Upper Keys Weekly 21-0722

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Don’t catch mini-lobsters. That is all.

SCHOOL’S IN

New facility opens for autistic students | P. 24

SERIOUS SCARRING

Propeller strikes increase | P. 16

LOBSTERMANIA Two-day bug catching nears | P. 20

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

91760 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier, FL 33070 Office: 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com

82

ON THE COVER

NUMBER OF THE WEEK Gasoline prices have increased a total of 82 cents per gallon this year, according to AAA. The main driver behind the jump at the pump has been the price of crude. Domestic oil prices have increased as much as 57% since January, as global crude oil supplies struggled to keep up with rising demand. Last week, the price for domestic crude reached a new 2021 high of $75.25 per barrel.

The two-day lobster mini-season is set to begin July 28 and last through July 29 in Monroe County.

Familiarize yourself with state law and local ordinances before heading out on the water. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly Workforce housing construction is currently underway in the Keys, but only two affordable housing permits are left in a time when many employees are unable to find inexpensive places to live.

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COUNTY: ONLY TWO AFFORDABLE HOUSING BUILDING PERMITS LEFT Commissioners disagree about which Keys need workforce housing more CHARLOTTE TWINE

charlotte@keysweekly.com

C

an you say “affordable housing crisis”?

There are only two affordable housing building permits, a.k.a. ROGOs, left to be allocated in the entire Florida Keys. Most of the workforce housing units currently being developed are in the Lower Keys, and the commissioners disagreed about which part of the Keys needed the units more.

This discussion was prompted by Senior Director of Planning & Environmental Resources Emily Schemper’s presentation at the July 21 Monroe County Board of Commissioners meeting. The board members had asked her to give an update on the affordable housing Rate of Growth Ordinance ("ROGO") allocation balance, and she detailed where in the Keys workforce units are currently being developed.

Turns out, most of the projects are in the Lower Keys, with 424 units in various stages of development, and the minority are in the Upper Keys, with just 29 units being worked on.

Commissioners David Rice and Craig Cates indicated that they were just fine with that. Rice noted that employees have been riding the bus from Miami-Dade County to their jobs in the Upper and Middle Keys.

“We're bringing 850 people a day on those buses. …

That’s caused me to wonder if we need affordable housing with the permits we have left,” he said.

“I think that’s going to be really helpful in the Lower Keys, all those projects,” agreed Cates. “Bringing in more people by bus in the Upper Keys is important.”

Commissioner Mike Forster felt differently.

“I respectfully disagree that we’ve met needs in the Upper Keys. I'm going to fight for affordable housing in the Upper Keys. ... We need a deeper discussion,” he said. “To say everybody can ride a bus from Miami and say, ‘We’re good’ — we’re not good.”

In the presentation, Schemper said Monroe County has been slowly doling out 710 affordable housing ROGO allocations. That number is what was authorized by the state following its 2012 hurricane modeling results. Because Monroe County has been designated as an Area of Critical State Concern by Florida, building permit allocations are strictly regulated. The state uses hurricane evacuation modeling to determine the number of ROGO allocations.

Schemper detailed the 453 affordable housing projects that are currently in various stages of development: in Wreckers Cay, Stock Island, building permits have been issued for 280 units; in Dockside/Landings, Lower Sugarloaf, building permits are pending for 88 units; in Cudjoe Ocean Shores, building permits are pending for 22 units; in Sacarma, Cudjoe Key, building permits are pending for 14 units; in Southcliff Estates, Key Largo, building permits are pending for 28 units; in Big Coppitt, the Dickerson Group Inc. has requested 20 permits, subject to approval; and Habitat for Humanity Upper Keys has requested one building permit.

This leaves two affordable housing building permits left to be allocated in the Florida Keys.

Resident Stuart Schaffer of the Sugarloaf Shores Property Owners Association questioned why so much development was going to happen in the Lower Keys.

“Please direct staff to do a more comprehensive analysis of where affordable housing should be built,” he said.

“I’m not sure it would be a good use of taxpayer dollars to commission a consultant to do a study of the magnitude described,” responded Rice.

Schemper pointed out that the number of building permits left is a moving target. According to Monroe County paperwork, “Not all reserved affordable housing ROGO allocations have been issued building permits yet, so if an affordable housing ROGO reservation previously approved by a BOCC resolution expires, the affordable housing ROGO allocations reserved by that BOCC resolution would be returned to the county’s affordable housing ROGO allocation pool.”

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021 CHARLOTTE TWINE charlotte@keysweekly.com

ANONYMOUS CODE COMPLAINTS NO LONGER ALLOWED IN FLORIDA

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KEYS CODE DEPARTMENTS SAY NEW LAW MAY PREVENT TIME-WASTING TIT-FOR-TAT FIGHTS

nonymous complaints to a local code compliance departKey West code compliance director Jim Young agreed that ment from one neighbor to another, tit for tat, almost anonymous complaints can take valuable time and energy for his seem like an unavoidable American way of life. Kind of staff that can be used more efficiently. like apple pie and baseball. One resident doesn’t like “These calls would take time,” he noted. “We would respond where a neighbor put his fence, while that neighbor will retaliate and verify the complaint. A lot of times it was valid, a lot of times by complaining about garbage cans hanging on the street corner it was not valid. The good ones were a tenant calling on a landlord too long. and wanting to be anonymous. Good luck with that one.”

But … no more!

Young and his staff are getting complainers used to the idea Due to the passage of Senate Bill 60 by the Florida Legislathat they have to leave their name and contact information. But ture, code compliance departments within the state can no longer when some callers are informed that anonymous complaints are investigate anonymous code compliance violation reports. outlawed, they get frustrated.

Per a Monroe County press release, “The bill changed exist“This is not something we created,” he said. “We have to abide ing state law to prohibit the investigation of anonymous reports by it. It’s effective throughout the entire state of Florida. Some of potential violations of municipal property codes, effective July people said we were trying to not do our job just prior to them 1, 2021. The person reporting the issue is now required to supply hanging up.” their full name and address, and this information will become part McPherson and Young made clear that they want to be of serof the public record. This applies to submissions made by phone, vice to the community, and citizens should always feel free to call email, online, or in person to the Code Compliance Department.” in a complaint. Young is also looking forward to having more time Since this law was effective as of July 1, code compliance to devote to issues that are important to Key West residents. departments that still accept anonymous complaints within the “We can be proactive on some issues that have been brought Florida Keys have not had to our attention, and the enough time yet to detercity commission wants us mine how this will affect to work on cleanliness in their work. The Monroe the city, one of six prioriCounty Code Compliance ties in the strategic plan. In department still took anona survey, 3,700 citizens ymous complaints before responded with six top priJuly 1, as did Key West’s. orities, and cleanliness was “Our complaints as one of them,” said Young. a whole are generally Unlike Monroe County anonymous,” said Cynthia and Key West, the City of McPherson, senior direcMarathon has not accepted tor of code compliance for anonymous complaints for Monroe County. many years, according to She told Keys Weekly Mark Senmartin, Marathon some typical examples of vice mayor and longtime anonymous complaints: council member. abandoned vehicles, in“We haven’t had that Keys code officials said that anonymous complaints can sometimes create cluding boats and trailers, for a long time,” he said. unnecessary extra work for staff. CONTRIBUTED parked in the right of way; “If it bothers you enough work without a permit, that something needs to be such as someone putting up a fence, a new door or a window; or said, you need to own it. You get into situations where neighbors a structure that has hurricane damage and has not been repaired don’t like each other, and they call back and waste city staff time.” yet.

Senmartin pointed out that sometimes a complainer who was “We don’t know yet how the law is going to affect our departreluctant to give his or her name would have a legitimate concern; ment,” she said. “But I’ll tell you that if it does anything in cutting it’s just that the homeowner didn’t want to be the bad guy and down the numbers coming into us, it may be the tit-for-tat neighconfront the neighbor. bor complaints that are difficult to process for us.”

“If there is a safety issue you’re concerned about, you definiteMcPherson said investigating anonymous complaints can be ly need to report it,” he said. “We get unlicensed operators in the time-consuming for the staff. area, so safety issues are at stake. Don’t be afraid to say some“Oftentimes anonymous complaints are incomplete,” she exthing when something is really wrong.” plained. “It’ll give you only a mile marker, with no way to ascertain Key West’s Young has one final bit of advice: “If you want to rewhere the property is. With all the complaints we investigate, we port your landlord anonymously, he might be able to figure it out.” can sometimes find the location, but not always. With a name and an address, and somehow to verify and get information, it may eliminate that work we had done with no benefit. But I don’t know if that’ll happen.”

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

AGREEMENT WITH NEW WASTE COMPANY COMES BEFORE COUNCIL, AGAIN

An Advanced Disposal truck empties a dumpster. Logos on trucks will be replaced as Waste Management takes over. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

Staff recommends denial of 7% commercial trash rate increase

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slamorada village staff is recommending council members deny a commercial rate increase for trash disposal services when they meet for a meeting on Thursday, July 22, at 5:30 p.m., inside Founders Park Community Center.

An amendment to an agreement with Advanced Disposal, which was acquired last October by Waste Management, requests a 7% commercial rate hike. During a May 20 meeting, officials with Waste Management told the dais the reason behind the increase is to compensate for increased customer service costs.

Council members ended up tabling the matter in May, following lengthy discussion over what company the dais would be working with, Advanced Disposal or Waste Management, and concern over the proposed hike.

Advanced Disposal is a wholly owned subsidiary of Waste Management. The acquisition of Advanced Disposal by Waste Management was complicated — taking roughly 18 months and going through federal regulatory hurdles.

Greg Sullivan, local manager for Waste Management, said the commercial rate hike is attributed to the cost of business in the Keys, rising prices on tires, steel and fuel and paying employees a living wage.

“We’re in the same boat everyone else is in to keep employees,” he told the dais in May. A staff analysis of the proposed amendment states that no specific evidence was provided justifying the proposed price increase. The contract as written allows for an annual

increase based on the consumer price index, currently at 5.1%, of no more than 3% in a given year.

If council members were open to considering an additional increase over the current contract limit of 3%, staff is recommending the dais consider a one-time increase over the 3% cap of 5.1% to coincide with the consumer price index.

An increase in commercial rates would result in a corresponding increase in the 15% franchise fees that the village receives on both commercial collections. The village receives about $600,000 in franchise fees annually.

In addition to a rate hike, the proposed amendment to the agreement requested an earlier start time for garbage trucks to 5 a.m.

Staff analysis of the change states that allowing trucks to start sooner would be inconsistent with the village government’s mission to protect residents’ right to quiet enjoyment of life.

“I hear the garbage guys when they come through at 6 a.m. in the morning. Now it’s later,” said Vice Mayor Pete Bacheler. “Some of those concerns voiced were accurate and very worthwhile.”

Islamorada’s contract with Advanced Disposal to provide commercial and residential pickup dates back to 2013. Amendments to the agreement were made in 2017 and 2018 to reflect pricing for commercial equipment, increases for prior consumer price index adjustments and increased disposal costs.

Ty Harris, center, resigned from his position as director of planning for the village on July 18. Hank Flores, right, has been named acting planning director. Craig Southern, left, is a former senior planner who now works in Palmetto Bay. WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

VILLAGE PLANNING DIRECTOR RESIGNS Search is on for replacement JIM McCARTHY

I

jim@keysweekly.com

slamorada’s planning department is seeking a new director following the recent resignation of Ty Harris.

Having served as the head of planning since fall September 2018, Harris’ resignation on July 18 comes just less than 20 days into Greg Oravec’s time as new village manager.

“In the short time I worked with Ty, I found him to be very intelligent and customer-oriented,” Oravec said in a statement to the Keys Weekly on July 21. “We appreciate his service to the village and our citizens and wish him the best moving forward.”

Senior planner Hank Flores has stepped in as acting planning director as the village seeks a replacement for Harris. Human Resources Director Evie Engelmeyer will lead the recruitment effort for a new planning director.

Harris oversaw a planning department that administers the village’s land use plan and assists in permitting. He dealt with everything from affordable housing and developing a plan for food trucks to the village’s comprehensive plan and land use regulations.

Bacheler said the loss of Harris “will have an effect on us.” Mayor Buddy Pinder said that Harris is “a special guy.”

Harris, a DeLand native who studied law at the University of Miami, entered the planning department in 2018 with senior planners Craig Southern and Flores. Southern left the village planning department in June to take a new position as planner with the village of Palmetto Bay. With Flores as acting director, the department consists of a senior administrative assistant, a planner, an environmental planner and a planning coordinator.

Oravec, who was picked by the council in June, has planning experience, having served as acting planning and zoning director in South Miami from 1996 to 1999. He also served as an assistant planner in Islamorada in 1999 before taking an assistant city manager job in South Miami.

“With moving forward in mind, I would like to take this opportunity to share with you and the public atlarge that the next planning director, and, for that matter, all our employees, should be counted on to be customer-oriented and to live by the Golden Rule and the values of excellence, integrity, transparency and accountability,” Oravec said.

A regularly scheduled meeting of Islamorada Village Council is set for Thursday, July 22 at 5:30 p.m. inside Founders Park Community Center.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

BRIEFLY Health Department encourages second dose of vaccines The Florida Department of Health in Monroe County highly encourages those who have not yet had the second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to get it as soon as possible.

About 8% of people in the U.S. are overdue for their second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines. To be considered fully vaccinated, two doses are needed. The only available onedose vaccine in the United States to be considered fully vaccinated is the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Residents and visitors are more protected from severe illness and hospitalization if they are fully vaccinated.

A photo showing three men holding a dead tarpon. FWC/Contributed

TWO MEN ARRESTED IN MARCH TARPON KILLING

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wo men have turned themselves in to authorities after photos and video surfaced showing their alleged involvement in a tarpon killing in Key Largo in March. Law enforcement officials say they are still seeking another person in the case.

Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission announced late last week the arrests of Arsenio Ravelo, 21, of Homestead, and Sergio Leon, 28, of Hialeah. In March, FWC investigators received photographs and video of a large tarpon being held by three individuals on a dock at Calusa Campground in Key Largo.

FWC released an image of the three young men holding the tarpon in an effort to obtain the public’s assistance.

Two of the three individuals were identified thanks to tips and information from multiple witnesses. Additional photographs were provided, showing the men hoisting the tarpon into a truck.

FWC officials said the case highlights the role the public plays not only in assisting law enforcement through the Wildlife Alert Program, but also in preserving Florida’s natural resources and bringing those who violate the law to justice.

“I appreciate the dedication of our officers and investigators for their diligence in this case as well as the public’s assistance with identifying these individuals,” said Maj. Alfredo Escanio, commander of the

FWC’s South Bravo region. “The illegal harvest of our natural resources will not be tolerated.”

Ravelo and Leon are facing misdemeanor charges for harvest/killing tarpon without a tag, removing a tarpon greater than 40 inches from the water and failure to release a tarpon alive and unharmed. A bond amount of $75,000 was set for the two men.

Tarpon are a premier game fish in Florida and are prohibited from harvest unless the angler is in pursuit of a world or state record and in possession of a tarpon tag.

They are rarely used as a food fish due to poor meat quality and a large number of bones. In addition, tarpon more than 40 inches long must remain in the water, including their gills, at all times.

“Tarpon are one of the many species that make Florida the Fishing Capital of the World,” said Jessica McCawley, Division of Marine Fisheries management director. “Florida anglers love fishing for these beautiful and, often, large fighting fish, and we want to make sure they are protected for years to come.”

Those with information regarding the third individual are asked to contact the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922.

More information on tarpon regulations is at MyFWC.com/Marine. (Click on “Recreational Regulations” and “Tarpon.”)

— Weekly staff report

‘Ladies, Let's Go Fishing!' event set for October The “Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing!” Keys saltwater fishing university will be held Oct. 15-17 at the Tavernier Elks Club, MM 92, bayside. Registration starting at $125, available online, includes two networking receptions, classes, handson skill practice, door prizes and gifts.

Men and teenagers are welcome. No equipment or experience is required.

Optional fishing charters are on Friday and Sunday out of Islamorada, with prizes awarded for the LLGF Fishing Fever tournament to people fishing both days. Advance reservations are recommended. More information is at 954- 475-9068, via email to info@ ladiesletsgofishing.com or at www. ladiesletsgofishing.com County mayor appointed to sustainability committee Monroe County Mayor Michelle Coldiron was recently appointed as vice chairwoman of the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) Water and Environmental Sustainability (WES) Committee and to the board of the Institute for County Government. Coldiron has been a FAC member since being elected to the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners in 2018 and recently graduated from the Advanced County Commissioner II program at the FAC annual conference in Orlando.

The WES Committee is tasked with developing and recommending an annual statewide legislative platform for counties based on the issue areas under their jurisdiction. The committee considers all state and federal issues related to water and environmental policy, including water quality, quantity and infrastructure, funding issues, interstate issues, waste and pollution, utilities and energy and resiliency.

SAVE THE DATE July 20-25 • Hemingway Days in Key West.

July 23 • Sublime at 7 p.m. at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater, Key West.

July 28-29 • Lobster mini-season runs from 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday through midnight on Thursday with a 6-lobster per day maximum in Monroe County.

Thursday, July 29 • Key Largo Chamber of Commerce Members in Motion from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Tavernier Towne Center, 91200 Overseas Hwy., Tavernier.

Saturday, July 31 • New Year’s Eve in July Party from 7 p.m. to midnight at Florida Keys Elks Lodge 1872, Tavernier.

Aug. 3 • Monroe County Sheriff’s Office hosts National Night Out at various locations throughout the Keys.

Aug. 5 • College of the Florida Keys grand opening of the new Upper Keys Center, 10604 Overseas Hwy., Key Largo.

Aug. 10 • REEF Fish & Friends: Cocktails For a Cause from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at REEF Campus, MM 98.3 median, Key Largo.

Aug. 12 • First day of school for students of Monroe County School District.

Aug. 19-20 • Leadership Success Academy, board training program for all Keys nonprofits by Community Foundation of the Florida Keys, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days, Tennessee Williams Theatre in Key West. cffk.org/lsa.

Aug. 21-22 • Vintage Dive Days with various activities, venues and times, hosted by the History of Diving Museum and NAUI, Islamorada. divingmuseum.org.

Sept. 9-12 • REEF’s 2021 Florida Keys Lionfish Derby & Festival.

9

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

MUST LOVE MANATEES

What’s happening, how it affects the Keys and what can we do TIFFANY DUONG

T

tiffany@keysweekly.com

o live in Florida, you must love manatees. They’re hopelessly awkward, adorably plump sea potatoes. And, although we’ve never hugged any (we promise — we know it’s illegal!), we find them extremely cuddly.

If you’ve been following the news, you’ve probably heard about the terrible things happening to manatees up north. More of these marine mammals have died in 2021 than in any other year in Florida’s history — and it’s only July.

As of the last Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) report, at least 841 manatees had died this year in Florida waters.

The five-year average for annual deaths is 578, NPR reported. The previous record was set in 2013, when 830 manatees died after exposure to red tide toxins.

The majority of losses have been in the Indian River Lagoon in Brevard County. Manatees normally spend winters migrating through Florida’s waterways in search of warm water and lots of their favorite food: seagrass. Unfortunately, seagrass beds have also been dying off in record numbers this year.

Biologists are pointing to poor water quality as a primary cause and blame wastewater contamination and nutrient runoff for causing the former.

“Runoff is bad for marine and coastal environments because it washes everything that is in the streets, in homeowner's yards, in the grass and golf courses and the stormwater system into the water,” said Rachel Silverstein, executive director and waterkeeper for Miami Waterkeeper. “The pollutants include nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen from fertilizer, fecal matter from pets and wildlife, plastic debris and trash, and grass clippings and other vegetation (which supplies nutrients to the water and provides an ideal home for bacteria) and more.”

As polluted waters enter marine habitats like Indian River Lagoon, the nutrients fertilize algae in the water. As these toxic red tides and algal blooms grow in size, they cover seagrasses and shade out sunlight. This eventually can kill the seagrass, leading to oxygen depletion in the water, which then leads to the death of marine life as well, Silverstein added. High water temperatures and slow-moving currents exacerbate the seagrass die-off, NBC reported. As this key manatee food source runs out, the giant sea cows suffer malnutrition and starve to death.

When manatees are found sick and injured, people call in experts to help. Rescued animals

are often moved to special holding facilities like Sea World Orlando and Miami Seaquarium. “Skinny” manatees are fed and rehabilitated until they are deemed ready for release back to the wild, said Ben Daughtry, the owner of Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters in Marathon. Aquarium Encounters will sometimes aid in manatee rescues in the Keys.

So, what’s that have to do with the Keys? A lot, apparently.

“I think it is incredibly important to frame the conversation surrounding the manatee fatality event in the Indian River Lagoon within the context of Everglades restoration,” said Emma Haydocy, executive director at Florida Bay Forever. “Prior to human alteration and intervention in the ecosystem, water flowed from Lake Okeechobee south to what is now Everglades National Park and Florida Bay. Now, lake water is discharged to the St. Lucie river, with the (Indian River Lagoon) on the receiving end of billions of gallons of nutrient-laden, often toxic water.

Toxicity and harmful impacts are multiplied by fertilizer, storm water and septic system runoff.”

The same water that Florida Bay desperately

WAYS TO PREVENT RUNOFF, FROM MIAMI WATERKEEPER: • Clean up after your pets so there is no pet waste in the yard or street that could run down a drain • Skip fertilizer use in rainy summer months and leave at least a 20-foot buffer zone around waterways and storm drains • Skip the phosphorus and only use a limited amount of nitrogen, 65% of which should be slow release • Use native plants in your yard, as they have evolved to thrive in our environment without chemicals or fertilizers • Avoid the use of harsh chemicals, such as pesticides and herbicides, as what goes on land eventually ends up in our water • Never throw grass clippings or leaves into the storm drain or canals

needs is instead being flushed out, full of runoff and toxins, to the Indian River Lagoon. There, it’s killing the seagrass and causing manatees to starve.

Florida Bay and the Keys marine ecosystem are not free from our own runoff problems either.

“Our shallow, tropical habitats are particularly sensitive to nutrient pollution, and we are vulnerable to algal blooms as a result,” Silverstein said.

Runoff from the island chain and mainland has brought in nutrients, chemicals and bacteria which affect the health of our seagrass, water quality and marine life, she added. Additionally, land-based fertilizer runoff has been linked to sargassum blooms, which have become an environmental issue both on a global scale as well as in the Keys, she said.

The issues that already plague Florida Bay — excessive nutrient runoff and the lack of clean fresh water coming down through the Everglades — could eventually lead to the Keys own environmental disaster, the experts warned. To avoid this, we need to keep our water quality high.

So, are our Keys manatees safe? For now, it seems like they are still more affected by boat strikes, Daughtry said. Nevertheless, our seagrass habitats are fragile and getting cut up by propeller scars daily. Florida Bay is constantly under threat from too little water and too many nutrients. If these factors worsen, our waters might also become inhospitable to manatees.

Nevertheless, Haydocy still has a glimmer of hope.

“There is always opportunity to implement stronger water quality policy on the local, state, and federal level that addresses point sources of runoff in the Florida Keys, but I think that we are leaps and bounds ahead of other municipalities across Florida,” Haydocky said. “Monroe County made the investment in septic to sewer conversion, passed a strong fertilizer ordinance in 2021, and continues to support restoring America's Everglades. These investments in water quality form a mosaic of environmental policy and protection that can help save manatees and all marine life on Florida Bay.” To report a sick, injured, dead or tagged manatee, call FWC’s Wildlife Alert Toll-Free Number: 1-888-404-FWCC (3922).

10

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND Deputies collect 10 bags of debris

M

onroe County sheriff’s deputies spent a portion of the morning on July 16 picking up empty beer bottles and debris along the road near MM 80 in Islamorada. In about an hour, the deputies, office staff and Islamorada Public Works collected nearly 10 bags of garbage. Joining the cleanup was Sheriff Rick Ramsay.

“This is all about deputies taking time to volunteer and keep the community clean,” he said.

— Weekly staff report

1

2 3

JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly 1. Monroe County Sheriff’s Capt.

Derek Paul and Major Chad Scibilia partake in the community cleanup.

2. Detective Addison LaPradd and Deputy Ana Coello collect a bag full of garbage.

3. Monroe County Sheriff’s deputies and Islamorada Public Works employees gather following a successful cleanup of a road area along MM 80.

4. Sheriff Rick Ramsay participates in the community cleanup.

4

5

6

5. Sgt. Nick Whiteman, organizer of the community cleanup, collects debris alongside the road.

6. A sheriff’s vehicle is parked alongside the road in Islamorada, as deputies pick up debris alongside the tree line.

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11

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

UPPER KEYS ELKS LODGE THROWING ‘NEW YEAR’S IN JULY’ BENEFIT Proceeds will go toward Florida Elks Children’s Therapy Services

DJ Tony Tone will set the vibe with his musical stylings at the Florida Keys Elks Lodge 1872 ‘New Year’s in July’ benefit.

FLORIDA ELKS LODGE 1872/Contributed

Florida Elks Children’s Therapy Services helps children with disabilities improve motor development. FLORIDA ELKS CHILDREN’S THERAPY SERVICES/Contributed

CHARLOTTE TWINE

charlotte@keysweekly.com

F

lorida Keys Elks Lodge 1872 knows how to celebrate for a good cause. After all, almost every night, an Elks member stands outside and blows on a conch shell horn to pay homage to the sunset. And on Saturday, July 31, the lodge will be throwing a “New Year’s in July” party to benefit the Florida Elks Children’s Therapy Services. “​​We want to bring more awareness of this free program to the Keys,” said Brian Sayre, who is an Inner Guard for Lodge 1872 and is helping to organize the benefit. “And what better way to do it than to have a celebration, since we couldn’t do it New Year’s Eve? Let’s just do it in July.”

Sayre speaks highly of the Florida Elks Children’s Therapy Services.

“Children in the Keys are receiving these services, but we know there are more children who can benefit from this great thing, a free service. No doctors, no insurance, no government, no nothing. Though you do have to get a sign-off from the doctor.”

The Florida State Elks Association has a long history of providing rehabilitation services to needy children, starting in 1933 with the Harry-Anna Home for Crippled Children. This facility offered free treatment to Florida children who suffered from orthopedic diseases and disabilities.

The organization has long since evolved. Starting in 1999, a new program of in-home physical and occupational therapy began that covers most of Florida’s 67 counties. It provides mobile in-home children's therapy services, such as evaluation, occupational

therapy, physical therapy, neurodevelopmental treatment and sensory training. Among many other things, the therapy services facilitate development, stimulate learning, improve motor development and promote independence.

Testimonials on the Florida Elks Children’s Therapy Services’ website rave about the effect of the program on their child.

Parent Cate Chatman said, “I didn't know there was a name for what Josh had. Now seeing him enjoy the things I knew as a kid means the world. The changes I've seen in him and his abilities have been tremendous."

“The great thing about it is it’s purely funded by the Elks,” said Sayre.

“You don’t have the red tape of insurance. That’s what makes it so great.

And we’re mobile — we come straight to your house.”

The party will be a “dress to impress” event. “We wanted to make it special,” said Sayre.

From 7 p.m. to midnight, DJ Tony Tone will set the vibe with his musical stylings. A surf and turf dinner will be served, prepared by chef Clark Huff and his team. In between the dining and dancing, guests will learn about the Florida Elks Children’s Therapy Services through a presentation by therapist Camille Arevalo.

Champagne will be brought out at midnight “if we last that long,” said Sayre with a laugh.

Tickets for the “New Year’s in July” party are $50 each and $95 for a couple. They are available for purchase at the Florida Keys Elks Lodge 1872 at 92600 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, bayside. More information is at elkstherapy.com.

A free program for children with disabilities in the Keys, Florida Elks Children’s Therapy Services promotes independence. FLORIDA ELKS CHILDREN’S THERAPY SERVICES/Contributed

Members helping to organize the Florida Keys Elks Lodge 1872 ‘New Year’s in July’ benefit include Tania Mattson, left, Angela Sayre and Brian Sayre. FLORIDA ELKS LODGE 1872/Contributed

12

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

AFTER HOURS IS BACK

Business leaders convene for drinks and social time Business leaders returned for some drinks, appetizers and social hour during the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce’s after hours event at the Keys History & Discovery Center on July 20. It’s the second in-person after hours event to take place after a COVID-19 pandemic limited large gatherings. With business card exchanges also came some laughing and picture time. Pictured from left are Jennifer Miller, Realtor for LoKation Real Estate; Joe Roth, owner of Regan Roth Insurance Agency; Judy Hull, Islamorada Chamber of Commerce executive director; and Jalen Martin, of Southern Tide. KEYS WEEKLY PHOTO

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

B

lack Caesar is a famous Florida Keys pirate, right? When this version of his story is told — consider it Black Caesar 1.0 — he is presented as a contemporary of Calico Jack Rackham and Blackbeard himself, the dreaded pirate Edward Teach. One of the tantalizing details of the Black Caesar legend is its connection to the Blackbeard story. If it is to be believed, he ruled the Florida Reef from a lair at Elliott Key, one of nearly 50 islands found north of Key Largo, the largest island in the chain.

Black Caesar is alleged to be a larger-than-life African chieftain, tall and powerfully built, and cunning.

Where on the world's second-largest continent he came from is unknown.

When he left Africa is murky, too. How he left his homeland has been reasonably detailed and done so in a myriad of accounts.

When slavers arrived on the African coast, he proved too elusive to be captured. Changing their approach, they dazzled him with colorful silk scarves, jewelry and a ticking watch to lure him aboard their ship. While he was distracted by pretty things and shiny objects, the sailors were able to slip the ship from its mooring and sail off to sea before the chieftain knew what was happening. Finally captured, he was chained along with the rest of the enslaved.

The ship sailed for New World slave markets. While chained on the ship (or to the vessel), he only accepted food and drink from one sailor.

When the slaver failed to make the crossing successfully and encountered hurricane conditions, the ship was swept across some of the northernmost coral beds of the

Florida Reef. Thrashed and battered against the stony fingers of the reef, the ship was lost. Only the African chieftain and the lone sailor from whom he would accept food or water survived the ordeal. In what must have been a heroic feat, the two managed to secure a longboat and escape to Elliott Key. Having survived the hurricane and the shipwreck, the two castaways turned to piracy.

Successful in their endeavors, their pirate ranks grew.

BRAD Because all good things come to an end, the two had a fallBERTELLI ing-out that was allegedly over a woman. After the chieftain murdered the sailor, Black Caesar abandoned his Elliott Key ... is the curator lair and joined forces with Blackbeard as one of his muscled, for Islamorada’s blood-thirsty lieutenants.

Keys History & Discovery Center.

While little is known about the beginnings of his story, A published auhow it ends is relatively clear. He was aboard Blackbeard’s thor of six books, sloop Adventure while it was at anchor off of North Carolihis favorite subna’s Ocracoke Island on the night of Nov. 21, 1718. Early the jects are Indian next morning, Lt. Maynard led British forces to the decks of Key and skunk apes. the Adventure. Blackbeard was cut down in the fight.

In most versions of the story, Black Caesar’s life comes to an end, too, after he is captured and left dangling in the wind at the end of a hangman’s noose.

There are two especially interesting items of note regarding this version of events. First, there was a black man named Caesar aboard the Adventure that day. According to Captain Charles Johnson’s “A General History of the Pyrates,” one member of the Adventure’s crew was identified as Caesar. His name is spelled “Cesar” in the book, he’s listed as a “Common Sailor,” and he is one of at least five slaves captured that day.

In Johnson’s contemporary account of the incident, as the book was published in 1726, he wrote: “Teach (Blackbeard) had little or no Hopes of escaping, and therefore had posted a resolute Fellow, a Negro, whom he had bred up, with a lighted Match, in the Powder-Room, with Commands to blow up when he should give him Orders, which was as soon as the Lieutenant and his Man could have entered, that so he might have destroy’d his Conquerors: and when the Negro found how it went with Black-beard, he could hardly be perswaded from the rash Action by two Prisoners that were in the Hold of the Sloop.”

It is an interesting description of the attack on the Adventure as the “resolute Fellow” is historically considered to be Caesar, spelled Cesar on the King’s documents. The big reveal about the account is that it in no way supports any aspect of the Black Caesar legend as popularly told. Instead, the relatively contemporary version refutes it. The only act of piracy conducted by the man identified as Cesar is that he was put in the wrong place at the wrong time.

In true pirate fashion, a violent event like being hanged was not enough to end the Black Caesar story. Almost 100 years later, Black Caesar 2.0 returned to Elliott Key. That legend will be explored next week.

14

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021 SPONSORED BY:

PADI WOMEN’S DIVE DAY CONSERVATION TIP

Celebrating diversity above and below the water THIS WEEK’S DIVE REPORT Wow! What a week. Diving was fantastic. The waters were that famous Keys turquoise blue that you can’t really find anywhere else in the world. We had great visibility and lower winds — just in time for PADI Women’s Dive Day. We were pleased to host the “Wander Women” Dive Club to celebrate PADI’s annual day dedicated to diversity in diving. In turn, they helped restore biodiERIC versity on our local reefs by outplanting endangered BILLIPS corals with the Coral Restoration Foundation. These day-long trips are always a blast, because they begin is the owner, with education about the importance of corals and captain and what’s happening to ours. Then, they always equip us instructor at with tips on what we can do to help before we all dive Islamorada Dive Center and Florida in together to do hands-on restoration. We’re thankful Keys Dive Center. to the club for choosing the Florida Keys and our shop He specializes in scuba, rebreather, to dive with while they made a difference.

Coral restoration is a science that grew up in the spearfishing and Florida Keys. Organizations like Coral Restoration captaining in the Florida Keys.

Foundation and Mote Marine Laboratories, alongside community groups like I.CARE, have continued to innovate while they protect and restore our reefs. It’s always a pleasure to know we are helping ensure the future of our reef when we do good work planting corals.

Women’s Dive Day - Wander Woman Dive Club diving with Islamorada Dive Center for the annual PADI Women's Dive Day. ERIC BILLIPS/Contributed

NEXT WEEK’S DIVE REPORT This upcoming week looks like we’re in for more good “dive” weather, with low winds and plenty of sunshine. This summer has been strange — for many reasons, weather being only one. Luckily, it seems like we’re in a good patch, for now. Let’s get out there and enjoy our Keys backyard while it’s beautiful!

Always tread lightly when enjoying the underwater world. Leave no trace — by watching your fin kicks and hand movements and always packing out what you packed (or boated) in.

I.CARE coral plantings on Islamorada Reefs will take place with Key Dives this Saturday.

CONSERVATION UPDATE Along with our busy days planting corals with the “Wander Women” Dive Club, we also helped train the next round of interns of the Coral Restoration Foundation. It is truly an honor to be a part of anyone’s journey who wants to help the ocean. We’re grateful to these young divers, all of whom have a passion for real change.

Proud supporters of conservation efforts across the beautiful Florida Keys

15

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

Increasing propeller strikes causing damage to vital habitat JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

A

n aerial view of the Florida Keys’ beauty is one to behold, with different shades of blue wrapping around historical lighthouse structures, sandbars, bridges and the island.

Bird’s-eye shots of the Keys can also raise eyebrows, as evidenced by aerial photographs of scattered lines through seagrass beds near one highly-known channel.

More boats taking to the waters and sandbars, like the one off Whale Harbor, means more instances of seagrass bed scarring from boat propellers. Look no further than a photograph taken in 2018 and another just three years later at Snake Creek Channel by David Gross, coxswain with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary in Islamorada.

A few noticeable streaks are seen in a 2018 shot, but those lines multiplied in a year coming off exploding boat sales and more people on the water due to a coronavirus pandemic.

2021

Damage to seagrass could increase with more boats on the water, say officials with NOAA”s Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. However, with targeted management, boater awareness of and compliance with rules and regulations, seagrass resources are resilient and can recover from prop scarring.

Officials with the sanctuary say prop scar occurrences are definitely proportional to the number of the boats on the water. Ignorant boaters and out-of-town visitors aren’t only

to blame for groundings and scarring seagrass beds. Recent groundings have also included commercial shrimpers and local fishermen trying to take shortcuts, officials said.

“If there is any common foundation to groundings, it may simply be a lack of knowledge and appreciation for the function and value of seagrass beds,” said Lindsey Crews, science and outreach program coordinator with the sanctuary.

Propellers have scarred a majority of seagrass beds in South Florida.

When a boat’s propeller hits seagrass, it fragments the seagrass meadow and can lead to excessive erosion and further loss of seagrass habitats. This can limit the movement of animals living in this habitat, leaving barren areas where fish and other marine life once flourished.

From Bahama sea stars and egrets to sea turtles and queen conch, seagrass beds are among the most fertile habitats in the Florida Keys, Crews said. More than 80% of the species

17

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

2018

caught by commercial and recreational fisheries in the Keys relies in some way on seagrass.

“The blades slow water flow, allowing silt and sand to fall out of the water,” Crews said. “This creates the crystal clear water needed for coral reefs to thrive. Seagrasses stabilize sediments on the seafloor, filter pollutants and absorb excess nutrients from runoff.”

NOAA officials say it can take many years — even decades — for prop

Creek prop scars 2018: An aerial view showing a few propeller scars near Snake Creek Channel in August 2018.

DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly

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scars and blow holes to recover. Any scarring below 20 centimeters needs to be filled with sediment, as roots can’t grow downslope.

“Unlike many of the plants that grow in your garden, seagrass roots, or rhizomes, grow horizontally along the sand, and not straight down into the sediment,” Crews said. “Deep scarring or blow holes made by powering off of shallow areas must be filled in with sediment before restoration can truly begin.”

NOAA officials usually are notified of scarring related to a vessel grounding case by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission.

“We pretty much are the first responders,” said FWC Officer Bobby Dube. “We usually mark the area and document it and submit a report to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.”

Most cases are assessed within weeks to months from the incident.

Restoration takes considerably longer, however, and rarely occurs until NOAA receives a settlement from the responsible party. If a case goes to litigation, it can take more than a year to resolve.

The National Marine Sanctuary Act provides for civil penalties up to $178,338 per violation, per day. The law also provides for the ability to seek damages for the cost of assessing the injury, developing a restoration and monitoring plan and the implementation of those plans. Costs are based on the actual cost for restoring an injury.

Since 2010, NOAA Office of General Counsel Enforcement Section has issued numerous penalties for vessel groundings ranging from written warnings to $18,000. Factors used to determine an appropriate penalty or permit sanction include the nature, circumstances, extent and gravity of the alleged violation; the alleged violator’s degree of culpability; the alleged violator’s history of prior offenses; and the alleged violator’s ability to pay the penalty.

Where resource injuries are significant, FKNMS can seek cost recovery associated with restoring sanctuary resources that were injured. Working with the Department of Justice, NOAA General Counsel Natural Resources Section recently settled a case where a vessel grounding resulted in injury to over 1,700 square meters of seagrass habitat. The fines included just over $70,000 for assessment costs incurred by NOAA and $2.1 million for costs associated with restoration and monitoring.

NOAA officials say creation of idle speed or no motor zones has proven beneficial in allowing seagrass recovery — Tavernier Key being a prime example. In images from 1995, these seagrass flats exhibited a high level of seagrass scarring prior to implementation of a no motor zone in 1997.

Repeat imagery taken in 2017 showed significant recovery.

These changes indicate that with targeted management and boater awareness and compliance, seagrass resources are resilient and can recover from prop scarring damage.

NOAA is proposing new vessel speed and access restrictions in wildlife management areas within its Restoration Blueprint. A draft rule, which includes an updated proposal, will go out for public comment later this year.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

CUBA CARAVAN TRAVELS TO SOUTHERNMOST POINT

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

O

ne of the most challenging parts of lobster mini-season is understanding its boundaries — both geographically and time-wise.

There’s a difference between lobster hunting in Layton (never!) and in Key Colony Beach. As a general rule, don’t hunt for lobsters in canals … unless you are doing so in front of personal property, but only as far as the centerline of the canal. Also, don’t hunt for lobsters along shoreline, unless you are more than 100 feet away in open water. Keep reading: During the July two-day sport season, and regular lobster season (Aug. 6 - March 31), NO snorkeling or diving is allowed within 300 feet of residential or commercial shoreline. This includes canals and any public or private marinas.

In Marathon, this local rule applies during the twoday sport season.

In Key Colony Beach, this local rule applies during the four days preceding sport season and continues

THE DARK SIDE OF LOBSTER SEASON Bully netting happens at night

until 10 days have elapsed after the opening of regular season.

In Layton, it’s prohibited to take lobster from any waters within city limits.

In unincorporated areas of Monroe County, Islamorada and Key West this local rule applies during the three days preceding sport season, the entirety of sport season and the first five days of regular season.

If you see a yellow buoy, stop. The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is dotted with special areas — Sanctuary Preservation Areas, Special-Use ResearchOnly Areas and Ecological Reserves. These no-take zones are marked by 30-inch, round, yellow buoys.

Don’t hunt for lobster hiding in artificial habitats (“casitas”) in state waters. Don’t hunt for lobsters in Everglades National Park or in the Dry Tortugas National Park. Don’t hunt for lobsters in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park during sport season.

— Weekly staff report

BULLY NETTING SUPPLIES: • Shallow draft boat • Underwater lights • Bully net • Lobster measuring gauge • Good eyes During sport season, divers cannot get in the water at night. Instead, they go bully netting. It takes special gear (see sidebar) and can only be done one hour after sunset until one hour before sunrise.

At night, lobsters make their nightly walks to new grounds and to feed. Done in four feet of water or less, bully netting uses a long-poled hooped net with underwater lights, and a pair of good eyes to bring lobster on the boat. Some people can use flashlights above the water, looking for glowing eyes, but the process works better with lights under the water.

Some tips from local bully netters include keeping the net part pointed toward the fisherman’s body so the part where the net and pole connects hits the lobster’s tentacles. They suggest going slowly into the water but then pushing down fast over the lobster when right above it. The point is to hit the frame of the net on the lobster’s tentacles so it spooks the lobster and it shoots back into the net. Once in the net, pull aboard to measure.

Another tip: don’t use super bright lights, because it will reflect the silt in the water making it harder to see. The plus side of bully netting is lobster hunters won’t get a sunburn. It’s cooler in the evenings than during the day. And, usually no one has to get their hair wet.

— Weekly staff report

21

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

JUST THE (11) FACTS

6: Lobster hunters are allowed six lobsters per recreational harvester, per day.

GAUGE: Harvesters must have a gauge — even in the water — to measure the lobster.

LAW ENFORCEMENT GEARS UP FOR SPORT SEASON

“We enjoy all the visitors here in the Keys during lobster miniseason,” said Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay. “But we want to make sure everyone is aware of the law, and is behaving in a responsible, and safe, manner.”

In the Keys, the Sheriff’s Office works alongside the Coast Guard and FWC to make the season safe and peaceful. Expect to see officers everywhere — at boat ramps, bridges and on the water. In Marathon, staff and volunteers will be handing out pamphlets that outline the rules.

All Sheriff’s Office boats will be on patrol, and deputies will be operating a number of personal watercraft donated to the Sheriff’s Office by Riva Motorsports & Marine of the Keys. They donate WaveRunners each year to be used for law enforcement purposes such as this, as well as for regular patrols of hard-to-reach shoreline areas and residential canals. Anyone caught with illegal lobster will be charged accordingly.

The FWC will double the number of officers in the Florida Keys during sport season and for the first few weeks of regular season, according to Capt. Dave Dipre.

“We have at least one local on every boat, plus imported offers to assist them,” he said. “We want this to be a safe season.”

Marine thefts commonly happen in the Florida Keys and thieves may see mini-season as an opportunity to target people who aren’t being careful with their valuables. Boat owners are advised to remove electronics, fishing and diving gear from the boat when unoccupied and store this valuable equipment somewhere secure.

Before, during and just after the two-day season there will be more boats and trailers on the roads, and more traffic in general. Drive carefully: pay attention to those around you, be patient and don’t pass in no-passing zones. Drinking and driving is, of course, illegal; drunk boating is also illegal and marine officers will be watching for this dangerous behavior on the water as well.

— Contributed

Agencies combine forces, and import officers, to enforce the law

3: The carapace of the lobster must be greater than 3 inches to be of legal size.

WHOLE: All recreationally harvested lobster must remain “whole” — don’t separate the tail from the body — while at sea. Also, don’t put them in a dive bag or the boat or the cooler if they are undersized.

0: It is illegal to possess an egg-bearing (pregnant) lobster.

Eggs are orange or brown or red and cover the underside of the tail.

GEAR: Don’t use anything that would puncture, penetrate or crush the lobster exoskeleton.

$5: In addition to a saltwater fishing license ($17 for Florida residents), lobster harvesters must procure the $5 spiny lobster permit.

NO-NO: Lobsters love “casitas” — any man-made, artificial structure — but it is illegal to harvest them from artificial habitats. (Casitas can be made of anything — old appliances, heaps of concrete, etc.)

BIGGER NO-NO: It is a felony to molest, damage or take lobster from traps in state or federal waters.

LIFE OR DEATH: All divers and snorkelers are required to prominently display a diver down flag when people are in the water. Vessel operators must slow to idle speed within 100 yards of a dive flag.

For more information about the sport season in the Florida Keys, visit keyslobsterseason.com.

FLORIDA KEYS NEWS BUREAU/Contributed

22

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

Kathi Merriman, nurse in the hyperbaric medicine department at Mariners Hospital, receives the DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Award for providing compassionate care. CONTRIBUTED

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M

ariners Hospital recently announced that Kathi Merriman, a nurse in the hyperbaric medicine department, was named the recipient of the DAISY award, presented to nurses who demonstrate compassionate patient- and family-centered care.

Merriman was nominated by a co-worker who witnessed the extraordinary care she provides patients, their families and staff members. “She often goes above and beyond to educate patients and provide them with needed resources,” Merriman’s co-worker wrote in the nomination.

“Kathi’s compassion and kindness are infections, and there is no one more deserving of this award,” said Cheryl Cottrell, vice president and chief nursing officer at Mariners Hospital.

“She is a wealth of information and a true team player. You will often see her helping in departments all over the hospital.”

DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System. The nursing recognition program was launched in 1999 in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who died at age 33 of an autoimmune disease. The DAISY Foundation and award were created by his family as an expression of gratitude for the nursing care he received during his illness.

The DAISY Award is presented twice a year at Mariners Hospital, and the recipient is chosen by the hospital’s Professional Development Council.

— Contributed

Coral Shores High School graduate Julie Powers. CONTRIBUTED

Centennial Bank is investing in the future of Keys students. Recently, the bank awarded $1,000 scholarships to three graduating seniors. They include Jonathan Pitchford, Marathon High School; Julie Powers, Coral Shores High School; and Gabriela Zurheide, Key West High School. “Centennial Bank is dedicated to the community and our core values, vision and mission statement include the importance of serving the community in which we work and live,” said Mary Beth Harris, senior business development officer.

— Weekly staff report

23

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

Mangrove Sunset on Summerland Key. JENNIFER CHANDONNET/Contributed

Nothing prettier than a Florida sunset. DAVID BINDER/Contributed

Summer hideout in the lagoon north of Cow Key. CHRIS MOORE/Contributed

All our manatees … 11 swimming up 8th street in KCB! SUSAN MCKEE/Contributed

Bahia Honda State Park is my favorite place to watch a sunset in the Keys.

With its 360-degree panoramic view, you cannot go wrong! Catching the sun dropping in the Rail Bridge gap is an added bonus. JESSE KOBLENTZ/Love & Light Photography

Sunrise over Boot Key Harbor. MARY STELLA/Contributed

TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

I

n JULY, we’re highlighting what SUMMER in the Keys means to you. For AUGUST, we’re going FOOD AND FISHING! Summer in the Keys is famous for stellar fishing and even better seafood. Whether you’re out in the flats or backcountry, trolling for Mahi, or fishing off one of our beautiful bridges, send us pictures of you with your catch. Then, show us your favorite way to prepare it! Spiny lobster season also opens, so send us pix of your wild, caught, or cooked bugs!

We’re getting hungry just thinking about it!

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

Rules, schmules: All photos must be original work and feature something in 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, copy-

right, 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 / JULY 22, 2021

The Carrie Brazer Center for Autism specializes in serving students on the Autism Spectrum and other social and communicative disabilities. CONTRIBUTED

NEW AUTISM SCHOOL SET TO OPEN NEXT MONTH JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

A

new school for students on the autism spectrum is set to open next month in Tavernier.

Enrollment is underway for students at the Carrie Brazer Center for Autism. Classes are set to begin Aug. 30 at the center’s new home, located at the former Ocean Studies Charter School, at MM 92, oceanside.

A full-day private school for 125 students, the Carrie Brazer Center for Autism specializes in serving those on the autism spectrum and other social and communicative disabilities, including Asperger’s Disorder, high functioning autism and nonverbal learning disabilities.

The program consists of cognitive and community-oriented instruction based on positive discipline techniques, as well as the principles of applied behavior analysis.

Carrie Brazer is a Florida-certified special education teacher who founded the Carrie Brazer Center for Autism in 1999. With a master’s degree in varying exceptionalities, Brazer’s school in Miami has served students for 22 years. With a new location in Tavernier, she said, parents won’t need to drive their children to Miami or put them in a special needs class in the Keys. Instead, they can get the services they need in Tavernier.

The Carrie Brazer Center opened an office at 92330 Overseas Highway earlier in the year to provide the community with behavioral therapy, speech therapy, parent training and schooling.

“It’s a wonderful family-centered school,” Brazer said. “Families get to be very involved in their child’s curriculum and planning. It’s another option rather than a public school.”

Brazer said the school can provide one-on-one help as well as speech, occupational and behavior therapy. After-school programming is available, as well as summer and winter camps.

The center accepts the McKay Scholarship and Gardiner Scholarship, and the Family Empowerment Scholarship. The center also accepts most insurance plans to cover the costs of applied behavioral analysis, speech and occupational therapy.

“It really helps the families who are unable to pay typical private school’s tuition,” Brazer said.

The Carrie Brazer Center for Autism’s new school in Tavernier will mostly follow the public school’s calendar, aside from a slightly

The Carrie Brazer Center for Autism is bringing a full-day, private school to Tavernier. CONTRIBUTED

later start to the school year. Brazer said the school has begun to hire teachers and a board-certified behavior analyst. It is still seeking registered behavior technicians, teachers and teacher aides.

“We’re usually a one-to-five teacher-to-students ratio,” Brazer said. “We don’t usually have more than 10 kids in a class with one teacher and one teacher aide.”

Brazer added that the school is set up to support students who are set to come in August. In addition to classrooms, students will get to enjoy a playground that was built by the Miami Dolphins after Hurricane Irma. The facility is also close to the beach and a park.

“The classrooms are very spacious and it gives the kids a lot of room to learn in stations and move throughout the classroom,” Brazer said. “The middle space is going to be a big room full of swings and play equipment for indoor therapy. It’s a really nice facility set up and ready to go.”

With help from the community, the Carrie Brazer Center for Autism will be spruced up in time for the students arrival.

Brazer said they’ll also look to provide transportation throughout the Keys in the future.

“We’re very excited, and I’m so honored to live in the Keys and offer this opportunity,” Brazer said. “I’m already seeing parents come to our center and get excited that there's other alternatives.”

25

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Keys Confections located at 514 Truman Anx, Apt. A, Monroe County in the City of Key West, Florida 33040-7573 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Key West, Florida this 14th day of July, 2021.

By: Natalie L. Hill Publish: July 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Wagadoodle located at 1216 Von Phister Street, Key West, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Debra Pansier Publish: July 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of S G Mobile Marketing located at 8055 Tuna Drive, Marathon, FL 33050 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Selena Gonzalez Publish: July 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Wheatons Towing gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 08/03/2021, 10:00 am at 101500 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037, pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes.

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

1B4HS28Z9YF111583 2000 DODGE 1FTRX17W3YNB14169 2000 FORD 2CNFLCEC3B6280931 2011 CHEVROLET 4T1FA38P07U117537 2007 TOYOTA 5XXGT4L39JG193395 2018 KIA FRI21004F888 1988 FRI JS1GT75A932104456 2003 SUZUKI Publish: July 15 & 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers DISTRICT II ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC II) (From the city limits of Key West to the west end of the Seven Mile Bridge) 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 II 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

LEGAL NOTICES 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 Friday, August 20, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. A resume may be attached to the application.

Publish: July 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers DISTRICT II ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC II) (From the City Limits of Key West to the West End of the Seven Mile Bridge) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL has an opening for a TOURIST RELATED BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVE - Shall be persons involved in business which is interdependent upon the tourist industry who have demonstrated an interest in tourist development but who shall not be employed in any position within the lodging industry (motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks and other tourist accommodations and whose business is in the tax collection district for which they are applying.

Any person wishing to participate on the District II 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 33040-3328 Deadline for receipt of application at the above address is FRIDAY August 20, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. A resume may be attached to the application.

Publish: July 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers DISTRICT III ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC III) (From the west end of the Seven Mile Bridge to the Long Key Bridge) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL has an opening for a TOURIST RELATED BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVE - Shall be persons involved in business which is interdependent upon the tourist industry who have demonstrated an interest in tourist development but who shall not be employed in any position within the lodging industry (motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks and other tourist accommodations and whose business is in the tax collection district for which they are applying).

Any person wishing to participate on the District III 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 Friday, August 20, 2021 5:00 p.m. A resume may be attached to the application.

Publish: July 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICES

District IV Advisory Committee (DAC IV) (Between the Long Key Bridge and mile marker 90.939) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL has a vacancy for an “At Large” representative - Any resident who is not directly involved in a tourism business and who shall represent the general public and shall live or work within the tax collection district for which they are applying (The operative word within this description is directly.

This word means someone who is not in business, nor whose business or economic activity are dependent upon tourists) Any person wishing to participate on the District IV 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 Friday, August 27, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. A resume may be attached to the application.

Publish: July 22, 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 Friday, August 20, 2021 at 5:00pm. A resume may be attached to the application.

Publish: July 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING 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 August 18, 2021 at 9:30 A.M., Key Colony Beach City Hall commission room, to hear a Variance Request from Amy & Steven Dingle owners of 721 & 731 8th Street.

This meeting will be available virtually via Zoom Meetings: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/87240376036 Applicant requests a Variance to

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

Land Development Regulations Section 101 – 12(5) rear setback variance of 15’0”. Current rear setback is 20’0”.

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 Planning & Zoning Board 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 August 18, 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.

Publish: July 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: July 15, 2021.

Personal Representative: Gregg M. Chapman 7707 Gulfstream Blvd.

Marathon, Florida 33050 Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: July 15 & 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

LEONARD E. MONDSCHEIN, ESQ. Florida Bar Number: 189899 The Elder Law Center of Mondschein and Mondschein, P.A. 10691 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 205 Miami, Florida 33176 Telephone: (305) 274-0955 Fax: (305) 596-0832 E-Mail: Lenlaw1@aol.com Secondary E-Mail: Lenlaw1@ bellsouth.net Publish: July 15 & 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

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 Monroe County Clerk of Court, Plantation Satellite Branch, 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 FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is July 15, 2021.

Personal Representative: Jefferson J. Reiter 256 Merton Avenue Glen Ellyn, Illinois 60137 Attorneys for Personal Representative: Neil R. Chrystal, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 578185 Candice J. Palte, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 118840 DUNWODY WHITE & LANDON PA 550 Biltmore Way, Suite 810 Coral Gables, FL 33134 Telephone: (305) 529-1500 Fax: (305) 529-8855 E-Mail: nchrystal@dwl-law.com E-Mail: cpalte@dwl-law.com Secondary e-mail: xnunez@ dwl-law.com khuffman@dwl-law.com Publish: July 15 & 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF VARIANCE HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold a Public Hearing on Thursday, August 26, 2021 at 9:30 A.M., Key Colony Beach City Hall commission room, to hear a Variance Request from Amy & Steven Dingle, owners of 721 & 731 8th St. This meeting will be available virtually via Zoom Meetings: https://us02web. zoom.us/j/85454028959.

Applicant requests a Variance to Land Development Regulations Section 101 – 12(5) rear setback variance of 15’0”. Current rear setback is 20’0”.

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 Thursday August 26, 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.

Publish: July 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-57-M DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF CYNTHIA L. CHAPMAN Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Cynthia L. Chapman, deceased, whose date of death was December 16, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-169-K IN RE: ESTATE OF DOROTHY STRICKLAND BAUER, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of DOROTHY STRICKLAND BAUER, deceased, whose date of death was April 27, 2021 is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons who have 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 the 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) YEAR OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is July 15, 2021.

Personal Representative: APRIL C. LUMPKIN 29680 Flying Cloud Avenue Big Pine Key, Florida 33043 Attorney for Personal Representative:

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-000066-P JUDGE LUIS GARCIA IN RE: ESTATE OF ROLLIN S. REITER, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Estate of Rollin S. Reiter, deceased, whose date of death was January 7, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Monroe County Clerk of Court, Plantation Satellite Branch, 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 FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is July 15, 2021.

Personal Representative: Jefferson J. Reiter 256 Merton Avenue Glen Ellyn, Illinois 60137 Attorneys for Personal Representative: Neil R. Chrystal, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 578185 Candice J. Palte, Attorney Florida Bar Number: 118840 DUNWODY WHITE & LANDON PA 550 Biltmore Way, Suite 810 Coral Gables, FL 33134 Telephone: (305) 529-1500 Fax: (305) 529-8855 E-Mail: nchrystal@dwl-law.com E-Mail: cpalte@dwl-law.com Secondary e-mail: xnunez@ dwl-law.com khuffman@dwl-law.com Publish: July 15 & 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-000067-P JUDGE LUIS GARCIA IN RE: ESTATE OF DORIS R. REITER, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Estate of Doris R. Reiter, deceased,

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-74-P DIVISION: UPPER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF CANDICE LYNN BUNTEN AKA CANDICE LYNN THURMAN Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Candice Lynn Bunten aka Candice Lynn Thurman, deceased, whose date of death was May 4, 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

26

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: July 22, 2021.

Personal Representative: Elizabeth Albrecht Scibilia 106 Bruce Court Marathon, Florida 33050 Attorney for Personal Representative: RICHARD E. WARNER Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: July 22 & 29, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA KEY WEST DIVISION “IN ADMIRALTY” CASE NO. 21-cv-10057-JEM LACROSS MARINA, LLC., D/B/A KEY LARGO HARBOR MARINA, a Florida Limited Liability Company, Plaintiff, vs.

M/V KATE, a 65’ 1970 Aluminum Vessel, bearing USCG Official No. 525928 and Florida Registration DO525928, her engines, tackle, equipment, appurtenances, licenses, etc. in rem, and, her owner, Blue Iguana Charters, in personam, Defendants.

NOTICE OF ACTION IN REM AND ARREST OF VESSEL In accordance with Supplemental Rule C(4) for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Action of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, and Local Admiralty Rule C(4), notice is hereby given of the arrest of the M/V KATE, a 65’ 1970 Aluminum Vessel, bearing USCG Official No # 525928 and Florida Registration DO525928, her engines, tackle, equipment, appurtenances, licenses, etc. in rem. in accordance with a Warrant of Arrest issued on June 16, 2021.

Pursuant to Supplemental Rule C(6) and Local Admiralty Rule C(6) any person having a claim against the vessel and/or property shall file a claim with the Court not later than fourteen (14) days after process

LEGAL NOTICES has been effected and shall file an answer within twenty-one (21) days from the date of filing their claim.

Dated at Miami-Dade County, Florida, on this 16th day of July, 2021.

ROBERT L. GARDANA, P.A. Attorneys for Plaintiff 12350 S.W. 132nd Court, Suite 204 Miami, Florida 33173 T: (305) 358-0000/F: (305) 358-1680 Email: robert@gardanalaw.com staff@gardanalaw.com ROBERT L. GARDANA, ESQ. FL Bar No. 279668 Publish: July 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA KEY WEST DIVISION “IN ADMIRALTY” CASE NO. 21-cv-10059-JLK LACROSS MARINA, LLC., D/B/A KEY LARGO HARBOR MARINA, a Florida Limited Liability Company, Plaintiff, vs.

M/V Unclaimed, a 63’ Sea Ray 1994 Fiberglass Vessel, bearing USCG Official No. 1025018 and Hull ID No. SERY0093J395, her engines, tackle, equipment, appurtenances, etc. in rem, and, her owner, Joseph A Colabella, in personam, Defendants.

NOTICE OF ACTION IN REM AND ARREST OF VESSEL In accordance with Supplemental Rule C(4) for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Action of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, and Local Admiralty Rule C(4), notice is hereby given of the arrest of the M/V UNCLAIMED, a 63’ Sea Ray 1994 Fiberglass Vessel, bearing USCG Official No. 1025018 and Hull ID No. SERY0093J395, her engines, tackle, equipment, appurtenances, etc. in rem. in accordance with a Warrant of Arrest issued on June 15, 2021.

Pursuant to Supplemental Rule C(6) and Local Admiralty Rule C(6) any person having a claim against the vessel and/ or property shall file a claim with the Court not later than fourteen (14) days after process has been effected and shall file an answer within twenty-one (21) days from the date of filing their claim.

Dated at Miami-Dade County, Florida, on this 16th day of July, 2021.

ROBERT L. GARDANA, P.A. Attorneys for Plaintiff 12350 S.W. 132nd Court, Suite 204 Miami, Florida 33173 T: (305) 358-0000/F: (305) 358-1680 Email: robert@gardanalaw.com staff@gardanalaw.com

LEGAL NOTICES ROBERT L. GARDANA, ESQ. FL Bar No. 279668 Publish: July 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FLORIDA FAMILY LAW DIVISION CASE NO.: 21-DR-008215 DIVISION: I IN RE: THE PROPOSED ADOPTION BY STEPPARENT OF: R.W.A.L. DOB: JULY 16, 2009 NOTICE OF ACTION, NOTICE OF PETITION, AND NOTICE OF HEARING TO TERMINATE PARENTAL RIGHTS PENDING ADOPTION TO: CHRISTOPHER DAGGETT Caucasion Male DOB: August, 1969 Current Residence: UNKNOWIN Last Known Address: 1040 Cape May Ave., Cape May, NJ 08204 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Termination of Parental Rights Pursuant to an Adoption has been filed, and you are required to serve a copy of your written response, if any, to it on Mary Greenwood McDermott, Esq., 1038 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, Florida 33511, Petitioner’s attorney, within 30 days after the date of first publication of this notice. You must file our original response with the Clerk of this court, at the address below, either before service on Petitioner’s attorney, or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Petition.

Clerk of the Court 800 E. Twiggs Street Tampa, Florida 33602 NOTICE OF PETITION AND HEARING TO TERMINATE PARENTAL RIGHTS PENDING ADOPTION A petition to terminate parental rights pending adoption has been filed. A copy of the petition is being served with this notice.

There will be a hearing on the petition to terminate parental rights pending adoption which will take place on August 26, 2021, at 3:15 P.M., in front of the Honorable Denise A. Pomponio, Circuit Judge, of the Hillsborough County Courthouse, via ZOOM, https:// zoom.us/j/3704372256 Meeting ID 370 437 2256. The ZOOM App is available for free for IOS and Android devices, and it may also be accessed via desktop computer. No account or fee is required. Please visit ZOOM Help Center at https://support/zoom. us to familiarize yourself with the service. If you are unable to

Meeting Notice Monroe County Land Authority The Monroe County Land Authority Advisory Committee will meet in the Monroe Regional Service Center (State Building) located at 2796 Overseas Highway, Suite 104, Marathon, Florida on July 28, 2021 beginning at 9:00 AM. The agenda is available online at www.monroecounty-fl.gov or by contacting the Monroe County Land Authority office at 305-295-5180.

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

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

BOATS FOR SALE

EMPLOYMENT

use the ZOOM link, to appear telephonically, you may call (301) 715-8592 and enter the ZOOM Meeting ID of 370 437 2256. The Court has set aside fifteen (15) minutes for this hearing.

UNDER SECTION 63.089, FLORIDA STATUTES, FAILURE TO TIMELY FILE A WRITTEN RESPONSE TO THIS NOTICE AND THE PETITION WITH THE COURT AND TO APPEAR AT THIS HEARING CONSTITUTES GROUNDS UPON WHICH THE COURT SHALL END ANY PARENTAL RIGHTS YOU MAY HAVE OR ASSERT REGARDING THE MINOR CHILD. PARA TRADUCCION DE ESTE FORMULARIO AL ESPANOL LLAME A LA OFICINA DE INTERPRETES DE LA CORTE, AL 813-272-5947 DE LUNES A VIERNES DE 3:00 P.M. Y 5:00 P.M. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provisions of certain assistance. Please contact the Clerk of Circuit Court, Circuit Civil Division, Hillsborough County Courthouse, 800 E. Twiggs Street, Tampa, Florida 33602, Telephone No. 813-2768100, within 2 working days of your receipt of this document; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 1-800-955-8771.

WITNESS my hand a seal of said Court on this 6th day of July 2021.

CINDY STUART CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT Hillsborough County, Florida By: Samantha Herrmann Deputy Clerk Publish: July 15, 22 & 29 and August 5, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

County, Florida, together with an undivided share of the common elements of the condominium declared in the Declaration Of Condominium to be appurtenant thereto together with all appurtenances thereto, including without limitation the rights or exclusive use of those areas, spaces or portions of common elements of the Condominium declared in the Declaration Of Condominium to be limited to common elements, with such property having a common address of 15 Mangrove Lane, Key Largo, Monroe County Florida, and bearing Monroe County Florida real property tax identification number 00083740-000115.

Pursuant to FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 17TH day of June 2021 Style of which is: AMERANT BANK N.A., FORMALLY KNOWN AS MERCANTIL BANK, N.A. Plaintiff VS. RAFAEL L. FERNANDEZ, et al.

Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 44-2021-CA77-P WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 2ND day of July, 2021 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming as interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: July 15 & 22, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

12' Aluminum boat w/ 6 hp Nissan motor, 60 lb. thrust electric motor, and trailer. Located in Marathon. $2,000 305-395-1015

The Marathon Yacht Club is looking to hire a Line Cook.

Please call us at 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.

1999 World Cat 27' with twin 175 Suzuki motors.

Runs good. Dual stations.

Located on Duck Key. $40,000 OBO 305-481-1316

Support Worker for group home. Aid residents w/ Meals, Meds, Shopping.

No Exp req. 3 shifts (PT/ FT) $16 + eve or weekend differentials. Westcare.com

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will on the 6TH day of August 2021 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit Number 15 of Lake Surprise, a Condominium, according to the Declaration of Condominium recorded in Official Records Book 1034, Page 596, and all exhibits and amendments thereof, in the Public Records of Monroe

SUDOKU

AUTOS WANTED ALL Junk Cars Running $CASH$

YEARS! or Used.

Vans - Trucksor Not. 305-332-0483

AUTOS FOR SALE 2001 Dodge Grand Caravan Sport, Silver, 90,000 miles, runs great, cold A/C. Located in Marathon. $2,300 OBO 305-417-0871 SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!

Place your Car For Sale ad here. Only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and Sell Your Car!!

SOLUTION

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!

1993 Hewes Redfish 18' - 115 hp - newly rewired Yamaha 2-stroke, Lowrance HDS8 Chart Plotter, Minn Kota remote trolling motor and Trailer. Located in Marathon. $14,000 OBO 970-331-4511 SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!

BOAT MISC FOR SALE Rhodan GPS Anchor trolling motor, 24V, 80lb, 54” shaft, white, Line-X, Model # BW8054LX Brand new in unopened carton. Won at a CCA auction. SELL: $1000 CASH. Located in Key Colony Beach. Phone: 804-731-3070 SOLD IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!!

BOAT SLIP FOR SALE Indoor / Dry Boat Storage Rack / 155 Wind Code The Boat House Marina Condo - Marathon, FL. 36.5L X 12.7W X 16.2H Max Boat Size. Reduced to $199,998 / FSBO/ No Realtors / Avail.

Now. RGC2RGC@yahoo. com (M) 412-848-1272

BUILDING RIGHTS BUILDING RIGHTS WANTED - CITY & COUNTY. No realtors please.

305-240-9882 info@lps-contracting.com

BUSINESS FOR SALE Lobster Business For Sale.

Includes 45' #1, 892TI, 2400 Trap Certificates-$150.00 each, 1300 Traps, 100 5X6 pallets, 2016 Cat 6K Diesel Fork Lift, Live Wells & much more. $450,000 305-289-0792 Leave message if no answer.

Key West - Lead Carpenter Recruiting experienced lead carpenter with ability to read plans and has strengths in all aspects of carpentry especially rough framing, Hardie siding, windows, stairs, trim, cabinetry.

Submit resume to: bshapiro@ elevencbuilders.com C G C - 0 4 0 1 3 8 NOW HIRING TOP PAY & BENEFITS Experienced Electricians & Low Voltage Techs E m a i l : c h e c k @ checkelectricllc.com Call: 305-292-3369 Jill of All Trades hiring PT cleaners Key Largo thru Islamorada.

Great pay + bonus for weekends!

Please message/call Sheri 786.649.9337 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 The Cabana Club, an 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 Charter Captain/Mate Busy fishing charter business in Marathon looking for experienced fishing Captain/Mate. Busy boats and location.

Offshore, Inshore, Reef/Wreck. Also part-time Boat Cleaner needed for afternoons. Send text or call 305-481-3259

EMPLOYMENT The 16th Judicial Circuit is seeking licensed substance abuse professionals/ practitioners to provide outpatient clinical and support services on a contractual basis to clients admitted into the Circuit’s three (3) drug courts - Adult Diversion Court, Family Treatment Court, and Juvenile Diversion Court in each geographic region/ courthouse location in Monroe County, specifically Key West, Marathon, and Plantation Key. For further inquiries, please visit keyscourts.net or contact Duane Triplett at duane.triplett@keyscourts. net/(305)292-3549.

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.

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 305-289-2070 or email resume to neil@allkeysdiesel. com . Drug Free and valid Drivers License a must.

27

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • EMPLOYMENT

OFFICE SPACE

YARD SALES

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.

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

ESTATE SALE: 271 8th Street, Key Colony Beach | Fri., July 23 & Sat., July 24, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. both days DECORATOR’S TROPICAL DELIGHT: Complete bedroom sets, twin and king, in the Tommy Bahama, tropical style including brand-name mattresses.

Art: on canvas, on wood and metal wall hangings.

Sconces, baskets, candles and candle holders, serving platters, vases and unique water buffalo horn carvings.

High-quality bedding.

Two Conch cruiser bikes, patio set & two rocking chairs.

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

RV FOR SALE 38'6" 2016 Wildwood Lodge FVWW RV Unit located in Bluefin RV Park in Key Largo. 2 Bedroom. $39,500 8 6 3 - 6 6 0 - 9 0 6 5

YARD SALES

OPEN POSITIONS AT BAPTIST HEALTH SOUTH FLORIDA

I

in Marathon

full -time Educational Program Guide /Gift Shop Sales. Public speaking & retail sales experience helpful. 4 Send resume to: Turtlehospitalmarathon@gmail.com

HOBBIES/COLLECT. BASEBALL AND SPORTS MEMORABILIA WANTED. Private collector buying sports cards, old programs, pennants, autographs, photographs, ticket stubs, bobbin’ head dolls, etc.

Call thru August 6thAlan 503-481-0719

CES KEY WEST & MARATHON

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

Call 305-743-4578

Warehouse / Driver Counter Sales Branch and Operation Managers

HOMES FOR SALE

To apply please contact us or email resume to:

FOR SALE: 1BR Mobile Home on canal in Marathon.

Newly remodeled, on 50' X 75' lot, raised out of flood zone.

Has tiki hut and covered car port. $525,000 NO Realtors.

Call Norman 305-393-3439

305.743.0844

• Environmental Tech (Housekeeping) $2K-$5K Sign-On Bonus • First Cook, $2K Sign-On Bonus • Fitness Center Manager • Floor Technician, Environmental Services $5K Sign-On Bonus • Food Service Worker, $5K Sign-On Bonus • Line Cook • Mechanic • Medical Staff Asst, $2K Sign-On Bonus

Is hiring for all FULL-TIME positions:

NOW HIRING:

CES Key West Ph. (305) 783-5135 Em. Keywest0628@Cityelectricsupply.Com

Hosts Waitstaff Bartenders Bar Backs Bussers Line Cooks Dishwashers

CES Marathon Ph. (786) 652-2542 Em. Marathon0542@Cityelectricsupply.Com

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

with Electrical/Distribution Experience

• Patient Experience Advocate • Pharmacy Technician • Phlebotomist, $2K Sign-On Bonus • Physical Therapist • Pool Physical Therapist • Security Officer Apply and learn more: careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507

HOUSING FOR RENT Lower Sugarloaf - 2BR/2BA w/den stilt home w/dock on oceanside, paved parking under home, open living room- dining-kitchen w/ vaulted ceiling and tile floors.

Access to large balcony.

W/D No Pets. $3500/mo + util. F/L/S 305-747-1700 1 Person Small Efficiency for rent in Key Largo.

No Pets. First/Last $850/ month includes water & electric.

954-214-4970

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

Shell World Key Largo, seeking engaging, dependable, experienced person(s) to work with the team at Mile Marker 97.5, Full-time and part-time opportunities available, some weekend and evening hours. Opportunities for advancement, great benefits, competitive salary and flexible hours.

Please stop by and fill out application or Fax resume to 305-852-9639.

NOW HIRING:

F/T and P/T Bartenders & Servers for BlueWaters Pool Bar and Wedding Event Bartenders $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

Our award winning resort is

currently hiring for the following hourly positions:

FRONT DESK SUPERVISOR

Previous hotel experience required.

EVENING MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR 3 pm – 11 pm

MISC. FOR SALE Gently used major appliances from renovated condos in Key West.

Dishwashers, Stoves/Ovens, Microwaves, Sinks/Faucets, Garbage Disposals, and more. Prices starting at $25.

3 0 5 - 7 4 7 - 1 7 0 0

OFFICE SPACE Beautiful Office Space available for rent now on US1 in Tavernier @MM92.

Call 305-394-0530

ROOM ATTENDANTS

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: Houseman OR Housekeeper Great pay, benefits and tips!

Stop in to fill out an application at: Alexander's Guesthouse 1118 Fleming Street, Key West 10am-7pm

$500 Bonus after 90 days.

Great Pay, Health & Travel Benefits.

Apply in person at:

Courtyard Marriott Marathon, 2146 Overseas Hwy, Marathon FL 33050 or email resume to jtyson@shanercorp.com • 305-289-2100

28

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

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

Absolute Auction NEW & USED RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT Tuesday July 27th @ 11AM

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS NEEDED! Monroe County School District

Part time & Full time Opportunities!

2171 N Dixie Hwy., Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Preview begins @ 9AM morning of sale Glass Door Coolers, Alto-Shaam Cook & Hold, Alto-Shaam Combi Oven, Neico Broiler, South Bend Dbl Stack Convection Oven, Griddles, Pizza Prep Tables, Sandwich Prep Tables, NEW Turbo Air 3 Door S/S Cooler, NEW S/S Coolers & Freezers, Hobart U/C Dishwasher, Fagor U/C Dishwasher, Mug Chiller, NEW 96” Keg Cooler, Slicers, Back Bars, 6 Burner w/ Dbl Oven & 24” Raised Griddle, Imperial 10 Burner Range w/ Dbl Oven, 24” Griddle”, Fryers, 36” S/C Deli Case, U/C Coolers, Oliver Bagel Slicer, Dbl Convection Steamer, Small Wares, China, Misc. Utensils & MORE...

Bid Online @ Proxibid.Com/TobyNeverett

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

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

JOURNEYMAN ELECTRICIAN Location: Middle Keys – Lower Keys

Join the winning Technical Services Dept team at the FKAA for future growth opportunities and an excellent working environment

MUST HAVE an active Journeyman Electrician License. Duties: Install, inspect, test, repair, and maintain all new and existing generators, motors, transformers, motor controllers, and associated equipment throughout our system, with base location in the middle keys. Minimum qualifications: Journeyman’s License, emphasis on electronics, industrial electrical, pneumatics, controls, building automation, fire alarm and HVAC systems, load calculations, conduit requirements, thorough knowledge of NEC requirements, minimum 6 yrs experience.

Must be able to operate and use computers with various software applications, including Microsoft Office Suite. Must have a valid Florida driver’s license. Must be able to communicate and comprehend the English language. $55,876. - $88,506. DOQ

40 hours per week • $27.00 per hour Monroe County BOCC is seeking an applicant with a dynamic personality and who is quick to adapt, a competent multi-tasker, and can communicate effectively for a new temporary position. Primary function is to assist marine captains with pump-out services for anchored vessels. Qualifications: Florida driver’s license, fluent in English (Spanish fluency helpful), and 1 to 2 years boating experience (USCG Captain’s License helpful). Must be able to swim. To apply, please contact Monroe County HR at: Careers@monroecounty-fl.gov. APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE AT: WWW.MONROECOUNTY-FL.GOV. 305-292-4557. Veteran’s Preference Available; E.O.E

Bell Staff-Relief Concierge Engineer General Maintenance

Valet Parking Attendant Front Desk Agent Housekeeping Room Attendant Laundry Attendant Line Cooks Food Runner/Barback Sunset Pier Server Reservations Agent Relief Night Security LMT, Nail Tech, Esthetician Sign on Bonus Offered!

Apply online at: www.noblehousehotels.com/careers Apply in person at: Zero Duval St.

On-line app: http://www.fkaa.com/employment.htm Deadline: Open until filled. EEO, VPE, ADA

TEMPORARY MARINE PUMPOUT WORKER  KEY WEST

Pool Bartender

Great pay, amazing benefits, & an awesome team!

Ocean Key Resort and Spa is EOE.

CoCo’s General Store

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

Must be available on weekends.

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

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

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

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

Busy Key Largo Dive Center has immediate openings for

BOAT CAPTAINS $1,500 SIGNING BONUS

PT CASHIER PT DOCKHAND

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

Apply in person Pancho’s Fuel

Send resume to resumes@rainbowreef.com

1280 Oceanview Avenue, Marathon

305-743-2281

29

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

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

NOW HIRING Restaurant Host Servers Bartender Food Runner

TOUR GUIDES NEEDED

Restaurant General Managers

BE A PART OF KEYS HISTORY

BOGIE & BACALL'S SEA SENOR

KITCHEN TEAM Pastry Chef Chief Steward Overnight Cook Fine Dining Chef Restaurant Chef

HOUSEKEEPING TEAM

Day & Overnight Houseman Room Attendant Public Area Attendant AM & PM Supervisors

OPERATIONS TEAM

Bellman Watersports Reservations/Front Desk Agents AM & PM Shifts Available Apply At: www.bungalowskeylargo.com/ careers

Pigeon Key Foundation seeks part time historic tour guide. Upbeat, friendly and confident professional with ability to multi task and work outdoors in all seasons. Pigeon Key is a drug free work place. Please complete application at pigeonkey.net or email chris@pigeonkey.net.

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

Dolphin Research Center is Hiring!

IT Technical Specialist (Part Time, Permanent)

Accounting Manager (Full-Time/Permanent)

Visual Communications Staff (Full-Time/Permanent)

Human Resources Assistant (Part-Time/Permanent)

Guest Services Staff

(Full-Time/Part-Time, Temporary/Permanent)

Benefits include medical, life & disability insurance, 401(k) plan, paid vacation, sick time & holidays.

Full job descriptions available at

www.dolphins.org/career_opportunities

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

Bungalows Key Largo is an EOE The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING! KEY LARGO

Substance Abuse Counselor (PT)

KEY WEST

Prevention Specialist Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) Peer Support Specialist Crisis Counselor Case Managers (Adult, Forensic, Children ) Motivational Support Specialist Substance Abuse Counselor Behavioral Health Counselor Engagement Specialist (Suicide Prevention)

MARATHON Admissions Specialist

Care Coordinator Maintenance Specialist Housekeeper Engagement Specialist (Suicide Prevention) Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) RNs and LPNs (3 shifts) (PT/FT & per diem) Advocate (PT) *Assisted Living Night Monitor (FREE HOUSING!) *Assisted Living Support 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.

COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL 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.

30

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 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

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

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

OUT DOOR LIVING SPACES

Key West 305-292-2666

CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE

When it comes to solar and power storage for your home in the Florida Keys, turn to the Florida Keys Local Experts at SALT Energy.

A division of SALT Service, serving The Keys since 1989

305-289-1150

SP3102

Florida Solar Contractor CVC 56734 Florida Electrical Contractor EC13008657

MARATHON

305-743-0506

KEY LARGO

305-852-5356

rainsavergutters@gmail.com

SOLAR DONE RIGHT!

FREE ESTIMATES | WILL NOT BE UNDERBID

305.896.3599

When It Rains It Pours!

GENERAL CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS

SPALLING EXPERTS

Proud member of:

INTERNATIONAL

CONCRETE REPAIR INSTITUTE

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

Tewes ewes Mortgage

Your local, residential lending expert!

Call 305.495.6000 for a FREE Consultation

Brian Tewes

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

NMLS# 375025 Tewes Mortgage NMLS# 1453791 NMLSConsumerAccess.org

www.TewesMortgage.com

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.

305-743-7454

fkes2011@gmail.com floridakeysexpressshuttle.com

305-481-3259

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

Key Largo, FL 33037

24/7 Certified Caregiver Provided

Oceansideseniorcarekeys@gmail.com 305-930-0194

Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here

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

Oceanside Senior Care BEATRIZ MORENO OWNER

TLC Interiors & Exteriors, Inc. 305.803.5220 | tlcdesignfl@gmail.com tlcdesignstudio.net

Lic#SP-3562

The Weekly Newspapers www.KeysWeekly.com

305-743-0844

We Do Installations!

Licensed & Insured

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

289-3019

31

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 22, 2021

1

CHAMPIONS

2

3

4

BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly For more game photos visit ShadyPalmPhotography.com 1. Upper Keys Little League team is crowned tournament champs after beating Marathon.

2. Upper Keys Little League center fielder Aaron Lykins, left, and Marathon shortstop Jack Chapman look to the umpire for the call at second.

Upper Keys team wins baseball tournament

A

baseball tournament and skills competition in Key West on July 17 brought the best out of players throughout the island chain.

Teams from the Upper Keys, Marathon and Key West took to the diamond for a series of games. The Upper Keys faced off against Marathon in the championship game, having given up the fewest runs in their two prior games. Coached by Rob Paul and Bryan O’Berry, the Upper Keys Little League team came home with the tournament trophy. The Upper Keys team defeated Marathon in game one, while Key West defeated the Upper Keys in game two. Marathon defeated Key West in game three. Paul said the players practiced hard ahead of the tournament. “Even with the initial loss to Key West in the middle of the tournament, they held their composure and moved forward and won the final round,” he said.

O’Berry said many players have played in recreational leagues since March. “These kids have been practicing every single day,” he said. ­— Weekly Staff report

MIKE FORSTER

UNITED WAY OF COLLIER AND THE KEYS

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3. Upper Keys Little League shortstop Adrian Mesa slides in safely at home under the nose of Marathon catcher Micah Saunders.

4. Marathon’s Jack Chapman rounds the bases on a home run.

5. The Upper Keys Little League team celebrates a home run.

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