Upper Keys Weekly 22-0105

YOUR PIECE OF PARADISE

Located in the community of Rock Harbor Estates, sits this well-constructed newly refreshed spacious family home. The entry foyer showcases an interior stairway which leads to an open great room, and spacious kitchen. The back porch is screened and opens to views of wooded privacy. Three bedrooms and two baths complete the living level. Generous carports offer covered parking for 2-4 cars. There is a screened downstairs patio as well, which could be enclosed for added storage. Neighborhood features include a waterfront homeowners park with a boat ramp.

KEY LARGO | $949,000 | Listing ID: 601722

Russell Post, Broker/Owner

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According to the U-Haul Growth Index, Florida was ranked the No. 2 growth state, behind Texas, for the second straight year. U-Haul analyzed customer moves to the state during 2022. It found that do-it-yourself movers accounted for 50.7% of all U-Haul truck traffic arriving in the Sunshine State.

Spectators aboard the fishing vessel That's Right, out of Bud N' Mary's Marina, participate in the Blessing of the Fleet on New Year's Day at Whale Harbor Channel. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Local residents will have the chance to weigh in on two projects with major implications for the Upper Keys.

Two community meetings are being held by developers this week to discuss the transformation of the former Cemex property in Tavernier into a Publix supermarket, liquor store and affordable housing and a 7-Eleven at the current Anthony’s Clothing Store in Key Largo.

In August, residents had the chance to hear more about the plans for a project that would bring a 64,000-square-foot supermarket, 263 parking spaces and some 80 affordable housing units to what’s now a vacant Cemex property. A project application was submitted by Blackstone Group – Tavernier 925 LLC, and owners Andrew, Richard and John Toppino, Luis Perez and Mary Hurwitz.

Specifically, applicants are seeking a text amendment to the Monroe County Land Development regulations that creates a “Tavernier Key Commercial Overlay District.” The overlay would amend provisions in the county’s land development regulations to allow nonresidential development of up to 70,000 square feet in that area. Bart Smith, the applicant’s agent, told the public there are plans for a deceleration lane going into the property with parking in the front. Toward the back of the property sits the affordable housing complex. No traffic from the development would spill out to neighboring streets, Smith

said.

Around 15 property owners spoke on the project and said they feared more traffic, noise and change to the small community’s character would be the result. Monroe County’s Development Review Committee (DRC) met virtually on Oct. 25 to examine the proposed text amendment to apply a Tavernier Key Overlay District at the Cemex concrete property.

Cheryl Cioffari, assistant planning director, told the DRC that the developer must address questions they have over the project and its consistency with Tavernier’s community character and the Liveable CommuniKeys Master Plan (LCP) that extends from MM 97 to Tavernier Creek Bridge. County officials are also seeking a traffic study in the area of the development, which saw a new traffic light placed at U.S. 1 and Burton Drive heading into Harry Harris Park earlier in the year.

A community meeting to discuss the overlay to pave the way for the Publix, liquor store and affordable housing took place on Jan. 4. (Coverage of the meeting will appear in the Jan. 12 edition of the Upper Keys Weekly and at keysweekly.com.)

On Thursday, Jan. 5, the community will get a chance to hear more about a proposal to construct a 4,736-square-foot 7-Eleven with around 10 pumping stations at the current 7,400-square-foot Anthony’s Clothing Store in Key Largo. There would also be a boat fueling station at the property’s western end, as well as 30 parking spaces. Owners Daniel and Archer Barry are seeking a major conditional use permit for the gas station that would be open 24 hours a day. The meeting will be held virtually on Thursday, Jan. 5 at 5:05 p.m.

Property in Tavernier that formerly housed Cemex is proposed to be developed into a Publix supermarket, liquor store and affordable housing. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

ROUGHLY 100 HAITIANS SWIM TO SHORE AFTER BOAT GROUNDS OFF KEY LARGO

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Federal and local resources are being stretched thin as high numbers of Cuban and Haitian migrants continue to arrive in the Florida Keys in 2023. It continued on Jan. 3 as roughly 100 Haitians swam from a grounded boat to land near Ocean Cay Drive in Key Largo.

A large vessel carrying a total of 138 Haitian migrants was within the waters of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. Once the boat hit bottom, Haitians were left with no choice but to hop out and swim.

Various law enforcement agencies arrived at the scene near MM 99, oceanside, where the majority of the Haitian migrants were sitting and standing at a private Key Largo property. Some were spotted still in the water swimming to shore. One migrant could be seen raising his hands in the air as he swam to shore. Other migrants were picked up by boat. Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission officers and Monroe County Sheriff’s deputies assisted federal agents.

Capt. Duane Baker, a backcountry fishing guide for more than 30 years, thought he’d seen it all until Jan. 3. He was fishing a charter in the flats off the ocean of Key Largo when he and his client saw a large sailboat filled with people with the U.S. Coast Guard in pursuit.

“As the sailboat ran aground, the occupants started screaming and jumping in the water, swimming toward shore. Coast Guard officials yelled to them to stop to no avail,” he said. “The Department of Homeland Security arrived about the time people started jumping in the water. It seemed to be 50 to 100 people trying to get to U.S. soil.”

He witnessed this unfolding from about a quarter mile away.

It’s the first major Haitian migrant landing in 2023, following a 2022 fiscal year that saw thousands arriving to Florida and the Keys in unsafe sailing vessels. Walter Slosar, chief patrol agent for U.S. Customs & Border Protection, said Monday that his agents responded to a high volume of migrant landings in the Keys during a 72-hour period.

Since the start of the 2023 fiscal year in October 2022, the U.S. Coast Guard has interdicted more than

Haitian migrants is grounded on Jan. 3 off Key Largo. CONTRIBUTED

large

Haitian men and women arrive on land at Ocean Cay Drive in Key Largo after a vessel they were on grounded within John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park waters. CONTRIBUTED

1,000 Haitian migrants on the water. If the numbers keep up, it would break the record 7,175 interdictions of Haitian migrants in fiscal year 2022. Cuban migrants have also been flocking to Florida at record levels.

“Since Oct. 1, 2022, the Miami Sector has experienced over a 400% increase in migrant encounters,” Slosar said via statement on Jan. 3.

Last December, President Joe Biden’s administration granted new protections for Haitians who were in the U.S., which included more time to work and stay in the country for at least 18 months. According to the New York Times, more than 100,000 Haitians who arrived in the U.S. after 2021 received protections. Alejandro Mayorkas, homeland security secretary, said socioeconomic challenges, gang violence and political instability were among the factors that led to the decision.

Those in CBP custody are put through removal proceedings. But a timeline for their removal and whether they’ll even be sent back to Haiti remains unknown.

DRY TORTUGAS NATIONAL PARK TEMPORARILY CLOSES JAN. 2 AFTER 300 MIGRANTS ARRIVE

On Jan. 2 at 8 a.m., Dry Tortugas National Park temporarily closed to public access while law enforcement and medical personnel evaluated, provided care for and coordinated transport to Key West for about 300 migrants who arrived in the park over the past couple of days. The closure, which was expected to last several days, is necessary for the safety of visitors and staff because of the resources and space needed to attend to the migrants. Concession-operated ferry and seaplane services were temporarily suspended.

Like elsewhere in the Florida Keys, the park has recently seen an increase in people arriving by boat from Cuba and landing on the islands of Dry Tortugas National Park. Park first responders provide food, water and basic medical attention until the Department of Homeland Security arrives and takes the lead.

While the park is closed, vessels may seek safe harbor in the designated areas within the one nautical mile anchoring zone around Garden Key, including Bird Key Harbor.

There will be no visitor services available while the closure is in effect and emergency services will be extremely limited.

All closures will remain in place until further notice. Please check “Alerts” on the park website for current information.

In other migrant news…

The U.S. Office of Customs and Border Protection on Jan. 1 reported that 169 migrants had come ashore in the Florida Keys, separate from the 300 in the Dry Tortugas.

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office was assisting federal law enforcement agents, given the spike in Cuban refugee arrivals since Dec. 31 and continuing into the morning of Jan. 2.

“Refugee arrivals require a lot of resources from the Sheriff’s Office as we help our federal law enforcement partners ensure the migrants are in good health and safe,” said Sheriff Rick Ramsay. “Residents may see an increased amount of law enforcement and emergency responders throughout the county as we continue to respond to these landings.”

The Sheriff’s Office has been told by the U.S. Border Patrol that some migrant landings may have to wait for federal resources to arrive until the following day, aggravating the mass migration crisis in the Keys.

“This shows a lack of a working plan by the federal government to deal with a mass migration issue that was foreseeable,” said Ramsay.

If residents see an arrival occurring, they should notify the Sheriff’s Office and provide a location.

Migrants hoping to reach the United States by boat have landed at Dry Tortugas National Park. NATIONAL PARK SERVICE/Contributed

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vessel carrying

OFF THE BLOCKS

Ohio college swimmers crowned winners of annual Orange Bowl Swim Classic

College swim teams from the Florida Keys to Western Colorado jumped off the blocks for the annual Orange Bowl Swim Classic at Key Largo’s Jacobs Aquatic Center on Jan. 3. Male and female swimmers from Ohio’s University of Findlay came away with the victories following a number of swim events.

Findlay women swimmers accumulated 675 points, edging out the Georgia Southern University team, which collected 652 points. In the men’s division, Findlay swam away from the competition with 983 points, followed by Trinity College of Connecticut and College of the Florida Keys.

Each year, hundreds of college swimmers from various states descend upon Key Largo to compete in the swim classic that’s open to spectators. It’s the culmination of an annual, month-long winter training session in Key Largo.

The warm winter competition is one of several events that were scheduled around South Florida’s Orange Bowl football playoff weekend. The event kicks off the New Year at the Jacobs Aquatic Center, MM 99.6 oceanside, with a series of fast-paced swimming events that include the 200-meter medley relay, 400-meter freestyle, 50-meter butterfly and 100-meter backstroke.

1: Women competitors in the Orange Bowl Swimming Classic leap off starting blocks to begin one of 24 heats.

STEPHEN FRINK/Florida

Keys News Bureau

2: A Trinity College swimmer begins the 100-meter backstroke.

— Keys Weekly staff report

3: Concordia University women swimmers compete in the 200-meter freestyle relay.

COUNTY’S $2.6 BILLION STORM AND SEA-LEVEL RISE PROJECT SIGNED INTO LAW

On Dec. 23, President Joe Biden signed into law authorization of a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) $2.6 billion coastal storm and sea-level rise infrastructure resiliency project in the Florida Keys. Appropriations for the project will require annual approvals by Congress.

The county also secured a nearly $1 million initial appropriation, approved in the omnibus spending bill, to fund the planning, engineering and design of six U.S. 1 stabilization projects in the Keys, the first phase of the plan. The plan includes 5,500 feet of the road at Mile Markers 79.5, 70, 70.9, 67, 37, and 34.5, identified as vulnerable to erosion and wave energy. Estimates for the completion of the construction phase of the U.S. 1 stabilization project are $16 million.

With the board of county commissioners’ support, Chief Sustainability Officer Rhonda Haag and Legislative Affairs Director Lisa Tennyson worked with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and local stakeholders for five years to put this project together, including numerous public meetings. Then they worked to move the project authorization and appropriation through Congressional approval.

Based on the development of a three-year USACE coastal storm risk study, the project plans for the economic, environmental and social effects of coastal storms and sea-level rise and addresses the hardening of U.S. 1, dry floodproofing of critical infrastructure and

private commercial buildings, and elevating residential residences. The study did not address the resiliency of locally-maintained roads, which Monroe County completed under a separate study.

Future appropriations will allow for the voluntary elevations of up to 4,698 vulnerable residential homes and the dry floodproofing of 1,052 commercial and 53 critical infrastructure buildings susceptible to storm surge damage throughout the Keys. Dry floodproofing allows for essential services to resume more quickly after a storm surge.

The total project, including the dry floodproofing and elevations, is estimated at $2.6 billion, to be split 65 percent federal ($1.7 billion) and 35 percent ($893 million) non-federal . Non-federal funds can come from the state, county, municipalities, residents and other non-federal entities. The county is coordinating with the Florida Department of Transportation for the non-federal match for the U.S. 1 stabilization phase. The county also intends to sign sub-agreements with the five municipalities to authorize and fund work within the cities.

“We are committed to making Monroe County as resilient as possible against the effects of future storms and sea-level rise,” said Monroe County Administrator Roman Gastesi. “This partnership with USACE allows us to tap into federal money to help offset resiliency costs to Florida Keys residents.”

A low-lying area of U.S. 1 near Bahia Honda at MM 37 is one of six targets for U.S. 1 stabilization projects. CONTRIBUTED

Anew year brought new laws in Florida. Legislation approved by state officials in the House and Senate in 2022, and taking effect in 2023, aim to keep some more money in motorists’ pockets. Other laws seek to cure issues related to workers at apartment complexes and rising insurance costs.

ASSIGNMENT OF BENEFITS FOR PROPERTY INSURANCE

State legislators were called back twice for special sessions to confront Florida’s property insurance industry problems. Bills addressed a number of issues, which included ending the ability for homeowners to sign over their claims to contractors who pursue payments from insurers. An analysis for Senate Bill 2-A stated that insurers complained about contractors who had property owners sign over their benefits and submitted bills to insurance companies for repair work that, on average, were 30% higher than estimates from vendors without an assignment of benefits. With vendors seeking to extract higher settlements from insurers came more litigation over the vendors’ invoices. Backers of the property insurance bill hammered a statistic that, with roughly 7% of nationwide claims, 76% of homeowners’ lawsuits in the U.S. were filed in Florida.

HIGHWAY TOLL RELIEF

Florida motorists who frequently pass through toll facilities will see some relief, per Senate Bill 6-A. A vehicle with a SunPass tag that records 35 or more transactions per month will be eligible for a 50% credit. State toll facilities include Florida’s Turnpike, which many Upper Keys residents use to drive to airports, stores and hospitals. It also includes the Card Sound Bridge toll that’s used by many workers who live outside the Keys. The state provided $500 million for the program, which goes through Dec. 31, 2023.

NEW YEAR, NEW LAWS

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR APARTMENT WORKERS

Better known as “Miya’s Law,” apartment complexes must now run background checks on prospective custodians, repairmen and other employees before they’re hired. Applicants found guilty or who plead no contest to certain offenses, including violence and disregard for safety, wouldn’t be allowed to work at the facility. Approval of Senate Bill 898 stems from a Sept. 24, 2021 incident involving Valencia College student Miya Marcano. She went missing from her Orlando apartment where she also worked at the front office. She was later found dead miles from her apartment. Orange County Sheriff’s Office investigators said Marcano was taken from her apartment by Armando Caballero, who was a maintenance worker at the same apartment complex. It’s alleged that he had a master key fob for the complex, which allowed him to enter her apartment. Caballero was found dead by apparent suicide days after Marcano went missing.

Legislation also changed the time a landlord must give a tenant some kind of notice to conduct repair work, from 12 hours to 24 hours. And apartments must all maintain a log book for issuance of dwelling unit keys.

NEWBORN SCREENINGS

Hospitals and other state-licensed birthing facilities must now test newborns for congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV), should the infant fail a screening for hearing loss before the newborn is 21 days old. For babies born at home or in a licensed birth center, the bill requires the newborn’s primary health care provider to refer the infant for a CMV test seven days after birth if he or she fails a hearing test. Cytomegalovirus is a common virus for people of all ages; however, a healthy person’s immune system usually keeps the virus from causing illness. In the United States, nearly one in three children are already infected with CMV by age 5. Some babies with congenital CMV infection have health problems that are apparent at birth or that develop later during infancy or childhood. In the most severe cases, CMV can cause the death of an unborn baby (pregnancy loss).

LEGAL NOTICES

House Bill 7049 gives governments the choice to publish legal notices on a publicly accessible website of a county instead of a print newspaper under specified conditions. However, local governments with fewer than 160,000 people must hold a public hearing to determine whether its residents have sufficient access to the internet before going fully electronic. In November, Monroe County commissioners and County Attorney Bob Shillinger discussed whether it should make the move. Commissioners were open to the idea, but nothing has been locally approved yet.

PUBLIC OFFICERS & LOBBYING

Public officials won’t be able to lobby during office and six years after leaving office. The amendment to the state constitution was approved by Florida voters in 2018. It took effect Dec. 31, 2022 and affected a number of elected officials across the state. Elected officials in Miami-Dade and Palm Beach filed a lawsuit in an effort to block the new law, according to the Miami Herald. That request was denied, but arguments are expected to be heard Jan. 27.

SCHOOL BOOK SELECTIONS

House Bill 1467 increases the transparency and accountability for selecting and using instructional materials and library materials in schools. It forces certain school district instructional material review committee meetings to be noticed and open to the public. It also mandates school district personnel who are involved in reviewing and selecting certain instructional materials and library materials to complete training developed by the Department of Education on selecting quality, age-appropriate books, prior to making selections.

Gov. Ron DeSantis signs legislation enacting new property insurance reforms, as well as $750 million in relief for communities affected by Hurricanes Ian and Nicole in December 2022. GOVERNOR’S OFFICE/ Contributed

REEF

WRECKER

THE CHRONOLOGY OF AN UNEXPECTED NAVY SCHOONER SINKING

At about 5 a.m. on Nov. 18, 1822, the U.S. schooner Alligator hoisted its sails and began the slow move away from Matanzas, Cuba. It would be the final mission of the ship’s brief but storied career.

The Alligator was one of five swift 12-gun schooners built to serve the United States Navy’s anti-piracy West Indies Squadron. The twomasted, 86-foot ship-of-war was commissioned in March 1821. Some 19 months later, it led a convoy of ships liberated from a piratical attack away from Cuba and through the Straits of Florida. Virginia was the intended destination.

By 4 a.m. on Nov. 19, Lt. Dale, the Alligator’s acting commander, had lost sight of every vessel of the convoy but one schooner. On Nov. 20, the lone schooner was still the only ship from the convoy visible from the Alligator’s deck. Because the scuttlebutt suggested that the pirates the men of the Alligator had just engaged were going to attack the convoy’s stragglers, Lt. Dale issued orders to slow down.

At 8 p.m., the ship set its course north. Sounding weights were dropped every 30 minutes to determine the water’s depth. At 9:37 p.m., the schooner steered northwest. Three minutes later, the Alligator struck the Matecumbe Reef. According to the testimony of Victor M. Rudolph, acting lieutenant aboard the ship, “8 p.m. had no bottom at forty-five fathoms. At half past nine, she struck, at which time she was going five knots.”

Over the next three days, every effort was made to free the ship from the coral reef’s stony fingers. When a wrecker approached and offered assistance, Lt. Dale declined assistance but did ask the wrecker to hold the Alligator’s important papers – just in case. In hopes of freeing the ship, military manpower was exhausted, unsuccessfully attempting to dislodge the schooner. When one of the convoy’s straggling ships appeared on the

horizon, a cannon, a small gun called a carronade, was fired. The blast served its purpose and attracted the attention of the Ann Maria.

By 10 a.m. on Nov. 23, whatever was left on the Alligator was loaded onto the Ann Maria, including its officers and crew. The Alligator was then “set afire fore and aft.” Because at least one keg of gunpowder had been left on the ship, at 3:30 p.m., what was left of the Alligator went kaboom!

While there are stories and stories about what led up to the events of Nov. 23, 1822, they will have to wait for another day. The story for this moment is where contemporary newspaper accounts recorded the site of the shipwreck. While the Alligator wrecked on the Matecumbe Reef, the reef was also identified as Carysford, a common early spelling of the legendary Carysfort Reef.

Carysfort is one of the oldest and most mature reefs in the chain. It has also been called the Florida Reef’s most dangerous tract of coral. The reef is said to have been responsible for onequarter of all the wrecks that occurred during the early decades of the wrecking industry. Shallow and extensive, its jut out into the Atlantic for about four miles, making it a well-documented navigational hazard. It was one of the first reefs marked by the government after Florida became a U.S. territory in 1821, first by the lightship Caesar in 1826 and, in 1852, by the Carysfort Reef Lighthouse.

What those newspaper stories also revealed was that Carysfort is a name that was used in broad terms. Carysfort Reef is located about six miles off the coast of North Key Largo. It is well documented that Carysfort Reef was used as an umbrella term covering several barrier reefs in the Upper Keys that included those reefs growing in the shallows off of Key Largo, Plantation, Windley and the Matecumbe Keys. The Matecumbe

An author, speaker, Florida Keys historian and Honorary Conch. His latest book, “Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli, Volume 1,” shares fascinating glimpses into the rich and sometimes surprising histories of the Florida Keys.

Reef, located four miles off Upper and Lower Matecumbe Keys, grows 35 miles south of Carysfort.

A dozen prominent, shallow reefs grow between what is today Islamorada and North Key Largo. Because the record books were assigning the name Carysfort to such a significant stretch of the Florida Reef, it is easy to see why, at least on paper, the reef garnered such a perilous reputation. Though an absolute ship killer, its reputation has been enhanced by the broad use of its name. The Alligator, as well as scores of other ships, wrecked nowhere near Carysfort.

The U.S. schooner Alligator left behind more than stories when it wrecked on the corals in 1822. The site of the wreck, Matecumbe Reef, became known as Alligator Reef, home to the Islamorada icon Alligator Reef Lighthouse. For a time, too, it lent its name to Alligator Key. The small island was once described as “about a mile and a half long, elevated but two or three feet above the sea, and bordered with a growth of mangroves, upon which grow oysters and other mollusks.”

While Alligator Key has since washed back into the ocean, the spirit of the Alligator has remained a significant piece of Florida Keys’ history.

FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI

U.S. Schooner Alligator. NATIONAL ARCHIVES/Contributed

CORAL SHORES AND KEY WEST HOOPERS BUSY OVER BREAK

Second half of prep basketball for all Keys teams tips off this week

On Dec. 21, Key West took on Spanish River High School, battling it out in a close game. Kameron Roberts scored 14 points and Leandro Batista dropped in 13, but the Conchs ultimately lost by 4, falling 62-58. Key West did add a win to their record over the holiday break, beating Jensen Beach the following day. Batista had a game-high 14 points in the victory.

The Conchs played two more over the break, losing to South Fork and Gig Harbor (Washington) on Dec. 28 and 29, respectively. Batista had the high scores for both games with 11 against South Fork and 15 against Gig Harbor. Watson Chery added 11 to the Gig Harbor score.

The Conchs play again on Saturday, Jan. 7 at home against Boca Raton, then face Coral Shores at home on Tuesday, Jan. 10 for Monroe County bragging rights.

Coral Shores traveled to Orlando over the holiday break to take on some of the best competition on the east coast in the KSA basketball tournament. The ’Canes played Pennsylvania’s 5A state champion Cathedral Prep to a 58-27 loss early in the tournament, then turned their efforts to Pingree (Massachusetts). Coach Jarrod Mandozzi said his squad “didn’t play well the first game,” but after a loss to Pingree, they regrouped and went on to play the Massachusetts team again, winning the second game 54-50. Matt St. Aubin was selected as the team MVP in the tournament and made the all-tournament team for the ’Canes’ bracket.

Upon their return to the Keys, the Hurricanes shifted their efforts to the west coast, playing Gig Harbor in Tavernier. Despite having all-county guard Isaac Rivera back from knee surgery, Coral Shores was still shorthanded in the game, with multiple starters out of town for the break. After a close 9-9 first quarter, the Hurricanes’ hopes for a win slowly ebbed away.

“We really struggled with turnovers and some uncharacteristic mistakes in the second quarter that really did us in, as they ultimately beat us 69-37,” said Mandozzi. “I would have loved to have played them at full strength, but there were still some positives.”

Coral Shores opens up the second half of their season against Obridge Academy in Palm Beach on Jan. 6 to begin a five-game road stint for the ‘Canes.

Marathon did not play any games over the holiday break. The Fins play Boca Raton on Friday, Jan. 6 at home to open the second half of their season.

Clockwise from top left: Amauri ButlerBailey, Kameron Roberts, Watson Chery, Roberts, James Osborne, Leandro Batista, Kevon Mills. ELLA HALL/Keys Weekly

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

GIRLS SOCCER CORAL SHORES KEY WEST JANUARY 10 | 4 p.m VS

The Coral Shores boys basketball team poses with its team plaque earned at the KSA basketball tournament held in Orlando over the holiday break. The Hurricanes played schools from Pennsylvania and Massachusetts during the event. JARROD MANDOZZI/Contributed

Andre Otto will take his talents to Tallahassee next year.

ELLA HALL/ Keys Weekly

Key West’s Three-Sport Standout Andre Otto Commits to FSU

Senior Key West High School

ANDRE OTTO

Conchs wrestling

Whether he is on the gridiron, track or wrestling mat, Christopher Andre Otto makes a huge impact for the Conchs. The multisport, multitalented student athlete was highly recruited by Division 1 teams across the country. On Dec. 21, he made the choice to further his academic and athletic career in Tallahassee, playing for the Florida State Seminoles. The star lineman is currently transitioning to wrestling, where his coach says, “He’s a leader by example. His work ethic and attitude are contagious. Most importantly, he’s just a great soul.”

A dedicated athlete who pays attention to the little things, Otto says he will spend next year studying all aspects of the Seminole offense while he continues his studies of film and digital design. For his amazing accomplishments in Conch athletics and his positive attitude toward all he does, Christopher Andre Otto is this week’s Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

“Andre works hard in all aspects of his life and is dedicated to excellence.”

-

coach Chaz Jimenez

THE KEYS WEEKLY 2022 ALL-KEYS GOLF TEAM

Fisher Coleman-Sayer

Senior, Marathon

“Fisher brought a lot of golf knowledge, leadership and experience to our program this season and a work ethic that is beyond impressive. As a result of his hard work and dedication to the sport, he will be continuing his golf career in college and we are excited to watch his growth there as well.” – Marathon coach Mary Coleman-Sayer

Rocco Twyman

Senior, Key West

Twyman was a consistent player for Key West, making the leaderboard multiple times this season. As a senior, he was praised by Conchs coach Joshua Bassett for his work with improving the underclassmen and preparing them for the future.

Tommy Highsmith Senior, Key West

As just a first-year golfer, Highsmith lit up the links with solid play, scoring a 43 in his top round this season. “He played well for us, maintained a positive can-do attitude, and is one of the most respectful young men I’ve had the pleasure to work with,” said Conchs coach Joshua Bassett.

Preston Carroll

Sophomore,

Coral Shores

Just a sophomore, Carroll shot a 44 at the Hammock at Ocean Reef and led the Hurricanes multiple times throughout the season. Coach Danielle Thomas added, “I look forward to having Preston on the team for the next few years.”

Billy Martin

Senior, Marathon

“Billy improved quite a bit this season in his attitude and focus on the course, and provided leadership to our team,” said Marathon coach Mary ColemanSayer. “Billy always came to play with a positivity that was energizing to the rest of the group.”

Tanel Irons

Sophomore, Coral Shores

Irons’ season-best round was a 49 at the Hammock at Ocean Reef. "Tanny had a solid year and birdied at districts,” said Hurricanes coach Danielle Thomas. “He is an amazing player.”

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

GIRLS SOCCER CORAL SHORES KEY WEST JANUARY 10 | 4 p.m VS

MVP

Rocco Twyman

Tommy Highsmith

Preston Carroll

Billy Martin

Tanel Irons

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

With only a few courses dotting the island chain, prep golf in the Florida Keys can be challenging. Key West, Marathon and Coral Shores make it work by hosting one another often throughout the season, and the players and coaches have a long-standing camaraderie that epitomizes sportsmanship. Throughout the season, athletes traded spots for the top golfers in both the boys’ and girls’ divisions, making the selection of an All-Keys team and an MVP very difficult. Many of this year’s top-performing athletes are underclassmen, providing some excitement for future seasons.

From the staff at the Sports Wrap, congratulations to the 2022 Keys Weekly All-Keys Cross-Country Team.

Gabby Thomas

Sophomore, Coral Shores

Thomas led the Lady ’Canes in most matches this season and her game continues to improve. She is an asset to her team far beyond her solid scores, though. “Gabby is a leader on and off the course,” said Coral Shores coach Danielle Thomas. “When she is at practice she helps the other golfers with their swing and stances. She always tries to better herself by practicing and watching videos of other golfers.”

Mattie Johnson Junior, Coral Shores

Hurricanes junior Mattie Johnson honed her skills this year with a season-best round of 69 at International Links in Miami. “Mattie improved tremendously throughout the season and I can't wait to see her play again for us next year,” said Hurricanes coach Danielle Thomas.

Summer Haines Sophomore, Marathon

“Summer worked extensively on her game this year and has been able to eliminate several strokes from her overall match play last year as a sophomore,” said Marathon coach Mary Coleman-Sayer. “She was more focused in matches this season in an effort to continue lowering her score. She provided much needed leadership, especially to our ‘newbies’ to the team.”

Savannah Oropeza Senior, Key West

“Savannah Oropeza was our most experienced golfer,” said Key West coach Joshua Bassett, “and she posted her best round of 51 twice this year while balancing the demanding schedule of both band and golf.”

Claudia Sterling Freshman, Key West

Sterling has shown steady improvement in her game this season, and as just a freshman, she should do great things on the course the next three years. Sportsmanship, maturity and integrity are the top qualities Conchs coach Joshua Bassett looks for on his team, and Sterling ticks those boxes.

GIRLS SOCCER CORAL SHORES KEY WEST JANUARY 10 | 4 p.m VS

MVP

Mattie Johnson

Savannah Oropeza

Claudia Sterling

Summer Haines

MM 1 - Inez Martin Child Care Center (C16M0012)

1100 Varela St., Key West, FL 33040

Contact: Christine Patterson • 305-809-5055 • christine.patterson@wesleyhouse.org Vacancies: 3 teachers

MM 2 - Sunbeam Christian School (C16MO0034)

1311 5th St., Key West, FL 33040 Contact: Jerlyn Matthews • 305-2946018 • sunbeam@fsbckw.org Vacancies: 3 teachers

MM 5 - Lighthouse Christian Academy (C16MO0014) 5580 MacDonald Ave, Key West, FL 33040 Jennifer Sisco • 305-292-5582 • lcaoffice@cwckw.org Vacancies: 1 floater

MM 22.9 - Banana Cabanna Academy Inc. (C16MO0054) 22673 Pieces of Eight Rd, Cudjoe Key, FL 33042

Contact: Roxanne Rosado • 305-745-1400 • banana.cabanna@att.net Vacancies: 2 teachers

MM 47 - Kreative Kids Christian Academy (X16MO0001)

4711 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

Contact: Maria Vaillant • 305-743-7165 Kreativekidsca@bellsouth.net • vaillantmaria@yahoo.com Vacancies: 2 teachers

MM 49 - Grace Jones Community Center, Inc. (C16MO0048) 230 41st Street Gulf, Marathon, FL 33050

Kelly Ullrich • 305-743-6064 • gjcckids@gmail.com Vacancies: 3 teachers

MM 87.5 - St. James Children’s Center (C16MO0033) 87500 Overseas Hwy, I slamorada, FL 33036

Contact: Sue Ellen Bennett • 305-852-2161 • childrenscenter@stjamesthefisherman.org Vacancies: 1 teacher

MM 92 - Burton Memorial CDC (C16MO0018) 93001 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier, FL 33070

Contact: Nilda Bernaldez • 305-852-0250 • acabar11@yahoo.com Vacancies: 2 part-time floaters

MM 99 - First Baptist Church Jack Hill Child Care (C16MO0021) 99001 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037

Contact: Leeanna Woods • 305-451-2125 • fbcjhccc@yahoo.com Vacancies: 1 teacher

A BLESSING FOR THE BOATS

Annual

ride on New Year’s Day

Arelatively calm New Year’s morning on the Islamorada waters saw a large number of private and sportfishing boats taking to Whale Harbor Channel for the annual Blessing of the Fleet. Organized by the Islamorada Charter Boat Association, the tradition in the sportfishing capital saw local Pastor Tony Hammon and others standing from the bridge to provide a blessing to sportfishing boats.

— Keys Weekly staff report

1. Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team Leader and Upper Keys Marine Deputy Nelson Sanchez patrols the waters.

2. Boats receive their blessing on New Year’s Day.

3. Local boat captains and boaters participate in the Blessing of the Fleet on New Year's Day in Whale Harbor Channel.

4. Officials bless local boat captains and boaters from Whale Harbor Bridge.

5. The Florida Keys Brewing Co. boat holding the McBay and Arce families participate in the Blessing of the Fleet.

6. Local boat captains and boaters participate in the Blessing of the Fleet.

Photos by Doug Finger and David Gross. Visit keysweekly.com for a full gallery.

FRIDAY, JAN. 6

Key Largo to Islamorada

Start: 8:30 a.m. from VFW Post 10211 Break: 9:30 a.m. Coral Shores High School End: 10:30 a.m. Post Card Inn Marathon to Big Pine Key Start: 1 p.m. from Marathon Fire Station 1:30 p.m.: 7 Mile Bridge End: 2 p.m. Veterans Memorial Beach

SATURDAY, JAN. 7

Key West and Boca Chica

Start: 10:30 a.m. from Boca Chica Naval Base to the Welcome Ceremony: Noon at Bayview Park City of Key West Guided Community Ride: 12:45 to 2 p.m. Start and end at Bayview Park

It’s a new year, and with it come resolutions and ending what you might have put off last year. It may also mean delving into the art world or perhaps adding some artwork into your own world.

The first thing you must do is not think of art as a thing to fill up a space. The artwork should be something you enjoy and something meaningful to you. Yes, it might be frustrating having that wall bare, but the right piece that fits in the space will work wonders for you.

Before you even start your collection, have patience and take your time looking around. When you start collecting, you should be open and look around at different sources of art. Leonardo, Monet and Picasso are among the great artists whose works you might have seen. They are masters and there is much to admire, but there is something to be said for searching through local art. If you love the Florida Keys, a Monet or Picasso will not do. The best place to get some Keys art is by exploring the island chain.

The Keys are known for their fishing, diving and general coastal lifestyle. The best place to get art like this is from artists who live anywhere from Key Largo to Key West. Now you know you want something coastal; why get something from a big-box store which everyone else will have? They make thousands and thousands off those framed prints. This is the easy way out, but it usually does not give you the satisfaction of discovering a local artist you love. It might not seem like it but there are many local artists out there. Some local artists are well-known and in plain sight, but there are other artists down here who may be harder to find. Guess what: they are pretty

The best way to learn to trust yourself is to put out your feelers for these local artists and start to understand what is out there. When you look at many art pieces you will start to develop and refine your taste.

You will learn to trust yourself and choose what you like.

Even if you really have no idea of what you want, just go out there and start exploring. You might not like the first artist or the first place, but you will take this first experience and learn to trust what you are drawn to. Don’t be afraid to buy art that speaks to you. You may want to discuss it with other members of your household before you get something a little extra bold, but exploring new art is an important thing to do on your journey.

Take an hour here or there to explore galleries and shops. You’ll probably meet artists or people who know the artists well. Your art journey doesn’t have to be at galleries all the time. If you are at someone’s home and you see a piece you like, ask them about it. Since it’s the beginning of the year there is another good source to start exploring, and that is art festivals.

Unfortunately, there really aren’t a lot of festivals where you can find a variety of local art like you were once able to. Luckily, there are still a few around. One of the longest running festivals in the Upper Keys is Art under the Oaks held in the beautifully manicured oaks of San Pedro Church. Art Under the Oaks is a real crowd pleaser. It is a festival that is committed to make the festival about art. The festival takes place Saturday, Jan. 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you find an artist you like, great. If you are on the fence about something, get the artists’ information so you can contact them in the future. If you don’t like something at all, you’ll learn what you don’t like. Either way, you will have taken that important first step.

Attendees of the annual Art under the Oaks festival examine a menagerie of local artwork. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

WILLIAM DEPAULA TUESDAY THRU SATURDAY | LUNCH 11-2:30 | DINNER 5 -10 TUESDAY THRU SATURDAY 4:20 -11 WEDNESDAY THRU SUNDAY | LUNCH 11- 2:30 | DINNER 5 -10 BRUNCH SATURDAY & SUNDAY 11- 2:30 WEDNESDAY THRU SUNDAY 4:20 - 11

ARTIST’S CORNER

The work barge is a conversion from a 20’ 1992 Godfrey Marine Company aluminum pontoon boat. Two new ba eries connected to a new ba ery recharger/conditioner. Two cranes with one which includes a long gantry operated by two manual winches and an electric winch to work from the side. Previously used to raise and lower the PD-200 pile driver and the Truline Airli during seawall construction. Two long spuds in the bow allow for stability. The work box allows for necessary items to be able to be closed and kept on the boat. 2016 60hp Mercury 4-stroke outboard still under extended manufacturer's warranty, recently tuned and improved. New spare 4-blade propeller included.

NEW YEAR BRINGS NEW FUR BAN IN ONE STATE

Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your first Reef’s Report of 2023.

REEF THE FOX

I hope everyone had a safe and happy New Year’s Eve. My fox friends and I watched the people behind us set off fireworks. Nope, they didn’t bother us one bit. We are tough, wild animals and it takes a lot to make us nervous. Hurricanes, they make us nervous. Pretty, sparkly loud things do not make us nervous.

I have some pretty amazing news to report coming out of California. On Jan. 1, California’s ban on the sale and manufacturing of new animal fur products took effect across the state. In 2019, Assembly Bill 44 was passed, making California the first state in the country to take this step to end the fur trade within its borders. Assembly member Laura Friedman, D-Glendale, championed the legislation, which was sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States and Animal Hope in Legislation. The bill gained enormous support from local, national and international animal protection organizations.

Reef is a red fox that was saved from a fur farm. He now lives in Key Largo with his human, Nicole Navarro.

“The year 2023 marks a historic step forward for California with the implementation of a law that truly represents the values of our constituents,” said Friedman. “Californians do not want to see animals live and die in cruel ways for nothing more than fashion, and I’m so pleased that this law will help uphold our state’s animal welfare standards as well as potentially help drive innovation for more sustainable fashion alternatives.”

The law bans only the sale of new fur products and does not apply to the sale of used fur products sold at nonprofit thrift stores, second hand stores and pawn shops. It does not apply to other animal products used for clothing such as leather or shearling. The law does not affect ownership of fur products and it remains legal to wear fur. The law applies to brick-and-mortar stores selling fur products in California as well as online sales of fur products into California.

Pretty amazing, right? Hopefully Florida will want to get on board with something like this in the near future. Believe it or not, according to the 2017 census, Florida was eighth in the country for fur sales. Gross. Mom actually had a phone call with one of our county commissioners regarding a ban on new fur sales in Monroe County. While it didn’t lead to any local legislation banning fur sales, such a move could bring more awareness to a community that largely adores furry animals. Maybe mom should start a change.org petition to see how many residents of our county would stand behind a ban on these cruel and outdated items that are produced by inflicting cruelty on foxes like me?

Let me know what you think about this. Email me at reef@ pawsitivebeginnings.org

That’s all for this week. Until next time, Reef, over and out!

Angel is a mother who was recently rescued by MarrVelous Pet Rescues along with her 10 puppies. She gave birth as a stray and was doing her best to keep them safe and fed. She’s such a great mommy. All 10 of her babies are now in foster homes (six still available for adoption pending neuter) and it’s time for this super sweet and gentle girl to find her furever home. Angel is a German shorthair pointer who’s about 4 years old. She is the absolute sweetest girl you could meet, so affectionate and loving, very smart and gets along great with other dogs. Please complete an application at www.mprescues.org, or consider a donation to help with the cost of her care.

SAVE THE DATE

Jan. 6-7

• Fish for Holly tournament. Visit fishforholly.com/tournament/ to learn more.

• Wounded Warrior Ride. Visit keysweekly.com to read more.

Friday, Jan. 6

• First Friday concert featuring Grant Livingston at 6 p.m. at Key Largo library.

Monday, Jan. 9

• Historical Preservation Society of the Upper Keys’ monthly program at 7 p.m. at Coral Isles Church. Slides of early Plantation Key will be shown.

Tuesday, Jan. 10

• Islamorada Nature Walks & Talks at Anne’s Beach at 8:30 a.m. Register by calling 305-853-1685.

• Florida Keys Orchid Club hosts Roger Hammer, author and adventurer, at 6 p.m. at Key Largo Civic Club.

Wednesday, Jan. 11

• Islamorada State of the Village by Ted Yates, village manager, at 8 a.m. at Islamorada Fish Club. Register by calling 305-664-4503.

• Just Older Youth (JOY) Center classes from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Visit justolderyouthinc.org for a complete schedule.

Thursday, Jan. 12

• Art gallery reception featuring the work of Valerie Perreault from 6 to 8 p.m. at Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty’s Roberto Russell Gallery, MM 81, bayside.

Jan. 13-15

• Baygrass Bluegrass in the Beer Garden from 6 to 10 p.m. at Florida Keys Brewing Co. Visit keysice.com to learn more.

Saturday, Jan. 14

• 39th annual Art under the Oaks at San Pedro Church gardens, MM 89.5, bayside. Visit artundertheoaks. com to learn more.

Reef the fox. CONTRIBUTED

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Vendors from the Keys and South Florida, such as Riva Motorsports & Marine, filled Hawks Cay’s parking lots with their state-of-the-art vessels during the 2022 Island Boat Show.

ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

BOAT MANIA

Annual show moves from Hawk’s Cay to Islamorada

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Some of the finest skiffs, center consoles and marine products will be on display as the Island Boat Show returns for another year at a new location.

For years, Hawk’s Cay Resort on Duck Key served as the venue for the event that’s organized by Island Community Church in Islamorada. This year, however, the bevy of boats will be situated on the church grounds at 83400 Overseas Highway. Event organizer Annie Reckwerdt said the boat show committee decided to make the move. Still, it didn’t take long for the show to fill up with boats.

“I’m so happy and proud to report that 81 boats are coming this year,” Reckwerdt said. “We sold out, but we’re trying to squeeze room to fit some last-minute people.”

Set for Friday-Sunday, Jan. 20-22, dealers from the Keys and South Florida will make their way to the sportfishing capital of the world. Chief Marine Group, Caribee Marine, Seven Sports Marine, Marine Connection, TCB Boat Sales and Plantation Boat Mart are some of the local dealers that will be in attendance. They’ll be joined by marine-related businesses, such as SeaTow and Tri-

Sea Keeper, and various nonprofits. Attendees can view some of the newest boats on the market and check out fishing seminars, as well as see some local artwork. There will also be food trucks and a silent auction, a raffle and more.

Proceeds from the Florida Keys’ premier boat show support scholarships for local students and missions of the Island Community Church. Over the last two years, the show has doled out $100,000 in scholarships to local college students. Reckwerdt said Pastor Trevor Mann has committed $50,000 in event earnings to scholarships this year.

With boats and funds raised for local endeavors also comes community involvement. Reckwerdt said 80% of the Island Community Church congregation volunteers their time during the event. And so do people outside the ICC community.

“It’s truly amazing,” she said.

A $10 donation (those under 18 are free) gets people in for all three days of the boat show, so bring the family and friends.

For more information, visit islandboatshow.com.

LEGAL NOTICES

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of MIGHTY COCK located at 633 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

LEGAL NOTICES

register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Key Colony Beach, Florida this 22nd day of December, 2022.

By: Kathleen Island Price Publish: January 5, 2023

LEGAL NOTICES

Dated at Sugarloaf Key, Florida this 22nd day of December, 2022.

By: Your Roofers LLC Publish: January 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

THE FOLLOWING WILL SELL AT: 1503 AQUEDUCT LN, KEY LARGO,FL 33037 P#:786-3289393

By:

MC BBQ KEY WEST, a Florida limited liability company

Publish: January 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of ISLAND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT located at PO BOX 510157, Monroe County in the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051-0157, intends to

The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of MRF COMMERCIAL ROOFING SPECIALIST located at 320 S POINT DR, Monroe County in the City of Sugarloaf Key, Florida 33042-3506, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of ANCHORS AWAY ART & ANTIQUES located at 33 Buttonwood Drive, Key Largo, FL 33037 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Lisa Jansen Publish: January 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of YEA BABY CHARTERS located at 1500 Ocean Bay Drive, Unit R3, Key Largo, FL 33037 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Palm Coast 3D Epoxies, LLC Publish: January 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

BEST LIEN SERVICES INC. LOCATED AT: 7290 SW 41 ST MIAMI, FL 33155, WILL SELL AT A RESERVE PUBLIC SALE AT 9:00 AM THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES AT SAID LOCATION TO SATISFY LIEN PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 713.585 OF THE FLORIDA STATUES.

DATE OF SALE: JAN.16,2022 at 9:00 AM 2014 TAOT MS L9NTEACB2E1115106 1992 MZ MC 2600268 2018 INFI 4D

JN1EV7AP1JM354165 2006 HOND UT 5FNYF28656B036251 2013 AUDI CV WAUJFAFH3DN010033 2007 VOLV TR 4V4NC9GHX7N450348 2015 KIA 4D KNDJP3A58F7138221 2013 KIA 4D KNDJT2A54D7586216 1974 MZ MC 3572864

OWNER/LIENHOLDER MAY INSPECT/RECOVER VEHICLE BY CONTACTING: BEST LIEN SERVICES, 7290 SW 41 ST, MIAMI,

FL 33155 (1-866-299-9391) AT LEAST 1 WEEK PRIOR TO THE LIEN SALE, ALL SALES ARE WITH RESERVE 20% BUYERS PREMIUM.

Publish: January 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE TO SELL

Wheatons Towing gives notice that on 1/26/2023 at 10:00 am, the following vehicle(s) may be sold by public sale at 101500 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 to satisfy the lien for the amount owed on each vehicle for any recovery, towing, or storage services charges and administrative fees allowed pursuant to Florida statute 713.78. Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.

YV1SW59V942404292 2004 VOLV Publish: January 5 & 12, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE TO SELL

Wheatons Towing gives notice that on 1/27/2023 at 10:00 am, the following vehicle(s) may be sold by public sale at 101500 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 to satisfy the lien for the amount owed on each vehicle for any recovery, towing, or storage services charges and administrative fees allowed pursuant to Florida statute 713.78. Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.

5NMZT3LBXJH057000 2018

HYUN Publish: January 5 & 12, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF SECOND/FINAL CODE AMENDMENT HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida will hold a Second and Final Public Hearing on Thursday, January 19, 2023, at 9:30 a.m., Key Colony Beach City Hall Annex Trailer, 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051, to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances.

The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is Ordinance 2021-469, entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH FLORIDA, AMENDING THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ARTICLE III – DISTRICT REGULATIONS, REPEALING CONFLICTING ORDINANCES, PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY, AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.”

Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. This meeting will be available virtually via ZOOM Meetings. Members of the public who wish to attend may contact the City Clerk for a Zoom Meeting ID. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach.

The City Commission requests an amendment to the City’s Land Development Regulations in order to guide and control the future development of the City to preserve, promote, and protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare in order to comply with the changes in flood maps being proposed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”) and the National Flood Insurance Program (“NFIP”).

This proposed amendment is required by Florida law to aid in the harmonious, orderly, and aesthetically pleasing and socially beneficial development taking place within the City.

Interested parties may attend the Hearing and be heard with respect to the requested code amendment.

If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

If you are unable to attend the SECOND/FINAL Public Hearing on Thursday, January 19, 2023, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to: City Clerk, P.O. Box. 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@keycolonybeach. net and your comments will be entered into the record.

City Clerk, City of Key Colony Beach

Publish: January 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The City of Key Colony Beach will be holding Public Hearings on: Planning & Zoning Hearing: Wednesday, January 18th, 2023, 9:30 A.M.

City Commission Public Hearing: Thursday, February 16, 2023, 9:30 A.M.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold a Planning & Zoning Hearing on Wednesday, January 18th, 2023, at 9:30 A.M., and a City Commission Public Hearing, on February 16, 2023, at 9:30 A.M., at Temporary City Hall located at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida, 33051, to hear a Variance Request from Chad O’Rourke, 68 7th Street, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051. This meeting will be available virtually via Zoom Meetings.

Members of the public who wish to attend virtually may email cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net or call 305-289-1212, Ext. 2 for further instructions on attending via Zoom Meetings.

Applicant requests a variance to the City of Key Colony Beach Code of Ordinances Chapter 101, Section 26 (11), to allow the rebuilding of a currently installed pool to be installed within the 10’ setback to 5’ from the neighboring property line at 66 7th Street. The current setback requirements are 10’ feet.

Interested parties may attend the Hearing and be heard with respect to the requested variance.

If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach with respect to any matter considered at the Variance Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

If you are unable to attend the Hearings on Wednesday, January 18th, 2023, or Thursday, February 16th, 2023, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to City Clerk, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@keycolonybeach. net . and your comments will be entered into the record.

Publish: January 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings & workshop

The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following 2 meetings & 1 workshop via

Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform: the Annual meeting will meet in person at Pigeon Key. The access points to view the meetings and workshop or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@ keysarts.com Grant Panel Review Session

Thursday, Jan 5, 2023, at 10:00 AM

Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 893 8243 5563 Passcode: 950333 Art in Public Places Committee Meeting Tuesday, Jan 17, 2023, at 12:00 PM

Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 811 8173 7184 Passcode: 896006 County Art in Public Places WORKSHOP for APPLICATION PROCESS Friday, Jan 20, 2023, at 4:00 PM

Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 850 1713 9957 Passcode: 121014

Board of Directors & Annual Members Meeting Thursday January 26, 2023, at 11:00 am

Pigeon Key, Marathon - RSVP required to Director@keysarts.com for transportation arrangements Publish: January 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, February 23, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for

the following: Card Sound Road Resurfacing Project

Monroe County, Florida

Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices.

Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar at www.demandstar.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/bids. The Public Record is available upon request.

Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids electronically. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/ physically delivered bids/ proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted.

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00P.M., on Thursday, February 23, 2023. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows:

Card Sound Road Resurfacing Project 2-23-2023

Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl. gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Thursday, February 23, 2023. You may call in by phone or internet using the following:

Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156

Meeting ID: 4509326156

One tap mobile: +16465189805,, 4509326156# US (New York)

+16699006833,, 4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 (New York) +1 669 900 6833 (San Jose)

Publish: January 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:

Perform Removal, Refloating and/or Demolition and Disposal of Derelict Vessels, Floating Structures, and Marine Debris Monroe County, Florida

Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices.

Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar at www.demandstar.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/bids. The Public Record is available upon

Eduardo Gonzalez-Blanco, M.D. Key West Urology Associates PA 1111 12th Street, Suite 108 Key West, Florida 33040

Dr. Eduardo Gonzalez-Blanco will be retiring and will no longer be practicing at Key West Urology Associates PA e ective December 29, 2022.

Patients’ medical records will remain at Key West Urology Associates PA, 1111 12th Street, Suite 108, Key West, Florida 33040 under the custodianship of Dr. Taweh Beysolow and his sta . Patients wishing to pick up their records may do so starting February 1, 2023.

Publish: January 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

request. Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids electronically. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/ physically delivered bids/ proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted.

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00P.M., on Wednesday, February 22, 2023. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows:

Perform Removal, Refloating and/or Demolition and Disposal of Derelict Vessels, Floating Structures, and Marine Debris 2-22-2023

Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl. gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on February 22, 2023. You may call in by phone or internet using the following:

Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156

One tap mobile: +16465189805,, 4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,, 4509326156# US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 (New York) +1 669 900 6833 (San Jose) Publish: January 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE QUALIFICATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, February 7, 2023, at 3:00 P.M. Eastern Time, the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Art in Public Places – Biannual Request for Qualifications Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar at www.demandstar.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/bids. The Public Record is available upon request.

Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids electronically. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/ physically delivered bids/ proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted.

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00P.M. Eastern Time, on Tuesday, February 7, 2023. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows:

ART IN PUBLIC PLACES –BIANNUAL REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS 2-7-2023

Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl. gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Tuesday, February 7, 2023. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156

One tap mobile: +16465189805,, 4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,, 4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 (New York) +1 669 900 6833 (San Jose) Publish: January 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 22-CP-151-P IN RE: ESTATE OF NADINE SEDON-LAHTI, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of NADINE SEDONLAHTI, deceased, whose date of death was February 25, 2022, File Number 22-CP-151-P is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Plantation Key Government Center, 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice has been served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE TIME 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 SO FILED 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: January 5, 2023.

Personal Representative: GLENN LAHTI 139 Gulfview Drive Islamorada, FL 33036

Attorney for Personal Representative: JOE A. CATARINEAU

Florida Bar Number: 0517291 91750 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070

Telephone: (305) 852-4833

Publish: January 5 & 12, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 22-CP-000145-P

IN RE: THE ESTATE OF IRMA DIAZ, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Irma Diaz, deceased, whose date of death was January 5, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of the first publication of this notice is January 5, 2023.

Personal Representative: Evelin Meltz 157 NE 104th Street Miami Shores, Florida 33138

Attorney for Personal Representative: Rodolfo Suarez, Jr., Esq. Attorney Florida Bar Number: 013201 Pilar V. Vazquez, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 115839 Suarez Law 9100 South Dadeland Blvd., Ste. 1620 Miami, FL 33156 Telephone: (305) 448-4244 Fax: (305) 448-4211

E-Mail: rudy@suarezlawyers.com

Secondary E-Mail: eca@ suarezlawyers.com Publish: January 5 & 12, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

CIVIL DIVISION Case#: 2012-CA-000363-K

Federal National Mortgage Association Plaintiff, -vs.Joseph Patrick Clements a/k/a Joseph P. Clements and Debra Lynn Clements a/k/a Debra L. Clements a/k/a Debbie L. Clements; Branch Banking and Trust Company, Successor by Merger to Republic Bank; Iberiabank; Unknown Parties in Possession #1, If living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) who are not known to be dead or alive, whether said Unknown Parties may claim an interest as Spouse, Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, or Other Claimants; Unknown Parties in Possession #2, If living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) who are not known to be dead or alive, whether said Unknown Parties may claim an interest as Spouse, Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, or Other Claimants

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant

LEGAL NOTICES

to order rescheduling foreclosure sale or Final Judgment, entered in Civil Case No. 2012-CA-000363-K of the Circuit Court of the 16th Judicial Circuit in and for Monroe County, Florida, wherein Federal National Mortgage Association, Plaintiff and Joseph Patrick Clements a/k/a Joseph P. Clements and Debra Lynn Clements a/k/a Debra L. Clements a/k/a Debbie L. Clements are defendant(s), I, Clerk of Court, Kevin Madok,CPA, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash AT THE MONROE COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040, AT 11:00 A.M. on January 18, 2023, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to-wit:

LOT 23, BLOCK 2, AMENDED PLAT OF COPPITT SUBDIVISION, (A RE-SUBDIVISION OF PLAT BOOK 3, AT PAGE 116) LOCATED IN GOVERNMENT LOT 5, SECTION 27, TOWNSHIP 67 S., RANGE 26 E., BIG COPPITT KEY, MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AS RECORDED INP LAT BOOK 4, AT PAGE 50, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA.

ANY PERSON CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THE SURPLUS FROM THE SALE, IF ANY, OTHER THAN THE PROPERTY OWNER AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MUST FILE A CLAIM NO LATER THAN THE DATE THAT THE CLERK REPORTS THE FUNDS AS UNCLAIMED. Florida Rules of Judicial Administration Rule 2.540 Notices to Persons With Disabilities If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Cheryl Alfonso, ADA Coordinator, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.

SPANISH: Si usted es una persona discapacitada que necesita alguna adaptación para poder participar de este procedimiento o evento; usted tiene derecho, sin costo alguno a que se le provea cierta ayuda. Favor de comunicarse con Cheryl Alfonso, Coordinadora de A.D.A Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 por lo menos 7 días antes de que tenga que comparecer en corte o inmediatamente después de haber recibido ésta notificación si es que falta menos de 7 días para su comparecencia. Si tiene una discapacidad auditiva ó de habla, llame al 711.

KREYOL: Si ou se yon moun ki kokobé ki bezwen asistans ou aparêy pou ou ka patisipé nan prosedu sa-a, ou gen dwa san ou pa bezwen péyé anyen pou ou jwen on seri de èd. Tanpri kontakté Cheryl Alfonso, Co-ordinator ADA, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652O'mwen 7 jou avan ke ou gen pou-ou parèt nan tribunal, ou imediatman ke ou resevwa avis sa-a ou si lè ke ou gen pou-ou alé nan tribunal-la mwens ke 7 jou; Si ou pa ka tandé ou palé byen, rélé 711.

Kevin Madok, CPA

CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Monroe County, Florida

By Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk of Court

Publish: December 29, 2022 & January 5, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

ART APLENTY

More than 70 works of art will be on display at a local museum as part of the Art Guild of the Purple Isles’ 57th annual Members Judged Art Show on Thursday, Jan. 12.

According to Annette Nina, AGPI Annual Show chair, the show will feature 74 pieces of original art by 46 artists, all of whom are members of the Art Guild. The art will comprise nine medium categories. Some of the art will be available for purchase. During the public reception, a number of guild artists will be on hand to answer questions about their work and chat with visitors.

Laurie Richardson, president of the guild, said she expects this year’s show to be one of the best in many years.

“We are excited and pleased to be working once again with the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center, which provides a wonderful venue for our annual show,” said Richardson.

A reception and awards ceremony for AGPI members will be held from 5 to 6 p.m., followed by a reception and viewing for the public from 6 to 8 p.m. A cash bar will be provided and there is no admission charge. The Keys History & Discovery Center is located at MM 82.1 on Overseas Highway. The art show will be open to the public weekly, Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and will close March 16.

More information is available from V. Paul Reynolds, AGPI publicity chairman, at (207) 745-3133 or at vpaulr@tds.net

A butterfly painting submitted during the Judged Art Show in 2020. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

‘Hidden in the Mangroves’ by Jean Frey was submitted during the Judged Art Show in 2021. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

AUTOS WANTED

ALL

YEARS!

Cars - Vans - TrucksRunning or Not.

$CASH$ 305-332-0483

BOAT SLIP/TRAILER

STORAGE FOR RENT

Boat Trailer Spaces Available. $100 per week. Boat dockage available $100 per week. Easy access to the Atlantic and lighthouse. Boat length 32’ or less! Dockage is eighty feet long with good depth for boats. Phone 336-4088140 or 336-287-3345.

EMPLOYMENT

Night Monitor – FREE

Private Room in exchange for overnight coverage at an Assisted Living Facility. 5 nights on, 5 nights off 10pm-8am with weekly stipend Drug and background screen required. Apply at www.westcare.com

Join the Ocean Dayz Team! We are accepting applications for a Sales Associate in Islamorada. Must be outgoing, detail oriented and willing to work weekends. Experience a plus. Starting pay dependent upon qualifications. Apply in person at Island Dreamz, 84001 Overseas Highway, Islamorada or submit resume to: csteele@oceandayz.com

The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a Customer-Service Oriented Server for the pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a Part-Time Line Cook. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Small friendly staff. Hourly pay commensurate with experience. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

SS Wreck and Galley Grill on Grassy Key is looking for line cooks, full or part time. Please call Nicole at 305-4330515, or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com.

CDL Drivers needed. Must have a clean record & drug free. We are offering competitive wages. Please apply in person at Discount Rock & Sand, 10500 Aviation Blvd, Unit 2, Marathon

Boat rental company in Marathon needs an Outboard Mechanic. Some general marina work, and boat experience a plus. Call 305-481-7006

All Keys Yamaha hiring a Technician Marine Repair specializing in Yamaha outboard engines. Hours M-F 8a5p. Apply in person at 2001 Overseas Highway, Marathon. 305-743-3530

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

Immediate positions at the Grassy Key Marina. Under new ownership and looking for smiling faces. Full-time or parttime available. Pay rates are commensurate with experience but we are willing to interview those with no experience who have an interest in working in a marina environment. Please call Randall Glass to schedule an interview at 305-465-1491.

City of Marathon

Current Job Openings: WW Operator/Controls Trainee, Support Services/ Logistics, Paralegal, Utilities Maintenance, Recreation Specialist, and Right of Way Technician. Full Benefits. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us

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

NOW HIRING: Sweet Savannah's is now hiring for multiple positions: Cashier - must be 16 yrs or older, Full-time Baker & Part-time Baker's Assistant. Stop by for an application at 8919 Overseas Highway, Marathon or email: info@ sweetsavannahs.com

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker), Med Tech, Resident Activities Coordinator, Grounds Keeper. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha. org or 305-296-5621. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www. kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.

PRIVATE

COLLECTOR

WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578

HOUSING FOR RENT

HOUSING FOR RENT LONG TERM Key Largo - 2BR/2BA Spacious Doublewide, 1400 sq ft modular on canal w/40’ dock, direct ocean access. Very nice community $3200/ month 786-258-3127

Key Colony Beach - 1 BR 1/2 duplex long term rental. Newly remodeled. $1,900/month. No Pets, No Smoking. 910-382-7818

LUXURY CONDO FOR RENT IN MARATHON. Seawatch Condos. 2 BR, 2 Bath, Den. 1650 sq ft plus 350 sq ft open balcony. Beautiful water view. Full gym, pool, tennis, fishing. Adults only. No pets. $4750 per month plus utilities F/L/S [first, last, and security deposit]. 800-324-6982.

HOUSING FOR RENT RV FOR SALE

STUDIO APT FOR RENT

- Furnished Studio Apt w/patio, like new, W/D, off street parking. Key West. $2,300/month including util. F/L/S Owner/Agent Douglas Miller 305-747-1700

Place your HOUSING FOR RENT ad here for $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

RV FOR SALE

RV FOR SALE - 2017 Thor Citation RV, 24ft Mercedes V6 Diesel, 2 slides, Cummings Diesel Generator, Low Mileage, Many Upgrades, Call Richard 305-363-8021

RV LOT FOR RENT

Large RV Waterfront Lot with Dockage for rent in Marathon. Full hook up. $2000.00/month plus utilities. 305-731-5042

Place your RV LOT FOR RENT ad here for $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

PARALEGAL

The City of Marathon, City Attorney’s Office is seeking a motivated LEGAL ASSISTANT/PARALEGAL with relevant experience to support the City Attorney’s Office.

Please visit the City of Marathon Job Openings webpage at: ci.marathon.fl.us for further details and to complete an application. EOE, Drug Free Workplace. Veteran preference given.

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:

SCADA/RELAY TECHNICIAN

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on quali cations and experience: $30.64/hr. - $34.32/hr.

For more information, including job duties and required quali cations, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being lled.

SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on quali cations and experience: $38.43/hr. - $43.04/hr.

For more information, including job duties and required quali cations, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being lled.

MUST HAVE an active Journeyman Electrician License.

CUSTOMER SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE I

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $19.82/hr. - $22.20/hr.

For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.

WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR

LOCATION: CUDJOE KEY & DUCK KEY

AUTO DIESEL VEHICLE TECHNICIAN

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $27.17/hr. - $30.43/hr.

For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority’s WASTEWATER DIVISION IS GROWING, and we need (3) WWTP Operators with a Florida “C” license or higher. You will perform skilled/ technical work involving the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment plant. This requires technical knowledge and independent judgment to make treatment process adjustments and perform maintenance on plant equipment, machinery, and related control apparatus in accordance with established standards and procedures. Benefit package is extremely competitive! Salary Range: $54,645.98 - $98,454.90. Apply online at www. aa.com/employment

Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Customer Services Department:

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, is accepting applications for the following position in its Fleets & Facilities Section:

School Programs

& Outreach Curriculum Specialist (Full-Time, Permanent)

Visual Communications

(Full-Time/Part-Time, Seasonal or Permanent) Volunteer Resources Administrative Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

Education Registration & Enrollment Specialist (Full-Time, Permanent) Gift Shop Staff (Part-Time, Permanent) Trainer (Full-Time, Permanent)

WEATHER CONDITIONS

FRIDAY

NEW YEAR’S DIVERS ENCOUNTER AN APEX PREDATOR

Partly cloudy

SATURDAY

Sunny

SUNDAY

The past week was a bit of a roller coaster ride in terms of conditions. But this being the busiest week of the year and statistically very poor weather conditions, we’ll take the good with the bad.

And speaking of good: We had a group of divers out on New Year’s Day that were treated to a pretty rare, but awesome encounter. The divers were exploring the reef in about 70 feet of water when a beautiful tiger shark made an appearance. The feedback on the boat after was very similar: “I never felt fear” and “that was the coolest experience ever!”

Seeing these apex predators never gets old and is one small reason we need to protect them. And the word is getting out. In November, we had a groundbreaking vote regarding global shark conservation. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), made a groundbreaking decision in November that promises to turn the tide for shark conservation with 54 species of sharks awarded

ERIC BILLIPS

is the owner, captain and instructor at Islamorada Dive Center and Florida Keys Dive Center. He specializes in scuba, rebreather, spearfishing and captaining in the Florida Keys.

Partly cloudy

Southeast winds, 15 knots

1-2 foot seas

Unsustainable

Southeast winds, 15 knots

East winds, around 10 knots

3 foot seas 2 foot seas

of these ecologically important predators to the brink of extinction. Now, no trade will be possible unless it is sustainable – giving these species a chance to recover, and the strength of CITES listings will drive stronger protections for sharks and rays around the world.

This one step in helping this amazing species, so selfishly, we as divers can enjoy them for years to come.

Tiger

Divers saw a tiger shark like this one during a New Year’s Day dive off the Upper Keys. GERALD SCHOMBS/Unsplash

increased protections. This news places nearly all shark species traded internationally for their fins under CITES oversight.

global trade in shark fins and meat has pushed some

Tiger shark is a sight to see, but needs protections

sharks will get added protections from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. JEREMY LANFANCHI/Unsplash