Upper Keys Weekly 22-1110

PRIME

WATERFRONT LOCATION

Glittering open bayfront views encapsulate this residence. Positioned on a 17,271 sq. ft. lot, this property has lush and manicured landscaping providing utmost privacy. Located in a desired neighborhood on Plantation Key, this open living home is drenched with views throughout and complete with two bedrooms and two bathrooms upstairs and one bedroom and one bathroom downstairs with a kitchenette. Features include, 312 ft of water frontage, protected dockage, 2 boat lifts, an elevated jacuzzi tub with bay front views, room for an RV, space for a pool and outdoor kitchen, garage space, impact windows and doors and an outdoor tiki. Come home to this old Florida-style residence that exemplifies Keys living.

PLANTATION KEY | $4,500,000 | Listing ID: 602940

Russell Post, Broker/Owner Each office is independently owned and operated.

121,483

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News Deadline Monday Noon Advertising Deadline Monday 2 p.m.

The total number of votes for the inaugural Best of the Upper Keys was above six figures! After nearly 17,000 nominations were tabulated, the finalists com

peted in an online ballot that drew 6,240 voters from around the globe. The largest concentration was from the 33037 zip code, but the Upper Keys has fans in Australia, Great Britain, Japan and many European countries.

From left, Joe Babino, of CBT Construc tion, with daughter, August, Nicole Na varro, of Pawsitive Beginnings Inc., hold ing a “flat Reef” and Lindsay Babino, of Theater of the Sea, hold up their awards during the inaugural Best of Upper Keys.

BEST OF UPPER KEYS CROWNS INAUGURAL WINNERS

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Some of the area’s finest busi nesses, civic-minded organiza tions and respected community members were crowned during the inaugural Best of Upper Keys at Harbor Events at Whale Harbor in Is lamorada on Nov. 5. Fifty awards were presented during the evening, with emcees Jason Koler and Britt Myers using satire between the presenta tions to keep the crowd of roughly 185 guests laughing.

In total, Best of Upper Keys spon sors, ticket sales and raffles generated close to $20,000 for the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter.

Square Grouper Islamorada came away with the most awards, with bar tender Michael Roe capturing the Best Bartender plaque, while owners Lynn Bell and Joe Bell, son and manager, were handed Best Overall Restaurant and Best Lunch. C&C Wood Fire Eats in Key Largo, Ziggie & Mad Dog’s in Is lamorada and Florida Keys Brewing Co. each received two awards. C&C Wood Fire Eats was crowned Best Happy Hour and Best Pizza, while Florida Keys Brewing Co. won Best Bar and Best Live Music Venue. Ziggie & Mad Dog’s Shaggy won Best Server and the res taurant won Best Place to take a Date.

Awards, laughs & fundraising highlight a special night

Best Elected Official went to county commissioner Holly Raschein, while Reef the Fox ran away with Best Local Celebrity. Best Overall Business went to Pilates in Paradise, which celebrates its 20th year under owner Christi Franchini.

A successful Best of Upper Keys was made possible thanks to the support from event sponsor Harbor Events at Whale Harbor. Not only did they offer up the best menu, staff support and a premier venue, but they also showcased the community spirit.

In addition to presenting Food & Drink winners, Monroe County Commissioner Holly Raschein was voted “Best Elected Official.”

"We knew before we approached the Whale Harbor Group that they regularly supported the community, whether through local community organizations’ meet-and-greets and forums to hosting monthly full moon parties partnering with local charities to help them raise money," said Keys Weekly Publisher Jason Koler. “We never imagined how great they were to work with. I've received countless calls and texts about the venue, the staff and the food."

Notable sponsors include Dr. Michelle with Hear 4 Audiology, First Horizon Bank and Mariners Hospital. Stay tuned for next year’s Best of Upper Keys.

Henry Menendez, pictured center, and surrounding guests get a laugh during one of several comedic skits. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

Judy Hull, left, Islamorada Chamber of Commerce executive director; Gina Boilini, Doc’s Diner co-owner; and Frank Navarro, local fishing guide. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

oters in Florida and the Keys kept their governor, their U.S. senator, their South Florida U.S. congressman and their Florida Keys state representative, all of whom are Republicans.

Gov. Ron DeSantis took 60% of the votes to defeat former governor Charlie Crist.

U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio took 58% to beat Val Demings, while U.S. Rep. Carlos Gimenez earned 63% of votes to beat Robert Asencio.

Closer to home in the Florida Keys, State Rep. Jim Mooney defeated Adam Gentle with 61% of the votes.

About 2.72 million votes were cast in Florida, with 34,095 ballots coming from the Florida Keys, where Supervi sor of Elections Joyce Griffin reported a countywide turnout of 62%.

Three incumbent councilmen and two fe male newcomers were elected to serve on the Islamorada Village Council on Election Night. Current councilmen Buddy Pinder, Mark Gregg and Henry Rosenthal, vice mayor, were selected by voters to serve another two-year term. Charter captain Elizabeth Jolin and business owner Sharon Mahoney beat their respected op ponents to take seats on the dais for the first time. An amendment to raise council’s pay was turned down by a majority of village voters.

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

I worked very hard the whole time. I’m glad the people of Islamorada supported me and they were. I knew it was going to be close with everything that was go ing on.”

— Buddy Pinder

I got nothing to say but a win is a win.”

I’m grateful and humbled to be on the winning side. There was a lot of negative campaigning and a lot of dark money spent in this election. This victory shows tonight that if you want a seat on the village council, you have to earn it.”

— Mark Gregg

— Henry Rosenthal I am really looking for ward to serving.”

— Elizabeth JolinSo very proud and so very happy I have a chance to make a difference to the town I love and grew up in.”

— Sharon Mahoney

KEY LARGO WASTEWATER TREATMENT DISTRICT

With three seats up for grabs, incumbents Tim Maloney and Sue Heim were elected back to the Key Largo Wastewater Treatment District. And former board member Robby Majes ka is back in a seat af ter receiving the most votes out of the four candidates. Majeska left the board several years ago to run for county commission.

1 2

SIGNS OF SUPPORT

ELECTION SCENES FROM THE UPPER KEYS

Abusy day at the Islamorada polls saw more than 3,000 bal lots cast on Election Day. Supporters raised signs as resi dents arrived at precincts in the village. Results began to trickle in around 7:30 p.m. as council candidates and state Rep. candidate Jim Mooney held watch parties.

— Jim McCarthy

1. Friends, family and campaign members pose for a group photo with State Rep. Jim Mooney, at center right, following his Election Night win during a results party at Capt. Craig’s Restaurant. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

2. Incumbent State Rep. candidate Jim Mooney poses with his mother Louise during a results party at Capt. Craig’s Restaurant. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

3. Islamorada Village Council candidate Buddy Pinder, at left, checks on election results with the help of Brian Tiedemann. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

4. Jocelyn Tiedemann watches election results with her stepfather, Islamorada Village Council candidate Mark Gregg, during an election party at the Florida Keys Brew ing Co. taproom. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

Team Sport

THE SCOREBOARD

Opponent Date Result

Key West Boys soccer (preseason) MAST Academy 11/1 L, 5-1

Coral Shores Football Palmer Trinity 11/3 W, 35-27

Coral Shores Girls soccer (preseason) Seminole HS 11/4 L, 5-1

Key West Football Bishop Verot 11/4 L, 48-14

Key West Girls soccer (preseason) Seminole 11/5 L, 4-3

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

Date School Sport

11/10

11/10

Opponent Start Time

Marathon Boys soccer @ Westwood 4 p.m.

Key West Boys soccer @ St. Brendan 3:30 p.m.

11/14 Marathon Girls basketball @ Carrollton 5 p.m.

11/14

Coral Shores Girls basketball @ Divine Savior 4 p.m.

11/15 Marathon Boys soccer Florida Christian 4 p.m.

11/15 Marathon Girls soccer @ Silver Palms 4 p.m.

11/15 Key West Boys soccer Keys Gate 5 p.m.

11/15 Key West Girls soccer Keys Gate 3 p.m.

11/15

11/16

11/16

Coral Shores Boys soccer @ St. Brendan 5 p.m.

Marathon Girls soccer @ Homestead High 3 p.m.

Marathon & Coral Shores Weightlifting @ Gulliver Prep 3:30 p.m.

11/16 Marathon Girls basketball @ Gulliver Prep 4 p.m.

11/16

11/17

Coral Shores Boys soccer @ Florida Christian 6 p.m.

Coral Shores Girls soccer St. Brendan 6 p.m.

11/17 Marathon Girls basketball Somerset S. Home stead 4 p.m.

11/18

11/18

11/18

11/18

Key West Girls soccer @ Port Charlotte 7 p.m.

Key West Boys soccer @ Dade Christian 4 p.m.

Marathon Boys soccer Palmer 4 p.m.

Key West Girls basketball @ Barron Collier 5:30 p.m.

Key West High School Junior Swimming

Key West’s swimming pro gram has been a strong one for many years, so to be a standout for the Conchs, it takes a little bit extra. Junior Alexander “AJ” Smith has put in the work to become one of the program’s greatest standouts. Smith won the FHSAA 2A District 16 title in the 50 freestyle event, qualifying him for regionals. While he was at it, he qualified for three more events, including two relays and the 100 freestyle individual race. His regional time of 22.75s in the 50 was fast enough to earn him a bid to states, making him the lone representative for the Conchs. Coach Lori Bosco feels that AJ has more to give at states as he zeroes in on a single race and continues to improve. For his steadfast training, stellar times and focus on teamwork, AJ Smith is this week’s Key’s Weekly Athlete of the Week.

ALEXANDER ‘AJ’ SMITH

“Everyone looks up to him. He lifts the others up and makes them faster too.”

Photo by GRACY ANDREW/Contributed

— Coach Lori Bosco

“Sara crushed it,” said girls coach Darby Sheehan. “She was looking strong the entire race.”

The Lady Fins have been running in pack formation this season, supporting one another at times and challenging at others. The larger field of competition in Tallahassee made staying together challenging, but the girls didn’t abandon their strategy entirely.

“The girls stayed as a pack at the start, then they paired up,” Sheehan explained, giving them motivation and an extra push to get over the steep hills Keys runners often find challenging. Their close-knit team mentality has been the key to their success this season, and could easily mean a fifth consecutive state appearance in 2023.

Marathon’s boys and girls cross country teams have become a mainstay in distance running, and it appears they aren’t going away any time soon. Both the girls and boys teams qualified for the state championships in Tallahassee, a feat accomplished by only 32 teams statewide.

BURSA IN ELITE COMPANY AT STATE MEET

Marathon’s

top runner races to ninth place finish

Marathon’s cross country team made the long drive to Tallahassee for the Nov. 4 FHSAA 1A Cross Country State Championships at Apalachee Regional Park. The top finisher for the Dolphins was no surprise – Vaclav “Vance” Bursa has been first at the fin ish line all season long, and his 16:18 ninth-place finish in Tallahassee placed him in an elite group of runners, most of whom graduate in May.

Bursa is a truly talented runner who loves to chase, something he did not get to experience much this season because he was often so far in front of the rest of the field. At states, he had plenty of opportunities to run down his competition. Running his plan, developed with coach Jim Mur phy, Bursa executed what Murphy called “a perfect race.”

“My strategy was to start a little slower, then pick people off,” Bursa said. “At first I was in 45th place, at the half-mile I was at 31, and at the halfway point I was 21. Then I began to pick people off and finished in ninth.” Bursa set a new personal record by three seconds and is already thinking about goals for next season.

“I want to be in the 15s,” he said. Bursa will need to drop an additional 18 seconds from his current best time, an entirely attainable goal for a runner with his work ethic and talent.

Vance will not be the only Dolphin back for more in 2023, nor will he be the only Bursa. Brothers Jakub and An tonin “Tony” are a junior and seventh grader, respectively, and every single state-qualifying Dolphin is eligible for a minimum of one more year, with a few who won’t hang up their racing flats until 2029.

The Lady Fins are similarly built for the future, with Marathon’s top three finishers on Nov. 4 still in middle school. Top finisher Sara Robinson, who qualified for the meet despite running at regionals while under the weather, completed the course in 23:21, which put her in 157th place.

Marathon seems to relish its reputation as the little school that could. In the past few years, it had a districtwinning track and field team with no track, a state-qualifying high jumper with no pit, and one of the top cross country programs in the state with no grass or hills on which to train. The Dolphins seem to have an element of magic to make all of this happen, but the driving force behind each and every one of these events is head coach Murphy, whose eight con secutive state appearances at the FHSAA 1A Cross Country Championships were built on relentless research, hard work and a dedication to his athletes, many of whom he coaches for seven years. When pressed for the magic ingredient of his programs’ success, he said, “Consistency. There’s some thing to be said for individual sports and consistency. You take what you’ve built and if it isn’t broken, you keep doing what you have done but add a little each year.”

STATE MEET RESULTS

Runner Time Grade Place

Sara Robinson 23:21.1 8 157

Madelyn Thornton 23:39.5 8 172 Maeve Merryman 23:42.9 8 176 Rain Banks 23:51.5 11 186 Ella Dunn 24:11.7 10 196 Rilynn Richards 24:31.8 8 202 Mikkel Ross 24:34.0 11 203

Runner Time Grade Place

Vance Bursa 16:18.2 10 9 Jakub Bursa 18:14.1 11 111

Antonin Bursa 18:38.1 7 128 Dillon Shelar 19:26.1 11 165 Mason Buxton 19:49.7 11 182

Emmett Merryman 21:17.6 6 217 Jack Dunn 22:59.8 8 228

Coach Jim Murphy, center, takes a pre-race photo in the fog with the Marathon girls team.

Vance Bursa puts in a final kick against Pen sacola Christian’s Drew Birx for a photo finish.

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

FOOTBALL SEASON OFFICIALLY CLOSES IN MONROE COUNTY

With a trip to Palmer Trinity on Nov. 3, the Coral Shores Hurricanes faced the Falcons with third place in their conference on the line. Also on the line was a bit of redemption for the ’Canes, who had their first loss of the season delivered to them by Palmer in September. Coach Ed Holly was very pleased with his team’s performance and emphasized that the game plan was not based on a revenge scenario, but geared toward his players and their success.

“Our driving force was sending our seniors out on a positive note,” he said.

This time around, the Hurricanes were the better team. Coral Shores beat the Falcons 35-27. Scoring for the ’Canes were Chuck Jacobsen with a hat trick of rushing touchdowns as well as single rushing scores from Dantay Diorio and AJ Putetti.

Holly said the big difference between the games with Palmer was that “last time, we ran out of time.” His 2022 squad secured a winning 7-3 record, up from 5-6 last year, and he looks forward to the future.

“We got better and better as the season went on,” he said. “We are looking to continue this next season.”

In the meantime, he and several seniors will focus on getting to the next level of play. Xavyer Arrington and Johnny Holly have solid offers on the table, and Chuck Ja cobsen, a newcomer to football but a natural athlete, has also expressed interest in playing college ball.

Key West was hoping to stay alive in the FHSAA 2S District 16 playoff bracket with a win on Nov. 4 against Bishop Verot. A win would have created a three-way tie for first in the district, forcing a winner via power rankings. The unusual tiebreaker scenario became moot when the Conchs fell to the Vikings, 48-14.

While it was not the homecoming result the Conchs would have liked, they did put points on the board against Verot. James Reynolds scored a pair of running touch downs, one in the second and one in the fourth quarter.

“We played hard, but gave up too many big plays,” said head coach Johnny Hughes, crediting the Vikings as “the real deal.”

Hughes said his team will now have a bit of a break, then get back to hitting the weight room to prepare for next fall. With the regular season over, Hughes’ focus will now be on seniors Andre Otto, James Reynolds and Kevon Mills as they work through the recruiting process with the hope of playing at the next level. The Conchs end their season with 4 wins and 5 losses.

Marathon’s independent status prevented them from a playoff situation, but the 5-4 Fins improved from 3-6 in ’21, securing their first winning season since 2018.

“I’m very proud of our team this season,” said coach Mac Childress. “We always played hard and were able to have a winning season. The seniors did a tremendous job of paving the way for the younger players. Moving into next year, we’re excited to see how much the underclass men can develop.”

With the season now complete, Marathon’s Malachi Hawkins will be entertaining his options for collegiate play.

SWIMMERS ARE STATEBOUND

Coral Shores and Key West had successful regional races and both teams qualified athletes to move on to the next level: state championships. Coral Shores will compete in the FHSAA 1A Championships on Friday, Nov. 11, and Key West will participate in the 2A event on the 12th. Both events are being held in Stuart, at the Sailfish Splash Park Aquatic Athletics Center.

The ’Canes are represented by two individual swimmers and two relay teams. Corley Smith will compete in the 200 freestyle event and Abbie Sar gent will represent the ’Canes in the 100 free. Both athletes will also be competing in relay events. Smith will join her sister Layne along with Olivia Sargent and Riley Cooper in the 200 freestyle relay. Abbie and Olivia Sargent will team up with Corley and Layne Smith to represent Coral Shores in the 400 freestyle relay team.

Key West’s AJ Smith will make the trip to states for the Conchs. The district champ will swim his best event, the 50 freestyle. Coming off his win at districts, Smith had quite a bit of disruption and little practice time due to the quick turnaround from districts to regionals.

“It’s hard on the swim mers to get back Friday night and have to leave three days later,” said coach Lori Bosco. With a full week of practice, AJ could have a breakout race on Saturday.

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

BOYS SOCCER FLORIDA CHRISTIAN MARATHON NOVEMBER 15 | 4 P.M.

VS

’Canes senior running back Chuck Jacob sen was a workhorse in the backfield this season. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

KWHS homecoming queen Valerie Thene. CONTRIBUTED

BOYS/GIRLS

GIRLS SOCCER ST. BRENDAN CORAL SHORES NOVEMBER 17 | 6 P.M.

VS

SCENES FROM BEST OF UPPER KEYS

The inaugural Best of Upper Keys welcomed 185 guests to Whale Harbor Events for some awards, comical skits, food, drinks and more.

1. Ben Kemmer, Florida Keys Children’s Center executive director, tells the crowd about the programs the center provides for at-risk youth. Kemmer also expressed gratitude for the funds raised for the shel ter during the event.

2. Christi Franchini, center left, owner and instructor at Pilates in Paradise, and Jeanette Silvestri, center right, real estate agent with Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Co. celebrate after Franchini won Best Overall Business and The Silvestri Team won Best Realtor.

3. Keys rapper and finalist for Best Musi cian Kevin Henry, AKA LaHatchet.

4. Roughly 185 attendees at the inaugural Best of Upper Keys raise a glass to re member the late Mike Forster. The former county commissioner was a key player in bringing the idea of the event forward before his passing in September 2021.

5. The crew from Keys Weekly Newspapers and Overseas Media Group, as well as Monroe County Sheriff’s Capt. Jon Crane and Islamorada Councilman Buddy Pin der, gather for a photo. With three offices throughout the Keys, the locally owned and operated media company had team members from Key West and Marathon at the event.

6. Dr. Stan Zuba is congratulated by Whale Harbor’s Howard Brody after winning Best Medical Professional.

Photos by Doug Finger. For a full gallery, visit keysweekly.com.

AWARDING THE BEST IN TOWN

Some 50 Best of Upper Keys award plaques were handed out to winners in three major categories, which included food and drink, community and business. Winners were chosen by the thou sands of votes that poured in for the finalists. Visit page 25 and keysweekly. com for the winners list.

1. Residents of Plantation Key Colony hold up the Best Neighborhood plaque.

2. The crew at Square Grouper Islamorada came away with three awards during the inaugural Best of Upper Keys.

3. MarrVelous Pet Rescue’s Suzi Youngberg and Joy Martin show off the Best Nonprofit Award.

4. Longtime Keys resident and volunteer extraordinaire Nola Acker wins Best Vol unteer. Also pictured, from left, are Julie Johnson, Scott Acker and Henry Menendez.

5. Islamorada Village Manager Ted Yates, middle, displays the Best Place to Take the Kids award, which went to Founders Park. Also pictured are Councilmen Buddy Pinder and David Webb.

6. Key Largo School teacher Tiffany Zepada wins Best Educator.

7. The gang at Wahoo’s hold up the Best Fish Sandwich award.

8. Leah Maurer and Matt Hutchinson proudly display the Best Law Firm plaque, which went to Hershoff, Lupino & Yagel. Photos by Doug Finger. For a full gallery, visit keysweekly.com.

NOW IS THE TIME TO POWER YOUR BUSINESS WITH BROADWAVE

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CALL OR EMAIL TODAY: 305.767.1467 - INFO@BROADWAVE.COM WWW.BROADWAVE.COM

• The 2022 property tax roll is open for collection. If you have not received your tax bill yet, please contact us at 305-295-5070.

• The Tax Collector’s Office returned over $5.4 million in unused fees to the taxing authorities for the 2022 fiscal year, which goes towards funding essential services for our community.

• If your property has been completely destroyed and/or otherwise rendered uninhabitable due to Hurricane Ian, please contact our office or visit our website for important information regarding payment extensions.

• In an effort to go green and save taxpayers money, we will no longer be printing and mailing the tourist development tax return forms. These forms may be accessed on our website.

• As a reminder, online rental platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.) DO NOT remit the 5% tourist development tax to our office. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure the tax has been remitted.

• All rental properties must also have a local business tax, regardless of how long they are being rented

• If you suspect a fraudulent property rental, you may report it on our hotline at 1-855-422-4540

• All our offices will be closed on Friday, November 11, in observance of Veterans Day

• Wesley House Family Services has placed toy boxes in our office lobbies. Please drop off new, unwrapped toys and help make a child’s holiday season a little extra special this year!

During the fall season there is much to do and little time to spare, especially if you’re an adult caregiver. At Crystal Health & Rehab, reserve a day of respite care and we’ll give you the next day free.* We’re committed to providing the most comprehensive care possible for your loved one in a warm, home-like environment of caregivers and resi dents. So whether you could use respite care on a regular basis or just an occasional day for yourself, here’s the gift you have earned… The gift of time. One Day Free

BRAD BERTELLI

is an author, speaker, Florida Keys historian and Honorary Conch. His latest book, “Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli, Volume 1,” shares fasci nating glimpses into the rich and sometimes sur prising histories of the Florida Keys.

ChristopherColumbus sailed the ocean blue in 1492. Even if he was not the first to “discover” the New World, his four trips across the Atlantic did rack up several “firsts” that can be peripherally connected to the Florida Keys.

For example, he is thought to have introduced citrus auranti ifolia, what came to be called the Key lime, to the New World. He also “discovered” the pineapple and introduced its sweet flavor to European palettes.

There is another apparent first attributed to him. On Jan. 9, 1493, Christopher Columbus wrote about mermaids in his log book. “On the previous day,” he wrote, “the Admiral went to the Rio Del Oro, he said he quite distinctly saw three mermaids, which rose well out of the sea; but they are not so beautiful.” Depending on the account, Columbus wrote something like “they have a face like a man”, “their faces had some masculine traits” or some version of the mermaids not being as pretty as they appeared in paintings.

Of course, the Italian explorer was not writing about mermaids but the West In dian manatee. What Columbus wrote is now considered the earliest recorded account of a manatee in the New World. When his son Fer dinand accompanied Columbus on his fourth New World adventure, he wrote in his journal that the sirens “not be fishes but real calves… inside they have nothing like a fish.” He also noted that the creatures “fed on grass and that their meat both resembled and tasted like veal.”

It was not the last time sailors mistook the manatee for the mythical mermaid. However, it is difficult to imagine the level of “horniness” or “drunkness” necessary to mistake the ro bust marine mammal for a mermaid. What the two have in common is that they are, in a man ner of speaking, both sirens. In some languag es, in Greek, the word for mermaid is siren. The scientific name for classifying manatees and dugongs harkens back to their connection to the mermaid’s legend. They belong to the order Sirenia.

THE CHUNKY MERMAID Manatee scarcity in 1800s leads to eventual protection

While often referred to as sea cows, they are distant cousins of the elephant. Unlike the more ethereal mermaid, manatees (and dugongs) have been historically hunted for their meat and hides. It was certainly the case for Florida’s aboriginal people and the territory’s early settlers.

Efforts to protect Florida’s manatees date back to the 18th century. According to British colonial records, in 1764: “His majes ty… (proposed) that an Instruction should be given to the Gover nor of the Provence of East Florida to restrain him from granting any person whatsoever, without his Majesty’s particular Orders and directions, those parts of the Coast of the said Province fre quented by the Animals called the Manati or Sea Cow, where they have their Echouries (estuaries) or Landing Places.”

The proposal was ignored by the Indians and the settlers, who continued to hunt manatees for food. When John James Audubon visited the Florida Keys in 1832, he hired James Egan as his guide. In addition to providing guide services, Egan built a two-and-a-half-story building on Indian Key that he operated as a boarding house. It was here, at Egan’s boarding house, where Audubon stayed during his Indian Key visit. About Egan, Audubon wrote: “For years his employment had been to hunt those singu lar animals called Sea Cows or Manatees, and he had conquered hundreds of them, ‘merely;’ as he said, because the flesh and hide bring ‘a fair price’ at Havannah.”

Egan was not alone in his endeavors, and the animals would continue to be legally hunted the same as alligators, turtles and conch for decades. In 1885, the following observation was re corded about the state of the manatee in Florida: “Ten years ago the meat could be bought at fifty cents a pound. The animals are becoming far too scarce to admit to its being sold at all. There is no doubt that the manatee is fast becoming an extinct animal. … The sea cow will pass out of existence … and the only remaining trace of its former existence will be a few old bones.”

Florida’s first official attempt at protecting the manatee came with the passing of Florida state law Chapter 4208.94 in 1893. In 1907, the state passed Chapter 370.12 to strengthen their legal protection by making the killing or molesting of them punish able by a $500 fine and/or six months of jail time. It would take decades, and further declines in manatee populations, before gov ernment agencies took their official pen to ink additional efforts to protect not just manatees but other struggling species.

In 1966, the Federal Endangered Preservation Act was cre ated and followed, in 1969, by the Federal Endangered Species Conservation Act. Additional protection was given to manatees and all marine mammals in 1972 with the passing of the Federal Marine Mammal Protection Act, which made it a crime to disturb, disrupt, molest, ride, harm or kill a marine mammal – at least in U.S. waters.

Still, these gentle giants need protecting. When they are not starving to death due to seagrass die-offs, about half of all re ported manatee deaths come from careless boaters not paying attention to their surroundings and not respecting no-wake zones. If we are not careful, the manatee may indeed go the way of the West Indian monk seal, and “the only remaining trace of its former existence will be a few old bones.”

Maegan Luckiesh/UNSPLASH

SIGNS YOU MIGHT BE FROM THE UPPER KEYS ...

This past Saturday the winners of the Upper Keys People’s Choice Awards, dubbed Best of Upper Keys, were announced at Whale Harbor. Benefiting the Florida Keys Children’s Shel ter, the celebration included a tribute to Mike Forster and some “roasting” of our beloved elected officials and business community. Lots of research and preparation went into the program including polling Up per Keys residents to find out exactly what sets their popu lation apart from other geo graphic locations in the Keys.

Covering All The Keys From Key Largo To Key West

Upper Keys Weekly

91760 O/S Hwy, Ste 3 Tavernier, FL 33070 305.363.2957

Marathon Weekly 9709 O/S Hwy Marathon, FL 33050 305.743.0844

Key West Weekly 5450 MacDonald Ave, Ste 5 Key West, FL 33040 305.453.6928

#SAVEHOLLY

SCAN BELOW TO HELP OUR BELOVED COMMUNITY TREE Sparkle

Again

10) Your idea of affordable housing is Marathon.

9) You are one of the 495 people running for Islamorada Village Council.

8) You still have a “Rayburn for Sheriff” bumper sticker on your car.

7) You nicknamed your man parts Lower Keys and Upper Keys with 7-Mile Bridge in the middle.

6) You or someone sitting at your table has violated the Sunshine Law in the last 30 minutes.

5) You preach about support ing local businesses but every morning you grab a Starbucks although a local Cuban coffee shop is 30 feet away.

4) You have been banned from the OV, Whistlestop or Mari ners’ Hyperbaric Chamber.

3) You’re a big supporter of Charity, who dances at Woody’s every Tuesday and Thursday.

2) You’re vocally opposed to af fordable housing, the distillery and a pedestrian bridge, but didn’t make a peep about all those weed stores next to your office.

1) You deny climate change, but your house is currently only accessible via kayak.

$30,000 will help us save our beloved "holly" and light up key largo once again! to sponsor, scan above or contact: key largo chamber of commerce 305.451.1414 events@keylargochamber.org

COLLEGE PRESIDENT OFFERS SALUTE TO VETERANS DAY

NOV. 11 HONORS ALL AMERICAN VETERANS

The College of the Florida Keys honored veterans as part of its Nov. 5 festivi ties at Community Day on the Key West Campus. CFK President Jonathan Gueverra delivered his annual Salute to Veterans, honoring John Parce, a Naval aviator and a member of the CFK Foundation’s board of directors:

This Veterans Day, I en courage all to take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices that our service members bear for all Americans and for the principles of democracy. Our heroes continue to serve in a variety of ways that benefit our communities. I salute all veterans as well as current servicemen and women, including my son Julius, who is serving in the Navy. I express my sincerest thanks to them and their families for their dedication and commitment, and for their continued service to protecting our freedom wherever they are deployed.

The Florida Keys and the College have indeed benefitted from the contributions of many veterans over the years. Each one deserves special recogni tion. Today, I salute one veteran in the CFK family: U.S. Naval Aviator John Parce, who is a member of the CFK Foundation’s board of directors and the founder of a scholarship for nursing students.

Parce, whose father was a Navy pilot, was des tined for a military career. He grew up surrounded by strong military role models and molded by experi ences brought by living in various locations across the country. Parce earned a Navy ROTC scholarship to attend Marquette University, and immediately after graduating in 1974, he enlisted in the Navy and started flight training. In his 20 years of service, he was a naval aviator, intelligence officer and military diplomat. Parce also served as the Assistant Naval Attache at the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok, Thailand.

Parce flew in jet squadrons, piloting the EA3 Skywarrior over all the oceans of the world. In 1981, he was recognized as the Number Two Carrier Pilot in the Atlantic Fleet, which was composed of about 500 pilots.

During his assignments to foreign lands, Parce opted to live within the cities and towns instead of on the U.S. military bases or the aircraft carriers. He lived in Spain and in various parts of Asia, where he immersed himself in the cultures and communities. The perspective gained enriched his personal experi ence and aided him professionally in his work as a military diplomat.

Parce was first introduced to Key West when he was stationed at NAS-Key West in 1984. Upon retiring from the Navy as a commander in 1994, he chose to move back to the island. He spent the following four years restoring a Conch House he had purchased while on assignment. The refurbished historic home paved the way for a second career helping people buy and sell houses in the Old Town neighborhood. Parce has been a full-time Realtor since 2001.

Since moving to the Keys, Parce followed the growth of the college and was particularly interested in the nursing program. He even highlighted CFK’s nursing program in an article aimed at prospective home buyers — pointing out the quality of the pro gram as an educational option and as a positive influ ence on health care services in the Keys. Parce took his interest in the college to the next level in 2020 by establishing a scholarship for nursing students. Ear lier this year, he joined the CFK Foundation’s board of directors, where he is able to further expand his impact on and support of the college.

It is with great honor that on this Veterans Day 2022, the College of the Florida Keys and I salute Navy Commander John Parce. He exemplifies the vast talent, grit and selflessness of the U.S. military. Thank you for your continuous service to our coun try, state, and community. May such achievements, sacrifice, and generosity serve as an inspiration for all.

— Jonathan Gueverra, College of the Florida Keys president

NO NEW DATE YET FOR MEETING ON LOQUAT ROAD

No new date has been cho sen for a meeting to discuss Loquat Road. Out of an abundance of caution, Monroe County Commissioner Holly Merrill Raschein postponed the town hall meeting for Garden Cove and Key Largo residents, originally scheduled for Nov. 9 at the Murray Nel son Government Center. The town hall will be rescheduled for a later date to focus on Lo quat Road in north Key Largo, which closed in 2021 for safety concerns.

Military veteran and board member of the College of the Florida Keys Foun dation John Parce and CFK President Jonathan Gueverra at the college’s Community Day event on Nov. 5. CONTRIBUTED

BRINGING THE BACON

ZACK WOLTANSKI www.keysweekly.com

Bacon was on the menu the morning of Nov. 6, as the Islamorada Moose Lodge hosted its annual Bacon Fest. Food vendors, four of which were headed by local restaurants, showed off their recipes. Culinary highlights in cluded Chef D’s bacon wrapped pickles, bacon glazed donuts, Chef Michael’s ba con cronuts, and bacon mac and cheese. In addition to the numerous food booths that each put their own unique spin on the breakfast mainstay, the Islamorada Moose Lodge organized live music, a dunk tank for local celebrities and politicians, and several contests.

Coral Shores students saw themselves duly represented, with Campbell Lavoie and Christian Buckles winning the Bacon Eating and Hog Calling contests, respectively. Ben Francis from Tuna’s Restaurant won the contest for Best Bacon Cocktail.

Visitors were given the chance to dunk their favorite local politicians and celebrities, including State Rep Jim Mooney; Deb Gillis, Tom Raffanello and Casey Watkins, running for the Islamorada Village Council; and Cap tain Matt Bellinger.

Bacon Fest also provides a platform for local artists and musicians, many of whom come back year after year to exhibit their tal ents. Six vendors sold and exhibited art and jewelry, while two bands, General Eclectic and The Lower Mat Cats, took turns playing folk and rock music.

Proceeds from the Bacon Fest support local charities, the Moose Lodge, and Coral Shores High School scholarships. Last year, the Moose Lodge donated nearly $10,000 from its Bacon Fest to locals and charitable organizations in need of financial support. The Moose Lodge plays an important role in funding its local community, and this month it placed a focus on donating funds to the Hurricane Ian relief efforts.

UPPER KEYS WRESTLERS RUMBLE IN HONOR OF MIKE FORSTER

KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL www.keysweekly.com

Isle Style club wrestlers went toeto-toe inside the Coral Shores High School gymnasium during a well-attended rumble on Nov. 5. Roughly 40 young wrestlers, ages 5 to 17, spent two hours learning wres tling techniques, followed by another two-hour live wrestling session.

“I’m not sure an event like this has ever been done in the Keys for wrestling,” said club founder and head Coral Shores High School wres tling coach Dante Jiovenetta.

Jiovenetta went to Coral Shores and is a two-time state wrestling champion; taking home the top hon ors in 2015 and 2016. He went on to wrestle at the University of Missouri.

In January 2021, Jiovenetta started the Isle Style wrestling club. Practices are held three times a week.

“I think it’s great; that way people know there is another option for sports in the Keys,” said Bethcaira Diaz of Tavernier. Diaz’s two sons, Noah, 10, and Samuel, 8, are mem bers.

Carrie Tudor’s son is a sopho more and is on the Coral Shores wrestling team. Tudor believes important life skills are learned on the mat.

“They are learning self discipline, they’re learning self control, they’re learning how to win gracefully or lose gracefully, because you can’t hide behind another teammate; it’s not a group sport,” said Tudor.

This rumble was a fundraiser for Mangrove Mike’s Endeavors Paying Forward. The goal of the nonprofit is to give to local people in need. Mike Forster was a larger than life character in the Keys. He served on the county commission and owned Mangrove Mike’s restaurant, but he was best known for giving back to the community. He passed away from COVID-19 on Sept. 6, 2021.

“He was a great friend to the family. He was a great fan of Dante’s,” said Joe Jiovenetta of Forster’s unwavering support of his son’s wrestling passion.

“When Dante would walk into the restaurant, he’d always make a big deal.”

Left: Dante Jiovenetta looks on as wres tlers practice their moves inside the Coral Shores High School gym.

Right: Dante, Joe and Vinny Jiovenetta attend the Isle Style rumble. Wrestling is a family tradition for the Jiovenettas.

KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys Weekly

For the Jiovenettas, wrestling runs in the family. Joe Jiovenetta wrestled in college and his three sons, including Dante, all excelled in the sport.

“I’m very proud of him. He’s carrying on the family tradition and it’s a big deal to us,” said Joe Jiovenetta.

Dante’s brother Vinny also helped out at the rumble. “I don’t know who else you would want to coach your kids other than this guy,” said Vinny Jiovenetta.

At the end of the event, an athlete was awarded the Mangrove Mike Outstanding Character Award, given to the athlete who shows the best work ethic, the most heart and kindness and generosity.

That award went to 13-yearold Gavin Matheis. Gavin has been wrestling for five years. Last year, the PKS student finished first in the state in his weight class.

“I’m super proud of him,” said Jim Matheis of his son’s wrestling accomplishments. “The thing is he does all the extra stuff – he works out on his own, we don’t have to tell him.

“The other kids are starting to gravitate to him because he’s lead ing by example,” added Matheis, who was also a Division I wrestler in college.

For coach Dante Jiovenetta, the turnout and enthusiasm surround ing this event is inspirational.

“We’re just trying to build the wrestling community in the Keys,” said Jiovenetta.

More information about the Isle Style Wrestling Club is at isle stylewrestling.com.

RECOGNIZING REALTORS

Florida Keys Board of Realtors holds awards and installation ceremony

Realtors from across the Upper Keys gathered for the 2023 installation of officers and directors and awards presentation on Nov. 4 at the Islander Resort. President Jennifer Miller, of LoKation Real Estate, was recognized for her service for the past year. Margy Grant, CEO of Florida Realtors, was guest speaker. The Rising Star award was presented to Shelby Morris, of American Caribbean Real Estate. Miller received Humanitarian of the Year, while Lisa Feliciano, mortgage banker with SouthState Bank, received Affiliate of the Year. Claire Johnson, of Coastal Realty of the Florida Keys, was pre sented 2022 Realtor of the Year. John El-Koury, broker with Coastal Realty, in stalled the Board of Realtors for 2023.

From top: From left, Lisa Feliciano, Affiliate of the Year; Claire Johnson, Realtor of the Year; Islamorada Fire Chief Terry Abel; Jill Miranda Baker, business development officer with Upper Keys Weekly; Joe Roth, of Reagan Roth Insurance, Jennifer Miller, Humanitarian of the Year; and Bette Brown.

John El-Koury, broker with Coastal Realty of the Florida Keys, installs the officers and directors.

Lynda Anthony, FKBR CEO, with Shelby Morris, who received the Rising Star award.

Contributed photos.

The Food & Drink

Best Co ee: Cafe Moka

Best Breakfast: Doc's Diner

Best Lunch: Square Grouper

Best Fish Sandwich: Wahoo's Bar & Grill

Best Fine Dining: Chef Michael's

Best Key Lime Pie: Mrs. Mac's Kitchen

Best Bar: Florida Keys Brewing Co

Best Bartender: Michael Roe, Square Grouper

Best Server: Shaggy, Ziggie & Mad Dog's

Best Happy Hour: C&C Wood Fire Eats

Best Bloody Mary: Robbie's of Islamorada

Best Waterfront Dining: Lazy Days Oceanfront Dining

Best Live Music Venue: Florida Keys Brewing Co.

Best Late Night Spot: Hog Heaven Sports Bar & Grill

Best Catering: Chef Drew's Island Catering

Best Food Truck: Tacos Jalisco

Best Pizza: C&C Wood Fire Eats

Best Sushi: Num Thai Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Best Burger: MEAT Eatery & Taproom

Best Overall Restaurant: Square Grouper

Our Community

Best Festival/Event: Gigantic Nautical Flea Market

Best Sunset: Caribbean Club

Best Volunteer: Nola Acker

Best Educator: Ti any Zepeda

Best Neighborhood: Plantation Key Colony

Best Musician/Band: Micah & the Barstool Sailors

Best Non-profit Organization: MarrVelous Pet Rescue

Best Place to Take a Date: Ziggie & Mad Dog's

Best Place to Take the Kids: Founders Park, Islamorada, Village of Islands

Best Local Celebrity: Reef the Fox

Best Elected O cial: Holly Merrill Raschein

See Event Photos @

Presented by

AND THE WINNERS ARE!

The Businesses

Best Jewelry Store: DePaula Jewelers

Best Marina: Bud & Mary's Marina

Best Dive Shop: Islamorada Dive Center

Best Bait and Tackle Shop: Tackle Center of Islamorada

Best Fishing Charter: Singing Reel Charters

Best Medical Doctor/Professional: Stan Zuba, M.D.

Best Auto Service: Price Automotive Tavernier

Best Tourist A raction: Theater of the Sea

Best New Business: Sandbar Books

Best Photographer/Videographer: Janne e De Llanos Photography

Best Veterinarian: Island Hammock Pet Hospital

Best General Contractor: CBT Construction & Development

Best Landscaper: Tim Ma hews Tree & Landscape

Best Law Firm: Hersho , Lupino & Yagel, LLP

Best Accountant/CPA: Tolley & Hill PLLC

Best Realtor: The Silverstri Team

Best Real Estate O ce: Ocean Sotheby's International Realty

Best Bank: Centennial Bank

Best Overall Business: Pilates in Paradise

More than $19,000 raised to benefit

keysweekly.com/buk22

Sponsored by:

LOCATIONS

Primary Research Campus & Aquarium in Sarasota

Aquaculture Research Park in Eastern Sarasota County

The Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration on Summerland Key Florida Keys Eco Discovery Center

The Florida Keys History and Discovery Center

Satellite Land-Based Nursery in Islamorada at Bud N’ Marys

Satellite Land-Based Nursery in Key Largo at Reefhouse Resort & Marina

DR. ERINN MULLER

Science Director of Elizabeth Moore International Center of Coral Reef Research and Restora tion & Program manager of coral health & disease at Mote CORAL

Sarah Hamlyn

Dr. Hanna R. Koch

Marty Chilcote

Louis Schlecker

Gabrielle D’Alonzo

Allison Delashmit Director of Regional Operations, Florida Keys Haley Burleson Field Marketing Manager Erin Muir Upper Keys Community Engagement Manager

Mote’s Ocean Fest, a community celebration, is set for Saturday, Nov. 12 at Founders Park great lawn and ampitheater in Islamo rada. Enjoy shopping, conserva tion and environmental exhibits as well as live animals. Take in the music, family activities, food and drinks. For more informa tion, visit moteoceanfest.org.

WELCOME TO MOTE’S 5TH ANNUAL OCEAN FEST

We are excited to join together with all of you, our Florida Keys com munity, for Mote’s 5th annual Ocean Fest on Saturday, Nov. 12, in Islamorada. There is much to celebrate, and there is also a great deal of urgent information to share about our treasured coral reef and connected marine and coastal ecosystems in the Florida Keys. As the third-largest barrier coral reef on the planet, the Florida’s Coral Reef is invaluable; it supports more than 80,000 fulland part-time jobs, draws more than $8.5 billion into the economy and buffers our coasts from wave energy and other storm impacts in our hurricane-prone region.

As I write this, Mote Marine Laboratory scientists are responding to multiple stressors assaulting the last vestiges of a once-vibrant barrier reef ecosystem in the Florida Keys. Between warming water temperatures, to ocean acidification, to unprecedented coral disease, it’s clear that conservation efforts alone cannot solve this dilemma. Therefore, Mote is lead ing a paradigm-changing, science-based, coral reef-restoration revolution to bring back to life a vibrant and self-perpetuating “rainforest of the sea,” starting with a major initiative for the next decade.

Mote, a Florida-based, independent, non profit, global marine research institution, has an innovative approach using coral reef restoration techniques that can ”re-skin” a dead, 100-year old coral skeleton in just two years with living tissue from native coral strains resilient to the impacts of disease, warming waters and ocean acidification. Our team has already planted more than 180,000 corals onto Florida’s reefs, and we plan on planting an additional 40,000 this year.

Our facility on Summerland Key, The Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research and Restoration, is a state-of-theart research facility complete with molecular and microbiology labs, two indoor wet labs, a land-based nursery growing thousands of coral fragments, and dedicated ocean acidification indoor and outdoor labs to mimic future climate change scenarios. This facility is operated by next-generation, Ph.D. scientists and an incred ibly dedicated staff working nearly around the clock to help scale up our research and restora tion efforts.

Last year, we opened a satellite land-based coral nursery at famed Bud N’ Mary’s Marina in Islamorada. And this year, in August, we opened another satellite coral nursery in Key Largo, at Reefhouse Resort and Marina. In addi tion to land-based nurseries, we are also poised to add additional in-water (field) nurseries in the Upper Keys this year. These new nurseries, in concert with our existing nurseries in the Lower Keys and Key West, will give us access to the entirety of the reef for our restoration and re search efforts. Mote is more resolved than ever to achieve our mission, serving as a champion for our oceans through science, technology, passion and partnerships. The needs are great, but we are up for the challenge. Learn about all the ways you can help by visiting our booth during Ocean Fest, and visit mote.org for more information.

Sincerely,

Dr. Michael P. Crosby President & CEO Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

OCEANFEST

GOLDEN YEARS

JAY HERSHOFF APPOINTED CHAIR OF BAPTIST

HEALTH SOUTH FLORIDA BOARD

Drew Grossman, CEO of Fishermen’s and Mariners hospitals, agreed that Hershoff is a people person.

“He realizes that it takes all kinds of differ ent talent to get the job done every day,” said Grossman. “He has a good way of interacting. He’s the first one to say he needs to learn more.”

Hershoff is indeed humble about how he got his start in working with Keys hospitals in 1993, when a colleague suggested he fill a va cancy on the Mariners Hospital board.

“Before that, I had never been involved with a hospital, other than being a patient,” he said.

In the mid-1990s, using negotiating skills developed over years of working as an attor ney in crime, personal injury and family law, Hershoff hammered out a deal for Mariners Hospital to become a part of the Baptist Health South Florida system and get a new facility as a result. Prior to that, Mariners had been housed in an old building with additions that had been slapped on over the years.

Eventually, he moved on to the Fishermen’s board, then finally joined the Baptist Health South Florida board in 2002.

Jay Hershoff is 79 years old. And he’s “retired.” Or, at least, as retired as you can be when you’re the chairman of the board of trustees for Baptist Health South Florida, an organization that stretches from Marathon to Boynton Beach and has 12 hospitals, 26,000 employees, 20 urgent care sites, 19 diagnostic centers and much more.

Many of us in the Keys may envision our golden years as a simple life where the most pressing decision of the day is: Should we eat at Ziggie’s or Lazy Days tonight? But since officially becoming chairman on Oct. 1, Hershoff has a say in how to spend $5 billion a year in annual revenue, on everything from a new physician and new services to a new building.

When Keys Weekly spoke to him on a phone call that was scheduled a few days ahead of time, he was frequently interrupted by calls and texts regarding Baptist Health South Florida matters.

“There goes another one,” he said, as his line clicked. “That’s a fellow board member. Since I started as chairman 31 days ago, I would say 25 of those days were spent on the hospital.”

In addition to juggling board chairman activities, Hershoff heads into his law firm, Hershoff, Lupino and Yagel, to work a few hours a week — even though he officially retired on Dec. 31, 2019.

“I should get a phone call from the ‘Not Retirement Society,’” he said, chuckling. “I have a hard time saying ‘no.’”

Jokes aside, Hershoff’s friends and colleagues are quick to point out his ac complishments. Marathon residents (and husband-and-wife team) Jim Rifkin and Jane Packard spearheaded efforts to raise $15

million from the community toward replac ing the old Fishermen’s Community Hospital building that was destroyed during Hur ricane Irma. As part of a deal that Hershoff brokered, Baptist Health agreed to pay for the facility as long as locals contributed at least $15 million.

“He’s an amazing person,” said Rifkin. “He’s the first person from the Keys to achieve the position of chairman at Baptist Health South Florida. And without Jay, there would be no hospital here (in Marathon). Jay went to the hallowed halls of Baptist Health and convinced them to get on board. In the last 20 years, only one rural hospital was built in the country — and I’m looking out the window right at it.”

“Jay eats, breathes and sleeps Baptist Health. That’s his passion,” said Packard. “Fishermen’s and Mariners would never have happened without him. To me, to know Jay is to love Jay. ”

“I have no hobbies any more,” he said, explaining that he physically can no longer handle the water activities he used to adore. “I’m passionate about health care and helping communities. I’m very proud of what we’ve done to get the new hospital and board approval for the medical arts building on the old library site in Marathon. My perfect day is getting things approved at Baptist Health, when the sun shines by the pool — and anything with my wife, Nancy.”

The Islamorada resident wears his power lightly — in that Florida Keys way.

On Oct. 28, he went to the Hilton in Miami to speak to an audience of 125 Baptist Health board members. When he went to unpack his suitcase in his hotel room, he realized that he had not packed any long pants to wear.

“I got up to make the speech, and I was wearing Columbia cargo shorts,” he said, laugh ing. “Everyone else was in long pants. I said, ‘The invitation said business casual, but I’m in Keys formal.’”

Needless to say, he brought down the house.

Jay Hershoff uses negotiating skills developed over years of working as an attorney in order to put together deals at Baptist Health South Florida for everything from new buildings to new staff members. Seen here, Hershoff sits at his desk at his law firm, Hershoff, Lupino and Yagel. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

On June 10, 2020, current board chairman of Baptist Health South Florida Jay Hershoff attends a cer emony to commemorate the last beam being lifted into place for the new Fishermen’s Community Hos pital building. Hershoff helped negotiate the deal to have Baptist Health build the facility. Pictured from left are Jeff Smith, Fishermen’s Community Hospital advisory board member; Jane Packard, foundation board member; Hershoff; then-State Rep. Holly Raschein; and County Commissioners Michelle Lincoln and Craig Cates. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

November 9th:

SHOCKED OUT OF CHAINS

CHRIS McNULTY

is an astrologer, wanderer, bartender and advocate for queer justice. He is a loquacious Gemini with a cozy Cancer rising. Find him at hearthandheraldastrology.com

t’s eclipse season, baby! Are you experiencing some major fluctuations, feeling a little out of sorts, or wondering who pulled the rug out? Good, ’cause eclipses are irreversible thresholds of per sonal growth. This past Tuesday saw a total lunar eclipse in the sign of Taurus with the full moon perfectly aligned with the planet Uranus. This eclipse corresponds to a powerful unfolding around themes of material needs, beauty and aesthetic appreciation, and the bounty of hard work. The ac tual outcomes may only be seen through a glass darkly because the results are shrouded under the moon’s veiled light. One thing is certain, though, with Uranus in the mix, this eclipse was a soul defibrillator shocking us out of certain past constraints.

Here are your Taurus full lunar eclipse horoscopes. Read for your rising and sun signs.

SCORPIO

Oct. 24 - Nov. 21

Partnership can be suffocating if you do not see your authentic ity and your liberated potential reflected in your partner. This eclipse offered you an intuition of what you need in a relationship in order to be simultaneously committed and unrestricted. Now it is up to you to enact this pos sibility. Showing some maturity at home and owning confidence with family will help you hold it together.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 - Dec. 21

Your reflective solitude may help you to see yourself more clearly,

ISag, but without bringing your thoughts into your hands you are trapped in a reflective paralysis. Be a player in the world around you by embodying and enact ing your deepest dreams. Free yourself with new routines and projects that make you sweat. Rely on your friends who feel like home to hold you together.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 - Jan. 19

You have people in your life who are intellectually stimulat ing and artistically inspiring, and surrounding yourself with these folks lets you shine. However, you have your own, indepen dent creative spark. Something inside you is begging to be born, nurtured and unleashed on the world. Find your medium. Get serious about your value system and conservative in your spend ing to focus your energy.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 - Feb. 18

You may be feeling a bit un grounded, Aquarius, like there is a total lack of stability under foot. Work is currently in the spotlight and taking a lot of your mental and emotional focus, but home is where you can let all requirements and expectations of you drop. Free yourself in the confines of your home space. Practice some personal modera tion to balance your public and private lives.

PISCES

Feb. 19 - March 20

You see yourself traveling foreign lands, studying new wisdoms and exploring new ways of under standing. Awesome! And yet, your freedom is calling from your familiar surroundings and your local neighborhood. Changing up your usual – your usual way of communicating, your usual routes, your usual errands – will offer you more space to be your

self than any grand adventure.

ARIES

March 21 - April 19

Investing your time, energy and money in the people around you is something we all do as com munal animals, and doing so helps you to identify yourself in your chosen networks. However, right now, you are being called to rebel a bit. Radicalize your per sonal value system and change up your income stream. Con solidate your social circle a bit to make space for your new modus operandi.

TAURUS

April 20 - May 20

This eclipse is calling on you to drop all of your false personas, Taurus. You are not obligated to be a certain way for anyone, and right now it is time for you to be radically yourself – your gor geous, wacky, rebellious, imagi native self. The people you are closest with will need to change right along with you, and the ones you love will love to see you showing up. Actually, being more of an authority in the workspace will help this emergence.

GEMINI

May 21 - June 21

You have some deep psycho logical and emotional shadows, Gemini, and it is time to let them be there without letting them control you. This eclipse is let ting you free yourself from your hidden burdens. The secret is: we all have them! Meditate on what it would be like to feel spa cious. You’re working hard; keep it up and process your shadows through your hands.

CANCER

June 22 - July 22

You have community, Cancer, and that community is pushing you to your own liberation. Yes, you are creative and talented and you have your own pursuits to

achieve. However, it is in letting yourself be helped by your sup port network that you can really experience your freedom. Get serious about any debts you have right now and make a plan to pay them.

LEO July 23 - Aug. 22

This time of year finds you get ting cozy at home and connecting with family, but this eclipse is urging you to focus on work and find some radical lightness out in public. Change up how you relate to work or even change up your career! We live in a world where we must exchange our labor for livelihood, but you can abso lutely do it in a way that is freeing rather than constricting. A lover or important partner is a voice of reason.

VIRGO Aug. 23 - Sept. 22

You may be really feeling yourself in your usual world, Virgo, like the place you live and the people you see regularly are your ideal Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood. Live into it, but also answer the call to adventure, because the path to your hero’s journey was radically opened by this eclipse. What’s out there? What ideas haven’t been thought? What roads haven’t been traveled? Seek out those answers.

LIBRA Sept. 23 - Oct. 23

Your financial and emotional health is in focus, Libra, and setting up a secure foundation is certainly important. However, this eclipse is calling you to invest in something radically differ ent – whether that is a monetary investment, a social investment or an emotional investment is for you to determine. Find liberation in sharing yourself because the return will be radically worth it.

SALON CELEBRATES ANNIVERSARY

RESPONDING TO THE OIL SPILL

DIVING MUSEUM TALK DELVES INTO OPEN OCEAN

RESTORATION

Cirque Salon Studios celebrates its fourth anniversary by hosting the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce for its monthly “Members in Motion” evening event on Oct. 27.

Cirque Salon Studios provides studio spaces for health, beauty and wellness professionals, and is located in the Tradewinds Plaza at Mile Marker 101 near Publix. CON TRIBUTED

History of Diving Museum’s virtual “Immerse Yourself!” lecture series will feature Kris topher Benson, NOAA scien tist, who will discuss Deepwater Horizon open ocean restoration on Wednesday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m.

Benson works as a marine habitat resource specialist in the NOAA Fisher ies Restoration Center. He has served in this role at Fort Crockett in Galveston, Texas since 2003. He works to restore and conserve habitats ranging from coastal wetlands to the deep sea, with an emphasis on deep-water habitats in the Gulf of Mexico.

Benson will describe the process used to assess and repair damage to natural resources following the Deep water Horizon oil spill. He will delve into

The upcoming lecture will examine the pro cess used to assess and repair damage to natural resources following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. CONTRIBUTED

the often unseen consequences of such disasters in the deep ocean.

The museum will host the presenta tion on-site with limited seating in the Bauer Diving History Research Library as well as through a private Zoom meet ing. If you are interested in attending in person, email the community outreach team at programs@divingmuseum.org or call the museum at 305-664-9737. To register for the Zoom Meeting visit Div ingMuseum.org. Spaces will be limited; you must register in advance. For those unable to attend in-person or virtually, the session will be recorded and posted to the HDM YouTube channel. The His tory of Diving Museum would like to thank this month’s “Immerse Yourself” sponsor in the Vitale family.

— Contributed

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD UNDERWAY IN THE KEYS

On Nov. 6, First Bap tist Church had its 10th annual Opera tion Christmas Child shoebox packing party at John Pennekamp State Park. A total of 150 gift-filled boxes were packed to join more than 10.5 million an ticipated to be distributed in over 110 countries around the world.

Members of the First Baptist congregation were joined by Charles Rosenbaum (First Baptist Church Key Largo), Pastor Ralph Pratt (Key Largo Christian Center) and several Coral Shores High School Interact Club members.

Kristopher Benson, pictured right, is a ma rine habitat resource specialist with NOAA. CONTRIBUTED

BIG-TIME GUESTS

Best of Upper Keys had the sheriff and others in the house

1. Members of the Upper Keys Business & Professional Women, Becky Washam, owner of Sandbar Books and winner of Best New Business, and Suzi Youngberg, of MarrVelous Pet Rescue and winner of Best Nonprofit, hold their plaques.

2. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office had numerous members of its top brass in at tendance - with most taking jabs from the emcees. From left, Capt. Jon Crane, Capt. Lee Ann Holroyd, Sheriff Rick Ramsay and Capt. Spenser Bryan.

3. Pastor Tony Hammon shares a few words on his friend, Mike Forster. After attending a similar Keys Weekly event in Key West in 2021, the late commissioner was adamant about bringing the People’s Choice awards back to the Upper Keys.

4. Howard Brody, owner of Whale Harbor, is pictured in the middle. He was joined by wife, Janeth, and Bob, general manager of Hog Heaven, and wife, Kathleen. The event raised nearly $20,000 for the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter.

5. Monroe County Tax Collector Sam Steele acknowledges the crowd after traveling from his home in Key West to witness the inaugural event.

6. Jim Mooney talks with Native Con struction’s Brett Ekblom, who won the 50/50 raffle and then promptly donated the funds back to the Children’s Shelter. Ekblom was one of nearly 200 business leaders in attendance.

CRACKING UP THE CROWD

skits bring

Bestof Upper Keys awards weren’t the only highlight to what was a memorable night inside Whale Harbor Events. In between the handing out of plaques, emcees Jason Koler and Britt Myers had the crowd laughing relentlessly by satirizing local topics and roasting elected officials who were in atten dance. (See Top 10 Signs You Know You’re From the Upper Keys; page 17). 1. Renae Palmer, owner of Aqua Salon And Day Spa. 2. Erin Muir doesn’t quite stifle a laugh. 3. It’s safe to say that Suzi Youngberg en joyed the Best of Upper Keys skits. 4. Tania Mattson, owner of Island Nails by Tania and finalist for Best Business, caught up with friends and helped support the Children’s Shelter. 5. County Commissioner Holly Raschein was a great sport in spite of the roasting. 6. Audra Wallace can’t help but laugh at the remarks by emcees Jason Koler and Britt Myers. 7. County Administrator Roman Gastesi, College of the Florida Keys VP of Advance ment Stephanie Scuderi and Keys Weekly publisher Jason Koler catch up before the show.

8. Henry Menendez and Julie Johnson: Henry Menendez and wife, Julie Johnson, crack up during the “Bringing Leaders To gether” set.

Photos by Doug Finger. For a full gallery, visit keysweekly.com.

KING OF THE CRABS

NEW RECORD SET AT FLORIDA KEYS STONE CRAB EATING CONTEST

BRIEFLY

Historical Preservation Society presents ‘Historic Tavernier’

The Historical Preservation Society of the Upper Keys pro gram for November is “Historic Tavernier.” It will be on Monday, Nov. 14 at 7 p.m. at Coral Isles Church, Mile Marker 90, Plantation Key. Admission is free with ample parking.

Endurance swim challenge set for mid-December

Swimmers are invited to spend 24 hours testing their mettle on Dec. 10-11 at the Ron Levy Aquatic Center in Islamorada. Swim one mile each hour on the hour for 24 hours. The outdoor pool will be set up in long course meters and a mile is 1,600 LCM. Restrooms and locker rooms will be available throughout the event, and there is ample space for each swimmer or team to set up a “camp” on the grass or pool deck.

Brunch (included for regis tered swimmers) will be at the pool on Sunday directly after the end of the event. This is a signifi cant mental and physical chal lenge, for which swimmers must be properly trained.

If you can’t join in person but wish to test yourself and support the initiative to Save Alligator Light (https://www.savealligatorlight house.org/) you can take part by swimming at your home pool dur ing December. See “virtual event” entry at the website to participate. Not everyone can get to Islamo rada for a second time this year - this is a chance to keep in touch during the “off” season.

17-cent jump amounts to about $2.55 more to fill an average-size tank of gas. Florida’s state average now sits at $1.43 per gallon less than what drivers paid in midJune. That has drivers paying $21 less for a full tank than they did in the early summer.”

Health department reminds residents of rising virus

Florida is experiencing large increases in influenza and RSV activity across the state and new variant descendants of omicron are making it difficult for epide miologists to predict COVID-19 trends for the weeks to come.

The Florida Department of Health in Monroe County recom mends residents and visitors follow basic public health prin ciples to prevent communicable disease from spreading as we head into the busy holiday and travel months of November and December.

Many of the germs that cause respiratory illness are spread from droplets that come from coughing or sneezing.

CDC recommends the fol lowing general precautions for everyone to prevent the spread of respiratory illness:

- Minimize close contact with persons who have symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough ing or sneezing.

- Practice respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.

- Wash your hands regularly.

AFlorida Keys commercial fisherman set a new record to win this year’s Keys Fisheries’ Stone Crab Eating Contest in the Florida Keys.

Twenty-eight participants, divided into individual and team divisions, participated in the raucous amateur eating competition in Marathon.

Contestants had to crack and eat 25 stone crab claws and pick them completely clean in the fastest time. Participants received a 30-second pen alty for any claw meat left behind.

Big Pine Key resident Bobby Hanousek far outpaced competitors to finish in 10 minutes, 23 seconds, shattering the previous record of 14 minutes, 29 seconds.

Hanousek, who works as a com mercial stone crab and lobster fisher man, said this was his first time in the stone crab eating competition.

“I saw everybody else smash ing them all at one time, and others

smashing them one at a time,” Ha nousek said. “I just went one at a time, so I didn’t leave any behind and get penalized.”

His strategy worked, leading him to shave over four minutes off the previous record. Prizes included cer tificates for jewelry, a fishing charter, a Keys hotel stay and more.

Marathon residents Ryan Becket and Felicita Franco claimed the top team title, finishing in six minutes and 34 seconds, a new team record.

Stone crabs are considered a renewable resource because of the crabs’ ability to re-grow harvested claws. The Florida Keys are responsible for about half of the state’s stone crab harvest that averages about 2 million pounds annually, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Stone crab harvest season runs Oct. 15 to May 1.

— Contributed

For more information contact the swim director at keys2swim ming@gmail.com

AAA: State average gas price jumps 17 cents

As expected, Florida gas prices increased last week, following the expiration of the state’s gas tax holiday on Nov. 1.

The price fluctuations varied by region. In Tampa, filling stations were seen going from around $3.05 per gallon on Halloween to $3.35 by the end of the week. Meanwhile, the state average increased 17 cents per gallon last week, rising from $3.29 on Oct. 31 to $3.46 per gallon on Nov. 6.

“With the reinstatement of Florida’s gas tax, the state aver age gas price has rebounded to its highest level since Sept. 10,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAAThe Auto Club Group. “Last week’s

- Avoid sharing personal items such as eating or drinking utensils, toothbrushes and towels. You should especially avoid sharing these items with sick persons.

- Maintain a clean environ ment.

CDC recommends routine annual influenza vaccination for all persons aged 6 months and older who do not have contraindica tions.

Updated COVID-19 (bivalent) boosters became available Sept. 2. CDC recommends everyone stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines for their age group.

Symptoms for influenza and COVID-19 are similar and may include headache, muscle ache, fever, coughing and sneezing. Both influenza and COVID-19 are highly contagious and people with symptoms are encouraged to stay at home and wear a mask around others.

Big Pine Key resident Bobby Hanousek stands victorious as he sets a new contest record, finishing his 25 claws in 10 minutes, 23 seconds. CONTRIBUTED

Contestants leave nothing behind as they dig into their 25 claws. CONTRIBUTED

REEF WINS BEST CELEBRITY

County animal farm obtains mobile clinic

Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.”

Welp, the people did it! They voted and voted and I won “Best Local Celebrity” in the Upper Keys last Saturday evening at the event hosted by the Keys Weekly and Overseas Media Group.

ACORN

REEF THE FOX

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

I did not attend; mom went for me and took a “flat Reef” face in my place. It’s not too often your favorite fox is at a loss for words (or screams) but I am truly honored that you think so highly of me. This community is certainly one of a kind. I mean, name another that would have voted a fox as Best Local Celebrity? I certainly cannot think of any.

On a serious note, this award means something else altogether. It means that you all see me as an in dividual that is capable of having my own thoughts, feelings and emotions. I can make people smile just by being myself and I am deserving of things like love and respect and recognition for who I am. That is certainly a stark contrast to where my other foxy friends and I came from. There are people in this world that only see foxes as a commodity. A potential profit. Something, not someone. The fur farms we came from are owned and operated by people who have zero regard for any of the things I just mentioned above. So thank you for seeing me as someone that matters. I appreciate you more than you will ever know, and so does my mom.

So now I have some exciting news regarding all of our friends down at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Animal Farm. The animals at the Animal Farm have a new clinic should they need to see the veterinar ian. A generous donation in honor of veterinarian Dr. Doug Mader, who treats the animals, led the Sheriff’s Office to receive a new 28-foot mobile animal clinic.

“I want to thank this donor who made this clinic possible, all the donors who are helping outfit it and of course, Farmer Jeanne Selander and Dr. Doug Mader,” said Sheriff Rick Ramsay. “I believe this will be a great resource in our community.”

The clinic can be moved if a hurricane threatens, but it will be kept at the Animal Farm.

“This clinic is a huge blessing for the animals,” said Farmer Selander. “The convenience of not having to travel for advanced care will be so much less stressful for the animals.”

Anywho, that’s all for this week. Thank you again to everyone that voted for me and congratulations to all of the other nominees and win ners! Keep up with us by visiting pawsitivebeginnings.org and until next time, Reef, over and out!

This 1-year-old male cat is neutered and up to date on his vaccines. Acorn can be a little shy at first, but he loves to be petted, especially while you are serving his meals. Acorn has a fluffy tail and loves toys. If you would like to make Acorn a part of your family, or to learn more about other pets available for adoption, give the Upper Keys Humane Society (UKHS) a call at 305-451-3848. UKHS is a notfor-profit no-kill shelter that provides food, shelter, medical care and adoption services for unwanted and abandoned animals.

SAVE THE DATE

Thursday, Nov. 10

• Veterans Day ceremony at 9 a.m. at Key Largo School cafeteria.

Friday, Nov. 11

• Veterans Day celebration at 11 a.m. at Murray Nelson Government Center, Key Largo.

• Veterans Day ceremony at 11 a.m. at Fire Station 20.

• 11th annual “Spayghetti & No Balls” gala at 6:30 p.m. at Snook’s Bay side, Key Largo. Visit spayghetti.com for information and tickets.

Saturday, Nov. 12

• First State Bank Key Largo Bridge Run 5K at 7:30 a.m. at Gilbert’s Access Road, Key Largo. Visit runsignup.com/ Race/FL/KeyLargo/KeyLargoBridgeRun to sign up.

• Garden Club of the Upper Keys’ Fall Festival from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (rain or shine) at Francis Tracy Garden Cen ter, MM 94, bayside, Tavernier.

• Mote Ocean Fest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Founders Park.

• Sixth annual A Smuggler’s Night at the Museum at 6 p.m. at Keys His tory & Discovery Center. Tickets avail able at KeysDiscovery.com

Wednesday, Nov. 16

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

Thursday, Nov. 17

• Islamorada Village Council meet ing at 5:30 p.m. at Founders Park Com munity Center

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

Saturday, Nov. 19

• Mariners Hospital 5K Walk/Run & 10K Run at 7:30 a.m. at Treasure Vil lage Montessori, Islamorada.

• Light Up Key Largo at 5 p.m. at Murray Nelson Government Center, Key Largo.

• Movie Under The Stars presents “DC League of Super Pets” at 6 p.m. at Founders Park.

Reef the fox poses with his Best of Upper Keys’ Best Local Celebrity plaque PAWSITIVE BEGINNINGS INC/Contributed

ARTIST’S TOUCH

Medal ribbon showcases work by Jason Barth

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

cheers upon reaching the finish line at Gilbert’s Resort, but they’ll also receive a medal con taining artwork from a local artist.

On the ribbon of this year’s bridge run medal is Jason Barth’s “Sargasso Trip” artwork, which is on display at Our Place in Paradise Art Gallery in Tavernier. Barth’s interest in art began at a young age. He re calls his first piece during his junior year in high school, which landed in an environmental textbook in Miami-Dade County. By the 1990s, Barth started painting and working on commissioned paintings and murals.

Barth said he mainly does can vas work with acrylic as his medium. He’s based out of the Key Largo Art Gallery, located at Mile Marker 103.2.

“I draw my inspirations from the Keys and the water from growing up down here,” Barth said. “A lot of it is nature related.”

Barth has presented more than 25 illustrations, as well as the cover art for The Dade County Environmental Story by Friends of the Everglades, and the cover art for Miami-What-Where-When in the mid-1980s. He is the featured poster artist for the 2017 Islandfest, the 2015 Uncorked, and the 2015 Upper Keys Garden Club.

Henry Menendez, Key Largo Bridge Run organizer, said he

Key Largo Bridge Run management team,” Menen dez said. “Barth is definitely making an impact throughout the Florida Keys as he creates the beauty of na ture to both locals and tourists alike.”

Barth said he’s humbled to showcase his artwork on this year’s medal ribbon.

“It feels really awesome. I’m re ally honored that I was picked,” he said.

Barth’s artwork can also be found at the Fish House in Key Largo. Barth said he’s already work ing on his holiday ornament for the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce’s annual ornament competition dur ing Holiday Fest. Visit Jason Barth’s Instagram page (jason.barth) and Key Largo Art Gallery on Facebook to view more of his work.

The 5K run and walk will start and end at the access road leading to Gilbert’s Resort in Key Largo. Be fore the race begins, registrants are invited to a happy hour pre-party at The Catch in Key Largo on Thursday, Nov. 10 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Following the event, racers are encouraged to attend Mote’s Ocean Fest at Founders Park in Islamorada. The festival, which showcases coral restoration and provides activities for young learners and adults, begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m.

More information is at keylargo bridgerun.com.

Artist Jason Barth is based out of Key Largo Art Gallery.

CONTRIB UTED

A FIX TO THE FERALS

UPPER KEYS CLINIC ON TRACK TO SPAY/NEUTER 1,000 STRAY CATS

to do what I’m doing without this great team,” said Huntsman. “These are some tremendously dedicated people,” he added, describing the dozen volunteers who help out in the clinic every Friday.

On the Friday we visited the clinic, 26 stray cats were being fixed. The nonprofit uses a trap-neuterreturn approach to controlling the stray cat population.

“We don’t remove them, we don’t euthanize them. We fix them, we put them back to stop the population and it works,” said Schwartz.

“A good example would be the Winn-Dixie in Tavernier; there are only six cats back there now. They were almost as bad as Publix up here was,” she added.

More than just spay and neuter ing procedures take place inside this clinic. “If a cat comes in with an in jury, the doctor will treat the injury,” said Schwartz.

Schwartz said her nonprofit re ceives no county funding. It does get one grant a year that takes care of about half of its operating expenses. The rest comes from fundraisers, donations and adoption fees.

Right now the focus is on getting the word out. Schwartz wants people in the community to know if they are having a problem with strays, there is a solution.

KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL www.keysweekly.com

Inside this Key Largo spay and neuter clinic, a devoted team of volunteers works tirelessly to humanely control the feral cat population in the Upper Keys.

“We average about 30 cats a clinic,” said Margie Schwartz. “The males are fast, zip … zip. The females take a little bit longer.”

Schwartz started the Whiskers and Paws Forever nonprofit more than 20 years ago and has been rescuing stray cats ever since. In January, she was approached by MarrVelous Pet Rescues and offered space for a spay/neuter clinic at Mar rVelous’ new property in Key Largo behind the Tower of Pizza.

“So we sponsored the clinic and the rest is history,” said Schwartz. The clinic operates every Friday and averages about 30 cat and kitten spay and neuter procedures per clinic.

Brian Huntsman, a veterinar ian from Miami, comes down every Friday and performs the operations. He offers his services to the clinic at a reduced rate.

“While I may be the one doing the surgery, I cannot even begin

Adult cats can have litters of five to six kittens and they can have three litters a year. Without an aggressive spay and neuter program, the popu lation can explode.

“The real effectiveness will be felt one, two, three years down the road,” said Huntsman.

Since this clinic opened on Jan. 5, 923 cats and kittens and 85 dogs have been fixed.

When the spay/neuter clinic opened in January, Schwartz thought they might be able to perform 800 procedures on stray cats.

“Now that we’re approaching 1,000 cats, that has to be making a big impact,” said volunteer and local real estate agent Deb Bennett, who helps out at the clinic and fosters kittens that are deemed suitable for adoption.

Cats that are not going to be adopted have an ear notched before they are returned to their colony; that way, trappers can quickly determine whether they have been spayed or neutered.

Volunteer Anita Blake works at the clinic’s recovery table. She saw a need in the community and wanted to help. “I’m a dog person at heart but living in the Keys, if you can see a stray cat and turn away from it, I guess more power to you, but I can’t,” said Blake.

“People aren’t going to go and say I’ve got 10 cats in my yard, I’ll take them to our vet and get them fixed, it will cost thousands of dol lars. We want people to know we’re here for them to help them with that problem,” said Schwartz.

If you’d like to help support this clinic and Whiskers and Paws Forever, call Margie Schwartz at 305393-1268. You can also learn more about the program at whiskersand pawsforever.com.

Top to bottom:

Margie Schwartz checks in on a cat in the recovery room after it was fixed.

Volunteers with Whiskers and Paws Forever of Monroe County and veteri narian Brian Huntsman pose for a pho tograph inside the clinic located on the MarrVelous Pet Rescues property.

Brian Huntsman operates on a sedated cat inside the clinic. On this day, Hunts man spayed or neutered 26 stray cats trapped in the Upper Keys.

Anesthesia volunteer Sue Baker Mason carefully holds a cat that was just spayed during the clinic on Nov. 4.

KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys

Weekly

FIREFIGHTER HONORS FALLEN BROTHER

KEY LARGO MAN SET TO PARTICIPATE IN BROTHERHOOD RIDE

Monroe County Fire Rescue firefighter Jake Werner will honor Monroe County Fire Rescue’s fallen brother Herve Thomas in the 2022 Brotherhood Ride on Jan. 21, 2023 (the event was rescheduled due to Hurri cane Ian).

The Brotherhood Ride consists of firefighters, police officers and EMS personnel who ride bicycles to honor emergency first responders who have died in the line of duty. Thomas passed away while on duty in May 2021. The mission of the organization is to provide emotional and financial support to the families of fallen heroes. The 2022 ride is dedicated to Florida’s 85 fallen he roes who died in the line of duty in 2021. Werner and others on the team will pedal for eight days from Fort Myers to Jacksonville, covering 550 miles.

“We are proud of firefighter Werner’s efforts to honor our fallen brother Herve Thomas,” said Monroe County Fire Chief Steve Hudson. “We wish him a safe and successful ride.”

Werner, of Key Largo, knew Thomas and worked with him for more than 10 years and wanted to do this to honor his memory. He has been riding his bike daily, averaging 20 to 25 miles per day to prep for January.

To learn more about the Brotherhood Ride, a nonprofit orga nization, or to contribute to Werner’s fundraising efforts, visit www.brotherhoodride.com.

— Contributed

SHERIFF’S

OFFICE

HANDS OUT QUARTERLY AWARDS

Employees were also recognized for their years of service to the agency. Sheriff Rick Ramsay recognized his Employees of the Third Quarter 2022. The employees received this award for exemplary and outstanding service to the agency and to the citizens of Mon roe County. From left, Tanisha Multy, Deputy Sheriff of the Quarter; Sgt. Kenny Miller, Detention Deputy Sheriff of the Quarter; Ramsay; Deshawn Battle, Support Member of the Second Quarter; and Brian Myers, Support Member of the Third Quarter. Battle was honored as she was not able to attend the 2022 Second Quarter event held earlier this year. MCSO/Contrib uted

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office recently held its quarterly employee awards ceremony in Marathon.

Jake Werner

Herve Thomas

Monroe County Fire Rescue firefighter Jake Werner is set to take part in the Brother hood Ride in 2023 to honor fallen brother Herve Thomas. CONTRIBUTED

LEADERSHIP MONROE HEADS TO THE GLADES

ALEX RICKERT

www.keysweekly.com

Communityleaders from Key Largo to Key West escaped with fingers and toes intact as Leadership Monroe County’s Class XXX – the best class – reunited for its second session on Nov. 4-6: a three-day trip from Key Largo through the Ever glades National Park.

Beginning with a classroom session and boat ride at Key Largo’s MarineLab, the 21 members of Class XXX received an education on the connections between the Keys’ grass bed, coral reef and open ocean ecosystems before travel ing to the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority to learn the exact science behind some of the nation’s clean est tap water. (Did you know it’s tested 219 times per day?)

From there, the weekend was a whirlwind of environmental wonder as the class visited four museums and nature trails interspersed be tween tours of one of Florida’s most crucial ecological centers via boats, swamp buggies and airboats. As is tradition in the program, members of Class XXIX “Delta Force” returned to Everglades City’s Rod and Gun Club on Saturday night to provide a dinner and celebration of LMC’s 30th anniversary.

Founded in 1992, the LMC pro gram is aimed at community resi dents who are active in leadership roles in the private sector, govern ment or community organizations. Through a series of one- and twoday sessions, participants examine fundamental segments of the local

community and gather information to help them make quality leader ship decisions. The program has a strong alumni base and urges all graduates of the program to stay tuned for Leadership alumni events throughout the Keys as the pro gram returns to full force in a postCOVID world. More information is at leadershipmonroecounty.org.

Rickert is a member of Leader ship Class XXX.

From Key Largo to Everglades City, Class XXX’s weekend journey included four motorized tours and visits to several parks, museums and official buildings. Photos contributed.

LEGAL NOTICES

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of ATLAS CHARTER KW located at 135 Peary Ct Unit E, Monroe County in the City of Key West, Florida 33040-7733, 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 2nd day of November, 2022.

By: Aileen Rodriguez

Publish: November 10, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC SALE

NOTICE OF SEIZURE

Please take notice that in accordance with Florida Statutes 83.805 & 83.806, Tavernier Mini Storage Inc., located at 135 Hood Avenue, Tavernier, FL 33070 and

LEGAL NOTICES

Upper Keys Commerce Center, located at 97300 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037will sell or otherwise dispose of the contents of the following units to satisfy the delinquent storage lien.

All contents in units:

Tavernier Mini Storage Unit C-37 John Scott Upper Keys Commerce Center Unit 58 Vicki Lindquist Unit 65 Victor Calderon Sale of all goods will take place on November 28, 2022 at 10:00 am.

Tavernier Mini Storage Inc. and Upper Keys Commerce Center reserves the right to accept or reject any and/all bids.

Publish: November 10 & 17, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Wheatons Towing gives notice that on 11/25/2022 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 to Florida statute 713.78. Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.

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MERCURY

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Publish: November 3 & 10, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICES

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

Florida Keys Council of the Arts

Notice of Upcoming Meetings

The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed.

Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@keysarts.com

Art in Public Places Committee Meeting

Nov 16, 2022 12:00 PM EST

Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 844 0986 4874  Passcode: 674289 Publish: November 10, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

City of Key Colony Beach PO Box 510141 600 W. Ocean Drive Key Colony Beach, FL 33051

LEGAL NOTICES

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

City of Key Colony Beach PO Box 510141

600 W. Ocean Drive

Key Colony Beach, FL 33051

RFP – Request For Proposal Static Screen Replacement RFP – 0604-10-1-0-2022/DJT

The City of Key Colony Beach Commissioners requests interested parties to submit formal sealed bids/proposals for the above referenced

Scope of Work: see scope of work attached

Ordering Instructions: This package can be downloaded from DemandStar Corporation on our website at https://www. demandstar.com.

Document Cost: provide all labor and materials to install static screen replacement Due Date/Time: 11/21/2022 11:00:00 AM Eastern City of Key Colony Beach must receive bids no later than said date and time. Bids received after such time will be returned unopened.

Bid opening will take place @11:00 AM, 600 West Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051”City Annex”

LEGAL NOTICES

Bid opening will take place @11:00 AM, 600 West Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051”City Annex” NOTE: ALL PROSPECTIVE BIDDERS/RESPONDENTS ARE HEREBY CAUTIONED NOT TO CONTACT ANY MEMBER OF THE KCB STAFF OR OFFICIALS OTHER THAN THE SPECIFIED CONTACT PERSON.

Contact: David Turner City Administrator Phone: 305-289-1212 Mailing Address: PO Box 510141 Key Colony Beach, FL 33051 Publish: November 10, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF INTENT TO USE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS

of the proceedings and that, for such purpose, he may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

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) 2924441, between the hours of 8:30a.m. – 5:00p.m., prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”. Live Closed-Captioning is available via our web portal @ http://monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners. Dated at Key West, Florida, this 1st day of November 2022.

PUBLIC AUCTION NOTICE

The City of Key Colony Beach is now in possession of 4 boat trailers abandoned in our storage lot. All attempts to contact the last known owners to claim and remove these trailers have failed, and these trailers are deemed and defined as abandoned under Key Colony Beach Code of Ordinances, section 11-2. These trailers are designated as:

• Boat Trailer expired MA Tag No. D3372, VIN 1N9BS14232F206019 (2 axle)

• Boat Trailer expired FL Tag No. LSVL76 VIN 1M5BA262181E35112 (2 axle)

• Boat Trailer No Plate, VIN 4YPAB30393TO31082 (3 axle)

• Boat Trailer No Plate, VIN unidentifiable (1 axle)

Accordingly, the City of Key Colony Beach will hold a public, silent auction for disposal of these trailers. These trailers DO NOT have titles and are being auctioned AS IS. The City of Key Colony Beach DOES NOT make any representations or warranties with regard to any aspect of these trailers, nor does the City of Key Colony Beach assume any liabilities with regard to any aspect of these trailers. The highest bidder will be awarded the trailer(s) and must immediately remove it/them from City property.

This auction will take place on Saturday, November 19, 2022, at the City of Key Colony Beach short-term trailer storage lot, north entrance off 8th street. Inspection of these trailers will be from 9:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m., and the silent auction will be from 9:45 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. Bids will be placed in sealed envelopes, to be opened by City personnel, and payment is CASH ONLY. All bidders must include a name, address, email address, telephone number, and a copy of photo ID. If the highest bidder is unable to remove the trailer(s) at the conclusion of the auction that bid will be forfeited, the CASH returned, and the trailer awarded to the next highest bidder. (No bids accepted from Key Colony Beach employees or their families).

The City of Key Colony Beach will provide a Bill of Sale representing the auction transaction, but obtaining a new registration for any trailer is exclusively the responsibility of the buyer, and the City of Key Colony Beach DOES NOT make any representations or warranties with regard to any aspect of the ability to register any of these trailers, or any state’s laws with regard to registration of any of these trailers. Anyone claiming to have an ownership interest in any of these trailers must provide official state registration and/or title documents to me prior to the auction date to claim the trailer and remove it from the auction.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me directly.

Barry G. Goldman, Code Enforcement Officer

City of Key Colony Beach, 305-289-1212, ext. 4 P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051 codeofficer@keycolonybeach.net

Publish: November 10 & 17, 2022. The Weekly Newspapers

RFP – Request For Proposal Repairs to Sadowski Causeway Bridge RFP – 22086-0-2022/DJT City of Key Colony Beach Commissioners requests interested parties to submit formal sealed bids/proposals for the above referenced Scope of Work: See Engineer's and state inspection report.

Ordering Instructions: This package can be downloaded from DemandStar Corporation on our website at https://www. demandstar.com.

Document Cost: supply all labor, materials and permits needed.

Pre/Bid Proposal Conference: NON-MANDATORY Site visit is highly recommended to see scope of work.

Due Date/Time: 11/30/2022 11:00:00 AM Eastern City of Key Colony Beach must receive bids no later than said date and time. Bids received after such time will be returned unopened.

Bid opening will take place @11:00 AM, 600 West Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051”City Annex”

NOTE: ALL PROSPECTIVE BIDDERS/RESPONDENTS ARE HEREBY CAUTIONED NOT TO CONTACT ANY MEMBER OF THE City of Key Colony Beach STAFF OR OFFICIALS OTHER THAN THE SPECIFIED CONTACT PERSON. M/WBE's are encouraged to participate in the bid process.

Contact: David Turner City Administrator Phone: 305-289-1212 Mailing Address: PO Box 510141

Key Colony Beach, FL 33051 Publish: November 10, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTE: ALL PROSPECTIVE BIDDERS/RESPONDENTS ARE HEREBY CAUTIONED NOT TO CONTACT ANY MEMBER OF THE Key Colony Beach STAFF OR OFFICIALS OTHER THAN THE SPECIFIED CONTACT PERSON. M/WBE's are encouraged to participate in the bid process.

Contact: David Turner City Administrator Phone: 305-289-1212 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 510141 Key Colony Beach, FL 33051 Publish: November 10, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

INVITATION TO BID

City of Key Colony Beach PO Box 510141 600 W. Ocean Drive Key Colony Beach, FL 33051

1TB – Invitation to Bid Gazebo 1TB – 22085-1-2022/DJT

The City of Key Colony Beach Commissioners requests interested parties to submit formal sealed bids/proposals for the above referenced Scope of Work: Repairs to Gazebo per Engineer's report Ordering Instructions: This package can be downloaded from DemandStar Corporation on our website at https://www. demandstar.com.

Document Cost: Supply all labor and materials to complete repairs needed as per Engineer's report

Pre/Bid Proposal Conference: NON-MANDATORY A site visit is highly encouraged to see scope of work firsthand.

Due Date/Time: 11/30/2022 11:00:00 AM Eastern City of Key Colony Beach must receive bids no later than said date and time. Bids received after such time will be returned unopened.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on December 7 2022, at 9:00 a.m. or as soon thereafter as it may be heard, at the Monroe County BOCC Chambers at the Murray Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Florida, the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners will consider adoption of the following resolution:

A RESOLUTION OF Monroe County, FLORIDA ELECTING TO USE THE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS LEVIED WITHIN THE County FOR ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS AND SEA LEVEL RISE IMPROVEMENTS; STATING A NEED FOR SUCH LEVY; PROVIDING FOR THE MAILING OF THIS RESOLUTION; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

The resolution, if adopted, would indicate the County’s intent to use the uniform method of collecting non-ad valorem special assessments to be levied within the County as authorized by section 197.3632, Florida Statutes, for the cost of providing roadway improvements and sea level rise improvements for the Fiscal Year beginning on October 1, 2023 and continuing until discontinued by the County. The proposed resolution, which contains the legal description of the real property subject to the levy and states the need for the special assessment, can be inspected by the public by viewing the agenda packet for this meeting at: http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx

All interested persons are invited to attend, either in person or by zoom. The zoom link can be found at: http://monroecountyfl. iqm2.com/citizens/default.aspx

Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, notice is given that if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at such hearings or meetings, he will need a record

Meeting Notice

Monroe County Land Authority

The Monroe County Land Authority Advisory Committee will meet in the Marathon Government Center located at 2798 Overseas Highway, Media Room – 1st floor, Marathon, Florida on November 18, 2022 beginning at 9:30 a.m. The agenda is available online at www.monroecounty-fl.gov or by contacting the Monroe County Land Authority office at 305-295-5180.

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

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: November 10, 17, 24 and December 1, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF INTENT TO USE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on December 7, 2022, at 9:00 a.m. or as soon thereafter as it may be heard, at the Monroe County BOCC Chambers at the Murray Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Florida, the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners will consider adoption of the following resolution:

A RESOLUTION OF Monroe County, FLORIDA ANNOUNCING NOTICE OF INTENT TO USE THE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS LEVIED WITHIN THE County BEGINNING WITH the TAX BILL ISSUED IN NOVEMBER 2023 FOR CANAL RESTORATION PROJECTS ON CANALS 82, 83 AND 84 IN KEY LARGO; CANAL 105 IN TAVERNIER; CANALS 255, 287, 290, 295, 297 AND 315 IN BIG PINE KEY; AND CANAL 474 IN GEIGER KEY; STATING A NEED FOR SUCH LEVY; PROVIDING FOR THE MAILING OF THIS RESOLUTION; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The proposed resolution, which contains the legal description of the real property subject to the levy and states the need for the special assessment, can be inspected by the public by viewing the agenda packet for this meeting at: http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx

All interested persons are invited to attend, either in person or by zoom. The zoom link can be found at: http://monroecountyfl. iqm2.com/citizens/default.aspx

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

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) 2924441, between the hours of 8:30a.m. – 5:00p.m., prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”. Live Closed-Captioning is available via our web portal @ http://monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

Board of County Commissioners.

Dated at Key West, Florida, this 1st day of November 2022.

LEGAL NOTICES

MADOK,

the Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk

the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: November 10, 17, 24 and December 1, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF INTENT TO USE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS

The Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida (“the County”) hereby provides notice, pursuant to Section 197.3632(3)(a), Florida Statutes, of its intent to use the uniform method of collecting non-ad valorem special assessments, for the cost of providing certain wastewater capital improvements and connections, to be levied within the unincorporated area of Monroe County encompassing the Stock Island, Key Haven, Big Coppitt, Lower Sugarloaf through Big Pine Key, No Name Key, Long Key, Duck Key; excluding Indies Islands, and three (3) parcels on Boca Chica: RE# 122870-000000, 012288000000, and 122890-000000 for the fiscal year beginning on October 1, 2023 and continuing each year until discontinued by the County. The County will consider the adoption of a resolution electing to use the uniform method of collecting such assessments authorized by Section 197.3632, Florida Statutes, at a public hearing to be held on December 7, 2022 in the Commission Chambers, Murray E. Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Mile Marker 102 and by Communications Media Technology (CMT). Such resolution will state the need for the levy and will contain a legal description of the boundaries of the real property subject to the levy. All interested persons are invited to attend.

The proposed resolution may be inspected by the public at the Monroe County website by viewing the agenda packet for the December 7 BOCC meeting which will be posted beginning on November 25, 2022 at: http://monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/citizens/default.aspx. The resolution may also be viewed at the Monroe County Attorney’s office at 1111 12th St. Ste. 408 Key West, FL 33040.

The public can participate in the December 7, 2022, meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, FL by attending in person or via Zoom. The Zoom link can be found in the agenda at http://monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/citizens/default.aspx.

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

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodation in order to participate in these 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”. Live Closed-Captioning is available via our web portal @ http://monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners. Dated at Key West, Florida this 2ndt day of November, 2022.

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA KEY WEST DIVISION Case Number: 22-10082-CIVMARTINEZ

IN RE: THE COMPLAINT OF LIGHTHOUSE PARASAIL, INC. AS OWNER OF A 2009 31’ OCEAN PRO PARASAIL BOAT TITLED “AIRBORNE” BEARING THE HULL IDENTIFICATION NO. CNX00096B909 ITS ENGINES, TACKLE, APPURTENANCES, EQUIPMENT, & ETC., IN A CAUSE OF EXONERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY, Petitioner.

_________________________/

ORDER APPROVING AD INTERIM STIPULATION, DIRECTING ISSUANCE OF MONITION AND INJUNCTION

A Complaint having been filed herein on the 26th day of September 2022, by Petitioner, Lighthouse Parasail, Inc. as owner of the 2009 31’ Ocean Pro Parasail Boat "Airborne" bearing the Hull Identification No. CNX00096B909 its Engines, Tackle, Appurtenances, Equipment, etc. (the “Vessel”) for Exoneration From or Limitation of Liability as provided in 46 U.S.C. § 30501 et seq. and pursuant to Rule F of the Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Claims for the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, for any and all loss, damage, deaths, personal injuries, damage or destruction of property or other occurrences allegedly resulting from the incident that occurred on or about May 30, 2022, referred to in the Complaint;

And Petitioner having deposited with the Court as security for the benefit of Claimants, an Ad Interim Stipulation not less than or equal to the amount or value of his interest in the vessel and pending freight, if any, as required by the rules of this Court and by the law;

IT IS ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that Ad Interim Stipulation for the value of Petitioner’s interest in the Vessel for no more than the amount of $100,000 plus costs of Court and interest at the rate of six (6%) percent per annum from the date hereof and filed herein by Petitioner as an Ad Interim Stipulation for the purpose of this action, is hereby approved as to form and amount.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that Petitioner and any claimant who may properly become a party hereto may contest the amount or value of Petitioner’s interest in the Vessel as fixed in the Ad Interim Stipulation, subject to such increases or decreases in its amount, together with adequate security, as the Court may from time to time order according to the rules and practices of this Court.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that if the amount of the Ad Interim Stipulation is not contested by any claimant herein, the Stipulation shall stand as a Stipulation for Value and an appraisal by a Commissioner will not be required.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that a monition shall be  issued by the Clerk of this Court advising and  admonishing all persons asserting claims for any and all losses, damages, injuries, deaths or destruction allegedly as a result of the occurrences and happenings recited in the Complaint, to file their respective claims with the Clerk, United States District Courthouse for the Southern District of Florida located at 301 Simonton Street, Key West, Florida 33040, and serve on or mail copies thereof to Petitioner’s attorney, Mintzer Sarowitz Zeris Ledva & Meyers, LLP, on or

before December 16, 2022, or be defaulted. If any Claimant desires to contest Petitioner’s right to exoneration from or limitation of liability, Claimant(s) shall file and serve on Petitioner’s attorney an answer to the Complaint, on or before said date, unless his claim has included an answer to the Complaint so designated.  Failure to do so will result in default.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that publication of the aforesaid notice in the form required by Rule F of the Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty Claims of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the Monroe County area once a week for four successive weeks prior to the date fixed for the filing of claims.  No later than the date of the second weekly publication, a copy of said notice shall be mailed by Petitioner to every person or corporation known by the Petitioner to have a claim against Petitioner arising out of the accident set forth in the Complaint.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED AND ADJUDGED that the commencement or further prosecution of any action or proceeding against Petitioner, the vessel or other property of Petitioner with respect to any claims for which Petitioner seeks exoneration from or limitation of liability herein, including any claim arising out of or incident to or connected with any loss, damage, injury, death or destruction, more fully described in the Petition, be and the same is hereby STAYED and RESTRAINED until the hearing and determination of this action.

IT IS FINALLY ORDERED that the service of this order as a restraining order in this District may be made in the usual manner as in any other district of the United States by delivery by the Marshal of the United States for such district of a certified copy of this order on the person or persons to be restrained or to their respective attorneys or, alternatively, by mailing a conformed copy of it to the person or persons to be restrained or to their respective attorney.

DONE AND ORDERED in Chambers at Miami, Florida this 20 day of October, 2022.

JOSE E. MARTINEZ

UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE Publish: November 10, 17, 24 & December 1, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 22-CP-000339-K IN RE: ESTATE OF CHARLES W. MCKNIGHT, JR. A/K/A CHARLES W. MCKNIGHT Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Charles W. McKnight, Jr. a/k/a Charles W. McKnight, deceased, whose date of death was August 29, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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

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

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: November 10, 2022.

Personal Representative: Patricia Magnon 14905 Heronglen Drive Lithia, Florida 33547

Attorney for Personal Representative: Judy Karniewicz

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 694185

THE KARNIEWICZ LAW GROUP 1211 W. Fletcher Avenue Tampa, Florida 33612

Telephone: (813) 962-0747 Fax: (813) 962-0741

E-mail: Judy@tklg.net

Secondary E-Mail: Calli@tklg.net Publish: November 10 & 17, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 22-CP-126-P IN RE: ESTATE OF GERD CARL WUNDERLICH Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of GERD CARL WUNDERLICH, deceased, whose date of death was August 4, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representatives and the personal representatives’ attorney are set forth below.

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

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

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

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME 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: November 10, 2022.

Co-Personal Representatives: Gregory K. Wunderlich 186 Arbor Lane Tavernier, FL 33070

Theresa L. Wunderlich 910 State St. # 2 New Albany, IN 47150

Attorney for Personal Representatives: URBAN J. W. PATTERSON, ESQ. Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com

Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@ yahoo.com

Florida Bar No. 382035

Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A. P.O. Box 783 Islamorada, Florida 33036

Telephone: 305-664-5065

Publish: November 10 & 17, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 22-CP-000137-P IN RE: ESTATE OF DIANA D. NEWMAN

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS (summary administration) TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS OR DEMANDS AGAINST THE ABOVE ESTATE:

You are hereby notified that an Order of Summary Administration has been entered in the estate of DIANA D. NEWMAN, deceased, File Number 22-CP-000137-P, by the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070; that the decedent’s date of death was August 9th, 2022; that the total value of the estate is $0.00 and that the names and addresses of those to whom it has been assigned by such order are: Name: LISA LAPRADD as Trustee of the DIANA D. NEWMAN Declaration of Trust dtd March 27, 2003 Address: 148 Harbor Lane, Tavernier, FL 33070

ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE NOTIFIED THAT: All creditors of the estate of the decedent and persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent other than those for whom provision for full payment was made in the Order of Summary Administration must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702. ALL CLAIMS AND DEMANDS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING ANY OTHER APPLICABLE TIME PERIOD, 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: November 10, 2022.

DIANA D. NEWMAN Declaration of Trust dtd March 27, 2003

LISA LAPRADD, Trustee 148 Harbor Lane Tavernier, FL 33070

Attorneys for Person Giving Notice: Palmer Palmer & Mangiero 12790 S. Dixie Hwy Miami, FL 33156 Telephone: (305) 378-0011 Florida Bar No. 818119 Email Addresses: eservice@ ppmpalaw.com david@ppmpalaw.com Publish: November 10 & 17, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 22-CP-231-K IN RE: ESTATE OF JUDITH THOMPSON GADDIS Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Judith Thompson Gaddis, deceased, whose date of death was May 17, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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

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

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: November 10, 2022.

Personal Representative: LYNN MARIE SMITH 712 William Street Key West, Florida 33040

Attorney for Personal Representative: Gregory D. Davila, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 0886998

Law Office of Gregory D. Davila, P.A. 1111 12th Street, Suite 411 Key West, Florida 33040

Telephone: (305) 293-8554 Fax: (305) 294-9913 E-mail: gdavila@ keywestlawoffice.com

Secondary E-Mail: e-filing@ keywestlawoffice.com Publish: November 10 & 17, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 22-CP-98-M

DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF PHILIP C. SCHNEIDER, JR. Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Philip C. Schneider, Jr., deceased, whose date of death was August 28, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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

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

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: November 3, 2022.

Personal Representative: Greta Schneider 1515 Sombrero Blvd. Apt. 4C Marathon, Florida 33050

Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.com

Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: November 3 & 10, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 22-CP-100-M

DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF JAMES C. CRAWFORD Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of James C. Crawford, deceased,

whose date of death was September 6, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: November 3, 2022.

Personal Representative: Roberta Ann Crawford 43 Revere Street

Gloucester, Massachusetts 01930

Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner

Attorney

Florida Bar Number: 283134

RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: November 3 & 10, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 44-2022-CP-229-A001KW

HON. TIMOTHY J. KOENIG IN RE: ESTATE OF GLENDA IRENE APGAR BURRIS, a/k/a GLENDA A. BURRIS, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Glenda Irene Apgar Burris, deceased, whose date of death was July 14, 2022, 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 name and address 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 the 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.

KEVIN

Clerk of

of

Kevin Madok, Clerk and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: November 10, 17, 24 and December 1, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICES

The date of the first publication of this notice is November 3, 2022.

Personal Representative: Donna B. Staley 2028 Rubens Vista Mount Holly, North Carolina 28120

Attorney for Personal Representative: Joseph J. Kulunas, Esquire Florida Bar Number: 308005

FOX ROTHSCHILD LLP 777 S. Flagler Dr., Suite 1700 West Tower West Palm Beach, FL 33401 Telephone: (561) 835-9600

E-Mail: jkulunas@foxrothschild. com

Second: jvennerstrom@ foxrothschild.com

Publish: November 3 & 10, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 22-CP-000338-K

IN RE: ESTATE OF JAMES P. MCKERLEY, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of James P. McKerley, deceased, whose date of death was August 30, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, File Number 22-CP-000338-K, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The name and address 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 the 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 the first publication of this notice is November 3, 2022.

Personal Representative: CAROLYN MCKERLEY

Petitioner

Attorney for Personal Representative: BART H. CHEPENIK, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 0038962

Primary E-mail: bchepenik@ ctllp.com Secondary E-mail: probateservice@ctllp.com Chepenik Trushin LLP

Attorneys for Petitioner

12550 Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 805 Miami, Florida 33181

Telephone: (305) 981-8889

Facsimile: (305) 405-7979

Publish: November 3 & 10, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No.: 2022-DR-87-M

Division: Family DAVID RODRIGUEZ, Petitioner, and KAYE RODRIGUEZ, Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE

TO: Kaye Rodriguez

United Kingdom

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 Michelle Klinger Smith, attorney for David Rodriguez, whose address is 5701 Overseas Highway, Suite 7, Marathon, FL 33050 on or before December 12, 2022, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

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

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

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

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings. Dated this 27TH day of October 2022.

Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Shakia Mitchell Deputy Clerk

Publish: November 10, 17, 24 and December 1, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 22-DR-745-K

DIVISION: FAMILY IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF: MARIO TORRES, Petitioner, and, LAURA ZURITA, Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE

TO: Laura Zurita

LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: Mexico

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 Mario Torres, whose address is 1019 Margaret Street, Apt. 5, Key West, FL 33040 on or before December 12, 2022, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

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

LEGAL NOTICES

can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: November 7, 2022 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Riza Hall

Deputy Clerk Publish: November 10, 17, 24 & December 1, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 22-DR-229-M DIVISION: FAMILY IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF: HILARIA PARTIDA, Petitioner, and, RAUL EDUARDO JUAREZ SAC, Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE

TO: Raul Eduardo Juarez Sac

LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: Unknown

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 Hilaria Partida, whose address is 1337 Ocean Breeze Avenue, #47, Marathon, FL 33050 on or before December 5, 2022, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

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: October 31, 2022

Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Calvin Joseph Deputy Clerk

Publish: November 3, 10, 17 & 24, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

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

CIVIL DIVISION

CASE NO.: 2022-CA-000674-K

JUDGE: Timothy Koenig RAYMOND J. VAZQUEZ AND MATTHEW A. NOONER, Plaintiff, Vs. NANCY MILLINGER a/k/a NANCY B. MILLINGER, deceased, her unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, and all other parties claiming by, through, under or against the aforesaid parties; and all unknown natural persons, if alive, and if dead or not known be dead or alive, their several and respective unknown spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, or other parties claiming by, through or under those unknown natural persons; and the several and respective unknown assigns, successors in interest, trustees or any other person claiming by, through, under or against

AUTOS WANTEDLEGAL NOTICES

any named defendant; and all claimants, persons or parties, natural or corporate, or whose exact legal status is unknown, claiming under any of the abovenamed or described defendants or parties or claiming to have any right, title or interest in and to the lands hereinafter described, Defendants.

NOTICE OF ACTION

TO: NANCY MILLINGER a/k/a NANCY B. MILLINGER, deceased, his unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, and all other parties claiming by, through, under or against the aforesaid parties; and all unknown natural persons, if alive, and if dead or not known be dead or alive, their several and respective unknown spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, or other parties claiming by, through or under those unknown natural persons; and the several and respective unknown assigns, successors in interest, trustees or any other person claiming by, through, under or against any named defendant; and all claimants, persons or parties, natural or corporate, or whose exact legal status is unknown, claiming under any of the abovenamed or described defendants or parties or claiming to have any right, title or interest in and to the lands hereinafter described,

YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a Complaint has been filed against you by the Plaintiff in the above-styled court for the purpose of quieting title to the following described property situate and being in Monroe County, Florida:

All that part parcel or lot of land lying and being in the County of Monroe and State of Florida, described as follows:

In the City of Key West and known on Whitehead’s plan of said city delineated in February, A.D., 1829 as part of Lot Two (2) in Square Number Sixty-three (63):

Commencing at a point one hundred and five (105) feet from Southard Street and two hundred (200) feet from Whitehead Street, and running thence in a Southeasterly direction Fifty (50) feet; thence Northeasterly Forty (40) feet; thence Northwesterly Fifty (50) feet to land adjoining the Estate of John Bullman.  The Southeasterly front of forty (40) feet being along the line of a ten foot alley.

YOU ARE REQUIRED to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Richard J. McChesney, Esq., Spottswood, Spottswood, Spottswood, & Sterling, PLLC, Attorney for Plaintiff, whose address is 500 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 33040, on or before the following date: December 5, 2022, and to file the original with the Clerk of the Court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorney or immediately thereafter, otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

WITNESS my hand and seal of this Court on 26th day of October, 2022.

KEVIN MADOK, as Clerk of the Court

By: Shonta McLeod, as Deputy Clerk Publish: November 3, 10, 17 & 24, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

ALL

BOATS FOR SALE

FOR SALE: 2007 Cobia 19 ft, with T-top, 115hp Yamaha. No trailer. Located in Marathon. $9,900 Text 305-743-6098

Place your Boat For Sale ad here! Up to 5 lines of copy for only $25.00/ week. Call 305-743-0844 today and sell your boat!

BOAT SLIP FOR SALE

Boathouse at Coral Lagoon in Marathon. Dry Slip For Sale 30B elevated dry slip allows 36' long 9'7.5" beam 11'8.5" Ht Hurricane Rated Bldg, free in and outs, pool/ poolhouse access $125K Tim 630 947 4344 call or text tncrombie@gmail.com

BOAT SLIP/TRAILER

STORAGE FOR RENT

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

Place your Boat Slip For Rent ad here! Up to 5 lines of copy for only $25.00/week. Call 305-743-0844 today and rent your boat slip!

EMPLOYMENT

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

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

Florida Keys SPCA in Marathon hiring two Animal Care positions w/ potential for advancement. Starting pay $15/hr with generous benefits package. 21 years or older with valid driver's license and ability to pass a criminal background check. Email resume to Tara@fkspca.org.

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

Help Wanted- experienced or will train- full timebenefits- Electrical Work with well established company in business since 1998- Marathon. Email to am.companies@gmail. com or call 305-393-0971.

Immediate positionsavailable at the GrassyKey Marina. Under newownership and looking forsmiling faces. Full-time or part-time available. Pay rates are commensurate with experience but we are willing to interview those with no experiencewho have an interest in working in a marinaenvironment. Please call Randall Glass to schedule an interview at 305-465-1491.

NOW HIRING - Full Time Seafood Packers/Graders and Freezer Worker. 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: Utilities Maintenance, Recreation Specialist, Right of Way Technician, Parttime Marina Custodian/ Maintenance and Marina Tech/Pump Out Captain. Full Benefits. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us

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

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

Come Join Our Family and Have Fun At Work! Hiring: Host, Hostess & Servers - Full &/or parttime. AM & PM Shifts. Apply in person at Castaway Restaurant, end of 15th Street, Oceanside, Marathon or email: lobstercrawl@gmail.com

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

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

Place your Employment ad here! Up to 5 lines of copy for only $25.00/week. Call 305-743-0844 today and find your needed staff!

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

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

43 Morley Close Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE13 0LG

Our Providers:

MM 1 - Inez Martin Child Care Center (C16M0012) 1100 Varela St., Key West, FL 33040 Contact: Christine Patterson • 305-809-5055 • christine.patterson@wesleyhouse.org Vacancies: 3 teachers

MM 2 - Sunbeam Christian School (C16MO0034) 1311 5th St., Key West, FL 33040 Contact: Jerlyn Matthews • 305-2946018 • sunbeam@fsbckw.org Vacancies: 3 teachers

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

MM 22.9 - Banana Cabanna Academy Inc. (C16MO0054) 22673 Pieces of Eight Rd, Cudjoe Key, FL 33042 Contact: Roxanne Rosado • 305-745-1400 • banana.cabanna@att.net Vacancies: 2 teachers

MM 47 - Kreative Kids Christian Academy (X16MO0001) 4711 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050 Contact: Maria Vaillant • 305-743-7165 Kreativekidsca@bellsouth.net • vaillantmaria@yahoo.com Vacancies: 2 teachers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DeeDee Vazquez, PA-C

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 305-747-1700

Place your Housing For Rent ad here! Up to 5 lines of copy for only $25.00/ week. Call 305-743-0844 today and rent your space!

HOMES FOR SALE.

Duck Key Condo For Sale by owner. 2 BR/2 BA corner unit, ground floor w/front door parking. $350,000. 412-977-5322 susanprimm276@ yahoo.com

LOTS FOR SALE

Two Lots For Sale in Marathon. 1006 Peter Jay Street - zoned commercial/ industrial. $675,000 per lot. 305-393-0643

Place your Lot For Sale ad here! Up to 5 lines of copy for only $25.00/ week. Call 305-743-0844 today and sell your lot!

RV FOR SALE

ONSITE JOB FAIR

HIRING

RV

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

OPEN POSITIONS

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Cook, $5,000 Bonus

- Environmental Tech, $5,000 Bonus

- Manager Medical Staff

- Medical Technologist, $15,000 Bonus

- Hyperbaric Tech

- Nurse Supervisor

- Monitor Technician, Cardiac Telemetry

- Multi-Modality Imag Tech, $9,000 Bonus

- Patient Experience Advocate, Patient Experience

- Pool Physical Therapist

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, $20,000 Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care Ctr, $20,000 Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Surgery, $20,000 Bonus

- Registered Respiratory Therapist, $15,000 Bonus

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- Cook $5,000 Bonus

- Dietitian $5,000 Bonus

- ED Team Coordinator

- Floor Technician $5,000 Bonus

- Medical Technologist, $15,000 Bonus

- Nurse Supervisor

- Multi-Modality Imag Tech, $9,000 Bonus

- Patient Experience Advocate

- Phlebotomist, $10,000 Bonus

- Pool Physical Therapist

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, $20,000 Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care, $20,000 Bonus

- Registered Nurse, $20,000 Bonus

- Security Of cer

- Supervisor Laboratory, $15,000 Bonus

- Surgical Technologist

Location:

The

Hospital

Marathon

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER IS HIRING!

School Programs

& Outreach Curriculum Specialist

(Full-Time - Permanent)

Visual Communications (Full-Time/Part-Time, Seasonal or Permanent)

Volunteer Resources Administrative Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

Education 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)

Accounting Director (Full-Time/Permanent)

Education Registration & Enrollment Specialist (Full-Time/Permanent)

Gift Shop Staff (Part-Time, Permanent) DOLPHIN

SUNSET GRILLE IS LOOKING FOR A FRONT OF HOUSE MANAGER

The Front of House Manager plans and directs all day to day restaurant operations. Maintains high standards of food, service, health and safety; ensures the efficient and profitable business performance of the restaurant and the optimal utilization of staff and resources.

• Perform opening and closing duties in accordance with established policies and procedures.

• Oversee and support front of house supervisors

• Oversee overall maintenance of the restaurant and property

• Coordinate restaurant operations to include daily schedules and identifying recruiting needs

• Responsible for ensuring guest satisfaction and quality guest experience

• Maintain employee records

• Oversee training and identify training needs

• Responsible for new hire onboarding and orientation

• Conduct staff meetings when necessary

• Monitor labor and operational costs

• Identify and estimate food and beverage supply requirements/needs and ensure inventory needs are met

• Perform other duties as assigned

Apply in person 7 Knights Key Blvd, Marathon. No phone calls please.

Tips to shooting beneath the surface

PICTURE PERFECT

More divers are bringing along underwater cameras. A diver descends at the Eagle wreck off the Upper Keys. ISLAMORADA

WEATHER CONDITIONS

FRIDAY

Chance of showers

SATURDAY

Southeast

1

Divers

exploring the depths off the Upper Keys this past week had stellar diving conditions. In fact, we were seeing visibility in the 100-feet-plus range. You could see fish in the sand, from the surface at the Eagle wreck, which lies in 105 feet of water.

With visibility like this we love to take out our cameras and get some fantastic under water footage. With technology advancing the way it does and high quality cameras becoming easier to use, we are seeing more and more divers getting into the underwater photogra phy game. You don't need a super expensive set up to bring home amazing photos. These days you can even get a case for your phone and take it out diving with you. Pictures can be uploaded to Instagram seconds after you surface.

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.

Underwater photography does differ from photography on land; there are definitely some techniques and tips that are helpful. Here are some of those tips if you find yourself heading out soon to dip below the waves to gather some great photos.

1. Get close! Preferably within 12 inches of the subject. Water reduces color, contrast and sharpness.

2. Turn on your flash. Preferably in "force flash" mode

3.The best composition is shooting upward at your subject. Don't center the subject, try to fill the frame with the subject. And never shoot downward.

7. Set your camera to the highest resolution and lowest ISO to begin with. And set it to auto white bal ance when using your strobe/flash and custom white balance when not.

8. If you choose to use natural sun light, stay in 20 feet of water or less with the sun behind you.

4

. Get your diving skills down before getting into photography. Buoyancy is key in underwater shoots.

5. Practice topside with your camera in its housing. Try doing close ups with household items.

9. If your photos don't look sharp, check the shutter speed: 1/30 for still objects, 1/60 for slow moving objects and 1/125 for fast moving objects.

6

. Backscatter is common with all the particles in the ocean. To mini mize this, get an external strobe/ flash and position it away from your camera.

10. To sharpen your photos, down load a photo processing app and in crease the contrast a small amount. Best advice is to get out there and practice. Have fun with it and enjoy the underwater world.

Sponsored by

Northeast winds, around 10-15 knots

2-3 foot seas

DIVE CENTER/Contributed

winds, around 5 knots

Sunny

foot seas