Upper Keys Weekly 21-1216

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Prayers for our friends in Kentucky.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

BANKING WITH YOU IN MIND

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

ON THE COVER

Archaeologists recently unearthed a mummy in Peru. According to Smithsonian Magazine, the young adult was buried on Peru’s central coast some 800 years ago. The mummy rested underground until earlier this year, when archaeologists stumbled onto a tomb during an excavation, reports Marco Aquino for Reuters. Researchers hope to study the tomb and its occupant to learn more about the Indigenous communities that lived along Peru’s coastline prior to the Inca Empire’s rise.

Participants in the Beach N’ Beer Mile Run at Postcard Inn pour Bud Light over each other.

Runners chugged a beer and went for a run during the event.

DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

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COUNCIL STAYS BUSY IN 2021 Bridge cancellation and manager hiring among the highlights JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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n Islamorada dais composed of five councilmen passed the one-year mark after prevailing over their opponents in the November 2020 election. Taking their oaths, the dais not only dealt with a 2021 with continuing challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic, but also turned down a multimillion-dollar state bridge project and brought on a new manager to lead staff.

A new council entered in a time when the village had an interim manager in Maria Bassett, following the resignation of then-manager Seth Lawless due to health reasons. By early summer, however, the dais had interviewed a number of candidates for the position. The council’s sights were set on Greg Oravec as the next manager.

On June 2, the village picked the former Port St. Lucie Mayor in Oravec.

Councilman David Webb said the village manager came in energetic and committed to move the issues forward in Islamorada. Going into 2022, the council, staff and community will need to determine what Islamorada should look like 10 years out through development of a strategic plan.

“It’s not up to Dave Webb to tell residents what the character of Islamorada should be,” Webb said. “As I shared from several people, ultimately we are elective representatives of this community, and if residents cannot come forward and bring consensus on what Islamorada should look like, we still have to do something. I would rather do it with a clear understanding of what residents prefer, but at the end of the day, we have to do something.”

Webb added that he’s committed to provide opportunities for the community to have its say on the village’s future.

Council members taking their seats were immediately faced with matters changing the landscape and character of the village — namely the $4.68 million pedestrian bridge near Founders Park. Following discussions and letters from Mayor Buddy Pinder

to the governor’s office, Florida Department of Transportation informed the village in February that it wouldn’t go on with the project. Just over $1 million was spent on the project at that time.

Around $460,000 was spent by Florida Keys Electric Cooperative to relocate utilities for the pedestrian bridge.

Councilman Henry Rosenthal led the push in putting an end to the project, which saw work beginning as they entered office with the relocation of utilities. Rosenthal said it was on his agenda from the beginning of his time in office.

“It had the support of the public.

Otherwise, I wouldn’t have pursued it,” he said. “Every time you’re successful it’s a good feeling.”

In their first budget, the council approved a $17.9 million spending plan for 2021-22. That’s up from $14.8 million from last year’s adopted budget. Increases in spending are largely attributed to one-time expenditures, such as $300,000 for a new program to remove derelict vessels from the water. Monroe County Sheriff’s deputies received a 7.86% increase and there was a 5% cost of living increase for village staff making less than $100,000.

The village council adopted a millage rate of 3.00 mills, which is $300 for every $100,000 of taxable assessed value.

Among the notable approved purchases by the village was property at the former Walgreens, located at 81981 Overseas Highway, for $2.75 million. A restriction on the property wouldn’t allow uses such as a gas station, convenience store or pharmacy.

A process to develop a master plan for the Fills is also underway, with input being taken from the community. Work also continues to connect all residences and businesses in the village to the wastewater system.

Looking ahead, council members will have some work ahead of them with impending building permit issuance ending in 2023.

“I think we’re turning the corner a little bit on what the character of Islamorada should be. We are reassembling the land acquisition committee,” Webb said. “I know the village manager has

An aerial view of Islamorada overlooking Founders Park. A proposed pedestrian bridge project close to the park was slated for construction earlier in the year. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly

done a lot of work looking at vacant land. Two reasons why we need to get on top of that quickly is because of 2023 and buildout. We need to preserve as much conservation land as we have left, and the community needs to support that.”

Rosenthal said the village must extend building permits from 2023 out to 2026.

“Quite frankly, it had not been addressed with the previous council that I could see and it wasn’t something that the council today was enthusiastic about. But they’re starting to turn the corner and see that this is important,” Rosenthal said.

Islamorada Village Council will convene for its final meeting of 2021 on Thursday, Dec. 16 at 5:30 p.m. at Founders Park Community Center..

The meeting will begin with recognition of service to Village Clerk Kelly Toth, who’s retiring at the end of the year. An update will be given by Cheryl Meads, at-large member of the South Florida Water Management District, regarding the South Dade Logistics & Technology District application.

Also on the agenda: an ordinance to quell noise in the village during certain times of the day. If approved, lawful construction activities on private property can be conducted Monday through Saturday, excluding holidays, between 7:30 a.m. and sundown or 7 p.m. On Sundays, constructruction could go from noon to 7 p.m. or sundown. As for lawn mowing and use of lawn tools and machinery, that could go on Monday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to sundown or 7 p.m.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

ENTER SECOND YEAR

RODRIGUEZ READY TO TACKLE CONDO FRAUD, SECURE STEWARDSHIP FUNDS JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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eapportionment of House and Senate districts, condominiums and environmental dollars are among the priorities for the Keys representative in the Florida State Senate, Ana Maria Rodriguez, in her second

year.

Districts in which the Keys and portions of Miami-Dade lie are the farthest from the state capital in Tallahassee. While some legislators travel by air, others hop in the car. Rodriguez is one of them who leaves from her home in Homestead for an 8-hour or longer trip up the Turnpike and 1-75 — “if there’s no accidents; it can be longer,” she said. “It can be quite exhausting.”

She’s made a few trips to Tallahassee in recent time to examine and discuss district maps as a member of the Senate Committee on Reapportionment. After each decennial census, the legislature redraws districts from which Florida voters elect their state representatives, state senators and members of the U.S. House. It’s done to adjust for uneven growth in different parts of the state.

Per census data, Florida’s population increased from 18.8 million in 2010 to 21.5 million in 2020. Average number of people in each congressional district rose by 769,000, while the number of people in each of the 120 state House districts went up by almost 180,000. In state Senate districts, figures rose by 538,000.

Per the Florida Constitution, the legislature is directed to redraw district boundaries at its regular session in the second year following the decennial census. That all begins Jan. 11, 2022, but committee meetings are underway.

Rodriguez said feedback remains positive on the Senate maps as a 12-member committee works through the process.

Map lines for Rodriguez’s District 39, which represents the Keys and portions of Miami-Dade, hasn’t changed much, she said.

“My district keeps all of Monroe County, but I lose some northern parts of the district and pick up portions on the east side,” she said. “It shifts around a little bit, but from a distance it almost looks the same.

“It does keep Homestead, which is where I currently live,” she continued. “I’m happy that I don’t have to move. We love living in Homestead because we’re close to the Keys.”

Like state Rep. Jim Mooney, Rodriguez worked to secure $20 million for the Florida Keys Stewardship Act — a major win for the island chain. And like Mooney, Rodriguez will file a bill on the Senate side to go after more money for a program that supports water quality projects.

“I think that making sure that we bring home environmental funding for such a delicate area like the Keys is extremely important,” Rodriguez said. “From a funding perspective, Stewardship money is of utmost importance to me.”

Mooney told the Weekly in a recent interview that his bill will seek funds for the Stewardship Act on a recurring basis.

Rodriguez said she’ll file a companion bill in the Senate with similar language. She’s uncertain of its prospects, however.

“I don’t know if appropriation chairs in the House and Senate want to see this forever and ever. They might say maybe we should lower to $5 million or $10 million after that,” she said. “Thankfully, Florida is in a very sure financial position, but will we be in a strong financial position forever? I don’t know. I hope so.

State Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez speaks during a gathering with community leaders and Mote Marine Laboratory administration and staff at Cheeca Lodge in April 2021. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

“I think Jim and I have what it takes to get it in the budget, even if it’s not a recurring item,” she continued.

On the policy side, Rodriguez will look into condominium reform following the tragic Champlain Towers South collapse in Surfside on June 24, which took 98 lives. It came as the building was under a 40-year recertification.

“I feel like we need to take a close look at condo laws and make sure people who serve on boards have proper education to ensure they know what they’re getting themselves into,” she said.

“A lot of people come from a good place and are well intentioned, but they don’t have knowledge to serve. I’d like to see some education surrounding studies and what you need so you’re not stuck in a hole financially for your condo.”

A bill filed by Rodriguez proposes the creation of the Condominium Fraud Investigation Pilot within the Department of Legal Affairs. The program would investigate corruption and condorelated fraud in Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe counties. According to the bill text, the department may contract with a private entity that employs retired law enforcement officers who have expertise in financial fraud.

The bill comes in light of a recent arrest involving a former bookkeeper who reportedly stole more than $13,000 from Calusa Campground Resort & Marina in Key Largo. Misglenia Guerra, 42, of Homestead, was charged with fraud, grand theft and multiple counts of uttering a forged instrument after the resort’s property manager alerted the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office of fraudulent activity in April. Guerra was allegedly writing fraudulent checks on behalf of the business to a cleaning business she owned. Guerra posted a $5,000 bond on Nov. 18. She went before County Judge Luis Garcia on Jan. 4 for a hearing.

Rodriguez’s legislation currently sits in the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Environment and General Government.

Legislative session in Tallahassee begins Jan. 11, 2022.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

SCHOOL CHIEF’S $175,000 CONTRACT EXTENDED BOARD VOTES 4-1 TO TAKE AGREEMENT THROUGH 2024 CHARLOTTE TWINE

charlotte@keysweekly.com

Water fills North Blackwater Lane in Stillwright Point on Nov. 10.

EMILIE CALDWELL STEWARD/Contributed

PUSHING BACK THE WATERS

State’s first-ever resilience plan includes two local projects JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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wo Key Largo neighborhoods prone to flooding during king tide season could receive some state funding through a new program.

According to county officials, the Department of Environmental Protection recently announced that more than $5 million in flood mitigation projects in the Upper Keys were included in the state’s Flooding and Sea Level Rise and Resilience Plan. State legislators are set to convene for a 60-day session on Jan. 11, and among the items they’ll consider are projects in the plan.

Projects focus on two neighborhoods that have long dealt with road flooding, Twins Lakes and Stillwright Point communities. Projects will look to raise road elevation and provide stormwater management.

Monroe County submitted six applications. The smaller project applications may be included in a second round of federal funding later.

The Twin Lakes Subdivision Flood Mitigation Project is fully designed and shovel ready. The total project cost for construction is $7.8 million. A request is in for $3.9 million to share costs 50-50.

A Stillwright Point Flood Mitigation Project is currently in the design and engineering phase. Costs for design, engineering and permitting is $2.37 million. A request to the state is seeking $1.1 million.

“We are appreciative that the two highest priority projects are listed on the state’s plan for the full amount that the county requested,” said Lisa Tennyson, Monroe County legislative director. “This plan shows the state is taking sea-level rise and resiliency very seriously.”

Twin Lakes is a part of the demonstration project which has been underway for the past five years, and Stillwright Point is a project that was developed under the county’s road elevation study, spearheaded by Rhonda Haag, chief resilience officer, and Judy Clarke, director of roads and bridges.

Stillwright Point residents saw water return to their roads this past fall, but not to the level they witnessed the previous two years. In 2019, residents saw saltwater inundating streets for more than 90 days — the result of a king tide. Residents didn’t see dry roads until late November that year, when water was more than a foot deep, causing hardship for residents in the community. Flooding in Stillwright Point in 2020 lasted a little over 70 days, and prompted the county to try out 24-inch-high flood barriers to mitigate rising water levels.

Flooding in Key Largo’s Twin Lakes dates back many years. Between 2015 and early 2016, Twin Lakes residents dealt with more than a month of sustained and continuous saltwater flooding. That led the board of county commissioners to make Twin Lakes a pilot project to study, design and implement a solution to address flooding issues.

Commissioners in January 2017 received an engineer’s report and recommendations on a design. It included elevation of roads within Twin Lakes to about 5 inches of elevation to extend the life of the road to 2040. Roads identified included Shaw Drive, Crane Street and Adams Drive.

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t its Dec. 14 meeting, the board of the Monroe County School District approved extending Superintendent Theresa Axford’s employment contract through July 31, 2024, with an annual salary of $175,000. But the approval did not go completely smoothly. Out of the five board members, one cast a dissenting vote: Bobby Highsmith.

Highsmith pointed out during the meeting that when Axford’s first contract was created in the depths of the pandemic, the terms stated that she would hold the position from July 31, 2020, through July 31, Superintendent Theresa Axford.

2022.

The contract read as follows: “This agreement may be renewed for one calendar year as approved by a supermajority of the board.”

“That unique language was put in there because Mrs. Axford was hired with the understanding that this was going to be an interim type position, that she did not want the job for more than two years,” Highsmith said at the meeting. “And that if there were extraordinary circumstances, a supermajority of the board could vote to give her one additional year. As I said at the last meeting, I think Superintendent Axford has done a magnificent job guiding us through COVID and she’s been wonderful. And my vote not to renew this current agreement is no reflection on that.

“But we did say we did not open the pool to any other candidates when Mrs. Axford was hired, we did not conduct any sort of search … and we told the public at the time that the reason we were doing that was because Mrs. Axford would only be here for a short amount of time. And I think we made that pledge to the public and I think our words should matter.”

Highsmith told Keys Weekly that he would have been comfortable if Axford’s new contract

extended her employment for just another year, through the end of 2023, rather than through 2024.

He also pointed out that when she was hired in July 2020, it was a time of great instability: the pandemic was raging; the previous superintendent, Mark Porter, had decided not to renew his contract; and the district had also just lost its director of finance.

“To add stability, the board decided not to solicit candidates but decided to directly hire Mrs. Axford with the understanding that it was for two years,” Highsmith said.

He reiterated that he approves of her work. “I think she has done a fabulous job,” he said.

Axford has been with the district for 33 years. Before becoming superintendent, she was the executive director of teaching and learning for the district.

In a statement to Keys Weekly, Axford did not address Highsmith’s dissenting opinion, but instead expressed gratitude to the school board.

“I have been proud and honored to serve the students, teachers, staff and families of the Monroe County School District during the past year and onehalf as superintendent,” Axford said. “I am really pleased that the school board extended my contact through June 2024 and I look forward to continuing the work of the district by helping to develop a new strategic plan, working on affordable housing and continuing our positive journey back from the difficulties brought on by Covid-19.”

Board vice chair Andy Griffiths told Keys Weekly that he had no problem approving the contract through 2024. “​​She did such a fabulous job under historic circumstances, under the pandemic, with flying colors,” Griffiths said, pointing out that she is his 10th superintendent.

“I know what’s out there. I know who applies for these jobs. I’m not saying we should search, but when you have a good one, you should hang on to them. And it was important to show that support last night.”

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

Top: The front of house staff feel like family: front row, from left: Joel Cavo, Elisa Calvo, Jacqualyn Sanchez, Audrey Butler and Josie Ortiz. Back row, from left: J.J. Calvo, Josh Calvo, Pam Schmidt and Jeanne Hobson.

CHARLOTTE TWINE/Keys Weekly Left: Forster inspired loyalty as a boss: kitchen staff Fany Mendoza, left, and Noel Martinez worked at Mangroves Mike’s for 17 and 24 years, respectively.

‘HE WAS MY BEST FRIEND’

Mangrove Mike’s continues to serve Mike Forster’s legacy of good will CHARLOTTE TWINE

charlotte@keysweekly.com

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am Schmidt has been the front desk manager of Mangrove Mike’s Cafe for nine years. A friendly blonde with a big smile, she’s often the first face that customers see upon stepping inside the eatery. And there’s one question that many ask: How are you and the staff doing?

“We’re improving daily,” she told Keys Weekly, with a sigh. “Like other folks in the world who have lost someone. We pulled our shorts up to make him proud and be there for the community. Other days, we wait for him to walk out of the office.”

Mangrove Mike’s was owned by County Commissioner Mike Forster, who died from COVID-19 on Sept. 6, 2021. A life cut off suddenly midstream, he was juggling many projects: his duties as an elected official; his membership on the boards of nonprofits including United Way of Collier and the Florida Keys, Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition, MARC and Islamorada Chamber of Commerce; his missions to Uganda; and his cherished hobby, fishing.

But the anchor of his career was his ownership of Mangrove Mike’s Café and Catering, which he opened in 1998 in Islamorada at MM 82, bayside, just before he started his many civic duties, including serving on the local Village Council. Yet somehow Forster managed to be ever present at the restaurant despite his many responsibilities.

His leadership created a strong bond among his staff of 30, who call each other family.

His death, like that of any patriarch, was a profound loss for his restaurant family.

“Our morale is up and down,” said server Jacqualyn Sanchez. “Most of us expect him to walk in the door. But it’s just such a fun place to work.

Especially now, we stick together and have each other’s backs and make him proud.”

Susanne Bloy is the manager behind the scenes — though, as she described it, “I have no title. Bookkeeper for 24 years. I’m part of the family. He left me in charge of his business affairs until they are settled.”

Bloy remembered first meeting Forster when he worked as a manager at Islamorada Fish Company. “I trained him,” she said with a laugh. “He was a good kid, good guy. We hit it off.”

They hit it off so well that when he bought the business that would soon be Mangrove Mike’s, he told Bloy he wouldn’t do it unless she came with him.

“And we’ve been together ever since,” she said. “I’m staying strong because that’s what Mike would want. And if I’m not strong, the girls aren’t.

I stay upbeat all the time.”

A focus for Bloy is continuing his nonprofit foundation, Mangrove Mike’s Endeavors Paying Forward. She is currently putting a board together. The goal of the nonprofit is to “give to the local people who need it.”

His calling to give back to the community was strong after Hurricane Irma. Schmidt recalled that Forster gave a pep talk to his staff: “‘You cannot wait for the government to take care of us,’ he said. We fed the FWC, all police and fire rescue, Homeland Security, the Department of Forestry. … It was a mass production. A minimum of 1,500 meals a day came out of that kitchen, going from Key West to Key Largo. He never took no for an answer and would find a way to do it.”

Mike Forster felt a special connection with children. He went on three mission trips to Uganda, as seen here, with Island Community Church. CONTRIBUTED

After server Jacqualyn Sanchez’s son Tristan, left, was assaulted, Forster insisted that she bring him to the restaurant every day until he felt safe. CONTRIBUTED

Forster also jumped into action during the pandemic. Mangrove Mike’s Endeavors began at the start of COVID-19, creating a mechanism for donations to provide food for those in need, first responders and healthcare workers, while also arranging for deliveries to be made by others or himself.

But server Sanchez’s favorite memory of Forster is how he connected with her son and with the many children who came to the restaurant..

“When my son Tristan was 14, he was assaulted. He came to work with me every day,” she said, tears freely rolling down her cheeks. “Mike supported him coming with me to work for six months so he would feel safe.”

Sanchez paused to wipe her face. Then her face brightened at another memory.

“When a kid would cry, he would walk over and say, ‘What happened? Did your mom tell you you’re going to Chuck E. Cheese?’” she said, laughing. “He treated people like he was their best friend. People would come in and say, ‘He was my best friend.’”

More information about Forster’s foundation is at mangrovemikesendeavors.org. Customers can also buy a Mangrove Mike’s Endeavors shirt at the restaurant. Proceeds go to the foundation.

Mangrove Mike’s is located at 82200 Overseas Highway, Islamorada. Phone: 305-664-8022.

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FISHERMEN’S, MARINERS STAFF TRAIN WITH TRAUMA STAR

The Trauma Star team collaborates with staff from Fishermen’s Community Hospital and Mariners Hospital for critical annual training. CONTRIBUTED.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

Monroe County Fire Rescue’s Trauma Star, the air ambulance service based in Marathon, recently flew one of its helicopters to both Fishermen’s Community Hospital and Mariners Hospital as part of an ongoing educational program intended to strengthen the knowledge of the hospitals’ caregivers so they, in turn, can provide the very best care to patients and families. During the drill, the helicopter reached Fishermen’s Community Hospital in five minutes and Mariners Hospital in roughly 15 minutes — a quick response time that can be critical when life-saving interventions are needed.

While on site, the Trauma Star team provided employees at both hospitals with a brief overview of what to expect when a patient transfer is needed. They addressed the requirements for air transfer, maximum wind speeds in which they can fly and their capabilities for treating patients in the air. The team also pointed out that only minors can be accompanied by an additional person in the helicopter. The training session enabled the hospital staff members to ask questions and learn valuable information that will help them prepare patients and families and speak knowledgeably on behalf of Trauma Star when arranging a transfer.

“The annual training is part of a collaboration we have with Monroe County Trauma Star,” said Dawn Hire, director of nursing in the Emergency Department at Mariners and Fishermen’s Community Hospitals.

“We also meet every other month to review patient data and cases to provide optimal care and better patient outcomes.”

“Our partnership with Trauma Star and Baptist Health has saved countless lives when seconds and minutes mean the most,” said Steve Hudson, Monroe County Fire Chief. “The meetings help facilitate and highlight the importance of the collaboration between our two entities in emergencies.” ­— Contributed

KEY LARGO CHAMBER BOARD INSTALLED

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t Baker’s Cay Resort, members on the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce board raised their right hands, as they were sworn in by County Commissioner Holly Raschein during a Dec. 8 lunch. Dennis Caltagirone, former board chair, handed the gavel to Roberto Alonso, new board chair. Pictured from back left are Kristine Cox, Playa Largo general manager; Henry Menendez, of HNO Productions; Capt. Spencer Slate; Ilja Chapman, of Voyage Blue Travel; Angie Alvarez, of Centennial Bank; Blaine Vernicek, of The Structure Group LLC; Manuel Alvarez, of Verdeja, De Armas & Trujillo CPA; and Kevin Donlan, Publix Supermarkets district director. Pictured front from left are Ruth Schrader-Grace, Keys Core Fitness owner; Melissa Fernandez, of All Keys Concrete; Alonso; Caltagirone; Rhonda Whitfield, Baker’s Cay Key Largo sales director; and Henry Quintana. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

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ON BECOMING AN HONORARY CONCH

business in the Keys. Like so many ccording to the dictionindustries before it, sponging and ary by Merriam-Webster, turtling, for instance, the conch conch (kongk, konch) is: fishery boomed and busted as 1. the spiral shell of a the conch was nearly picked clean gastropod, often used as a horn. 2. from Florida waters. As a result, any of various marine gastropods. commercial harvesting of conch 3. the fabled shell trumpet of the BRAD was outlawed in the 1970s. In Tritons. 4. a native or inhabitant of 1985, the recreational harvesting the Florida Keys.

BERTELLI of conch, too, was banned.

Conch is a univalve mollusk, a is an author, Still found chowdered, frittered snail that thrives in hard bottom speaker, and Florand fried on countless restaurant coral communities, sandy areas, ida Keys historian. menus, the conch served today is and seagrass beds. It is a sea-esHis latest book, imported. Some of it is still harcargot of stupendous proportions. “The Florida Keys Skunk Ape Files,” vested from the ocean, and some Several species of conch occupy is a fun blend of are raised on conch farms. the local waters. Among others, two of his favorite But, more than a snail and there are fighting conch, helmet subjects — Florida food staple, just as Merriamconch and horse conch. The horse Keys history and Webster defines, a Conch is also a conch is the largest gastropod the Skunk Ape. native or inhabitant of the Florida inhabiting U.S. waters and has a Keys. Stories circulate around the Keys that shell that can grow to nearly two feet in say that people are recognized as Freshwalength. The horse conch is also Florida’s ter Conchs after living here for seven, 10, or state shell. However, it is not technically a 15 years. Having lived in the Florida Keys, member of the conch’s Strombidae family on Plantation Key, for the last 20 years, the but belongs to a group of sea snails known notion of being considered a Freshwater as tulips.

Conch never appeared on the radar.

Conch is also an identity, a lifestyle — And then, a conch event occurred that and a mascot for graduates of Key West I never imagined, and I could not be more High School. Without tooting the shell horn thrilled. too loudly, the conch rules supreme along Thanks to the efforts in no small part this particular chain of islands. Elegantly of Jill Miranda Baker, the two of us were housed and slow-moving, the conch is a bestowed with the title of Honorary Conch fitting symbol for the Florida Keys. After all, and given framed proclamations signed the islands are known as the Conch Repubby former Monroe County Mayor Michelle lic. The blue and gold flag of this self-deColdiron. clared micronation has been flapping over Why? Our designation as Honorary the Florida Keys since 1982. Emblazoned Conchs likely stemmed from our tireless against its blue background is an image of efforts to create Islamorada’s Keys History the conch that these islands are best known & Discovery Center. Along with Erin Muir, for, Strombus gigas. a sixth-generation Conch already, we were Strombus gigas, the pink-lipped shell able to contribute to the culture and history prominently displayed at roadside shell of the Florida Keys by creating the Discovshacks and souvenir shops, is more comery Center from a 7,500-square-foot empty monly known as the queen conch. Hold the building with blank blue walls. Today, the shell to your ear, and you will hear the faint, facility is home to one of the great cultural rich music of the ocean — it is the sound of gems of the Florida Keys. life on these islands. Unlike the predatory Now, according to the official decree as horse conch that will wrap its orange foot an Honorary Conch and citizen of the Fabuaround a true conch and devour it when lous Florida Keys, we are entitled to “enjoy it gets the chance, the queen conch slips to the fullest the bounteous pleasures across the ocean floor in search of the algae and privileges so lavishly bestowed upon on which it feeds. the Florida Keys by nature, and so artfully As a species, when harm threatens, they attempt to weather the attack by turtle, supplemented by the works of man. Pure, smog-free, pollen-free, never-chilled air; sucrab or shark by pulling in and hunkering perb fishing from bridges, beaches or boats; down. Sometimes the technique proves unparalleled swimming and frolicking in the fruitful, and sometimes it does not. Because crystal waters of the Atlantic, or the Gulf of the snails are tasty not just to creatures Mexico, gourmet dining on such delicacies living in the sea, the conch was considered as Florida Keys lobster, shrimp, Green Turtle something of a staple in pioneer housesteak and Key lime pie; the wiggling of toes holds. The conch’s strategy of using its shell in warm sand as the rest of the world hurfor protection never worked against the ries by; and, most important, acceptance as hand of man. an equal by the world’s friendliest people.”

There was a time when the conch was Thank you! It is an honor. plentiful, and the fishery was welcomed

10

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

FLORIDA KEYS TABLE T

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

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

But our magnetic appeal goes beyond the

KEY LIME PIE MARTINI, Alonzo’s Oyster Bar, Key West Want dessert in a glass — with plenty of adult kick? Try the Key Lime Pie Martini at Alonzo’s Oyster Bar. The pointy glass is rimmed with graham crackers and filled to the brim with vanilla vodka, Liquor 43, Key lime juice & Cream 15.

FOOD, DRINKS & PEOPLE menu. The skilled professionals who define our local hospitality industry do much more than mix creative cocktails and serve delicious meals. These hard-working men and women are ambassadors, social directors, travel advisors and unlicensed — but often effective — therapists.

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

to highlight the food, libations and local personalities that define our “must-try” destinations across the Florida Keys.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a fifth-generation local, your options are endless.

Indulge in something new or revisit a familiar favorite. And above all, support the local owners and loyal employees who are vital to our Keys communities.

CARLY PUIG Bongos Beer Garden & Grassy Flats Resort This drink-slingin’ bartender is a mainstay at both Bongos and Grassy Flats Resort on Grassy Key. Originally from Jefferson, New Jersey, Puig moved to the Keys in 2019. We took some time to get to know her by asking a few questions related to her job — and more than a few that weren’t.

What’s your favorite drink to make?

A Paloma. We have great citrus in Florida, so it always comes out extremely fresh and colorful.

What’s the best part about being a bartender? I get to meet a lot of cool people that I wouldn’t otherwise have the chance to have a conversation with.

All right, enough of that. What’s the dumbest thing you’ve ever done? One day I was sitting in my sister’s car and there was a perfume bottle covered in glitter. I wanted to annoy her by pretending to use her perfume. Turns out, it was pepper spray. I power sprayed myself in the face, and hit my brother behind me too.

What’s the funniest gift you’ve ever given? When I was 17, a bunch of family came over to our house for Christmas. I had real presents for everyone, but first, I stole something that each person owned and gifted it to someone else in the room. I even used the collections of teeth that we’d saved from the Tooth Fairy.

CASA MAR ROLL What the Fish Rolls & More, Tavernier The small restaurant nestled in Casa Mar Village focuses mainly on ocean to table, with locally-caught specialties such as crab cakes or lobster rolls. The Casa Mar Roll features fresh local catch, some coleslaw, lettuce and aji amarillo. Try one of many rolls on the menu.

For more, visit our Keys Table Magazines online at keysweekly.com/table.

Our Florida Keys Table Magazines are published nine times a year in the Upper Keys, Marathon and Key West. For more information email: Stephanie@keysweekly.com.

11

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

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12

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

THE STUDENT OF THE WEEK

BRIEFLY Python Potluck set for Dec. 16 in Key Largo Hunting and fishing ladies of the Keys, come join Artemis Sportswomen Florida for a night of community building, learning, and a python hunt Thursday, Dec. 16. Artemis Ambassador Katy Cummings will host a “Python Potluck” in Key Largo. Bring a dish to share, attend the virtual FWC Python Patrol training, and then bring your bike to the Southern Glades Wildlife Environmental Area to try our new skills. Please RSVP by joining the Artemis Sportswomen Florida Facebook page or emailing katy.e.cummings@ gmail.com.

Artemis Sportswomen is a National Wildlife Federation program geared at getting more women into the outdoors and engaged in conservation. It involves more than hunting and fishing — the complete sportswoman can skin a deer, land a bonefish, navigate in the wild, know her game commissioners and wildlife laws, advocate on the behalf of wildlife and wild places, and teach others these skills.

Voluntary Home Buyout program registration extended Monroe County extended the registration deadline for the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery Voluntary Home Buyout Program until further notice. Property owners who qualify for the program will receive market value for their property.

After Hurricane Irma, Florida created the voluntary program to encourage risk reduction by purchasing residential property in high flood-risk areas. Priority properties are in lowand moderate-income areas. Property owners who wish to sell their homes are encouraged to participate, especially if they were damaged by Hurricane Irma and still need repair. Once acquired, existing structures on the property will be demolished, and the property will be used for permanent open space, passive recreation, or to restore natural floodplain functions indefinitely.

Applicants must meet eligibility requirements. For more information to fill out the Monroe County Voluntary Home Buyout Interest Form, visit www. monroecounty-fl.gov/homebuyout. For additional questions, contact Cynthia Guerra at 305-453-8756 or email buyouts@monroecounty-fl.gov.

Get moving at the library with StoryWalk A literacy and recreation program is now available to Monroe County residents. Recently, all Monroe County Public Libraries placed a StoryWalk in their community either at the library

or in a public space nearby. A new StoryWalk will be on display at the beginning of each month through August 2022. Key Largo branch library’s StoryWalk is at the Key Largo Community Park near the playground.

StoryWalk is a way for adults and their young children or grandchildren to combine literacy skills and healthy exercise as they walk to each of the reading stations. Information about library services is at KeysLibraries.org or on social media.

Apply for health Insurance through Jan. 15 Open enrollment for health insurance takes place now until Jan. 15, 2022. It is important to stay on top of your health. No one plans to get sick or hurt and most people need medical care at some point. Health insurance covers these costs and offers many other important benefits, including peace of mind. Whether you wish you sign up for health insurance or change your plan, local help is available at the following location: Tavernier Health Center with Community Health of South Florida, Inc. (CHI): 91200 Overseas Hwy. A certified application counselor will be available to you on Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Dec. 16 and 30, and Jan. 6 and 13.

More informatory is available from Claudette Narcisse at (786) 387-9260.

Florida Keys Celtic Festival returns to Marathon next month Celtic history, culture, food and music are to be celebrated by attendees at the Florida Keys Celtic Festival, a favorite family event in the Middle Keys. The 2022 event is set for Friday through Sunday, Jan. 7-9, after a oneyear hiatus due to coronavirus concerns in early 2021.

Celtic rock and traditional musicians are scheduled, including Scottish band Albannach, Southwest Florida's West of Galway, and Irish performers Byrne Brothers and the high-energy four-sister group The Screaming Orphans.

Friday, Jan. 7, a “Kilts in the Keys” celebration with ales, spirits, raffles and door prizes kicks off the weekend, featuring Irish music by the West of Galway duo with a guest appearance by the Police Pipe & Drum Corps of Florida. Festivities are set from 5 to 7 p.m. at Dockside Boot Key Harbor, located at 35 Sombrero Blvd.

The festival takes place at the Marathon Community Park, MM 49.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Single-day admission tickets are available for Saturday or Sunday for $10 per person or $15 for a two-day pass.

The Upper Keys Weekly is proud to partner with Ocean Studies Charter School faculty and staff in choosing “The Student of the Week.” Recipients are chosen on qualifications including academic standing, outstanding achievements, community involvement, individuality and moral fortitude. We thank our future leaders and Ocean Studies for allowing us to share in a weekly dose of school pride and for giving us a glimpse into their world.

ARIELLA RUNDGREN THIRD GRADE Who is your favorite teacher and why? My favorite teachers are Ms. Chandler and Ms. Sabrah. I like Ms. Sabrah because she’s sweet to all of us and firm. Ms. Chandler is firm too, but she’s also sweet to everyone.

What is your favorite subject and why? I like math. It’s really fun because it gives me a challenge on multiplication.

We’ve mastered subtraction, addition and multiplication and soon division.

What is the best rule at school? The best rule is to not have your hands on each other.

What’s one of your favorite things to do at school?

Math, writing and reading my Harry Potter Books. Harry Potter is my favorite book.

What’s your favorite food for lunch? Ham and mayo sandwich that my mom makes me.

Do you have a favorite TV show/movie? My favorite TV show is “A Series of Unfortunate Events.” My favorite movies are “Harry Potter.”

What do you want to be when you grow up? I want to be an architect or a firefighter.

What is one favorite way you like to spend your spare time? Probably play on my iPad, write and have my best friend, Sophia, over here.

13

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

BOOT CAMP FOR NONPROFIT BOARDS

15th annual Leadership Success Academy registration open

T

he Community Foundation of the Florida Keys has opened enrollment for its 2022 Leadership Success Academy, a “boot camp” for nonprofit board members.

The Community Foundation’s signature training program will be held at the College of the Florida Keys’ new Key Largo campus on Feb. 10 and 11, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days.

Registration is available at cffk.org/ lsa. The cost of the two-day program is $100 per person, or $200 for three people from one nonprofit. The first day will focus on leadership styles and board member roles, and the second day will focus on nonprofit finance, fundraising, communications and strategic planning. Individuals who participate both days will receive a certificate of completion. More information is available from 305-292-1502.

“I’m thrilled that for the first time ever we are offering our Leadership Success Academy in the Upper Keys,” said Jennifer McComb, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys. The training event has been held 10 times in Key West and four in Marathon.

“Since 2008, we have trained more than 500 nonprofit leaders from throughout the Keys from over 100 different nonprofits,” McComb said, “Board members who have completed our program have learned to ask more questions, think beyond the way things have always been done, and take steps to move the organizations they care about to the next level.”

BRIEFLY

Classes include leadership styles and board member roles, as well as nonprofit finance and fundraising. CONTRIBUTED

Coaches for the 2022 Leadership Success Academy include renowned nonprofit expert Alex Counts, who will be traveling from Baltimore to instruct Florida Keys Coaches for the nonprofit leaders.

2022 Leadership Together with Nobel Success Academy Peace Prize Winner include nonprofit expert Alex Muhammad Yunus, Counts co-founded Counts. CONTRIBUTED the Grameen Foundation, a global nonprofit which has helped loan over $6.5 billion to the poorest of the poor, while maintaining a repayment rate consistently above 98%. Counts is a faculty member at the Do Good Institute at the University of Maryland, and frequent contributor to The Washington Post, The Stanford Social Innovation Review, and The Chronicle of Philanthropy.

Counts’ newest book, “When In Doubt, Ask for More: And 213 Other Life and Career Lessons for the Mission-Driven Leader,” was released in 2020.

Since 1996, the Community Foundation has made over $32 million in grants to benefit residents from Key Largo to Key West, supporting arts and culture, beautification and preservation of the Keys, health and human services, disaster relief, scholarships and youth programs.

— Contributed

Graduates from the 2021 Leadership Success Academy. CONTRIBUTED

Candice McCarthy attends the festival in 2020. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

A festival goer gets a look at the spinners

by Spinfinity Designs. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

CALLING ALL ARTISTS

Annual event under the oaks set for January 2022

A

rtists of all sorts, including culinary, are invited to inquire about a booth at the 38th annual Art Under the Oaks set for Saturday, Jan. 15, 2022, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Held on the gardens and grounds of San Pedro Church at MM 89.5, bayside, there is fine art viewing and shopping, international and specialty food booths, a bake sale, live entertainment and a raffle of one-of-a-kind donated art.

Admission is free, and on-site parking costs $5. Free and convenient parking is at Plantation Key School, MM 90, bayside. No parking will be allowed on the U.S. 1 (Overseas Highway) right-of-way.

Art Under the Oaks is the church’s primary yearly fundraiser organized by volunteer members of the parish. For more information and to download vendor booth applications, visit www.sanpedroparish.org, www. artundertheoaks.com, email comish1@aol.com or call 305-8525458.

— Contributed

AAA: Oil prices rebound, limiting potential price drop Florida gas prices are still declining, but may not fall as far as originally projected, after oil prices regained strength last week.

Two weeks ago, AAA began calling for a potential discount of 20-30 cents at the pump, after oil prices plummeted 16% after Thanksgiving. The crude price drop was based on concerns about the severity of the emerging omicron variant and whether it would potentially impact global economic growth and limit mobility.

However, about half of that price drop was erased last week as omicron concerns seemed to ease. After falling from $78 per barrel down to $65 two weeks ago, the price of crude settled back up at $71.67 on Dec. 10.

Despite the increase, oil prices are still lower than they were two weeks ago, and pump prices have still not yet fully adjusted.

"After plunging two weeks ago, the crude market regained strength last week," said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA - The Auto Club Group. "As a result, that 20-30 cent drop we were anticipating, could be more like 10-20 cents. Oil prices remain the main drivers of prices at the pump. So if oil prices increase again this week, drivers will again need to adjust their expectations."

Pump prices are slowly declining. The state average slipped 3 cents last week and a total of 10 cents in the past 23 days. Florida drivers are now paying an average price of $3.27 per gallon, the lowest daily average price since midNovember.

14

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

Stories of the Upper Keys exhibit inside the Keys History & Discovery Center in Islamorada.

KEYS HISTORY & DISCOVERY CENTER/Contributed Coral the fox is set to make her second public appearance on Saturday, Dec. 18 at One Grind Key Largo, MM 98, Key Largo. CONTRIBUTED

A CORAL CHRISTMAS

FURRY FRIEND MAKES ANOTHER PUBLIC APPEARANCE

H

i friends! Reef the fox here with this weeks’ “Reef’s Report”. Can you all believe that the year is almost over?

Holy smokes, time flies when you’re living the good life like me and all my fox friends here.

Last weekend we had a very special visitor from New York City come to meet us. He is a well-known street artist that uses his talents REEF to raise awareness for animal issues. He had THE FOX never met a fox before, and does a lot of “antifur” art, so he was really inspired by us and may Reef is a red fox create some art to help mom raise money for that was saved us. How cool is that? from a fur farm.

This Saturday, Dec. 18 is Coral’s big event, He now lives in Key Largo with “Christmas With Coral,” at One Grind Key Largo. his human, Nicole That is the food truck located at MM 98 in the Navarro. median between Tom Thumb and Ballyhoo’s.

Coral will be there from 10 to 11 a.m. to meet all of you. I think mom got her a red harness and collar, so that will be funny to watch her put on. Better her than me.

Right after the event with Coral, you can head down to Holiday Fest at Island Home Garden Center in Tavernier. Santa will be stopping by, and there will be fun activities for the whole family to enjoy. Sugar cookie decorating, a Christmas in a cup workshop and Island Home’s farmer’s market and gift shop will be available.

The new Gardenia’s Bistro will also be open, so go on down to grab some goodies, and enjoy all of the festivities the garden has to offer. I think mom should bring Coral home then take me down there because I love cookies. I know it sounds strange, a fox eating cookies, but trust me on this.

Then to end the day you can go down to the Full Moon party at Whale Harbor. It’s a disco-themed party to benefit Voices for Florida Keys Children. Wood Campbell will be throwing out the good music. The party is from 5 to 9 p.m.

Well, that’s all for this week. Go visit us at pawsitivebeginnings. org to learn more about us and see all of our fun social media posts. If you want to email me, reef@pawsitivebeginnings.org is the place to send your questions.

Until next time, Reef, over and out!

RELIEF FUNDS RECONNECT Keys History & Discovery Center receives $8,500 from Rescue Plan

F

lorida Humanities, the statewide, nonprofit affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), has awarded Florida Keys History and Discovery Foundation (FKHDF), which operates the Keys History & Discovery Center, an $8,500 grant for general operating costs to help recover from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the grant application, the foundation sought funding to support post-pandemic outreach efforts to reconnect with museum members and the general community after providing programming and lectures in a virtual-only capacity for more than a year. Funding was also sought to support the hiring of one employee to cover Saturdays to counter the loss of volunteers due to health concerns and relocations out of the Keys.

“Florida Humanities has been diligent in ensuring funding opportunities for cultural centers throughout the pandemic,” said Jill Miranda Baker, the foundation’s outgoing executive director. “I’m pleased to be one of three not-for-profit organizations in Monroe County to have been awarded funding to help with the challenges presented by the prolonged pandemic.”

Also receiving grants: Historic Makers Inc. in Key West, $3,000, and Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Society Inc., Key West, $25,000.

The NEH received $135 million from the American Rescue Plan (ARP)

Act of 2021, which was approved by Congress this past spring. The state humanities councils, including Florida Humanities, each received a portion of the NEH award to support museums, archives, historic sites and other humanities-focused nonprofits. FKHDF was one of 129 organizations in Florida that was awarded ARP funding totaling $1.88 million from Florida Humanities. The grants are intended to meet immediate operational needs in order for organizations to remain viable and maintain delivery of public humanities programming and resources in their communities. Florida Humanities received 188 applications for ARP funding, with nonprofits requesting the most funds for staffing and utilities.

These funds, said Florida Humanities Executive Director Dr. Nashid Madyun, provide a safety net for the organizations so they can focus on other priorities, such as fundraising and creating programming.

“For smaller nonprofits, when bills are paid and staff are safe and intact, that type of alleviation is immeasurable,” he said. “Florida Humanities is honored to provide a lifeline to our state’s cultural and historic organizations, ensuring they continue to enrich their local communities, and the Sunshine State at large, for years to come.”

Funding was provided by Florida Humanities by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) as part of the American Rescue Plan.

— Contributed

15

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 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

16

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

1

2 3

RUN TIMES 4

5

Beach N’ Beer returns, along with other races

T

he annual Islamorada Half Marathon, 10K, Rumrunner Run 5K and Beach N’ Beer Mile returned to Islamorada. Held Dec. 11-12, the weekend of racing featured some running and drinking, a scenic course for 10K and half marathon runners and a post-race party.

Races took place at Postcard Inn’s Bimini Row. Joe Klein, 29, of New York won the half marathon with a time of one hour and 29 minutes. Rosanna Mullen, 36, of Summerland Key, placed second in the marathon with a time of one hour and 36 minutes. Brett Hamilton, 41, of Oviedo, finished first in the 10K with a time of 38 minutes and 53 seconds, followed by Anthony Pallaria, 36, of Islamorada, with a time of 38 minutes and 56 seconds. Winner of the competitive Beach N’ Beer Mile and Rumrunner 5K was Hakan Eriksson, 60.

Full results at runsignup.com.

— Jim McCarthy 1. Runners finish the Beach N’ Beer Mile at Postcard Inn on Dec. 11. DOUG FINGER/ Keys Weekly 2. Running participants in the Beach N’ Beer Mile cheer on fellow runners. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly 3. The Bud Light chugging begins during the Beach N’ Beer Mile Run on Bimini Row at Postcard Inn. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly 4. An aerial view of the Islamorada Half Marathon and 10K on Dec. 12. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly 5. Islamorada Half Marathon and 10K participants run over the Fills in Islamorada.

DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly

17

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021 SPONSORED BY:

BUSY END OF 2021

Visitors, Night Dives and Coral Planing

At night, many animals not typically seen during the day can be found. ERIC BILLIPS/Contributed

This Week’s Dive Report Dive conditions this week were decent, which is saying a lot for this time of the year. We had a little wind, but our visibility remains spectacular.

Speaking of clear waters, we had an awesome group in town from Clearwater. Mac Sports brings down a big group every few months to dive our famous Florida Keys wrecks and reefs. It’s always a pleasure to host divers from other parts of Florida and ERIC to compare what they see with what we have here in BILLIPS the Keys.

This time, they also did a night dive, which is is the owner, always a treat. The reef at night is a totally different captain and experience.

Different animals will come out because instructor at Islamorada Dive they are nocturnal. They might be feeding, spawning, Center and Florida searching for mates or doing whatever else it is that Keys Dive Center. ocean creatures do at night. For instance, octopuses He specializes in scuba, rebreather, come out to hunt at night. They’re especially a treat to find. spearfishing and captaining in the Sometimes, the same animals we are used to Florida Keys. seeing during the day will also behave differently at night. For example, parrotfish will make a mucus sack around them to protect them while they “sleep.” They’ll also hide themselves in crevices of the reef for the same reason.

Next Week’s Dive Report This coming week looks very similar (yes!), with some higher winds mid-week and calmer seas coming into the weekend. Fingers crossed for a peaceful and pleasant holiday an end of 2021.

PROUD SPONSORS OF I.CARE Islamorada Conservation and Restoration Education 305.664.0077 | CoastalFloridaKeys.com

CONSERVATION TIP Remember to watch where you anchor. Also, be mindful of your fin kicks and trash coming off your boat.

Spotted moray eels are a treat to find diving. Their patterns are captivating. ERIC BILLIPS/Contributed

Conservation Update We completed a large coral planting with students from Clemson University. We love outreach events like these where we get to share our love of diving and corals with others.

In this case, education, outreach and in-water experience went hand-inhand. Students were able to learn about corals and the threats they face before diving in to restore the reef with actual endangered coral species.

This type of real-world learning environment is irreplaceable and usually results in some life-long advocates and ocean lovers.

Key Dives will be hosting this Saturday’s coral plantings. Call them to reserve a spot.

Our reefs are full of life in every corner; you just have to look. ERIC BILLIPS/Contributed

18

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

Mainstreaming

WHAT TO DO THIS WEEK

Enjoy some brand-new Christmas music with a Keys connection, the story of a novelist and fugitive, and an upcoming Marvel movie this holiday season.

B

everly Anders, Monroe County School District’s executive director of finance, announced at the most recent school board meeting that $13 million in federal funds will soon hit the district’s 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.

10. New cafeteria items like lobster thermidor, oysters Rockefeller and beef carpaccio.

9. Louis Vuitton letterman jackets for the debate team and chess club.

8. New Teslas for the principals and a personal helicopter for Superintendent Theresa Axford.

LEAST POPULAR ARP SPENDING ITEMS

7. Mini IMax screens with THX sound for every classroom.

6. Experiment in International Living partnerships with Bezos for trips to the Moon.

5. Pay raises for teachers, affordable housing for our educators, investments in the arts, culinary upgrades, lunch programs … just kidding, why would anyone want that?

4. The John Dick Center For Kids Who Can’t Read Good (And who wanna learn to do other stuff good too) 3. High-powered tranquilizer guns for school resource officers.

2. Replace all kindergarten classroom guinea pigs with Komodo dragons.

1. Roombas.

READ | BROTHERS AND KEEPERS A haunting portrait of lives arriving at different destinies, “Brothers and Keepers” is John Edgar Wideman’s seminal memoir about two brothers — one an award-winning novelist, the other a fugitive wanted for robbery and murder.

Wideman recalls the capture of his younger brother Robby, details the subsequent trials that resulted in a sentence of life in prison, and provides vivid views of the American prison system. Available at Kindle Store for $12.99 (ebook).

LISTEN | HAPPY CHRISTMAS VOLUME 1 Forget Mariah. Forget that “having a wonderful” atrocity from the ex-Beatle. Forget the Chipmunks.

If you want some Christmas tunes, the Screaming Orphans — the popular Irish group of four sisters who will sing at the Florida Keys Celtic Festival in Marathon next month — have you covered. This just-released album has it all, from an ethereal “O Holy Night” to the hilarious “Miss Fogarty’s Christmas Cake.” Available at screamingorphans.com and worth every bit of the $10 download.

WATCH | SPIDER-MAN: NO WAY HOME On Friday, Dec. 17, Marvel fans will finally be able to settle the burning question that has been one of the worst-kept secrets in the studio’s history. Will Tobey Maguire, Andrew Garfield and Tom Holland share the silver screen for the first time as multiversal iterations of the iconic web-slinger? Either way, somewhere between one and three Peter Parkers are set to do battle against a cohort of beloved baddies from throughout the Spider-Verse. Early reviews from the film’s premiere indicate that while it might be a bit overstuffed, it is an undeniably fun love letter to fans led by another strong performance from Tom Holland.

19

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

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20

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

OUTSTANDING ORGANIZATION

How following the breadcrumbs led to the Upper Keys BPW MELINDA VAN FLEET www.keysweekly.com

M

y husband, Ryan, and I moved to the Florida Keys in 2009 after we both lost our jobs simultaneously.

Does anyone remember what it was like down here? I can sum it up: quiet.

It was the middle of the recession. We stayed in Fort Myers for three weeks before finding our place in Tavernier. When we were in Fort Myers, we didn’t see anyone for two days.

When we landed in the Keys, it was October, off-season. Back then, The Island Grill had complimentary breakfast for locals, hoping the locals would tip their staff. Snappers had a free locals night buffet (Turtle Club) with a similar intention but layer in some drinks.

To say shifting from a successful corporate career in major cities (NYC, Chicago, Minneapolis) to a small-town vibe in a recession was depressing would be an understatement. There were plenty of tears and I often asked, “Was moving to the Keys a mistake?”

Then some grace, and following the bread crumbs, led me to the Upper Keys Business & Professional Women (BPW). Thank you, Holly Raschein and Audra Hill. I finally felt like I found a female organization that was not only friendly and welcoming but organized and fun.

Isn’t there a famous quote from Jim Rohn: “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with. Make sure they are good people.”

In honor of that vibe, I thought it would be fun to share other member’s thoughts on BPW, in case there are other women who would benefit from joining such an organization, and to share some gratitude.

Gina Boili, past president and owner of Doc’s Diner, said she joined BPW in 2009 when she moved back to the Keys.

“It was a friendly, welcoming group of women, who listened, wanted to have fun and worked together. It was nice to be able to have something to do that was outside of my job and everyday activities,” she said. “Being with other women, hearing their thoughts, ideas and brainstorming to create events working together has this beautiful impact to inspire women professionally in our community.”

Vanessa Chamizo, left, owner and real estate agent with Lokation; Jen White, owner of Olive Morada; and Melinda Van Fleet. CONTRIBUTED

Suzi Youngberg, current BPW president, said from the moment she joined BPW, she knew she had found “my tribe.”

“I have felt welcomed, supported, nurtured and encouraged to grow and learn and become a stronger, more empowered woman. The power of women supporting women and standing up for women's rights is a force I'm proud to be part of,” she said.

Lauren Hoefert Dunn, BPW member and Realtor with Coldwell Banker Schmitt, said BPW is full of women from various careers, backgrounds and stages of life.

“We all support and learn from each other. There is a great deal of acceptance and encouragement,” she said. “I joined BPW as a young corporate career woman and am now a mom and business owner. This organization is welcoming to all.”

Betsy Baste, BPW member and program director at The JOY Center, said she has a large group of women she can call on for support, knowledge and expertise.

“We are all willing to help each other in any way possible and are genuinely interested in the success of others,” she said.

The Upper Keys BPW recently gathered for a member expo and awards ceremony at Whale Harbor Seafood Buffet Restaurant. 2021 Woman of the Year was Youngberg,

Suzi Youngberg serves as president of the Upper Keys BPW. CONTRIBUTED

From left, Suzi Youngberg, BPW president, holds a check next to scholarship winner Martha Loizeaux, who teaches marine science at Ocean Studies Charter School, and Jen Cappadona, BPW scholarship committee chair. CONTRIBUTED

who was nominated for her “nimble and agile” leadership style. The 2021 Business of the Year award went to Boilini for its employment of women, family atmosphere and support for local organizations.

Two scholarship awards were also announced to women in the Upper Keys by the BPW’s Scholarship Committee in partnership with the Holly Given Fund. The Adult Women Scholarship program accepts applications and makes awards twice each year, with individual scholarships of up to $1,500.

This fall’s winners were Martha Loizeaux, who teaches marine science at Ocean Studies Charter School and is working toward a master’s degree in biology from Miami University of Ohio through its Project Dragonfly program.

Tiffany Zapeda, currently enrolled in a master’s degree program in educational leadership from the American College of Education, plans to pursue a position as a school-based administrator in Monroe County.

“We are so grateful to our members and the local community for stepping up to ensure scholarship funds are available to support women,” said Jennifer Cappadonna, scholarship committee chair.

Interested in learning more about the Upper Keys BPW? Check out its Facebook page UpperKeysBPW, email at upperkeysbpw@gmail.com or check out the website www.upperkeysbpw.org

21

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

SAILFISH CUP UNDERWAY

Team Mdala takes first leg of championship series

T

he 58th annual Islamorada Sailfish Tournament kicked off at Whale Harbor, hosting 80 anglers along with family and friends with a buffet including stone crabs on Dec. 2-5.

The sailfish action started on the morning of Dec. 3 and continued over the next two days, concluding on Dec. 5. Capt. John Hagen, aboard the Mdala, led anglers Steve and Sue Pfeiffer from Cedarburg, Wisconsin, along with Brittany Rhonehouse of Destin, Brett Angelillo of Key Largo, Stephanie Harper of Islamorada, and Tyler Valles and Alison Raines, both from Tavernier, to the winner’s circle with 10 releases. The team took home leaping sailfish trophies from King Sailfish sponsored by Caribee Boat Sales and Yamaha Outboards.

The fleet was greeted by great weather over the course of the three-day tournament. Tackle Center called in the first hook up at 8:49 a.m., but Que Mas’ angler Mark Whitley would hook up and release the first fish of the tournament. The day would ultimately belong to the Mdala with a total of seven released sails. Day two was overcast with easterly winds and the sailfish bite was slow. Team Relentless would pick away at the sails all day, releasing three by day’s end. Others found some sails, including the Mdala, which released one fish on the second day, bringing its total to eight releases.

Day three started off quickly with a triple header called in by JC Cleare, captain of the Remix. Anglers Jorge Corzo, of Miami, would release the first fish. Doug Mientkiewicz, of Islamorada, released the second and Bill Danko from Maineville, Ohio sealed the deal with the release of the third fish, propelling the team into third place with five releases.

Que Mas captain Robert Helms would call in a triple header at 10:56 a.m. The team released all three of the sailfish. Anglers Wally Whitley, Matt Mclean, Brad Goodrich and Trevor Newman, all from Islamorada, fishing with Mark Whitley from Tallahassee, and Mike McCorkle of Marathon, released a total of six fish over the three days, landing them in second place. The team received Tackle Center of Islamorada-sponsored King Sailfish trophies and a check for $36,450. Nick Carullo, of Miami, aboard the Remix, released a sail at 1:32 p.m., giving the team six fish, putting them in third place on time. The team was rewarded with King Sailfish trophies and a check for $17,820. Mdala would continue to stay in front of the pack, releasing two fish on the final day to take the top honors.

Contagious angler Mark Mitchell, of Charlotte, North Carolina released four sailfish over the three days, taking home the Bill Hirni Memorial trophy and a King sailfish trophy sponsored

by Tackle Center of Islamorada. Brittany Rhonehouse, fishing aboard the Mdala, released three sailfish, winning the Top Lady Angler award. The Mdala team would also tag five of their 10 sailfish to win the most tagged fish award.

Team Mdala hoists their trophies after winning the Islamorada Sailfish Tournament. TIM RAHN PHOTOGRAPHY/Contributed

First Place Junior Angler award went to Zach Sullivan, of Naples, with two releases on the Smile Maker. He’s pictured with Capt. James Chappell.

TIM RAHN PHOTOGRAPHY/Contributed

Team Que Mas holds their trophies for a second-place finish. TIM RAHN PHOTOGRAPHY/ Contributed

Team Remix finishes third in the Islamorada Sailfish Tournament. TIM RAHN PHOTOGRAPHY/ Contributed

First Place Junior Angler award went to Zach Sullivan, of Naples, with two releases on the Smile Maker. Blake Johnston from Largo, fishing aboard the Valor, would release one sailfish for second place in the junior division.

In true Islamorada style, the sailfish weren’t the only fish biting on this beautiful weekend. The largest tuna, weighing in at 14.6 pounds, was caught

by Ryan Cano, of Islamorada, aboard the Skip Jac. Travis Bennett, of Tavernier, weighed in the largest dolphin, an 11.4-pounder caught aboard the Contagious. Chris Herms, of Jacksonville, caught the largest mackerel, an 18.8-pound kingfish aboard the Back in Business. Most Outstanding catch went to Colby Mason, of Islamorada, with a 3.6-pound mutton snapper caught aboard the Kalex.

“The Islamorada Sailfish Tournament is the primary fundraiser for the Islamorada Charter Boat Association.

The Islamorada Sailfish Tournament will continue the fight to preserve and protect the fabulous fishing in the Florida Keys,” said tournament director Dianne Harbaugh.

Over the three days, 61 sailfish were released with 81 called-in hook ups. The Islamorada Sailfish Tournament is the first leg of the Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship. The Mdala is currently in the lead of the series with 10 fish. Second place in the Gold Cup is the Que Mas with six releases on time, third is the Remix also with six.

The next leg of the series is the Cheeca Lodge and Spa Presidential Sailfish Tournament on Jan. 22 and 23.

The champions of the Gold Cup will be crowned at the conclusion of the Islamorada Fishing Club’s Captains Cup Sailfish Tournament on Jan. 27.

More information on the Islamorada Sailfish Tournament is at www. islamoradasailfishtournament.com.

— Contributed

22

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

ALEX RICKERT

alex@keysweekly.com

SHOP’S OPEN APPLE’S SELF SERVICE REPAIR GIVES CONSUMERS THE ABILITY TO REPAIR THEIR OWN DEVICES

K

eys customers with newer Apple products now have the ability to avoid a mainland road trip for device repairs at the nearest Apple store.

The question is: should they?

Announced on Nov. 17, Apple’s new Self Service Repair program provides individual consumers with access to genuine Apple parts, tools and repair manuals that allow for repairs of commonly serviced modules in their largest product lines (think: screens, batteries and cameras). Beginning in early 2022, the program will be available first for Apple’s iPhone 12 and 13 lineups, followed by Mac computers featuring Apple’s proprietary M1 chips.

“Creating greater access to Apple genuine parts gives our customers even more choice if a repair is needed,” said Apple chief operating officer Jeff Williams.

Apple has long been notorious for making it difficult to service their products outside of a closed ecosystem of repair technicians.

For years, most devices could effectively only be serviced by Apple itself, either through retail stores or mail-in repair services.

Though independent technicians still provided repairs outside of Apple’s approved network, these repairs were rarely able to use genuine Apple parts, and most services performed by third-party technicians would void warranties and prevent Apple “geniuses” from servicing a device over the remainder of its life.

However, the company’s recent efforts have expanded access to the parts, tools and training necessary to service their devices.

In 2019, the Independent Repair Provider program enabled individual repair shops to service Apple products, eventually adding more than 2,800 providers to a network of 5,000 established Apple authorized service providers.

Still, consumers desired the ability to service their own products. “Right to repair” legislation, enabling consumers to repair their devices through a store or technician of their choosing, has gained heavy momentum as customers fight back against “planned obsolescence” in older devices. The new Self Service Repair program seems to be a con-

cession to these demands.

Although the new program puts the power in the hands of consumers (and may be a boon for former Apple technicians looking to make some cash on the side), many caution strongly against the dangers of self-taught electronics surgery.

“To me, it’s a joke,” said Victor Figueroa, owner of Keys Smartphone Repair. “The average person cannot do this. It’s taken me years to learn and get good at. In the beginning it cost me a lot of money, and I screwed up some phones and had to buy new ones.”

Figueroa particularly pointed to lithiumion battery replacements as cause for concern. “The batteries are very, very dangerous,” he said, explaining that puncturing the old batteries from the poking and prodding during the removal process is extremely hazardous. “I’ve had someone come in here with their hair burned off their face because they accidentally stabbed the battery,” said Figueroa. “In the forums I’m a part of, we’re all laughing at it. There’s so much that can go wrong.”

Figueroa isn’t lying, and part of Apple’s former hesitancy to service devices after they have been touched by non-authorized technicians is well-founded. This reporter has personally watched a friend’s phone spontaneously combust in his hand after improper installation of a replacement battery.

Apple cautions most inexperienced consumers against attempting repairs, stating, “Self Service Repair is intended for individual technicians with the knowledge and experience to repair electronic devices. For the vast majority of customers, visiting a professional repair provider … is the safest and most reliable way to get a repair.”

Though Apple’s exact prices have yet to be announced, Figueroa estimates that for most consumers, it will still be safer, more cost effective and faster overall to visit a third-party repair shop than to buy the tools, parts and repair manuals. And not to worry, folks: he’ll still be there, even if Keys residents botch their first attempts.

“In the end it’s probably better for me,” he said, laughing. “They’ll come see me and I’ll have to undo whatever they did.”

Apple’s Self Service Repair will give users the tools and parts needed to open and repair their device’s most commonly faulty modules. CONTRIBUTED.

23

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

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24

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

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 ALL TOWN SUITES, located at 1200 DUVAL STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040, intends to register the said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: LYSYAK & BETANCUR INVESTMENT, LLC Publish: December 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

email address and name to join the webinar. When the Mayor calls for speakers on the item(s) on which you wish to comment, or when the Board is nearing your item(s) as the meeting progresses, select the “Raised Hand” feature that appears at the bottom of the Zoom webinar screen to be recognized by the Zoom webinar host.

The Zoom webinar host will request the item # on which you wish to speak and enable your participation when the Mayor calls for public speakers on your item. To report problems with the broadcast or participation in the Zoom webinar, please call (305) 872-8831.

Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, notice is given that if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at such hearings or meetings, he will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30a.m.—5:00p.m., prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voiceimpaired, call “711”. Live Closed-Captioning is available via our web portal @ http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners.

Dated at Key West, Florida, this 6th day of December, 2021.

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: December 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

documents from Demand Star will not be notified of any addenda issued by the City which could contain material changes thereto (such as additions or changes to the technical specifications, extensions, or time, etc.)

Documents may also be examined at City Hall, 9805 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida.

Please direct questions in writing to Diane Clavier, City Clerk, at: cityofmarathon@ ci.marathon.fl.us; or 9805 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050.

Publish: December 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

MARK ELIOT ATHERLEY Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Mark Eliot Atherley, deceased, whose date of death was July 14, 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 16, 2021.

Personal Representative: Betty Ann Atherley 22942 Blackbeard Lane Cudjoe Key, Florida 330424203 Attorney for Personal Representative: Luke Tabor Johnson, Esq. Attorney Florida Bar Number: 97966 Sunshine State Law, PLLC 2125 Victoria Avenue Fort Myers, Florida 33901 Telephone: (239) 790-4477 Fax: (239) 201-2662 E-mail: luke@ sunshinestatelawoffice.com Publish: December 16 & 23, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

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 16, 2021.

Personal Representative: COREY TIMMERMAN 661 Township Rd 650 E. Carman, IL 61425 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 16 & 23, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on January 21, 2022, at 1:30 P.M., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the Monroe County Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, will hear the following matter: Public hearing PURSUANT TO F.S. 125.355 to CONSIDER A resolution approving a settlement agreement IN THE CASE OF Monroe County V. Sugarloaf Key Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. (SVFD) ET AL., 16TH JUD. CASE 17-CA631-K, AND THE PURCHASE OF SVFD PROPERTY BY MONROE COUNTY; also, authorization for the County Attorney or his designee to execute all documents necessary to effectuate the settlement agreement, including closing documents for THE PURCHASE. The public can participate in the January 21, 2022, meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, FL by attending in person or via Communication Media Technology (“CMT”) using a Zoom Webinar platform by following the detailed instructions below.

The public is strongly encouraged to watch the meeting on Monroe County’s MCTV on Comcast Channel 76, AT&T U-verse Channel 99 or on the County’s web portal @ http://monroecountyfl. iqm2.com/Citizens/Default. aspx. Simply select the “Watch Live” banner to view the live meeting with live closedcaptioning on an integrated page that includes the Agenda and Agenda Backup.

If a citizen has a Roku device, they can search for and add “MCTV” to their personal lineup. Monroe County’s “MCTV” is also provided via the Monroe County mobile apps for iOS and Android and through our streaming web portal @ https:// monroe-fl.vod.castus.tv/ vod/?live=ch1&nav=live.

Citizens can listen to audioonly from their phones by dialing (646) 518-9805 or (669) 900-6833 and, when prompted, enter the Webinar ID 871 5570 8442 followed by the # key.

The public can comment during the live Public Hearing either by phoning in or by connecting to the live Zoom webinar link using the following instructions: a) To comment on an item by phone: Dial (646) 518-9805 or (669) 900-6833 and, when prompted, enter the Webinar ID 871 5570 8442 followed by the # key, then *9 to “Raise your Hand” to be recognized by the Zoom webinar host. b) To comment on an item using the live Zoom webinar link: Open this live Zoom webinar link @ https:// www.monroecounty-fl.gov/ BOCCMeetingJan21 (that also appears in both the published Agenda and Agenda Packet).

When prompted, enter your

CITY OF MARATHON, FLORIDA REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR IT SUPPORT AND CONSULTING SERVICES RFP # 2021-1214DC One (1) unbound original and one (1) copy of Sealed proposals to provide IT support and consulting services for the City of Marathon will be received by the City Clerk, City of Marathon, 9805 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050, until 3:00 PM (EST) on January 19, 2021.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS – PLEASE REFER TO RFP DOCUMENT FOR DETAILED INFORMATION The City intends to award a contract to the best qualified firm that offers a proposal that is deemed to be in the City’s best interest. The City is not responsible for expenses incurred prior to award. The City reserves the right to reject any and all responses and to waive any irregularities or informalities.

Information and proposal documents can be obtained by downloading from www. demandstar.com.

Documents obtained from any source other the Demand Star may not be accurate or complete and may not be considered responsive. Any Responder or subcontractor who have not obtained City of Marathon solicitation

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-82-M IN RE: ESTATE OF PHILIP J. SAVARESE, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Philip J. Savarese, deceased, whose date of death was January 4, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: December 16, 2021.

Personal Representative: Susan Racioppi 1747 Mill Creek Road Manahawkin, New Jersey 08050 Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert K. Miller, Esq. Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173 Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938 Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-9428 Fax: (305) 743-8800 E-Mail: RMiller@floridakeyslaw. com Secondary E-Mail: Service@ floridakeyslaw.com Publish: December 16 & 23, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No.: 21-CP-00310-K IN RE: ESTATE OF

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2021-CP-149-P IN RE: ESTATE OF HELEN R. CRONIN Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of HELEN R. CRONIN, deceased, whose date of death was July 19, 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

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 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:

LEGAL NOTICES 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 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 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 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

LEGAL NOTICES 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@ mettlerlaw.com Secondary Email: mstover@ mettlerlaw.com Secondary Email: jcappel@ mettlerlaw.com Publish: December 9 & 16, 2021 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 21-DR-000305-K DIVISION: FAMILY IN RE: THE MATTER OF: GUSTAVO PEREZ RAMIREZ Petitioner, And, DELIA MARIBEL URIZAR OXOM, Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR PUBLICATION TO: DELIA MARIBEL URIZAR OXOM ADDRESS UNKNOWN YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Petition for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on, Attorney for Petitioner, Ashley Benitez, Esq., and the Law Office of Alex Hanna, P.A., 8700 West Flagler Street, Suite 380, Miami, Florida 33174, on or before January 17, 2022, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Respondent or immediately thereafter.

If you fail to do so, a default

25

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address.

(You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: December 10, 2021 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Riza Hall Deputy Clerk Publish: December 16, 23, 30, 2021 and January 6, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

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, 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

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 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

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

A GLOWING KISS Vacationers Matthew McDonald, 25 and his fiance Avi Sundling, 24, of Brownsburg, Indiana kiss beneath a large lighted Christmas ornament located at the Hurricane Memorial in Islamorada on the evening of Dec. 4.

McDonald said they love to visit the Keys and plan to marry down in the Keys in May. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

FIRMO WINS THE REDBONE CELEBRITY TOURNAMENT

Top: Paulo Firmo of Miami, left, and teammate Linda Denkert, of Islamorada, caught simultaneous redfish, helping them become the winning team in the Robert James Sales Redbone Tournament. CAPT. DAVE DENKERT/Contributed Left: Capt. Dave Denkert, left, guided angler Paulo Firmo of Miami to victory in the two-day Robert James Sales Redbone Tournament held in Islamorada. Firmo caught seven combinations of redfish and bonefish to win the event, and is pictured with angler Stu Apte.

CONTRIBUTED

L

eading the Robert James Sales Redbone Celebrity Tournament from start to finish, the winning team said it was all about the guide. Anglers Paulo Firmo and Linda Denkert credited Capt. Dave Denkert with the knowledge and skills that took them to the top.

Despite winds of 35 mph on the first day of fishing Nov. 6 in the Upper Keys, anglers Firmo, of Miami, and Dave’s wife, Linda Denkert, of Islamorada, caught 11 bonefish compared to the next highest team’s tally of six.

The next day, with windy conditions continuing, Firmo and Denkert racked up 17 redfish to bring them a total of seven and four “redbones” respectively, which put them ahead of the competition. Redbones are paired combinations of bonefish and redfish, and bring anglers’ bonus points.

Firmo was the tournament’s grand champion for the second time in a row, as well as the artificial lure division champion. He also won the Redbone last year with Capt. Denkert and teammate Wade Davis.

Capt. Denkert said his anglers were 11 for 18 bonefish, which meant they lost seven in the process after hooking up. That caused some concern for him, but in the end two doubleheaders — both anglers hooked up simultaneously — and the 11 total bonefish were more than enough for victory.

Linda Denkert, the women’s champion, said she enjoyed being able to

sight-cast to the fish they saw, which calls for accuracy.

Thirty bonefish and 58 redfish were caught by eight teams over the two days. Jim Bokor Jr., of Buffalo, New York, earned the general division champion, most redfish releases with 12, as well as the largest bonefish award. But, it wasn’t easy. He said the first day of fishing was windy; the waters were muddy, and when they saw bonefish that first day, they were “going mach 7,” speeding away across the flats.

Capt. Craig Brewer’s angler Mike Sedelsky earned the largest redfish award, with the fish measuring around 30 inches. The junior award went to Caleb Bokor, who fished with Capt. Frank Ortiz. Bokor caught four bonefish and a redfish, and his young teammate Jacob Bohnstedt caught two bonefish and two redfish.

The winning celebrity angler was 91-year-old Stu Apte of Islamorada, an author, fighter pilot and world-renowned tarpon angler. He fished with Warren Comstock and Capt. Eric Lund.

Redbone Inc. is a non-profit company founded in Islamorada that raises money "To Catch the Cure" to benefit cystic fibrosis. The final event in this year’s Robert James Sales Redbone Celebrity Tournament Series Trilogy is the Sunrise/Sunset Tarpon Tournament set for April 8-10, 2022 in Islamorada. Visit www.redbone.org for more information.

— Contributed

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

EMPLOYMENT

HOMES FOR SALE

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

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

PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches.

Call 305-743-4578

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

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

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. Non-smoker, no pets. $1,850/month 305-853-3779 RENTED IN LESS THAN FOUR DAYS!

AUTOS WANTED ALL Junk Cars Running $CASH$

or Vans

YEARS! Used.

Trucksor Not. 305-332-0483 -

BOATS FOR SALE 2003 20' CC Pro Line Sport, 2015 Mercury 150 4-stroke, 2016 All Marine Boat Trailer. Kept on boat lift.

Located in Marathon. $25,500 305-942-6434 Place your BOAT FOR SALE ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-7430844 today!

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/parttime positions available.

Open year round, 10am7pm 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.

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 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 The Marathon Yacht Club is looking to hire a Dishwasher. $13/hr - 30-36 hrs/week. Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.

The Marathon Yacht Club is looking to hire a Line Cook. $18/hr - Employee Meals - Private Club - Friendly Atmosphere - Varying Hours - Tuesday-Saturday 10am to 10pm - Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.

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

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 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 305-289-2070 or email resume to neil@allkeysdiesel. com . Drug Free and valid Drivers License a must..

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

Call 305-743-0844 today !

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

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

YARD SALE HUGE ANNUAL YARD SALE 100% of the proceeds are for benefit of the Special Olympics!

Saturday, Dec. 18 from 9a-2p at the Masonic Lodge #323, 110 89th Street, Marathon, FL. Too many items to list but include: Household items, Tools, Fishing gear, Baby items, Furniture, Boats, Bikes, Kayaks etc.

A BIG Treasures & Trash Yard Sale - Rain or Shine - Fri. Dec. 17 & Sat. Dec. 18 from 8am-3pm. Something for everyone. Bargains galore.

All must go! 419 Sombrero Beach Road, Marathon Sara's Estate Sales 90B Sombrero Beach Rd., Marathon | Fri., Dec. 17 & Sat., Dec. 18, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. both days | LONGTIME LOCAL MOVING SALE: Small furniture (tables, bookcases, chaise) and antique desk and table, standing desk, Apple monitor, pair of leather lounge chairs with ottomans, toys and American Dolls and doll accessories, standing and table lamps with palm motif, assortment of Judaica, Hummels, two sets of casual modern dishes, serving platters, pottery, small appliances including commercial juicers and standing mixer, folding screen divider, hammock, standing fans, costume and semiprecious jewelry, women’s size small designer couture and a box full of Beanie Babies in various condition.

Please park on the right-ofway. Sorry, no price quotes.

305.743.0844 TRANSFER STATION OPERATOR

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.

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 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.

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

BOAT CAPTAINS $1,500 SIGNING BONUS

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

Send resume to resumes@rainbowreef.com

28

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

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

SECURITY GUARD W/ LICENSE Duck Key

$20/hr / PT / 8pm to 4am

Ralons Security 786-615-5522

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

Lic# B1500167

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 16, 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)

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 PART TIME AND FULL TIME OPPORTUNITIES W/FLEXIBLE SCHEDULES HOUSEKEEPING ALL POSITIONS, GREAT PAY AND INCENTIVES CULINARY ALL POSITIONS AND LEVELS OF EXPERIENCE WELCOME F&B SOUS CHEF, SERVERS AND FOOD RUNNERS/BARBACKS FRONT OFFICE BELL/VALET, RELIEF NIGHT AUDIT RESERVATIONS OFFICE RESERVATIONS AGENT SPA TERRE SPA COORDINATOR 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.

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

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 $18.00 - $25.80/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 16, 2021

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

Licensed & Insured #SP33799

Lic No. SP1481

ALL KEYS GLASS

We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors

Authorized Dealer

305-743-7800

305-998-8953 Insured • Professional • Reliable

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

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

OUT DOOR LIVING SPACES

CGC1523838 305-292-2666 305-743-0506 305-852-5356 rainsavergutters@gmail.com

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

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.

A division of SALT Service, serving The Keys since 1989

FREE ESTIMATES | WILL NOT BE UNDERBID

305.896.3599

305-289-1150

SP3102

Florida Solar Contractor CVC 56734 Florida Electrical Contractor EC13008657

When It Rains It Pours!

CGC1523838

MARATHON

KEY LARGO

GENERAL CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS

SPALLING EXPERTS

Proud member of:

INTERNATIONAL

CONCRETE REPAIR INSTITUTE

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

Tewes ewes Mortgage

Your local, residential lending expert!

Call 305.495.6000

Liz Samess Interiors

Design, Decorating, Drafting, & More…

Liz Samess

for a FREE Consultation

Brian Tewes

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

NMLS# 375025 Tewes Mortgage NMLS# 1453791 NMLSConsumerAccess.org

www.TewesMortgage.com

Interior Designer

CELL: Email:

(954) 801-7883 interiordesignbyliz@gmail.com

Marathon, FL 33050

Sportfishing Adventures

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

info@johnnymaddoxcharters.com

Serving Monroe, Dade & Broward Including Airports & Ports.

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

305-743-7454

fkes2011@gmail.com floridakeysexpressshuttle.com

305-481-3259

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

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

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

Lic#SP-3562

Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here

The Weekly Newspapers www.KeysWeekly.com

305-743-0844

We Do Installations!

Licensed & Insured

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

289-3019

31

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

HOLIDAY SPIRITS

Total Skincare for the Keys!

Ice skating, tree lighting and Santa at Key Largo event

DeeDee Vazquez, PA-C 1

A

Key Largo park transformed into a holiday carnival on Dec. 3, as the annual Light Up Key Largo event returned with its traditional tree lighting. Behind the Murray Nelson Government & Cultural Center, children and families tied laces to their skates as they took to the ice rink. Underneath a large tent, children sat at tables and created holiday crafts with volunteers. A line eagerly waited to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and a group of children sat for a little reading time. Numerous vendors and nonprofits were also in attendance, as well as the Keys Community Concert Band to provide holiday tunes. The event was put on by the Key Largo Preservation Foundation.

— Jim McCarthy

Dedicated to Patient Care

2

“I have been going there for years for my check ups!

Best place in town! If you have issues, they will take care of you. Office staff is very friendly. I love DeeDee and her assistants.”- K.B.

Our Services: CLINICAL DERMATOLOGY:

• Skin Cancer Checks • Acne • MOHS Surgery • Sun Damage • Rosacea • Eczema

3

1. A community gathers to witness the tree lighting in front of the Murray Nelson Government & Cultural Center.

2. Sheriff’s Lt. Spenser Bryan and Sgt. James Hager welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus.

COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY:

• Chemical peels • Laser hair removal • Sciton Laser • Fillers • Botox

Schedule an Appointment Today!

4

3. Children and parents enjoy some ice skating.

4. Jeff Wingate, Pirate Hat Apiary owner, sells handcrafted products from the hive.

5. Keys Community Concert Band performs a list of holiday tunes.

Photos by: DAVID KAY

5

Three Great Locations!

1010 Kennedy Dr. Ste. 304 1411 White St.

Key West 305-296-3334

82883 Overseas Hwy. Key West Islamorada 305-294-5400 305-664-8828

32

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 16, 2021

UPCOMING EVENTS

PETER MAYER

STARS & PROMISES CHRISTMAS TOUR AT KEY WEST THEATER

MARC BROUSSARD

JUDY COLLINS

AT KEY WEST THEATER

AT KEY WEST THEATER

JAN 8 & 9 2022

JAN 12TH 2022

RODNEY CROWELL

GAELIC STORM

AT KEY WEST THEATER

AT KEY WEST THEATER

TH

TH

DEC 27TH 2021

KETCH SECOR (OF OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW) & MOLLY TUTTLE AT KEY WEST THEATER

JAN 22

ND

2022

JAN 23RD 2022

JAN 16TH 2022

KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD

& CHRISTONE “KINGFISH” INGRAM AT COFFEE BUTLER AMPHITHEATER

PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE

REBELUTION

AT COFFEE BUTLER AMPHITHEATER

AT COFFEE BUTLER AMPHITHEATER

MARCH 26 2022

JUNE 5TH 2022

TH

FEB 5TH 2022

THEKEYWESTAMP.COM | THEKEYWESTTHEATER.COM