Upper Keys Weekly 22-0714

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floridakeys.noaa.gov/blueprint. Get a look.

SAFEGUARDING KEYS RESOURCES Updated Restoration Blueprint released | P. 4

LAGER FOR THE LIGHTHOUSE New beer supports Alligator | P. 20

TAKING TO THE AIR Rescue drills on the Florida Keys waters | P. 10

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

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July 13 kicked off a 100-day comment period on the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary’s updated set of rules, proposals and management plan — known as the Restoration Blueprint. Check out the proposed rulemaking at floridakeys.noaa.gov/blueprint. Submit your comments at regulations.gov.

Coast Guard Air Station Miami conducts drills off the waters of the Florida Keys on June 28. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly

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UPDATED RESTORATION BLUEPRINT RELEASED

PROPOSALS EXTEND BOUNDARIES, END ANCHORING IN SANCTUARY PRESERVATION AREAS

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lorida Keys National Marine Sanctuary’s Advisory Council members listened intently as an updated set of proposed regulations and a management plan — known as the Restoration Blueprint — was unveiled during a July 12 meeting at Hawk’s Cay Resort on Duck Key. “This is an exciting day for a number of reasons,” said George Garrett, SAC chairman, to kick off the meeting. “I know we’ve all been waiting for it because we went through a year or two where we were simply waiting.”

Specifically, the sanctuary is proposing expanding the current 3,800-square-mile boundary surrounding the Florida Keys to 4,795 square miles. North America’s only coral barrier reef falls within the sanctuary, and so do 6,000-plus species of marine life, seagrass beds and mangrove-fringed island.

Joanne Delaney, resource protection and permit coordinator for the sanctuary, said the majority of the expansion includes Pulley Ridge Wildlife Management Area in the Gulf of Mexico. It has the deepest known coral reef off the continental U.S. The ridge itself is a drowned barrier island some 100 kilometers long by 5 kilometers wide – about 62 miles by 3 miles – northwest of the Dry Tortugas and running parallel to the Florida peninsula.

The zone overlaps with an existing Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council Habitat Area of Particular Concern. While fishing is allowed under the proposal, no anchoring would be allowed within the management area.

The sanctuary boundary also lines up with the “area to be avoided” line, which was established in 1990 and prohibits tank vessels and vessels over 50 meters from traversing the waters off the Florida Keys.

Even with the proposed boundary expansions and modifications, sanctuary officials said 15% of the sanctuary’s 4,800 square miles would fall within managed zones.

An assessment on the sanctuary in 2011 found that conditions within the sanctuary were fair or poor. Since that report, the Keys witnessed a destructive hurricane in Irma

and a massive influx of boaters on the Keys waters since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A set of proposals released to the public in August 2019 outlined various alternatives to combat the decline in marine conditions. Comments submitted by the public to regulations.gov were examined by sanctuary staff, bringing forth the proposed rulemaking on July 12 for another round of comments.

Sarah Fangman, sanctuary superintendent, said the Restoration Blueprint is “our attempt to do something” with a Keys ecosystem seeing continued stress.

“This is about our future and we all have to do a little compromise,” she said. “As you hear proposals where we made changes, you’ll hear that we listened.”

Limited-use suggestions for Carysfort, Sombrero and Sand Key reefs found in the 2019 draft of the Restoration Blueprint weren’t included in the latest proposal released to the public. A recommendation to end overnight use of mooring buoys wasn’t included either. And sanctuary officials said public input helped modify some original ideas, including recommendation for greater access and use of channels at Steamboat Creek, Tavernier, Marathon and Marquesas Keys.

A proposed rule would reopen existing no-access areas, including the tidal flat south of Marvin Key and the interior channels at Mud Keys. Sanctuary officials said it’s based on updated data regarding bird populations in these areas.

Another regulation outlined within the proposed rulemaking deals with discharges by cruise ships. Specifically, cruise ships would only be allowed to discharge cooling water, but anything else thrown into the water would be prohibited within the sanctuary. For all vessels besides ships, deck wash and cooling water are allowed, as well as chumming and other fish activities.

As for fish feeding, the proposed rule would prohibit feeding or attracting fish, including sharks, from any vessel or while diving in federal waters. State rules currently restrict such activity within state waters. Chumming for

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

1. NOAA proposes to require large vessels to use designated large vessel mooring buoys and small vessels to use regular mooring buoys. MATT MCINTOSH/NOAA 2. Carysfort Reef in Key Largo. DAVID GROSS/ Keys Weekly

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3. A grounded sailboat is spotted not far from Whale Harbor Channel in Islamorada on July 8. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly

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5 traditional fishing is still allowed, according to the proposed rule.

The proposed rule would also prohibit anchoring, mooring or occupying a vessel at risk of becoming derelict or deserting vessels aground, anchored or adrift. The rule also prohibits leaving any harmful matter aboard a grounded or deserted vessel.

In a bid to protect corals, NOAA is proposing no anchoring in the 17 sanctuary preservation areas, 13 restoration areas and six conservation areas. That means vessels would only be able to use mooring buoys or be in transit.

Vessels greater than 65 feet would be required to use a designated large-vessel mooring buoy.

The proposed draft rule would expand Carysfort SPA from 2.2 square miles to 3.7 square miles and Alligator SPA from 0.32 square miles to 0.52 square miles in the Upper Keys in order to protect deep reef habitat. Andy Bruckner, NOAA research coordinator, said the Alligator SPA supports barrel sponges and tube sponges, as well as 618 species of reef fish. French Creek and Rock Creek SPAs would be eliminated, and two new SPAs would be created in Turtle Rocks SPA in the Upper Keys and Turtle Shoal SPA in the Middle Keys.

Bruckner said the proposed new SPAs would protect patch reefs and refuge for corals proven to be resilient to bleaching and disease.

Bruckner said Turtle Rocks contains the largest remaining wild population of staghorn coral in the Upper Keys. Turtle Shoal SPA protects an important complex of mid-channel aggregate and individual patch reefs surrounded by seagrass beds, which historically supported large populations of staghorn and pillar corals.

Beth Dieveney, policy analyst for the sanctuary, said existing ecological reserves

4 and special use areas will now be known as conservation areas. That includes the likes of Western Sambo Ecological Reserve. Under the proposed rule, Western Sambo would expand by 1 square mile to capture additional deep reef habitats at the 90-foot depth contour.

No-anchor restrictions would be included for the most southern area of the prominent coral reef, while no fishing will continue to be enforced boundary-wide, as this zone provides a corridor for the migration of juvenile and adult fish and invertebrate populations, particularly the spiny lobster.

The proposed expansion of the existing Tortugas South Ecological Reserve by 18 square miles would capture additional habitat west of Riley’s Hump known to support fish spawning aggregations and deep habitat features in the southern portion of the marine zone.

The proposed rule establishes 47 wildlife management areas, of which 23 are new. Some WMAs like Big Mullet Key WMA have no-motor zones, while others such as Marquesas Keys WMA have no-entry zones.

At Western Dry Rocks Wildlife Management Area, NOAA is proposing transit only and no anchoring from April 1 to July 1. That mirrors Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission’s seasonal closure of the area to fishing from April 1 to July 1. The area contains a continuous reef with high coral cover and diversity. This area has ecological significance for supporting multi-fish spawning, according to sanctuary officials.

These proposals and more are in the updated Restoration Blueprint, which is at floridakeys.noaa.gov/blueprint.

In addition to proposed rulemaking, a draft management plan was unveiled, with proposed actions that focus on research, regulatory compliance, community involvement and stewardship. Understanding sanctuary resources, improving conditions including water quality, reducing threats and human use impacts and supporting collaborative and coordinated management were among the goals.

While SAC members said they still need to digest all the information, several voiced concern over the lack of artificial reefs as a possible solution within the management plan.

“It is regarded across the board in Key West, the business community and the recreational watermen in our community, as an

4. NOAA proposes to add 23 new wildlife management areas to Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. These areas are designed to minimize disturbances to sanctuary habitats and species dependent on those habitats, like nesting birds and turtle nests.

KRISTIE KILLAM/Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuges Complex 5. NOAA is proposing a new ‘no-anchoring’ regulation in all ‘sanctuary preservation areas,’ that help sustain critical marine species and habitats. NOAA/Contributed

overwhelming success,” said Joe Weatherby, SAC member representing the diving industry in the Lower Keys.

Mimi Stafford, SAC citizen-at-large member from the Lower Keys, brought up the issue over enforcing new regulations and how the public could help bring more officers in. Fangman said the sanctuary is working with law enforcement and NOAA to bring more resources. But she couldn’t say that it would lead to catching everyone who breaks these rules if they go forward.

“That’s true on the road. We still need speed limits. We still need regulations to protect these resources,” she said.

FWC Captain David Dipre agreed with Fangman’s remarks. Laws aren’t only made for the purpose of making an arrest or issuing a citation. Dipre said laws are made “because we encourage people to do the right thing.”

Dipre added that FWC is adding more officers with 15 currently in the academy. That will bring the law enforcement agency to full staff in December.

A 100-day public comment period on the Restoration Blueprint kicked off July 13 and will conclude Oct. 21. People can visit regulations.gov and use the docket number NOAANOS-2019-0094 to provide comments.

People will also have the opportunity to provide oral comment during the Aug. 30 virtual meeting (register at floridakeys.noaa.gov/ blueprint); Sept. 20 at 6 p.m. at Coral Shores High School; Sept. 21 at 6 p.m. at Marathon High School auditorium; Sept. 22 at 6 p.m. at Key West High School auditorium; and the Oct. 18 Sanctuary Advisory Council meeting at 9 a.m. in Marathon.

Written comments can be submitted to Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, 33 East Quay Road, Key West, Florida, 33040 (be sure to include Proposed Rule in the subject heading).

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

MONROE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT’S STATE RATING DROPS TO ‘B’ Five Keys schools get ‘A’ grade

Islamorada Village Hall. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

STATE ATTORNEY’S OFFICE INVESTIGATES SUNSHINE COMPLAINT SURROUNDING FORMER ISLAMORADA ATTORNEY’S SEPARATION AGREEMENT JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

M

onroe County State Attorney Dennis Ward said his office is investigating whether a Sunshine violation occurred in the village of Islamorada regarding a separation agreement with former attorney Roget Bryan that was brought before the council on May 12.

Ward told the Keys Weekly on July 11 that his office initiated an investigation a week-and-a-half ago following a complaint. It all stems from the May council meeting that, at its sixth hour, heard Bryan publicly state his resignation; he became the village’s first inhouse attorney in 2013. He said at the time that he had no appetite for the external political dynamics that involve attacks on his “name, character, reputation, integrity and most egregiously my family.”

Following Bryan’s statements, Mayor Pete Bacheler, Vice Mayor Henry Rosenthal and councilmen Mark Gregg and Buddy Pinder approved a “Tab X” that appeared on the agenda just before the May 12 meeting, entailing a separation agreement effective May 20. Councilman David Webb was absent from the meeting.

Council members didn’t delve into specific comments or questions regarding the agreement during the meeting. Rather, the dais extended its thanks and appreciation to Bryan.

The agreement includes 20 weeks of severance pay, unused sick and vacation leave, insurance benefits and retirement benefits, all of it totaling around $185,000. Bryan said during the May 12 meeting that he had the opportunity to speak with each council member on the agreement. He said that each council member also had

the opportunity to speak with external counsel on the matter.

Florida Government-in-the-Sunshine Law, enacted in 1967, provides right of access to governmental proceedings of public boards or commissions at the state and local levels. It includes such requirements as meetings of public boards or commissions be open to the public and reasonable notice of such meetings be given. It also forbids council members to discuss matters with each other outside a public meeting.

Per the agreement, Bryan and the village will refrain from making or publishing statements that are defamatory or disparaging against one another.

Eileen Rodriguez, legal secretary, also left the village and received severance.

The agreements raised some questions and concerns from the Islamorada Community Alliance.

“Is there something the taxpayers of Islamorada need to know about why this handsome severance package was offered to Mr. Bryan? What ‘external political dynamics’ caused this, and perhaps both May 20th departures,” the ICA states in its June newsletter.

Ward wouldn’t disclose exactly whom investigators talked to due to the fact it’s an ongoing investigation.

As to the length of the investigation, Ward said “it depends how cooperative the witnesses are.”

The Keys Weekly reached out to Bacheler and Rosenthal for comment.

Both declined to speak due to the ongoing investigation.

With the departure of Bryan, the dais appointed the law firm Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman as acting village attorney at a discounted government rate of $250 per hour. John Quick serves as primary interim village attorney, while Alison Smith and James White are supporting attorneys.

Coral Shores High School. WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

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lorida Department of Education’s school ratings released on July 7 gave the Monroe County School District a “B” rating for the 2021-22 school year.

It’s the first time the education department released school grade data since 2019, as a COVID-19 pandemic disrupted assessments during the 2019-20 school year. For much of the spring 2020 semester, students were learning at home in a virtual classroom format.

Grades handed to school districts across the state by the education department provide a way to measure a school’s performance. They include such factors as test scores in English, math, science and social studies as well as progress of the lowest quartile of students, graduation rate and college and career acceleration.

Five county schools received an “A” rating: Ocean Studies Charter School, Plantation Key School, Sigsbee Charter School, Sugarloaf School and Treasure Village Montessori School.

Seven schools received a “B” rating: Big Pine Academy Charter School, Coral Shores High School, Key Largo School, Key West High School, Marathon High School, May Sands Montessori School and Stanley Switlik Elementary School.

Three schools received a “C” rating: Gerald Adams Elementary, Horace O’Bryant School and Poinciana Elementary School.

During the 2018-19 school year, before the pandemic altered class the next two years, the district had 10 schools with “A” grades and six with “B” grades. Overall, the school district had an “A” rating that year.

During the 2021-22 school year, the district received a “B” rating. The graduation rate was above 90% and the middle school acceleration rate was up five percentage points.

The district said the middle and combination schools continue to increase participation and performance in advanced level coursework including algebra, geometry and industry certifications. As a district, math achievement learning gains continue to remain competitive. The social studies achievement maintains its high performing status compared to other districts.

“Congratulations to our schools and thank you to all of our staff members for their hard work on behalf of students in the Monroe County Schools,” said Superintendent Theresa Axford in a press release. “School and district grades never tell the full story of student success, but do help guide our efforts and assignment of resources to better meet student needs.

Teachers and administrators worked very hard in supporting student achievement last year; they are to be commended for these results.”

The school grade calculation will be updated for the 2022-23 school year to reflect changes in the new F.A.S.T. (Florida Assessment of Student Thinking) Assessments. Last September, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that the state would end the Florida Statewide Assessment and create F.A.S.T, which will monitor student progress and foster individual growth.

Additional information is at the Florida Department of Education website at www.fldoe.org.

— Weekly staff report

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

WHAT DOES FLORIDA’S NEW ABORTION LAW MEAN FOR THE KEYS? PROCEDURE HASN’T BEEN AVAILABLE HERE FOR NEARLY A DECADE

By Mandy Miles, Alex Rickert and Jim McCarthy

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very decision comes with consequences, be they intended outcomes or unanticipated impacts.

Last month’s ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade and make abortion a matter for individual states to legislate is a landmark decision with farreaching implications.

The top court’s ruling prompted a spate of state legislation, as Republican lawmakers acted immediately to make abortions more difficult, or illegal, to obtain or perform.

Democrats in some states took the opposite tack, formally legalizing the procedure in state law.

In Florida, the Republican-led state legislature passed House Bill 5, which doesn’t outlaw abortion but shortens the timeframe in which a woman can obtain an abortion from 24 to 15 weeks, The law makes no exceptions for pregnancies caused by rape or incest, but does include a provision for cases in which the mother’s life is endangered or the fetus has a fatal abnormality.

Florida has the third-highest rate of abortion in the country, according to an article on TheHill.com.

But tighter restrictions are being contemplated. Following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, Gov. Ron DeSantis promised to further restrict abortion access to protect unborn children in Florida. But the governor hasn’t detailed what those expansions would be.

“Florida will continue to defend its recently-enacted pro-life reforms against state court challenges, will work to expand pro-life protections and will stand for life by promoting adoption, foster care and child welfare,” DeSantis said last month.

State Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez, who represents the Florida Keys and voted in favor of the bill, told the Keys Weekly this week, “Life begins at conception. Period. I am pro-life and believe the sanctity of life should be protected at all times. However, I think our legislature found a good balance at 15 weeks where a woman can maintain her reproductive rights to a certain degree while also giving a developed fetus over three months a chance to live.”

On the other side of the aisle, Democratic House Minority Leader Evan Jenne said, “Politicians have no business getting between a patient and her doctor. This 15week abortion ban takes away every woman’s right to make personal decisions that should only be made by themselves, with their family, their doctor and their faith. Not only is this unconstitutional and infringes on personal freedom, it also isn’t our place as elected officials to mandate choices women must make about their health.”

State Rep. Jim Mooney voted in favor of House Bill 5. He wasn’t available for comment before press time.

WHAT ABOUT ENFORCEMENT? As with all laws and legislation, effective enforcement becomes a concern.

With notable staffing shortages in the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and state attorney’s office, the practicality of enforcing the recently enacted changes becomes a question.

House Bill 5 specifically prohibits physicians from performing an abortion if they determine the gestational age of the fetus is more than 15 weeks, but the law does not appear to include any language about penalties for individuals who seek abortions after this time frame.

“I think they’ll probably take it pretty seriously,” said one Keys attorney who declined to be named. “But that tone would have to be set by the police and the State Attorney’s Office. … Do I think they will go after doctors? I think they probably will, and I would not be surprised. Do I think they’re going to prosecute women? I don’t know if the law is allowing them to do that.”

Monroe County State Attorney Dennis Ward, however, told the Keys Weekly, “The state legislature and the governor are responsible for the laws in the State of Florida.

And they’ve passed them. I don’t see where this has any impact on my office.”

Ward was hesitant to offer further comment, adding that in light of ongoing legal battles surrounding the recent legislation at the state level, questions would be better directed to Buddy Jacobs, an attorney representing the Florida Prosecuting Attorneys Association in Tallahassee. Jacobs was not available for comment before press time.

ABORTION ACCESS IN THE FLORIDA KEYS For the past seven or eight years, there has been no abortion provider in the Florida Keys, said Cali Roberts, executive director of WomanKind women’s health center in Key West.

“It has long been the case that we’ve sent women to Planned Parenthood in Miami, or to A Place for Women in Miami,” Roberts said.

“The burden for women in the Keys is: Do you have transportation to the mainland?

Do you have child care for your other children? Can you get off work? And sometimes there’s a 24-hour waiting period. Can you spend the night up there or go back the next day?” Roberts said when asked about local impacts. “Abortion is never a flippant decision and to make laws as if it is and to ban a woman from having control over her body is unconscionable.”

According to the Planned Parenthood website, Florida law requires a person to have two appointments at least 24 hours apart to obtain an abortion, making it more cumbersome and expensive for women in the Keys.

Planned Parenthood does not offer medical abortions beyond 11 weeks. Most abortions today are “medical abortions,” which is a two-pill combination that ends the pregnancy and prompts a heavy period, Roberts said.

Planned Parenthood offered surgical abortion up until 18 weeks prior to passage of the new law in Florida, according to its website.

“And I’d also like to point out that nowhere has it ever been mentioned that there is a paternal responsibility in all of this,” Roberts said. “If he is not responsible from the first pregnancy test she has to take and the first saltine cracker she has to eat for morning sickness, then this is not about the sanctity of life, but about controlling women.

There’s never been an abortion when a man was not involved.

“Is there any other law, anywhere, that affects men and women differently?” she said, adding. “In the Keys, birth control is more tantamount than ever before, and WomanKind has established a funding source for birth control, especially for longterm, such as IUDs, and we can reduce the price by 25%.”

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Florida Bay and Village legislative priorities?

I was a bit bewildered watching the interaction between the Village Council and our paid state lobbyists during the June 23 Council meeting.

The representatives from the lobbying firm gave an overview of the past legislative session, stating their successes. The lobbyists talked about state grants received and from what I could tell, these are the same grants awarded to all of Monroe County of which Islamorada gets a piece of. Nothing special here.

But what exactly are the Village’s legislative priorities? Sure, we have shared interests with Monroe County, but unlike Monroe County, it appears Islamorada doesn’t have any formally documented legislative priorities, even though we are paying these guys ~$123,000 per year. I submitted a public records request a few weeks ago to see Islamorada’s legislative priorities. None have been provided.

The implication that our lobbyists are wired into Tallahassee lost its impact on me when they also told us that we will have a new crop of legislators in the next legislative session due to term limits. When challenged about members of their firm also representing big sugar, our lobbyists adamantly stated that the three lobbyists working for Islamorada did not represent big sugar but did nothing to address the questioned conflict of interest. Only Councilman Henry Rosenthal seemed to be concerned about any of this.

Then there is the Senate Bill 2508 that Governor DeSantis recently and thankfully vetoed. This bill might have impacted water for Everglades Restoration, Florida Bay water quality and our own water supply. At the beginning of their report, our lobbyists proclaimed they work in lockstep with State Representatives Jim Mooney and Anna Marie Rodriguez, who both regrettably voted for SB 2508, twice. Our lobbyists later went on to tell us that SB 2508 opposition was a priority and an “emotional bill for the Village,” taking action on 5/31/22. But the vote in the state legislature was back in March. In my opinion an obvious contradiction and certainly not a priority. Fishing guide associations deserve the credit for pressing for the veto, not our lobbyists. And our elected state representatives Mooney and Rodriguez need to rethink their commitment to their local constituents and environmental preservation.

The Village Council will soon be voting on renewing a contract with our lobbyists, without documented legislative priorities, with a firm that allegedly also represents big sugar, without a formal performance review, without addressing conflict of interests and without any competitive bidding. The residents of Islamorada deserve better. The Council needs to start by actually managing our lobbying efforts. When doing so, the Council and our state representatives need to make preservation of Florida Bay one of its top legislative priorities.

John Kocol Islamorada

MONKEYPOX REACHES THE KEYS

AVOID SKIN-TO-SKIN CONTACT WITH A MONKEYPOX LESION OR RASH MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

T

he Florida Department of Health in Monroe County on July 13 reported the first confirmed case of monkeypox in the Florida Keys.

The virus spreads through casual skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity, with a monkeypox lesion or rash, said Alison Kerr of the county health department.

She added that hotel housekeepers who change sheets are also vulnerable to the virus. She recommended such workers wear gloves and long sleeves when changing linens.

Testing is done by swabbing and testing one of the rashes or skin lesions that are symptomatic of monkeypox and can appear anywhere on the body.

There is a vaccine available for monkeypox and the county health department has “very limited doses,” so officials are reserving them for vulnerable populations that include hotel housekeepers, as well as men in same-sex sexual relationships, who represent the majority of cases in Broward and Miami Dade counties, which have reported 77 and 21 cases, respectively.

Health department officials recommend calling the department at 305-293-7500 with any questions and are distributing the below information about monkeypox: MONKEYPOX: GET THE FACTS • Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus.

• Monkeypox can make you sick including a rash or sores (pox), often with an earlier flu-like illness.

• Monkeypox can spread to anyone through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact including: Direct contact with monkeypox rash, sores or scabs; contact with objects, fabrics (clothing, bedding, or towels), and surfaces that have been used by someone with monkeypox; through respiratory droplets or oral fluids from a person with monkeypox such as during intimate sexual activity, including

oral, anal, and vaginal sex or touching the genitals or anus of a person with monkeypox; hugging, massage, or kissing and talking closely; touching fabrics and objects during sex that were used by a person with monkeypox, such as bedding, towels and sex toys.

• We know the virus can be spread in fluid or pus from monkeypox sores, and are trying to better understand whether the virus could be present in semen, vaginal fluids or other body fluids.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS? • Early flu-like symptoms of monkeypox can include fever, headache, muscle aches and backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, a rash or sores, sometimes located on or near the genitals or anus, but sometimes in other areas like the hands, feet, chest or face – sores will go through several stages before healing.

• Sores may be inside the body, including the mouth, vagina or anus • Some people experience a rash or sores first, followed by other symptoms and some only experience a rash or sores • Monkeypox can be spread from the time symptoms start until all sores have healed and a fresh layer of skin has formed – this can take several weeks IF YOU HAVE A NEW OR UNEXPLAINED RASH, SORES OR OTHER SYMPTOMS • See your health care provider – if you don’t have a provider or health insurance, visit a public health clinic near you.

• When you see a health care provider for possible monkeypox, remind them that this virus is circulating in the community.

• Avoid sex or being intimate with anyone until you have been checked out.

• Follow the treatment and prevention recommendations of your health care provider.

• Avoid sex or being intimate with anyone until all your sores have healed and you have a fresh layer of skin formed.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022 The Coast Guard has intercepted many Cubans attempting to reach the U.S. in recent days. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly

COAST GUARD INTERCEPTS 29 CUBANS OFF ISLAMORADA SHORES Total of 170 repatriated to Cuba in last week JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

A

Cuban chug carrying 29 migrants was intercepted by a Coast Guard crew roughly 25 miles offshore from Islamorada on the afternoon of July 9.

A boat fishing in the Coast Guard’s Dolphin Rodeo witnessed the vessel and called Coast Guard Station Islamorada. A Coast Guard vessel arrived to intercept the handmade boat.

The 29 migrants aboard the chug and 48 others journeying from Cuba to the U.S. by sea in recent days were repatriated on July 13, the Coast Guard said. Migrants receive food, water, shelter and basic medical attention.

The interception is one of many seen off the Florida Keys shores in the past week. On July 10, Coast Guard Cutter Paul Clark's crew repatriated 64 Cubans to Cuba following interdictions off Key West and Boot Key. On July 8, the Coast

1

Guard announced that Cutter Pablo Valent's crew repatriated 74 Cubans to Cuba following several interdictions off the coasts of the Florida Keys. Interdictions were made off the waters of Marathon, Key West and Marquesas Key. On July 7, Coast Guard Cutter Isaac Mayo's crew repatriated 32 Cubans to Cuba following one interdiction off the coast of Mexico and two off the shores of Long Key and Marathon.

"Families and friends, please encourage loved ones to seek a safe and legal path to the United States," said Lt. Cmdr. Mario Gil, Coast Guard District Seven. "Migrating illegally in vessels without life jackets or safety equipment raises the risk of losing your life at sea."

Since Oct. 1, 2021, Coast Guard crews have interdicted more than 3,369 Cubans compared to 838 the year before.

TAKING TO THE AIR

Coast Guard Air Station Miami conducts package drops, rescue drills off Florida Keys 3

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4

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embers of Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 13-8 in Islamorada met up with a crew from Coast Guard Air Station Miami in a drill off the waters of the Florida Keys on June 28. A Eurocopter MH-65 Dolphin helicopter arrived on scene as Coast Guard members performed various rescue drills.

An HC-144 Ocean Sentry, a twin-engine turboprop used by the Coast Guard, also flew by to perform package drops.

Auxiliary members retrieved the dropped items and brought them back to the Coast Guard station in Islamorada. Serving the Upper Keys from Key Largo to Long Key, Flotilla 13-8 is one of the more active fleets within the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Not only do they provide support to Coast Guard air stations, but they also provide boater safety education and perform vessel safety checks.

— Jim McCarthy 1. A MH-65 Dolphin helicopter arrives to perform a rescue drill.

2. A Coast Guard member retrieves an item in the water.

3. An HC-144 Ocean Sentry flies over the Florida Keys waters to perform package drops.

4. Coast Guard Auxiliary members retrieve the package from the HC-144 Ocean Sentry.

Photos by David Gross.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

THROUGH THE LENS Library showcases photography of local students

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An image shot by Ocean Studies student Richard Girard of Florida Keys mangroves. CONTRIBUTED

ey Largo library is bringing the work of Ocean Studies Charter School students to the public during July.

"Mangroves: Over, Under and Around" depicts images photographed by students in grades 4-6.

Each year, the school offers a yearlong photography program to all students. They partner with volunteer photography professionals in order to teach them how to use the camera for functionality and environmental change.

In the course of a few months, students learn the basics and each class has a collection of images to be proud of.

This year's focus subject was Florida Keys mangroves. Photos are the products of fourth and fifth grade "Sharks" and sixth grade "Sailfish" classes. Images were captured between March and May on school field labs at locations in the Middle to Upper Keys.

The purchase of rugged, waterproof digital cameras was made possible by a generous grant from the Key Largo Sunset Rotary Club. Photographers David Gross and Dr. Jim Doran guided and inspired the Shark and Sailfish classes through theory, practical application and photo editing.

Ocean Studies Charter School in Key Largo is an Arated, free public charter school that serves students K-6 and delivers a marine science curriculum.

— Weekly staff report

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

TRAVIS PASTRANA TAKES FLIGHT OVER BOOT KEY BRIDGE

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he Boot Key drawbridge was removed in 2010, leaving a 65-foot gap in the decommissioned Marathon bridge that connected mainland Marathon to the mangrove island of Boot Key. For world-renowned stuntman Travis Pastrana, gaps that size aren’t an issue.

In a jaw-dropping jump that is projected as the opening shot for the next “Gymkhana” installment – a series that is widely regarded as one of the most popular motorsports films, with its last episode racking up more than 51 million views on YouTube – Pastrana partnered with Hoonigan Industries to send a car over the open span twice on July 11, clearing a helicopter hovering in the gap.

“In Marathon, we had the perfect location to do something really insane,” said Vin Anatra, Hoonigan vice president of business development.

“We think that this is going to be one of the best films that we’ve made.”

The stunt marked the film crew’s second trip to the Keys in 2022, with previous shoots occurring throughout the islands in January. The Boot Key jump was always Hoonigan’s main target, but initial plans to jump the bridge were nixed by Marathon’s city staff, citing liability concerns and a lack of planning and coordination with appropriate emergency services. Shooting was further delayed when Pastrana suffered a broken pelvis in a base jumping accident in Miami just days after the first Keys shoot.

But at its June 2022 meeting, the Marathon City Council voted 3-2 to approve the stunt with a list of contingencies, including a load test to ensure the structural integrity of the bridge and a comprehensive operations plan.

In addition, Fort Lauderdale-based production company People First Media offered a pledge of $30,000 to be used by the city of Marathon for youth recreation programs.

“We’ll put some light on Marathon and how beautiful this place is, but we also know it’s a bit of an inconvenience for everyone involved,” said Anatra. “So we want to make sure that we could at least give back to the community and make sure that they really see that support and appreciation from the inside.”

Pastrana’s ride for the flight was a “car (he’s) dreamed of his whole life”: a heavily modified 1983 Subaru GL wagon. Dubbed the “Family Huckster”

by Hoonigan in a nod to National Lampoon’s “Family Vacation,” the car features carbon fiber body panels as well as “active aero” elements – flaps that can be manually controlled to adjust the car’s flight in midair. The screaming four-cylinder engine punches out an astounding 862 horsepower, enabling Pastrana’s approach to the bridge at speeds approaching 130 mph.

“When we came here, we wanted to do a throwback,” said Subaru motorsports manager Bill Stokes. “It’s historic, classic.

“This car is more of a brick, but it’s designed to be adjustable. We tested it quite a bit at Opa Locka Airport and made sure that with the takeoff angle that we have the speed to get the distance that we need. … This is up there with the craziest (things we’ve done).”

The jump may have been among Hoonigan’s craziest, but Pastrana made it look easy, clearing the gap with plenty of room to spare and covering the south side of the bridge with celebratory burnouts. And just because one time wasn’t crazy enough, the crew used a crane and barge from Marathon Seawalls & Docks to re-load the wagon onto the north side of the bridge for a second jump as the Black Rifle Coffee Company helicopter made a high-speed pass through the gap.

The next “Gymkhana” film does not have a set release date yet, but most production executives said it should be available within the next few months.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

Public Notice Islamorada, Village of Islands, Florida

Regular Village Council Meeting Thursday, July 14th • 5:30 p.m.

TO VIEW THE AGENDA, SCAN THE CODE

ROTARY CLUBS WELCOME NEW PRESIDENTS

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he three Rotary clubs in the Upper Keys recently held their installation ceremonies to welcome their new presidents and boards. The Rotary Club of Key Largo thanked Roberto Alonso, former president, for his service and welcomed Jennifer Miller as president.

The Rotary Club of Key Largo Sunset saw the handing of the gavel from Jim McCarthy, former president, to new president Dennis Caltagirone. The Rotary Club of the Upper Keys welcomed Rob Stober as its new president during a recent installation. Lisa Feliciano, former Key Largo Sunset Rotary president and charter member, was installed as Area 8 governor. The Rotary Club of Key Largo meets every Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. at Playa Largo Resort. The Rotary Club of Key Largo Sunset meets every first and third Monday at 6 p.m. at Denny’s Lounge. The Rotary Club of the Upper Keys meets every Tuesday at noon at Capt. Craig’s.

— Weekly staff report

Top: Roberto Alonso, past president of the Key Largo Rotary Club, with Jennifer Miller, new president of the club.

Middle: Upper Keys Rotary Club President Rob Stober, middle, with Feliciano and Michael Kesti, Rotary District 6990 Governor.

Contributed photos.

Bottom: Right, Dennis Caltagirone receives the gavel as he becomes the next president of the Key Largo Sunset Rotary Club. Also pictured are Jim McCarthy, past president, and Lisa Feliciano, former president of Key Largo Sunset Rotary and area 8 governor.

CONTRIBUTED

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14

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

By Mandy Miles, Jim McCarthy and Alex Rickert

Higgs Beach in Key West is due to receive $833,000 of tourist tax revenue to fund improvements to the beach restrooms. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

DOLING OUT BED TAX MONEY FUNDS SUPPORT CAPITAL PROJECTS FOR KEYS ATTRACTIONS

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s evidenced by congested roads, a busy airport and packed restaurants, tourists continue to flock to the Florida Keys. Hotel occupancies and nightly rates remain high, as do Monroe County’s bed tax revenues. Bed tax funds are used by the county’s Tourist Development Council to promote the Florida Keys and special events and to fund capital projects that contribute to the county’s tourism economy.

A little more than $8.8 million in bed tax dollars is going to support a variety of capital projects, which do everything from improving the Florida Keys waters to attracting and educating tourists and residents. Last month, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council’s five district advisory committees (DACs) met to dole out funds to various organizations from Key Largo to Key West.

Recommendations from the DACs next will go before the TDC board and the Monroe County commission for final approval.

In Key West, DAC I had received funding requests that totaled $4.2 million, but only had $3.3 million available for 2023 capital projects. In distributing that money, the committee funded 13 projects, with the largest allocation of $833,000 going to Monroe County for Higgs Beach restroom renovations. The county also secured $520,000 for lighthouse renovations and stabilization.

West Martello Tower, a Civil War-era fort that houses the Key West Garden Club will get $250,000 for air-conditioning and electrical upgrades, while the Custom House will receive $233,000 for protection and improvement of its archives. The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum will get $233,000 for exhibit space upgrades and building improvements. Key West’s Coffee Butler Amphitheater and the Oldest House Museum and Garden each is slated to receive $200,000 for improvements and upgrades. About $225,000 will go to coral reef conservation, and the Smathers Beach pavilions will get $198,000.

DAC V representing Key Largo allocated some $1.8 million out of the $2.6 million in requests for six capital projects during a recent meeting. Of the money the DAC is recommending the board of county commissioners approve, a little more than $830,000 would be for REEF’s Marine Conservation Center. According to a project application, the center will complement existing visitor attractions at the REEF campus, located at MM 98.3 in the median, while expanding marine conservation and cultural events throughout the year. The facility will include displays showing visitors the beauty and fragility of the Florida Keys natural habitats, as well as auditorium space for programs.

A total of $500,000 was recommended for a third phase of work to install tiki huts at Rowell’s Waterfront Park. Per the project application, tiki huts would add value to the park by enhancing the beachfront area. An 8-acre waterfront park located at MM 104.5 bayside, Rowell’s Park entered phase one of upgrades last summer. The Board of County Commissioners bought Rowell’s Marina in December 2013 with the intention of making it into a public park.

The DAC V also recommended $139,250 for Mote Marine Laboratory’s plan to propagate 2,750 staghorn corals and 1,750 elkhorn corals at Sand Island and French Reef Special Protected Area; $148,000 for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary’s mooring anchor project at various reef sites; $224,250 to Coral Restoration Foundation’s plan to outplant 5,000 corals; and $30,000 to Jacobs Aquatic Center for a center pump and sand filter.

DAC IV representing Islamorada recommended the county allocate $1.2 million out of $1.8 million in requests. A total of $115,000 would help restore Alligator Lighthouse. A total of $245,960 is recommended for an inclusive playground at Library Beach Park, while $306,750 is recommended to

A diver with Mote Marine Laboratory plants coral. WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

support Mote Marine Laboratory’s ongoing efforts to restore reef sites in Islamorada.

The DAC also recommends a little more than $200,000 for REEF’s conservation center.

DAC III in Marathon voted to recommend a total of $1.8 million in allocations for eligible capital projects at several Middle Keys tourist attractions for the 2023 fiscal year. A total of 10 out of 12 project applications totaling $2.3 million were funded. Of the projects, Pigeon Key is recommended to receive $166,050 for ADA ramp installation, along with $210,000 of a requested $252,000 for replacement of the Paint Foreman’s Dorm. The City of Marathon is recommended to receive $203,050 of a requested $273,140 for beach cleaning, along with full funding of a $245,000 request for restrooms at the upcoming Quay park redevelopment.

Dolphin Research Center is recommended for $488,655 for construction of a new sea lion habitat.

DAC II representing the Lower Keys recommended $703,050 in funds for six projects. A total of $200,000 is recommended for the Pine Channel nature park trail enhancements. A pair of $100,000 requests were recommended for the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail Connection at Cudjoe and the Veterans Memorial Beach Facilities improvements.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

MONROE COUNTY’S COMMISSIONERS ELECTED TO FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES POSITIONS

It is a violation of Monroe County code to throw garbage into Monroe County canals, including fish or lobster carcasses. CONTRIBUTED

MONROE COUNTY: DUMPING FISH AND LOBSTER CARCASSES IN CANALS IS ILLEGAL

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id you know: It is a violation of Monroe County code to throw garbage into Monroe County canals, including fish and lobster carcasses?

Monroe County Code prohibits the practice of throwing debris and garbage, including fish and lobster carcasses, into canals. Section 21-21(b) prohibits throwing, placing and depositing garbage in canals, among other places.

Section 21-21(b) reads: No person shall throw, place or deposit or cause to be thrown, placed or deposited, any solid waste, special waste, sludge, trash, junk, abandoned vehicle, abandoned vessel, garbage, or filth of any kind into or on any of the public streets, roads, highways, bridges, alleys, lanes, thoroughfares, waters, canals or vacant lots, or upon the premises of any other person within the limits of the county.

Additionally, Section 118-12(d) of the Land Development Code prohibits fish-cleaning tables that directly discharge into surface waters, which includes canal waters.

Why is it bad? The odor associated with floating carcasses in the water is bad enough, but other issues include attracting wildlife like sharks to residential canals where people or pets may swim, or pelicans that can be harmed when eating the carcasses. Another serious problem is that discarded carcasses use dissolved oxygen to decay, and lower dissolved oxygen levels in canals can harm the overall health and ecosystem in the canal. Lower dissolved oxygen levels can lead to methane build-up or the “rotten egg” smell that can happen in unhealthy canals.

What should be done with the carcass? Be a good neighbor. The preferred disposal method is through the county’s garbage vendors, who pick up garbage twice a week. To contain the smell, local charter fishermen suggest putting the scraps into a trash bag and sealing it tight for proper disposal during trash pickup. Scraps can also be placed in bags and frozen until the next trash pick-up or used as chum or bait on subsequent boat trips offshore.

Monroe County recognizes that enforcement is challenging because violations must be witnessed firsthand by a person authorized to enforce the ordinance, such as a law enforcement or code enforcement officer. A citation can’t be issued without an officer witnessing the violation (even if cell phone video footage exists). Let’s all do our part to maintain our canals and waterways by not throwing scraps or carcasses into the canals.

— Contributed

Monroe County Commissioner Michelle Coldiron, second from left, is the FAC second vice president. CONTRIBUTED

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onroe County Commissioners Michelle Coldiron and Holly Merrill Raschein were elected on July 1 to represent the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) at the annual FAC conference held in Orlando. Commissioner Jim Scholl also attended the conference with County Administrator Roman Gastesi and Legislative Affairs Director Lisa Tennyson.

Coldiron was elected by her peers to serve as second vice president of the governing board of the association.

Coldiron has been a FAC member since being elected to the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners in 2018.

“The amount of knowledge and networking exchanged is immeasurable, and being on the executive board will allow Monroe County issues to see the limelight on the state level,” Coldiron said. “The connections I’ve made through FAC will continue to benefit the well-being of our county and all of the counties in Florida.”

Merrill Raschein was elected by her peers to the association’s board of directors.

“This is really great to have two Monroe County commissioners represent us on this association,” said Tennyson. “Commissioner Coldiron brings her ability to build consensus and is a natural leader, and Commissioner Merrill Raschein brings her legislative experience to the board.

Both are a huge asset to FAC.” The FAC board of directors comprises one county commissioner from each of the 40 state senate districts, five executive officers, six county commissioners appointed at large, and the association’s past presidents.

The FAC represents the interests of Florida’s counties, especially the importance of protecting home rule – the concept that government closest to the people governs best – through advocacy, education and collaboration.

— Contributed

16

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

EARLY SETTLERS OF LIGNUMVITAE KEY

Island didn’t attract large population, but did see farming and possible development

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ignumvitae Key is in the Islamorada area of the Upper Keys. The island is a bit off the beaten path because it was never connected by the Key West Extension of Henry Flagler’s East Coast Railway or the Overseas Highway. Like many islands making up the approximately 1,700-island archipelago, Lignumvitae Key is home to fantastic history.

In last week’s column, we explored some of the island’s early names and prehistoric history; now, we will dig into the island’s evolution after Florida became part of a burgeoning United States.

It has never attracted a large population but has been home to a handful of people over the years. The first man recorded living on the island in the years after it became an American territory was Captain Rooke.

William Hackley, a salvage lawyer from Key West, recorded his presence in an 1831 diary entry. According to Hackley, he witnessed Captain Rooke clearing land on the island and building a house. During Hackley’s visit to the island, he set traps hoping to catch a few raccoons, but when he returned the following day to check, his traps were empty.

By 1834, a man named Joseph Lewton was building a home on the island. By occupying the island, he hoped to make a preemption claim on the land. All indications are that by the time he arrived on the island, Captain Rooke was no longer living there.

The next recorded inhabitant came decades later. He was a sizeable Norwegian sailor named Captain Cole who arrived circa 1868.

Cole is described as an educated man with a bookshelf in his home filled with books written in several languages. Cole cultivated watermelons and sold them in Key West.

In 1879, Lignumvitae Key was surveyed by a representative of the U.S. government.

After that piece of red tape was waded through, the island became available for sale. Captain William H. Bethel of Indian Key became the first official owner of the island.

He paid 75 cents per acre in 1881. Bethel

had been overseeing a small sisal plantation on the island, hoping that the fiber it produced would be a profitable crop. It was not, and he switched to growing pineapple and watermelon.

Bethel’s island farm was not long-lived, and, in 1888, he sold it to the brothers Thomas A. and Edward A. Hine for $2,000 – it was a handsome profit. The Hine brothers invested in coconut crops. When the island was sold in 1919, coconuts continued to be the preferred cash crop.

The Biscayne Chemical Company, William John Matheson, president, bought the island. Matheson had been overseeing coconut plantations on Key Biscayne and at least two other farms on Upper Matecumbe Key. After the island was purchased, Matheson authorized the construction of a twostory, four-bedroom coral-rock house that still stands today. In the years that followed, additional improvements to the island were made, including the clearing of land, construction of a cistern to collect rainwater, and the development of a windmill that was erected to provide electricity in 1929.

It stood 87 feet tall. The following year, William Matheson died of a heart attack while aboard his yacht as it navigated the Straits of Florida. His son, Hugh Matheson, took control of the property.

It was Hugh who brought a menagerie to roam about the island. Among the addition of several other species, he introduced peacocks, burros from Mexico, Angora goats from India, and giant Galapagos tortoises.

Due to behavioral problems, the goats and tortoises were a short-lived experiment. The goats were shipped off because they kept butting their heads against indigenous trees and knocking them over because of the shallow nature of their root structures.

The giant tortoises were carted off to the Crandon Park Zoo because they preferred the exotic succulents to the indigenous cactus they were brought in to devour in the first place.

It was Hugh who had six cannons, which that currently festoon the gently sloping lawn leading away from the coral rock house, brought to the island. The cannons were salvaged at Carysfort Reef from the wreck BRAD of the H.M.S. Winchester BERTELLI that sank in 1695. They arrived in 1938. After is an author, the 1953 death of Hugh speaker, and FlorMatheson, the island ida Keys historian. was sold to a group that His latest book, nearly destroyed its “The Florida Keys Skunk Ape Files,” integrity. is a fun blend of Three individutwo of his favorite als from South Florida subjects — Florida purchased the island for Keys history and $125,000. The minority the Skunk Ape. owners were Dr. Nelson Pearson, a physician in Coral Gables, and J. Abney Cox, a prominent Homestead potato farmer. The significant shareholder was Dr. E.C. Lunsford, a Miami dentist. Lunsford planned to develop the island with beaches, boat ramps, public roads and a golf course. To make the island more accessible, he spearheaded an action to build a causeway that would bridge Lignumvitae Key to the Overseas Highway.

The feat was nearly accomplished.

Fortunately, Captain Al Lipford, a local fishing guide, learned of the plan and formed the Citizens Council of Monroe County.

They circulated petitions that garnered the necessary signatures to squash the project.

Instead, the island has been conserved, and the last virgin tropical hammock in North America was protected. The State of Florida purchased it and nearby Shell Key for just under $2 million. The Nature Conservancy contributed $200,000 toward the purchase.

The island is now home to Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park – the first botanical state park in Florida’s history.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

BESTSELLERS • EXPANSIVE CHILDREN'S SECTION LOCAL AUTHORS • GIFTS & GIFT CARDS • LOYALTY PROGRAM

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

BLUEPRINT PROPOSAL REQUIRES COMMENT — AND COMPROMISE

Now Open!

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t’s been almost three years since NOAA introduced the concept of Restoration Blueprint, a plan for restoring the diminished habitat of Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. The rollout, you may recall, offered four options, which generated nearly 30,000 public comments. That feedback has now been distilled into the next iteration of the plan, referred to as the Proposed Rule, which was released on July 12. (Editor’s note: See our story on page 21.) Emphasis is on the word “proposed,” because the recommendations are not yet final. We want, and need, your input on this latest rendering. We also ask for your sense of compromise.

The public generally views regulations through their unique and personal lens: “How will this affect what I do?” NOAA doesn’t have that luxury, because the sanctuary belongs to everyone. We have gathered a myriad of perspectives and calibrated them into a plan that best protects the ecosystem, while also allowing compatible use. That formula will naturally conflict with someone’s priorities.

It’s important to remember that NOAA did not exclusively generate the ideas for Restoration Blueprint. The majority came from you: The Sanctuary Advisory Council, which represents various stakeholder groups; volunteers; community members; agency partners; and everyone who wrote in or provided comment during the initial rollout. The Proposed Rule is a community-driven project and, as such, reflects the diverse needs of the community.

The degree to which we acted on public comment is reflected in the things you will see in the proposals, and by the things you don’t see — the options that were left on the cutting-room floor. We take seriously our obligation to receive and utilize public comment.

I encourage you to educate yourself on the plan by viewing our suite of materials at FloridaKeys.noaa.gov/ blueprint, and then come prepared to provide another round of feedback during five scheduled sessions, including one virtual opportunity. In addition, The Keys Weekly will distribute a sanctuary magazine later this month that I hope you will take time to read.

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The Keys Weekly will distribute a full-color sanctuary magazine later this month.

This is a critical time for the marine environment of the Florida Keys, a tipping point one might say, and we have to rise to that occasion and be brave and bold and potentially sacrifice a bit now for the benefit of its future. Better to bend than to break, for in the latter scenario, no one wins.

Some will say we did too much, while some will say we did too little.

If the feedback strikes that balance, then we probably threaded the needle, and have a proposal that reflects everyone giving a little on behalf of the greater good.

Sarah Fangman Superintendent Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

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Resort amenities include By The Bay Spa, heated outdoor pool, 24/7 fitness center and a marina. Dining and drink options include Breezer's Tiki Bar and Gus' Grille, both with bay views.

“As one of the most luxurious Key Largo resorts on the beach, many of our stylishly appointed rooms and suites feature balconies and stunning bay views,” said General Manager Shannon Burdge. “Our resort also offers 50,000 square-feet of elegant indoor and private outdoor event venues.”

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18

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

LOCAL TENNIS PRO RECOGNIZED Local tennis pro Susie Jannach, of Tiki Tennis at Founders Park, was recognized as the 2022 USPTA Florida Region 8 Professional of the Month for June. She received the honor for her leadership, sense of community and steadfast dedication to the game of tennis and all racquet sports at Tiki Tennis, which has exponentially helped grow the sport in South Florida. “I cannot thank you enough for your rousing passion and unwavering commitment over the years, as it has made a huge impact on all who have walked onto a court,'' said Todd Rubinstein, USPTA Florida Region 8 president. During her 30-plus years as a tennis professional, Jannach has coached, played, directed and trained junior and adult players of all skill levels. Jannach is pictured with Rubinstein.

CONTRIBUTED

T

unes and good times abounded beneath the waves at the 38th annual Underwater Music Festival on July 9. Presented by the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce, the event saw hundreds of snorkelers and scuba divers – and even some mermaids – make the trip out to Looe Key Reef off of Big Pine Key. There, they enjoyed a dive while listening to a playlist of local and classic hits coordinated by US1 Radio and projected into the blue by underwater speakers.

The protection of vital coral reefs has always been at the heart of the festival, and this year was no different, with conservation messages and ocean-themed songs woven throughout the playlist as divers marveled at the beauty of the corals and other wildlife of Looe Key. — Alex Rickert

UNDERSEA MELODIES 38th annual Underwater Music Festival is a hit at Looe Key

19

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

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Vote Holly Merrill Raschein for County Commission on August 23 Political advertisement paid for and approved by Holly Merrill Raschein, Republican, for Monroe County Commission

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

BREW BENEFITS ICONIC BEACON Florida Keys Brewing Co. Lighthouse Lager supports restoration efforts KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL www.keysweekly.com

T

he Florida Keys Brewing Company offers 150 styles of beer, 20 on draft daily, but one pint really tickles the taste buds of lifelong fishing captain Rob Dixon.

"When I tasted it, I was like ‘Wow, this beer is really good,’" said Dixon.

Dixon is talking about Lighthouse Lager. It's more than just a beer; it's part of a community collaboration to preserve Islamorada's historic Alligator Reef Lighthouse. The tower sits about 4 miles off the coast and is considered by many to be a local treasure.

"Cheryl said we might be able to brew something up and make a beer for the charity," said Dixon, recalling a conversation with FKBC owner Cheryl McBay. On July 3, FKBC launched the charity brew in its beer garden. The can features a picture of the lighthouse and includes a mission statement.

From top: A portion of the proceeds from Lighthouse Lager will help fund restoration efforts at Alligator Reef Lighthouse. ANDY NEWMAN/MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL FKBC head bartender Nicole Fabian serves Capt. Rob Dixon a pint of Lighthouse Lager. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys Weekly Six-packs of Lighthouse Lager can be purchased at the FKBC tasting room. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys Weekly

There is also a QR code that can be scanned for supporters who would like to make a larger donation.

"For every six-pack that we sell in the tasting room, $2 goes to Alligator Light. For every draft beer we sell in the tasting room, $1 goes to Alligator light," said McBay. "It's going to cost a lot of money to restore that thing. It's in dire need of being restored."

Alligator Reef Lighthouse is named after the USS Alligator, a U.S. Navy schooner that sank on the reef in 1822.

Last September, the U.S. Department of Interior granted the non-profit Friends of the Pool Inc. ownership of the almost 150-year-old lighthouse.

The organization is now tasked with restoring the massive cast iron structure. It's a tall order, expected to cost $5 million to $7 million and take five to six years to complete.

"I'm just a fisherman. I don't know anything about restoring this, but who does? Somebody had to take the ball and run with it. So here we go," said Dixon.

For years, Dixon and Larry "Lighthouse" Herlth have fought to bring attention to the decrepit lighthouse. In 2013, they started the annual 8-mile round-trip swim to Alligator Lighthouse that funds collegiate scholarships. The event has exploded in popularity over the years. It started with 100 swimmers; now roughly 450 athletes take the plunge. The Florida Keys Brewing Co. proudly sponsors the swim every year.

"We always say anything to do with seas or fleas, we'll help. So anything to do with the oceans or the humane society," joked McBay. So far, Lighthouse Lager is a hit with beer drinkers. McBay says many customers want to have it shipped to their homes, but the only place to grab a pint or a six-pack is in the FKBC tasting room located at 81611 on the Old Highway in Islamorada.

It's a brew with a benefit, helping to save a piece of history for generations to come.

"I want to see it forever. I want my kids to see it forever. I want my kid's kids to see it forever and I want it to always be there, " said McBay. More information about preserving Alligator Lighthouse is at savealligatorlighthouse.org.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022 SPONSORED BY:

CONSERVATION TIP

A NOD TO THE WOMEN DIVERS

Event creates bright future for people and the planet

Unfortunately, trash makes its way into our oceans and on to our reefs. When you go diving, bring along some shears and a mesh bag.

When you see some fishing line you need to cut off the coral you'll be ready.

A group of women divers explore the depths. PADI Women’s Dive Day is Saturday, July 16. MORRIS DIVING/Contributed

FAVORABLE DIVE CONDITIONS Conditions out on the Florida Keys waters continue to be nothing short of amazing as we move into mid-July. We’ve had some light winds, but divers encountered some fantastic visibility as they explored the depths last week. Light winds and incredible water clarity has been the norm lately, and we couldn’t be happier.

ERIC BILLIPS is the owner, captain and instructor at Islamorada Dive Center and Florida Keys Dive Center.

He specializes in scuba, rebreather, spearfishing and captaining in the Florida Keys.

CALM KEYS WEATHER This coming week, we’ll again experience Keys summer weather. With calm waters, sun shining and a beautiful blue, there’s no better time to get out and dive.

PADI WOMEN’S DIVE DAY Saturday, July 16 is PADI Women’s Dive Day. It’s grown into one of the most celebrated days of diving on the planet. For eight years, the dive community has come together to encourage divers of all ages, genders, backgrounds and abilities to confidently explore and protect the ocean.

At Islamorada Dive Center and Florida Keys Dive Center, we offer a discounted rate and cool swag to all women diving with us. Give us a call if you’re interested.

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

I.CARE planted corals at Rocky Top reef last Saturday and we'll be planting more this Saturday, July 16 out of Islamorada Dive Center.

Locals plant for free.

Wander Woman Dive Club dives with Islamorada Dive Center for last year’s PADI Women's Dive Day. ERIC BILLIPS/Contributed

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

CATCHING UP WITH THE BRADEENS How a Keys vacation and a meeting at the dock spurred long-lasting love MELINDA VAN FLEET www.keysweekly.com

F

or those of you who don’t know Skip and Lisa Bradeen, it would be unfair to skip over a little bit of their history in the process of hearing what they are up to nowadays.

Skip Bradeen came down to the Keys on a two-week vacation with a buddy back in September 1964. The oldest of 11 kids from Long Island, what started as a vacation kept becoming a delayed adventure as he got a job as a deckhand for $15 to $20 a day on a charter boat — the Always. He finally told his mom he wasn't coming back, and in May 1966 bought the Always and charged $40 for a halfday trip and $60 for a full day.

More recently, people know him for owning Blue Chip Too and the New Blue Chip Too. Lisa Bradeen also moved to the Keys after first coming on vacation. Through her travel agent, she was given Skip Bradeen's information. Skip initially called her when she arrived at the Islander.

But she stopped by the dock to say hello before the initial plans they made. Lisa Bradeen didn't know what he looked like, so she was going to check the marina and see what was happening.

"The docks were a circus back in the day, watching what the boats brought in,” she said.

“People would be five deep waiting; it was a big deal, and the thing to do was to be at the dock at 4 p.m.

"I spotted this guy with a white shirt, blonde hair, blue eyes,” Bradeen continued. “He was mesmerizing, doing 10 things at once like a real showman. I stood there admiring this man but didn't realize it was the same person at the time. I had butterflies as I admired him but had my mind still in my career."

A while later that same day, when they finally talked, Skip Bradeen brought up that he had just received his divorce papers. They then spent the whole week together; Lisa Bradeen returned to New York and resigned from her accomplished retail career.

"I remember my dad saying, ‘You're going to move to the Florida Keys with a fisherman?’" Lisa said. “But I knew Skip was the one, and I moved May 3, 1978 — that was it."

After analyzing the job situation in the Keys, she found success in the restaurant industry and ended up at Mile Marker 88 for 23 years. Bradeen has also been a long-time wedding officiant and now also volunteers a few hours a week at the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center.

Skip Bradeen is not only known for being a good fisherman; he is even better at entertaining people and making them feel comfortable.

"I get them involved — make them hook their fish, clear the grass, etc. I may even sing and dance a bit too,” he said.

In 1987, he launched his wildly popular and successful live radio show.

"Let's go ahead and try doing an on-the-water live show,” he said. “We were on the air daily at 9:10 and 4:10 for 30 years. The show went through some radio station channels, and when COVID-19 came, the station went out of business as it was."

"The 9:10 and 4:10 were so ingrained,” Lisa said. “I remember going up to Enterprise to rent a car, and while I was at the counter, the associate's alarm went off on his phone, and he put me on hold to listen to the show and didn't know who I was. People did not go fishing until they heard the report from Skip."

Skip and Lisa Bradeen credited Wayne Kvadus for all he contributed over the 34 years he worked with Bradeen. Kvadus retired when he turned 63 and had given him six months' notice.

"Wayne even ran the charters and the radio show when I was on vacation and did a great job."

"Wayne and Skip saw each other more than I saw Skip,” Lisa said. “They had communication where they just had to look at each other and knew what to do and what was going on."

Who else remembers Skip’s Piano Bar? The Bradeens rented out the upstairs of the Old Bentleys, now the new second location for Italian Food Company, for a little less than a year in 2010.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

BEAT THE HEAT! DURING OUR

Skip and Lisa Bradeen circa 1978. CONTRIBUTED

"People were rocking and rolling Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, and we tried Sunday afternoons for the ladies, but that didn't work as well," Skip said.

"Skip would be decked out in his tux entertaining until 11 p.m. while I was the hostess, server, booking the bands, manager, etc. It was a lot of work," Lisa said.

Semi-retirement came about because the new boat owner decided he didn't want to be in the charter business any more.

Today, Bradeen keeps busy getting booked on other people's boats and having a fun time on the water with those clients for the day. His 80th birthday is coming up on Sept. 2, and he is also kicking around a few business ideas. But in the meantime, he is happy helping his wife around the house, hitting the gym, reading the New York Post and watching the stock market.

He added, "Then 4 p.m. comes around, and it's time for a cold beer. However, I do miss being on the bridge."

When asked about some favorite stories, Bradeen says, "Some I can't tell you about." But then he shares an incredible story about a client, Pastor Porter, wanting to catch a mako shark while the seas were crazy and everyone was seasick. "’Captain Skip, can I talk to you for a moment? Do you believe in God?’ ‘Yes, very much so.’ He took my hands and put a small bible in them. ‘If you believe in God, there will be a sign, but there will be a sign because of this moment. It could be in the form of doves.’"

Moments later, Kvadus called out that a beautiful macaw was on top of the tower, looking down at Bradeen's face. Then, in the middle of nowhere, a macaw was on the boat. Bradeen and Kvadus tried to catch it, but it flew away. Recently Pastor Porter reached out to say hello and share the macaw memory.

Another fun story is after fishing in Cuba with Jimmy Buffett in 1983, they went to a town, and a kid came up to Bradeen on the boat. "The boy was maybe 8 years old with a hook catching pilchers one at a time. He laid them out in the sun; flies all over the bait. I returned to the boat, as I had a brand new rod and reel and brought it out and gave it to him. He kept calling me ‘Capitan.’ I showed him how to catch more pilchers.

"Fast forward 15 years later, back in Cuba, I had the day off from a tournament and I was walking about town when all of a sudden a good-looking young man all dressed up started yelling from his bicycle, ‘Capitan, Capitan!’ and making a reeling hand motion. We were now 10 to 12 miles from where we first met and happened to cross paths, and he remembered me," Bradeen said.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

‘ABSOLUTELY SENDING IT’ H

e’s an X Games gold medalist, a championship-caliber motorsports competitor and an absolute legend of the industry. He’s made the rounds on smash hit TV shows, online videos and even movies. And somehow, he still has more to prove.

38-year-old Travis Pastrana doesn’t come across as someone whose name is synonymous with extreme motorsport stunts. He’s humble, warm, welcoming and incredibly down-to-earth, strolling around the prep site for his eventual jump over the Boot Key Bridge without so much as a single security guard and joking about needing to finish the stunt in time to get home to his wife and kids that night.

Ahead of the jaw-dropping feat on June 11, Pastrana was kind enough to sit down with Keys Weekly to discuss the jump, his legacy, and what keeps him going after already securing his place among motorsports royalty. Here’s what we learned (answers edited slightly for language and clarity): How psyched are you for what’s about to happen? Honestly, the whole reason that we even thought of Florida was looking at the Seven Mile Bridge and this bridge. We started talking here, and we didn’t really get a “no,” so generally if it’s not a “no” at first it kind of comes around. I was like, “For this video to be successful, we have to have this bridge,” so we’re very appreciative.

You’ve been in talks to make this happen for months. How does it feel to pull it off? I’m having a lot of fun, and these things are always great, but one of the beauties of doing what we do and having a budget that’s bigger than what we normally have as rednecks having fun is being able to give back.

The last thing we ever want to do is make a negative impact on wherever we go. When we leave the towns we come into, we want to make sure they’re as good or better than when we got there.

We’ve seen you do some crazy things before. How wild is this stunt? This is the

Travis Pastrana holds a copy of the Upper Keys Weekly from January, when he made his last trip to the Keys. Pastrana’s return to the islands to finish shooting his latest Gymkhana. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

opening shot (of the next Gymkhana film).

This not only sets the tone, but you see something that is going to make you go, “I need to see this. I have to watch that.” We need something like that for every film. Unless you really love cars and a lot of the technical stuff, if you see a car jumping a bridge, with no landing on the other side, jumping over a helicopter, that alone is a cool visual.

With everything you’ve already accomplished, what keeps you going? Do you feel like there’s still more you have to prove? I’ll tell you a story. We were filming a video and we were already three times over budget, so it was coming directly out of my pocket. I had always wanted to do this trick, a double backflip with a full twist. It was just me and like 10 of my buddies in the backyard. I hit the first time so hard, I knocked myself out and I literally pooped my pants.

My wife was like, “You’re not getting paid for this. Nobody cares if you do this. We’re already over budget, and you’re now gonna have a medical bill. What are you doing?” I’m like, “I think I can do it.” She’s like, “Well, go out there and (expletive) do it.”

So you still look at things and just say “I can do that, so I’m gonna do it?” Yeah.

And the risk and reward changes every day.

It changed when I had my kids. It changed when I got married. You don’t do this kind of stuff because of the money. This is because you have a chance to have a car build that you’ve dreamed up your whole life, and to jump something that’s never been done, like Evel Knievel. I once had an opportunity to meet Evel’s family and to jump Caesar’s Fountain on a custom-built old-school motorcycle that Roland Sands built. I’m like, “check off all my childhood dreams.”

Already a legend at 38, Travis Pastrana is still driven by pure possibility

Do you realize that for a lot of people, your name is going to get passed down like Evel’s? I just want to go out and live the best life that I can and have the most fun that I can. I want to show my kids what hard work is. My kids will see a side that no one else will, and no one needs to know what goes into making this stuff work. If it’s motorcycles, it’s being in the best physical shape. If it’s cars, it’s going over so many notes for hours and hours. It’s surrounding yourself with the right people and being able to perform under pressure, and if anything, I just want to pass that down to my kids. It takes hard work to play for a living.

How do you get locked in for something like this? Do you have a pump-up song or routine? No, to be honest. It’s knowing I’ve done my homework. When I get to the jump or whatever, I shouldn’t be nervous, because I should have already come with my homework done. People say, “How do you overcome your nerves?” Practice.

What’s your daily driver? A Subaru STI. If my wife wants to get somewhere fast, she drives. I drive like grandma on the road. For me, to have fun, I’ve gotta be just absolutely sending it, and that means I’m probably gonna go to jail. I learned when I was 18 that that probably wasn’t going to work. That’s why I love racing, because I can scare myself so much that by the time I get home I just crash.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

BRIEFLY County building department lobbies to close early New all-online Monroe County building permitting system is coming soon. To provide staff with the time needed to work on testing the new permit applications, all Monroe County permitting office lobbies will be closing at 1 p.m. from July 18-22. Lobby hours will be from 8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. More information is at www.monroecountyfl.gov/onlinepermitting.

AAA: Gas drops 15 cents in last week Florida gas prices dropped 15 cents per gallon last week. The state average has now declined for four consecutive weeks, falling a total of 47 cents during that time. Drivers are now paying an average price of $4.42 per gallon, though Florida residents in some regions are paying less than $4.20/gallon. The state average is now at two-month lows. On average, it now costs $66 to fill a 15-gallon tank.

That's $7 less than when prices were at record-levels in mid June.

"Floridians are getting some welcome relief from record high prices at the pump," said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA - The Auto Club Group.

PKS a beneficiary of Winn-Dixie program Plantation Key School in Islamorada was chosen by Winn-Dixie in Tavernier to be a beneficiary of the School Donation Program for the month of August. Beginning Aug. 10, customers can donate either by rounding up their purchase to donate to the school. Or, they can purchase a reusable bag. The program will go through Aug. 30. Once the program ends, a check will be sent to the school for the amount raised.

Hemingway Days honor literary past and present Ernest Hemingway left Key West in late 1939 after nearly a decade of residence, but his literary legacy continues during Hemingway Days 2022, scheduled Tuesday through Sunday, July 19-24. On its opening and closing days, the festival spotlights a unique exhibit at the Custom House Museum, 281 Front St., that salutes the author’s writing talent and Key West life.

Literary and history aficionados can view rare artifacts and memorabilia from Hemingway’s life, a full-size bronze depicting him in his prime and 59 original drawings by famed marine wildlife artist Guy Harvey that provide a visual narrative to Hemingway’s novel, “The Old Man and the Sea.”

On the designated “Hemingway Collection” museum days, Tuesday and Sunday, July 19 and 24, entry to the Custom House is free to those who mention Hemingway Days at the admission desk.

Held in conjunction with the festival is the Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition, established in 1981 to recognize the work of emerging writers of short fiction. Awarding $2,500 annually, it has been directed since its inception by Lorian Hemingway, Ernest Hemingway’s granddaughter and author of books including “Walk on Water.”

THE LIFE-GIVING POWER OF FRIENDSHIP

John McGil. CONTRIBUTED

PLAYING THE UKULELE COMPLETES THE CIRCLE EMILY STEELE www.keysweekly.com

County officials take to Washington, D.C. Recently, Monroe County Commissioners Michelle Coldiron and Jim Scholl joined Monroe County Administrator Roman Gastesi and Monroe County Legislative Affairs Director Lisa Tennyson in Washington, D.C. Monroe County discussed its federal legislative priorities with U.S. Rep. Carlos Gimenez, Sen. Marco Rubio, and Sen. Rick Scott. County priorities include flood insurance initiatives, infrastructure and resilience projects, water quality and coral restoration plans, marine debris removal after hurricanes, and earmark appropriations. They also met with Wes Brooks, Florida’s chief resilience officer, to discuss resilience funding and coral reef protection.

Monroe County held meetings that included officials from Martin and Broward counties to push for the passage of the Restoring Resilient Reefs Act. Meetings were held with members of the Florida delegation and the House and Senate committees helping to shepherd the bill through. The bill would send significant new funding for coral reef protection and bolster the role of states and local governments in restoration and protection initiatives.

H

ave you heard the saying, “Still waters run deep”? It is true of the West Virginiaborn John McGil. The quiet, unassuming McGil came to Tavernier to visit his family and became a permanent resident of the Upper Keys.

“When my mother and sister moved to Tavernier it was freezing in West Virginia. I grew to like the warmer climate and the people,” McGil explained.

McGil took a part-time position with the Key Largo Post Office, where he met Nancy Banker. He also met Banker’s sister Terry Gormley and her husband Roger. Banker was promoted and moved to Utah, telling Gromley to look out for McGil who, although he never drank heavily, or smoked, was dealing with liver failure.

One day the Gormleys knocked on McGil’s door. He opened the door and told them he was going to see his doctor. They said, “No, you’re not going, we’re taking you.” When they got to the doctor’s office they were told to take McGil to Mariners Hospital immediately. “I remember their arms around me, holding me up, and dragging me into Mariner's emergency room,” McGil stated.

The Gormleys then moved him into their home. He lived in their living room for six months while he waited for a donor. The Gormleys transported McGil five times to Miami for a liver transplant, to be told the liver was not a match. One night, at 2 a.m., the Gormleys received a call and rushed McGil to a Miami hospital.

This time it was a match.

“They gave me the miracle of life,” said McGil. “The Gormleys did not have

to take that call. They took all calls, they kept me alive for six months waiting for that transplant. Terry cleaned up after me, fed me, kept me from going into a coma, and they delivered me for life-giving surgery.”

Several years laters, McGil received news that Roger had passed away. In April 2022, Terry was diagnosed with aggressive lung cancer and prescribed chemotherapy and radiation treatment. One day Terry went in for treatment and called McGil to tell him she was not coming home. At this point in the interview, McGil looked at me and said, “I will tell you about a connection with JOY not many know.”

“When I knew Terry would not come home, I loaded up my dog, Gracie, music stand, ukulele, and song book and went to see her. They would not let her grandchildren visit, but they let us in.”

At first Gormley did not want McGil to play. After she was made comfortable with medication, McGil set up his music stand, began playing his ukulele and singing to her. When he made a mistake he told her, “Let me try that again.” She would smile at him; he knew she was enjoying the music. “I played the whole book of songs, Gracie lying in her bed, and Terry smiling off and on.” McGil softly said. When Terry Gormley passed away she was surrounded by family and friends. Gracie and McGil stood among them, completing a circle of unconditional love and giving.

McGil, a lifelong learner, joined the JOY Center in 2018. He enjoys Ukulele JOY and Community Gardening. He is one of the “moisturizers” who kept the garden alive through the pandemic.

McGil wants county leaders to know a community center could be instrumental in educating people about how the community is organized and providing resources and classes that would help them become a valuable part of our Upper Keys community.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

WELCOMING A NEW FOX YOUNGLING Kai is a sapphire fox that’s finding a new home at Pawsitive Beginnings Inc. in Key Largo. CONTRIBUTED

Kai will have new home in the Keys mid-August

Hi friends!

Reef the fox here with this week’s “Reef’s Report.”

So, I am not quite sure what to make of this news I REEF am about to THE FOX share with you all. If you folReef is a red fox low us on sothat was saved cial media, you from a fur farm.

He now lives in may have seen Key Largo with the announcehis human, Nicole ment already.

Navarro.

My mother has decided to take in a baby fox.

Now we all know I am, and will always be, THE baby, but this new baby is only 10 weeks old and was rescued from a fur farm by our friends at SaveAFox Corporation in Minnesota last week.

I know, I know, you are thinking, “but Reef, he needed to be saved and given a loving home.”

Yeah well, why this home? Mom keeps telling me that this is why we are here. This is our goal. To take in foxes that need specialized care and to be able to continue to raise awareness on how insanely cruel the fur industry is. She told me to take a deep breath and think about someone besides myself for once.

Mom decided to name him Kai. In Hawaiian culture, it means “sea.” In Japanese culture, it means “shell.”

Kai is also considered to have Welsh, Scandinavian and Greek roots; its meaning is “keeper of the keys and earth.” So I guess

that name will fit in nicely around here. Aside from that, Kai appears to be a color morph of the red fox called Sapphire. Unfortunately, that color, which is manmade by fur farmers, can come with a lot of genetic defects. Sapphire foxes are extremely rare and difficult to produce (1/64 chances to obtain a sapphire fox when crossing the two types of pearl together), due to the rarity of Mansfield pearl foxes needed to produce them.

Sadly, two foxes of the same color that were able to be saved from fur farms in the past few years at other rescues did not make it past the age of 3. Remember, fur farmers do not breed foxes for longevity. They breed them for highly sought after colors that will make them money. So little Kai is the product of that, as are all of us foxes here at Pawsitive Beginnings.

And now that I’ve typed this all out and had a chance to really take in the seriousness of it all, I am glad Kai is coming here. I know my mom and our veterinarian will do everything they can to give him the best life possible, just like they did with me and the other five foxes that live here.

Does it mean I won’t get an attitude? Probably not. But it does mean that I will do my very best to be a good big brother to the little guy. So Kai will arrive here mid-August and I’m sure you will be seeing more of him after his arrival.

Keep up with all our happenings on pawsitivebeginnings.org and until next time, Reef, over and out.

HARVEY Harvey is a 4-month-old male tabby that was found underweight and on the verge of losing his life. Karla Perrine, manager of Upper Keys Humane Society (UKHS), had him treated with Dr. Claudio from Mobile Pet Doctors. He has since gained weight and is ready for his forever home. He’s extremely sweet and loves children. If you would like to make Harvey a part of your family, or to learn more about other pets available for adoption, give the UKHS a call at 305-451-3848. The UKHS is a not-for-profit no-kill shelter that provides food, shelter, medical care and adoption services for unwanted and abandoned animals.

SAVE THE DATE Thursday, July 14 • Islamorada Village Council meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Founders Park Community Center.

Friday, July 15 • Join I.CARE for an interactive presentation about our reef, care and identification at 2 p.m. at Key Largo library.

• Mangroves Matter Kayak Tour at 10 a.m. at Curry Hammock State Park.

Saturday, July 16 • Coral Shores High School Football Boosters car wash from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Vaughn Building, MM 92.

• Florida Keys Board of Realtors hosts a nonperishable food donation dropoff from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at First State Bank, MM 97, median, Key Largo.

The Big Red Bus will also be onsite for those wishing to donate blood.

• Women’s Dive Night from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at History of Diving Museum, Islamorada.

• I.CARE dive and transplant coral at 8:30 a.m. at Islamorada Dive Center.

• Full Moon Party at 8 p.m. at Island Grill.

Sunday, July 17 • I.CARE dive and transplant coral at 8:30 a.m. at Conch Republic Divers, Tavernier.

Wednesday, July 20 • Just Older Youth (JOY) Center classes from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Visit justolderyouthinc.org for a complete schedule.

• Immerse Yourself presentation on sponges and water quality in the Keys at 7 p.m. at History of Diving Museum, Islamorada.

Thursday, July 21 • Morada Way Art Walk from 6 to 9 p.m. at Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, Islamorada.

Friday, July 22 • Celebrate the Ocean Art workshop with Yvette Cortera and Mariela Estevez at 2 p.m. at Key Largo library.

Saturday, July 23 • I.CARE dive and transplant coral at 8:30 a.m. at Key Dives, Islamorada.

Friday, July 29 • The movie “Luca” (PG) with popcorn from 2 to 4 p.m. at Key Largo library.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

LADIES HOOK 100 FISH DURING UPPER KEYS TOURNAMENT Fort Myers woman wins with 25-pound blackfin tuna

L

1 2

3

4

1. Lynda Traverso and Robin Christian hold their mahi catches.

2. Carmella Brazzle, of Suwanee, Georgia, with her first mahi aboard the Sea Horse.

3. Caribsea ladies with mahi and tuna.

From left, Robin Krueger, of Parkland; Lynda Traverso, of St. Augustine; Susan Anthony, of Fort Myers; Robin Christian, of Sanibel; and Maryanne Vontertann, of Fort Lauderdale.

CONTRIBUTED 4. From left, Maryanne Vontertann, Fort Lauderdale, and Susan Anthony, first-place offshore winner from Fort Myers.

adies came from as far away as Georgia to learn fishing and compete at the Ladies Let’s Go Fishing Screamin’ Reels tournament, held June 24-26 in Islamorada.

Hosted by the nonprofit Ladies Let’s Go Fishing Foundation, the tournament kicked off on June 24 at the Tavernier Elks Club. The next two days, the ladies learned fishing skills off Islamorada, on the boats, catching a total of 100 fish on flat calm seas.

Susan Anthony, of Fort Myers, won first place offshore with a 25-pound blackfin tuna caught on Caribsea. Second-place offshore went to Lynda Traverso, of St. Augustine, for catching a 19.8-blackfin tuna. Top private boat went to Deb Salvi, of New Smyrna Beach, for an 8-pound mahi.

Featured on national network television and more, the series is supported by major partners including Recreational Fishing and Boating Foundation, Take Me Fishing, Vamos a Pescar, Mercury, Magic Tilt trailers, Shearwater Boats, Power-Pole, Penn, TACO Metals, Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida and Fish Florida. Largest Annual Sponsors are Freedom Boat Club, ICOM, CCA Florida STAR, Lowrance, Bob’s Machine Shop, AFTCO, Costa, Smith Optics, Frogg Toggs, Hubbards Marina, Star Brite and Future Angler Foundation.

Local sponsors were Breezy Palms, Jeanne Towne of Fidelity Real Estate and the Monroe County Tourist Development Council.

LLGF offers a second Keys event Oct. 7-9, with a full-day fishing seminar, two days of fishing and casual prizes.

— Contributed

29

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

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30

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

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32

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO REIMPOSE AND PROVIDE FOR COLLECTION OF SOLID WASTE SERVICE SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS

** Unincorporated areas, City of Marathon, Layton and Key Colony Beach Notice is hereby given that the County Commission, Monroe County, Florida will conduct a public hearing to consider reimposing solid waste service assessments for the Fiscal Year beginning October 1, 2022, against certain improved residential properties located within Monroe County and the City of Marathon, Layton and Key Colony Beach to fund the cost of solid waste collection services, facilities and programs provided to such properties and to authorize collection of such assessments on the tax bill.

The Public Hearing will be held at 1:30 PM., on August 17, 2022 at the Harvey Government Center, 1200 Truman Avenue, Key West, FL 33040. The public can also attend the Public Hearing via Communication Media Technology (“CMT”)/Zoom, for receiving public comment on the proposed assessments.

All affected property owners have a right to appear virtually or in person at the hearing and to file written objections with the County Commission within 20 calendar days of the date of this notice. Pursuant to section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, notice is given that if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the County Commission with respect to any matter considered at the hearing, such person will need a record of the proceedings and may need to ensure that a verbatim record is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be made. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons needing a special accommodation or an interpreter to participate in this proceeding should contact the County Administrator at 305-292-4441, at least 48 hours prior to the date of the hearing. If hearing impaired, contact the Florida Relay Service Number, by dialing “711” for assistance.

The total annual solid waste assessment revenue to be collected within Monroe County and the City of Marathon, Layton and Key Colony Beach for the upcoming fiscal year is estimated to be $15,297,800. The rate of assessment for the upcoming fiscal year shall be $446.00 per residential dwelling unit. The maximum rate of assessment that can be imposed in the fiscal year commencing October 1, 2022 and future fiscal years shall be $446.00 per residential dwelling unit. Copies of the legal documentation for the assessment program will be made available upon request by contacting the County Administrator’s office at 305-292-4441 Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

If you have any questions, please contact the County at 305-295-4323 or 305-295-4328, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

The assessments will be collected on the ad valorem tax bill to be mailed in November 2022, as authorized by section 197.3632, Florida Statutes. Failure to pay the assessments will cause a tax certificate to be issued against the property, which may result in a loss of title.

To attend virtually please see the link below: https://mcbocc.zoom.us/j/82370285170 Or iPhone one-tap: US: +16465189805, 82370285170# or +16699006833, 82370285170# Or Telephone: Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 646 518 9805 or +1 669 900 6833 Webinar ID: 823 7028 5170 International numbers available: https://mcbocc.zoom.us/u/k8Rqkd6G2 If a person wishes to comment on a particular item on the public portion of the Agenda, when the webinar monitor and/or the Mayor calls for speakers on the item on which you wish to comment: a) If phoning in: Dial *9 to “raise your hand” to be recognized by the Zoom webinar monitor; b) If watching online: click on/open the live Zoom Webinar link, which link appears in both the published Agenda and Agenda Packet. When prompted, enter your email address and name to join the webinar and then select the “Raised Hand” feature that appears at the bottom of the Zoom webinar screen to be recognized by the webinar monitor. To report problems, please call 305-872-8831.

A person may submit written or other physical evidence on a particular agenda item for consideration at the BOCC meeting to: Lindsey Ballard, via email, to: ballard-lindsey@monroecounty-fl.gov, or by mail to: The County Administrator’s Office, 1100 Simonton Street, Suite 205, Key West, FL 33040. The documents must be received by 3:00 PM on Monday, August 15, 2022, and must include the submitter’s name, address, phone number, email address, and the agenda item number to which the documents refer.

Dated at Key West, Monroe County, Florida this 21st day of June, 2022.

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS, MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA KEVIN MADOK, CPA, Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida

Publish: July 14, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

305.743.0844

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 GOLFSIDE TROPICAL RETREAT located at 2697 Sombrero Boulevard, Monroe County in the City of Marathon, Florida 33050, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Marathon, Florida this 7TH day of July, 2022.

By: JAMIE L. BRISCOE Publish: July 14, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Notice is hereby given that the undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property under the Florida Self Storage Facilities Act Statutes (Section 83.801 – 83.809). The undersigned will sell online by competitive bidding on July 22, 2022, at 10:00am. The following: #B37 Justin Nichols Sailboat, Year: 1998 Make: Com-Pac HIN: US-ABV02897H798 #422 Justin Nichols misc. electronics, auto parts, home goods #104 Cameron Willett misc. home goods #217 Michael Brackens misc. home goods #233 David Rodgers misc. home goods #241 Tiffany Ridge misc. home goods #255 Mark Schmidt misc. electronics, home goods #412 George Jones misc. home goods, electronics #444 Sebastian Pinder misc. tools, home goods and electronics will be auctioned online by Storage Treasures via website at storagetreasures.com.

All purchased items sold as is.

Items are located at Big Pine Storage at 30677 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, Florida 33043 and must be collected within 72 hours of auction.

Publish: July 7 & 14, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the August 3, 2022 regular meeting of the District I Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will provide updates on the County Website at MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/89816866010 Meeting ID: 898 1686 6010 One tap mobile +19292056099,, 89816866010# US (New York) +13017158592,, 89816866010# US (Washington DC) Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at Pacini-Maxine@ monroecounty-fl.gov, or by calling (305)296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on July 29, 2022.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the

County Administrator's Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call "711".

Publish: July 14, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of SHOTS AND GIGGLES located at 2412 Fogarty Avenue, Monroe County in the City of Key West, Florida 33040-3812, 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 7TH day of July, 2022.

By: C.R.A.K. PROMOTIONS, LLC Publish: July 14, 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 Boat Tour located at 19521 Aztec Street, Summerland Key, FL 33042 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Laid Back Key West, Inc. Publish: July 14, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District I Advisory Committee (DAC I) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, August 3, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

Pursuant to Executive Order

SECOND PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The City of Marathon is applying to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) for a FFY 2021 and FFY 2022 Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) of $311,650.00 in the Neighborhood Revitalization category to raise Jesse Hobbs Park in order to mitigate flooding. The activities, dollar amounts and estimated percentage benefit to lowand moderate-income persons are as follows: Activity Name Design Services Bonds Mobilization Demolition Fill Elevate Basketball Court Elevate Sidewalks Elevate ADA Parking Adjust Irrigation Turf/Greenery Install Pavilion Gravel Contingency (15%)

Estimated Cost $14,000 $4,000 $15,000 $35,000 $60,000 $65,000 $15,000 $15,000 $12,000 $22,000 $8,000 $6,000 $40,650

CDBG Funding LMI Benefit N/A N/A N/A 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% N/A

The City of Marathon does not expect that anyone will be displaced as a result of CDBG-funded activities. If any persons are displaced as a result of the planned activities, the City of Marathon will assist them as described in the City’s anti-displacement and relocation policy, which is available for review at City Hall.

A public hearing to provide citizens an opportunity to comment on the application will be held at Marathon City Hall, 9805 Overseas Highway, on July 18, 2022, at 5:30 p.m.

A draft copy of the application will also be available for review during normal business hours in the Clerk’s Office at City Hall by noon on July 20, 2022. Persons wanting to submit written comments on the application should send them to Maria Covelli, Grants Coordinator, by e-mail at covellim@ci.marathon.fl.us, no later than 3:00pm on July 20, 2022.

A copy of the final application will be available for review in the Clerk’s Office at City Hall no later than noon, July 21, 2022. The application will be submitted to DEO on July 21, 2022 by 5pm. To obtain additional information concerning the application and the public hearing, contact Maria Covelli, Grants Coordinator, at (305) 743-0033 or by email at covellim@ci.marathon.fl.us Please note that more than one Marathon City Council/Board/Committee member may participate in the meeting. The City of Marathon complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you are a disabled person requiring special accommodations or assistance, please notify the City ADA Coordinator at (305) 289-5022 of such need at least 72 hours (3 days) in advance.

Publish: July 14, 2022, The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District II Advisory Committee (DAC II) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, August 2, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the August 2, 2022 regular meeting of the District II Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will provide updates on the County Website at MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/83259019633 Meeting ID: 832 5901 9633 One tap mobile +19292056099,, 83259019633# US (New York) +13126266799,, 83259019633# US (Chicago) Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at Pacini-Maxine@ monroecounty-fl.gov, or by calling (305)296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on July 29, 2022.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

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

Publish: July 14, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District III Advisory Committee (DAC III) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, August 3, 2022 at 9:30 a.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the August 3, 2022 meeting of the District III Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development

33

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

Council will provide updates on the County Website at MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/82065581650 Meeting ID: 820 6558 1650 One tap mobile +19292056099,, 82065581650# US (New York) +13017158592,, 82065581650# US (Washington DC) Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at Pacini-Maxine@ monroecounty-fl.gov, or by calling (305)296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on July 29, 2022.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

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

Publish: July 14, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

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

Publish: July 14, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

The selection committee will evaluate the proposal received in response to the Request for Competitive Solicitations issued for the above-named project. The evaluation and recommendation of the selection committee are to be submitted to the Board of County Commissioners. Persons interested in this issue are invited to attend via zoom. For more information, please contact Olympia Newton, Budget/ Contract Administrator, Manager Card Sound Toll, Monroe County Engineering Services Ph: 305-853-7359 Email: newtonolympia@monroecounty-fl.gov You are invited to a Zoom webinar.

When: July 27, 2022, 10:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Topic: Selection Committee Meeting Sands Subdivision Sea Level Rise Pilot Project - July 27, 2022 Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/83097443814 Or iPhone one-tap : US: +16465189805,, 83097443814# or +16699006833,, 83097443814# Or Telephone: Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 646 518 9805 or +1 669 900 6833 Webinar ID: 830 9744 3814 International numbers available: https://mcbocc.zoom.us/u/ khp5Q4yKO ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 A.M.---5:00 P.M., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.

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

Publish: July 14, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

both emails must read as follows: Ballfield Maintenance - Multiple Locations 08-17-2022 Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl. gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on August 17, 2022. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,, 4509326156#US (New York) +16699006833,, 4509326156#US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: July 14, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District IV Advisory Committee (DAC IV) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, August 2, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the August 2, 2022 meeting of the District IV Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will provide updates on the County Website at MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/83978124483 Meeting ID: 839 7812 4483 One tap mobile +19292056099,, 83978124483# US (New York) +13126266799,, 83978124483# US (Chicago) Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at Pacini-Maxine@ monroecounty-fl.gov, or by calling (305)296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on July 29, 2022.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District V Advisory Committee (DAC V) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, August 2, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the August 2, 2022 meeting of the District V Advisory Committee will be conducted via CMT, using a Zoom Webinar platform. If the Governor issues a subsequent order changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings, the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will provide updates on the County Website at MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/84414479244 Meeting ID: 844 1447 9244 One tap mobile +19292056099,, 84414479244# US (New York) +13017158592,, 84414479244# US (Washington DC) Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at Pacini-Maxine@ monroecounty-fl.gov, or by calling (305)296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Documents must be received no later than Friday 5:00 P.M. on July 29, 2022.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings/workshops of the Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public and one or more TDC Member or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

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

Publish: July 14, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF SELECTION COMMITTEE MEETING FOR CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING AND INSPECTION SERVICES FOR THE SANDS SUBDIVISION SEA LEVEL RISE PILOT PROJECT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that there will be a virtual public meeting (Marathon Government Bldg. 2798 Overseas Hwy, 1st Floor Media Room) on Wednesday, July 27, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. of the SELECTION COMMITTEE MEETING for the project of: Construction Engineering and Inspection Services for the Sands Subdivision Sea Level Rise Pilot Project Big Pine Key, Monroe County, Florida

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, August 17, 2022, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: BALLFIELD MAINTENANCE MULTIPLE LOCATIONS Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices.

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

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

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00P.M., on August 17, 2022. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Monday, August 22, 2022, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: UPPER KEYS LANDSCAPING MAINTENANCE - MULTIPLE LOCATIONS Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices.

Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar

by Onvia at www.demandstar. com OR www.monroecounty-fl. gov/bids. The Public Record is available upon request.

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

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00P.M., on August 22, 2022. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows: Upper Keys Landscaping Maintenance - Multiple Locations 08-22-2022 Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl. gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on August 22, 2022. You may call in by phone or internet using the

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,, 4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,, 4509326156# US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 (New York) +1 669 900 6833 (San Jose) Publish: July 14, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 22-CP-000194-K IN RE: ESTATE OF PATRICIA POLLOCK ANTICH, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Patricia Pollock Antich, deceased, whose date of death was February 15, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead 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 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 July 14, 2022.

Personal Representative: Anthony Pollock Antich 704 Catherine Street Key West, Florida 33040-3226 Attorney for Personal Representative: Samantha J. Fitzgerald, Esq. Attorney Florida Bar Number: 173762 300 S. Pine Island Road Suite 109 Plantation, FL 33324 Telephone: (954) 580.3690 Fax: (888) 663.6471 Email: samantha@ estateandprobatelawyer.com Publish: July 14 & 21, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NUMBER: 22-CP-34-M IN RE: THE ESTATE OF SALLY ANN MALS, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of SALLY ANN MALS, deceased, whose date of death was October 12, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s

LEGAL NOTICES 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: July 7, 2022.

Persons Giving Notice: SCOTT R. STOKFISZ 3441 Charlwood Drive Rochester Hills, Michigan 48306 Attorney for Persons Giving Notice: Christopher B. Waldera, P.A. Christopher B. Waldera Florida Bar No: 980810 Attorney for Personal Representative 5800 Overseas Highway, Suite 7 Marathon, Florida 33050 Telephone: (305) 289-2223 Facsimile: (305) 289-2249 email: chris@cbwpa.com Publish: July 7 & 14, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NUMBER: 22-CP-39-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM WALLACE RUSSELL, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of WILLIAM WALLACE RUSSELL, deceased, whose date of death was October 14, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead 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: July 7, 2022.

Persons Giving Notice: ESPERANZA C. PASTRANA 3745 Gumbo Limbo Street Big Pine Key, FL 33043 Attorney for Persons Giving Notice: Christopher B. Waldera, P.A. Christopher B. Waldera Florida Bar No: 980810 Attorney for Personal Representative 5800 Overseas Highway, Suite 7 Marathon, Florida 33050 Telephone: (305) 289-2223 Facsimile: (305) 289-2249 email: chris@cbwpa.com

LEGAL NOTICES Publish: July 7 & 14, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA KEY WEST DIVISION IN ADMIRALTY CASE NO.: 22-cv-10027-KMM IN THE MATTER OF: THE COMPLAINT OF KEY WEST JETSKI, INC. AS OWNER OF THE YAMAHA PERSONAL WATERCRAFT (HULL ID# YAMA0735A121) ITS ENGINES, TACKLE, APPURTENANCES, EQUIPMENT, ETC. IN A CAUSE FOR EXONTERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY, Petitioner.

MONITION TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA: THE MARSHALL OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA FOR THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA: WHEREAS, a Complaint was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, on the 18th day of April, 2022 by the Petitioners, KEY WEST JETSKI, INC., as owners of a Yamaha Pleasure Watercraft bearing the Hull Identification Number YAMA0735A121, have filed a Complaint pursuant to Title 46, United States Code, Sections 30501-30502, claiming the right to Exoneration From or Limitation of Liability for all claims allegedly resulting from an accident which occurred on or about January 5, 2022 in the navigable waterways of Key West, Florida, as more fully set forth in the Complaint. For those reasons and causes set forth in the Complaint, Petitioners pray for the issuance of a Monition and Injunction, and that all persons or corporations claiming for any and all loss, damage, injury or destruction caused by or resulting from the incident set forth in the Complaint be cited to appear and file their respective claims with the Clerk of this Court, and to make due process thereof and citing them to file their answers to the Complaint and all proceedings to be had, and if it shall appear that Petitioner is not liable for any loss, damage, destruction or injury, it may be so finally decreed by this Court; YOU ARE THEREFORE COMMANDED TO CITE ALL PERSONS OR CORPORATIONS in respect to which Petitioner seeks limitation to file respective claims with the Clerk of this Court and to serve on or to mail to the attorneys for Petitioners, Campbell Johnston Clark, LLP, 2600 Douglas Road, Suite 508, Coral Gables, FL 33134, copies thereof on or before the 1st day of August 2022, and citing such claimants to appear and answer the Complaint herein on or before the last named day or within such further time as the Court may grant, and once completed to then make return to the Court together with this Writ.

Dated at, Florida on this 1st day of July, 2022.

Angela E. Noble, Clerk United States District Court Southern District of Florida By: Mary Etienne Deputy Clerk Publish: July 7, 14, 21 & 28, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2022-DR-156-K DIVISION: FAMILY IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF: RONALD J. RIDGE, Petitioner/Husband, and, TIFFANY ANN RIDGE, Respondent/Wife.

AMENDED NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL

34

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPPORT) TO: TIFFANY ANN RIDGE Respondent/Wife LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 311 JOHNSON ROAD, LOT 79 SUGARLOAF KEY, FLORIDA 33042 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 the Petitioner/Husband, RONALD J. RIDGE, through his counsel of record Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq., The Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A., whose address is 3130 Northside Drive, Key West, Florida 33040 on or before August 8, 2022, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on the Petitioner/ Husband or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.

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

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

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

Dated: June 30, 2022 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Riza Hall Deputy Clerk Publish: July 7, 14, 21 & 28, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

27th day of May, 2022.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Riza Hall As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: July 14 & 21, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

WINDWARD POINTE II, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Plaintiff vs.

RODOLFO JIMENEZ, ALONDA JIMENEZ, WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC. Defendant And the Docket Number of which is 44-2022-CC-24-K (COUNT I; UNIT 5614, WEEK 22) WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 26th day of May, 2022.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Riza Hall As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: July 14 & 21, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2021-CC-306-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will on the 1st day of August, 2022 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit B11, Week 40, Beach House Condominium, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to FINAL JUDGMENT entered in a case pending in said Court, the 24TH day of May 2022.

Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.

ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST CHESTER THOMAS MCCREARY, DECEASED, ET.AL. Defendant And the Docket Number of which is 44-2021-CC-306-K (COUNT VI; UNIT B11, WEEK 40) WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 27th day of May, 2022.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Riza Hall As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: July 14 & 21, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST CHESTER THOMAS MCCREARY, DECEASED, ET.AL. Defendant And the Docket Number of which is 44-2021-CC-306-K (COUNT I; UNIT D14, WEEK 41) WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 27th day of May, 2022.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Riza Hall As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: July 14 & 21, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

CASE NO.: 44-2021-CC-313-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY THE CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 1st day of August, 2022 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 131, Week 23, Sunset Harbor Resort, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof as recorded in Official Records Book 1376, Page 1093, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (hereafter the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to FINAL JUDGMENT entered in a case pending in said Court, the 16th day of May, 2022.

Style of which is: SUNSET HARBOR RESORT CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff, vs.

ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST ELAINE JOANNE SHEA AKA ELAINE J. SHEA, DECEASED, ET.AL. Defendant And the Docket Number of which is 44-2021-CC-313-K, Count V; Unit 131, Week 23.

WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 17TH day of May, 2022.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Riza Hall As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: July 14 & 21, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST RONALD LEE SHEETS, DECEASED, ET.AL. Defendant And the Docket Number of which is 44-2021-CC-331-K (COUNT III; UNIT 5332, WEEK 47) WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 27th day of May, 2022.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Riza Hall As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: July 14 & 21, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2020-CC-271-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will on the 1st day of August, 2022 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit B12, Week 13, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to FINAL JUDGMENT entered in a case pending in said Court, the 24TH day of May 2022.

Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.

UNKNOWN SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE OF THE CAROL JEAN ASKEW REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST, DATED APRIL 22, 2006, ET.AL. Defendant And the Docket Number of which is 44-2020-CC-271-K (COUNT I; UNIT B12, WEEK 13) WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2021-CC-313-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY THE CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 1st day of August, 2022 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 524, Week 28, Sunset Harbor Resort, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof as recorded in Official Records Book 1376, Page 1093, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (hereafter the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to FINAL JUDGMENT entered in a case pending in said Court, the 16th day of May, 2022.

Style of which is: SUNSET HARBOR RESORT CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff, vs.

ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST ELAINE JOANNE SHEA AKA ELAINE J. SHEA, DECEASED, ET.AL. Defendant And the Docket Number of which is 44-2021-CC-313-K, Count III; Unit 524, Week 28.

WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 17TH day of May, 2022.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Riza Hall As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: July 14 & 21, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2022-CC-24-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 1st day of August, 2022 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5614, Week 22, Odd Year Biennial Windward Pointe,

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2021-CC-313-K AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY THE CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 1st day of August, 2022 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 124, Week 39, Sunset Harbor Resort, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof as recorded in Official Records Book 1376, Page 1093, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (hereafter the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to FINAL JUDGMENT entered in a case pending in said Court, the 11th day of May, 2022.

Style of which is: SUNSET HARBOR RESORT CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff, vs.

ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST ELAINE JOANNE SHEA AKA ELAINE J. SHEA, DECEASED, ET.AL. Defendant And the Docket Number of which is 44-2021-CC-313-K, Count III; Unit 124, Week 39.

WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 17TH day of May, 2022.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Riza Hall As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: July 14 & 21, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2021-CC-306-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will on the 1st day of August, 2022 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit D14, Week 41, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to FINAL JUDGMENT entered in a case pending in said Court, the 24TH day of May 2022.

Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2021-CC-313-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY THE CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 1st day of August, 2022 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 232, Week 23, Sunset Harbor Resort, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof as recorded in Official Records Book 1376, Page 1093, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (hereafter the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to FINAL JUDGMENT entered in a case pending in said Court, the 16th day of May, 2022.

Style of which is: SUNSET HARBOR RESORT CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff, vs.

ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST ELAINE JOANNE SHEA AKA ELAINE J. SHEA, DECEASED, ET.AL. Defendant And the Docket Number of which is 44-2021-CC-313-K, Count IV; Unit 232, Week 23.

WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 17TH day of May, 2022.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Riza Hall As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: July 14 & 21, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2021-CC-331-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 1st day of August, 2022 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5332, Week 47, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FOR-PROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.

ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS,

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2022-CC-26-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 1st day of August, 2022 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5714, Week 44, Odd Year Biennial Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to IN REM FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AFTER DEFAULT AS TO COUNT(S) I, II entered in a case pending in said Court, the 24TH day of June 2022 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE II, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Plaintiff vs.

JOHN A. JOHNSON, ET.AL. Defendant And the Docket Number of which is 44-2022-CC-26-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 5th day of July, 2022.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: July 14 & 21, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2022-25 Notice is hereby given that JOHN & RAEANN BERGE holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2018/1218 Alt Key No: 1453668 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2018 RE: 00370500-000000 Description of Property: CRAINS SUBD OF GRASSY KEY PB 1-51 PT SECS 24-25-26 TWP 65S R 33E LOT 3 SQR 33 G56-473

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

AUTOS WANTED

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

OR466-731 OR1600-2271D/C OR2048-1374/76 OR2128-81Q/C Name in which assessed: PATTON SEAN ALLEN All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: August 31st, 2022 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 6th day of June 2022 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: July 14, 21 & 28 and August 4, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

ALL YEARS! Junk or Used.

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

Help Wanted: Two Conchs Bait and Tackle in Marathon- competitive wages and working 3040 hrs a week. Contact George 305-289-0199

Immediate openings for experienced plumbers and helpers (with or without experience - we will train the right person).

Must have a valid driver's license & clean driving record. Please apply in person at 10700 5th Avenue Gulf, Marathon or email resume to: eerpinc@gmail.com

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2022-26 Notice is hereby given that CITRUS CAPITAL HOLDINGS, LLC CITRUS CAPITAL HOLLDINGS FBO SEC PTY holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2019/388 Alt Key No: 1142832 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2019 RE: 00113160-000100 Description of Property: 21 66 29 LITTLE TORCH KEY PT GOVT LOT 2 OR-635-423 OR8471316/1321 OR884-2218/2219C/T OR898-697 OR1304-2106/07/ TR OR1441-1781 OR1549-234 OR2169-593/94C/T OR2357773/74C OR2357-773/74C OR2412-1813/1814C OR26141340/41 OR2701-2342/43 OR2701-2344/45 OR27581542/43 Name in which assessed: ON THE ROAD LLC All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: August 31st, 2022 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 6th day of June 2022 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: July 14, 21 & 28 and August 4, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

BOATS FOR SALE 2015 Sea-Doo 260 GTX Limited, 214 Hours, $9,000.00 - Low end retail book value is $12,930.00!

Internally cooled, independent suspension & new saddle.

2013 Yamaha VX110, 105 hours, $5,500.00 - Low end retail book value is $8,200.00! Both units were factory maintained & stored undercover.

In Marathon - email mcotelo3@gmail.com 2008 Triumph 19.5' 140hp Suzuki 200 hours, bimini top, electronics, covers, no rips on cushions, live well, trolling motor, push pole, life jackets, and trailer.

Well maintained. Located in Marathon. $15,400 Call 305-393-3439 SOLD IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!!!

PLACE YOUR BOAT FOR SALE AD here for only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305743-0844 TODAY! BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

PLACE YOUR BOAT SLIP FOR RENT AD here for only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844 TODAY!

COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT Warehouse space for rent in Marathon. 1000 sq. ft. Available August 1st. Call 305-481-7557 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! EMPLOYMENT

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 Marathon area and have clean driving record. Starting pay $18/hour. Pay rate will rise at intervals.

3 0 5 - 7 4 3 - 5 5 5 5

Shell World Key Largo, seeking engaging, dependable, experienced person(s) to work with the team at Mile Marker 97.5, Part and Full time opportunities available, some weekend and evening hours.

Opportunities for advancement, great benefits, competitive salary and flexible hours.

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

Marathon Auto Air looking for Counter Help - full-time. Pay based on experience.

Apply in person at 2525 Overseas Highway, Marathon. 305-289-9884 Hiring excavator operators, deckhands, & boat operators in Key Largo.

40/hrs per week MondayFriday.

305-440-3304 Pancho's Fuel Dock in Marathon is looking for a part-time cashier Thu/Fri/Sat. Please call 305-743-2281.

CDL Drivers needed.

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

City of Marathon Current Job Openings: Code Compliance Officer, Engineering Intern, Part-time Marina Custodian/Maintenance and Marina Tech/ Pump Out Captain. 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, 10am7pm 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 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

Boat rental company in Marathon needs a mechanic.

Boat experience a plus.

Call 305-481-7006 Also hiring a boat cleaner call 305-481-7006.

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 Come Join Our Family and Have Fun At Work!

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

Apply in person at Castaway Restaurant, end of 15th Street, Oceanside, Marathon or email: lobstercrawl@gmail.com Property Manager, full time, Key Colony Beach, Sea Isle Condo - 1101 West Ocean Drive, Salary 65K-70K, resume to HardingThomasL@aol. com, or call 734-476-0531 HIRED IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!

Key West Art Center & Gallery is looking for part time sales associate, one to three days per week, for our busy, colorful gallery located in Old Town. Hourly wage starts at $14/hr. Gallery is open 10 am to 5 pm daily. Contact Nancy at nhenning@bellsouth.net HIRED IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!!!

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 PLACE YOUR HOBBIES/ COLLECTIBLES AD here for only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844 TODAY! HOUSING FOR RENT

305.743.0844

ADMINISTRATIVE SPECIALIST - FULL TIME WITH BENEFITS. 40hrs per week at the Keys Marine Laboratory (KML), Layton, Florida.

KML supports research and academic programs conducted by universities/colleges throughout Florida, the US, and internationally. Duties include greeting scientists, faculty, and students; preparing invoices and correspondence; data entry; courier and delivery services; assist with scheduling and group arrivals. To apply for this opening visit: Access Careers@USF and search for Administrative Specialist, Job ID 31352.

INSTRUMENTATION & CONTROL SPECIALIST LOCATION: MARATHON

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Aqueduct Authority is in need of an ICS SPECIALIST. Must have a Vocational/Technical degree with training emphasis in electronics or instrumentation/measurement & process control/monitoring systems; supplemented by six (6) years previous experience and/or training that includes electronics and process control/monitoring systems; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Must be able to obtain Certified Control Systems Technician status within two years.

Benefit package extremely competitive! Location: Marathon. Salary Range $67,363.15 $106,702.20 DOQ. Apply online at www.fkaa.com/employment

EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR “C” LOCATION: DUCK KEY

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority’s WASTEWATER DIVISION IS GROWING, and we need a WWTP OPERATOR 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: Duck Key. Salary Range: $52,645.98 - $84,011.20.

Apply online at www.fkaa.com/employment

EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

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

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • HOUSING FOR RENT

RV SITE FOR RENT

Available for 1 person.

2 1/2 rooms + 8' X 22' screened porch.

All utilities incl. wifi, satellite TV, washer/dryer. 2nd house from ocean. Offstreet parking. Private & quiet. MM 96 Key Largo. $1,850/month F/L/S 3 0 5 - 8 5 3 - 3 7 7 9

Lot for Rent - Key By the Sea Park in Marathon. $950.00/month - yearly only.

305-849-0507 RENTED IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!!!

3 BR/2 BA home for rent in the Middle Keys. 75' premium dock. $3,500/ month + utilities.

F/L/S 786-229-0228 Large Studio Bedroom Suite in Conch House in Marathon - Funrnished. $1,600/month includes utilities for 1 person.

Second person additional $$ for utiilities. F/L/S No Pets. 305-610-8002 PLACE YOUR HOUSING FOR RENT AD here for only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 TODAY!

Large RV Lot for rent in Marathon. Full hook up. $1500/month plus utilities.

305-731-5042 RENTED IN LESS THAN ONE MONTH!!

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

HOME HEALTH AIDES HHA NEEDED IN ISLAMORADA AND MARATHON Full Time / Part Time available Must be able to speak Spanish!

Seeking compassionate care givers (HHA-Home Health Aides) to provide personal care services to patients in their homes.

Tel: 786-488-8806 Tiempo completo y tiempos medio disponible.

RV SITE FOR RENT

Se necesita empleados para asistir a personas mayores en sus hogares en las áreas de Islamorada y Marathon

RV Site For Rent in Marathon.

Full Hookup. Very quiet, gated property. Dock available.

No pets. $1600/mo.- 6 month minimum. 305-610-8002

Tel: 786-488-8806 Debe poder hablar español

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

AUTO DIESEL VEHICLE TECHNICIAN

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon Join our team! Full and part-time Educational Program Guides/Gift Shop Sales. Public speaking & retail sales experience helpful. $16.00/hour to start. Send resume to: TurtleHospitalMarathon@gmail.com

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

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

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

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

NOW HIRING KELLY ELECTRIC in Marathon is looking for an experienced Electrician who wants to become a Master Electrician & more.

Call or text 305-743-6098 or email: kelly6098@aol.com 305-743-6098 Kelly6098@aol.com Lic # EC 525

305.743.0844

RESIDENTIAL INSPECTOR/ ASST. BUILDING OFFICIAL REPORTS TO: Building Official HOURS: 7:00am to 4:00pm or as set by Building Official MAJOR FUNTIONS: Building Inspector must have the physical, and mental ability to perform job tasks, work efforts, responsibilities, and duties of the job illustrated. The job description herein provides for the range of duties to be performed for this position. It is not intended to reflect all duties that are required within this position.

JOB DESRIPTION: A Building Inspector performs construction inspections on development projects, in accordance with relevant state and local codes, standards, approved plans, and manufacturer specifications and requirements. An Inspector plays an important role in ensuring that approved development is safe and meets the standards set forth in the Florida Building Code and the City of Key Colony Beach.

DUTIES: • Performs daily requested inspections and re-inspections, if necessary, in accordance with Florida Building Code, and City of Key Colony Beach Codes and Regulations.

• Prepares written lists of violations and departures from approved plans and/or manufacturer specifications/requirements.

• Posts Stop Work Orders as directed, or when necessary for unpermitted or illegal work.

• Enters inspection results and comments in a timely manner into City approved permitting system.

• Assists Building Official in daily operations of the Building Department • Performs Safety Inspections on all rental properties (Fire Safety Inspector 1 License required within the 1st year of employment) • Assists Building Official with input on yearly budget for Building Department.

• Prepares and Assists Code Enforcement Officer with monthly reports or code cases to be heard by Code Board.

• Office duties including scanning and filing of all permits.

• Obtains and Coordinates information as requested by City Manager and Commissioners for meeting presentations.

• Completes all additional duties as they are assigned.

EDUCATION/SKILLS: • Knowledge of construction codes, standards, and ordinances both State and City of Key Colony Beach.

• Knowledge of principles, practices, and techniques used in the building construction industry.

• Ability to read and interpret construction plans and specifications • Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with owners and contractors.

• Ability to perform job effectively and efficiently during times of high volume construction activity.

• Knowledge or ability to learn specialized software related to electronic permitting, plans review, and inspections.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Graduate of an accredited high school or possess and acceptable equivalency diploma and have a minimum of five (5) years of experience in the building construction profession or trades.

Must have a valid drivers license at time of employment.

HIRING ACCOUNTS PAYABLE/ CONTRACT ADMIN (will train) Send resume to: admin@cbtconstruct.com Or call: 305-852-3002

Must have a Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation Building Inspectors license or the ability to obtain a Provisional License within 120 days of employment. Must have or be able to obtain within one (1) year a Florida Fire Safety Inspector 1 license.

SALARY RANGE: $68,000 - $78,000 DOQ

Submit resume and completed online application to: City of Key Colony Beach City Hall, Attn: City Administrator 600 West Ocean Drive, PO Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051 Or email to: cityadministrator@keycolonybeach.net Application form: https://keycolonybeach.net/apply-for-a-job Equal Opportunity Employer

37

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844 Lic# C16MO003

KEY COLONY BEACH CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER Department Administration Salary $52,000.00 - $55,000.00 Benefits include Medical, Dental, and Life Insurance; Paid Vacation, Sick Leave, and Holidays; and Retirement (employee only).

Job Description The Code Enforcement Officer conducts inspections and investigates complaints for compliance with City codes and ordinances, including the inspection of short term (vacation) rentals, and enforcement of short term (vacation) rental codes and ordinances. The Officer seeks to obtain compliance with City codes through citations or warning notices while assuring due process to violators. The position is required to prepare letter and written documentation necessary to take violators to hearing for enforcement action and to provide testimony before the Code Enforcement Adjustment and Appeals Board. This position reports directly to the City Administrator. Work is performed under general supervision which requires initiative, independent judgment, and organizational skills. The Code Enforcement Officer must deal effectively with the public, property owners and contractors to obtain compliance.

Job Responsibilities • Administers and enforces the City’s short term (vacation) rental ordinances and actively manages the City’s program to register, inspect and monitor short term (vacation) rentals within the City.

• Investigates complaints regarding code violations pertaining to building, housing, zoning, tree, sign, and other City codes by conducting field investigations and property research.

• Regularly attends and provides testimony before the Code Enforcement, Adjustments and Appeals Board or Special Magistrate regarding code violations.

• Provides violators of City codes with citations or notice of violation and gives the violator due process to comply with City codes.

• Routinely patrols designated area for potential code violations, including violations of the short-term rental ordinances, overgrown lot and untagged or inoperable vehicle, and all other applicable local civil laws and submits weekly inspection reports to the City Administrator.

• Maintains records regarding code violations via a computer-aided tracking system, and documents files until compliance is obtained or a lien is imposed.

• Prepares letters for notice of violation and notice of hearing, clearly identifying code violations and appropriate corrective action.

• Conducts follow-up inspections to previously identified code violations to ensure that code compliance is maintained.

• Assists with permitting and inspection to the degree certification is necessary and obtained from the CITY of KCB. • Maintains vehicles and equipment used in the code enforcement process in good working order.

• Nights, weekends, and holiday work will be required, floating 40 hours per week. Typical day 2 hours office 6 hours on the road.

• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Education, Training and Experience High school diploma required. Experience using computer software and applications. Good written and verbal communication skills, and excellent public relations skills are a necessity. Two years’ experience performing public contact work and demonstrating written, verbal, computer and organization skills is required.

Driver's License Requirement Valid Florida Driver's License Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The employee is regularly required to effectively communicate and exchange information with others. This position is very active and requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and crouching throughout the day in varying climate conditions. The employee must frequently lift or move items up to 40 pounds.

Submit resume and completed online application to: City of Key Colony Beach City Hall 600 West Ocean Drive PO Box 510141 Key Colony Beach, FL 33051 Attn: City Administrator Or email to: cityadministrator@keycolonybeach.net Application form: www.keycolonybeach.net; see “I Want To” then “Apply for a Job”.

Equal Opportunity Employer

NOW HIRING DIRECTOR NAEYC accredited preschool seeking a Director.

Faith based preschool with a reputation of maintaining a high quality program and having children ready for kindergarten (formal education). Director’s credential and prior experience required. Must be a team player, work well with church and advisory school board. Competitive benefits and salary.

TEACHER NAEYC accredited preschool seeking a Teacher.

Follow our mission as a faith based high quality program. Instill the love of learning, social skills while preparing children to succeed. Must have effective communication skills, patience and compassion suitable to work with young children and the ability to develop activities that are fun and educational. Minimum of CDA and prior experience required. Starting salary up to $15.00/hr., competitive benefits and free tuition for your preschool age child.

Call Sue Ellen at 305-852-2161 to schedule an in-person interview.

St James the Fisherman Church and Children's Center, MM87.5 Overseas Highway, Islamorada.

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.

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

OPEN POSITIONS

AT BAPTIST HEALTH SOUTH FLORIDA

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL - Environmental Tech, $2,000 Bonus - Line Cook - Medical Technologist, Lab-Admin, $15,000 Bonus - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, $9,000 Bonus - Physical Therapist, $5,000 Bonus - Registered Nurse, Surgery MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL - ED Team Coordinator - First Cook, $5,000 Bonus - Floor Technician, $5,000 Bonus - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, $9,000 Bonus - Security Officer

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

NOW HIRING: Hosts Waitstaff Bartenders Bar Backs Bussers Line Cooks Dishwashers

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

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

38

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

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

Started as a Teller

PART TIME / FULL TIME OPPORTUNITIES W/FLEXIBLE SCHEDULES

Growth Opportunities Plus Great Benefits!

BELL/VALET Front Desk Agent Reservations Agent HOUSEKEEPING Public Area and Room Attendant

Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance

F&B Cook Dishwasher Food Runner/Busser

Paid Time Off Starting at 30 days per year Paid Time Off for Volunteering Tuition Reimbursement

SPA TERRE AT OCEAN KEY Licensed Massage Therapist Licensed Nail Technician

Competitive Salaries

MANAGEMENT OPENINGS Front Office Manager Sous Chef F&B Manager

401K Employer Match Quarterly Cash Profit Sharing Great Hours

WE ARE EXCITED TO OFFER REDUCED-COST EMPLOYEE HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES IN OLD TOWN! SCAN TO VIEW JOB OPENINGS. APPLY TODAY!

Apply Online at KeysBank.com/Careers

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

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER IS HIRING! School Programs & Outreach Curriculum Specialist (Full-Time - Permanent)

Visual Communications Seasonal Utility Position (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

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

Maria Garcia VP/Branch Manager

Member FDIC

EOE-M/F/V/D

Equal Housing Lender

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING!

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

KEY WEST

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

MARATHON

Peer Support Specialist/BHT (FT) Care Coordinator Behavioral Health Therapist, PT/FT (Child, Adult) RNs and LPNs (3 shifts) (PT/FT & per diem) Advocate (PT) Driver (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

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

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

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

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

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

39

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

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

We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

305-998-8953 Insured • Professional • Reliable

Licensed & Insured #SP33799

Lic No. SP1481

ALL KEYS GLASS

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors

Authorized Dealer

305-743-7800

When It Rains It Pours!

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

MARATHON

KEY LARGO

BEST SERVICE IN THE FLORIDA KEYS CGC1523838

PRICES LESS THAN MARINAS MENTION AD FOR

10% DISCOUNT REC90 ETHANOL-FREE GAS OFF-ROAD DIESEL

_social media management _search engine optimization _custom website design

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.

Only $57 Puts Your Business Card Here

Brian Tewes

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

NMLS# 375025 Tewes Mortgage NMLS# 1453791 NMLSConsumerAccess.org

www.TewesMortgage.com

Sportfishing Adventures

QUALITY ELECTRIC BIKE RENTALS IN THE UPPER KEYS

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

info@johnnymaddoxcharters.com

305-481-3259

305-434-5501

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

FREE DELIVERY! WWW.KEYSELECTRICBIKE.COM

SOLAR DONE RIGHT! CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE

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

A division of SALT Service, serving The Keys since 1989

305-289-1150

Florida Solar Contractor CVC 56734 Florida Electrical Contractor EC13008657

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

The Weekly Newspapers www.KeysWeekly.com

305-743-0844

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JULY 14, 2022

Tavernier Services Include: Primary Care Pediatrics Telehealth OB/GYN available at Marathon Health Center* COVID-19 Vaccinations COVID-19 Testing available at Marathon Health Center*

EXPERIENCE THE CHI DIFFERENCE Where Compassion Meets Affordable Health Care For 50 years, CHI has provided affordable quality health care to South Florida residents just like you. With 12 health centers, a wide range of services, and a compassionate team, you and your family can get all the care you need close to home.

Tavernier Health Center

91200 Overseas Highway, Unit 17 Tavernier, FL 33070

Marathon Health Center *

2805 Overseas Highway MM 48.5 Marathon, FL 33050

Key West Health Center

Now Open 727 Fort Street Key West, FL 33040

MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED INCOME-BASED PAYMENT SCALE FOR UNINSURED PATIENTS

EVENING AND WEEKEND HOURS ALSO AVAILABLE

To schedule an appointment:

visit chisouthfl.org/appointment-requests call (786) 756-7646