Upper Keys Weekly 21-0819

Haiti in our thoughts. Afghanistan on our minds.

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RUN RETURNS Conquer the bridge | P. 20 AFGHAN VETS REACT Turmoil brings stomach turning | P. 12 FRESH ROAST Coffee shop’s new storefront | P. 18

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

EXCEPTIONAL

This custom-built estate is positioned on 3 acres with a gated entry for maxi-

ACCOMMODATIONS.

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A MORE THAN ACCOMMODATING EXPERIENCE.

mum privacy and submerges you into paradise living with lush landscaping astonishment offering a double staircase and an aesthetic that is Florida Keys chic with a touch of Southern charm. The master wing is located on the 1st floor with custom his/hers closets, his/hers bathrooms with exquisite marble finishes, a soaking tub, and a porch with direct access to the expansive backyard. In total, this home is complete with three bedrooms and five bathrooms. The chef's style kitchen comes with a full butler's pantry, including a wine room. Upstairs are the additional two bedrooms/bathrooms, an open sitting area with water views dripping in natural light. The lower-level doors open up to the backyard to create a cabana feel and easy access for a game room. The back of this home has a sandy beach with direct water entry, a boat basin with a 14,000 lb boat lift, and construction to begin on an additional dock with a boat lift for larger boats that need deep water. In addition, this property offers a 100x100 lot with building rights for an additional structure.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

3,000 91760 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier, FL 33070 Office: 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com

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Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

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Editor

ON THE COVER

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

According to U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, more than 120 packages containing a little more than 3,000 fake vaccine cards were recently seized at the port of Memphis this year. CBP said they come in suspicious packages from China, and a recent shipment was en route to New Orleans. “If you do not wish to receive a vaccine, that is your decision. But don’t order a counterfeit, waste my officer’s time, break the law and misrepresent yourself,” said Michael Niepert, area Port Director of Memphis.

An aerial of runners and walkers during the 2019 First State Bank Key Largo Bridge Run. The event returns this November. DOUG FINGER/ Keys Weekly

MORE CASES AND MORE HOSPITALIZTIONS

Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

Account Executive

Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers

Charlotte Twine charlotte@keysweekly.com Sara Matthis sara@keysweekly.com Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor

Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Office/Circulation Manager Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

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Chanice Dos Santos chanice@keysweekly.com

County commissioner tests positive for COVID 19

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Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

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Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com

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A health worker administers a test during a clinic in July 2020 at the Douglass Center in Key West. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

N

ew COVID-19 infections increased yet another week throughout the state and the Florida Keys. While hospital beds throughout the South Florida region are filled with patients, recent data by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control is showing a decline in COVID19-related deaths in the state.

A latest Florida Health Department COVID-19 report, published weekly every Friday, showed 151,415 new positive cases in the state from Aug. 6 to Aug. 12. That’s up from the prior week when 134,711 new cases were reported.

Monroe County reported 504 new cases, which is up from 388 the previous week. Bob Eadie, Monroe County’s top health officer, said a report he received Wednesday morning showed 95 positive cases.

Thirteen of those cases involved individuals 17 and under.

Cases among those between 20 and 40 are increasing, Eadie

said. New infections among those 65 and older are in the single digits.

Thirty-six patients with COVID-19 were being cared for at Keys hospitals as of Aug. 18.

At Lower Keys Medical Center, 20 patients with COVID-19 were being treated on the afternoon of Aug. 18. Five of those are in the intensive care unit, and one is receiving ventilator care.

“We continue to provide care for many conditions and encourage patients experiencing medical emergencies to seek care immediately,” said David Clay, CEO for Lower Keys Medical Center. “We encourage everyone to follow CDC guidelines for the prevention of COVID-19 and to get a vaccination if eligible.”

Baptist Health South Florida says 16 patients with COVID-19 are being treated in Monroe County.

Across its South Florida system, 927 patients are currently being treated.

“I can’t emphasize enough vaccinations are the true key to getting out of it,” Eadie told county com-

missioners during an Aug. 18 meeting.

But Eadie said there are positive cases, albeit small, involving those who are vaccinated. A key piece missing during the county commission meeting was Mike Forster. Mayor Michelle Coldiron kicked off the meeting in Marathon by acknowledging that he contracted COVID-19 recently. He’s currently in stable condition at a hospital on the mainland. Forster received the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

“On behalf of the commissioners, we’re all praying for you, Mike,” Coldiron said. “Stay strong for us.”

A Monroe County School District COVID-19 dashboard is back online with students returning to the classroom last week. Data from the first week of school showed 20 students and one staff member confirmed positive with COVID-19.

Five students confirmed positive were from Sugarloaf School, four from Horace O’Bryant School, three from Key West High School and two from Coral Shores High School. Fellow students in contact with positive cases are being told to quarantine as a result.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

“We have no pediatric hospitalizations or deaths, which is a ray of hope,” Eadie said.

A decision by the Monroe County School Board last week requires facial coverings inside schools and buses for two weeks. Officials will reexamine the COVID-19 status on Aug. 24.

Parents and guardians have the ability, however, to opt out of the requirement. Becky Herrin, school district communications coordinator for COVID-19 response, said roughly 1,058 opt-out forms were received, as of Aug. 18, out of the 8,700 students enrolled.

With confirmed cases increasing, death tallies in the state related to COVID-19 appear to be on a downward trend. Per data by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, Florida reported 119 deaths on Aug. 5. Forty-five new deaths were reported on Aug. 11, and 10 deaths were reported between Aug. 14 and Aug. 16.

Eadie said there was one COVID-19-related death in Monroe County this week. It came out of Lower Keys Medical Center.

Baptist Health South Florida system announced that it would be requiring COVID-19 vaccines for its employees, medical staff and volunteers by Oct. 31. Baptist Health South Florida, which serves patients from Miami to the Keys, said a recent survey of employees found a majority were vaccinated.

“However, we recognize that in order to beat this virus together and fully protect our patients, employees, medical staff and community, we all need to be vaccinated for COVID-19,” Bo Boulenger, president and chief operating officer, wrote in an email.

A petition on change.org is requesting Baptist Health to amend their policy and give employees and staff the choice. Some 3,500 signatures were gathered as of Wednesday.

“We believe the threat of losing employment if not vaccinated could be interpreted as a form of implied coercion,” the petition reads. “A considerable number of our employees are rooted in this diverse community and will essentially be forced into a decision to get vaccinated against their wishes.”

New state-sponsored monoclonal antibody treatment sites are popping up, following a press conference by Gov. Ron DeSantis last week. Monoclonal antibody treatments can be prescribed by health care providers to individuals

12 years of age and older who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or who have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 and are at high risk for severe illness and hospitalization.

“Early monoclonal antibody treatment keeps people out of the hospital and saves lives,” DeSantis said. “We look forward to continuing to open these sites throughout the state and hope awareness about the treatment continues to spread.”

Many hospitals are already providing monoclonal treatment, including Mariners Hospital and Lower Keys Medical Center. While the treatment works well, Eadie said there are some side effects that include lowering blood pressure, extreme nausea and dizziness.

“It’s not an easy treatment for everyone,” he said.

A standing order in Florida signed by the state surgeon general allows patients to receive this treatment without a prescription or referral, if administered by an eligible health care provider. Such referrals are not required at any of the state monoclonal antibody treatment sites and treatments are available at no cost to patients.

Just over 980 vaccines were administered to Monroe County residents between Aug. 6 and Aug. 13. That brings the total number inoculated to 50,586, or about 74% of the county population.

“We’ve done a good job of people who live here getting vaccinated. That goes a long way to being OK,” Eadie said.

Eadie added that the department of health is working to bring additional vaccination sites to the Upper Keys, as well as two testing sites with one at Islamorada’s Founders Park and the other at Bernstein Park on Stock Island.

Commissioner David Rice told Eadie that he’d like to see daily COVID-19 reports showing the situation in Monroe County. The report, which started as the pandemic progressed in March 2020 and ended several months ago, detailed everything from new cases by area in the Keys to mortality totals.

“I feel like we have suddenly entered the ‘Twilight Zone.’ Because decisions made out of this county, we’re not able to share in current, daily reports that allow all of us to work together to respond quickly,” he said. “This is a disease that acts quickly.”

Eadie said health departments throughout the state are pushing for daily reports from Tallahassee.

7 COVID-19 QUESTIONS ANSWERED The Florida Department of Health in Monroe County continues to disseminate information regarding frequently asked questions about COVID-19 vaccines, vaccine clinics and CDC policy: I’m vaccinated. Why do I need to wear a mask?

Vaccinated individuals may be able to carry the COVID-19 virus, thus giving it to unvaccinated individuals.

It’s their choice not to get vaccinated. Why should I wear a mask?

There are several individuals who may not be able to receive the vaccine. This includes children, infants, those who are immunocompromised, and those with certain severe allergic reactions.

My child is at school.

Should they wear a mask?

Due to the circulating and highly contagious Delta variant, CDC recommends universal indoor masking by all students (age 2 and older), staff, teachers, and visitors to K-12 schools, regardless

of vaccination status. Visit www.keysschools.com to learn about the Monroe County School District’s mask policy.

Are we in an area of high transmission?

The entire State of Florida is considered high transmission. Visit the CDC Data Tracker for more information: covid.cdc.gov/coviddata-tracker Does the vaccine protect against variants?

All COVID-19 vaccines that are currently available offer protection against variants.

Why get the vaccine if there will just be more variants?

The more people receive the vaccine there will be less risk of severe illness if vaccinated.

Where can I find information on variants in Florida?

The CDC tracks this data.

For more information visit covid.cdc.gov/covid-datatracker — Contributed

The CDC updated COVID-19 mask guidelines, based on recommendations on the latest data — new data equals new guidance. When the CDC revised its guidance in May, the delta variant represented 1% of all cases. Today that number is more than 90%. The CDC continues to recommend that policies be based on local transmission rates.

These recommendations include: • Due to the circulating and highly contagious Delta variant, CDC recommends universal indoor masking by all students (age 2 and older), staff, teachers, and visitors to K-12 schools, regardless of vaccination status.

• All individuals, regardless of vaccine status, should wear a face mask in indoor public spaces in areas where COVID-19 is considered high transmission. This includes vaccinated individuals.

• CDC now recommends that people whose immune systems are compromised moderately to severely should receive an additional dose of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine after the initial 2 doses. Widespread vaccination is a critical tool to help stop the pandemic.

— Contributed

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021 School officials agree that students did their best on standardized tests during a chaotic school year. CONTRIBUTED

SCHOOL TEST SCORES DROP District officials agree pandemic slump was expected — and understandable CHARLOTTE TWINE charlotte@keysweekly.com

T

he state has released its 202021 school year standardized test scores, and they are down for all Monroe County grades, according to a presentation from Dave Murphy, executive director of assessment & accountability, at the school board meeting on Aug. 10.

“I would say that it’s down a little further than I would have liked it, relative to other counties,” Murphy said.

However, pointed out that the dip was to be expected in such an unusual, unstandardized year.

“Every single teacher, every single staff member in this district did their best last year,” he noted. “Everybody did their best. And it simply wasn’t a condition where we would expect the same high-level outcomes in our district and in any other district.”

Murphy screened charts that detailed the downward trend of the county’s scores as compared to other counties. He showed that in school year 2018-19, the last time the state released standardized assessments, Monroe County was the 10th highest performing district in the state for English language arts for all grades. This year, the district was 18th for ELA. In 2018-19, Monroe County was the 15th highest performing district for all grade levels combined in mathematics; this year, the county was 27th in the state.

As for science, Murphy told Keys Weekly that compiling the testing data is a little different due to different subjects like biology being taught in different grades. However, “if I had to ballpark it,” he said, “we were the 10th highest performing school district in 2019 and 10th or 12th this year. We stayed relatively high performing in science.”

Murphy was also concerned about the drop off in 2021 advanced placement students taking tests this year, pointing out that only 1,433 AP tests were given. This was a 12% decrease from 2020.

“So not just vulnerable students were affected,” he said about the chaotic pandemic year. “It affected the high-flying students as well.”

After his presentation, administrative staffer Christina McPherson explained the district’s plan for “Mitigating Learning Loss”: Additional support includes interventionists in all pre-K to 8th grade schools, two additional social workers, guidance assistants at all schools, nurse tech assistants at all schools and graduation coaches at all high schools.

School board chairman John Dick said, “We knew this was going to happen, but I think you’re on top of it.”

Murphy also said that the usual procedure for each school getting a grade is “out the window.” Normally at this time of year, he would be pro-

“Not just vulnerable students were affected.”

— Dave Murphy, executive director of assessment & accountability

viding the state’s provisional school grades and a 30-day window to appeal.

Per the Florida Department of Education website, “School grades provide an easily understandable way to measure the performance of a school.

Parents and the general public can use the school grade and its components to understand how well each school is serving its students. Schools are graded A, B, C, D, or F.” But this year, Murphy said at the meeting, “Our marching order is: Figure it out.” In other words, deciding to take the state-issued grade is optional for every school.

“No decisions have been made yet about school grades,” Murphy told Keys Weekly about Monroe County’s stance. “There’s very little incentive to do it because the state is not funding school recognition. It hasn’t been budgeted by the governor’s office.”

Board member Sue Woltanski is cautious about the idea of using standardized test scores from an unusual year to determine performance.

“Every child in every school in every district was affected differently,” she said. “Using test scores to guide education going forward: totally appropriate. But using the test scores to compare one group of students to another in a completely unstandardized year doesn’t make sense to me. You’re evaluating COVID… I don’t put much stake in school grades. That’s pitting educators against educators, and that’s not helpful.”

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

SAVE THE DATE

OBITUARY

GARY WAYNE BYNUM JR. On Aug. 13, 2021, Gary Wayne Bynum Jr. died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Islamorada. He fought hard to overcome medical issues but is now out of pain and in a place where he can watch over his loving wife, three sons, his parents, sisters, and nieces and nephews.

A proud Keys Conch, Gary was born on April 2, 1978. Described as bigger than life, Gary was a cherished friend. After a successful high school football career at Coral Shores, Gary attended and played ball for Valdosta State University in Georgia. After returning to the Keys, he met his extraordinary wife Allison, and they wed in 2004.

As their family grew, Gary enjoyed passing down his love for boating, fishing and the Keys to his sons. He was an avid reader and a champion of Florida Keys history. Gary also took pride in being a big brother, son and uncle. As a Bynum, life was a family affair, and they treasured spending time together.

Gary Jr. is survived by his dedicated wife Allison, amazing sons Brock, Rhett, and Gavin; devoted parents Gary Sr. and Marlene Bynum; loving sisters Maegan (Kipp) Reda and children Bryce, Kaiya, and Irie; and Melanie (Jeff) Joiner and children Izzy, Truman, and Bodhi, as well as countless friends who he considered family. The family thanks everyone for their enduring love and support.

A service for Gary will be held on Saturday, Aug. 21 at 3 p.m. at Island Community Church, 83250 Overseas Highway, Islamorada.

We also plan to have a celebration of life to spread Gary’s ashes in September. All friends and family are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, donations to help Allison and the boys navigate through this difficult time can be made at Centennial Bank, account under Allison Bynum.

COUNTY BUILDINGS TO GET NEW WINDOWS, ROOFS $8.3 million grant comes from FEMA

M

onroe County has been awarded an $8,347,704 grant administered in two phases to fund the hardening of 10 county buildings with wind and hurricane protection measures. Phase one is funded at $732,505 for design and engineering. The remaining funds will be reserved for the construction of the projects in phase two. The Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Florida Division of Emergency Management Mitigation Bureau Hazard Mitigation Grant Program approved the projects.

The facilities include: • Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center on Stock Island • Monroe County Fire Rescue Station 9 on Big Coppitt Key • Monroe County Station 17 on Conch Key • Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Clerk of Court Complex in Marathon • Historic Key West Courthouse • Lester Building in Key West • Ellis Building in Tavernier • Marathon and Harvey government centers • Plantation Key Courthouse building The proposed projects will protect exterior openings with impact-resistant windows and doors at the 10 facilities and harden existing roofs at seven of the facilities to preserve the integrity of the buildings, reduce potential damage from future wind events, and reduce the labor required to shutter public buildings. Outside openings, like vents, louvers, and exhaust fans, will also be protected with wind mitigation features. All installations will meet or exceed Florida Building Code and Miami-Dade specifications with materials certified to meet wind and impact standards.

“By hardening our existing infrastructure with this grant, the facilities department will be able to focus on other hurricane preparation activities when a storm threatens rather than shuttering these facilities,” said Monroe County Project Management Director Cary Knight. “Hurricane Irma’s wind-driven rain damaged 24 county buildings, so a grant like this will help county functions resume more quickly after a storm.”

— Contributed

Aug. 19-20 • Leadership Success Academy, board training program for all Keys nonprofits by Community Foundation of the Florida Keys, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days, Tennessee Williams Theatre in Key West. cffk.org/lsa Thursday, Aug. 19 • Islamorada Village Council regular meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Founders Park Community Center.

• Morada Way Art Walk from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Morada Way Cultural Arts District, Islamorada.

• Book signing with nonprofit management expert Alex Counts at 3:30 p.m. at Tennessee Williams Theater, Key West.

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

Wednesday, Aug. 25 • Fee-Free Day at Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks to commemorate the National Parks’ 105th birthday.

Saturday, Aug. 28 • Bingo with Key Largo neighbors at 2 p.m. at Key Largo Library.

Sept. 1-5 • Key West WomenFest at multiple venues and times around Key West.

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

Sept. 9-12 • The Florida Keys Lionfish Derby and Festival by REEF at the Postcard Inn Resort & Marina in Islamorada beginning at 6:30.

Sept. 11 • Swim for Alligator Lighthouse, Islamorada. swimalligator.com.

Sept. 10-12 • Robert James Sales S.L.A.M. Celebrity Anglers Tournament in the waters around Key West as a benefit to “Catch the Cure” for cystic fibrosis.

Sept. 17-19 • The Herman Lucerne Memorial Backcountry Fishing Championship in the Everglades National Park with awards at the Islander Resort in Islamorada.

Sept. 24-26 • Take Stock In Children Backcountry Challenge in Key Largo.

Sept. 25 • Conch Scramble golf tournament, Islamorada. Conchscramble.com.

Oct. 2 • Good Health Clinic 9th annual Luau for Good Health from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Dolphins Plus Bayside, MM 101.9, bayside, Key Largo.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

TRAFFIC STOP YIELDS, DRUGS, ILLEGAL LOBSTERS AND CASH

Florida Fish & Wildlife officers discover more than 30 lobsters in possession by Giovanni Jesus Pirez, of Hialeah. FWC/Contributed

HIALEAH MAN FACING CHARGES FOR POSSESSION OF MORE THAN 30 LOBSTER

A

Hialeah man claiming to be a commercial bully netter is facing charges after Florida Fish & Wildlife officers discovered no documentation and registration and lobsters totaling more than 30.

FWC Officers Jessica Diaz and Josh Stallings were conducting resource inspections at the Caribbean Club boat ramp in Key Largo during the early morning hours at 2 a.m on Aug. 17. Officers observed a vessel blacked out approaching the ramp without any visible navigation lights displayed.

Officers observed the man, later identified as Giovanni Jesus Pirez, 36, retrieve his vehicle and back his trailer in the water.

Diaz then conducted a vessel stop and a subsequent resource inspection. The man indicated he was a commercial bully net fisherman.

Upon request, the man was not able to produce a saltwater products license. FWC officers say Pirez later pulled a saltwater products license up on his phone

Drugs, cash and illegally harvested lobster were discovered during a traffic stop during the night of Aug. 15 at MM 86 in Islamorada. Two Miami men were arrested.

MCSO/Contributed

Investigation by FWC Officers Jessica Diaz and Josh Stallings yields 39 lobsters.

Giovanni Jesus Pirez, of Hialeah, is facing a number of charges. FWC/Contributed

that did not have a commercial number endorsement for bully net vessels or any other endorsement. Further investigation by Diaz found Pirez in possession of 39 Florida spiny lobsters.

FWC officers say that Pirez’s registration did not show the vessel was registered as a commercial vessel.

He also did not have any commercial numbers or a bully net number decal.

Officers ran his driver’s license number through FWC dispatch to find that it had expired by at least a year. He also had a confirmed warrant for his arrest issued out of Miami-Dade County.

Pirez had previous failures to appear on several traffic offenses in Miami-Dade County. Pirez was placed under arrest and transported to the Plantation Key Jail. Pirez was charged with possession of 33 over-the-limit lobster, no bully net license number, no commercial registration for the vessel and no numbers displayed on the vessel. He was also issued boating citations for safety gear.

The live lobsters were photographed and released back into the water.

— Weekly staff report

A

traffic stop on the night of Aug. 15 led sheriff’s deputies to discover thousands of dollars in cash, marijuana and illegally harvested lobster on two Miami men.

The case began at approximately 11:30 p.m. when deputy Jorge Moreno stopped a northbound black Ford F-150 pickup truck on U.S.1 at MM 86 after 911 communications specialists informed him the truck came back as not being registered and the tag that was attached as not being assigned to the truck.

The truck was emitting a strong odor of marijuana.

The driver, Lazaro Rolando Martinez, 27, handed another deputy a mason jar of marijuana as well as THC oil vape pen. The front passenger, Edward Franklin Mora, 27, also produced a mason jar with marijuana.

A search ensued and $3,590 in cash was found in Martinez’s possession. Additional marijuana and baggies were found inside the truck, which Martinez and Mora each claimed ownership.

A total of 37 lobsters were found in buckets in the truck bed, of which 23 were found to be undersized.

Martinez claimed ownership of the lobsters. The lobsters were returned to the water — six of which were still alive.

Martinez was charged with possession of half a Alprazolam tablet without a prescription, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of more than 20 grams of marijuana (38.5 grams), possession of THC oil and driving an unregistered vehicle. He was also cited for possessing 23 undersized lobsters and 31 over-the-limit lobsters.

Mora was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of more than 20 grams of marijuana (114.8 grams) and possession of THC oil.

There was an additional male and two females who were not charged.

Martinez and Mora were taken to jail. ­— Weekly staff report

10

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

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11

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

WALTER MALONEY AND OTHER INDIAN KEY OBSERVATIONS

D

arien, Georgia, is the second oldest planned city in Georgia. Located on the Atlantic coast, Darien is situated at the mouth of the Altamaha River. It is approximately halfway between Savannah, Georgia, and Jacksonville, Florida.

Walter Cathcart Maloney was born in Darien on Feb. 7, 1813. Walter was the younger of two sons who grew up on the family’s Georgia plantation. A Catholic priest educated the boys.

After the death of their parents, the two boys were left to run the plantation; only that was not the life Walter wanted to live. When his older brother asked him to stay in Georgia and help work the plantation, Walter had other plans and told his brother that he “…was determined not to be a negro driver.” In 1837, at the age of 24, Walter Maloney climbed aboard a schooner and sailed to the West Indies.

He settled on the island of Key West.

Not long after arriving on Key West, Walter began courting 18-yearold Mary Elizabeth Rigby, the daughter of one of the early Bahamian families that relocated to Key West. Their marriage would result in a fruitful union that brought six sons and one daughter into the world. Shortly after their marriage, in the early months of 1839, Walter and Mary moved to Indian Key, where Walter was employed as a clerk by the island’s predominant businessman, Jacob Housman. While living on the island, Walter and Mary would have their first child, Walter C. Maloney, Jr., born June 9, 1839.

Also living at Indian Key during the Maloney tenure was Dr. Henry Perrine, his wife, and three children. The Perrine family history is a tragic one. Dr. Perrine would be killed at the hands of

Indians during the Aug. 7, 1840, attack on Indian Key. Perhaps because of that tragedy, two of the Perrine children, Hester and Henry Jr., wrote about their experiences during their 20-month stay on the island. The pages they would write provide insights into island life during that period that would have gone otherwise unrecorded.

Two events recorded by Hester are not particularly relevant to meaningful histories associated with Indian Key, but they are remarkable observations in their own way. Hester described seeing two dark shadows moving quickly through the clear Atlantic pass separating Indian and Tea Table keys in one event. What she saw was a large shark, described as 16-feet in length, chasing a baby sperm whale. The shark was faster, caught the whale by the tail, and chomped it off. A bloody cloud swirled in the shallows in front of the house where the Perrine’s lived during their time on the island.

Another interesting event was the response by island residents when one day, three waterspouts formed off Indian Key. According to Hester, some of the men took control of one of the cannons situated around the island, pointed it toward the three waterspouts spinning, and fired at them, thinking the cannonball could disrupt the forces of nature. The enemy, though fired upon, did not respond to the assault but churned past Indian Key toward Lower Matecumbe. Before they reached the island, the waterspouts fizzled out and dissipated.

Storms, however, if even just metaphorically, would still be brewing on Indian Key’s horizon. Through the entirety of Maloney’s stay on the

island and for some time after, Maloney served as Jacob Housman’s clerk.

Though Housman and the men who worked for him had a reputation for operating beyond the scope of the law, Maloney did not fit that description.

Rather, he benefited Housman in another way as Maloney was recognized as a “neat and accurate record keeper.”

It would not be Maloney’s only job. In 1839 he served as clerk of the superior court for a few months when, yearly, it served its single term at Indian Key. As of 1840, Maloney served as the island’s justice of the peace and the auctioneer. In the summer of 1840, Maloney and his family decided to pack up and leave Indian Key. Moving back to Key West was a fortuitous decision. Walter packed up his house, wife, and baby boy, boarded a schooner, and sailed to Key West.

That August, Maloney was sailing back to Key West after a trip north to Key Biscayne’s Cape Florida. The schooner stopped at Indian Key on Aug. 6, 1840, but did not stay overnight. Hours after the schooner and Maloney left Indian Key and continued sailing for Key West, Indian war canoes would begin paddling away from Lower Matecumbe and arriving on Indian Key. Dr. Perrine would be one of six people who would die as a result of the event.

Walter C. Maloney would go on to write one of the first histories of Key West. He would also become the namesake of Stock Island’s Maloney Avenue.

Maloney gravesite at Key West/ Thamas A. Hawkins, Find a Grave

BRAD BERTELLI ... is the curator for Islamorada’s Keys History & Discovery Center.

A published author of six books, his favorite subjects are Indian Key and skunk apes.

12

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

By Mandy Miles and Jim McCarthy

FIRSTHAND ACCOUNTS FROM AFGHANISTAN VETERANS KEYS VETERANS RESPOND TO AMERICA’S CRUDE EXIT

T

hey were there. On the ground. In Afghanistan. The veterans and active duty service members interviewed below saw what was happening in real life, in real time, a half a world away.

They knew what was going wrong — and what was going well. But folks in Washington rarely asked them.

They befriended many Afghans. They buried best friends. They woke many mornings covered in three inches of dust, dirt and sand. They heard the horrors of prior Taliban rule and fought to resist its return.

For 20 years, American military personnel — and other foreign soldiers — fought a war in, but not against, Afghanistan. The enemy was always the Taliban, a militant sect of extremist Muslims known for allowing terrorist organizations such as al Qaeda to operate in areas the Taliban controls.

“Most of the Taliban aren’t even from Afghanistan,” said retired Army Colonel Abe Conn, who served three one-year tours in Afghanistan and has lived in Key West for more than a decade. “The Afghan people are some of the nicest, most sincere, trusting people in the world.”

American troops protected the Afghan people. They built schools and supplied orphanages. They constructed power plants.

They trained the Afghan army. They kept the Taliban at bay.

But this war was untenable — and expensive. President’s Barack Obama started downsizing America’s boot print on the ground there. Then President Donald Trump negotiated an agreement with the Taliban in February 2020, promising them American troops would be out of Afghanistan this year.

And making the Taliban promise to minimize violence and more importantly to prohibit terrorist groups from targeting America within its borders.

American troops knew we weren’t winning the war. They knew the Afghans’ ability to go it alone was limited and they knew the financial faucet that poured $2 trillion into the effort wasn’t sustainable.

Upper Keys resident Nick Hodge served in Afghanistan with the U.S. Army, First Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division. CONTRIBUTED

But many agree, the end of America’s involvement over the past month was illplanned and potentially lethal to Afghan allies — soldiers’ interpreters and friends who are left behind. The speed with which the Taliban reclaimed Afghanistan cities was alarming to many, but not surprising to those who had been there; those who had warned the politicians of the Taliban’s continuing presence and increasing strength, as well as the vulnerabilities of the Afghan military and government.

“I don’t believe the Taliban have changed,” Conn said. “They’ve been told to stand down and have been threatened with death if they kill anyone while America pulls out. But in six to eight months, it’ll be back to business as usual under the Taliban. And that’s what’s so heartbreaking.”

The Keys Weekly asked several veterans of the war in Afghanistan and some still serving how they felt about the American withdrawal and the future of Afghanistan.

Their comments are below.

(Editor’s note: The names of those still in active duty have been omitted at their request.)

“It’s tough to stomach. I lost a couple classmates over there. I actually put one in Arlington in 2007. It’s unfortunate we spent 20 years with loss of life to American soldiers, and as soon as we pulled out, the trained Afghani National Army, the police and other agencies there lasted 10 days. It’s tough to stomach that when people have given life, limb and eyesight over there in the tens of thousands.

I personally can tell you that we changed a lot of lives. When you look at Afghanis in the face, the need was there. When I was there in 2005, it was a real surge event because they never voted before. That’s when Hamid Karzai was in. Some polling stations were hit and blown up. Women couldn’t vote. There was pushback on all that stuff.

We dropped 20,000 pounds of school supplies out of C-130s to a place called Malistan. We put clothes and shoes and stuff on what orphanages there were. We held these babies and kids and they would run up to us. They don’t know war. They don’t know any of that stuff. That was the human side of things.”

— Nick Hodge, of Islamorada, U.S. Army, First Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division

13

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021 MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

‘THESE PEOPLE ARE GONNA GET SLAUGHTERED’ Keys veteran laments the Afghans we left behind

H Upper Keys resident Nick Hodge with a fellow service member during his time in Afghanistan. CONTRIBUTED

“It’s very disheartening. We’re leaving a lot of very, very good people. My interpreters are going to die. They’ve been turned down twice now for visas. They’ll be killed because they can’t get out of Afghanistan. We were there for 20 years. We could’ve stayed one more year and gotten everyone out. We left them and they’re gonna get slaughtered.”

— Abe Conn, retired colonel, U.S. Army, completed three one-year deployments to Afghanistan “A lot of soldiers have died for that country to be free of Taliban rule. Our military trained Afghanis, and for them to just give it up so easily is heartbreaking. You can’t train grit and determination.”

— Senior Master Sergeant, U.S. Air Force “We all knew it was coming.

Everyone that served over there knew it was coming. Though the timeline was a lot sooner than most thought, this is no surprise.”

— Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army “If I hear one more pundit say soldiers died for no f-ing reason…..

Every soldier I served with felt they were part of something special, freeing an entire nation under tyranny. The way it looks now, that won’t be happening, but who knows what the future holds. It’s a sad day for America and a sadder day for Afghanistan.”

— First Sergeant, U.S. Army “I can’t say, I just tear up and cry. I lost some good friends, brothers. This is painful. I got no words today.”

— Master Sergeant, U.S. Army

“Way more than an embassy evacuation. This is light years beyond a noncombatant evacuation operation (NEO). This is the complete collapse of U.S. resolve.

You have already heard ‘pathetic, dismal and weak.’ Our current administration has told the world that the statute of limitations for murdering thousands of U.S. citizens is 19 years, 11 months, 4 days.

By word and deed, the administration has told all the victims of 9/11 and their families, to include the 1st responders that died that day and those that continue to suffer and die from the effects, all the service members who served, died, were wounded, maimed, continue to suffer and die from the effects and all of their families, ‘You don’t matter.’ Now watch the veteran suicide rate go through the roof. Pray hard. Think of this: A service member who enlisted or was commissioned in June through September 2001 is at their retirement mark. That complete 20 years has been wrapped in one way or another around 9/11, Afghanistan and/or Iraq. Now, we just quit.”

— Chris Hoguet of Tavernier, LTC US Army (Ret.) deployed in Afghanistan in 2003 “The women! All the gains made for women in that country.

Gone, done, overnight. No more!

Doctors, business owners, going to college. It’s over. The Taliban will end all their freedoms. Bloodshed to follow for those that disobey.”

— Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army

is son was just four days old in 2002, when then-Major Abe Conn boarded a military plane and landed half a world away in Afghanistan, his home for the next year.

“At the end of my first deployment, I’d lived in Kabul longer than I’d lived in the Florida Keys,” he said. “We had just moved here when I got deployed after 9/11.

“We were one of the first units in Kabul. It was just us and Special Forces guys,” he said. “In fact, I hoisted the American flag on Sept.

11, 2002 at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul. “When I landed in Afghanistan, the wind was blowing 40 mph,” he said. “I awoke the first morning covered in two to three inches of dirt.

“It was an interesting time and place, but it was also the safest time over there because we had just liberated them from the Taliban and the 10th Mountain guys were in the mountains of Tora Bora looking for bin Laden.”

Conn, who would later retire from the Army as a full colonel, was deployed to various parts of Afghanistan in 2002-03, 2006-07 and finally in 2012-13.

“We lost because although we fought this war for 20 years, we were fighting the same war every year,” Conn told the Keys Weekly on Monday as the world watched the Taliban reclaim the country that American troops had defeated and kept at bay for 20 years.

With each deployment, years apart, Conn said, he’d ask the generals in command, “How many Taliban are up in those mountains?

How many bad guys are we after?”

“The first time I was there, they told me, ‘About 5,000.’ I thought, great, we’ll be done by Christmas.”

But when he returned three years later and then five years after that, his question was the same.

Unfortunately, so was the answer: “About 5,000.”

“You’d scratch your head and ask yourself, ‘What are we doing here?’” Conn said. “It’s just dumb.

We have politicians calling the

Abe Conn, who served three one-year deployments in Afghanistan as a lieutenant colonel and then a full colonel, worries his closest Afghan friends and interpreters will be killed by the Taliban for helping the United States. ABE CONN/Contributed

shots instead of the people who know what’s really going on. Our grandfathers walked across Nazi Germany and through the Pacific Islands during World War II fighting strong armies of the world. And in five years, we won. We’ve got 5,000 bad guys and we’re there for 20 years. And 90% of the Taliban aren’t even from Afghanistan.”

Like so many of his fellow service members who spent time in Afghanistan, Conn’s heart has broken in recent weeks, for the nation, its women and for his Afghan friends, U.S. allies, who were left behind.

“These people are gonna get slaughtered,” he said. “My interpreters are gonna die. They’ve been turned down twice now for visas.

“How we left is just a disaster.

Middle of the night, we just picked up and left. We were there for 20 years. We could’ve stayed one more year and gotten everyone out. But we left them. What we’ll also see next is a huge spike in veteran suicides. We’re already losing 22 vets a day to suicide. It’ll get worse.

“The Afghans are some of the nicest, most honest and trusting people I’ve ever met,” he said.

“And the Taliban haven’t changed. The word has been put out to them not to kill, so they’ll wait until we’re gone. In six, eight, 10 months, it’ll be back to business as usual for them,” Conn said. “It’s just so disheartening.”

14

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021 Andy Cone gets ready to toss the ball during practice.

JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

BUILDING ‘STEADY BATS’

Baseball program a time for players to develop skills JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

A

nother school athletics year is underway in the Florida Keys.

Fall athletes are taking to the fields and courts for practice in anticipation for the season’s beginning.

Baseball is still months away, but a new program in the Upper Keys is setting out to develop player skills and team success during the offseason. It’s also aiming to create a baseball experience unlike any other for players and their families in the Keys.

Last baseball season saw a young Coral Shores team with new coaches in Joe Molinaro, Doug Mientkiewicz and Paul Vargo. With the season’s end came the realization that an offseason program could benefit not only current high schoolers, but also younger players and future teams.

Then came the birth of Steady Bats by the Upper Keys Baseball Development Foundation. Born in 2021, the new program is dedicating time and energy to enhance the abilities of youth baseball players in the area. The focus is fundamentals to improve skill levels for players ages 10 to 18.

Steady Bats came about in collaboration between Molinaro, Mientkiewicz and Vargo’s unified vision to bring quality baseball training to the Upper Keys youth throughout the year.

Kicking off in June, around 25 players from the high school level on down are routinely throwing, taking ground balls, learning base running and swinging. Held Monday and Thursday evenings at the baseball field at Founders Park, Molinaro said the program’s

keeping players’ skills and development going in an upward direction.

“It’s been very successful and very positive,” Molinaro said. “I think we managed to come up with a really good program for them to work. It’s really helping keep baseball going in the offseason.”

Through Steady Bats, benefits include coaching from a Major League Baseball World Series champion and Olympic goal medal winner in Mientkiewicz. Following his baseball career, Mientkiewicz went on to become the hitting coach with the Los Angeles Dodgers organization. He also became manager of the Minnesota Twins’ affiliates in the Single-A Fort Myers Miracle and Double-A Chattanooga Lookouts.

His most recent managing job was in 2017 with the Detroit Tigers’ Triple -affiliate Toledo Mud Hens.

“We are pretty much starting this from scratch,” Mientkiewicz said. “We are trying to change the culture here and we feel that by doing things like this, we will not only keep the kids playing who love baseball, but also give the ones on the fence an opportunity to learn fundamentals moving forward.”

Not only are they obtaining top-level instruction, but Molinaro said younger players are also gaining exposure around varsity talent on the big field.

“They’re getting to see how the older players do things. When they do hit the high school level and join the program, it’ll be second nature and they won’t have that shock and awe,” he said. “I really feel like getting them early and getting them the same coaching at the high school level is important.

Coach Doug Mientkiewicz teaches lead offs.

“I don’t think players had this before, especially with a major league coach,” he continued. “I think that the exposure and experience they’re getting is top notch.”

In addition to developing player skills, the Upper Keys Baseball Development Foundation is also seeking community support to enhance the baseball experience throughout the region.

Molinaro said they’d love to create a park atmosphere where baseball players from the Keys and beyond could enjoy.

“We’d love to get astroturf on the field, as well as screens and a press box,” he said.

Steady Bats expects five outcomes from every player that include continued development, leaving their comfort zone, heightening self-esteem through hard work, making new friends and having fun.

“By focusing on these outcomes, we are able to accommodate a range of players no matter their level of play,” reads Steady Bats’ philosophy. “Our student players include everyone from the casual player to the highly motivated and talented learner who dreams of an NCAA scholarship and beyond.”

Those wishing to volunteer their time or donate to Steady Bats can visit steadybats.org.

Coach Joe Molinaro watches Alberto Estevez during throwing drills.

15

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

MAXIMEUTOPIX FROM PIXABAY/Contributed

‘JUST WEAR THE DAMN MASK’ BOCC votes to require masks in county buildings CHARLOTTE TWINE

charlotte@keysweekly.com

A

t the Aug. 18 Monroe County Board of County Commissioners meeting, “Just wear the damn mask” became a mantra among officials after hearing from the county’s board of health that COVID cases are rising, plus news that Commissioner Mike Forster was absent due to being in a hospital after testing positive for the virus.

As a result, the four board members present voted to require staff members and the public to wear facial coverings inside all county buildings. Exceptions are being made for when social distance is possible and also when medical conditions prevent mask wearing.

A county press release published immediately after the decision stated, “These buildings include, but are not limited to, county government buildings, libraries, and building and permitting offices.”

The board recognized exceptions for when people are able to socially distance 6 feet or more or for those with a documented medical condition or disability that prevents the wearing of masks. This applies to visitors and staff regardless of vaccination status and takes place immediately.”

The commissioners carefully discussed the type of language to use in their ruling, such as “requesting” masks versus “mandating” them, and also the finer points of adjusting the mask rule for people

who have medical reasons for not wearing them, such as asthma.

Occasionally, officials would erupt in frustration at tiptoeing so delicately around a mask requirement in the face of the health department’s report a few minutes prior that showed a spike of positive cases.

“There's a reason why we're talking about this,” said County Administrator Roman Gastesi. “This is a fast-moving problem. I’m looking at the numbers, and it's not good — 72, 74 cases a day?

We've never been there. Something’s going on. Just to wear a darn mask? I mean, come on.”

“The more you can keep infected people from infecting others, the better we are. And a mask works,” interjected Bob Eadie, administrator for Monroe County Department of Health.

“Just wear the damn mask.”

Kevin Wilson, assistant county administrator, stood up to say, “Wear the damn mask. Seriously...this is the time to step up and be leaders.”

The commissioners and staff also talked about meeting again soon to monitor the situation closely, following the example of the school board.

“I was impressed by the school board. They didn’t want to do it,” said Gastesi about the school board’s recent mask mandate. “They didn’t want to do it, you know that. I watched that meeting. And they got a little spooked.

And they said, ‘Well, you know, let’s see it for two weeks, and then readdress it.’”

Mayor Michelle Coldiron suggested readdressing the mask requirement again in two weeks, at the Sept. 8 budget hearing.

Commissioner David Rice responded, “Let me say this. For something potentially as fast moving as we’re observing right now, I’m available for a meeting whenever we need to.”

Injured in the Keys? www.InjuredInTheKeys.com

Jeff D. Vastola, Esq.

JVastola@VastolaLegal.com

Please call us today.

We want to help.

833-VASTOLA 91495 Overseas Highway, Suite C | Tavernier, Florida 33070 | 305.705.6788

16

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

ALWAYS EVOLVING

Former California wedding coordinator Susi Trottnow is amazed at her transformation into a Keys artist CHARLOTTE TWINE

charlotte@keysweekly.com

S

usi Trottnow says that she divides her life into two parts. And the dividing moment happened 10 years ago, when she and her husband, Rich Trottnow, took a stroll in Islamorada’s Morada Way Arts & Cultural District shortly after moving to the Keys from Lake Tahoe. They passed an open warehouse called Morada Way Clay and went inside. They met the owner, and she asked Susi, “Have you ever played with clay?”

“I responded, ‘No, I’ve never done any kind of art,’ Susi told Keys Weekly.

“And that’s what started the entire venture. I knew saying ‘yes’ to working in clay was the right answer. Fate was guiding me in the right direction.”

And by “right direction,” she means a new life. Trottnow has transformed from being a wedding coordinator in California to being Susi Trottnow Tropical Artist, as well as a muralist and DoTERRA essential oils distributor and producer of her own organic hand purifier spray... and whatever else may come her way. The sky is the limit.

“My art friends say I’m always evolving,” she said.

Her husband, Rich Trottnow, has a different take. He told Keys Weekly, “We now live in the place we escaped to in the depths of cancer, mentally, when

cancer tried to overtake us.”

Trottnow is also a breast cancer survivor. She was diagnosed in November of 2010.

“But the cancer is something that happened to me,” she said firmly. “It’s not who I am.”

And yet, the illness was the spark behind the couple’s move across the country. During her period of chemo treatments in the winter of 2010 to 2011, 50 feet of snow blanketed Lake Tahoe.

“That was a long cold winter,” she said.

So in difficult moments, she and Rich would envision a place of warmth, with sand, palm trees and water. But then the couple did what many people don’t: They decided to move while Susi healed after her chemo and radiation treatments. They picked the Florida Keys due to a connection to a friend.

Their big move took a year to come to fruition while they sold their condo and car. Once in Islamorada, Rich eventually became a realtor with RealtyOneGroup Engage the Keys. And Susi dove into the art scene.

She did start playing with clay, and she enjoyed it so much that she became a Morada Way Clay studio renter.

She was taken aback when some of the first dishes she displayed got sold.

Along the way, she also became a coordinator for the monthly Art Walk.

SUSI TROTTNOW

Susi continued to evolve artistically, and she moved from making ceramic magnets to sculpting renditions of coral reef to creating painted porcelain and silver jewelry. She also loves sea glass, and she designed a technique using it to make art called KeySeaArt. She now teaches this technique.

After a while, Susi became a studio renter at Our Place in Paradise in Tavernier, and now she also displays in its gallery.

All this, despite never having studied art or even tried it as a hobby before moving to

the Keys.

Rich’s owner/broker at RealtyOneGroup, Judy Rossignol, took notice of Susi’s talent and asked her to create a mural on the side of her building, which is in Morada Way Arts & Cultural District. Susi was doubtful she could pull off a mural, especially since she was used to working in miniature.

But she cast away her fears, bought some dollar store chalk and sketched out the design on the wall. Rossignol’s only two requests were to use her brand’s three colors — black, gold and white — and to fill up the side of the building. So Susi did what she was told, packing the mural with a mix of coral reef, fish and jelly fish. For a whimsical touch, Susi added a curvaceous mermaid posterior in the corner of the painting.

Rossignol is thrilled.

“I knew she had it in her, though I pushed her a little bit,” Rossignol said with a smile. “Once she got it, she amazed me.”

Susi’s next collaboration with RealtyOneGroup is a “Secret Garden,” where in the fall the business will be providing an enclosed plant-filled space with chairs where the public can relax, use the bathroom and look at Susi’s art displays. She will also hold classes in the garden.

If someone had told Susi that she would one day no longer be a wedding coordinator in Lake Tahoe and that she would be a breast cancer survivor making her living as an artist in the Florida Keys, she would not have believed it.

“I would have said, ‘I think you’re mistaken,’” she said. “I couldn’t have comprehended it.”

But it’s not just the cancer journey that she is surprised at — it’s all the friendships she has made and all the creative opportunities she has received, which she calls “a beautiful explosion.”

“Every day, I wake up and say, ‘What’s going to happen today?’”

For more information about Susi Trottnow Tropical Artist and KeySeaArt, go to www.tropicalsusi.com. On Facebook, you can find her at Susi Trottnow Tropical Artist.

To see her art on display, go to Our Place in Paradise, 88711 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier, Oceanside, 305-916-5828.

Judy Rossignol of RealtyOneGroup took notice of Susi Trottnow’s talent and asked her to create a mural on the side of her building, which is in Morada Way Arts & Cultural District.

17

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021 SPONSORED BY: A nurse shark on Davis Reef.

TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR HURRICANE SEASON? Sharks keep ecosystem healthy

THIS WEEK’S DIVE REPORT This week’s conditions were nice — as the last few weeks have been — right up to when Fred rolled by. We took out a group of divers to Davis Reef. Davis Reef is a Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA) and has a welcoming statue of Buddha that you can rub for good luck.

There are also many resident nurse sharks that we visit on our Shark Awareness Dives every week. We ERIC are lucky to have sharks and other predators in our BILLIPS oceans, because it means that our marine ecosystems are healthy. We need every level of the food chain in is the owner, order to maintain a healthy, functioning reef. You can captain and learn about this and more when you come out to visit instructor at Islamorada Dive these amazing creatures with us.

Center and Florida After the great conditions, the storm mixed things Keys Dive Center. up a bit — as weather tends to do around here. Fred He specializes in scuba, rebreather, brought in rain over the weekend. While there wasn’t much action (fingers crossed it remains that way), it spearfishing and captaining in the does serve as a good reminder that we need to be Florida Keys. prepared for hurricane season.

Tip: have a hurricane prep list and supplies for your boat on hand. This makes it a quicker, more efficient job in case you have to do it in a hurry. There are many “hurricane boat prep” resources out there, so take advantage of one and come up with a good game plan for you and your boat.

NEXT WEEK’S DIVE REPORT As things continue to settle down after the storm, conditions look very promising for this upcoming week.

The crowds are reduced because schools are opening up, so there’s plenty of space on the boats. Water temperatures are still summer warm, so get out there with us to enjoy what the Keys are all about: our ocean.

CONSERVATION UPDATE I.CARE will be planting corals this Saturday, Aug. 21 on our deeper planting site: Victory reef. The corals being outplanted have been tested for resiliency. This will be important with things like warmer oceans and heavy storm seasons. Deeper corals have the chance to avoid heavy wave action, but get less sunlight as a result of being so far down. It’s a tradeoff, but it does work for some corals.

CONSERVATION TIP Every dive, fishing or boat trip should be an exercise in conservation. Be aware of your environment and treat it with respect. Love our earth and mother ocean.

Call Islamorada Dive Center to join the I.CARE outplanting trip

You can rub the Buddha statue at Davis Reef for good luck. ERIC BILLIPS/Contributed

Proud supporters of conservation efforts across the beautiful Florida Keys

18

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

The Islamorada Coffee Roasters are proud to serve brews from their truck and their new storefront in Islamorada. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly

Islamorada Coffee Roasters opened up their new brick and mortar shop in Islamorada. ROBERT KING/Untethered Photography

H

eads up, Florida Keys’ coffee fans: There’s a new java spot that you should know about.

Farmers’ market favorites Islamorada Coffee Roasters have set up a permanent shop in a small, oceanside plaza just south of the Morada Way Arts District in Islamorada, where they continue to serve up rich roasts and local love.

ORGANIC, FAIR-TRADE & LOCALLY ROASTED Coffee roasters open new brick & mortar TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

“Danny had been wanting a brick and mortar, but we weren’t looking. It fell into our lap during the pandemic,” said Sharon Sealy of her husband and co-owner, Danny Ganim, and their new shop.

Since 2018, the food-loving pair have been serving the Keys community with their custom, air-roasted coffees.

They’ve done so, with great success, from their boutique coffee truck, which makes stops up and down the island chain to bring addicts and aficionados their fresh brews and hand-roasted coffee beans. You can also pre-order, and your coffee fix will come to you.

“Our technique is a little different,” Ganim explained to the Keys Weekly.

“We ‘air roast,’ so hot air blows through the beans similar to a popcorn machine. This is different than traditional tumble-drum roasting.” Sealy called the innovative process “the main aspect” of their entire business. It’s “super fresh — like roasted while you wait,” she added.

The pair also ensure their beans are organic and fair-trade, sourced through a women’s coffee cooperative supporting small women farmers.

Their bags are 100% compostable, as are their cups, lids and straws. In mid-2020, they even created an I.CARE blend, sourced from countries with coral reefs, with $10 from each bag (from a $25-, 1-pound bag of “I.CARE Blend” beans) going to help restore local Islamorada reefs.

Their value-driven, locals-supporting business flourished on four wheels.

Now, with four walls and a ceiling to the mix, the couple has expanded their offerings to include everything from coffee-scented soy candles (handmade in the Florida Keys by Little Torch Candle) to Pirate Hat soap made with brewed coffee grounds for exfoliation to the couple’s infamous spiced hot cocoa. You can even get a “coffee flight,” served in the beer flight tasting glasses from the two local breweries.

Pro Tip: the Keys Weekly staff favorite is the cascara tea, made from the berry of a cherry plant. The outer cherry skin is dried, and then stepped into a syrup. Add either sparkling water to make a “sparkling sweet tea soda” or distilled for a “light bergamot, tea-like experience.” It’s not heavy and not light — just refreshing and divine.

The store also services all the company’s commercial accounts, which include everything from small B&Bs to the Square Grouper, Florida Keys Brewing Co. and Islamorada Beer Company. Most of these have crafted unique blends for their properties and businesses.

Individual coffee cravers can stop in for some custom-roasted coffee and more, as well as find the truck, which still runs up and down the Keys daily.

Now that doors are open, wordof-mouth is getting around. People who’ve met Sealy and Ganim in the Lower Keys stop on their way up, said Sealy. Visitors and snowbirds also have become a large part of their foot traffic.

“They stop in and follow us. Now, we think we’ve got a client for their entire visit,” she added. “People from Maryland who met us in Sugarloaf come by on their way back to the airport and ask if we can mail-out. We do, of course.”

Ganim added, “We hit a niche of people who truly love a quality cup of coffee. It’s fresh, organic, fair-trade, and as local as it gets. That’s what gets them.”

As for what’s to come from the space, Sealy hopes to eventually do monthly “cocoa and chill” nights, with people sitting around the courtyard listening to a poetry jam or open mic night. She also intends to keep supporting local artisans in their merchandising section.

“Not everyone gets the opportunity to do what they want to in life, because that’s life,” Sealy said. “We feel very lucky to be able to say we did this.

We built this. This is ours. And we’re gonna keep doing what we’re doing.

It’s a great feeling.”

The new shop offers everything from cold brews to pour overs.

ROBERT KING/Untethered Photography

19

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

DENTAL CARE YOU CAN

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

Key Largo Dentists, Dr. Travis Bennett and Dr. Sandy Brito are dedicated to quality dental care. At our beautiful offices we offer a wide array of dental procedures including CT scans, implant /gum surgery, implant prosthetics, full mouth restoration, same day in office crowns and bridges, fillings, orthodontics (braces and Invisalign), teeth whitening, smile makeovers and many other services. “No sell dentistry, state of art office with a staff that cares!”

Dr. Travis W. Bennett, D.M.D. Implant and General Dentistry

TUESDAY THRU SATURDAY 4:20 -11

KEY LARGO 102965 Overseas Hwy. | 305.451.2616 Monday thru Friday 9AM-5PM

TAVERNIER 90290 Overseas Hwy. | 305.852.5099 Tuesdays and Thursday 9AM-5PM

www.everyonelovesagentledentist.com

Dr. Sandy M. Brito, D.M.D. Family and General Dentistry

IMPLANT COSMETIC FAMILY DENTISTRY

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

Florida Keys Mosquito Control kills millions of mosquito larvae before you get to work in the morning.

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

20

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

Participants gather at Rowell’s Waterfront Park for the finish of the bridge run.

CONSTITUTION DAY CONTEST UNDERWAY Students can write or create visuals this year

T

he Upper Keys League of Women Voters (UKLWV) announces the 2021 Constitution Day Contest for middle and high school students from Marathon north to the county line, including public, private, charter and home schooled students. The theme is how the constitution affects their daily life.

In past years, the UKLWV sponsored an essay contest for Constitution Day. This year, UKLWV is giving the students an opportunity to be creative in more ways. There are two sets of prizes and two categories to choose from. For a written entry, you may submit an essay, story or poem. For a visual entry, you may submit a poster, painting or video. By entering the contest, entrants agree that the UKLWV will have the right to use their submission.

The deadline for submissions is midnight, Sept.15.

They should be submitted to lk@lindakaplan.com.

Entrants should include their name, age, school and contact information. See https://upperkeyslwv.org/ constitution-day-contest-1for contest rules.

There will be a total of $800 in prize money, which includes cash prizes of $200, $150 and $50 for both written submissions and visual submissions. The winners will be featured at the Constitution Day Celebration on Sept. 23, which will be held at the Murray Nelson Government and Cultural Center in Key Largo at 6 p.m. This event is being organized with the Upper Keys Business and Professional Women as partners.

All attendees at the event, including students, will be welcome to participate in a trivia contest based on questions from the U.S. Citizenship Exam for Naturalization.

The League of Women Voters is a non-partisan political organization that works to secure democracy’s promise through voter education, issue advocacy and citizen outreach. Further information about the UKLWV may be found at upperkeyslwv.org.

— Contributed

BRIDGE RUN IS BACK Half marathon and 5K race

A

renowned race over an iconic bridge is back. The 2021 First State Bank Key Largo Bridge Run Half Marathon & 5K Run/Walk returns to Gilbert’s Resort.

The Key Largo Bridge Run will take place on Nov. 14 with an estimated race start time of 6:30 a.m. for the half marathon and 5K distance. The start and finish line for the race will be located on the access road leading to Gilbert's Resort, and the course will run over the beautiful Jewfish Creek Bridge while overlooking Blackwater Sound in the Key Largo Bay. Half marathon participants will get an added bonus of running next to the ocean as they approach and depart Manatee Bay. “Returning to Gilbert’s Resort has been a blessing in disguise,” said Henry Menendez, HNO Productions president. “Due to renovations at our home from the 2019 race, Rowell’s Waterfront Park, we will now reroute our runners to return to Gilbert’s Resort for the post-race festivities and continue providing a fun-filled experience with breathtaking views.”

A thank you goes out to Ken Frost and Murray Franklin from Gilbert’s Resort for working with the Key Largo Bridge Run management team in order to make this happen.

Josef Serrano, of Miami, stretches beneath Jewfish Creek Bridge before running during the 2019 bridge run.

Aidan Althouse and Kai Guth talk to each other before the start of the First State Bank Key Largo Bridge Run in November 2019. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

The race will be timed. All participants will receive a shirt and will be awarded with a medal after crossing the finish line. There will also be overall and age group awards.

To stay up to date with upcoming information about the race, like the First State Bank Key Largo Bridge Run’s Facebook page or visit keylargobridgerun.com.

— Contributed

21

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

BRIEFLY Upper Keys Rotary to support Haiti In wake of the earthquake and tropical storm that recently devastated the island nation of Haiti, the Upper Keys Rotary Club will match any donations up to $5,000 to aid in the recovery efforts.

Donors can make checks out to: the Upper Keys Rotary Club. PO Box 1514.

Tavernier, Fl 33070.

The Upper Keys Rotary Club is part of an international service organization whose mission is to unite people to create lasting change. To learn more, please find the club on Facebook or visit www.keysrotary.com.

Republican Club to gather for monthly meeting The Upper Keys Republican Club will hold its monthly meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 25 at the Key Largo Civic Club. All patriots are invited to attend and bring their friends. Speaker to be announced. Social time starts at 5:30 p.m., and the meeting begins at 6 p.m.

The club is located at 209 Ocean Bay Drive, Key Largo. For more information, please email ukrc@keysgop.com.

Stuff the Bus collection effort ongoing How can you help ensure local children are equipped with everything they need to succeed and excel in school?

Join the United Way of Collier and the Keys’ efforts to raise funds for “Stuff the Bus” before Aug. 31. All contributions go directly to fund the needs of Monroe County schoolchildren.

With nearly half of Keys families unable to afford life’s basic necessities, many children return to school each year without the school supplies they need to succeed. With many local families still struggling with the effects of COVID-19, our United Way is helping local children and equipping schools to safely educate them.

United Way of Collier and the Keys’ annual Stuff the Bus program is the largest back-to-school campaign in Monroe County. It provides supplies for each of our 16 local schools, ensuring that all of their 8,500 students have the tools they need to excel this academic year. This year, teachers face the critical need for additional safety and hygiene items for their classrooms.

Every dollar collected for Stuff the Bus goes directly toward purchasing supplies for our Monroe County school children. Financial donations allow the program to provide both basic supplies and important educational devices and other tools necessary for the school year. Stuff the Bus can only be successful through the continued generosity of individuals, businesses and civic groups in Monroe County.

More details are available at KeysUnitedWay.org/StuffTheBus. The community is encouraged to join UWCK in supporting efforts to send Monroe County children back to school prepared for the new academic year, ensuring they have the supplies they need for success.

Tech savvy seniors at Key Largo Library Tech Savvy Seniors on the Go’s three-part series provides technology training for anyone in the Upper Keys, over the age of 50, with the goal of developing skills needed to access technology resources to empower and enrich. Technology provided. The next set of trainings are set for Sept. 14, Sept. 21 and Sept. 28 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Call 305-451-2396 or drop by the library to register. The training is presented by Just Older Youth (JOY), Inc. in collaboration with Keys to Peace. Grant funding provided by the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys.

Conch Scramble set for September Floating greens, golf boats and biodegradable fish food balls highlight the annual “par-tee” on the water during the popular Conch Scramble charity golf tournament Sept. 25, in Islamorada.

A full field of 50 teams has entered this one-of-a-kind golf experience to have a “hole” lot of fun honing their swings and raising money for charity one shot at a time. Boating and golf enthusiasts can still participate as spectators, however, including attending the kick-off party Sept. 24.

The 6-10 p.m. opening party includes games, food and drinks and craft beers from Islamorada Brewery & Distillery. A silent auction and a 50/50 cash raffle highlight the evening fun.

Nongolfers are encouraged to attend the festivities and can purchase tickets for a $50 donation. The Islamorada location is to be announced the week of the event at conchscramble.com and on the event’s social media channels.

During the tournament, teams of four and a designated boat driver "caddy" make stops at Islamorada waterfront venues and come ashore to tee off. Each player takes shots at the floating holes using biodegradable golf balls that dissolve into fish food after 90 hours in the water.

Teams are to meet Saturday at Chief Marine Group, a newly developed marina at the base of Snake Creek Bridge, MM 85, bayside, for an at 8:30 a.m. breakfast, hole location assignments and a shotgun start at 9 a.m.

Proceeds from the popular lighthearted golfing challenge help fund Florida Keys charities.

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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22

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

MEET THE NEW UPPER KEYS SCHOOL TEACHERS CHARLOTTE TWINE

charlotte@keysweekly.com

F

or the 2021-22 school year, the Upper Keys has fresh recruits to teach our public school students. We thought you’d like to meet a few of our new elementary school/middle school teachers. One educator has lived in our island chain for just two weeks; another, 15 years. And most have received their college degrees in Florida. Let’s give a hearty welcome to these new faces.

BREE BAGWELL Reading Intervention Teacher, Plantation Key School Where did you get your degree?

University of Florida (Go Gators!).

How long have you lived in

the Keys? Three months.

Why did you decide to become a teacher? I did not have teachers I connected with throughout school, and unfortunately, I did not like learning because of this. I want to be the teacher who creates educational, emotional and social victories for students that inspire them to love learning.

How would you describe your teaching style? Fun and collaborative!

CRICKET MAGEE Paraprofessional with Kindergarten/First Grade, Treasure Village Montessori Where did you get your degree?

I have been taking classes at the College of the Florida Keys towards my

teaching degree.

How long have you lived in the Keys? I have lived in the Keys for 15 wonderful years now, originally hailed from Edgerton, Kansas.

Go Chiefs!

Why did you decide to become a teacher? I am so excited about my new position.

I have two brilliant little girls: Serenity, age 5, and Aria, age 3. Watching them grow and learn and being a part of that is awe-inspiring.

How amazing would it be to be a part of that for many other children in our community.

Teaching and watching our children learn and grow is one of life's most rewarding opportunities.

How would you describe your teaching style? I believe teachers should have a growth mindset and always be looking for opportunities to be educated and educate others.

TRACI SCHOOR The Rays, Third/Fourth Grade Class, Ocean Studies Charter School Where did you get your degree? I received a bachelor’s from the University of Central Florida, Montessori Certified in Elementary I from the American Montessori Society and master’s in STEM Education Leadership from American College of Education.

How long have you lived in the Keys?

Two weeks.

Why did you decide to become a teacher? To help spread Montessori and peace education as well as provide equal education opportunities to all children.

How would you describe your teaching style? I believe in a hands-on approach to teaching and experiential learning, where students are able to apply their knowledge to real-world problem solving and solutions. I also aim to include environmental and cosmic education in the classroom in order to foster growth mindsets and life-long learners.

SHYARA LARA The Sailfish, Sixth Grade Class, Ocean Studies Charter School Where did you get your degree?

I have a bachelor’s in biology from the University of Miami and a master’s in math education from Nova Southeastern University.

How long have you lived in the Keys? I moved to the Keys in November from Miami.

We absolutely love it here!

Why did you decide to become a teacher? This will be my 19th year teaching.

I became a teacher so I can share my love of learning with others. This is the type of school I always dreamed of working at.

How would you describe your teaching style? My teaching style is student centered.

I will guide my students while encouraging them to take a more active role in their learning process.

TIM O’NEIL 6th Grade American History, Plantation Key School Where did you get your degree? I received my degree from FIU. How long have you lived in the Keys? Off and on for 30 years. I first moved to the Keys in 1990 and graduated from Coral Shores High School. This is my third stint in the Keys. I've been back a little over three years.

Why did you decide to become a teacher? It runs in the family. My mother taught at KLS, and my father at Homestead High School. His father was a superintendent in NY. My wife teaches 7th-grade science, also at PKS. I came to the field late, after a couple of decades in hospitality.

How would you describe your teaching style? Very hands on. I am a big believer in Socratic discussion. I think the more students talk about the material, the better it sticks.

RITA LEONARDI Music Teacher, Treasure Village Montessori Where did you get your degree?

I’m a 25-year teaching veteran, with degrees from Christopher Newport University and Old Dominion Univer-

sity, both in Virginia.

How long have you lived in the Keys?

I’ve been in Islamorada only 3 weeks, and I have enjoyed meeting new faces and seeing the sights.

Why did you decide to become a teacher? I believe every child has been given the gift of music and singing, and it is my job to help them develop their skills and abilities.

How would you describe your teaching style? It is my job to instill a love of music in all of its genres.

23

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

A LITTLE ‘CORAL’ Sanctuary a safe harbor for fox JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

T

here’s a new “Coral” to go with “Reef” in Key Largo, and they aren’t found in the water.

At Nicole Navarro’s residence, two young foxes are buzzing around as they nip at each other, play ball and run around inside a spacious pen. She admits they can be a handful at times as they zip around and find trouble, but she also finds solace knowing two furry creatures are safe from being turned into fur.

In May, Navarro retrieved a 6-week-old fox, which she later named Reef, from a Minnesota fur farm. Reef’s fur was deemed “no good” to fur farmers with a missing tail tip and toes on his front right paw. They also didn’t see a need for Coral’s fur. The female fox was rescued from the farm about a month later and brought to the Keys

by Navarro.

Coral has a birth defect that left her without the joint that connects her femur to her hip and the tip of her tail.

Navarro said Save A Fox in Minnesota and 101 Paws and Claws, located in Central Florida, helped get Coral and other young foxes out of the fur farm to a sanctuary.

Foxes deemed undesirable, meaning their fur is not worth much, are killed to make room for new fox pups being born. Navarro said a few rescues like Save a Fox Rescue in Minnesota have agreements with fur farmers to go in quickly and save those that otherwise would be destroyed.

“It certainly takes a village to rescue, and I’m grateful my village consists of some women that will literally do anything to save these animals,” Navarro said.

Navarro was first introduced to foxes while volunteering at the Mon-

Coral inside her play area with Nicole Navarro, Pawsitive Beginnings Inc. founder who gave the black fox a sanctuary at her Key Largo residence. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

roe County Sheriff’s Animal Farm in 2018. Today, she’s given six foxes once on the chopping block at a Minnesota fur farm a safe home.

Reef is about a month older than Coral.

Navarro said the two babies never knew anything aside from a gentle human touch since they were rescued so young. Those who follow Pawsitive Beginnings Inc. on Instagram and Facebook can see these two energetic foxes running around and finding mischief.

Reef and Coral can often be found lounging in front of the air conditioning or napping on her bed. A fancy new enclosure is a fenced in patio, as Navarro said she tends to spend more time out there than they do.

“Reef is a sassy young teenager who, as you all have seen, gets himself into all sorts of mischief,” she said. “Coral is the sweetest fox and loves to cuddle and give kisses on the nose.”

Navarro added that the mothers of Coral

and Reef’ rejected them, as they both had signs of physical trauma. Reef recently recovered from surgery to remove an odd growing toe nail. Coral continues to battle a food borne illness, known as clostridium perfringens.

“She was either given bad meat prior to her arrival here or she contracted it at the fur farm,” Navarro said. “It went undetected prior to her arrival here. So she’s been sick here for a while. We have been at the vet a lot for outpatient therapy.

She’s been getting subcutaneous fluids.”

Navarro added that it’s a whole new ballgame raising the likes of Coral and Reef and taking care of older foxes in Louie, Libby, Penny and Jasper. While it can be stressful at times with surgeries, illnesses and sleepless nights, Navarro said she would not trade it for anything.

Visit pawsitivebeginnings.org to learn more about Navarro’s rescued foxes and captive bred foxes.

Coral, a female black fox, and Reef, a male fox, were rescued from a fur farm in Minnesota.

24

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

HOW ARE YOU AT PLAYING YOUR MENTAL GAME

D

MELINDA VAN FLEET Melinda Van Fleet is a confidence & peak performance coach, bestselling author of “Confidence Mastery for Couples,” and speaker, who works with businesswomen to believe in themselves, take action and get results.

o you ever spend any time appreciating risks you have taken and how they have helped your confidence?

So many people don’t.

They put themselves in a spiral of negativity or unworthiness. In actuality, if they recognized something, at least one thing, they would have a positive mindset shift. It seems simple, right? Not always easy.

I have heard various coaches over the years use the quote, “It doesn’t get easier, you just get stronger.”

And it’s true. When I take the time to think about it and build up that bank of memories, none of the actions I took were “easy,” however they helped build my strength for the next right step.

My husband, Ryan, and I recently recorded a podcast episode together on The Good Karma Success Coach Podcast Episode 147. The episode had a few story shares about a small business we used to have under our central business umbrella. It was fun remembering those stories and recounting them with Ryan to help others, and it motivated me to do even more in the future. The memories were of the speaking gigs, relationships, learning about TV and the influencer world and building confidence.

As a business owner and a success coach, one of the top challenges is always taking the negative and shifting it to positive lessons.

So many people give up on their dreams because they have a few setbacks. But the setbacks make you stronger for the next level.

We don’t consider that small business not working out a setback.

On the contrary, I considered it a positive move forward because now, if we witness someone else doing something similar, we know we tried our best with that model, and it wasn’t for us. So, it’s taking the lemons and making lemonade, whatever flavor that may be — pink, yellow, or the Skinny Blackberry Lemonade that’s very tasty at Skippers in Key Largo. My favorite treat!

In addition, when we closed the business, it was a huge lesson in trusting our intuition and understanding the numbers. When the manufacturer decided to compete with us online, it didn’t make sense for the model. He had the stronger URL, better pricing as he was the direct supplier, his website copied ours and was in English. In addition, he constantly pressured us for more orders.

Noticing the energetics of people in relation to business is key. Often, business owners miss that piece and continue working in a state that isn’t in alignment with their success.

Pulling the plug freed up our energy,

time, and money to fund other parts of our business, which elevated much quicker with less stress.

It’s fun to see how far we have come and further appreciate the lessons. My mindset is always positive about the lessons, and I know money can be recouped.

In the Keys, we often have additional challenges that other parts of the country may not face. If you are a business owner, you likely agree. But, so often, people say, “You don’t understand my problems.” And that may be true. So, if that sounds like you, it may take a little bit more strength and courage to find some positive memories to shift your mindset.

Years ago, when I started down the coaching path, my biggest realization is that it’s all a mental game.

I always “knew it” but I didn’t “know it.” There is a difference. Now, I rely on that skill set and shift my mindset whenever I need to.

Winning games take practice, and if you can draw the correlation between mindset being a game and the shift taking practice, you are one step closer to knowing therefore winning.

You can do some research to hear stories about famous athletes and coaches who share the mental journey to their success. Then take some time to reflect on your own experience, and you will likely agree.

Then practice the mindset shift and become that winning athlete.

We all have the power within us.

Are you using yours?

25

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

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

any person requiring special accommodations at this meeting due to a disability or physical impairment, and any related questions or inquiries concerning this meeting should be directed to Vanessa Naranjo at the Health Council of South Florida, Inc. at (305) 592-1452 at least 72 hours prior to the date of the meeting.

Publish: August 19, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Notice of Seizure Please take notice that in accordance with Florida Statutes 328.17, 713.78, 715.109, Tavernier Mini Storage Inc, will sell or otherwise dispose of the contents on the following unit to satisfy the delinquent storage lien: All contents of unit: B-13 Tim Swann Sale of all goods to be sold on September 7, 2021 at 10:00 am at Tavernier Mini Storage Inc 135 Hood Ave, Tavernier, FL 33070.

Tavernier Mini Storage Inc reserves the right to accept or reject any and/all bids.

Publish: August 19 & 26, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Wheatons Towing gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 09/05/2021, 10:00 am at 101500 Overseas Hwy Key Largo, FL 33037, pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes.

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

1FMRU17W62LA32041 2002 FORD 2GTEC19K1S1522926 1995 GENERAL MOTORS CORP Publish: August 19 & 26, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING QUARTERLY MEETING NOTICE: LOCAL COORDINATING BOARD FOR THE TRANSPORTATION DISADVANTAGED The Monroe County Local Coordinating Board (LCB) will be holding its regularly scheduled quarterly meeting on Friday, September 3, 2021 from 10:00 am – 11:30 am. at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050.

The primary purpose of the Coordinating Board is to provide information and advice to the Community Transportation Coordinator on the coordination of services provided to the transportation disadvantaged population of Monroe County, pursuant to Chapter 427.0157, Florida Statutes. Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA),

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING: MONROE COUNTY CONSTRUCTION BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT & APPEALS MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Notice is Hereby Given to Whom it May Concern that on September 7, 2021, the Monroe County Construction Board of Adjustment & Appeals (CBAA) will hold a special meeting at 9:30AM at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Second Floor, BOCC Room, Marathon, Florida. Communication Media Technology (“CMT”) using Zoom Webinar platform will be available during the scheduled meeting.

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

This meeting is to hear the following: Sandy Esterle, Doug Stitgen & William Clemens, 100 Coral Way, Key Largo: An appeal by the property owner to the CBAA concerning an administrative decision of the Building Official dated 1/29/21 denying the After the Fact building permit application for a homemade cargo lift installed without permits. The subject property is legally described as: The Southerly 51 feet of Lot 28 and the Northerly 39 feet of Lot 29, Less and Except the Northerly 4 feet of Lot 28, THE HARBORAGE, according to the map or plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 6, Page 46, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida. (RE00555011002800).

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

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special recommendations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator's Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m.

- 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you

LEGAL NOTICES are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”.

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

Rick Griffin, Building Official/ Board Secretary Maria Partington, Senior Coordinator – CEB Board Monroe County Building Department Publish: August 19, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING: MONROE COUNTY CONTRACTORS EXAMINING BOARD MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Notice is Hereby Given To Whom it may concern, that on Tuesday, September 7, 2021 the Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (CEB) will hold a scheduled meeting at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Second Floor, BOCC Room, Marathon, Florida immediately following the CBAA scheduled meeting which will be commencing at 9:30 A.M. This meeting is to hear the following: any person(s) to come before the board; any reports from Monroe County Assistant Attorney; any reports from Monroe County Building Official; any reports from Staff.

The Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (“CEB”) will review Certificate of Competency Trade Applications and public participation in this meeting may be conducted via Communication Media Technology (“CMT”) using Zoom Webinar platform, during the scheduled meeting.

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

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

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

NOTICE: It shall be the responsibility of each Respondent or other person

Meeting Notice Monroe County Land Authority The Monroe County Land Authority Advisory Committee will meet in the Monroe Regional Service Center (State Building) located at 2796 Overseas Highway, Suite 104, Marathon, Florida on August 25, 2021 beginning at 9:00 AM. The agenda is available online at www.monroecounty-fl.gov or by contacting the Monroe County Land Authority office at 305-295-5180.

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

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

addressing the Board to have an interpreter if the party is not able to understand or speak the English language.

Rick Griffin, Building Official/ Board Secretary Maria Partington, Senior Coordinator – CEB Board Monroe County Building Department Publish: August 19, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

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 UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA KEY WEST DIVISION “IN ADMIRALTY” CASE NO. 4:21-cv-10083-JLK SAMUEL C. STOIA And ALANA STOIA, Plaintiffs, v.

DOUBLE CROWN, LLC a Florida Limited Liability Company, In Personam Defendant and Motor Vessel REEF ROAMER, Her Engines, Tackle and Appurtenance O.N. 986487, in Rem Defendants.

NOTICE OF ACTION IN REM AND ARREST OF VESSEL In accordance with Supplemental Rule C(4) for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Action of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, and Local Admiralty Rule C(4), notice is hereby given of the arrest of the M/V REEF ROAMER, in accordance with the Warrant of Arrest issued on the 12th day of August, 2021.

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

Dated at Miami, Florida, on this 17th day of August, 2021.

Respectfully submitted, HORAN LAW, LLLLP 608 Whitehead Street Key West, FL 33040 (305)294-4585 DAVID PAUL HORAN Attorney of Plaintiffs David@horan.law FL Bar No. 142474 Publish: August 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-CP000012-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 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

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-CP0000153-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 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 Publish:

LEGAL NOTICES 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 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 21-CP-000060-P IN RE: ESTATE OF JOSEPH CHARLES GUENTHER, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Joseph Charles Guenther, deceased, whose date of death was May 16, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Plantation Key Government Center, 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

AUTOS WANTED 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 19, 2021.

Personal Representative: Thomas Guenther 59 Tarpon Avenue Key Largo, FL 33037 Attorney for Personal Representative: VICTORIA MIRANDA, ESQUIRE Florida Bar No. 1015363 E-Mail: VMiranda@HLYlaw.com JAMES S. LUPINO, ESQUIRE Florida Bar No. 244481 E-Mail: JLupino@HLYlaw.com HERSHOFF, LUPINO & YAGEL, LLP 9350 S Dixie Highway, Suite 1470 Miami, FL 33156 and 88539 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 Publish: August 19 & 26, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA DIVISION: PROBATE CASE NO.: 21-CP-000209-K IN RE: ESTATE OF CRAIG H. WICKLUND, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of CRAIG H. WICKLUND, deceased, whose date of death was April 4, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: August 19, 2021 Personal Representative: Jacob Wicklund 1084 Winborne Road Davis, IL 61019 Attorney for Personal Representative: IRAMA VALDES, P.A. IRAMA VALDES, ESQUIRE Florida Bar No. 85543 11020 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 204 Miami, FL 33176 T (305) 477-1111 (786) 441-4404 ivaldes@probatelawmiami.com Publish: August 19 & 26, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

26

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

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ervous excitement permeated the air as parents lined up in cars to say goodbye to their children, dropping them off before Plantation Key School’s gate closed to visitors around 7:30 a.m. Most students wore masks. Art teacher Marcia Starling, who is in her 19th year at PKS, stood by to hand children masks if they requested them and welcomed the kids back.

— Weekly staff report CHARLOTTE TWINE/Keys Weekly

5

BACK TO SCHOOL SNAPS PKS students return to the classroom

1. PKS sixth-grade student Allyson Rosendale prepares for a day of school.

2. Henry O’Keeffe, sixth grade, and Jack O’Keeffe, third grade, pose for a picture before school.

3. Pre-K student Kai Ferrer hops out of the car and is ready for a day of learning.

4. Fourth-grade student Genesis Medina is ready for school.

5. Art teacher Marcia Starling, who is in her 19th year at PKS, stood by to hand children masks.

27

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

AUTOS WANTED

BOATS FOR SALE

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

HOMES FOR SALE

ALL YEARS! Junk or Used.

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

1999 World Cat 27' with twin 175 Suzuki motors.

Runs good.

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

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. 305-289-9884

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 -2 duplexes For Sale. Non Waterfront, Year round rentals, each building 4 Bedrooms 2 Baths, good rent roll. Close to shopping, Post Office & restaurants. 305-664-1286

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 12' Jon Boat w/ 6 hp Nissan motor, and trailer.

Located in Marathon. $1,600 305-395-1015

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

EMPLOYMENT All Keys Yamaha hiring Retail Parts/Counter Help. Marine outboard knowledge a plus.

Quickbook experience a plus. Hours M-F 8a5p. Apply in person at 2001 Overseas Highway, Marathon. 305-743-3530

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

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

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

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

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

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.com/ careers

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) $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

FLORIDA KEYS MOSQUITO CONTROL DISTRICT

is accepting applications for the following positions:

(2) FIELD INSPECTORS LOWER KEYS MECHANIC – MARATHON ON-CALL PILOTS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT For more information visit: keysmosquito.org/current-openings

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

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 & Watches.

Call 305-743-4578

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

HOUSING FOR RENT Marathon - For Rent Small bedroom efficiency Conch House. Furnished, gated. $1,350/month year lease includes all utilities.

F/L/S No Pets. 305-610-8002 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 HOUSING FOR RENT ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

LOBSTER TRAPS & CERTIFICATES Lobster Traps & Certificates For Sale. Lobster Certificates $150.00 each - Lobster Traps available.

305-289-0792 Leave message if no answer.

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.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844 LOT FOR SALE LOT FOR SALE 100' x 100' - Venetian Shores, MM 86, Snake Creek Bridge views. Asking $1.3 Million. Call 561-579-8399

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS NEEDED! Monroe County School District

Ralons Security Key West

MISC. FOR SALE Web Domain/Existing Site for Sale. Owned for 25 years - retiring. Can't beat the "key words". Please visit www.DiveFloridaKeys.com and call Julie for more i n f o r m a t i o n .

3 5 2 - 6 0 1 - 1 4 5 4 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 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!

OFFICE/COMMERCIAL

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

Call 305-394-0530

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

Immediate Hire $16-$17/hr Class D License

Ralons Security 786-615-5522 Lic# B1500167

CHARLEY TOPPINO & SONS IS HIRING Begin an exciting career with one of the most established and reputable companies in the Keys

EQUIPMENT OPERATORS Loader, Dozer, Excavator, Grader TRUCK DRIVERS W/ CDL CLASS A SKILLED LABORERS EXPERIENCED CONCRETE FINISHERS

Part time & Full time Opportunities!

Sous Chef Housekeeping Room Attendant 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.

COMPETITIVE PAY  SIGNING BONUSES AVAILABLE EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER For more information and inquiries, call 305-296-5606 or email Reym@charleytoppino.com

Great pay, amazing benefits & an awesome team!

Ocean Key Resort and Spa is EOE.

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 SITE FOR RENT RV Site For Rent in Marathon. Full Hookup. No pets. $1600/mo F/L/S 3 0 5 - 7 4 7 - 1 7 0 0

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

305-743-2281

NOW HIRING:

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

Courtyard Marriott Marathon 2146 Overseas Hwy • 305-289-2100

Our award winning resort is

currently hiring for the following hourly positions:

FRONT DESK SUPERVISOR

Previous hotel experience required.

ACCOUNTING COORDINATOR

Hotel experience preferred.

Risk Management Assistant Monroe County Attorney’s Office has a full-time opportunity available for a highly motivated individual to support the Risk Administrator. This position is responsible for the review and analysis of insurance documentation for compliance with county contracts and use of county property; processing claims for general liability, auto physical, county property and auto liability. Assistant will maintain current insurance records, perform daily administrative duties and a variety of office support tasks.

Associates degree with minimum 2 years of experience working in Risk Management or Safety required. Salary range $38,030 - $58,947 depending on qualifications and experience. Contact Human Resources at Careers@monroecounty-fl.gov or at (305) 292 – 4557. Applications are available at www.monroecounty-fl.gov.

Deadline – Open until filled, E.O.E.

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

29

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 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

Join Our Team!

D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals.

Overtime and benefits are available.

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

Finish Carpenter 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.

Lead AV Technician AV and Home Automation installations. Knowledge of electrical/ electronic components.

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

KeysBank.com

Key West Full Time and Part Time Tellers Maintenance Technician CSR - Online Banking Administrative Assistant Accountant I Landscape Designer Business Development Specialist An outdoor design specialist Call Center Manager that works well with clients— Treasury Accountant I producing designs, selections, and processing sales.

Big Pine

Full Time Teller Lead AV Technician AV and Home Automation Marathon installations. Knowledge of electrical/ Assistant Branch Operations Manager electronic components.

Key Largo Warehouse & Delivery Full Crew Time Teller

Must have reliable transportation, be on time and organized. a Apply OnlineMust at have KeysBank.com/Careers valid driver’s license. CDL a plus.

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

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

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING! KEY LARGO

Substance Abuse Counselor (PT)

KEY WEST

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

MARATHON Admissions Specialist

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

Alonzo’s Oyster Bar in Key West is searching for a General Manager to take leadership of an iconic, high volume, award winning seafood restaurant located on the water of a bustling boardwalk.

It is a full-time position requiring 40+ hours per week and requires a flexible schedule. Leadership duties include, but aren’t limited to the following; budget management and planning, hiring/firing and team building and management, including that of both management and hourly staff, inventory ordering and management, among many other key operational requirements. In addition to these administrative duties, you must have excellent customer service and an astute sense of teamwork, be able to work quickly and efficiently on the floor for long periods of time and knowledgeable of each roll within the operation. Restaurant management experience required.

For more details on duties, the competitive pay and benefits being offered, please inquire with Travis Doll at tdoll@abmarinacomplex.com

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

30

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

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

Licensed & Insured #SP33799

Lic No. SP1481

ALL KEYS GLASS

We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors

Authorized Dealer

305-743-7800

305-998-8953 Insured • Professional • Reliable

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

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

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

OUT DOOR LIVING SPACES

Key West 305-292-2666

CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE

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

A division of SALT Service, serving The Keys since 1989

305-289-1150

SP3102

Florida Solar Contractor CVC 56734 Florida Electrical Contractor EC13008657

MARATHON

305-743-0506

KEY LARGO

305-852-5356

rainsavergutters@gmail.com

SOLAR DONE RIGHT!

FREE ESTIMATES | WILL NOT BE UNDERBID

305.896.3599

When It Rains It Pours!

GENERAL CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS

SPALLING EXPERTS

Proud member of:

INTERNATIONAL

CONCRETE REPAIR INSTITUTE

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

Tewes ewes Mortgage

Your local, residential lending expert!

Call 305.495.6000 for a FREE Consultation

Brian Tewes

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

NMLS# 375025 Tewes Mortgage NMLS# 1453791 NMLSConsumerAccess.org

www.TewesMortgage.com

Sportfishing Adventures

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

info@johnnymaddoxcharters.com

Serving Monroe, Dade & Broward Including Airports & Ports.

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

305-743-7454

fkes2011@gmail.com floridakeysexpressshuttle.com

305-481-3259

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

Key Largo, FL 33037

24/7 Certified Caregiver Provided

Oceansideseniorcarekeys@gmail.com 305-930-0194

Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here

Inspired Living Through Custom Design Finishes for Your Home!

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

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

Oceanside Senior Care BEATRIZ MORENO OWNER

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

Lic#SP-3562

The Weekly Newspapers www.KeysWeekly.com

305-743-0844

We Do Installations!

Licensed & Insured

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

289-3019

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

“This hurts!!!” BRENDA BUSH/ Contributed

Elise Mucha Reid and Scott Reid, of Wicked Charters and Brutus Restaurant, catching food with Wicked, taking it to Brutus to be cooked! DIANA MUCHA/Contributed

Captain Johnny Maddox, of Johnny Maddox Sportfishing Adventures, doing his thing!

CHAR HRUSKA/Keys Weekly

Ella Stuart, 8, caught her first fish while on vacation in Key West.

MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

Feeling reel ready. CARLOS BEALE/Contributed

Mandy’s first mahi, caught in 2008, with the best catch of her life, Capt.

Stan Miles. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

Lionfish hunting is always a good idea in the Keys. KURT TIDD/Contributed

Buddha the barracuda hung out under Keys Weekly photographer Barry Gaukel’s dock for months. He would follow Barry as he walked along the dock, looking for handouts. One day he disappeared, never to return. A classic case of cupboard love. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

I

n AUGUST, we highlighted FOOD AND FISHING! In SEPTEMBER, we’re celebrating the people who are amazing at what they do!

In honor of LABOR DAY, we’re shining a spotlight on anyone in the Keys who’s doing an excellent job. Love your local teacher/ fishing guide/mailman/nurse/newspaper reporter? Send us a picture of them and a sentence about why they rock!

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.

32

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / AUGUST 19, 2021

ONCE IN A LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY

TO OWN LAND ON CRAIG CAY THE MOST SPECTACULAR PRIVATE THE MOST SPECTACULAR PRIVATE BAYFRONT ISLAND IN THE FLORIDA KEYS BAYFRONT ISLAND IN THE FL KEYS Just south of Islamorada at MM72, this offering consists of 12,000 sq.ft. of land for the development of a one-of-a-kind waterfront estate with stunning Bayfront views. Build your family compound with your own private gated entrance. There will only be 3 homes to ever occupy this historic island. New 9,737 sq. ft. magnificent home to be completed south of subject property. Private man-made island from when the railroad first came through the Keys. Deep water surrounding property.

A rare offering for the most discriminating buyer looking to build a one-of-a-kind Bayfront masterpiece on a historic private island in the Florida Keys. MLS #596708 | $5,995,000

RICK BONVIE 954.232.8494 rick@bonviedevelopment.com www.bonviedevelopment.com