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“Why don’t you give me Ape Tit for $200.” — Turd Ferguson

September 16, 2021

CITY STILL SEEKING LEGAL COUNSEL FOR ANTICIPATED LAWSUITS | P. 6

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

841 5450 MacDonald Ave. No.5 Key West, FL 33040 Office: 305.453.6928 www.keysweekly.com

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THE KEY WEST WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

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News Deadline

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Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.

According to a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) report, 841 manatees died between Jan. 1 and July 2 of this year. That surpasses a previous record of 830 total manatee deaths in 2013. Reported deaths so far in 2021 are twice the number of deaths — 354 — recorded in that same period in 2020. This year’s die-off was attributed to starvation — the FWC notes “a reduction in food availability, seagrass” — and a spike in boat strikes.

ON THE COVER Key West’s cruise ship limits hang in the balance as city officials seek additional legal counsel. IRENE DE BRUIJN/ Keys Weekly

KEY WEST CONDO GETS REPRIEVE BUT CONDEMNATION ‘IS NOT OFF THE TABLE’ MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

Key West condominium building received a temporary reprieve on Sept. 13. Raj Ramsingh, the city’s chief building official, did not condemn Santa Clara Condominiums, 3312 Northside Dr., during a 10 a.m. hearing at city hall. “I will not condemn the building, but this is still not off the table,” Ramsingh told the condo association board, unit owners and some of their tenants who were present. “I don’t want these necessary repairs to fall by the wayside as has occurred in the past,” Ramsingh said, after hearing testimony from two engineers and condo association board president Oliver Kofoid. The building’s former engineer JL Sanders recently withdrew from his position with the 111-unit Santa Clara, citing significant safety concerns and large-scale repairs. Sanders stopped short of saying the building is unsafe for habitation. “I can’t comment on the safety of the building, whether it’s going to fall down, or whether parts of it are going to fall down. But due to the extent of the repairs needed, I really am not in a position to continue. They need a firm with more capacity than me.” Sanders said he has repeatedly recommended and offered to conduct lab tests on core samples of the 40-year-old building’s concrete that is failing in several places. “We’ve repeatedly run into some very bad concrete at the building, and had never done an analysis of it,” Sanders told Ramsingh. “Over the years, we’ve done repairs in a triage manner. We’ve made quite a few repair recommendations to the association. Some of them were completed, but others had to be reduced in scope or were postponed.”

The Santa Clara condo board last week hired Tampa-based engineer Thomas Cheever, who completed a three-hour site visit and submitted a report to the city dated Sept. 11, Ramsingh said at the hearing. Cheever said his site visit was designed to answer two questions: Can the building be repaired? And can the building be occupied during those repairs? “There is no doubt, the building has suffered significant damage over the years. It’s clear the board has been ignoring this for years. I’ve never seen such systematic deterioration that’s apparent at Santa Clara,” Cheever said. “But I can say with certainty that it can be repaired. “I found nothing to substantiate any threat of partial or catastrophic collapse.That said, should there be a significant weather event, the building should be re-evaluated.” Cheever said the roof should be the board’s top priority, as it is the main source of water intrusion that is weakening the structure. Cheever also agreed with Sanders’ and Ramsingh’s concerns about the south stairwell that shows exposed rebar, deterioration and crumbling concrete on the steps themselves. “While I don’t think the stairs will collapse, I do recommend they be alarmed and not used for anything other than an emergency exit. “I understand why Mr. Sanders supported efforts to triage these repairs, but in my opinion, that was a disservice to Santa Clara and all its residents,” Cheever said. He also questioned the motivation for concrete core sampling. “What exactly are we hoping to discover? That there’s a high alkalinity content in that concrete? I think that’s apparent. What exactly are we hoping to discover compared to the negative of drilling holes in the building?”

Santa Clara Condominiums were not condemned at a Monday hearing, but the owners were put on notice that repairs must begin immediately. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

Current estimates place the cost of repairs between $8 million and $10 million, according to Sanders’ most recent engineering report. Condominium board president Oliver Kofoid told Ramsingh on Monday the board still has not passed a special assessment that will require unit owners to pay an additional amount of money to put toward the repairs. The board also is still working to secure bank financing for the repairs, but that had not been approved as of Monday’s hearing. The board and owners meet again Thursday, Sept. 16, when they are expected to pass a special assessment and set the due date for the initial payment. And if the banks do not provide financing? Ramsingh asked. “That would lead to the process of liens on units, foreclosures and another entity would probably end up taking over,” Kofoid said. Ramsingh ultimately gave the association and Cheever 15 days to submit a plan to address the most pressing life-safety concerns, including the danger of falling debris from concrete spalling. He also gave the board 45 days to submit a complete repair plan. “This has been going on for quite a few years, and always seems to come down to money,” Ramsingh continued on page 7

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

Anchored to your health and our community.

Larry and Marianne Benvenuti Life Photographers

The care you deserve, right in your neighborhood. A new and improved Fishermen’s Community Hospital is now open and will continue to be an anchor of health and wellness in the heart of the Florida Keys.

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

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

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

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

• Intensive care unit • Outpatient laboratory • Rehabilitation

Services including oncology care, surgery and endoscopy, will be available at a later date. And telestroke services are available to give stroke patients 24/ 7 emergency access to board-certified neurologists. Additional services are offered at Mariners Hospital in Tavernier, also part of Baptist Health. Learn more at BaptistHealth.net/Fishermens

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

City officials are still seeking an attorney to help draft and defend the new cruise ship limitations against the legal challenges that are anticipated. CONTRIBUTED

MOUNTING A DEFENSE CITY STILL SEEKS ATTORNEY TO HELP DEFEND CRUISE SHIP LIMITS MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

he city of Key West still needs a lawyer to help draft — and then defend — its cruise ship limitations when they’re challenged in court. At their meeting on Sept. 14, the city commission directed City Attorney Shawn Smith to pursue negotiations with attorney Joe Jacquot, who has worked for the Safer Cleaner Ships Committee for more than a year and is the committee’s first choice to represent the city. Smith previously questioned the wisdom of hiring an attorney with ties to SCS, “who has an agenda in place, or an idea in place,” but he said on Tuesday that he would contact Jacquot the following day. “It doesn’t matter who you hire; I will work with them,” Smith said, adding that he had spoken on Sept. 13 with Jacquot, who had said, “I have to do a conflict check.” Every attorney completes such a conflict check before they can agree to represent a client. Earlier this month, Smith had recommended the Radey Law Firm for the cruise ship representation.

“Radey did not have a conflict, but they would not represent this commission after what was done to them,” Smith said at Tuesday’s meeting, referring to a list of 15 probing questions Mayor Teri Johnston had sent to Radey Law Firm on behalf of SCS in an attempt to discern any conflicts of interest. Commissioner Sam Kaufman, an attorney, said he supports the hiring of Jacquot, while others wanted to know more about his potential conflicts and whether Jacquot would be asked the same questions that were posed to Radey Law Firm. Kaufman pointed out that conflict checks are an ethical responsibility of every lawyer and would be part of any contract negotiations with Jacquot. “If he has a conflict, it stops right there, but let’s remember, there aren’t any other firms in the queue right now.” Johnston said Jacquot should still be fully vetted, and should appear before the commission to answer questions. But Commissioner Greg Davila, also an attorney, was reluctant to require that. “Any attorney with a successful firm would not subject themselves to that. There’s easier ways and other cases. I don’t know any attorney who would subject themselves to that. We don’t want people coming here and dancing for us, and if they do, they’re not who we want.”

Smith backed up Davila, saying, “I personally invited Mr. Jacquot to come down here tonight. I told him, ‘The commissioners want to hear from you.’ He said, ‘I’m not coming down, no way.’” Smith also reminded the commission that he has the authority to hire any attorney he chooses, “but I have not done that.” He said he has included the commissioners in the process because of the importance of the issue. Smith’s comments came after Arlo Haskell, treasurer of Safer Cleaner Ships, spoke in support of Jacquot, then added, “I think the commission should take the responsibility of hiring outside counsel. You have earned the trust of the public.” Commissioner Clayton Lopez took exception to the suggestion that the commission, not the city attorney, hire the attorney. “This is being played out more transparently than anything else. I believe that overriding the city attorney is undermining his authority. We’re the ones who hire the people to do these jobs,” Lopez said, adding that SCS had opposed the Radey Law Firm because they had previously represented the bar pilots, who are in favor of cruise ships in Key West. “That firm represented the bar pilots against the cruise industry,” Lopez said. “So we’ve turned down firms for having potential bias. Now we have someone who’s good with you — because he’s biased on your side? You can’t have it both ways.” Former city commissioner Margaret Romero agreed, saying during the public comment period, “This city is supposed to be a city manager government, and we want to leave the choosing of an attorney to elected

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021 continued from page 4

Key West City Attorney Shawn Smith tells the commissioners he will contact attorney Joe Jacquot to see if he will help represent the city. MANDY MILES/ Keys Weekly

officials? The public comments called for transparency, ethics and integrity, all of which have always been considered by our city attorney. And at least half of those comments that were submitted prior to this meeting came from people who don’t have addresses in this city. Shawn Smith has never done anything to impugn transparency, ethics and integrity. It seems we have a small group of people who are very loud at getting what they want.” Johnston replied, “This isn’t a few loud voices; this is a majority. Who better to represent the will of the people than the one who worked with the group that got out this percentage of the vote? We’ll be a year ahead of the game by going with a firm that already knows the intricacies of this issue.” Smith spoke again. “There has been a great deal of misunderstanding and misinformation on this topic,” he said after agreeing to contact Jacquot. “There has never been any intention, despite the emails you have all received, to hire anybody that you don’t want. “I take my integrity seriously and I have been vilified throughout this process because they (Safer Cleaner Ships) don’t like me. I don’t care, I really don’t. My job is to represent you, nobody else but you, the city commission. If you tell me to do something, and it’s legal, I will do it. I’ll call Mr. Jacquot tomorrow. I spoke to him yesterday afternoon, and he told me he has to do a conflict check.”

OTHER CITY NEWS • City officials moved forward on building workforce housing on the last 3.2 acres at Truman Waterfront. The commission agreed to hold a voter referendum on Jan. 18, 2022, asking voters to allow the city to lease that land to the entity that will build the housing for up to 99 years. Officials have heard repeatedly from affordable housing experts that no developer will touch a project that does not include long-term rights to the land, and city law prohibits any leases of city property for longer than 10 or 20 years without voter approval. • Commissioners approved a development plan that will replace the former Hospice/VNA commercial building at 1319 William St. with six non-transient, single-family homes. The homes will share a driveway that exits onto Royal Street, planner Owen Trepanier said. The new homes will be built behind two existing non-transient rental units on the site, he said, adding that the project will include “massive landscaping” and will retain the poinciana and gumbo limbo trees that are on site. To fulfill the affordable housing requirement attached to new construction, Trepanier said, the property will build two units of median-income, deed-restricted, rental housing on Von Phister Street, where he owns another property. That property will be demolished and two new units built, Trepanier said.

Top: The south stairwell at Santa Clara has been identified by an engineer as unsafe and is only to be used as an emergency exit. Bottom: Exposed rebar and failing concrete in the south stairwell and throughout the building present severe concerns. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

said. “What makes this time different? What assurances do we have that you’ll actually move forward on repairs this time?” “My intent is to have the scope of work ready for bidding by contractors in late October or early November,” Cheever said. “We’ll bid it in November and December and begin work in January.” The building can remain occupied for now, Ramsingh said, but directed the board to remain in contact with him at least every 15 days to ensure the delays do not continue. City Commissioner Sam Kaufman, whose district includes Santa Clara, was at Monday’s hearing, as was Mayor Teri Johnston. “The city’s chief building official was professional and considerate to all parties. While the two Santa Clara engineers provided credible testimony,

they also acknowledged potential dangerous circumstances which exist at the building now in urgent need for repair, Kaufman told the Keys Weekly. “All parties, including the many tenants who appeared at the hearing, are concerned primarily about the safety of the residents in the building. We are all hopeful that repairs can be made within the shortest possible time frame. This is a matter being taken very seriously by the city and rightfully so. The building official’s findings also give Santa Clara a short timeline to make repairs that are most urgently needed.”

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

LIGHTS. CAMERA. ACTION.

13 KWHS STUDENTS SELECTED FOR FILM FESTIVAL IN NYC By Ella Hall

rom a small-town island to the city that never sleeps, 13 Key West High School students and the films they produced at the school’s Conch 5 Studios have been chosen as selections for the world’s largest high school film festival. The All-American High School Film Festival (AAHSFF ) takes place in October in New York City, where the films will be screened, judged and narrowed down to a few finalists. The students will travel to the festival with KWHS television production teacher Ed Smith, who has directed Conch 5 Studios for 20 years. Key West High School was last represented at this competition in 2017.

Tom Oliva, the co-founder and executive director of AAHSFF, announced the official selections on July 22. Nine submissions by 13 Key West students were chosen in categories ranging from short films to action sports videos. The student-produced films will be screened in New York Oct. 8-10. “I almost lost count of how many we got,” said Smith, the director of Conch 5 Studios. “I was shocked, proud and blown away as a teacher.” An AAHSFF official selection is one of the highest honors a high school video production team can aspire to earn. Seeing their film on a big screen in the big city is a dream come true for the students. But there is a step higher: becoming an AAHSFF finalist. Only a small portion of the official selections are honored as the “best of the best” in each category. Smith said he’s confident some of the Conch 5 entries have the potential to become a finalist. In addition to the screenings, the film festival also provides networking, college recruiting opportunities and a chance for students to earn some scholarship money and perhaps a job in the industry they love. “With no student production budget, it is a struggle to compete against the big-city schools that get support from filmmaking icons, like New York University (NYU), University of Southern California (USC) and actual film studios,” Smith said. “But in Conch 5 Studios, students approach every production with the attitude, ‘If you can dream it, you can do it.’” The newest equipment the KWHS students have for their productions was purchased in 2015, proving that the latest, fancy technology is no substitute for hard work, sweat and dedication when it comes to creating something spectacular.

Smith is constantly furthering his own skills, knowledge and expertise to share with his students. “I like to be able to give my students as much as I possibly can. Hopefully the knowledge I’ve gained over the past two decades of leading Conch 5 Studios can give them an advantage and more experience,” he said. The connection between Smith and his students doesn’t end with graduation, as Smith keeps in touch with all his former students. “I’m a teacher, coach, mentor, cheerleader — and harsh critic,” said Smith. “My students are free to ask me anything at any time, which explains the 3,875 texts on my phone.” The challenges of the pandemic have made fundraising for the New York trip a challenge. With less than a month till the event, Conch 5 Studios is raising funds and seeking support from the community. On Sunday, Sept. 19, they will host a car wash fundraiser from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Saturday, Sept. 25, they will host an outdoor movie event. Both events take place at the KWHS Backyard. For more information about Conch 5 Studios, or to make a donation, contact edward.smith@ keysstudents.net. The selected students include: Stephanie Jenkins, Robert Malcom, Siddharth Singh, Nicolas Dussias, Christopher “Andre” Otto, Joseph Grobarek, John Searcy, Sarah Karch, Priscilla Castro-Sanchez, Ella Hall, Janelle Waite, Brody McCandless and Jonibek Muhsinov. Ella Hall is a junior at Key West High School, a former Keys Weekly intern and one of the students whose films was selected for the film festival.

Christopher “Andre” Otto making a time lapse for his short film, “A Day.” ELLA HALL/Contributed

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

LEAH STOCKTON

LEADERSHIP MONROE COUNTY

COME WORSHIP WITH US

‘‘The churches of Christ greet you.’’ Romans 16:16 NKJV

WANT TO HELP OUR KEYS COMMUNITY?

ENGLISH SERVICE Sunday Bible Study 10am (on site) Service 11am (on site) Wednesday Bible Study 7:30pm (via teleconference)

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For those who wish to attend via teleconference dial 774.258.4149 or alternate # 716.293.9794 at the times listed above.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

MILES TO GO

MANDY MILES drops stuff, breaks things and falls down more than any adult should. She’s married to a saintly — and handy — fisherman, and has been stringing words together in Key West since 1998.

THE FRIENDLY SKIES?

Remember how dignified air travel used to be, with hot meals, a choice of entrees, and even warm chocolate chip cookies baked right on board those former Midwest Express

flights? Of course, those were also the days of smoke-filled airplane cabins and seats with ashtrays in the armrests, so some things have moved in the right direction. But if you ask me, people have gotten way too comfortable aboard airplanes and even inside airports, where they sprawl on the floor like a teenager doing homework, using their carry-on as a pillow while charging their phone or tablet. Let’s start with some basics. Can we at least agree to keep our shoes on while inside the airplane and seated just inches from six other people? I’m sorry, sir, but no one wants to see your nasty bare foot, hanging well into the aisle while you snore and cough behind your face mask. That was just gross. And that foot hung there for the duration of our recent flight from Atlanta to Key West. We flew last weekend to my cousin’s beautiful wedding in Charlottesville, Virginia, meeting my parents, brother, sister-in-law and two nephews for a long weekend. I will say I was proud of my fellow air travelers in some ways. No one was tossed from the flight for refusing to wear a mask. No one threatened or assaulted a flight attendant or other passenger over the efficacy of masks or the threat of COVID.

But is the bar really that low? Does any non-violent trip now qualify as a “nice flight?” If so, we’ve got problems. Human behavior, empathy and insight (the ability to look clearly at your own thoughts and behaviors) are sorely lacking in today’s society. Common courtesy, self-awareness and personal responsibility have gone by the wayside, not just in the air, but in daily life as well. Their absence is just more pronounced and noticeable in the close confines of a flying tube. So let’s review: • Keep your shoes on. • Don’t cross the line. There’s an invisible barrier between my seat and the stranger’s next to me. Keep your feet and knees in your space. • There are typically three seats in an airplane row, three seats and three armrests. Each person gets one armrest. Don’t be greedy. • For now, face masks are federally required on flights and inside airports. The flight attendant didn’t make the rule, and can’t cancel it. So wear the damn mask and shut up. Be glad it’s not a muzzle. • The gate agent did not cancel your flight or summon the thunderstorm that did. Back off and be nice. She’s trying to help. • There are people waiting behind you. No one else can get to their seat until you stash your bag and move out of the aisle. This isn’t rocket science. Other than that, have a nice flight. And if you didn’t, try calling an airline’s customer service line to complain. That oughta keep you occupied for a few days.

BRIEFLY Community Foundation grants $10,000 for autism ‘toolboxes’ The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys recently granted $10,000 to the Autism Society of the Keys, to provide sensory boxes for schools and childcare centers countywide, to help teachers and caregivers better serve Florida Keys children with autism. “Teachers and staff receive training on how to use the sensory box. Each black toolbox contains hand-picked items like a pair of headphones, a dry erase board, a timer and a weighted puppy, all of which will help establish a rapport with children on the autism spectrum when experiencing sensory overload,” said Jill Campbell, founder and executive director of the Autism Society of the Keys. Campbell said the project started last year when Key West Police Chief Sean Brandenburg asked for help creating a box that officers could have in their police cars that would contain specific items to help when they encounter children or adults with disabilities, specifically autism. Thanks to the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys and other donors, sensory boxes continue to be available countywide at each location of the Monroe County Fire Rescue, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Key West Fire Department, and Key West Police Department, as well as in first responders’ vehicles, including ambulances and School Resource Officers’ vehicles. Soul of Key West music calendar a free download Stay connected with Key West musicians all year long. Photographer Ralph De Palma has made his 2022 Soul of Key West calendar available for free download at soul-of-keywest. com. Enjoy a new photo of your favorite Key West musician every month. Their birthdays are highlighted.

“We have all missed our normal Key West music scene with 55 venues for live music,” De Palma said, adding, “Richard Hatch of Saluté began a free concert at the Higgs Beach pavilion. He ran an electric cord from his restaurant (Saluté) to the beach pavilion for sound and lights. He signed up the hottest band in Key West, the Coconut Victrola, and started free Sunday evening concerts that are safe, outdoor, socially distanced and free.” For a limited time download a free 2022 Soul of Key West calendar. Tourist Development Council wins 5 marketing awards The Monroe County Tourist Development Council, the county agency responsible for marketing the Florida Keys & Key West to visitors, won five top Flagler Awards last week at the 2021 Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism. The TDC won “Henry Awards” for Best in Show for destination marketing budgets in excess of $2 million and in the Print Advertising, Radio Advertising, Direct Marketing and Sustainable Tourism Marketing categories. The TDC also garnered finalist honors in the Out-of-Home, Niche Marketing and Mobile Marketing divisions. The awards recognize campaigns that were executed in 2020. “In a year where we needed to update information and deliverables almost on a daily basis because of COVID-19, the team understood what was expected of them and remained flexible,” said TDC director Stacey Mitchell of staff and promotional agencies including NewmanPR, Tinsley Advertising and Two Oceans Digital. “They stayed on point with balancing the economic health of our county, protecting the health of Keys residents and keeping our workforce employed while remaining focused on TDC’s sustainability messaging.”

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

HASSLE FREE TRAVEL YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS WITH AIR TREK PRIVATE JET CHARTERS FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1978!

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CALL TO ARTISTS WE WANT YOU TO DESIGN & BUILD A FLOAT FOR THE SIXTH ANNUAL SMALLEST PARADE IN THE UNIVERSE The SMALLEST Parade in the Universe returns on

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2021 LIVESTREAMED FROM THE STUDIOS!

An official Fantasy Fest Event with the theme for this year’s parade: ALL A DAZE FOR A HOLIDAY All proceeds benefitting MARC and floats will be exhibited for the ENTIRE month of October in the main gallery of The Studios of Key West!

For more information or a parade application please go to thesmallestparadeintheuniverse.com or contact Becki @ MARC 305.294.9526 xt 25 or info@thesmallestparadeintheuniverse.com

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

TIME TO GET

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021 A northern waterthrush at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. MARK HEDDEN/Keys

LITTLE BROWN BIRDS AND THE ROLE OF ROCKING

northern waterthrush is the color of root beer. It’s the color of the Danish modern couch my parents brought back from Germany when they lived there, the one we had before the velvety blue one, the one that was always too itchy to nap on. It’s the color of the stain-proof polyester uniform my friend Laurie wore when she worked at the Lucky 7 Dairy Bar in Medford, New Jersey in 1985, before the place burned to the ground, MARK was rebuilt, then burned to the ground again. It’s the HEDDEN color of the 1973 Dodge Duster my sister had. It’s a color now seldom seen in the manmade world. ... is a photograReally, though, a northern waterthrush, at least pher, writer, and semi-professional the parts that aren’t yellowy white-ish, is the color of birdwatcher. He mud. Which works for them. has lived in Key I bring this up because I saw my first one of West for more the season the other day. And my second one. And than 25 years and my fourth one. They’ll be around for the next six or may no longer be employable in seven months, but it’s still a challenge to get a good the real world. He look at them. is also executive The northern waterthrush is a wood warbler, director of the one of the vast mixed bouquet of 40 species of Florida Keys Auduwood warblers recorded in the Keys. They’re mibon Society. grants, though arguably some of them spend more time here than in their breeding territory. They are tied with the Louisiana waterthrush for third-drabbest warbler. Its Louisiana counterpart looks so much like a northern waterthrush that birders sometimes argue about which one they see, a debate that can prompt years-long grudges. (The award for drabbest and second-drabbest warbler goes to the Swainson’s warbler and the orange-crowned warbler, but that’s another story.) The drab color serves a purpose. It always brings to mind those John le Carré characters whose ability to fade unnoticed into the background make them the effective spies. (Kind of the opposite of the James Bond/Archer model.) The plain brown wrapper is not so much camouflage as a disenchantment spell, aimed not so much at espionage – who are they going to tell their secrets to? – but rather moving through the world without drawing attention. There are generally two ways to find a northern waterthrush – by sound or by the fact that they are creatures of habitat. Most bird books, especially the older ones, go on and on about the melodious beauty of their song. And it is, in fact, a lovely song if you listen to the recordings. But it’s not something we hear here, as they are not trying to stake out breeding territory or attract a mate. What we get is their chip, the one-note contact call that warblers make to let other warblers know where they are. The northern waterthrush’s contact call is distinct – lower in pitch than most warblers, sounding a little slurred, almost like the bird is trying to issue two identical notes at the same time. Once you hear it, it is only a matter of patience until you catch sight of one. The habitat they like is usually consistent – someplace wet with a lot of exposed earth/mud and a good bit of cover. They don’t really enjoy oceans or rivers, instead preferring swamps, salt ponds, seasonal wetlands and puddles. The stiller the water, the better. If it looks like a good spot to breed mosquitoes, it’s perfect, though the list of things they’ll pluck out of the mud – small crabs, mollusks, spiders, ants, flies, small seeds, grit and beetles – oddly does not include mosquitos.

The name waterthrush is a holdover from when they were misplaced on the taxonomic tree and thought to be very small thrushes that were fond of water. Once they were recognized as part of the wood warbler family, the name “bogbird” was suggested as more appropriate, but the folks at the American Ornithologists Union, who make the official bird-naming decisions, stuck with the shopworn and familiar name over an accurate and unconfusing one. Northern waterthrushes are part of a personal and decidedly non-scientific classification I call “the rockers.” Not in terms of Springsteen, Heart, Car Seat Headrest or Van Halen, but because their body always rocks as they walk. Palm warblers, with their always twitching tails, are in that category. As are spotted sandpipers. Northern waterthrushes rock with a constant pelvic thrusting. I spent a lot of time looking at YouTube videos the other day before deciding it looks less like Elvis Presley’s 1956 appearance on the Milton Berle show and more like quarter-speed twerking, a slow boop boop boop of the hips. (Sometimes I look at them and imagine them bouncing a cartoon basketball with their rump.) So while their earthy tones and tendency to lurk beneath logs and behind branches makes them hard to see, the rocking kind of blows their cover. The purpose of all this rocking? Unknown. Anything you read about a northern waterthrush will describe the action, but no one with any scientific reputation seems to want to plumb the behavior. There are theories: It matches the rhythm of ripples in the water, and thus helps hide them from predators. It helps disguise their approach to unsuspecting bugs, making it easier to sneak up on them. It helps scare unsuspecting bugs as they approach, creating panic and making them easier to spot. It shows predators they have a lot of excess energy, making them seem like a pain in the ass to catch. It shows their fitness to a mate. It helps them digest their food. But really, no one knows. And thinking about science and the scientific method and the questions they are prepared to answer, there’s a good chance no one is ever going to really know. You just have to accept the fact that northern waterthrushes evolved this behavior over thousands of years, and for some reason, it works for them. All you can really do is try to appreciate it as one of life’s odder mysteries and maybe, whenever you see one, think: keep on rocking, little dude. Keep on rocking.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

‘A MISSING PIECE’ Commissioners take a moment for Mike JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

A picture of County Commissioner Mike Forster and a poster with various pictures sit on his desk inside the Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

Mike Forster’s seat has his name tag and flowers during the Sept. 15 meeting of the Monroe Board of County Commissioners. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

n the second floor of the Murray Nelson Government Center is the office of Monroe County Commissioner Mike Forster. On the desk stood a picture frame of Forster and a poster with various images of his smile. On the first floor, a notable presence and voice was missing at the Monroe Board of County Commissioners Sept. 15 meeting in Key Largo. Forster’s seat to the far left next to Commissioner David Rice would still see his name plate and flowers. A video tribute to Forster would begin the meeting. “We are one man down today,” Monroe County Mayor Michelle Coldiron said to kick off the meeting. “We are missing Mike. It’s impossible to sum up Mike in just a few minutes. “He wasn’t just a commissioner or councilman, he wasn’t just a (member of a) board of directors, he was our friend. He cared immensely about the community and he lived fully,” she continued. Commissioner David Rice said Forster was a friend to him and a friend to Monroe County. Commissioner Craig Cates said Forster was a “truly special person.” “He was so sincere and gave back to his community in public service and private life. He will be truly missed and there’s a hole in the community.” The easiest way to describe Forster, for Commissioner Eddie Martinez, was that he was a real, genuine person. “He said what he felt and felt what he said,” Martinez said. “There’s big shoes to fill with Mike gone.” Later in the meeting, commissioners received a COVID-19 update from Shannon Weiner, emergency management director, and Bob Eadie, top health officer for Monroe County. Latest data from Sept. 13 saw 40 new cases, six of those being minors. Average cases for the past week totaled 36. That’s down from the previous week, 44, and 55 the week before that.

“We’re experiencing a little trend here,” Weiner said. Twenty-seven patients with COVID-19 were being cared for at Lower Keys Medical Center in Key West as of Sept. 15. Four COVID-19 patients were receiving care at Mariners Hospital in Tavernier. Weiner said both hospitals are operating in green status, with both providing monoclonal treatment. While Eadie said he’s encouraged by the downward trend in new cases, he raised concern over the number of children testing positive for COVID-19 and the number of patients in hospitals who are unvaccinated. “If you’re starting to feel ill, get health care attention as soon as possible,” Eadie said. “The monoclonal antibody treatment available has been very successful, but it has to be started after the onset of disease. If it progresses too far where people put off medical help, the efficacy of that treatment is diminished greatly.” A motion was approved by commissioners to reopen the small park on Bay Drive in Key Largo on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays through November. The park has seen its issues of overcrowding and cars parked throughout the neighborhood over the years, as it became better known to visitors. Commissioners not only closed the park from June to Labor Day, but they also installed no-parking signs within the neighborhood with $200 fines for offenders. The boat ramp remains open. “I think this is a pretty clearly defined problem. You got a small neighborhood park that absolutely cannot meet the needs by the number of people who discovered it,” Rice said. Assistant County Administrator Kevin Wilson told commissioners that several groups are looking for space at the old Plantation Key Courthouse building. With a new Monroe County Government Center being constructed, the 16th Judicial Circuit Court, county clerk of the court, state attorney, sheriff's office and public works will be moving over. That leaves space at the old building available. Among the organizations desiring space are JOY, or Just for Older Youth, NOAA and juvenile justice. “We won’t be out of there until later this year or next year,” Wilson said. “There is a plan we’re going to have to put together. I’m a little leery trying to walk through judge rooms and say, ‘We’re going to put someone here and there.’ Let them operate until they move into the new courthouse, then we’ll handle requests.”

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

OBITUARY

MIKE FORSTER, AKA MANGROVE MIKE and MR. ISLAMORADA

orn into a family of anglers, Mike came into the world with a fishing rod in hand on Oct. 21, 1960, in Portsmouth, Virginia, to Milton Forster and Penny Joseph. The youngest of five siblings, he could be found fishing in his backyard, on piers and along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay throughout his youth and teenage years. Into adulthood, fishing continued as his passion, serving as the driving force with all he did, including landing in Islamorada in 1990 after living for a short time in Miami. At a young age, he was driven to serve those in need and continued with that drive until his passing on Sept. 6, 2021. Mike spent most of his years living in Islamorada yet served those in need throughout the Upper Keys and eventually throughout the Florida Keys. Long an Islamorada resident, he moved to Key Largo in 2020. In his down time, he enjoyed fishing and boating, and knew how not to be found somewhere in Florida Bay, a place he fought to preserve, and Everglades National Park, enjoying fishing in his nirvana, where he once spent an unfortunate night stranded without fuel. Mike was never without his “Makau” or Hawaiian fishhook necklace, always reminding him of its important symbolism – “ensuring a safe passage over water and bringing good fortune and strength to those who wear it.” After stints at several Upper Keys restaurants including Pilot House and Melon’s, Mike opened the popular Mangrove Mike’s Café and Catering in 1998, opening a second location at Bud N’ Mary’s Marina in 2020. Public service called on Mike in the early 2000s when he first served on the Local Planning Agency for the Village of

Islamorada, soon followed by his initial campaign for the elected office of Village Council in 2002. After a break, he campaigned again in 2008, ultimately serving five consecutive terms for 12 years before terming out. He set his sights on the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners, winning the District Five seat in November 2020. In addition to his elected public service, Mike served on the board of several not-for-profits including United Way of Collier and the Florida Keys, Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition, MARC and Islamorada Chamber of Commerce. He was made an honorary member with the Key Largo Sunset Rotary in 2020. One of his most cherished and celebrated missions involved traveling with a group of locals led by Pastor Tony Hammon to Uganda, Africa, to serve hundreds of children living in orphanages, making annual treks from 2016 through 2018. He provided cows, food, soccer balls and bikes, as well as Shoes That Grow to several hundred children during the trips. Using excess campaign funds, he purchased equipment and built the Rick Strong Children’s Playground in memory of his “brother-from-another-mother” Rick Moeller. Mike formed special bonds during these trips with Dr. Miguel Diaz and Pastor Tony, who saw him through his final weeks on earth. Practicing random acts of kindness was part of Mike’s DNA, helping hardworking individuals and families when they most needed a boost. Whether he found out through the welcoming place of his café or out on the street, his offers to help came as a comfort to countless people. In the wake of Hurricane Irma in 2017, he opened his café immediately, feeding first responders and those in need for several weeks for free. After many years of giving to organizations and others, Mike established his own foundation, Mangrove Mike’s Endeavors Paying Forward, at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, creating a mechanism for donations to provide food for those in need, first responders and healthcare workers, while also arranging for deliveries to be made by others or himself.

Always a dog lover, he has owned, or really, they have owned him, several dogs over the years, including several vizslas, a breed Mike favored. He leaves behind brother-and-sister duo Henry and Ms. Joy, named in memory of the late Capt. Hank and Joy Brown, now in the care of the Caceres family in Key Largo. A virtual Celebration of Life is being planned to be shared via social media. Per Mike’s wishes, his ashes will be scattered in his favorite fishing hole in Florida Bay, the place where he sought and found his peace, joining other legendary fishermen and guides who he loved and admired. To honor Mike’s memory, a foundation board will be created to continue his legacy of serving the entire Keys community. Donations can be made to Mangrove Mike’s Endeavors Paying Forward, P.O. Box 1459, Islamorada, 33036. To support his efforts in Uganda, donations can be made in Mike’s memory to Island Community Church, 83250 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, 33070, or via www.islandcommunitychurch.org/give. Donations can also be made to United Way of Collier and the Florida Keys and Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition. Mike loved sharing inspirational quotes daily on Facebook, with many of his friends near and far looking forward to these each morning. His final post read, “The past is in your head. The future is in your hands.” Let’s put Mike’s legacy in our hands to continue to his selfless giving for years to come. As Mike said, “It’s all about giving back, man.”

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

Mike Forster and Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation officer Bobby Dube prepare pulled pork during a food drive in Key Largo last year. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

REMEMBERING MIKE A man with a heart and a will to tackle various causes JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

lown-out windows from Hurricane Irma didn’t stop Mike Forster from opening his cafe to feed the many who responded to the disaster. A complete closure of the Keys to visitors during the early stages of the COVID-19 affected businesses and paychecks, propelling the Mangrove Mike’s Cafe owner to step up and help out in a time of need. Ask Forster’s close friends what made him special to a tight-knit Upper Keys community, and they’ll say it was his heart. An animal lover whose nirvana was fishing in the Everglades, Forster inspired many people by his many causes, from a student’s education to shoes for Ugandan children. Island Community Church Pastor Tony Hammon met Forster more than a decade ago. Their relationship would begin with the two on opposite sides on village issues. But over time, the respect grew, and so did a close bond when Hammon would show Forster pictures of his mission trips to Africa. Forster would end up participating in three mission trips to Uganda. “Every time I’d show him pictures of the kids he’d tear up,” he said. “In 2016, he talked about really wanting to go.” Hammon recalls a moment at the Atlanta airport on the way to Africa, when Forster and he received a phone call with news that Rick Moeller passed away after a bout with cancer. Both

were wearing Rick Strong bracelets at the time. While grieving, Forster told Hammon he wanted to honor Rick, and thus came the “Rick Strong” playground. “Doing all those things together, a real friendship developed. Then he moved into a house right next door to me,” Hammon said. “He had a great relationship going with (my wife) Colleen’s mom, who was 96 years old. You would have thought Mike was her son. “Everyone who knew Mike, he was their best friend, or they were his best friend. I have said dozens of times he was sort of the catalyst for the heart and soul of Islamorada in so many ways,” he continued. Former village councilwoman Deb Gillis met Forster in the early 2000s when she purchased Sunset Inn, located next to his cafe. Having served on the dais for a number of years with Fortser, Gillis said he was communityminded, well educated and made sound decisions based on his beliefs in what would benefit everyone. “I never got the impression it was for him or to enhance his goals,” she said. “It was always about the community.”

Mike Forster meets with children during a mission trip to Uganda. CONTRIBUTED

Gillis said she’ll never forget the times Forster was there for her after the passing of her husband, Larry, in 2014. “He was there by my side when that was going on. He became family. That’s what he did for everybody,” Gillis said. Former Islamorada councilman and current state Rep. Jim Mooney met Forster around the time of the village’s incorporation in 1997. Mooney said Forster would attend every meeting in the early days. Mooney and Forster served on the dais together in 2002 and from 2014 to 2020. Forster would go on to become county commissioner for District 5 following an election win in November 2020. Mooney won election to the state House that year. “He jumped into politics for the first time and he started his countdown days. He had a calendar crossing the days off until he could get out of there,” Mooney recalled with a laugh. “He got out of it for a bit there, and we became better friends. I ended up finding out he was a fisherman and we’d go out every now and then together.” Forster’s vision was working to make people’s lives better, whether it was clean water or workforce housing. “Those issues we still deal with today was his mantra,” Mooney said. “It’s hard to accomplish all the goals you want, but Mike was persistent and was good at it.” Hammon will remember the scene of Ugandan children surrounding Forster, who would hand out Jolly Ranchers. He’ll also look back fondly on the time spent during flights learning more about him. “I’ll remember hanging out around my boat trailer and skiff and talk about the day. It was not uncommon to pull up with the truck and ask for help unloading stuff, and it would be a load of vegetables from Farm Share,” he said. “When he addressed me, it would be ‘my pastor’ or ‘my spiritual adviser.’ I knew I was in for a project.” Judith Liggett spends half the year in the Keys. She said one of the highlights was returning to the Mike Forster presents a plaque in honor of Councilman Ken Davis during a Nov. Keys and seeing Forster. 19, 2020 meeting of Islamorada Village “He was a kind and loving soul Council. The plaque is hanging at Fire … a true humanitarian and generStation 20 in Islamorada. JIM McCARTHY/ ous to the core,” she said. “He will Keys Weekly be missed so very much by all who had the honor to know him.” Gillis also won’t forget what Forster did for a mother and her child from the Bahamas who he found sitting at a grocery store with no place to go. Forster would get them a room at Sunset Inn for a couple days to help them out. “He didn’t know that woman,” Gillis said. “He always wanted to give. He took care of everyone else before he took care of himself sometimes. That’s what made him special. If there was a need he was going to figure out how to do something about it. “It doesn’t matter if you’re serving one person or 2,000 people,” Gillis continued. “If you can affect one person, that means a lot.” What made Forster special was his heart, Hammon said. “He would see a cause and he would tackle it. A lot of times we’d function alike. The plan would form as we were in the middle of the project,” he said. “If there was no food for anybody, well, here’s the plan: we're going to cook food and serve people. Think about all the causes from Florida Bay and MARC and everything in between, he was in 100%.” Capt. Skip Bradeen remembers the tent Forster put up in front of his restaurant during Irma and the constant donations of food, the personnel and the smiles he shared with the community. Bradeen, who’s a member of the Islamorada Boat Association, said he’s requesting members to dedicate the Blessing of the Fleet on Jan. 1, 2022 to Forster. “What a wonderful person and community citizen he was,” Bradeen said. “He was always so involved with projects that were near and dear to him and to make a difference for all of us.”

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

FORMER STATE REP. RASCHEIN APPLIES TO FILL FORSTER’S SEAT

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

community continues to grieve following the loss of Mike Forster from a weekslong battle with COVID-19. His passing on the morning of Sept. 6 remains fresh and in the hearts of many, as social media posts remember his community spirit. As the healing continues, the process begins for Gov. Ron DeSantis to decide who will fill Forster’s county commission seat through November 2022. An election would then take place for the remaining two years of Forster’s term. While a timetable for a decision remains unknown, those interested in serving can now apply. One of the people applying for the seat, which represents Key Largo and Tavernier, is former state representative for the Florida Keys, Holly Merrill Raschein. Serving on the Keys’ behalf for eight years in Tallahassee, Raschein is no stranger to the political scene and the issues facing the island chain. Last December, she started her new job with AshBritt Environmental as director of governmental relations. And she remains an active community member in the Keys, with service on the Monroe County Education Foundation’s board of di-

Former state Rep. Holly Raschein has submitted an application to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ office for the vacant county commission seat in District 5. CONTRIBUTED

rectors, Key Largo Rotary Club and Young Philanthropists of Baptist Health. Raschein said she’d known Forster since her early days in politics as a legislative aide. Forster’s public service began in the early 2000s as an Islamorada Local Planning Agency member. He would then serve five terms, or 12 years, as an Islamorada council member before going on to become a county commissioner in November 2020. Raschein submitted her application to serve Forster’s remaining term on Sept, 13. “I wish I did not have the opportunity to serve as the governor’s appointee to the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners. I wish Mike Forster were still alive; that COVID had not taken him too soon as it has taken far too many,” she wrote in her application. “He was doing an outstanding job, and I will never take his place. “However, I would like to believe that out of this tragedy, I can continue his legacy by leveraging my two decades of service to the Florida Keys. I know our people, our issues, our past and our potential. If given the opportunity, I will work tirelessly to make Mike proud,” she continued. Raschein added that serving in office has been a big part of her life,

so much that she missed it. And she said her base is the Upper Keys, a place she’s built her life around. “It’s something that I actually know how to do,” she said. “I know the issues, obviously, and I know most if not all the players. And it’s in my backyard.” Monroe County Mayor Michelle Coldiron and current state Rep. Jim Mooney are among the elected officials who sent recommendation letters for Raschein to the governor’s office. “Commissioner Forster and former Rep. Raschein not only collaborated on many unique issues within the Florida Keys — they were friends who supported each other, and it is my belief that Commissioner Forster would be comforted to see Holly as his replacement,” Coldiron wrote. As the governor’s decision looms, the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners gathered for a regularly scheduled meeting on Sept. 15 at the Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo. “I know Mike would appreciate it and would support it,” Raschein said following her decision to submit her name to the governor. “Forster deferred to me before he even ran (for county commission).”

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

Peter Vey Ballast Key, now re-named Wolkowsky Key after its former owner David Wolkowsky, has had a rich history of creative visitors in film, literature, and fine art, including Tennessee Williams, Truman Capote, Jimmy Buffett, Gloria Estefan and others. The island, Florida Straits, 50 x 60, Oil on Linen located nine miles west of Key West, is now under the stewardship of The Nature Conservancy, and is deeded to the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. The main house and guest house remain much the same as during the heyday of David’s celebrity entertainments. A recent week-end visit to the now tranquil refuge by Peter inspired a series of pieces. His amazing ability to absorb and translate his visual surroundings are evident in these works. Works Available on Approval & Concierge Services from Key West to Key Largo The Gallery on Greene | 606 Greene Street | Key West, Florida galleryongreene.com | 305-304-2323

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

POWERFUL PARTNERS

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eys Energy Services (KEYS) is sending 60 power transformers to Houma, Louisiana, to help the power company in Terrebonne Parish with post-Hurricane Ida power restoration. On Sept. 14, KEYS crews loaded the power transformers onto a semi-trailer truck that will deliver the equipment to Houma. “At KEYS we are well aware of the challenges utilities face in restoring power after a major weather event,” said Lynne Tejeda, KEYS’ general manager and CEO. “While boots on the ground do the physical work of restoring power, equipment shortages can adversely impact their progress. KEYS was not called on to assist with post-Hurricane Ida restoration efforts, but the shipment of these transformers will hasten restoration efforts and help light the path to recovery for our fellow citizens on the Gulf Coast.” CONTRIBUTED

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

SOUTH DAKOTA WOMAN WINS KEY WEST FISHING TOURNAMENT KATELYNN WELLS SET 2 TOURNAMENT WEIGHT RECORDS

South Dakota woman was named the women’s master angler in the Key West Fishing Tournament after scoring multiple divisional wins and tournament records in the longrunning challenge that spans eight months. Katelynn Wells, a resident of Miller, took top honors for overall releases with 59, including six dolphin fish, as well as tallying 14 division-leading catches including a 28-pound amberjack, a 12-pound barracuda on plug and a 17-pound red snapper on 30-pound test line that set a divisional record. She also scored three “heaviest fish” wins and two fish that set tournament weight records: a 2.8-pound ladyfish on plug and a 4.8-pound sea trout on 12-pound line. Wells fished on Off the Rock with Captain Brad Nowicki and on Live Action Sportfishing with Captain Ryan Carter, both of Key West. The men’s master angler was Rob Ripka of Pulaski, New York. His achievements included catching two division-leading fish on 12-pound line — a 12-pound bonito and a 4-pound yellowtail snapper — as well as a division-leading 31.6-pound kingfish. Fishing on Bait Stealer with Captain Dale Bittner of Key West, he also set a “heaviest fish” record for catching a 6-pound yellowtail on 30-pound line. Ten-year-old Julia Bernstein of Miami, fishing in the peewee division, eclipsed her competitors to earn the peewee master angler

award for achievements including a remarkable 104 releases. Her catches included a 23.8-pound Jack Crevalle on 30-pound line that earned a tournament weight record, a 24.8-pound barracuda on 20-pound line that earned divisional “heaviest fish” honors, four other “heaviest fish” winners and three division leaders. The young Bernstein fished with Bittner on Bait Stealer and also on a private boat. Captain Bill Wickers III of the Linda D V earned overall guide honors in the general division, tallying 14 winners and a division-topping 36 releases including three marlin. Captain Brice Barr of the Double Down was named top guide in the light general division, guiding his anglers to a divisional best of 66 releases — 64 of them sailfish. Captain Tim Carlile of the Outcast earned the overall guide achievement award in the flats division. He also guided his anglers to the most flats releases with 213, including 86 tarpons. Celebrating the diverse variety of fish found in Florida Keys waters, the Key West Fishing Tournament provides recognition and awards to anglers posting the heaviest catch in each of 33 species and the most releases of fish in seven other species. The 2021 tournament drew 312 participating anglers who entered 753 releases and 262 weighed catches. For a complete list of winners and catches, visit keywestfishingtournament.com. The 2022 challenge is scheduled to begin Dec. 1, 2021 and continue until July 31, 2022. — Contributed

Julia Bernstein, 10, seen here with Dale Bittner, wins the Peewee Division with 104 releases in the Key West Fishing Tournament. HEIDI MASON/Contributed

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WHAT TO DO THIS WEEK

READ | THE SPLENDID AND THE VILE Erik Larson’s 2020 bestselling “saga of Churchill, family and defiance during the Blitz” explores the first year of Winston Churchill’s term as prime minister, when England entered Hitler’s crosshairs,but not in a way that reads like a history book. Larson brings history to life, writing about events and eras in a way that’s not only readable, but riveting. He has written about deadly hurricanes, shipwrecks and a serial killer preying on young women against the backdrop of the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago.

WATCH | THE WHITE LOTUS This six-episode comedy/drama by showrunner Mike White was inspired by the claustrophobia of being cooped up with loved ones during the pandemic. Set in a Hawaiian resort over the course of a week, the opening flash-forward scene shows a coffin being loaded onto an airplane. We’re left to ponder “Who’s going to die?” as we watch each episode. One of the beleaguered staff, or one of the privileged guests? Beautiful Hawaiian music serves as an eerie backdrop to the scenes, which reveal more of each character’s complexity the deeper into the series the viewer gets. LISTEN | SWAY This podcast from Kara Swisher, who covers tech for the New York Times, is about way more than tech. Two recent episodes: ‘Is Limitless Choice Killing Us Slowly’ and ‘$54 Billion Later, Why Is Flying Still a Headache?’ Swisher gets smart guests — who are not necessarily friendly — and doesn’t let them easily evade answering her smart questions. One of the best interviewers around.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

KEY WEST SHIPWRECK HOSTS 9/11 TRIBUTE

2 3

A DEEPER MEANING

ey West honored the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks with a unique tribute in a special place — nearly 100 feet underwater on the deck of the Vandenberg. The 522-foot-long World War II ship was intentionally sunk as an artificial reef in 2009 off Key West, and has since become a popular dive site and marine habitat. The Vandenberg is now home to a sculpture made by artist Sandra Priest, whose 9/11 Up project places sculptures made from remnants of the World Trade Center in locations around the country. Another sculpture resides at the Key West Firehouse Museum. A father-son pair of naval officers and divers, Bond Henry and Cameron Henry, helped orchestrate the Vandenberg tribute that included a flyover by Navy helicopter

and the unfurling of a giant American flag that is now secured to the wreck. Photographer Scott Belt procured the 30- by 40-foot flag and photographed the ceremony from above and below the surface. “This thing took on a life of its own. Everyone was eager to help however they could and be a part of this,” said Capt. Joe Weatherby, who spearheaded the sinking of the Vandenberg in 2009 and initially conceived the 20th anniversary tribute. Dozens of divers from local dive boats descended on the wreck the morning of Sept. 11 to witness the American flag draping a legendary military ship and visit the new sculptures. — Weekly staff report

SCOTT BELT/Contributed 1. Naval officer Cameron Henry of Jacksonville secures an American flag to the Vandenberg on Sept. 11. 2. Bond Henry, Cody Frank and Cameron Henry prepare to unfurl the giant American flag that is now attached to the Vandenberg, a former military ship that was sunk as an artificial reef off Key West. 3. A diver on the Vandenberg wreck checks out an underwater 9/11 sculpture, made from remnants of the World Trade Center, that now resides on the deck of the former military ship. 4. Navy commander Bond Henry and diver Cody Frank join the underwater 9/11 tribute on the Vandenberg wreck off Key West on Sept. 11. 5. A diver on the Vandenberg wreck photographs the new sculptures by artist Sandra Priest, who created her 9/11 Up project from remnants of the World Trade Center.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

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TIFFANY DUONG

‘I AM FOREVER CHANGED’

tiffany@keysweekly.com

UPPER KEYS ARTISTS CREATE STUNNING ART DURING MONTH-LONG RESIDENCY AT DRY TORTUGAS

“W

e feel like the luckiest guys on Earth,” Austin Armstrong said. “Guys buy private islands to fish all day, and we got a taste

of that.” Armstrong, a traditional Japanese fish print artist, and conservation photographer Ian Wilson-Navarro spent all of August living on Loggerhead Key, the most remote island in the Florida Keys and the largest of seven islands that make up Dry Tortugas National Park. Both are Upper Keys natives, artists, fishermen and friends. The pair are also the most recent artists-in-residence at the park. The artist-in-residence (AiR) program is a collaboration between National Park Arts Foundation and the National Park Service. It aims to connect the world’s most talented artists with America’s most remote National Parks to capture and share their beauty. The most recent Dry Tortugas AiR program was specifically for local artists and partially funded in collaboration with Key West Art and Historical Society. The residency included the rare opportunity to live in the historic lighthouse keeper’s residence on Loggerhead Key. With 98% of the park being underwater, the duo focused their projects around fishing and boating — two of their favorite hobbies. They spent their days repairing and pushing the limits of “Dorito,” an inflatable red dinghy they brought with them. The abundance of the marine environment quickly caught their attention, with “impressive size fish for native Keys species,” Armstrong said in a presentation on his final night at the park. “It is so clear that protecting natural

resources like they are really good at doing in the park makes such a drastic difference from where Ian and I are from in the Upper Keys. We saw it in everything, from the amount of life to the size of the fish to the health of the reef.” As for their creations, the artists showcased the rich abundance of the area in very different, but complementary, ways. Armstrong took every fish the pair caught into his care, cleaning it, painting it with black, non-toxic ink and creating a traditional-style Japanese gyotaku print of the fish. This was how fishermen could capture the exact details of fish they caught “for bragging rights with their buddies,” Armstrong said. He used the same methods to create realistic, exact representations of what he and WilsonNavarro caught and then ate. Wilson-Navarro was rarely without his camera. With his natural freediving and fishing abilities, he captured incredible moments above and below the water, including baby sea turtles emerging from a nest and historic Fort Jefferson framed between a meteor shower and a tropical storm. His epic photographs serve as a record of what life is like on the remote islet now, and what it may have been like throughout the Keys in decades long gone. “It was like jumping into a time machine,” he said. “There are things here that I never thought I would see in my life. … I am forever changed. My life will never be the same.”

Their month away from everything inspired the artists to share what they’ve learned with fellow Conchs throughout the Keys in hopes of inspiring future conservation efforts. “I’m glad we were able to find people so close to home that were the perfect candidate for this.,” said Cori Convertito, museum curator for Key West Art and Historical Society. “They’re home-grown and understand the shifting ecosystem and why that matters.” Introducing the artists for their final presentation, Curtis Hall, lead park ranger for interpretation, education & volunteers said, “These guys fully captured the essence and resources of the park. … Our national parks are wonderlands where we strive for balance between conservation, preservation and use.” The artists will exhibit at the Islamorada Art Walk on Thursday, Sept. 16 as well as throughout the Keys in upcoming months. WilsonNavarro, who also shoots for the Keys Weekly, is planning a coffee table book “that will live on forever and inspire action in the rest of the archipelago to bring things back.” Follow Armstong on Instagram at @armstrong_originals and Wilson-Navarro at @ianwilsonn. 1. Traditional Japanese fish print artist Austin Armstrong stands with one of his final prints. CONTRIBUTED 2. Dry Tortugas National Park artists-inresidence spend one month on the remote islet Loggerhead Key, which boasts a historic lighthouse and hundreds of nesting sea turtles. IAN WILSON-NAVARRO/Keys Weekly 3. Armstrong and Wilson-Navarro spent their days fishing in permitted areas and experiencing all the local waters have to offer. IAN WILSON-NAVARRO/Keys Weekly 4. Dry Tortugas National Park boasts some of the best dark skies and astrophotography around. IAN WILSON-NAVARRO/Keys Weekly

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

SPORTS & MORE RALPH MORROW

RARE OPPORTUNITY TO SEE LADY CONCHS VOLLEYBALL

f you hope to see Key West High School’s varsity volleyball team in action, this ... a veteran sports weekend is one of your few chances this columnist, says season. The Lady Conchs will host the the only sport Conch Cup with games Friday and Saturday, he doesn’t follow is cricket. That Sept. 17 and 18, at the Menendez Gym. leaves plenty Key West will face True North at 4 p.m. of others to fill Friday, and Marathon at 5 p.m. On Saturday, his time. the Lady Conchs oppose Palmer Trinity at 9 ralphmoro1936 a.m. and Mater Lakes Academy at 11 a.m. @gmail.com Other than that five-team tourney, new coach Sarah Eckert only has home matches scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 28 (against Marathon for Senior Night), Tuesday, Oct. 5 against Keys Gate and Thursday, Oct. 7 against Coral Shores. Those three contests will have junior varsity games at 4 p.m., followed by varsity matches at 5:30 p.m., all at Menendez Gym. Eckert was athletic director the past four years before going back to the coaching ranks. She brings with her a lot of enthusiasm and promises of successful seasons that could lead to district championships. She’s no stranger to volleyball, having been successful at the prep level in Riverside, California, and the college level at Butler University and Indianapolis University, both in Indiana. Yes, she was good enough as a 6’2” player in California to attract attention from Midwest universities. After getting her bachelor’s degree from Indianapolis, she obtained her master’s from the American College of Education and headed into the world, teaching sciences and coaching volleyball. But not in the cold North. She and her new husband, David Eckert, headed for Florida, including the Naples and Vero Beach areas before becoming athletic director at Key West. “I had been missing coaching,” said Eckert, 38. So, when Kim Butler resigned as head coach, Eckert stepped up. And she has Butler as her assistant. Jill Burnham is the head JV coach. At Vero Beach, Eckert was freshman coach her first year, then took over the head coaching position, taking the team to regional finals five times. This at a school that “hadn’t won a district title in a couple decades.” So, you can see why she intends to do likewise in Key West. The coach speaks positively of her 10-girl squad, using terms like “talented,” “quick” and “wealth of knowledge of the sport” without hesitation. The team will be without Monika Jaroszewicz for the Conch Cup as the sophomore injured her ankle at the Sept. 10-11 East Coast Challenge at Jensen Beach High School. Key West lost four matches in that tourney before defeating Pembroke Pines Charter. “It was a good learning experience,” said the coach. “We won some games along the way so it wasn’t a complete blowout.” Senior Lindsey Clausen will be at outside; sophomore Bridgette Sweeney will be middle back; junior Emiri Ichijo at libero; sophomore Elsie Warwick at opposite outside; junior Samantha Ventimiglia at the other middle; sophomore Victoria Pavlik at setter; sophomore Jocelyn Alfar and freshman Lucie Bublakova, secondary setter, and senior Amya Boose, defensive specialist.

Lady Conchs volleyball coach Sarah Eckert played college volleyball before becoming a teacher and coach. RALPH MORROW/Keys Weekly

CONCH GRIDDERS PLAY HOME OPENER Key West High School’s football team, winless in a pair of away contests this season, finally gets to play on its island, if not at its regular Tommy Roberts Memorial Stadium. Instead, the 0-2 Conchs will face another winless team, 0-3 St. Brendan, at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 17, at the high school Backyard. “It’s a district game, so that puts some more importance on it,” said Key West coach John Hughes. While the Conchs were getting a week off with a bye, the Sabres were losing to Belen Jesuit Prep, 43-6. St. Brendan had previously lost to Sunset, 14-7, and True North, 34-6. Key West has lost to Palmetto Ridge, 16-13 and Centennial, 42-14. “We don’t plan to change anything, but maybe the score,” said Hughes. “We hope to eliminate mistakes.” Also, Conch alum Mekhi Sargent was active on Sunday for the Tennessee Titans. The Key West graduate gained two yards in his only carry of the day. Arizona trimmed the Titans, 38-13. Tennessee plays at Seattle at 4:25 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 19.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

MINDING THEIR BUSINESS KEY WEST CHAMBER PRESENTS ANNUAL TRADE SHOW

anks to barber shops, hotels to hospitals, the annual Showcase of Keys Businesses, presented by the Key West Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Jacobs, brought scores of businesses together on Sept. 15 at the Marriott Beachside Hotel. Promotional booths filled the room, as representatives offered giveaways and information about their products, services and, in many cases, job openings. The chamber of commerce has presented its trade show for more than 30 years, with occasional interruptions due to hurricanes and pandemics. The event is free and open to the public in the afternoon. In the evening, the show is open to chamber members and their invited guests, who enjoy beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres as the show turns into the chamber’s monthly after-hours networking event. — Weekly staff report

STEPHANIE MITCHELL/Keys Weekly 1. Mt. Sinai Cardiology of the Florida Keys offers full cardiac care in Key West and Marathon.

2. Key West resident Barbara peruses dozens of booths at the Key West Chamber’s annual trade show at the Marriott Beachside Hotel on Sept. 15.

3. Keys Weekly’s own Stephanie Mitchell, left, and Overseas Media Group’s Maison Benitez staff their booth. ANNIE BRIENING/Overseas Media Group

4. Historic Tours of America shows off its storytelling and ‘transportainment’ tours at the trade show. 5. Bankers Kurt Lewin and Jacqueline Luhta mingle at the Key West Chamber of Commerce annual Showcase of Key West Businesses.

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MONEY MATTERS LEADERSHIP MONROE COUNTY ANNOUNCES

CLASS XXIX

eadership Monroe County, the premier educational non-profit community leadership organization, announces its twentyninth year of programs with the selection of Class XXIX. The LMC program is aimed at residents who are active in leadership roles within the private sector, government, or community organizations. Through a series of single or multi-day sessions over eight months, participants examine the fundamental public and private segments throughout the county. The program also provides participants the opportunity for mutual awareness and discussion of issues affecting the Keys. These experiences help participants grow as Monroe County residents and leaders. Sessions will begin Friday, Oct. 1 in Key West with subsequent monthly classes throughout the Keys, culminating with graduation in May 2022. Sessions are led by experts and leaders in the respective fields covered in each session. The nine sessions include focusing on the challenges and opportunities that confront the dynamic tourism industry and the Keys economy; vital environmental issues from the Everglades to Florida Bay and the coral reefs; the Monroe County education system; the multi-levels of government; the judiciary and law enforcement system; the historical and present military significance in the Keys; emergency management and emerging best practices; an examination of the Keys health care and human services; the increasing impact of the arts and creative industries; the non-profit sectors, and the rapidly changing media platforms that inform the citizenry and affect and influence public policy. Established in 1992 to address the rapidly changing needs and concerns of the county, develop a group of well-educated leaders, help guide the community in a positive direction, and foster countywide effective and non-partisan alliances, Leadership Monroe County is an independent non-profit, governed by a countywide alumni member board of directors. Officers are president Chuck Licis-Masson, vice president John Johnson, secretary Bruce Shea and treasurer Bruce Halle, with program coordinator Michael Shields. CLASS XXIX MEMBERS ARE: Amber Acevedo, coordinator/community relations & professional development, Monroe County School District Nancy Alvarez, lieutenant, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Tyler Blanton, detective, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Brandi Card, owner, Island Pilates and Massage Paul Davis, drector, Parks and Recreation, City of Marathon Lindsey Fast, executive director, Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys Marianne Finizio, VP, Community Health of South Florida Patricia Hann, owner, Florida Keys Marketing Group Brad Lutz, AVP, commercial lender, First State Bank of the Florida Keys Mandy Miles, editor, Key West Weekly Greg Oravec, village manager, Village of Islamorada Levi Pattinson, VP, First Horizon Bank Buddy Pinder, mayor, Village of Islamorada Nick Rodriguez, GM, Mrs. Macs Kitchens Michelle “Mick” Walsh, College of the Florida Keys Pang Xiong, patient care manager, Baptist/Fishermen's Community Hospital — Contributed

While some debated masks, a quarterbillion-dollar school budget quietly passed CHARLOTTE TWINE

charlotte@keysweekly.com

he last school board meeting on Sept. 7 was almost four hours long, with three hours of it taken up with debating the finer points of whether to tell a child to wear a mask in school. Sometimes the discussion was loud and passionate. However, during quiet moments, other critical school district business was conducted without fanfare. The board unanimously approved the 2021-2022 final budget, which has total expenditures of $253 million. Of that money, the operating budget — which serves day-to-day needs — is $117 million. “I feel positive about this because we were able to budget for a full complement of staff and teachers,” said Beverly Anders, executive director of finance & performance. Anders helped create the budget and get it passed. “It’s always important to budget for raises for teachers and staff. And we were able to make our millage lower than the prior year.” The final millage rate is 3.2840. Last year’s rate was 3.3520. A “millage rate” is used to calculate local property taxes. A millage rate of 3.2840 means that for every $100,000 of a home’s taxable property value minus any exemptions, the home owner will be taxed $328.40. The school district depends upon these taxes for its budget. “Any board is happy to approve a millage rate that doesn’t raise what taxpayers have to pay,” Anders said. “They want to make sure we are not continually raising the millage rate without good reason and good need. And I felt good we didn’t do that this year.” The budget approval process began when Anders introduced the numbers at a meeting in June. Then three hearings were conducted. Along the way, the board approved a tentative budget so notices about potential property taxes could be sent out to newspapers in August. No one from the public spoke at the three budget hearings, and no one spoke at the final budget approval, either.

In this screenshot of the Sept. 7 Monroe County School District board meeting, director of finance Beverly Anders discusses the budget while the public waits to talk about masking. CONTRIBUTED

“All the COVID issues really have overtaken the budget process,” Anders said. “Nobody has any desire to have input.” Some key figures The Monroe County School District has 8,465 students. At $87.5 million, the Florida Education Finance Program (FEFP) is providing $10,359 per student. The state is also paying for all student meals this year, as it did last year through the pandemic, to the tune of $6.4 million. Salaries and benefits take a big slice out of the operating budget, with $85 million going toward that category. Outside of the operating budget of $117 million, the district also has a special revenue fund ($18 million), debt service fund ($17 million), capital projects fund ($84 million), internal service funds ($17 million) and a trust and agency fund ($47,000). The capital projects fund covers projects like remodeling and renovation of current facilities and purchases of school buses, while more debt service was added this year for the renovation and construction of Sugarloaf School. Back at the Sept. 7 meeting, superintendent Theresa Axford joked, “I can feel the atmosphere in the back getting more jubilant,” as she introduced “Approval of 2021-2022 Final Budget.” “We almost chased everyone out of the room,” school board chair John Dick replied. The budget was approved unanimously. Then the public perked up when the meeting moved toward another vote on masking.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

n the mid to late 1800s, Captain Ben Baker was the king of the Florida wreckers. His 13ton, three-masted schooner Rapid was the pride of the Baker Wrecking Company. In 1850, he operated out of Key West and lived in a large, two-story house on the corner of Whitehead and Caroline streets. However, shipwrecking was rarely full-time work, and most wreckers maintained alternative sources of revenue. Baker’s side hustle became pineapples.

A PINEAPPLE SIDE HUSTLE Captain Baker’s haul worth $150,000

In the late 1850s, Baker and his sons sailed for the Upper Keys where they cleared land on Plantation Key and Key Largo. When the fields were ready, Baker left for Havana and purchased as many as 6,000 pineapple slips and suckers to plant on his lands. A firsthand account of Baker’s pineapple operation, written by Dr. J.B. Holder, appeared in an 1871 edition of Harper’s Weekly: “Plantation Key has considerable good soil; many of the trees here are seventy or eighty feet in height. Here was a large plantation of cocoa-nut palms, several hundred in number, and a patch of young pineapples. A late paper gives the account of the products of his patch, which have been materially increased since the writer was there. Mr. Baker, the owner, who resides at Key West, is reported to have realized seven thousand dollars this season from his crop of pine-apples. The great drawback is the prevalence of mosquitoes, throughout the whole year, in such swarms that few persons are willing to suffer the annoyance; otherwise these keys would richly reward the cultivator.” Today, the $7,000 Baker earned from his pineapple fields from that season’s haul would be worth about $150,000, and that seems like a pretty good side hustle. Before the fruit was shipped to market, it was picked two weeks

early. The green pineapples were packed in crates and shipped below deck in cargo holds. As the ship sailed to market, the fruit continued to ripen. On an average trip, 25 percent of the cargo rotted at sea. When Henry Flagler’s railroad pushed down the BRAD east coast to Miami in 1896, BERTELLI the link between the field and market was drasti... is the curator for Islamorada’s cally reduced. The railroad Keys History & provided a quicker and more Discovery Center. reliable mode of transporA published autation. Now fruit could be thor of six books, loaded on the 5 a.m. train his favorite subjects are Indian departing Miami on Monday Key and skunk and appear in New York apes. markets by Thursday. Flagler’s train did not stop at Miami, and the line continued pushing south across the Florida Keys until it came to its terminus at Key West. The tracks and bridges took years to build. The work was done piecemeal, with railroad construction sites operating up and down the Keys simultaneously. In total, 82 work camps were established between Key Largo and Key West. On Oct. 17, 1906, the eye of a Category 2 hurricane crossed Long Key, where one of those work camps was housing hundreds of railroad employees. Many of the men were housed in floating dorm rooms called quarter boats. On the shores of Long Key, where the Long Key Fishing Camp would come to national attention a few years later, two of these quarter boats were secured with six mooring lines and an anchor. When the hurricane blew ashore at approximately 5 a.m., the line anchoring both houseboats snapped, and the two vessels were tossed where the storm dictated. One of the houseboats washed out into the Gulf only to be pushed back onshore. House Boat No. 4, on the other hand, was blown out into the Atlantic. The vessel was pounded by wind and storm-driven swells until the vessel began to break apart. Only 83 of the 150 men on board survived. The situation was no better at a Lower Matecumbe work camp where two houseboats, each with 45 FEC workers on board, were also carried out to sea.

The storm accounted for approximately 193 deaths. The hurricane also inundated the Upper Keys with a tidal surge that swamped the pineapple fields of the Upper Keys, including fields on Key Largo and Plantation Key. The 1906 hurricane also marked the beginning of the end of the island chain’s pineapple industry. When daily railroad service was established between Miami and Knights Key, at the foot of what is today the Seven Mile Bridge, in 1908, Cuban pineapples began competing with produce grown by Keys farmers. Shipped from Havana, the pineapples were loaded onto refrigerated rail cars called the Cuban Fruit Express, capable of delivering pineapples to Chicago in 72 hours. Salting wounds inflicted on local farmers as the result of hurricane and a subsequent pineapple blight, the Florida East Coast Railway taxed Cuban farmers at a lower rate than local farmers. Hurricanes in 1909 and 1910 would continue to devastate the pineapple fields of the Upper Keys and swing the door open wider for Cuban pineapple exports. By 1909, cheaper Cuban pineapples flooded American markets and, by 1910, pineapple farming was on its way to becoming another failed Florida Keys’ industry.

Today, the $7,000 Baker earned from his pineapple fields from that season’s haul would be worth about $150,000, and that seems like a pretty good side hustle.

F.E.C. Railway quarter boat. JERRY WILKINSON COLLECTION/Contributed

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

WHAT THE STARS HAVE IN STORE

REDA WIGLE VIRGO Aug. 23 to Sept. 22 My Virgo friend, Patrick, has a theory, partly inspired by a psilocybinenhanced walk in the woods. Observing the straight backs and wandering roots of the trees, he decided, “We should get our wisdom from the oaks and our posture from the pines.” As a mutable Earth sign, I trust this combination of rigidity and receptivity will resonate. Stand tall, let your roots roam, allow yourself to be shaped, but never shaken, and breathe back what you’ve been given. Notable Virgo: Paula Jones/ Sept. 17, 1966

is a middle child and Taurus Fire Tiger named after a stigmatic saint. She divides her time and affections between New Orleans and Key West.

LIBRA Sept. 23 to Oct. 22 Libra comedian Lenny Bruce spent part of the 1950s performing at seedy strip clubs. The low billing inspired a creative renaissance. Bruce’s biographer wrote, “He broke free of all the restraints and inhibitions and disabilities that formerly had kept him just mediocre and began to blow with a spontaneous freedom and resourcefulness.” I prescribe a similar kind of salvation through slumming for you, Libra. To break free of mediocrity, live beyond, even boldly below, what’s expected of you. Notable Libra: Sting / Oct. 2, 1951 SCORPIO Oct. 23 to Nov. 21 Venus, the planet of love and attachment, is at home in the cobwebbed corners of your sign until Oct. 7. This positioning empowers you in partnerships. Your needs become clearer and the list of what you are willing to concede gets decidedly shorter. It is a beautiful time to sure up your boundaries while dismantling your emotional ramparts. Notable Scorpio: Hillary Clinton/ Oct. 26, 1947

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22 to Dec. 21 When warrior planet Mars enters diplomatic, equanimous Libra this week you are put in the disquieting position of needing to compromise. You are adept at getting what you want, often with a takeno-prisoners, repay-no-debts kind of energy. It’s an effective, if not admirable, strategy that requires reworking under the influence of the scales and balances. Remember, archer, there’s rich earth to be found on the middle ground. Notable Sagittarius: Linda Tripp/Nov. 24, 1949 CAPRICORN Dec. 22 to Jan. 19 With action planet Mars in peoplepleasing, edge-smoothing Libra, your momentum stands to take a hit. Assertiveness and independence, two of your hallmark qualities, are devitalized during this period. But worry not, sweet sea goat, there is power in collaboration, humility in seeking help and levity in admitting that even evil Saturn-ruled geniuses who plot the downfall of their enemies and seek world domination need someone to eat lunch with. Notable Capricorn: Vince Foster/Jan. 15, 1945 AQUARIUS Jan. 20 to Feb. 18 As you continue to fight for balance between your personal life and your deep-seated need to improve the conditions of the world, I offer you a time-saving strategy from fellow Aquarius and champion of the side hair part, Ayn Rand. “Never think of pain or danger or enemies a moment longer than is necessary to fight them.” May the advice encourage you to be efficient in your thoughts and resolute in your actions. Notable Aquarius: Judy Blume/Feb. 12, 1938 PISCES Feb. 19 to March 20 Venus, planet of love and relationships, is in goth-hearted, hair doll-

making Scorpio in your 9th house of mind expansion and higher learning. This transit beckons you to reconsider your approach to partnerships. Who we are and who we want are ever shifting, Pisces, and the story you’ve been telling yourself about love, sex and intimacy may no longer read true. Consider writing it anew, cast with unexpected characters, transformational experiences, transcendental orgasms, and the very real possibility of a happy ending. Notable Pisces: Josef Mengele/ March 16, 1911 ARIES March 21 to April 19 Next week’s full moon sheds lunar light on your 12th house of conclusions and the unconscious mind. Closure for you is often marked by cauterization, but this phase asks for a slower, more mindful approach to healing. Ritualize your release by lighting a candle for each of your greatest obstacles and injuries. Thank them for their lessons and demand that they abandon their post. Extinguish each one and in the smoke that follows call in abundance, expansion and the divine knowledge that you deserve, and are ready to receive, both. Notable Aries: Vanessa Morgan/ March 22, 1992 TAURUS April 20 to May 20 Visual artist and fellow Taurus Teresita Fernández views the creation of her work as the aggregate of her lived life. “The way you live, the people you choose to love and the way you love them, the way you vote, the words that come out of your mouth, will also become the raw material for the art you make.” No matter what you make, or whether you identify as an artist at all, I hope you find the wisdom in these words, Taurus. Let there be no division between how you act and who you are. Notable Taurus: Lana Candor/ May 11, 1998

GEMINI May 21 to June 20 The French phrase joie de vivre, or joy of life, was brought into use by historian Jules Michelet to contrast the passive life of plants with the rapturous life of animals. As warrior planet Mars moves through your fifth house of felicity you are poised for pleasurable pursuits, Gemini. Don’t ruin the fun by thinking of it as an indulgence. There have, and will again, be seasons for planting pain, but the time to enjoy the full extent of your rapturous, animal life, is right about now. Notable Gemini: Kendrick Lamar/ June 17, 1987 CANCER June 21 to July 22 Emotions have the capacity to run high and leave you feeling low down for the remainder of the month, moon child. It may seem like everyone is out to provoke you but it may be that you’re looking for a fight as concrete evidence of feelings you doubt. Artist and fellow Cancer Jean Cocteau argued, “There’s no such thing as love; only proof of love.” If this rings true for you, I urge you to investigate what proof you need and what sort you provide. Notable Cancer: Ken Starr/July 21, 1946 LEO July 23 to Aug. 22 Your current planetary placements amount to a mid-’90s rap video, Leo. Cue the ejaculating champagne bottles and waterfalls of cash, my lion pride, because you are primed to get paid. Your days of toiling have not gone unnoticed and shall now be rewarded. Don’t be afraid to reach out to a mentor to help you maximize this moment. While you already have everything you need to be successful, you’ll need guidance to help you identify what sort of success you’re seeking. Notable Leo: Bill Clinton/ Aug. 19, 1946

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

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onroe County is currently experiencing an OB/GYN shortage that is at a crisis level for our community. Doctors’ offices are booked completely, with medical providers covering double the caseloads as in previous years. Not only are many pregnant women and families with young children struggling to get an appointment, but those who do get an appointment have very limited time with their doctor. The result is missed prenatal care, missed postpartum appointments, long and expensive transportation (often out of county) to other providers, increased emergency department usage as primary care, and a public health issue. While the Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition (FKHSC) commends and is deeply thankful for all that the medical providers are doing, the intention is to develop a program that would support both families and the medical community while a long-term solution is being implemented. The FKHSC has received grant funding of $7,500 from the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys and the Driftwood Fund to

help address this crisis. The FKHSC Labor and Bereavement Doula program will provide immediate support for families in our community. The training of at least seven additional professionals to help families during pregnancy and through the birthing process will not only have a direct and positive impact on local pregnant mothers, but will also ensure healthier families and a healthier community for the future. If you are interested in being trained as a doula for this program, please fill out an interest form at www.keyshealthystart.org/medicalproviders-parenting or call 305293-8424. Certification classes will begin in February 2022. The Healthy Start Coalition unites people and resources to improve the health and well-being of pregnant women, children and their families in Monroe County. To request assistance with baby formula, car seats, diapers, children’s bike helmets, mental health services or to meet other needs for your family, fill out an assistance request at www.keyshealthystart. org. — Contributed

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

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1116 Thompson St | Key West | MLS # 597602 A classic 3 bed/ 2bath CBS Midtown ranch home geared for outdoor entertainment with pool, hot tub, screened porch, tiki hut and covered patio spaces. Corner lot, tiled floors throughout, good storage and laundry room. $1,379,000

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515 Palm Drive | Key West | MLS # 597480 Private home located at the end of Palm Drive, and surrounded by protected native vegetation and few neighbors. The mobile home has east facing French doors in the living room and kitchen providing an abundance of natural light. Roof was replaced in 2014 with a lifetime warranty. Handicap ramp in place and three sheds for storage. Keep as your new home, a rental investment and build a new home in the future. $279,000 DARLENE THOMAS REALTOR® Office: 305.294.8433 Cell: 305.304.1043 darlenekw@aol.com

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

My daughter Elise Mucha Reid is good at her many jobs. She is raising a new baby, works with her husband in their charter fishing company, while also operating a restaurant, handling all orders and shipments for a seafood delivery company, serves as president of Forgotten Felines, sits on a Keys-related advisory board, organizes charitable work, and still makes time to be involved with, and help, the community. Personally, I have no idea how she does it all, I was exhausted just reading what she manages. DIANA MUCHA/Contributed

All play and no work at Bahia Honda. JEFF HARRISON/Contributed

Sabrah Witkamp is a 2nd & 3rd Grade Teacher at Ocean Studies Charter School in Key Largo. She ran a marathon 26.2 miles from her home to Bud & Mary’s (not able to run the Athens Marathon due to COVID), all after surviving stage 2/3 breast cancer in 2019. She also sign languages her journey on Facebook throughout her run for her hearing-impaired friends, hoping to motivate others. MARY K MAGRATH/ Contributed

As director of conservation for Rainbow Reef Dive Center, Jennifer Pollom is helping to lead a large team of divers toward their collective goal to conserve the reefs in the Florida Keys. The team is concentrated on eliminating debris from the oceans and helping to replant the reefs. CONTRIBUTED

Bridge fishing with Ryan (Landboat Charters) is a blast. He is really nice and a great teacher. EMILY LILLARD/ Contribued

Out with Captain Kim Sims, you can catch some pretty big fish. KIM SIMS/ 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 16, 2021

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

KEY WEST CRUISE SHIP DEBATE NEEDS BOLD LEADERSHIP Dear Editor, At the Sept. 1 city commission meeting, City Attorney Shawn Smith reported that a prestigious law firm in Tallahassee reversed an earlier decision and declined to represent the City in the commission-directed effort to restrict cruise ships. It is noteworthy that the Radey Law Firm was the fourth well-regarded firm to reject the City’s case. What is most remarkable about the Radey Firm’s turning away from the case is that they reversed their earlier decision to take the case after receiving a list of 15 strident questions about conflict of interest forwarded by Mayor Teri Johnston. Those questions were written by Safer Cleaner Ships, not the city attorney. The city attorney had already completed his analysis of potential conflicts and the Radey Firm had also finished their internal conflict review. Both decided there was no conflict. But Mayor Johnston forwarded the SCS-generated conflict challenges verbatim, going behind the city attorney’s back. Her action said, “I don’t trust the city attorney in this matter.” In essence, she was merely a mouthpiece for the SCS angst that their own attorney was wisely rejected by Mr. Smith as being inherently conflicted on the issue. Ms. Johnston’s long time slavish devotion to the SCS cause was made starkly clear. Throughout, she has wrapped her own anti-cruise tourism prejudice in the SCS mantra of “will of the people.”

Throughout history the “will of the people” has attempted to oppress minorities and their opinions. The People elected a murderous tyrant to be Chancellor of Germany. The People wrote and passed segregation laws across much of the South after the Civil War. The cry of “Will of the People” is often corrupted by malevolent intent. In the case of Safer Cleaner Ships, the so-called will was tainted by lies and misinformation. It is now abundantly clear that the SCS campaign about cruise ships’ water quality degradation, coral reef and fishery decline, and COVID spread was all false. Not one of their allegations has withstood close scrutiny nor scientific review. Their referendum campaign was designed to promote fear and prejudice, and truth was their first victim. This writing is not about disparaging the mayor. Rather it is a plea for her to finally step up to a leadership role and realize she represents all Key Westers rather than a small group of intolerant malcontents and a regrettably misinformed electorate. Regardless of her personal bias, she must rise above being a conduit for their disinformation. Leadership takes courage, independent thinking and bold action. It is time, Madame Mayor. John E. Wells Ships’ Agent

e at Keys Weekly want to honor the men and women serving in our local military installations. With help and advice from our community members in the armed forces, we’re proud to present our Military Spotlight.

ERIN HEMINOKEKY U.S. COAST GUARD | PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS Why did you join the military? To travel. How many years have you been in the military? 8 years Had you ever been to the Florida Keys or Key West before your current assignment? I had had a few trips to Key West in the past. Did you choose Key West or were you assigned here? I absolutely chose Key West. What were your first thoughts when hearing you were coming to the Keys? Key lime pie and a sick tan. Hobbies? Hitting the beach after work. Favorite things to do? Drinking good espresso and eating good food. Have you ever attended Fantasy Fest and if so what were your initial thoughts? Yep. Lots of body paint.

What do you like most about the Keys? That every day feels like a weekend. What do you like most about your assignment? Teaching the crew practical damage control and going out to sea. What would you change about living here in Key West if you had the power to do so? I wish COVID was no longer a thing. Duval Street would be much more fun. Any advice to give other military seeking assignment here? Don’t feed the iguanas. What do you like most about living here? Every day feels like a vacation.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 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 Islamorada Fishing Charter located at 170 Hibiscus Street, Tavernier, FL 33070 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. By: Haden Browning Publish: September 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

Program (FRDAP) grant program. The City of Marathon is asking for approximately $400,000 for planning and design at Rotary Children’s Park located in Marathon at 7575 Overseas Hwy. The City of Marathon will complete the project over a period of approximately 2 years, including design, environmental review, permitting and construction. The City of Marathon is responsible for the dayto-day maintenance and operation of Rotary Children’s Park. Staff will continue to maintain the facilities. Public comments on this project must be submitted in writing by October 1st, 2021. Email address covellim@ ci.marathon.fl.us There will be a public meeting held at Marathon City Hall on September 30th at 5:15pm to discuss this project with the community. All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting. Please note that more than one Marathon City Council/Board/Committee member may participate in the meeting. The City of Marathon complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you are a disabled person requiring special accommodations or assistance, please notify the City ADA Coordinator at (305) 289-5022 of such need at least 72 hours (3 days) in advance. Publish: September 16, 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 William Blackwood owner of 57 7th Street. 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 101 – 13 (8) height variance of 26’5”. Current maximum height is 20’0”. 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 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: P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@ keycolonybeach.net and your comments will be entered into the record. CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH Publish: September 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

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. CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH Publish: September 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District II Advisory Committee (DAC II) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, October 5, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the October 5, 2021 regular meeting of the District II Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will provide updates on the County Website at MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: District II Advisory Council Meeting Time: Oct 5, 2021 06:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/81937801616 Meeting ID: 819 3780 1616 One tap mobile +13126266799,, 81937801616# US (Chicago) +19292056099,, 81937801616# US (New York) Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at PaciniMaxine@monroecounty-fl. gov, or by calling (305)2961552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on October 1, 2021 All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or County Commissioners may be in attendance. ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator's Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call "711". Publish: September 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the October 6, 2021 meeting of the District III Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will provide updates on the County Website at MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: District III Advisory Council Meeting Time: Oct 6, 2021 09:30 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/86010085212 Meeting ID: 860 1008 5212 One tap mobile +13017158592,, 86010085212# US (Washington DC) +13126266799,, 86010085212# US (Chicago) Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at PaciniMaxine@monroecounty-fl. gov, or by calling (305)2961552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on October 1, 2021 All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or County Commissioners may be in attendance. ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator's Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call "711". Publish: September 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: District IV Advisory Council Meeting Time: Oct 5, 2021 02:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/89280186040 Meeting ID: 892 8018 6040 One tap mobile +19292056099,, 89280186040# US (New York) +13017158592,, 89280186040# US (Washington DC) Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at PaciniMaxine@monroecounty-fl. gov, or by calling (305)2961552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on October 1, 2021 All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or County Commissioners may be in attendance. ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator's Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call "711". Publish: September 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Island Storage, Inc., 10730 4th Avenue, Gulf, Marathon, Florida 33050, will sell or otherwise dispose of the contents of the following units to satisfy delinquent storage liens. The following unit contains commercial kitchen items: Aaron Schneider Unit # 8 $903.01 Auction will occur from 8:00AM – 10:00AM on Thursday, September 30, 2021 at Island Storage, Inc., 10730 4th Avenue, Gulf, Marathon, FL 33050. The terms of the sale will be cash only. Island Storage, Inc. reserves the right to refuse any bids. Publish: September 16 & 23, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers PUBLIC NOTICE The City of Marathon is applying for the following project to be funded under the Florida Recreational Development Assistant Program (FRDAP) grant program. The City of Marathon is asking for approximately $300,000 for construction of a new concrete skate park located at Marathon Community Park 200 36th Street. The City of Marathon will complete the project over a period of approximately one year, including design, environmental review, permitting and construction. The City of Marathon is responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and operation of the skate park at Community Park. Staff will continue to maintain the facilities. Public comments on this project must be submitted in writing by October 1st, 2021. Email address covellim@ ci.marathon.fl.us There will be a public meeting held at Marathon City Hall on September 30th at 5:00pm to discuss this project with the community. All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting. Please note that more than one Marathon City Council/Board/Committee member may participate in the meeting. The City of Marathon complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you are a disabled person requiring special accommodations or assistance, please notify the City ADA Coordinator at (305) 289-5022 of such need at least 72 hours (3 days) in advance. Publish: September 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers PUBLIC NOTICE The City of Marathon is applying for the following project to be funded under the Florida Recreational Development Assistant

PUBLIC NOTICE The City of Marathon is applying for the following project to be funded under the Florida Recreational Development Assistant Program (FRDAP) grant program. The City of Marathon is asking for approximately $50,000 for planning and design for the Grassy Key Birding Boardwalk Trail at mile marker 58 in Grassy Key. The City of Marathon will complete planning and design over the period of a year. Once complete, the City of Marathon will be responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and operation of the Grassy Key Birding Boardwalk Trail. Public comments on this project must be submitted in writing by October 1st, 2021. Email address covellim@ ci.marathon.fl.us There will be a public meeting held at Marathon City Hall on September 30th at 5:30pm to discuss this project with the community. All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting. Please note that more than one Marathon City Council/Board/Committee member may participate in the meeting. The City of Marathon complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you are a disabled person requiring special accommodations or assistance, please notify the City ADA Coordinator at (305) 289-5022 of such need at least 72 hours (3 days) in advance. Publish: September 16, 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 William Blackwood owner of 57 7th Street. 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 101 – 13 (8) height variance of 26’5”. Current maximum height is 20’0”. 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 Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Variance Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. If you are unable to attend the Hearing on Thursday,

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District I Advisory Committee (DAC I) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular scheduled meeting on Wednesday, October 6, 2021 at 3:00 p.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the October 6, 2021 regular meeting of the District I Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will provide updates on the County Website at MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: District I Advisory Council Meeting Time: Oct 6, 2021 03:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/81507388739 Meeting ID: 815 0738 8739 One tap mobile +13126266799,, 81507388739# US (Chicago) +19292056099,, 81507388739# US (New York) Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at PaciniMaxine@monroecounty-fl. gov, or by calling (305)2961552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on October 1, 2021 All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or County Commissioners may be in attendance. ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator's Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call "711". Publish: September 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District III Advisory Committee (DAC III) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, October 6, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”)

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District IV Advisory Committee (DAC IV) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, October 5, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the October 5, 2021 meeting of the District IV Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will provide updates on the County Website at

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District V Advisory Committee (DAC V) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, October 5, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the October 5, 2021 meeting of the District V Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will provide updates on the County Website at MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: District V Advisory Council Meeting Time: Oct 5, 2021 10:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/84175033424 Meeting ID: 841 7503 3424 One tap mobile

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

AUTOS WANTED

+13126266799,, 84175033424# US (Chicago) +19292056099,, 84175033424# US (New York) Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at PaciniMaxine@monroecounty-fl. gov, or by calling (305)2961552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on October 1, 2021 All District Advisory Committee Meetings/ workshops of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or County Commissioners may be in attendance. ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator's Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call "711". Publish: September 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-98-P DIVISION: UPPER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF BERTOLD KEIL Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Bertold Keil, deceased, whose date of death was August 6, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: September 16, 2021. Personal Representative: Gregory W. Lewis 131 Zane Grey Creek Drive Layton, Florida 33001 Attorney for Personal Representative: RICHARD E. WARNER Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: September 16 & 23, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

HAVE ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY, UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF GEORGE A. PARKER, COUNTY OF MONROE, U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, FLORIDA and UNKNOWN TENANT IN POSSESSION, Defendants. NOTICE OF ACTION CONSTRUCTIVE SERVICE PROPERTY TO: All unknown persons who may be heirs, devisees, legatees, grantees, lienors, creditors, trustees, assignees or other claimants of George A. Parker, deceased, Residence Unknown, if alive, and if dead, George A. Parker’s heirs, devisees, grantees, devisees, legatees, lienors, creditors, trustees, assignees or other claimants and all other parties claiming interests, by through, under or against George A. Parker, and all parties having or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property herein described. YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to foreclosure a mortgage on the abovestyled by the above-named Plaintiff and encumbering the following described property in Monroe County, Florida: Lots 26 and 27, Block 10, Harris Ocean Park Estates First Addition, according to the map or plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 4, Page 139, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, as well as a 1969 68’ Single Wide Jami Mobile Home with Title Number 8195791 and Real Property Number R104643. has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Plaintiff’s attorney, Richard B. Storfer, Esquire, of the firm of Lorium Law, whose address is 101 NE 3rd Avenue, Suite 1800, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301, on or before October 16, 2021, and file the original with the Clerk of of this Court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorneys or immediately thereafter, otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint. Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act you are advised that this law firm is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purposes. Witness my hand and the Seal of said court at Monroe County, Florida this 1st day of September, 2021. Kevin Madok, CPA As Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Jennifer Zemmel Deputy Clerk Publish: September 16 & 23, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

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 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

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 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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR 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.

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 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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO.: 21-CA-297-P CENTENNIAL BANK, Plaintiff, vs. ALL UNKNOWN PERSONS WHO MAY BE HEIRS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, GRANTEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, ASSIGNEES OR OTHER CLAIMANTS OF GEORGE A. PARKER, DECEASED, AND ALL OTHER PERSONS CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST HIM AND ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING TO

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

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

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 30' C & C Sailboat for sale in Key West. $3,500 305-399-9525 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 Join Our TEAM! Busy Vacation Rental business in Marathon is looking for a team player. Have fun at work with flexible hours and excellent pay. Customer service to guests and homeowners. Please reach out via email to Scott@ IslandBreezeVacations.com for the full job description and income information. 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 o m / c a r e e r s 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

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

The 16th Judicial Circuit is seeking applicants for a Full-time Administrative Assistant II in Key West. The essential function of this position is to provide administrative and paralegal support for three circuit judges’ offices at the Freeman Justice Center in Key West. The position requires a working knowledge of the rules and procedures governing the various circuit court areas including civil, felony, family law, domestic abuse and repeat violence, probate, guardianship, delinquency and dependency. Salary is $36,500 annually, plus Monroe County benefits. Interested applicants should submit a State of Florida Application, cover letter and resume to Personnel@Keyscourts. net or Personnel, 302 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida 33040. State of Florida applications and complete job description can be found at www. Keyscourts.net. The successful applicant will be required to pass a complete background check. Applications are being accepted until September 27, 2021. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, disability or sexual orientation. EOE. If you need an accommodation to participate in the application/selection process, please notify us in at advance at 305292-3423; to make call through the Florida Relay Center, you can dial 7-1-1.

The 16th Judicial Circuit is seeking applicants for a Full-time Male Laboratory Technician (gender specific due to nature of job) in Key West. Primary functions of this position are to observe and collect specimen samples from male clients, analyze and record test results, perform onsite quick tests, and maintain and operate the lab equipment, including ordering chemicals and supplies. Salary is $33,500 annually, plus Monroe County benefits. Interested applicants should submit a State of Florida Application, cover letter and resume to Personnel@Keyscour ts. net or Personnel, 302 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida 33040. State of Florida applications and complete job description can be found at www. Keyscourts.net. The successful applicant will be required to pass a complete background check. Applications are being accepted until position is filled. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, disability or sexual orientation. EOE. If you need an accommodation to participate in the application/selection process, please notify us in at advance at 305292-3423; to make call through the Florida Relay Center, you can dial 7-1-1.

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

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.

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

FLORIDA KEYS MOSQUITO CONTROL DISTRICT

is accepting applications for the following positions:

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

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

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 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. 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

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

HOMES 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 Marathon - For Sale: 1.5 acre -suitable for up to 10 houses. On site: House, Duplex and Mobile Home. Waterfront - oceanside, dock possible, gated. Zoned MU. Appraised $1.9 million. 305-610-8002

HOUSING FOR RENT

305.743.0844

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!

LOT FOR SALE LOT FOR SALE 100' x 100' - Venetian Shores, MM 86, Snake Creek Bridge views. Asking $1.3 Million. Call 5 6 1 - 5 7 9 - 8 3 9 9

OFFICE/COMMERC. 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

RV SITE FOR RENT

RV SITE FOR RENT RV Site For Rent in Marathon. Full Hookup. Very quiet, gated property. Dock available. No pets. 305-610-8002 Place your RV SITE FOR RENT ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today! up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

YARD SALES FREE YARD SALE!!! Moving and giving away lots of stuff FOR FREE! Sat. Sept. 18 from 8am - ?. 480 Margate Drive, Marathon. (One street west of Harbor Dr.)

MISC. FOR SALE 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 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

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

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.

in Marathon

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

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.

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

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

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

Empty bottles, cans, paper and cardboard.

LIC# CCC1329991

LIC# CGC032862

BEST CONTRACTOR NOMINATION

3 Keep food and liquid out.

VOTED BEST CONTRACTOR

Recyclables go directly into the cart.

5 YEARS IN A ROW

NEED A BAGGSTER?

Second Annual

Purchase one from your local hardware stores, then call the 800 number to set up a pickup.

MIKE GARCIA 305.304.4188

ROLLOFF CONTAINERS and PORTABLE TOILETS available. Call us at 305.296.8297.

CONCHROOFING@GMAIL.COM WWW.CONCHCONSTRUCTIONANDROOFING.COM

OPEN TUESDAY THRU SATURDAY! 11AM-4PM

PRIVATE SHOPPING PARTIES AVAILABLE BY RESERVATION

NOW FEATURING

KIRBYSCLOSET.COM FOR MORE INFO & RESERVATIONS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

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

BRANCH OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR 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

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.

• Medical Staff Asst, $2K Sign-On Bonus • Monitor Technician, Cardiac Telemetry • 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

TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION INSPECTOR

LOCATION: MIDDLE TO UPPER FLORIDA KEYS The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is accepting applications for a Temporary Construction Inspector. Responsibilities: Ensure that contracted work performed on FKAA water and wastewater systems meet all applicable minimum standards and contract requirements. 3 yrs experience in municipal contracting/construction field, specifically water and wastewater utility construction. Valid Florida driver’s license required. Salary (depending on experience): $59,000. - $70,000. Online application: www.fkaa.com. EEO/VPE/ADA

Risk Management Assistant 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.

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

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.

Busy Key Largo Dive Center has immediate openings for

We are now hiring for the following positions:

BOAT CAPTAINS

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers

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

Applicants must apply in person to be considered. 4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

$1,500 SIGNING BONUS

Send resume to resumes@rainbowreef.com

PART TIME AND FULL TIME OPPORTUNITIES W/FLEXIBLE SCHEDULES HOUSEKEEPING Room attendants, laundry, and public area Housekeeping Supervisor F & B POSITIONS Greeter, server, runner and more! F & B Supervisor

KITCHEN STAFF Multiple positions available BELL/VALET

RESERVATIONS AGENT

RELIEF NIGHT SECURITY/ NIGHT AUDIT SPA LMT’s and Nail Techs

Apply today to learn more about our sign on bonus program! Apply online at www.noblehousehotels.com/careers Apply in person at Zero Duval St. Ocean Key Resort and Spa is EOE.

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

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 16, 2021

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

Join Our Team! NOW HIRING BOGIE & BACALL'S SEA SENOR Restaurant Host Servers Bartender Food Runner

Restaurant General Managers

KITCHEN TEAM

Careers Available In: 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

Pastry Chef Chief Steward Overnight Cook Fine Dining Chef Restaurant Chef

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

HOUSEKEEPING TEAM

Finish Carpenter

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

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.

Warehouse & Delivery Crew

Retail • Accounting • Maintenance Credit • Business Development Excellent Starting Salary Quarterly Cash Proﬁt Sharing

Landscape Designer

Great Hours - Closed Sundays An outdoor design specialist that works well with clients— Paid Holidays, & Sick producing designs, selections, Vacation and processing sales.

Time

Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance

401K Employer Match Lead AV Technician AV and Home Automation Tuition Reimbursement installations. Knowledge of electrical/ electronic components.

Entry Level - Management Positions Available

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

Apply Online! KeysBank.com/Careers

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

EOE-M/F/V/D

Equal Housing Lender

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

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING!

TOUR GUIDES NEEDED

KEY LARGO Substance Abuse Counselor (PT) KEY WEST

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

MARATHON Admissions Specialist

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

BE A PART OF KEYS HISTORY

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

Apply online at mytomthumb.com/employment

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.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

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

GENERAL CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS

SPALLING

ALL KEYS GLASS

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors

305-743-7800

Authorized Dealer

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

EXPERTS

2728 North Roosevelt Blvd. Overseas Market Key West

NOW HIRING!

Sewer Connections 305

872-1876

• New Construction • Remodeling • Irrigation

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

We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

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305

296-BLUE

• Heavy Equipment • Solar Lic## RF11067168

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Proud member of:

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

Appliance and Air Conditioning

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

Insured • Professional • Reliable

Sportfishing Adventures

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

info@johnnymaddoxcharters.com

305-481-3259

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

SOLAR DONE RIGHT!

Tewes Mortgage

Your local, residential lending expert!

CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE

Call 305.495.6000

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

for a FREE Consultation

Brian Tewes

A division of SALT Service, serving The Keys since 1989

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

305-289-1150

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

www.TewesMortgage.com

Serving Key Largo to Key West

Serving Monroe, Dade & Broward Including Airports & Ports. SUV, Van & Limousine options available Call us for special events.

305-743-7454

fkes2011@gmail.com floridakeysexpressshuttle.com

Lic No. SP1481

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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 16, 2021

POINT OF SALE IN MONROE COUNTY WHAT IS POINT OF SALE? When we say “Point of Sale,” we’re referring to marketing and promoting tobacco products in retail environments – like gas stations, convenience stores, and other retail outlets.

Point of Sale is the tobacco industry’s main marketing method.

SOME TACTICS THEY USE ARE: Discounting products, appealing to children and young adults. Paying retailers for prime product location and advertising. Targeting lower-income communities.

WHY IS POINT OF SALE IMPORTANT?

Studies show that tobacco use is associated with exposure to retail advertising and relatively easy access to tobacco products.

Schools with a higher number of tobacco retailers nearby tend to have higher smoking rates.

More cigarettes are sold in convenience stores than in any other type of store.

WHAT IS MONROE COUNTY DOING?

Monitoring compliance of the tobacco Assurance of Voluntary Compliance (AVCs) retailers by conducting inspections and noting potential violations. Findings will be provided to the National Association of Attorney’s General (NAAG) who will work with the retailers to make any necessary changes to ensure retailers maintain compliance. AVCs can signiﬁcantly limit the way tobacco can be marketed and sold at the point of sale in these retailer’s locations.

YOU CAN GET INVOLVED!

CONTACT BRANDIE PERETZ AT 305-563-1107 OR BRANDIE.PERETZ@FLHEALTH.GOV FOR MORE INFORMATION.

KEY WEST WEEKLY / SEPTEMBER 16, 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