Upper Keys Weekly 22-0331

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Watch out for the toll booth at the Jewfish Creek Bridge on Friday.

AUTISM AWARENESS

Know the warning signs | P. 6

SPIEGEL SINKING

Dive destination hits 20 years | P. 19

DIAMOND BATTLE ’Canes eke out victory | P. 16

Claire Montang Loan Originator | NMLS# 1658906

Mobile: 305.916.8485 | Office: 305.249.1449 CBrutger@elementfunding.com www.elementfundingkeys.com 91760 Overseas Hwy Tavernier, Florida 33070

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

HOW CAN I HELP? Many people have been watching the attacks against the Ukrainian people and are asking what they can do to help.

Scan the QR code for information regarding humanitarian support options through the National Bank of Ukraine or visit their website at bank.gov.ua/en Local community service organizations are providing support for the people of the Ukraine. The Marathon Rotary Club is working directly with the Rotary Club Lviv International to help those affected by the attacks. For more information, contact your local Rotary Club.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

44 91760 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier, FL 33070 Office: 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com

In 2021, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control reported that about 1 in 44 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Most children were still being diagnosed after age 4, though autism can be reliably diagnosed as early as age 2. Early intervention affords the best opportunity to support healthy development and deliver benefits across the lifespan.

ON THE COVER Coral Shores’ Dylan Bloom hits against St. Brendan at Founders Park on March 29.

DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

Publisher

Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner

Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Editor

Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

Business Development Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers

Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor

Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Office/Circulation Manager Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

REGULATING FARMERS MARKETS

Director of Digital Media Chanice Dos Santos chanice@keysweekly.com

Production Manager

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

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Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com

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SE HABLA ESPAÑOL

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Events must have 40% produce, per proposal JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

M

embers of the village’s Local Planning Agency are sending new regulations for farmers markets to the village council for consideration next month.

An operator of the longest running farmers market in Islamorada said proposed regulations have “deal killers” that could end his market, held every Sunday at MM 81.

At a March 28 meeting, members recommended approval of an ordinance that establishes a list of new regulations and procedures related to farmers markets within the village.

LPA members have discussed farmers market regulations, specifically what separates them from flea markets and fairs. Per Islamorada Planning Director Dan Gulizio, a farmers market constitutes farm produce and items such as local food, drinks and plants that are made in Florida and not a processed product distributed widely outside the state.

“We took these from similar ordinances from other municipalities in Florida,” he said.

Per the staff analysis, a farmers market does not include private garage sales, flea markets, fairs and similar activities held by places of worship.

Under the proposed ordinance, 40% of the goods sold at farmers markets must be Florida produce. It was originally set at 51%, but Vice Chair Lorie LaLonde felt 40% was appropriate for an area that doesn’t have local produce farms. LPA members agreed.

“I think the public at hand, when they see the sign for a farmers market, their expectation is that the products found at that market are predominantly fruits and vegetables and consumable items, not necessarily clothing,” she said.

Jans, who runs the Florida Keys Farmers Market, said before Lalonde’s proposal that 51% farm produce would close his farmers market in Islamorada.

“There’s no way we could successfully run a market with that kind of restriction on products. We’re just going to close shop,” he said.

Farmers markets are allowed in village center, highway and neighborhood commercial districts. Farmers markets can operate one day a week between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., but they can’t be within 1 mile of one another.

Gulizio said that provision can be modified by the village manager or council, but the intent was to ensure there isn’t a concentration of farmers markets that cause traffic, safety

hazards along the road and impacts to residents’ quiet enjoyment.

There’s also a cap proposed on the maximum number of vendors, 30. The village manager or the village council can reduce the vendor number based on individual lot size. It also requires restroom facilities on site, either porta potties or access to buildings, and establishes parking requirements for patrons, vendors and any other operations taking place on the property.

Those producing farmers markets are required to submit a site plan and an application for a temporary use permit. Gulizio said those applying for a temporary use permit would be good for the year.

“We’re not looking to have a temporary use permit every week,” he said. “We also want the opportunity to review the use through a temporary use permit and site plan review.”

As a small business, Jans said they could commit anywhere from $10,000 to $15,000 to get a site plan done.

“I don’t think it’s right to also require a temporary use permit. If we’re applying once a year for a temporary use permit, it’s not temporary in nature.”

The proposed ordinance would establish a market manager as a single point of contact to ensure farmers markets are operating under the rules.

Gulizio said it would also ease the permitting process.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

LPA member Susan Rafanello acknowledged that the regulations aren’t unfairly imposed when looking at what others deal with for their businesses. A farmers market is an ancillary use to an existing building, she said. Businesses go through site plan approval, use permits, inspections and certificate of occupancy, among other requirements.

“We’re looking more broadly at Islamorada regulations and the future of regulations as opposed to a custom fit,” she said.

Craig McBay, Islamorada Chamber of Commerce board member and owner of Florida Keys Brewing Co., said the proposed ordinance addresses issues that chamber membership had. In his comments, McBay noted how Art Walk, held every third Thursday at the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, evolved over the years. What started with a few businesses quickly grew to more participants.

“Eventually we had to start getting permits when we never had to get permits before. We had to come in “There’s no way we front of the village every year could successfully for our new permits,” he said. run a market “There were things we had to with that kind comply with and we always of restriction on did. Unfortunately, that’s products. We’re what happens with successful things; they get bigger.” just going to close Andrea Segovia said she’s shop.” given up many Sundays to run — Jae Jans, Florida Keys the farmers market at MM 81.

Farmers Market operator She urged LPA members to consider grandfathering the Florida Keys Farmers Market.

“We have invested so much into this,” she said.

Chairwoman Deb Gillis said she doesn’t see the proposed regulations as being aimed at farmers markets currently operating. Moreover, it’s aimed at the village as a whole.

“It’s a popular thing these days. It’s time for us to put something in place,” she said.

In his statements, Jans said he feels the public and farmers market operators should be given enough time to provide counterpoints to what the village is proposing.

The proposed ordinance will likely be heard at the village council’s April 21 meeting.

Per a village ordinance, 40% of products sold at farmers markets must be produce. PIXABAY/Contributed

FLORIDA SETS 12-YEAR TERM LIMIT FOR SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS SAME LAW ALLOWS PARENTS TO PURGE BOOKS MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

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new Florida law will impose 12-year term limits for school board members throughout the state, but it won’t affect two veteran Monroe County board members who have already served more than 12 years.

The same bill also provides a mechanism for parents to pull books and instructional materials from classrooms and school libraries if they object to the content.

School board vice chair Andy Griffiths is in his 30th year, and chairman John Dick is in his 16th.

“From what I understand, the term limits can’t be applied retroactively,” Griffiths told the Keys Weekly on Tuesday. “If I wanted to serve 44 years, I could, but that’s not going to happen.

I’m on my 10th superintendent. I’ve worked with elected and appointed superintendents. I’ve seen it all, but I can’t see myself serving into my 70s,” added Griffiths, who also has been elected president of the Florida School Boards Association.

But the clock doesn’t start ticking until after the 2022 election cycle, according to House Bill 1467, which Gov. Ron DeSantis signed on March 25. The bill passed the Florida House on Feb. 10 and the Senate on March 10.

“The bill prohibits a school board member from appearing on a ballot for reelection if the member will have served, or would have served if not for resignation, in that office for 12 consecutive years. The proposed limitation would apply only to terms of office beginning on or after Nov. 8, 2022, and is prospective, so that school board members reelected to a consecutive term in 2022 could serve another 12 consecutive years before reaching the term limit,” states an analysis of the bill.

The Florida House initially wanted eight-year term limits, but the text was changed, according to a March 25 story in FloridaPolitics.com.

“‘In Florida, we believe parents not only have a role, but a fundamental role in the education of their kids,’ DeSantis said,” according Andy Griffiths is to the report. “The currently in his governor said voters 30th year don’t have to wait for on the board. term limits to give CONTRIBUTED bad board members the boot, saying they could ‘throw the bums out’ at the next election.”

As for the books and instructional materials, the new School board law, which takes efchair John Dick is fect July 1, requires in his 16th year each elementary on the board. school to post on its MANDY MILES/ website a list of all Keys Weekly materials maintained in the school library or recommended or assigned as part of a school- or grade-level reading list and requires school districts to publish on its website a searchable list of all instructional materials available to students.

As of June 2023, school districts must report annually to the Commissioner of Education any materials that have received objections over the prior year and the Department of Education must publish annually a list of materials that have been banned. “‘This is going to be a really significant win for parents in the state of Florida,’ DeSantis said,” according to FloridaPolitics.com. “Parents could object to material that ‘deviates from state standards’ or is ‘inappropriate,’ citing ‘really graphic stuff’ that kids have access to, even in middle school. “‘Some of the stuff that has ended up there, incredibly, incredibly disturbing stuff,’ DeSantis said.

“The governor was in Daytona Beach with outgoing Education Secretary Richard Corcoran and Senate President Wilton Simpson, in a room full of supporters with placards proclaiming ‘Year of the Parent.’

“Corcoran was enthusiastic. “‘There is no greater accountability than telling a politician your career ends dead certain at this point in time,’ Corcoran, a former House Speaker, said.”

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

THE PIECES OF THE PUZZLE

The Top 15 Autism “Red Flags” Children with autism may…

1. Avoid or have difficulty keeping eye contact.

2. Be overly sensitive or not sensitive at all to stimuli such as light, sounds, smells, textures or touch.

3. Have trouble transitioning from one activity to another or deviating from an established routine, order or ritual.

4. Line up toys rather than playing with them, or play with parts of a toy rather than the entire toy.

By Alex Rickert and Jill Campbell

Autism Awareness Month begins in April

A

s we enter Autism Awareness Month in April, Keys Weekly is proud to partner with the Autism Society of the Keys (ASK) to bring our readers critical information about autism. Check back each week during the month to learn more about community initiatives throughout the Keys intended to raise awareness and support for such a complex disorder.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a condition with a staggering growth in diagnosis. According to the CDC, autism rates have increased from 1 in 150 children in the year 2000 to the current rate of 1 in 44 children. With more than 2% of children falling somewhere on the disorder’s spectrum, the importance of recognizing early signs of ASD has never been greater.

Autism is typically diagnosed when a child is around 18 months old, but children can also be diagnosed later in life depending on the severity of their ASD. Early intervention is key, and there are many therapies and resources available for children.

Here are a few of the most common early warning signs of autism. A single one of these characteristics is not a sure indicator of autism, but if a parent notices multiple signs, they are advised to consult their pediatrician or contact the Autism Society of the Keys for further guidance.

5. Exhibit a lack of speech development, or lose language milestones.

6. Display a lack of social engagement or desire to play with other children.

7. Walk on their tiptoes for extended periods.

8. Display “stimming,” defined as repetitive or unusual movements such as hand flaps, in excited situations or to self-regulate when they are overwhelmed.

9. Be less likely to point at objects they want or at objects or events a parent is looking at or pointing to.

10. Have a generally obsessive, narrowed or restricted interest.

11. Repeat words, activities or movements, often without understanding their meaning.

12. Rock, sway or spin their bodies repetitively.

13. Not respond when they hear their name called, and may not like to be photographed.

14. Display unusual eating or sleeping habits.

15. Have difficulty understanding other people’s feelings and deriving meaning from facial expressions and body language.

ASK is a local nonprofit organization established in 2009.

The organization works with children and families throughout the Florida Keys to provide help and assistance. It offers support meetings, educational speakers, family socials, sensory boxes and training. More information is available from Jill Campbell, founder and executive director, at 305-942-5172 or via email to autismsocietyofthekeys@gmail. com.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

Thank you Veterans Thank you for serving our nation, our debt can never be repaid.

Thank you for your sacrifice, your bravery, and the example you set for us all.

We owe you a debt of gratitude, but more than that, we owe you our freedom.

Chapters Health Hospice is your

community-based, not-for-profit hospice in the Florida Keys.

From Key Largo to Key West, Chapters Health Hospice is your guide, friend and partner in a continous range of compassionate care services for your ever-changing needs and life’s most challenging moments.

As part of our expanded hospice care services, we’re honored to offer the services of the Chapters Health Valor Program. This year-round program honoring veterans and first responders includes licensed professional grief counseling, peer-to-peer “Valor Cafes”, volunteer visits to veterans and first responders in hospice and home care, pinning ceremonies and community outreach.

Call or email today for more information on how Chapters Health Hospice honors and recognizes veterans and first responders who have honorably served our country.

Interested in volunteering? We’d love to have you join us!

305-396-8100 | valorprogram@chaptershealth.org www.chaptersfoundation.com/valorprogram

Funding for the Chapters Health Valor Program for Military Veterans and First Responders in the Florida Keys provided in part through grant funding by the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys, the CSX Pride in Service Grant, and the Ocean Reef Community Foundation Grant.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

BRIEFLY

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FEEDING THE COMMUNITY

County Social Services, Feeding South Florida and Sheriff’s Office team up

C

ars lined up behind the Monroe County Social Services building at Tradewinds Plaza in Key Largo as volunteers handed out milk, fruit, cereal and other food during a monthly drive-through distribution on March 25. Feeding South Florida and county Social Service employees were assisted by Monroe County Sheriff’s deputies. The distribution kicked off at 10 a.m. Motorists stayed in their cars as deputies and social services workers placed the goods into car trunks and back seats.

The food distribution lasts until supplies ran out.

— Jim McCarthy

1. Deputies prepare cereal boxes to hand out to the public.

2. Vehicles pop their trunks open as they make their way to the food distribution checkpoint.

3. Detective Darnell Durham unpacks cereal boxes for distribution to community members.

4. Lt. Spenser Bryan hands out cereal boxes.

5. Detective Ignacio Molina and Monroe County Social Service employees prepare food items for distribution.

Seven Mile Bridge run to affect traffic The 41st Annual Seven Mile Bridge Run scheduled for Saturday, April 2, will affect U.S. 1 traffic for about three hours as the bridge will be closed in both directions. The bridge will close at about 6 a.m. All motorists should plan to be across the bridge by that time to avoid being stuck on one side or the other.

Traffic lanes will reopen at about 9 a.m. but it usually takes an hour or so for traffic to return to normal. More information is at www.7mbrun.com.

Scale the Whale set for April 9 Scale the bridge over Whale Harbor and have a doughnut: Chi Sigma Soroity’s 4th annual Scale the Whale Bridge Run is set for April 9. Trek across the tiny bridge starting at Whale Harbor while raising money scholarships for Coral Shores graduating seniors and local families. Participants are welcome to wear costumes, fun socks, onesies and silly hats.

Running is not necessary, however, prizes will be awarded for the best times in each category. The race has two divisions: one for runners 21 and up and the others younger than 21. The first 100 racers who sign up will receive a ditty bag.

Race registration is $30 for all participants. Onsite registration and check-in begins at 9 a.m. with ther ace beginning at 10 a.m. For more information, visit runsignup.com/Race/FL/ Islamorada/WhaleHarborBridgeRun. Governor’s cabinet approves Keys area of critical concern report Monroe County's designation as an Area of Critical State Concern was re-approved by Gov. Ron DeSantis at the March 29 Cabinet meeting in Tallahassee. Dane Eagle, secretary of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), presented progress in Monroe County's annual report, including completed tasks in the work program to the cabinet. Lisa Tennyson, Monroe County's legislative affairs director, and Emily Schemper, planning and environmental resources director, were on hand.

The current reporting year had 10 tasks for Monroe County that the county completed. Highlights of the report include canal restoration, water quality monitoring, wastewater connections and hurricane evacuation strategies.

"The report was excellent and covers our progress in our Area of Critical State Concern requirements, including our canal restoration master plan," said Schemper. "The Florida Keys Stewardship Act funding is critical to

completing these important projects."

This year was the first year canal restoration tasks were included in the work plan. The plan identifies 195 canals countywide that need restoration, with 15 completed and 13 underway.

"Receiving our ongoing Stewardship Act funding allows us to make this forward progress possible," said Monroe County Mayor David Rice. "We are grateful to the governor, cabinet, legislature, and DEO for their support."

Village substantial improvement/ substantial damage class Islamorada village staff will be hosting an in-person Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage Class in partnership with the Florida Floodplain Managers Association on April 6, 2022, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Founders Park Community Center. The course is $75 for FFMA members and $200 for nonmembers. Online registration is available until April 6.

This course is designed to offer exposure to some of the more complicated nuances of Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage requirements found in the National Flood Insurance Program, the Florida Building Code and local Flood Damage Prevention Ordinances.

The workshop will prepare attendees for a more in-depth discussion of the issues, a basic foundation of the National Flood Insurance Program, its structure, administration and benefits.

Additionally, basic components of the concept of Substantial Improvement/ Substantial Damage will be presented.

The course will then move directly into FEMA’s P-758 Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage Desk Reference and discussions will be drawn directly from the manual. To register, visit flfloods.org/events.

Anglers sought for Redbone Tarpon Tournament The Redbone Sunrise/Sunset Tarpon Tournament is scheduled for Friday-Sunday, April 8-10 in Islamorada, and anglers are invited to help catch the cure for cystic fibrosis. The Ellises founded the Redbone Tournament Series 34 years ago in Islamorada when they learned their daughter, Nicole, had cystic fibrosis, a usually fatal genetic disease.

After a kickoff dinner Friday, April 8, at the Islamorada Fishing Club, the blessing of the fleet on April 9 will start the competition for tarpon. Anglers will fish twice, at sunrise and sunset from 6 to 10 a.m. and from 5 to 9 p.m. Then, on Sunday, April 10, fishing hours are from from 6 to 10 a.m. After that, an awards lunch is to take place at 11:30 a.m. at the Islamorada Fishing Club.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022 MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

COMMITTEE PUSHES FOR DISTRICT-SPECIFIC ELECTIONS

WHO SHOULD CHOOSE OUR COUNTY COMMISSIONERS? S

hould Key Largo residents vote for Key West’s county commissioner?

Should Big Pine voters have a say in Islamorada’s commission representa-

tive?

They do now and always have under Monroe County’s at-large voting process, in which all county voters select all five county commissioners to represent the Keys’ five different voting districts.

But a committee in the Florida Keys would prefer single-member district voting, meaning county commissioners would be elected only by voters in each of the five geographic districts. (Commissioners, as now, must live in the district they represent.)

A political action committee known as Keys Regional Election Protection wants to ask Keys voters, on a 2022 ballot, if county commissioners should be elected via singlemember districts rather than at-large. The group is circulating a petition, hoping to gather the 6,000 or so signatures needed to place the question on a county ballot.

“If everyone in the county votes for every commissioner, there’s a good chance that all five commissioners will be of the same mind.

They’re also likely, as they are now, to all be members of the same political party,” said Chris Massicotte, who worked as a political consultant in Washington, D.C. before moving to Key West about five years ago. “We’re not trying to redraw the district boundaries, or change the number of commissioners or anything. We just want to change the way we elect our leaders to ensure that our county commissioners are directly account-

“County commissioners make decisions that affect everyone in the county, and when you’re making decisions that affect the whole county, you need to be elected by the whole county.”

— Keith Douglass, former Monroe County commissioner

able to the constituents in their districts and are more connected with the local issues of those voters.”

The committee’s website, keysrep.com, makes the argument for single-member voting by pointing out, “While county commissioners must LIVE in the district that they represent, the entire county votes on them.”

The committee also points out that the Florida Keys’ geography makes it difficult — and very costly — to campaign countywide.

Massicotte said all four seated county commissioners oppose the single-member measure. “No elected official is going to support a change that makes it easier for someone to defeat them,” he said.

“We just want to change the way we elect our leaders to ensure that our county commissioners are directly accountable to the constituents in their districts and are more connected with the local issues of those voters.”

— Chris Massicotte, Keys Regional Election Protection

But that’s not why former county commissioner Keith Douglass doesn’t support the change, he told the Keys Weekly on March 22. Douglass was a county commissioner from 1994 to 1998.

“We need to be more unified in the Keys, not more divided,” Douglass said. “County commissioners make decisions that affect everyone in the county, and when you’re making decisions that affect the whole county, you need to be elected by the whole county.”

Seated county commissioners Michelle Coldiron and Craig Cates agreed.

“At-large elections make commissioners accountable countywide,” Coldiron said.

“Our county is so very diverse and by being at-large it requires the commissioners to be well educated and versed on all the issues

they vote on. By being voted on at-large, any constituent can call me and know I am available to not only hear their concerns but to advocate on their behalf. In the past 16 months we have unfortunately had various empty seats on the commission and yet because we are at-large the remaining four commissioners have picked up the slack and been available to the residents in the district without a commissioner.”

Cates added that the current at-large voting process also benefits the voters, “Otherwise voters from one district may only have the vote of their own commissioner for an important issue, and in order to get anything passed, you need three out of five votes.”

But, Massicotte said, single-member voting could make it possible for more potential candidates to enter the political arena.

“It’s possible to knock on every door in Key Largo and really let people get to know you,” he said. “But to do that Keyswide takes more time and money than many would-be candidates have,” often limiting the political arena to candidates with the wealthiest supporters.

Single-member voting would allow voters to know their county commissioner better, and require the commissioners to really know their constituents, the committee says.

When asked what prompted the movement toward single-member voting, Massicotte said the 2020 election of Eddie Martinez over incumbent Democrat Heather Carruthers “was not the only reason” the petition was started. But, he added, it’s fair to say Martinez would not have been elected if the Keys had had single-member voting in 2020, as voters in that district supported Carruthers, not Martinez.

Massicotte said 18 of Florida’s non-charter counties, of which Monroe is one, have switched to single-member voting in recent years. Sarasota County voters were the most recent to implement the change.

Keys Regional Election Protection needs about 6,000 signatures by Aug. 23 to place the question on the general election ballot in November 2022.

The League of Women Voters in the Lower Keys will host a discussion about single-member voting featuring Massicotte, who supports it, and another speaker, who opposes it.

League of Women Voters of the Lower Keys will host a discussion of single-member voting at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 29 at the Coral City Elks Lodge, 1107 Whitehead St., Key West.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

FKMCD & Oxitec Announce Public Educational Webinar #16

FKMCD - Oxitec Public Educational Webinar #16: Takeaways from 2021, Planning for 2022 Tuesday, April 5th, 5:00 pm ET This FKMCD - Oxitec Public Educational Webinar, our sixteenth, features an overview from the 2021 FKMCD - Oxitec Mosquito Project and planning for 2022. The second half of the webinar includes questions and answers with attendees.

Please register at:

Oxitec is Hiring!

Oxitec is hiring! In preparation for the next phase of the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District – Oxitec Mosquito Project, Oxitec is hiring Field and Laboratory Technicians. Housing allowance offered.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

THE HERMIT ARTIST OF KEY LARGO Art collection depicts man’s adventure

Sonntag inside his Key Largo Art Gallery circa 1952. JIM HADLEY/Contributed

This the first in a two-part series on Harry Sontang, the Hermit Artist of Key Largo.

I

n 1960, a Kissimmee couple traveled to St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, to enjoy a tropical island vacation. They stayed in a rooming house where, underneath the bed, they discovered a large bag.

When they slid it out from under the bed and set the bag on the sheets, the husband and wife looked inside. They discovered a cache of art that had either been forgotten, disowned or accidentally left behind.

When the Florida couple asked the landlord if he was interested in the collection, he said, “No, take it with you when you leave, if you want.” What they discovered inside the bag was a large collection of paintings, mostly watercolors, a handful of photographs and some newspaper articles. At the end of their vacation, they packed up their luggage, grabbed the bag filled with art and flew back to Florida. The bag, at some point, ended up in a Kissimmee storage locker.

On a lucky July day in 1992, Frank McNall was driving by that same Kissimmee storage facility and happened to stop to talk to a woman cleaning out one of the lockers. He bought a couple of things she had stored inside. Before he walked away, she said, “You can take this old bag of art my husband and I found on St. Thomas, if you want.”

McNall took the bag, put it in the back of his truck, and drove to his apartment. Later that day, Chuck Faulkner stopped by his friend’s apartment for a visit. McNall told him about the bag he left downstairs in his truck. Faulkner said, “Maybe you should go get it in case it rains.”

The bag was collected and brought upstairs, where McNall and Faulkner opened it up to see what it had in store. Not an hour later, an afternoon Florida deluge poured down. If Faulkner had not said something, what would have happened was that the bag’s contents, 170 original watercolors, photographs, and some newspaper articles, would have all been destroyed and most likely tossed into a Dumpster.

Instead, a one-of-a-kind Florida Keys treasure was saved. The collection of watercolors, photographs and newspaper articles was by, of, and about a Keys legend, Harry Sonntag – the Hermit Artist of Key Largo.

Harry J. Sonntag was born in Astoria, New York, on Oct. 12, 1900. At 16, he was studying at the Pratt Institute of Art. He attended the Art Students League twice, first in 1917 and again in 1922. Harry would never outgrow his passion for art. In a story published in the July 6, 1952, edition of the Miami Daily News, Sonntag is quoted as saying: “Art is the universal language, and my desire is to bring beauty to the multitudes, so that people may realize how lovely is this world.”

Sonntag left New York on what turned into quite an adventure. First, he headed northeast and explored Vermont and New Hampshire.

From there, he traveled west until he reached Arizona, where he stopped because the landscapes absolutely captivated him. When he was done admiring the subtle beauty of the desert landscapes, he walked back out to the side of the road, lifted up his thumb and waited for someone to take him west toward California.

Hitchhiking forward, after traveling through California, Sonntag ventured up into Oregon and then Washington, where the local ghost towns enchanted him. He then headed east until he arrived at Devil’s Lake, Wisconsin,

where he was drawn to the picturesque horizons offered by the rolling hills. He stayed for three years before going back to Manhattan, where he painted in a private gallery. His time in Manhattan would not end on a happy note. His studio caught fire, BRAD burned down and incinerBERTELLI ated all of his paintings, according to the printed is an author, accounts. It would not be the speaker, and Flor- last time one of his collecida Keys historian. tions was reported to have His latest book, been lost to conflagration.

“The Florida Keys In the late 1940s, he Skunk Ape Files,” is a fun blend of packed up, hit the road and two of his favorite stuck out his thumb again. subjects — Florida Drawn to Florida, he hitched Keys history and south to the Keys. It was the Skunk Ape. circa 1949, and, like the ghost towns of Washington and the rolling hills of Wisconsin, the Florida Keys captivated him. On Key Largo, he squatted on what is today considered a prime piece of oceanfront property in the area of MM 97.5 and just north of the Mandalay Marina.

Sonntag chose to build a small shack out of driftwood and tarpaper close to a small cove where he could catch fish and bathe. He also did a little bit of gardening and grew tomatoes and other vegetables. Sonntag kept a fire burning and "bathed" in the smoke to help combat the buzzing black clouds of blood-thirsty mosquitoes.

Next week: the story of Harry Sonntag, his life on Key Largo, and the whereabouts of his lost bag of art will continue.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022 MY LISTING: 17 LYCALOMA AVENUE

LISTED & SOLD IN 4 DAYS!

KEITH ALLEN

Each Office is Individually Owned and Operated

305-481-5544 realkeys@bellsouth.net www.TheRealKeys.com

Public Notice Islamorada, Village of Islands, Florida

Regular Village Council Meeting Thursday, March 31 • 5:30 p.m.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

TO VIEW THE AGENDA, SCAN THE CODE

Chef and Restauranteur Robert DiGiorgio has owned and operated two Key Largo restaurants since the 1990s. DiGiorgio’s Café Largo, a premiere full-service Italian restaurant, was established in 1992, followed four years later with the opening of Bayside Grille & Sunset Bar. Both are located at MM 99, Key Largo.

At a time when restaurants often come and go, DiGiorgio credits consistent quality and value as the keys to success during the past 30 years. “We work hard and still take time to listen to our customers, paying attention to their likes and dislikes,” he said.

“We always look for ways to better ourselves as well as to appreciate and respect our employees as they are the ones leading us to success.”

With a team of 75 employees who run three dining rooms and three bars, DiGiorgio said, “We have a great team of people with all kinds of experience and knowledge who are very passionate about what we are doing and making it fun too!”

Café Largo, located at 99530 Overseas Highway, is open for dinner every day from 4-10 p.m. Large parties can be easily accommodated, and reservations can be made online at www.keylargo-cafelargo.com or by calling 305-451-4885.

Bayside Grille & Sunset Bar are located waterside in a two-story building behind Café Largo, at 99540 Overseas Highway. Both are open daily for lunch and dinner, with Sunset Bar on the first floor, offering live music, happy hour and gorgeous sunset viewing. For more information, visit www.keylargo-baysidegrill.com or call 305-451-3380.

LEGENDARY KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & FLORIDA KEYS VISITOR CENTER 305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088 • info@keylargochamber.org 106000 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037

WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG

The Monroe County Tourist Development Council has funding available to governmental entities and non-profit organizations for capital projects.

The facility must have the primary purpose of promoting tourism and must fall into one of the following categories: Convention Center, Sports Stadium, Sports Arena, Coliseum, Auditorium, Aquarium, Museum, Zoological Park, Nature Center, Fishing Pier, Beach or Beach Park Facility, Channel, Estuary or Lagoon, Public Facilities in Accordance with Conditions Set Forth in the Florida Statute The deadline for receipt of applications is April 27, 2022 and applications must be downloaded from Demandstar (www.monroecountybids.com) For more information please call the TDC Administrative Office at 305-296-1552 and ask to speak with Ammie or Maxine.

14

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

$10

GATE

Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen’s 16th Annual

Under 12 FREE

Festival

April 2

11 am 8 pm

am & 3 115 pm

Bayview Park Key West

Live Music, Vendors, Kid’s Stuff, Cheap Beer, Amazing Seafood, Fundraiser

The freshest seafood caught, prepared and served by your local fishermen

TICKETS @ www.FloridaKeysSeafoodFestival.com

American

a 501(c)3 organization promoting COMMUNITY THEATER in the UPPER KEYS

presents

TRAILER-PARK

MUSICAL Music & Lyrics by David Nehls Book by Betty Kelso

RATED PG13 FOR CONTENT Producer/Director

THU.

Jonelle KOP

FRI.

SAT.

2

APR

APR

APR

APR

2:00 PM

7:30 PM

7:30 PM

7:30 PM

APR

APR

7:30 PM

7:30 PM

7:30 PM

1

Mary-Margaret DALE

SUNDAY SUNDAY MATINEE MATINEE

MAR

31

Asst. Producer/Music Director

Murray E. Nelson Gov. & Cultural Center

3

Produced in conjunction with

THU.

7

FRI.

8

SAT.

9

Opens one hour before curtain time; seating 1/2 hour before curtain time.

102050 Overseas Hwy. Key Largo

Admission $20 at the Ticket Outlets • $23 at the Door and on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/TheKeyPlayers Advance tickets available at these locations, or online: Key Largo Chocolates Shear Paradise PostNet Store (Cedar Towers Plaza) MM 99.3 Plaza 88, Islamorada MM 88 & Ice Cream MM 100.5

More info/online tickets: www.Facebook.com/TheKeyPlayers

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

T R E A S U R E V I L L AG E

M O N T E SS O R I

SPRING FLING

CARNIVAL

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

2

1 3

4

5

T

he Keys Weekly is proud to introduce local students through the Kids Weekly feature.

Instead of asking about their favorite teacher or school subject, we want to know what superpower they’d most like to have, their favorite YouTube channel and the hardest part about being a kid today. We thank our future leaders and Plantation Key School for allowing us to share in a weekly dose of “Panthers” pride and for giving us a glimpse into their world.

Name: Parks Dunn School: Plantation Key School Grade: 6 Activities: Swimming competitively, reading fiction, coloring and journaling.

’CANES EDGE OUT ST. BRENDAN

What superpower would you most like to have, and why? Water manipulation so I can put out fires.

6

If you could make a rule for the whole world to follow, what would it be? My one rule for the whole world would be to respect everything, earth, people and animals.

Powerhouse Conchs come to town next

T

he Coral Shores Hurricanes varsity baseball team eked out a 3-2 victory against St. Brendan in a non-conference game on March 29 at Founders Park in Islamorada. The Hurricanes were led by junior Dylan Bloom, who recorded two RBIs in three plate appearances.

Senior Javier Gonzalez registered the other RBI to edge out the Sabres. The Hurricanes, 5-6, will return home on Thursday, March 31 for a non-conference game against the powerhouse from the south in Key West, which is 9-4 on the season, at 6:30 p.m.

— Jim McCarthy

What makes you laugh? My friends, including Bayley.

When do you think a kid is old enough to have a cell phone? Sixth grade, 12 years old.

What’s your favorite YouTube Channel? Emma Chamberlin.

1. Coral Shores pitcher Dylan Bloom throws to a St. Brendan batter.

2. St. Brendan pitcher Max Alvarez throws to a Coral Shores batter.

3. Coral Shores’ Tyler Rodriguez is safe at first base.

4. Coral Shores’ Jacob Senecal scores a run against St. Brendan.

5. Coral Shores catcher Steel Mientkiewicz celebrates with pitcher Javier Gonzalez after defeating St. Brendan, 3-2.

6. Students and baseball fans cheer on the ’Canes against St. Brendan.

Photos by Doug Finger. Full gallery at keysweekly.com

The hardest part about being a kid is … not to be taken seriously by adults and seen as not important.

The hardest part about being an adult must be … having to rely on only yourself.

When I grow up, I want to … be a dermatologist.

17

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

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

IMPLANT & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

TUESDAY THRU SATURDAY 4:20 -11

Dr. Travis Bennett D.M.D. Dr. Sandy Brito D.M.D. WEDNESDAY THRU SUNDAY | LUNCH 11- 2:30 | DINNER 5 -10 BRUNCH SATURDAY & SUNDAY 11- 2:30

KEY LARGO 102965 Overseas Hwy. 305-451-2616 TAVERNIER 90290 Overseas Hwy. 305-852-5099

WEDNESDAY THRU SUNDAY 4:20 - 11

WWW.BENNETTSMILES.COM Jeff D. Vastola, Esq.

JVastola@VastolaLegal.com

THUR Mar 31 Webb & Davidson 5:30-9:30 p.m.

FRI Apr 1 Taylor King Band 6-10 p.m.

Michael Trixx @ Sunset

833-VASTOLA

SAT Apr 2 John Ciulla 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Flakeys Gang 6-10 p.m.

Need a mediator?

Jeff Vastola is Certified by the Florida Supreme Court as a Circuit Civil mediator.

91495 Overseas Highway, Suite C | Tavernier, Florida 33070 | 305.705.6788

SUN Apr 3 Harry French 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Webb & Davidson 6-10 p.m.

MON Apr 4 Carousers 6-10 p.m.

Michael Trixx @ Sunset

305.664.2692 www.loreleicabanabar.com

TUES Apr 5 Harry French 6-10 p.m.

WED Apr 6 Webb & Davidson 6-10 p.m.

Michael Trixx @ Sunset

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Chapman & Cardwell Capital Management is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services, Inc.

18

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

MESSAGE FROM THE SHERIFF Visitors and snowbirds are flocking to the Florida Keys as the country returns to normalcy.

That means more traffic on U.S. 1. The typical congestion points, such as on the 18-Mile Stretch and parts of Islamorada, are even more congested.

I have directed my Traffic Enforcement Unit as well as station commanders to do everything they can to keep traffic moving on U.S. 1. That means keeping a high law enforcement profile on the highway, but we can’t be everywhere at once.

I’ve also written Governor Ron DeSantis requesting additional Florida State Troopers. We have a wonderful working relationship with the FHP and their partnership is vital in investigating crashes and conducting traffic enforcement.

I’m asking for your help in one area: Report reckless drivers by calling 911. Don’t use our social media to report crimes underway. Call 911. Get the license plate number and a good description of the vehicle.

Illegal passing, speeding and other dangerous driving patterns affect us all, especially if they cause a serious crash that closes the highway.

Plan ahead, stay alert and be patient.

Together, we can make a difference.

Thank you and stay safe,

Don’t delay...

Now is the time to lock in a rate!

JUMBO LOANS • Loans up to $4 million on Primary and Secondary Residence • Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARMs)1 – 5/1, 7/1, 10/1 and 15/1 • Interest Only ARMs2 – 5/1, 7/1, and 10/1 • Fixed Rate – 30 and 15 years3 NICHE LOANS • HELOC, Seconds and Bridge loans • Second Homes, Vacation Homes and Investment Properties

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

CONVENTIONAL LOANS • Conventional Fixed Rate Purchase and

Rates in the 3’s on our Preferred Jumbo Product!

KELLY BORICH Mortgage Specialist NMLS #795429

386.852.3088 kborich@flcb.com

www.flcb.com

For complete program details please speak with our mortgage specialist. 1) An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is a loan with a monthly principal and interest payment that is fixed for 5, 7, 10 or 15 years (based on the chosen product) and then may change every year thereafter based on interest rate adjustments. 2) The interest-only loan product is a 30-year ARM loan with payments of interest only during the first 5, 7 or 10 years after which the minimum payment required will increase, even if the interest rate does not change, to include both interest and principal payments for the remainder of the loan term. Interest-only option not available for First-Time Home-buyer and Non-Permanent Resident Aliens. 3) A 15 or 30 year loan term refers to the time period over which the loan balance and accrued interest will be repaid. A fixed rate fully amortizing loan has a monthly payment of principal and interest that is calculated to repay the loan in full over the loan term. This is not a commitment to lend. All home lending products are subject to credit and property approval. Rates, program terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Not all products are available in all states or for all amounts. Other restrictions and limitations apply. FLCBank is a registered trademark of Florida Capital Bank, N.A. All home lending products offered by Florida Capital Bank, N.A. Member FDIC NMLS #790396 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org 03/2022

19

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022 SPONSORED BY:

CONSERVATION TIP

SPOTLIGHT ON THE SPIEGEL

When diving on a wreck, watch your buoyancy and stay aware of your surroundings, just like you would on a reef. There’s lots of life that lives on the ship hull.

The Spiegel Grove was intentionally sunk in June 2002. After some hiccups, she landed on her side. FLORIDA KEYS & KEY WEST/ Contributed

THIS WEEK’S DIVE REPORT Windy, windy, windy. Oh, and did I say windy? We always say that the winds determine whether or not we can get out, and they kept us on shore many days.

The winds did finally let up last Friday and Saturday, and we went out. Saturday was beautiful. We did an amazing "double dip" trip on one of our most famous wrecks: the Spiegel Grove.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the ERIC intentional sinking of the Spiegel Grove to become an BILLIPS artificial reef and dive destination. Have you ever dived on her before? At 510 feet long and 84 feet high, she’s is the owner, truly a wonder. captain and Before she landed in our waters, the USS Spiegel instructor at Islamorada Dive Grove was a dock landing ship in the U.S. Navy. She Center and Florida was actually named after the home and estate of Keys Dive Center.

Rutherford B. Hayes, the 19th president of the United He specializes in scuba, rebreather, States.

The community worked hard to raise the funds spearfishing and captaining in the to tow her to the Keys, to ready her to become a large Florida Keys. artificial reef and to intentionally sink her. On June 10, 2002, they did just that, but she didn’t sink! Eventually, they did get her down, but she landed on her side. She stayed like that for a good while, until Hurricane Dennis came through in July 2005. After the weather settled, divers reported something miraculous: the storm had righted the Spiegel Grove. She now sits perfectly upright in 130 feet of water in the Upper Keys.

NEXT WEEK’S DIVE REPORT The beginning of the week is going to be great. Mid-week, we will have high winds for a few days. The weekend, as of now, looks beautiful.

Fingers crossed it stays that way.

CONSERVATION UPDATE Shipwrecks are amazing to dive on not just for their history and incredible structures, but also because they are artificial reefs. They’re teeming with sea life that includes corals, sponges, fish, crustaceans, octopuses and more! We often see big sharks patrolling near our wrecks and even a Goliath grouper or two.

Coral outplantings with I.CARE will take place at Islamorada Dive Center on Saturday. Come out with us to help.

Proud supporters of conservation efforts across the beautiful Florida Keys

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

COLEMAN

Reef celebrates his first birthday with some cake. CONTRIBUTED

TURNING 1

From fur farm to island living

H

i friends! Reef the fox here with this week’s “Reef’s Report.” Well, I turned 1 year old on March 28.

One year. Can you believe it? I mean, a lot has happened in my short year on this planet. Let’s recap, shall we?

On March 28, 2021, I was born on a fur farm and destined to become someone’s idea of fashion. On April 7 of that year, I was REEF saved from that fur farm by our friends in THE FOX Minnesota.

On May 6, 2021, my mom, Nicole Reef is a red fox Navarro, flew all the way to Minnesota to that was saved pick me up and drive me back to warmer from a fur farm. weather in Key Largo. By May 20, I made He now lives in headlines as a new “Reef” made home in Key Largo with the island chain (I was on the front page of his human, Nicole Navarro. the Upper Keys Weekly). On June 11, 2021, I had the opportunity to meet command staff at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and took photos with K9s Coral and Mako.

Later that month, on June 29, 2021, I underwent surgery to fix my funky paw and get my little fluff nuggets removed.

Roughly a week later, I had a new sister in Coral. She was also saved from a fur farm.

By September, I entered the realm of writing as a frequent contributor to the Upper Keys Weekly. It’s been a blast highlighting community events, interviewing the likes of Sheriff Rick Ramsay and educating the public about fur in fashion and why not to wear those glamorous coats.

In October, Jasper, Penny, Coral and I moved in together with construction of a new, bigger enclosure. It’s been a good year, and I’m so glad I get to share it with you all every week within the Keys Weekly.

So, thank you all. I really do love our Keys community and all of the support you have shown us is so cool. I know my mom appreciates it too. So keep tuning in every week to see what I’m up to and don’t forget you can always check us out on all of our social media pages by going to pawsitivebeginnings.org and feel free to email me anytime at reef@pawsitivebeginnings.org Until next time, Reef, over and out!

Coleman is a four-year-old wire-hair terrier who’s sweet and well-behaved. A male, his beloved owner passed away and his wife can’t take care of Coleman.

Now back at the Upper Keys Humane Society, he’s searching for a loving home.

If you would like to make Coleman a part of your family, or to learn more about other pets available for adoption, give the Upper Keys Humane Society a call at 305-451-3848. The Upper Keys Humane Society Inc. is a not-for-profit no-kill shelter that provides food, shelter, medical care and adoption services for unwanted and abandoned animals. The purpose of this society is to promote the proposition that all living creatures deserve humane and civilized treatment. We strive to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals in the area from North Key Largo to Lower Matecumbe.

SAVE THE DATE Thursday, March 31 • WIC breastfeeding classes at 1 p.m. (English) and 2 p.m. (Spanish) at Key Largo Library.

April 2-3 • 30th annual Island Fest at Founders Park, Islamorada.

Saturday, April 2 • National Alliance on Mental Illness free in-person seminar from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Coral Isles Church, Tavernier. Register by emailing programs@NAMIMiami.org.

• Treasure Village Montessori’s Spring Fling Carnival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Island Christan School field,MM 83.4, bayside, Islamorada.

April 8-10 • Redbone Tarpon Tournament in Islamorada. Redbone.org.

Saturday, April 9 • Key Largo School Color Run at 8:30 a.m. at Key Largo School.

• Scale the Whale Bridge Run at 10 a.m. at Whale Harbor, Islamorada.

• Swim Across America’s Florida Keys Open Water Swim.

Wednesday, April 13 • Lecture on Caribbean king crabs and Florida’s coral reef by Jason Spadaro, of Mote Marine Laboratory, at 6 p.m. at Keys History & Discovery, Islamorada. Doors open at 5 p.m.

Thursday, April 14 • Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys' "Liars & Cheaters” golf tournament at 10 a.m. at Redland Golf & Country Club, Homestead. Sign up at habitatupperkeys.org/golf/ Saturday, April 16 • Spring Fest from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Founders Park.

Sunday, April 17 •Easter.

Wednesday, April 27 • Lecture on archaeology, adaptation and resilience in the Keys by Sara Ayers-Rigsby at 6 p.m. at Keys History & Discovery, Islamorada. Doors open at 5 p.m.

Saturday, April 30 • Florida Keys History & Discovery Center hosts the return of Indian Key Celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Islander Resort, Islamorada.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

ELKS LODGE PRESENTS 140-PLUS PAIRS The Florida Keys Elks Lodge 1872 recently partnered with Operation Warm in presenting Plantation Key School with 144 pairs of shoes thanks to a Spotlight Grant from the Elks National Foundation. Pictured are Joni Rader, ESC; Michelle Lane, Elks treasurer; Lisa Taylor, principal; Krista Hellman, school counselor; and Angela Sayre, Elks exalted ruler. CONTRIBUTED

GOLF BENEFITS AFFORDABLE HOMES ‘Liars & Cheaters’ tournament set for April 14

G

olf for charity returns with the “Liars & Cheaters” golf tournament presented by Sharkey’s to benefit Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys.

The tournament starts at 10 a.m. on Thursday, April 14, 2022 at the Redland Golf & Country Club, 24451 SW 177th Ave. in Homestead. Major sponsors include Coastal Realty, Dulce Vida Organic Tequila, Smith Optics, Price Automotive and Upper Keys Marine Construction.

The best-ball scramble has a shotgun start and includes greens fees, cart, lunch, festivities starting with door prizes, beverages on the course, an awards ceremony and an afterparty at Sharkey’s Grill. Prizes will be awarded for longest drive in the men’s and women’s divisions, closest to the pin and putting contest.

Entry fee is $150 per person. Individual hole sponsorships are also available for $150. Proceeds will benefit the HFHUK Construction Fund, meaning all proceeds stay in the Upper Keys for use in building homes for deserving families in Key Largo, Tavernier and Islamorada.

For more information or to register, visit www.habitatupperkeys.org/ golf. To inquire about sponsorship opportunities, email info@habitatupperkeys.org.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

Pasta Pantaleo will paint to the rhythm of the blues. CONTRIBUTED

Attendees of the 2019 Island Fest check out artwork and more. CONTRIBUTED

FEATURED ARTISTS

Island Fest welcomes talented painters

P

resented by the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce, the two-day Island Fest will offer live music, gourmet cuisine, vintage cars and plenty of fine art and crafts. The festival takes place on Saturday and Sunday, April 2-3, at Founders Park.

Recognized as this year’s poster artist is painter Derek DeYoung, whose work “Tarpon at Play” captures the joyful nature of this powerful fish. As a boy, DeYoung dreamed of one day living in the Florida Keys. Today, he spends the winter months in Big Pine Key and has done so for the last nine years. Beyond just living the island life, DeYoung worked extremely hard to master the art of catching flats gamefish on a fly, as well as capturing them in acrylic paint on his canvases.

“To be named poster artist for Island Fest has meant the world to Derek, as he truly considers the Florida Keys his home and is so honored to represent his fellow Keys artists this year for Island Fest,” says his wife and partner, Janelle.

DeYoung was born near the shores of Lake Michigan, where his love of fishing was ignited. Over the years his art has veered from the classical fishing art, placing more importance on using a unique style and palette. Using oil paints on canvas, he captures the subtle intricacies fish possess; their patterns, dimensions and textures.

“Ever since I can remember, my connection to the world and the people around me has been through my artwork. I was an average student at best in a family of overachievers academically, but my ability to draw and paint always kept my mom from worrying about me too much,” he said.

Also among the participants will be Ana Monsanto, returning after winning ‘Best in Show’ in 2018. Monsanto, a Ukrainian native, moved to Miami at a very young age.

“Just like everyone that comes to Florida, I fell in love with the ocean and the beautiful beaches of Florida,” said Monsanto. “They have been my inspiration for my artwork.”

Monsanto began painting when she was a teenager and later took drawing and painting classes at Florida International University. Her paintings are made with acrylic paint and custom pigment on canvas.

“Painting water and the movement of water is what I enjoy the most,” Monsanto said.

The little details and memories Ana has from freediving and surfing can be seen in her art. Her latest collection features heavy impasto style barnacles and corals. “You can almost pick the corals off the canvas. The texture is thick and three-dimensional.”

The third featured artist, Linda McQuinn, has lived in several beautiful places across the country. Currently she is living in Pine Island. McQuinn has always done some sort of art, but started painting full-time over five years ago. She is self-taught, working predominantly with oil and acrylic.

“I love bold color and like to experiment with texture and pattern to create whimsical paintings inspired by nature and experiences,” she said.

“Painting is my passion and I hope that is reflected in my work.”

Admission to Island Fest is free and on-site parking is available for a $5 donation. The Islamorada Chamber of Commerce encourages the public to “Keep the Scene Green” and bring a reusable drink container to reduce plastic use during the event. Events will take place rain or shine. Attendees may bring lawn chairs and blankets.

More information is available from the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce at 305-664-4503.

— Contributed

The Pitbull of Blues Band CONTRIBUTED

Toko Irie Reggae Music

NEW ACTS AND CROWD FAVORITES Music returns to Island Fest

A

rtists specializing in country, blues, rock, jazz, reggae and more will also take the stage at the 30th annual Island Fest, presented by the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce.

The two-day festival, which also features the Taste of Islamorada, a gourmet food competition, a vintage car show and roughly 100 artists from around the country showcasing and selling their goods, will take place on Saturday and Sunday, April 2-3.

The start of Island Fest’s live music lineup will come shortly after the event’s 10 a.m. kick-off with Toko Irie performing on the Crooked Palm Distillery stage on the beach. Next on the agenda is I Land Vibes playing joyful beach tunes, followed by The Sunshine Band playing oldies, rock and country.

Sunday's entertainment will kick off with Robert Grabowski from The Absinthe Jazz Project, followed onstage by The Pitbull of Blues Band. Local artist Pasta Pantaleo will take to the stage and paint to the rhythm of the blues. Attendees can boogie down to this crowd favorite and get ready to enjoy the "Taste of Islamorada" where you can sample incredible food from the best restaurants in Islamorada (only on Sunday). Sunday afternoon would not be complete without some singalong country performed by the Coconut Cowboys, who perform songs from Hank Williams to Johnny Cash and Lynyrd Skynyrd to Guns-N-Roses. Wrapping up and closing the event is the awards ceremony for the Taste of Islamorada.

Featuring music, art, food, classic cars and fun, Island Fest offers something for everyone. Admission is free and on-site parking is available for a $5 donation.

— Contributed

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

SPON

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JOIN THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF ONE OF FLORIDA’S LARGEST NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS The Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade/Monroe, Inc., is seeking private sector and/or nonprofit board members to fill three board seats. One member from either Miami-Dade or Monroe county to be appointed by the Governor and two members from Monroe county to be appointed by the local governing board. To quality members must meet the following statutory requirements, as defined is Chapter 1002.83, Florida statutes.

Private sector business members, either for-profit or nonprofit, who do not have, and none of whose relatives as defined in s. 112.3143 has, a substantial financial interest in the design or delivery of the Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program (1002.51 – 79, Florida Statutes) or the School Readiness Program (1002.81 – 995, Florida Statutes).

To complete an application please visit https://bit.ly/ELCMDM_BOD or scan the QR code.

For more information contact Kristine Gregory 305-646-7220 kgregory@elcmdm.org About the Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade/Monroe: Established by the Florida Legislature to administer and provide access to Florida’s Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program and School Readiness Program at the local level in all 67 counties. Board members include: a Department of Children and Families regional administrator or his or her permanent designee who is authorized to make decisions on behalf of the department; a district superintendent of schools or his or her permanent designee who is authorized to make decisions on behalf of the district; a local workforce development board executive director or his or her permanent designee; a county health department director or his or her designee; a children’s services council or juvenile welfare board chair or executive director from each county, if applicable; a Department of Children and Families child care regulation representative or an agency head of a local licensing agency as defined in s.

402.302, where applicable; a president of a Florida College System institution or his or her permanent designee; one member appointed by a board of county commissioners or the governing board of a municipality; a Head Start/Early Head Start director; a representative of private for-profit child care providers, including private for-profit family day care homes; a representative of faith-based child care providers; a representative of programs for children with disabilities under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act; additional members who must be private sector business members, either for-profit or nonprofit. The Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade/Monroe is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring high-quality early education for children in Miami-Dade and Monroe. Through a community-based collaborative approach, we are committed to promoting high-quality early learning, advocating on behalf of children, and preparing every child for success in both school and life.

Sponsored by the Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade/Monroe and the State of Florida.

24

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & 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 GLOW SALON located at 106003 Overseas Hwy, Apt. 1102, Monroe County in the City of Key Largo, Florida 33037-5016, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Key Largo, Florida this 24TH day of March, 2022.

By: Chet Cessford Hair LLC Publish: March 31, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of KEY WEST GHOST AND MYSTERIES TOUR located at 330 Elizabeth Street, Monroe County in the City of Key West, Florida 33040-8604, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Key West, Florida this 24TH day of March, 2022.

By: Magical Arts and Design Publish: March 31, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of One of One located at 506 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Robert A. Spottswood, Jr., on behalf of One of One Technologies, Inc., a Delaware corporation.

Publish: March 24 & 31, 2022.

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI Notice is here by given that on April 11th, 2022, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold. The names of whose units will be sold are as follows: 103530 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL. 33037. Names And Last Known Addresses are as Follows: Thomas Flynn Unit 1636 $1,035.25 Christopher Richert Unit 1028 $886.52 The Estate of Ronald Stern Unit 1191 $507.80 Publish: March 24 & 31, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of TAVERNIER CINEMA 5 located at 149 Stromboli Drive, Monroe County in the City of Islamorada, Florida 33036-3313, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Islamorada, Florida this 24TH day of March, 2022.

By: Keys Cinemas Inc Publish: March 31, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Sara’s Consulting located at 58569 Morton Street, Marathon, FL 33050 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Sara’s Estate Sales Publish: March 31, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of George’s Plumbing located at 1707 Bertha Street, Key West, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: George Can Fix It Inc. Publish: March 31, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Beachside Gift Shop located at 3841 N. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Erica H. Sterling, on behalf of Spottswood Management Inc., a Florida corporation.

Publish: March 24 & 31, 2022.

The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of One of One Hospitality located at 506 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Robert A. Spottswood, Jr., on behalf of One of One Technologies, Inc., a Delaware corporation.

Publish: March 24 & 31, 2022.

The Weekly Newspapers FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of One of One Stays located at 506 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Robert A. Spottswood, Jr., on behalf of One of One Technologies, Inc., a Delaware corporation.

Publish: March 24 & 31, 2022.

The Weekly Newspapers

Barry Anthony Mills, M.D. is no longer practicing with Baptist Health Medical Group Gastroenterology at the following locations effective March 31, 2022: 91550 Overseas Highway, Suite 205, Tavernier, FL 33070 and 5701 Overseas Highway, Suite 17, Marathon, FL 33050 .

Patients who wish to receive copies of their medical records may call 305-852-9400, to request a records release.

Publish: March 31, April 7, 14 & 21, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA DIVISION: PROBATE FILE NO.: 22-CP-000048-P IN RE: ESTATE OF WHITFIELD RICHARD VAN COTT, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of WHITFIELD RICHARD VAN COTT, deceased, whose date of death was October 13, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Hwy., Tavernier, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES this notice is: March 31, 2022.

Personal Representative: Patricia Ann Van Cott 809 S. Jade Drive Key Largo, FL 33037 Attorney for Personal Representative: Anthony A. Velardi, Esq. Florida Bar No. 113917 AV Law PLLC 99530 Overseas Hwy., Suite 2 Key Largo, FL 33037 Tel: (305) 453-5277 Fax: (305) 453-4985 E-Mail: anthony@keylargolaw. com Publish: March 31 & April 7, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF FLORIDA IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO. 2022-CP-78-K IN RE: ESTATE OF BEVERLY J. AVANT, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The formal probate administration of the estate of BEVERLY J. AVANT, deceased, whose date of death was January 20, 2022 and whose Social Security Number is XXX-XX-3038, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead St., Key West, FL 33040.

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 the court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of the first publication of this notice is March 24, 2022.

Personal Representative: OMIS HUGE AVANT, JR. Attorney for Personal Representative: MONICA S. SANTANA, ESQ. Florida Bar Number: 956805 Monica Matthews Santana Law Office 20030 Bluff Oak Boulevard Tampa, FL 33547-2975 813-407-3453 monicasantanalaw@yahoo.com Publish: March 24 & 31, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 22-CP-25-M DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBERT E. MONTGOMERY Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Robert E. Montgomery, deceased, whose date of death was January 20, 2022, 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: March 24, 2022.

Personal Representative: Elizabeth P. Montgomery 420 10th Street 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: March 24 & 31, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

of MAGALY X. CRUZADO BATISTA, deceased, whose date of death was December 20, 2020, and whose Social Security Number is ***-**-6247, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 302 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 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 WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: March 24, 2022.

Personal Representative: Steven K. Schwartz 20801 Biscayne Blvd, Suite 506 Aventura, FL 33180-1400 Attorney for Personal Representative: Steven K. Schwartz, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 187976 STEVEN K. SCHWARTZ, P.A. 20801 Biscayne Blvd, Suite 506 Aventura, FL 33180-1400 Telephone: 305-936-8844 Ext 106 Telefax: 305-936-1804 E-mail: Steve@ stevenkschwartzpa.com Publish: March 24 & 31, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-000090-K JUDGE KOENIG IN RE: ESTATE OF MAGALY X. CRUZADO BATISTA, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate

Dr. Nikole Czapp is relocating and will no longer be practicing at Islamorada Medical Center effective April 22nd, 2022.

The current providers at Islamorada Medical Center will still be available for patient care. Patient medical records will remain available at Islamorada Medical Center should patients need a copy of their records.

90130 Old Hwy, Suite 1, Tavernier, FL 33070, 305-852-9300 Publish: March 24 & 31, April 7 & 14, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 22-DR-000035-K Division: Family YENI A. MENDOZA RIVAS, Petitioner, and DOROTHY M. BESWICK, Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE TO: DOROTHY M. BESWICK Last Known Address: 4 BETTY ROSE DRIVE, APT. 421, KEY WEST, FL 33040 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on YENI A. MENDOZA RIVAS, whose address is 4 BETTY ROSE DRIVE, APT. 421, KEY WEST, FL 33040, on or before April 11, 2022, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

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

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.)

Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the addresses on record at the clerk’s office.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure,

25

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

HOUSING FOR RENT

PERSONALS

requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated this 7TH day of March 2022 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Riza Hall Deputy Clerk Publish: March 10, 17, 24 & 31, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

applicants only please, we need someone who shows up and takes pride in their work.

bank assets assigned to them.

Contribute to the growth of the bank by promoting and cross selling bank products and services.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Equivalent to four years high school or GED, with particular emphasis during high school in office skills, shop skills, or others, plus 12 to 18 months related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience. To apply, please visit our careers page: www.my100bank. c o m / c a r e e r s

Avenue Gulf, Marathon or email resume to: eerpinc@gmail.com

end of 15th Street, Oceanside, Marathon or email: lobstercrawl@ g m a i l . c o m

3BR/2BA Furnished Waterview Apartment available long term lease in Marathon. No Pets. Call 786-218-5799

Affectionate & loving homeowner looking to co-habitate with someone who is clean, personable, with an excellent credit & FICA score. No drugs, no smoking, no pets.

305-747-1700

AUTOS WANTED ALL YEARS! Junk or Used.

Cars - Vans - TrucksRunning or Not. $CASH$ 305-332-0483 AUTOS FOR SALE 1999 Mercedes Benz 500 SL Convertible White w/blue leather interior. 31,000 miles.

Located in Marathon. $21,900 781-422-1131 Place your Auto For Sale ad here for only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and sell your car!

BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

Boat slip available oceanside in Marathon.

Self contained incl. one parking space. $20.00 per foot/month plus water. F/L/S No pets.

305-610-8002 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Upper Keys business opportunity - Boat Rentals Highly profitable w/financials, 20+ years, fully equipped, instant ocean-bay access, full service marina. $495K Call 305-896-2256 EMPLOYMENT

We are looking for a responsible, hard working, detail-oriented employee to run our household in Key Largo, Florida. You will be responsible for laundry and housekeeping, stocking supplies, occasional errands, caring for several small dogs, and generally keeping things running smoothly. Background checks are required and d e p e n d a b l e transportation is a must.

This job is 40 hours/ week, $20/hour, usually Mon-Fri but some weekend days may be needed.

If you’re interested, call Kat at 305-240-1315 to arrange an interview. Serious

Computer Programmer

/Coding.

Need an individual experienced in basic computer languages and AWS platform. Please send resume and contact information to: twmcfo@gmail.com.

Help Wanted - Big Time Discount Bait and Tackle in Marathoncompetitive wages and working 30-40 hrs a week. Contact George 305-289-0199 Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time server. $12/hr + Guaranteed Tip Pool, Employee Meals, Private Club & Friendly Atmosphere, Varying Hours Tuesday – Saturday.

Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time general maintenance person. $18/hr, up to 10 Hours a Week, Flexible Schedule.

Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY - Concrete Field Testing Technician needed. Full-time. Year round. We train you to go to various job sites and collect samples.

Vehicle provided. Must speak English, live in Middle Keys area and have clean driving record. Starting pay $18/ hour. Pay rate will rise at intervals. 305-393-0643 Groundskeeper/ M a i n t e n a n c e person, KCB, Sea Isle Condominium, 20-25 hrs. per week, $20 per hr., apply by e-mail to HardingThomasL@ aol.com, or call 734-476-0531.

Boat rental company in Marathon needs mechanic.

Boat experience a plus.

Call 305-481-7006 CENTENNIAL BANK IS HIRING! TELLER II MARATHON/KEY WEST. GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF POSITION: Conduct transactions with speed, accuracy and efficiency while meeting or exceeding service quality standards.

Safeguard

Marathon Auto Air looking for technician.

Pay based on experience and how often you show up to work! Apply in person at 2525 Overseas Highway, Marathon.

3 0 5 - 289- 9884 The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club, is seeking a part time line cook.

Perfect second job. Club is open 10am - 7pm daily. Located in Key Colony Beach. Hourly pay commensurate with experience.

Beautiful environment, small friendly staff, open year round. Apply in person, email resume to atpor call 305 3930631 ask for April.

City of Marathon Current Job Openings: Recreation Specialist/ General Maintenance Tech, Engineering Intern, and Marina Customer Service Rep. Full Benefits. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us 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.

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

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West is hiring a Human Resources & Risk Manager. This full-time position is a highly responsible position that handles all the daily functions or the Human Resources department.

This position is al responsible for maintaining all insurance policies for the Housing Authority.

A minimum of 2 years in a HR position and SHRM certification is preferred.

Salary Commensurate with Experience.

KWHA provides health, retirement, and leave benefits for permanent full-time employees. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: wrightk@ kwha.org or (305)2965621. Applications are available on our website www.kwha.org or at our Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040.

EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.

Part Time Supervisor/ Housekeeper Position Available Immediately in Key Colony Beach.

Hours may vary depending on need including weekends.

Responsibilities include oversee housekeeping staff, inspecting rooms prior to guest occupancy, making up laundry bags, cleaning rooms, etc. Physical demands: ability to lift and carry laundry bags ~ 35 lb. **Must have reliable transportation** Please call/text or email to discuss pay and to request application.

Michelle - 952-208-2850 Cheryl - 305-505-8747 info@continental innbeachside.com Charter Captain /Mate - Busy fishing charter business in Marathon looking for experienced fishing Captain/Mate.

Busy boats and location.

Offshore, Inshore, Reef/ Wreck. Also part-time Boat Cleaner needed for afternoons. Send text or call 305-481-3259 Come Join Our Family and Have Fun At Work!

Hiring: Host, Hostess & Servers - Full &/or parttime. AM & PM Shifts.

Apply in person at Castaway Restaurant,

NOW HIRING: Sweet Savannah's is now hiring for multiple positions: Cashier - must be 16 yrs or older, Full-time Baker & Part-time Baker's Assistant. Stop by for an application at 8919 Overseas Highway, Marathon or email: info@ sweetsavannahs.com PLACE YOUR HELP WANTED AD here for only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 TODAY! HOBBIES/COLLECT.

PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches.

Old Model Military Clocks & Watches.

Call 305-743-4578 HOMES FOR SALE

Duplex For Sale By Owner. 10822 2nd Avenue, Gulf, Marathon.

2BR/1BA each side. Trade RV or BOAT or CASH. Call 305- 481- 131 6

PLACE YOUR HOUSING FOR RENT AD here for only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 TODAY! LOT FOR SALE

Lot For Sale By Owner on Duck Key - Trade RV or BOAT or CASH. Call 305-481-1316

YARD SALES

RETIRING YARD SALE - Sat & Sun, April 2 & 3 from 8a-2p. Old Nautical items, tools, (2) 10'x20' tents (almost new), 1/2 priced almost everything.

334 East Seaview Drive, Duck Key, FL, MM61

OFFICE/COMMERC. SPACE FOR RENT

Beautiful Office Space available for rent now on US1 in Tavernier @ MM92. Call 305-3940530 PLACE YOUR COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT AD here for only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 TODAY!

MOVING SALE - Sat & Sun April 2 & 3 from 9a-3p.

Household items, tools, diving, fishing & misc. items.

236 West Seaview Drive, Duck Key, FL, MM61 PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD here for only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 TODAY!

Vernis & Bowling of the Florida Keys, P.A., an AV rated firm located at 81990 Overseas Hwy, 3rd Floor, Islamorada, FL, is seeking Legal Assistants/Paralegals to join our team. Duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to: drafting correspondence and pleadings (i.e. motions, subpoenas, notices), e-filing, scheduling, and calendar management. Trial preparation experience is a plus. Very competitive salary, full benefits, and part-time work from home potential.

All interested candidates please send your resume via e-mail to Dirk M. Smits, Esq. at dsmits@florida-law.com and pfalcon@florida-law.com.

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

26

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

You're Invited Join us for a wonderful evening of inspiring art, soothing music and light refreshments as we come together to support the Good Health Clinic!

Open Daily 11-11pm

20 Locall rewed on D Drraft ft Ciders, Craft Cocktails, Wine and More!

Authentic Mexican Food Truck arge Select Large Selection ion of Hugee Outdoor Beer Garden & Games Brewery Merch Brewery Tours Mon. & Fri. 2pm

Saturday, April 9, 5-8 p.m.

Our Place in Paradise, MM 88.7, oceanside.

THE WORLD OF EXPERTISE YOU NEED WITH THE LOCAL SERVICE YOU LOVE _custom website design _search engine optimization _social media marketing

Ceramic artist Beth Kaminstein will be on the wheel and guitarist Dave Feder will be performing.

Eight-piece set of 'Big Bowls' created on site to be raffled at the event. Silent auction items include original pieces by Beth and other local contributors.

Raffle Tickets $20 each, 3 for $50 - Available at Gallery Our Place in Paradise spring sale is in progress through April with a percentage of sales during the event supporting the Good Health Clinic and its mission to serve as a healthcare home for uninsured adult and child residents of the Florida Keys living at or below 200% federal poverty level.

overseasmediagroup.com 305.906.0272

27

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

Sweet Savannah’s is now hiring for multiple positions: Cashier - must be 16 yrs or older Fulltime Baker Part-time Baker’s Assistant Email info@sweetsavannahs.com Or apply in person at 8919 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL

NOW HIRING

NOW HIRING

Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance

Charter Captain / Mate

Paid Holidays, Vacation & Sick Time Paid Time Off for Volunteering Tuition Reimbursement Competitive Salaries 401K Employer Match

Great Hours

NOW HIRING:

Apply Online at

KeysBank.com/Careers

PREP COOKS

$19/HOUR PLUS GRATUITY SHARE Apply in person Mon-Fri 10a-4p at our pre-opening office: 1700 N. Roosevelt Blvd, Suite 6, Key West www.thekolachekitchen.com

Busy fishing charter business in Marathon looking for experienced fishing Captain/Mate. Busy boats and location. Offshore, Inshore, Reef/Wreck. Send text or call 305-481-3259

Quarterly Cash Profit Sharing

$18/HOUR PLUS GRATUITY SHARE

BAKERS

SPORTFISHING ADVENTURES

Invest in Yourself!

CASHIERS

$18/HOUR PLUS GRATUITY SHARE

305.743.0844

Hosts Waitstaff Bartenders Bar Backs Bussers Line Cooks Dishwashers

Apply in person at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, 7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon Member FDIC

EOE-M/F/V/D

Equal Housing Lender

Dynasty Marine Associates, Inc. www.dynastymarine.net

The Moorings Village is seeking friendly, self motivated, team players for the position:

BEACH ATTENDANT Competitive salary and great benefits.

Job types: Full-time & Part-time Please email your resume to Lindsey@mooringsvillage.com or call the reception office at 305-664-4708

SUDOKU SOLUTION

Located in the Florida Keys, is a highly-respected supplier of Caribbean marine life to public aquariums and zoos throughout the world.

LOGISTICS COORDINATOR Duties to include invoice and inventory entry, booking airline shipments, creating and filing paperwork for international shipments, scheduling inspections needed for international shipments. Must be proficient in Microsoft word, outlook and excel. This position requires high attention to detail and the ability to multitask. Compensation will be dependent on experience with performance-based incentive program.

Benefits package including vacation, sick days, holidays and 401K PSP retirement plan. Please send cover letter and resume to sales@dynastymarine.net for consideration. No phone calls please.

WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR “C”

LOCATION: BIG COPPITT KEY AND DUCK KEY The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority’s WASTEWATER DIVISION IS GROWING, and we need (2) WWTP OPERATORS WITH A FLORIDA “C” LICENSE OR HIGHER. You will perform skilled/technical work involving the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment plant. This requires technical knowledge and independent judgment to make treatment process adjustments and perform maintenance on plant equipment, machinery, and related control apparatus in accordance with established standards and procedures. Benefit package is extremely competitive! Location: Big Coppitt Key and Duck Key. Salary Range: $52,645.98 - $84,011.20.

Apply online at www.fkaa.com

EEO, VPE, ADA

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

OCEANFRONT PRIVATE SWIM CLUB IN KEY COLONY BEACH IS SEEKING A KITCHEN MANAGER/COOK FOR OUR BUSY SNACK BAR. The Cabana Club is open 10 am - 7 pm daily.

Must have experience. Responsibilities include but not limited to: ordering, cooking, menu design, good organizational skills and maintain a clean kitchen. Our small efficient kitchen mainly serves lunch items.

Pay commensurate with experience plus benefits. Beautiful environment, small friendly staff, open year round.

TheCabanaClubKeyColonyBeach.com Apply in person, email resume atpCabanaClub@aol.com or call 305-393-0631 and ask for April.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

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

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon Join our team! Full and part-time Educational Program Guides/Gift Shop Sales. Public speaking & retail sales experience helpful. $15.00/hour to start. Send resume to: TurtleHospitalMarathon@gmail.com

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.

EXECUTIVE AIDE

TO THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR JOB SUMMARY: Providing support for the City Administrator by performing clerical tasks such as but limited to; project oversight, management analysis.

Candidate requires initiative, independent judgement and discretion. Must be able to lead by example and demonstrate the highest level of ethics.

RESPONSIBILITIES • Working with the City Administrator in developing approaches and solutions to City needs.

• Conduct complex and sensitive administrative, operational and management analysis.

• Monitor pending projects. Supports the Administrator and Clerk with the commission, employee and citizen group meetings.

• Understands and complies with Federal, State and Local Law governing City business. Must be versed in the Florida Sunshine Law, Open Records Law and Right to Know Laws.

• Serve as project lead for special projects.

• Manage multiple grants and projects. Provide effective research.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS • Possession of a valid Florida driver’s license or within 30 days if moving from out of state.

• Must be able to pass a drug screening, criminal background check and FDMV record review.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration or related government field.

SKILLS: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, QuickBooks and social media.

Please see full job description at keycolonybeach.net Send all resume’s to: cityadministrator@keycolonybeach.net, or City of Key Colony Beach City Hall, Attn: City Administrator, 600 West Ocean Drive, PO Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051.

DEADLINE TO APPLY: April 14th, 2022 – 4:00 pm Equal Opportunity Employer

HIRING

FULL TIME PROJECT MANAGER Location: Upper Keys Send resume to: admin@cbtconstruct.com Or call: 305-852-3002

Sweet Savannah’s is now hiring for multiple positions: Cashier - must be 16 yrs or older Fulltime Baker Part-time Baker’s Assistant Email info@sweetsavannahs.com Or apply in person at 8919 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL

Department of Environmental Protection

John Pennekamp State Park is hiring for a seasonal OPS Senior Clerk Position for our Entrance Station. This position’s primary function is to provide excellent customer service, give information about the park and collect tolls. $18.50/hour

For a detailed job description and to apply, please visit; www; https://jobs.myflorida.com search by location Key Largo FL

The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace.

The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace.

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS NEEDED! Monroe County School District

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

JOB TITLE: ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT REPORTS TO CITY CLERK The City of Key Colony Beach is accepting applications for Administrative Assistant. Position includes but is not limited to, front desk, answering multi-line phones, processing mail, administrative support to all Staff, ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with Commission, staff, and public, providing exceptional customer service.

Minimum High School graduate with two years of work experience in customer service and administrative support. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite. Applicants must possess strong communication skills, both written and verbal.

Competitive salary based on experience. Full benefits provided.

Contact City Hall for an application at 305-289-1212, opt. 2.

Applications are also available at www.keycolonybeach.net; see “City Government” then “Forms”.

Submit applications in person, via email, or by mail to: cityadministrator@colonybeach.net or City of Key Colony Beach City Hall Attn: City Administrator 600 West Ocean Drive PO Box 510141 Key Colony Beach, FL 33051 Equal Opportunity Employer Open until filled

OPEN POSITIONS AT BAPTIST HEALTH SOUTH FLORIDA TAVERNIER MARINER’S HOSPITAL - Physician Practice RN - Pool Group Exercise Instructor - Scheduling Coordinator - Security Office MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL - ED Team Coordinator - Environmental Tech, $5,000 Bonus - First Cook, $5,000 Bonus - Floor Technician, $5,000 Bonus - Mechanic 3, $5,000 Bonus - Medical Assistant, $3,000 Bonus - Physician Practice Patient Rep, $1,000 Bonus - Phlebotomist, $10,000 Bonus - Pool Physical Therapist

APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

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

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

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

Dolphin Research Center is Hiring!

Marketing Director – Full Time Volunteer Resources Administrative Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent) Media & Marketing Staff Member (Full-Time, Permanent)

Education Program Host (Full-Time, Permanent)

IT Technical Specialist (Part Time, Permanent)

Human Resources Assistant (Part-Time, Permanent)

Guest Services Staff

TEXT “MYTOMTHUMB” TO

242424

(Full-Time/Part-Time, Temporary/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

Apply online at mytomthumb.com/employment

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

PART TIME / FULL TIME OPPORTUNITIES W/FLEXIBLE SCHEDULES ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF FINANCE FRONT OFFICE DIRECTOR FRONT OFFICE GUEST SERVICES AGENT & BELL/VALET RESERVATIONS AGENT HOUSEKEEPING ALL POSITIONS SIGN ON BONUS OFFERED! CULINARY KITCHEN MANAGER, COOKS DISHWASHERS F&B SERVER, BARTENDER BUSSERS/FOOD RUNNERS LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST NAIL TECH SCAN TO VIEW JOB OPENINGS. APPLY TODAY! APPLY ONLINE AT www.noblehousehotels.com/careers APPLY IN PERSON AT Zero Duval St. Ocean Key Resort and Spa is EOE.

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING! KEY LARGO

Behavioral Health Counselor, FT (Children) Case Manager, FT (Children)

KEY WEST

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

MARATHON

Peer Support Specialist/BHT (FT) Care Coordinator Housekeeper Behavioral Health Therapist (Children, Adult) RNs and LPNs (3 shifts) (PT/FT & per diem) Advocate (PT) Driver PT/per diem *Assisted Living Support Worker (FT) *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 (search by zip code) EEOC/DFWP

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

30

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

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

Licensed & Insured #SP33799

Lic No. SP1481

ALL KEYS GLASS

We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors

Authorized Dealer

305-743-7800

305-998-8953 Insured • Professional • Reliable

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

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

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

Key West

Precision Pavers Belgard Brick | Clean & Seals | Old Castle Coastal WE WILL MAKE YOUR DRIVEWAY LOOK NEW AGAIN Brick Driveway | Patios | Pool | Decks | Retaining Walls FREE ESTIMATES | WILL NOT BE UNDERBID

305.896.3599 OUT DOOR LIVING SPACES

SP3102

CGC1523838

_social media management _search engine optimization _custom website design

MARATHON

KEY LARGO

GENERAL CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS

SPALLING EXPERTS

Proud member of:

INTERNATIONAL

CONCRETE REPAIR INSTITUTE

overseasmediagroup.com 305.906.0272

Tewes ewes Mortgage

Your local, residential lending expert!

Call 305.495.6000 for a FREE Consultation

98970 Overseas Highway, Key Largo 305-453-7855 Tuesdays through Saturdays 10 a.m.-12 noon; 1-4 p.m.

Pick up available. No drop offs.

When It Rains It Pours!

Grocery Shopping/ Delivery by Melodye 305-896-9099

Brian Tewes

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

NMLS# 375025 Tewes Mortgage NMLS# 1453791 NMLSConsumerAccess.org

www.TewesMortgage.com

A LOCAL SHOPPING FOR LOCALS https://shop.dumpling.us/melodyeh631

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

CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE

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

A division of SALT Service, serving The Keys since 1989

305-289-1150

Only $57 Puts Your Business Card Here

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

SOLAR DONE RIGHT!

Florida Solar Contractor CVC 56734 Florida Electrical Contractor EC13008657

Kitchen Cabinets Sales

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

The Weekly Newspapers www.KeysWeekly.com

305-743-0844

31

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

BOUGAINVILLEA BASH

Event supports Mariners Hospital

C

ommunity members shared conversation and laughs while enjoying libations and raising auction paddles during the 32nd Mariners Hospital Bougainvillea Ball, which was reimagined this year as the Bougainvillea Bash, at Cheeca Lodge on March 26. Put on by the Baptist Health Foundation and the Bougainvillea Ball Committee, the event will benefit the hospital through the purchase of a new, state-of-the-art Siemens MRI scanner. The idea for the ball dates back to 1989 as hospital administration, the Keys Hospital Foundation and hospital auxiliary looked for ways to raise money to construct a new hospital.

— Jim McCarthy

6 7

1 2

3

1. The team at Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty. From left, Realtor Sabrina Wampler; Angela Valdesuso, office manager; Lauren Varney, director of operations; and Realtor Sarah Ewald.

8

2. Rosie Sanchez, director of the intensive care unit at Mariners Hospital, and Nelson Sanchez, Monroe County Sheriff’s deputy.

4

3. Jay Hershoff, Mariners Hospital board of directors chair, and County Commissioner Holly Raschein, chairwoman of the Bougainvillea Bash Committee.

4. Candice McCarthy and John Simpson, of Florida Keys Farm.

5

5. From left, Lee Young, legislative aide to state Rep. Jim Mooney; Roger Young, of Islamorada Brick Company; Ty Harris, local attorney; and Mary Beth Harris, senior business development officer for Centennial Bank.

6. Fashion icon Rob Stober.

7. Drew Grossman, CEO of Mariners and Fishermen’s hospitals, welcomes guests to the Bougainvillea Bash.

8. From left, Audra Hill, Baptist Health Foundation and Mariners Hospital Council chair; Kate DeLoach, hospital board of directors; Christina Steele, member of the Bougainvillea Bash Committee; and county commissioner Holly Raschein.

Full gallery at keysweekly.com.

Spring into better hearing this year!

Scan this on your phone to connect directly with

Get ready to enjoy the upcoming warmest months of

CALL TO START YOUR HEARING JOURNEY!

the year by making sure you’re MIAMI 17670 NW 78th Avenue #201

not missing a moment of the conversation! “Hop” on

(305) 403-9325

over to Hear 4 U and Dr. Michelle and begin your journey to better hearing today!

www.hear4uaudiology.com www.heardrmichelle.com

KEY WEST 513 Fleming Street, Suite 11 (2nd floor accessible via elevator)

(305) 809-6041

MARATHON 11400 Overseas Highway - Suite 209 Town Square Mall

(305) 747-7750

HOMESTEAD Towers Professional Plaza 151 NW 11th St., Ste. W-301

(305) 809-7663

TAVERNIER 93911 Overseas Hwy., Ste. 5 (2nd Floor) Tavernier, FL 33070

(305) 247-8227

32

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / MARCH 31, 2022

3 0 t h A N N UA L F LO R I D A K E YS

FREE ADMISSION

Saturday & Sunday 10 to 5

April 2 & 3 Presented by the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce

Music•Art•Food•Fun•Cars

on the beach at Founders Park MM87 Bayside Plantation Yacht Harbor Arts & Crafts Show

“Taste of Islamorada”

All-American Road Vintage Cruisers Show

Plantation Yacht Harbor Arts & Crafts Show

Saturday, April 2

Stroll along the Bay and enjoy the best collection of juried arts and crafts... from around the state, in all mediums and all price ranges.

Live performances all day long on the Crooked Palm Distillery Stage on the beach

Toko Irie – Reggae

2022 poster signing by featured artist Derek DeYoung

I Land Vibes – Beach Tunes

All-American Vintage Cruisers

The Sunshine Band– Rock and Roll

Featuring all makes and models plus custom designs (cars, trucks, rat rods, motorcycles, & more)!

Saturday Highlights: WHAT FLOATS YOUR BOAT Homemade Boat Race

Music, Art, Food & These Activities (both days):

Adults & Kids Divisions

Kite Flying Sand Sculpting on the Beach Paint the Dolphin: Art for Kids Hula Hooping & Contests Large Selection of Food & Drinks 8-ft. Sand Castle — Photo Op

Pirates, Ships & Treasure Chests

Sand Sculpting Contest on the Beach!

Sunday, April 3

Swim with a mermaid Meet a mermaid Mermaid makeovers Mermaid photo ops Sponsor: Florida Keys Brewing Co.

Mermaids will be on the beach and swimming in the bay!

Live performances all day long on the Crooked Palm Distillery Stage on the beach

The Absinthe Jazz Project - Jazz The Pit Bull of Blues Band – Blues while Pasta paints to the rhythm

Bring your own water bottle, lawn chair and your camera!

SPONSORED BY

Coconut Cowboys - Country Music Sunday Highlight:

Taste of Islamorada!

People’s Choice

ON THIS DATE

FOUNDERS PARK

Sample incredible food from local restaurants in Islamorada (only on Sunday)!

Vote for the Best!

M O B I L E

B O U T I Q U E

Keep the scene green – bring your own water bottle

PARKING Available INSIDE Founders Park MM 87 • BAYSIDE

Islamorada, Florida Keys

RAIN OR SHINE

For info: 305-664-4503 • www.islamoradachamber.com