Keys West Weekly 21-0812

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August 12, 2021

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WE SPECIALIZE IN BACK TO SCHOOL SMILES EVEN IF YOUR SMILES ARE VIRTUAL THIS YEAR From left to right: Dr. Hector Guzman D.D.S, Dr. David McDonald D.M.D Dr. Natalia Vazquez-Marrero D.M.D and Dr. Oscar Rodriguez D.M.D

2758 N. Roosevelt Blvd. (in the Overseas Market) • Key West • Phone 305.294.9914 Fax 305.295.9691 • doc@docguzman.com • www.docguzman.com

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Florida lawmakers set aside about $208 million in CARES Act funding to distribute one-time relief payments of up to $1,000 to over 193,000 first responders. Payments will go to more than 49,000 sworn law enforcement officers, 40,000 EMTs, 35,000 firefighters and 33,000 paramedics across the state, as a show of appreciation of their sacrifices throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

‘HEATED ISSUE? AN UNDERSTATEMENT’

School board votes unanimously to mandate masks; parents may opt out

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Cudjoe Key resident Cindy Dreson was one of many impassioned speakers at the Aug. 10 school board meeting. Dreson strongly opposed the mask mandate, claiming, ‘More people die on U.S. 1 every year than will ever die of COVID.’ CONTRIBUTED

CHARLOTTE TWINE charlotte@keysweekly.com

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ignaling the long discussion about masking in schools that was to come in the Aug. 10 board meeting in Marathon, Monroe County Schools Superintendent Theresa Axford opened with, “To say this is a heated issue throughout the state is an understatement.” Axford also said she had participated in a conference call the previous day with other Florida superintendents and Gov. Ron DeSantis, who has prohibited mask mandates in Florida schools.

During the mask discussion, at least a half-dozen emotional public speakers expressed their opinions — both pro and con — about a

mask mandate, then board members explained their own thoughts and concerns before they voted.

In the end, the board unanimously approved a mask mandate for anyone on school property — but included an opt-out option for parents who sign an official document acknowledging that their decision is in direct opposition to the strong recommendations of the school board and health department. The school district’s attorneys were drafting the document on Wednesday following a meeting between Axford and the local teachers union.

At the start of the meeting, Bob Eadie, administrator and top health officer for the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County, shared his thoughts about protecting children from COVID.

ON THE COVER Monroe County schools start Thursday, Aug. 12. Read the latest on in-school mask requirements below.

“Fortunately, we are now able to vaccinate 12-year-olds and up.

Any recommendation I have is for all of us to push for vaccinations as far as we can,” said Eadie. “For the last 10 days, we’ve had 575 positive cases of COVID recorded for Monroe County. Eighty-four of those were 18 and under, which is 14.5%. And if we go back to January, we only had 9.2% that were positive under 18 years old.”

Eadie also pointed out the breakdown geographically of the positive cases over the past 10 days: 53% were in the Upper Keys, 14% were in the Middle Keys, and 33% in the Lower Keys. This marks a shift from the early days of the pandemic, when Key West typically saw the highest percentage of cases.

Eadie recommended vaccinations for everyone 12 and older, but also suggested that all students, teachers and staff wear masks on school property, but with the provision that parents can opt out. He said he wouldn’t recommend getting into a confrontation with parents over masking.

“I think it’s counterproductive,” Eadie said. “Just acknowledge the world as it is. You can’t mandate masks.”

A group of public speakers expressed their opinion both by phone and in person about a mask mandate.

Key Largo’s Herve Pullar is a clinical laboratory scientist in Monroe County who performs antigen tests for COVID, and he has seen an increase in positive test results for children. He also has a 5-year-old daughter in the school system.

“I’m urging the board to mandate masks for the school year,” he said. “The Delta strain is much more virulent and infectious” than the strain from last year.

Parent Melissa Ptomey said, “Parents want to be able to feel like their kids can be kids again, not be prisoners in their own schools. …

These young children are learning that their fellow humans can’t be trusted.”

Nick Rodriguez of Key Largo is a parent of two Monroe County students and a husband of a Monroe County teacher. He said he supports

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a mask mandate. “Today is the day for the school board to decide for the safety of students and side with science,” he said.

Cudjoe Key resident Cindy Dreson said passionately, “I was more than a little upset about Bob (Eadie) advising to have the children vaccinated and wear masks. For one thing, this is an experimental vaccine. We don’t know what the outcome is in seven or eight years. We don’t know if these kids will end up sterilized. … More people die on U.S. 1 every year than will ever die of COVID.” (Editor’s note: Twelve people died in Monroe County crashes in 2020, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The final 2020 report by the local health department, issued on Dec. 30, 2020, showed 35 deaths from COVID. More than 600,000 people in the U.S. and 4.3 million worldwide have died of COVID, according to the World Health Organization.)

“I’ve seen more COVID cases in children than in the entire first year of the pandemic,” proclaimed pediatrician Stan Zuba. “I urge you to go against this governor. Take a stand.

Call his bluff and mandate masks unless there’s a medical reason.”

In the end, the decision came down to the four school board members who were present: John Dick, Bobby Highsmith, Sue Woltanski and Andy Griffiths (Mindy Conn was absent).

Woltanski said, “I think my perspective is different because I’m a pediatrician and my husband works in the emergency room. … It’s disappointing to me we don’t have a robust virtual option for parents this year.”

“I am disappointed to see national political type issues drawn into this discussion,” said Highsmith. “A lot of the tenor of emails I’ve received said, ‘If you don’t agree with me, it’s politics.’ I’ve studied, and I looked for science and data. … COVID is here. It’s not going anywhere.”

As the members started to agree on a mask mandate with an opt-out for parents, Griffiths pushed for a limited liability

waiver that should be signed.

“At least they’ll read some facts and information before opting out,” he said. “There may be a small group that may make a different decision.”

Woltanski said she was concerned that an opportunity for stronger messaging has been missed, as students have already met their teachers for the new year and were not advised by the district to wear masks.

“The horse has left the barn,” she said, adding that signs on school doors only said masks were optional.

Dick responded, “I think the horse that got out of the barn is called freedom.”

With their unanimous vote to support a mask mandate for students, teachers and staff on school property, as well as a signed disclaimer from parents who want to opt out, Axford said the district would have to act fast to spread the news before school starts on Thursday, Aug. 12.

On Aug. 11, Axford released a statement that included the following: “...effective immediately, facial coverings will be required for everyone inside Monroe County schools and on buses for the next two weeks. The status of the virus will be reexamined on Aug. 24 and every school board meeting thereafter. Parents and guardians may choose to opt-out of this requirement. To do so, they can visit the district webpage and fill out the opt out form, which is on the Covid Resources page. District staff must wear a facial covering indoors and on district transportation with no option of opting out.

“Visitors will not be allowed on district property for the first two weeks of school unless otherwise coordinated through school administration.

“We will continue to work closely with the medical community to monitor the level of infection in our county. We will revisit this issue at each school board meeting and may make changes as the situation requires it.”

SCHOOL SAFETY

SHERIFF’S OFFICE ISSUES BACK-TO-SCHOOL REMINDERS

Monroe County Sheriff’s Office School Resource Officer staff and members of the Road Patrol and Training Division as well as Key West Police Department members recently completed Single Officer Response to Active Threat and Shooter Incidents taught by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. CONTRIBUTED

T

he Monroe County Sheriff’s Office will be out in force this week with safety in mind as children return to

school.

Sheriff’s Office deputies will patrol school zones in the county to make sure drivers realize school is back in session. Road Patrol deputies will also be spending any free time they have concentrating on areas surrounding schools and school bus stops and they will be writing tickets to anyone not obeying the speed limits in school zones or those illegally passing school buses.

“We have a no-tolerance policy for people who choose to speed in school zones, and for those who illegally pass school buses,” said Sheriff Rick Ramsay. “We will be out in force beginning next week in both marked and unmarked cars watching for violators.”

Drivers should make an extra effort to watch out for students, who may not be paying attention to traffic, especially around residential neighborhoods, areas with bus stops, and around schools themselves.

The sheriff’s office suggests drivers take a look at their driving habits and review the rules of the road. Florida law prohibits passing a school bus in either direction when it is stopped with red lights flashing. Drivers must also remember to observe the posted speed limit in school zones. The sheriff’s office also suggests adjusting driving schedules to accommodate the resumption of school traffic.

“Our School Resource Officer staff recently underwent additional

training with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement,” said Sheriff Ramsay. “That underscores a very important part of my philosophy: To keep as highly trained staff as I can who are up to speed with the latest in law enforcement applications and knowledge — especially when it comes to school safety.”

Children and parents should also remember: If a child rides a bicycle to school, Florida law requires anyone under the age of 16 to wear a helmet. A violation of this requirement can result in a $25 fine.

Here are some child safety tips for parents to keep in mind: • If your child is walking to or from school, walk the route with them beforehand. Choose the most direct way, and be sure the route has sufficient sidewalks, lighting and crossing guards. If a crossing guard is absent, be sure your child knows when it is safe to cross the street.

• Make sure your child walks to and from school with other trusted schoolmates and follows the tried and true axiom, “Never talk to strangers.”

• Teach your kids to obey all traffic signals when walking or biking to school.

• When biking, be sure your child has a helmet.

• When waiting for the school bus, always stand on the sidewalk, away from the road. Always remain seated while on the bus.

• Be sure your child knows a phone number where you can be reached in case of an emergency.

— Contributed

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MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

TURNING THE PAGE

RETIRED NFL PLAYER GIVES BACK-TO-SCHOOL PEP TALK FOR TEACHERS IN THE KEYS

“B

e the coffee beans.” It was an odd but effective message to come from a former New England Patriots wide receiver. But then again, Malcolm Mitchell’s career trajectory has also been odd, but extremely effective.

Mitchell spoke Monday at a back-to-school rally for Monroe County School District teachers, staff and members of the high school football teams. He was at Key West High School early Monday morning and at Coral Shores in the afternoon.

Having excelled at sports, particularly football, while growing up with a single mom and two siblings, Mitchell and his family moved in with his grandmother in Valdosta, Georgia.

“Before we moved to Valdosta, Georgia, I lived in Tampa, Florida,” Mitchell told the packed auditorium. “My mom had gotten divorced and we were a little lost, with nowhere to go, staying in friends’ homes and on couches. Then my grandmother saved us. She invited us to live with her in Valdosta. When I was 15, my grandmother told me she’d be around long enough to see my dreams come true.

“In 2016, I was drafted by the New England Patriots. She died a month later. And today’s her birthday,” Mitchell said, pausing for a prayer for his grandmother.

But back to being the coffee beans.

Mitchell told a story his mother had told him when he was a kid: A little boy gets home from school very sad and upset. His mom sits him at the kitchen table and starts three pots of water boiling on the stove.

She places a carrot in one, an egg in the next and a handful of coffee beans in the third.

After boiling for several minutes, the mother removed each pot from the stove.

Former New England Patriots wide receiver Malcolm Mitchell, who now writes children’s books and sponsors a literacy foundation, speaks to Lower Keys teachers on Aug. 9 at Key West High School. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

“When facing adversity and obstacles and discomfort — such as boiling water — the carrot yields and becomes soft. The egg becomes hard inside and out. But the adversity didn’t change the coffee beans. Indeed, the beans changed their adverse surroundings.

“Be the coffee beans. Change the situation around you,” was Mitchell’s message.

Mitchell revealed that when he had started college at University of Georgia, where he also played football, and showed up at his first English class, “I could only read at a junior high level.

I couldn’t read nearly as well as the girl reading aloud in class. And the competitor in me wasn’t going to let that happen.”

Mitchell joined a monthly book club after meeting a woman in Barnes & Noble. He was the only man and the youngest in the group by a generation.

But that’s when Mitchell realized that reading had the power to change lives.

“I was called a nerd for the first time in my life, and it was a badge of honor for me,” he told the Key West High School audience. “When I was

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growing up, reading was for straight-A students.

Reading was for people who wore glasses. I didn’t realize its universal power for everyone. I still watch every movie with subtitles to continue reading. For me, reading broke down all the barriers that my statistics had predicted: Disadvantaged, African-American boy, from a single-mother home, no access to my father. But by learning to read, those statistics are no longer relevant.”

When knee injuries forced him to retire from the NFL after a stellar 2016 season and a 2017 Super Bowl win over the Atlanta Falcons, Mitchell found his true calling.

He wrote a culturally relevant children’s book, “The Magician’s Hat,” and created the Read With Malcolm literacy program and Share the Magic Foundation.

“Share the Magic Foundation’s mission is to unlock the potential of young lives through literacy,” says the foundation’s website. “By introducing book ownership to students in households where reading is not a priority and inspiring below gradelevel readings through innovative and inclusive literacy programming, students at risk of academic failure are empowered to read to a better future.”

Read With Malcolm and its national sponsors provide free books to kids, as well as in-school lessons and virtual reading challenges.

Since its inception, the foundation has served more than 293,000 students.

At the end of his speech, Mitchell answered questions and told a requisite Tom Brady story: “Our lockers were right next to each other, which was intentional since I was the new guy,” Mitchell said. “One day I was complaining about my neck hurting, and Tom asked me, ‘What kind of pillow do you use?’

“I shrugged and told him, ‘Whatever’s on the bed.’ I certainly had never been pillow-shopping at Bed, Bath & Beyond. But the next day, Tom handed me a fancy, new, extra-long, bamboo pillow. I still have it. Now it’s flat and is looking beat up, and my girlfriend said I needed to get rid of that pillow. I told her, ‘No way, never. That’s my Tom Brady pillow.’”

Before he left the stage, Mitchell reminded every teacher in the room, “We’re going to have to choose every day to be the coffee beans. And you all have the power to completely change the trajectory of a child’s life. And I’d like to help you do it.”

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

The Monroe County Tourist Development Council has funding available to governmental entities and non-profit organizations for capital projects within DAC’s II, IV and V. The facility must have the primary purpose of promoting tourism and must fall into one of the following categories: Convention Center, Sports Stadium, Sports Arena, Coliseum, Auditorium, Aquarium, Museum, Zoological Park, Nature Center, Fishing Pier, Beach or Beach Park Facility, Channel, Estuary or Lagoon, Public Facilities in Accordance with Conditions Set Forth in the Florida Statute The deadline for receipt of applications is September 21, 2021 and applications must be downloaded from Demandstar (www.monroecountybids.com) For more information please call the TDC Administrative office at 305-296-1552 and ask to speak with Ammie or Maxine.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

COVID CASES ON THE RISE Local doctor’s office flooded with patients

N

ew COVID-19 cases increased for a fifth straight week in Florida. In the Keys, hospitalizations are going up while local doctors’ offices see more positive tests.

Monroe County’s top health officer, Bob Eadie, told Keys officials during an Aug. 11 emergency management call that 101 new positive cases were reported in Monroe County. Of those, 20 were minors.

“We’re seeing more out-of-county residents who are ill,” he said.

Data from the Florida Health Department showed 134,506 new COVID-19 cases in the state from July 30 to Aug. 5. That’s up from just over 110,400 positive cases the week prior and 15,998 positive COVID-19 cases reported between June 25 to July 2.

Of the total number of new cases, around 44,700 are Florida residents between 30 and 49 years of age. Those ages 20 to 29 account for 23,946 of positive cases, while 13,858 are among those ages 12-19. Around 13,500 new positive cases of COVID-19 were reported in kids 12 and under.

Dr. Stan Zuba’s pediatrician office continues to see a flow of patients — 180 in the past two weeks.

“We’re all tired,” Zuba said as he read a positive COVID-19 test on a 17-year-old girl.

“We’re clearly seeing more children and positive tests.”

Monroe County reported 388 new cases in the week spanning from July 30 to Aug. 5.

That’s an average of 55 new cases a day. The week before saw 249 new positive cases, or about 35 new daily cases, in the county.

Data by the Centers for Disease Control showed no COVID-related deaths between July 25 and Aug. 9.

As of Aug. 10, Baptist Health South Florida said 844 COVID-19 patients were being treated across its system , which covers from Miami to the Keys. Eleven COVID-19 patients were being treated at Mariners Hospital. Eadie said Mariners Hospital isn’t able to send patients to its affiliated hospitals in Miami-Dade County at this time.

Lower Keys Medical Center census counts are fluid with patients being admitted and discharged throughout the day. As of Aug. 10, 13 inpatients were COVID-19 positive.

Health care workers at a drive-through COVID-19 testing event at Founders Park in August 2020.

WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

“One thing that helps is a high dose of ste“At this time, while the hospital is busy roids for 10 days with oxygen supplementation,” with a mix of patient conditions, we have he said. “People are going home and getting sufficient staffing, supplies and equipment,” better. We don’t know why, but it works and said Lynn Corbett-Winn, LKMC marketing helps.” director.

Current vaccines appear to be helping, but Intensive care units in the Keys had five Morrison said there’s no one thing in the hispatients being treated, as of Aug. 11. tory of medicine that treats a disease. Morrison Even with soaring new case numbers, said treatments offered by some clinics include Zuba said the total count is probably signifiIvermectin, which treats parasitic worms, and cantly lower than the actual amount, due to hydroxychloroquine. at-home testing. He said those tests aren’t “It’s an important thing to say that the vacnecessarily reported by people to the health department and Centers for Disease Control. cine does seem to work in the sense that people are not sick as long, but it does not protect the Those who test positive with an over-councommunity. It protects you,” he ter, home test are asked said. to contact their health The Florida Health Decare provider for guidpartment said those who feel ance and seek additional “People who don’t sick should isolate and seek a testing with a doctor’s mask and aren’t COVID-19 test. But those tests office. vaccinated are are getting hard to find, as Zuba said there are some local CVS and Walgreens also instances where putting my life and pharmacies have acknowledged parents have called acothers at risk.” that they’ve been running out. knowledging they tested — Dr. Stan Zuba Urgent cares from Key West to positive, and that means Key Largo, Rural Health Netchildren should be quarwork and Community Health antining.

South Florida (CHI) are offering “They can’t start tests. The local health department has develschool,” he said. “I have serious doubts they oped a list of COVID-19 testing locations. Eadie will quarantine. That’s what is happening in said the department is also working to bring the state.” back Curative vans for testing in Islamorada and A little over 920 county residents were vaccinated from July 30 to Aug. 5. That brings the Lower Keys.

Those testing positive should isolate for 10 the number of vaccinated residents in the days from when symptoms began, the Florida Keys to 49,387, roughly 72% of the populaHealth Department says. People who’ve been tion. in close contact with someone with COVID-19 “We’ve got to push vaccinations more should also quarantine 10 days from last close and more because that’s the way we get out contact. of this. There’s nothing else to say,” Eadie Zuba said the most important thing people said. can do at this time is “wear a mask.” Several resPast COVID-19 infections have seen taurant workers and store employees have gone symptoms that include headache, loss of back to wearing masks. smell and taste and fatigue. With the latest “Freedom of choice should not put my life strain, Dr. Tom Morrison said, aches and or anybody’s health at risk,” he said. “People pains, significant fever and pulmonary comwho don’t mask and aren’t vaccinated are putplications are among the ailments. ting my life and others at risk.”

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TROPICAL STORM FRED FORMS

BRIEFLY

Keys to see rain Friday evening JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

E

xpect heavy rains and some possible tropical stormforce winds in the Keys this weekend.

Tropical Storm Fred approached the Dominican Republic on Wednesday morning, as Keys officials gathered for a storm call via Zoom. Fred was expected to weaken to a tropical depression on Aug. 11 as the core passed through Hispaniola, said Jon Rizzo, warning coordination meteorologist with the National Weather Service out of Key West. There’s uncertainty, however, over the storm’s organization after it emerges to the northwest of Haiti.

Rizzo expressed confidence that the storm will likely approach Florida as a weaker tropical storm or a tropical depression. Heavy weather impacts will be felt in the Keys beginning Friday evening. Conditions could mirror those witnessed in Key West with Tropical Storm Elsa, Rizzo said.

“One signal we are getting in the models is that this could be a heavy rainfall producer. We do have the potential for street and poor-drainage-area flooding,” he said. “A lot of times with these weaker storms, a lot of that intense rainfall comes in rain bands.”

Rizzo said there’s been very little adjustment to the storm’s track, which shows it traveling through the Straits of Florida and to the Gulf of Mexico. Rizzo said there’s a chance the storm will stay north of Cuba, meaning interaction with land in the next few days may not be as high as forecasters thought when it was a disturbance.

There’s currently a 20% chance for tropical storm-force winds for the Lower Keys. Rizzo said the Keys could get 6 to 8 inches of rain Friday evening through Sunday.

“As the storm moves into the Gulf of Mexico, it kind of turns more northwest and north. And sometimes we get stuck, just like we did with Elsa, with that tailing squall,” Rizzo said. “Wherever that sets up is going to get several more inches of rain than that.”

Tropical storm-force winds could be seen in the Florida Keys on Friday evening. NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER/Contributed

SHERIFF’S OFFICE HANDS OUT QUARTERLY AWARDS TO STAFF The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office held its quarterly employee awards ceremony in Marathon on Aug. 6.

Employees were recognized for five, 10, 15, 20 and 30 years of service to the agency. Sheriff Rick Ramsay also recognized his Employees of the Second Quarter, 2021. The employees received this award for exemplary and outstanding service to the agency and to the citizens of Monroe County. Pictured are Robbie Valenzuela, reserve deputy of the quarter, left; Edwin Sabillon, detention deputy of the quarter; Ramsay; Sgt. Paul Bean, deputy sheriff of the quarter; and Mary Cohen, support member of the quarter. MCSO/ Contributed UNDERWATER MUSIC FESTIVAL SPOTLIGHTS REEF PROTECTION A one-of-a-kind underwater concert will spotlight reef protection while intriguing divers and snorkelers Saturday, Sept. 18 at the Florida Keys coral reef.

The 37th annual Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival takes place at Looe Key Reef, an area of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary about six miles south of Big Pine Key. Presented by the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce and staged by US1 Radio 104.1 FM, the concert encourages environmentally responsible diving and preservation of the Keys’ coral reef ecosystem.

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., participants can swim among Looe Key’s vivid marine life and coral formations while listening to music broadcast by the radio station. Tunes are piped underwater via speakers suspended beneath boats above the reef.

Those planning to submerge themselves in the festival can learn about reef preservation from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 17, during a welcome gathering at Mote Marine Laboratory’s Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration, 24244 Overseas Hwy., Summerland

Key. Representatives of the center will be on hand to showcase Mote’s groundbreaking coral cultivation and restoration efforts.

As well as colorful reef fish and other marine life, divers and snorkelers might even spot “mermaids” and costumed characters beneath the waves.

Ocean enthusiasts interested in participating in the unique experience can reserve space on boats run by Lower Keys dive operators or launch their own boats from public ramps and marinas in the area.

FRAUD AT BOYS & GIRLS CLUB ADDED AS FOUNDATION TOPIC The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys has announced that William Archer, former board chair of the Boys & Girls Club of the Keys, has been added as a featured presenter at its upcoming 2021 Leadership Success Academy. Archer will detail the story of the financial fraud that occurred at the club during a four-year span and led to the arrest of its former executive director.

The Community Foundation’s twoday signature “boot camp” for board members is Thursday and Friday, Aug. 19 and 20 at the Tennessee Williams Theatre in Key West. It trains individuals working with or serving in an advisory capacity with a nonprofit organization or other community group. The cost of the two-day program is $100 per person, or $200 for three people from one nonprofit, and includes all sessions, including the one with Archer, course materials and lunches.

Archer joins a line-up of seven speakers including nonprofit expert Alex Counts, servant leadership expert Dr. Susanne Woods, strategic planning expert Kimberly Matthews, fundraising expert Wendy Gentes and the Community Foundation’s CEO and CFO, Jennifer McComb and Elizabeth Miller.

Registration is available at cffk.org/lsa or by calling 305-292-1502.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

KEY WEST OFFICIALS FACE HEFTY AGENDA FOR AUG. 17 BUT NO CRUISE SHIP ORDINANCES, THUS FAR

K

ey West’s city commission agenda is chock full for the Tuesday, Aug. 17 meeting, but as of Aug. 11, a day after the agenda was published, there was nothing specifically included about the ongoing cruise ship situation.

City attorney Shawn Smith has promised an update at each commission meeting, and is expected to brief the commissioners about his selection of outside counsel to help draft ordinances that are defensible in court against the owners of Pier B cruise ship dock.

The published agenda does include a presentation from Bill Muehlhauser of Rams Head Group about an unsolicited proposal to redevelop the deteriorating old diesel plant at Truman Waterfront into “a multi-cultural facility that will include a restaurant, microbrewery, multi-use flex space, coffee shop, walking museum, outdoor courtyard and playground.”

“The revitalized property will offer world class craft beer brewing, local American fare, educational exhibits and a 400-person flex space for special events and gatherings. We plan to focus on providing culinary and brewmaster programs to enhance our communities educational resources. We feel the revitalization and proposed uses of the building upon completion will be a major asset to the already successful redevelopment of the Truman Waterfront.”

The proposal also states, “The former Key West Diesel Plant is a landmark of great historical significance with the potential of becoming a sought-after destination for both the local community and visiting public. As the buildings stand today in their current condition they do a disservice to the historic Key West community.”

One part of the business plan for the vacant diesel plant includes a “walking museum” that “will focus on the historical importance of the building and industrial history of Key West. Two of the existing diesel generators will be refurbished and

Muehlhauser and Rams Head currently manage the Coffee Butler Key West Amphitheater, also at Truman Waterfront, for the city. The firm also manages the Key West Theater, and owns Rams Head Southernmost restaurant and bar on Whitehead Street, along with several entertainment venues and restaurants in Maryland.

No votes are scheduled for the diesel plant proposal, just a presentation.

Seen here in 1910 is the diesel plant at what is now known as the Truman Waterfront. Rams Head Group wants to redevelop it into a multiuse facility, including a restaurant, brewery, museum and playground. CONTRIBUTED

Rams Head Group has submitted an unsolicited proposal to the city to redevelop the diesel plant. This rendering appears on the cover of the proposal. CONTRIBUTED

maintained for display and a plaque will be provided at each generator describing their significance. The third existing generator will be relocated to the exterior of the property for display. Throughout the establishment, exhibits will adorn the walls portraying articles and pictures of historical relevance to the Key West community.”

Also on tap…

• The commission will consider a major redevelopment plan for the former Turtle Kraals restaurant and bar at the Historic Seaport. The new owners want to transform the property “from a formerly segmented restaurant and bar to one with an open floor plan,” states the planning department report. The former Turtle Kraals is slated to become the new Boat House, which used to be located where the White Tarpon now is at A&B Marina.

• The Aug. 17 meeting also will likely include a decision about whether Waste Management garbage and recycling haulers can change their contract with the city to raise rates.

• The city also is slated to accept about $713,000 from the Monroe County Tourist Development Council to rebuild the public restrooms at Mallory Square that have long been a source of complaints and problems.

The former Turtle Kraals restaurant and bar soon could be redeveloped into a new bar and restaurant with an open floor plan. CONTRIBUTED

11

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

Anchored to your health and our community.

Diane and Anthony Culver Program Director and Executive Director, Marathon Rec Center

The care you deserve, right in your neighborhood.

A new and improved Fishermen’s Community Hospital is now open and will continue to be an anchor of health and wellness in the heart of the Florida Keys.

The state-of-the-art facility offers the specialized services you need, brought to you by the most trusted healthcare provider in the region, including:

The original hospital, built in 1962, was founded by compassionate residents who understood that a quality hospital was necessary for a successful community to grow. When the hospital was severely damaged by Hurricane Irma in 2017, Baptist Health stayed committed to the Florida Keys, approving an entirely new hospital to meet the community’s needs, now and into the future.

• 24/7 emergency care with on-site helipad • Diagnostic imaging • Inpatient care

Built from the ground up on the foundation of the original hospital, the new Fishermen’s Community Hospital is designed to withstand wind speeds of a Category 5 hurricane.

• Intensive care unit • Outpatient laboratory • Rehabilitation

Services including oncology care, surgery and endoscopy, will be available at a later date.

And telestroke services are available to give stroke patients 24/ 7 emergency access to board-certified neurologists. Additional services are offered at Mariners Hospital in Tavernier, also part of Baptist Health.

Learn more at BaptistHealth.net/Fishermens

12

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

CONVERSATIONS WITH AUTHORS & ARTISTS MATT ASHER HOSTS NEW SHOW AT KEY WEST THEATER

“L

Matt Asher is the host of ‘The Mattasher Show,’ which will air on PBS affiliates nationwide starting late fall 2021. He also hosts his radio show on Keys Talk Radio 102.5 at 6 p.m. Saturdays. CONTRIBUTED

MF_KWWeeklyAd_1.pdf

1

2/24/21

ive from Moray Bay” is a 10-night author and artist series that is being presented at the Key West Theater and hosted by TV, radio and podcast sensation Mattasher. The series will be performed once a month.

Starting Aug. 19, “Live from Moray Bay” will bring special guest authors or artists to Key West for a great night of conversation and music. This series slightly resembles Garrison Keillor’s “A Prairie Home Companion,” but with a tropical island paradise vibe.

“Live from Moray Bay” will feature authors and artists who have had a significant impact on the culture. Special musical guests will be featured who have some connection to Key West or the show themes. The shows will be recorded for future broadcast release.

The guest for August is award-winning author Vaughn Scribner, whose new book “Merpeople: A Human History” was recently released with acclaim. People have been fascinated by merpeople since ancient times. From the sirens of Homer’s Odyssey to Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid and the film “Splash,” myths, stories and legends of halfhuman, half-fish creatures abound. The musical guest is Key West local Myles Mancuso, who will perform for the evening.

This show will be performed at the Key West Theater’s Back Stage, which has seats for 55 people. Beverages will be available at the theater. The remainder of the 10-part series will be hosted on the main stage at The Key West Theater.

‘Live from Moray Bay’ will take place at Key West Theater one night a month for the next 10 months, highlighting authors and artists who are interviewed by investor, author and podcaster Matt Asher.

CONTRIBUTED

Matt Asher is the host of “The Mattasher Show,” which will air on PBS affiliates nationwide starting late fall 2021. He also hosts his radio show on Keys Talk Radio 102.5 at 6 p.m.

Saturdays. The show is directed by Michael Kirk, who has directed and produced over 100 projects for broadcasters such as PBS, The History Channel, A&E, Discovery Channel, Amazon and Apple TV. Tickets are on sale now. More information is at moraybay.com or thekeywesttheater.com.

— Contributed

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

20 YEARS AGO...

KEY WEST PLANS SPECIAL 9/11 TRIBUTE

N

ext month marks 20 years since the 9/11 terrorist attacks took nearly 3,000 lives, reduced the iconic Twin Towers of the World Trade Center to rubble and left a heartbreaking hole in the New York City skyline.

On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, Islamic extremists from the militant group al-Qaeda hijacked and crashed two planes into the World Trade Center, which by that afternoon had forever become known as “Ground Zero.”

A third hijacked plane hit the Pentagon just outside of Washington, D.C. and a fourth plane, Flight 93, crashed in a Pennsylvania field when passengers broke into the cockpit, attacked the hijackers and diverted the plane from its intended target — thought to be the U.S. Capitol, the White House, a nuclear power plant or the president’s Camp David retreat in Maryland, according to The History Channel.

Key West is set to pay tribute in a special and unprecedented way to the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

Two hefty concrete sculptures made by artist Sandra Priest from pieces of the World Trade Center arrived in Key West on the afternoon of Aug. 10. One will be installed as a permanent exhibit at the Key West Firehouse Museum,

Artist Sandra Priest, left, Mayor Teri Johnston, Commissioner Sam Kaufman, Fire Chief Alan Averette, Commissioners Billy Wardlow and Clayton Lopez, arts council director Liz Young and Firehouse Museum founder Alex Vega welcome the 9/11 tribute sculptures to Key West on Aug. 10. MANDY MILES/ Keys Weekly

Artist Sandra Priest uses authentic sections of the World Trade Center for commemorative sculptures to memorialize the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

which each year hosts a 9/11 memorial service for firefighters everywhere. The other sculpture will be placed underwater on the deck of the Vandenberg, the former military ship that was sunk as an artificial reef off Key West in 2009.

The wreck has become a popular dive spot, underwater art gallery and military memorial.

The 9/11 sculpture is thought to be the first underwater tribute of its kind.

Hearing loss left you feeling puzzled?

On the 20th anniversary of the attacks, U.S. Navy SEALS and other military divers will descend to the Vandenberg and unfurl a giant 30-by-40-foot American flag on its deck alongside Priest’s concrete artwork. A Navy flyover of jets and/or helicopters is also planned for that day at the Vandenberg, said Joe Weatherby, president of Artificial Reefs International, who orchestrated the sinking in 2009.

The sculpture will be transported by barge from a Key West Navy base to the Vandenberg wreck site before being sunk and positioned on the ship’s deck.

To coincide with the 9/11 anniversary, Key West art gallery owner Jennifer Badry of Seven Artists & Friends, will carry smaller pieces of Priest’s 9/11 artwork that are a part of her ongoing series called 9/11 Up.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

HELP FOR THE HOUSING CRISIS MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

FLORIDA KEYS OUTREACH COALITION HOPES TO HOUSE 140 MORE PEOPLE 1

2

T

3

1. Volunteers from the Coast Guard in February renovated apartments for the Florida Keys Outreach Coalition for the Homeless. The nonprofit FKOC is hoping to increase its housing inventory from 95 to 235 units. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly 2. The former Navy housing at Poinciana Plaza may soon be torn down to make room for additional transitional housing operated by Florida Keys Outreach Coalition for the Homeless. FKOC/Contributed 3. Dave Crooks, maintenance director at Florida Keys Outreach Coalition, oversaw extensive renovations in February at the coalition’s apartments on Duck Avenue.

MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

wo local nonprofits are working together, hoping to construct 235 new apartments for the Florida Keys Outreach Coalition for the Homeless.

The units would replace FKOC’s existing 95 apartments located at the former Navy property on Duck Avenue known as Poinciana Plaza.

FKOC is working with AH Monroe, which has significant experience — and success — in building affordable housing in Key West.

The new units will be a combination of transitional and permanent housing, said Scott Pridgen, executive director of AH Monroe, formerly AIDS Help. The AH now also stands for “affordable housing” and “affordable healthcare.”

Transitional housing is designed to help homeless individuals and families move from the streets, their cars or homeless shelters into more suitable and supportive housing that can then be upgraded into permanent housing. Transitional housing helps ease the financial burden of first and last months’ rent and a security deposit that is often insurmountable for low-income individuals. Permanent housing is self-explanatory, but is also more affordable and incomerestricted. “Then as people get further on their feet and self-sufficient, they can move somewhere else,” said Pridgen.

When FKOC’s existing 95 beds of transitional housing are at capacity, Pridgen said, then FKOC can’t relieve any pressure at the Keys Overnight Temporary Shelter (KOTS), which is located on the sheriff’s office property on College Road.

“So there forms a huge bottleneck and there’s no movement from the homeless shelter into transitional housing,” Pridgen said. “FKOC came to us and asked if we could help them find a way to increase their housing inventory, and I told them there’s a great deal of state and federal funding available

for transitional housing. So now we’re in the process of redesigning the FKOC property at Poinciana Plaza on Duck Avenue. The city of Key West is all for it. They can currently house 95 people and we’re hoping to expand that to 235.”

The plan is to tear down the old cement Navy housing and replace it with something more modern and efficient, and thereby enable more movement from the homeless shelter to transitional housing, Pridgen told the Keys Weekly last week.

“This is a great collaboration between two local nonprofits,” Pridgen added. “And this is one of the things AH Monroe is very good at — finding the right projects to utilize available funding. It’s like putting a puzzle together and we’ve done very well with it in the past.”

AH Monroe, Pridgen said, is also still interested in developing housing for the city on the remaining 3.2 acres downtown at Truman Waterfront.

“We need to look at the city’s Request for Proposals for that specific property, and the city and its Bahama Village Redevelopment Advisory Committee need to decide how they want that process to go,” Pridgen said, adding that no nonprofits can build affordable housing at that property unless and until the city is able to grant a developer, whether private or nonprofit, a lease or some rights to the property for 50 to 99 years.

Currently, the city’s charter requires a voter referendum to approve any lease of city property longer than 10 years. “And no funding is going to be made available to a builder or developer who doesn’t have longterm control of the property,” Pridgen said.

16

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

DOCKING FOR DUMMIES “Honey, honey, get the fenders ready. Port side, PORT, that’s LEFT, no, MY left!

MANDY Jesus, this slip’s tight. And MILES when did this wind kick up?

Where did this current come drops stuff, breaks from? Oh, forget it. I can’t back things and falls in with this wind. Other side, down more than honey, OTHER SIDE. I SAID I’m any adult should.

She’s married to not backing in. Can you not see a saintly — and which side we’re about to hit? handy — fisherI’m NOT yelling. I’m docking. man, and has And you’re not helping. What? been stringing Do you wanna try? Unlike your words together in Key West since car, this boat doesn’t park 1998. itself. Let’s see you park something you can’t stop or steer.

They’re too low. Higher, honey, HIGHER. Dammit, we’re gonna hit. Forget the fenders, just fend off. Everyone, kids, fend off! Dammit... DAMMIT...I’M NOT YELLING!” Sound familiar? Of course it does. To anyone anywhere who’s ever been on a boat with a recreational captain. We’ve all heard it. Lived it. Cringed in anticipation of it. And waited for it to ruin an otherwise lovely day on the water.

It’s the sound of someone who owns a boat they can’t dock.

And let’s not forget how the whole episode typically ends: The “captain’s” confidence returns the instant he hops sprightly off the boat and his Topsiders hit the dock. He shoves the dock hand an oversized tip, as if buying silence about his calamitous arrival. (THIS he practices, the smooth vessel dismount.

Because after you come pinballing into a slip, pull out, start over, then bounce again off anything in sight, you NEED to disembark smoothly as if to put it all behind you.

Surely the pretty dock girl will instantly forget your buffoonery when she sees your casual, boyish charm, your sure-footed dismount and the hand that clenches two twenties.)

Of course, the calamitous captain must then rush down the dock to catch up with his pissed-off wife, kids and/or friends who are eager to distance themselves from the unglued mariner who can’t understand why everyone’s looking at him with a mix of anger and pity.

So let’s review. First of all, there’s no current on a lake and you sound ridiculous even suggesting it. Yes, there’s wind and yes, there’s chop once a bunch of boat traffic stirs things up. But no current on lakes.

I was in my early 20s and living in Key West by the time I witnessed a skilled and Coast Guard-certified captain expertly dock a vessel without screaming at anyone to help avoid a collision — and without the need for any sort of fenders. The first time I joined my now-husband, Capt. Stan

MIles, on a boating excursion, I instinctively started cringing and looking around for fenders as we approached the marina.

I asked my new boyfriend, “What do you need me to do?” and was surprised by the answer he gave back then and still gives. “Not a thing. Just sit there and look pretty.” And so I did.

Lo and behold, there aren’t enough o’s in the word smooth to describe his docking prowess. But then, like many in the Florida Keys, he did go to captain’s school for such a thing, and he does it very, very well, be it a 27-foot center console or a 70-foot yacht.

But here’s the harsh truth: If you can’t dock your boat without screaming at someone else to position bounce-off balloons, then you can’t dock your boat.

Docking is a non-contact activity — or it should be.

Do yourself a favor: Practice. By yourself. Far from anything that can be hit.

But learn to handle your boat. Play around with steering, but mostly throttle. Yes, yes, we understand, there are no brakes. And you can’t turn sharply. Or can you?

While practicing boat handling, put the boat in neutral, then turn the wheel hard to starboard or port. Then give it some juice. Real juice. More than you’d ever consider using while approaching a dockside crowd. But try it on your own. You’ll see.

The boat pivots sharply. Guess what? The same thing happens in reverse.

Always turn the wheel first, then give it gas. But do it quickly, lest the wind or current get bossy.

Note the wind direction. Realize which direction it’s gonna push you. In open water, note the current as well.

Dock hands are your friends. If approaching bow-first, toss them a bow line (one that’s actually ATTACHED to your boat.)

And for God’s sake, stop yelling (but

do continue tipping the dock hands; those folks earn every dollar from people like you.)

If you’re still unsure about things, check out Lenny Rudow’s docking tips from boats.com: • Never approach the pier any faster than you’re willing to hit it.

• Use enough juice to get the job done.

When it comes to causes of disastrous docking, applying insufficient power comes in a close second to applying too much.

You need to counter and overcome momentum, wind, and current.

• Always look before you leap. Give your slip a hairy eyeball, even if you’ve backed into it 100 times before. Tangle a mooring line in your propeller, and that docking job will go south in a hurry.

• With twin inboards, don’t touch the wheel. Ever. You’ll be tempted, but you have more control if you leave the wheel centered and use only the engines.

• In heavy winds, reduce your windage.

A Bimini top or an Isinglass enclosure can act like a sail on a powerboat, and throw you out of kilter.

• Never kill the engines until all the lines are secure.

• Don’t be afraid to abort. If the approach doesn’t seem to be going well, circle back for another try.

• When docking any single-engine boat, always turn the wheel before applying power — not during or after.

• Always apply short bursts of power, instead of steady power. This allows you to maneuver without building up a lot of momentum, which can quickly get out of control.

• BONUS TIP: Whenever possible practice, practice, practice docking — with someone else’s boat.

17

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

A

s we all know by now, people will debate vaccinations, masks and science until they’re blue in the face. But if there’s one consistent conspiracy that has lingered from one presidential term to the next, it’s the belief that vaccinations offer backdoor access to one’s personal privacy and identity. Look, we’re not here to debate one side or the other. But when it comes to privacy issues, we believe there are (possibly) some common practices that might be leaving your identity more vulnerable than getting jabbed by a COVID shot. So whether it’s the Russians, Chinese government, Big Pharma or your weird neighbor who never leaves his basement, here are...

“OTHER WAYS” YOUR PRIVACY IS POSSIBLY BEING EXPOSED 10. Your evil parents had you vaccinated for measles and polio when you were a kid.

9. You’re a sucker for those online surveys that ask you to combine your first pet’s name and the street you grew up on to find your “porn name” or the celebrity you’re most compatible with. Yet you fail to realize these are the same security questions your email provider and every other internet account uses to keep you safe.

8. You think those pop-up ads offering you blue pills are a result of psychic trolls who can read your mind.

7. You’ve been arrested three times for felony assault, but you still go to great lengths to keep “big brother” from obtaining your personal information.

6. You keep clicking the fake “skip ad” box on Pornparade.com.

5. You protest vaccines — by regularly posting dozens of daily pictures of yourself on social media protesting vaccines.

4. You have a cellphone that knows more about you than your own mother. Oh, and your face and fingerprint unlock it.

3. You have a mailbox. Not on your computer, but an actual mailbox. Where everything from your social security number to your bank accounts are left sitting outside your house, unlocked, for hours at a time.

2. You believe voting machines are easier to corrupt than sites you belong to like Yahoo, LinkedIn, Facebook and Marriott International — and among them, over 4.5 billion users have been exposed by privacy hacks.

1. You won’t use debit cards because the chip is “the mark of the beast.” But you’ll spit into a vial for Ancestry.com in hopes your Celtic tattoo has some type of Irish validity. (Note: everyone knows you’re not Irish).

Mainstreaming

WHAT TO DO THIS WEEK

READ | “THE DEATH OF EXPERTISE”

BY TOM NICHOLS Technology has exposed people to more information than ever before. These societal gains, however, have also helped fuel a surge in narcissistic and misguided intellectual egalitarianism that has crippled informed debates on any number of issues.

Today, everyone knows everything. With only a quick trip through WebMD or Wikipedia, average citizens believe themselves to be on an equal intellectual footing with doctors and diplomats. All voices, even the most ridiculous, demand to be taken with equal seriousness, and any claim to the contrary is dismissed as undemocratic elitism. Tom Nichols shows how this rejection of experts has occurred: the openness of the internet, the emergence of a customer satisfaction model in higher education, and the transformation of the news industry into a 24-hour entertainment machine. The increasingly democratic dissemination of information, rather than producing an educated public, has instead created an army of ill-informed and angry citizens who denounce intellectual achievement. ​​ ISTEN L BLACK EYED PEAS The kings of hip-hop have just released a new single, “Hit it,” that has clubs and Soul Cycle written all over it.

The lyrics are bilingual and feature the vocal stylings of Saweetie and Lele Pons. In 2020, the Black Eyed Peas released the “Translation” album that housed three No. 1 hits — “Ritmo,” with J Balvin, “Mamacita” with Ozuna and J. Rey Soul and “Feel the Beat” with Maluma.

WATCH | “VAL” The time has come for all of us to set aside our differences with Val Kilmer. His self-titled documentary is mesmerizing, using four decades of home movies and personal videos the actor shot throughout his career. The raw footage offers a rare glimpse into one of Hollywood’s elite, following a young Kilmer backstage on Broadway with names like Sean Penn and Kevin Bacon — to the infamous movie set of “The Island of Dr. Moreau,“ where he acted alongside his idol, Marlon Brando, and infamously clashed with director John Frankenheimer. The documentary is narrated by Val’s son, Jack Kilmer, who speaks for his father, after Val’s recent battle with throat cancer. The film humanizes the mystique that surrounded the actor for most of his career. No matter which Kilmer you loved on screen, from “Top Gun,” “Tombstone,” “The Doors,” “Heat” and other great films— you’ll love the real Val Kilmer as he exposes his soul. A must-watch for any movie fan. Amazon Prime

18

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

SAVE THE DATE Thursday, Aug. 12 • First day of school for students of Monroe County School District.

SPORTS & MORE How much money is enough?

M

y favorite soccer team is Barcelona ... a veteran sports (or Barça, as it’s comcolumnist, says the only sport monly known). he doesn’t follow And it’s all because is cricket. That of Lionel Messi. But leaves plenty now, Messi, perhaps the of others to fill greatest soccer player his time. ralphmoro1936 of all time, is moving to @gmail.com Paris Saint-Germain. He says he regrets going to a rival team. I and big-time Barça fans regret it, too.

There was a time when I thought I needed to know more about soccer -— European soccer, or football to be exact. At the same time, I was reading an article on Messi and became a fan. Since then, I have followed both Messi and Barcelona. And European football.

I mention this because I assume many of you are attached to players more than the team for which they play.

Much of European soccer remains a mystery to me; for instance, the money involved.

Lionel Messi makes a lot of money as measured against anyone’s billfold. He wants even more. Barça — and Messi — reached a new figure: $160 million, if we are to believe what I’ve seen and heard from ESPN. Now, keep in mind, that’s not a contract amount to be paid over several years, as American baseball players are receiving.

It’s $160 million A YEAR. And while the player and the team had reached an agreement, the league objected. La Liga, the top league in Spanish pro football, of which Barcelona is a member, said no, no, that figure goes against our financial regulations.

So Messi, not willing to take less than $160 million a year, split for Paris Saint-Germain.

My question to you: How much money would make you happy? I think I could make do on a lot less than $160 million. I don’t know the exact figure, but it’s more than I have coming in now.

How about you?

RALPH MORROW

Friday, Aug. 13 • Free, in-person civil legal clinics from Legal Services of Greater Miami & Florida Keys at the Key West Public Library.

Sunday, Aug. 15 • “Back to School Sunday Social” at Mangrove Mama’s from 4:30 to 7:30, held by The Florida Keys Democrats supporting the United Teachers of Monroe County.

Wednesday, Aug. 18 • Blood drive, 1 to 5 p.m. at Key West City Hall. All donors receive a T-shirt, a $20 e-gift card and a health screening.

FC Barcelona is losing its star Lionel Messi. CONTRIBUTED

Messi, born in Argentina, cried as he talked about leaving Barça.

But he didn’t suggest, as far as I’ve heard, a lesser financial number that would have kept him at Barcelona.

Key West High School is scheduled to open its football season on Friday, Aug. 27 at Palmetto Ridge, with a second away game the following Friday, Sept. 3 at Centennial of Port Lucie. After a week off, the Conchs, with coach John Hughes, play their first of four home games at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 17, against St. Brendan.

Conch baseball coach Ralph Henriquez Jr. reminded me that Rex Weech Field is the only regulation baseball field in Key West.

Rex Weech and Tommy Roberts Memorial Stadium (football and soccer) are in a strange configuration in which the baseball outfield overlaps the Tommy Roberts field.

When the $15 million stadium redo gets underway at Tommy Roberts, football and soccer will move to the Backyard field behind the high school.

Henriquez told me he’s concerned because there’s been no plan announced for the baseball teams. He said he intends to use Rex Weech for games and practice next spring.

Apparently, the school district’s planners believe they can repair/replace the Tommy Roberts bleachers without disturbing baseball.

Have you had enough Olympics? Or do you want more? I had enough in the first few days, then I figured out which TV channels aired particular sports and I was hooked, just as I am every four (or two) years.

I tried to introduce myself to some sports I don’t see very often, but I also was attached to some I watch with delight: men’s and women’s basketball and golf.

Gold medal winner Nelly Korda of Bradenton, Florida is my favorite golfer, men or women.

Things I learned from NBCTV and other places: The Japanese women’s basketball coach, Tom Hovasse, is American. After playing two games at Atlanta, he headed to Asia, first as a player, then eventually started coaching a Japanese women’s team before advancing to the National team.

The Olympics theme song is “Bugler’s Dream” by the late Felix Slatkin.

Coaches don’t receive medals, although telecasters repeatedly said USA men’s basketball coach Gregg Popovich’s goal was to get a medal. He didn’t, but his players did.

Japan’s Mone Inami, who took silver in women’s golf, is named for Claude Monet.

Aug. 19-20 • Leadership Success Academy with featured speaker William Archer, 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 Thursday, Aug. 19 • Moray Bay Studios & MJK Films Present: Live From Moray Bay, 7 p.m. at Key West Theater, 512 Eaton St. Saturday, Aug. 21 • Rams Head Presents comedian Paula Poundstone, 8 p.m. at Key West Theater, 512 Eaton St. Wednesday, Aug. 25 • Key West Theater Presents Comedy Coven w/Kathy Gilmour, Gwen Filosa & Amanda Anderson, 8 p.m., at Key West Theater, 512 Eaton St. • Fee-Free Day at Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks to commemorate the National Parks’ 105th birthday.

Sunday, Aug. 29 • Soul of Key West Presents Coffee Butler & Friends, 8 p.m. at Key West Theater, 512 Eaton St. Sept. 1-5 • Key West WomenFest at multiple venues and times.

Sept. 2-6 • The 10th annual Key West Brewfest at multiple venues and times.

19

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

t s e F r e t s b o

L TUESDAY THRU SATURDAY | LUNCH 11-2:30 | DINNER 5 -10

Lunch & Dinner Specials

August 12th – August 15th, 2021

Lunch: 11:30am-3:30pm • Dinner: 5:30pm-9:30pm Celebrate Lobster Season during Lobster Fest at Four Marlin’s located at The Reach with featured specials for lunch and dinner

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TUESDAY THRU SATURDAY 4:20 -11

Lobster Salad

KW Style Lobster Roll Grilled Spiny Lobster

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WEDNESDAY THRU SUNDAY | LUNCH 11- 2:30 | DINNER 5 -10 LUNCH | BRUNCH SATURDAY & SUNDAY 11- 2:30

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CALL TO ARTISTS WE WANT YOU TO DESIGN & BUILD A FLOAT FOR THE SIXTH ANNUAL SMALLEST PARADE IN THE UNIVERSE The SMALLEST Parade in the Universe returns on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2021 AT THE STUDIOS OF KEY WEST! An official Fantasy Fest Event with the theme for this year’s parade: ALL A DAZE FOR A HOLIDAY

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20

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

THE KEY WEST ‘JUNGLE BOOK’: BREAKING THE TRANCE Dear Editor, Disney’s great production of Kipling’s “Jungle Book” has a parallel in recent Key West politics. The honeyed words of the Kaa-like spokesman for Safer Cleaner Ships (SCS) were brought abruptly into clear focus at last week’s city commission meeting.

Like 60% of Key West voters, the mayor and at least some commissioners have long been entranced by SCS concerning their cruise ship-restricting referenda and ordinances. They seemingly were hypnotized into believing that a group of under-informed, intolerant political activists had all the cruise ship answers. In the manner of Bagheera, the firm words of the city attorney have hopefully broken the spell that threatens to devour Key West taxpayers.

City Attorney Shawn Smith spoke the truth of reality to commissioners at both the July 12 and Aug. 3 meetings. He strongly advised the commission not to pass the draft city ordinances submitted by SCS. He also rejected the SCS-recommended outside counsel, promising to submit a more legally viable and uncompromised list of candidates.

Earlier, the city attorney advised the commission that any attempt to impose the ship restrictions that will cancel 95% of cruise ships on the privately owned Pier B, will result in expensive litigation. He assured them it will almost certainly cost the city – and cost them big. Commissioner Sam Kaufman, a well-regarded attorney himself, offered that such a lawsuit could likely cost the city $100 million. Those are the numbers of insolvency.

The commission appeared to be listening to the attorneys.

In the midst of all this, city finance director Mark Finigan has thrown cold water on the false premise that revenues from cruise ship passengers have no

significance to the city budget.

He states that up to an 8% tax hike may be required to balance the budget while Commissioner Kaufman alerted taxpayers to the fact that inputs to the city treasury will drop by about $1M due to lost cruise ship revenues. That number may be far underestimated. In 2019, the city received about $1.6 million from Pier B alone. Fact: no matter the deceptively charming words set forth

by SCS, Key West taxpayers, businesses, homeowners and renters will be paying more next year due to lost cruise ship revenue.

With the SCS-induced trance broken, the commission can hopefully return to fiduciary rationality and choose to seek a compromise. As the city attorney told them, the commissioners can choose to do anything they want at Mallory and the Navy Mole. But Pier B is a “different animal.” Within the terms of the solidly clear contract between the city and Pier B, the private pier owners can operate a cruise port. Continuing to adhere to the contract terms, which not only allow, but encourage, Pier B to dock cruise ships, seems the logical solution. Allowing only smaller ships at Mallory and the Mole will diminish overall ship traffic by 40 to 50%. The city will continue to receive millions of dollars in cruise ship revenue and avoid a financially crushing lawsuit.

Now that, Mowgli, is a compromise with something for all, as the wise Baloo might say.

John E. Wells Ships’ agent (retired)

SAFER CLEANER SHIPS’ PROJECTIONS ARE UNREALISTIC, DECEPTIVE Dear Editor, As Safer Cleaner Ships (SCS) seeks to convince the Key West City Commission to adopt SCS’s proposed cruise ship ordinances, which would bar almost all of our current cruise ship traffic from the port, our community needs to be made aware that SCS is providing “supporting” information and projections that simply bear no relationship to reality.

The topics on which SCS has opined range from the control of infectious diseases, long-term environmental impacts, city and county economics, deep-water port operations and important legal advice.

Each topic alone could keep a panel of experts engaged for months, though SCS apparently feels qualified to be the definitive voice on all of it.

My expertise lies in maritime issues. Upon reviewing the data SCS has provided the city commission concerning projected cruise ship arrivals and passenger counts in Key West under SCS’s proposed ordinances, I have found glaring inaccuracies so obvious they call into question all the information SCS has shared on the many impacts of these ordinances.

SCS’s proposed ordinances would allow ships no larger than 1,300 total persons (passengers and crew combined), with a combined daily disembarkation limit of 1,500 persons (passengers and crew combined). SCS “projects” 375,000 cruise ship visitors a year to Key West under their proposed ordinances, based on two ships calling on Key West 250 days per year. This equals 500 cruise ship calls a year, which far exceeds the number of yearly cruise ship calls the port has experienced in recent history, as only 282 ships are currently scheduled for 2022. SCS’s projection has no basis in reality. Does SCS really want to see 218 more port calls per year in Key West than are currently scheduled for 2022? Of course not.

Their projections are wildly unrealistic and deceptive.

I’m going to give you the straightforward facts that anyone can ascertain by simply referring to the actual city ship schedule for 2022 and comparing those vessels to SCS’s proposed ordinances.

Currently, there are 282 ships scheduled to call on Key West in 2022. Seventeen of them meet the requirements of SCS’s proposed ordinances; 265 do not. This means 94% of all scheduled ships in 2022 will be turned away from the port.

On those 17 ships allowed into port, only 7,707 fortunate passengers will be able to visit Key West in 2022 — the lucky 1%. On the other hand, 99% of all other cruise ship passengers scheduled to visit Key West will be denied the right to visit our city.

From May through October, no ships scheduled to call in 2022 satisfy SCS’s proposed ordinances — translating to 188 consecutive days without a single ship in Key West.

This is the schedule. This is the reality, not some projection pulled from thin air.

In the maritime industry, smaller ships are more exclusive ships that typically do not make regular weekly calls, year-round, to any single port. Instead, these vessels specialize in offering long exploratory voyages with numerous different ports on their itineraries. Very often we see a ship in this class calling on Key West just once a year as they pass by on an around-the-world extended voyage. The number of small ships calling into Key West over the years has stayed consistent. There is absolutely no reason to believe the current small-ship business model will radically change and reward Key West for its actions in all but closing down its port.

There will be no Field of Dreams “If you build it, they will come” moment. Key West will not be presented with fleets of small ships calling here 500 times a year, and everyone in the industry knows it.

SCS’s claims that their proposed ordinances will not impose an excessive burden on continued cruise ship operations in Key West don’t even pass the laugh test. These proposed ordinances are in fact the definition of an “Excessive Burden on Commerce” and in no way can they honestly be called a compromise.

Sincerely, Capt. Robert Maguire Key West Bar Pilots Assn.

21

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

Snorkelers lobster in Upper Keys waters. WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

Nashville Skyline Exponential growth and opportunities in Music City

I

TEEN BITTEN, BUT BY WHAT? Youth injured while lobstering near Ocean Reef

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

A

teenager was airlifted to a Miami hospital after he was bitten while lobstering in the Key Largo waters last weekend.

The incident occurred just after 7:30 a.m. on Aug. 7, when a 15-year-old located just outside Ocean Reef Club was searching for lobster. According to Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation, the boy was swimming in murky waters when he suddenly felt a sharp pain.

He swam back to a personal boat and was brought back to shore. The teenager was treated by Ocean Reef public safety crews for injuries to his lower extremities. He was airlifted to Jackson South Medical Center in Kendall.

It’s unknown what bit the teen. Florida Fish & Wildlife Officer Bobby Dube told the Keys Weekly that experts were called to the hospital to look into the biting attack.

“By time our officer was on scene, he was already bandaged and getting ready to get airlifted,” he said.

Attacks in the water such as the Aug. 7 incident are rare in the Keys. The last known reported incident occurred in September 2020, when a 30-year-old Atlanta man was bitten in the shoulder by a shark at Sombrero Key Light off Marathon. The man’s pregnant wife watched it all unfold and jumped into the water to pull him back to the boat. Witnesses reported seeing an 8- to 10-foot bull shark in the area.

Dube said the FWC doesn’t investigate shark bites.

“We do alligator investigations if somebody gets bit, but we don’t do anything with shark bites,” he said.

The attack in Key Largo is the third major incident reported in the Keys since the two-day lobster mini-season, which went from July 29-30, and the beginning of the regular spiny lobster season on Aug. 6. A Sewall’s Point man died after losing consciousness while snorkeling for lobster near Sawyer Key on July 28. A 41-year-man from Naples was transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital after a boat propeller struck his leg near Cudjoe Key.

just got back from a week and a day in Music City, USA — Nashville, Tennessee! Every time I go there, I’m able to (ever so briefly) tap into the energy of that town. Everyone who’s anyone has recorded and played in Nashville, and Bob Dylan even named his country-influenced 1969 album Nashville Skyline. Nashville’s lifeblood truly is music, and its energy is palpable everywhere you go.

The last time I was in Nashville was five years ago, and it’s jaw-droppingly amazing to see how much that town has grown. My first visit there was in 1983, and I got back in 1996. Both of those times, I was impressed that Nashville felt like a small town even though it was substantially larger.

In 2016, Nashville had grown. A lot.

There was new building going on all throughout town, and downtown was booming. (Hattie B’s hot chicken was downright tasty as well!)

This year … well, let’s just say that the growth has increased exponentially. Downtown has expanded westward, and Broadway and West End are now home to many new steel and glass high-rises. A friend of mine who lives there told me that 60% of the tall construction cranes in the United States are currently in Nashville because of all the building that’s happening. Whatever the actual statistic is, Music City is quickly becoming Music Metropolis.

Bob Dylan would not recognize that skyline anymore.

What took me to Nashville this year was a songwriters’ conference spearheaded by legendary singersongwriter Rodney Crowell. Rodney has worked with the best, written songs that have been hits for both himself and others, and is a card-carrying member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Rodney put together a team of instructors and presenters that included other A-list talent in the music business. Among these were Peter Asher, half of the Peter & Gordon duo from the 1960s. Peter was a Beatles contemporary and a good friend of Paul McCartney’s, discovered James Taylor and became his manager and producer, and did the same for Linda Ronstadt.

Beth Nielsen Chapman co-wrote the monster Faith Hill song “This Kiss,” among many other songs recorded by legends like Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Tanya Tucker, Crystal Gayle, Alabama, and so many more. She has

had success recording her songs for several of her own albums as well, and her song “Sand and Water” was sung

by Elton John on one of his American tours.

JOHN Mike Reid, who BARTUS had a Pro Bowl career in the NFL is a City of Marafor the Cincinnati thon councilman. He also is Bengals, returned a musician who to music and wrote performs around many hits for a varitown. For more ety of artists includsee johnbartus. ing Ronnie Milsap, com Alabama and Tanya Tucker. His biggest hit was likely his co-write of Bonnie Raitt’s “I Can’t Make You Love Me.” He has written several musicals as well, and is a member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Allison Moorer has had her songs recorded by Trisha Yearwood, Kenny Chesney, Miranda Lambert and Steve Earle. She is a successful recording artist as well, with 10 albums in her discography and an extensive live performance and collaborative career.

John Jorgensen is a legendary guitarist and multi-instrumentalist who has played with some of music’s elite.

He has been part of The Desert Rose Band and the Hellecasters, and has played with a who’s who list of musicians including Bob Dylan, Elton John, Bob Seger, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Kenny Chesney, Barbra Streisand, Luciano Pavarotti, Roy Orbison, Peter Frampton and Bonnie Raitt.

J.D. Souther wrote (and co-wrote) some of the Eagles’ big hits like “Best of My Love,” “Heartache Tonight” and “New Kid in Town.” He had a hit with “You’re Only Lonely” and co-wrote and sang with James Taylor on “Her Town Too.” He co-wrote (with Don Henley and Mike Campbell) one of my favorites of all time, “Heart of the Matter.”

These were the people I got to hang out with all last week in Nashville.

The conference was a very immersive experience, with some great classes and performance opportunities. I really appreciate everyone who was there, both instructors and attendees, and am grateful for the opportunity and some personal career advice I got from Rodney Crowell.

I can’t wait for my next trip to Nashville…

John’s new CD, After The Storm, is available at John’s shows and wherever you get your streaming or downloads. www.facebook.com/john.bartus

22

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

GIRL POWER

7 LOCAL WOMEN COMPETE IN NATIONAL POLE FITNESS CHAMPIONSHIPS

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

F

irst of all, it’s not what you expect when you think of pole dancing.

This is pole fitness, and it’s an intense workout. Imagine placing both hands on a stationary pole and extending your body, arms and legs out straight — all while smiling.

Key West’s Kelly Goss, owner and founder of Kelly’s Aerial Arts & Fitness studio, trains athletes in the sport of pole fitness and other aerial arts, along with aerial hoop, or lyra, instructor Taylor Tarn. The studio offers aerial yoga, hand balancing, choreography and performance coaching, circus arts, classique dance, exclusive personal training, lyra hoop training, flexibility training, pole fitness and dance and strength training.

Goss and Tarn are taking seven of their athletes to the Pole Fitness National Championships Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 14-15 in Orlando.

Taylor Tarn, left, and Kelly Goss, along with five other Key West pole fitness athletes, will compete in the national pole fitness championships in Orlando Aug. 14 and 15. Goss won the women’s championship division in 2019. The 2020 competition was canceled due to COVID. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

“There are different age divisions and levels, so people are only competing against others at the same levels and abilities,” Goss said. “For instance, at level one, you’re not allowed to go upside-down. Other levels have different requirements and limitations.

“Participants all choose their own music, routine and costume,” she said. “We started out with 11 of us going, but then COVID came back and some other things happened, so we’re down to seven.

“This is the eighth team I’ve taken to Nationals, and actually, in 2019 I won the women’s championship division,” Goss said, while preparing to launch herself outward from the pole sideways. “And when Taylor came to Key West, she’s a professional aerial hoop instructor, so we started training each other and it’s worked out great.”

Goss is adamant that pole fitness and aerial arts have changed her life. Her goal

is for all of her students to learn to love working out using the safe methods she has developed over her years of experience traveling, teaching and learning.

Goss is also a licensed deep-tissue massage therapist with a keen interest in and knowledge of the human body and its muscle groups.

Pole fitness devotees and aerial athletes are trained to make their moves look easy, but these workouts are anything but. Athletes endure “pole burn” from friction and bruising, especially as beginners, but they wear their bruises as badges of honor.

The studio is located at 4 Go Lane in Key West. Interested athletes of all shapes, sizes and skill levels are welcome to drop in to watch or participate in a class.

23

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

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27

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

FLORIDA KEYS TABLE

T

ture to highlight the food, libations and local personalities that define our “must-try” destinations across the Florida Keys. Whether you’re a first-time tourist or fifth-generation local, be sure to indulge in something new or revisit a familiar favorite. And above all, support the local owners and employees who are vital to our Keys communities.

At Castaways in Marathon, Chef Bo Hammett’s tuna nachos is a play on the classic appetizer using sushi, with fresh tuna, avocado, honey sriracha sauce, homemade pico de gallo and a base of wontons. “And Guy Fieri loved it,” said Hammett, explaining that Castaways was on a recent episode of Fieri’s television show “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” on the Food Network. “Our tuna nachos is our most popular appetizer,” said Hammett.

Dotty Cunningham has been a familiar face at Bobby Mongelli’s Key West and Stock Island restaurants for the past 25 years. She started at the now-infamous PT’s Late Night on Caroline Street, and moved to the Hogfish Bar & Grill about 17 years ago, shortly after it opened on Stock Island.

“I love meeting customers from all over the world, as well as seeing my regulars from PT’s follow me over to the Hogfish. Plus it’s nice to be in the open air and just steps from the water.” Dotty’s favorite dish? The stuffed hogfish, of course.

Jill and Mike Atwell, co-owners of Key Largo’s C&C Wood Fired Eats, started their restaurant originally for their love of wine.

They found this rosé on a wine-tasting trip in Oregon: Elk Cove Vineyards 2020 Willamette Valley Estate Pinot Noir Rosé. “Seriously, we are always in rosé season in Florida. This is a great food wine that pairs well with everything.” The restaurant is featuring this label because they only get a few cases at a time.

Come quick to try it — after the summer, it’ll be gone.

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In addition to the eats, the skilled professionals who define our local hospitality industry do much more than mix unique cocktails and serve delicious meals. These men and women are also our ambassadors, social directors, travel advisors and unlicensed — but often effective — therapists.

To celebrate our unique culinary culture, Keys Weekly brings you this bi-weekly fea-

KEY WEST

he Florida Keys boast some of the most iconic eateries and bars in the world.

Creative culinary minds elevate local seafood to new levels and celebrate contemporary fusion, Cuban, Caribbean, Asian, French and other international influences. Our chain of islands is one of the world’s top food and drink destinations.

sizzle MAKE YOUR SUMMER

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KEY WEST’S BAR & RESTAURANT DIRECTORY

PS

TROPICAL LIVING IN THE FLORIDA KEYS | SUMMER 2021

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For more, visit our Keys Table Magazines online at keysweekly.com/table/. Our Florida Keys Table Magazines are published nine times a year in the Upper Keys, Marathon and Key West.

For more information email: Stephanie@keysweekly.com.

TO A BYGONE BAR’S BEST DRINK

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28

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021 College of the Florida Keys’ Upper Keys Center. JIM McCARTHY/ Keys Weekly

A ‘HIGHER EDUCATION DESERT’ NO MORE

New center brings opportunities for college students 3

4

2

1 JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

C

ommunity leaders stood on the second floor of the College of the Florida Keys new center in Key Largo on Thursday afternoon. With a glass of champagne raised, a toast made by President Jonathan Gueverra marked a new era of education and opportunities for students, employers and the Upper Keys community.

Once deemed a “higher education desert” for graduating students in Key Largo and Islamorada, Gueverra now calls the northern islands an “oasis” with the college’s state-of-the-art Upper Keys Center.

Located not far from the gateway into the Keys at MM 106, bayside, the new center delivers a wide range of programming — from marine science and hospitality to nursing and apprenticeships in trades.

Basic law enforcement training at the center offers aspiring officers the ability to complete a 770-hour program. A correctional basic training course at the center will prepare students to become corrections officers in Florida, pending passage of a state exam.

Students with intellectual disabilities and autism will be able to receive personalized programming, all while earning industry certifications and developing skills, through Project ACCESS. “This is only the beginning. It is a beginning that represents hope and opportunity for quality educa-

tion close to the home that results in social and economic ability for our Upper Keys community,” Gueverra told attendees during a celebration on Aug. 5. “The magnitude of what we did, in our doing, didn’t resonate with me until a few days ago when I looked at where’s the nearest institution to this community. It might as well be an eternity.”

Built by Thornton Construction Company, the $20-million facility features nursing and biochemical labs, an auditorium, testing center and library. In addition to learning spaces, lounges allow students and employees a comfortable place to learn and work. It also features a student activities room and a patio deck.

Construction began roughly a year ago in anticipation for completion by the start of the school year later this month. Despite a COVID-19 pandemic and material shortages, the project was completed ahead of schedule. Dagoberto Diaz, executive vice president for Thornton Construction, said construction crews worked some 18-20 hours in three shifts for the past two months.

Private and public donations, as well as a $16-million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce, helped fund the Upper Keys Center.

Bobby Stoky, chair of the college’s foundation board, said finishing the project wasn’t possible without the support of the Ocean Reef community.

“We needed $2.5 to $3 million and Ocean Reef came in,” he said.

“I’d love to say this is done, with the building done, but the real work begins. Bring on the students and the future of the College of the Florida Keys.”

Former state Rep. Holly Raschein worked diligently in Tallahassee to change the college’s name to the College of the Florida Keys. Raschein praised the work of Gueverra and the college for bringing an “exemplary” building to the Upper Keys.

Bringing a new college facility to the Upper Keys goes back several years, when Gueverra spoke to community clubs up and down the Keys regarding a bigger and better facility in the Upper Keys. It kicked into motion in August 2018 when the college purchased commercial property in the old Shell World. A deal the college could afford was inked between Gueverra and owners Jim and Cyrie Waterman.

The new facility replaces the college’s former home at Coral Shores High School.

“Over seven, eight years ago, we started this conversation. And I have one regret: We should have made a deal such that everyone who said to me, ‘When are we going to get the Upper Keys Center,’ you would have to hand me $1,000,” Gueverra joked.

A majority of the men and women within the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office received training through the college, including Sheriff Rick Ramsay. In a time where employers are struggling to find personnel, Ramsay said the sheriff’s office will be able to attract people from the Upper Keys and South Florida.

“I’m excited about this campus,” Ramsay said. “It’s going to be an opportunity for citizens, for future jobs, to have better paying jobs and hopefully to stay local and be a part of the community.”

Training and keeping nurses in the middle and upper Keys will look to bolster the local hospital system.

Jay Hershoff, chairman of the board of trustees for Mariners and Fishermen’s hospitals, said the need for nurses is “incredible.”

“We’d like to grow our own nurses here and grow our own medical support teams and keep them here,” he said. “At the same time, if they get a degree and skills and go somewhere else, Baptist will make sure there's an opportunity somewhere within the system to use skills they learned here.”

Hershoff added that the health system is looking at possibly providing faculty to teach at the Upper Keys Center and give up-and- coming nurses an “even better chance to get skills.”

Open houses on Aug. 11 and Aug. 12 allowed visitors the ability to tour the new center and learn about the expanded academic and workforce training opportunities.

Fall classes start Aug. 19.

1. College of the Florida Keys President Jonathan Gueverra leads a champagne toast on the Upper Keys Center’s patio.

2. Community leaders gather to celebrate the College of the Florida Keys’ Upper Keys Center.

3. Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay discusses the opportunities for law enforcement with the Upper Keys Center.

4. Monroe County Mayor Michelle Coldiron attends the celebration for the new College of the Florida Keys’ Upper Key Center.

29

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

HOW A KEY VACA CONSTRUCTION PROJECT LED TO THE TROPICAL HOTEL T

he American period begins with the Adams-Onis Treaty that transferred the Florida Territory from Spanish ownership in 1821. Indian Key is a small 11BRAD acre island in the Upper Keys surrounded by BERTELLI the Atlantic shallows about one mile offshore of Lower Matecumbe Key. Key Vaca is the island at ... is an author, speaker, and Flor- the heart of Marathon, and Port Monroe was one ida Keys historian. of its earliest communities. During the American His latest book, period, the history of Indian Key starts at the “The Florida Keys small Key Vaca outpost of Port Monroe.

Skunk Ape Files,” Joshua Appleby and Captain John Fiveash is a fun blend of two of his favorite established Port Monroe circa 1822. A handful subjects–Florida of families lived at the outpost, including Silas Keys history and Fletcher, his wife and two children. Appleby the Skunk Ape. would partner with a man named Solomon Snyder to establish a general store on Indian Key. They hired Fletcher to build and operate it, and, in 1824, they packed a schooner with building supplies, and Fletcher sailed north.

Indian Key had advantages over the Port Monroe location. First, it was located more favorably along the Florida Reef and farther from the superior harbor and stores at Key West. Indian Key, too, had a convenient approach from Hawk’s Channel and a relatively deep natural harbor, which is not a common feature in the Florida Keys. Whether Appleby and Snyder realized it or not, Indian Key also had something going for it that not every island in the chain can claim. Because its position is just far enough offshore of the Matecumbe keys, the Atlantic breezes work to keep Indian Key relatively mosquito-free.

Fletcher hired Joseph Prince to accompany him to Indian Key. The two arrived in April 1824 and constructed the island’s general store, its first business. They also built a two-story structure to house Fletcher, his wife Avis, and their children, William and Abigail. Fletcher is considered Indian Key’s first permanent settler in the American period.

It seems fitting that his family and Prince should be lumped into that category as well.

Fletcher and Prince would have an interesting history, as would the two-story house they built for Silas and his family. In January 1825, Fletcher and Prince made a pact, joined forces, bought out the financial interests of Appleby and Snyder, and became formal partners, buying “the store belonging to Snyder and Appleby, and all their interest and claim in and to Indian Key.” The Fletcher and Prince partnership would prove short-lived. Five months into their arrangement, Prince sold his interest in the general store, making Fletcher the sole proprietor. Prince, having dissolved his partnership, packed up and moved to Massachusetts.

He would return several months later to open a second, competing general store on the island.

On Nov. 13, 1828, Silas Fletcher sold his general store, a two-story house, kitchen, and outhouse and his rights and claims to Indian Key for $2,500, to Thomas Gibson of Staten Island, New York. Gibson did not move to the island until 1830. Gibson would improve his properties, and by the time he sold his holdings and interests to his brother-in-law Jacob

Housman several years later, the price had doubled. The July 5, 1831, transaction included a one-story store, twostory house, nine-pin bowling alley, billiards room and table, outhouse, and kitchen. The price was $5,000.

Fletcher’s former two-story home began operating as one of the Florida Keys’ earliest hotels and the first outside of Key West. Samuel Spencer was hired to run the operation and, by 1835, he was considered the proprietor of the hotel. The following advertisement for the Tropical Hotel was printed in the St. Augustine Herald, Charleston Courier, Philadelphia Saturday Courier, and New York Advocate and dated Indian Key, Monroe County, Territory of Florida, Nov. 7, 1835:

A newspaper advertisement for the Tropical Hotel. JERRY WILKINSON COLLECTION/Keys History & Discovery Center

“The subscriber having settled himself on Indian Key, have determined to open a House for boarding and lodging, and believing it to be one of the most favorable situations in the United States for persons who are suffering from pulmonary, dyspeptic and numerous chronic diseases, and obliged to seek refuge from the chill blasts of a northern winter, he feels safe in saying that Indian Key cannot be surpassed for beauty, health and climate. Frost has never been known here — the thermometer seldom below 55 or 56 in winter, nor up to 90 in summer. It is entirely exposed to the sea from every point of the compass. The fare of his table and bar shall be as good as the market will afford, and attended by experienced servers. Private rooms for lodging gentlemen, ladies, and families neatly arranged. The undersigned hopes by diligent attention and industry to merit the custom of his friends and the public generally. S. A. Spencer (proprietor).”

Though he would continue to manage the hotel until the Aug 7, 1840, Indian attack, records indicate Spencer sold his interest in the hotel to Key West’s Pardon C. Greene and Fielding A. Browne in 1838.

30

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

MESSAGE FROM THE SHERIFF IT’S BACK TO SCHOOL TIME for Monroe County kids and I want to remind residents and visitors of a few things we can all do to help ensure our children stay safe coming and going from buses, vehicles and residences.

The biggest reminders are for motorists as some of the most dangerous infractions we see often come from those behind the wheel, so I will be brief: We have a zero tolerance policy for people who choose to speed in school zones and for those who illegally pass school buses.

Our Deputies will be out in force patrolling school zones and concentrating in areas surrounding schools and school bus stops. They will be writing tickets to all who fail to follow traffic laws.

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Keeping our children safe should be priority number one for all of us. Give yourself plenty of time on the roads. Stay extra alert as kids will be excited to start their new school year and they may not be aware of traffic.

Our School Resource Officer staff recently underwent additional training with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. That underscores a very important part of my philosophy: To keep as highly trained staff as I can who are up to speed with the latest in law enforcement applications and knowledge — especially when it comes to school safety.

So, as we here at the Sheriff’s Office work to do our part, we can’t do it alone. Help me spread the word that school is back in session.

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31

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021 CHARLOTTE TWINE

charlotte@keysweekly.com

TOUGHEST BATTLE?

MONROE COUNTY FIRE RESCUE DEPARTMENTS’ STAFF TURNOVER

J

uly 21 was a proud day for recruits to Monroe County Fire Rescue. The newly hired firefighters — Morgan Anderson, Alexis Reyes, Nicolas Rangel and Ignacio Vargas — were pinned with badges, took an oath and met with commissioners in a ceremony at the board meeting.

“I just want to say congratulations,” said Mayor Michelle Coldiron. “It has been a goal of ours to have new firefighters and to have new people for rescue teams. I’m just so happy to see all four of you here today, and I expect to see you all for at least 20, 30 years.”

But will these firefighters stay in the Keys for 20, 30 years? That is the question.

Three of the recruits are graduates of Monroe County’s Hot Shots program: Anderson, Reyes and Rangel. Per Monroe County’s website entry about Hot Shots, “The purpose of this program is to decrease the high turnover rate of firefighters (now about 15 percent annually), which is costly and disruptive. Due to the high cost of living, Monroe County Fire Rescue has been hiring more and more firefighters who live on the mainland and commute to their assigned stations throughout the Keys. Non-residents also can enroll in the firefighting courses, but qualified local residents will receive preference in the enrollment process.”

Hot Shots provides free firefighting and first responder training for qualified Monroe County residents in exchange for a commitment to volunteer for three years or work as a firefighter anywhere in the Florida Keys. The program waives the $2,200 fee, which must be returned if the graduate decides to get a job out of the county.

Battalion Chief Charlie Mather is in charge of training for the Hot Shots program, and he says the turnover rate is actually higher than the website’s claim of 15 percent. “​​The website was from a couple years ago,” Mather told Keys Weekly. “It was 30 percent turnover every year. The numbers were really bad.

Now we’re starting to see it slow down a little bit, trending in the right direction.”

Mather said the Hot Shots program, which is starting its fourth year of training, is still in its infancy, but he has reason to feel positive.

“We’ve hired a good 30 individuals from the program. All 30 of the individuals we’ve hired for Monroe County Fire are still employed with us.

That’s obviously a trend in the right direction.”

Chief Don Bock of Key Largo Fire has also experienced a lot of turnover, losing about 10 to 12 personnel a year who are either volunteers or paid staff.

“We lost paid staff last week to Miami-Dade,” he said. “Some years the turnover is higher, some lower.”

He said the main reason that staff leave is because Key Largo Fire can’t afford to pay better salaries and benefits. Key Largo is at the very top of its millage rate for property taxes that pay for emergency services, and raising the rate would require an act of legislation — a complicated process. Bock hopes that in 2022, the millage rate will be raised so staff can receive better pay.

“It’s not a pleasant situation, but you don’t fault anybody because they have better opportunities,” he said. “Money is the biggest factor.”

Chief John Johnson of Marathon Fire Rescue also wrestles with this issue.

“We normally have a lot of turnover this time of year, when the larger departments open up.

Cost of living here is very high, so it’s hard for firefighters to live here and raise a family.”

Johnson noted that when Miami-Dade and Broward counties get their budgets for the new fiscal year, usually around September, some of his employees get hired away, especially if they have family up north that they want to be closer to.

“I can’t blame them. The firefighters want to work for their community and raise a family,” he said.

But Marathon Fire Rescue has created a possible solution: a two-year fire academy at Marathon High School.

“We’re hoping by getting locals involved, learning the fire service, that we have better retention rates because their families are here,” Johnson said. “I hired one kid out of Marathon High School.

He is a local on the department for a year now.”

Perhaps Marathon Fire Rescue is on the right track. Chief Alan Averette of Key West Fire said the department has had great luck hiring graduates from the Key West High School fire rescue training program, which has been running for a few years.

“My deputy chief was in that class,” Averette pointed out.

But he also said there is a natural family feeling, a loyalty, to the Key West Fire department, with fathers and sons, and brothers, joining his staff.

Averette’s employees often stay for 30 years and retire. He has one commander who is still working for the department after 34 years.

“We’re blessed to have a pretty good family,” he said. “They’re born here, raised here. That’s why they stay in Key West. I tell my young guys this job isn’t for everybody. But if it’s for you, you’ll enjoy coming to work. It’s the best job in the city.”

Chief Alan Averette of Key West Fire has had success with preventing staff turnover, partly by hiring local students from the Key West High School firefighters training program. Seen here, the 2021 fire academy graduation. CITY OF KEY WEST/Contributed

Monroe County owns and operates the Joe London Fire Training Academy, located on Crawl Key in the Middle Keys, and its Hot Shots program takes place here. It is one of 43 certified firefighting training centers in Florida.MONROE COUNTY/Contributed

32

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

KAREN NEWFIELD

... a reader and now a writer, has hundreds of book reviews at: www. readingandeating. com. For questions and comments, email karen@ newfield.org.

BACK TO SCHOOL WITH A TWIST

ADMISSION

By Julie Buxbaum

THE GIFTED SCHOOL

By Bruce Holsinger

Chloe Berringer is a senior at the most prestigious (and expensive) private high school in Los Angeles. The SAT pressure is in full force and her beautiful, celebrity mother and handsome, successful father are cast as the helicopter parents from hell. Chloe’s grades are mediocre at best and her mom hires “the” college consultant to get the job done. Chloe is more focused on her longtime crush and spending weekends with her best friend but figures that whatever makes her parents happy and gets them off her back is fine by her. The morning the FBI comes banging on the door is the day her life turns upside down. The high-priced college assistance turns into the debacle of the decade. Chole’s mother is facing federal charges along with a slew of other rich, entitled parents who claim they were naively trying to help their beloved children. Not only has Chloe lost everything she loves, she faces the reality that her parents did not believe she could succeed on her own. They risked her future and her sister’s to ensure their own bragging rights. Loosely based on the recent news that rocked the nation, this YA fictionalized account was impossible to put down.

Four families in the fictional town of Crystal, Colorado find themselves fighting for a few precious spots in the new “gifted school” being developed in their neighborhood. Part of a small community, they have been close friends for years. As their children get older it becomes more difficult to evade the constant rivalry thrust into their lives — from travel soccer (best in state) to IQ tests required for acceptance into this prestigious program. The competition to read younger, speak multiple foreign languages and perform both on and off the field increases with each passing year, as do the buried secrets and escalating lies to get ahead. Through painful divorce, untimely death and the financial strains of keeping up with the Joneses, these friends desperately struggle to keep their once close and treasured relationships intact. Written with uncanny humor, this fictionalized reality is filled with our nation’s absurd race to nowhere and the reminder that it is vitally important to re-examine parenting behaviors on- and offline. A seventh grade variation of the recent and shocking FBI college sting, “The Gifted School” reveals unimaginable behavior that proves painfully and frighteningly accurate.

GIRLS WITH BRIGHT FUTURES

By Tracy Dobmeier and Wendy Katzman Welcome to the elite private high school called Elliott Bay Academy, in Seattle, Washington. Tech influencer CEO Alicia Stone has the entire school staff wrapped around her little check-writing finger. As her daughter Brooke begrudgingly finalizes her Stanford early admission application, Alicia will do everything in her power to guarantee her acceptance. Alicia’s long time assistant Maren also has a graduating senior named Winnie. Although she is attending EBA through the good graces and deep pockets of her mother’s boss, Winnie is ranked top in the class. At the same time, PTA commander-in-chief Kelly is confident her offspring Krissie will attain the coveted spot. Cheating, score inflation, backstabbing and bribery are only a few of the crimes these Crazytown overbearing moms are willing to commit. The day one student is mysteriously run off the road in a hit-and-run electric scooter accident, the entire house of cards comes tumbling down. Timely, suspenseful and filled with dark humor, this mama drama will have you on the edge of your seat.

33

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

Daniel Clark is a talented Key West drummer.

RALPH De PALMA/Soul of Key West

I

had the occasion recently to chat with an intriguing young man, Daniel Clark. As an avid supporter of the local music scene, I knew Clark was a talented drummer as I’d seen him perform with multiple local musicians over the past few years.

Clark approached me a few weeks ago wanting to discuss both his work as a musician and his passion for helping others.

I decided to meet with him and am a better man for doing so. Clark was born into a loving family in Jacksonville, Florida. When he was a very young child, BEN Clark’s family moved a few times and eventually SOLOVE settled in Atlanta.

“I was a hyperactive child,” recalls Clark. “I re... is a local radio member one time at a family get-together as a todpersonality and dler, I had wandered away from my mom. She found music promoter me with other family members in the garage watchwho loves to share his passion for ing a family music jam session. I was mesmerized by music. the drums.”

Seeing this as a therapeutic opportunity for her overactive son, Clark’s mom got him into drum lessons as a 3-year-old. Clark’s first band gig was with his family’s church band. He was the youngest member. He loved the drums and began exploring opportunities to learn even more.

As a freshman in high school, Clark attended Grammy Camp in Los Angeles, where, once again, he was the youngest participant. As a junior in high school, he attended a fiveweek camp at Berklee College of Music in Boston. The following year, Daniel auditioned for Berklee and was accepted into the prestigious music college.

“I immediately joined a band in college. We were quite good and even did some touring,” said Clark. “However, I took the wrong approach and attitude. I was focused on becoming famous with my band and I let the academic part of school slip away. I was more interested in the party and rock star lifestyle.”

His poor grades forced him to drop out of Berklee. Doing some soul searching, Clark enrolled at Full Sail University, where he majored in entertainment business. He graduated.

His mother, born and raised in Key West, had moved back to the Keys. Daniel joined her and his grandmother in Key West.

One Sunday morning, Clark’s uncle took him to The Green Parrot to watch the Sunday Jazz jam. Clark was asked to sit in with the musicians on stage. It was there that he met local musician and Sugarloaf School band instructor Joe Dallas, who encouraged Clark to audition for a musical that

DANIEL CLARK: DRUMMER, MENTOR, INSPIRATION needed a drummer. He did and got the part. Thus began his musical journey in Key West.

Clark also began work as a paraprofessional with Key West High School, helping students. He found he loved mentoring. He soon connected with Billy Davis and A Positive Step of Monroe County. This exceptional organization serves highrisk kids, young adults and their families throughout Monroe County. Many of their clients have made poor decisions that have resulted in legal and personal problems. Clark saw this as an opportunity to share his experience, strength and hope with others in order to help them become successful.

Clark’s passion for mentoring continues to grow. He got involved with the Boys and Girls Club in Key West and is now the club’s activities and programs director. His work as a mentor to these young members of our community is both fulfilling and helpful in keeping Clark himself on a successful path in his own life.

Clark has forged his own path as a professional drummer here in Key West. He has played with many musicians around town. He said he loves the diversity of the local music scene.

Playing different genres of music keeps his passion fresh and exciting.

His current primary drumming gig is as a member of the Marshall Morlock Band. Morlock is a young and talented guitarist, singer and performer. The two young men make up two thirds of this trio alongside Morlock’s father, Scott.

They’re one of the hottest bands in the Keys with a regular 9 p.m. Wednesday gig at General Horseplay.

One of Clark’s most recent highlights was when he played as part of the backing band for Michael Allman in a tribute concert to Michael’s famous father Gregg Allman and the Allman Brothers Band.

“That was an electric night,” Clark said. “It was so cool to play with some of the Florida Keys’ most talented musicians with Michael as our front man. I’m so grateful for the life I have. I get to follow both my love of mentoring others and I get to do what I love for a living every night as part of the incredible music scene here in the Keys.”

My brief conversation with this exceptional young man left me inspired. His BEN’S LIST: 5 Artists Who positive energy is contagious.

Changed/Influenced Music If you have the opportunity, 1. Muddy Waters go see Clark perform and 2. The Beatles take a moment to enjoy his 3. David Bowie company.

4. Prince 5. The Rolling Stones

35

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

KEY WEST KIDS WRAP UP IDLE HANDS SUMMER JOB PROGRAM

WORKIN’ FOR A LIVING

A

1

2

3

4

dozen Key West High School students who participated in this year’s A Positive Step of Monroe County’s “Idle Hands Youth Employment Program” wrapped up summer jobs with the City of Key West this week.

Open to all KWHS students who seek summer work, the program was founded in 2010 by APSMC executive director Billy Davis and was led this year by instructor/job coach Lynne Casamayor. Casamayor first presented two weeks of orientation/job readiness training for which the students received a stipend, covering interviewing strategies, tax preparation, college planning – including a tour of the College of the Florida Keys – and substance abuse awareness, after which students began work on July 6, filling a variety of paid positions with the city.

Each year, with the exception of 2020 when the program was put on hold due to Covid-19 pandemic constraints, the city has provided both the jobs and $35,000 to cover the student’s salaries. APSMC raises the balance of the $70,000 annual budget through fundraisers and private donations.

“This year’s program is a fantastic example of our community coming together for the good of our future,” Davis said. “For some time, because of Covid-19 and the resulting financial challenges, we weren’t sure if we could have a 2021 program. Fortunate-

1. Quoc Huynh, left, receives a paycheck at City Hall from A Positive Step of Monroe County instructor/job coach Lynne Casamayor, center, and executive director Billy Davis, right. Huynh worked in the transportation department, where they produced a bus operator recruitment video.

CAROL TEDESCO/Contributed 2. Key West High School students Jachar Butler, left, and Romanoli Moreau, right, worked in Community Services/Public Works with Supervisor Terry O’Dell, center.

ly our city leadership is very aware of how important this program is as a launching pad for the kids to a better life and unanimously approved their traditional $35,000 funding.

The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys, the Key West Sunrise Rotary Club and some very generous private donors contributed to the balance of the budget.

“We are also grateful to the staff at Key West High School, who helped recruit students, made a classroom available for our two week job readiness orientation program, and provided lunch for the students in the school cafeteria,” Davis said.

More information about A Positive Step of Monroe County, a non-profit organization that serves some of Monroe County’s highest risk kids and their families, is at APSMC. org or from Davis at 305-304-1969.

— Contributed

5

3. Quoc Huynh, left, and Stephanie Jenkins worked as city transportation interns with director Rod Delostrinos, not pictured, and transit operations manager Rogelio Hernandez, center.

The students worked on producing a bus operator recruitment video.

4. Daniela Briones-Moreno, foreground, scans documents with Key West city manager Patti McLauchlin. Briones-Moreno said scanning old city documents for the city’s database was interesting because the documents related to things she had learned previously.

5. Student Emiliz Portilla, left, and utilities administrator Matt Willman discuss GPS points on a map of the city.

6. Student Daisy Fernandez-Virgen has her sights set on a career as a firefighter, but worked as an intern with the city’s solid waste coordinator Dee Dee Green with fellow intern Talyah Teate.

6

36

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

It’s time to get back to the basics of good recycling 1

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

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38

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

CHECKING OUT THE CORAL

2

1 4

Diving in, from Key Largo to Dry Tortugas

I

n June, Dry Tortugas National Park reported what we’ve all been dreading to hear: Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease had reached our furthest waters. Since 2015, the mystery killer has been spreading across reefs in Florida and the Caribbean, killing a majority of the corals it encounters. The park is working diligently to control the outbreak in our last coral stronghold in the Keys, and we got a peek at what it looks like currently. Fortunately, there’s still a lot of coral to see and enjoy (phew!). It’s a glimpse into what the Keys used to look like, and what coral restoration practitioners hope to bring back.

The species particularly affected by STCLD are a treat to behold, as they used to populate the entire Keys and now can almost exclusively be found in the Tortugas. Take a look at what our waters look like right now, up and down the Keys.

— Weekly staff report

3

5

6 1. A beautiful little brain coral growing on a reef previously hit by SCTLD. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly 2. Yellow snapper take refuge from the current. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly 3. Another species that has been hard hit

by SCTLD, several large great star coral stands remain in the Dry Tortugas. KURT TIDD/Contributed

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TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly 5. Divers descend on The Maze reef to investigate what they can find and to enjoy the beautiful weather. KURT TIDD/Contributed 6. A porcupine puffer fish makes its home in a barrel sponge on Jumping Mac Reef. KURT TIDD/ Contributed

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

A RIDEALONG ON A BUSY WEEKEND Weekend patrol sees

Deputy assigned to the Monroe County special traffic unit, Shaun Lones, writes a ticket to the driver of a silver Chrysler for passing down the middle lane near MM 82.

speeders and some citations

Deputy Ana Coello uses a radar gun to target speeders on Old Highway near MM 80 in Islamorada. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

O

ne could call the two lanes of road through Islamorada a highway hell.

For residents, it’s an all-too-familiar scene on weekends and holidays, as a seemingly endless line of vehicles crawl bumper to bumper south for roughly 13 miles.

Impatience takes over in some drivers who just spent a considerable amount of time making their way through Florida City and the 18-mile stretch. Other drivers unfamiliar with the Keys heed the advice of their GPS, veering off onto the Old Highway and putting the pedal to metal in hopes to cut their travel time by a few minutes.

Others take a more aggressive, and unsafe, approach due to their anxiousness, as they use center turn lanes to blow past vehicles. A recent ride-along with Monroe County Sheriff’s Sgt. Nick Whiteman in Islamorada would reveal these very instances.

Before taking to the road, Whiteman meets up with Deputy Ana Coello at the substation in Islamorada. She just finished her first traffic stop of the day, and it led to the arrest of a woman who was seen committing traffic violations.

Coello noticed white powder on the female’s face.

Investigation found what appeared to be cocaine in her possession.

It doesn’t take long for a traffic violation to occur upon Whiteman’s departure from the substation around noon on a Saturday after the twoday lobster mini-season. Traveling south, Whiteman, a 13-year deputy come October, meets up with Deputy Shaun Lones near Sandal Factory at MM 82. Lones is part of a special traffic unit that roams sections of the Keys to assist where needed. Not only does Lones assist with crashes when Florida Highway Patrol can’t show up, but he also looks out for traffic offenders.

“I love the versatility of the job,” he said. “It varies every day. For me, I love it. I’m not one to sit behind the desk.”

While speaking with Lones, a silver Chrysler 300 is spotted driving in the center lane heading north. Traffic is normally heavy going south, but the conclusion of lobster mini-season has a long line of traffic going north.

Hopping on his bike, Lones takes off after the vehicle and stops it in the Mangrove Mike’s parking lot. Whiteman follows to assist. The driver, who had a Class A CDL license out of New Jersey, was clocked going 60 mph down the center lane.

Tickets were issued for speeding and illegal passing.

“One carries four points (on a license) and the other carries three points. It’s going to affect his driving status,” he said. “His wife was like, ‘Oh, but it’s going to hurt his license.’ I was like, ‘Ma’am, the way he’s driving, your husband’s going to hurt or kill someone if they pull out in front of him, so what’s more important?’”

Whiteman said there’s zero tolerance for passing in areas where it’s not legal, such as a middle turning lane.

“I usually tell them it’s our No. 1 complaint here. It’s the No. 1 traffic issue,” he said. “We have zero tolerance for passing violations. If you get stopped for passing violation you get a citation.”

Following the traffic stop, Lones heads north while Whiteman travels south to the Old Highway near MM 81 in anticipation of vehicles veering off to cut traffic. Positioning his SUV along the road, the radar picks up on a Range Rover going 46 mph in a 30 mph zone. A traffic stop commences to find a family from Tennessee driving a rental car trying to get to the airport. Several other speeders would give the same reason, including an Equinox going well over the speed limit.

A busy July in Islamorada brought 70 traffic stops by Whiteman, most of them on weekends.

Between those stops and parking violations, he issued more than 40 citations last month. One of his busiest days was on July 18, a Sunday, when he conducted 18 traffic stops.

“Weekends, of course, see big numbers,” Whiteman said.

Sgt. Nick Whiteman issues a warning to the driver of a black Silverado for going 12 mph over the speed limit.

Weekends in Islamorada usually see three deputies patrolling the road and one on the water during the day.

Whiteman and Coello would later meet up on the Old Highway to use a radar gun to detect speeders from a further distance. Six cars were pulled off the road for driving well above the speed limit. Several citations and warnings were issued by the two.

With traffic citations also came a number of parking tickets for trucks with boats parked in between the U.S. 1 shoulder and on the sidewalk.

Three tickets were issued near WorldWide Sportsman to three trucks hauling boats.

A bike was stopped at Pierre’s after a call came in to dispatch of a reckless driver around MM 83. Whiteman spotted the biker heading south and conducted a traffic stop. He noticed the biker had his license tag flipped up, which is done to avoid tolls and from being spotted. A citation was issued for an improper tag display.

“An effort needs to be made when we get calls for reckless driving,” Whiteman said. “We do our best to find it. We encourage people to call in when they see it happen, but we still have to witness the violation occur.”

Most traffic stops conducted by Whiteman saw good conversation and some laughs. A blue Chevrolet was pulled over for speeding in a 30 mph zone. Whiteman, a University of Miami fan, noticed the Florida State University license plate on the vehicle. Instead of a ticket, the driver was given a warning. It contained a little message, however.

“Go Canes,” it read.

40

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 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 Bonefish Storage located at 1275 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Wolfe Unlimited LLC Publish: August 12, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Creekside Inn Islamorada located at 90611 Old Highway, Tavernier, FL 33070 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: LAH Creekside Opco LLC Publish: August 12, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Garden View Apartments located at 5220, 5224, 5228, & 5230 College Road, Key West, Florida 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: The Housing Authority of the City of Key West, Florida Publish: August 12 & 19, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI Notice is here by given that on August 26th, 2021, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold. The names of whose units will be sold are as follows: 103530 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL. 33037. Names And Last Known Addresses are as Follows: William Parent Unit 1165 $1,205.58 Michael Harrington Unit 1223 $567.68 Incorporated Football League Unit 1736 $1,414.40 William Parent Unit 1425 $2,538.45 Publish: August 5 & 12, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, September 14, 2021, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: FULL MAINTENANCE FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar by Onvia at www. demandstar.com OR www.

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

monroecountybids.com. The Public Record is available upon request.

In response to Covid-19, the Monroe County Purchasing Department has implemented a new electronic process for reviewing and opening sealed bids. Monroe County is committed to continuing to receive and process competitive solicitations while maintaining the health and safety of our employees and those who attend bid openings. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/ physically delivered bids/ proposal/responses WILL NOT be accepted.

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00 P.M. on September 14, 2021. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows: Full Maintenance Fire Protection Systems 09/14/2021 Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size.

Should your bid documents exceed 25MB or otherwise be rejected or undeliverable to OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl. gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening.

Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on September 14, 2021. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,, 4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,, 4509326156# US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: August 12, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served 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 August 12, 2021.

Personal Representative: Mary Jo Geopfert Estate of MARTHA ROSE GEOPFERT c/o Cynthia F. Civil, Esq. CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, P.A. 5196 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida 33050 (305) 743-5884 cfc@ccivillaw.com Attorney for Personal Representative: CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, ESQ. Florida Bar No.: 0082988 CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, P.A. 5196 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida 33050 305-743-5884 Email: cfc@ccivillaw.com Publish: August 12 & 19, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2021-CP-000012-M IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MARTHA ROSE GEOPFERT, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Estate of MARTHA ROSE GEOPFERT, deceased, whose date of death was October 14, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, File No.: 2021-CP-000012-M, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2021-CP-0000153-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MARIANNA Z. MARIN, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Estate of MARIANNA Z. MARIN, deceased, whose date of death was December 14, 2019, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, File No.: 2021-CP-0000153-K, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served 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

LEGAL NOTICES 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 August 12, 2021.

Personal Representative: David G. Marin Estate of MARIANNA Z. MARIN c/o Cynthia F. Civil, Esq. CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, P.A. 5196 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida 33050 (305) 743-5884 cfc@ccivillaw.com Attorney for Personal Representative: CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, ESQ. Florida Bar No.: 0082988 CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, P.A. 5196 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida 33050 305-743-5884 Ema Publish: August 12 & 19, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY,FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2021-CP-000155-K IN RE: ESTATE OF BARBARA G. MUELLER, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS OR DEMANDS AGAINST THE ABOVE ESTATE: The administration of the estate of Barbara G. Mueller, deceased, whose date of death was November 3, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this Court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against 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 SECTION §733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of the first publication of this notice is August 12, 2021.

Personal Representative: DENNIS BUCKLEY 10101 NW Maple Rd. Stewartsville, MO 64490 Attorney for Personal Representative: ROBERT B. TRUMBO, JR., ESQUIRE Florida Bar No. 283088 340 North Causeway New Smyrna Beach, Florida 32169 Tel: (386) 423-1110 Email: baileyandtrumbo@gmail. com Attorney for the Personal Representative Publish: August 12 & 19, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2021-CP-000065-M IN RE: ESTATE OF BOBBY JOE HALL, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of BOBBY JOE HALL, deceased, whose date of death was December 4, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN 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: August 5, 2021.

Personal Representative: Elizabeth H. Hall 61 Trinitie Trail Kitty Hawk, NC 27949 Attorney for Personal Representative: Bradley J. Davis Attorney for Elizabeth H. Hall Florida Bar No. 136559 Rumberger, Kirk & Caldwell, P.A. 300 S. Orange Avenue, Suite 1400 Orlando, FL 32801 Telephone: 407-872-7300 Email: bdavis@rumberger.com Publish: August 5 & 12, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-75-P IN RE: ESTATE OF ADOLPH H. ROBINSON, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Adolph H. Robinson, deceased, whose date of death was February 17, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 50 High Point Road, Plantation Key, Florida 33070.

The names and addresses of the personal representatives and the personal representatives’ attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

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: August 5, 2021.

Personal Representatives: Lee W. Robinson 210 Sonny Road Islamorada, Florida 33070 Elaine M. Robinson 123 Valencia Drive Islamorada, Florida 33070 Attorney for Personal Representatives: Robert K. Miller Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173 Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938 Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-9428 Fax: (305) 743-8800 E-Mail: service@floridakeyslaw. com Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com Publish: August 5 & 12, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938 Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-9428 Fax: (305) 743-8800 E-Mail: service@floridakeyslaw. com Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com Publish: August 5 & 12, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-67-M IN RE: ESTATE OF KENNETH DAVIDSON, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Kenneth Davidson, deceased, whose date of death was June 9, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: August 5, 2021.

Personal Representative: Benjamin Davidson 1501 Fairview Run Kendallville, Indiana 46755 Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert K. Miller Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-000049-K IN RE: ESTATE OF DONTA RASHA BRUEIN, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of DONTA RASHA BRUEIN, deceased, whose date of death was October 1, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 21-CP-000049-K; the address of which is 500 Whitehead St., Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. The Fiduciary lawyer-client privilege in s.

90.5021 FLA. STAT. applies with respect to the personal representative and any attorney employed by the personal representative.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons, who have claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this notice, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED 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: August 5, 2021.

Personal Representative: Norman Bruein, Jr. 29D 11th Avenue Key West, Florida 33040 Attorney for Personal Representative: Nakeitha Sweeting Hodrick, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0079847 ROBERSON SWEETING Sweeting Law, P.A. 633 NE 167th Street, Suite 1125 North Miami Beach, Florida 33162 786.279.4841 Publish: August 5 & 12, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

41

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

AUTOS WANTED

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

HOMES FOR SALE

MISC. FOR SALE

ALL YEARS! Junk or Used.

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

Gulf Atlantic Bank in Key West is growing and is looking to hire a Loan Operations Specialist.

This position generally requires understanding of booking loans including managing related insurance and appraisal duties, processing loan payments, and creating loan documentation along with other responsibilities.

Word and Excel knowledge is required.

Prior Banking experience a benefit but not needed.

Competitive pay, health benefits, and positive work environment with room to grow within the company Please send resumes to SBriening@ GulfAtlanticBank.com

Marathon Auto looking for full-time general laborer. Apply in person at 2525 Overseas Highway, Marathon.

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

Fl Keys Diesel - Marathon now hiring: Diesel Technician -Competitive compensation package.

Exp in the marine field preferred but not necessary. Exp w/ Caterpillar and Cummins Marine Engines a plus.

Diesel Mechanic Assistant position available.

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

Company willing to train.

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

Marathon - For Sale: 1.5 acre - House & Duplex and Mobile Home rights.

Waterfront - oceanside, dock possible, gated.

Appraised $1.9 million.

3 0 5 - 6 1 0 - 8 0 0 2

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

BOATS FOR SALE 39' Key West #1 Hull SportsFisherman Detroit 871 Twin Turbo Northern Lights Genset 6.5 kw. Located in Key West. $40,000 All offers considered. 305-360-3538 38' Lindsey Motor Sailer Ford Lehman engine, Kohler generator, fuel/ water tanks (140 gallons each). Located in Marathon. $25,000 609-602-4619 12' Jon Boat w/ 6 hp Nissan motor, and trailer.

Located in Marathon. $1,600 305-395-1015 1999 World Cat 27' with twin 175 Suzuki motors.

Runs good.

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

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.

CENTENNIAL BANK IS HIRING! MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATOR MARATHON/KEY WEST GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Solicits residential first mortgages through contacts with Realtors, builders, and developers.

Interview loan applicants and makes credit decisions.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Broad knowledge of such fields as accounting, marketing, business administration, finance, etc. Equivalent to a four year college degree, plus 4 years related experience and/or training, and 2 years related management experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

To apply, please visit our careers page: www.my100bank. c o m / c a r e e r s

The Marathon Yacht Club is looking to hire a Line Cook. Please call us at 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.

RN’s needed for Crisis Stabilization Unit. PT/FT/ per diem. Open 24/7. Day & night avail with shift diff.

Drug screen. w e s t c a r e . c o m Night Monitor - The Heron. FREE HOUSING/ food stipend vs. salary.

Must be onsite 10p-8a.

Sleep OK. 5 days on 5 days off. Drug screen required. w e s t c a r e . c o m 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 NOW HIRING: Sweet Savannah's is now hiring for all shifts. Please apply in person at 8919 Overseas Highway in Marathon.

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

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 Come Join Our Family and Have Fun At Work!

Hiring: Host, Hostess & Servers - Full &/or parttime. AM & PM Shifts.

Apply in person at Castaway Restaurant, end of 15th Street, Oceanside, Marathon or email: lobstercrawl@gmail.com.

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

Serve on pool deck, beach and/or bar lounge. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Full time/Part time.

Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at Cabana Club, 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call April (305) 393-0631 Place your EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED ad here for only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844 today!!

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

Old Model Military Clocks & W a t c h e s .

Call 305-743-4578

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

Access to large balcony.

W/D No Pets. $3500/mo + util. F/L/S 305-747-1700

Place your MISC. FOR SALE ad here for only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and Sell Your Stuff!

Place your HOUSING FOR RENT ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

LOT FOR SALE

Commercial Building with US 1 frontage for lease in Marathon. 2550 sq ft of office & warehouse space w/overhead door. Parking in front and secured parking & storage area with secured fencing in back. Call 305-743-4400

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

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

Call 305-394-0530

MISC. FOR SALE FloridaKeysTravel.com can now be yours! Go to FloridaKeysTravel.com for details on how to purchase this exceptional domain name immediately for $399 or to make an offer.

OFFICE/COMMERCIAL

SPACE FOR LEASE

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 Place your Office/ Commercial Space for lease ad here. Only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844.

RV FOR SALE

Ralons Security Key West Immediate Hire $16-$17/hr Class D License

Ralons Security 786-615-5522 Lic# B1500167

SUDOKU SOLUTION

REDUCED PRICE! 38'6" 2016 Wildwood Lodge FVWW RV Unit located in Bluefin RV Park in Key Largo. 2 Bedroom. $18,500 8 6 3 - 6 6 0 - 9 0 6 5 SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!

PT CASHIER PT DOCKHAND Apply in person Pancho’s Fuel 1280 Oceanview Avenue, Marathon

305-743-2281

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals.

Overtime and benefits are available.

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

Business Data Analyst Technical expertise re: data models, database management, ODBC, data mining inquiry & reporting.

Finish Carpenter Must present high attention to detail; workmanship must be very high quality.

Landscape Architect Seeking a detail orientated and organized individual. Site design experience and License a plus. Must know Revit and AutoCAD.

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

Place your RV FOR SALE ad here for only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and Sell Your RV!

RV SITE FOR RENT

RV Site For Rent in Marathon. Full Hookup.

No pets. $1600/mo F/L/S 305-747-1700 Landscape Design

An outdoor design spec that works well with clie YARD SALE producing designs, selectio A BIG processing Treasures sales. &

Trash Yard Sale - Rain or Shine - This Fri Aug 13 & Sat Aug 14 from 8am-3pm.

Something for Lead AVeveryone.

Bargains galore.

AllTechnici must HomeBeach Automat go! AV 419 and Sombrero Road- MaskKnowledge Required. of e installations.

electronic componen

Place your YARD SALE ad here for only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 Warehouse & Deliver today and Sell Your Stuff!

Must have reliable transport on time and organized. Mus valid driver’s license. CDL

42

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844 SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS NEEDED! Monroe County School District

KeysBank.com

Join Our Team!

Key West

Salary $17.15 – $24.15/hour Key West, Sugarloaf, Marathon and Upper Keys (4 work locations)

Full Time Teller Maintenance Technician CSR - Online Banking Administrative Assistant Accountant I Business Development Specialist Call Center Manager

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

Big Pine

CHARLEY TOPPINO & SONS IS HIRING

Full Time Teller Marathon Assistant Branch Operations Manager Key Largo Full Time Teller

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

Member FDIC

EOE-M/F/V/D

Equal Housing Lender

Begin an exciting career with one of the most established and reputable companies in the Keys 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.

EQUIPMENT OPERATORS Loader, Dozer, Excavator, Grader TRUCK DRIVERS W/ CDL CLASS A SKILLED LABORERS EXPERIENCED CONCRETE FINISHERS COMPETITIVE PAY  SIGNING BONUSES AVAILABLE EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER For more information and inquiries, call 305-296-5606 or email Reym@charleytoppino.com

Maintenance Technician • General building, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC repairs • 3 - 5 years of experience preferred • Ability to work outdoors and lift up to 50 pounds • Must have a valid driver’s license

Floor Manager Daytime Host Experienced Servers Experienced Bartenders

• Full benefits package for full-time employees

Member FDIC

EOE-M/F/V/D

NOW HIRING

Equal Housing Lender

Apply Online at KeysBank.com/Careers

Busy Key Largo Dive Center has immediate openings for

BOAT CAPTAINS $1,500 SIGNING BONUS

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

Send resume to resumes@rainbowreef.com

High volume restaurant in Key Largo.

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

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

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

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

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

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

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

43

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

No fossil fuels needed to get the limit of lobster. BOB MURRAY/Contributed

Thanks to Deven Ellis for his fishing skills and reeling this one in. I finally got to see one of these big beauties! It was too cool to keep, had to send it back into its big blue home. RACHEL CARLSON/Contributed

Fishing is both an active and a relaxing activity. TODD CHANDLER/Contributed

Ryan Mullins out back fishing in Content Key. A beautiful shot of the Keys.

CHRISTIN MULLINS/Contributed

Our gorgeous water never gets old.

SUSAN MCKEE/Contributed

You can cook your whole fish catch at Brutus Seafood in Marathon.

DIANA MUCHA/Contributed

Heidi Flagg of Key Colony Beach caught on fly. JEAN HERING/Contributed

TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

I

n AUGUST, we’re highlighting 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 pictures 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,

copyright, moral rights, intellectual rights, or rights of privacy of any entity or person.

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

44

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

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

CGC-040138

TOUR GUIDES NEEDED BE A PART OF KEYS HISTORY 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.

CARPENTERS Would earning $200 bucks extra every week be worth changing your job?

WE’RE HIRING: SKILLED CARPENTERS, JOURNEYMEN & MASTER CARPENTERS Advance your career with a reputable hands on employer established 2011 who appreciates your hard work. If you’re not happy at your current job we will match your current pay stub plus $200 per week, it’s that simple.

To see if we are a good fit let’s talk, 305-850-4736 Resume Appreciated All inquiries are kept confidential Framing | Hardie ColorPlus | Rough Carpentry | Plans | Cabinetry Truss | Strength | Precision Caulk | Finished Carpentry | Trim | Base | Crown Scribe | Windows | Doors | Stairs | PIP | Safety | Multi Family | High End Outdoors | Indoors | Team Work | Attention To Detail | Problem Solving Dexterity | Speed | Communication | Time Management | Key West

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

Part time & Full time Opportunities!

Sous Chef

Engineer - General Maintenance Line Cook Bell/Valet

Front Desk Agent

Reservations Agent

Relief Night Security

Dinner Busser/Runner - Hot Tin Roof

Dinner Greeter - Hot Tin Roof

LMT, Esthetician or Nail Tech.

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

Great pay, amazing benefits, & an awesome team!

Ocean Key Resort and Spa is EOE.

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

ROOM ATTENDANTS

$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

45

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

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

NOW HIRING BOGIE & BACALL'S SEA SENOR Restaurant Host Servers Bartender Food Runner

Restaurant General Managers

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

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

THEME: TV THEME SONGS

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.

ACROSS 1. ____’s razor 6. Credit card-related acronym 9. Goes with rave 13. Garlic mayo 14. “Jack and the Beanstalk” exclamation 15. Echo sounder 16. Beauty shop 17. European Economic Community 18. Falstaffian in body 19. *”Scooby-Dooby-Doo, where are you?

We got some work ____ ____ ____” 21. *”So no one told you life was gonna be ____ ____” 23. Pocket watch chain 24. Uncouth one 25. Place to get a massage 28. Boozer 30. Pie nuts 35. Sharpen 37. Orange powder drink mix 39. Tennis-affected joint 40. Bright thought 41. Reputation-damaging gossip 43. Symphony member 44. Famous Beethoven symphony 46. Microsoft browser 47. “Young Frankenstein” leading actor 48. Dines at home 50. Telephoned 52. Up to present time 53. Neat 55. Diamond stat 57. *”Gee, our old ____ ran great, those were the days” 61. *”Let’s ride with the family down the street through the courtesy of Fred’s ____ ____” 65. Loosen laces 66. Opposite of vend 68. Kind of artery 69. One Beatle 70. Recipe amt.

71. Opposite of atonal 72. *”Where the kisses are hers and ____ and his, Three’s company too” 73. Sigma Alpha Epsilon 74. Rosetta Stone, e.g.

DOWN 1. Brewer’s kiln 2. “Ta-ta!” in Italy 3. *”If you’re out on the road feeling lonely, and so ____” 4. Remote in manner 5. S.S. ____ of “Gilligan’s Island” 6. Not many (2 words) 7. *”Movin’ on up to the east side, we finally got a piece of the ____” 8. Right-hand page 9. Schneider and Reiner 10. Afresh 11. Astronaut’s insignia 12. Three pointer 15. Evening party 20. Sad newspaper notices 22. Goes with skip and a jump 24. Without a trace of moisture (2 words) 25. *”Everybody’s got a special kind of story, everybody finds a way to ____” 26. Podium, pl.

27. Concerning, archaic 29. *”Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your ____” 31. Heidi’s “Magic Wooden Shoe” 32. The Beatles’ “____ Road” 33. Not a soul (2 words) 34. *”Sunny day, sweepin’ the clouds away on my way to where the air is ____” 36. “Good ____” cooking show 38. Lady nÈe Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta 42. Extend subscription 45. Infamous German leader 49. Naught 51. Barley kernels 54. Financial woes 56. Where there’s trouble?

57. Verdant 58. Initial stake 59. Hollywood Walk of Fame honor 60. A snob puts them on 61. Use a keyboard 62. Marine eagle 63. Bibliographical abbr.

64. *”Just sit right back and you’ll hear a ____” 67. *”Oh boy it’s swell to say, Good morning ____!”

46

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

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

GENERAL CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS

SPALLING

ALL KEYS GLASS

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors

305-743-7800

Authorized Dealer

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

EXPERTS

2728 North Roosevelt Blvd.

Overseas Market Key West

NOW HIRING!

Sewer Connections 305

872-1876

• New Construction • Remodeling • Irrigation

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

We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

305-998-8953

305

296-BLUE

• Heavy Equipment • Solar Lic## RF11067168

PC 606

Proud member of:

INTERNATIONAL

CONCRETE REPAIR INSTITUTE

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

Appliance and Air Conditioning

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

Insured • Professional • Reliable

Sportfishing Adventures

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

info@johnnymaddoxcharters.com

305-481-3259

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

SOLAR DONE RIGHT!

Tewes Mortgage

Your local, residential lending expert!

CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE

Call 305.495.6000

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.

for a FREE Consultation

Brian Tewes

A division of SALT Service, serving The Keys since 1989

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

305-289-1150

NMLS# 375025 Tewes Mortgage NMLS# 1453791 NMLSConsumerAccess.org Florida Solar Contractor CVC 56734 Florida Electrical Contractor EC13008657

www.TewesMortgage.com

Serving Key Largo to Key West

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

Lic No. SP1481

Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here

When It Rains It Pours!

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

Key West 305-292-2666

MARATHON

305-743-0506

KEY LARGO

305-852-5356

rainsavergutters@gmail.com

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

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

Will Campbell President

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

47

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

PREMIER BARBERSHOP OF THE FLORIDA KEYS

SELECT DRAFT BEER CRAFT BEER | WINE

5450 MACDONALD AVE | UNIT 6 | STOCK ISLAND | 305.292.1460 MONDAY - SATURDAY | 9A - MIDNIGHT | BEARDSBREWS.COM

OPEN TUESDAY THRU SATURDAY! 11AM-4PM

PRIVATE SHOPPING PARTIES AVAILABLE

BY RESERVATION

KIRBYSCLOSET.COM FOR MORE INFO & RESERVATIONS

VINTAGE | EXCELLENT CONDITION | PRE-LOVED & NEW WOMEN’S CLOTHING | ACCESSORIES 218 WHITEHEAD STREET #4 | KEY WEST | 305.847.9977 PAID PARKING GARAGE NEXT TO OPAL KEY RESORT & MARINA

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @KIRBYSCLOSETKW

48

KEY WEST WEEKLY / AUGUST 12, 2021

FAMILY, FOOD & FUN

Join us daily 4-6pm for $3 small plates, domestic drafts, wine & liquor!

And don’t miss our Live Music! Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday 5-8pm