Key West Weekly 21-0909 by Keys Weekly Newspapers

Breaking News: Father of Key West editor Mandy Miles files to end conservatorship.

September 9, 2021

KIDS AND MASKS MASKS REMAIN OPTIONAL IN KEYS SCHOOLS | P. 4

CONDO COUNTDOWN

CONDEMNATION HEARING SET FOR SEPT. 13 | P. 5

NAKED AND AFRAID?

KEY WESTER COMPETES IN SURVIVAL SHOW | P. 6

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

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Seeking proof of a person’s vaccination could bring hefty fines in Florida. Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill in May that banned vaccine passports, with fines set at $5,000 for businesses, schools and governments that require proof of a COVID-19 vaccination. Fines will start Sept. 16.

SCHOOL MASK OPT-OUT UPHELD AFTER TENSE EXCHANGE

Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com

Board members will revisit issue in two weeks

Staff Writers

CHARLOTTE TWINE

Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

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n Sept. 7, the school board, district staff, health officials and the public sat together through another tense four-hour meeting. At least three hours were devoted to a discussion about masking children in the schools: Should the parental opt-out be changed to a full-on mask mandate with only a medical opt-out? Should the district go against Gov. Ron DeSantis’ recent executive order protecting a parent’s right to decide about masks? In the end, the school board upheld the same mask mandate with a parental opt-out, to be revisited in two weeks. However, the vote was four members for and one member against this mandate. Board member Sue Woltanski, concerned about the still high COVID numbers, pushed for a medical opt-out only. The meeting began with an update on COVID numbers by Bob Eadie, administrator for the Monroe County Department of Health. “To my knowledge there have been no confirmed pediatric hospitalizations, no confirmed pediatric deaths in Monroe county,” he said. He said that from Aug. 1 till Sept. 7, Miami-Dade had tested 11,182 kids in the 5- to 14-year-old age group, and 12 percent of those tests were positive. In Monroe County during that same period, 2,200 children in that age group were tested, and 231 were positive, making Monroe County’s ratio for positivity 10.5 percent. He added that positive test numbers for Covid are going down, not up, though the trend could be a pause before another spike. Woltanski repeatedly expressed her concern about the transmission of the virus in Monroe County and pressed for masking with medical-opt out only.

In this screenshot of the Sept. 7 Monroe County School District meeting, Matt Stettner of Summerland Key said he disagreed that the board had any right to dictate whether his child should wear a mask.

“The community is rocked by losing our county commissioner,” she said. “I know of six restaurants where the owners have died from Covid. ... It’s an economic problem when the adults in the community, the pillars in our community, start dying. The county commissioners have put in a mask mandate in all their buildings. The city of Key West has put in a mask mandate in all its buildings. I believe the village of Islamorada has as well … at this point we’re the governing body that is not masking.” “Because for us we’d be breaking the law,” said Andy Griffiths, board vice chair. Board member Bobby Highsmith pointed out that 90 percent of students are wearing masks. “If only 10 percent of the kids in the classroom are not wearing masks then we wouldn’t be having this conversation,” Woltanski said. “But there are kids in classes where it’s 30 percent or more not wearing masks.” “We don’t get to pick the laws we like,” Griffiths said. “We follow them all. We need to encourage better participation.” “Currently, out of 8,465 (students), we have 1,315 opt-outs. That’s 15 percent opt-outs,” Superintendent Theresa Axford said. “In Dr. Woltanski’s defense, some classes are more heavily weighted with opt-outs.” “We have a constitutional responsibility to provide a safe place,” Woltanski insisted. The public had opinions as well.

ON THE COVER

Ocean Dillon, 4, demonstrates the Monroe County School District’s vote to allow a mask opt-out. See page 4. BRITT MYERS/Keys Weekly

“Dr. Woltanski, I have not seen where you have articulated any verifiable uptick in Covid that is related to the current mask policy,” Matt Stettner of Summerland Key said. “Respectfully, I do not believe it is her (Woltanski’s) or your decision to make in the place of the parents.” Key West physician Dr. John Norris plugged the CDC’s recommendation for universal masking in schools for all students age 2 and up regardless of vaccination status. “Recently, a child was sent home from school due to exposure. Both the child and the parents got symptoms,” he said. “CDC guidance should be followed. ... I am concerned about the number of Covid cases of adults that are coming from our school system.” As it has become the school board’s policy to vote on the current mask policy with parental opt-out every two weeks, the time came at the end of the meeting to finally make a decision. Woltanski made a motion for everyone to wear facial covering indoors, with an opt-out by medical necessity only, due to “our status being extremely high.” No board member seconded her motion. Highsmith moved to continue the existing facial covering requirement, with a parental opt-out. It was seconded by board member Mindy Conn. The motion passed, 4 to 1, with Woltanski voting against. “I think the fact that we’ve come to a point where masks are the only thing we are talking about in relation to Covid is taking things far beyond what they should be and making it more political, rather than based on data and facts,” Conn said. “There are so many other factors besides masking that go into a great Covid policy, and I believe we are doing all of them. … We’ve got better air filtration, we’ve got sanitizing, we’ve got hand washing, we've got outdoor time and social distancing. There are so many things we are doing, and the only thing we talk about at meetings is masking. And that is not — in my opinion, the data doesn’t support that as the fixer of Covid.” The masking issue will be discussed again, in two weeks. In other news, the school board passed the final budget for the 20212022 school year. Keys Weekly will provide more coverage on the budget in the next issue.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

WHAT’S NEXT FOR STRUGGLING CONDO? BUILDING OFFICIAL HOPES TO AVOID CONDEMNATION

A recently posted sign on the south stairwell at Santa Clara Condominiums states the unsafe stairway is for emergency use only.

A condemnation hearing for Santa Clara Condominiums on Northside Drive will take place at 10 a.m. Monday, Sept. 13. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

he owners and tenants of Santa Clara Condominiums will know the fate of their building following a 10 a.m. condemnation hearing on Monday, Sept. 13. Key West’s chief building official Raj Ramsingh on Wednesday told the Keys Weekly that condemnation would be an absolute last resort, but one he will have to consider from a safety standpoint. “Condemnation is not the way I’m leaning. I’d like to avoid it if that’s at all possible,” Ramsingh said on Wednesday. He also acknowledged the concerns of residents, whether they own or rent at Santa Clara, who fear they will only have 15 minutes to remove their belongings if the worst-case scenario does occur. Many residents of Surfside in Miami reported having only 15 minutes to retrieve their belongings, if they were able to access the building at all following the devastating and deadly collapse of half the complex, which crumbled upon itself. The Keys Weekly also has been fielding calls from tenants and owners, who are worried about furniture, family photos, clothing, children’s toys, important documents and other items. They ask how much time they will have before having to vacate the premises and whether there is a state-mandated timeline for such an action. Ramsingh told the Keys Weekly there is no state mandate for vacating the premises. “And I will tell you, if it does come down to that, and I hope it doesn’t, but if it does, I understand these are people’s homes, whether they own a unit or rent it. I under-

stand we’re talking about people’s lives, homes, belongings and cherished possessions, as well as their safety.” If the building is condemned, Ramsingh said, “I would partner with the police and fire departments to help me coordinate a safe and orderly process by which people can remove their belongings. They will not just have 15 minutes as has been reported by residents in Miami. That will not happen.” Ramsingh scheduled the condemnation hearing on Sept. 1, after receiving engineering reports that state the building is in dire need of significant repairs. The crumbling south stairwell, which was deemed unsafe by the engineer, was still in use last week. It remained open and accessible as of the morning of Sept. 8, but a sign had been posted saying, “Stairwell for emergency use only.” The stairwell is one of Ramsingh’s top concerns as well, as it represents an alternate exit in the event of a fire. “If we simply close the stairwell while it’s being replaced, that eliminates a fire exit, and I don’t believe the fire inspector would allow that to happen,” Ramsingh told the Keys Weekly on Sept. 5. WHO’S TO BLAME? Finger-pointing for the building’s current situation continues, with the condo’s former management company, ICAMCO, blaming the condo board for failing to act on needed repairs and for failing to levy a special assessment to fund the work. Board members, on the other hand, blame ICAMCO, saying the company did in fact have the authority and the express direction from the board to get repairs completed. But most owners the Keys Weekly has reached agree that everyone’s top priority should be getting through the Monday hearing without a condemnation ruling.

A notice from the Santa Clara Condominium Association board in the building’s lobby criticizes the management company for terminating its contract, and states, ‘We do not believe the building is in danger of collapse.’

RAMSINGH CLARIFIES BUILDING INSPECTIONS Ramsingh also clarified on Sept. 5 the building inspection and notification process that started immediately following the Surfside collapse on June 24, 2021. City officials conducted cursory inspections of about 36 Key West properties taller than three stories. Only two of them — Santa Clara Condominiums and Ocean Walk Apartments — received written notification about concerns from the city’s building department, Ramsingh said. Representatives of other properties were simply notified verbally of minor issues, Ramsingh told the Keys Weekly. “There’s nothing serious at any other properties,” Ramsingh said. “Ocean Walk didn’t require a hearing to be scheduled or anything further because they had already started work. They had hired an architect and sent us their plans to address the issues. They had already taken action. I apologize for any confusion with regard to that list of properties.”

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

‘NAKED AND AFRAID’ KEY WESTER BRAVES THE ELEMENTS IN SOUTH AFRICA FOR DISCOVERY CHANNEL SHOW

f you haven’t watched the show, you’ve certainly seen the commercials for Discovery’s “Naked and Afraid” and wondered aloud, “Who would ever want to do that? It’d be bad enough with clothes on, but naked? No way.” Key Wester Andrew Forestell, 38, not only wanted to attempt the outdoor survival challenge, but got his chance last December. The show pairs two skilled survivalists — a man and a woman — in a remote wilderness environment. The contestants have to fend for themselves — making shelter, hunting and gathering food, lighting a fire, boiling water and staying alive — for 21 days. The show also features shorter, 14-day “fan challenges,” to give those who usually scream at the TV from the comfort of their couch a chance to put their own skills to the test. Forestell was chosen for a 14-day fan challenge that found him and his partner, Ali Moxley of Montana, in the wilderness of South Africa in December 2020. Forestell’s episode just aired on Sunday, Sept. 5, finally revealing how things went for their 14 days spent naked and afraid in South Africa. (Spoiler alert: Forestell and Moxley “tapped out” after nine of 14 days, finally succumbing to unexpectedly cold temperatures and ceaseless rain that eventually extinguished their fire.) My partner was a rock star. Ali and I got along great and were always taking turns gathering firewood, boiling water, doing all the things required just to survive in that environment. We were there in December 2020, so we had to stay tight-lipped and not say a word about how things turned out for almost a year. Of course, it was the most awkward situation in the world, first meeting this naked stranger that you’re going to live and survive with for two weeks. I had played out our first meeting in my head. I needed to make sure I was looking at her eyes and nowhere else. Romantic sparks? Nah, honestly, she’s awesome, but I came to view her as my sister and my teammate. You’re so busy trying to stay alive and keep your fire going, you’re not thinking of much else.

Andrew Forestell of Key West appears on ‘Naked and Afraid.’ CONTRIBUTED

Yes, we had to tap out on Day 9 of 14. It still haunts me that we didn’t have a better shelter with a roof over our heads. We actually had started building a roof, but that’s when the rain started and the temperature dropped from about 90 degrees during the day to 48 degrees at night, in the pouring rain. We didn’t know how cold it really was, but we did notice the film crew was wearing long pants and coats, and we were still naked and freezing. We ate wild spinach and cactus. If I never eat wild spinach again, it’ll be too soon. It tasted like spinach boiled in mud. The cactus was more palatable, then I found that one tiny egg in a bird’s nest. People don’t realize when they watch from home how little sleep you get at night. It is next-level darkness. You hear animals walking all night long, all around your boma (an African enclosure fortified with branches and thorns to keep predators out. A fire is typically lit inside the boma for warmth and protection.) There were few truly scary moments, like the giant camel spider that terrorized us for the first few nights. These things were bigger than scorpions. Massive. Totally terrifying. Another time we had that herd of cape buffalo, which they call the “black death” because of how they stampede and kill humans, encroaching closer and closer to our camp. The producers had really driven home how dangerous they are. So that was an eye-opener. From the time I got my first email from the show, until I was in South Africa, was about eight months. But I didn’t know I was going to Africa until a month prior. (Note: The show

has sent other contestants everywhere from the Amazon jungle to the rainforests of Central America, desolate islands in the Bahamas, the plains of Africa, the Florida Everglades and the Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia.) I was really surprised by the lack of food resources. But I think a lot of it had to do with the unseasonable amount of rain that kept things like birds, snakes and lizards — protein that we desperately needed — all hidden away. I had studied the average rainfall of that region, and we learned after the fact that we had basically gotten their entire monthly rainfall in one day. Each person is allowed to bring one survival item. I brought a fire starter; Ali brought a machete and they gave us a pot to boil water in. People always ask how “real” the show is. It’s the real deal. The camera crews are instructed not to talk to you or interact with you. They’re not allowed to eat or drink in front of us, and at night, they leave. They set up mounted cameras, and they’re gone. We do have handheld radios to call for medics in case of emergency. Ah, yes, the Naked and Afraid necklaces and burlap bags that are ubiquitous to each episode. In fact, the necklaces are microphones. Since contestants aren’t wearing clothes, lapel mics aren’t possible. And the burlap bags contain a battery pack for the microphone. Absolutely, I’d do it again. No doubt about it. I want my redemption. And the producers are well aware that I’m ready for round 2.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

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‘‘Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.’’ Ephesians 5:1 NKJV For those who wish to attend via teleconference dial 774.258.4149 or alternate # 716.293.9794 at the times listed above.

Covering All The Keys From Key Largo To Key West Upper Keys Weekly 91760 O/S Hwy, Ste 3 Tavernier, FL 33070 305.363.2957

Marathon Weekly 9709 O/S Hwy Marathon, FL 33050 305.743.0844

Key West Weekly 5450 MacDonald Ave, Ste 5 Key West, FL 33040 305.453.6928

FACTS FROM THE TAX COLLECTOR Sam Steele

monroetaxcollector.com 305.295.5000

SEPTEMBER • 2022 local business tax renewals are due by September 30, 2021. • The second property tax installment bill is due by September 30, 2021. • To sign up for E-Bills, please visit our website or call our oﬃce for assistance. • Hurricane re-entry decals are available at all oﬃces. • Any property that is being rented for less than six months must have a tourist development tax account. • As a reminder, online rental platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.) DO NOT remit the 5% tourist

development tax to our oﬃce. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure the tax has been remitted. • All rental properties must also have a local business tax, regardless of how long they are being rented. • If you suspect a fraudulent property rental, you may report it on our hotline at 1-855-422-4540. • Original/new passports may be applied for at the Harvey Government Center. We also oﬀer passport photos. Please visit our website for more information.

for more important tax information.

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.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

CHARLOTTE TWINE

charlotte@keysweekly.com

ALL RISE

Recently retired judge Ruth Becker had unorthodox methods and an undeniable impact on Monroe County

udge Ruth Becker was elected to the Monroe County Court in 1990, then was re-elected without opposition until she retired on July 30. The Board of County Commissioners saw fit to proclaim Aug. 18, 2021 Judge Ruth Becker Day. “The entire time, Her Honor was one of the best. I had nothing but the greatest of things to say about her,” said her longtime colleague, Marathon criminal defense attorney Bill Heffernan. “When I said goodbye, I’d been a lawyer for 50 years in January. I’ve been doing this for many years, in front of many judges. I can only tell you, Judge Becker was top shelf, a very, very compassionate judge. People in this community owe their freedom and life to her drug court.” Clearly, Becker made an impact in her legal career and on Monroe County. But things might have been very different if not for a small twist of fate in her youth. She told Keys Weekly that she graduated from Smith College with an honors major in microbiology, and she came this close to going to medical school. “I was working at Harvard Medical School, doing editorial work for The Journal of Infectious Diseases,” she recalled. “And I had never been a big fan of math. Never took physics. That was an impediment. And it’s why I never went to medical school. I think I thought somehow, when I was young, that law would be an area where I could make a difference.” And she has made a difference. Key West attorney Richard Fowler, the former chief judge of Monroe County, created the county judge position in Marathon that Becker ran for and won in 1990. But Fowler needed help in the criminal circuit court, as well. “God bless her, I talked Ruthie into it — circuit work in addition to county work,” Fowler said. “She was gracious enough to take it on. … There’s nothing that I asked her to do that she wasn’t capable of doing. She’s one of those shining examples.” Becker said county court is sometimes called “the people’s court,” where misdemeanors, traffic and civil cases are heard. In the circuit courts, felony, guardianship, mental health and probate matters are heard.

The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners proclaimed Aug. 18, 2021 Judge Ruth Becker Day in Monroe County in honor of her retirement. Pictured, from left: Commissioner David Rice, Judge Ruth Becker, Mayor Michelle Coldiron, Commissioner Craig Cates and Commissioner Eddie Martinez. KRISTEN LIVENGOOD/Monroe County

But she said that if she had to pick the favorite part of her job, it would be drug court. “Drug court was something that I found to be extremely — I wouldn’t say enjoyable, but it was therapeutic,” she said. “Back in the day, offenders would just go into prison, get out and repeat, over and over. Not everyone makes the changes, but many do. And when they maintain sobriety and become functioning members of the community, to witness that is very rewarding.” “From a court perspective, I would say drug court is her greatest legacy,” said trial court administrator Holly Elomina. “Her dedication helped many Middle Keys clients with their sobriety in her 30 years on the bench.” Becker was also known for her creative methods in drug court. Her clients would be assigned counseling and 12-Step meetings, and once a month they would meet her at drug court … then go outside for a run. “I went to drug court college in Georgetown, Washington D.C., and conferences around the country,” she said. “One of the things I learned was that with chronic substance abuse, the brain loses pleasureenhancing brain chemicals — but not endorphins. I encouraged them to get their bodies moving, to help them feeling better naturally. We used to go out to the Seven Mile Bridge after drug court.” Marathon criminal defense attorney Hal Schuhmacher remembers her unorthodox drug courts very well. “When she sentences someone in drug cases, she mandated that they exercise one hour a week,” he said. “The fact that she was out there with the drug people, practicing what she preached, was a big deal to me as a defender. She cared about people to the point where she would get down in the mud with them and work on their recovery.” In fact, she was an eight-time marathon runner, and she attributes her stamina and confidence to her passion for exercise.

Judge Ruth Becker was present when Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Peggy Quince visited Marathon High School in 2008. Pictured from left: Trial Court Administrator Holly Elomina, Quince and Becker. CONTRIBUTED

“It gives a person the reassurance that you can do what you set your goals for,” she said. The governor now has the job of appointing her replacement, who will have big shoes to fill. Becker says she noticed an increase in heroin and fentanyl in her drug cases, and her appointee will have to take that on as well. “Really atrocious things,” she said. “It may have been an offshoot of the opioid crisis.” But for now, she’s casting her mind to other matters. She is enjoying her home, newly built after being destroyed by Irma, with her husband, who is also retired. “I’m learning how to sleep past six o’clock now. It’s been a month. Sometimes I have to stop and figure out what day of the week it is. I’m doing some pleasure reading. And I’m a good cook.” But Becker, whose hero is Ruth Bader Ginsberg, may not be able to stay away from the courts for long. “I haven’t decided whether I want to go back to work as a senior judge,” she confessed. “You have to wait a year before you can do that.”

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

BRIEFLY

CONSTITUTION DAY COLLEGE OF THE FLORIDA KEYS EXPLORES FOUNDING DOCUMENT

Looe Key Resort on Ramrod Key sold recently for $6.25 million. CONTRIBUTED

Florida International University law professor Elizabeth Foley will present ‘The Constitution’s Separation of Powers: A Ship that Will Right Itself?’ at CFK’s Constitution Day at 11 a.m. on Sept. 16. CONTRIBUTED

he College of the Florida Keys invites the community to celebrate the birth of the United States government at its annual Constitution Day event at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 16 via Zoom. Constitution Day commemorates the formation and signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787, laying the foundation of our government, rights and freedoms. This year’s event will feature Florida International University law professor Elizabeth Foley, who will present “The Constitution’s Separation of Powers: A Ship that Will Right Itself?” She will explore the responsibilities and authority of the various levels of government. Information to join the virtual event, as well as Constitution games and resources, can be found on the college’s website at cfk.edu/events.

Coordinated by CFK business law instructor and attorney Stephen Muffler, the college’s Constitution Day activities aim to educate the public on their rights under the Constitutional amendments and encourage good citizenship habits. “The U.S. Constitution is the blueprint of our country, market system and free society,” Muffler said. “It acts as the common denominator for all Americans, regardless of our differences.” Attendees will also learn how to register to vote with the help of representatives from the League of Women Voters. Free pocket Constitutions, donated by the City of Key West’s Citizens Review Board, will be available in the libraries at the College’s Key West Campus and Upper Keys Center. — Contributed

Looe Key Resort sold to New Jersey entrepreneur Curtis Skomp, Greg Dully, and Rosanne Dully of RE/MAX Advance Realty’s All Keys Commercial Team recently completed the sale of the Looe Key Reef Resort for $6.25 million, after 205 days on the market. A popular Florida Keys landmark established in 1959, the resort is located at Mile Marker 27.5 on Ramrod Key. The classic “diver’s hotel” includes 24 rooms, a full-service dive/tour/boat charter center, and a tiki bar and grill beloved by locals. In total, the property encompasses 72,845 square feet on 1.67 acres of land. The buyer of the resort is Adam Ventenheimer, an entrepreneur and investor who has relocated from New Jersey to operate the business. “The resort is a model for Florida Keys business success, with multiple revenue streams derived from lodging, dining, tourism and recreation,” said Skomp. “It may be a relatively small facility, but it faces limited competition in the Lower Keys. With new ownership committed to major improvements of the hotel and restaurant, while continuing to support the dive center with outstanding staff and equipment, the resort’s future is extremely bright.” Barbary Beach House hotel to be rebranded in October Barbary Beach House Key West will be rebranded as the 184-unit Margaritaville Beach House Key West in October. The new Margaritaville resort will include a Tin Cup Chalice & Chill restaurant, new bar concepts, expanded retail outlet space and family-friendly activities. Amenities will include complimentary welcome frozen cocktails, daily poolside refreshments including fruit smoothies and popsicles,

concierge service, complimentary airport pickup and drop off, and nonmotorized watersports. The resort, which allows dogs under 30 pounds for a fee, will be Key West’s only Margaritaville resort and is located across from Smathers Beach at 2001 S. Roosevelt Blvd. Visit MargaritavilleBeachHouseKeyWest. com or call 866-237-5022. Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden celebrates fall in the Florida Keys Celebrating the 85th anniversary of its founding as “Keeper of the Trees,” the 15-acre Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden is showcasing its fall “Scarecrows in the Forest” exhibition, running Sept. 15 through Nov. 30, with locally crafted scarecrows made from natural and recycled materials. Key West’s open-air “living museum” is acclaimed as the continental United States’ only frost-free subtropical natural conservation habitat and native plant botanical garden. Located at 5210 College Road, it shelters plant life native to South Florida, Cuba and the Caribbean, including threatened and endangered species. Visit keywest.garden or call 305-296-1504. Bahia Honda State Park renovates beach and facilities In the Lower Keys, the 524-acre Bahia Honda State Park is undergoing a full restoration of its mile-long Sandspur Beach, its 24-campsite Sandspur campgrounds, a 155-car parking area and two shower towers at the day-use area. The $2.96 million Sandspur restoration is on the park’s north side, with completion targeted for late 2022. The park is located at 36850 Overseas Highway. Visit floridastateparks. org/BahiaHonda or call 305-8722353.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

Eric Hernandez found his home at the end of a long, hot road. CONTRIBUTED

By Eric Hernandez

KEY WEST STILL BECKONS

WELCOME HOME Editor’s Note: Key West captivated us all. For some reason, in some era, some number of years ago, something brought us to the place we belong. This expensive, out-of-the-way and unconventional spot was, for some reason, instantly and always comfortable. New friends became family. Every outing was an adventure and after hours, well, all bets were off. We were all new here once. We all made memories in bygone bars and Old Town apartments. We all answered the call of Key West. So did Eric Hernandez, a new Key West resident whose fresh perspective and untarnished enthusiasm was exactly what I needed in this time of antisocial media and deep divisions. I don’t know Eric Hernandez. I didn’t expect or solicit his email that follows. But I thank him for reminding me of the magic of this place we all call home. — Mandy Miles

lost my job last year due to COVID. After struggling with depression and doing absolutely nothing for several months I decided to sell practically everything I own except what I could fit on my bicycle. I decided to head out on a bikepacking adventure in search of new beginnings. I left New York City and headed to Niagara Falls. I tried to go into Canada, but they weren’t allowing Americans at the time. So I started heading south. Along the way I met several people who told me I should go to Key West. (“What better place to end a biking journey than Mile 0?”) I didn’t even know about Mile 0 or the Southernmost Point. I didn’t know anything about Key West. It’s funny how I randomly met so many people who used to live in Key West (people from upstate New York, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Charleston and Savannah). Honestly, Key West wasn’t even on my mind until I got to Savannah, Georgia and stayed with an older gentleman who had lived in Key West in the ’70s. He sold me on it.

Fast forward 2,600 miles: I made it to Key West. I stayed with a really cool couple I had met through Couchsurfing.com. We really got along and after two days they told me I could stay for two weeks. They kept trying to convince me to move here. In that same first week, my hosts assembled a little “Friendsgiving” celebration. They lived in a tiny place and didn’t have enough space to thaw a turkey. So we wrapped it in a garbage bag and tossed it in the pool. That was the moment I realized I had found my people — and my place. I knew I was moving to Key West. At the Friendsgiving gathering, I met a girl named Tiffany who had just moved down here. But before that, we had lived in the same neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York. We really hit it off and went on a date the next day and the next. Next thing I know, I am head over heels in love. Tiffany had just moved down here to take over her friend’s apartment. It was a dump and it was completely empty. She, too, had arrived with nothing. I started riding around town to find furniture, electronics and other items people were throwing out in order to furnish Tiffany’s apartment. After only knowing her for five days I asked if I could move in with her. She said yes! That same day I rented a U-Haul truck and bought us a bed off Facebook. While we were moving the bed into our place, our neighbor stumbled by and said, “Yo, I’m moving to the Virgin Islands tomorrow. Y’all want all my shit?” This dude literally gave

us everything: Couch, fish tank, silverware, dishes, rugs, you name it. He then proceeded to get wasted and miss his flight the next day, so he stayed with us. He helped us organize a housewarming party, where we met several other locals. It was amazing. We were fully settled within 24 hours. Our new friend Justin, who gave us all his furniture, got wasted again and missed his flight again. so he stayed with us. I literally had to drag him out of our house and throw him into a cab to make his third flight. Things really started coming together. I was working odd jobs for a while, then my old company offered me my job back — remotely. Around the same time, we rescued two cats. I don’t know. I can’t explain it. It’s just hilarious. I see on Facebook so many people complaining about Key West and warning people not to come here unless they have $30,000 saved and a job lined up. I moved down here with absolutely nothing and no job. Five months later, I had an apartment two blocks from the beach, an amazing girlfriend, two cool-ass Key West cats and an awesome remote job with a luxury travel magazine. I’m probably not the best at explaining it, but I really found my paradise down here. Despite what anyone says … it’s totally possible. I love Key West and all it has brought me.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

RED BEANS AND HURRICANE RELIEF KEY WEST PITCHES IN

Elle Taylor, Eileen Taylor, Mulysa Gard and a South Carolina bride pose at Monday’s charity event. CHRIS MASSICOTTE/Keys Weekly

REDA WIGLE

www.keysweekly.com

Higgs Beach was the center of heated — and hot — competition over Labor Day weekend, as the women of Womenfest challenged each other in cornhole and a tug-of-war contest. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

nown as the “largest gathering of lesbians and friends,” Key West’s Womenfest took place Sept. 1-5 with events at bars, guest houses, restaurants, beaches, art galleries and museums. Presented by the Key West Business Guild, the events welcomed women from Key West and all over the world. The festival included an opening pool party at Alexander’s Guest House, a cornhole tournament and tug-of-war at Higgs Beach, a Poke Her in the Rear party at Poke in the Rear, a drag show and dozens of other women-centric events. — Weekly staff report

Alexander’s Guest House hosts the opening pool party for Womenfest.

he community of Key West again proved its capacity for compassion with a drag benefit to aid our New Orleans neighbors in the wake of Hurricane Ida. On Labor Day, New Orleans native and 801 staple Puddin Taine lent a hand, a microphone and a bra full of cash to help her hometown. “I was scrolling social media and I saw so many people that were stuck. People are going on two weeks without their basic needs being met. I knew I needed to do something and this is the best thing I can do right now to get money in people’s pockets.” Puddin, along with the 801 bar staff and fellow performers Mulysa Gard (who led the crowd onto Duval Street, halting traffic for a Whitney Houston sing along), Elle Taylor, Michelle Hevens, and Eileen Taylor, donated 100% of their tips to hurricane relief. Serving red beans and rice, heaping portions of attitude and faux pubic hair, they raised more than $1,500 to be donated to several grassroots organizations in the Gulf Coast. Puddin was humbled and heartened to see Key West respond to the call for aid. “801 was so happy to do it and Mulysa offered to host the show. I’m a new girl in town and it was really nice to see the community come together.

Puddin Taine basks in the success of her charity event.

All my queens showed up and did this for free, donated their time, donated their talent and that really means a lot because it takes a village, it takes one human family.” Puddin encourages anyone unable to attend Monday’s event to donate directly to House of Tulip, an organization that assists displaced members of the New Orleans trans and gender nonconforming community; Imagine Waterworks, a nonprofit dedicated to climate justice and disaster response; and the Cajun Navy, a volunteer search-and-rescue team based in Louisiana.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

BAROMETERS LED THE WAY AS NATION BEGAN TRYING TO FORECAST WEATHER

his time of year is always a bit like walking on eggshells. Not only is it hurricane season, but August has turned to September, and the tropics are hot and bothered and ripe for storm activity. Hurricanes have been BRAD haunting the tropics since these waters sufficiently warmed and BERTELLI spawned their first storm thou... is an author, sands of years ago. They have speaker, and Florida Keys historian. been affecting the Florida Keys for as long as the island chain His latest book, has existed. “The Florida Keys Skunk Ape Files,” Certainly, dozens of storms is a fun blend of or hundreds of storms affected two of his favorite Key West before 1835, but it subjects–Florida was not until that year that the Keys history and first newspaper account of a the Skunk Ape. hurricane striking the island was recorded. The 1835 hurricane sank ships at the Key West harbor, destroyed fruit trees at Indian Key, to the tune of $500 in damage, and wrecked ships at the Miami and New River outposts and beyond. Figuring out when and where a hurricane will strike has been part science and part art since people first began attempting to predict weather patterns. For centuries, sailors relied on barometers to help get a read on approaching weather. Barometers are scientific instruments used to measure atmospheric or barometric pressure. The mercury barometer was invented by physicist Evangelista Torricelli in 1643 and consisted of a glass tube with a pool of mercury at the bottom. Sensitive to the atmospheric pressure, the mercury would rise when the air pressure was high and fall when it was low. Rapid drops in atmospheric pressure indicate an approaching low-pressure weather system. Lowpressure systems are indicators of rain and wind systems. High-pressure systems bring in dry, cool air and will cause the barometric pressure to rise. They also help to push away low-pressure systems. The roots of weather forecasting as a science, at least in the United States, date back to 1849. To begin to track weather patterns, the Smithsonian Institution provided telegraph companies with the instruments necessary to measure and re-

Figuring out when and where a hurricane will strike has been part science and part art since people first began attempting to predict weather patterns. For centuries, sailors relied on barometers to help get a read on approaching weather. CONTRIBUTED

cord things like rain and wind. By 1850, more than 150 volunteer amateur meteorologists were recording and submitting their weather observations to the Smithsonian. A decade later, 500 telegraph stations from locations across the country were sending in weather reports. As information was collected, it was recorded and the readings mapped until, over the years, patterns of weather emerged. During Ulysses S. Grant’s presidency, 1869-1877, he signed a resolution requiring the Secretary of War “to provide for taking meteorological observations at the military stations in the interior of the continent and at other points in the states and territories … and for giving notice on the northern lakes and on the seacoast by magnetic telegraph and marine signals, of the approach and force of storms.” The act required the formation of a new national weather service that was to be incorporated into the U.S. Army Signal Services’ Division of Telegraph and Reports for the Benefit of Commerce. In 1890, President Benjamin Harrison signed an act that transferred meteorological responsibilities from the Army to the newly formed United States Weather Bureau. Before the turn of the century, in 1898, President William McKinley ordered the Weather Bureau to establish a hurricane warning network in the West Indies. Meteorological advances in weather forecasting continued to be made, including the first cable exchange of weather information between the U.S. and Europe in 1900. The following year, official three-day weather forecasts began to be issued in North America. In 1904, the government began using airplanes to conduct upper-air

atmospheric research. A year later, the SS New York transmitted the first wireless weather report from the sea. The Weather Bureau began releasing free-rising balloons to record atmospheric observations in 1909. In 1928, the Weather Bureau switched its form of communications from telegraph and telephone to the teletype. The year 1935 was a big one for weather. The Weather Bureau established a hurricane warning system and mounted automated weather instruments on buoys to collect marine weather data. Additionally, forecasting moved from a centralized Washington office to four tropical forecasting offices located in Boston, Jacksonville, New Orleans, and San Juan, Puerto Rico. None of that seemed to help much as the 1935 Labor Day weekend approached. The Weather Bureau struggled to identify and locate the tropical disturbance forming in the warm Atlantic waters. Pioneer families who had lived in the Florida Keys for decades were watching the mercury in their barometers fall, and while the Weather Bureau could not pinpoint where the approaching storm was headed that weekend, the barometric pressure continued to drop and drop. It was not until the early afternoon on Sept. 2, Labor Day, that the Weather Bureau announced a storm was heading to the Matecumbe Keys. No one understood the power of the storm that raged across the Atlantic or what was in store for the Florida Keys, but those pioneers watching their barometers understood something bad was on its way.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021 A Virginia opossum on a fence. SERGEY YARMOLYUK/Creative Commons

OPOSSUM, MY POSSUM

here comes a time in every person’s life when he/she/they must take a hard, unsentimental look at their past. They must peer fearlessly into the dark corners, closets and piles of unfolded laundry in their house of memory, and categorize all the events that have come before into the good, the bad, and the things they still have no idea how to think about. (Use of the word “vicissitudes” is often required.) It was during one of these long, dark tea times of MARK the soul a couple months ago that I had a shudderingHEDDEN ly discomfiting thought: It was quite possible I’d never ... is a photograseen an opossum in the wild. It was possible I’d never pher, writer, and seen a living opossum at all. semi-professional How, pray tell, could a man live (number redacted) birdwatcher. He years on the planet without knowing whether he had has lived in Key seen a flesh-and-blood opossum? West for more than 25 years and The short answer would be callow youth. I wasn’t may no longer much interested in the natural world as a kid. I mean, I be employable in saw the basic wild mammals of North America – deer, the real world. He skunks, squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, etc. Once, is also executive while bushwhacking on a mountain bike in the New director of the Florida Keys Audu- Jersey Pine Barrens, I was even barked at by a red fox, bon Society. which was cool. I became interested in birds in my late 20s and would occasionally go looking for them. But the mammals I’ve seen? Those just happened. There are, apparently, opossums in the Keys. People occasionally post photos or videos of them wandering the streets of Key West or Key Haven. And I once saw a dead and smooshed one on the road in Marathon. People like to trash-talk opossums, calling them ugly and saying they look like lazy, overgrown rats that aren’t good at their jobs. It doesn’t help that they have hairless tails, a slow, scrunched walk, mangy-looking fur, and a long pointed snout full of misaligned teeth. People like to project shortcomings onto them – they’re disease-ridden, they have rabies, they’ll steal money from your wallet while you sleep. (They aren’t, they don’t and they will not.) Occasionally I find myself defending opossums online, despite never having seen one in real life, which requires brushing up on my opossum facts. First of all, they are ’merica’s marsupials, the only representatives north of Mexico of the order of mammals that includes koalas and kangaroos. Sure, koalas and kangaroos get all the plush toys and cartoon action, but should they? Koalas just get stoned all day on eucalyptus, and kangaroos will grab you by the shoulder and kick you in the crotch if they don’t like the cut of your jib. Opossums, properly called Virginia opossums, at most, will knock over your trashcan and rummage through its contents, which is both productive and non-violent. (By the way, according to Merriam-Webster, “both possum and opossum correctly refer to the Virginia opossum. In common use, possum is the usual term; in technical or scientific contexts opossum is preferred.) Also, opossums are a vast and living collection of biological weirdness: They have more teeth in their mouth – 50! – than any other North American mammal. They’re immune to venomous snake bites. Their tail often functions as a fifth limb, allowing them to drag the plants and branches they need for nesting materials to their warrens, and helping them climb trees. (It is not true that possums sleep upside down, gripping tree branches with their tails. They can’t hold on that long.) Furthermore, their young come into the world blind, nearly translucent and half-formed. Two accounts I read said newborn opossums are smaller than honeybees. One said an entire litter

would fit into a tablespoon. Once born, they climb up their mother’s fur and into her pouch, where they attach themselves to one of several (usually 13) nipples, where they remain attached for two months. There’s also the fact that the whole “playing possum” thing is true. When confronted by a predator they will first open their mouth and hiss. If that doesn’t work, they fall over and lay unmoving with their eyes open. Only it isn’t playing so much as a catatonic state they can’t control that can last for up to six hours. For extra protection, they can also secrete a noxious, green substance from their anal glands that tends to keep predators at bay while they’re unconscious. Then there is their outright Hieronymus Bosch-ian genitalia. Females have two-and-a-half vaginas – two for ingress that lead to two separate uteri, and one for egress, which forms to give birth but then closes again when not needed. To accommodate this, males have a bifid penis – basically a split, double-barreled thing that looks not unlike a pale mushroom stalk with devil’s horns. Also, their testicles are in front of their penis. (Sentence I never expected to type: It’s amazing how few high-quality pictures of opossum genitalia one can find online.) All this so confused early colonists that many people believed the male procreated with the female’s nose, and that their babies were born by sneezing. The question for me was, how does one go about seeing a nocturnal animal that tends to keep to itself? I’d been thinking about this for a couple months, forming vague but elaborate plans, when the dog went running into the backyard the other night, barking her fool head off. Despite coming from a fancy hunting kennel, she is not a brave dog, and she didn’t get too close to whatever set her off before I grabbed her collar and shoved her back into the house. I assumed it was a cat or an iguana, but between the scrap lumber pile and the grill I found a long, white face with dark black eyes and smallish, hairless ears staring back at me. A real, live opossum. I took a step closer and he opened his mouth to show me all 50 of his teeth. He made a loud hissing noise, but it was kind of a pro forma, going-through-the-motions thing, more gestural than emotive. I yelled to my wife and asked her to bring me my camera, which started a long conversation about where my camera was, because it wasn’t actually where I said it was. When I looked away for a second to figure it out, the opossum made a slow break for the shadows on the other side of the yard, working his way around the fence line. He found the gap he must have come in on, then disappeared into the night.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

he world is full of news coverage. It’s shoveled at us 24 hours a day through television, social media, streaming, online sites, print, radio and even smoke signals. And depending on which network or sources you subscribe to, much of what is relevant can be lost among biased sites, partisan coverage and sensationalized headlines. So here at the Keys Weekly, we took a look at the past week of major news headlines, using more than 15 recognized sites around the U.S., and filtered out what much of the world was likely reading and what the masses should have been paying attention to...

NEWS HEADLINES YOU DID READ — AND THE 10 YOU SHOULD HAVE READ 10. You read: Joe Rogan threatens to sue CNN for calling Ivermectin a “horse dewormer” Should have read: COVID cases 300% higher than a year ago

5. You read: Lindsey Graham tells stunned reporter, “We will be going back” to reinvade Afghanistan Should have read: China sees major opportunity in Taliban takeover of Afghanistan

9. You read: Donald Trump and his son to provide commentary for Holyfield Belfort boxing telecast Should have read: Dallas Fed President Robert Kaplan traded millions in stocks in 2020

4. You read: Naked woman drives golf cart through armed standoff (Note: yes, of course, this was in Florida.) Should have read: U.S. Treasury secretary warns of likely October debt cliff

8. You read: Britney Spears’ father files to end her conservatorship Should have read: Top 1% evading $163 billion annually in taxes

3 . You read: Shirtless Vin Diesel suns himself on luxury yacht in Italy Should have read: You can never forget Michael K. Williams

7. You read: Parents recorded in chaotic parking lot brawl after school board votes for masks Should have read: 13 Miami-Dade school employees have died of COVID since mid-August

2. You read: Game of Thrones Actor “The Mountain” says he finally has a six-pack now that he does 300 situps a day. Should have read: Details emerge about U.S.-funded COVID research at Wuhan lab

6. You read: QAnon Shaman’s lawyer’s new defense for client: “He had a fondness for Trump not unlike the first love a man may have for a girl.” Should have read: Job openings hit another record high in July

1. You read: Fan eats giant tub of mayo on live TV Should have read: U.K. is among first to increase taxes to cover COVID-19 costs

Mainstreaming

WHAT TO DO THIS WEEK

WATCH | 9/11 DOCUMENTARIES “Planned in anticipation of 9/11’s 20th anniversary, three new nonfiction broadcast programs offer different takes, each valuable in their own way,” says WBUR, Boston’s NPR news station. “Frontline’s ‘America After 9/11,’ HBO’s ‘New York Epicenters 9/11➔2021½,’ a four-part docuseries by Spike Lee, and “Changed Forever 9/11,” the season five opener from the World Channel’s Stories From the Stage series, vary dramatically in focus and form. Yet the programs share the core tenet that one crisp, blue-sky morning 20 years ago has influenced everything since.” LISTEN | “SOLAMENTE” BY TAI VERDES | 2021 Tai Verdes is music’s most recent Cinderella story. Before finding success earlier this year, the artist was selling mobile phones to make ends meet. However, after making the cut for an MTV dating show and ultimately winning $50,000, Verdes funded his own career using Tik Tok and Spotify to gain tens of millions of downloads. His sound is contagious and not easily defined, other than to say shades of hiphop, reggae, ska and other vibes make it easy to play on the boat or at social gatherings. Give him a try and tell your friends you were ahead of the curve on this rising star. READ | “OWEN WILSON IS DOING GREAT, THANKS” — ESQUIRE (SEPTEMBER 2021) We typically reserve this segment for books, but journalist Ryan D’Agostino triumphantly nailed his latest article in Esquire, using several days of conversations, meals and bike rides with Owen Wilson. You don’t have to be a fan of the actor to appreciate the brilliance of D’Agostino’s approach to the piece, which brilliantly weaves his own personal dialogue into the article without overshadowing the essence of everything that is Owen Wilson. In the end, Wilson is everything we always knew he was, but the actor’s beautiful modesty and deeper layers never disappoint. Read online at esquire.com or grab a print copy today.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

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SPORTS & MORE RALPH MORROW

FROM CONCH TO TITAN — MEKHI SARGENT SHINES FOR NFL

t was quite an accomplishment when Key West grad Mekhi Sargent made the ... a veteran sports 53-man Tennessee Titans cutdown squad columnist, says on Aug. 31. He was to start the season the only sport Sunday, Sept. 12, as the Titans’ No. 3 running he doesn’t follow is cricket. That back against the Arizona Cardinals, with Derleaves plenty rick Henry getting most of the carries. of others to fill The NFL Network’s Good Morning Foothis time. ball crew also chose Sargent as one of three ralphmoro1936 running backs — and the only non-drafted @gmail.com player — to make their “Rookie Risers” list. The other two were Pittsburgh’s Najee Harris and New England’s Rhamondre Stevenson. The Titans’ network page said Sargent was “easily the team’s best back during the exhibition slate.” The University of Iowa product got plenty of opportunity to show what he could do in the preseason and made good, gaining 51 yards and a touchdown on 17 carries in the final game against the Chicago Bears. In two previous games, against Tampa Bay and Atlanta, the Conch gained 78 and 58 yards, respectively, both times on 16 carries. He caught a pass in each game. In the Bears game, CBS analyst Charles Jones “raved” about him, according to Alex Seats of 247Sports. In Sargent’s senior year at Key West High School, he rushed for 2,094 yards and 27 touchdowns, wrote Marc Morehouse for the Iowa Gazette in 2019. “This was a bit of a quest for (Key West football coach) John Hughes,” Morehouse wrote. “He pointed the way to Iowa Western. The Iowa Western coaches saw Sargent at a University of Florida football camp.” “‘My coach at Key West basically led my tour to go to juco,’ Sargent said in 2019. “I didn’t know anything about junior college. He said, ‘That’s an opportunity for you. I think you can go to juco and make the most of it and move forward.’ I took that route and I’m thankful.” Sargent ended up redshirting his first season at Iowa Western. He didn’t even know you could do that at a junior college. “My mom, Yolanda Gardner, kept me mentally stable,’ Sargent told Morehouse in 2019 in Iowa. “I just kept working hard, on the scout team and in the weight room. I’d just pay attention to the older guys and do the right things and my time came.” “‘He put up 1,000 yards as a sophomore and just kept going from there,’ Hughes said. ‘He became kind of a household name throughout South Florida. There were coaches and teams that were just tired of playing him because he was such a physical force. He ran so hard. He was one of those heavy contact guys. You felt it when he hit you.’” IN OTHER SPORTS NEWS... When Key West played Monsignor Pace in its preseason game on Aug. 20, it was up against defensive lineman Shemar Stewart, who is ranked as the No. 5 uncommitted prep player in the country by 247Sports Composite. Other Florida prep players on the list are No. 7, defensive lineman Gabriel Brownlow-Dindy of Lakeland; No. 10, cornerback Jaheim Singletary of Riverside; No. 12, safety Kamari Wilson of IMG Academy; and No. 19, defensive line Marvin Jones Jr. of American Heritage.

Mekhi Sargent rushes for Key West High School in a 2015 game against Archbishop McCarthy. JEFF BRAMMER/Contributed

He’s been away for awhile, but Steve Spurrier apparently is keeping up with the Florida Gators. At the Gators Roundtable, he picked them to defeat Alabama on Saturday, Sept. 18. Let me know if you hear the same prediction elsewhere — other than in Gainesville. Did you watch Alabama beat up on Miami, 44-13, on Sept. 4? Spurrier had a 122-27-1 record when he coached the Gators from 1990 through 2001. Is the idea of a 12-team College Football Playoff fading or are so many colleges so hungry for money that it will get back on track? I don’t like it when television announcers decide to interview someone during the competition, particularly when they don’t tell us what’s happening in the game. A few weeks ago when the Miami Marlins were playing the New York Mets, the Marlins’ features announcer, Jessica Blaylock, was interviewing a woman about something when Pete Alonso belted a home run for the Mets. The attention-paying viewer may have seen the homer, but the casual fan would not, because the announcer had her back to the action and never made mention of the long ball. Katie George’s interview of the ACC commissioner dovetailed into the action of Sunday night’s Sept. 5 Florida State-Notre Dame ABC game. Luckily, no major play occurred during her interview. It happens a lot in televised sports, particularly golf, in which sponsors are interviewed ad nauseum. I think it will only be an intelligent and daring manager to take down the overloaded baseball infield. In a case of “everyone’s doing it,” all pro teams seem to be moving a third infielder to the “other” side to take care of batters when analytics show that’s where they hit the ball. Bunting to the short side might do it, but managers seem hesitant to have their power hunters bunting. They may not be talented in that area. But didn’t we all bunt as kids?

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER RESCUES ENTANGLED MANATEE

COUNTY SET TO HOLD BUDGET MEETINGS MAYOR TO ATTEND VIA ZOOM AFTER CLOSE COVID CONTACT

onroe County Mayor Pro Tem David Rice led the Monroe County budget meetings on Sept. 8 in Key West. A second meeting scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 9 in Marathon was canceled. In an abundance of caution, Mayor Michelle Coldiron attended the meeting via Zoom after finding out she had close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. She is fully vaccinated but wants to take extra precautions against spreading it any further. “While I already had one negative test and am not showing any symptoms, I am following safety precautions outlined by the Florida Department of Health,” said Coldiron. “For the remainder of this week, I have canceled my in-person meetings and will get extra rest and hydrate to be on the safe side.” Monroe County continues to operate meetings in a hybrid format to accom-

modate those who want to participate but may be uncomfortable in indoor or social settings. To watch or join, visit www.monroecounty-fl.gov/meetings. A moment of silence will be held at the beginning of the meeting in remembrance of Commissioner Mike Forster, who died from COVID-19 on Sept. 6. A video tribute to Forster will be held during the regularly scheduled Key Largo Board of County Commissioners meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 15 in Key Largo. Gov. Ron DeSantis has been notified of his death and will start the procedure to appoint someone to fill his seat in the interim. The person who is appointed will serve until the November 2022 election cycle. The person elected in November 2022 will serve until the end of Forster’s regular term, which is November 2024. There is no timetable for the governor to make an appointment. — Contributed

Veterinarian Dr. Scott Gearhart carefully works to remove embedded fishing line from the manatee’s flippers while members of the Manatee Rescue Team stabilize the stretcher. LAUREN HARRIS/Contributed

n Sept. 1, Dolphin Research Center’s (DRC) Manatee Rescue Team successfully rescued Coco, an approximately 900- to 1,000-pound male manatee with monofilament fishing line deeply embedded in its pectoral flippers. The line had been present for some time and had penetrated the soft tissue to the bone, according to DRC veterinarian Dr. Scott Gearhart. Coco was spotted by residents at the Galway Bay community, 15th Street Oceanside in Marathon. “Both flippers were grossly enlarged due to compromise of blood supply, but they appeared to be still viable,” said Dr. Gearhart. After the team captured Coco in a net, they placed him in a stretcher on foam on the boat ramp. Dr. Gearhart used forceps and scissors to remove the monofilament. He then cleaned the wounds and flushed them with saline. Once the treatment was completed, the team carried Coco back down the ramp and returned him to the water. He swam off without incident. The rescue mission faced several challenges. In addition to Coco, as many as five other manatees, including a mother and calf, were present in the waterway. The team stretched a net across the width of

the canal and personnel in kayaks encouraged Coco toward it. The DRC team rescued the same manatee for entanglement in June 2018. Once a manatee has suffered and developed scarring from entanglements, it can experience similar problems again. The DRC says it is imperative that people carefully collect and properly dispose of fishing line and other marine debris so that it does not enter the water. If the public sees a sick, injured, entangled, or orphaned manatee, they should call the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission at 888-404-3922 to report the animal. Founded in 1984, Dolphin Research Center is a nonprofit organization, licensed as the manatee rescue team for the Florida Keys by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services. Located at 58901 (mile marker 59) Overseas Highway, Grassy Key, Florida, the center is home to dolphins and sea lions and is open daily for the public to see narrated behavior sessions and educational presentations, and to participate in interactive programs. The center, including the manatee rescue activities, is funded by admission and program fees as well as by private donors and members. More information is at www.dolphins.org. — Contributed

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

FLORIDA KEYS TABLE FOOD, DRINKS & PEOPLE

In addition to the eats, the skilled professionals who define our local hospitality industry do much more than mix unique cocktails and serve delicious meals. These men and women are also our ambassadors, social directors, travel advisors and unlicensed — but often effective — therapists. To celebrate our unique culinary culture, Keys Weekly brings you this bi-weekly fea-

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

Brisket, Hog Heaven, Islamorada Heavy brisket, smashed parmesan potatoes, and cheese fries at Hog Heaven, MM 83.4, oceanside, in Islamorada. Tucked away in a protected ocean cove, enjoy housesmoked barbecue and a cold drink. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly

Megan Blair, Marathon Ale Megan Blair has worked at Marathon Ale for six months, but has been in the industry for 12 years. “Server, bartender, you name it, I’ve done it.” Blair has lived in the Keys for three years and loves meeting new people, including the couple from Germany who were traveling the country visiting different bed-andbreakfasts. The best advice she’s ever received? “Smile, and don’t take life too seriously. Always do the next right thing and be honest. My dad told me that.” The last thing she ordered on Amazon? “A car seat/stroller combo — I’m seven months pregnant. We’re going to have a boy named Asher.” The last thing she watched on Netflix? “Queen of the South.”

Peanut Butter Martini, 22 & Co., Key West What happens when you drizzle Reese’s peanut butter sauce around a martini glass, add vanilla vodka, chocolate syrup and liquid ice cream? You get the most delicious — and sippable — (adult) dessert drink. The Peanut Butter Martini is one of several signature martinis at Key West’s 22 & Co., 504 Angela St., where fun is always on tap and donning a tutu will get you a discount. Forget to pack your favorite tutu? No worries, owner and bartender Jenn Stefanacci has a complete selection at the ready. (She also has a few 2021 Bubba Awards behind the bar.)

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IN MEMORY OF 9/11 A SALUTE TO THOSE WHO ANSWER THE CALL

hey’re the first on the scene of an accident on North Roosevelt Boulevard or U.S. 1. When things go bad, and most people are running away from trouble, these are the folks who head straight for it. On water and land, the Florida Keys’ first responders are at the top of their game when called to assist members of the public in a time of need. The job of a first responder can bring long hours in intense heat. They deal with people who are stressed, drunk, injured or at their worst moment. A first responder’s job also carries the mystery of the unknown with every dispatch call. This Saturday marks the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, DC and the hijacked plane that went down in a Pennsylvania field. More than 400 first responders lost their lives that morning, and thousands more who responded to the incident continue to struggle with the mental and physical wounds. This week, we honor their memory and show our appreciation to our local responders who serve the Florida Keys communities. There are many things that make the Florida Keys a special place to live — a community of dedicated first responders is just one of them. — Weekly staff report

DETECTIVE MARCUS DEL VALLE Key West Police Marcus del Valle wears a Key West police badge on his belt, but 20 years ago, when those planes struck the towers and punched a hole in the heart of America, del Valle was a Key West firefighter. “I was here that morning, in the fire station, which was brand new back then,” del Valle recalled on a recent morning. “We saw the first plane hit and didn’t really know what was happening. Then the second one hit. I called my brother at another fire station here in town and told him, ‘We’re at war.’” Nothing was the same after that morning. Parents pulled their children out of schools. “People kept calling the fire stations and the police station just to see if we knew any more than they did. For weeks and months after that, we were doing decontaminations of people during those anthrax scares. Fortunately, given our geographic isolation, Key West police and fire have always been really good and getting our guys trained, and that year it had been HAZMAT training. We had 22 guys certified in HAZMAT procedures.” In the months that followed the 9/11 attacks, the country came together. People donated blood, money and time. American flags hung in car windows and waved in the fall and winter winds. “We did a ‘Fill the Boot’ fundraising drive in Key West the week after the attacks and raised $40,000. It was an amazing show of solidarity. “But most importantly, our job is our job,” del Valle said. “We’re not doing it to be called a hero.”

OFFICER MICHAEL SHOULDICE Key West Police, U.S. Army (retired) Michael Shouldice had been a U.S. Army infantry soldier from 1996 to 1999, serving in places like Bosnia. By September 2001, he was attending community college in Buffalo, New York. “Right when the attacks happened, I headed straight to my local Army recruiter’s office and said, ‘I want back in. I want to go overseas and do whatever I can for my country.’” And he did, ending up first in Kuwait and then in Iraq, witnessing indescribable horrors that still make Shouldice’s hands tremble. “Before we deployed, we went to New York City and Ground Zero in uniform,” he recalled. “The praise and thanks we got from people everywhere while staring down into that pit was one of the most emotional experiences of my life. I’ll never forget it. It felt the way our troops must have felt in World War II. “After 9/11 we really did feel we were fighting a war on terror, whether we were in Afghanistan or Iraq, there was a sense of being a liberating army. But after that, after I had somehow made it out of that desert alive, I’d had enough. I felt vindicated in having done my part. That’s why I moved here to Key West. I joined the Key West Police Department in 2006. I had done my part, but it was too much.”

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

UNDERWATER MEMORIAL

VANDENBERG WRECK TO HOST 9/11 SCULPTURES AND GIANT FLAG 1

OFFICER TOM STUTZ Key West Police, U.S. Army (retired)

Tom Stutz was in the U.S. Army Reserves in 2001, and working in private security late at night. “I remember getting a call from my wife, who was also in the reserves and working at a bank in western New York. She said, ‘Turn on the television. We’ve been attacked and the Army is trying to reach you.’” “My first call was to my reserve unit, and my first and only question was, “When do we leave? I want to go now. We’re New Yorkers and the towers got hit. We’re military, and the Pentagon got hit.’ There was

never another time in my life when I was more willing to go.” Stutz, too, recalled the brotherhood, the solidarity, the unity that filled this country in the wake of 9/11. “In America, we love a good fight, and if we don’t have a common enemy, we turn on ourselves. Look at what’s happening now. There are still plenty of bad bullies out there in the world who need to get their asses kicked. We have the strength; we need the resolve.”

SHERIFF RICK RAMSAY Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff Rick Ramsay was elected in 2012 and is the most decorated deputy in the history of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, having received 93 commendations of merit. He had grown up on Long Island, New York, before moving to Marathon, so the 9/11 attacks hit particularly close to home. “I always wanted to be a police officer or fly helicopters for the Army since I was a kid,” Ramsay said, adding that the best part of his job is still helping people.

“Last week, there was a lady on the side of the road with a blown tire. So, as hot as it was, I jacked up her car and put on a spare tire so she could save money on towing. It’s a small thing that can really make a difference in people’s lives,” he said. On Sept. 11, 2001, Ramsay was a captain at the main jail in Key West. “I was sitting at a desk when the first craft hit the tower. I thought it was an accident. Then we figured out what was happening.”

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

ey West’s former military ship-turned-artificial-reef, the Hoyt S. Vandenberg, will become home to a memorial on the 20th anniversary of the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. “I’ve never been a part of something so amazing, where everyone was so eager to help,” said Joe Weatherby of Artificial Reefs International, who spearheaded the 2009 sinking of the Vandenberg. “The city, the police, fire, sheriff’s office, Naval Air Station Key West, the Army dive school, the Navy in Jacksonville, you name it, everyone pitched in to make this happen.” Prior to the events scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 11, local gallery owner Jennifer Badry will host a reception at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 9, for artist Sandra Priest, whose ongoing public art project, 911UP, now resides at the Key West Firehouse Museum and aboard the Vandenberg. Smaller pieces of art created from the World Trade Center will also be on display and available for sale at 7 Artists & Friends gallery, 213 Simonton St. Then, on Saturday, Sept. 11 Scott Belt and several divers will unfurl a giant, 30-by-40-foot American flag underwater and attach it to the central king post of the Vandenberg. “They’ll unfurl the flag at 9 a.m. Divers aboard local dive boats can enter the water at 9:15 a.m. to see the underwater flag,” Weatherby said. “And we’ll leave it on display

down there for awhile, but we’ll keep monitoring it and once it gets ratty, we’ll remove it and properly destroy it.” Also, at precisely 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 11, two large Navy helicopters, coordinated by Bond Henry in Jacksonville, will do a flyover at the Vandenberg. “They’ll hover at around 30 feet,” Weatherby said. “The photos and video will be amazing.” Later that evening, a reception will take place at the Southernmost VFW Post 3911 on North Roosevelt Boulevard. “All are welcome, but spots are filling up quickly on dive boats for Saturday morning, so make your reservations now,” Weatherby said, adding that the Key West Firehouse Museum also will host its annual 9/11 remembrance ceremony starting promptly at 8:30 a.m. “We’ll host the remembrance as we do each year, and we’ll dedicate the new 9/11 sculptiure that now resides here,” said Rich Siniscalchi of the Firehouse Museum. 1. Scott Belt added grommets to a 30-by-40-foot American flag. Divers will unfurl and attach the flag to the Gen. Hoyt S. Vandenberg wreck off Key West the morning of Sept. 11. SCOTT BELT/Contributed 2. Artist Sandra Priest turned large pieces of the World Trade Center into sculptures. One is on display at the Key West Firehouse. The other is now an underwater memorial aboard the deck of the Vandenberg wreck. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021 From left, Monroe County Mayor Michelle Coldiron; County Commissioner for District 5 Mike Forster; state Rep. Jim Mooney; former state Rep. Holly Raschein; state Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez; Kate DeLoach, partner with Southern Strategy Group and Keys History & Discovery Center board of directors; and Dave Shepp, lobbyist with Southern Strategy Group, attend a gathering with Mote officials in May.

HEARTS HEAVY Community remembers Mike Forster

A community grieved on the morning of Sept. 6, as news spread of Mike Forster’s passing following a battle with COVID-19. On Facebook, a flood of posts brought words of sadness over the loss of someone who embodied what it meant to be an active member within the community. Many also relayed thoughts of praise and thanks for Forster, 61, who constantly paid it forward and gave back. Forster was more than a passionate public official and a restaurant owner who boasted awards for some of the best breakfasts around. He supported students and first responders. He loved his pets and enjoyed a day off out at Flamingo. He started the morning by posting uplifting messages to Facebook for his community of followers to see. Next week’s edition of Keys Weekly will look at how Forster influenced and shaped many lives. Those wishing to share their story or pictures of Forster, please contact Jim McCarthy, editor, at jim@keysweekly.com. A service for Forster is set for Sept. 18 at 7 p.m. at Founders Park in Islamorada.

A group convenes to hash out a plan to feed Upper Keys families in May 2020. From left, Carlos Hernandez, owner of Harriette’s Restaurant in Key Largo; Sam Prescher, of Harriette’s Restaurant; Mike Forster, Mangrove Mike’s Cafe owner and founder of Mangrove Mike’s Endeavors; Michala Laufle, volunteer; and Violet Wahba, owner of Key Lime Products. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

HELPING A ‘HABITUAL HOOKER’ A Keys (sea turtle) success story

Representatives from Keys Marine Lab and the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center worked together to release two endangered sea turtles onto Keys reefs. All sea turtle work performed under appropriate state and federal permits. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly

TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

“T

his is a repeat offender or ‘habitual hooker,’ as we call it,” said Whitney Crowder, a sea turtle rehabilitation coordinator from the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center in Boca Raton. A boatful of Keys locals chuckled as Crowder continued talking about a juvenile green sea turtle named Wormhole. “It does not learn very well and has been caught at least five times on fishing hooks — that we know about. One of the times even has a police report attached to it.” Jokes aside, Crowder and her colleague Maria Chadam, a sea turtle veterinarian from the nature center, visited the Keys at the end of August with one mission in mind: to convert Wormhole, their problematic, frequently-hooked sea turtle, into a Keys local. They transported the turtle via van to the Florida Institute of Oceanography at the Keys Marine Laboratory (KML) in Layton for release on a nearby reef. “Wormhole was a hot mess,” said Chadam. “We brought it here because it’s been caught five times. Last time, we released it two hours north of us and, in less than a week, it made it back to us in Boca and got hooked again. With the blessing of the FWC, we came up with an alternative release location to deter it from our fishing piers: the Keys!”

Before moving to Boca, Crowder had spent seven years in the Keys, working at the Turtle Hospital in Marathon and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. Her husband used to work at KML. So when she needed help finding her problematic patient a new home, Crowder leaned on old Keys friends. Cindy Lewis, the director of KML, donated the release boat and coordinated logistics. She also selected the release site: a shallow, grassy, nearshore reef spot called Stag Party. Lewis and her staff had seen other juvenile greens “hunkered down, sleeping” on these and nearby reefs. This is a good sign, Crowder explained, because it means the habitat is known for turtles of this size and species. Sea turtles that aren’t returned to the same reefs or locations they were collected from still need to be released to “suitable habitat,” Crowder said. Suitability varies depending on sea turtle species and size class, and each has a different type of preferred habitat. For a juvenile green like Wormhole, reefs like those in the Keys work just fine, she said. These shallow habitats have lots of algae and seagrass for juvenile turtles to forage in. The hope is that Wormhole will take a liking to our local reefs and take up residency; more importantly, everyone has their fingers crossed that the “naughty” reptile

A critically-endangered hawksbill sea turtle named Queen Elizabeth was released off a KML boat in Layton. All sea turtle work performed under appropriate state and federal permits.

Wormhole took a second to orient itself in the ocean before taking off after release. All sea turtle work performed under appropriate state and federal permits.

won’t return to Boca and get caught up (literally) in more troubling situations. Lewis had also witnessed juvenile hawksbill sea turtles on our local reefs, which proved helpful for Queen Elizabeth, a second turtle brought down by Crowder and Chadam for release in the Keys. Queen’s backstory also involves negative human interactions, but this time with plastics instead of fishing lines. “Queen was barely as big as the palm of your hand upon arrival, and we immediately discovered plastic ingestion was the cause of illness,” Crowder said. “Throughout rehabilitation, Queen passed over 50 pieces of hard and soft plastics of all shapes and sizes.” The sea turtle expert noted that discarded plastics have been found in almost every single one of the tiny sea turtles that the nature center treats and that the pollution crisis will continue to have a huge detrimental effect on sea turtle populations unless we can collectively work together to find solutions. “This turtle is one of the lucky ones,” she said of Queen, who made a full recovery at the nature center and gained a lot of mass, making the critically-endangered turtle eligible for release in the Keys. Crowder and Lewis decided to release Wormhole and Queen Elizabeth together. Support from the Friends of Gumbo Limbo and the Florida Institute of Oceanography at the Keys Marine Laboratory allowed for the successful return of both patients to the sea. “This is our way of giving back to other agencies,” said Lewis. “It’s so important to help any agencies with endangered species. I know how difficult it can be to find funding at any time. This gave us an opportunity to share a solid experience.” While Queen Elizabeth was too small for tracking, Wormhole was fitted with an acoustic tag and a satellite transmitter so that Crowder, Chadam and curious others can follow along. So far, it looks like it’s adapting well and not leaving the Keys. “Wormhole is still in the same spot, which means so far it’s a success,” said Crowder. “We might have turned her into a Keys critter after all.” You can follow Wormhole’s adventures and (hopefully only local) travels here: https://www.gumbolimbo.org/ satellite-tracking. All sea turtle work performed under appropriate state and federal permits.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

e at Keys Weekly want to honor the men and women serving in our local military installations, and the spouses that support their mission. With help and advice from our community members in the armed forces, we’re proud to present our Military Spotlight. Did you choose Key West or were you assigned here? We chose Key West. It was our 10th pick and my husband will finish out his career here. What were your first thoughts when hearing you were coming to the Keys? I was excited because it was going to be a warm place. At the time we were in Juneau, Alaska. I’m originally from Texas, so I love the heat and sun. Hobbies? Baking and cooking Favorite things to bake? Cinnamon rolls, fruit tarts and pecan pie bars. Favorite dessert? Oh goodness! I can’t choose just one! My top 4 are: pecan pie bars, strawberry cake with cream cheese frosting, butter pecan pudding cookies, ice cream (the flavor depends on my mood). I just wish I was able to see everyone’s faces when my husband brings my creations to his work.

CENTENNIAL BANK RECEIVES AWARD FROM SCHOOL DISTRICT Centennial Bank was recognized by the Monroe County School District (MCSD) with the Community Partnership GEMS Award at a recent board meeting, with market president Stephanie Scuderi on hand to accept the honor. Centennial Bank has supported MCSD in its efforts to provide a culture of excellence in a variety of ways, including providing planners and office supplies at the beginning of the year and awarding a scholarship to a graduating senior in each high school. The bank also contributes to a positive climate for employees by holding BBQ cookouts with its Centennial Grill Wagon at various schools, generating a true sense of appreciation for the staff. CONTRIBUTED

ANGELA AHRENs

MARRIED TO EVAN AHRENS, PETTY OFFICER 1ST CLASS, U.S. COAST GUARD

Ahrens was nominated by the Sector Key West Command Center for sacrificing her time and donating her culinary talents to keep morale high in the 24-hour command center. Ahrens makes and sends baked goods to every watch her husband stands, often waking at 4 a.m. to bake cinnamon rolls. She’ll also make entire meals to send to the water team. Originally from? Corpus Christi, Texas What do you do? I’m a full-time college student studying to become a speech language pathologist. Were you married before or after Evan joined the military? We were married after he joined the military. We have been married for just about eight years. Had you ever been to the Florida Keys or Key West before your current assignment? No, I had no idea what to expect other than it being a hot environment.

What recipe are you proud to make? Challah bread or any other type of bread. I’ve always loved to bake and am always thinking about my next new creation, but challah bread currently tops my list of favorite accomplishments. It is beautifully braided and is so soft and moist. It goes perfectly with Christmas and Thanksgiving meals. What recipe would you like to master next? French macarons. They are so picturesque when made perfectly. I tried to bake them once, but it was a disaster. I won’t feel like an accomplished baker until I’ve mastered them. Where did you learn to cook/bake? My mother taught me a lot while I was growing up in Texas. I also would come home from school and watch The Food Network. What do you like most about the Keys? It’s beautiful and the weather is perfect.I love the slower pace of life as well. We recently moved to Big Pine Key and enjoy the peacefulness out here. The Key deer are a bonus. What would you change about living here if you had the power to do so? There’s not a lot of variety for shopping here. A Target or a Walmart would be nice instead of having to order everything online. What baking tip would you share with others? I always use less sugar than recipes ask for. You want to taste something other than strong sweetness in your baked goods. It makes a huge difference and elevates all the other ingredients. What’s one recipe everyone should try? Betty Crocker’s Butter Pecan Pudding Cookies — they are a delicious crowd pleaser. Just don’t skip the step of toasting the pecans.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

WHO’S YOUR DNA DADDY?

HE GETS THAT FROM ME By Jacqueline Friedland Life is busy for Maggie Fisher as she rushes to her job at Bed Bath & Beyond, leaving her toddler with Nick after his shift at the restaurant. This young couple struggles with time and money constraints, but little Wyatt is the sparkling center of their lives. After Maggie dropped out of school, she couch-floated, directionless for quite a few years. Falling in love with Nick and creating a new life in Arizona finally put her back on track. Maggie dreams of a college education to become a schoolteacher. Refusing to beg her estranged and disappointed parents, she finds a unique cash-earning opportunity. Tucked in the back of a magazine is an advertisement to become a gestational surrogate. KAREN After extensive research and an NEWFIELD uphill battle with Nick, Maggie is chosen by a New York couple ... a reader and named Chip and Donovan. A now a writer, has hundreds of book decade later the phone rings and the unimaginable becomes reviews at: www. readingandeatreality. Maggie is faced with deing.com. For cisions no mother should have questions and to make. A captivating story of comments, email family, trust and cutting-edge karen@newfield. science. org.

LITTLE PIECES OF ME By Alison Hammer Almost 40 years old, Paige Meyer is finally planning the wedding her mother has obsessively dreamed of. As the festivities approach, Paige is shocked to receive a random email from a DNA testing website notifying her of a parent match. Certain it must be a mistake, Paige dismisses the message. But the notifications keep arriving. After further investigation, she is horrified to learn that she is a nearperfect match with a man her parents’ age. After some heavy googling she learns Andy (the match) attended the University of Kansas where her parents met, married and began their family. Apparently back in 1975 her mother Betsy experienced a life changing secret she never revealed. Currently still mourning the recent loss of her husband Mark, Betsy refuses to even discuss Paige’s ridiculous accusations. Never having felt completely accepted by her rigid controlling mother, Paige is more determined than ever to uncover the truth about her beginnings, biological or otherwise. This surprising unexpected journey leads her back home.

Advanced genetic information services can uncover long-held secrets and complicated histories. Three meaningful novels explore identity, family and fitting in.

THE MAKING OF US By Lisa Jewell Daniel is in the final stages of his battle with cancer. After confiding in Maggie that he did in fact have children many years ago, he admits that he has never met them. Decades ago as a penniless student, Daniel was a sperm donor. As the laws and guidelines have evolved over more recent years, he deeply regrets having no information regarding these complete strangers who carry his DNA. Lydia, Dean and Robyn have always felt something was missing in their lives. All three grew up without any siblings and possess traits that always set them apart. In their 20s and living in London, they receive notice from a sperm donor agency and hesitantly agree to the possibility of meeting siblings matching their DNA. The protocols of finding additional family members and the chance of being related to the girl next door are both intriguing and a little frightening. Drawing the reader into the lives of these quirky lovable characters, author Lisa Jewel examines family connection through genetics and the people who raise you.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

FIRE RESCUE REMEMBERS LIVES LOST ON 9/11

THANK YOU Monroe County Fire Rescue Station 13 servicing Big Pine Key lowered the flag to half staff in remembrance of Sept. 11 at last year’s ceremony. KRISTEN LIVENGOOD/Monroe County

ept. 11 marks the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks against the United States, which claimed the lives of 2,996 people and injured more than 6,000 others at the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon, and United Airlines Flight 93 in Pennsylvania. On Sept. 11, 2001, in addition to law enforcement officers, medical service providers and other public servants, 343 firefighters made the ultimate sacrifice to help others. “Let us never forget the bold and brave actions of all the men and women who commit to public service above personal safety, especially on Sept. 11,” said Chief Steve Hudson. Monroe County Fire Rescue will conduct remembrances at all Monroe County Fire Rescue stations on Saturday, Sept. 11 to reflect on the lives lost. The public is invited; masks are requested or the ceremony can be viewed from a car or a safe distance. The observance will also be hosted live on Monroe County Fire Rescue’s Facebook page: www.fb.com/ monroecountyfirerescue. 09:50 a.m. – Primary apparatus brought out of the station bay. 09:59 – Time of the South Tower WTC collapse, sound apparatus air horn in three sets of five blasts followed by one minute of silence. 10:00 – Station flag lowered to half-mast. 10:00 to 10:28 – Time for personal remembrance and reflection. 10:28 – Time of the North Tower WTC collapse, sound apparatus air horn in three sets of five blasts followed by one minute of silence. 10:29 – Flag raised. 10:30 – Return apparatus to station and resume normal duties. During the remembrance, normal emergency response actions will be observed. Monroe County Fire Rescue stations can be found at the following locations: Station 8 - Stock Island, 5655 MacDonald Avenue, MM 5 Station 9 - Big Coppitt, 28 Emerald Drive, MM 10 Station 10 - Sugarloaf, 17175 Overseas Highway, MM 17 Station 11 - Cudjoe, 22352 Overseas Highway, MM 20 Station 13 - Big Pine Key, 390 Key Deer Boulevard, MM 30.5 Station 17 - Conch Key, 10 S Conch Avenue, MM 63 Station 18 - Layton, 68260 Overseas Highway, MM 68.5 Station 22 - Tavernier, 151 Marine Avenue, MM 92 — Contributed

The Rotary Club of Key West would like to express its gratitude to the local businesses and partners that made substantial donations to the 44th annual 4th of July fireworks show and fundraiser. Not only did these contributions directly support local scholarship programs, they provided the Key West community with a much-needed 4th of July celebration and fireworks show. The Rotary Club of Key West is extremely grateful to each of the following:

@ Home Key West | Orchid Key Almond Tree | Historic Tours of America Sunset Watersports Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Co Holiday Get Away Key West International Airport

For more on the Rotary Club of Key West visit: www.keywestrotary.com or visit us on Facebook @keywestrotary THE ROTARY CLUB OF KEY WEST SERVICE ABOVE SELF — SINCE 1916

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

REDA WIGLE

www.keysweekly.com

ROOTS, FRUIT, RESILIENCE GRIMAL GROVE CELEBRATES NEW LIFE

Luanna Simmons and Patrick Garvey of Grimal Grove. REDA WIGLE/Keys Weekly

Breadfruit thrives at Grimal Grove. PATRICK GARVEY/Contributed

he back of Patrick Garvey’s Grimal Grove t-shirt advocates fearlessness: “Don’t be afraid to go out on a limb; that’s where the fruit is.” Garvey, who has owned the Big Pine property since 2013, is no stranger to limb-seeking. Having weathered hurricanes and dire financial straits, the grove is finally bearing the fruits of his labor as “an edible community park and place for gatherings,” as Garvey describes it. Garvey bought the property in 2013 but the dream of an agricultural haven on the lot began in 1955 when original owner Adolf Grimal broke ground. “He dynamited the property, built concrete walls, trucked in soil, and created his own Garden of Eden, traveling around the tropical world and collecting all these rare species of edible plants.” After Grimal died in 1997, the property fell into ruin. Garvey previously worked for the Department of Children and Families and as a foodfocused community organizer. During his government tenure, he created an edible garden at a food stamp outreach site that engaged hundreds of people Keyswide. Bolstered by the success of that experience and a passion for permaculture, he poured the entirety of his savings into purchasing what would become Grimal Grove. “It was a mess, but I had a dream. I saw this magnificent mango tree amidst all this garbage, and I had a vision.” Guided by that vision, Garvey spent four years restoring the grove. As it neared completion in 2017, Hurricane Irma leveled the site, leaving the mango tree upturned and little more than the stalk of a breadfruit tree standing. Devastated but undeterred, Garvey began rebuilding. “You have to reset, you have to reinvent.” Inspired by the resilience and versatility of the breadfruit tree, Garvey shifted his focus. “Out of every tree we planted the first time around, only the breadfruit survived. It was basically a seven-foot stick, every branch was down and still, within 18 months it was producing fruit. One tree can feed a family of four for a lifetime.” While he continues to grow other fruits and tend to other trees, breadfruit has become Grimal Grove’s primary crop. In addition to holding ground through perilous weather and being an excellent food source, breadfruit can be used to make booze. Garvey has partnered with St. Croix-based Mutiny Island Vodka, a spirit made from breadfruit, rainwater and yeast and distilled using solar power. Mutiny will be on hand and congratulations will be in order Friday, Sept. 17 and Saturday, Sept. 18, when Garvey opens the gates of the grove for its inaugural Grimal Garden Gala. Event coordina-

tor Luanna Simmons explains, “It’s an introduction to the Grove. We’re trying to connect the Lower, Middle and Upper Keys and get people introduced to an edible landscape, to foraging, and to learning about what their backyard could be like.” Free and open to the public, the two-day event will feature the work of local artists and a vintage popup shop curated by Simmons. Food vendors will offer breadfruit-based dishes and Mutiny craft cocktails. For those who want to imbibe without having to drive, shuttle service is available from Key West to the Grove for $15 per person. (For shuttle reservations contact Simmons at 305-290-9051.) “It’s an excuse for everyone to come out, see some art. … There’s a missed opportunity there. We’re so isolated that we should be all integrating our connections and businesses,” said Simmons. The revelry begins Friday, Sept. 17, from 5 to 9 p.m., with the opening of the vendor village and yoga in the grove led by Kristin Peterson. Guests will hear the musical stylings of Scott Marishen, lovingly described by Garvey as “the third best jazz harpist in the world.”

“I want to offer the space for everybody; it’s meant to be shared.” — Patrick Garvey, Grimal Grove

Saturday, Sept. 18, from 8 to 11 a.m. features the vendor village, fruit tours and a fundraiser for the Boys and Girls Club. The gala also celebrates the new partnership between Grimal Grove and the Conch Republic Marine Army. The two organizations are joining forces to create a mangrove nursery. “Mangroves protect us from hurricanes and storm surge; they lower salinity levels in the water, helping coral reefs. It’s the beginning of our mangrove stewardship; we’re going to be teaching people that live here about what this environment means,” explains Simmons. For Garvey, the mangrove nursery initiative aligns with the ethics and mission of Grimal Grove. “The future is resilient communities. I want to teach people how to be sustainable. I want to empower people. Not only are we trying to feed our people, we’re also trying to improve our environment.” Grimal Grove is both the limb Garvey went out on and the branch he wishes to extend to his community. “I want to offer the space for everybody,” he said. “It’s meant to be shared. I’ve been dreaming about this and next Friday I get to share my dream with others and make it a reality.”

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

BROWSING THE BREWS

SUNRISE ROTARY PRESENTS 10TH ANNUAL KEY WEST BREWFEST

1 2

t was hot this Labor Day weekend in Key West, but Key West Brewfest at Southernmost Beach Resort offered plenty of cold, adult refreshment. The Key West Sunrise Rotary Club had tried for three years to hold its 10th annual event, but was stymied in 2019 by a hurricane threat and in 2020 by the pandemic shutdown. The 2021 event was worth the wait. The signature tasting event took place Sept. 4 at Key West’s South Beach, where thirsty throngs handed over their collectible tasting cups for samples of beers, meads, ciders, hard seltzers and other beverages. Dinners took place at venues all over town, offering various beer-pairing recommendations and education. The event helped Sunrise Rotary raise more than $40,000 for its local scholarship program that helps Key West students pursue their goals of higher education. — Weekly staff report

1, 2, 3. Key West Sunrise Rotary presents the 10th annual Key West Brewfest on Labor Day weekend at the Southernmost Beach Resort. The event raises tens of thousands of dollars for local scholarships. 4. Islamorada Beer Co. makes the trip south to introduce the Key West crowd to its homemade brews. 5. First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery on Whitehead Street gives out samples of its three locally made beers during Key West Brewfest. 6. Key West Brewfest offers tastes of more than 100 beers, meads, hard seltzers and other adult beverages.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

Help FKMCD FIGHT THE BITE by DUMPING THE WATER Serving Ipswich Whole Bellied Clams & Maine Lobster Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives.

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

SQUARE GROUPER & MY NEW JOINT IN CUDJOE KEY WILL BE ON VACATION BEGINNING AUG 27TH & RE-OPENING THUR OCT 7TH

(305) 294-0102 11:30 AM – 10 PM 629 Duval St, Key West When you’re on Long Island be sure to visit our new location in Wantagh. Call ahead for Daily Specials 516-900-1400.

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WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU THEN!

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

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At Blue Magic Charters, we work to catch the epic fish, like this 193-pound swordfish we caught the other day. STEVE STEENSTRA/Blue Magic Charters

Writer, author, coach, inspirational speaker and all-around positive vibes guru Melinda Van Fleet doing her thing around town. MARY GRIFFIN/Contributed

Real estate broker associate Vanessa J. Chamizo with LoKation Real Estate shows potential buyers around the Upper Keys. VANESSA CHAMIZO/LoKation real estate

Jen White at Olive Morada making gift baskets. JEN WHITE/Olive Morada

Arthur Patterson from Arthur’s Island Kitchen serves up some of the best Keyribbean food in the Upper Keys. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly

Working the perfect spot in the Little Venice area of Marathon. ROB FOLINUS/Contributed

k r o w t a Good

TIFFANY DUONG

n 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.

tiffany@keysweekly.com

RULES, SCHMULES: All photos must be original work and feature something or someone related to the Keys. Photos can be images that have been published before. No third party may own or control any materials the photo contains, and the photo must not infringe upon the trademark, copyright, moral rights, intellectual rights, or rights of privacy of any entity or person.

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

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Sol Finis Sunset Cruise located at 88005 Overseas Highway, Suite 10-236, Islamorada, FL 33036 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. By: FL Keys Cruising LLC Publish: September 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

Has an opening for an “At Large” representative Any resident who is not directly involved in a tourism business and who shall represent the general public and shall live or work within the tax collection district for which they are applying (The operative word within this description is directly. This word means someone who is not in business, nor whose business or economic activity are dependent upon tourists) Any person wishing to participate on the District I Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application from the Administrative Office by calling (305) 296-1552 and submit an application to the address shown below: Department DAC Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040 Fax #: (305) 296-0788 Deadline for receipt of application at the above address is Friday, October 1, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. A resume may be attached to the application. Publish: September 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

Key Bridge) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL Has an opening for an “At Large” representative Any resident who is not directly involved in a tourism business and who shall represent the general public and shall live or work within the tax collection district for which they are applying (The operative word within this description is directly. This word means someone who is not in business, nor whose business or economic activity are dependent upon tourists) Any person wishing to participate on the District III Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application from the Administrative Office by calling (305) 2961552. All applications should be submitted to the address shown below: Department DAC Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040 Fax #: (305) 296-0788 The deadline for receipt of application at the above address is Friday, October 1, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. A resume may be attached to the application. Publish: September 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

DISTRICT IV ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC IV) (Between the Long Key Bridge and mile marker 90.939) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL has a vacancy for an “At Large” representative - Any resident who is not directly involved in a tourism business and who shall represent the general public and shall live or work within the tax collection district for which they are applying (The operative word within this description is directly. This word means someone who is not in business, nor whose business or economic activity are dependent upon tourists) Any person wishing to participate on the District IV Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application from the Administrative Office by calling (305) 296-1552 and submit an application to the address shown below: Department DAC Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040 Fax #: (305) 296-0788 Deadline for receipt of application at the above address is Friday, October 1, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. A resume may be attached to the application. Publish: September 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning & Zoning Board of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold a Public Hearing on Wednesday October 20, 2021 at 9:30 A.M., Key Colony Beach City Hall commission room, to hear a Variance Request from John & Karen Hotz owners of Lot 9 Block 3 15th Circle. This meeting will be available virtually via Zoom Meetings. Members of the public who wish to attend virtually may email cityclerk@keycolonybeach. net or call 305-289-1212, Ext. 2 for further instructions on attending via Zoom Meetings. Applicant requests a Variance to Land Development Regulations Chapter 101, Section 10 (8) for a 6’ ¾” height variance for a new single-family residence. Current maximum building height is 30’0”. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Planning & Zoning Board with respect to any matter considered at the Variance Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. If you are unable to attend the Hearing on Wednesday October 20, 2021 but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to: Planning & Zoning Board, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@ keycolonybeach.net and your comments will be entered into the record. Publish: September 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. If you are unable to attend the Hearing on Thursday, October 28, 2021 but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to: City Commission, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@keycolonybeach. net and your comments will be entered into the record. Publish: September 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

to Mr. Ed Russell, Jr. at edward.o.russell@navy.mil no later than October 10, 2021. If you wish to comment on this project, please send responses to: Mr. Ed Russell, Jr. Installation Restoration/ Munitions Response Programs Environmental Engineer Naval Air Station Key West Commanding Officer Code PR74 P.O. Box 9007 A Key West, FL 33040-9007 (305) 797-4461 Publish: September 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of TRASH2TREASURE located at 3322 Duck Avenue, Monroe County in the City of Key West, Florida 33040-4183 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated at Key West, Florida this 5th day of September, 2021. By: JODY BROWN Publish: September 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers DISTRICT I ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC I) (Encompasses the City Limits of Key West) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

DISTRICT III ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC III) (From the West End of the Seven Mile Bridge to the Long

NOTICE OF PRE-ELECTION CANVASSING BOARD MEETING A pre-election canvassing board meeting regarding the City of Marathon Election will be held on Tuesday, September 14, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. at the Supervisor of Elections Office, 10015 Overseas Hwy, Marathon.

AVISO DE LA REUNIÓN DE LA JUNTA ELECTORAL PREVIA A LA ELECCIÓN Una reunión de la junta de encuestas preelectoral con respecto a la Elección de la Ciudad de Marathon se llevará a cabo el martes 14 de septiembre de 2021 a las 10:00 a.m. en la Oficina del Supervisor de Elecciones, 10015 Overseas Hwy, Marathon. R. Joyce Griffin, Supervisor of Elections www.keyselections.org

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@ keysarts.com Art in Public Places Committee Meeting Sept 14, 2021,at 4:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 873 3150 5270 Passcode: 350334 Membership Committee Meeting Sept 15, 2021, at 4:00 PM Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 884 9710 5511 Passcode: 609809 Executive Committee Meeting Sept 30, 2021, at 11:00 AM Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 892 9354 9301 Passcode: 493744 Publish: September 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF VARIANCE HEARING

CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF VARIANCE HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold a Public Hearing on Thursday, October 28, 2021 at 9:30 A.M., Key Colony Beach City Hall commission room to hear a Variance Request from John & Karen Hotz owners of Lot 9 Block 3 15th Circle. This meeting will be available virtually via Zoom Meetings. Members of the public who wish to attend virtually may email cityclerk@keycolonybeach. net or call 305-289-1212, Ext. 2 for further instructions on attending via Zoom Meetings. Applicant requests a Variance to Land Development Regulations Chapter 101, Section 10 (8) for a 6’ ¾” height variance for a new single-family residence. Current maximum building height is 30’0”. Interested parties may attend the Hearing and be heard with respect to the requested variance. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Variance

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY AND PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD Engineering Evaluation/Cost Analysis for Non-Time-Critical Removal Action Unexploded Ordnance 10 – Boca Chica Field Naval Air Station Key West Key West, Florida The Department of the Navy, in coordination with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, is announcing the public availability of the Engineering Evaluation and Cost Analysis (EE/CA) for a non-time-critical removal action (NTCRA) at Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) 10 – Boca Chica Field at Naval Air Station Key West. UXO 10 consists of five sites with overlapping historical boundaries: Rocket Loading Area, Bore Sighting Range, Trap Range, Skeet Range, and ShootingIn-Butt Range. Munitions Constituents (MC) in soil and sediment, specifically metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons potentially related to historical small arms munitions use, present a possible risk to future site workers. The area where UXO 10 was located was developed into the active Boca Chica airfield and most of the range is covered by concrete/asphalt. The EE/ CA identifies the objectives of the NTCRA to address the MC at this site and evaluates the removal action alternatives evaluated by the Navy to meet these objectives. This document was prepared as required by the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (also known as Superfund). The Navy invites interested members of the public to review and comment on the UXO 10 EE/CA during a 30-day public comment period from September 10, 2021 through October 10, 2021. The EE/CA is available for public review at http:// go.usa.gov/xPGNr. Individuals without a computer or internet access may request a copy of the document by emailing or contacting Ed Russell at the information below. Public comments must be submitted in writing and be postmarked or emailed

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 20-CP-2-P DIVISION: UPPER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF NORMAN R. HINDS Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Norman R. Hinds, deceased, whose date of death was October 26, 2019, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: September 2, 2021. Personal Representative: John R. Hinds 13395 NW 107th Ave. Miami, FL 33018 Attorney for Personal Representative: RICHARD E. WARNER Attorney for John R. Hinds Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

AUTOS WANTED

EMPLOYMENT

com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: September 2 & 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO: 21-CP-000071-M IN RE: ESTATE OF KARL H. SEWALL, Deceased, NOTICE TO CREDITORS (Ancillary Administration) The administration of the estate of KARL H. SEWALL, deceased, Case Number 21-CP-000071-M, is pending in the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Monroe County Courthouse, 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 THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ANY CLAIM BE FILED LATER THAN TWO YEARS AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH. ALL CLAIMS AND DEMANDS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. The date of the decedent’s death is September 5, 2020. The date of first publication of this notice is September 9, 2021. Personal Representative: DONNA M. SEWALL 653 W Beverwyck PL Paramus, NJ 07652 Attorney for Personal Representative: WILLIAM S. FRAZIER, ESQUIRE Fla. Bar No: 0080373 1919-8 Blanding Boulevard Jacksonville, FL 32210 (904) 384-1441 rgfpleadings@gmail.com Publish: September 9 & 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: September 9, 2021. Personal Representative: AMY R. WENTWORTH GODFREY 167 Sam Wentworth Road Lebanon, Maine 04027 Attorney for Personal Representative: Urban J. W. Patterson, Esq. Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@yahoo.com Florida Bar No. 382035 Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A. P.O. Box 783 Islamorada, Florida 33036 Telephone: 305-664-5065 Publish: September 9 & 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings. Dated: August 20, 2021 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Riza Hall Deputy Clerk Publish: August 26, September 2, 9 & 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings. Dated: August 27, 2021 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shakia Mitchell Deputy Clerk Publish: September 2, 9, 16 & 23, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

ALL YEARS! Junk or Used. Cars - Vans - TrucksRunning or Not. $CASH$ 305-332-0483

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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 21-CP-000046-P IN RE: ESTATE OF RAFAEL E. DUYOS, JR., Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of RAFAEL ENRIQUE DUYOS, JR., deceased, whose date of death was March 15, 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 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: September 2, 2021. Personal Representative: Rafael E. Duyos III 804 Le Cove Ct Virginia Beach, VA 23464 Attorney for Personal Representative: VICTORIA MIRANDA, ESQUIRE Florida Bar No. 1015363 E-Mail: VMiranda@HLYlaw. com ROBERT STOBER, ESQUIRE Florida Bar No. 104043 E-Mail: RStober@HLYlaw.com HERSHOFF, LUPINO & YAGEL, LLP 9350 S Dixie Highway, Suite 1470 Miami, FL 33156 Publish: September 2 & 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2021-CP-91-P IN RE: ESTATE OF DALE ERIC MARK GODFREY Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of DALE ERIC MARK GODFREY, deceased, whose date of death was July 30, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 21-DR-547-K Division: Family YONELA YVONNE NDLELENI, Petitioner, and DANIEL DILLION GUMBS Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: Daniel Dillion Gumbs Last Known Address: 4726 Wyresdale Street, Orlando, FL 32808 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Yonela Yvonne Ndleleni, whose address is 3330 Northside Drive, Apt 207, Mariners Cove, Key West, FL 33040, on or before September 27, 2021, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 21-DR-000129-M Division: Family RAUL LLANES, Petitioner, and ROSA I ARAMBURU INFANTE, Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: ROSA I ARAMBURU INFANTE Last Known Address: 2371 SW 13TH STREET, MIAMI, FL 33145 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on RAUL LLANES, whose address is 243 ORANGE AVENUE, MARATHON, FL 33050, on or before October 4, 2021, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 3117 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON, FL 33050, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA FILE NO.: 21-CA-000240-K PROBATE DIVISION IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JOHN LEE PEPPARD Deceased. NOTICE OF ACTION TO: JOHN LEE PEPPARD, and ALL OTHER PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, OR INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF JOHN LEE PEPPARD WHO ARE NOT KNOWN TO BE DEAD OR ALIVE, WHETHER SAID UNKNOWN PARTIES MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES OR OTHER CLAIMENTS YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a Petition for Order Declaring Death of John Lee Peppard, a Petition for Summary Administration and a Petition to Determine Beneficiaries has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to Jessica Yero, Esq., attorney for Petitioner, at 1440 Coral Ridge Drive, #303, Coral Springs, FL 33071, and file the original with the clerk of this court on or before October 12, 2021 a date which is not less than 28 and not more than 60 days after the first publication of this notice, either before service on the Petitioner or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition. DATED: September 3, 2021 Kevin Madok Clerk of the Circuit Court By: Lisa M. Pierce Deputy Clerk Publish: September 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

BOATS FOR SALE 12' Jon Boat w/ 6 hp Nissan motor, and trailer. Located in Marathon. $1,400 305-395-1015 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 Marathon Auto looking for general laborer and trailer repair helper. Driver's Lic a plus but not necessary. Pay based on experience and how often you show up to work! Apply in person at 2525 Overseas Highway, Marathon. 305-289-9884 Groundskeeper/ Maintenance person, KCB, Sea Isle Condominium, 20 hrs. per week, $20 per hr., apply by e-mail to HardingThomasL@aol.com, text or call 734-476-0531. 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 CENTENNIAL BANK IS HIRING! MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATOR MARATHON/KEY WEST GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Solicits residential first mortgages through contacts with Realtors, builders, and developers. Interview loan applicants and makes credit decisions. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Broad knowledge of such fields as accounting, marketing, business administration, finance, etc. Equivalent to a four year college degree, plus 4 years related experience and/or training, and 2 years related management experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. To apply, please visit our careers page: www. my100bank . c om/ 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 NOW HIRING: Sweet Savannah's is now hiring for all shifts. Please apply in person at 8919 Overseas Highway in 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 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. Place your EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED ad here for only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!!

HOBBIES/COLLECT. PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & W a t c h e s . Call 305-743-4578

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • HOMES FOR SALE

LOT FOR SALE

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

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

MISC. FOR SALE HOUSING FOR RENT Marathon - For Rent 1 small bedroom efficiency Conch House AND 1 large bedroom Conch House. Very quiet, gated property. Dock available. Year lease No Pets. 305-610-8002 Place your HOUSING FOR RENT ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

Lobster Certificates (B) with tags for sale. 217 at $200 each. Will absorb 10% reduction. MAKE OFFER 3 0 5 - 7 4 3 - 8 3 2 6 Jet Ski Engine 1100cc for sale in Marathon. Direct injection marine engine. Runs. $600.00 305-289-9884 SOLD IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!

OFFICE/COMMERCIAL

SPACE FOR RENT Commercial Building 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 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

305.743.0844

RV SITE FOR RENT

YARD SALES

RV Site For Rent in Marathon. Full Hookup. Very quiet, gated property. Dock available. No pets. 305-610-8002

HUGE MOVING SALE — Fishing and scuba gear including rods and tanks, furniture ranging from bakers racks to arm chairs and dressers, décor, dishes, cookware, kids toys (lots and lots), small appliances, jewelry, rugs and fine art. Sale is Friday, Sept. 10 from 8am to 1pm and Saturday, Sept. 11 from 8am to 3pm. 126 Calle Ensueno, Marathon. This is a big sale, with varied treasures!

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

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

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS NEEDED! Monroe County School District

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

PART-TIME CASE MANAGER POSITIONS FOR BUSY NON-PROFIT 28 hours per week. Two positions open one serving Emergency Shelter and one Mentally Ill Adults. Must have excellent communication, organizational, and computer skills. Must be compassionate and professional. Bachelor’s degree and field experience a plus. Drug free workplace, EOE. Please send resume and cover letter to sholt@fkoc.org. No calls.

and cover letter to sholt@fkoc.org. No phone calls.

STAFF ASSISTANT - 30hrs/week at the Keys Marine Laboratory (KML), Layton, FL. KML supports research and academic programs conducted by universities/colleges throughout Florida, the US, and internationally. Duties include greeting scientists, faculty, and students; preparing invoices and correspondence; data entry; courier and delivery services; assist with scheduling and group arrival prep. To apply for this opening visit: www.usf.edu/work-at-usf and search for Staff Assistant job opening 28281

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

BRANCH OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR FLORIDA KEYS MOSQUITO CONTROL DISTRICT

is accepting applications for the following positions:

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

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

Edward Jones is a financial services firm focused on meeting the needs of individual investors. Our Marathon branch office has an opening for an entry-level administrative assistant. Excellent organization, communication skills, and the ability to work independently are required to perform. Administrative, marketing, and client service responsibilities. We offer competitive benefits and a comprehensive on-line training program. To be considered for this position apply online at careers.edwardjones.com Edward Jones does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, pregnancy, veteran status, genetic information or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. Learn more by visiting our careers site, careers.edwardjones.com; search Branch Office Administrator / Job Number 59842BR.

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.

SEEKING SALES ASSISTANT

Currently seeking a qualified SALES ASSISTANT to fill a new full-time position. This is an excellent opportunity to grow with an existing business in an interesting field. The successful applicant must be proficient in Microsoft word, outlook, and excel. A background in marine biology, or a working knowledge of marine animals, would be preferred. Duties to include invoice entry, customer communication and tracking, creating and maintaining customer accounts, and some customer service. This position requires a high attention to detail and the ability to multitask. Compensation will be dependent on experience. Benefits package including vacation, sick days, holidays and 401K PSP retirement plan. Please email cover letter and resumes to Sales@Dynastymarine.net for consideration. No phone calls please.

Dynasty Marine Associates, Inc.

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

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

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

Daily Happy Hour 5-7 pm | FREE Covered Parking Nightly Live Music | 15% Locals Discount

FRESH NEW MENU

NEW PATIO DINING

1405 Duval Street, Key West // 305.295.6550

Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

southernmostbeachresort.com #somolife

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

Empty bottles, cans, paper and cardboard.

For Reservations, Call 305.296.8100 Reserve Online at OpenTable.com

LIC# CCC1329991

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BEST CONTRACTOR NOMINATION

3 Keep food and liquid out.

NEED A BAGGSTER?

Purchase one from your local hardware stores, then call the 800 number to set up a pickup. ROLLOFF CONTAINERS and PORTABLE TOILETS available. Call us at 305.296.8297.

VOTED BEST CONTRACTOR

Recyclables go directly into the cart.

5 YEARS IN A ROW

Second Annual

MIKE GARCIA 305.304.4188 CONCHROOFING@GMAIL.COM WWW.CONCHCONSTRUCTIONANDROOFING.COM

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844 Risk Management Assistant OPEN POSITIONS AT BAPTIST HEALTH SOUTH FLORIDA • Dietitian, $5K Sign-On Bonus • First Cook, Dietary, $2K-5K Sign-On Bonus • Floor Technician, Environmental Services, $5K Sign-On Bonus • Mechanic

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.

PART TIME & FULL TIME OPPORTUNITIES! Front Desk Agent Bell/Valet Reservations Agent Relief Night Security/Night Audit Housekeeping - multiple positions!

• Medical Staff Asst, $2K Sign-On Bonus

Engineer - Property Ops

• Monitor Technician, Cardiac Telemetry

Kitchen Staff - multiple positions!

• Pharmacy Technician, $4K Sign-On Bonus • Pharmacy Technician, Pharmacy • Phlebotomist, $2K Sign-On Bonus • Phlebotomist, Laboratory – Per Diem • Security Officer • Sleep Tech, Cardiopulmonary Apply and learn more: careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507

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

Dinner Busser/Runner Hot Tin Roof Dinner Greeter - Hot Tin Roof Spa - now hiring for LMT’s and Nail Techs Apply online at www.noblehousehotels.com/careers Apply in person at Zero Duval St. GREAT PAY, AMAZING BENEFITS & AN AWESOME TEAM! Ocean Key Resort and Spa is EOE.

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

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

Dolphin Research Center is Hiring! Medical Technician

(Full-Time/Part-Time, Permanent)

Education Program Host (Full-Time. Permanent)

IT Technical Specialist (Part Time, Permanent)

Accounting Manager (Full-Time/Permanent)

Visual Communications Staff (Full-Time/Permanent)

Human Resources Assistant (Part-Time/Permanent)

Guest Services Staff

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

Benefits include medical, life & disability insurance, 401(k) plan, paid vacation, sick time & holidays. Full job descriptions available at

www.dolphins.org/career_opportunities

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

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.

EVENING FRONT DESK SUPERVISOR EVENING MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR Previous hotel experience required GREAT PAY, HEALTH & TRAVEL BENEFITS Apply in person at: Courtyard Marriott Marathon 2146 Overseas Hwy, Marathon Or email resume to: jtyson@shanercorp.com, 305.289.2100

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 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

D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals. Overtime and benefits are available. For full details & additional openings, please visit DAsignSource.com/careers

Construction Foreman Experience in high-end residential; finish carpentry, drywall, windows/ doors, understanding of building systems & construction techniques.

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

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

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING! KEY LARGO

Substance Abuse Counselor (PT)

KEY WEST

TEXT “MYTOMTHUMB” TO

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*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

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

THEME: FOOTBALL

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

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)

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

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

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

MARATHON Admissions Specialist

Lead AV Technician

Warehouse & Delivery Crew

Bungalows Key Largo is an EOE

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)

Landscape Designer An outdoor design specialist that works well with clients— producing designs, selections, and processing sales.

Apply online at mytomthumb.com/employment

ACROSS 1. *Sports analyst, ex-wide receiver Randy 5. Dashboard acronym 8. *Depth of an end zone, in yards 11. Fencing blade 12. Weight not charged for 13. Young hog 15. Witnessed 16. Aroma 17. Nary a soul 18. *Line of ____ 20. Spanish earthen pot 21. Pinocchio and the like 22. Bean house 23. Antonym of descent 26. Cycle taxi 30. Greek “t” 31. 50-50 34. Not happening 35. Newbies 37. Bert Bobbsey’s twin 38. Like a neon sign 39. “Clueless” catch phrase 40. Not a desktop 42. Metal-bearing mineral 43. “Chim Chim Cher-ee” setting 45. Relating to nose 47. Actors’ group 48. Sink hole 50. Golf club handle 52. *3-point score 56. Make a canyon, e.g. 57. Not written 58. Racing sled 59. *”Purple People ____” song, inspiration for Vikings defensive line name 60. Like H. C. Andersen’s duckling 61. Poet Pound 62. *AFC counterpart 63. Dreaming stage of sleep 64. Daytime entertainment

DOWN 1. Hodgepodge 2. Oil cartel 3. Palm reader, e.g. 4. Old and mentally infirm 5. Weather-related Doppler tool 6. Programs, for short 7. Insignificant 8. Hammer or sickle 9. Europe’s highest volcano 10. Born, in bio 12. Marinara fruit 13. Ornamental hair net 14. *Grabbing penalty 19. Breath freshener 22. *Pre-game encouragement 23. Rose oil 24. One’s assertion 25. Collectible in a cabinet 26. *Fourth down option 27. Colonoscopy tract 28. Ancient assembly area 29. B in IBS 32. *Start of a football play 33. Goo on a trunk 36. *Scrimmage-related penalty 38. Plant louse 40. Yule firewood 41. By word of mouth 44. Candle shape 46. English in Spanish 48. Mourner’s song 49. Camelot, to Arthur 50. Tennis great Steffi 51. College officer-training 56. Poetic “even”

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

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

GENERAL CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS

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We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

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Appliance and Air Conditioning

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Insured • Professional • Reliable

Sportfishing Adventures

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info@johnnymaddoxcharters.com

305-481-3259

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

SOLAR DONE RIGHT!

Tewes Mortgage

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CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE

Call 305.495.6000

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

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Brian Tewes

A division of SALT Service, serving The Keys since 1989

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

305-289-1150

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Serving Key Largo to Key West

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When It Rains It Pours! Need 7” Gutters? We have 6” & 7” Seamless • Copper Specialists

Key West 305-292-2666

MARATHON

305-743-0506

KEY LARGO

305-852-5356

rainsavergutters@gmail.com

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

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

Will Campbell President

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

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

9AM - 6PM MONDAY - SATURDAY

508 SOUTHARD STREET • SUITE 105KEY WEST 305.296.0772 • FLOWSPAKEYWEST.COM

1075 Duval St Duval Square C-22 305.434.6480 APPOINTMENT SUGGESTED

OPEN TUESDAY THRU SATURDAY! 11AM-4PM

PRIVATE SHOPPING PARTIES AVAILABLE BY RESERVATION

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KIRBYSCLOSET.COM FOR MORE INFO & RESERVATIONS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 9, 2021

FAMILY, FOOD & FUN

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

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