Upper Keys Weekly 22-0922

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

A wild week 2 in the NFL saw three teams making unbelievable come backs. The Arizona Cardinals and Miami Dolphins both overcame 20-point deficits at halftime to win their respective games. The New York Jets did the unthinkable by overcoming a 30-17 deficit with two minutes to go against the Cleveland Browns, winning 31-30.

Junior swimmer Riley Cooper competes during a Sept. 14 meet at Founders Park pool. DOUG FINGER/ Keys Weekly

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EDUCATION ENFORCEMENT& A THEME DURING FIRST BLUEPRINTFORCOMMENTIN-PERSONSESSIONRESTORATION

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

More law enforcement and education, as well the need for better water quality, were among the sentiments relayed by residents during a public comment ses sion on the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary’s Restoration Blueprint on Sept. 20 at Coral Shores High School auditorium.

A revised draft management plan unveiled to the public in July detailed a variety of new marine zones, regulations and a sanctuary expansion to 4,795 square miles. Sanctuary officials say the latest proposal recognized a host of comments from the Restoration Blueprint’s release in 2019 that con tained four proposals.

Public comment on the latest proposal started mid-July. Residents can provide their opinion in writ ing by visiting regulations.gov now through Oct. 21. They also had the chance to issue their response via the microphone inside the Coral Shores High School auditorium as sanctuary officials listened.

Glenn Paton was among the 20-plus com menters on Sept. 20. He said a 2011 condition report showed the sanctuary was in fair to poor condition. Eleven years later, he said, it’s still going downhill.“The most important thing to do, but politically almost impossible, is water quality,” said Paton, not ing the difficulty in getting counties to the north to advance wastewater projects. “We need to improve water quality, that’s key to making the sanctuary better.”Bill

Kelly, Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen’s Association executive director, noted the challenges taking in a 356-page Restoration Blueprint with no table of contents or page numbers.

“The reality is the Restoration Blueprint is a report card for the sanctuary. Right now it’s a failing grade. We’ve had management for over 30 years

and continue to have numerous problems,” he said.

Kelly went on to note that development and a grow ing number of users on the Keys waters are contribut ing to a decline in water quality that’s bringing algal blooms of enormous proportions. He also said the sanctuary must also address law enforcement, which “we have barked about for decades here.”

Dianne Harbaugh, of the Islamorada Charter Boat Association, also expressed the need for education, enforcement and water. In addition, she said the plan needs to be friendly to artificial reefs.

“It’s not really stated much in the plan how you want to address that,” she said.

Some commenters took issue with the proposed no-entry zone for Pelican Key Wildlife Management Area at Sunset Cove in Key Largo. According to the blueprint, the closure seeks to protect shallow sea grasses, decrease disturbance of manatees and roost ing and wading birds, including magnificent frigatebirds and pelicans. Joseph Mastrangelo Jr., owner of Veteran Sailing Association, said he’s never seen anyone on the island besides kids snorkeling.

“I’ve never seen anyone molest or harm the crea tures,” he said. “The no-entry zone is absurd in every manner.”Ginette Hughes, of MarineLab, said children coming through the program have snorkeled at Pelican Key. She acknowledged support for Pelican Key’s closure.

“We go there a lot and we know how special it is. We talk about sanctuary to our students. If the sanctu ary wasn’t there it’d be so much worse,” she said.

Sanctuary officials held an in-person comment session at Marathon High School on Sept. 21. A final inperson comment session is set for Thursday, Sept. 22 at 6 p.m. at Key West High School.

Residents have until Oct. 21 to voice their opinion or in person at an Oct. 18 meeting of the Sanctuary Advisory Council at 9 a.m. in Marathon. People can also visit regulations.gov to submit their comments. In the past 90 days, more than 630 comments were made to the federal website.

Every year more than 700,000 divers and snorkelers take to the water to discover the wonder and beauty of coral reefs in the Florida Keys. JUSTIN WADE THORNTON/Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

5 SEATS UP FOR GRABS IN NOVEMBER are as submitted by the candidates. talk most pressing village issues

Fourteen candidates enter for five hotly-contested Islamorada Village Council seats this November. With the most candidates seen in the village’s history, the hopefuls consist of incumbents and newcomers, Conchs and longtime residents and men and women of all backgrounds. Now through Election Day, the Upper Keys Weekly will ask the candidates a question on key issues facing the village.

SUE MILLER

There is plenty of excess for the Village’s necessities. The Village spent almost $6 million in re serves on Hurricane Irma. Nearly all was reimbursed. Council policy established a goal of 25% reserves for emergency response. In the current budget there is 60% in reserve. With many Islamorada taxpayers struggling to keep up with costs, now is the time for the Village taxes to be lean. Stop stockpiling taxpayers’ hard-earned money for undesignated uses.

BUDDY PINDER

As demonstrated at the final budget hearing last evening, my approach to the village’s budget is one of fairness and balance. With 2023 looming and many unan swered questions regarding the village’s future liability, adopting a millage rate of 3.000 is a way to adding to fund balance in prepa ration for the 2023-related obliga tions of the village while resulting in a minimal financial impact to Islamorada property owners considering the valuation caps established by Florida statutes.

MARY BARLEY

Salaries are the largest part of most organizations’ budgets. Governments grow over the years, often without turning around to check if they are headed in the intended direction. There are times when it is appropriate and necessary for a zero-based budget strategy to be undertaken. By do ing so, we can ensure all positions are still warranted and/or if more are needed.

THE UPPER KEYS WEEKLY ASKED THE CANDIDATES: What kind of approach would you take in regard to the village budget, especially in times when costs for fuel, materials and labor are rising, workforce issues are prevalent and 2023 is looming?

MARK GREGG

It is the duty of the Village Council to adequately provide for the high quality public services enjoyed by the residents and visitors, and to be well prepared for foreseeable threats and opportunities. Main taining a healthy reserve for disas ters and imminent property rights claims and retaining employees to operate the government are my essential priorities. With current inflationary pressures, maintain ing the existing millage rate would avoid spending reserves and minimize future tax increases.

PETE BACHELER

I would use a guarded approach to the Village budget. We cannot get into deficit spending. Our budget must meet the needs of the Village without over burdening our residents.

ELIZABETH JOLIN

A smart approach to budgeting is to create a strategic plan that accounts for short, mid, and longterm goals. There’s no way around building reserves to deal with the 2023 buildout and infrastructure changes that will be needed to deal with sea level rise, but this burden shouldn’t fall entirely on the residents. Exploring options to share this load with our tourist community should be a priority.

JOHN TIMURA

1. Preserve the budget at all costs. The only exception should be a natural disaster. 2. Immediately void any and all contracts where the supplier expresses the desire to “change the deal” mid-term. 3. Solicit sealed competitive bids from alternate resources. 4. Any council member who has direct contact with the petitioning sup plier must recuse themselves from the final vote.

HENRY ROSENTHAL

It is important to understand the needs of all parties, when it comes to allocating the priorities of our budget. I believe there have been many opportunities to reduce expenditures and pass the savings on to the taxpayers. However, it is important to understand that we are all working toward the same goals. We just have different views on how to get there.

CASEY WATKINS

We must implement long term, cost efficient service contracts with providers whose increases have annual caps. We have the ability locally, to secure workforce housing only if the Village is will ing to work with the community. Imminent issues of BPAS/ROGO coming to a head in 2023 takes more work than solidifying a num ber in Islamorada. This is an issue that carries weight and requires collective work throughout the county.

ANGEL BORDEN

Like all of us and millions of Americans have had to do, it’s time to re-evaluate expenses and make cuts. Just because home values have gone up it doesn’t mean we take more money from our people. Many of our friends/ family lost jobs, had hours cut due to the pandemic. Those that kept full pay and worked should not have received raises because it was difficult for them. They were blessed.

DEB GILLIS

I am a firm believer in strong fund balance: Do not borrow unless necessary, Reserves set aside, recommended uses (natural emergencies, sewer maintenance, housing issues and 2023). Use CPI as a guide to what should be an increase to expenses factoring Keys limitations obtaining goods and services. In difficult times, ser vices need to remain high to help the citizens. Example: Freebee for free transportation in times of high gas prices. Funds applied to health care services.

DAVID WEBB

Our community is facing some significant challenges. The end of permitting new residential build ing, hurricanes, critical workforce retention to name a few. I will continue to advocate for a fis cally responsible approach to the budget. This means establishing the minimum millage possible that provides the level of service that keeps Islamorada a premiere community and continues to grow our meager reserves. I will never support deficit spending absent an emergency.

TOM RAFANELLO

Our budget process is not trans parent. Increase the number of workshops and encourage public input and questions. Budget categories are vague and more resident friendly language needs to be used to explain where the tax money is going. Educating the public on the budget details should be a key competency for any public servant. For 20 years I oversaw and administered bud gets as a law enforcement execu tive.

If elected, it will be a priority.

SHARON MAHONEY

I have always worked with bud gets. My household as well as my business of 27 years, my 501C-3 and my charity tournaments. The budget should be taken apart on a yearly basis and each item gone over to fit the coming year’s needs. Items that once were important might have changed with new issues rising to the top. I believe items should be put out for bid to get current and competi tive pricing, shave where we can and build on looking ahead to the importance of our community.

SEAT 4 SEAT 5

SEAT 5

MERMAID TALES

Islamorada dive instructor teaches others the art of mermaiding

KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL www.keysweekly.com

It's green and gold, weighs 35 pounds, and is created from the highest quality silicone.

"That cost me upwards of $4,000. It looks extremely realistic," said Anna Capps of her custom-made, monofin mermaid tail.

Capps is a professional mermaid whose strength and passion lies in underwater performance.

"Who didn't play mermaids when they were growing up? That's what we did when we were kids in the pool," said Capps of her childhood pastime that became a professional career. Since 2016, the South Carolina native has worked corporate events, birthday parties and renaissance festivals, donning her signature silicone tail and flawless make-up.

A few years ago, the 30-year-old saw tens of thousands of dollars in mermaid gigs evaporate, practically overnight, when COVID shut down venues. Capps decided to relocate to Islamorada and began teaching scuba and freediving, traditionally male-dominated sports.

"I wanted to be that female dive instructor that made other women feel comfortable in the water," she said.

Capps has always been comfortable in the water. She started scuba diving when she was only 8 years old. "My maternal grandfather was my own personal Jacques Cousteau. He was a dive instructor." And Capps' father, Andy Capps, is a safety dive instructor who teaches law enforcement search and recovery teams.

The Islamorada resident lives on a trawler and owns Deep Blue Aquatics. She teaches water safety, CPR and first aid, scuba diving, freediving, and of course, mermaid courses.

"It's for fun. You get to put on a tail, you get to feel like this magical, mystical creature," explained Capps of the PADI mermaid course she offers through Deep Blue Aquatics.

PADI, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, began offering mermaid certification courses in 2020.

As is the case in any niche industry, mermaiding has its own jargon. A male mermaid is called a merman. And then there are the creepy mermaid stalkers. "There's even a term for them within the industry; we call them merverts," said Capps with a chuckle.

The basic PADI mermaid course is a half-day pool experience. "You learn how to do an appropriate and efficient

In this underwater picture, Anna Capps strikes a pose in her custommade silicone mermaid tail. JESSICA BAILEY PHOTOGRAPHY/Contributed

dolphin kick in the monofin and with the tail skin. You also learn proper breath-hold techniques."

The advanced mermaid course takes two days and includes an open ocean

"Youenvironment.actuallypractice doing an underwater blackout rescue on someone who's in a mermaid tail. And then the safety diver has to dive down in their bifins, rescue that mermaid diver, bring them up and resuscitate them," explained Capps.

"She's really phenomenal; I think she's going places," said Ed Martin, owner of Killshot Spearguns in Islamorada. For the last year, Capps has taught freediving to Martin's clients.

In October, Capps will head up to North Carolina to work for four weekends at a renaissance festival. She will be on display in a 3,000-gallon, cylindrical aquarium. The aquarium is 8 feet deep and 8 feet in diameter. Capps can stay down on one breath for a minute to a minute and a half, exhaling to control her buoyancy. "She's put a lot of work into it and practices a lot. What she does may look easy, but it certainly isn't," said Martin.

As if this real-life mermaid did not already have enough on her plate, Capps recently added yet another component to her business: cleaning boat

Martinhulls. has no doubt Capps' business is going to make a splash. "She's gonna blow up in popularity around here," he said.

To learn more about Capp's business, including mermaid training and private events, visit deepbluemermaid. com.

DOMO ROBOTO

CHARLOTTE TWINE school

Those of us who tear our hair out when our 10-year-old PC flashes a Windows update alert on our screen — or who can barely change the password on our phone — may want to bow down in respect to the students of the Coral Shores High School Robotics & Programming Club.

Every Monday after school, they willingly, with a relaxed demeanor and smiles on their faces, gather to create a computer program and build a robot for an upcoming contest, called the VEX Robotics Competition Spin Up.

When Keys Weekly paid a visit to this past Monday’s club meeting, the vibe was definitely chill. Mellow Celtic music was playing throughout the bright and airy computer lab, which was filled with a multitude of computer terminals and large touchscreens.“We’vehad these parts for four days,” said LaShann Biondi, the CSHS computer science and engineering teacher and one of the sponsors of RPC. She watched as the club members focused on constructing the playing field for the VEX com petition’s robotic game. “They were itching to get their hands on it.”

The parts — paid for by a donation from local nonprofit Pascal’s Challenge — are from VEX Robotics and are used to create the robot game for the competition. The goal is to build and program a robot that can pick up as many of the provided discs as possible within the 12-by12-foot field, then throw them into baskets. High school teams attend regional games that take place all over the world and culminate in a Dallas championship.

But that game is in the future, and really, it’s the journey and the camaraderie that matter for this “I’mclub.impressed with the kids’ initiative and wanting to do things the right way,” said Jorge Bosque, who is the high school’s automotive mechanics teacher and another sponsor of the club. While Biondi helps the club with the robot’s computer programming, Bosque focuses on its mechanical and structural engineering.

“What we have here is a glorified erector set,” he said about the robot. “The programmers in the club create the movement, while the builders assemble the components.”

The president of the club, high school senior Olivia Wilson, said, “I’ve always liked math and seeing things built. My brain just kind of works with instructions, like Lego sets.”

She pointed out that the robotics club is a nice alternative for students who aren’t as inter ested in athletics.

“A lot of the time, people don’t notice us,” she said. “A lot of people don’t do sports. Our stories deserve to be shared.”

Teacher Biondi noted that the club is made up mostly of girls.

“To see that three-quarter of the officers is women is very empowering,” she said. “They usually shy away. And the students are the ones in charge. The officers meet to determine the agenda, which competitions to attend and fun draising activities. The students build the robot and code it, while Mr. Bosque and I are really just the sponsors.”ValerieRandall, an 11th grader, is the club’s secretary and will be the senior member next year. “I’m excited to run it next year. It’s growing,” she said. Randall loves mathematics and has an eye on being an accountant and attending the University of Florida or MIT – “my dream school,” she said.

“STEM, engineering and robotics is the future,” said Biondi. “It’s extremely important for students to develop their problem-solving and iterative skills. My engineering, computer science and robotics students all have several things in common: They must be able to identify a prob lem and go through the design process which includes developing a plan, testing the results and making revisions.”

Also? These kids will one day hold our hand while we’re dealing with that Windows update.

Teachers Biondi and Bosque would love to see the community support the Robotics & Pro gramming Club. No money from the school bud get is allotted for the club, so equipment, fees and travel expenses for the upcoming competi tion are paid for through donations. In addition, locals who are knowledgeable about robotics are welcome to come and speak to the club. For those interested in speaking or for more infor mation about the club, email lashann.biondi@ keysschools.com.

Members of Coral Shores High School’s Robotics & Programming Club pose on the game field for their robot. From left: Olivia Wilson, Anamaria Artola, Valerie Randall and Leonardo Mimbela. CHARLOTTE TWINE/Keys Weekly

Tony Garcia builds the chassis of the robot.

RPC treasurer and student Leonardo Mimbela, left, hangs out with club co-sponsor and computer sci ence teacher LaShann Biondi.

Olivia Wilson, the president of the RPC club, uses a touchscreen to look at instructions.

ISLAMORADA BUDGET INCLUDES RAISES FOR EMPLOYEES

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

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Islamorada Village Council voted 4-0 on a $47-million spending plan and a millage rate of 3.00 at a final budget hearing on Sept. 19 at Founders Park Community Center.

Council members elected to keep the same millage rate that was approved during the previous 2021-22 budget. But the village will raise roughly $2.3 million more in ad valorem taxes in the 2022-23 budget, totaling $14.6 million, due to an $8-million spike in assessed property values this year. Around $12.3 million in ad valorem taxes was raised within the 2020-21 adopted budget.

Some council members were adamantly opposed to a millage of less than 3.00, which equates to $300 per $100,000 of assessed valuation. They were also against the adoption of a spending plan that used village reserves to balance the budget. Without four “yes” votes, the council could have dropped to a rolled back rate of 2.5449 and a spending plan that would have used $1.6 million in reserves.

Village Manager Ted Yates said the difference between the 3.00 mills and a rolled-back rate of 2.5449 mills is roughly $6.38 on a homesteaded, million-dollar home. “And that’s assuming they’re paying current valuation,” Yates said. As for a nonhomesteaded, milliondollar home, the difference was around $21.

Around 35% of the homesteaded properties in the village are protected by a 3% cap as it relates to annual assessed valuation increases thanks to the Save Our Homes amendment. Caps on nonhomesteaded properties, such as vacation rentals, second or third homes or commercial properties, won’t increase more than 10%.

Councilman David Webb said he was disappointed regarding debate over the controversy of the budget, specifically the “deceit and deception spread by some people to make it look like we’re raising taxes.” A notice required by statute went out to property owners during the budget process, which noted a 17.88% increase above the rolled-back rate. Webb said an overwhelming majority of people in the community are protected by two assessed valuation caps.

“Neither of those numbers approach 17.8% for anybody in our community, yet there are people listening to this meeting and calling to council members panicking because certain members in this community are using deceit and deception to make an illegitimate point,” he said.

Mayor Pete Bacheler said he couldn’t support anything less than 3.00 mills. In his comments, Bacheler recalled the time a village councilwoman tried to get the council to understand the need to have a hurricane reserve fund.

“A hurricane came along and the Keys were really messed up. And guess who didn’t have any money. Monroe County didn’t have any money. Guess who had money? The village of Islamorada,” he said. “We didn’t have any problems getting loans. We could do things right away. We cleared and paid for the streets, the debris and trash pickup. That was all taken care of by the hurricane fund created because one councilwoman maintained that we should not be without it.”

Islamorada resident Joe Ziomic was critical of the council’s tax and spending. He said he’s spoken to councils in the past on zero-based budgeting.“Thisis a great democracy. Your guys are all Democrats,” he said. “You know what Democrats do? They tax and spend.

“Zero-based budgeting is (when) nobody has a budget until they submit their new budget,” he continued. “Everyone goes to zero and everyone has to justify what they want in that zero-based budgeting methodically. Zero based budgeting is how you get the change.”

CROOKED

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Amajor conditional use request to develop the former BB&T bank building to a distillery and tasting room on Plantation Key was tabled during the Sept. 15 meeting of Islamorada Village Council.Aspecial meeting to discuss the application by Crooked Palm Distillery is set for next month.

Inside the Founders Park Community Center, Village Manger Ted Yates said ongoing discussions regarding conditions and certain aspects of the application by CBT Construction and owner Chris Trentine led council to remove the agenda item one day before the meeting.“Council did not feel it was appropriate to move forward this evening because we could not get all the information put together and agreed upon in time for the meeting tonight,” Yates said. “Nothing is going to change. It just moves it to a special call meeting so that it is more isolated, because I anticipate there’s going to be significant public comment and I think council would like to focus on that specific issue.”Property that would house the distillery fronts U.S. 1, Gardenia Street and Palm Drive on Plantation Key. Above the distillery sit seven affordable housing units. It’s zoned village center and has a mixed-use future land use classification. Near the proposed distillery sits Capt. Craig’s Restaurant, Payfair grocery store and a 24-hour 7-Eleven, of which all allow for the purchase or serving of alcohol.

According to the village, the council can approve a major conditional use, approve the use with conditions

or deny the request. Council must consider seven factors that meet goals and policies of the comprehensive plan, are compatible with land uses in the vicinity of the project and minimizes adverse impacts, to name a few.

A number of variances are also proposed in connection with the distillery, dealing with buffers between U.S. 1, Palm Avenue and Gardenia Street, parking and landscaping. One of the main concerns surrounding the project, as stated by village planning staff in an analysis, surrounds the proposed 5,400-square-feet outdoor seating area. According to the analysis, the outdoor seating area’s size limits the ability to provide parking, landscaping and buffer improvements that are consistent with village standards.

Trentine told Keys Weekly there have been back and forth over certain conditions. But everything else within the application is ready to go. Trentine said there are plans to place big buffers between the establishment and other buildings and homes to address buffer improvements and issues from the public over noise. Residents coming before the village council have voiced concerns over music that would potentially come from the property.

“The village has these big buffer requirements and they’re giving us a variance on that. In exchange we’re doing hedges, which actually creates more of a buffer,” he said. “It will be more of a wall of trees versus plantings that you see at Publix.

The former BB&T bank building at MM 90.1 on Plantation Key would be developed into Crooked Palm Distillery. CONTRIBUTED

Councilman Pinder pleads for unity amid negativity and division in the community

REASONABLE GOALS

FOR THE SANCTUARY TO TARGET

As fishermen we are always making decisions that are calculated to result in success. Careful attention to weather, tides, and seasonal patterns are constant factors in creating success, but so too are understanding fisher ies matters from things like the quality of water moving through the southern everglades to the condition of the reefs along our coastline. The best days on the water are the ones that strike a balance and create oppor tunity for today and for tomorrow.

We believe the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary should use the same logical approach as fishermen to protect and restore our marine ecosystem which provides a crucial role in the lives of the members of our community that depend on this resource to make a living and for the betterment of their quality of life.

We commend the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary for its clear ability to listen to community concerns following the 2019 draft proposals. The new blueprint is a solid step in the right direction. Adjustments to zones that received tremendous public outcry were implemented and "mission iconic reefs” is an ambitious public/private project that should get everyone’s support. The Sanctuary‘s commitment to education, enforce ment, and water quality are also heard loud and clear. But frankly, more needs to be done and local knowledge from a diverse group of users must be brought to bear. We urge the public to recognize the importance of public comment to inform these decisions and we humbly ask you to consider our input and provide your own input via the o cial federal register. www.regulations.gov Docket number: NOAA-NOS-2019-0094-1012

The Lower Keys Guides Association, the Florida Keys Fishing Guides Association, and the Islamorada Charter Boat Association are leading a coalition to weigh in on the important decisions that are needed to achieve success with the restoration blueprint. In preparing our comments we have also worked with community and business leaders to ensure we did so with a diverse perspective. Here are the general goals we believe will strike the right balance for the future of our community, our economy, and our marine environment:

1. IMPROVE ACCESS AND RECOGNIZE HISTORICAL USES

From the world class sail fishing on Alligator Reef to the cast netting of Pilchards on Boca Grande Key to the wildlife management areas proposed throughout the backcountry, we believe that access to fishing and reason able environmental protections can be achieved with precise "no anchor ing, idle speed, or no motor" zones.  Modifying behavior while still allowing for traditional uses is far better than restricting access. It will improve it.

2. IDLE SPEED ZONES AND MARKED RUNNING LANES

Following Covid pandemic, the Florida Keys have seen an enormous increase in boat tra c. Ask any local and they will tell you it takes a lot of experience to learn how to run the backcountry. Even with GPS and marine tracks software there are uneducated boaters running aground all the time. What is needed are gate style markers similar in design to what is found in Everglades National Park and marked idle speed zones on certain flats that are susceptible to regular destructive impacts. This will greatly assist in safe navigation (especially on slick calm days) and reduce harmful prop scarring and boater caused habitat degradation.

3. A COMPREHENSIVE ARTIFICIAL REEF AND HABITAT RESTORATION PLAN

From German submarines to old shrimp boats to the 7-mile bridge rubble, artificial structure has played an enormous role in the Florida Keys fishery for decades. The sheer number of wrecks in the Florida Keys has no doubt aided if not helped to create the world-class fishery we are known for today. But after countless storms and old age taking its toll, these structures are crum bling. But there is hope. New designs, advances in architecture, and reefing techniques have been proven successful elsewhere. We strongly suggest the Sanctuary utilize this valuable restoration and mitigation tool. But take it further! Deep water FADS, Vandenberg size ships, nearshore post larval recruitment habitat, and bait fish/juvenile fish habitat are good ideas to bring to the table. We need to use science to inform the process and get hands-on to create favorable structure. This will help prepare for future threats, climatize our fisheries for the future, and mitigate the di cult socioeconomic and environmental challenges to face us. The sanctuary restoration blueprint must include language that provides for such a program. While coral restoration technology and "mission iconic reefs" o er tremendous hope, the timeline for restoration is too long. The Sanctuary must engage in alternative habitat restoration techniques to bridge the gap and maintain healthy fish stocks that support our entire economy.

4. ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT

The Sanctuary EIS process has provided a unique opportunity for citizens and organizations to weigh in with ideas about how to manage our shared marine resources. Constructive dialogue between citizen user groups, science-based environmental organizations, and regulators is critical to building trust and achieving meaningful protections. Our shared path to environmental resto ration relies on this trust. We urge the Sanctuary to make continued e orts to engage and build trust. True adaptive management is the key to this and must be a cornerstone process moving forward. We must be both proactive in our e orts and responsive to our concerns. Furthermore, we need to simplify rules and regulations to improve the e ectiveness of such rules and our ability to enforce them. The Sanctuary must implement a process moving forward that can adjust to changes, provide flexibility in management, and avoid prolonged delays in action while simultaneously coordinating with the other agencies regulating recourses within the Sanctuary.

Sincerely,

Scan qr-code to make your electronic blueprint public comment in the Florida register.

New streetlights to Islamorada'silluminate Morada Way Arts and Cultural District

KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL www.keysweekly.com

The future of Islamorada's Morada Way Arts and Cultural District is getting brighter, literally. Between the Old Highway and U.S. 1, from the Green Turtle Inn to the Hurricane Monument, 29 streetlights were recently installed, much to the delight of nearby business owners.

"Our little area has become something and the lights are another puzzle piece to make it what I feel it should be, a nice walkabout in the season," said artist and gallery owner Roberto "Pasta"

PanteleoPantaleo.was one of several Morada Way business owners urging the village of Islamorada to install lights along this stretch of road that in recent years has become a bustling arts and entertainment spot enjoyed by pedestrians and cyclists. Every third Thursday of the month, residents and visitors flock to the popular Art Walk. Once the temperature starts to go down, turnout significantly goes up.

"So many people during season use that for biking and walking," said Florida Keys Brewing Co. owner Cheryl

McBay. "It's great. It's been a long time need so I'm glad they actually pulled the trigger and did it," she added.

Islamorada Public Works Director Andrew "AJ" Engelmeyer says the streetlights will provide added illumination for the parking areas and will light up the shared use path. "The area hosts many events throughout the year and has a lot of foot traffic during the night hours," said Engelmeyer.

So far, Engelmeyer said, the lighting project has cost $500,585.

Boca Raton-based Transportation Solutions and Lighting handled the job from design all the way to installation. Installation started three months ago. "We had to trench for new electrical services and also dig large foundations for the poles," said Brad Berner, vice president of sales. Berner said it was important for the lights to fit in with Islamorada's look. "They're LED, they're high-end decorative fixtures. They are kind of marine grade." Berner added that if all goes as planned, the lights could be operational within the next couple of weeks.

Blue Marlin Jewelry has been in this Islamorada location along the Old Highway since 2014. For several years, owner Armando Gonzalez has pushed hard for the lights. "I've been after every commissioner I can find for Islamorada for the last 8 or 9 years telling them, we need to get lights in here, we need to get lights in here," said Gonzalez, who cited pedestrian safety as a primary concern. "I was just happy to see them finally go in," he added.

McBay is already looking ahead to the holiday season. "The next thing is Christmas lights. Now we have power in the middle there, all of those big beautiful trees need to be lit up," said McBay. "How cool would that be?"

Electrician Matthew Gregoire splices wires leading into a newly installed streetlight in front of Florida Keys Brewing Co. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/ Keys Weekly

From the Green Turtle Inn to the Hurricane Monument, 29 new streetlights will soon illuminate the Morada Way Arts and Cultural District. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys Weekly

Congratulations...

to the more than 600 swimmers and support kayakers for your participation in the Swim for Alligator Lighthouse!

Thank You... to all the tremendous supporters and generous sponsors! Mark your 2023 calendars for Saturday, Sept. 9.

Team

Key West Golf KW, MHS, CSHS 9/12 Key West

Marathon Volleyball Posnack 9/12 L, 3-2

Coral Shores Volleyball Key West 9/13 L, 3-0

Marathon Volleyball Archimedean 9/13 L, 3-2

Coral Shores Golf (boys) St. Brendan 9/13 W, 224-230

Coral Shores Swimming Key West 9/14 Boys L, 195-74 Girls W, 144-135

Key West Swimming Coral Shores 9/14 Boys W, 195-74 Girls L, 144-135

Key West Golf (boys) Key West 9/15 KW 195 MHS

Key West

Coral Shores

Key West

Marathon

Marathon

Marathon

Key West

Key West

Coral Shores, senior Swimming

Coral Shores senior Corley Smith is already an outstanding swimmer. But she’s also on a constant quest for improvement. Last year, Corley took fifth place overall and was the second female swimmer to complete the Swim to Alligator Lighthouse. This year she came in first in the women’s category and third place overall. She completed the 8-plus mile open water swim in rough conditions the morning after winning multiple events for the Hurricanes at their opening meet against Doctors Charter School.

On Sept. 14 against Key West, everything Smith touched turned to gold. She won the 200 freestyle by 25 seconds, was part of the winning 200 free relay and 400 free relay team and won the 500 freestyle. Corley was 16 seconds in front of her sister, Layne, in the distance race, but once the pair had finished, it was almost a minute and a half before another swimmer reached the finish line.

“Corley is the first to help a struggling teammate,” said coach Kelly Owens. “She is always actively leading a cheer for swimmers in the pool. Corley is kind and a great example of what it means to be a leader.”

For her amazing accomplishments, both in the water and on the deck, Corley Smith is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

THIS WEEK SPORTS

CORLEY SMITH

Corley Smith came in first among women in the 2022 Alligator Lighthouse swim, after finishing second in 2021. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

“Corley is a hardjustdream.coach’sNotbecausesheworksandhastalent,butbecauseofhernaturalleadershipabilityandsportsman-shiponthepooldeck.”

— Kelly Owens, Coral Shores swim coach

TRACY MCDONALD www.keysweekly.com

CORAL SHORES

The Hurricanes made the most of their only road trip this season, soundly beating Miami Sunset 35-0. Coach Ed Holly said he was “so proud of the team for understanding the importance of travel and overcoming the struggles of a road game.” He elaborated that in addition to the regular trials of a long bus trip, the ’Canes had to endure well over an hour delay prior to kickoff due to bad weather.

When the game did finally start, it was sloppy in every way except for one: the play of the Hurricanes. Holly praised center Hugh Connolly for the perfection in his snaps despite the conditions and described the win as “a team effort.” Cornerback Alex Gutierrez played with impeccable coverage the entire game, shutting down big plays, while defensive ends Xavyer Arrington and Victor Franchini stopped the short game. Franchini had two sacks to his credit during the contest.

Offensively, quarterback Yemcel Moreno had a pair of passing touchdowns, one to Derek Smith and one to Isaac Holmes, along with one rushing TD. Chuck Jacobsen added a pair of touchdown runs to make the final score 35-0.

Overall, Holly said the team executed well and is excited to play Everglades Prep on Friday, Sept. 23 in Coral Shores’ homecoming game. The 3-1 Hurricanes hope to topple the 1-2 Panthers in the neon-themed celebration to top off the “Dancing Through the Decades” festivities. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.

MARATHON

Marathon spent its bye week preparing for its game Friday, Sept. 23 against Ransom Everglades. The Fins seek to avenge their loss last season against the Raiders. The matchup appears to be a fairly even one, despite the 54-0 score last time the teams met. This time around, Ransom will travel to Marathon, whose student section asks that fans take part in their spirit theme, “Ridin’ in Style” by dressing up in rodeo gear.

KEY WEST

The outcome of Key West’s Sept. 16 game against the Crusaders of Dade Christian became obvious in the first quarter, during which the Conchs scored a record 30 points. The domination began on the Crusaders’ first offensive possession, when Jakari Blackman intercepted the ball and the Conchs’ offense quickly capitalized with a James touchdownReynoldsrun. The pick and subsequent score put Key West on the scoreboard before most fans had even settled in.

The Conchs’ defense played well all night, effectively stopping Dade Christian’s attempted air assault. The Crusaders threw the ball 18 times in the first half with zero runs, adding only one attempt on the ground in the second half.

The Conchs’ offense reached the end zone every time it touched the ball, scoring at will in a variety of ground and air attempts. The Crusaders had no answer for Blackman’s speed, Clerf Alexandre’s resilience, or James Reynold’s brute force. Adrian Mira threw well, with one touchdown pass in the game, but left the contest early with an ankle injury. While coach Johnny Hughes said there was no fracture found, he described the idea of heading into a game with nationallyranked Cardinal Gibbons with a starting QB whose play is questionable at the moment as “not an ideal situation.”Fortunately for the Conchs, backup quarterback Jaden Fox held down the QB spot for much of the final three quarters, connecting with Zentavious Carey for one of the Conchs’ six scores on the night. The Conchs scored early and often, with both teams agreeing to running clock – standard when a point deficit reaches 35 – early in the second quarter. The Crusaders managed to score late in the second quarter as Key West gave ample play time to underclassmen. It would be their only score of the game, though, as Key West rumbled to a 44-6 win via six touchdowns and a safety. Marco Davila had a perfect night kicking, converting all six PAT attempts and putting the ball into the end zone multiple times on kickoffs.

The Conchs hope to carry the momentum forward into this week’s matchup against the undefeated Chiefs of Cardinal Gibbons. Hughes says the Conchs are “stoked to have the opportunity” to play a team he described as talented, deep, disciplined and well-coached, stating, “We need to play our perfect game if we want to win. We can’t beat ourselves.” Key West kicks off at 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 23 in The Backyard.

For the

Jakari Blackman turns on the jets against the Dade Christian Crusaders. ELLA HALL/Keys Weekly

A MIXED BAG FOR MONROE VOLLEYBALLCOUNTY

TRACY MCDONALD www.keysweekly.com

KEY WEST

The Lady Conchs started their week in Taver nier, beating Coral Shores 3-0, then worked on preparing for another round of high-level tournament play, this time at home. Key West hosted the Conch Cup Tournament, inviting 6A Martin County, 7A Palm Beach Central and 5A Pasco. On Sept. 16 the Conchs lost a close one to the Martin County Tigers, losing 2-1, but picked up a win against Marathon the next morning, 3-0. Key West will have a few days to prepare for the Palm Beach Tournament start ing Saturday, Sept. 24, then another at Florida Christian the following week.

MARATHON

Marathon was scheduled for three road con tests in the past week but lost one to a late cancellation, giving the Fins some much-needed rest. The respite was short-lived, as the team picked up an extra four games when they filled in for a team unable to attend the Conch Cup. Though the team battled, the Fins were unable to find their way into the win column through out the tournament.

On Sept. 12, the Fins traveled to Posnack and battled it out in five sets, losing 3-2. The next night, Marathon fell to Archimedean in another 3-2 loss.

Coach Kelley Cruz found a silver lining in the matches, explaining, “We’ve been working on consistency. The last two games we have shown great improvement in staying in the game and playing with the same energy throughout the matches. It’s something we will continue to work on for the rest of the season.”

The 2-11 Dolphins will finally get a true “break” this week, as they play just one game on Thursday, Sept. 22 at home against Somerset South Homestead.

CORAL SHORES

Coral Shores played just one game this week, falling to county rival Key West on Sept. 13. The Conchs picked up the win, but Coral Shores showed some grit in their gameplay. Assistant coach Dabney Desantis, filling in for Sam Ovalle, gave the Conchs credit for their win, saying, “Key West is a very competitive and tough team and they brought the energy and came to play.”

The ‘Canes didn’t just hand a win over to the Conchs, though. Desantis praised her team for some big plays and strong effort in the battle, praising digs from Brooke Mandozzi and Kailee Reinoso along with blocks from Leann Quick. She also credited Quick, Grace Leffler and Jenna Castillo for a series of kills and blocks against Key West’s tough front line.

KEY WEST, CORAL SHORES TRADE WINS IN THE POOL

TRACY MCDONALD www.keysweekly.com

Keys swimmers met up at Founders Park in Islamorada on Sept. 14 and both teams experienced success. Key West’s boys had a decisive 195-74 win and Coral Shores’ girls edged out the Conchs, 144-135.KeyWest took first place on the boys’ side of the meet, sweeping the 200 free, 50 free, 100 free and 100 fly events. Coral Shores won four events, but Key West’s depth proved too much to overcome in the points column. The Conchs started off the meet with a win in the 200 yard medley relay, with their squad of John Searcy, Ryan Martinez, Jonathan Gvili and Lucas Montiel de la Nuez taking first in 1:57.12.

Marco Montiel de la Nuez won the 200 free in 2:16.39 followed by Jeffrey Hoyt and Roman Saballos, all of Key West. Coral Shores took their first win in the 200 IM when Curran O’Donnell (2:17.67) outpaced Ryan Martinez and Charlie Doerfel of Key West. The Conchs took the first four places in the 50 free with AJ Smith (23.80) finishing just ahead of Lucas Montiel de la Nuez, Brody McCandless and Westley Ellerbee. Searcy (1:02.80), Martinez and Doerfel swept the 100 fly event, then fellow Conchs AJ Smith (53.33), Aid an Pate, Westley Ellerbee and Roman Saballos took spots one through four in the 100 free.

Patrick O’Donnell went the distance for Cor al Shores in the 500 free event. His 5:15.09 finish was over a minute ahead of Marco Montiel de la Nuez, Jeffrey Hoyt, Anthony Korzen and Nathan Frank of Key West. Lucas Montiel de la Nuez, Gvili, McCandless and Smith teamed up to win the 200 free relay and Smith, Marco Montiel de la Nuez, Searcy and Pate won the 400 free relay.

O’Donnell of Coral Shores added another individual win in the 100 back event, followed by Searcy of Key West and Evan Osipov of Coral Shores. In the 100 breaststroke event, Coral Shores’ Curran O’Donnell took first, with Gvili and Lucas Montiel de la Nuez in second and third.

Key West’s girls started the meet with a win in the 200 yard medley relay. Katelyn Noss, Lauren Walterson, Daniela Mikes and Serena Sander teamed up in the event, winning in 2:14.35, and Key West’s second team of Savan nah Murray, Samantha O’Brien, Taylor Gibson, and Emma Scepkova took second. Coral Shores’ top team took third.

After the first event of the afternoon, the wins in the girls races all belonged to Coral Shores.Corley Smith won the 200 free (2:00.26)

with Fucaraccio in second and Grace Lechnar of Key West in third. Abbie Sargent won the 200 IM (2:15.51) with Chrislyn Lowell in second and Key West’s Taylor Gibson in third. Riley Cooper (27.21) and Olivia Sargent of Coral Shores were first and second in the 50 free with Isabelle Johnson taking third for the Conchs. Cooper won the 100 fly (1:11.26) as well, while Conchs Lauren Walterson and Grace Lechnar took second and third. In the 100 free, Olivia Sargent won in 1:02.28 and Isabella Johnson and Katelyn Noss of Key West were second and third.

Corley (5:16.33) and Layne (5:32.87) Smith took first and second in the 500 free, with Ser ena Sander of Key West third. Layne Smith won the 100 backstroke (1:08.77) followed by Katelyn Noss and Allegra Fucaraccio.

Abbie Sargent won the 100 breaststroke event in 1:07.84, followed by Conchs Taylor Gibson, Daniela Mikesz, Samantha O’Brien and Isabela Barr.

Corley Smith, Lowell, Olivia Sargent, and Fu caraccio won the 200 free relay for Coral Shores, and the Sargent and Smith sisters would pair up again to win the 400 free relay.

Key West fit in a second meet three days lat er, traveling to a tri-meet in Wellington against both Wellington and South Dade High School.

In both the boys and girls matchups, the Conchs beat South Dade but lost to Wellington. Notable performances from the boys came in the 50 free, with AJ Smith winning the event in 23.08 and Lucas Montiel de la Nuez taking second in 24.82. Smith also had a second place in the 100 free finishing in 53.89 while Lucas Montiel de la Nuez took second in the 100 breaststroke (1:12.46). John Searcy was second in the 100 butterfly in 59.59.

The Lady Conchs did not have any individual winners, but several swimmers took second in their events, including Gracie Lechnar (200 free, 2:29.78), Isabella Johnson (50 free, 28.60) and Daniela Mikesz (100 breaststroke, 1:25.69).

The Key West and Coral Shores boys swimming teams jump off the blocks. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

Key West and Coral Shores girls swimmers compete in the backstroke. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

“Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli, Volume 1,” was not the next book I planned to write. However, the interest ing year keeps getting more interesting. The book is the result of one thing lead ing to another, and it started because of the Facebook group Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli.

The group has become something of a virtual and interactive local history museum that appears in your Facebook feed every morning, seven days a week. It has been a tremendous outlet, and the response has been nothing short of amazing. The insights and memories shared by the members have been quite an education and have made two things abundantly clear. First, people have a significant appetite for the histories associated with this particular chain of islands.

Second, the little Facebook group I started in late December is not so little anymore.Onthe last day of the week, I post the Sunday Morning Read to the group page. Hopefully, Sunday comes with fewer commitments and maybe an extra cup of coffee, so I will post one of my columns from the Keys Weekly. It was the Sunday Morning Read that prompted the new book. The response to the Sun day Morning Read inspired me to revisit some of my old columns and create a newThebook.limitation of my column is that it is saddled with a word count. When I write the story, I am only able to use bits and pieces of information. What I wanted to do with this book was to take some of those bits and pieces, add a bunch of other bits and pieces, and tell stories that were unconstrained by word counts. I wanted a format where I could tell the stories I wanted to tell the way I wanted to tell them, and that format turned out to be the book I didn't see coming.“Florida Keys History with Brad Ber telli, Volume 1” is not a standalone his tory of the Florida Keys, but a peek into some fantastic moments in the local his tory that might be otherwise overlooked. The collection of stories stretches from the island chain’s northern reach in Bis cayne National Park to the Dry Tortugas some 70 miles southwest of Key West. In this first volume, I picked out some of my favorite stories. The Ed and Fern Butters love story is one of them and one of the reasons I wanted to write this book. Not only is their story an all-time great love story, but their union also engaged the Florida Keys, Key lime pie, and the most powerful hurricane to ever strike North America, still.

BRAD BERTELLI

is an theprisingsometimesintonating1,”Bertelli,History“FloridaHisHonoraryKeysspeaker,author,FloridahistorianandConch.latestbook,KeyswithBradVolumesharesfasciglimpsestherichandsurhistoriesofFloridaKeys.

Captain Ben Baker, too, has always been a favorite topic. In the mid-19th century, he was the king of the Florida wreckers. In ad dition to being a classic Florida Keys character, he is considered to be the man respon sible for

parttheirpioneerothers)limetomato,farmingtheselikepineapplesKeys.farminglarge-scaleintroducingpineappletotheFloridaFarmingandmightseemforeignconceptsdays.However,andpineapple,cucumberandcrops(amongwerehowearlyfamiliesmadeliving–atleastofthetime.

The book is not all about a case of love at first sight and pineapples but is filled with stories about early pioneers, place names and historical connections that connect the islands to surprising people and places far beyond the Florida Keys. Davida Breier, the author of the amazing novel “Sinkhole,” wrote: “Pull up a barstool and gather ‘round as historian and honorary Conch Brad Bertelli brings the past alive. From pineapple farmers to notorious wreckers, Bertelli focuses on individuals who worked the land and sea, as well as those who tried to exploit the Keys since they were first sighted. Locals and visitors alike will delight in his vibrant telling of the lush and often quirky history of the Florida Keys.”

Volume 1 is just the beginning of something bigger. As my Facebook group continues to grow, so will these volumes of history. Two more editions are already in theTheworks.book is available through Ama zon. Locally, it can currently be found at Sandbar Books in Tavernier and the Oldest House Museum in Key West. If you are a retail outlet and want to sell this title, send me a note at whypanic@aol.com.

Copies of Volume 1, along with copies of “The Florida Keys Skunk Ape Files,” will be available at my next talk at the Islamo rada Moose Lodge on Monday, Oct. 3. I will be sharing stories about Captain Ben Baker and the rise and fall of the pineap ple industry at this free event that is open to the public. The talk starts at 6 p.m. I will be signing books after the event. Mark your calendars. I hope to see you there.

In the meantime, pick up your copy of my latest book, learn some great local history, and help support my efforts as I continue to share the fascinating and mul tifaceted histories of our favorite string of islands.

“Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli, Volume 1” is available for purchase on Amazon, Sandbar Books in Tavernier and Oldest House Museum in Key West. CONTRIBUTED TO

CELEBRITY STATUS

Fox video catches attention of Dateline staff

SAVE THE DATE

Friday, Sept. 23

• Coral Shores homecoming parade at 5 p.m. on the Old Highway. Sept. 23-25

• Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge. Saturday, Sept. 24

• I.CARE dive and transplant coral with Key Dives. Call 305-664-2211 to sign up.

Sunday, Sept. 25

Keys Kids Fishing Derby from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar, Islamorada. Tuesday, Sept. 27

• Florida Keys Toastmasters hybrid meeting at 6 p.m. at History & Discovery Center and on Zoom. Email fktoastmasters@gmail.com to learn more. Wednesday, Sept. 28

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

Sept. 30-Oct. 1

• Conch Scramble Charity Golf Tournament. Visit conchscramble.com to learn more.

Friday, Sept. 30

• The Final Friday Fish Fry & Car Show at 6 p.m. at Bob’s Bunz Cafe, Islamorada.

Saturday, Oct. 1

• ReMARCable Tour de Keys beginning at Holiday Inn, Key Largo and ending at OPAL key, 245 Front St., Key West

• I.CARE dive and transplant coral with Islamorada Dive Center. Call 305664-3483 to sign up.

• Dogtober Fest at 11 a.m. at Islamorada Brewery & Distillery. Oct. 7-9

• Ladies Let’s Go Fishing Keys University fishing seminar. Visit ladiesletgofishing.com for more information. Oct. 13-16

THEREEFFOX

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

Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” Well, I have some big news. If you didn’t already know, NBC’s Dateline is my favorite show. Ever since I was a young pup, I would crawl in bed with mom when she would watch, and it became my go-to for prime time entertainment. To this day, every time I hear that opening theme and hear the host, I come running and jump in bed to watch. Mom thinks I’m taking notes on how to commit a crime. I think that’s ridiculous. Or is it?

Anyway, a recent GeoBeats video on me and the other foxes at Pawsitive Beginnings somehow made its way to NBC in New York and a staff member from Dateline sent my mom a message. They want to send me a “token of their respect and affection.” Those were their exact words. Holy smokes. Not too much gets my tail wagging, but I cannot wait to see what they send me. Maybe Keith Morrison will hand deliver it?

Anyway, I digress. So maybe you all saw that the Upper Keys Weekly is hosting the inaugural “Best of the Upper Keys.” There is a specific category that has my name all over it: “Best Local Celebrity.” I mean, don’t you think? I am famous. I am a fox. How many other famous foxes are there in Key Largo? Uh, none. So if you can vote for me I would appreciate it. Since you can’t write me in for honorary mayor of Key Largo this is the next best thing I think. Visit keysweekly.com/buk22 to vote on roughly 50 different categories.

This weekend is the Take Stock in Children Backcountry Fishing Challenge. It starts Friday, Sept. 23, and ends on Sunday, Sept. 25. To get all the info and registration details head to keylargorotary. org. This catch and release tournament supports the Take Stock in Children, which supports disadvantaged students with mentoring and Justscholarships.aheadsup, my mom's birthday is on Saturday. She’s gonna be really old. Like 42 or something. So if you know her and see her out and about this weekend tell her happy birthday and that Reef spilled the beans on it.

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

• REEF (Reef Environmental Education Foundation) Fest. Visit reef.org for a list of events.

Historic and Pro/World Sportsman.

Sails 8-11 a.m. from Bayside Marina, 81576 Overseas Highway.

Space limited to at www.activedisabledamericans.org or call 305-451-2102 or 808-291-8037.

LEGAL NOTICES

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of MARATHON HAIR AND NAILS SALON located at 5177 Overseas Highway Marathon FL 33050 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee,

By:Florida.Voeun Loeung

SeptemberPublish: 22, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Wheatons Towing gives notice that on 10/06/2022 at 10:00 am, the following vehicle(s) may be sold by public sale at 101500 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 to satisfy the lien for the amount owed on each vehicle for any recovery, towing, or storage services charges and administrative fees allowed pursuant Florida statute 713.78.

Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/ or all 1G1ZE5ST9HF159422bids. CHEV 2MEFM74W91X682447 2001

SeptemberPublish:MERCURY

15 & 22, 20221

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI

Notice is hereby given that on October 10th, 2022, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold. The names of whose units will be sold are as follows: 103530 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037. Name and Last Known Addresses are as Follows: Benjamin Capote Unit 1207 $523.85

Kimberley Stewart Unit 1185 $507.80

Cody Merrin Unit 1589 $871.55

Daniel Norton Unit 1775 $1,134.76

Pat Edward Placey Jr Unit 1003 $716.45

SeptemberPublish: 22nd & September 29th, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, November 9, 2022, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the FIREfollowing:ALARM,PANIC ALARM, AND SECURITY SYSTEM ANNUAL CERTIFICATION, MAINTENANCE, REPAIR, AND MONITORING MONRE COUNTY, FLORIDA

Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: floridapublicnotices.com,www. 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 readsubjectandSEPARATEfinancialPleaseWednesday,gov,OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl.bidsDepartmentThebeproposals/responsesphysicallypersonmailelectronically.DepartmentMonroerequest.Publicmonroecounty-fl.gov/bids.www.TheRecordisavailableuponCountyPurchasingreceivesbidsPleasedonotorattempttodeliverinanysealedbids.Mailed/deliveredbids/WILLNOTaccepted.MonroeCountyPurchasingherebydirectsthatbesubmittedviaemailto:nolaterthan3:00P.M.,onNovember9,2022.submityourconfidentialinformationinaEMAILfromyourbidrequireddocuments.Yourlineonbothemailsmustasfollows:

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Files11-9-22that do not contain this 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

after the sale.

SeptemberPublish: 15 & 22, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL MONROEINCIRCUITANDFORCOUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 44-2021-CA-726-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 3RD day of October, 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 5721, Week 35, 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 Pursuant“Declaration”).toIN REM FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AFTER DEFAULT AS TO COUNT(S) I, II entered in a case pending in said Court, the 3RD day of August 2022. Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE II, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITIED LIABILITY

SHERRIVS.PlaintiffCOMPANYJ.CARTER, et. al

AndDefendanttheDocket Number of which is Number 44-2021-CAWITNESS726-K my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 15TH day of August, 2022.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

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

SeptemberPublish: 15 & 22, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL

MONROEINCIRCUITANDFORCOUNTY, FLORIDA

CASE NO.: 44-2021-CA-786-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 3RD day of October, 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 5411, Week 38, 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 Pursuant“Declaration”).toIN REM FINAL

JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AFTER DEFAULT AS TO COUNT(S) III entered in a case pending in said Court, the 12TH day of August 2022.

Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE II, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY VS.PlaintiffCOMPANY ALL MONROEINCIRCUITOFINTheSeptemberPublish:aftermustasotherthepersonFloridaDeputyBy:MonroeClerkKEVIN26thOfficialWITNESS306-KwhichAndDefendantet.THOMASUNDERCLAIMANTS,ADMINISTRATORSPERSONALCREDITORS,ASSIGNEES,DEVISEES,INTERESTPARTIESANYvs.PlaintiffOFUNDERAASSOCIATIONBEACHStyle11THaV,FORECLOSUREFINALPursuant“Declaration”).anyexhibitsMonroePageinCondominiumaccordingHouse,UnitFlorida,situatedthehighestandKeyMonroea.m.,dayCounty,ofundersigned,NoticeBYNOTICECASEMONROEINCIRCUITOFINTheSeptemberPublish:aftermustasotherthepersonFloridaDeputyBy:MonroeClerkKEVIN16THOfficialWITNESS786-KwhichAndDefendantKIMBALL,UNDERCLAIMANTS,ADMINISTRATORSPERSONALCREDITORS,ASSIGNEES,GRANTEES,LIENORS,TRUSTEES,REPRESENTATIVES,ORASOTHERBY,THROUGH,ORAGAINSTMARYELLENDECEASED,et.altheDocketNumberofisNumber44-2021-CA-myhandandtheSealofSaidCourt,thisdayofAugust,2022.MADOK,CPAoftheCircuitCourtCounty,FloridaShontaMcLeodClerkStatute45.031:Anyclaiminganinterestinsurplusfromthesale,ifany,thanthepropertyownerofthedateoftheLisPendensfileaclaimwithin60daysthesale.15&22,2022WeeklyNewspapersTHECIRCUITCOURTTHESIXTEENTHJUDICIALANDFORCOUNTY,FLORIDANO.:44-2021-CC-306-KOFFORECLOSURESALECLERKOFTHECIRCUITCOURTisherebygiventhattheKevinMadok,ClerktheCircuitCourtofMonroeFlorida,willonthe3RDofOctober,2022at11o’clockat500WhiteheadStreet,County,intheCityofWest,Florida,offerforsalesellatpublicoutcrytotheandbestbidderforCASHFollowingdescribedpropertyinMonroeCounty,towit:E31,Week20,BeachaCondominiumtotheDeclarationofthereofrecordedOfficialRecordsBook1510,225,PublicRecordsofCounty,Florida,andallattachedthereto,andamendmentsthereof(thetoINREMSUMMARYJUDGMENTOFASTOCOUNT(S)UNITE31,WEEK20enteredincasependinginsaidCourt,thedayofJuly2022.ofwhichis:HOUSECONDOMINIUMOFKEYWEST,INC.,NONPROFITCORPORATIONTHELAWSOFTHESTATEFLORIDAANDALLUNKNOWNWHOCLAIMANASSPOUSE,HEIRS,GRANTEES,LIENORS,TRUSTEES,REPRESENTATIVES,ORASOTHERBY,THROUGH,ORAGAINSTCHESTERMCCREARY,DECEASED,al.theDocketNumberofisNumber44-2021-CC-myhandandtheSealofSaidCourt,thisdayofJuly,2022.MADOK,CPAoftheCircuitCourtCounty,FloridaShontaMcLeodClerkStatute45.031:Anyclaiminganinterestinsurplusfromthesale,ifany,thanthepropertyownerofthedateoftheLisPendensfileaclaimwithin60daysthesale.15&22,2022WeeklyNewspapersTHECIRCUITCOURTTHESIXTEENTHJUDICIALANDFORCOUNTY,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 3RD day of October, 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 5432, Week 22, 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 Pursuant“Declaration”).toIN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) I, UNIT 5432, WEEK 22 entered in a case pending in said Court, the 11TH day of July 2022. Style of which is: WINDWARD

PlaintiffCOMPANYDELAWAREWINDWARDStyleAugustinIIAFTERJUDGMENTPursuantthereofthereto,County,PublicRecordsthereofthe(“Condominium”),aBiennialUnitFlorida,situatedthehighestandKeyMonroea.m.,dayCounty,ofundersigned,NoticeBYNOTICECASEMONROEINCIRCUITOFINTheSeptemberPublish:aftermustasotherthepersonFloridaDeputyBy:MonroeClerkKEVIN26THOfficialWITNESS331-KwhichAndDefendantSHEETS,UNDERCLAIMANTS,ADMINISTRATORSPERSONALCREDITORS,ASSIGNEES,DEVISEES,INTERESTPARTIESANYVS.PlaintiffOFUNDERCORPORATIONOFCONDOMINIUMPOINTEASSOCIATIONKEYWEST,INC.,ANOT-FOR-PROFITTHELAWSOFTHESTATEFLORIDAANDALLUNKNOWNWHOCLAIMANASSPOUSE,HEIRS,GRANTEES,LIENORS,TRUSTEES,REPRESENTATIVES,ORASOTHERBY,THROUGH,ORAGAINSTRONALDLEEDECEASED,et.altheDocketNumberofisNumber44-2021-CC-myhandandtheSealofSaidCourt,thisdayofJuly,2022.MADOK,CPAoftheCircuitCourtCounty,FloridaShontaMcLeodClerkStatute45.031:Anyclaiminganinterestinsurplusfromthesale,ifany,thanthepropertyownerofthedateoftheLisPendensfileaclaimwithin60daysthesale.15&22,2022WeeklyNewspapersTHECIRCUITCOURTTHESIXTEENTHJUDICIALANDFORCOUNTY,FLORIDANO.:44-2021-CA-786-KOFFORECLOSURESALECLERKOFTHECIRCUITCOURTisherebygiventhattheKevinMadok,ClerktheCircuitCourtofMonroeFlorida,willonthe3RDofOctober,2022at11o’clockat500WhiteheadStreet,County,intheCityofWest,Florida,offerforsalesellatpublicoutcrytotheandbestbidderforCASHFollowingdescribedpropertyinMonroeCounty,towit:5313,Week48,OddYearWindwardPointe,LeaseholdCondominiumaccordingtoDeclarationofCondominiumrecordedinOfficialBook1803,Page844,RecordsofMonroeFlorida,andallexhibitsandanyamendments(the“Declaration”).toINREMFINALOFFORECLOSUREDEFAULTASTOCOUNT(S)enteredinacasependingsaidCourt,the3RDdayof2022.ofwhichis:POINTEII,LLC,ALIMITEDLIABILITY Florida,CircuitJuneceased,WILLIAMTheNOTICEDeceased.WARDINsionFilePROBATEFORTEENTHINTheSeptemberPublish:aftermustasotherthepersonFloridaDeputyBy:MonroeClerkKEVIN15THOfficialWITNESSisAdDefendantSHERRIVS.PlaintiffCOMPANYDELAWAREWINDWARDStyleAugustinVII,FORECLOSUREFINALPursuant“Declaration”).amendmentsallMonroePageinCondominiumaccordingCondominiumWindwardUnitFlorida,situatedthehighestandKeyMonroea.m.,dayCounty,ofundersigned,NoticeBYNOTICECASEMONROEINCIRCUITOFINTheSeptemberPublish:aftermustasotherthepersonFloridaDeputyBy:MonroeClerkKEVIN15THOfficialWITNESS786-KwhichAndDefendantKIMBALL,UNDERCLAIMANTS,ADMINISTRATORSPERSONALCREDITORS,ASSIGNEES,GRANTEES,LIENORS,TRUSTEES,REPRESENTATIVES,ORASOTHERBY,THROUGH,ORAGAINSTMARYELLENDECEASED,et.altheDocketNumberofisNumber44-2021-CA-myhandandtheSealofSaidCourt,thisdayofAugust,2022.MADOK,CPAoftheCircuitCourtCounty,FloridaShontaMcLeodClerkStatute45.031:Anyclaiminganinterestinsurplusfromthesale,ifany,thanthepropertyownerofthedateoftheLisPendensfileaclaimwithin60daysthesale.15&22,2022WeeklyNewspapersTHECIRCUITCOURTTHESIXTEENTHJUDICIALANDFORCOUNTY,FLORIDANO.:44-2021-CA-726-KOFFORECLOSURESALECLERKOFTHECIRCUITCOURTisherebygiventhattheKevinMadok,ClerktheCircuitCourtofMonroeFlorida,willonthe3RDofOctober,2022at11o’clockat500WhiteheadStreet,County,intheCityofWest,Florida,offerforsalesellatpublicoutcrytotheandbestbidderforCASHFollowingdescribedpropertyinMonroeCounty,towit:5133,Week26,AnnualPointe,aLeasehold(“Condominium”),totheDeclarationofthereofrecordedOfficialRecordsBook1803,844,PublicRecordsofCounty,Florida,andexhibitsthereto,andanythereof(thetoINREMSUMMARYJUDGMENTOFASTOCOUNT(S)VIIIenteredinacasependingsaidCourt,the3RDdayof2022.ofwhichis:POINTEII,LLC,ALIMITIEDLIABILITYJ.CARTER,et.altheDocketNumberofwhichNumber44-2021-CA-726-KmyhandandtheSealofSaidCourt,thisdayofAugust,2022.MADOK,CPAoftheCircuitCourtCounty,FloridaShontaMcLeodClerkStatute45.031:Anyclaiminganinterestinsurplusfromthesale,ifany,thanthepropertyownerofthedateoftheLisPendensfileaclaimwithin60daysthesale.15&22,2022WeeklyNewspapersTHECIRCUITCOURTOFTHESIXJUDICIALCIRCUITINANDMONROECOUNTY,FLORIDADIVISIONNo.2022-CP-103-PDiviProbateRE:ESTATEOFWILLIAMEDFLEMINGTOCREDITORSadministrationoftheestateofEDWARDFLEMING,dewhosedateofdeathwas13,2022;ispendingintheCourtforMonroeCounty,ProbateDivision,thead

dress of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative=s attor ney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent=s estate, on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent=s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER NOTWITHSTANDINGBARRED. THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is September 22, 2022. Personal

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

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 Publication“711”.

Dates: Thursday, September 22, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

MEETING NOTICE

The District II Advisory Committee (DAC II) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, October 11, 2022, at 6:00 P.M., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar

Pursuantplatform. to Executive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) socialdistancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the Covid-19 virus, the October 12, 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 Develop ment Council will provide updates on the County website at www.

TheMonroecounty-fl.gov.accesspointstoview the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will

Joinbe:Zoom

MEETING NOTICE

The District V Advisory Commit tee (DAC V) of the Monroe Coun ty Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, October 11, 2022, at 10:00 A.M., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar

Pursuantplatform.toExecutive Order No. 20-69, Monroe County Emergency Directive 20-06, and the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) guidelinessocial-distancingestablishedto contain the spread of the Covid-19 virus, the October 12, 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 www.

TheMonroecounty-fl.gov.accesspointstoview the meeting or for members of the public to provide public com ment will be: Join Zoom AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF TRACT “B”, HAMMER POINT PARK, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 6, PAGE 35 0F THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, THENCE RUN NORTHEASTLY, ALONG AN EXTENSION OF THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID TRACT “B” FOR A DISTANCE OF 80.83 FEET TO A POINT, SAID POINT BEING 70 FEET FROM THE EAST LINE OF SAID TRACT “B”, THENCE RUN NORTHERLY, ALONG A LINE 70 FEET EAST OF AND PARALLEL TO THE EAST LINE OF SAID TRACT “B”: FOR A DISTANCE OF 151.00 FEET, PLUS OR MINUS, TO A POINT ON THE NORTH LINE OF PARCEL ID#00089210-000000 SAID POINT BEING COINCIDENT WITH THE MEAN HIGH TIDE LINE; THENCE RUN IN A SOUTHWEST ERLY DIRECTION ( S48º39’43”W), ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF PARCEL ID# 00089210-000000 BEING COINCIDENT WITH THE MEAN HIGH TIDE LINE FOR A DISTANCE OF 93.11 FEET TO THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID TRACT “B” THENCE RUN SOUTH, ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID TRACT “B”, ALSO BEING THE EAST LINE OF SAID SECTION 22-62-38, FOR A DISTANCE OF 130 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. CONTAINING +-0.21 ACRE Has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Ronald G. Baker, plaintiff’s attorney whose address is 1176 E 5th Ave., Mount Dora, FL

PLACE YOUR HELP WANTED AD here for only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 TODAY

MIDDLE KEYS

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

NOW HIRING - Full Time Seafood Packers/Graders. Competitive Wage. Apply in person at Keys Fisheries Fish House, 3390 Gulfview Ave, Marathon. EOE DFWP

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: Recreation Specialist, Right of Way Technician, Parttime Marina Custodian/ Maintenance and Marina Tech/Pump Out Captain. Full Benefits. EOE Please see City website for www.ci.marathon.fl.usdetails

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 lobstercrawl@gmail.comemail:

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Housekeeper, Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker), Med Tech, Protective Service Aide. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha.org or 305296-5621. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www.kwha. org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity

ActundercoveredisSection3oftheHUDof1968.

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 305743-0844 TODAY!

HOUSING FOR RENT LONG TERM

Las Brisa - 2BR/2BA Unfurnished, great view, W/D, covered parking. Tennis, Swimming Pool & BBQ on property. Across from Smather’s Beach, Key West. $3,900/month + util. F/L/S Owner/Agent Douglas Miller 305-296-7706

EMPLOYMENT WANTED Need sitter for older selfsufficient woman, two or three days at a time. Sombrero Isle, Marathon. Please call 305662-1916 daytime for details.

Program Facilitator: PartTime. Manager position, computer skills, create & implement programs. Independent contractor $20.00/hour,16-20 hrs/ wk Send resume gmail.comjustolderyouthinc@to

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 305-852-9639to

Sandbar Donuts mobile food trailer located at 102840 Overseas Highway, Key Largo is open Saturdays and Sundays 8am-1pm. We prepare hot fresh donuts daily and are looking for creative and responsible individuals to join our team. Please email sandbardonuts@ gmail.com or stop by to see us if interested in becoming part of our "Sprinkle Squad" or just to place a donut order and experience the Sandbar Donuts crave! Hiring excavator operators, deckhands, & boat operators in Key Largo. 40/hrs per week MondayFriday. 305-440-3304 HIRED!!!

Immediate openings for experienced plumbers and helpers (with or without experience - we will train the right person). Must have a valid driver's license & clean driving record. Please apply in person at 10700 5th Avenue Gulf, Marathon or email resume to: eerpinc@gmail.com

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

Serve/Bartend

on the ocean! FT/PT Ocean front private swim club is seeking customer service oriented server/bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/or bar lounge. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Full time/Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404219-3359 and ask for Dave.

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. 305-743-5555 HIRED IN LESS THAN THREE WEEKS!!

PLACE YOUR HELP WANTED AD here for only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-7430844 TODAY

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

1 BR/1 BA Efficiency for rent in Marathon. 3-4 months lease. Own entrance. 2 parking spots. $1,350/mo. 305-417-0346 RENTED IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!!

HOUSING FOR RENT SHORT TERM

2BR/2BA Single Family Waterfront Home for rent in Marathon. Fully furnished. 70' dock. $5,000/ month includes all utilities, internet & TV. Available for 3 months - Jan, Feb & March. 727-278-1105

FOR SALE

RV FOR SALE - 2017 Thor Citation RV, 24ft Mercedes V6 Diesel, Cummings Diesel Generator, Low Mileage, Many Upgrades, Call Richard 363-8021305-

YARD SALES

SARA’S ESTATE SALE: 87 Bay Drive, Baypoint, MM15, Lower Keys | Fri., Sept. 23 and Sat., Sept. 24, 9am to 1pm both days | ENTIRE HOUSEHOLD at waterfront estate behind Baby’s Coffee, Oceanside: high-end battery operated mower, blowers, chain saws, hand tools; generator, work lights, tools, tool chest, pressure washer, lots of outdoor furniture, mini tiki hut, Olhausen pool table, cue cabinet, Martha dePoo art, carved mahogany king bed and sidetables, plants, pots, yard art and bedding, silk rug, dining table, TVs and mattresses. Follow signs and park

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

GENERAL HELPER/COURIER

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $17.38/hr. - $19.46/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.

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 TurtleHospitalMarathon@gmail.comto:

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

AUTO DIESEL VEHICLE TECHNICIAN

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

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

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

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

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

APPRENTICE AUTO MECHANIC

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $22.59/hr. - $25.31/hr.

For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit our 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.

DUI

The Advocate DUI Program is hiring for part time positions. DUI instructors and evaluators - 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse eld required. Bilingual preferred, not required. Of ce located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

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

OPEN POSITIONS

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Environmental Tech, $5,000 Bonus

- Cook, $5,000 Bonus

- Medical Technologist, $15,000 Bonus

- Multi Modality Imaging Tech

- Occupational Health Registered Nurse, $20,000 Bonus

- Patient Experience Advocate

- Pool Group Exercise Instructor

- Pool Physical Therapist

- Registered Nurse, Emergency

- Registered Nurse, Multispecialty

- Registered Respiratory Therapist, $15,000 Bonus

- Sr Phlebotomist

MARATHON COMMUNITYFISHERMEN’SHOSPITAL

- Cook, $5,000 Bonus

- Dietitian, $5,000 Bonus

- ED Team Coordinator

- Floor Technician, $5,000 Bonus

- Medical Assistant, $5,000 Bonus

- Medical Technologist, $15,000 Bonus

- Multi Modality Imaging Tech

- Patient Experience Advocate

- Phlebotomist, $10,000 Bonus

- Pool Physical Therapist

- Registered Nurse, Emergency, $20,000 Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Surgery, $20,000 Bonus

- Security Of cer

PHYSICIAN PRACTICE – MARATHON

- Patient Representative, $1,000 Bonus

- Registered Nurse

- Athletic Trainer

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

Offering

HOUSEKEEPING be considered for full or part-time to meet your needs. Apply and enter your availability.

THEME:

WEATHER CONDITIONS

Winds

Reef site contains cave-like overhangs

One of the favorite spots to dive in Islamorada per the crew is Victory Reef. Located about 5 miles off the shore, it’s part of the barrier reef and the depth is 40 to 100 feet. It’s a spur-and-groove coral system, meaning you have a spur of coral, then a groove of sand that resembles fingers. The top of the reef is 40 feet and it drops down, similar to a wall, to 100 feet. One of the unique features at Victory is the size of the spurs. They are very large and distinct and create numerous cave-like overhangs. These overhangs are home to many critters like lionfish, grouper, lobster and even snook. The reef structure forms a “V” (V for victory) with the inside of the “V” being a large sand channel. In the sand channel we encounter sting rays, porgies, hog fish and sharks, among other critters. There are so many dive sites in our area and lots of “crew favorites.” Stay tuned for the next one. the scuba,HeKeysCenterIslamoradainstructorcaptainowner,andatDiveandFloridaDiveCenter.specializesinrebreather, spearfishing and captaining in the Keys.

BILLIPSERIC

CONSERVATION TIP

Many dive sites in the Keys have mooring balls for you to moor too instead of dropping anchor. But sites like Victory rely on dive boats and fishing boats to drop anchor in order to experience the site. So remember when the site requires you to drop your hook (anchor) always drop it in the sand close to the reef.

I.CARE

You’ve made your mark here now it’s on to the next! Best of luck, Ann!

Every new idea feeds a will to keep learning and growing. That’s why First Horizon is proud to support the countless ways the Florida Keys is invested in enlightening and inspiring the next generation of leaders – and lifelong learners.