Upper Keys Weekly 21-1209

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Rest easy, Mo.

COMMISSIONER RESIGNS Martinez steps down following arrest | P. 4 SEEKING FUNDS State session nears | P. 9

REMEMBERING MO

The animal farm’s face passes | P. 11

Coastal Realty OF THE FLORIDA KEYS

SALES • VACATION RENTALS • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 305.664.0077 | CoastalFloridaKeys.com

88011 Old Highway | MLS 598598

weeklyTU-LUKLad.pdf

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12/8/21

4:54 PM

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

MESSAGE FROM THE SHERIFF Another busy holiday season is upon us and it’s been met so far with great weather and some outstanding community events and parades!

As your Sheriff, I want to ensure we all have a safe holiday season. While we’re blessed with some of the lowest crime rates in the state, we unfortunately are not crime-free.

Please remember and share these holiday tips: • The Sheriff’s Office will once again be offering the lobbies of its substations and headquarters building as safe zones for residents making online transactions or to anyone buying or selling in person.

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County residents who wish to use one of the Sheriff’s Office substation lobbies can do so during working hours between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mondays through Fridays.

• Help your neighbor and keep an extra eye on their porch as thieves love to steal boxes from homes.

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The use of doorbell cameras can also curb such theft. Have your packages delivered where someone can receive them such as at your place of employment, or to a family member or neighbor.

• Be cautious of text messages from unknown senders offering sales. Online scams are abundant this time of year.

• The Sheriff's Office will be out in force looking for drunk and unsafe drivers this month and into New Year’s Day with the goal of making sure holiday travel is as safe as possible.

These are just a few reminders and steps we can take to make sure we all have a safe holiday season.

Happy Holidays to all!

Monroe County Sheriff, Rick Ramsay Download the MCSO App Today!

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

VIEWS THAT TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY

Customize your open oceanfront home to your liking at this unparalleled location in Key Largo Ocean Resorts. Five bedroom, five and one half bathroom shell is complete and ready for you to choose your finishes. Total square footage is 4,653 for floors 1-4. This hidden gem location is on an oversized end lot with potential for 19' pier and to add a private pool and terrace overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The nearby marina does have slips on a waiting list. Community clubhouse, pool, tennis courts and playground offered as part of the association.

The only way to live closer to the water is to live on a boat!

KEY LARGO | $3,190,000 | Listing ID: 598250

81888 Overseas Highway, Islamorada | 305.712.8888 | oceansir.com Russell Post, Broker/Owner Each office is independently owned and operated.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

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

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NUMBER OF THE WEEK U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials said a person found 69 pounds of cocaine in the Florida Keys waters over the weekend. The drugs were wrapped in several packages. As to the value of the cocaine, officials say the packages totaled more than $1 million. Border Patrol agents recovered the drugs with assistance from the U.S. Coast Guard.

ON THE COVER Mo the Sloth with Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Farmer Jeanne Selander. Mo passed away at the age of 18, having lived on the farm for 13 years. An open house was held at the Animal Farm on Dec. 5 in tribute to Mo. RALPH DEPALMA/ Contributed

Publisher Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com Publishing Partner Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com Editor Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Account Executive Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com Staff Writers Charlotte Twine charlotte@keysweekly.com Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com Copy Editor Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com Office/Circulation Manager Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com Director of Digital Media Chanice Dos Santos chanice@keysweekly.com Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com Design / Pre-Press Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com Design / Web Master Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com Classifieds Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844 Se habla español THE UPPER KEYS 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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EDDIE MARTINEZ RESIGNS A WEEK AFTER DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ARREST JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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iting health issues, Eddie Martinez resigned from the Monroe County Commission on Dec. 7. An official resignation letter was sent to Gov. Ron DeSantis, according to a county press release.

A representative serving the west end of Key West, Martinez informed officials late last week that he’d be taking a voluntary leave of absence for 30 days. It all comes following his domestic violence-related arrest on Nov. 30 at a family home in Hialeah, where he allegedly threw boxes, a drawer and a pill box at his wife during an argument.

According to arrest reports, Martinez and his wife were at a bar the night before, when an argument ensued. She ended up driving herself back home, and Martinez arrived moments later.

According to the arrest report, Martinez woke up the next morning “in a rage about the incident at the bar” when he started to throw things. Martinez’s daughter ended up hiding in the bathroom and called 911 to report that her parents were loudly arguing and things were being tossed. She told police her father struggles with prescription drug abuse and becomes “regularly violent.”

Speaking to police, the arrest report states that Martinez admitted that he struggles with his prescription drug abuse, but denies throwing or hitting his wife. The police report states that minor bruises were observed on the victim’s legs and right arm.

Martinez is scheduled to be arraigned in court on Dec. 21, according to the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office.

Eddie Martinez

The Weekly reached out on Dec. 7 to Martinez for comment, but his voicemail said his inbox was full and he did not return a call.

Martinez’s resignation comes a day after news that a resolution was being crafted by Commissioner Michelle Coldiron asking him to step away from the seat.

“It is my utmost desire for Eddie Martinez to receive the help he needs to overcome his current health problems. I wish the best for him and his family,” Coldiron told the Weekly shortly after the news of Martinez’s resignation. “It is imperative for the residents of Monroe County to have five commissioners devoting their full attention to the important issues confronting us, and I look forward to working with whoever the governor appoints to replace Mr. Martinez.”

Commissioner Holly Raschein told the Weekly that she’s grateful to Martinez for sparing Monroe County the turmoil and doing the right thing by resigning.

“I hope this incident reminds us all that domestic violence and substance abuse remains an endemic problem in our community and that we must redouble our efforts to address it,” she said. “I wish Eddie and his family the best in finding peace in their lives.”

Monroe County mayor David Rice indicated that he was relieved to avoid the impending conversation at the Dec. 8 BOCC meeting. “I’m very glad that Eddie made this decision. It takes him and us away from a discussion that I would rather have not had,” said Rice. “I believe he made the right decision, and I wish him well in his personal endeavors.”

The latest occurrence isn’t the first time police were called to a domestic incident involving Martinez. On Jan. 12, Key West police responded to a 1009 Simonton St. apartment for a family dispute between stepdaughter Natalie Guerra, 24, and Martinez.

Martinez told officers he had gotten into an argument with his stepdaughter, who had driven down from her home in Homestead to pick up her younger sisters. Guerra told police her younger sisters had called her because their parents had been fighting for two days and the two younger girls wanted Guerra to come get them, reports state.

Guerra told police Eddie Martinez was “kicking her mother, Maria Martinez, out,” and she had driven down with her fiance to collect her mother and two sisters. But when she arrived, Eddie and Maria Martinez were reportedly getting along better, and Eddie Martinez was refusing to let Guerra take her sisters to Homestead, reports state.

That’s when the arguing and a physical altercation ensued. continued on the next page

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

Guerra’s fiance then reportedly “bear-hugged” Eddie Martinez from behind, pinning his arms down. Guerra said she intervened to separate her stepfather and her fiance by “smacking them away,” reports state. No charges were filed by Martinez against his stepdaughter, but she was still arrested on misdemeanor battery charges.

Martinez was elected following a November 2020 victory over Democrat incumbent Heather Carruthers. Carruthers later filed a legal challenge that claims Martinez, who’s a land surveyor with an office in Key West, did not live in District 3 at the time he was elected.

Per state statute, Gov. Ron DeSantis can appoint an interim commissioner to serve until a special election, which can be held in 2022 as part of the regular election cycle next year (August primary, November general). The special election winner will serve the remaining two years of Martinez’s term, until November 2024.

In the 2022 election, four of the five county commission seats will be up for election. By statute, Districts 2 and 4 are normally up for election in gubernatorial election years. The winners of those races will serve until November 2026. In addition to District 3, District 5 will be up for a special election, following the death of Commissioner Mike Forster in early September. DeSantis appointed former State Rep. Holly Merrill Raschein to serve as the interim appointment. The District 3 and District 5 special election winners will serve until November 2024.

If constituents in District 3 have any questions or issues that need immediate attention, they can reach out to Monroe County staff or another commissioner.

Martinez was a member of the South Florida Planning Council. According to Coldiron, Martinez missed six straight meetings while he was commissioner.

During a Dec. 15 county commission meeting, Commissioner Craig Cates was approved as a member of the council.

As for other appointments for the upcoming year, County Attorney Bob Shillinger said “We’ll talk about that next month when we are hopefully full strength.”

Alex Rickert contributed to this report.

CALL OF DUTY?

LIMITED NUMBER OF COVID VACCINES FOR KIDS IN KEYS Also discussed at BOCC: KW airport redesign cost, KL park filled with tourists CHARLOTTE TWINE

charlotte@keysweekly.com

Jim Scholl enjoys a laugh at his own expense during the Keys Weekly’s 2019 Bubba Awards Gala. NICK DOLL/Contributed

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

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he Dec. 7 resignation of County Commissioner Eddie Martinez, a week after his arrest in Hialeah on domestic violence charges, leaves a hole for the governor to fill on the county commission dais.

Jim Scholl, former commander of Naval Air Station Key West and a two-time Key West city manager, has let the governor know that he is willing to fill the seat.

“This is a bad situation for Monroe County. They’re going to need an eligible appointee who lives in the district, and I just feel like you should always give back if you have the skill sets and if it’s needed,” Scholl told the Keys Weekly on Tuesday, Dec. 7, the same day Martinez submitted his resignation to Governor Ron DeSantis.

“All I did through the local Republican folks was say that I live in the district and I’d be willing to fill in,” Scholl said. “I just said, ‘Look, this is a really unfortunate situation and if you need a legally eligible candidate, I’d be willing to fill in.’ Some folks down here have passed my bio to the governor.

“The Navy base has great relationships with the county and the city of Key West, and I’d like to think I had something to do with that,” Scholl said. “I think I could jump in and be up to speed pretty quickly.”

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t the Dec. 8 Board of County Commissioners meeting, the emergency management department’s director, Shannon Weiner, said that only a limited number of COVID vaccines for children ages 5 and up are available in the Keys.

But she had encouraging news about Omicron, the new COVID variant.

Also discussed: Key West Airport repairs and tourist congestion at two small Key Largo parks.

Bob Eadie of the Florida Department of Health for the county was ill, so Weiner gave his report in his absence. The Omicron variant of COVID, which has made national headlines, is now in 15 states across the U.S. Though Weiner said there is not a lot of info on Omicron yet, she said that individuals seem to not be getting seriously ill, “which is a good thing.”

Weiner also announced that COVID vaccines for children ages 5 and up are “still coming through the federal pharmacy program...and (they are) very limited in the Keys.” She said Eadie plans to conduct a survey with the school board about the demand for the children’s vaccine and then make a plan going forward.

Richard Strickland, director of Monroe County airports, gave an update on Key West International Airport improvements, which have a targeted completion date of October 2024. Some of the pricier repairs in this phase of the design, which is at 30 percent completion: a project to connect the U.S. Customs Building and Concourse A, with an estimated cost of $3 million; a glass curtain wall to withstand 200 mph winds, estimated to cost $3 million; terminal flooring upgrade to terrazzo at $750,000; and an aquarium for $400,000.

One option to avoid the cost and maintenance of the aquarium is to provide a less-pricey fully virtual “Passenger Entry Bridge Experience” into the terminal. Strickland is also concerned about the higher cost of steel for future construction. Steel has gone up 40 percent in the U.S. since the start of the COVID pandemic.

But Strickland emphasized that none of the money for the new concourse, estimated to have a final cost

COVID vaccines for children ages 5 and up are still coming through the federal pharmacy program and are very limited in the Keys. CONTRIBUTED

of around $80 million, will come from Monroe County taxpayers. The money will all be provided by user fees, and grants from the FAA and FDOT. Next week, Strickland will receive updated cost estimates during a meeting with stakeholders.

Also discussed: solutions for continued tourist congestion at two small Key Largo parks within the Bay Harbor and Sunset Point subdivisions. The North Bay Drive park had no-parking signs with $200 fines installed up and down streets to lessen traffic.

A resident who lives in the area on Sunset Road said at the meeting that “we would tell (a driver) about the noparking signs and she said, ‘I don’t care — go ahead and fine me.’”

A land-use attorney named Ty Harris, who said he was speaking for homeowners in the area, said the two parks were donated to the county in the late 1940s specifically to be used as roads to access the water, not as a park.

Harris suggested giving the land back to the county, otherwise known as a “replat,” since it was not being used only as a road, per the original donations’ specifications.

A handful of residents from the neighborhood then called or stood up to say, “I support the replat.”

County attorney Bob Shillinger disagreed that the land was not being used properly, and was reluctant to prevent the public from accessing the water. He said one solution, among others, was to hire a tow service for vehicles parked in front of the signs.

“We will need to revisit this and discuss in another meeting,” said Commissioner Holly Raschein.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

FOR SALE $6.8MM KEY COLONY MARINA 27 SLIPS | REBUILD 3,000SF RESTAURANT WITH 2 APARTMENTS | FUEL DOCK ADDITIONAL DOCKAGE | OFFICE AND STORE BUILDING | LOTS OF PARKING

305-390-0397 | ash@simplymarinas.com www.simplymarinas.com

The Florida Bay Eco-Center, located inside the historic Russell Cottage at Green Turtle Hammock Preserve in Islamorada, opened to the public on Dec. 7. CONTRIBUTED

FLORIDA BAY CENTER OPEN AT GREEN TURTLE HAMMOCK

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

TUESDAY THRU SATURDAY 4:20 -11

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

WEDNESDAY THRU SUNDAY 4:20 - 11

fter nearly a year since signing off on a contract with the Village of Islamorada, Florida Bay Forever has announced the Florida Bay Eco-Center in the historic Russell Cottage, located at the Green Turtle Hammock Nature Preserve, opened on Dec. 7. The site will house Florida Bay-focused information and exhibits, retail space with unique gifts, and an office for the Islamorada-based environmental nonprofit.

“We are over the moon to be opening the doors to our local community and many visitors to the Florida Keys,” said Emma Haydocy, Florida Bay Forever executive director. “We wanted to create an inviting space where the public can gather to learn about the biodiversity of the Florida Keys, the perils facing Florida Bay, and what each and every one of us can do to ensure we have a thriving and resilient bay for generations to come.”

The center will be open to the public Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Green Turtle Hammock Nature Preserve remains open to the public seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The public is invited to attend a holiday open house at Green Turtle Hammock on Thursday, Dec. 30, from 1 to 5 p.m. The event will feature a book signing with seasonal resident, and Florida Bay advocate, Daniel Burkhardt.

Florida Bay Forever will kick off eco-tours, bird walks, sunset paddle tours, and other educational programs in January.

“The Village of Islamorada is thrilled to be able to offer the Green Turtle Hammock Preserve as a site where Florida Bay Forever can carry out their mission of conservation and environmental stewardship within the Florida Keys community,” said Pete Frezza, environmental resources manager with the Village of Islamorada. “Located along the shores of Florida Bay, we feel this is a perfect location.

We look forward to the years of environmental education, interpretation and advocacy that will result from this partnership.”

More information is at floridabayforever.org or 305563-7970.

— Contributed

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

Yes to not being afraid of the vaccine.

Andrea Rai, Expert R.N.

Let’s bring back the hugs. Let’s bring back the smiles. Let’s beat this pandemic together.

If you have any questions or doubts related to the vaccine, visit BaptistHealth.net/SayYes for more information.

8 BRIEFLY Schools, Americorps partner for preschool literacy Florida Reading Corps is currently seeking 10 individuals to serve as preschool literacy tutors in schools in Key Largo and Tavernier. The Preschool Literacy Program places tutors in classrooms, where they serve alongside teachers to help children build skills and get ready for kindergarten.

“Forty percent of kindergartners in Florida are not ready for school,” said Britney Matthews, director of Florida Programs. “Studies also show that as much as 90 percent of a child’s brain development happens up to the age of 5. Reading Corps helps kids make a strong start and sets them up to be successful learners in kindergarten and beyond.”

The 2021-22 school year marks the sixth year for Reading Corps in Florida.

The program is a research-based initiative designed to help every student become a successful reader by the end of third grade. Full-time tutors are needed to serve 35 hours per week.

All tutors receive a stipend every two weeks, plus extra money to pay for college tuition or student loans. Those who are 55 or older may choose to gift their education award to their child, grandchild, stepchild or foster child.

Many tutors also qualify for additional benefits like free health insurance and child care assistance.

No tutoring experience is required, and AmeriCorps provides the necessary training to get started as well as ongoing coaching throughout the year. The application deadline is Dec. 15, 2021 to start in January. Anyone interested is encouraged to apply now at http://join.readingandmath.org/.

Keyswide mobile pumpout resumes for anchored vessels On The Hook Marine Services LLC began providing free mobile pump-out service to vessels anchored throughout the Florida Keys on Dec. 1 in specific service areas from Key West to Key Largo. This service is being provided with funding and management by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection through at least June 2022.

Sewage discharges from vessels are prohibited within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Participation in this free service assists anchored boaters in complying with the no-discharge regulation and the Monroe County Proof of Pump-Out requirement. Boaters can register at www.onthehookmarine.com or call 305-833-1978. In addition, several shoreside pump-out stations are also available throughout Monroe County.

A list of available facilities can be found at www.monroecounty-fl.gov/ pumpout.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

SAVE THE DATE Dec. 10-11 • Household hazardous waste drop-off day from 9 a.m. to noon at Founders Park.

Saturday, Dec. 11 • Florida Keys Toys for Tots Poker Run at 9 a.m. beginning at Florida Boy Bar & Grill, MM 68.5, bayside, and ending at OceanView Pub, MM 84.5, bayside.

• Pops in the Park concert at 4 p.m. at ICE Amphitheater, Founders Park, Islamorada.

• Kids Night Out for kids ages 6-12 from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Founders Park, Islamorada.

• Key Largo Boat parade at 7:30 p.m. on Blackwater Sound, Key Largo.

Sunday, Dec. 12 • Islamorada Half Marathon & 10K from 8 a.m. to noon at Postcard Inn, Islamorada.

• Santa Claus and carolers parade the streets with fire rescuers at 5:30 p.m. in Islamorada.

Wednesday, Dec. 15 • History of Diving Museum’s Immerse Yourself lecture with underwater explorer and author Jill Heinerth from 7 to 8 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 16 • Islamorada Village Council meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Founders Park Community Center.

Saturday, Dec. 18 • Christmas with Coral from 10 to 11 a.m. at One Grind KL, Key Largo.

Monday, Dec. 20 • Send It South Challenge concludes.

Tuesday, Dec. 21 • Islamorada Nature Walks from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Anne’s Beach, Islamorada.

Saturday, Dec. 25 • Christmas Day Saturday, Jan. 1 • New Year’s Day Jan. 14-16 • Baygrass Bluegrass concert series at Florida Keys Brewing Co., Islamorada.

Jan. 21-23 • Island Boat Show at Hawk’s Cay Island Resort, Marathon.

MONROE COUNTY SCHOOLS TO RECEIVE $13M IN FEDERAL MONEY Florida was last to apply for Biden’s American Rescue Plan funds

The American Rescue Plan Act’s funding for schools is intended to mitigate learning loss from the pandemic. CONTRIBUTED

CHARLOTTE TWINE

charlotte@keysweekly.com

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everly Anders, Monroe County School District’s executive director of finance, announced in the most recent school board meeting that $13 million in federal funds will soon hit their coffers from the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act. The district will use the money as ARP intended for schools: to mitigate learning loss from the pandemic. Anders has until Dec. 17 to submit a proposal with the specific details of how the funds will be spent.

Anders told Keys Weekly that she knew back in March that federal money was coming when President Joe Biden signed ARP into law. But time passed by, and the state did not apply for the funds.

“The state of Florida was the last state in the whole nation to apply for these funds,” she pointed out.

But the state finally applied, and it received its slice of ARP’s pie.

Florida’s cut for the schools? $6.4 billion.

Anders said the amount each county got depended upon enrollment in the schools. “Dade County got a billion dollars. That gives some perspective,” she said.

Once Anders learned that Monroe County was getting the $13 million, she had to submit a formal proposal that listed how its money would be used. But because Florida had applied for ARP funds very late, the state gave Anders a tight deadline for the proposal.

“Luckily, they extended that to Dec. 17,” she said. “But at first they gave us two weeks.”

The items on her proposal all have a unified purpose: “We are going to be diligent and responsible for how we use this money and provide resources to students for social, emotional and educational purposes to overcome what they went through during the pandemic,” Anders said.

Proposed allocations include: $8 million toward 66 newly created positions, such as social workers, reading interventionists, nurse techs and guidance techs; $1.5 million toward charter schools; $2 million for furniture to provide educational spaces and media centers for collaborative learning and social distancing; $200,000 for technology such as additional Chromebooks and hotspots to allow kids to work remotely.

The next step for the proposal after it is submitted? Public input from the community about how the money will be spent. The district is allowed to make changes to the proposal depending upon input. To get this feedback from the community, Superintendent Theresa Axford will hold town hall meetings throughout winter and spring.

“The town hall meeting schedule is coming out before we leave for winter break,” said Amber Archer Acevedo, coordinator of community relations for the school district.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

STATE SESSION NEARING

Keys representative seeks more funding for environment

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ess than a month remains before a 60-day session of policy and funding discussions in Tallahassee begins. Coming off his first year in office, State Rep. Jim Mooney is hoping to secure funding for infrastructure, education, the environment and other critical projects in 2022.

A 2020-21 legislative session saw Mooney successfully securing full funding for the Florida Keys Stewardship Act. With a $20 million appropriation approved, it was the first year the program received the entire amount requested since it was signed into law in 2016. Funding for the program, which supports ongoing environmental projects in the Keys, will remain a priority in the coming session.

Initial budgets during the last legislative session saw no money for the Stewardship Act in the House and only $2 million in the Senate. That changed, however, before the conclusion of the session. DeSantis ended up signing a budget into law for the $20 million Stewardship Act funds and an additional $5 million for land acquisition. Mooney said he’ll be working this year to ensure the Stewardship Act is approved for recurring funds.

“We’re going to put forth a bill to try to get recurring funds so we don’t have to fight for it every year,” Mooney said. “If we could get $20 million this year, that would be great. We’ll see how that plays out. We’re in an Area of Critical Concern, so that always makes things a little easier.”

Mooney is also leading an appropriation in the House for $300,000 for installation of a glass crusher, conveyor and material handling components in Key West. Charley Toppino & Sons Inc. has agreed in principal to partner with the City of Key West to share land and operational resources, to establish glass reuse and material distribution.

Waste Management Inc. is willing to collect and deliver recycled glass to the crusher for reuse in the community. The mayor and city commissioners have voiced support for glass reuse, according to the appropriations request.

Collection and delivery of recycled glass to a crusher for processing into usable materials will eliminate transportation costs to truck glass to landfills, which are located hundreds of miles from Key West. Recycled glass will be collected from residents and businesses, delivered to the glass crusher facility, converted into fill materials and distributed to material yards for use in concrete, asphalt and general fill material.

“That’s already been heard in committee and passed in the first hurdle,” Mooney said. “I can’t wait to see that.”

Key Colony Beach is seeking $2.6 million in state funds for construction of a stormwater collection and disposal system for the southerly drainage basin that extends approximately 1,000 feet north from some intersections of Ocean Drive. The system will be considered a stormwater treatment train consisting of a perforated PVC pipe swale system, followed by baffle boxes with hydrocarbon filter socks, to gravity injection wells.

The existing roadway/shoulder areas will be enhanced with perforated pipe exfiltration trenches.

Engineering study and plans are complete.

Appropriation State Rep. requests are also Jim Mooney in for a wastewater treatment system and irrigation upgrades at Pigeon Key, $770,175; College of the Florida Keys for completion of the Academy Classroom Facility and Emergency Operations Center, $3 million; and Monroe County for a vessel pump-out program, $300,000.

Mooney is also supporting a funding request of $942,000 for the construction of a Category 5 regional aquaponics facility. The project will see Fresh Ministries and College of the Florida Keys partnering to provide education, workforce training, economic development and food insecurity alleviation.

“The direct services provided to the citizens would be job training, fresh healthy produce, lower cost produce and sustainable incomes,” according to the funding request application.

Gov. Ron DeSantis’ full budget proposal hasn’t been unveiled yet. But he has released several plans, including more than $100 million to support Florida’s National Guard and establish the Florida State Guard, a civilian volunteer force that will assist the National Guard during state-specific emergencies. He’s also proposing $400 million in new funding to increase the salaries of first responders.

The Monroe County Public Library’s Marathon Branch.

TECHNOLOGY UPGRADES

County libraries get funds for more improvements

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he Monroe County Public Library system was recently awarded a record-breaking American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant for $975,469. This is the greatest amount awarded to a Florida library and the highest ever bestowed to Monroe's libraries.

The 100% federally-funded grant includes a suite of technology and equipment solutions for library patrons to confidently access services while expanding access to digital, print and online information services.

"Our community saw the robust technology implemented at the new Marathon library and implored us to expand it Keyswide," said Kimberly Matthews, library director. "This ambitious grant realizes a renaissance in library technology and user experience."

The State Library Council ranked 63 applications seeking $6.7 million in Florida ARPA funds. Matthews, assistant director Anne Layton Rice and business manager Lisa Booker wrote the grant.

Enhanced technology can include self-checkout, outdoor lockers for hold pickup, contact-free retrieval of DVDs and internet browsing and computing needs using laptops and tablets for social distancing.

"The library envisions a comfortable, inclusive and empowering library environment for all Florida Keys communities," Matthews said. "Locations are also being scouted to place 24hour library kiosks to reach underserved islands further from the county's five library locations."

The Florida ARPA grant program supports libraries responding directly to the pandemic community needs via equitable digital and in-person library services approaches. The program is administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the Division of Library and Information Services under the Florida Department of State.

More information about library locations and services is at www.keyslibraries.org.

— Contributed

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

SHELL WORLD MORE THAN JUST SHELLS! HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

DECEMBER DISCOUNT DAYS

DISCOUNTS ON EVERYTHING!

Now through 12/24/21 With local ID. Not good on previous purchases. Cannot be combined with any other offer or discount.

MM 97.5 | 305.852.8245 | OPEN DAILY 9AM - 8PM

Florida Keys Board of Realtors gives thanks to our community!

The Florida Keys Board of Realtors is a sponsor of the Blood Drive and Big Red Bus. We will also host a non-perishable food donation drop off from 11 am - 3 pm.

Come stop by and give back with us! We will be located at the First State Bank in Key Largo at MM 97 in the median.

! e t a D e h t e v a S Dec 18th

Make your appointment at

https://donor.oneblood.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/1010187 info@FloridaKeysBoardOfRealtors.com | 305-852-9294 | www.FloridaKeysBoardOfRealtors.com Sharon Kelly-Brown, 2021 President Jennifer Miller, President Elect Claire Johnson, Secretary/Treasurer

Michael Kanik, Immediate Past President Diana Fiddes, Director Wendy Ives, Director

Kathe Kaile, Director Karen Williams-deCastro, Director Debra Bennett, Director

Christine Garcia-Castellanos, Director Mykael Marinelli, Director Lynda Anthony, CEO

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021 MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

‘ANIMALS REALLY DO CHANGE LIVES’

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Animal Farm mascot, Mo the sloth, passed away at the age of 18 on Dec. 5.

REMEMBERING MO An animal that changed lives and hearts

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i friends, Reef the fox here with this week’s “Reef’s Report.” This past week has been a sad one for all of the Florida Keys. We lost a very important animal friend in our community.

Mo the Sloth, who lived at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Animal Farm, passed away and it has left a vacancy in a lot of hearts.

My mom has been volunteering/visiting the REEF animal farm since 2017; that is where she met THE FOX foxes Lana and Rocky, which led to her saving all of us here at Pawsitive Beginnings.

Reef is a red fox Mo was surrendered to the farm 13 years that was saved from a fur farm. ago and quickly became the mascot and could He now lives in often be seen with Farmer Jeanne Selander at Key Largo with events all up and down the Keys. He greeted his human, Nicole visitors at every open house, charmed adults Navarro. and children alike, and would literally pose for photos once he saw those cameras come out, I’m told (kind of like yours truly).

My mom told me that Mo’s favorite food was fruits, like plum and nectarine, and he also loved corn on the cob. I never got a chance to meet Mo when I visited the farm. Something about foxes and sloths probably not getting along.

I’ll tell you all a super secret about animals: we have a magic power. We can change lives and hearts just by being who we are.

Animals don’t judge humans. We don’t care about the past, we don’t know what the future even is, we just take life one day at a time. Moment by moment, and are quite literally just happy to be part of your life. Sure, sometimes we (me) can be sassy and stubborn, but that’s just how it goes. So I’m sure when you lose us, we take a piece of you when we go, but just remember, that feeling is mutual.

So Mo, may you cruise at sloth speed over the rainbow bridge and have all the fruit and corn you can dream of. The other animals that have gone before you will surely be waiting to greet you and I know your human Jeanne will see you again some day.

Thank you for bringing joy to thousands of people all over the world, even if they never met you. We are all better for having known you.

In loving memory of Mo the Sloth

Mo the Sloth in his usual position around Farmer Jeanne Selander’s neck.

KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

armer Jeanne Selander, who runs the Sheriff’s Animal Farm at the jail on Stock Island, is feeling the heartbreaking loss of the furry slow-moving fella who for 13 years was regularly wound around her torso, like an extra appendage.

Mo the Sloth was one of the most popular fixtures at the animal farm, which is a sanctuary of sorts for an estimated 150 rescued goats, an ostrich, an emu, kinkajous, horses, birds, reptiles, alpacas, rabbits and other critters.

“We are heartbroken to announce the sudden and unexpected passing of our beloved Mo the sloth,” Selander announced Dec. 4 on Facebook. “I cannot even guess how many lives he has touched, and the Farm won’t be the same without him. What a gift it was to be loved by Mo, and it was my honor to have been his keeper and companion for 13 years. I will always be grateful to Peter Parente for bringing Mo into my life, and for trusting me with his care. I will miss his slothy hugs.

There are no words.”

Selander added that Mo was 18 years old when he died, and sloths typically live 20 or more years in captivity.

“Mo passed peacefully in his sleep,” she wrote, adding, “A necropsy will be performed by our farm veterinarian to hopefully shed some light on the cause of death. Our condolences to those of you who grieve with us.”

An open house was held at the Animal Farm on Dec. 5 in tribute to Mo. “We had 350 visitors,” Selander said. “Thank you for the cards, flowers, hugs and the memories of Mo. It was a beautiful day to celebrate the life of a treasured friend. I want all of you to know how much I appreciate the thoughts, the messages and the love.

Many of you whom I met because of Mo have become lifelong friends, and for that I am truly grateful. Mo was proof that animals really do change lives. He was a true ambassador of the farm, and in large part, made it what it is today. I will miss him forever. Much love, Farmer Jeanne”

The Monroe County Tourist Development Council highlighted Selander and the Animal Farm — believed to be the country’s only facility of its kind on jailhouse property — in a September Keys Voices profile: “Jeanne Selander grew up on James Island near Charleston, South Carolina. As a child, she nurtured a small menagerie of animals and got her first pony at age 7. She was an equestrian team member at the College of Charleston.

“During the past 15 years, ‘Farmer Jeanne’ has mentored more than 1,500 low-risk detention center inmates who assist her with animal care. While the farm is a USDA-certified zoo, it’s really more of a sanctuary for abused, neglected and abandoned animals that become “forever residents.

“She has spent nights hunkered down in a sleeping bag in an on-site shed during approaching storms. She’s coaxed horses and alpacas onto an elevator in the jail, where the animals were sheltered in cells (the inmates were evacuated).

“Selander, who admits she gets bored quickly, has trained horses and been a scuba diving instructor, environmental consultant, shrimp farmer on an aquaculture farm and zoo aquarium diver — as well as working at the Key West Aquarium.

“Eventually, Florida Keys veterinarian Dr. Doug Mader convinced her to accompany him on rounds at the sheriff’s facility. It got its start in 1994, when a deputy suggested moving neighborhood ducks to a space underneath the jail to protect them from traffic, and evolved as residents dropped off various animals. Jeanne saw its potential and today is dedicated to sharing it with others. “‘My mission for the farm is to advocate for being responsible pet parents by spaying and neutering your pets, keeping in mind that animals are not disposable — they are a commitment for their lifetime,’ she said. ‘At the farm, I practice what I preach. When animals arrive here, they are home.’”

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

HOLIDAY BLUES Want a time machine to zap you to Jan. 2? Keys experts have advice for those who are suffering this season.

CHARLOTTE TWINE

charlotte@keysweekly.com

I

t’s officially the holiday season.

For many, this may be a happy time with boisterous gatherings of family and friends, gift openings next to twinkle lights and favorite songs playing while baking Grandma’s famous pumpkin pie recipe.

But for some, this is a painful time.

It’s a reminder of a recently lost loved one, a diagnosis of a serious illness or the first timid steps into sobriety.

Perhaps each loud cheerful song is an upsetting memory of when you last heard it with your just-deceased family member. Or possibly, each shouted “Happy Holidays!” greeting is a sting, an unwelcome challenge to not pick up a drink this year.

To translate: Some Keys locals may want to arrange for a time machine to zap them forward to Jan. 2 to avoid the whole darn season.

But Florida Keys experts, including spiritual leaders, a recovery expert, a mental health counselor and a life coach, want to help. They have advice for locals who are grieving, depressed or practicing sobriety this season. In particular, they have specific steps readers can take to protect their mental health and perhaps even thrive in these next weeks.

Maureen Dunleavy, regional vice president of Key West’s Guidance/Care Center, agreed that this festive time of year can be triggering for many but pointed out a few coping strategies that are useful.

“Particularly with grief and loss, the holidays are really challenging,” she said. “The most important thing to remember is, even if we're not looking forward to the holidays, you can control the time you're allotted. If we don’t have certain people to connect to because of a loss due to death or a

Do you have the holiday blues while sitting next to a Christmas tree? Experts suggest taking a walk in nature can help change your perspective. CONTRIBUTED

broken relationship, we do have ways to connect to community or a 12-step higher power or with nature. That connection is so important for loss. For some that may mean walking on the beach rather than sitting at a Thanksgiving table. For others, it’s free community events. Sometimes we have to act ‘as if.’ Going to the holiday parade or choosing to ride a bike at a festive gathering might be something we don’t feel like doing, but that can boost our spirits in the long run.”

Rabbi Richard Agler of the Keys Jewish Community Center in Tavernier said that speaking to a spiritual leader can be uplifting.

“If there's been a loss, no human people can fix it, but what we can do is be there for one another and make them feel loved and cared for,” he said. “People don’t see, in the depths of the grief, that their life has not collapsed entirely. The loss may be very grievous, but they're still here and there’s a possibility for healing and rebuilding.”

Phil Underwood, the spiritual leader of Bluewater church in Islamorada, explained that being of service can uplift those who are feeling challenged.

“I find great healing in serving during grief.

The depth of our grief indicates the height of our love,” he said. “First thing: Be aware of people around you. We’re in a time of great need. You might find someone in your circle who needs your time, or you can go to Crystal Rehab or Baptist and say, ‘Hey is there anything I can do this season?’”

Underwood also suggested focusing on gratitude.

“In a time of loss, really inventory what you have. Focus more on what you have than what you’ve lost. It doesn’t diminish the loss, but it helps us put the challenge in perspective. With issues of depression and anger, stories of resilience are of those who turn pain into gain. It did not define their life.”

Tavernier’s Terry Hudson, a minister and doctor who has experience with the recovery community, had advice for those with dependency issues.

“Keep yourself grounded in your recovery,” he said. “This is a time to double up on your recovery program, if it's appointments with individuals or meetings. Take the offensive and be alert. Thomas Jefferson said, ‘The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.’”

Lastly, success coach and Keys Weekly contributor Melinda Van Fleet reminded locals who are missing friends and family to focus on the simple pleasures of the Keys. “​​If you are alone for the holidays and wish you weren’t, I would suggest taking some time to think about something you enjoy doing by yourself and making a plan,” she said. “It could be as simple and affordable as getting a book from the library, a big $1 soda from Circle K, going to Anne’s Beach and chilling out. We often forget the simple things that others wish they had access to, and we have that here in the Keys. I know this is cliché, but being grateful for the experience will work magic too.”

For those who are in crisis and need more counsel, the Guidance/Care Center can help.

Call its hotline 24/7 at 305-434-7660, option 8.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

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SNOW MUCH FUN

Holiday Fest brings parade, crafts and activities

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mountain of snow drew children to Founders Park Beach, while others visited the 35-foot high Christmas tree to play in the “magical” snow during the annual Holiday Fest on Dec. 3. Put on by the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce, the park transformed into a winter wonderland, as a parade of decorated vehicles and trailers added to the park’s lighted decorations. At the holiday bazaar, artists’ gifts were available for purchase for the holiday shopping season. In addition, 50 local artists created original holiday treasures starting from a blank ceramic mold. Santa’s Sweet Shoppe featured a selection of desserts and coffee.

— Weekly staff report 1. Festival goers enjoy Florida Keys Brewing Co.’s Iguana Bait. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly 2. Young festival goers swarm the pack of snow on Founders Park Beach before it melts. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly 3. The holiday bazaar offered artisanal crafts and other items for purchase.

DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly 4. An aerial view of the festivities at Islamorada’s Holiday Fest. GEO TOTH/ Keys Weekly 5. An aerial view of the parade as Islamorada Fire Rescue escorts Santa through the park. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly 6. Parade participants make their way through the crowd. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly For more photos, visit keysweekly.com

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

The Gneiser family now owns Amoray Dive Resort and plan to fill it with family fun events like Scuba Santa.

ANNA CLAPPER/Clapper Captures

SCUBA SANTA AND OTHER FUN Amoray Dive Resort is Bringing Back the Fun

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hink mall Santa pictures, but underwater.”

When Anna Clapper sent this description of her latest event, the tagline screamed Keys holiday magic. Truly, what could be more Keysey than trying to tell Santa your Christmas wish list while you’re both scuba diving? Clapper, an event planner extraordinaire, is also a veteran underwater photographer, diver, freediver and professional mermaid.

And, she’s the new course coordinator at Amoray Dive Resort in Key Largo.

“I’ve done similar events in the past, and they were a big hit,” Clapper told Keys Weekly of her Scuba Santa idea. “It’s something guests always look forward to, and I thought it would translate well with the resort atmosphere here.”

Guests arrived and were invited to a tropical winter wonderland, with holiday hits playing on the loudspeaker, a tinsel-laden tree and Scuba Santa at the bottom of a heated pool and hot apple cider ready for when they got out.

“This is an opportunity for families and clients to do something just for fun and for us as Amoray Dive Center to build the community with our tagline of ‘Peace, Love and Diving,’” Clapper said as she donned her greenand-red elf-helper outfit for the event.

Families with kids or non-divers had the opportunity to do a Discover

Scuba Diving (DSD) course beforehand to familiarize themselves with the basics and to get comfortable breathing underwater.

“We’re following all PADI standards, with minimum ages for DSDs and Bubble Makers (a PADI program for kids to learn to dive),” Clapper said.

“And all the staff are dive professionals (and elves today), for supervision.”

Certified divers could skip the lesson and hop right in to meet Santa.

Devin Brush and Jen Maranell of Des Moines, Iowa did just that. Then, they adorned themselves with Christmas holly, reindeer antlers and other holiday paraphernalia for their photoshoots.

“We want this to be our Christmas card this year, because we think it will be hilarious,” Brush said as he put on a red velvet robe and readied himself for his shoot.

“We might even Photoshop our pets in. I didn’t know this was a thing until we arrived on Thursday and signed right up.”

He added, and Maranell agreed, “I’m going to tell Scuba Santa that Jen’s been a very good girl this year. She should get all the presents.”

Under new management since just before the pandemic, Amoray struggled momentarily to find its sea legs when Monroe County shut down in the spring of 2020. Since then, however, they’ve been busier than ever. Recently, the resort enjoyed the two busiest months the business has ever seen in its long history.

Now, with things stabilizing, the iconic dive shop is ready to reintroduce itself to the dive community with more family events like underwater pumpkin carving, Scuba Santa and more.

Cynthia Gneiser, one of the new owners and the head elf for the day, said, “We want to bring back fun things like this to Amoray — like back in the day. All these fun events.”

Gneiser and her husband, Jeff, live and work to share the joy of diving with others.

“We’ve been blessed. We’re getting recognized for the good things we’re doing, and we get to live out a dream,” Jeff said as he adjusted his Scuba Santa wig (shhh, don’t tell the kids).

Along with their two kids, the Gneisers took a giant stride into the pool holding hands to shoot their own family Christmas photo, with Santa and three elves.

“We’re really lucky,” Gneiser said. “We get to share this joy with the community. Just wait until Valentine’s Day — we’ll have something awesome.”

Until then, Scuba Santa and his merry elves from Key Largo wish everyone a happy and safe holiday season filled with — you guessed it — peace, love and diving.

Top Left: Scuba Santa lost his hat during a few of the photoshoots ‒ just one of the many challenges of underwater costuming. TIFFANY DUONG/ Keys Weekly Left: Scuba Santa ANNA CLAPPER/ Clapper Captures

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021 SPONSORED BY:

The Cannabis Cruiser is an advanced dive and smaller wreck that isn’t often on the dive roster but still worth a trip. ERIC BILLIPS

DIVING INTO HISTORY A dip on the Cannabis Cruiser CONSERVATION TIP

THIS WEEK’S DIVE REPORT The good times keep rolling. Conditions this past week were great, and we had amazing visibility. Water temperatures are dipping slightly — it is “winter” after all. Average water temperatures are around 77 degrees Fahrenheit.

This week, we did a very special dive on the “Cannabis Cruiser.” Also known as the “pot wreck,” it is one of the more infamous Florida Keys shipwrecks. In the ERIC 1970s, this trawler was used to smuggle drugs into the BILLIPS U.S., with quite some success.

On one of these many illicit journeys, the crew is the owner, became paranoid that the Coast Guard, who was pacaptain and trolling nearby, would soon apprehend them. In fear, instructor at Islamorada Dive they intentionally sank the Cruiser and fled. The men Center and Florida escaped, but no one marked her location, and her Keys Dive Center. exact whereabouts were unknown for a few years.

He specializes in Turns out, she came to her final resting place scuba, rebreather, three miles west of Alligator Reef Light in Islamorada. spearfishing and captaining in the Five years after her sinking, two scuba divers exploring Florida Keys. the reefs of Key Largo discovered the Cruiser sitting upright in about 110 feet of water. Onboard, she still had all of her navigational equipment and a sizable load of marijuana.

NEXT WEEK’S DIVE REPORT Conditions look amazing again this week. This is slightly unusual for December, so take advantage of it! Join us this weekend at Islamorada Dive Center to explore our seas. And, don’t forget your wetsuit!

CONSERVATION UPDATE Shipwrecks like the Cruiser, whether intentionally sunk or not, are very important to our local economy. Not only are they popular dive destinations, but they also become critical artificial reefs. As natural reefs degrade � due to water quality, storm surge, water temperatures and climate conditions � marine life loses shelter and protection. Artificial reefs serve as an alternative habitat for animals like eels, goliath groupers, lobsters and sharks, and divers often find these on and around wrecks.

Our coral planting efforts work to help bring back natural reefs. The hope is that the combination of natural and artificial reefs will continue to support healthy fish populations, which are the linchpin in our Florida Keys economy. If you want to help, join FIU as they come plant corals with us this week.

Artificial reefs help shelter fish and marine life from strong currents, predators and more.

They’re a critical part of our ecosystem.

This week, Islamorada Dive Center will be planting corals. Call to join.

Because the ship was intentionally scuttled, she still has all of her navigational equipment and radar onboard, making her a fun dive.

Proud supporters of conservation efforts across the beautiful Florida Keys

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

SNAGGIN’ SAILFISH

Team A-Fin-Ity wins tournament in Guatemala

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he Casa Vieja SailFly 2021 is in the books with a large turnout in four days of fly fishing for Pacific sailfish and marlin. With five teams composed of 11 fly-fish anglers, the event was sponsored by Pilar Rum. In the end, team A-fin-ity with Capt.

Nico Melendrez and anglers Wesley Locke and Betsy Bullard were the winners. They never looked back, winning with 11 sailfish and removing the fly on all 11 for 1,650 points. Wesley also won the first angler to remove the fly award and the high point overall angler award.

Team Makaira with Capt. Jeffery Garcia and anglers Miguel Sosa and Randy Towe held on to second place with eight sailfish and one blue marlin with 1,450 points. Sosa also won the last fly to be removed award. Team Rumline with Capt. Terry Brennan and anglers Robert Collins and Audrey Koocher finished third with four sailfish and one blue Marlin getting the fly back on all five for 950 points.

Rum lid barrel trophies were provided with a little help from Pasta Pantaleo on each award. Casa Vieja lodge in Guatemala provided accommodations and service from start to finish. The fish tournament is part of the Islamorada Sailfly championship.

On day one, Locke and teammate Bullard fishing aboard the A-fin-ity with Melendrez got things started with the first sailfish release and removed the fly at 9:15 a.m. for 150 points. They also added four more sails to take the early lead with 750 points. Team Rumline,

Team A-fin-ity with Capt. Nico Melendrez and anglers Wesley Locke and Betsy Bullard were the winners of the Casa Vieja SailFly 2021 at Casa Vieja Lodge in Guatemala. CONTRIBUTED

with Brennan and anglers Collins and Koocher, released two for 300 points, and the Makaira with anglers Sosa and Towe released one for 150 points.

Day two saw marlin and a few sails, and getting the catches started was Sosa with teammate Towe fishing aboard the Makaira with Garcia. Sosa landed a blue marlin and was able to remove the fly for 350 points. They also added two more sailfish for a total of 550 points.

The ladies on board the A-fin-ity kept busy, hooking five blue marlin, but they did not get any to the boat for a release.

Team Finest Kind with Capt. Nicho Alvarenga and anglers Don Epperly and Johnathan Epperly also released a striped marlin, but did not remove the fly for 100 points. They caught a sailfish and removed the fly for 150 points.

Team Release with Capt. Sammy and anglers Bernard and Jac Paul-Hus removed the fly on two sailfish for 300 points.

Day three was a big day for team Rumline with angler Robert Collins fighting a blue Marlin for three hours to get the fly out for 350 points and added another sailfish for 150. Team Release with angler Bernard Paul-Hus fought a blue marlin for one hour and 45 minutes to get the release, but was unable to

Total numbers for the 2021 Casa Vieja SailFly tournament • Raised 142 sails • Raised 28 marlin • 73 sailfish bites • 8 marlin bites • 29 sailfish were released and 4 marlin

remove the fly; they also added one sailfish for 250 points. Team A-fin-ity kept it going with three sailfish and removed the fly for 450 points. Team Makaira caught two sailfish for 300 points and had two more chances at a blue marlin.

Team A-fin-ity kept things going on the final day, catching three more sailfish for 450 points and having two more chances at a blue marlin. Team Makaira held on with three sailfish for 450 points.

Team Release finished strong with three sailfish and removed the fly for 450 points. Team Rumline with angler Koocher caught her first sailfish on fly for 150 points.

More information is at Islamoradasailfly.com for details.

Next year's dates for the 22nd Annual Islamorada Sailfly are Jan. 5-6, 2022.

Next year's dates for Casa Vieja, Guatemala are Nov. 6-11, 2022.

— Contributed

WE WILL WATCH THE MARKETS...

YOU WATCH FOR SANTA

­ ­ ­

19

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

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20

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

BLACK CAESAR SECRETS

Edward Zane Carroll Judson, aka Ned Buntline. CONTRIBUTED

Dime-store novelist spills the story

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story republished in “The Jackson Standard” on April 22, 1858 is one of the oldest on record that addresses a pirate named Black Caesar, who ruled the Florida Reef from an Elliott Key lair. The account appeared in the story, “Jack Weatherwax: The Wrecker of Caesar’s Creek, A Tale Of The Florida Reef in the Olden Time.” The byline read Ned Buntline.

Buntline was a popular storyteller, one of the most popular in the 19th century. He was also one of the most commercially successful writers of his time. A contemporary of Samuel Clemens, more easily recognizable by his pen name, Mark Twain, Buntline was a prolific writer who penned as many as 400 dime novels.

Dime novels were inexpensive melodramatic adventures published in paperback between the 1850s and 1920s.

Like the name Mark Twain, Ned Buntline was a nom de plume.

On March 20, 1821, in the small New York village of Stamford, he was born Edward Zane Carroll Judson. As a boy, he yearned to experience adventure or, at the very least, to write about it. When he was a teenager, he ran off and joined the U.S. Navy and served during the second escalation of the Seminole War (1835-1842). For a time, he served as a midshipman aboard the Ostego. The Ostego patrolled the Florida Keys and was in the area when Indians attacked Indian Key on Aug. 7, 1840. It proved to be the southernmost attack during the Seminole War. Judson resigned from the military in 1842. He would go on to pursue his writing and publishing career. While Judson is most remembered for writing as Ned Buntline, and Buntline might be best remembered for bringing to print the Wild West antics that made William “Buffalo Bill” Cody world-famous, he also did a little writing about pirates, Indian Key and the Florida Keys.

In 1847, Buntline penned two pirate novels. The first was “The Black Avenger of the Spanish Main: Or, the Fiend of Blood.” The story had a Black Caesaresque theme and was about a servant who eloped with his master’s daughter and turned to a life of piracy. The second was “The Red Revenger: Or, the Pirate King of the Floridas.” In Buntline’s opening, he writes, “Off the island of Matecumba, distant perchance a mile from the reef, lay a vessel becalmed, which in her appearance was so strange that we must describe her.”

Buntline’s story, “Jack Weatherwax: The Wrecker of Caesar’s Creek, A Tale Of The is an author, speaker, and Flor- Florida Reef in the Olden Times,” includes a ida Keys historian. story about Black Caesar. Though the story tells the tragic tale of the wrecker Weatherwax, His latest book, “The Florida Keys Buntline also detailed why the creek flowSkunk Ape Files,” ing between Old Rhodes and Elliott keys was is a fun blend of two of his favorite named: “Black Caesar’s Creek because it was subjects — Florida formerly the hiding place and rendezvous of a noted pirate known as Black Caesar, who Keys history and the Skunk Ape. was destroyed, and his gang broken up by Commodore Porter’s expedition, in 1822 or 3 — perhaps by the same gallant ‘Old Plug,’ of whom I spoke in the Mercury not long since. It is a dark and crooked lane of water, leading to the inner bay, shaded by shelter on either side by high mangroves, and afforded an excellent hiding place for the pirates, who could suddenly dart out upon the merchant vessels passing up or down the Gulf Stream. Ah, were but all the records of the deeds done by those who once lurked there written, what a thrilling book of horrors that would make! One’s soul shudders to think of the murderous acts performed by the black-hearted pirates, whose motto was — ‘Dead men tell no tales,’ and who only spared young and beautiful maidens, who fell into their hands, for sufferings worse a thousand times than death!”

According to Buntline, Black Caesar’s Creek was named after his version of Black Caesar. He would have certainly heard about the creek during his time serving aboard the Ostego. Being a military man, he would have heard the stories of Commodore Porter and how his squadron basically wiped the West Indies clean of much of the piratical threat faced by merchant ships.

However, Buntline’s account of Black Caesar and of how Black Caesar’s Creek came to be named is not supported by the records of those authorities he claims to have struck the alleged pirate down. Also, by the time Buntline says Porter took care of the pirate, the creek had already been given its peculiar name. Bernard Romans named the creek in his “Maps of East and West Florida,” published in 1775.

While Buntline did not fully understand the local history, he did do a fine job of being a professional spinner of yarns.

BRAD BERTELLI

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

OXITEC MOSQUITO PROJECT FINISHES RELEASE PHASE

TURNED DOWN

Map change for affordable housing, office project denied JIM McCARTHY Invasive Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are capable of carrying and spreading diseases such as dengue, Zika and yellow fever. CONTRIBUTED

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he Florida Keys Mosquito Control District (FKMCD) and Oxitec say they have finished another phase of the project to evaluate the use of Oxitec mosquitoes in controlling invasive Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The Florida Keys have experienced cases of dengue fever as recently as 2020, which emphasizes the importance of controlling this public health threat.

The FKMCD-Oxitec mosquito project team says it has successfully concluded the active release stage.

All project release boxes will be removed from their sites in the coming weeks and monitoring will continue, likely until February 2022.

“We are so very appreciative to our Florida Keys communities for getting involved and supporting this ground-breaking project,” said Andrea Leal, executive director of the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District.

“We have learned so much in this first season, and it has been exciting to see that male Oxitec mosquitoes were successfully finding and mating with the target females as predicted. This pilot project simply would not have been possible without the dedication and support of so many local residents and community stakeholders and we are grateful to all of them.”

Throughout the project, only Oxitec’s non-biting male mosquitoes emerged from the boxes and dispersed as expected, mating successfully with invasive pest females. Public support in project areas, including the volunteer residents who hosted boxes, remains high. More detailed information will be shared in the coming months as data is evaluated by the project steering committee.

“On behalf of the entire Florida Keys community, we’re thrilled to share that our first mosquito releases on U.S. soil have been successful with tremendous public support,” said Grey Frandsen, CEO of Oxitec.

“We are also indebted to the professionalism and commitment of our local partner, the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District. There is no doubt that this represents a landmark achievement as the first crucial step to making our technology available in the U.S. at a time when Aedes aegypti continues to expand its impact across the country. We aim to build on this momentum, continuing to work with worldclass partners in Florida and California to deliver accessible, effective, and environmentally friendly solutions to control the increasing threat of invasive, disease-carrying mosquitoes.”

More information is at keysmosquitoproject.com. ­— Contributed.

jim@keysweekly.com

A

request to change two parcels of property on the Old Highway from residential conservation to mixed use was turned down by the Islamorada Village Council during a meeting on Dec. 2.

The four-hour meeting saw sides going back and forth over the proposed change, which property owner Michael Murphy was seeking in order to construct a two-story mixed-use structure that would have brought affordable housing to the village.

The property is located between U.S. 1 and the Old Highway at the intersection of Coral Way on Plantation Key. To the northeast, properties are mostly undeveloped residential conservation with a maximum density of one dwelling unit per 4 acres. To the east and southeast, property is residential low, meaning there’s a maximum density of one unit per 2 acres. To the southwest across Coral Way are properties zoned highway commercial with mixed, non-residential uses.

One of the main contention points surrounded the quality of trees on the lots, which together total 24,000 square feet. According to a staff report, a habitat evaluation by the applicant’s biologist, Travis Ferguson, in July 2021 initially classified the two lots as “low quality” hammock. A classification of low quality would allow the clearing limit of 50%, or 12,000 square feet. Lots owned by Murphy contain gumbo limbo, poisonwood, Jamaican dogwood and mahogany, among others.

Analysis by the village, however, classified the parcels as “high quality,” which would only allow 10% of the trees to be cleared. According to a village staff report, a village habitat evaluation index handbook showed that parcels owned by Murphy are part of a 25acre area of hammock. Based on patch size and the village’s scoring based on the index handbook, the parcels would be “accurately classified as high quality hammock.” A review

by Phillip Frank, who created the village’s habitat evaluation index development regulations, confirmed the village’s analysis.

A change in the future land use map would increase development possibilities of the vacant property, according to the village’s staff report, allowing the owner to develop two market-rate dwelling units, deedrestricted affordable units, non-residential area or transient units. Murphy submitted a conceptual site plan for one of the lots, which

indicated a 944-square-foot office with two deed-restricted residential dwelling units on the second floor.

At the end of discussion, village council members weren’t on board with the change from residential conservation to mixed use.

A vote to deny the change was 4-0. Mayor Buddy Pinder abstained.

Councilman David Webb said there’s a need for affordable housing in the village. He said there are other opportunities to build affordable housing where. According to a staff analysis, there are approximately 39 acres of 156 vacant lots designated mixed use within the village’s future land use map.

“There are a lot of other questions that need to be asked. One is what is the need for affordable housing, what would the community pay and where would the money come from?” Webb said. “This is about whether we are going to promote destruction of the remaining environment we have. My middle ground cannot be cutting down a tree.”

Councilman Mark Gregg shared similar sentiments.

“We desperately need affordable housing and we want to protect the habitat,” he said. “We can’t cannibalize one for the other. It shouldn’t come at the expense of the environment. That’s why we’re all here and why people come to visit us.”

Vice Mayor Pete Bacheler said there’s a whopping difference between cutting 10% of trees on the property or 50%.

“One of the evaluations came from a biologist with many years of experience, and he says it’s a high quality hammock, clear 10%.

It doesn’t matter the size of property, it’s in a 24-acre parcel, which you can only clear 10%.”

Murphy took to the podium following comments from council members to explain that he received pre-approval from the village’s previous administration under Seth Lawless, then manager, and Ty Harris, then planning director, before he bought the property. He also said that there wasn’t a biology report when the project was going through the Local Planning Agency, which recommended the project be denied.

“I asked what can I do with this piece of property if I buy it,” Murphy said. “(They said) ‘Well, we don't want you to build a house, but we’ll allow commercial building with affordable housing on top of it.’”

Murphy added that he hasn’t seen the village or anybody in the village that is solving the employee housing problem.

22

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

The ‘Santa Claus and His Carolers Are Coming to Town!’ event makes its way through Founders Park on Dec. 13, 2020. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

Upper Keys offer a host of holiday events

FLORIDA KEYS TOYS FOR TOTS POKER RUN When: Saturday, Dec. 11 at 9 a.m.

Where: Begins at the Florida Boy Bar & Grill at MM 68.5, bayside in Layton at 9 a.m. Police escort leaves at 10:45 a.m. en route to the second stop at Tuna’s Restaurant Patio, MM 80.5, oceanside, at 11:15 a.m. Final stop is at the Ocean View Pub at MM 84.5, bayside, Islamorada at noon.

Details: A fun-filled day for a great cause, some 75 motorcycles will ride together over scenic bridges with a full police escort. Top five poker hands will select from high-valued prizes donated by local sponsors. Raffle tickets are also available. Registration is recommended. Advance registration is available by calling Ken “Sarge” Keidel at 305-951-0841. Every year the U.S. Marine Corps collects toys for children each year through the Toys for Tots program. More information at Florida Keys Poker Run & Motorcycle Parade on Facebook.

From left, Marines Mgy.Sgt. Gomez and Lcpl. Charles during the Florida Keys Toys for Tots Poker Run in 2020. CHARLOTTE TWINE/Keys Weekly

KIDS NIGHT OUT When: Saturday, Dec. 11 from 5 to 9:30 p.m.

Where: Founders Park, Islamorada Details: Parents can enjoy a night out while their children enjoy holiday crafts, games, contests and more during the evening. Activities include dodgeball, movies, build-your-own ice cream sundae, crafts and chances to win prizes. Dinner and snacks will be provided. $20 per child and a $15 sibling discount. Be sure to bring sneakers and a refillable water bottle.

Pre-registration is required by calling David Nero at 305-853-1685.

KEY LARGO BOAT PARADE When: Saturday, Dec. 11 at 7:30 p.m.

Boats begin lining up an hour before.

Where: Blackwater Sound in Key Largo. Great viewing spots include Big Chill, Sundowners, Key Largo Marriott and Caribbean Club.

Details: Put on by the Key Largo Sunset Rotary Club, this year’s boat theme is “Naughty-cal and Nice.” Boats will light the night as they parade near the shores of the Key Largo bayside waters. There’s no fee to enter the boat parade. Prizes are available, and each boat participating in the parade will get a ditty bag. More information at keylargoboatparade.com.

MARRVELOUS PET RESCUE SETS CELEBRATION & GRAND OPENING When: Sunday, Dec. 12 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: 68 Silver Springs Dr., Key Largo Details: MarrVelous Pet Rescues has a home. Join them for an open house and grand opening at MM 101, bayside. Lots of fun and activities, including dog training and pack walk from noon to 1 p.m. Meet the adoptables and get a photo with Santa Paws.

SANTA CLAUS & CAROLERS COME TO TOWN When: Sunday, Dec. 12 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:20 p.m.

Where: Streets of Islamorada Details: The Islamorada Firefighters Benevolent Association and Islamorada Fire Rescue will guide Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and carolers through the roads and streets of Islamorada for residents to see. Santa and friends will begin the journey at the Islamorada Mobil on Lower Matecumbe at 5:30 p.m. They’ll end on Bee Street around 9:19 p.m. A full schedule of arrival times can be found on Islamorada Fire Rescue Department’s Facebook.

23

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

Rebate Program for Residential Solar Window Tinting up to $200 Credit on bill for FKEC Members!

20 Locally Brewed on Draft Authentic Mexican Food Truck Live Music Huge Outdoor Beer Garden Open Daily 11-11 11pm 11 81611 Old Hwy,, Islamorada MM81.5

Celebrate the Holidays at Snooks! Open Christmas and New Year’s Eve!

More than a restaurant...

7 TV’S Great Food • Cool Cocktails • Spectacular Sunsets • Nightly Music • Sweetwater Sundays

Reservations Highly Suggested.

305-453-5004 • www.snooks.com • Key Largo MM 99.8 Southbound Lane at Traffic Light • Behind the Sandal Factory Outlet

24

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Chic Filets located at 1998 Overseas Highway #A31, Marathon, Florida 33050 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Beckett Seafood Inc. Publish: December 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

view vessels. This is an attempt to collect unpaid storage charges. Once the date has expired and only then, may you visit the property and gain information about the vessels. These vessels will be auctioned Saturday December 18, 2021 at 10;00 am at boat location.

Owner: Cory Drew Schneider 1- 12 foot homemade 2003 fiberglass vessel reg. #FL3567MK 1 - Henry O 1988 15ft. fiberglass vessel reg. #FL9313MK 1 - 21ft. 1973 fiberglass Stamas reg. #FL 0345BA Owner: Warren Russell 1 - 1975 fiberglass 18ft. Mako reg. #FL0887BH Owner: James Ha 1 - 1995 20ft.fiberglass Century reg. #FL8551JC Owner: Aaron Schneider 1-1987 Savage 15ft. fiberglass vessel reg.#FL4033FG Publish: December 2 & 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI Notice is here by given that on December 20th, 2021, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold. The names of whose units will be sold are as follows: 103530 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL. 33037. Names And Last Known Addresses are as Follows: Michael Harrington Unit 1223 $367.08 Marc Baron Unit 1028 $461.75 William Welsh Unit 1730 $989.30 John Scott Unit 1578 $508.95 William Parent Unit 1425 $2,561.85 William Parent Unit 1165 $1,176.98 Publish: December 2 & 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Florida Keys Lobster and Stone Crab located at 201 20th street, Marathon, Florida 33050, will proceed with section 328.17(1), Florida statutes on the following vessels located on our property for unpaid storage balance. Unless said vessels redeemed from said property by payment as allowed by law, the described vessels will be sold to satisfy the lien. If the vessels remain unclaimed or for which the charges for storage remain unpaid will be sold free of all prior liens.

This is not a public invite to

DISTRICT III ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC III) (From the West End of the Seven Mile Bridge to the Long Key Bridge) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL Has an opening for an “At Large” representative - Any resident who is not directly involved in a tourism business and who shall represent the general public and shall live or work within the tax collection district for which they are applying (The operative word within this description is directly. This word means someone who is not in business, nor whose business or economic activity are dependent upon tourists) Any person wishing to participate on the District III Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application from the Administrative Office by calling (305) 296-1552.

All applications should be submitted to the address shown below: Department DAC Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040 The deadline for receipt of application at the above address is Thursday, December 30, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. A resume may be attached to the application.

LEGAL NOTICES Publish: December 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meeting via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed.

Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend.

Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@ keysarts.com Art in Public Places Meeting Tuesday, December 14, 2021, 4:00 PM Eastern Time Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 829 4860 0323 Passcode: 844802 Publish: December 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF INTENT TO SEEK LEGISLATION TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Notice is herby given of intent to apply to the Florida Legislature in the 2022 regular or any special or extended legislative sessions for passage of an act relating to the City of Key West as an Area of Critical State Concern to create an exception from the building permit allocation system, as limited by F.A.C. Chapter 2837, for certain developments to serve the Monroe County Sheriff's Office and other governmental employees.

Publish: December 9 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2021-CP-309-K IN RE: ESTATE OF DENNIS LEE KING, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Dennis Lee King, deceased, whose date of death was October 7, 2021, and whose social security number is xxx-xx-8266, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The estate is testate and the date of the decedent’s

Meeting Notice Monroe County Land Authority The Monroe County Land Authority Advisory Committee will meet in the Monroe Regional Service Center (State Building) located at 2796 Overseas Highway, Suite 104, Marathon, Florida on December 15, 2021 beginning at 9:00 a.m. The agenda is available online at www.monroecounty-fl.gov or by contacting the Monroe County Land Authority office at 305-295-5180.

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

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

Will and any codicils are October 30, 2019. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is: December 9, 2021.

Personal Representative: Michael Troy King 1528 McBrien Road Chattanooga, TN 37412 Attorney for Personal Representative: James J. Dorl, Esq. Florida Bar No. 618403 JAMES J. DORL, P.A. Suite 12 First Professional Centre 5701 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6565 Facsimile: (305) 743-4143 e-mail: jjdorl@yahoo.com Publish: December 9 & 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

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: December 9, 2021.

Personal Representative: MICHAEL ANTHONY 490 Falstaff Rd. Rochester, NY 14609 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: December 9 & 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2021-CP-133-P IN RE: ESTATE OF NICHOLAS J. ANTHONY Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of NICHOLAS J. ANTHONY, deceased, whose date of death was September 27, 2021, 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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 44-2021-CP-000086A001-MR IN RE: ESTATE OF JULIET ANTOINETTE CARLSON a/k/a JULIET A. CARLSON Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of JULIET ANTOINETTE CARLSON a/k/a JULIET A. CARLSON, deceased, whose date of death was June 25, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court 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: December 9, 2021.

Signed on this 3rd day of December, 2021.

Personal Representative: JULIANE REALEJO 14 Quincy Adams Road Barrington, RI 02806 Attorney for Personal Representative: WILLIAM C. CARROLL, ESQ Florida Bar No. 957471 Mettler Randolph Massey Ferguson Carroll & Sterlacci, P.L. 340 Royal Palm Way, Suite 100 Palm Beach, FL 33480 Telephone: 561-833-9631 / Fax: 561-655-2835 Primary Email: wcarroll@

LEGAL NOTICES mettlerlaw.com Secondary Email: mstover@ mettlerlaw.com Secondary Email: jcappel@ mettlerlaw.com Publish: December 9 & 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No.: 21-CP-294-K Division: Lower Keys IN RE: ESTATE OF STEPHEN WOOD CORNELL III Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of STEPHEN WOOD CORNELL III, deceased, whose date of death was October 22, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons 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: December 2, 2021.

Personal Representative: Greer Wood Cornell 1515 Florida Street Key West, Florida 33040 Attorney for Personal Representative: RICHARD E. WARNER Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@ rewarnerlaw.com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@rewarnerlaw.com Publish: December 2 & 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-000129-P IN RE: ESTATE OF RICHARD T. FARMER, a/k/a RICHARD THIRL FARMER Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of RICHARD T. FARMER,

LEGAL NOTICES deceased, whose date of death was August 4, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with 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: December 2, 2021.

JOYCE E. FARMER Personal Representative 2 Sunrise Cay Drive Key Largo, FL 33037 GREENBERG TRAURIG, P.A. Attorneys for Personal Representative 333 S. E. 2nd Avenue, Suite 4400 Miami, FL 33131 Telephone: (305) 579-0575 Facsimile: (305) 579-0717 By: DIANA S.C. ZEYDEL, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 63282 Primary e-mail: zeydeld@ gtlaw.com Secondary e-mails: meekerc@ gtlaw.com and FLService@gtlaw.com WILLIAM E. KEENEN, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 98624 Primary e-mail: keenenw@ gtlaw.com Secondary e-mails: meekerc@ gtlaw.com and FLService@gtlaw.com Publish: December 2 & 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2021-CP-136-P IN RE: ESTATE OF ANGELA R. WITTKE Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of ANGELA R. WITTKE, deceased, whose date of death was August 24, 2021, 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

25

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

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: December 2, 2021.

Personal Representative: PAULA S. WITTKE 280 Key Honey Lane Tavernier, FL 33070 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: December 2 & 9, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

11121 Odd; 32 Odd; 52 Odd 11212 Annual; 16 Odd; 48 Annual 11315 Odd; 52 Annual 11423 Odd 11508 Odd; 39 Odd; 42 Even 20618 Odd; 32 Odd; 36 Even 20716 Odd; 29 Odd 20820 Odd; 21 Even 20920 Odd: 27 Even; 36 Even, 52 Odd 21009 Odd; 20 Odd; 38 Odd 21114 Odd; 18 Even; 28 Even; 46 Odd 21201 Even; 09 Even; 32 Odd; 37 Odd 21333 Odd; 21415 Even; 28 Odd; 30 Odd; 36 Even; 38 Odd; 40 Odd; 42 Odd 21522 Odd 21607 Odd; 20 Even; 36 Even 21709 Even; 12 Odd; 20 Odd; 21 Odd; 33 Odd; 34 Even 21812 Odd; 13 Even; 13 Odd; 42 Odd 21904 Odd; 39 Odd; 43 Odd 22017 Odd: 24 Odd; 46 Odd; 48 Odd 22120 Odd 22214 Odd; 17 Odd 22323 Odd; 25 Odd; 26 Even; 28 Odd; 29 Odd; 40 Odd 22414 Even 22503 Odd; 12 Even; 38 Odd 40106 Annual; 08 Annual; 18 Annual; 21 Annual; 32 Annual 40238 Annual 40307 Annual; 16 Annual; 19 Annual; 20 Annual; 22 Annual; 31 Annual 40401 Annual; 06 Annual; 09 Annual; 16 Annual; 17 Annual; 23 Annual; 40 Annual: 43 Annual 40642 Annual 407 45 Annual TO: Unit Owner(s) Last Known Address Annual Timeshare Use Period(s): Amount due: James David Greiff 1020 Tivoli Lane Naples, FL 34104 211-18 Even Years $3,582.65 with a per diem amount of $1.77 from July 1, 2021 Hartmut Kohler and Elaine Kohler C/O Ken B Privett, LLC P.O. Box 97 Pawnee, OK 74058 218-12 Odd Years $3,590.18 with a per diem amount of $1.77 from July 1, 2021 Jess W Beatty 39 Redwood Avenue Uniontown, PA 15401 217-21 Odd Years $3,610.93 with a per diem amount of $1.77 from July 1, 2021 Allegra Shaw Cannon 150 Melrose Avenue #209 Seattle, WA 98102 209-36 Even Years $3,618.33 with a per diem amount of $1.78 from July 1, 2021 Steven A Delponte and Melinda Montalvo 58 Indian Hill Road Shrub Oak, NY 10588 214-42 Odd Years $3,623.35 with a per diem amount of $1.79 from July 1, 2021 Christine M Moulton 5614 Cedros Avenue Van Nuys, CA 91411 209-27 Even Years $3,627.24 with a per diem amount of $1.79 from July 1, 2021 Thomas F Negus, III P.O. Box 10123 Cranston, RI 02910 223-23 Odd Years $3,629.13 with a per diem amount of $1.79 from July 1, 2021 John W Rohana, Carol L Rohana & Sharon L Monjure 2017 Kent Road Folcroft, PA 19032 218-13 Even Years $3,636.14 with a per diem amount of $1.77 from July 1, 2021

Larry A Klemz and Jerilyn K Klemz 4904 Knollwood Court Valparaiso, IN 46383 217-09 Even Years $3,645.06 with a per diem amount of $1.80 from July 1, 2021 John W Sullivan, Jr and Beverly P Sullivan 147 Forrest Drive Marion, AR 72364 216-20 Even Years $3,665.38 with a per diem amount of $1.81 from July 1, 2021 115-39 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Jackie Jamieson 5534 Route 115 St. Gregoire, New Brunswick E4V 2P9 Canada 219-04 Odd Years $3,687.99 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Arly M Drakeand William A Drake 905 W Rich Street Columbus, OH 43222 206-32 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Alejandro Ramirez and Tamara L Hudnall 1198 Fox Meadow Trail Middleburg, FL 32068 206-18 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Gerald P Roepke and Carolyn L Roepke 1319 S 85th Street #1 Milwaukee, WI 53214 212-01 Even Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 111-15 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Allen Hewson and Joanne Hewson P.O. Box 650 Powassan, ON P0H 1Z0 Canada 207-16 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Davis Ventures, Inc C/O Mark A Davis, President 7810 Gall Blvd #111 Zephyrhills, FL 33541 214-30 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Charles Davis and Naomi Davis 114 N Taylor Avenue Neptune, NJ 07720 213-33 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Vincent Bradley 10167 Red Oak Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70815-1629 209-52 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Terri Lyn Peracki and Renae Lee Arnold 16 W 525 Lake Drive Willowbrook, IL 60527 220-24 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Julia A Hudson 3319 Duke Street Kalamazoo, MI 49008 111-21 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Jody E Powell 5930 Bahama Way North St Pete Beach, FL 33706 111-32 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Charles Green and Carmen Smith 10997 Wingate Road

Jacksonville, FL 32218 112-16 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Radawan R Hall 1845 Hidden Pointe Drive Hickory, NC 28601-8514 113-15 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Alice Walden 1253 Blakelea Sevierville, TN 37862 114-23 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 George R Rapciewicz and Renee Rapciewicz 11 Sadie Lane New Egypt, NJ 08533 223-40 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Gurney A Johnson and Joyce A Johnson 2317 Highland Avenue Ashland, KY 41101 214-28 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 William J Donnelly and Lise Easter 3478 Valley Oaks Road Lithonia, GA 30038 214-40 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Norma Lee Murphy P.O. Box 206 Bath, ME 04530 215-22 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Clifford R Simpson and Joy Simpson 6484 Chickasaw Drive Olive Branch, MS 38654 115-08 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Jeffrey L Lurkins and Jeanne K Lurkins 282 E Via Terrenal Green Valley, AZ 85614 218-13 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Shendie L Letmate 2300 Seneca Drive York, PA 17404 218-42 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Luis Godinez and Naida Soto 3622 S Paulina Street, 2d Floor Chicago, IL 60609 217-12 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Barbara Iamele and Eileen Borrelli 96 Warner Road North Haven, CT 06473 217-20 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Leslie Lynch and Azizan Lynch 107-49 109th Street Richmond Hill, NY 11419 219-43 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Walter I Meeks 583 Ezell Street Sharon, TN 38255 216-07 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Bela J Hilf and Eleonore Hilf 1023 Hollywood Avenue Des Plaines, IL 60016 211-14 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Adam Woodring and Summer Woodring 814 Guilford College Road, Apt

103 Greensboro, NC 27409 211-46 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Betty J Lindenstruth 2040 World Parkway Blvd, Apt 58 Clearwater, FL 33763 210-09 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Jeremy K Fischer and Karen S Fischer P.O. Box 6364 Breckenridge, CO 80424 210-20 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Jason P Wassmouth and Carole M Wassmouth 43 Gorham Avenue Pembroke, MA 02359 212-32 Odd with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Frederick N Maclaren and Ronah Y Maclaren 4389 Route 106 Petitcodiac East, NB Canada 207-29 Odd Years $3,688.54 with a per diem amount of $1.82 from July 1, 2021 Anthony Dallessandro and Victoria Haines 150 SW Wakefield Circle Port St Lucie, FL 34593 214-38 Odd Years $3,715.29 with a per diem amount of $1.83 from July 1, 2021 223-26 Even Years $3,722.10 with a per diem amount of $1.84 from July 1, 2021 Brannon Hall P.O. Box 4578 Sevierville, TN 37864 210-38 Odd Years $3,715.29 with a per diem amount of $1.83 from July 1, 2021 John D Douglas and Edith L Douglas 174A Ravine Lane Storrs, CT 06379 219-39 Odd Years $3,715.29 with a per diem amount of $1.83 from July 1, 2021 Linda J Calouro 7 Elaine Street Pawcatock, CT 06379 219-39 Odd Years $3,715.29 with a per diem amount of $1.83 from July 1, 2021 Darryl J Mason and Janice Page 131 Jennings Avenue Patchogue, NY 11772-2522 217-33 Odd Years $3,715.29 with a per diem amount of $1.83 from July 1, 2021 James Jaeger and Hannah Jaeger 4639 Sun Valley Road Walla Walla, WA 99362 209-20 Odd Years $3,715.29 with a per diem amount of $1.83 from July 1, 2021 James Dunham 34 Derby Street Hudson Falls, NY 12839 220-17 Odd Years $3,731.37 with a per diem amount of $1.84 from July 1, 2021 Nathaniel Lancaster and Karen Lancaster 193 Clarissa Drive Bay Shore, NY 11706 221-20 Odd Years $3,782.79 with a per diem amount of $1.87 from July 1, 2021 Timothy Jackson 123A Highway 80 East, #253 Clinton, MS 39056 223-28 Odd Years $3,782.79 with a per diem amount of $1.87 from July 1, 2021

Carnell M Preshon and Jacquelyn W Preshon 24494 Newport Drive Crete, IL 60417 225-03 Odd Years $3,782.79 with a per diem amount of $1.87 from July 1, 2021 Carl Jefferson and Tamica Jefferson 20 Parkview Street, Apt #3 Dorchester, MA 02124 225-38 Odd Years $3,782.79 with a per diem amount of $1.87 from July 1, 2021 Randy J Taylor and Dianne Nuta-Taylor 1515 Woods Florence, SC 29505 223-29 Odd Years $3,782.79 with a per diem amount of $1.87 from July 1, 2021 Robert A Geddingsand Saime T Geddings 625 Water Oak Lane North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 222-14 Odd Years $3,782.79 with a per diem amount of $1.87 from July 1, 2021 Scott D Miller and Brooks A Miller 402 Chestnut Drive Saint Joseph, IL 61873 222-17 Odd Years $3,782.79 with a per diem amount of $1.87 from July 1, 2021 Donald W Jessamine 235 N Prospect Street Phillipsburg, NJ 08865 220-46 Odd Years $3,782.79 with a per diem amount of $1.87 from July 1, 2021 Brian O Ludlow and Joan M Ludlow 3274 Kodiak Street Ottawa, ON K1V 7S8 Canada 220-48 Odd Years $3,782.79 with a per diem amount of $1.87 from July 1, 2021 David C Dent and Gabriella A Dent P.O. Box 1474 Boynton Beach, FL 33425 212-37 Even Years $3,790.34 with a per diem amount of $1.87 from July 1, 2021 Donald W Dankowich and Juliana N De W Tychowsky 19 Rippling Creek Drive Sugar Land, TX 77479 223-25 Odd Years $3,828.42 with a per diem amount of $1.89 from July 1, 2021 Larry E Dunn, Jr and April G Dunn 200 Valley View Church Road Mt Gilead, NC 27306 214-36 Even Years $3,841.65 with a per diem amount of $1.89 from July 1, 2021 Wayne Hunter and Xiomara Hunter 679 NE Emerson Street Port St Lucie, FL 34983 115-42 Even Years $3,867.89 with a per diem amount of $1.91 from July 1, 2021 Mark Kocher and Mary Kocher 4645 Wilmington Pike Dayton, OH 45440 214-15 Even Years $3,868.19 with a per diem amount of $1.91 from July 1, 2021 Joseph M McNally and Susan M McNally 11 Lisa Lane Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776 224-14 Even Years $3,868.40 with a per diem amount of $1.91 from July 1, 2021 Sandra J Bova 3132 Mounds Road Anderson, IN 46016 225-12 Even Years $3,868.40 with a per diem amount of $1.91 from July 1, 2021 Miguel A Nevarez and Teresita Nevarez

11419 Blue Crane Street Riverview, FL 33568 106-19 Annual $3,899.75 with a per diem amount of $1.92 from July 1, 2021 Wren Funeral Home, Inc 1310 32nd Street North Birmingham, Al 35234 109-49 Annual $3,899.75 with a per diem amount of $1.92 from July 1, 2021 Farrell T Bullock and Dorothy J Bullock 7 Locust Place Portage, IN 46368 110-32 Annual $3,899.75 with a per diem amount of $1.92 from July 1, 2021 Donald J Rosanske and Mary Lou Rosanske 21300 Brinson Ave Apt 102 Port Charlotte, FL 33952 110-49 Annual $3,899.75 with a per diem amount of $1.92 from July 1, 2021 William H Willardand Lynda E Willard 2242 Fallsdale Drive Gastonia, NC 28052 112-12 Annual $3,899.75 with a per diem amount of $1.92 from July 1, 2021 Barbara Tapley and Brenda Lietzau 317 Circle Drive Vienna, IL 62995 404-23 Annual $3,905.86 with a per diem amount of $1.93 from July 1, 2021 Jonathan Walker and Jessica Salazar 496 New York Avenue Baldwin, NY 11510 403-16 Annual $3,905.86 with a per diem amount of $1.93 from July 1, 2021 Judy Ann Drummond 114 Faith Street San Francisco, CA 94110 407-45 Annual $3,905.86 with a per diem amount of $1.93 from July 1, 2021 Richard R Di Carlo and Sandra J Di Carlo 1288 Brainard Road Cleveland, OH 44124 401-08 Annual $4,002.66 with a per diem amount of $1.97 from July 1, 2021 Michael D’Angelo, III and Anne D’Angelo 163 Carmela Court, Bldg I, Unit #102 Jupiter, FL 33478 208-21 Even Years $4,037.93 with a per diem amount of $1.99 from July 1, 2021 Richard M Figallo 2900 Kerrwood Drive Columbus, OH 43231 211-28 Even Street $4,037.93 with a per diem amount of $1.99 from July 1, 2021 Reginald S Harris and Sylvia M Hayward-Harris 2830 Pebble Drive Decatur, GA 33034 212-09 Even Years $4,037.93 with a per diem amount of $1.992 from July 1, 2021 Timothy J Granneman, II Rt 1, Box 3232 Fort Gibson, OK 74434 217-34 Even Years $4,037.93 with a per diem amount of $1.99 from July 1, 2021 Robert M Randolph 6014 W County Road 12 Loveland, CO 80537 216-36 Even Years $4,037.93 with a per diem amount of $1.99 from July 1, 2021 Kandy Kruse 6801 S La Granderd Unit B16 Hodgkins, IL 60525 406-42 Annual $4,088.07 with a per diem amount of $2.02 from July 1,

NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION/ SALE FOR NON-JUDICIAL TIMESHARE FORECLOSURE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, pursuant to an action for non-judicial foreclosure of timeshare units on the Claim of Lien, which is dated August 19, 2021 and was recorded September 8, 2021, in the Official Records of Monroe County, Florida in Official Records Book 3124, Page 1266 as Instrument Number 2338682, Florida, I will sell, to the highest and best bidder for cash, at COCONUT MALLORY MARINA AND RESORT Manager’s Office, 1445 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040 on the 29th day of DECEMBER, 2021, at 11:00 a.m., the following described real property located in MONROE County, Florida, to-wit: Annual Timeshare Periods as set forth below in COCONUT MALLORY MARINA AND RESORT, a Condominium, according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof, as recorded in Official Records Book 1482, at Page 977, et seq., as amended by that certain First Amendment to Declaration of Condominium recorded in Official Records Book 1492, at Page 148, et seq., as further amended by that certain Second Amendment to Declaration of Condominium recorded in Official Records Book 2085, at Page 1036, et seq., as further amended by that certain Third Amendment to Declaration of Condominium recorded in Official Records Book 2107, Page 1169, et seq., as further amended by that certain Fourth Amendment to Declaration of Condominium recorded in Official Records Book 2321, Page 1671, et seq., all of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida and all amendments and exhibits thereto.

Unit #:Use Period (Annual, Even or Odd): 10619Annual; 51 Annual 10949Annual 11032 Annual; 49Annual

26

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

HOLIDAY BIKE RIDE MAKES WAY DOWN MORADA Bikes decorated in lights and holiday spirit rode through Islamorada for Chi Sigma sorority’s third annual Holiday Bike Ride on Dec. 4. The ride began at Islamorada Brewery & Distillery and circled around The Nest before ending at Florida Keys Brewing Co. Along the way, riders received holiday cheer and stocking stuffers from participating businesses, including Shrimp Shack, Keys Chocolates and Tropical Optical. Pictured are riders on the Old Highway. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

THE STUDENT OF THE WEEK

LAYNE SMITH EIGHTH GRADE

T

he Upper Keys Weekly is proud to partner with Treasure Village Montessori faculty and students in choosing “The Student of the Week.” Recipients are chosen on qualifications including academic standing athletics, outstanding achievements, community involvement, individuality and moral fortitude.

We thank our future leaders and TVM for allowing us to share in a weekly dose of “Sea Dragon” pride and for giving us a glimpse into their world.

What is something most people don’t know about you? I’ve lived in the Keys all my life and have attended TVM for 10 years.

Who is your all-time favorite teacher and why? Probably Ms. Bobbi because she makes jokes a lot during class and tries to make science fun for everyone.

What is your favorite subject and why? Art, because I’ve always loved drawing and being creative.

What organizations are you involved with at TVM? This year I am president of National Junior Honor Society and I’ve been in NJHS since sixth grade.

What is the best rule at your school? Even though it’s not exactly a rule, I appreciate the fact that our school’s dress code is not as strict as most of the other schools in the county.

What’s your favorite food for lunch? Popcorn chicken, Kraft mac and cheese, basically anything that would be appealing to the taste buds of a 6-year-old.

What do you want to be when you grow up and why? As of right now, my dream job is a character designer for animated movies or video game characters.

What do you hope to be remembered for at TVM? Being someone who is always reliable, trustworthy and a good person.

What is one favorite way to spend your spare time? My favorite hobby is drawing, and I can spend multiple hours sitting and drawing.

Will you make the Keys your permanent home in the future?

Why or why not? To be honest, I’ve always felt like I want to live everywhere at least once, so I’ll probably move around a lot when I’m older.

27

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

BOATS FOR SALE

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

HOUSING FOR RENT

2021 Dan K Barrett and Terri Barrett 6131 Long Avenue Shawnee, KS 66216 403-19 Annual $4,089.67 with a per diem amount of $2.02 from July 1, 2021 Scott Klein P.O. Box 286 Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32004 208-20 Odd Years $4,154.41 with a per diem amount of $2.05 from July 1, 2021 Charles Kevin White 7238 Della Drive Orlando, FL 32819 113-52 Annual $4,272.47 with a per diem amount of $2.11 from July 1, 2021 Jim MacNeil and Karen MacNeil 343 Brooktree Drive Corunna, ON N0N 1G0 Canada 404-09 Annual $4,292.81 with a per diem amount of $2.12 from July 1, 2021 Raymond Lawrence 2340 Shore Drive Morehead City, NC 285579406 112-48 Annual $4,895.37 with a per diem amount of $2.41 from July 1, 2021 Steven Robertson 4400 Washington Avenue, Ste 301 Evansville, IN 47714 401-06 Annual $5,148.54 with a per diem amount of 2.54 from July 1, 2021 Teotiste R Wood 1680 Walkley Road Apt 205 Ottawa, ON K 6PV 6P5 Canada 404-01 Annual $5,430.39 with a per diem amount of $2.68 from July 1, 2021 John Scott Coles and Linda Lee Dew 6349 Cook Road Swartz Creek, MI 48473 106-51 Annual $5,467.00 with a per diem amount of $2.70 from July 1, 2021 Travis Baynes and Ronnie Drake 2206 Floyd Avenue Richmond, VA 23220 404-06 Annual $5,583.34 with a per diem amount of $2.751.92 from July 1, 2021 Jonathan F Carr and Kimberly M Carr 6033 State Route 81 Greenville, NY 12158 403-22 Annual $5,613.01 with a per diem amount of $2.77 from July 1, 2021 Lavonzell T Nicholson and Marquies Gray 4315 Vixen Street New Orleans, LA 70131 403-20 Annual $5,793.12 with a per diem amount of $2.86 from July 1, 2021 Ewalt E Schultz and Deborah Schultz 59259 Albert Lane New Hudson, MI 48165 401-32 Annual $5,859.81 with a per diem amount of $2.89 from July 1, 2021 Jennifer Dingman and Allister Woodburn 1162 2nd Line Belmont R.R. #1 Havelock, ON K0L 1Z0 Canada 402-38 Annual $5,859.81 with a per diem amount of $2.89 from July 1, 2021 David A Tue and Jacqueline S Tue 325 N Tennessee Ave, Unit 4115 Lakeland, FL 33801 401-21 Annual $5,903.35 with a per diem amount of $2.91 from July 1, 2021 David T Moylan and Linda A Moylan

27 School Street Northbridge, MA 01534 401-18 Annual $5,903.35 with a per diem amount of $2.91 from July 1, 2021 Rodney Stephens and Michael Sims 2728 South Hills Riverdale, GA 30296 404-43 Annual $5,903.35 with a per diem amount of $2.91 from July 1, 2021 Jessica M Fields and Eric W Fields 5761 Mildred Lane Milford, OH 45150 404-16 Annual $5,903.35 with a per diem amount of $2.91 from July 1, 2021 Doreen M Bodine and Margaret B Loyd 232 Griffey Road Boaz, AL 35956 404-40 Annual $5,903.35 with a per diem amount of $2.91 from July 1, 2021 Latisha Soverns and Clayton Soverns 504 Kerri Cove Way, Apt 201 Midlothian, VA 23113 404/17 Annual $5,903.35 with a per diem amount of $2.91 from July 1, 2021 Adrian Vorovenci 201 Cowan Blvd Cambridge, ON N1T 1J8 Canada 4307-07 Annual $5,903.35 with a per diem amount of $2.91 from July 1, 2021 Cornelio Klassen and Maria Klasses 50323 Talbot Line R1 Aylmer, ON N5H 2R1 Canada 403/31 Annual $5,903.35with a per diem amount of $2.91 from July 1, 2021

The assessment lien created by the Claim of Lien was properly created and authorized pursuant to the timeshare instrument and applicable law, and the amounts secured by said lien are as set above.

You may cure the default at any time prior to the public auction by paying the amount due, as set forth in this notice, to the undersigned Trustee at the address set forth below.

THIS NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION/SALE is dated this _29th_ day of _NOVEMBER__, 2021.

I HEREBY CERTIFY that a true and correct copy of this NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION/ SALE FOR NON-JUDICIAL TIMESHARE FORECLOSURE has been furnished by regular First Class U.S. Mail to each of the obligors at the above listed addresses on this _29th_ day of __NOVEMBER____, 2021.

THOMAS L AVRUTIS, ESQUIRE TRUSTEE FOR COCONUT MALLORY MARINA AND RESORT TIMESHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC 201 Fletcher Avenue, Second Floor Sarasota, FL 34236 Telephone (941) 955-7715 Facsimile (941) 953-7625 Email: john @vacationfla.com Publish: December 9 & 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

2002 21' Sea Hunt Triton 200 hp Verado. No trailer.

Located in Marathon. $20,000 OBO Seller is motivated.

Craig 954-296-0597 gibur key@comcast.net

SERVE/BARTEND ON THE OCEAN! Oceanfront private swim club is seeking customer service oriented Server/Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/or bar lounge. Full-time/part-time positions available. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Small friendly staff and above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach or call April (305) 393-0631.

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

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

Diesel Mechanic Assistant position available.

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

Company willing to train.

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

Apartment for Rent in Key Largo.

2 1/2 rooms + 22' screened porch for 1 person. Fully furnished, all utilities incl. wifi, satellite TV, washer/ dryer.

Quiet, private, off-street parking. 2nd home from ocean. Nonsmoker, no pets. $1,850/ month 305-853-3779 RENTED IN LESS THAN FOUR DAYS!

AUTOS WANTED

City of Marathon Current Job Openings: Utility Maintenance Worker and Marina Technician/ Pump Out Captain. Full Benefits. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us

ALL YEARS! Junk or Used.

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

2003 20' CC Pro Line Sport, 2015 Mercury 150 4-stroke, 2016 All Marine Boat Trailer. Kept on boat lift. Located in Marathon. $26,500 305-942-6434 Place your BOAT FOR SALE ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-7430844 today!

EMPLOYMENT Help Wanted - Big Time Discount Bait and Tackle in Marathon- competitive wages and working 3040 hrs a week. Contact George 305-289-0199 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

BOATS FOR SALE

TRANSFER STATION OPERATOR Monroe County Solid Waste Management is looking for a responsible applicant for the Long Key Transfer Station, MM 21.5. The primary function of this position is to weigh vehicles in and out of transfer station and maintain transfer station property.

Qualifications: High School Diploma or GED, working knowledge of computers and other office equipment, and a Florida Driver’s License Class B CDL within 6 months of hire. This position is designated as a safety sensitive position.

An employee in this position is subject to the mandatory Department of Transportation drug testing program which involves random drug testing.

Starting salary: $37,559.76 plus benefits. For more information, contact Human Resources at: Careers@monroecounty-fl.gov or call 305-394-4966.

APPLICATION AVAILABLE AT: www.monroecounty-fl.gov via the position link on our employment page. Veteran’s Preference Available; E.O.E.

TRANSFER STATION OPERATOR

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

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

Food for Thought in Marathon is hiring! FT and PT positions available, customer service, retail and kitchen prep. Healthy lifestyle and good sense of humor preferred.

Call (305) 743-3297

Place your EMPLOYMENT ad here for only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844 today !

The Marathon Yacht Club is looking to hire a Dishwasher. $13/ hr - 30-36 hrs/week.

Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.

PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches.

Old Model Military Clocks & Watches.

Call 305-743-4578

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

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

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 DUCK KEY - DRY LOT For Sale: 106 S. Bahama Drive, Duck Key, FL. Call 305-481-1316

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

Call 305-394-0530

HOMES FOR SALE MARATHON - DUPLEX FOR SALE: 2nd Avenue Gulf, Marathon, FL Call 305-481-1316

HOUSING FOR RENT

DUI Instructor

Part-time – Key West or Marathon location The Advocate DUI Program is looking for a DUI certified Instructor or person eligible to be DHSMV certified to teach DUI classes. The DUI course involves learning about alcohol and drug abuse, driving risk, Florida Laws and prevention measures. Requires a Bachelors degree in human services or related field with 4,000 hours of experience or a Masters degree in human services, law enforcement or related field with 2,000 hours of experience. Ability to present the curriculum in an effective and energetic manner, using didactic and group teaching methods. Starting salary $22 per hour. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

Busy Key Largo Dive Center has immediate openings for

Monroe County Solid Waste Management is looking for a responsible applicant for the Cudjoe Key Transfer Station, MM 21.5. The primary function of this position is to weigh vehicles in and out of transfer station and maintain transfer station property.

BOAT CAPTAINS

Qualifications: High School Diploma or GED, working knowledge of computers and other office equipment, and a Florida Driver’s License Class B CDL within 6 months of hire. This position is designated as a safety sensitive position.

An employee in this position is subject to the mandatory Department of Transportation drug testing program which involves random drug testing.

Starting salary: $37,559.76 plus benefits. For more information, contact Human Resources at: Careers@monroecounty-fl.gov or call 305-394-4966.

APPLICATION AVAILABLE AT: www.monroecounty-fl.gov via the position link on our employment page. Veteran’s Preference Available; E.O.E.

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

$1,500 SIGNING BONUS

Send resume to resumes@rainbowreef.com

28

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844 Career With Housing Opportunity Assistant Branch Manager

Ralons Security Duck Key $20/hr Class D License

Ralons Security 786-615-5522 Lic# B1500167

Great Hours & Starting Salary Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance Paid Holidays, Vacation & Sick Time

Apply Online at KeysBank.com/Careers

DYNASTY MARINE IS HIRING Dynasty Marine in Marathon is seeking a hard-working, motivated individual to construct cardboard boxes and perform other jobs related to the shipment of our live aquatic species. Part-time hours up to 25 hours a week. Perfect after school job. Call/text for information.305-849-8377

TEXT “MYTOMTHUMB” TO

242424

6900 Overseas Hwy Marathon 305-296-8535

Apply online at mytomthumb.com/employment EOE-M/F/V/D

Member FDIC

Equal Housing Lender

Join Our Team!

DUI Evaluator

Careers Available In:

Part-time – Marathon

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

Branch • Accounting • Maintenance Administrative Support • Underwriting

The Advocate DUI Program is hiring for a part time position. DUI evaluator - 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree with experience in substance abuse field required. Bilingual preferred, not required. Office located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at (305) 704-0117.

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING! KEY LARGO

Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) Behavioral Health Counselor, FT (Children) Substance Abuse Counselor, PT (Adult) Driver PT/per diem

KEY WEST

Behavioral Health Therapist, FT (Children, Adult) Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Peer Support Specialist Crisis Counselor Case Managers (Adult, Forensic, Children ) Motivational Support Specialist Substance Abuse Counselor Driver PT/per diem

MARATHON Admissions Specialist

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

Salaries Starting at $18/hr

Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance

Fun, Fast-Paced Environment

Tuition Reimbursement

Quarterly Cash Profit Sharing

Paid Holidays, Vacation & Sick Time

Great Hours

401K Employer Match

Apply Online! KeysBank.com/Careers

Care Coordinator Maintenance Specialist Housekeeper Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) RNs and LPNs (3 shifts) (PT/FT & per diem) Advocate (PT) Driver PT/per diem *Assisted Living Support Worker (PT) *Behavioral Health Technicians (3 shifts) (PT/FT & per diem) *No experience necessary. Will train.

A caring heart & helpful hands required.

Ability to work some evening or weekend shifts a plus.

If you’ve wanted to get into the medical field but don’t have the education, this is the job for you!

Background and drug screen req.

COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!

Member FDIC

EOE-M/F/V/D

Equal Housing Lender

Check out all available positions at: www.westcare.com EEOC/DFWP

29

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

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

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

Dolphin Research Center is Hiring!

Media & Marketing Staff Member (Full-Time, Permanent)

Education Program Host (Full-Time, Permanent)

IT Technical Specialist (Part Time, Permanent)

Accounting Manager (Full-Time, Permanent)

Visual Communications Staff (Full-Time, Permanent)

Human Resources Assistant (Part-Time, Permanent)

Guest Services Staff

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

Facilities Maintenance Apprentice (Full-Time, Permanent)

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

Full job descriptions available at

www.dolphins.org/career_opportunities

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

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Pigeon Key is seeking dedicated professionals seeking to make a positive impact in their community. Those individuals who wish to work on a uniquely beautiful island , while promoting our cultural history and preserving the natural Keys environment are encouraged to apply.

Competitive wages based on ability and experience. Applicants will be subject to criminal background check and drug screening.

Positions include: Trolley Operator (CDL licensing course provided for qualified applicant) Tour Guides, Sales Associates, Customer Relations Reps, Maintenance, Rental Associates and more.

Application online at pigeonkey.net - under the Staff icon. Or apply in person at the Pigeon Key Gift Shop, 2010 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL. Questions and completed applications can be emailed to pigeonkey@aol.com

DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATOR

I

in Marathon

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

SERVE/BARTEND ON THE OCEAN! Oceanfront private swim club is seeking customer service oriented Server/Bartender.

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

Small friendly staff and above average hourly wage plus tips.

Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach or call April 305-393-0631.

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS NEEDED! Monroe County School District

LOCATION: MIDDLE KEYS

PART TIME AND FULL TIME OPPORTUNITIES W/FLEXIBLE SCHEDULES HOUSEKEEPING ROOM ATTENDANT, HOUSEPERSON AND MORE! CULINARY DISHWASHERS AND LINE COOKS F&B SERVERS AND FOOD RUNNERS FRONT OFFICE BELL/VALET RESERVATIONS OFFICE RESERVATIONS AGENT SPA TERRE NAIL TECHS AND LMT’S SALES CATERING SALES MANAGER SCAN TO VIEW JOB OPENINGS.

APPLY TODAY! APPLY ONLINE AT www.noblehousehotels.com/careers APPLY IN PERSON AT Zero Duval St. Ocean Key Resort and Spa is EOE.

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for two (2) D.S.O.s to perform entry-level, semi-skilled work, involving the repair and maintenance of FKAA water distribution and transmission systems. Employee must ensure safe work practices, maintain water flow, and test the water supply. Qualifications: H.S. diploma or GED; supplemented by 1 yr previous experience and/or training as a pipefi‫מּ‬er with a public utility, construction comp, or plumbing company. Must have a valid FL CDL “A” license w/in 12 mos of hire date.

Must obtain a FDEP Level 3 license w/in 18 mos of hire date. Salary: $20.52/hr. with excellent benefits.

Apply online at: www.﬍aa.com/employment

EEO, VPE, ADA

TEMPORARY DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATOR LOCATION: MIDDLE KEYS

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for four (4) temporary D.S.O. to perform entry-level, semi-skilled work, involving the repair and maintenance of FKAA water distribution and transmission systems. This position could lead to a regular, benefited position in the future. Employee must ensure safe work practices. Qualifications: H.S. diploma or GED; supplemented by 1 yr previous experience and/or training as a pipefi‫מּ‬er with a public utility, construction comp, or plumbing company. Salary: $25.00/hr.

Apply online at: www.﬍aa.com/employment

EEO, VPE, ADA

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

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

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

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

30

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

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

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ALL KEYS GLASS

We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

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Key West

SOLAR DONE RIGHT! CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE

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

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Tewes ewes Mortgage

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Call 305.495.6000

Liz Samess Interiors

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Liz Samess

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www.TewesMortgage.com

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(954) 801-7883 interiordesignbyliz@gmail.com

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Sportfishing Adventures

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305-481-3259

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

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

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31

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021 A turkey vulture searches for carrion in the Florida Keys. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

TURKEY VULTURES: NATURE’S NECESSARY FREAK SHOW

T

he highway was jammed, though not, as Springsteen said, with broken heroes on a MARK last chance power drive. Mostly it was dump HEDDEN trucks, RVs and rental Mustangs – the usual Overseas Highway stuff, which might have been a ... is a photogradisappointment to the turkey vultures flying overpher, writer, and semi-professional head. They would have appreciated some carnage birdwatcher. He and carrion. has lived in Key According to the folks at the Florida Keys HawkWest for more watch, which ended on Nov. 29, 13,567 turkey vulthan 25 years and tures migrated into the Keys this fall. Driving north to may no longer be employable in Miami, it seemed as if all of them had decided to hang the real world. He out over the road. is also executive There are a couple reasons there were so many director of the of them overhead. One is that to save energy, turkey Florida Keys Auduvultures will often gain altitude by rising up on therbon Society. mals, columns of warm air that swirl hundreds of feet up. Since concrete and tar tend to retain so much heat, highways and parking lots tend to create pretty good thermals, especially in places like Florida. And who would not take advantage of a free ride on an invisible elevator?

Also, turkey vultures don’t tend to spend a lot of time flying over water – there aren’t many thermals there – and since landmasses in the Keys can be so narrow, there’s not much room for them to spread out, and the highway is the central terrestrial feature.

Highways also have a lot of roadkill, a large part of the diet for turkey vultures in the modern world. Though related to hawks and eagles, they are a little less sporting than their cousins.

The details of the turkey vulture’s life history are not for the squeamish.

They are carnivores, though unlike most raptors, everything but, say, one brick of their food pyramid is dead things. While they are technically birds of prey, they don’t seem to have the skills or inclination to kill anything. Physiologically, they lack the strong feet or flesh-tearing bill of a peregrine falcon or a Cooper’s hawk.

If they find small dead animals – squirrels, mice, birds, iguanas – they can eat them pretty quickly post mortem. The same with carrion killed, partially eaten, and abandoned by other predators. But with larger, intact animals with thicker skin – deer, cattle, hogs – things generally need to ripen, and ingress is often made through the softer parts of the anatomy – mouth, nose, eyes, and let’s just say the pelvic region.

Turkey vultures can find their meals by sight, but they mostly use their highly evolved sense of smell. To test this, scientists once left 74 dead chickens in a canopied forest, where they could not be seen. The turkey vultures found 71 of those chickens within three days, with few of them being found when they were fresh, and most of them found after a full day.

Other species sometimes take advantage of their highly adept olfactory senses. Black vultures, who have a weak sense of smell, will often fly higher than turkey vultures, and then follow them in toward the carrion, and then compete with them for a share.

Natural gas companies, trying to find leaks in their pipelines, will sometimes add odorants with scents similar to decomposing corpses into the mix, and then look to see where the turkey vultures congregate.

While they rarely venture away from land, they have been known to feed from the floating corpses of alligators and manatees. When they eat dead skunks, they have been known to swallow the scent gland whole. They have been observed feeding on the feces of coyotes, sea lions and cows, but most likely they were prospecting for insects and undigested bits.

Turkey vultures are, of course, purpose-built for this life. For starters, they don’t have any feathers on their head, which makes it easier to shove their faces into carcasses and pull out the goopy stuff without fouling their plumage.

Also, they have the strongest stomach acid of any animal on the planet – up to 100 times more acidic than a human’s. They can digest just about anything. Things that would sicken or kill most other animals have no effect on them. They are immune to the pathogens that cause rabies, botulism, cholera, anthrax and many other illnesses.

This is good for them as a species, as they occupy a large portion of an ecological niche that does not have a great deal of appeal for other species. But also, they serve a massive good for ecosystems as a whole – slowly decontaminating the world and making it safer for everyone else. This was exemplified in India in the 1980s and ’90s, when the populations of several species of vultures began to crash due to the agricultural use of a drug called diclofenac, which turns out to be one of the few ingestible things lethal to vultures. The decline caused feral dog populations to explode, as well as for drinking water sources to be contaminated, bringing about increases in lethal cases of rabies, anthrax and the plague in humans, and bringing about thousands of deaths.

For all of these reasons, turkey vultures don’t have a lot of predators. Other species tend to leave them alone, maybe not so much out of respect but through avoidance, possibly further inspired by one other revulsive habit of theirs: Turkey vultures practice something called urohidrosis, which is the habit of excreting down their legs in order to cool themselves in hot weather. (It often gives their legs a whitish appearance, when the skin is, in fact, red.)

So if you see them – hanging up there in the sky, or sitting in a tree or by the side of the road – maybe appreciate them for what they do, but don’t get too close. Also, drive carefully.

32

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 9, 2021

FREE UBER

RIDES HOME 1,000s of people ride public transit from the mainland to work in the Keys. Far too often, many encounter challenges catching the bus back home for various reasons that are beyond their control (ex. Working late with little notice, emergencies, etc.).

This FREE PROGRAM, funded by the Florida Department of Transportation, provides FREE UBER (or Taxicab) RIDES home for those individuals.

3 Easy Steps to Sign-Up 1. Go to GuaranteedRideHome.org 2. Click “Register As Transit Rider” 3. Enter Your Information For More Information Call: 1-800-234-RIDE (7433)

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