meds, bath, sitting, etc. I have transportation and references.

786-339-5811

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

Call 305-743-4578

HOUSING FOR RENT 2BR/2BA Large Apt for rent. 10828 5th Avenue Gulf, Marathon. $1,850/month plus utilities. F/L/S. Taking applications. Call (305) 3944 5 4 5

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

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

Apply by submitting your resume

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

or by mail to: Value Adjustment Board Clerk Monroe County Clerk of Court Kevin Madok, CPA P.O. Box 1980 Key West, FL. 33041-1980

YARD SALES PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD HERE! Only $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844 to place your ad today!

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

by email to: VABClerk@Monroe-Clerk.com

*Deadline for submission is July 31, 2020* Publish: July 16 & 23, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

Experienced Housekeeper Gulf View Waterfront Resort in Grassy Key is looking for an Experienced Housekeeper. Competitive pay and Flexible hours starting at $15 per hour.

Must have own transportation and live in or near Marathon.

Call 305-289-1414

2 TEMPORARY MARINE PUMPOUT WORKERS KEY WEST  TPGM100 & TPGM101

Monroe County BOCC is looking for people with dynamic personalities who are quick to adapt, are competent multi-taskers, and can communicate effectively for two new temporary positions. Primary function is to assist marine captains with pump-out services for anchored vessels. Qualifications: Florida driver’s license, fluent in English (Spanish fluency helpful), and 1 to 2 years boating experience. Salary: $17.50 per hour. To apply, please contact Monroe County HR at Careers@monroecounty-fl.gov. APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE AT WWW.MONROECOUNTY-FL.GOV. 305-292-4557. Veteran’s Preference Available; E.O.E

Apply in person at Burdines, 1200 Oceanview Ave (off 15th St), Marathon. 305-743-5317

– KEY WEST

Monroe County School District

NOW HIRING FRONT DESK HOUSEKEEPING STARTING AT $13/HR Please come in and apply in person.

Hampton Inn

13351 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, Fl 33050

NOW HIRING

Now Hiring

DOCK ATTENDANT/CASHIER LINE COOK HOST/HOSTESS SERVER

SERVICE MANAGER / DIESEL MECHANIC

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

3BR/2BA Stilt Home for rent on Duck Key. Long term. Available August 1st.

Call 305-481-1316

Luxury furn. 2BR/2BA condo for rent in secluded & gated Seawatch Condominiums in Marathon. 1650sf with Den and lg. screened balcony w/gorgeous water views.

Marina, tennis, gym, pool, fishing, covered parking.

Adults (35+) only. No pets. $3,650/mo. 3 mo. min.

8 0 0 - 3 2 4 - 6 9 8 2 .

RENTED!!!

DAYCARE TEACHER

BURDINES WATERFRONT MARINA BAR & GRILL NOW HIRING FOR THESE POSITIONS:

JOURNEYMAN ELECTRICIANS **Top Pay** Short/Long Term Disability Paid Holidays & Vacation Uniforms 31109 Ave A, Ste 7, Big Pine Key, FL 33043

Email Resume to: Reception@PingstonElectric.com

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

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

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

New facility on Stock Island opens in July Salary Range up to $35.43 Experience Required, Certification Preferred, Must Obtain CDL class B license with P and S endorsements Apply online: www.keysschools.com For more information call 305-293-1400 ext. 53400

DIESEL ENGINE MECHANIC NEEDED FULL TIME – KEY WEST Monroe County School District

New facility on Stock Island opens in July Salary Range up to $25.63 Experience Required, Certification Preferred, Must Obtain CDL class B license with P and S endorsements Apply online: www.keysschools.com For more information call 305-293-1400 ext. 53400

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS NEEDED! Monroe County School District

Salary $17.15 – $24.15/hour Key West, Sugarloaf, Marathon and Upper Keys (4 work locations) No Experience Required, Benefits, CDL Training Provided – work as a Bus Aide while training, Full Time or Flexible, Part Time Hours - 6 to 9 am or 1 or 2 to 5 pm Apply online: www.keysschools.com

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC && LEGAL NOTICES • • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER 58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL Teaching... Learning...Caring

Dolphin Research Center has a Human Resources Director opening for immediate consideration. Duties include: Payroll, benefits administration, recruitment, record keeping, employee relations, communication of policies & procedures, safety & regulatory compliance.

Must be an organized team player with excellent computer & communications skills. Prior HR experience and degree prefered.

Benefits include; medical, life & disability insurance, 401(k), paid vacation, sick & holidays & so much more! Job description available at http://dolphins.org/career_opportunities. E-mail your resume to drc-hr@dolphins.org EOE

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

NOW HIRING RESTAURANT HOST SERVERS BARTENDERS FOOD RUNNER PUBLIC AREA ATTENDANT HOUSEMEN ROOM ATTENDANTS BELLMEN LINE COOK SOUS CHEF

ASSISTANT RETAIL MANAGER

Position available for an energetic assistant manager.

Retail experience required, supermarket experience a plus. Job requires evenings and weekend hours. Salary based on experience. Competitive salary and benefits.

Apply in person only at Fausto’s Food Palace, 522 Fleming St., Key West.

BAKER APPLY AT:

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING! KEY WEST

Case Manager (Forensic) Substance Abuse Counselor

MARATHON

Care Coordinator Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) *Assisted Living Night Monitor (FREE HOUSING!) 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!

bungalowskeylargo.com/careers

Background and drug screen req.

GREAT BENEFITS!

Bungalows Key Largo is an EOE

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

HELP WANTED Venture Out at Cudjoe Cay, Inc. COMMUNITY STORE/MARINA RETAIL SALES ASSOCIATE

Looking for a mature, reliable individual to work in our private Community Store/Marina. Part time, 21 + hours per week, afternoon shifts & weekends a must. Retail sales experience preferred but will train right person. Candidate must be a team player, able to speak fluent English and have good customer service skills. Duties include running register, stock, and maintain store cleanliness. A cheerful, friendly attitude is a must to work in this drug-free workplace. Starting wage $14.00 per hour.

Apply within 701 Spanish Main Drive, Cudjoe Key.

HELP WANTED Venture Out at Cudjoe Cay, Inc. SECURITY GUARDS

Is in the need of unarmed Security Guards for our gated community. We have an opening for 1 part time and 1 full time position with benefits. Must possess good written and verbal communication skills to inform and assist private community residents and visitors in the compliance of rules.

Full Time Security Officer Benefits: Bi-Weekly pay with Direct Deposi • Holiday Pay • Medical and Dental Vacation Pay/Sick Pay Minimum Requirements: Must be 18 years of age or older • Must have valid driver’s license Authorized to work in the United States • Must be able to pass a background investigation and drug screening Salary: $16.00 /hour Apply within 701 Spanish Main Drive, Cudjoe Key

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

CROSSWORD

SOLUTION

NOW HIRING

Marathon, Big Pine Key & Stock Island Locations $15 per hour to start FT Employees are eligible to participate in our health, dental, vision, Life Insurance. PTO and Profit Sharing is available to every member of our team (conditions apply).

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

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

Sharing the Water with Sea Turtles • Watch out for sea turtles on the surface • Avoid trap ropes that may be floating • Stay alert and obey speed limits

If you see a Sea Turtle in Distress: Call our 24 hr Hotline 305-481-7669 or Call FWC 888-404-FWCC or Radio Coast Guard VHF Ch. 16

www.turtlehospital.org

We're running our Summer Schedule at 50% capacity.

MARATHON LADY DOCKS U.S.1 at Vaca Cut Bridge Mile Marker 53, Marathon

Morning trip 9:30am-1:30pm Night trip 6:30pm-midnight

305.743.5580

Marathon Lady • 73’ Party Boat Please make sure to call ahead for reservations and face coverings are required. Thank you!

www.MARATHONLADY.net

PIGEON KEY FOUNDATION

MARINE SCIENCE SUMMER CAMPS DAY CAMPS | 8-16 YRS OVERNIGHT CAMPS | 10-16 YRS

Want to Attract more Business?

You can have this spot for only $100!

DAY ($350): July 6-10, July 27-30 and August 3-7 (depends on demand).

860.961.1982

OVERNIGHT ($950) : July 13-17 and July 20-24.

CASEY@PIGEONKEY.NET

LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE Compliant with CDC Safety Guidelines | Isolated island, essential summer camp staff only Activities in open air spaces | Staff is first aid certified | AC and full bathroom accommodations

Call Lesley at 305-395-9895

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

LET’S DO BUSINESS - 305.743-0844 Licensed & Insured #SP33799

NEW & REPAIR

305-664-0099 www.TikiHuts.com

STATE CERTIFIED THATCHING CONTRACTOR CYC 000002

ALL KEYS GLASS

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors

305-743-7800

Authorized Dealer

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

Sportfishing Adventures

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

info@johnnymaddoxcharters.com

305-481-3259

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

METAL ROOFING

SPECIALIST 305-664-1010 www.roofer.pro

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

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 for a FREE Consultation

Brian Tewes

When It Rains It Pours!

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

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

NMLS# 375025 Tewes Mortgage NMLS# 1453791 NMLSConsumerAccess.org

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

www.TewesMortgage.com

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

The Weekly Newspapers

We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

www.KeysWeekly.com

305-743-0844

305-998-8953 Insured • Professional • Reliable

Serving Key Largo to Key West

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

Licensed & Insured Contractor # CACO53827

ARTIC TEMP, INC. Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

Residential, Commercial & Marine Ice Machine - Sales - Service 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

Liz Samess Interiors

Design, Decorating, Drafting, & More…

Liz Samess Interior Designer

(954) 801-7883 Email: interiordesignbyliz@gmail.com CELL:

Marathon, FL 33050

We Do Installations!

Licensed & Insured

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

289-3019

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

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

ALL KEYS GLASS

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

Sewer Connections 305

872-1876

• New Construction • Remodeling • Irrigation

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

We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

305

NOW HIRING!

296-BLUE

• Heavy Equipment • Solar Lic## RF11067168

PC 606

Appliance and Air Conditioning

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

Insured • Professional • Reliable

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

info@johnnymaddoxcharters.com

305-481-3259

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

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

Operating Since 2004

305-998-8953

Sportfishing Adventures

Kitchen Cabinets Sales

Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here

PROP DOC

KEY WEST,

Including Airports & Ports.

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

305-743-7454

fkes2011@gmail.com floridakeysexpressshuttle.com

Liz Samess Interiors

Design, Decorating, Drafting, & More…

Liz Samess Interior Designer

(954) 801-7883 Email: interiordesignbyliz@gmail.com CELL:

Marathon, FL 33050

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

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

• SINCE 1989 •

305-289-1150

Florida Solar Contractor CVC 56734

Serving Monroe, Dade & Broward

inc.

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors

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

METAL ROOFING

SPECIALIST 305-664-1010 www.roofer.pro

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KEY WEST / MARATHON / UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 16, 2020

STAY WELL

At Wahlburgers - we take care of our own. Our greatest concern is always for the health and safety of our guests and of our team. And due to the current challenges in Florida, we are keeping an eye on safety updates and government directives.

We will keep you posted as we move closer to an official opening date. Until then, please stay safe, stay well and we will see you soon for great drinks, great burgers and a great time!

700 FRONT STREET AT THE HISTORIC KEY WEST SEAPORT

KEY WEST

WAHLBURGERS GOES

JOIN OUR TEAM! STOP BY, TAKE A TOUR AND APPLY.