Upper Keys Weekly 21-0429

Now entering the playing field, the fightin’ “Tugas” and the fightin’ “skeeters.”

GMO WHAT TO KNOW Locations announced | P. 8

WEIGHING IN Biting into the matter | P. 9

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Chapman & Cardwell Capital Management is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services, Inc.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

Join us and Fish for a Cause!!

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

NOTHING COMPARES

Built in 2013, this Keys-style home is situated in the desirable neighborhood of Plantation Shores! This location offers a fantastic homeowners park with a boat ramp just steps away with immediate access to the ocean or quick access to the bay via Tavernier Creek. This home is complete with three bedrooms and two bathrooms and features an ideal open layout. It was constructed of concrete with impact windows/doors. Beautiful tile floors and vaulted ceilings throughout complete this cozy residence. The kitchen has solid wood cabinetry with granite countertops and stainless appliances. Close to elementary and high school as well as restaurants, hospital, shopping and post office!

PLANTATION KEY | $779,000 | Listing ID: 595728

305.712.8888 | oceansir.com

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

ON THE COVER

The average price drivers in Florida are paying for a gallon of gas, according to a recent AAA report. That’s 12 cents less than drivers paid in March, when the state average reached its highest this year — $2.91. Last year, however, people were paying $1.80 at the pump. The latest weekly data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration suggests U.S. fuel demand has returned to its highest level since the last week of October 2020.

A pilot project that will see the release of geneticallymodified mosquitoes is nearing, and release locations were recently announced.

Read more on page 8.

$2.79

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COMMISSIONER TAKEN ABACK ON LIBRARY SPENDING DURING COVID LIBRARY DIRECTOR SAYS SERVICES AVAILABLE AND EXPANDED JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

W

hat began as a request for the Key Largo Library payroll from last year — when the COVID-19 pandemic began — quickly morphed into a bigger question for County Commissioner Mike Forster on compensation within the library system.

Discussion brought forth by Forster lasted more than an hour during the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners’ April 21 meeting in Marathon. Forster said he received pre- and post-COVID payroll for the library and was “taken aback by the dollar figure,” and not at ground level staff for the five libraries, but at the administrative and support staff level.

“I feel it’s top heavy and that more assets should be used on the ground level,” Forster said in his opening remarks.

Library reopenings began last month with branches in Big Pine Key and Key West welcoming patrons through the door six days a week in late March. Along with in-person visits, curbside service is also provided to residents.

Libraries in Islamorada and Key Largo are open for in-person visits three days a week. Upper Keys residents still have the ability to go inside to check a book six days a week with the Islamorada branch on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and the Key Largo branch open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Curbside service is available at both locations six days a week.

Goodbye week for the old Marathon Library ends April 30, as books get moved to a new facility for a June opening.

Base salaries, which don’t include benefits, within the Monroe County Library System was $2,095,421 before Covid. Administration and support staff totaled $572,715 followed by the Key West Library, $448,679.

During COVID, the total base salary within the library system went to $1,902,475, with administration and staff support salaries totaling $588,397 and pay for personnel at the Key West Library totaling $429,186. Payroll throughout the library system postCOVID totals $1,996,015.

Forster said figures he received depicted compensation that included benefits, which the county traditionally calculates by taking the salary and adding 30%. Pre-COVID payroll including benefits, he said, was $3 million.

During COVID, it totaled more than $2 million.

Figures provided in a slide presentation by County Library Director Kimberly Matthews show the library payroll during normal operations at $2.5 million when adding in the 30% for benefits.

In addition to payroll figures before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, Matthews showed that the five libraries from Key West to Key

Largo were providing service six days a week for 55 operating hours. While patrons weren’t able to check out books the traditional way inside a branch, Matthews said operations were maintained every day with telephones answered and accounts serviced. She said around 800 people called and signed up for e-cards, while digital usage increased by 30%.

Matthews also explained how exchanges with patrons changed from the traditional book check-out to people calling in to see what was on the shelf — and stopping by either five minutes or five days later to pick it up.

What’s usually a five-minute interaction between librarians and visitors increased to 15, and in some cases, 30 minutes, Matthews said.

“We started this concierge reader advisory. Once we found something, we’d go to the shelf and check it out and hold it and put it on the shelf,” she said. “Then they’d notify us that they’d be arriving at the building, go back and retrieve the item and take it to their car.” continued on page 6

The Key Largo library is located in Tradewinds Plaza. The library is open to in-person visits three times a week. Curbside service is provided six days a week. JIM McCARTHY/ Keys Weekly

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

WILL VILLAGE SEE EVENTS RETURN?

Islamorada to hear from health chief

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jim@keysweekly.com

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CHARLOTTE TWINE charlotte@keysweekly.com

JIM McCARTHY

ill large-scale events in the village of Islamorada return? Council members will hear from Monroe County’s health officer regarding the ongoing coronavirus pandemic at a Thursday, April 29 meeting.

Bob Eadie, the top health official, appeared via Zoom during the council’s March 4 meeting. During his presentation, he relayed concerns with the spring break that was approaching then, and the flow of visitors it would bring to the Keys. As a result, the dais was unanimous in extending a halt on the issuance of temporary use permits for events to June 1.

Council members originally approved an event restriction to April 1 when they gathered for their first meeting together in November.

Countywide, average new cases of COVID-19 are at 10 per day. In Islamorada, a total of 241 cases have been seen since the start of the pandemic in March 2020.

Vaccine availability has also increased since March, so much that health care providers are waiting for people to come for the shot. More than 34,500 Monroe County residents received the vaccine, with just over 23,000 completing their series and 11,500 getting their first shot.

A temporary suspension of largescale events affected the Upper Keys Rotary Club’s Gigantic Nautical Flea Market at Founders Park and the annual Island Fest put on by the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce. Third Thursday Artwalks on Morada Way, Baygrass Bluegrass festival and full moon parties were also affected by the decision.

Vice Mayor Pete Bacheler said while he would like to see events return, he will defer to the health department and Eadie.

“We just don’t know yet. Now they’re talking about variants,” he said.

“What I like about the Keys is we are distant and we’re off the map. In Miami, they’re walking around different issues. Down here, we’re a little more

COUNTY COMMISSION LOOKS TO LIGHTEN COVID PROTOCOLS

relaxed and comfortable because we don’t have an influx of potential danger like bigger cities.”

Councilman Mark Gregg said he, too, will wait to hear a recommendation from Eadie.

“If he says it’s safe, I have confidence in his opinion,” he said. “He’s conservative and well-informed. The other thing is more and more people are getting vaccinated.”

In other matters, council members will consider a resolution for work authorization between the village and CPH Inc. for improvements at Green Turtle Hammock. The first phase of work at the property, which saw demolition of a house, was completed in March 2020. The second phase of the capital project, completion of conceptual design, was finished in February 2021. Design and permitting for improvements is the next phase.

Remaining components of the project include an ADA-compliant kayak launch, improved access from the upland area to the waterfront, a waterfront pavilion/ observation tower, a restroom and an improved parking area.

Another resolution will come before council to approve residential building permit allocation system ranking and awards for the first quarter of 2021. Twentytwo market rate allocations were made available for 2021 through BPAS, and five market rate without land dedication allocations are available for distribution this year. At the close of the first quarter, 71 applications for market rate housing without land dedication were in the queue awaiting awards.

lot can happen in 411 days.

For example, during the April 21 meeting of the Board of County Commissioners, emergency management director Shannon Weiner said that Monroe County has been in “Covid Operations” for 411 days.

Weiner’s portion of the meeting was a public hearing to consider changes to the county’s mask ordinance.

Unless rescinded or extended by the board, the ordinance would sunset on June 1, 2021, subject to quarterly review.

The general consensus of the BOCC, with firm backing from health officer and administrator Bob Eadie of the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County, was that masks should stay on through that sunset. But the board gave a nod to county staff to look at ways to meet again in public gatherings, such as Fourth of July events, with safe protocols.

“I agree we need to start opening up our events. I also agree we need to continue with our mask ordinance,” said Commissioner Craig Cates. “I can say that probably no family has probably been more affected than mine. So I know how difficult it is.

But we still have to live our lives.

We’ll have to continue on and be as safe as you possibly can. So I support moving forward with these events.”

Cates’ wife, Cheryl, died on Dec. 2, 2020, at Jackson Memorial Hospital after being diagnosed with COVID-19. Cates and his daughter Crystal had tested positive for the virus as well.

Eadie said the latest research suggests that in areas where citizens are vigilant about wearing masks, incidents of transmission of COVID are remarkably lower.

Monroe County’s new cases have dipped a little lower: April had 14 new cases per day, while March had 16 cases a day, said Weiner.

“I’m saying that yes, I think we’re in the fourth quarter, but we’re in the fourth quarter — not at the end of the game. We need to be vigilant,” said Eadie. He pointed out huge spikes of COVID in Michigan as well as in many places in the world.

“And there’s a lot of travel in the Keys,” he said.

According to Weiner, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that groups of people from the same household who have been fully vaccinated can gather.

“In Monroe County, we’ve had 31,830 people vaccinated, approximately 42 percent of our total population. We’re somewhere around 78 percent for the 65-and-over population,” said Weiner.

Mayor Michelle Coldiron suggested entertaining a discussion to approve the annual July 3rd public gathering on Big Pine Key, although no decision was made.

“We are apparently moving toward a day when we are going to lighten up restrictions,” said Commissioner David Rice. “One of the things that has occurred to me is there are some of these events like the Fourth of July fireworks that serve as a good experiment. If two weeks later you see a spike, that’s a pretty good signal that you need to back away.”

Eadie said that with the organizers of the recently completed 7 Mile Bridge Run, “we had discussions about how they could have that event and also be as safe as they possibly could. And they did that. They changed things around. ... My point is, if you are in a small group and you know people have been vaccinated, it’s perfectly fine to start having that social interaction.

The biggest concerns are when you bring in a big group of people, you increase the risk.”

The commissioners then directed County Attorney Bob Shillinger to look at unwinding restrictions with safety in mind for county facilities such as libraries, as well as outdoor events and parks.

“If we encounter issues, we can bring those back (to the BOCC) in May,” Shillinger said.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

FREEBEE TESLA MODEL X IN SERVICE

Three vehicles now available for village-wide transportation

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new Tesla Model X Freebee vehicle is providing residents and visitors with transportation service from upper Plantation Key to Lower Matecumbe Key. The Freebee Electric Vehicle Ridesharing Service began providing transportation on Upper Matecumbe Key in November 2018. The village was able to expand the popular Freebee program to serve all of Islamorada in March 2020 with two new larger electric vehicles that can drive on the highway and cross bridges.

The latest addition to the Freebee fleet in Islamorada brings the total vehicles to three, and they all travel the full distance of the village in providing increased service to residents and visitors throughout Islamorada.

The new Tesla Model X replaces the cart that was limited to service on Upper Matecumbe. While some people may miss the open-air feel of the golf cart-style vehicle, the addition of the Tesla Model X is an upgrade to the village-wide Freebee service.

from page 4

COMMISSIONER TAKEN ABACK ON LIBRARY SPENDING DURING COVID

More residents than tourists are now using the free service, which is available 70 hours a week.

Download the “Ride Freebee” app from the App Store or from Google Play. Or, call 855-918-3733 to request a ride. More information is at ridefreebee.com.

— Weekly staff report

FREEBEE SERVICE SCHEDULE • Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

• Thursdays 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

• Fridays from 11 a.m. to midnight.

• Saturdays from noon to midnight.

• Sundays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The new Tesla Model X Freebee vehicle is in service in Islamorada. PETE BACHELER/Contributed

The countywide furlough went from April 16, 2020 to June 1, 2020. A total of 16 library employees were furloughed. Those who were furloughed could use leave they had accumulated, Matthews said, and operations were affected with curbside delivery not available at that time.

“We didn’t see any reduction to our payroll as a result of the furlough because most used the leave they had in stock,” she said.

Matthews also provided a breakdown of library administration support payroll, which shows the library director and systems administrator totaling $165,837. Technical services, which acquires, catalogues, delivers and collects library items, totaled $194,047.

The Florida History Department, which Matthews called the “sixth branch” and said “could live in its own facility” totals $128,146.

“For whatever reason, it is lumped in with us,” she said.

No action was taken by the board of county commissioners following the discussion. Forster said he wanted to make fellow commissioners aware of his concern and felt it was right to bring it up in the lead-up to budget time.

“I just think there’s a redundancy on some of the positions on the top level, but I’m not a librarian, and I’m going to rely on Kimberly,” Forster said. “I even mentioned when we’re routed for getting out books to Key Largo and Marathon … can we incorporate that and send different packages to the library and have a person who does that specifically. It’s just streamlining the organization chart to make it more efficient.”

Forster also acknowledged that he never intended to close libraries. He said he was taken aback by the number of emails generated from Big Pine Key just 12 hours before the agenda item was posted to the county website.

“Nowhere in that heading did it say your library is going to be closed,” he said. “Somebody put out the narrative in that area that ‘I’m coming for your library is going to be closed.’ That couldn’t be further from the truth.

“At previous county commission meetings, I kept fighting for them to open,” he continued. “And we kept delaying because of COVID and best science and best management practices.”

While operations were affected by COVID, Matthews said the number of days the libraries were closed to the public was zero.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

YES TO SOLAR We’ve Got the Power

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Total return on investment over 36 months will be $500,000.

Boat will be used as collateral.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

DRUG MONEY FUNDS NEW SAFETY GEAR

SHERIFF BUYS 100 PORTABLE DEFIBRILLATORS, OPIOID OVERDOSE KITS & MOBILE EMERGENCY KITS MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

M

onroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay recently made it easier for his deputies to serve, protect and save lives in more ways than one.

Ramsay spent about $130,000 of confiscated drug dealer money to buy 100 new portable automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) and dozens of doses of NARCAN, which treats opioid and heroin overdoses.

“In the past 12 months alone, NARCAN has been used 19 times to save the life of someone who has overdosed on heroin or opioid pills,” Lt. James Sheagren said. “And that’s just the sheriff’s office-owned NARCAN. That figure doesn’t include NARCAN used by fire/rescue personnel. So yes, unfortunately, it’s been on the rise in recent years. Our guys have been carrying NARCAN for the past three years, and we just got a bunch of additional doses.”

The easy-to-use nasal spray is dispersed into a patient’s nostrils, much like Afrin or other sinus sprays, Sheagren said. “It often takes two doses, one up each nostril, to revive a patient, but it works. I’ve seen people sit straight up, when 30 seconds before, they were purple and unresponsive.”

The AEDs are now included in every patrol car. The sheriff’s office has about 150 of them, while the school district and Key West police and fire/ rescue units all have them as well.

“We used to have to switch out the AEDs when we came on duty, but that meant we wouldn’t have access to one if we came upon an emergency on our way to or from work,” Sheagren said, adding that all deputies have been trained on the AEDs, which include detailed and easy-to-follow instructions about where to place the adhesive pads on a patient’s chest. The kits also come with scissors in case clothing needs to be cut off, and a razor to shave a man’s chest.

“These units also recognize the weight of the patient, so they can be used on kids and adults. They basically jump start the heart to ‘reset’ it, like unplugging a computer and plugging it back in.”

As part of the negotiations for the AEDs, Ramsay also received — at no additional charge — 10 new mobile

All Monroe County Sheriff’s Office deputies carry NARCAN nasal sprays that are used to treat an increasing number of opioid overdoses in Monroe County.

rescue boxes that contain dozens of first aid items to treat everything from a heart attack to a broken bone. The boxes also contain a talking touchscreen tablet that asks questions of the user about the emergency situation and directs them to a specifically labeled item in the box.

“For example, if someone has a severely bleeding injury, we open the box and click on the diagram of the body to show where the injury is located, and we indicate whether it’s a broken bone or a bleeding injury,” Sheagren explained. “The screen will ask questions about the injury, then direct the user to one of the tourniquets that’s included in the box. It will speak aloud instructions and show diagrams about how to properly position and tighten a tourniquet. And if the tourniquet doesn’t stop the bleeding, it will direct you to use a QuikClot specially treated bandage, which is also labeled and included in the box that can be refilled regularly with whatever items need to be replenished.”

The mobile rescue boxes have been placed at each sheriff’s substation, the three jails, courthouses and other facilities Keyswide.

“These AEDs, NARCAN and rescue boxes will help deputies get a head start on life-saving actions,” Sheriff Ramsay said. “We certainly can’t replace our friends at fire/rescue, but often a deputy is the first on the scene of any incident, and in these situations, every minute counts.”

Ramsay emphasized that the $130,000 spent on the new safety gear came from seized drug money, and not the taxpayers.

“Our goal continues to be to provide the best level of service to all our citizens, not just in terms of criminal investigations, but in life-safety situations as well,” Ramsay said.

OXITEC TO BEGIN PLACEMENTS IN KEYS COMPANY ANNOUNCES 6 LOCATIONS FOR MOSQUITO-CONTROL EXPERIMENT

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he Florida Keys Mosquito Control District and Oxitec Ltd. on April 23 released an advisory outlining some of the plans for its Florida Keys pilot project: Project managers anticipate that during the last week of April and first week of May, release boxes, nonrelease boxes and netted quality control boxes will be placed in six locations: two on Cudjoe Key, one on Ramrod Key and three on Vaca Key. “Throughout all release locations fewer than 12,000 mosquitoes are expected to emerge each week for approximately 12 weeks. Untreated comparison sites will be monitored with mosquito traps on Key Colony Beach, Little Torch Key and Summerland Key. This marks the start of the U.S. EPA-approved project to evaluate this solution to control the invasive Aedes aegypti mosquito species.

Oxitec’s non-biting male mosquitoes will emerge from the boxes to mate with the local, biting female mosquitoes. The female offspring of these encounters cannot survive, and the population of Aedes aegypti is subsequently controlled.

The Aedes aegypti mosquito makes up about 4% of the mosquito population in the Keys, but is responsible for virtually all mosquito-borne diseases transmitted to humans.

This species of mosquito transmits dengue, Zika, yellow fever and other human diseases, and can transmit heartworm and other potentially deadly diseases to pets and animals.

“An important part of FKMCD’s mission is to protect residents in the Florida Keys from the disease-transmitting mosquito, Aedes aegypti,” said Andrea Leal, executive director of the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District. “As we are seeing development of resistance to some of our current control methods, we are in need of new tools to combat this mosquito.

And given the unique ecosystem we live in, those tools need to be safe, environmentally friendly and targeted. That is why we are collaborating with Oxitec on this project. With full approval from the U.S. EPA and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and with

support from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and an independent advisory board, we are pleased to announce that this project will soon be underway.”

“We are immensely thankful for FKMCD’s continued partnership,” said Oxitec CEO Grey Frandsen, “and for the strong public support this project has received from Florida Keys residents. This truly is a public-private partnership driven by support for new, environmentallysustainable solutions to combat disease-transmitting mosquitoes.

While next week’s releases represent a landmark release of Oxitec mosquitoes in the U.S., we’re focused on demonstrating the value this technology can have for Florida Keys residents, communities and business owners, while protecting the Keys’ beautiful and sensitive habitat that we all value so much. With outstanding support from local residents, and with full clearance from the federal and state regulators, it’s time to get to work.’”

Oxitec’s Aedes aegypti technology Oxitec’s non-biting male mosquito was designed to control the invasive, disease-spreading Aedes aegypti. It has successfully provided significant suppression of the wild Aedes aegypti in other geographies and does not persist in the environment or cause harm to beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.

This technology also removes all requirements for adult mosquitorearing and releases, and eliminates the potential for female releases.

Combined with other innovations, this technology is anticipated to reduce up to 90% of costs associated with traditional insect release programs.

Similar projects in the Brazilian city of Indaiatuba found that Oxitec’s mosquito suppressed disease-carrying Aedes aegypti by up to 95% in urban, dengue-prone environments following 13 weeks of treatment, as compared to untreated control sites in the same city.

More information is at keysmosquitoproject.com.

— Contributed by Oxitec Ltd.

9

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

OPINION

MOSQUITO PROJECT REPRESENTS 10 YEARS OF LOCAL SUPPORT Once you’ve had the COVID-19 vaccine, you’ll know that public-private collaborations to solve public health challenges work.

By Grey Frandsen Ten years after the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District (FKMCD) first invited Oxitec to the Keys, and in efforts to find effective methods for controlling the invasive, disease-spreading Aedes aegypti mosquito, FKMCD and Oxitec are for the first time preparing to release Oxitec’s safe and environmentally sustainable non-biting male mosquitoes in a field project approved by the United States’ Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and State of Florida authorities.

The project was commissioned by FKMCD, approved by the elected commissioners of the FKMCD and is managed by a joint steering committee comprising government and Oxitec scientists. We’ve established a project independent advisory board made up of local leaders and global experts and have support from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in evaluating plans and data.

Most importantly, we have support from residents in the Florida Keys.

In fact, we have far more requests from residents to participate in this project than we have spaces for!

It isn’t a surprise. Having carried out an unprecedented level of public engagement, and after a majority of Keys residents voted in favor of the project in 2016, this collaboration represents the best of

what public-private collaborations can do to solve growing challenges to public health in our country.

Once you’ve had your COVID-19 vaccine — developed with biotechnology through public-private partnership — you’ll benefit from precisely the type of work we’re embarking on in collaboration with the FKMCD. We’re honored to be part of this project, promoting innovation and progress to solve a growing public health challenge.

Safe, breakthrough technologies, delivered within a constructive, transparent, and collaborative public-private framework help to save lives.

We should applaud the intent, be humbled by the challenge, be steadfast in our commitment, and be proud of our endeavors.

We invite anyone with interest in this project to learn more on the project website keysmosquitoproject.com, videos of 12 open webinars on keysmosquitoproject.com/ resources, and a list of 100+ scientific peer reviewed publications on www.oxitec.com/ en/our-technology. If anyone has any additional questions, we stand ready to answer them, and can be emailed here: florida@oxitec.com.

Grey Frandsen is the CEO of Oxitec.

OXITEC IS USING ‘PERSUASION

BY DECEPTION’ Dear Editor, It is astonishing how average people could subject others to risky experiments not of their choice, under the false pretense of “science.”

Oxitec/Mosquito Control are doing just that. Their op-ed from Thursday, April 22, (at left) is an example of their half-truths and outright lies, persuasion by deception hoping that most of us in the Florida Keys are fishing or on our second margarita.

In order of items in their oped: QUOTE: “...preparing to release Oxitec’s safe and environmentally sustainable biting male mosquitos in a field project approved by the EPA and State of Florida authorities.”

FACTS: Sounds legitimate, right?

However, repeated requests for Oxitec to show the independent, corroborated studies that might prove this claim, resulted in silence. This is a pretty bold claim.

How could they get away with stating it is safe with support from the EPA and state agencies, but unwilling to provide the independent corroborated studies proving Oxitec’s claim?

Why the deception?

We now learn that these independent studies were not required by the EPA, nor any of the state agencies! This is alarming in itself.

Our residents want to see verification of Oxitec’s safety claims by someone other than Oxitec.

No federal, state or local government agency, or representative, pursued this, except for Congressman Carlos Gimenez (and he is yet to receive an answer).

Why the deception?

QUOTE: “...Steering Committee made up of government and Oxitec scientists.”

FACTS: The public has never been informed who these government scientists are on this “Steer-

ing Committee.” Dr. Stan Zuba attempted to introduce one of these government scientists at a recent Islamorada Village Council meeting, but it was quickly discovered that the “Florida Keys Mosquito Control scientist,” was in fact employed by and representing the interests of Oxitec.

Why the deception?

QUOTE: “We’ve established a project independent advisory board made up of local leaders and global experts and have support from the CDC.” FACTS: From Dr. Lyle R. Petersen, director of the CDC’s Division of Vector Borne Diseases, April 19, 2021: ”Thank you for your email.

As previously mentioned, we do not have oversight in these trials and will not be conducting any testing or health assessments.”

Why the deception?

QUOTE: “Majority of the Keys residents voted in favor of the project in 2016.”

FACTS: Oxitec fails to mention that there were two referenda in 2016.

One referendum was trial area site-specific, and was soundly defeated in Key Haven.

The other question was Keyswide and asked a very general question about a different technology, the prior prototype OX513a, which was not approved by the EPA nor any state agency.

These referenda were over five years ago and were specific to a different prototype of Oxitec “technology,” or “junk science,” if you prefer to call it what it is.

Why the deception?

Please contact as many public officials as you can, especially the Board of the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District, and demand that we deserve proof of the claims made by Oxitec, from a source other than the manufacturer.....Oxitec!

Thank you, Ed Russo, President Florida Keys Environmental Coalition

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

MORE ISLAND NAMES AND SOME MONKEY BUSINESS

Origin of Keys names can be as unusual as those who live on them

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here are 1,000 origin stories behind the names given to the Florida Keys, and countless people have contributed to them. One of those was Charles Brookfield. He was born in 1903 in Philadelphia.

At 21, he ventured to Miami and immersed himself in the history of South Florida and the Keys. In 1926, Brookfield built a boat designed to navigate the local reefs, shoals and seagrass shallows. He named the 26-foot vessel with a draw of 26 inches Manatee.

The following year, in 1927, the U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey hired Brookfield (and his boat) to assist on a survey that would update the government’s outdated nautical charts. The project took several years, and, as a result, Brookfield had a hand in the naming of, among others, Bob Allen, Bottlepoint, Bradley, Calusa BRAD and Manatee keys.

BERTELLI Why did he choose those names? Bob Allen was an Audu... is the curator bon hero who helped save the for Islamorada’s whooping crane from extinction.

Keys History & After moving with his young Discovery Center.

A published aufamily to Tavernier in 1939, Allen thor of six books, studied the endangered roseate his favorite subspoonbill and, when spying on jects are Indian them, camped out on an island Key and skunk that kind of looked like a bottle, apes. hence the name Bottlepoint Key. Bradley Key, located about one mile west-southwest of Flamingo (an Everglades outpost at the edge of Florida Bay), was named in honor of Guy Bradley, who was hired as a wildlife officer to enforce laws against plume hunting in the Everglades. Those hunters murdered him on July 8, 1905. Calusa Key, found eight miles due north of Lignumvitae Key, was not named for some ancient tribal reason but simply to honor the Calusa people.

The rhesus monkey, namesake of Monkey Key. WIKIPEDIA/Contributed

The Manatee Keys are found about seven miles north of Snake Creek, the pass separating Plantation and Windley keys.

Snake Creek is also home to the last of the Overseas Highway’s drawbridges. Fortunately, it is only raised at the top of every hour, so delays, though inconvenient, are not just some random occurrence. The Manatee Keys were not named for the Sunshine State’s loveable sea cows but after Brookfield’s vessel, Manatee.

In the northernmost Keys is an island recorded on Spanish charts as Las Tetas.

Found in Biscayne Bay, the island is located between Elliott and Boca Chita keys. A 1743 chart identifies it as Restinga de las Tetas which, in English, basically translates to something along the lines of “coastal forest of the tits.” William Roberts’ 1763 “First Discovery and Natural History of Florida” used the simplified moniker Las Tetas.

The cartographer Bernard Romans confirmed the island was called Las Tetas (and also The Paps) on his 1774 chart. Romans noted that there were two hills on the island.

Because hills are not a common feature associated with the hundreds of islands making up the archipelago, the “hills” were probably mounds associated with a former aboriginal presence. In J.W. Norie’s “Piloting Directions for the Gulf of Florida, Bahama Banks, & Islands,” published in 1828, he noted: “Next to the northward of Elliot’s Kay is a little island, having two small hills on it, whence the Spaniards have called it Las Tetas, or The Paps.” Today, the island is known as Sands Key.

There is an island in the Upper Keys located west of Tavernier Creek that was officially named rather late on the local history timeline.

In 1992, the island was named Kalteux Key after Tavernier’s Franklin James Kalteux (19001983), who moved to the area in 1951. Kalteux, nicknamed “Mr. Tavernier,” worked to develop Plantation Yacht Harbor Resort and the Tropical Atlantic Shores subdivision. In 1992, the U.S. Board on Geographic Names, with a push from Florida Senator Bob Graham and Mr. Kalteux’s stepson, Jerald Lee O’Cathey, officially named the island Kalteux Key in his honor.

A little farther down the island chain, one of the more talked-about outer Keys, and one that was connected by neither Flagler’s Over-Sea Railroad nor the Overseas Highway, used to be called Cayo Cagumas. At least that was what it was called on early Spanish charts. “Cagumas” is a Spanish word for the loggerhead turtle. The island is part of the Lower Keys and is located on the oceanside of the Overseas Highway, two miles south of Cudjoe Key. The 1868 U.S. Coast & Geodetic Chart identified the island as Loggerhead Key. Though the island is recognized on modern charts as Key Lois, it has another, less official name: Monkey Key. In 1973, Charles River Laboratories began using the 100-acre island as a commercially operated breeding colony for rhesus monkeys. The monkeys were destined for experimental use. Then, they ate all the mangroves, were determined to be an ecological nightmare, and were removed in 1999.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

COLLEGE OF THE FLORIDA KEYS INTRODUCES NEW MASCOT

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here is a new face — and flippers — on the campus of The College of the Florida Keys: Shel the Tuga.

The college’s new mascot, the Tugas, is an abbreviation of “tortugas,” the Spanish word for turtle. The fictional sea turtle mascot sports CFK’s colors: an ocean blue body with lightning bolts and a sunsetorange shell. The college’s marketing team worked with local graphic designer Seth Mularz to create the design.

The introduction of the Tuga comes as athletics return to campus after a 45-year hiatus. Women’s and men’s swim teams made their competition debut earlier this semester at both in-person and virtual swim meets.

In 2019, the College joined the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA), a requirement to operate and compete in sanctioned athletic events.

The Tuga will be the face of CFK athletics and, officials hope, a source of collegiate spirit for students, alumni, employees and the Keys community.

“A strong and swift ocean navigator, the Tuga represents the culture and values at CFK,” states a college press release. “Among them is the widely shared passion for the ocean and environment. CFK’s marineoriented programs, including a recently

added bachelor’s degree in marine resource management, attract students from all over the world to study for various marine-related careers in and on the waters of the Keys.”

Like sea turtles in the wild, CFK students and alumni play fundamental roles in the health of coral reefs, seagrass and other ecosystems.

While nearly all species of sea turtles are endangered, they have existed on Earth for more than 100 million years. The strength and resiliency of the Tugas’ real-life counterparts reflect the spirit and tenacity of the student body of the small island college.

The development of the mascot was based on college-wide input, including rounds of nominations, voting and focus groups. The college’s previous mascot was the Wrecker, which had not been embraced for many years. The Tugas’ Spanish-inspired name is symbolic of the Keys’ Hispanic heritage and the college’s diverse student body.

Shel, the name of the mascot character, is a nod to the famous poet and Key West resident Shel Silverstein.

— Contributed

KEYS CHILDREN’S FOUNDATION GRANTS $105,000 TO CHILDREN’S SHELTER

Pictured from left are Lynda Weinstein, Florida Keys Children’s Shelter development director; Ben Kemmer, Children’s Shelter CEO; Linda Falk, The Keys Children’s Foundation & Children’s Shelter board member; and Katya Andrade, Children’s Shelter office manager.

KAREN MARTINEZ/Contributed

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he Keys Children's Foundation recently granted the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter $105,000 to help pay salaries of its residential counselor, assistant residential coordinator and training coordinator positions. All three are employed full-time at the 19-bed Jelsema Center in Tavernier.

The Keys Children’s Foundation provides financial support to non-profit organizations dedicated to providing programs that offer education, healthcare and recreation to disadvantaged children and their families living in

Florida’s Upper Keys. These programs help youth and their families meet everyday challenges and empower them to gain a greater sense of control and responsibility for their own lives.

“We’re so thankful for The Keys Children’s Foundation gift that helps fund the gap between government grants and the salaries needed to attract and retain skilled professionals with bachelor’s degrees and the specific expertise to provide a higher quality experience for the youth ages 11-17 who live here,” said Ben Kemmer, Florida Keys Children’s Shelter CEO. “Our cost of living is higher than other areas receiving the same funding. And here in the Keys, we’re competing with tourism. You can make more money working in a restaurant or retail store than the wage that the state budgets for us to pay youth support staff.”

The grant to the Children’s Shelter was among the largest distributed by The Keys Children’s Foundation. Other programs in the Upper Keys receiving grants include Take Stock in Children, the Key Largo YMCA, Key Largo School and Plantation Key School. More information is at www.thekeyschildrens-

13

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

SCHOOLS CHIEF: SOCIAL DISTANCING ‘HAS BECOME A PROBLEM’ 126 KEY WEST STUDENTS SENT HOME FOR COVID CONTACT TRACING CHARLOTTE TWINE charlotte@keysweekly.com

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t the April 27 Monroe County School District board meeting, Superintendent Theresa Axford announced that more than 100 Key West High School students have been quarantined in just the fourth week of the school district’s reopening to five days of in-person instruction.

“The social distancing at 3 feet, which is what we’re able to do now with more students returned to school, has become a problem when there is a positive case and contact tracing goes on,” she told the assembled board members.

“There are 126 students who are out at Key West High School right now, not because they are positive for COVID but because of contact tracing.”

Contact tracing, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is the process of notifying contacts of exposure, addressing questions and concerns, referring for COVID testing, encouraging self-quarantine, monitoring of symptoms, and assessing the need for additional supportive services during the quarantine period (14 days from last exposure).

According to the Monroe County School District website’s COVID-19 Dashboard link, 12 students, one teacher, and one staff member have been confirmed to have contracted COVID-19. Eight students are at Key West High School, three students and one teacher are at Key West’s Horace O’Bryant School, one student is at Key Largo School and one staffer is with the MCSD administration.

Axford emphasized she has been working closely with the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County, including medical director Dr. Mark Whiteside and administrator and health officer Bob Eadie.

She read aloud a communication from Whiteside: “The CDC continues to endorse a quarantine for 14 days, and the local health department makes the final decisions about how long quarantine should

last based on local conditions and needs. Here is our local situation: We have a high level of transmission in the community. Over 100 positive cases per 100,000 population per week. Since the beginning of the year, over 50 percent of the new cases in Florida are the UK variant, B117, which is known to be more transmissible, just as potentially deadly and much more likely to affect younger age groups than the original strain. It is still thought to be covered by the vaccines, though. We are currently seeing a rapid increase in schools in Monroe County related to sports, extracurricular activities and increased classroom spread.”

Axford said that though the Department of Health’s opinion is that Monroe County should not change current isolation or quarantine policies, vaccine clinics will be started in all high schools, by choice, for juniors and seniors.

When possible, principals will increase social distancing and moving classrooms that seem to be congested. Events like proms and luaus will take place outside.

The district is going to “up the ante and being careful and making sure students are following guidelines,” according to Axford.

“I do not want to shut everything down going forward,” Axford insisted. “I do not believe that would be good for kids. But I do believe that schools can put in place procedures to protect students under our care.”

Axford may have her work cut out for her in terms of convincing parents that the right procedures are in place. At one point in the meeting, a parent phoned in to say how much her children hate wearing their masks. “I feel this should be optional. Don’t make it mandatory for my kids,” she insisted.

She explained that her son and daughter are uncomfortable that they can’t see the teacher smiling, and her daughter’s skin breaks out under the mask.

“Why is it mandatory?” the mother asked. “My kids have great immune systems. My daughter is doing a regression of learning.”

The Key Largo Wastewater Treatment District’s Board of Commissioners is soliciting resumes to fill a vacancy on the Board of Commissioners.

Resumes must include contact information including telephone number and email address.

The term of office will expire following the 2022 general election.

Individuals must be a registered voter, residing within the boundaries of the District consisting of Key Largo, extending from east of Tavernier Creek, up to and including Cross Key. Resumes must be received no later than 5:00 PM on Tuesday, May 11, 2021.

The Board of Commissioners will consider all resumes at a public meeting scheduled to begin at 4:00 PM on Tuesday, May 18, 2021.

You are welcome to attend the meeting and to address the Board.

You can participate several ways: - GoToMeeting on your computer, enter www.gotomeet.me/KLWTDClerk/board-meeting - Phone, dial 1 (866) 899-4679 or 1 (571) 317-3117, Access Code: 605-219-813 - In person, KLWTD administrative office located at 103355 Overseas Highway, Key Largo Resumes may be submitted by mail to the District’s administrative office located at 103355 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Florida, 33037 or by email to clerk@klwtd.com.

For further information, please contact the District Clerk at 305-451-4019 Ext. 210 or via email at Diane.Bockelman@klwtd.com Note that all resumes are considered public records and are available to anyone upon request.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

CHARLOTTE TWINE

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charlotte@keysweekly.com

QUESTIONS WITH KATIE ATKINS

THE JOURNALIST WHO JUMPED INTO POLITICS

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hen a journalist makes the leap into politics, it raises eyebrows among those of us who run in these circles. Kind of like when a Coke employee moves to Pepsi ... when a Red Sox player joins the Yankees … or when a DC character crosses over to Marvel. You get our drift. Well, this is exactly what Katie Atkins did.

She majored in journalism at Mercyhurst University in Erie, Pennsylvania, graduating in 2010. From 2013 to 2016, she earned her chops as a reporter at The PostJournal, close to Buffalo, New York. Atkins was hired, sight unseen, for The Keynoter.

She later made a move to Keys Weekly.

Yet, when she was offered a job as executive aide to Mayor Michelle Coldiron, Atkins took the opportunity without missing a beat. To her, the change made absolute sense.

“It’s funny, because I was never involved in politics until I became a reporter,” Atkins explained. “I had a county legislature beat, which was very involved. My interest grew so much over a period of three years.

I loved it.”

Herewith, 20 questions for Katie Atkins...

Age? 32.

Where are you from originally? Jamestown, New York.

Where do you live currently? Tavernier.

Do you think you’ll ever run for office?

People ask me if I ever want to be a commissioner. I always say I’d much rather support one.

What is your best quality? My work ethic.

What is a typical day like? Our schedule is jam-packed with so many meetings. We might be meeting with a constituent or going on a hospital tour at the new Fisherman’s Hospital. With COVID, it was Zooms all day, but now we’re going back to in-person. (Coldiron) is very involved on a bunch of boards and committees, all while we’re preparing for a regular BOCC meeting.

What is your favorite part of your day? When I’m able to tell someone there’s a solution to their problems.

We have gotten so many phone calls that say, “I’ve exhausted all efforts to get my mom a vaccine. I don’t know what to do. Can you please help me?”

“Yes I can.” It was nice to be able to tell people that we can get them vaccinated this week.

What is your least favorite part of your day? When I do not have a solution to a problem, which just means we have to search harder to find one.

Fortunately, county staff does an excellent job at that.

What accomplishment are you the most proud of? The fact that I completely started a new life here in the Keys. And I have continued to just rise above each challenge.

There have been many, I will say that. It has not been easy.

What about the Florida Keys makes you the happiest? A flat calm day on the water. My boyfriend and I have a boat, a Hydra-Sport.

What advice would you give to an ambitious young lady? Nothing is impossible.

What is your secret talent that no one knows about? I am an orchid whisperer.

I never thought I had that talent at all, but I moved to a place that had orchids and I revived them all. I realized that maybe I do have a green thumb.

What was the last thing you ordered on Amazon? I don’t remember. Let me look really fast … (Looks at orders on device.)

Ziplock bags! That’s so boring. (laughs) Did you watch Bridgerton on Netflix?

I watched three episodes. Not enough to draw me in.

What’s your perfect day at home?

(Sighs) Sleeping in and ordering pizza. And going on that boat.

Executive aide Katie Atkins recently took a tour of the new Marathon Library facility.

KIMBERLY MATTHEWS/ Contributed

Here’s a truly controversial question: Brownies. With nuts or without? Without. Hands down.

Who would be your favorite dinner party attendants, living or dead? Frank Sinatra, Billy Joel, and my boyfriend, Bill, who I would choose over any of the other people. He’s great.

What is your favorite movie? Shawshank Redemption.

Where would you most like to go in the world? Rome.

Whom would you most like to meet?

Stevie Nicks. And I’d like her to be at that dinner party as well (laughs).

15

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

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1

4

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ONE PIECE AT A TIME Upper Keys community rallies for Earth Week

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TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

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his community takes such pride in its environment working tirelessly to keep it clean, safe and sustainable for many generations to come. It’s no wonder then that Earth Week in the Upper Keys was a jam-packed community affair, with coastal cleanups, underwater lionfish hunting, turning trash into art, and so much more. Each one of us plays a part as a piece of the puzzle keeping our Keys beautiful and clean.

SHERIFF’S OFFICE CLEANUP On April 24, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office deputies in Key Largo teamed up with Publix Key Largo to pick up debris around the Tradewinds Plaza.

1. Sheriff Rick Ramsay reports that more than 40 people turned out for the cleanup and a Dumpster full of trash was collected. MONROE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE/Contributed

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

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RAINBOW REEF ECO FAIR Rainbow Reef Dive Center hosted a three-day eco-fair featuring local favorites like Coral Restoration Foundation, Lionfish Jewelry, BeautyCounter and more. Underwater, they participated in REEF’s Lionfish Derby and picked up some marine debris along the way.

2. EcoFair participants celebrated Earth Day and the REEF Lionfish Derby at Rainbow Reef Dive Center in Key Largo. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly 3. The Rainbow Reef Lionfish Derby boat celebrated a victorious hunt.

4. Rainbow Reef Conservation Coordinators Nate Sterns and Seanna Knight haul up debris collected from local reefs during the Lionfish Derby.

REEF LIONFISH DERBY Despite windy conditions on the water, the eighth annual REEF Locals Lionfish Derby went on to remove 494 lionfish in one day. Teams and participants helped eradicate this invasive species, supported the local commercial market and spread the word far beyond Key Largo. Team ‘Forever Young’ came home with the win, removing 269 lionfish. In total, REEF Lionfish Derbies have removed 28,544 fish from Florida waters.

5. Derby participants removed lionfish of all sizes from Upper Keys reefs. REEF/Contributed 6. REEF education and outreach program manager Moose Mussey is always ready to hunt some lionfish.

OCEAN STUDIES DEBRIS DERBY On April 24, Ocean Studies Charter School in Key Largo hosted its inaugural marine debris derby in honor of former student Pascal Weisberger and as a fundraiser for their Middle School Expansion Project. One count registered over

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2,500 pounds of trash collected.

7. Students, parents, teachers and community supporters of Ocean Studies Charter School gathered together to clean up the coastline and mangroves. Students received pledges for the amounts of trash they picked up. KAT WHEATLEY/Contributed 8. Key Largo’s Kat Whealtey and daughter Ali prepare to collect trash for the Ocean Studies fundraiser. KAT WHEATLEY/Contributed KEY DIVES DEBRIS PAINT & SIP Key Dives, known for its Marine Debris removal efforts, upcycled its haul for Earth Day with a paint-and-sip using old lobster traps as the canvas. The theme: ‘A Diver’s Paradise,’ of course.

9. Key Dives hosted an upcycled marine debris paint-and-sip for Earth Day. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly 10. Susan Joblon and Steve Berg of Islamorada put their painting skills to the test.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

Forever Young won the REEF Lionfish Derby with most fish collected in one day. TONY YOUNG/Contributed

CONSERVATION TIP

On Earth Day and every day

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elcome to the fabulous Florida Keys. Our waters are famous for a few reasons, and this week we saw why.

THIS WEEK’S DIVE REPORT Overall, conditions were nice this past week, with good visibility. We had Kevin Millwood, retired MLB ERIC pitcher for the Atlanta Braves, and his family out with BILLIPS us.

On Molasses Reef, we dove the “winch hole” and is the owner, there were so many turtles all around! Sea turtles captain and instructor at are some of the most amazing creatures to dive with.

Islamorada Dive Sometimes, we just want to sit for hours and hang out Center and Florida with them.

Keys Dive Center.

This weekend was also Earth Day and the 8th anHe specializes in nual Locals Lionfish Derby hosted by REEF. Even with scuba, rebreather, spearfishing and windy conditions and some boats canceling, the event captaining in the was a huge success. The winning team was Forever Florida Keys.

Young with 269 lionfish removed from our reefs in one day! Congrats, Tony and team!

NEXT WEEK’S DIVE REPORT Conditions next week look a little bumpy during the week with 3- to 4-foot seas, but calm down just in time for the weekend. It should be pleasant “Keys” diving after that.

This Saturday, we’re hosting our regular coral restoration dives at

When enjoying our waters, be conscientious of your trash and belongings. Leave no trace when enjoying our oceans.

Whatever you pack to take to the beach or on the boat, make sure you pack it back with you afterwards. Ensure that nothing ends up in our beautiful seas.

Islamorada Dive Center. Join us to make a difference with your own two hands!

CONSERVATION UPDATE This week, we took care of our environment above and below the water. Islamorada Dive Center sponsored the 1st annual Ocean Studies Marine Debris Derby. The kids cleaned up over 2,500 pounds of marine debris from Harry Harris Park and other Upper Keys areas. We’re so proud to partner with the next generation to ensure the Keys stay beautiful and clean.

Diving this week was “a-ok,” with nice conditions and good visibility. ERIC BILLIPS/Contributed

When you go diving with Islamorada Dive Center, a portion of every charter and every scuba course benefits I.CARE and goes to restoring our reefs.

19

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

2nd annual Jeff Leonia Classic is this weekend

Jeff Leonia loved the grouper season opening day more than any other day in the year. CONTRIBUTED

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he grouper and hogfish seasons both open this Saturday, May 1. Celebrate the day by joining the 2nd Annual Jeff Leonia Reel & Steel Classic, the only fishing/spearfishing tournament in the Keys.

There’s a 7 a.m. start, and weigh-ins and afterparty will take place at Angler House Marina (80500 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada).

Jeff Leonia was an avid waterman and captain in the Upper Keys. His passing in November 2019 left a legacy of living large and loving big that his friends and family continue to honor to this day.

Leonia’s friend and fellow captain Tony Young, of Forever Young Charters, said, “I think of Jeff every day, whether I am on the water or not. I would give anything to catch one more fish with him.”

Grouper opener was Jeff’s favorite day of the year, Young said. Fittingly, the annual tournament in Leonia’s honor invites fishermen and divers out on the water to enjoy that day.

Tournament rules allow for fishing anywhere in Monroe County. Prize categories include men’s and women’s divisions for scuba spearfishing, freedive spearfishing and rod/reel.

First through third place wins will go to the highest aggregate weight (in pounds) of the largest grouper and hogfish (combined) per person.

The not-for-profit tournament will also raise money for The Keys Sea Camp for kids, which encourages young anglers and divers to explore and enjoy the ocean like Jeff did. A foundation established in Leonia’s honor — the Live Like Jeff Foundation — will host the camp.

The tournament website explains that Jeff’s “happy place” was “on a boat somewhere in the ocean” and that the event is their way to honor his passions for fishing and spearfishing, with all proceeds going towards his other passion, teaching kids.

“This tournament is an opportunity to bring our community together and raise money to get the next generation on the water,” Young told the Weekly. “Jeff would have loved nothing more than seeing the community get together and catch big fish, share memories, and support the youth.”

Registration is $150 and will be capped at 100 participants. Weigh-ins will be individual, not team. For more information and to register, visit https://jeffstourney.com/.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

WHAT ARE YOU AFRAID OF?

BRIEFLY Application deadline is May 28 for business reentry placard The application period for Monroe County Emergency Management’s 2021 business placard reentry program runs through Friday, May 28 at 5 p.m. The program affords businesses that are essential to the recovery of the Florida Keys the potential opportunity to return quickly after a mandatory hurricane evacuation.

Placards are only valid in the year they are issued. Businesses approved for the 2020 hurricane season may use the shortened renewal form but must reapply for the placard. Applications and more information are at www.monroecountyem.com/placardprogram.

Applications will be reviewed by Emergency Management within 21 working days. In 2020, more than 200 Monroe County businesses and organizations qualified for early reentry.

The business reentry placard program is available only to essential employees directly supporting an essential business and does not include friends and family of those workers. Residents who wish to obtain or renew a Monroe County early reentry placard for 2021 may do so through the Monroe County Emergency Reserve Corps at www. mercorps.org. Hurricane recovery courses are required for residents to receive the placard.

Also, reentry windshield stickers for residents can be picked up at Monroe County Tax Collector offices throughout the Florida Keys with proof of residency and vehicle registration. For more information and locations to obtain stickers, visit www.monroecountyem.com/reentrystickers.

Commissioners recognize April as Fair Housing Month

Monroe County Mayor Michelle Coldiron and the Board of County Commissioners proclaimed April as Fair Housing Month, recognizing that equal housing opportunity is a right guaranteed to all Americans under Title VIII of the 1968 civil rights law.

Lee-Ann Broadbent, program ad-

ministrator of the City of Key West Community Development Office, accepted the proclamation at the April 21 meeting.

"Monroe County is pleased to join in that designation since it provides an opportunity for all Americans to rededicate themselves to the principles of freedom of housing choice and to reacquaint themselves with the rights and responsibilities that are theirs under the law," said Coldiron in the resolution. "Fair housing is consistent with the principle of equality and justice for all – principles upon which our nation was founded. We all need to share in the fight to ensure fair housing is a reality for all residents."

The Housing Authority of Monroe County provides fair housing education and outreach services in the Florida Keys.

Council members complete class for newly-elected officials Islamorada Council members Pete Bacheler, Mark Gregg and David Webb completed the Florida League of Cities online orientation class for newly-elected officials. The seven-part series covered an array of topics designed to serve as an introduction to serving as an elected municipal official.

The lessons began with a session to provide an understanding of the legal and structural foundations of a municipality, its charter and organizational structure. Later sessions covered the legislative role of council members, the types of meetings a municipality holds and the responsibilities and duties of council members.

Fiscal responsibilities were incorporated into the class, including the municipal budget, funding sources, timelines, audits, financial reports, an overview of governmental accounting and financial responsibilities as well as the wide array of services provided by a municipality and the financing of those services.

Florida’s broad ethics laws, best practices for serving in the role of supervisor and the intergovernmental role of council members as they work alongside regional, state and federal agencies were all included in the class.

The importance of remembering it all works out

I

dare to say we are all afraid of something at some point or another. The tired saying goes, “Fear keeps us safe.” Yes, I think the expression is tired. Maybe MELINDA it’s new to you, but VAN FLEET I hear that saying a lot, and I find it Melinda Van tiring.

Fleet is a consulHow is fear tant, coach and keeping us safe? Is speaker who helps sales executives avoiding something and their teams. new or uncomfortMore informaable safe? I feel not tion is at www. trying something goodkarmasucnew leaves people cesscoach.com. stuck. Fear leaves us stuck in the same pattern, routine, relationships, etc. And stuck doesn’t feel good. I don’t know about you, but I like to feel good.

Now, please don’t misunderstand and run out into traffic or swim amidst a school of sharks. So, let’s not go all “Frogger” on me. Remember that video game, Frogger? I was never very good at it.

I was talking to someone, Anne, this past week. Anne admits she is a people pleaser. Anne signed a contract without reviewing it, and now she regrets signing the contract. The contract is with a sales company she represents along with a few other companies. Her fear of losing this particular commission-based sales position led her to hurry up and sign the contract. About the same time, she also took an additional sales position which has more long-term potential. The values of the second company are in line with how she feels and deserves to be treated.

However, she is still afraid. Anne is fearful of embodying this new opportunity and going for it. I understand because I have been there too. The clarity of my experience and how much time I wasted being fearful led me to know how she feels. It’s tough. We get so caught up in lack of thoughts about money that we often end up settling.

We play small in something we should be embodying. We forget to realize that it will work out and be OK. I remembered a story Anne told me about her house. They had overextended a financial commitment, and it was very stressful. But lo and behold, some assistance came through, and it all worked out.

The better road is to take a moment, breathe and remember something that worked out in your favor. PEXELS/Contributed

I think she forgot the power of her previous story. If Anne had remembered her experience, it would have given her the faith to move forward and perhaps not have signed the contract out of fear.

We often forget positive things that have happened for us. We get caught up in the here and now, the present moment, and get fearful about the future. Heck, I turned 50 a few weeks ago, and when I get stuck, I still need to remind myself of positive events.

The better road is to take a moment, breathe and remember something that worked out in your favor. Then trust and expect it will also work out this time. This practice will also build your confidence.

My husband, Ryan, asked me something this morning. It’s a business decision he needs to make which has bothered him for quite a while. We have tried to tweak a few things, but still, it hasn’t worked out. He shared his thoughts to get my feedback.

What was my feedback?

Let that piece of the business go.

Trust the challenge you are fearful of will open more doors in the right direction.

Remind yourself of all the times in the past which have worked in your favor.

Make sure the “What if’s” you are saying (out loud or in your head) are positive, not negative.

He is taking action tomorrow, and it will all work out. I know it.

21

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

TROPICAL LIVING IN THE FLORIDA KEYS - SPRING/SUMMER 2021

2021

G HITTIN DS AN NEWST

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22

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

State Capitol Building. CONTRIBUTED

A

60-day legislative session in Tallahassee is nearing the end. While some bills related to election administration and social media are making progress, other pieces of legislation are stalling — not to mention a $100 billion budget that still must be approved. Session is set to end Friday, April 30, as legislators work to get their bills to the finish line.

TIME RUNNING OUT

BILLS PASS, OTHERS AWAIT CONSIDERATION IN TALLAHASSEE JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

SENATE BILL 90 — ELECTION ADMINISTRATION Passing through the Senate via a 23-17 vote on April 26, the bill sponsored by Dennis Baxley, who represents Sumter, Lake and Marion counties, puts tighter regulations on vote-bymail ballots. The bill ends the 24/7 drop boxes and requires monitoring in person by an election official. And those voting by mail must request a mail-in ballot every election cycle, instead of every two years under current law. In addition, legislation would require a voter to provide a valid Florida driver’s license number, state identification number or the last four digits of their Social Security number when requesting a mail-in ballot or changing party affiliation. The bill awaits House consideration.

SENATE BILL 7072 — SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS Co-introduced by state Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez, who represents the Keys, the bill would create a violation for social media deplatforming of a political candidate or journalistic enterprise, and requires a social media platform to meet certain requirements when they restrict speech by users. The bill would prohibit social media platforms from deplatforming candidates for political office and allows the Florida Elections Commission to fine a social media platform $100,000 per day for deplat-

forming statewide candidates, and $10,000 per day for deplatforming all other candidates. Additionally, if a social media platform knowingly provides free advertisements for a candidate, such advertisement is deemed an in-kind contribution, and the candidate must be notified.

The bill passed the Senate via a 22-17 vote on April 26. It now awaits House consideration.

HOUSE BILL 1119 — WATER SAFETY AND SWIM CERTIFICATION Known as the Edna Mae McGovern Act, the bill cosponsored by state Rep. Jim Mooney, who represents the Keys, would require each public school to provide each parent of a student initially enrolling in the school with information on the important role water safety education courses and swim lessons play in saving lives. The information must include local options for age-appropriate water safety courses and swim lessons that result in a certificate, including courses and lessons offered for free or at a reduced price.

Schools have flexibility to provide the information electronically or in hard copy. The bill specifies that the information must be provided to the student, and not the parent, if the student is 18 or older or is under the age of 21 and is enrolling in adult education classes. Legislation sits in the House Education and Employment Committee.

SENATE BILL 900 — CHILD WELFARE Sponsored and filed by Rodriguez, legislation expands the list of entities that have access to child abuse records and requires assessments if the total number of children in a family foster home exceeds six, excluding the family’s own children, before placement of a child. Current state law requires

an over-capacity waiver assessment when the number of children in a foster home exceeds five, including the foster parents own children, while the federal language allows up to six children to be placed in a foster home, excluding the foster parents own children, before being considered over-capacity.

Legislation passed unanimously through the Senate on April 22.

A similar bill in the House awaits consideration.

HOUSE BILL 1563 — AUXILIARY CONTAINERS, WRAPPINGS AND PLASTIC BAGS Co-sponsored by Mooney and other House members, legislation requires the Department of Environmental Protection to update its report on retail bags and submit a report to the legislature by a specific date. The bill asks DEP to review and update its 2010 report on retail bags and analyze the need for different regulation of auxiliary containers, wrappings or disposable plastic bags used by consumers to carry products. Legislation requires DEP to submit an updated report with conclusions and recommendations to the Florida legislature no later than Dec. 31. Among the states in the U.S. with strong plastic bag laws are California, which imposed a statewide ban in 2014; Hawaii, which prohibit non-biodegradable plastic bags at checkout; and New York, which recently banned bags. The bill sits in the Environment, Agriculture and Flooding Subcommittee.

23

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

This photo from the Channel 2 Bridge between Craig Key and Anne’s Beach in April of 2013 perfectly encapsulates the Keys’ saying: “If you don’t like the weather here, wait 10 minutes.” SUSAN SORENSEN/Contributed A spring sunset in the Keys. MATT HOWELL/Contributed The sunsets here feel like we are looking through the gates of heaven.

JACQUELINE CRUZ/Contributed

Mother nature working hard.

BETH HOWE/Contributed

An Easter dove tried to bring nature inside! JOHN AND VALERIE KOLESSAR/ Contributed

Sunset Special at Marker 88 Restaurant. CAITLYN MARIE/Contributed

Orchids are always blooming in the Keys. ROBYN MUNCE/Contributed

This little guy is happy to see me!

REV. JOLI MON/Contributed

Our cat Indy has a new friend - a manatee who visits him on our boat on Stock Island. DOUG HEYMAN AND KAT MURPHY/Contributed

Everyday beauty of the Keys. JEFF BONACCI/Contributed

TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

O

ur theme for APRIL is MOTHER NATURE. In MAY, we’re celebrating MOMS! Send us pictures of any moms you want to celebrate and/or the human, furry, plant kids that they love to take care of! And if you see a Key Deer doe and fawn or a favorite pet and her littles, send us a pic!

Photos, captions and photo credit can be emailed to tiffany@keysweekly.com.

RULES, SCHMULES • All photos must be original work and feature something or someone related to the Keys.

• Photos can be images that have been published before.

• No third party may own or control any materials the photo contains, and the photo must not infringe upon the trademark, copyright, moral rights, intellectual rights, or

rights of privacy of any entity or person.

• Any person agrees, by submitting photos, that photos submitted can be used by the Keys Weekly for any and all purposes, including but not limited to advertising, charity work, sales, future editorial, print in the newspapers or online or on social media posts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and any other social media platforms as may come about.

24

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING: MONROE COUNTY CONTRACTORS EXAMINING BOARD MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Notice is Hereby Given To Whom it may concern, that on Tuesday, May 11th, 2021 the Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (CEB) will hold a scheduled meeting at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Second Floor, BOCC Room, Marathon, Florida commencing at 9:30 A.M. This meeting is to hear the following: any person(s) to come before the board; any reports from Monroe County Assistant Attorney; any reports from Monroe County Building Official; any reports from Staff.

Monroe County Facial Covering Ordinance 026-2020 remains in effect. Guidelines established to contain the spread of the

COVID-19 virus, the Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (“CEB”) will review Certificate of Competency Trade Applications via Communication Media Technology (“CMT”) using Zoom Webinar platform, during the scheduled meeting.

Zoom Webinar information will be made available on the Monroe County Web Calendar.

PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTE SECTION 286.0105, be advised that, if a person decides to appeal the decision made by the Contractors’ Examining Board with respect to any matter considered at today’s hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he or she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special recommendations 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”.

NOTICE: It shall be the responsibility of each Respondent or other person addressing the Board to have an interpreter if the party is not able to understand or speak the English language.

Rick Griffin, Building Official/ Board Secretary Maria Partington, Senior Coordinator – CEB Board Monroe County Building Department

ISLAMORADA, VILLAGE OF ISLANDS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Monday, May 10, 2021 at 5:30 P.M., the Local Planning Agency of Islamorada, Village of Islands will hold a public hearing at Founders Park Community Center located at 87000 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, Florida and via Communications Media Technology. Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69 and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) social distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the May 10, 2021 Local Planning Agency Meeting will also be conducted utilizing Communication Media Technology (CMT) via a Zoom video conferencing application. For additional information regarding options for viewing the meeting and participation through public comment please contact the Village Clerk at 305-664-6412 or via email at clerk@islamorada.fl.us.

The purpose of the public hearing is to consider the following item: AN ORDINANCE OF ISLAMORADA, VILLAGE OF ISLANDS, FLORIDA, AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 20-02 RELATED TO TRANSFER OF RESIDENTIAL DENSITY; AMENDING CHAPTER 30, “LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS,” ARTICLE IV “ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES,” DIVISION 12 “TRANSFERS OF DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS” OF THE VILLAGE CODE OF ORDINANCES BY SPECIFICALLY AMENDING 30-503 TO CLARIFY AREAS ELIGIBLE FOR TRANSFER OF RESIDENTIAL DENSITY WITHIN THE VILLAGE; PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF ALL CODE PROVISIONS AND ORDINANCES INCONSISTENT WITH THIS ORDINANCE; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN THE CODE; PROVIDING FOR THE TRANSMITTAL OF THIS ORDINANCE TO THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE UPON APPROVAL OF THIS ORDINANCE BY THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY. A copy of the item may be reviewed at the Village Administrative Center and Public Safety Headquarters, 86800 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, Florida.

Affected parties may appear at the public hearing via the Zoom video conferencing tool for the public hearing, be heard and submit evidence with respect to the application.

Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, anyone wishing to appeal any decision made by the Islamorada Village Council with respect to any matter considered at such meeting or hearing will need a record of the proceedings and, for such purpose, may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceeding is made, prepared by a court reporter at the appellant’s expense; such record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

ADA Assistance: In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, all persons who are disabled and who need special accommodations to participate in this meeting because of that disability should contact the office of the Village ADA Coordinator at (305) 664-6448 (TTY 664-8890) at least three days prior thereto.

Two or more committee members from various committees may be present at this meeting.

Ty Harris Development Services Director

LEGAL NOTICES Publish: April 29, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING PUBLIC MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT - Monroe County Substance Abuse Policy Advisory Board (SAPAB) The Monroe County Substance Abuse Policy Advisory Board (SAPAB) will meet Friday, May 7, 2021 at 9:30 A.M. via Communications Media Technology. The annual SAPAB meeting will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform.

The SAPAB will review applications and make recommendations to the Board of County Commissioner’s for the FDLE Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant program, Residential Substance Abuse Treatment program and the Drug Abuse Trust Fund program. Grants are for projects to improve the criminal justice system, some activities include drug treatment/enforcement, prevention/education-related programs, and mental health programs.

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://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/91545944255 Or iPhone one-tap: US: +16465189805,, 91545944255# or +16699006833,, 91545944255# Or Telephone: Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 646 518 9805 or +1 669 900 6833 Webinar ID: 915 4594 4255 International numbers available: https://mcbocc.zoom. us/u/abUxyNuOHf For a copy of the agenda or other information contact Janet Gunderson, Grants Coordinator, in writing at 1100 Simonton St., Room 2-213, Key West, FL 33040; by phone at 305-2924470; or by email at GundersonJanet@monroecounty-fl.gov. If members of the public wish to submit written documentation, the documentation must be submitted to Janet Gunderson prior to the meeting and no later than May 5, 2021 by 5:00 P.M. The public is advised that some or all of the members of the Monroe County Commission may attend the meeting and discuss items that may come before the Commission.

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: April 29, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF VARIANCE HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning & Zoning Board of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold a Public Hearing on Wednesday May 19, 2021 at 9:30 A.M., Key Colony Beach City Hall commission room, to hear a Variance Request from Crawl Key Development, owner of Lot 11 Block 3 15th Circle. Social distancing, the wearing of a facial covering and other Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Florida Department of Health (FDOH) guidelines pertaining to COVID-19 will be followed and observed.

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES This meeting will be available virtually via Zoom Meetings.

Members of the public who wish to attend virtually may email cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net or call 305-289-1212 option 2 for further instructions on attending via Zoom Meetings.

Applicant requests a Variance to Land Development Regulations Chapter 101, Section 10 (5) and Section 10 (8) for a 15 feet rear set back variance for a porch and a 4’ 0” height variance for a new one dwelling unit residence.

Current setback is restricted to 50 feet and current building height is 30’0”.

Interested parties may appear at the Hearing and be heard with respect to the requested variance.

If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Variance Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

If you are unable to attend the Hearing on Wednesday May 19, 2021 but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to: City Commission, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@ keycolonybeach.net and your comments will be entered into the record.

Rebecca Todd, City Clerk CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH Publish: April 29, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF VARIANCE HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning & Zoning Board of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold a Public Hearing on Wednesday May 19, 2021 at 9:30 A.M., Key Colony Beach City Hall commission room, to hear a Variance Request from Centko Jill Rev Trust 10/10/2019, owner of 185 & 195 15th Circle. Social distancing, the wearing of a facial covering and other Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Florida Department of Health (FDOH) guidelines pertaining to COVID-19 will be followed and observed.

This meeting will be available virtually via Zoom Meetings.

Members of the public who wish to attend virtually may email cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net or call 305-289-1212 option 2 for further instructions on attending via Zoom Meetings.

Applicant requests a Variance to Land Development Regulations Chapter 101, Section 10 (8) for a 4’0” height variance for existing one dwelling unit residence and addition. Current building height is 30’0”.

Interested parties may appear at the Hearing and be heard with respect to the requested variance.

If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Variance Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

If you are unable to attend the Hearing on Wednesday May 19, 2021 but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to: City Commission, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@ keycolonybeach.net and your comments will be entered into the record.

Rebecca Todd, City Clerk CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH

LEGAL NOTICES Publish: April 29, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers DISTRICT V ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC V) (From Mile Marker 90.940 to the Dade/Monroe County Line and any Mainland portions of Monroe County) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL has an opening for a LODGING INDUSTRY REPRESENTATIVE – shall be owners or operating/general managers of motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks or other tourist accommodations which are subject to bed tax in the tax collection district for which they are applying.

Any person wishing to participate on the District V Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application from the Administrative Office by calling (305) 296-1552 and submit an application to the address shown below: Department DAC Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040 Fax #: (305) 296-0788 Deadline for receipt of application at the above address is Wednesday, May 19, 2021 at 5:00pm. A resume may be attached to the application.

Publish: April 29, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, June 8, 2021, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: MARINE VESSEL PUMPOUT SERVICE MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices.

Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar by Onvia at www.demandstar.com OR www.monroecountybids. com. The Public Record is available upon request.

In response to Covid-19, the Monroe County Purchasing Department has implemented a new electronic process for reviewing 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/ proposal/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 3:00 P.M. on June 8, 2021. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents.

Your subject line on both emails must read as follows: Marine Vessel Pumpout Services 06/08/2021 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. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB or otherwise be

LEGAL NOTICES rejected or undeliverable to OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl. gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on June 8, 2021. 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: April 29, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 2020-CP-237-K IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBERT COHEN, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Estate of ROBERT COHEN, Deceased, Date of Death: June 18, 2020, File Number 2020-CP-237-K, is pending in the Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE NOTIFIED THAT: All persons of whom this notice is served and who have objections that challenge the validity of the will, the qualifications of the petitioner, venue, or jurisdiction of this Court are required to file their objections with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All creditors of the decedent and any other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is served within three months after the date of the first publication of this notice must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS, DEMANDS AND OBJECTIONS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. The date of the first publication of this Notice is April 29, 2021.

Attorney for Personal Representative: JOHN CAMPBELL Florida Bar # 443972 CAMPBELL & MALAFY 10887 Overseas Highway Suite #201 Marathon, Florida 33050 305-743-2492 305-743-2432 (fax) Personal Representative:

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES MARY COHEN Care of: CAMPBELL & MALAFY 10887 Overseas Highway Suite #201 Marathon, Florida 33050 305-743-2492 305-743-2432 (fax) Publish: April 29 & May 6, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-28-P DIVISION: UPPER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF JOHN J. CASTRONUOVO Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of John J. Castronuovo, deceased, whose date of death was February 22, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: April 29, 2021.

Personal Representative: Susan Castronuovo 16 Lynnwood Drive Loudonville, New York, 12211 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: April 29 & May 6, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-39-P DIVISION: UPPER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBERT E. PAGE III Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Robert E. Page III, deceased, whose date of death was March 27, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

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: April 29, 2021.

Personal Representative: Robin S. Page 87465 Old Highway Apt 107 Islamorada, Florida 33036 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: April 29 & May 6, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

Representative: Urban J. W. Patterson, Esq. Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@ yahoo.com Florida Bar No. 382035 Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A. P.O. Box 783 Islamorada, Florida 33036 Telephone: 305-664-5065 Publish: April 29 & May 6, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

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

All creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against Decedent’s estate 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 §733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of the first publication of this notice is the 29th day of April, 2021.

Personal Representative: Lisa Albury c/o Law Office of Jack Bridges, P.A. P.O. Box 1714 Tavernier, FL 33070-1714 (305) 664-9690 Attorney for Personal Representative: Jack Bridges Fla. Bar No. 175950 P.O. Box 1714 Tavernier, FL 33070-1714 (305) 664-9690 jack@jackbridges.us linda@jackbridges.us Publish: April 29 & May 6, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2021-CP-27-P IN RE: ESTATE OF ELIZABETH L. SCHWALBERT Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of ELIZABETH L. SCHWALBERT, deceased, whose date of death was March 11, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: April 29, 2021.

Personal Representative: EVERETT JOHN CASPER, JR. 1129 Caloosahatchee Drive Moore Haven, FL 33471 Attorney for Personal

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2021-CP-36-P IN RE: ESTATE OF CHRISTINE A. NICHOLLS Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of CHRISTINE A. NICHOLLS, deceased, whose date of death was January 8, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: April 29, 2021.

Personal Representative: LYNDA E. GARGANO 123 Tavern Dr. Tavernier, FL 33070 Attorney for Personal Representative: Urban J. W. Patterson, Esq. Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@ yahoo.com Florida Bar No. 382035 Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A. P.O. Box 783 Islamorada, Florida 33036 Telephone: 305-664-5065 Publish: April 29 & May 6, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 2021-CP-26-P IN RE: THE ESTATE OF PAUL EVERETTE ALBURY, JR., Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Estate of Paul Everette Albury, Jr., deceased, whose date of death was October 16, 2020 and the last four digits of whose social security number are 4796, 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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-34-M IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBERT F. MUTSCHLER, JR., Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Robert F. Mutschler, Jr., deceased, whose date of death was February 3, 2021, 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: April 22, 2021.

Personal Representative: Kristen Martinez 5850 Moss Mill Road

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES Egg Harbor City, New Jersey 08215 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: service@floridakeyslaw. com Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com Publish: April 22 & 29, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-000061-K IN RE: ESTATE OF EARL BERNHARDT, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Florida estate of EARL BERNHARDT a/k/a HERMAN EARL BERNHARDT, deceased, whose date of death was December 6, 2019, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against 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: April 22, 2021.

Personal Representative: JENNIFER D. SCOTT 992 Sunrise Road Petal, MS 39465 Attorney for Personal Representative: DANIEL BENSIMON, ESQ. Email Addresses: Dbensimon@dorotbensimon. com Florida Bar No. 36837 2000 Glades Road, Suite 312 Boca Raton, Florida 33431 Telephone: (561) 218-4947 Publish: April 22 & 29, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NUMBER: 21-CP-000066-K IN RE: ESTATE OF LEONARD LANKAY LIEW CHIN, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of, LEONARD LANKAY LIEW CHIN, deceased, whose date of death was February 26, 2020 is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, the address of which is Clerk of the Court, Probate Division, Freeman Justice

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

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 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 (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: April 22, 2021.

Personal Representative: Louise Young 37 Pine Grove Lane Hockessin, DE 19707 Attorney for Personal Representative: Tom Woods, Esq. Florida Bar No. 525197 116 Porto Salvo Drive Islamorada, FL 33036 Tel: 305-664-2200 tom@tomwoodslaw.com Publish: April 22 & 29, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

Christopher B. Waldera, P.A. Christopher B. Waldera Florida Bar No: 980810 Attorney for Personal Representative 5800 Overseas Highway, Suite 7 Marathon, Florida 33050 Telephone: (305) 289-2223 Facsimile: (305) 289-2249 email: cwaldera@aol.com Publish: April 22 & 29, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NUMBER: 18-CP-68-M IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JOHN J. WOODS, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of JOHN J. WOODS, deceased, whose date of death was March 2, 2018, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court 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 (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: April 22, 2021.

Persons Giving Notice: DENISE A. PETERSEN #4 Kathleen Court Havertown, PA 19083 Attorney for Persons Giving Notice:

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NUMBER: 18-CP-00022-M IN RE: THE ESTATE OF LOIS E. KINNEY, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the e state of LOIS E. KINNEY, deceased, whose date of death was January 14, 2018, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court 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 (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: April 22, 2021.

Persons Giving Notice: TAMMY KINNEY BLACK 731 Hertford Road Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27104 Attorney for Persons Giving Notice: Christopher B. Waldera, P.A. Christopher B. Waldera Florida Bar No: 980810 Attorney for Personal Representative 5800 Overseas Highway, Suite 7 Marathon, Florida 33050 Telephone: (305) 289-2223 Facsimile: (305) 289-2249 email: cwaldera@aol.com Publish: April 22 & 29, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NUMBER: 21-CP-000016-M IN RE: THE ESTATE OF RICK L. BAKER, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of RICK L. BAKER, deceased, whose date of death was May 12, 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

26

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES 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 (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: April 22, 2021.

Persons Giving Notice: Megan Baker 133 Brady Circle East Steubenville, OH 43952 Attorney for Persons Giving Notice: Christopher B. Waldera, P.A. Christopher B. Waldera Florida Bar No: 980810 Attorney for Personal Representative 5800 Overseas Highway, Suite 7 Marathon, Florida 33050 Telephone: (305) 289-2223 Facsimile: (305) 289-2249 email: cwaldera@aol.com Publish: April 22 & 29, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NUMBER: 21-CP-00019-M IN RE: THE ESTATE OF RICHARD ELGERSMA, JR. Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of RICHARD ELGERSMA, JR., deceased, whose date of death was October 18, 2019, 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 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 (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: April 22, 2021.

Persons Giving Notice: Ronald Smith 10893 7th Avenue Gulf Marathon, Florida 33050 Attorney for Persons Giving Notice: Christopher B. Waldera, P.A. Christopher B. Waldera Florida Bar No: 980810

LEGAL NOTICES Attorney for Personal Representative 5800 Overseas Highway, Suite 7 Marathon, Florida 33050 Telephone: (305) 289-2223 Facsimile: (305) 289-2249 email: cwaldera@aol.com Publish: April 22 & 29, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA KEY WEST DIVISION IN ADMIRALTY CASE NO. 21-cv-10007-JEM IN THE MATTER OF: THE COMPLAINT OF KEY WEST JETSKI, INC. AS OWNER OF THE YAMAHA PERSONAL WATERCRAFT (HULL ID# YAMA2116I920) ITS ENGINES, TACKLE, APPURTENANCES, EQUIPMENT, ETC. IN A CAUSE FOR EXONTERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY, Petitioner.

MONITION TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA: THE MARSHALL OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA FOR THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA: WHEREAS, a Complaint was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, on the 13th day of January, 2021 by the Petitioners, KEY WEST JETSKI, INC., as owners of a Yamaha Pleasure Watercraft bearing the Hull Identification Number YAMA2116I920, have filed a Complaint pursuant to Title 46, United States Code, Sections 30501-30502, claiming the right to Exoneration From or Limitation of Liability for all claims allegedly resulting from an accident which occurred on or about July 14, 2020 in the navigable waterways of Key West, Florida, as more fully set forth in the Complaint. For those reasons and causes set forth in the Complaint, Petitioners pray for the issuance of a Monition and Injunction, and that all persons or corporations claiming for any and all loss, damage, injury or destruction caused by or resulting from the incident set forth in the Complaint be cited to appear and file their respective claims with the Clerk of this Court, and to make due process thereof and citing them to file their answers to the Complaint and all proceedings to be had, and if it shall appear that Petitioner is not liable for any loss, damage, destruction or injury, it may be so finally decreed by this Court; YOU ARE THEREFORE COMMANDED TO CITE ALL PERSONS OR CORPORATIONS in respect to which Petitioner seeks limitation to file respective claims with the Clerk of this Court and to serve on or to mail to the attorneys for Petitioners, Campbell Johnston Clark, LLP, 2600 Douglas Road, Suite 508, Coral Gables, FL 33134, copies thereof on or before the 3rd day of May 2021, and citing such claimants to appear and answer the Complaint herein on or before the last named day or within such further time as the Court may grant, and once completed to then make return to the Court together with this Writ.

Dated at Miami, Florida on this 23rd day of March, 2021.

Angela E. Noble UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA By: Mary Etienne Deputy Clerk U.S. District Courts Publish: April 8, 15, 22 and 29, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES FLORIDA KEY WEST DIVISION IN ADMIRALTY CASE NO. 21-cv-10018-JEM IN THE MATTER OF: THE COMPLAINT OF KEY WEST JETSKI, INC. AS OWNER OF THE YAMAHA PERSONAL WATERCRAFT (HULL ID# YAMA2116I920) ITS ENGINES, TACKLE, APPURTENANCES, EQUIPMENT, ETC. IN A CAUSE FOR EXONTERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY, Petitioner.

MONITION TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA: THE MARSHALL OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA FOR THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA: WHEREAS, a Complaint was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, on the 3rd day of February, 2021 by the Petitioners, KEY WEST JETSKI, INC., as owners of a Yamaha Pleasure Watercraft bearing the Hull Identification Number YAMA2116I920, have filed a Complaint pursuant to Title 46, United States Code, Sections 30501-30502, claiming the right to Exoneration From or Limitation of Liability for all claims allegedly resulting from an accident which occurred on or about June 28, 2020 in the navigable waterways of Key West, Florida, as more fully set forth in the Complaint. For those reasons and causes set forth in the Complaint, Petitioners pray for the issuance of a Monition and Injunction, and that all persons or corporations claiming for any and all loss, damage, injury or destruction caused by or resulting from the incident set forth in the Complaint be cited to appear and file their respective claims with the Clerk of this Court, and to make due process thereof and citing them to file their answers to the Complaint and all proceedings to be had, and if it shall appear that Petitioner is not liable for any loss, damage, destruction or injury, it may be so finally decreed by this Court; YOU ARE THEREFORE COMMANDED TO CITE ALL PERSONS OR CORPORATIONS in respect to which Petitioner seeks limitation to file respective claims with the Clerk of this Court and to serve on or to mail to the attorneys for Petitioners, Campbell Johnston Clark, LLP, 2600 Douglas Road, Suite 508, Coral Gables, FL 33134, copies thereof on or before the 3rd day of May 2021, and citing such claimants to appear and answer the Complaint herein on or before the last named day or within such further time as the Court may grant, and once completed to then make return to the Court together with this Writ.

Dated at Miami, Florida on this 23rd day of March, 2021.

Angela E. Noble UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA By: Philip Curtis Deputy Clerk Publish: April 8, 15, 22 and 29, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

FULL TIME OPENING CUS TOMER S ERV I CE RE PRE S ENT A T I V E Coordinate aircraft transactions with customers and the line service technicians Professional customer service skills and the ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and overtime as needed, are required

D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals.

Overtime and benefits are available.

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

Interior Designer Warehouse & Delivery Crew Must have reliable transportation, be on time and organized. Must have a valid driver’s license. CDL a plus.

Pay rate $17-$19/hr depending on experience, excellent benefits, and a fun work environment

Landscape Designer

Contact Will Zimdars will@marathonaviation.com

Framing & drywall repairs, kitchen & bath remodeling, etc. Must present high attention to detail; workmanship must be very high quality.

Finish Carpenter

EOE/Drug-free workplace

Architects - All Levels

FULL TIME OPENING L I NE SERV I CE P E RSONNE L Greet and fuel aircraft Prior aviation experience preferred Clean driving record required Pay rate $17-$19/hr depending on experience, excellent benefits, and a fun work environment

Contact Will Zimdars will@marathonaviation.com EOE/Drug-free workplace

OPEN POSITIONS: Mariner's Hospital — Tavernier Fitness Center Manager, FT Line Cook, Per-Diem Patient Experience Advocate, FT Security Officer, FT

Fishermen's Community Hospital — Marathon Environmental Tech (Housekeeping), FT, up to $2,500 Sign-On Bonus Floor Technician, FT, up to $2,500 Sign-On Bonus Food Service Worker (Diet Concierge), FT, up to $2,500 Sign-On Bonus Patient Experience Advocate, FT Phlebotomist, FT, up to $2,000 Sign-On Bonus

Apply at careers.baptisthealth.net 786-243-8507

27

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

NOW HIRING FOR 3 POSITIONS

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon Immediate openings: full / part-time Office Assistant Send resume to: turtlehospitalmarathon@gmail.com

Certified Public Accountant Full Charge Bookkeeper Receptionist/Admin Assistant Located in Marathon.

Health insurance & paid time off.

Please send resume & salary requirements to: Human Resources, 8085 Overseas Hwy, Marathon tara@keyscpa.com.

For an application call 305-743-6586.

EOE.

Law Office of Patricia Gessel in Key Largo is hiring a

FULL-TIME REAL ESTATE LEGAL ASSISTANT Must have real estate closing and title insurance experience and be able to communicate with clients, realtors, lenders and attorneys.

Spanish speaking a plus but not required. Salary commensurate with experience.

Please submit your resume to anthony@keylargolaw.com

NOW HIRING: Hosts Waitstaff Bartenders Bar Backs Bussers Line Cooks Dishwashers

Apply in person at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, 7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon

305.743.0844 AUTOS WANTED

Our award winning resort is currently hiring for the following hourly positions:

Front Desk Agent Maintenance Prep Cook Bartender Server & Food Runner Room Attendant

Great Wages, Paid Health Benefits (hourly positions) and Travel Benefits. Hiring Bonus.

Apply in person at Courtyard Marriott Marathon, 2146 Overseas Hwy or email resume to jtyson@shanercorp.com • 305-289-2100

NOW HIRING: FT Accounting Clerk

Monday – Friday Schedule

Process daily deposits, reconciliations, payroll, general cashiering and other hotel accounting duties. Accounting/office manager experience preferred. Great Pay, Health and Travel Benefits.

Email resume to jtyson@shanercorp or apply in person at Courtyard Marriott Marathon, 2146 Overseas Hwy 305-289-2100

DAYCARE TEACHER NOW HIRING! SIGN ON BONUS UP TO $ 1,500 NEEDED: INSTALLERS, APPRENTICES AND SERVICE TECHNICIANS PAY RANGE: $15  $30 PER HOUR BASED ON EXPERIENCE LOOKING FOR A LONGTERM CAREER? COME JOIN OUR TEAM, WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING: Competitive pay | Work Life Balance Continued Training | Opportunity for advancement Paid time off | Medical | 401K Apply via email: Joey@ellingtonac .com Call to schedule a meeting for employment 321.482.3158

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.

NOW HIRING Floor Manager Daytime Host Experienced Servers Experienced Bartenders High volume restaurant in Key Largo.

Apply in person at Snooks Bayside, 99470 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL

NOW HIRING:

F/T and P/T Bartenders for BlueWaters Pool Bar $10/hour Great Tips Health Benefits & Room Discounts Sign-on bonus Poolside setting with Gulf View Apply in Person, Start Today!

Courtyard Marriott Marathon 2146 Overseas Hwy 305-289-2100

NOW HIRING:

F/T and P/T Bartenders for BlueWaters Pool Bar $10/hour Great Tips Health Benefits & Room Discounts Sign-on bonus Poolside setting with Gulf View Apply in Person, Start Today!

Courtyard Marriott Marathon 2146 Overseas Hwy 305-289-2100

ALL YEARS! Junk or Used.

Cars - Vans - TrucksRunning or Not. $CASH$ 305-332-0483

BOATS FOR SALE 1985 Albemarle 27' Express Twin V-8's with Volvo Duo-prop. Used regularly in Marathon. $6,000 Call 305-743-0783 1998 Zodiac Inflatable Boat11'2" plus 50hp 4-stroke outboard engine. Has been stored inside.

Located in Key Colony Beach. $5,000 Call 305-743-7300 1999 World Cat 27' with twin 175 Suzuki motors.

Runs good. Dual stations.

Located on Duck Key. $40,000 OBO 305-481-1316 2005 21' Triumph Chaos.

Great fishing boat, has electronics, center console w/T-top.

150 4-stroke Yamaha engine w/800 hours. New dual axle Rocket trailer. Located in Marathon. $15,000 330-219-6774 SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS! Place your Boat For Sale ad here. Only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and Sell Your Boat!

EMPLOYMENT Immediate openings for experienced plumbers and helpers (with or without experience - we will train the right person). Must have a valid driver's license & clean driving record.

Please apply in person at 10700 5th Avenue Gulf, Marathon or email resume to: eerpinc@gmail.com Experienced electricians needed in Marathon area. Email resume to superelectrickey@aol.com Experienced Boat Yard Help Wanted in Marathon.

Call 305-735-4594 Property Manager, Part Time -Two Days per week, 12 hours per week, KCB, Sea Isle Condo, Hourly Rate of $23. Resume to HardingThomasL@ aol.com, 734-4760531, 1101 West Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach Pool service hiring PT 4/days a week cleaning pools & water testing. Marathon area.

Call 305-395-0000 The Marathon Yacht Club is looking to hire a Bartender/ Server. Hourly pay and guaranteed 20% gratuity.

Private club - friendly atmosphere.

Tues-Sat 4p-10p. Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.

Full or part-time litigation paralegal needed in Tavernier. Bilingual a plus.

Salary is commensurate with experience. Email resume to Jeff Vastola at jvastola@vastolalegal.com.

Marathon Elks Lodge looking for Bartender.

Please call Rose at 305-393-9889

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• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844 EMPLOYMENT Luxury Salon & Spa in Ocean Reef seeking Stylists, Nail Technicians, Estheticians, & Massage Therapists.

Email: Boni@oohlalaorc.com Nail Tech & Massage Therapist needed at Vista Beauty Bar in Marathon.

Contact Julie at 305-504-3825 Experienced Electric & Low voltage Techs wanted immediately 401k/insurance/PTO Email: admin@ checkelectricllc.com Call: 305-292-3369 The Cabana Club, a ocean front private swim club, is seeking a part time line cook. Club is open 10am - 7pm daily. Located in Key Colony Beach. Hourly pay commensurate with experience.

Beautiful environment, small friendly staff, open year round. Apply in person, email resume or call 305 393-0631 ask for April.

Digital Marketing C o n s u l t a n t .

Great growth opportunities.

Will train right person.

Key West Office, more at TwoOceansDigital.com/jobs The Art Studio/Coffee Loft hiring full time barista/ art studio staff. 40hrs a week. Apply in person 12535 Overseas Hwy, Marathon or (305)289-9013 Charter Captain/Mate Busy fishing charter business in Marathon looking for experienced fishing Captain/Mate. Busy boats and location. Offshore, Inshore, Reef/Wreck. Send text or call 305-481-3259 LPS Contracting NOW HIRING: StateLicensed Land Surveyor & Field Techs. Located in Marathon, FL. Email: info@ LPS-Contracting.com Call: 305-240-9882 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.

NOW HIRING: Sweet Savannah's is now hiring for all shifts. Please apply in person at 8919 Overseas Highway in Marathon.

EMPLOYMENT Carpenter needed in Must have license and Call

and Laborer Upper Keys. valid driver's transportation.

305-852-3002

Full-time Construction Workers needed.

Superintendents, Carpenters, Painters and Laborers. Top dollar for the right individuals. Start tomorrow. Apply in person, Dooley Construction, MM 88.5 Oceanside Fl Keys Diesel - Marathon now hiring: Diesel Technician - Competitive compensation package. Exp in the marine field preferred but not necessary. Exp w/ Caterpillar and Cummins Marine Engines a plus.

Diesel Mechanic Assistant position available.

Motivated candidate willing to learn a new trade or expand current skills.

Company willing to train.

Qualified applicants please call 305-2892070 or email resume to neil@allkeysdiesel. com . Drug Free and valid Drivers License a must.

Serve/Bartend on the ocean FT/PT Ocean front private swim club is seeking customer service oriented Server/Bartender.

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 at Cabana Club, 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call April (305) 393-0631.

Place your Employment ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844 today and get the job filled!

OFFICE SPACE Beautiful Office Space available for rent now on US1 in Tavernier @ MM92. Call 305-394-0530

NOW HIRING:

1,082 SF office space.

Renovated Corner Unit for rent in Islamorada. $ 3 , 0 0 0 / m o n t h Call 305.712.8888

YARD SALES Islamorada yard sale! Sat & Sun, May 1st & 2nd, 8am2pm, MM74, 404 Palm Drive.

Kitchen items, decorations, pictures, queen metal bed frame (like new), end table, lamps, shelves, medium dog crate, clothes/accessories, small electronics, pull up bar, rug set, DVDs, and lots more!

EXPERIENCED BOAT YARD HELP WANTED 305-735-4594

Dynasty Marine Associates, Inc. www.dynastymarine.net Located in the Florida Keys, is a highly-respected supplier of Caribbean marine life to public aquariums and zoos throughout the world.

FRONT OFFICE ASSISTANT/LOGISTICS Duties to include invoice and inventory entry, booking airline shipments, creating and filing paperwork for international shipments, scheduling inspections needed for international shipments. Must be proficient in Microsoft word, outlook and excel. This position requires high attention to detail and the ability to multitask. Compensation will be dependent on experience with performance-based incentive program.

Benefits package including vacation, sick days, holidays and 401K PSP retirement plan. Please send cover letter and resume to sales@dynastymarine.net for consideration. No phone calls please.

City of Key Colony Beach

F & B Supervisor-Manager Maintenance Manager-Chief Engineer Engineer-General Maintenance Bell/Valet Attendant Front Desk Agent Night Audit/Night Security LMT, Nail Tech, Esthetician - Sign on Bonus Offered!

Hot Tin Roof Server/Bartender Food Runner/Busser/Barback Apply online at: www.noblehousehotels.com/careers Apply in person at: Zero Duval St.

Great pay, amazing benefits, & an awesome team!

EOE

Home Care Agency Founded in 2007

NOW HIRING! Experienced personnel from Key Largo to Key West!

RN/LPN P/T , O/T & Speech Therapists Social Workers Private Duty Aides

Please email your resume to: Vanessa@amerihealthhomecare.com

We look forward to hearing from you!

Of�ice (305) 596-0137 AHCA License #299992897

HOBBIES/COLLECT. PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches.

Old Model Military Clocks & Watches.

Call 305-743-4578

LOT FOR SALE LOT FOR SALE 100' x 100' - Venetian Shores, MM 86, Snake Creek Bridge views. Asking $1.3 Million. Call 561-579-8399

OFFICE SPACE

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

FULL TIME POSITION

Police Officer The City of Key Colony Beach is accepting applications for a FULL TIME Police Officer. Applicants must possess a current Florida certification as a police officer. Applicants will undergo a thorough background investigation, including drug screening, medical, polygraph and psychological exams. Salary range $52,000 — $55,00 depending on qualifications.

Mail resume to: Chief ofPolice P.O. Box 510141 Key Colony Beach, FL. 33051

Or Call for additional information—305-289-1212

SERVER HOSTESS/FOOD RUNNER Apply at S.S. Wreck 58835 Overseas Hwy. Grassy Key

Or call for appt. 305-481-3067

Equal Opportunity Employer

Busy Key Largo Dive Center has immediate openings for

We are now hiring for the following positions:

BOAT CAPTAINS

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers

Experience Required. Paid per trip plus tips & sales commission.

Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

Send resume to resumes@rainbowreef.com

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

HIRING

$1,500 SIGNING BONUS

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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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

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

NOW HIRING RESTAURANT HOST

KeysBank.com

Join Our Team!

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

Key West

SERVERS BARTENDERS FOOD RUNNER PUBLIC AREA ATTENDANT LAUNDRY ATTENDANT ROOM ATTENDANTS BELLMEN LINE COOKS SOUS CHEF BAKER

WATERSPORTS MAINTENANCE APPLY AT: bungalowskeylargo.com/careers Bungalows Key Largo is an EOE

Dolphin Research Center is Hiring!

• Visual Communications Staff • Guest Services Staff • Facilities Maintenance Apprentice • Education Program Host Benefits include medical, life & disability insurance, 401(k) plan, paid vacation, sick time & holidays.

Full job descriptions available at www.dolphins.org/career_opportunities

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

Information Technology Technician Maintenance Technician Full Time Teller Part Time Floating Teller Residential Loan Processor Customer Service Rep/Universal Banker Marathon Full Time Teller Islamorada Assistant Branch Operations Manager

Apply Online at KeysBank.com/Careers We offer 401k, profit sharing, educational reimbursement, health/dental plans, life insurance, holidays and paid time off for full time employees.

Member FDIC

EOE-M/F/V/D

Equal Housing Lender

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING! KEY LARGO

Case Manager (Adult, PT) Substance Abuse Counselor (PT) Client Advocate

KEY WEST

Case Manager (Adult, Forensic) Prevention Specialist Motivational Support Specialist (base location flexible) Substance Abuse Counselor Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Engagement Specialist (Suicide Prevention) Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult) FL LCSW,LMHC, LMFT

MARATHON

Maintenance Specialist Research Assistant Housekeeper Engagement Specialist (Suicide Prevention) Driver (CDL required) (FT Temporary) Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) RNs and LPNs (3 shifts) (PT/FT & per diem) Drop In Technician (PT) *Assisted Living Direct Care Worker (PT/FT) *Behavioral Health Technicians (3 shifts) (PT/FT & per diem) *No experience necessary. Will train.

A caring heart & helpful hands required.

Ability to work some evening or weekend shifts a plus.

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

Background and drug screen req.

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

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.

Royal Furniture in Key West is looking for motivated, hardworking people to join our sales team COMPETITIVE PAY & BENEFITS

Call Jeff: 305-395-2685

www.RoyalFurnitureAndDesign.com

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

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

Licensed & Insured #SP33799

ALL KEYS GLASS

We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors

Authorized Dealer

305-743-7800

305-998-8953 Insured • Professional • Reliable

Precision Pavers Belgard Brick | Clean & Seals | Old Castle Coastal WE WILL MAKE YOUR DRIVEWAY LOOK NEW AGAIN Brick Driveway | Patios | Pool | Decks | Retaining Walls

305.896.3599 OUT DOOR LIVING SPACES

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

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

Key West 305-292-2666

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

SP3102

Florida Solar Contractor CVC 56734

MARATHON

305-743-0506

KEY LARGO

305-852-5356

rainsavergutters@gmail.com

SOLAR DONE RIGHT!

FREE ESTIMATES | WILL NOT BE UNDERBID

When It Rains It Pours!

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

GENERAL CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS

SPALLING EXPERTS

Proud member of:

INTERNATIONAL

CONCRETE REPAIR INSTITUTE

Tewes ewes Mortgage

Your local, residential lending expert!

Call 305.495.6000

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

for a FREE Consultation

Brian Tewes

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

NMLS# 375025 Tewes Mortgage NMLS# 1453791 NMLSConsumerAccess.org

www.TewesMortgage.com

Sportfishing Adventures

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

info@johnnymaddoxcharters.com

Serving Monroe, Dade & Broward Including Airports & Ports.

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

Serving Key Largo to Key West

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

305-743-7454

fkes2011@gmail.com floridakeysexpressshuttle.com

Will Campbell President

305-481-3259

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

The Weekly Newspapers www.KeysWeekly.com

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

Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here

305-743-0844

TLC Interiors & Exteriors, Inc. 305.803.5220 | tlcdesignfl@gmail.com tlcdesignstudio.net Inspired Living Through Custom Design Finishes for Your Home!

Faux Finishes | Venetian Plaster & Repair| Gold Leafing CALL TODAY FOR A CONSULTATION!

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

Lic#SP-3562

We Do Installations!

Licensed & Insured

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

289-3019

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021

THE STUDENT OF THE WEEK

CANES SPORTS STANDOUT

T

The Upper Keys Weekly is proud to partner with Ocean Studies Charter School faculty and staff in choosing “The Student of the Week.”

Recipients are chosen on qualifications including academic standing, outstanding achievements, community involvement, individuality and moral fortitude. We thank our future leaders and Ocean Studies for allowing us to share in a weekly dose of school pride and for giving us a glimpse into their world.

ISAIAH BETTERMAN FIRST GRADE What do you like about Ocean Studies Charter School? I like playing outside. I also like the field labs.

What is your favorite subject and why? I like playing on the computer and solving math problems.

What is the best rule at school? Have fun with your friends.

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

What do you want to be when you grow up? I want to be an astronaut. I want to explore space.

I like to go in space and I want to work up there.

What is one favorite way you like to spend your spare time?

I like to play with my sister, Amanda, and brother, Robert.

Who’s your favorite teacher?

Ms. Stephanie because she’s the smartest.

he Upper Keys Weekly is proud to partner with the Coral Shores Athletic Department to highlight this week’s “Canes Sports Standout.” Recipients are chosen on qualifications of academic excellence, academic standing and community involvement. We thank our future leaders and the CSHS Athletic Department for allowing us to share a little “Hurricane Pride.”

KAILEE MCDANIEL

A member of the Canettes dance team since her freshman year, McDaniel says “it’s always been such a great way to exercise, have an emotional outlet and make friends all at the same time.” Dancing since age 3, she joined the Canettes to continue her passion while staying involved with sports and spirit throughout high school. Her favorite moment? During her junior year, she can remember a football game when the music shut off halfway through the performance. But it didn’t stop the Canettes from dancing and finishing strong without the tunes. McDaniel will be attending the University of Central Florida where she will major in nursing. She said her mom and grandparents assisted in most of her success by supporting her dancing passion through the years. She also credits her dance teacher, Stephanie Zlockie. Her advice to underclassmen? “Get involved at school and with sports as much as possible because it leads to so many memories.”

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / APRIL 29, 2021