Key West Weekly 22-0120

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For sale: four COVID tests.

January 20, 2022

TALLAHASSEE TARGETS KEY WEST — AGAIN BILL WOULD LIMIT LOCAL GOVERNMENTS’ POWER | P. 7

FLORIDIANS DEBATE STATE DESSERT

KEY LIME PIE OR STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE? | P. 9

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

In 2021, Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty achieved a total sales volume of over $521M throughout the Florida Keys.

Real estate sold by real experts.

Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty continues to be the leader in luxury real estate by representing 43% of the top 30 transactions in the Keys in 2021. *surpassing our closest competitor by 27%

1075 Duval Street, Suite 15C Key West, FL 33040 305.294.1117 oceansir.com | sothebysrealty.com Bob Cardenas, Managing Broker Each office is independently owned & operated.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

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

5.8

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

ON THE COVER

According to the Associated Press, the U.S. Geological Survey estimated an eruption on the Pacific nation of Tonga on the evening of Jan. 15 was equivalent to a 5.8-magnitude earthquake. A plume of ash, steam and gas rose like a mushroom above the Pacific’s blue waters. A sonic boom could be heard as far away as Alaska. In Tonga, the eruption sent tsunami waves crashing across the shore as people rushed to high ground.

There have been no official reports of deaths or injuries.

Kevin Martin, frontman of the band Candlebox, returns to the Keys Feb. 22 for an acoustic show at Key West Theater. VANESSA HUNSAKER/Contributed

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Se habla español

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COW KEY BRIDGE COULD BE RENAMED FOR CHERYL CATES KEY WEST OFFICIALS ASK STATE FOR THE CHANGE MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

T

he Key West city commission will ask the Florida Legislature and state transportation officials to rename the Cow Key Bridge in honor of the late Cheryl Cates, who lost her battle with COVID-19 on Dec. 2, 2020.

If approved, the bridge that connects Key West to the rest of the Florida Keys island chain will be “officially and permanently renamed the Cheryl Cates Memorial Bridge.”

The city commission was expected to pass a resolution at its meeting on Jan. 19 urging the state to allow the change.

The local committee that championed the renaming includes Peter Batty and Jim Gilleran, who wrote in their proposal, “Cheryl H. Cates elegantly built bridges between people and organizations to achieve community goals. She championed the cause of improving the lives of children, and worked for decades to enhance the quality of life for all in the City of Key West.”

All the commissioners and the mayor signed on to co-sponsor the local resolution.

Also on the Jan. 19 city commission agenda, lawmakers expected to hear an update from City Attorney Shawn Smith about the ongoing cruise ship situation and the drafting of new ordinances that would establish the voter-approved reductions.

Officials also were set to approve a 100-foot expansion of the T-Pier at Mallory Dock, which is in need of repairs. The state will pay the bulk of the cost.

The Cow Key Channel Bridge at the entrance to Key West could become the Cheryl Cates Memorial Bridge. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

Finally, the commission was scheduled to discuss proposed changes to the city’s most important legal document, its charter, which governs all operations in the city.

A Charter and District Boundary Review Committee is empaneled every decade after a census occurs.

The committee is tasked with proposing updates and changes to the charter and to the city commission voting districts based on population changes reflected in the census.

One of the proposed changes would eliminate the need for city voters to approve the city’s acquisition of land or property. The current charter requires approval by the electors, but the committee proposes instead that the acquisition require a supermajority vote of city commission.

Additional changes to the term lengths of the mayor and city commissioners are being discussed.

Starting in 2024, the mayor of Key West would get a four-year term

rather than the current two-year term. Also, mayors would be limited to a total of eight years as mayor, while commissioners would be limited to a total of 12 years.

The Jan. 19 commission meeting took place after presstime on Wednesday. For a complete report from the meeting, visit keysweekly. com.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

KEY WEST SAYS YES TO WORKFORCE HOUSING

COME WORSHIP WITH US

SPECIAL ELECTION AUTHORIZES 3.2-ACRE LAND LEASE

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

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

K

ey West voters answered a resounding “yes” to the only question on Tuesday’s ballot, paving the way for more than 100 units of workforce housing at the cityowned Truman Waterfront.

The city needed voters to authorize a 99-year lease of the waterfront land to The Lofts at Bahama Village, a partnership that includes for-profit developer Vestcor, the Smith Hawks law firm and the nonprofit AH Monroe.

(The city charter requires voters to approve any lease of city property for longer than 20 years.)

Only 17% of eligible voters cast ballots in the special election, but an overwhelming majority — nearly 70% — authorized the long-term lease. Of the 15,864 eligible voters, only 2,645, or 16.7%, cast ballots. Of the 2,645 votes cast, 1,834, or 69%, said yes, compared to 812, or 31%, that voted against the long-term lease, according to results published on the Supervisor of Elections website Tuesday night.

“In order to apply for subsidized housing funds from grants and the government, we need to have control of the land for at least 50 years for affordable rental units, and 99 years for affordable home ownership,” said Scott Pridgen, executive director of AH Monroe, which has successfully steered prior affordable housing developments through the funding gauntlet.

“The passage of the referendum is a giant step that makes it official for real affordable housing for our community,” Pridgen told the Keys Weekly on Tuesday evening. “Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time. Let’s get started.”

City Commissioner Clayton Lopez, whose district will include the new housing, also celebrated the long-awaited, but decadesdelayed, progress.

“I want to thank the people who saw this need and picked up the banner,” Lopez said. “Thank

Sunday Bible Study 10am (on site) Service 11am (on site) & Service 6pm (on site) Wednesday Bible Study 7:30pm (on site)

TOTAL ELIGIBLE VOTERS: 15,864 TOTAL VOTES CAST: 2,646 VOTER TURNOUT: 16.67% YES: 1,834 VOTES, 69.31% NO: 812 VOTES, 30.69%

you, Key West voters. You have approved the affordable housing on this property twice already.

Now, we can finally move forward with making it come true.”

The proposal from The Lofts group includes up to 126 total units — 98 one- to three-bedroom rental apartments, and 28 twoand three-bedroom affordable ownership units, Pridgen said earlier this month. The housing will be built on the last 3.2 undeveloped acres of Truman Waterfront, which the Navy gave to the city 20 years ago. The 3.2 acres are on the site of a former soccer field that was recently replaced by a state-of-the-art turf field.

“Once the referendum passes, we can launch our interactive website to see how many people qualify for rentals and mortgages and determine how many units to build in each income category,” Pridgen said.

He said The Lofts proposal accommodates local households that earn 60%, 80%, 100% and 120% of the Area Median Income (AMI), which is the middle income in a given region. Monroe County’s current AMI is $84,400.

So a two-person household that earns up to $48,850 per year is at 60% of AMI and considered very-low income. The same household that earns $65,100 per year is at 80% AMI, or low-income.

A two-person family earning $84,400 is at 100% AMI and classified as median-income. Twoperson households earning up to $97,650 are at 120% of AMI and considered moderate income.

Once the community’s income levels are evaluated, The Lofts group will determine the final breakdown of rental and owned units.

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2022 Season

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

KEY WEST HONORS THE MAN WITH A DREAM CITY HOSTS MLK PICNIC & MARCH

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day off was also a day to remember and honor the work and the dream of Martin Luther King Jr. The city of Key West hosted a community picnic on Jan. 17, providing hot dogs, burgers, soda and music from noon to 4 p.m. at Nelson English Park in Bahama Village.

Older kids played soccer, basketball and football, while the youngster clambered around the playground and swings.

At 4 p.m., a commemorative march left the park and looped around the neighborhood to Duval Street. Local military groups as well as city officials participated.

— Mandy Miles

MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly 1. Key West women organize a community march honoring Martin Luther King Jr.

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2. Key West kids enjoy the MLK holiday on Jan. 17 at Nelson English Park.

3. Esther Whyms and Mayor Teri Johnston.

4. DJ Daino Gaines provides the soundtrack for the MLK picnic.

5. Nothin’ but net for Zamorious Gardner.

6. Charles Mirth Jr. and Glenwood Lopez.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

Opponents of large cruise ships in Key West protest the arrival of a ship that exceeds the voter-approved ship restrictions on Dec. 9 in Key West. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

KEY WEST IS IN TALLAHASSEE’S CROSSHAIRS — AGAIN Senate bill takes aim at local governments’ authority MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

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bill making its way through the Florida Legislature’s committee process seems written to target Key West’s voterapproved cruise ship reductions — and the ordinances the city is currently drafting to enact them. But the bill has stirred up opposition in cities throughout Florida.

State Sen. Travis Hutson, who represents parts of St. Johns and Volusia counties in the northeast corner of the state, has proposed Senate Bill 280, entitled “Local Ordinances,” that makes it more difficult for a city or county to pass a local ordinance that could negatively affect businesses there.

The city of Key West is in the process of doing just that, turning three voter-approved cruise ship referendums into ordinances.

Last year in Tallahassee, lawmakers nullified such voter initiatives and prohibited restrictions on maritime commerce. So city officials in Key West decided to turn those initiatives into ordinances, which were not nullified by the state, but could now face significant scrutiny and drawn-out litigation.

Senate Bill 280 represents another potential snag to the city’s pending cruise ship reductions.

Under the bill, before a city or county may enact a new ordinance, it will have to present a “business impact statement” that includes: “the public purpose to be served by the ordinance as well as the estimated economic ef-

fect of the proposed ordinance on businesses both within and outside the municipality, including both adverse and beneficial effects and both direct and Florida Sen. Travis indirect effects; a Hutson, a Repubgood faith estimate lican from the St. of the number of Augustine area, businesses likely to has proposed bills be affected by the that further limit ordinance; an analylocal governments’ sis of the extent to authority to hanwhich the proposed dle local issues. ordinance is likely CONTRIBUTED to deter or encourage the formation of new businesses within the municipality’s jurisdiction; and an analysis of the extent to which the proposed ordinance will impede the ability of businesses within the municipality to compete with other businesses in other areas of this state or other domestic markets.”

The bill allows cities to outsource this task and it makes exceptions for some local laws that deal with fire and building codes and growth management. If a new local ordinance is challenged in court, Senate Bill 280, if passed, would prohibit a city from enforcing the ordinance until the legal challenge is decided by the courts. But if a city wins in court, it may lift the stay of enforcement regardless of pending appeals.

While presumed by many to target Key West’s pending cruise ship ordinances, SB 280 faces harsh opposition from some mainland cities and counties.

“Letting local officials decide local issues is at the heart of municipal government. Republicans in Tallahassee, though, consider the concept more threatening even than critical race,” writes Randy Schultz in his South Florida Sun Sentinel piece, “Tallahassee declaring all-out war on cities.” “Hutson defended his bills as ‘guardrails’ to keep cities from ‘going rogue.’ But St. Augustine City Commission members oppose the actions of their hometown senator and wonder why he didn’t consult them. Hutson responded that it wasn’t his responsibility to ask. … The legislation could discourage cities and counties even from proposing regulation. …

In a straw poll last November, Miami Beach voters said they want bars to close at 2 a.m., not 5 a.m.

Under these bills, the city commission couldn’t do that. … Sen. Gary Farmer, D-Lighthouse Point, correctly described the bills as the ‘actualization of a nightmare’ for local government.”

County and city leaders throughout the state, including some Key West city commissioners, are feeling hamstrung by what they say is a Tallahassee power grab by legislators influenced by lobbyists and beholden to special interests such as cruise lines and vacation rental companies.

As of Jan. 18, SB 280 about local ordinances had passed the Senate’s Community Affairs Committee and was slated to be heard by the Senate Rules Committee on Thursday, Jan. 20.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

Heath was wearing a navy blue short sleeve shirt, gray shorts, prescription sunglasses and Keen sandals.

He is 5-foot-7-inches tall.

CONTRIBUTED

CHARLOTTE TWINE www.keysweekly.com

FAMILY OFFERING T $25,000 REWARD

Heath was last seen on his Panga around Sugarloaf Key on Nov. 22. CONTRIBUTED

JASON HEATH WAS LAST SEEN ABOARD HIS BOAT ON NOV. 22

he family of Jason Heath is now offering a $25,000 reward for the return of Jason, his Panga boat or information leading to their return. Jason was last seen taking his 25-foot blue Panga center console boat, with a white Suzuki 150 hp motor, out of Sugarloaf Key at around 2 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 22.

An extensive search was conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard, Florida Fish and Wildlife, Monroe County Sheriff and community volunteers.

The Coast Guard’s active search was suspended after six days. But his family is forging on. Per the website findjasonheath.org, which his sister, Allison, created, “we are continuing the search for our son, brother, and uncle.”

“The decision to suspend the search for any missing person is among the hardest the Coast Guard has to make,” said Captain Adam Chamie, commander of the Coast Guard’s Sector Key West.

“There are a number of factors that influence that decision and the preceding search, including sea state, currents, temperature, time since distress, and what the person is wearing, among others.

We input these factors into our Search And Rescue Optimal Planning System in our Command Center, which helps us determine how best to deploy our small boats, cutters, and helicopters to find the missing person. We work tirelessly during every SAR operation to maximize our probability of success to bring the missing person home.”

Coast Guard crews searched approximately 15,380 square miles, roughly 1 1/2 times the size of Maryland.

According to a Coast Guard press release, Heath’s father, Jim, reported to the Coast Guard on Tuesday, Nov. 22, at about 3:30 p.m. that his son was late in coming back from his boat trip. Jason was last heard from around noon on that day.

A Monroe County Sheriff officer conducted a welfare check at Jason’s home. The family’s 25-foot blue center console was missing, but Jason’s wallet, vehicle and his three dogs were found at the residence.

“Our sincere condolences go out to the family and friends of Jason Heath,” said Capt. Adam Chamie, commanding officer, Sector Key West. “The decision to suspend a search is never easy.”

On that day, 35-year-old Jason was wearing a navy blue short sleeve shirt, gray shorts, prescription sunglasses and Keen sandals. He is 5-foot7-inches tall. After receiving his cell phone data, the Coast Guard and the family deduced from his phone’s last ping from Cudjoe Key Tower at 3:15 p.m. that he was probably on his way home through Bow Channel to Tarpon Creek cut.

However, locals say that there was a squall in the area at about that same time. Allison feels that her brother’s disappearance is related to this squall, though other possibilities do go through her mind.

“The water is shallow,” she pointed out. “We would have found him and the boat pretty quickly at this point. I hate to go speculate on all the possibilities — whether someone stole the boat?”

She said that Jason was in a positive state of mind, looking forward to making the 21-hour road trip to New Jersey to visit the family, and his new niece Stella, for Thanksgiving that week. His car was half-packed for that journey. The family feels that he was just taking his Panga out for a short jaunt before finishing preparing for the road trip.

“My brother loves giving gifts,” Allison said.

“He was trying to figure out what to give Stella for Christmas. Now we’ll never know. He asked, ‘What does she like?’ He hasn’t been around many babies before. ‘What do you get a 6-month-old?’”

Allison said that when she first discovered her brother was missing, she was in a state of shock. ”The best way to describe it is, you feel like you’ve had a concussion. You’re disoriented, and you don’t know what’s going on. Now I created the website and keep it updated.”

Allison is savvy with computers since she is a technical director for a children’s hospital in Philadelphia, near where she lives in Hammonton, New Jersey. Her brother, Jason, lived full-time in Sugarloaf and worked remotely for a tech company.

The Heath family is trying to do their best to cope during this time. “I’ve been reading a lot about ambiguous loss,” Allison said. “I’m definitely keeping in mind he’s probably gone, but maybe he’s somewhere disoriented. How much time goes by before you resolve things in your brain? It’s been really hard for my parents. They don’t want to do this stuff — that’s why I’ve talked to reporters.”

Adam Linhardt, director of media relations for the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, declined to discuss the possibility of criminal activity connected to Jason’s disappearance. “I can’t comment on the investigation,” Linhardt said. “Detectives are still looking into it. It wouldn’t be appropriate to make any further statement.”

The Heath family would appreciate any information that can help them fill in the timeline of Jason’s Nov. 22 boat trip or find any physical evidence that would help bring them closure. Please contact them with any leads at 609-380-8147 or FindJasonHeath@gmail.com. Or message his sister, Allison Heath, directly on Facebook.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

‘LET THEM EAT CAKE’ FLORIDIANS FIGHT FOR DESSERT DESIGNATION MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

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s if there weren’t enough arguments in the world today, a Florida state senator from the Plant City area wants the Florida Legislature to designate strawberry shortcake as Florida’s official dessert, potentially usurping Key lime pie, which has been the state’s official pie since 2006.

A trio of Key West residents – David Sloan, Paul Menta and Vice Mayor Sam Kaufman – have formed the Conch Republic Key Lime Pie Council and launched a hilarious, and well-researched, online petition titled, “Keep Key Lime Pie As Florida’s Dessert.”

The petition suggests, “Strawberry shortcake shall be designated Florida’s official cake, and Key lime pie shall remain Florida’s official pie. Together they can share the limelight as Florida’s official desserts.

“If Senator Burgess and the residents of Plant City contest this bill, the dispute shall be settled under the official bylaws of the Conch Republic, requiring a duel at high noon between the vice mayors of Key West and Plant City, each armed with only their favorite dessert.”

The pie council members are hoping Florida Keys residents will get behind their initiative and sign the online petition that reads as follows: WHEREAS: Senator (Danny) Burgess has filed a bill to designate Strawberry Shortcake as Florida’s Official Dessert.

WHEREAS: Key Lime Pie is a native Floridian dessert that originated in the Florida Keys, and Strawberry Shortcake is a non-native dessert that originated in Europe.

WHEREAS: Key Lime Pie was designated the Official State Pie of Florida in 2006 and has served proudly as the de facto State Dessert for 16 years, and Strawberry Shortcake has never received a state designation.

WHEREAS: Florida has prepared at least four world-record Key lime pies and served the mammoth pies in Key West, Boston, Atlanta, the Governor in Tallahas-

see, and Good Morning America, and Florida has prepared only one world-record Strawberry Shortcake, served only to people in Plant City.

WHEREAS: The current world record Key Lime Pie title is held by Florida. The Philippines holds the world record Strawberry Shortcake title.

WHEREAS: Key Lime Pie reminds people of sun, sand and tropical breezes, and Strawberry Shortcake reminds people of an early 1980s cartoon character owned by a Canadian corporation.

WHEREAS: Key Lime Pie is celebrated in song by Kenny Chesney with the lyric: Big white sail / Red sunset / Lobster tail and don’t forget / My, my, my – my Key Lime Pie, and Strawberry Shortcake is celebrated in song by R. Kelly with the lyrics: Band-Aids for my knees / Girl set the table / Now let me feast / Strawberry Shortcake.

WHEREAS: Key Lime Pie is ingrained in the American presidencies of Taft, Hoover, Truman, Eisenhower, Nixon, Ford, Carter, Reagan, Clinton, Bush, Obama, and Trump, and Strawberry Shortcake is not.

WHEREAS: Key Lime Pie and Strawberry Shortcake are both delicious.

NOW, THEREFORE: BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA: STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE SHALL BE DESIGNATED FLORIDA’S OFFICIAL CAKE, AND KEY LIME PIE SHALL REMAIN FLORIDA’S OFFICIAL PIE. TOGETHER THEY CAN SHARE THE LIMELIGHT AS FLORIDA’S OFFICIAL DESSERTS. If Senator Burgess and the residents of Plant City contest this bill, the dispute shall be settled under the official bylaws of the Conch Republic requiring a duel at high noon between the Vice Mayors of Key West and Plant City, each armed with only their favorite dessert.

Prepared by: David L. Sloan, Paul Menta and Vice Mayor Sam Kaufman, Key West, Florida.

Scan the code with a smartphone camera to go to the change. org online petition.

200 YEARS AND COUNTING

KEY WEST BICENTENNIAL EXHIBIT OPENS AT CUSTOM HOUSE

The Key West Art & Historical Society opens its landmark ‘Key West 200’ exhibit on Friday, Jan, 21 at the Custom House Museum. CONTRIBUTED

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he Key West Art & Historical Society this weekend will open “Key West 200,” a major exhibit complementing the 200th anniversary of the first permanent settlement of Key West in 1822. The trip through the time of an island is on display in the Bryan and Bumpus Galleries at the Custom House Museum, 281 Front St., Key West.

Running Jan. 21 through Dec. 11, the exhibit highlights Key West’s people, culture and community. It features rarely displayed artifacts that tell the story of the people, industries, migration, culture and architecture that shaped the island.

Artifacts include sponging equipment; cigar roller tables and tools; 19th century homewares, clothing, artwork and photographs; Overseas Railway memorabilia; Ernest Hemingway’s boxing gloves; Native American tools; Key West Hand Print dresses; and U.S. Navy ship models.

“Essentially, Key West is small town America. … The difference between our island and other small towns is that once their industries die away, the town suffers longterm consequences and many relocate in search of opportunity,” said Cori Convertito, curator of the Bicentennial exhibit. “Not Key West. Residents have been knocked down several times during its 200-year history, but they get back up and find the next successful industry. In a way, the island continues to reinvent itself; this is owing to the assiduous people who call this island home.”

The exhibit is sponsored by the Helmerich Trust and the Florida Division of Cultural Affairs.

— Contributed

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

COMMISSIONER RACE HEATS UP Raschein, Peixoto file to fill rest of Forster’s term

By Mandy Miles and Jim McCarthy

CHARLOTTE TWINE

charlotte@keysweekly.com

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pper Keys residents Holly Raschein and Jose Peixoto have both filed to run for County Commissioner, District 5, and serve the remainder of Commissioner Mike Forster’s term.

When Forster passed away from COVID-19 in September, Raschein was chosen by Gov. Ron DeSantis to temporarily fill Forster’s seat.

However, according to Florida statutes, if a vacancy occurs in a county commissioner seat and the remainder of the term is 28 months or longer — as in Forster’s case — then at the next general election a candidate will be elected to fill the term’s remaining time. The election will take place on Nov. 8, 2022.

Republican Jose ​​ Peixoto, 61, is originally from Brazil and is a 30-year Key Largo resident who raised three children in the Keys with his wife, Bianca. He provides maintenance for Key Largo and Ocean Reef houses.

However, he follows local politics closely, and though he has yet to win an election, he has run for Florida Keys Mosquito Control District 5, Florida State Representative and U.S Congress.

His first campaign was in 2010 for the mosquito district, and he decided to run because he was concerned about the high salary of the staff. The county issues that concern him are affordable housing, the environment and the transparency of the Tourist Development Council’s (TDC’s) budget.

“I think some of the money the TDC has should help the sheriff,” he said. “We live surrounded by water, the Florida Keys are a gateway for drugs, and the sheriff doesn’t have a full marina. I want the county commission to report to voters how the TDC money is used.”

Peixoto is concerned that Raschein, also a Republican, does not follow party lines.

“I get accused of running a negative campaign because I bring up the record of opponents,” he said.

He pointed out that during her time as a state representative, Raschein voted against legislation mandating that parents have to be advised if their child has had an abortion.

Holly Raschein

Jose Peixoto

“I don’t believe abortion is birth control,” Peixoto said. “That’s the point of being a Republican. We are conservative people, and we vote pro life, all the time.”

Raschein, 41, of Tavernier, is the government relations director for AshBritt. Previously, she was termlimited from the State House in 2020 after serving four terms.

Raschein was born in Anchorage, Alaska, and moved to Florida in 1999 when she attended Florida State University. She graduated with a degree in political science. She also has a master’s in public administration from Florida International University.

She has a 9-year-old son enrolled in the Keys school system.

Raschein would like to fight for a clean environment, responsible development and resilient infrastructure.

“I never forget I find myself in a position I never wanted to be in — having to step into the shoes of Mike Forster,” she said. “I will never live up to his legacy, but spend every day trying. But I am honored that our great Republican governor, Ron DeSantis, felt I was the best person in the Keys to pick up his torch. On the other hand, Mr. Peixoto is a perennial candidate, having run in every election cycle since 2010. It would be disrespectful to my constituents to distinguish his comments with a response. My 20 years of service to Monroe County — as a legislative aide, a member of the Florida House, chairman of two House committees dealing with environmental issues, and a member of the Florida House Republican leadership team — stands on its own, and I am excited at how this new challenge as a county commissioner is unfolding. … I am privileged to serve the people of Monroe County.”

COVID NOT FILLING HOSPITAL BEDS IN KEYS HOSPITALIZATIONS, NOT CASE COUNTS, BECOMES PREFERRED METRIC FOR SOME

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s the highly contagious Omicron variant makes positive COVID tests the rule rather than the exception, experts point to hospitalizations rather than case counts as the most reliable metric to gauge the pandemic’s threat in a community.

The Keys Weekly compiled those numbers from Florida Keys hospitals.

As of Jan. 19, Lower Keys Medical Center had eight patients with COVID, according to LKMC spokeswoman Lynn Corbett-Winn said. That’s down from late last week when 16 COVID patients were being treated.

“We are in yellow status, which denotes a deviation from our normal operations for facilitation of patient transfers to higher levels of care outside of our community,” Lower Keys Medical Center CEO David Clay said. “We have been able to care for our current surge.

We have sufficient bed capacity and have the ability to flex up and down with our COVID census. We don’t designate (a specific number of) beds for COVID because we use industry-standard isolation protocol with COVID patients. The hospital continues to perform elective procedures to take care of our community.”

As of Jan. 19 in the Upper Keys, Mariners Hospital reported 12 COVID patients in-house.

The number remains the same from last Friday. Across the

Baptist Health South Florida system, 646 patients with COVID-19 were being treated.

CEO Drew Grossman said health system officials have been watching it closely since the New Year.

“And we will continue to do so,” he said. “Staff is working really hard and we can all just pray this comes to an end someday.”

Fishermen’s Community Hospital in Marathon typically transports its COVID patients to Mariners, and as of Friday had no COVID-related admissions.

For those still monitoring case counts, the City of Key West is conducting extensive testing in partnership with Keys AHEC (Area Health Education Center). From Dec. 30 to Jan. 12, AHEC conducted 1,918 tests and reported 598 positives, or a 32% positivity rate, City Manager Patti McLauchlin said.

Per a Florida Health Department report, 430,297 new cases of COVID-19 were reported between Jan. 7 and Jan. 13. That’s up 8.5 percent from Dec. 31 to Jan. 7, when 396,353 positive cases were recorded.

In Monroe County, 1,644 new cases of COVID-19 were recorded. Eighty-three percent of the population is vaccinated to put the Keys at second place in Florida. Only Miami-Dade has a higher vaccination rate, 94%.

11

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

An American flamingo seen on West Summerland Key last week.

MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

THE EXQUISITE WEIRDNESSES OF THE AMERICAN FLAMINGO

I

t is surprisingly difficult to see a flamingo in Florida, at least a wild one. We get flamingos in the Florida Keys, specifically American flamingos, but not often. Once or twice in the Lower Keys on a good year, though we’ve been on a streak of late – three sightings in 18 months.

This third sighting placed me on MARK West Summerland Key the other day, HEDDEN handing the contents of my pockets to my wife. ... is a photographer, writer, and I’ve been lucky enough to see flamingos in the Keys semi-professional and the Everglades several dozen times, but it doesn’t birdwatcher. He matter. I will drive a medium distance to see a flamingo has lived in Key nearly any time one shows up around here, because West for more than 25 years and they are just so astoundingly weird. may no longer I’ve been thinking deeply scientific thoughts lately be employable in about whether a flamingo is structured more like a the real world. He goose with a snake grafted on for a neck, or like a minis also executive iaturized giraffe with wings. I’ve been leaning toward director of the Florida Keys Audu- the grafted-snake idea. The neck moves so much difbon Society. ferently than most birds’. It seems extraordinarily loose and flexible as if boneless, like a haunted rope.

No doubt this has something to do with how flamingos eat with their heads upside-down between their feet, filtering water through their bills with massively powerful tongues. (Their tongues are so powerful that in olden times they were considered a delicacy.) But still.

Also, how, how, how is something that lives in the real world that freaking pink? I know it’s the result of carotenoids from the brine shrimp and algae that make up the bulk of their diet. But how is that the best color for their survival and evolution as a species?

These physiological traits shouldn’t add up to a highly functioning creature, but they do.

Flamingos were not always this scarce. John James Audubon said he saw a good number of them here in the 1830s. In the 1850s a man named Gustav Würdeman wrote a letter, published posthumously by the Smithsonian Institute, describing a canoe expedition near Islamorada, where he and a local captain captured 100 flamingoes from a flock of about 500. In 1901, Judge E.R. Lowe stumbled across a breeding colony of 40 to 50 nests on Sugarloaf Key. There aren’t many hard and fast numbers about historical flamingo populations in Florida, but there is strong consensus that their numbers plummeted to near zero after the early 1900s plume-hunting era, when a flamingo skin would fetch the equivalent of $700 today. The population has never really recovered.

For the longest time any flamingo seen in Florida was thought to be an escapee from a zoo or the Hialeah Park Race Track, though several sightings in more recent times indicate that may not be the case.

The West Summerland Key flamingo had shown up two days before, reported on eBird by a couple visiting from Texas. It had been hanging around a place informally known as the Horseshoe, most likely a borrow pit for the construction of the railroad or the highway, though its history is not totally clear. (Get to work, his-

tory columnist Brad Bertelli.) I’m not sure how deep the pit was, but it was called the horseshoe because it has two skinny spits of land on either side. The bird was out at the end, a quarter mile away, a pink dot surrounded by green waves.

I’d taken decent photos of a flamingo before. But can you ever really take enough decent photos of flamingos? I think not.

This one was too far for a great photo. You could walk out on the spit east of the borrow pit and get closer, but the bird would have been in bad light. The spit on the western side was disconnected from the beach, but looked wadeable. So after I gave my wife my wallet and keys, I dropped my camera into a Winn Dixie shopping bag – the fancy, reusable kind, not the disposable kind – and started out.

Within 10 steps I was up to my chest in water, holding the Winn Dixie bag on my shoulder. I thought about turning back, but kept at it until it got shallower.

Once on the spit, I moved slowly. There was a group of royal terns out at the end of the spit, and I figured if I could avoid flushing them, I wouldn’t flush the flamingo.

When I’d halved the distance to the flamingo I figured I was close enough.

The flamingo was slowly pacing between the ends of the horseshoe. It was windy, and when he got close I would take shots, laying down in the seaweed to get low and convey the scale of the waves.

I steadily filled my memory card.

At one point a kiteboarder got close, did one of those high leaps and slapped his board down about 50 yards from the flamingo. The bird took off in the ungainly way they do, flapping at first, and when it had a little elevation, slapping its webbed feet on the surface of the water until fully airborne.

The bird banked and flew off in the opposite direction of the kiteboarder, 100, 200, 400 yards away, and I figured that was it.

Who knew when we’d get to see another flamingo? But then it banked again, flew a couple loops around the horseshoe, and landed in its original spot.

I had a chance to appreciate its in-flight weirdness, the way it looked as if it could fly forward or backward without much difference, the way the neck didn’t seem to be supporting the head so much as acting like a swinging gangway between two nearly independent entities, the way the bird made me question my whole understanding of how the world works.

16

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

SONGS YOU ALREADY LOVE

BY MEN YOU SOON WILL CHOIR OF MAN TO PERFORM AT TENNESSEE WILLIAMS THEATRE

OBITUARY

‘DON’T BE BITTER; BE BEAUTIFUL’

KEY WEST LOSES A DIVA; ‘VOGUE’ DIES AT 68

T

The Choir of Man performs at Tennessee Williams Fine Arts Center on Thursday, Jan. 27.

T

he Choir of Man will play Tennessee Williams Theatre on the campus of the College of the Florida Keys as part of its 2022 North American tour. The hit of numerous international music festivals will be in Key West on Thursday, Jan. 27 at 8 p.m.

Known across the globe as “the ultimate feel-good show,” The Choir of Man hosts a 90-minute party, concert and the “the best pub ‘lock-in’ you’ve ever attended.”

Featuring pop, classic rock, folk, Broadway and pub tunes, The Choir of Man has something for everyone. A multi-talented cast of nine handsome guys combines harmonies, singalongs, tap dance and poetic meditations on the power of community in this homage to that gathering place we’ve all missed so much over the last year: your local pub. With a real working bar on stage, come ready to drink in the action.

“After spending months at home during the pandemic, the boys hit the road in early 2021 and took Australia, New Zealand and UK by storm,” said Nic Doodson, one of the show’s producers. “After sold out engagements in markets and venues in multiple international markets, including the Sydney Opera House, our sights are now set on a return to the States for this all-new 2022 tour. … So, come thirsty for great music and great beer!”

The group’s pandemic recovery world tour included a 15-week run in Cleveland’s Playhouse Square. Gina Vernaci, Playhouse Square CEO, said, “It is the perfect comeback show with music that you absolutely love.”

The Choir of Man’s repertoire includes songs by Adele, Queen, Paul Simon, Katy Perry, Red Hot Chili Peppers and more.

Tickets are available at 305295-7676 or keystix.com. Full bar service is available.

The Choir of Man is part of the Tennessee Williams Theatre’s Encore Series, which presents a lineup of nationally touring Broadway musicals and concerts.

Next up is the national tour of Broadway’s “An American in Paris” on Feb. 5, Neil Berg’s “50 Years of Rock ’n’ Roll – Part II” on March 11 and “Ten Tenors” direct from Australia on March 16. The theatre is also preparing for a lineup of concerts and events including “One Night of Queen,” “Stayin’ Alive,” “Proud Tina,” “Motown With A Twist,” “The Peking Acrobats” and concert pianist Drew Petersen. More information is at keystix.com.

— Contributed

THE CHOIR OF MAN 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 27 Tennessee Williams Theatre Tickets: keystix.com or 305-295-7676

he name on Facebook is Vogue Vandernikoffe, but anyone familiar with Key West’s drag scene from the 1980s through today knew him as Diva Vogue, the inimitable performer, entertainer and DJ who created a world all his own. Others were just fortunate to be invited for a visit.

Vogue, the house DJ at Sidebar on Angela Street, died on Thursday, Jan. 13 at the age of 68.

“He was working at Sidebar that night and had a heart attack,” said longtime friend Kenny Cabrera. “Apparently, he passed away in the ambulance on the way to the hospital. But you know what?

That would have been the way he would have wanted.”

No long sickness, just a grand exit.

The sassy and spiritual St. Louis native arrived in Key West in the late 1970s and loved it here, sister Deborah Davis told the Keys Weekly on Jan. 19. “”Everybody knew the same person with my brother,” she said. “He didn’t change for anyone. I remember he bought me my first Patti LaBelle record and made us be his backup singers.”

In Key West, Diva Vogue was the house DJ at the legendary Copa nightclub on Duval Street, which was destroyed by a fire in 1995. After that, he spun tunes and performed in drag at the former Divas nightclub, which was located on the site of the current Aqua nightclub.

Recent years found her at the DJ table at Sidebar.

“I remember one night at Divas, everyone was closing up and Billie, the bartender, thought Vogue had already left,” Cabrera said. “But Vogue was still in the back and got locked into the club.

The message she left on Billie’s answering machine (before cell phones) was hilarious: ‘Billie, this is your Diva Vogue. I am locked in the club. Please call me.’”

Key West dentist Claude Harris was a decades-long friend of Vogue, and recalled “his upbeat attitude, fabulous smile and infectious laugh brightened everyone’s day.”

Famous for a Tina Turner impersonation, Vogue was “simply the best, better than all the rest,” said Michelle Norwood, who worked with Vogue every time he volunteered with AH Monroe.

— Mandy Miles

Vogue had many faces, but just one unmistakable smile.

17

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

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18

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

‘JUST THE RIGHT AMOUNT ‘CATS TALK BACK’ OF ABSURD’ REVIEW: AT RED BARN THEATRE

SAVE THE DATE Thursday, Jan. 20 • Tickets go on sale for the Anne McKee Artists Fund’s 27th annual Fine Art Auction, scheduled for Feb. 23 at The Studios of Key West. Space is limited due to COVID protocols, so reserve a seat early at mckeefund.org.

Saturday, Jan. 22 • South Florida Symphony Orchestra returns to Key West’s Tennessee Williams Fine Arts Center at the College of the Florida Keys, 7:30 p.m. Visit southfloridasymphony.org for tickets and information.

‘Cats Talk Back’ stars Murphy Davis, Michael Mulligan, Nicole Nurenburg, Marjorie Paul Shook and Rhett Kalman. It is directed by Joy Hawkins. CONTRIBUTED

ERIN STOVER SICKMEN www.keysweekly.com

T

he Red Barn Theatre opens its 2022 season with a play that, in many ways, perfectly fits the tone of the moment.

“Cats Talk Back” is just the right amount of absurd to compliment the first month of the new year. As usual, director Joy Hawkins has a keen sense of what audiences want to see at any given moment.

The current climate of theater around the country feels cautious. Perhaps cautiously optimistic, but cautious nonetheless. On the other side of the fourth wall, theatergoers are approaching the medium with similar trepidation.

It seems then a solid choice to curate lighter, accessible fare — works that will have the audience laughing and, hopefully, remembering what they missed most about live arts. The Red Barn Theatre’s production of “Cats Talk Back” accomplishes exactly that. With a cast featuring five of Key West’s favorite comedic actors — Michael Mulligan, Marjorie Paul Shook, Nicole Nurenburg, Rhett Kalman and Jeff Johnson — the play functions as mock reality. And if a slanted version of reality isn’t just so perfectly now, well then, what is?

“Cats Talk Back” opens with Johnson welcoming the audience to a live conversation with former “Cats” cast members. For those who’ve somehow managed to escape its claws, “Cats” opened in 1982 and ran for 18 years and nearly 8,000 performances. The Andrew Lloyd Webber spectacle featured highly emotive, elaborately costumed felines dancing their way through a surreal (and arguably thin) plot based on a book of children’s poetry by T.S. Eliot. Also, there were leg warmers. Yes, really. Shortly after its debut, Lloyd Webber was dubbed the “King of Broadway Spectacle.” Whether that should be construed as a compliment or an insult lies in the eyes of the theatergoer. Regardless, “Cats” is almost universally regarded as the epitome of his oversaturated oeuvre.

Fast forward 40 years to a courtyard in Key West, where Johnson has just brought his supposed interview subjects to the stage. As the emcee of the evening, Johnson conveys a perfectly genuine version of himself — earnest, enthusiastic, someone who can hold a stage and lead a conversation. The “cast members” who occupy the stools to his right embody four micro-visions of a life spent in theater. Mulligan brings charisma to Hector, a pompous stalwart of Old Broadway, while Kalman imbues his character, Stephen, with a perfect twitchiness with which to overanalyze his “Cats” career. Nurenburg gives a playful flounce to Bonnie, an ingenue who desperately wants to feel included. It’s Shook, though, who draws out the deepest laughs with her depiction of Monique, a wiser-than-one-would-expect glam madame who spent 18 years in her role. Each actor brings their own brand of funny, but the best moments come when our cats team up. At the risk of ruining a sublime surprise, it’s worth noting that the beautifully absurd pinnacle of the play comes in the form of a song — a disturbing and hilariously violent romp of a number that was supposedly cut from the original songbook.

Writer Bess Wohl wrote the play when she was a student at Yale School of Drama. Each character was written with a specific classmate in mind. The sum of these characters was a “love letter to theater, actors and the community we build together,” says Wohl. “We promoted the play as if it was entirely real, and many non-Yale people who came to see the show thought the actors in it were actually the real performers from Cats. It all felt like a giant trick, a joyful prank, which I now realize is how I think about most theatre, no matter the form.” Wohl’s lovable prank feels right at home in Key West, balancing comedy with a nod to the communal bonds of creating and watching theater.

Adding to the sensibility of the moment, “Cats Talk Back” is staged outdoors, under a canopy of lights in Red Barn Theatre’s beautifully improvised courtyard. Comedy, community, fresh air — 2022 is off to a good start at the Red Barn.

Monday, Jan. 24 • The Friends of the Key West Library’s speaker series presents bestselling author S.A. Cosby via Zoom at 6 p.m. Lectures are free and open to all, but you must register to receive the presentation link at friendsofthekeywestlibrary.org/registration.

Sunday, Jan. 30 • Bahama Village Music Program hosts Crooks Second Line Parade starting at noon at the Hog’s Breath Saloon and ending around 3 p.m. at the Green Parrot. Email crookssecondlinekw@ gmail.com or call 305-504-7664.

• Inaugural Key West Music Awards, 7 p.m. at Key West Theater.

Tuesday, Feb. 1 • Filmmaker and women’s rights advocate Roya Sadat, one of the BBC’s 100 Most Inspiring Women of 2021, will appear at The Studios of Key West for a special screening of her film, “A Letter to the President,” at 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 3 • Anne McKee art auction preview of available works, 6 to 8 p.m. at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Previews are also available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

Friday, Feb. 18 • Applications due for vacancies on the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council. Contact Elizabeth.Trueblood@noaa.gov.

Wednesday, Feb. 23 • Anne McKee Artists Fund Fine Art Auction takes place at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Artists receive 50% of the auction price and the McKee Fund receives the other half.

The nonprofit fund has awarded more than $343,000 to more than 400 artists since 1994. Visit mckeefund.org.

19

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

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20

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

Mainstreaming

A

s if there weren’t enough arguments in the world today, a state senator from the Plant City area wants the Florida Legislature to designate strawberry shortcake as Florida’s official dessert, potentially usurping Key lime pie, which has been the state’s official pie since 2006 (see story on page 9).

We at the Keys Weekly are hyper-sensitive to issues facing the Florida Keys and are willing to fight for our tart confection, so we offer...

10. Plant City contributes practically nothing to Citizens Property Insurance.

9. Jimmy Buffett has never written a song about Plant City or strawberries (creative credit: David Sloan)

REASONS GOV. DESANTIS SHOULD VETO PLANT CITY’S AUDACIOUS DESSERT BILL

8. Hemingway never drank strawberry daiquiris in Plant City, but he did drink lime daiquiris in Key West.

7. Plant City’s town plant is the winter strawberry.

Our town plant is weed.

6. People in Plant City are rumored to root for the Dallas Cowboys and New York Yankees.

5. Plant City has a Walmart SuperCenter. They sold their soul; we didn’t.

4. For a town claiming to be a city of plants, we don’t see a tree growing out of a 7-mile-long bridge anywhere.

3. Strawberries cause gas.

2. “I can’t wait to rent a car and drive through Plant City for a day,” said no one, ever.

1. People lose themselves in the Florida Keys. People are simply lost when they are in Plant City.

WHAT TO DO THIS WEEK

Take a deep dive into the herculean efforts to connect all the Keys to the mainland, fly through the air with the champion cheerleaders of Navarro and get reacquainted with Elvis Costello.

READ | LAST TRAIN TO PARADISE This book is now 20 years old. but it’s an engaging, thorough and stunning history, which reads like a novel, of Henry Flagler’s final major project — the railroad connecting the mainland and the Florida Keys. Weaving the dominant themes of Flagler’s vision and nature’s obstinance, author Les Standiford pulls real drama from a project that should have failed many times over. The Monroe County Library has several copies, in print and ebook format.

WATCH | CHEER For those living under a rock, Netflix’s docu series “Cheer” saved many Americans from the doldrums at the start of the pandemic, when we were isolating in place and worried about toilet paper. After the debut of “Cheer” in January 2020, many viewers were surprised to be enthralled by the story of national champion cheerleaders at Navarro Junior College in Corsicana, Texas, and their coach, Monica Aldama. The series displayed the athleticism, discipline and sheer charisma of Aldama and her team. Now the series is back with new episodes, and it does not blink as it shows how national fame — and criminal allegations — affected the cheerleaders and their coaches.

Riveting television. Stream on Netflix.

LISTEN | ‘THE BOY NAMED IF’ BY ELVIS COSTELLO Elvis Costello’s new “The Boy Named If” is his purest dose of rock & roll since maybe “Blood & Chocolate.” Where that 1986 album teems with resentment and untrammeled ire, “The Boy Named If” feels exuberant. Costello is playing with familiar building blocks — pumped-up riffs, fleet wordplay, an omnivorous musical appetite — yet often assembling these elements in fresh, unexpected ways.

21

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

CONCH TOWN RECORDS SIGNS KEY WEST MUSICIAN

BEN SOLOVE

HUMILITY, GRATITUDE & SUCCESS DEFINE GARY HEMPSEY

W

hen did Gary Hempsey start playing music?

“About 20 years after I started playing music,” the musician said with his trademark blend of humor, humility and gratitude that have paved the way for his successful career.

Hempsey’s brother got him his first guitar when he was a young teen in South Philly. “My brother wanted to sing Jackson Browne and Bob Dylan songs, so he bought me a guitar to play while he sang.”

By 14, Gary had learned three or four chords, mostly by ear, and could strum a few songs. At 16, he started lessons at the School for Guitar in Philadelphia and slowly learned about his instrument.

“I don’t have the mathematical mind many great guitarists have,” he says. “After about five years, I remember that breakthrough moment when I finally felt like I got it.”

Wanting to pursue a music career, Hempsey set out for California, settled near San Francisco and started writing original music.

“I had written quite a few songs, but didn’t really fit into any genre. My songs were all over the place, kind of chaotic, and frankly not very listenable,” he said.

After making connections in the Los Angeles music scene and recording in a garage studio, “The music was easy and pure and just sort of morphed into something listenable,” he said.

He began to get gigs and play around California. His path of fortune led him to play at the Full Moon Saloon in San Francisco, where he opened for such artists as Eddie Money, Big Head Todd & the Monsters, and others who were on their way to making a name for themselves.

By the mid-’80s, Hempsey was playing in various clubs, including the Vanilla Fudge Club in Hollywood, which was frequented by actors.

“Thankfully, I’ve never been starstruck. In fact, I was so out of touch with the Hollywood film scene that I wouldn’t even recognize any of them if they were in an elevator with me.”

Hempsey recorded his first album, “It’s Hard to Stand Still on a Moving Planet,” in the mid-’80s. The connections he made helped him to get cool gigs. He played at Golden Gate Park for the 25th anniversary of the Summer of Love concert.

In 1995, Hempsey moved to Key West.

“Until I arrived in Key West, I didn’t realize musicians were making a living by playing covers,” Hempsey says. “I didn’t know a ton of songs, so I would call US1 Radio to make song requests so I could sit by the radio with my guitar, play along and try to learn them.”

He would also go into the old Records & Rogues music shop, where Marty would make him cheap mix tapes so he could learn more songs.

... is a local radio personality and music promoter who loves to share his passion for music.

Key West musician Gary Hempsey recently signed with Conch Town Records. RALPH DE PALMA/Contributed

“In those days there weren’t many gigs in town,” he said.

“There were about 20 gigs and about 20 musicians. We’d play for maybe $40 and tips.”

During a break from his weekly gig at Captain Tony’s, Hempsey heard Will Hoppey playing music at Grunts.

“Hoppey was playing Crosby, Stills and Nash and other music that I loved,” he remembers, “And, he was singing them so well.”

Hoppey and Hempsey started a friendship and musical collaboration that led to much more. One of Hempsey’s regular gigs was at the legendary Schooner Wharf Bar. One year for Fantasy Fest, Schooner Wharf owner Evalena Worthington asked Hempsey to assemble a band for their annual Wharfstock event, a tribute to Woodstock-era music. Hempsey recruited Hoppey, Pete Jarvis, Russ Scavelli and Greg “G-Man” Shanle. In a promotional ad, Evalena wrote that Gary Hempsey and “That Hippie Band” would be performing. “‘That Hippie Band’ was really just an accident,” says Hempsey. “People loved us and suddenly we were in demand. We had a regular gig at the old Cowboy Bill’s on Monday nights.”

Scavelli was playing with Paul Cotton at the time and introduced Hempsey to the legendary singer/songwriter.

“Next thing I know, I’m singing harmonies for ‘In the Heart of the Night’ on stage with the guy who wrote that hit. It was another accidental stroke of fortune.”

In 2018, popular Key West jam band Happy Dog asked Hempsey to fill in on bass guitar while Keith Snyder was away.

Happy Dog singer/guitarist Jesse Wagner loved Hempsey’s energy and invited him back on several occasions. Today, Hempsey is a member of Happy Dog, playing rhythm guitar and singing some.

Hempsey also continued to write music. His talent caught the ears of Conch Town Records executive Mat Smith. On Jan. 10, Conch Town Records announced it had signed a deal with Hempsey to join the already impressive stable of talented artists including Bill Blue, Juliana McDowell, Ericson Holt, Tony Baltimore and Turner Harrison. Look for a new record from Gary Hempsey in the near future.

“I feel so fortunate today. Playing with musicians like Paul Cotton, Happy Dog and That Hippie Band, as well as being welcomed onto the Conch Town Records label, I feel the ultimate acceptance as a musician,” Hempsey said with gratitude. “I love being part of this amazing dysfunctional music family in Key West.”

22

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

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

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Empty bottles, cans, paper and cardboard.

FIND A FRIEND AT THE FLORIDA KEYS SPCA

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3 Keep food and liquid out.

WE NEED GOOD HOMES

Recyclables go directly into the cart.

he Keys Weekly family loves animals as much as our friends at the Florida Keys SPCA do, and we’re honored each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for adoption at the organization’s Key West campus.

From cats and dogs to Guinea

pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.

The SPCA’s Golden Paw program also provides special assistance with vet bills and medications for special-needs and older animals that require a little extra TLC. Check these pages each week for just a few of the animals waiting for a home and see them all at fkspca.org.

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Second Annual

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23

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

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27

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

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28

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

For the first time in 27 years, Candlebox frontman Kevin Martin will return to Key West next month for an acoustic set at the Key West Theater. MIRAK HABBIYYIEH/ Contributed.

Scan the QR code to check out Martin’s full interview on the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast.

29

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

After 27 years, Candlebox’s Kevin Martin looks forward to his return to the Keys ALEX RICKERT

alex@keysweekly.com

aise a hand if you’ve ever held your breath for a minute.

Now keep it raised if, during that minute, you lip synced an entire verse to a song while more than 30 feet underwater.

Enter Kevin Martin, a multi-platinum musician turned freediver out of necessity – though you would never know it with his warm demeanor and complete lack of the ego one would expect from a singer with his credentials.

Martin is the frontman of the band Candlebox, a Seattle-based rock band whose chart-topping self-titled debut album has been certified 4x platinum by the RIAA. With singles like “Far Behind,” “You” and “Cover Me,” the album launched a 30-year career that has seen the band release seven studio albums, continuing with their 2021 record “Wolves.”

The band has unique ties to the Keys, as they filmed the music video for their single “Understanding” both above and below the waters of Marathon with legendary director Gus Van Sant in 1995. Next month, Martin will return to the Keys for the first time since the shoot as he performs an acoustic set at the Key West Theater on Tuesday, Feb. 22.

Martin was kind enough to call in for an episode of the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast. Some excerpts: How does a Seattle band end up picking a tiny island in the Keys to film the music video for “Understanding?” We were on tour, and Gus approached us about doing the video because he felt connected to the song.

He knew the story about how we were treated in Seattle, so he had a “fish out of water” sort of concept. He’s an incredibly talented director and lovely human being, and we just had an absolute blast. We had to take a scuba diving class since we would be more than 30 feet underwater. Gus actually wasn’t even there the first day of the shoot because he stepped on a spotted eagle ray, so he was off to the hospital.

What was it like to film an entire verse while holding your breath underwater? Oh man, they had these speakers underwater, and I was trying to lip sync it. I had no idea how long that verse was until I was at the end of it. It might not be my favorite video Candlebox has done looks-wise, but it was quite the experience.

You guys were in Seattle in the mid ’90s, surrounded by one of the biggest music movements in U.S. history, the Seattle grunge movement.

How did Candlebox fit into all of that?

Well, the sad thing is, we didn’t really fit in. And I was five years younger than a lot of the big names in Seattle, so there weren’t many 21-year-olds who were going to hang out with a 16-year-old kid. We formed Candlebox in 1991, so we came around on the tail end of things, and we don’t really sound like any of those bands. But the thing that collectively makes us sound like Seattle bands is our sincerity. I don’t think any of the bands that came out of Seattle really cared that they had rockstar careers. It was just, “we can’t do anything but make music. This is how we’re supposed to live our lives. And if the career comes with it, that’s great.”

Who still inspires you to this day?

I don’t really listen to Pearl Jam or Alice in Chains or Soundgarden. I haven’t listened to Soundgarden mainly since Chris (Cornell)’s passing. I was just a huge fan, and he was a good friend. I was great friends with Layne (Staley) and when he passed, it was heartbreaking. I really am inspired by a lot of the new alternative kind of music that’s out. I think The War on Drugs is pushing the envelope musically, and I would compare them to what the Beatles were doing when they made “The White Album.” I also love Perfume Genius, Billie Eilish, and a band from Australia called Gang of Youths.

Do you listen to your own music?

I rarely listen to Candlebox, certainly not to the first three albums because I’ve known them for 30 years. But there are a couple tracks I really love off of “Disappearing in Airports” that I’m just so proud of. And then some stuff off the last record “Wolves,” which I think is probably the best Candlebox record since the debut album.

A lot of the musicians from the Seattle scene are tragically no longer with us. How did you avoid following that same path? Do you just consider yourself lucky? Certainly your environment has a lot to do with the drugs that you’re taking or the alcohol you’re drinking. I moved to Seattle when I was 14. I came from San Antonio, Texas, skateboarding and living my life that way. So I didn’t really fall into the trap, because it wasn’t something that I was enticed by. I really preferred to be outdoors and doing things.

Your first album went platinum four times, and at one point most people in the country knew the words to your song “Far Behind.” Is that ever strange to think about? I think for any musician, when you make your first album, it feels like it takes a lifetime. I’m very, very fond of the time I spent writing and recording those songs. It’s really more so about the accomplishment of making the album than about how much it sold. Is it a little mind bending? Yeah.

The fact that “Far Behind” is the song that continues to allow me to tour and pays my rent now going on 30 years is incredible. It’s a gift horse that I would never look in the mouth.

Over the last 30 years, the country has seen a huge change in the music industry. When you guys first started, people were buying albums and listening to them all the way through.

Now you’ve got more streaming and singles, and Best Buy doesn’t even sell CDs any more. What has it been like to be in a band putting out albums across that entire transition? The industry is screwed, frankly. It’s skewed.

You can’t make money as a band any more unless you’re in the top 20. I have a lot of friends that are in young bands who’ve opened up for us that I respect, and I would hate to be in their shoes right now trying to sell an album or get any recognition for what they’re accomplishing. There’s so much competition, and it’s all geared to not let you succeed.

True or False: you still have at least one pair of Doc Martens that you owned in the ’90s. True, and I’m still wearing them.

Finish this sentence: the most underrated artist from the grunge movement was … Mary Lou Lord, or there’s a band called Bam Bam that I’m obsessed with.

Were you partial to Eddie Vedder or Kurt Cobain? Cobain, just because I grew up on punk rock.

30

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

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31

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

SPORTS & MORE

YOU’RE ENGAGED

T

he Keys Weekly is happy to congratulate one of our own.

Maison Benitez, a social media expert with Keys Weekly’s sister company, Overseas Media Group (OMG), recently became engaged to Key West native Damien Sellers, who proposed at the site of their first date on White Street Pier. The pair is planning a January 2023 wedding.

In announcing their engagement, Sellers wrote on Facebook, “Maison Victoria Benitez, a year and 3 months ago we stood in this same exact spot and had our first date. I made a bet with you that later led to our first kiss. Today I asked you if you wanted to make a better bet and be my wife. I love you so much to infinity and beyond babe. Here’s to us forever.”

Best wishes for a wonderful life together.

GIRLS SOCCER TEAM MAY FACE ‘STRANGER’ IN DISTRICT TOURNAMENT

RALPH MORROW

K

ey West High School’s ... a veteran sports girls columnist, says soccer team the only sport begins District he doesn’t follow 16-4A tournais cricket. That leaves plenty ment play on of others to fill Thursday, Jan. his time.

27, and, like ralphmoro1936 everything else @gmail.com this sports year, the state playoffs will be a little different.

For starters, teams aren’t required to play each other during the regular season. So, Miami Sunset, one of five teams in the district, won’t have played Key West (or vice versa). “Some teams don’t like to come down here,” Lady Conch coach Justin Martin said when we talked soccer a few days ago. “If we go up there, we expect to get a return trip and so do they when they come here.”

Key West also won’t have played MAST Academy because the game had to be canceled. Key West tied St. Brendan and lost to Gulliver Prep. Miami Sunset, actually, wasn’t scheduled to face any of its district mates in the regular season.

The Lady Conchs started late and slowly, with no practice games, Martin pointed out, and had 5 wins, 7 losses and 2 ties earlier this week. “We had growing pains in November, then we got going,” he said.

Martin told me that senior forward Addison Sessoms had been the main scorer with eight goals, while senior Carissa Haughey (pronounced Hoy) and sophomore Kathryn Smith each had four goals with only one of the three forwards on the field at one time.

Junior Nicky Tomita, playing wing, had four assists.

In goal, sophomore Teagan Lavin had 59 saves and 5.5 saves per game, while senior Kayla Kirkpatrick, who lost some playing time to illness, stopped 25 shots on goal for a 3.5 average. Martin said he tried to play each of the goalies a half of each game.

As the teams head into the tournament, Max Preps lists St. Brendan with 9 wins, 3 losses and a tie with Key West, and is ranked 11th in the state 4A; MAST Acade-

my at 6-3-1 and 13th; Gulliver Prep 6-9-2 (including a 4-1 victory over Key West) and 20th; Key West 25th and Miami Sunset 2-6-1 (2-0 and 5-0 victories coming over South Miami and the tie against winless Norland) and 71st.

The boys tournament is Jan. 26-Feb. 2.

The Key West girls weightlifting team begins its district play Friday, Jan. 21.

IN HIS OTHER ROLE as Key West’s athletic director, Martin said he has possibly lined up a cross country coach for next fall so Dave Perkins, who filled in this past season, can focus on being an assistant principal and head track coach.

Martin also is looking for a JV volleyball coach to replace Jill Burnham, who has said she won’t be returning.

CLEARLY, NFL TEAMS, particularly the Dallas Cowboys’ offense, need to learn time management. Coach Mike McCarthy had some explaining to do after the Cowboys ran out of time in their 23-17 Wild Card loss to the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday.

The Cowboys, favored by 3 points and playing at home, were rallying from a 23-7 deficit to begin the fourth quarter. They had scored 10 points in the quarter and had the ball on their own 20-yard line with 32 seconds left.

Out of timeouts, Dallas methodically moved the ball to the 49ers’ 41. With 14 seconds left, McCarthy and his offensive coordinator chose to have quarterback Dak Prescott run the ball, which he did to the San Francisco 21.

Quickly, the Cowboys tried to line up and get the ball to the official for placement, which is required. They fumbled the handoff to the official, but completed the deed. However, as Prescott tried to ground the ball, which would have stopped the clock, the game ended and the Dallas coaches were caught with egg on their faces. Owner Jerry Jones had said the only acceptable result was a Super Bowl championship. Instead the 49ers move on to play at Green Bay Sunday night. The Cowboys go home and McCarthy finds his employment in jeopardy.

32

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

FRIENDLINESS

H

ave you ever heard someone describe someone else as “that guy who’s never met a stranger?” I want to be described like that. But, actually living like that is fraught with uneasiness. I like to look people in the eye or nod my head to them and acknowledge their existence.

I like to smile at everyone. Other people CAPT. MIKE say they identify with this, especially with BARBER Southern folks. Yeah well, don’t go to Atlanta, or Houston, or Miami, or any big Capt’n Mike has an undergraduate city in the South and expect to get away with it. Big city people are as impersonal degree in marine as the bricks and mortar that define their technology and 50 years of sailing environment. I’m picking on the South the oceans of the here, but it has been my experience that world. Currently, all big cities have this attribute. Big city he visits the folks also transport their bubble with Florida Keys reefs them as they travel. conducting eco We decided to winter over in a matours. rina where there are many of these city dwellers visiting. I pass them on the dock every day and acknowledge them, only to be ignored and sometimes rebuffed. I was asked one day, “why bother?”

My answer was that I have as much right to acknowledge them as they do to ignore me. Further, with enough acknowledgments, most everyone becomes friendly.

Living on the water does not lend itself to being a stranger. While the degree of independence is higher than other lifestyles, everyone out here has a certain amount of interdependence. The longer you stay on the water, the higher your probability of needing assistance from other boaters becomes. I don’t like needing help. Needing help means that my planning failed, or I have mismanaged my resources, or I have found a void in my education and experience.

Occasionally I get help that I didn’t even know I needed.

Yesterday I was approaching my boat and realized that my other dinghy was in the water tied to the boat by the painter. When I left the boat in the morning, the dinghy was hanging from the stern davits. It turns out that one of the eye bolts failed and the dinghy half fell off the davits and was thrashing itself against everything. The fellow on the boat moored beside us boarded our boat and got the situation under control. If he hadn’t, the swinging dinghy could have done untold damage to the transom. I’m glad I was friendly to Gabe, our neighbor.

I like being able to help. Furthermore, I readily offer my help because I know forcing someone to ask for help is making them pay the highest human price. I mean that personally as a matter of human courtesy, not entrepreneurship.

The closer you live to the rhythms of the natural world, the simpler things become. On a boat, you do not ignore waves, wildlife, sunrise, sunsets, moon phases, clouds or the wind. How anyone could be so removed from their nature as to ignore another of their own species is beyond me. Acknowledge everyone out of necessity because interdependence is a necessity.

Capt’n Mike www.Whensday.us

NUMBERS

I

am a doctor. I also have a master’s degree in public health.

I am not bragging; it was a requirement for me to become board-certified, so I had to do it.

What it did was give me just enough knowledge to be dangerous when interpreting numbers, which is why I brought it up.

Today’s article is about numbers. After a couple of traffic fatalities this fall, I thought I would do an article on traffic injuries and deaths, and the numbers are astounding.

This is not that article.

I queried the Monroe County Medical Examiner’s office, and the Operations Director, Tiffany Fridley, was kind enough to send me the last three years’ data on causes of death. So I began to look through it. 2018 to 2020 were fairly stable.

2018 had the most deaths at 165, 2019 had 154 and 2020 was lowest at 151. Natural deaths (heart disease, cancer and COVID) were the main causes at 66, 66 and 74, years 2018, ’19 and ’20 respectively.

Accidental deaths were also fairly stable (these include traffic deaths as well as other types), 61, 62 and 47 respectively. There were other categories that I didn’t include here.

And then I noticed a category listed by itself. Suicide. 34, 23 and 24. So I dug a little deeper. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death nationwide. In 2019 (latest available) suicide accounted for 1.7% of the 2.8 million-plus deaths in the USA. So I made an equation in the county spreadsheet, suicide/total deaths, pretty simple, and hit return. Suicides accounted for 17% of all Monroe County deaths between 2018 and 2020. That’s not a typo, that is a 1 followed by a 7, there is no decimal point in the middle. We have 10 times the expected rate of suicide when compared to the national rate. And that’s where

the numbers stopped. They don’t give me reasons, what the people were thinking, their histories, health conditions, pain, and mental anDR. JOHN guish – whatever WOLTZ led them down … is a preventative this path.

I looked up health physician with Baptist Suicide AwareHealth Primary ness Month, and Care in Marathon. it’s not until September, but why wait? I can predict with some certainty that 2021 numbers are likely similar, so maybe we can make an impact on 2022. Look online for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (nami.org) and Suicide Awareness Month; there is a short one-page article that provides a lot of information and resources: Warning signs and risk factors, how to be prepared for a crisis, awareness, facts, etc.

It also provides a few more numbers. Some are the statistics, but more importantly, there is the number for the National Suicide Hotline – 1-800-273-TALK (8255) – as well as the NAMI text line at 741-741. Maybe these aren’t the numbers I started off with, but they might be the most important ones I found. Save them on your phone and share them with your friends and family. You might have an impact on someone.

Have a great week, and be healthier today than you were yesterday!

Sources used came from NAMI, CDC and Monroe County Health Department websites, Thanks to the Monroe County Medical Examiner’s Office.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

IMPROMPTU CONCERTS MARKS 50 YEARS 2022 SEASON FEATURES 6 PERFORMANCES

Acclaimed and award-winning pianist Yekwon Sunwoo will perform Sunday, Jan. 23 at Impromptu Classical Concerts. CONTRIBUTED

I

mpromptu Classical Concerts has been bringing world-class chamber music to Key West since 1972, and is proudly entering its 50th season.

From January to March, the nonprofit music organization presents six concerts featuring a variety of professional ensembles playing all styles of classical music.

The 2022 roster of artists includes internationally acclaimed performers along with up and coming virtuosos.

Performances take place at 4 p.m. on Sunday afternoons at the historic St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 401 Duval St., Key West.

On Jan. 23, Impromptu presents acclaimed pianist Yekwon Sunwoo, a gold medalist of the 15th Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. Sunwoo has been hailed for his “unfailingly consistent excellence” and celebrated as “a pianist who commands a comprehensive technical arsenal that allows him

to thunder without breaking a sweat.” A powerful and virtuosic performer, he also, in his own words, “strives to reach for the truth and pure beauty in music.”

Then, on Feb. 13, the Chooi Brothers touch bows to strings to make violin music.

Timothy and Nikki Chooi are united by a profound understanding and genuine passion for the violin, which renders their musical union extraordinarily rich. Together they have an intrinsic musical partnership that makes their duo artistry unique and interesting. The Edmonton Journal describes their performance as a “beauty of color and tone. ” For information and tickets, visit keywestimpromptu.org or keystix.com.

— Contributed

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

WHAT A DEED

Keys transactions for ‘$10 and other good and valuable considerations’

I

recently spent some quality time in a third-floor room at the public records office on Whitehead Street. The repository holds the documentation of every property deed ever drafted in Monroe County, sans what seems likely to have been a few that slipped through the Bubba cracks, were lost or destroyed by fire, hurricane, or silverfish.

The object of my desire was a needle in a haystack — a property transaction that may have occurred in 1945, 1946 or 1947. At least the property deeds from this period were generally typed, so there was only a little bit of the squinting and headtilting that tends to occur when reading through 19th century handwritten documents.

The room is Spartan with concrete walls and beige, metal shelves lined with old albums. They are filled with the stiff pages of deeds and other official records. The pages are black and white, but it is the page that is black and the writing, typed or handwritten, that is white. The albums, worn with decades of use or disuse, are surprisingly heavy. Also, they have all been copied and are available to view on endless reels of microfilm.

The room has six small desk-sized cubicles, two wide and three deep. Four can be used to examine documents under a modicum of privacy. One desk cubicle houses a computer screen, and the cubicle next door is equipped with the necessary machinery required to project microfilm onto that computer screen.

Closer to the metal shelves holding the deed books are two small tables clearly designed for those shorter legs encountered in grade school classrooms. I prefer to flip through the pages rather than navigate the cumbersome microfilm and start with the physical copies of the deed books, pulling one tired album after another from the shelf and setting them on the child-sized table. Flipping through the pages, scanning each for the hint of a name or location that could be linked to the property in question is an eyeball-blurring experience, especially for someone who eclipsed the half-century mark more than a handful of years ago.

People stream in and out with questions about legal documents in the other room. It is impossible not to listen. At one point, I hear a man with a deep, clear voice say, “I’m looking for a copy of my divorce papers.”

“Okay,” the employee says. “What year was your divorce?”

“I don't know.”

“Okay,” the employee says. “What was your wife’s name?

“I don't know.”

“You don’t know your wife’s name?”

“No.” My head cocked toward the open door connecting the two rooms. If I’m not careful, I might miss the document I came here to find.

Having looked at each and every Monroe County property deed from 1945 and 1946, a couple of things became apparent.

First, an inordinately large number of transactions were for “$10 and other good and valuable considerations.”

I do come across two significant properties that sold for a great deal more than $10. First, there is the property deed from what will become known as North Key Largo’s Ocean Reef, referred to in the deed as the Ocean Reef Camp. The Tropical Isles Club Inc. owned the property, whose trustees were N.W. Jeran, D.K. Miller and Glen C. Mincer. On Sept. 25, 1945, they sold the approximately 113-acre property to Seaboard Properties Inc. of Minneapolis, Minnesota. The purchase price of $20,000 included a galley and dining room, main cottage, two cabins, a toolbox, skiffs and one Nassau sailing dinghy.

The second significant sale was detailed in a warranty deed dated March 14, 1946. Taver and Eloise Bayly sold to Berlin and Mary Eloise Felton Lot 1, Square 5 for $30,000. The property is described as “commencing at a point 129 feet from the corner of Front and Simonton streets, and running thence in a Northeasterly direction 273 feet to the waters and harbor of Key West; BRAD thence along the waters of said island in a BERTELLI Southeasterly direction 216 feet; thence in a Southwesterly direction 328 feet; thence in a is an author, speaker, and Flor- Northwesterly direction 108 feet; thence at ida Keys historian. right angles in a Northeasterly direction 55 His latest book, feet; thence at right angles in a Northwest“The Florida Keys erly direction 108 feet to the point of beginSkunk Ape Files,” ning.” is a fun blend of The A & B Lobster House sits on that two of his favorite waterfront property today. The “A” in A & B subjects — Florida Keys history and stands for Alonzo Cothron, and the “B” Berlin the Skunk Ape. Felton.

After two trips to Key West and hours of sitting at that child’s desk peering at page after page of documents, I was about to give up any hope of finding the record I was searching for when, lo and behold, the needle in that haystack finally revealed itself.

Inventory list from the Ocean Reef Camp property sale of 1945.

CONTRIBUTED

35

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

FLORIDA KEYS TABLE FOOD, DRINKS & PEOPLE

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

EGGS BENEDICT White Tarpon Restaurant, Key West We all know the White Tarpon Restaurant is great for lunch, dinner and happy hours with its famous Key lime martini. But did you know they now serve breakfast daily? The prime waterfront location overlooking Key West Harbor is the perfect spot to start your day with a classic eggs Benedict, bloody Mary or mimosas. Start your day the Key West way — outside, on the water, with a drink.

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

JARID EVERTSEN Islamorada Brewery and Distillery, Islamorada Jarid Evertsen is pouring some cold beer over at Islamorada Brewery and Distillery.

From Western Michigan, he moved to the Keys in March 2021 to bartend. His favorite drink to make is the Channel Marker IPA. His drink to make after a long day slinging brews is an old fashioned. On days off, you can find Evertsen hanging with friends or out on the water fishing. Stop on by to see Evertsen and other bartenders at the family-friendly brewery and distillery, which has craft cocktails, a beer garden and food truck.

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.

STRAWBERRY JALAPEÑO MARGARITA Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar, Marathon Sweetness and a spicy kick make a surprisingly complementary pairing in Castaway’s strawberry jalapeño margarita.

Fresh jalapeño and lime are muddled in a fresh strawberry puree and mixed with Jose Cuervo, triple sec, sour mix and orange juice.

This drink will keep you on your toes and serves as the perfect concoction to make any of Castaway’s entrees even more worth the wait.

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.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

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39

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

SAVING THE SEA POTATOES

F

Experimental feeding trials underway in response to record manatee deaths ALEX RICKERT

alex@keysweekly.com

“This is an unprecedented event, and starvation is a chronic condition.

Impacts on health can be long-lasting even when manatees survive.”

— Dr. Martine de Wit, a manatee research veterinarian

lorida’s beloved sea cows are once again in trouble. Thankfully, they have a host of friends ready to respond.

On Jan. 13, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) hosted a media call to field questions about an ongoing Unusual Mortality Event (UME) for Florida manatees. The UME was declared in March 2021, and by the end of the year, a record 1,101 manatees had died. In response, USFWS and FWC established a unified command to bring additional resources to address the event.

According to Dr. Martine de Wit, a manatee research veterinarian, the mortality event primarily stems from starvation due to a lack of forage in the Indian River Lagoon. Persistent algae blooms caused by runoff from cities and farms can block light from reaching the lagoon’s floor, stunting seagrass growth.

“The Indian River Lagoon is basically a capital for manatees on the Atlantic coast,” said de Wit. “Most manatees on this coast spend a portion of the year in this lagoon, and this is why this event affects manatees all along this coast.

This is an unprecedented event, and starvation is a chronic condition. Impacts on health can be long-lasting even when manatees survive.”

De Wit added that while the number of carcasses recorded by the program is about half of what it was around this time last year, Florida’s unseasonably warm winter has thus far allowed manatee populations to stay dispersed across larger areas. Dropping temperatures will soon restrict the manatees’ ability to travel great distances from warm water. Thus, mortality numbers are expected to increase as larger congregations of animals compete for limited food in smaller warm-water areas. The issue is compounded as starving animals lose body mass and become susceptible to cold stress in cooling waters that would not typically be problematic for them.

The UME has seen rescue and rehab partners scramble to find space for injured or starving animals, said Andy Garrett, chief of the effort, named the Joint Unified Command Rescue and Recovery Branch. In 2021, FWC’s program conducted a record 159 rescues; 115 of the rescued animals went to rehab facilities. In the last month alone, the program has conducted 23 rescues. The number of animals that require extensive rehab care – months or years, rather than days or weeks – is stretching 11 Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP) facilities to their maximum capacities.

While several facilities are cooperatively attempting to generate space by improvising and moving or releasing animals in the coming weeks, Garrett made a point to credit SeaWorld

for its rehabilitation efforts. “I wanted to really point out SeaWorld as one of the groups that really deserves a lot of recognition,” he said. “They have 35 manatees in house and are still making space.

They’ve accepted a majority of the animals from this UME event and have treated them for release.”

In an effort to curb starvation in critical areas of the Indian River Lagoon, the unified command established a temporary field response station near Florida Power and Light’s Cape Canaveral plant in December and began a supplemental lettuce feeding trial shortly thereafter.

Joint Unified Command Provisioning Branch Chief Ron Mezich fielded questions on the experimental program, saying that while there were only a few animals near the warm water site at first, they began to see more in the weeks after Christmas as waters cooled slightly. Lettuce was first offered in a floating form, and at the time of the media call, Mezich said the manatees had not yet begun to recognize it as a food source – though from multiple facilities’ experiences feeding lettuce in captive rehab environments, this is not unusual.

“A supplemental feeding trial of this type in an aquatic system hasn’t been done before, so we don’t have a template to follow,” said Mezich. “We are adapting daily and trying different techniques.”

Mezich said that the team will continue to offer the lettuce at different locations and different places within the water column.

When asked why the team has not yet attempted to provide other vegetation such as water hyacinth or hydrilla that are more readily recognized as a food source by wild manatees, Mezich said these native or invasive plants provide logistical challenges. “It takes time and effort, and the product we get on site will have to be cleaned to remove sediment and organisms that we don’t want to introduce,” said Mezich. “If you pile it on top of one another and haul it in a truck, the product we get isn’t always desirable to use as food. We know manatees will eat lettuce in captivity. It’s a clean product, it’s readily available, and we can store it.”

Mezich also touched on the seven manatee habitat restoration projects funded by the $8 million provided to FWC by Florida’s legislature in its last session.

“We need seagrass to plant for restoration projects, and typically what we do is find a donor bed nearby to supply those seagrass shoots, but there isn’t anything in the lagoon that we can use as a donor bed right now,” he said. “One of the projects is to build and enhance existing upland seagrass nurseries to grow seagrass shoots that will be used for planting once we get water quality to a consistent level.”

Mezich noted that two projects should start this upcoming spring, with five more in the permitting process. More information about the UME response, including weekly updates, is at https:// myfwc.com/research/manatee/rescue-mortalityresponse/ume/.

As always, the public is reminded that interacting, feeding, or providing water to wild manatees outside of specially permitted activities is a violation of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and can have deadly consequences for these beloved mammals.

Rescue teams rely heavily on public calls to FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline, used to report suspected injured or struggling animals. Concerns about any wild manatees should be directed to 888-404-FWCC (3922).

40

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

• 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 Levelheaded Mind located at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Box 510591, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Jezel Rosa LLC Publish: January 20, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

meeting.

All Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more County Commissioners may be in attendance.

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

Publish: January 20, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

CUDJOE GARDENS CUDJOE KEY, 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 by Onvia at www.demandstar.com OR www.monroecountybids. com. The Public Record is available upon request.

The Prime CONTRACTOR must perform at least 40% of the work and to be considered, bids must be made in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders. All prime CONTRACTORs submitting bids must be pre-qualified by Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) in accordance with Chapter 337.14 F.S. and State of Florida Department of Transportation Rules Ch. 1422- in work classes including but not limited to: drainage, fencing, flexible paving, grading, grassing, seed and sodding, hot plant mixed bitum courses, sidewalk, curb and gutter, rip rap, underground utilities and provide proof of same with bid submittal pre-qualification required at minimum.

The Prime CONTRACTOR must be prequalified in at least one major type of work regardless of the number of major types that are solicited. For any type of work that isn’t met by the prime, the subcontractor must meet the prequalification requirement.

The team must be pre-qualified in all types of work needed for the project.

In response to Covid-19, the Monroe County Purchasing Department has implemented a new electronic process for reviewing and opening sealed bids. Monroe County is committed to continuing to receive and process competitive solicitations while maintaining the health and safety of our employees and those who attend bid openings. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/ physically delivered bids/ proposal/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 3:00 P.M. on March 1, 2022. 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: FLORIDA KEYS OVERSEAS HERITAGE TRAIL CONNECTION AT CUDJOE GARDENS PROJECT 03/01/2022 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 or otherwise be rejected or undeliverable to OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, 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 March 1, 2022. 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 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: January 20, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on February 24, 2022. 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 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: January 20, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Notice is hereby given that on dates below these vehicles will be sold at public sale for monies owed on vehicle repair and storage cost pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes.

03/14/22 at 10:00 am Miller Marine INC, 144 Coral Avenue, Tavernier, FL 33070. Miller Marine INC reserves the right to accept or reject any and/all bids.

DMRECE041K990 STEVE WILLIAMS 03/14/22 at 10:00am Yacht Club Drive Marine, 107500 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037. Yacht Club Drive Marine reserves the right to accept or reject any and/ all bids.

2003 PLC PLCWG020L203 ALEJANDRO CID. Publish: January 13 & 20, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The Monroe County Tourist Development Council will convene on Tuesday, February 8, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. at the Murray Nelson Government Center. Public Participation will be via Communications Media Technology (“CMT”) using a Zoom webinar platform.

Due to Covid-19 and socialdistancing guidelines established by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), members of the public are to attend the meeting and participate via CMT by using the Zoom webinar or dialing in on the phone numbers provided below.

Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/83894366873 Meeting ID: 838 9436 6873 One tap mobile +13126266799,, 83894366873# US (Chicago) +19292056099,, 83894366873# US (New York) Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at Pacini-Maxine@ monroecounty-fl.gov, or by calling (305)296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on February 4, 2022.

The Visit Florida Keys Corporation will also convene during this

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE INTERNAL IMPROVEMENT TRUST FUND The Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection announces a public meeting to which all persons are invited.

DATE AND TIME: Tuesday, January 25, 2022, 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

PLACE: Keys History & Discovery Center, 82100 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036 GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: A draft management plan for Lignumvitae Key Aquatic Preserve has been prepared by the Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection. The draft plan is available for viewing or download at http:// publicfiles.dep.state.fl.us/CAMA/ plans/Lignumvitae-Key-APManagement-Plan-DRAFT.pdf.

The Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection seeks public comment on the draft.

A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Aquatic Preserve Manager, Nicholas Parr at Nicholas.Parr@FloridaDEP.gov.

Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person requiring special accommodations to participate in this workshop/ meeting is asked to advise the agency at least 48 hours before the workshop/meeting by contacting: Nicholas Parr at Nicholas.Parr@FloridaDEP.gov.

If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the agency using the Florida Relay Service, 1(800)955-8771 (TDD) or 1(800)955-8770 (Voice).

Publish: January 20, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, March 1, 2022 at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: FLORIDA KEYS OVERSEAS HERITAGE TRAIL CONNECTION AT

Meeting Notice Monroe County Land Authority The Monroe County Land Authority Advisory Committee will meet in the Monroe Regional Service Center (State Building) located at 2796 Overseas Highway, Suite 104, Marathon, Florida on January 26, 2022 beginning at 9:00 a.m. The agenda is available online at www.monroecounty-fl.gov or by contacting the Monroe County Land Authority office at 305-295-5180.

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

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, February 24, 2022, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: KEY LARGO PARK WALKING PATH ASPHALT REPAIR 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 by Onvia at www.demandstar.com OR www.monroecountybids. com. The Public Record is available upon request.

In response to Covid-19, the Monroe County Purchasing Department has implemented a new electronic process for reviewing and opening sealed bids. Monroe County is committed to continuing to receive and process competitive solicitations while maintaining the health and safety of our employees and those who attend bid openings. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/ physically delivered bids/ proposal/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 3:00 P.M. on February 24, 2022. 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: Key Largo Park Walking Path Asphalt Repair 02/24/2022 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 or otherwise be rejected or undeliverable to OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, 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

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, March 24, 2022, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: WEST MARTELLO SEAWALL HURRICANE REPAIRS 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 by Onvia at www.demandstar.com OR www.monroecountybids. com. The Public Record is available upon request.

In response to Covid-19, the Monroe County Purchasing Department has implemented a new electronic process for reviewing and opening sealed bids. Monroe County is committed to continuing to receive and process competitive solicitations while maintaining the health and safety of our employees and those who attend bid openings. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/ physically delivered bids/ proposal/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 3:00 P.M. on March 24, 2022. 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: West Martello Seawall Hurricane Repairs 03/24/2022 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 or otherwise be rejected or undeliverable to OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, 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 March 24, 2022. 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 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish:

LEGAL NOTICES January 20, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers January 22, 2022 CRS Activity 510 Floodplain Management Planning ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT The City of Key Colony Beach is a ½ square mile 285 Acre oceanfront residential island which takes floodplain management very seriously.

Damage reduction activities are a major priority.

Our city is part of the Monroe County and Incorporated Municipalities Local Mitigation Strategy Group and has been since its inception in the 1990's and attended by myself during the last year as new CRS coordinator.

This evaluation report was prepared by the City's Building Official/CRS Coordinator who works together with the Mayor/ City Administrator on all city projects, daily operation of the city and all legal issues.

This document will be printed under legal notices in the Marathon Weekly newspaper in the 1st available issue and posted on City Hall and Post Office bulletin boards. After printed legal notice has been published, the document will then be submitted and reviewed by the City Commission at their next available scheduled meeting.

The public/reader may obtain copies of this annual report and original LMS documents at city hall during regular working hours.

There are seven damage reduction activities listed in the LMS 2010 Revision for the City of Key Colony Beach under Section 10.4 on page 10-10.

This section of the report will briefly address each for the year July 1st 2016 through December 31, 2019.

1. The Comprehensive Plan objectives and policies have been followed and the city has granted NO land use amendments that would increase the land use density and intensity that would have further burdened the countywide hurricane evacuation plan.

2. There were NO City expenditures for infrastructure in the V-zone that would encourage increased private development.

3. The City of Key Colony Beach Disaster Preparedness Committee, composed of residents and City representatives, coordinates with the County on emergency management activities such as planning, response, recovery, and mitigation. It provides its own public information program, disaster command center, and emergency supplies. We had a countywide hurricane drill and monthly Hurricane Preparedness Meetings.

4. Post-disaster redevelopment is addressed in the Coastal Management Element of the Comprehensive Plan, recognizing that redevelopment may require greater building setbacks and elevations, and installation of dunes rather than seawalls.

There was no post-disaster redevelopment to date.

5. The Building Code requires buildings to be designed to withstand the forces of 180 mph winds (assumed in any direction and without regard to the effects of shielding of other structures).

In addition all new construction, additions and alterations require: a. double hurricane straps over top member of each roof truss end b. new ¾"CDX Plywood roof sheathing minimum c. 75% of all exterior walls must be reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry This year these rules and others were enforced and verified on 360 building permits including 4 new duplex and 18 new single family homes.

6. Post disaster assessments are required by the Building Department to determine whether demolition versus

LEGAL NOTICES repairs are appropriate given the level of damage; buildings damaged more than 50% must be rebuilt to current codes.

Assessments following Irma are currently underway.

7. The Land Development Code requires that all existing mangroves be maintained to state requirements; use of seawalls is restricted and new oceanfront development shall include dune planting plans.

Mangroves have been trimmed, no new seawalls have been installed and there was no new oceanfront development.

All objectives have been improved upon and further mitigation will be accomplished when funding is available for our small city. Grants are constantly sought.

Recent Projects: 1. The City has constructed a new reinforced concrete causeway bridge to improve its ability to withstand storm surge.

2. The City has its own sewage collection and treatment system, which is operated by the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator. The sewage treatment plant is subject to storm surge flooding but has been recently retrofitted and capable of operating at 2018 requirements.

A generating system has been added for emergency operation and 30% of our effluent is converted to potable irrigation through our reverse osmosis and storage system. All lift stations and lines are continually being retrofitted and monitored for infiltration.

3. The entire City Hall/Post Office complex has been retrofitted and flood proofed to current requirements.

4. Several properties were purchased by the City and converted to open space and in July 2013 one City building was demolished and converted to parking and a park.

5. The City's master storm water control project includes swales, retention ponds, and deep injection wells which were designed, installed and monitored by the South Florida Water Management District, FL Department of Environmental Protection, and the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency. As of this date, the citywide project is approximately 80% complete. The City recently completed phase VI on West Ocean Drive.

6. The City is currently having plans drawn up for the 100% completion of our storm water project.

7. A new reverse osmosis system and building ($1,100,000.00) was completed in 2015 converting treated wastewater into city park irrigation water. (50,000 gallons daily) 8. The entire ¾ mile of our main entry road, Sadowski Causeway, had all of its utilities transferred from overhead to underground and has been resurfaced.

9. The wastewater treatment plant is currently being upgraded to future treatment requirements at a cost of over five million dollars.

10. The wastewater treatment plant is installing a new UV system to bring effluent matter to standards.

Future projects include the 100% completion of our storm water project, wastewater improvements, additional reverse osmosis irrigation, building mitigation and the purchase of additional open space when available.

Please do not hesitate to contact this office if any questions should arise.

Sincerely, Gerard Roussin CRS Coordinator/Building Official DBPR: BU1992 Publish: January 20, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA KEY WEST DIVISION

41

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

IN ADMIRALTY CASE NO.: 4:21-cv-10110 IN THE MATTER OF: THE COMPLAINT OF KEY WEST JETSKI, INC. AS OWNER OF THE YAMAHA PERSONAL WATERCRAFT (HULL ID# YAMA0773A121) ITS ENGINES, TACKLE, APPURTENANCES, EQUIPMENT, ETC. IN A CAUSE FOR EXONTERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY, Petitioner.

MONITION TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA: THE MARSHALL OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA FOR THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA: WHEREAS, a Complaint was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, on the 15th day of November, 2021 by the Petitioners, KEY WEST JETSKI, INC., as owners of a Yamaha Pleasure Watercraft bearing the Hull Identification Number YAMA0773A121, have filed a Complaint pursuant to Title 46, United States Code, Sections 30501-30502, claiming the right to Exoneration From or Limitation of Liability for all claims allegedly resulting from an accident which occurred on or about June 5, 2021 in the navigable waterways of Key West, Florida, as more fully set forth in the Complaint. For those reasons and causes set forth in the Complaint, Petitioners pray for the issuance of a Monition and Injunction, and that all persons or corporations claiming for any and all loss, damage, injury or destruction caused by or resulting from the incident set forth in the Complaint be cited to appear and file their respective claims with the Clerk of this Court, and to make due process thereof and citing them to file their answers to the Complaint and all proceedings to be had, and if it shall appear that Petitioner is not liable for any loss, damage, destruction or injury, it may be so finally decreed by this Court; YOU ARE THEREFORE COMMANDED TO CITE ALL PERSONS OR CORPORATIONS in respect to which Petitioner seeks limitation to file respective claims with the Clerk of this Court and to serve on or to mail to the attorneys for Petitioners, Campbell Johnston Clark, LLP, 2600 Douglas Road, Suite 508, Coral Gables, FL 33134, copies thereof on or before the 15th day of February 2022, and citing such claimants to appear and answer the Complaint herein on or before the last named day or within such further time as the Court may grant, and once completed to then make return to the Court together with this Writ.

Dated at Fort Lauderdale, Florida on this 11th day of January, 2022.

Angela E. Noble, Clerk United States District Court Southern District of Florida By: Dimas Rodriguez Deputy Clerk Publish: January 20 & 27 and February 3 & 10, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

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: January 20, 2022.

Personal Representative: Yiliam Eldridge 1590 Bay Drive Miami, Beach, FL 33141 Attorney for Personal Representative: Laura Hernandez, Esq. Florida Bar No. 1015315 Corona Law Firm, P.A. 6700 S.W. 38th Street Miami, Florida 33155 Telephone: 305-547-1234 Email: lhernandez@coronapa. com Publish: January 20 & 27, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No.: 2021-CP-000063-K IN RE: ESTATE OF GILDA HERNANDEZ, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of GILDA HERNANDEZ, deceased, whose date of death was December 9, 2020, 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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 21-CP-000085-P IN RE: ESTATE OF ANA FERNANDEZ, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The Administration of the estate of ANA FERNANDEZ, deceased, whose date of death was July 5th, 2021; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, FL, Probate Division; File Number: 21-CP-000085-P; the address of which is Plantation Key Government Center, 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative and his attorney is set forth below. The Fiduciary lawyer-client privilege in S. 90.5021 FLA STAT applies with respect to the personal representative and any attorney employed by the personal representative.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED 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 20, 2022.

As Personal Representative: Gabriel Fenandez 2458 Centergate Drive, Apt. 102 Miramar, FL 33025 Attorney for Personal Representative: Emmanuel Miguelez, Esq.

LEGAL NOTICES MIGUELEZ LAW 220 Miracle Mile, Suite 209 Coral Gables, Florida 33134 305-967-7412 (o) 305-602-8456 (f) Email: em@miguelezlaw.com Florida Bar No: 107023 Publish: January 20 & 27, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No.: 22-CP-01-M Division: Middle Keys IN RE: ESTATE OF RONALD K. LEONARD Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of RONALD K. LEONARD, deceased, whose date of death was November 8, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate 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: January 20, 2022.

Personal Representative: Elizabeth J. Leonard 821 W. Ocean Dr. #10 Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051 Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: January 20 & 27, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No.: 21-CP-96-M Division: Middle Keys IN RE: ESTATE OF ROMY S. BISSIG AKA ROSEMARY STEPHANIE BISSIG Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of ROMY S. BISSIG AKA ROSEMARY STEPHANIE BISSIG, deceased, whose date of death was November 14, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

EMPLOYMENT

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: January 13, 2022.

Personal Representative: Daniel F. Bissig 62900 Overseas Highway Unit 21 Marathon, Florida 33050 Attorney for Personal Representative: RICHARD E. WARNER Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: January 13 & 20, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: January 13 & 20, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff, VS. THE ESTATE OF LENORE PATRICK, et. al Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 44-2021-CC49-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 10TH day of January 2022 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: 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 within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: January 13 & 20, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

Boat rental company in Marathon needs mechanic.

Boat experience a plus.

Call 305-481-7006

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 22-CP-04-K DIVISION: LOWER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF CLARISSA HOPE MURPHY Deceased.

AMENDED NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of CLARISSA HOPE MURPHY, deceased, whose date of death was October 29, 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: January 13, 2022.

Personal Representative: Allen P. Murphy 117 Sun Lane Key West, Florida 33040 Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NUMBER 21-CP-000148-P IN RE: ESTATE OF: FRANCES G. PETER Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS OR DEMANDS AGAINST THE ABOVE ESTATE: The ancillary administration of the estate of FRANCES G. PETER, deceased, File Number 21-CP-000148-P, 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 name and address of the ancillary personal representative and that personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE NOTIFIED THAT: All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is served within three months after the date of the first publication of this notice must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and persons having claims against the estate of the decedent must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS AND DEMANDS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. The date of the first publication of this Notice is January 13, 2022.

Ancillary Personal Representative: Kim A. DenBesten 125 Wells Road Porter Corners, New York 12859 Attorney for Ancillary Personal Representative: Michael W. Schafer Florida Bar No. 929638 Deangelus Goralczyk PLLC 3776 Woods Edge Circle Unit 102 Bonita Springs, Florida 34134 (239)-241-7600 michael@dglawny.com Publish: January 13 & 20, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2021-CC-49-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY THE CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 7TH day of February 2022 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit D23, Week 7, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGEMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) I entered in a case pending in said Court, the 7TH day of January 2022 Style of which is:

AUTOS WANTED

ALL YEARS! Junk or Used.

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

2005 Boston Whaler 17' Montauk, 90hp Mercury 4-stroke - low hours - 1 year old, with trailer.

Located in Marathon. $27,500 508-958-2590 Inflatable Boat - 8' West Marine RU250, 3.5 hp Mercury 4 stroke (3 hours).

Located in Marathon.

Call 859-630-0531 SOLD IN LESS THAN 3 DAYS!!

EMPLOYMENT

Serve/Bartend on the ocean! FT/PT Ocean front private swim club is seeking customer service oriented server/ bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Full time/Part time. Small friendly staff.

Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call April (305) 393-0631.

Join the team at Kinder in the Keys!

Housekeeping & Groundskeeping FT positions available. $18/ Hour.

Transportation & background check req’d. Upper Keys. Call Kat @ 305-240-1315.

Need energetic person that would like to learn a career in the Electrical trades- must be willing to take directions and have clean VALID FL DL-- call 305-743-0399 benefits package.

Immediate job opening for parttime Housekeeper in Key Colony Beach.

Mostly weekends. Will offer top pay for right person. Call Continental Inn Beachside Michelle 952-208-2850 Cheryl 305-505-8747 CHECK ELECTRIC in Key West hiring Full-Time office employee position.

Customer service, billing and scheduling required. Knowledge of Quickbooks, Microsoft Office & Outlook is preferred. 305-292-3369 Help Wanted Big Time Discount Bait and Tackle in Marathoncompetitive wages and working 30-40 hrs a week. Contact George 305-289-0199 Immediate openings for experienced plumbers and helpers (with or without experience - we will train the right person).

Must have a valid driver's license & clean driving record. Please apply in person at 10700 5th Avenue Gulf, Marathon or email resume to: eerpinc@gmail.com City of Marathon Current Job Openings: Engineering Intern, Public Works Fleet Mechanic, and Marina Technician/Pump Out Captain. Full Benefits.

EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us 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 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 The Marathon Yacht Club is looking to hire a Dishwasher. $13/ hr - 30-36 hrs/week.

Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.

42

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

MISC. FOR SALE

MISC. FOR SALE

The Marathon Yacht Club is looking to hire a FOH Manager. Friendly atmosphere.

Private club. Salary + share in tip pool. Responsible for managing wait and bar staff, ordering and inventorying bar supplies and serving at times.Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.

not necessary. Exp w/ Caterpillar and Cummins Marine Engines a plus.

Diesel Mechanic Assistant position available.

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

Company willing to train.

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

www.DiveFloridaKeys. com can be yours! Web Domain/Existing Site for Sale. Owned for 25 years - retiring. Can't beat the "key words".

Please visit www.

D i ve Fl o r i d a K e ys. co m and call Julie for more information. $5000.00 OBO 352-601-1454

Place your Items for Sale here for $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844 today!

The Marathon Yacht Club is looking to hire a part-time Bookkeeper 16-20 hours per week.

Bookkeeping experience required.

Additional office duties required.

Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview

Place your Employment ad here for $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844 today !!

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

Kelly Electric in Marathon looking for experienced Journeyman/Electrician.

Please send resume to Kelly6098@aol.com or call Bill at 305-743-6098 NOW HIRING: Sweet Savannah's is now hiring for Front Counter positions - temporary or year round. Great pay, incentives, tips and of course delicious treats! Also hiring Bakers & Baker's Assistants full or part time. Stop by for an application at 8919 Overseas Highway, 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 - C o m p e t i t i v e compensation package.

Exp in the marine field preferred but

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

Call 305-743-4578

HOUSING FOR RENT

Las Brisa - 2BR/2BA Unfurn, great view, W/D, covered parking. Tennis, Pool & BBQ on site.

Across from Smather's Beach, Key West. $3,500/mo. + util. F/L/S Owner/Agent Douglas Miller 305-296-7706

HOMES FOR SALE

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

LOT FOR SALE

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

MISC. FOR SALE

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

26 inch Adult Trike, brand new, may need adjustment.

Located in Key West. $225 firm.

Call Chris 305-741-7422 SOLD IN LESS THAN 6 DAYS!

MISC. WANTED

Want to rent covered storage space in Marathon for car or small boat on trailer. Month to month basis. Ed 917-8075947 Tigrpilot@aol.com

305.743.0844

OFFICE/COMMERC. SPACE FOR RENT

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

Call 305-394-0530 Place your OFFICE/ COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT AD here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

HIRING NOW!

RESERVATIONS AGENT FULL TIME/PART TIME REMOTE WORK AVAILABLE Assist callers/guests with planning and booking of their vacation or stay at the Resort. Provide support via telephone, e-mail, chat and in person, by answering questions and making recommendations. The right candidate will treat the guest with courtesy and respect in a warm, friendly manner at all times; always addressing the guest by name and answering all telephone calls promptly in a courteous manner. Must be computer literate.

www.hawkscay.com/jobs

DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATOR 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

SECURITY GUARD W/ LICENSE Duck Key

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

Ralons Security 786-615-5522 Lic# B1500167

DUI Evaluator Part-time – Marathon

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.

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

Shell World Key Largo, seeking engaging, dependable, experienced person(s) to work with the team at Mile Marker 97.5, Full-time and part-time opportunities available, some weekend and evening hours. Opportunities for advancement, great benefits, competitive salary and flexible hours.

Please stop by and fill out application or Fax resume to 305-852-9639.

43

KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

Live Theatre

At Its Best!

With Michael A. Aaglan Barbara Mundy Susannah Wells Erin McKenna Jillian Todd Ross Pipkin John McDonald Mathias Maloff Carolyn Cooper and Zachary Franchini

We’re Playfully Delighted to Bring the Iconic HASBRO Board Game to life!

TM

Directed by Tom Thayer Designed by Michael Boyer

TENNESSEE WILLIAMS’

This Property Is Condemned

Feb.16 - March 5, 2022

A COMIC MASTERPIECE

A LIFE IN THE THEATRE

MASKS ARE REQUIRED. Proof of negative COVID-19 test within previous 72 hours required -- waived with VOLUNTARY proof of COVID-19 vaccination.

COMING NEXT

Season Schedule, Tickets & Memberships: 305-294-5015 • Waterfront Playhouse.org

CHANGING LIVES ONE SMILE AT A TIME! From left to right: Dr. Hector Guzman D.D.S, Dr. David McDonald D.M.D Dr. Natalia Vazquez-Marrero D.M.D and Dr. Oscar Rodriguez D.M.D

Located at 2758 N. Roosevelt Blvd. (in the Overseas Market) • Key West, FL 33040 Phone 305.294.9914 • Fax 305.295.9691 • doc@docguzman.com • www.docguzman.com

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

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

New Year, New Career!

Positions Available In: Branch • Accounting Maintenance • Administrative Support

FULL TIME OPENING CUS TOMER S ERV I CE RE PRE S ENT A T I V E Coordinate aircraft transactions with customers and the line service technicians Professional customer service skills and the ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and overtime as needed, are required Pay rate $17-$19/hr depending on experience, excellent benefits, and a fun work environment

Contact Will Zimdars will@marathonaviation.com

TEXT “MYTOMTHUMB” TO 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

242424

Apply Online! KeysBank.com/Careers Apply online at mytomthumb.com/employment

EOE/Drug-free workplace Member FDIC

EOE-M/F/V/D

Equal Housing Lender

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

FULL TIME OPENING L I NE SERV I CE P E RSONNE L Greet and fuel aircraft Prior aviation experience preferred Clean driving record required Pay rate $17-$19/hr depending on experience, excellent benefits, and a fun work environment

Contact Will Zimdars will@marathonaviation.com EOE/Drug-free workplace

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

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

IS HIRING! KEY LARGO

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

MARATHON

Peer Support Specialist/BHT (FT) 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!!!

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

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

• 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)

I

in Marathon

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

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

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

THEME: WINTER OLYMPICS

PART TIME AND FULL TIME OPPORTUNITIES W/FLEXIBLE SCHEDULES ACCOUNTING COORDINATOR RESERVATIONS AGENT CATERING SALES MANAGER HOUSEKEEPING ALL POSITIONS, SIGN ON BONUS OFFERED! CULINARY SOUS CHEF, DISHWASHERS, PREP AND LINE COOKS F&B SERVERS, RESORT SERVICES AND FOOD RUNNERS

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

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS NEEDED! Monroe County School District

LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST NAIL TECH ENGINEER/ELECTRICIAN 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.

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

ACROSS 1. Sleeps in a tent 6. Horror movie franchise 9. Varieties 13. Mozart’s “Die Zauberflote” 14. Road crew supply 15. Moron 16. Workman’s cotton, once 17. Exclamation of surprise 18. Monte Cristo’s title, in French 19. *Olympic Athletes from ____, 2018 hockey winners 21. *Figure skating jump (2 words) 23. Capone’s ilk, e.g.

24. Attention-getting sound 25. Eminem’s genre 28. Cashier’s call 30. Hit-or-miss 35. It will 37. *Triple one in figure skating 39. Hustle and bustle 40. German Mrs. 41. A mile racer 43. a.k.a. horse mackerel 44. Jargon 46. Workbench holding device 47. Health club offering 48. Diner, e.g.

50. Latin for “and others” 52. ____ Aviv 53. Ill-mannered one 55. Curiosity’s victim?

57. *2022 Winter Olympics location 61. *Torch Relay starting point 64. “____ ____ the Family” TV series 65. Refrigerator sound 67. Poppy seed derivative 69. Bitterly regretting 70. Egyptian cobra 71. Part of a stair 72. Seedy source of Omega-3s 73. More, in Madrid 74. Changes to a manuscript

DOWN 1. Cape ____, MA 2. Copycat 3. Carte du jour 4. Spectrum maker 5. Delilah’s lover 6. Roofed colonnade 7. Expression of satisfaction 8. Angry 9. Revered one 10. Fancy ride 11. Japanese zither 12. Pas in ballet 15. “Freezing” Marvel character 20. Letter-shaped girder 22. “____ the land of the free...”

24. Designer’s studio 25. *Biathlon gear 26. Skylit lobbies 27. Manufacturing site 29. *2022 Winter Olympics number 31. Like Curious George 32. Monocot’s alternative 33. “Killers of the Flower Moon” Oklahoma location 34. *Olympic award 36. *Olympic sled 38. For fear that 42. Respond 45. Circling 49. Far, old-fashioned 51. Capital of Punjab 54. Early Irish alphabet 56. Sort of warm 57. Vomit 58. Twelfth month of Jewish year 59. Pelvic bones 60. Put a hex on 61. Concert units 62. Not yet final 63. Edible fat 66. *Miracle on Ice winner 68. Not Miss or Ms.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

CGC1523838 LET’S DO BUSINESS - 305.453.6928 Licensed & Insured #SP33799

CGC1523838

SPALLING

ALL KEYS GLASS

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors

305-743-7800

GENERAL CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS

Authorized Dealer

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

EXPERTS

2728 North Roosevelt Blvd.

Overseas Market Key West

Proud member of:

INTERNATIONAL

CONCRETE REPAIR INSTITUTE

Dan Blagriff

Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS# 675375 DBlagriff@My100Bank.com Direct: (305) 304-6085 Office: (305) 676-3146 1229 Simonton Street Key West, FL 33040

George Cannon • 410-598-1913 cannonstage@gmail.com

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

We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

305-998-8953

MY100BANK.COM | Centennial Bank

Appliance and Air Conditioning

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

Insured • Professional • Reliable

Sportfishing Adventures

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

info@johnnymaddoxcharters.com

305-481-3259

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

SOLAR DONE RIGHT!

Tewes Mortgage

Your local, residential lending expert!

CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE

Call 305.495.6000

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

for a FREE Consultation

Brian Tewes

A division of SALT Service, serving The Keys since 1989

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

305-289-1150

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

www.TewesMortgage.com

Daunte Aguilar

Serving Key Largo to Key West

Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS# 2260640 DAguilar@My100Bank.com Direct: (305) 676-3107 Office: (305) 587-1598 2514 N Roosevelt Blvd.

Key West, FL 33040 MY100BANK.COM | Centennial Bank

Serving Monroe, Dade & Broward Including Airports & Ports.

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

305-743-7454

fkes2011@gmail.com floridakeysexpressshuttle.com

Lic No. SP1481

Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here

When It Rains It Pours!

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

Key West 305-292-2666

MARATHON

305-743-0506

KEY LARGO

305-852-5356

rainsavergutters@gmail.com

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

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

Will Campbell President

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

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

UPCOMING EVENTS

CARL PALMER KEY WEST THEATER

JANUARY 31

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KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD

& CHRISTONE “KINGFISH” INGRAM COFFEE BUTLER AMPHITHEATER

TOM PAPA KEY WEST THEATER

FEBRUARY 11TH

FEBRUARY 5TH

7 BRIDGES

THE ULTIMATE EAGLES EXPERIENCE KEY WEST THEATER

ARIELLE

RODNEY CROWELL

BACK STAGE LISTENING ROOM

FEBRUARY 16

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KEY WEST THEATER

FEBRUARY 23RD

FEBRUARY 15TH

THE BEACH BOYS

PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE

REBELUTION

COFFEE BUTLER AMPHITHEATER

COFFEE BUTLER AMPHITHEATER

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MARCH 6TH

MARCH 26TH

JUNE 5TH

THEKEYWESTAMP.COM | THEKEYWESTTHEATER.COM

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / JANUARY 20, 2022

FAMILY, FOOD & FUN

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

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