to the residents of Islamorada, Village of Islands, from the bottom of my heart. I appreciate the trust you have placed in me to continue to serve on the Village Council. for
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The global population reached 8 billion on Nov 15. About 70% of the growth to 8 billion from 7 billion happened in low- and lower-middleincome countries, most of which are in sub-Saharan Africa, the United Nations said.
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is requested on Gardenia Street. And a reduction of parking is requested from the required 70 spaces to 41.
Anew Islamorada council seated Dec. 8 will consider whether development of a distillery moves forward at the former BB&T Bank building on Plantation Key.
Specifically, council members will consider approval of a major conditional use to redevelop the building’s first floor into a distillery, restaurant and brewpub with outdoor seating area. Seven deed restricted residential housing units are located on the second floor. The applicant is CBT Construction and owner Chris Trentine.
In September, the item was tabled due to ongoing discussions regarding conditions and certain aspects of the application. A special meeting initially planned for October was pushed back several times, and the request was expected to be considered at the Nov. 17 meeting. A notice wasn’t released in time to get it on the agenda, so the request will go before the new council next month.
Property that would house the distillery fronts U.S. 1, Gardenia Street and Palm Drive on Plantation Key. It’s zoned village center and has a mixed use future land use classification. Near the proposed distillery sits Capt. Craig’s Restaurant, Payfair grocery store and a 24-hour 7-Eleven, of which all allow for the purchase or serving of alcohol.
Described as an “island upscale” cocktail bar, Crooked Palm Distillery aims to serve Islamorada beer, cocktails on tap, frozen drinks and nonalcoholic mixers. The proposal initially included an outdoor seating area of 5,400 square feet. Since then, the outside area was reduced to 4,751 square feet.
Several variances are also requested with developments to the site related to landscaping, buffers and parking relaxations. For instance, a 50% buffer relaxation
Trentine told the Keys Weekly in September that there are plans to place big buffers between the establishment and other buildings and homes to address concerns from the public over noise. Residents have voiced concerns to the village council over music that would potentially come from the property.
“The village has these big buffer requirements and they’re giving us a variance on that. In exchange we’re doing hedges, which actually creates more of a buffer,” he said. “It will be more of a wall of trees versus plantings that you see at Publix.
“We’re doing a double hedge, we’re doing a fence around the outdoor seating area, and then that will have a hedge around it,” Trentine continued. “We will also have a hedge wrapping around from Gardenia Street to exit out of Palm Avenue, so that will be a double buffer.”
Through back and forth with the village, Trentine has agreed to 19 conditions in hopes of appeasing nearby concerned residents. They include limiting total occupancy of the distillery to 160 patrons, limiting hours of operation and amplified music outside, limiting the number of outdoor seats to 32 in the plaza area on top of providing buffers and landscaping.
“Village Council should carefully consider the proposed intensity of the brewpub/restaurant/distillery. While strict application of village landscaping and buffer requirements is not warranted based on existing conditions, the size of the proposed outdoor seating area limits the ability to bring the site into a greater degree of compliance,” a staff analysis reads.
In April, the village council approved an alcohol permit for the distillery.
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Four votes separated current vice mayor Henry Rosenthal from former councilwoman Deb Gillis following a machine recount on Nov. 11 at the county supervisor of elections office in Key West. Nov. 18 will determine the victor with military and over seas ballots due.
Unofficial results from Election Night showed six votes separating Islamorada incumbent Henry Rosenthal from former councilwoman and motel owner Deb Gillis. Joyce Griffin, supervisor of elections, said Gillis picked up a vote through a provisional ballot to bring her total to 1,140.
During the machine recount, the supervisor of elections said Rosenthal lost a vote, bringing his total to 1,144. Early votes, votes by mail and Election Day ballots are completely reported.
Griffin told the Keys Weekly last week that a recount, per Florida law, is done when the result is less than onehalf of 1%. The race for Seat 4 saw Rosenthal securing 34.30% of the vote while Gillis had 34.12% of the vote. The race for Seat 4 had three other candidates, with Angel Borden receiving 385 votes, John Timura gathering 363 votes and Casey Watkins getting 306 votes.
It’s the first time in the village’s history that a seat race saw five candidates. A little over 3,330 votes were cast for candidates vying for Seat 4.
It’s unknown how many overseas ballots will make their way to the supervisor of elections office. Canvassing of overseas ballots will begin on Friday, Nov. 18 from 4 to 4:30 p.m.
Per the village charter, a canvassing board made up of Marne McGrath, village clerk, Maria Bassett, finance director, and Amanda Merren, public relations special ist, will convene to certify vote totals once the Monroe County Supervisor of Elections certifies all ballots. The Village Canvassing Board is scheduled to meet on Nov. 21 at 3:30 p.m.
A new council will be seated during a Dec. 8 meeting at Founders Park Community Center. Incumbents Buddy Pinder and Mark Gregg will return to the dais following victories on Election Night. Newcomers Elizabeth Jolin and Sharon Mahoney will also be sworn in, following their wins on Nov. 8.
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
An Islamorada council that shut down construction of a pedestrian bridge over U.S. 1 and grappled with hirings and resignations of top staff will convene for a final meeting on Nov. 17. Come Decem ber, a new council will take their seats.
The meeting, with 17 agenda items up for consideration, will be the last one for Councilman David Webb and current Mayor Pete Bacheler. Both were elected to the council in 2020 when five seats were up for grabs. Cur rent councilmen Buddy Pinder and Mark Gregg will return for another twoyear term. And all is not said and done in the race for Seat 4, where vice mayor Henry Rosenthal currently leads former councilwoman Deb Gillis by four votes. A winner will be determined on Friday, Nov. 18 when overseas ballots are due to the supervisor of elections office.
On the list of action items are six requests by applicants seeking administrative relief in order to construct homes on their vacant lots. All applicants are currently in the building permit allocation system, or BPAS, but they failed to receive a permit. Some applications have been consid ered and turned down for a permit during the last four allocation periods. A village staff analysis states that all applications won’t receive an allocation before the program ends in 2023. The village council will be tasked with considering presented evidence to determine a course of action.
Council members will also consider approval of market rate building permit allocations for five applications without a land dedication. The ap plications are ranked ninth through 13th in a list of 80 waiting for a build ing permit. A total of 22 market rate residential allocations were made available for 2022, including five market rate building permits without land dedication.
A distribution schedule for remaining building permits will also get council consideration for approval. Village code requires the council to establish the total amount of nonresidential floor area and residential dwelling units that may be made available for the next annual BPAS alloca tion. The council must also consider the quarterly allocations for that year and the distribution of this allocation between categories. For 2023, eight affordable housing allocations and 11 market rate allocations are available.
Funding through the Florida Keys Stewardship Act for a backfill restora tion project at Canal 116 on Plantation Key will be considered by the dais. The project seeks to improve the canal’s water quality by raising its bottom by 6 feet below mean sea level to allow for tidal flow. Staff is seeking Stew ardship Act funds totaling $1,759,627.10 to cover project costs.
The Monroe Board of County Com missioners selected Craig Cates as the next mayor and Holly Merrill Raschein as the mayor pro tem for the coming year during a Nov. 15 meeting in Key West.
Cates has been a commissioner since 2019 and Merrill Raschein since 2021. Both recognized outgoing Mayor David Rice for his duties for the past year. The mayor title is given to the chairperson of the board of county commissioners. The commissioners choose the designee based on a majority vote, usually at the November board meet ing.
A mayor pro tem is also designated to fill in when the mayor is unavailable. The mayor presides over the board’s meetings and serves as the Monroe County representative at ceremonial occasions. The mayor is also responsible for signing and co-signing docu ments with the county clerk.
In addition to the ceremonial passing of the gavel, four of the five commission ers, Michelle Lincoln, Merrill Raschein, Rice and Jim Scholl, were re-elected to their seats and were sworn in by the Clerk of the Court Kevin Madok.
In other matters, county commission ers approved a 2023 legislative agenda for the upcoming state session in Tallahassee.
Legislative Affairs Director Lisa Tennyson presented Monroe County’s priorities for the upcoming session from March 7 through May 5. Some of the priorities include secur ing another $25 million from the Florida Keys Stewardship Act, which funds water quality projects and land acquisition, and secur ing $6 million for its emergency operation center. Tennyson said the project’s been in the works for a while. A groundbreaking was held last month.
Protecting the marine environment through developing new mooring fields and addressing derelict vessels was also on the priority list. And county officials are hoping state officials repeal or change House Bill 735, which prohibits local government occu pational licensing affecting local contractors and tradespeople, passed in 2021.
County officials are also keeping their eye on efforts by Islamorada and Marathon to obtain building allocations from the state. The county and Keys municipalities were given 1,300 workforce housing allocations af ter Hurricane Irma. Key West, Marathon and Islamorada started the process to accept their 300 units. The county elected to hold off due to legal challenges.
Coined as “early evacuation” units, a recent court decision stated that Islamorada and Marathon aren’t allowed to use these allocations as such since they don’t comply with state statute for a 24-hour storm evacu ation. Tennyson said the county’s statement supports legislation to amend the statute, but commissioners decided to change lan guage to state that they are monitoring the situation.
“I think it’s important to leave it in the agenda, pending draft language. I think it’s an important topic and we want to be part of the conversation. I don’t want to com mit us until we see draft legislation,” Mer rill Raschein said. “We’re not attempting to undermine the area of critical state concern designation. That’s a misguided opinion if you ask me.”
“We’re monitoring it, but it doesn’t mean that we’re supporting it,” Cates said.
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The Village Council has resumed the in-person regular meeting format. Virtual participa tion is still available to the public. Please review the instructions below the agenda for participation details. I. CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
AGENDA: Requests for Deletion / Emergency Additions
PUBLIC COMMENT – (This is general public comment. It provides an opportunity for the public to speak about matters not scheduled elsewhere on the agenda. The mayor opens public comment on action items throughout the meeting.)
VI. VILLAGE ATTORNEY / VILLAGE MANAGER COMMUNICATIONS
A. Freebee Contract, FDOT Service Development Program Funds VII. CONSENT AGENDA – (All items on the Consent Agenda are considered routine by the Village Council and will be approved by one motion. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a Councilmember so requests, in which event, the item will be moved to the Main Agenda. Public comment will be opened regarding all items on the Consent Agenda after a summary by the Village Manager.)
A. Resolution Approving Change Order No.1 with Aqua Waste Repair Inc. for Canal 114 Project
B. Resolution Approving Subaward and Grant Agreement between the Village and the Florida Division of Emergency Management for a Watershed Management Plan
C. Resolution approving the Purchase of One BC100XL Brush Chipper
D
. Resolution Approving the Purchase of One (1) Enclosed Cargo Trailer
VIII. ORDINANCES – (Public comment will be opened for each Ordinance after an introduction by staff and Council discussion and debate.)
A. Ordinance Amending Comprehensive Plan Policy 1-2.4.7 “Limit Transient Rental Use of Residential Properties
B
. Ordinance Amending Land Development Regulations Section 30-1295(b)(2) to Revise Valuation Criteria for Vacation Rental Registration
IX. QUASI-JUDICIAL – (Quasi-judicial hearings provide an opportunity for the public to provide testimony after the applicant and staff have made their presentations on each item. Persons who give testimony are subject to cross-examination. The public is not permitted to cross-examine witnesses.)
A. Property Owner, Islamorada Realty Investment Trust, is seeking administrative relief of one Building Permit Allocation for property located at 36 Park Rd, Upper Matecumbe Key. The property is zoned Residential Single Family (R1)
B. Property Owner, Tommy Wrenn, is seeking administrative relief of one Building Permit Allocation for property located at 137 Indian Mound Trail, Plantation Key. The property is zoned Residential Single Family (R1/R1M)
C. Property Owner, Islamorada Realty Investment Trust, is seeking administrative relief of one Building Permit Allocation for property located at 161 Mohawk Street, Plantation Key. The property is zoned Residential Single Family (R1)
D. Property Owner, Islamorada Realty Investment Trust, is seeking administrative relief of one Building Permit Allocation for property located at 206 Harbor Drive, Plantation Key. The property is zone Residential Single Family (R1/R1M)
E. Property Owner, Native Rental Properties LLC, is seeking administrative relief of one Building Permit Allocation for property located at 60 Wrenn St, Plantation Key. The property is zone Residential Single Family (R1/R1M)
Owner, Islamorada Realty Investment Trust, is seeking administrative relief of one Building Permit Allocation for property located at 80 Wrenn Street, Plantation Key. The property is zone Residential Single Family (R1/R1M)
Coral Shores Girls Soccer @ South Florida HEAT 11/7 Canceled
Coral Shores Boys Soccer @ Marathon 11/8 W, 8-2
Key West Boys Soccer Somerset Silver Palms 11/8 W, 3-1
Marathon Girls Weightlifting Coral Shores & Gulliver Prep 11/9 Marathon 1st, Coral Shores 2nd
Key West Girls Soccer Coral Shores 11/9 W, 8-0
Key West Boys Soccer @ St. Brendan 11/10 L, 4-2
Marathon Boys Soccer @ Westwood 11/10 W, 8-2
Coral Shores Swimming @ States (Sailfish Splash Park, Stuart) 11/11 Postponed until 11/18
Key West Swimming @ States (Sailfish Splash Park, Stuart) 11/12 Postponed until 11/19
11/17
Marathon Girls Basketball SoHo 4 p.m. 11/17
Coral Shores Girls Soccer St. Brendan 6 p.m. 11/18 Coral Shores Swimming @ States (Sailfish Splash Park, Stuart) 10 a.m. 11/18 Key West Boys Soccer @ Dade Christian 4 p.m. 11/18 Marathon Boys Soccer Palmer 4 p.m. 11/18 Key West Girls Basketball @ Barron Collier 5:30 p.m. 11/18 Key West Girls Soccer @ Port Charlotte 7 p.m. 11/19 Key West Swimming @ States (Sailfish Splash Park, Stuart) 10 a.m. 11/19 Key West Girls Soccer @ Lemon Bay 10 a.m. 11/19 Key West Girls Basketball @ Golden Gate Naples 1 p.m. 11/21 Key West Girls Basketball Immokalee 3 p.m. 11/21 Coral Shores Boys Basketball @ Everglades Prep 4 p.m.
Starting as a freshman last season, Mikail “Jay” Marshall made a name for himself as one of the fastest defenders in the county. This year, head coach Kelley Cruz has changed his position in a move that has already paid dividends for the Fins.
“Mikail has transitioned from playing more defensive to becoming our starting striker,” Cruz said.
In just two games, Marshall has become a force on the pitch, with an assist against Coral Shores and a hat trick against Westwood Christian. His speed, evasiveness, ball control and competitive nature make Marshall a threat against any team he and the Dolphins face, and though he is just a sophomore, his team respects and looks up to him. For his aggressive gameplay and solid teamwork, Mikail Marshall is this week’s Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
Coral Shores and Gulliver Prep made the trip to Marathon High School on Nov. 9 for a girls weightlifting tri-meet. Marathon coach Jessie Schubert was pleased with the early season results his team has put up and looks forward to continued improvement in the coming weeks. The Lady Fins took eight out of 10 top spots in the meet, securing the team win for Marathon.
Weightlifting is scored by combining the best of three attempts in two different types of lifts. Athletes may opt to lift in the Olympic category which combines the snatch and the clean & jerk or in the Traditional category which combines clean & jerk with the bench press. Athletes compete in a series of weight classes from 101 pounds to the Unlimited (199.1 and up) class.
Top Performers By Weight Class, Nov. 9
ey West has the finest athletic facilities this side of Miami, but so far this season, its soccer fields have seen little of their scheduled action. Several games set to be played on Key West’s turf fields nicknamed “The Backyard” were instead played at Marathon or Coral Shores due to a lack of officials in the Lower Keys. Key West is not alone in this struggle; finding officials across the islands is becoming problematic for athletic directors, and inevitably it is the student athletes who will suffer if a solution isn’t put in place soon.
Like so many other things in the Keys, a lack of affordable housing is driving this issue to an extent. The longtime officials who have worked the games in Monroe County for many years are getting older, and young folks interested in officiating youth sports are not moving in at the same rate as the exodus.
“The naval base used to have a lot of guys doing some officiating on the side, but that is not the case any more,” said Marathon High School athletic director Lance Martin, explaining that the shortage is a multifaceted issue. “It is very difficult to get new ones due to the low pay and the verbal abuse they take at times from spectators.”
Key West still has a few diehard officials, as do Marathon and the Upper Keys, but more are needed to ensure youth and prep sports can continue in Monroe County. And even though one can’t make a living off of being an official alone in the Keys, the money isn’t terrible for someone who loves sports and is looking for a side gig that allows for staying active and engaged in the community. Football game pay is currently $111 per game. Baseball and softball pay is $85, and volleyball and soccer pay stands at $79. Travel is also reimbursed, and many officials can almost double their pay in travel mileage.
So how does one become an official?
“The process is very easy,” said Martin. “You must be 18 to be a full time official or 16 to be a junior official. First, join an association. Register with the FHSAA. Then do a level 2 background check. Then take the 50-question, untimed, open-book test offered prior to the fall, winter and spring seasons.” Prospective officials have a set window in which to complete their tests prior to each season.
To find all the contacts for the various sports offered in Monroe County, visit the FHSAA website at fhsaa.com/sports/2020/5/19/officials_directory.aspx.
soccer season officially opens in Monroe County
Nov. 7 marked the official start date for regular season soccer across the state of Florida. In boys soccer, Marathon and Coral Shores met up in Marathon on Nov. 8 for an early matchup. Marathon showed sparks of greatness during the game, including an early goal off a corner kick by Oscar Cardona and one later in the game by Brayam Gonzalez-Cinto off a Mikail Marshall assist, but it would not be enough to carry the Fins into a win.
Coral Shores outscored Marathon 8-2 with goals coming from six different ’Canes. Robert Temkin and Makani Burga each had a pair of goals while Wilman Avila, Preston Carroll, Leonardo Vazquez, and Jackson Garcia each had one in the win.
Directly following the Marathon/Coral Shores game, Key West took the field in Marathon to take on Somerset Silver Palms. Originally scheduled to be played in Key West, the contest was moved to Marathon due to a lack of officials in the Lower Keys. Key West outscored the Stallions 3-1 in the match, with two goals from Jonathan Gvili and one from Sebastian Camargo.
Marathon hit the road on Nov. 10 to play Westwood Christian and found their scoring groove in the match, netting eight goals from six different Fins. Mikail Marshall led the scoring with a hat trick, and Henry Herrera scored two while assisting on four others. Scoring one goal each for Marathon were Yuni DeLeon, Oscar Cardona, Brayam Gonzalez-Cinto and Juan Vasquez. Marathon’s win evened up its record to 1-1 heading into week two of regular season play.
Key West also played on Nov. 10 against St. Brendan School in Miami. The Conchs had a solid second half but could not come back from a rockier first half that saw the Sabres score three goals against them. The final score was 4-2, giving Key West an even 1-1 record in regular season play.
Key West and Coral Shores played one another on Nov. 9. The Conchs scored six goals in the first half, then secured the win with two in the second half. Kathryn Smith scored four in the matchup and Grace Andrew, Madison Kiduff, Nikole Tomita and Victoria Davey-Willy each had one in the 8-0 victory. The Conchs played again on Nov. 11 against Ransom Everglades, losing 3-0 in the away match.
The Lady Fins began their season at Somerset Silver Palms on Nov. 15, losing 9-3.
Photos by Barry Gaukel. See more game photos at www.shadypalmphotography.com
Adesignation by the popular Garmin marine navigation system beckons boaters to anchor near a critical in-water coral nursery managed by Coral Res toration Foundation (CRF), with recent visits resulting in extensive damage to the endangered corals cared for in the nursery.
Years ago, when a live rock aqua culture farm was established between Pickles Reef and Molasses Reef off Tavernier, NOAA labeled the loca tion as an “Obstruction/Fish Haven,” a designation for artificial structures that could impede surface navigation and foul anchors. While Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary’s (FKNMS) Restoration Blueprint proposes to protect coral restoration areas, current law does not prohibit anchoring or fishing in the area, and in recent weeks multiple incidents have occurred.
“On Saturday, Oct. 22, our team arrived on site to find a boat anchored and actively fishing,” said Jessica Levy, CRF director of restoration strategy. “After advising them of the endan gered coral species below, the anglers thanked our team for the information and began to pull anchor.”
While pulling anchor, Levy said they dislodged an entire Coral Tree from the ocean floor, a structure that held 60 fragments of critically endan gered corals. Impacting corals, even in areas where fishing is allowed, is a violation of sanctuary regulations.
A second incident on Nov. 1 af fected the genetic bank section of the coral nursery where genotypes of corals are housed long-term for use in research. CRF arrived at the nursery to find the aftermath of what appeared to be an anchor drag through multiple coral trees in the gene bank.
An in-water Coral Tree recently lost an en tire branch — most likely the result of an anchor line wrapping around it and break ing it off. CORAL RESTORATION FOUNDA TION/Contributed
“One tree had half of a branch broken from it and about 100 coral fragments were scattered on the sea floor. Some of those corals died, and all of them lost their genetic tags. The surviving corals are now categorized as unknown genotypes and will be cared for until their genes can be sequenced, a costly and time-consuming endeav or.”
NOAA’s Restoration Blueprint proposes the protection of in-water nurseries along with active restoration sites, but that is a long-term solution. “We are appealing to anglers and boaters to be vigilant about where they drop anchor and fishing line,” said FKNMS Superintendent Sarah Fang man. “Raising baby corals in the open ocean is a critical component of reef restoration to ensure viable fish popu lations in the future.”
Given the frequency of these recent incidents, the sanctuary is also considering the use of its emergency capacity to create a no-anchoring buf fer around the area.
The fish haven designation, which is expressed on maps as “Obstn Fish Haven,” does not indicate whether fishing is allowed or not. Many fish havens were created to support and encourage recreational fishing, while others have been created specifi cally to protect fish and fishing may be restricted in these areas. Anglers should check with appropriate authori ties before dropping a line within a fish haven to learn what restrictions, if any, may apply.
A200-pound loggerhead turtle is swimming freely after becoming entangled in a trap line not far from Founders Park in Islamo rada.
Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Investiga tor Paige Pestka and FWC Officer Daniel Marshall were on routine water patrol a quarter mile offshore from the park on Nov. 11 when they noticed some commotion at the surface ahead of them. As they approached, they found the female turtle struggling and splashing as she was entangled in a commercial trap line. FWC said the gear was wrapped around the turtle’s neck.
Officers waited for the turtle to surface close enough to the patrol vessel so they could use a boat hook to grab the line. When the turtle did surface close enough to grab the line, the officers carefully pulled the turtle to the vessel so they could help it. Pestka quickly got the line unraveled, and the freed turtle swam off unharmed.
— Keys Weekly staff report
Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation officers find a log gerhead turtle tangled in commercial trap line off the shores of Founders Park in Islamorada. FWC/Contributed
Scouts, local dignitaries and community honor those who served
Islamorada Fire Rescue invited dignitaries, Boy Scouts and the public to its annual Veterans Day ceremony at Station 20 on Nov. 11. Attendees took a moment to honor the men and women who served, as well as those who continue to protect the country and its freedoms during times of war and peace. Carlos More ton, Islamorada Fire Rescue lieutenant, emceed the ceremonies. American Legion Post 145 members, Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts with Troop 914, Mon roe County Sheriff’s Office and village officials were among the attendees.
— Weekly staff report
1. Local veterans mostly with American Legion Post 145 Islamorada stand to be recognized.
2. Guests participate in prayer during a Veteran's Day Ceremony.
3. Boy Scouts of America Troop 914 and Cub Scout Pack 914 gather for the start of a Veteran’s Day Ceremony.
4. Kenneth Knudsen with American Legion Post 145 Islamorada.
5. Paster Tony Hammond, at far right, chats with American Legion Post 145 Islamorada members Kenneth Knudsen, at left, and Larry Decaso, at center, before a Veteran's Day ceremony.
DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
Chapters Health Hospice in the Keys spent Veterans Day honoring nine local veterans with special pins and other gifts during a ceremony at American Legion Post 333 in Key Largo. A nonprofit hospice care organization, its valor pro gram recognizes military veterans through a variety of services, which include peer-to-peer emotional sup port, special needs accommoda tions, end-of-life wish granting and recognition through ceremonies. Vivian Dodge, executive director of Chapters Health Hospice in the Keys, said the hospice organization cares for individuals with life-limited illness and supports friends and family through the journey. “The purpose of our valor program is to recognize and acknowledge our veterans and extend our apprecia tion and gratitude for the service and the sacrifice made by you, our dear veterans,” Dodge said. “I am honored to stand before you today to celebrate all that you are, all that you have given in service of this nation. It’s a privilege to be here acknowledging the contributions to the freedom that you made.” Each veteran was presented a pin, a star from a retired flag and a challenge coin. Veterans’ spouses were also acknowledged for their support.
— Jim McCarthy
1. Vivian Dodge, executive director of Chapters Health Hospice in the Keys, acknowledges Army veteran Jim Schmeiser.
2. Claude Bullock, Army veteran, is pinned during the ceremony. Bullock has also served the last 25 years in the Coast Guard Auxiliary.
3. Dennis Ellis, Marines veteran, is pinned.
4. Vivian Dodge recognizes Army veteran John Daybeck.
5. Nine veterans are honored for their service to the country during a cer emony by Chapters Health Hospice in the Keys.
St. James Children's Center students decorated 40 bags and wrote "thank-you" cards to veterans, and St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church filled the bags with toiletry items and goodies for Veterans Day. They were distributed at the Veterans Day Ceremony at the Murray Nelson Center on Nov. 11. The children create bags every year to thank veterans for their service to the country. ST. JAMES THE FISHERMAN/Contributed
Words are inadequate in describing the mag nificent performances given by the United States Coast Guard Honor Guard, school band, singers, flag bearers and safety patrol during the Key Largo School Veterans Day Ceremony on Nov. 11. Un der the extraordinary leadership and direction of principal Darren Pais, band director Susan Bazin and event organizer Oksana Gilbertson, a breath taking and brilliant performance was created and coordinated flawlessly, for the enormous gather ing of parents, veterans and families that filled the auditorium for this special occasion.
Our American Legion Post 145 Islamo rada would like to recognize and thank Evan Bedford and the Ace Hardware family in Tavernier for their loyal and generous support of Post 145. For our recent Veterans Day visit to the Crystal Rehabilitation, Evan provided an ample supply of beautiful American flags. During our visit, we were able to give a flag to each of the veterans as well as to family members of vets who were visiting their loved ones. The Ace Hard ware family has a history of supporting local veterans and Post 145 is grateful.
Please stop by Ace Hardware to thank Evan and his family for their sup port of the local veteran community. And thanks to Post 145 Brian Sayre for fostering this wonderful relationship.
Dipre American Legion Post 145 IslamoradaThe following day at the Upper Keys Govern ment Center another Veterans Day observance was conducted. A Scout honor guard from Troop 912 under the leadership of Ariel Poholek gath ered and provided the large audience that had gathered with a spectacular presentation of the colors. These Scouts performed their duties in an absolutely magnificent manner. Next, our Keys Community Concert Band under the direction of Bazin performed beautiful melodies for our audi ence. Everyone commented on the wonder and joy this band brought into their lives. They played the Armed Forces Medley, as our student flag bear ers marched onto the stage and placed their flags into the appropriate holder, while their particular military anthem was being played.
The two powerfully potent videos shared with the audience, via the technical direction of Leon ardo Morin and Xenia Leonteva, were riveting and compelling. County Veterans Director Cathy Crane, along with her deputy James Carey and VA service officer Kevin Perham made this presentation pos sible. State Attorney and VFW Post 10211 Com mander Dennis Ward's leadership has been crucial and instrumental in maintaining and continuing to make this event available for our community.
Colonel Lou Caputo and Captain Spenser Bryan, along with Key Largo Fire Department and first responders were in the audience. County Commissioners Holly Raschein and Michelle Lincoln also honored us with their presence. School board member Sue Woltanski provided us with inspira tional support from her front row seat. Thank you for making this a wonderful event.
John Donnelly Key Largo
It's been more than two and a half years since Kim Hamilton's mother passed away, but this Key Largo woman still gets choked up remembering the devastation caused by Alzheimer's disease.
"It's a horrible, horrible disease," said Hamilton. "It's heart-wrenching, when your mother looks at you and says 'Who's your mom and who are you?'”
Hamilton's mother, Connie Gilson, was 84 years old when she was diag nosed with Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia.
"She wasn't athletic, but she got out, she enjoyed life. She had friends, she played bingo, she led an active life," recalled Hamilton of her mother before the degenerative disease struck.
November is National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. Accord ing to the Alzheimer's Association, 6.5 million Americans age 65 and older are living with the disease and that num ber is continuing to rise. Almost twothirds of Americans with Alzheimer's are women. As of now, there is not a cure.
That's why Hamilton, a retired Key Largo-based U.S. Postal Service employee of 23 years, and her fam ily continue to raise money for Al zheimer's research. Hamilton will be at Florida International University on Saturday, Nov. 19 for the Walk to End Alzheimer's. Joining Hamilton will be her husband, Jimmy, brother Joe, two grandchildren, Jordan and Kayla, and daughter Katie.
They call themselves Team Mam mo; the name affectionately given to Gilson by her great-grandchildren who were only 10 and 8 when she started to decline.
"It was tough on them going and seeing her while she was sick and not remembering; that was hard on them,"
said their mother, Katie Bourne.
"It's hard for grownups to understand it, so let alone kids," added Hamilton. This will be Hamilton's ninth walk to end Alzheimer's; it will be the fifth walk for her daughter Katie.
Since she started walking in 2017, Hamilton has raised well over $3,000 for Alzheimer's research. Watching a loved one slip away from dementia is a power less feeling. For Hamilton, walking and raising money for a cure is a way of turn ing helplessness into effectiveness.
"You feel like you're actually putting forth the effort to help find the cure," she said.
During this interview, Hamilton and her daughter Katie browse through old photo albums, even sharing a chuckle remembering Gilson, their feisty and often unpredictable loved one.
"She never really had a filter," said Bourne.
"She used to take her dentures out, she didn't care where she was, and that was when she was well," laughed Hamilton.
Team Mammo is still looking for sponsors and no amount is too small.
"I just had somebody give me 200 dollars. To me that's a lot of money, it's a friend. But a dollar is appreci ated," said Hamilton.
If you'd like to sponsor Team Mammo, just scan the QR code. Donations for the walk will be accepted until the end of December. To learn more about future Walks to End Alzheimer’s you can also head over to alz.org.
"Someday we hope to have a cure," said Hamilton.
1. Bridge Run participants take off from the starting line at the access road leading to Gilbert’s Resort in Key Largo. 2. Participants run up on the northbound side of Jewfish Creek Bridge. 3. Monroe County Administrator Ro man Gastesi and Stephanie Scuderi, vice president of advancement at College of the Florida Keys, participate in the annual Key Largo Bridge Run.
Key Largo Bridge Run medals hang near the finish line. 5. Tavernier resident Anastassia Webb raises her hands as she crosses the finish line. She was the top female runner.
Chris and Whitney Trentine, of Islamorada Brewery & Distillery, approach the finish line.
Top female finishers.
A determined young runner conquers the bridge, which serves as an entryway into the Florida Keys.
Top male finishers.
Some 350 runners and walkers scaled Jewfish Creek Bridge — the gateway to the Florida Keys — for the 12th annual First State Bank Key Largo Bridge Run on Nov. 12. Upper Keys runners were well represented on the podium between the overall 5K winner Anthony Pallaria, 37, of Islamorada, and Anastassia Webb, 41, who won the women’s division. Pallaria crossed the finish line at 19 minutes and 25 seconds. Webb, a Tavernier resident, finished with a time of 21 minutes and 35 seconds. Key Largo resident Chris Nelson finished second in the men’s division with a time of 20 minutes and 49 seconds. Racers ranged from kids as young as 8 to men and women in their 70s. Some participants came across the pond from Ireland, Germany and England. Ireland’s Cian Kennedy, 48, won the men’s masters division with a time of 22 minutes and 27 seconds. Racers from Ohio and Oklahoma to Minnesota and Oregon had the chance to take in breathtaking views of the eastern Everglades and Atlantic Ocean as the sun rose. A strong Upper Keys contingent also raced and walked the course. Women’s masters winner Terri Swanson, 63, from Marathon, posted a time of 25 minutes and 59 seconds. The race, organized by HNO Productions and Henry Menendez, supports Key Largo School and Teen Intervention & Prevention Services (TIPS). — Jim McCarthy
At Founders Park on Nov. 12, Mote Marine Lab celebrated its 5th annual Ocean Fest, with dozens of booths set up to educate locals and tourists alike on the challenges the ecosystems cur rently face.
Other notable organizations rep resented included Florida Bay Forever, whose representatives spoke about the problems facing our wetlands; and the Wild Bird Sanctuary, which brought its talking parrot, Fred. The Turtle Hos pital, based out of Marathon, I.CARE, Reef Relief and Coral Restoration Foun dation were also in attendance.
Mote Marine, which hosted its first Ocean Fest in Key West in 2012, considers the festival a valuable event for supporting its research and out reach. Attendees were educated by Mote employees on the threats facing local coral reefs, which have declined rapidly in size and number over the past decades.
As a nonprofit research institution, Mote Marine studies coral restoration methods. Since its inception in 1955, Mote Marine has planted over 180,000 corals. "We are trying to bring back the percent coral cover that was historical ly found at least 10 years ago,” nursery manager Zachary Craig said.
In addition to providing valu able outreach to local scientific and charitable organizations, the festival provided food vendors and live music. Erin Muir, Mote’s community manager for the Upper Keys, said, “Ocean Fest is a wonderful community celebration where we can all come together and celebrate wonderful local research organizations. It’s just a great day.”
Proceeds went directly to Mote Marine Lab and support coral restora tion research and education initiatives.
1.
2. Children spin the wheel at the I.CARE booth.
3. Fred the parrot makes an appearance.
4. County Commissioner Holly Raschein speaks to Key Largo resident Jill Kuehnert.
5. Representatives with Florida Bay Forever.
Sponsors and organizers of the inau gural Best of Upper Keys delivered a check totaling $19,060 to this year’s beneficiary in the Florida Keys Chil dren’s Shelter on Nov. 15. The return of the Upper Keys’ people’s choice awards saw 50 winners in various business, food and beverage and com munity categories. It culminated with an awards ceremony at Whale Harbor Events on Nov. 5, which saw a sold-out crowd of 185 attendees enjoying an unforgettable evening. Notable spon sors include Dr. Michelle with Hear 4 U Audiology, First Horizon Bank and Dwight Hill, president, and Mariners Hospital and CEO Drew Grossman. Stay tuned for next year’s Best of Up per Keys. KEYS WEEKLY PHOTO
Mark the calendar for a spectacular evening of glitz, glamor and gambling (not the real kind, sorry) at the 20th annual Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys Cocktail Party.
On Friday, March 10, Habitat will host a Las Vegasthemed, silver anniversary party at the Cheeca Lodge & Spa, to include casino activities, food, dancing, live and silent auctions and Las Vegasstyle entertainment.
Sponsorships are still available; those interested may contact Lindsay Fast at lindsay@habitatupperkeys.org or 305-453-0050. The organizing committee is also seeking items for a silent auction. Up dated information will be available after the first of the year at www. habitatupperkeys.org or on Facebook at facebook.com/habitatupper keys.
Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys is a local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, an organization dedicated to the elimination of poverty and substandard housing worldwide. HFHUK is a nonprofit that serves Key Largo, Tavernier and Islamorada in the Keys. More information is at www.habitatupperkeys.org.
November
medicines to apply to coral under water,” Muller said. “We treat corals with an antibiotic paste, and, 80% of the time, it stops the disease from spreading.”
hat you know, you’ll protect; so, I think the more everyday citizens know about the ocean, the more they’ll want to protect it,” said Sara Williams.
Williams is a coral disease expert at Mote Marine Laboratory. She and Erinn Muller, head of Mote’s Coral Health and Disease Program, were invited to the Caribbean island of Saba to share their knowledge about coral diseases and effective treat ments as part of Saba’s annual Sea & Learn Festival.
The event is a month-long com munity engagement and knowledge exchange meant to improve under standing and protection of the local marine resources. Every October, ocean scientists from around the world fly to the tiny island to share what they know. The format is unique: experts receive a stipend to cover airfare and accommodation. In exchange, they commit to present ing one evening talk on their area of expertise, hosting a hands-on field project for anyone to join as a citizen-scientist, and talking to local schools and the elderly. All events are free to the public to join.
The topics are environmental issues and challenges pertinent to Saba, such as influxes of sargassum, lizard parasites and coral diseases. The interactive curriculum through out the month empowers locals and visitors to make a difference.
Additionally, the public talks are hosted at local bars and restaurants during happy hour. That way, visitors to the island can join without missing any diving or dining opportunities
and locals can come after work, said Sea & Learn founder Lynn Costenaro. “It’s not meant to be a classroom,” she added. “It’s a win-win-win for the community, the scientists and the local economy.”
“This kind of community-based knowledge share is so important for science,” Williams said. “The purpose of science is to bring back what we find to everyone else who’s not a scientist,” and this type of event facili tates that exchange.
For their talk, Mote’s coral ex perts gave a brief overview of stony coral tissue loss disease’s (SCTLD) impact on the Florida Keys and the evolution of treatment methods. The packed house at Saba’s Ocean Club
restaurant included local kids, repeat visitors, marine park employees and dive shop owners.
“There’s a lot (of SCTLD) on Tent Reef,” said dive instructor Jarno Knijff. “It’s absolutely crazy.” The reef is one of Saba’s marquee reefs, and Knijff has witnessed the quick decline in the number of corals there over recent months. He and others wanted to know what, if anything, they could do.
“Stony coral tissue loss disease is one of the major diseases affect ing this region,” Muller said. “It’s the most devastating coral disease ever recorded.”
Still, she focused on why they remain hopeful. “Now, we have
So far, coral disease practitio ners have treated 25,000 corals and saved them from dying of SCTLD, Muller said. Additionally, for other coral diseases like black band dis ease, underwater ointments made from natural products that “smell like Christmas” have been wildly successful, she said. “The natural products have antimicrobial proper ties that get the coral healthy 100% of the time. So, stony coral tissue loss disease is bad, but black band treatment has some promise.”
The audience applauded, loudly. Immediately, representatives from the marine park and local conserva tion organizations stood up. “Are these solutions that the marine park here can use, too?” they asked.
Perhaps, with proper assess ments, some of these techniques from Florida could be deployed in Saba, Muller said. Step one is survey ing the reefs, and the experts then invited any divers to join them the next day on their field project to do just that.
“We get to invite everyone here who’s a diver to go see the coral and teach them how to identify what’s healthy and what’s sick. So, they get to go out and see the actual impact that this really devastating disease is having on their local reef,” Williams said as she prepared a hands-on training demonstration at the restau rant. Using modified syringes filled with Play-Doh, she showed locals and visitors, old and young alike, how to properly deploy an antibiotic paste on a model disease coral.
“The more we can bring these experiences to them, bring it to their local community and explain why it’s important to Saba the island rather than just teaching them what’s going on in the Florida Keys, the better the people of Saba will be able to appre ciate their own resources and go out on the boat to protect it,” Williams said.
As the last audience members trickled away from Muller’s presenta tion, they said, “Thanks for the edu cation. It’s really important. I learned so much.”
BY
Up to 6,000 diseased corals in the Dry Tortugas may owe their lives to divers with a revolutionary antibiotic treatment. Aimed at saving corals infected with the rampant stony coral tissue loss disease, the treatment method should play a pivotal role in stopping the deadly disease running through Florida’s reef tract since 2014.
…And it looks a little like toothpaste.
Led by scientists with Nova Southeastern University (NSU), a team of 17 divers from NSU, Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute and the University of the Virgin Islands recently completed two treatment missions in the Dry Tortugas Na tional Park. After surveying an area larger than 20 football fields, divers armed with dozens of treatment syringes spent nearly 250 hours applying a medical paste by hand to individual corals suffering from lesions caused by the lethal disease.
While the majority of the 6,000 treated corals are located on a high-priority reef close to Loggerhead Key, the divers also spent time around Fort Jefferson, arguably the most popu lar tourist destination within the park. Once an infected coral is identified, divers work to apply a proprietary amoxicillin paste developed by manufacturer Ocean Alchemists to the edges of the lesion.
Though much still remains to be learned about SCTLD, the treatment has thus far proven highly effective, with Ocean Alchemists reporting more than an 85% success rate in treating the disease responsible for killing more than two thirds of the corals it infects.
“We’re really trying to prevent further losses,” said NSU’s Karen Neely. “We can go out and work with these corals that are hundreds or thousands of years old that are still alive, but would be dead without us.”
Coral diseases are “notoriously difficult to diagnose,” she told Keys Weekly, adding that the exact pathogen behind SCTLD is still un known and its origin in the Miami area in 2014 is still partly a mystery. But so far, the paste has been a godsend.
Neely said her team is acutely aware that introducing antibiotics into a natural environ ment can merit an understandably cautious response from regulatory agencies such as the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. How ever, the alternative could be much worse.
“There isn’t anyone who says, ‘Oh my gosh, I just want to go put more antibiotics into the ocean,’” she said. “But if the alternative is your reef dying, then suddenly antibiotics don’t look so bad.”
With such a focused application directly onto the coral lesions, her team has seen little, if any, leaching of the product into the sur rounding environment. Studies within the last year have investigated potential unintended effects of the paste on the treated organisms, but have so far found no impact on the corals’ photosynthesis, respiration or reproduction.
“This was a real push, particularly from the Florida Department of Environmental Protec tion,” she added. “We have to do something; we’re losing everything right now. This is the tool we have in the toolbox. Let’s do it.”
While the Tortugas missions accomplished a great deal, Neely and her team were tasked with the same goal along the reef tract lining the Florida Keys. In recent years, the island chain has seen an explosion in eco-tourism efforts involving locals, volunteers and tourists alike in coral outplanting missions – a process by which disease-resistant coral genotypes are fragmented, allowed to grow, and eventually returned to the reefs to repopulate the living coral cover.
However, due to current regulatory restric tions, Neely’s small team is among the few pro fessional science divers licensed to perform this particular type of coral triage. And while each approach to the common goal absolutely has its place in an ecosystem ravaged by the dis ease, she said she would welcome assistance in administering a fast-acting, cost-effective treat ment. In just three days, the amount of coral tissue saved by the Tortugas team equates to 190,000 outplants.
“Our goal is to preserve what we call iconic corals and prevent them from disappearing, which also benefits restoration because … they can focus on what has already been lost. So I think those two missions kind of work in parallel,” she said. “But frankly, it’s a lot easier to stop a coral from dying than it is to replace it, especially when you’re talking about corals the size of living rooms.”
1. NSU graduate research assistant Allie Kozachuk applies an amoxicillin paste to the edges of coral lesions caused by stony coral tissue loss disease. The darker area of the treated coral represents the living portion of the coral, while the whitened area represents tissue already lost to the disease.
MICHELLE DOBLER/Contributed
2. NSU graduate research assistant Amanda Zummo treats an infected coral as a grouper cheers her on. Divers CONTRIBUTED
3. Divers fill syringes with the antibiotic paste for
The first use of the word flamingo dates back to the Span ish explorers navigating the waters of the New World in 1565. The name flamingo has a slightly weird origin story, and it comes from the Spanish word flamenco, which historically referred to the German word Flemish.
According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, Flemish was “conventionally thought of as ruddy- complex ioned.” Ruddy means red or reddish in color. Appro priately enough, the word flamboyance was chosen to describe a group of the long-legged, reddish birds with knobby knees and a curved black bill. One of the reasons the namesake of the Audubon Society, John James Audubon, came to Florida in 1832 was to see the magnificent birds for himself.
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.
After the long trip from Charleston, he observed a flock of flamingoes standing, wading or preening their bright feathers while exploring the Upper Keys with his guide, James Egan. In addition to being his guide, Egan ran a boarding house on Indian Key, where Audubon spent the night. “I thought I had now reached the height of all my expectations, for my voyage to the Floridas was undertaken in a great measure for the purpose of studying these lovely birds in their own beautiful islands,” wrote Audubon.
When he arrived at Key West, he sought a meet ing with Dr. Benjamin Strobel, a man with whom he shared a mutual acquaintance named Dr. John Bach man. Bachman was a Charleston clergyman, recog nized naturalist, collaborator and friend of Strobel. He also co-authored the book, “The Viviparous Quadru peds of North America,” with Audubon. Knowing that his friend was traveling to Key West, Bachman penned a letter of introduc tion that Audubon could deliver to Strobel.
Strobel was a physician and editor of the Key West Gazette during his tenure in Key West. His home was located on what is today the property of the Audubon House and Tropical Gar dens. It would be Strobel who would show John James Audubon around Key West when he arrived in 1832. About their encounter, Audubon wrote: “When I reached Key West, my first inquiries, addressed to Dr. Benjamin Strobel, had reference to the Flamin goes, and I felt gratified by learning that he had killed a good number of them, and that he would assist us in procuring some. As on that Key they are fond of resorting to the shallow ponds formerly kept there as reservoirs of water, for the purpose of making salt.”
Gustav Wurdermann was hunting northwest of Indian Key on Aug. 4, 1857, when he came across a flock of abour 500 flamin goes. Generally, flamingoes molt their feathers little by little, so they can always fly. Occasionally, the flying feathers molt all at once, leaving them temporarily grounded. Perhaps this was the case when Wurdermann encountered the large flock of scarletcolored birds as he was able to capture around 100 of them; many of the birds were taken alive because they were molting.
Wurdermann brought the flamingoes back to Indian Key, where he housed the live birds in what was described as a “tenpin bowling alley.” He passed out dead flamingoes to soldiers and civilians who were at the outpost island. The live birds were taken
to Key West and sold for food. However, it was not just visiting hunters who were killing them, but early settlers and Indians.
The newspaper story “The American Flamingo,” published in the Joliet Republican on June 1, 1878, noted that their “constant home, however, is in the southern part of Florida and along the Gulf Coast.” The story, too, suggested the birds needed to be pro tected. “If a law only could be passed to protect those birds, what grand sights the waters of Florida would soon present! These great, brilliant scarlet birds, dallying and playing in the water, or wading near the shore in quest of game, would be a sight never to be forgotten. Can it be possible that Florida does not care for such glorious creatures, and will allow, year after year, these marauders from the North to kill them without a single protest? Unless something is done for the protection of these splendid creatures, they may soon become extinct.”
It did not take many more years for the brilliant flocks of American flamingoes to disappear from Florida and the Keys. In the winter of 1885, a flock of 2,500 flamingoes was reported where Florida Bay mixed with the Everglades. In the following year’s winter, the flock that was sighted numbered about 1,000. On March 6, 1902, a flock of 500 to 1,000 birds was spotted east of Cape Sable, and it was the last documented sighting of a large flock of flamingoes in Florida.
The birds largely disappeared in Florida after the turn of the 20th century due to hunters killing them for food, skins and feathers. The birds would continue to be sighted, but only indi vidual birds or small groups. For decades, flamingoes had all but disappeared from South Florida and the Keys. When a single bird or a couple of birds were sighted, a debate began as to whether or not the American flamingo was native to Florida. To address the question, Steven M. Whitfield, Peter Frezza, et al. wrote the paper “Status and trends of American Flamingoes (Phoenicop terus ruber) in Florida, USA” to clarify, once and for all, if they were Florida natives or just occasional visitors. The paper was published in 2018.
Because of the accounts told here and many others, the answer was a resounding yes; the American flamingo is a Florida native.
Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.”
Well, I have a story for you all, my loyal and devoted readers and Reef supporters. My mother took off on Nov. 8 when the sun went down. She did not tell me where she was going. I received no itinerary of where she would be staying or what she was doing. It was all very suspicious, to say the least.
On Nov. 9, she came home with a pretty, older lady fox. I had no time to mentally prepare. I had no opportunity to scream in protest.
Reef is a red fox that was saved from a fur farm. He now lives in Key Largo with his human, Nicole Navarro.
Her name is Vixen. Mom closed off half of our enclosure and gave Vixen space. Vixen was a visitor here. She should have a junior suite, not half of our enclosure. Anyway, she and I sniffed each other through the fence and this Vixen character had the audacity to scream at me. Excuse me lady, I am the designated screamer around these parts; pick another method of communication. Needless to say that made me upset and I let the whole neighborhood know just how upset I was all night long.
Wild Florida, Orlando’s only airboat, gator and drive-through safari park, contacted my mother a few weeks ago as they sought to rehome Vixen. She lost a few fox friends over the years and has been alone for about one year now. The organizations wanted her to have some friends again, and since Pawsitive Beginnings Inc. doesn’t have space for any more foxes, my mom referred Wild Florida to our friend, Farmer Jeanne Selander at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Animal Farm. The farm’s female fox, Lana, passed away last month. The plan was to find their male fox, Rocky, a new friend. This was perfect timing for Vixen.
Wild Florida was ready to transport her down to the Keys, but with Hurricane Nicole approaching, that plan was put off. My mom offered to pick Vixen up so she could get to her new home quicker. So while I was annoyed we had another fox here that was getting treated like a queen for one night, I am happy that Vixen found a new forever home at the MCSO Animal Farm and she and Rocky can live happily ever after.
Anywho, that’s about all for this week. Please don’t forget if you are planning on attending our fundraiser on Dec. 10, and head to our website, pawsitivebeginnings.org/events, to get your tickets while they last. We know that it is the same night at the Key Largo Boat Parade. But our event ends at 6:30 p.m. and the boat parade starts at 7:30 p.m.
Until next time, Reef, over and out!
Jerry is the cutest, sweetest little pup. He’s a small mix and weighs about 16 pounds now. Fully grown he could be 25-30 pounds. Jerry is about 7 months old and full of puppy energy. He loves to run and play and would be good for an active person or family. To meet Jerry, please complete an application at www. mprescues.org. Or call/text MarrVelous Pet Rescues at 305-453-1315 if you’re already approved.
Thursday, Nov. 17
• Islamorada Village Council meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Founders Park Community Center
• Third Thursday Art Walk from 6 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 Village 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.
Wednesday, Nov. 23
• Just Older Youth (JOY) Center classes from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Visit justolderyouthinc.org for a complete schedule.
Thursday, Nov. 24
• Thanksgiving dinner from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Islamorada Moose Lodge.
Saturday, Nov. 26
• Send It South Challenge Paddle kickoff to benefit Florida Bay from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Florida Bay Forever Eco Center, MM 81.2, bayside, Islamorada. Visit floridabayforever.org/ssc to learn more.
• Pops in the Park’s “Strike up the band” performance at 4 p.m. at Founders Park amphitheater.
Thursday, Dec. 1
• Florida Keys Wild Bird Center’s annual fundraiser from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Florida Keys Farm, MM 93.3 Tavernier. Pre-order tickets at keepthemflying.org.
Friday, Dec. 2
• Islamorada Chamber of Commerce’s annual Holiday Fest from 4 to 10 p.m. at Founders Park.
Saturday, Dec. 3
• Lignumvitae Christmas from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lignumvitae Key State Park. Tickets for $15 available at Windley Key State Park from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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
Several helpers unpacked the branches and strung new lights on a 45-foot illuminated Christmas tree outside the Murray Nelson Government Center last week. With help from Wire Nuts and Florida Keys Electric Cooperative, the tree, now known as “Holly,” was assembled and the star placed just in time for the 13th annual Light Up Key Largo festivities on Saturday, Nov. 19.
A holiday festival that transforms a park into a magical wonderland is taking place a little earlier than in years past. Organizers say it’s because they wanted Light Up Key Largo to officially kick off the holiday festivities in the Upper Keys.
“We wanted to have the tree up so locals and visitors could enjoy it as we head into Thanksgiving,'' said Nola Acker, longtime member of the Key Largo Preservation Foundation, which organizes the annual holiday event. “The tree needed a lot of work this year, and it took the businesses in the community to bring it back to life.”
Serving as a holiday beacon for more than 10 years, the Christmas tree began to show wear with each tree lighting. As a result, the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce initiated a fundraising campaign in hopes of buying a new tree. Due to the high price tag, a decision was made to refurbish the tree and add new LED lights. Thus came the #SaveHolly campaign.
“We have been fortunate enough to enjoy a grand, beautifully illuminated Christmas tree located at the Murray Nelson Government Center during the holidays,” said Roberto Alonso, Key Largo Chamber of Commerce board chairman. “This welcoming symbol of the season has greeted visitors, delighted our children and brought endless joy to our community.”
By fall, around $25,000 was raised for Holly, thanks to many local businesses and an Italian dinner fundraiser at Doc’s Diner, which raised $6,000. The tree lighting will once again highlight the festivities.
Acker said several “Holly helpers'' were instrumental in preparing the tree in anticipation for this year’s Light Up Key Largo. They include members from Bluewater Community Church, as well as local Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.
“It takes a true community effort to put up this tree. Without our ‘Holly’ elves, this wouldn’t have been possible,” she said.
With the festivities beginning at 5 p.m., families will have the opportunity to take pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Kids and their parents will be able to lace up the skates as the ice rink returns.
A Santa’s workshop will have kids decorating crafts, and the Christmas tales will return with a story time tent. A wreath contest will judge participants’ masterpieces, and a secret Santa store will allow families to get a start on the holiday shopping. The evening will also include music by the Mangrove Swamp Band and more than 20 vendor booths. The tree lighting takes place at 8 p.m.
Beer, wine, soft drinks and food will be available for purchase. Each kid will receive one free hot dog and drink thanks to donations by County Commissioner Holly Raschein and former county mayor Sylvia Murphy. Food will be cooked by the crew at Upper Keys Marine Construction.
Festival goers are encouraged to park at Rowell’s Park Marina, Mile Marker 102, bayside, where a shuttle will take them to the event.
For more information, visit Light Up Key Largo on Facebook.
FICTITIOUS NAME
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of BELO-H2O CHARTERS located at 200 Harborview Dr, PH2, Monroe County in the City of Tavernier, Florida 33070-2600, 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 9th day of November, 2022.
By: RLC II FLA, LLC
Publish: November 17, 2022
The Weekly Newspapers
FICTITIOUS NAME
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of JE FILMS (company name) located at 100 Hammocks Trail #2203, Key Largo, FL 33037intends
to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
By: Javier Exposito Publish: November 17, 2022
The Weekly Newspapers
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 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
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
The Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold their regularly-scheduled meeting on Tuesday, December 13, 2022, at 10:00 A.M., at the Marriott Beachside Key West.
The Visit Florida Keys Corporation will also convene during this meeting.
All Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public, and one or more County
Commissioners may be in attendance.
ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the Monroe County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 2924441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting. If you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”.
Publish: November 17, 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:
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 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.
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
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
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.
KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk of the Board
NOTICE OF INTENT TO USE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM
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
Dr. Roberto Leoni, D.O. will be relocating North, and is no longer practicing at Islamorada Medical Center at the following location e ective December 13, 2022: 90130 Old High way, Tavernier, FL 33070.
Patients are encouraged to continue receiving their medical care at Islamorada Medical Center with Dr. Leoni until his last day, and after December 13th, with one of our many excellent physicians at Islamorada Medical Center including Dr. Miguel Diaz, Dr. Julio Gonzalez, Dr. Bledar Haxhiu, Dr. Kelvin Ong and Dr. Douglas Guevara.
Patients who wish to receive copies of their medical records may contact the o ce by calling 305-852-9300, or by sending an email to scheduling@islamoradamedicalcenter.com, to request a records release.
Publish: November 17 & 24, and December 1 & 8, 2022. The Weekly Newspapers.
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 Board of County Commissioners. Dated at Key West, Florida, this 1st day of November 2022.
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
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.
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
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, January 5, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:
CONSTRUCTION MANAGER AT RISK (CMAR) SERVICES FOR WIND-RETROFITS AT 10 COUNTY BUILDINGS
MONRE COUNTY, FLORIDA
Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3)(a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar at www.demandstar.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/bids. The Public Record is available upon request.
Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids electronically. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/ responses WILL NOT be accepted.
The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00P.M., on Thursday, January 5, 2023. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows:
CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
AT RISK (CMAR) SERVICES FOR WIND-RETROFITS AT 10 COUNTY BUILDINGS 1-5-23
Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl.gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected.
The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Thursday, January 5, 2023. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156
Meeting ID: 4509326156
One tap mobile:
Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 (New York) +1 669 900 6833 (San Jose)
Publish: November 17, 2022
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, December 15, 2022, at 2:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:
Grant Writing and Administration Services
Monroe County, Florida
Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3)(a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices.
Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar at www.demandstar.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/bids. The Public Record is available upon request.
Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids electronically. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/ responses WILL NOT be accepted.
The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 2:00P.M., on Thursday, December 15. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows: Grant Writing and Administration Services 12-15-2022 Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl.gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 2:00 P.M., on December 15, 2022. You may call in by phone or internet using the following:
Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156
One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)
Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 (New York) +1 669 900 6833 (San Jose)
Publish: November 17, 2022
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, December 15, 2022, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:
Professional Engineering Continuing Services Contract Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3)(a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar at www.demandstar.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/bids. The Public Record is available upon request.
Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids
electronically. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/ responses WILL NOT be accepted.
The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00P.M., on December 15, 2022. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows:
Professional Engineering Continuing Services Contract 12-15-2022
Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl.gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on December 15, 2022. You may call in by phone or internet using the following:
Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156
Meeting ID: 4509326156
One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York)
+16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)
Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 (New York) +1 669 900 6833 (San Jose)
Publish: November 17, 2022
The Weekly Newspapers
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 JUDGEPublish: 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 PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 22-CP-287-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JANE FLORENCE DAWKINS, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of JANE FLORENCE DAWKINS, deceased, whose date of death was August 4, 2022, Case: 22-CP287-K, is pending in the Circuit Court, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.
The date of first publication of this Notice is: November 17, 2022.
Personal Representative: JESSICA NEWMAN c/o Samuel J. Kaufman Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A. 3130 Northside Drive Key West, Florida 33040
Attorney for Personal Representative: Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0144304 Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A. 3130 Northside Drive Key West, Florida 33040
Email designation for service: Service.Probate@samkaufmanlaw. com Telephone: (305) 292-3926 Fax: (305) 295-7947 Publish: November 17 & 24, 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.
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
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 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 43 Morley Close Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE13 0LG
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.
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 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,
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 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
- Vans - TrucksRunning or Not. $CASH$ 305-332-0483
Immediate positions at the Grassy Key Marina. Under new ownership and looking for smiling faces. Fulltime or part-time available. Pay rates are commensurate with experience but we are willing to interview those with no experience who have an interest in working in a marina environment. Please call Randall Glass to schedule an interview at 305-465-1491.
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: Paralegal, Utilities Maintenance, Recreation Specialist, Right of Way Technician, Part-time 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
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
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
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Customer Services Department:
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $19.82/hr. - $22.20/hr.
All Keys Yamaha hiring a Technician Marine Repair specializing in Yamaha outboard engines. Hours M-F 8a-5p. Apply in person at 2001 Overseas Highway, Marathon. 305-743-3530
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
Night Monitor – FREE Private Room in exchange for overnight coverage at an Assisted Living Facility. 5 nights on, 5 nights off 10pm-8am with weekly stipend Drug and background screen required. Apply at www.westcare.com
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 willing to train- full-time benefits. Electrical work with well established company in business since 1998- Marathon. Email to am.companies@gmail. com or call 305-393-0971.
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
The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for several temporary Distribution System Operators to perform entry-level, semiskilled work, involving the repair and maintenance of FKAA water distribution and transmission systems. This position runs through 9/30/23. Qualifications: H.S. diploma or GED. $25.00/hr. with paid holidays and enrollment into the Florida Retirement System. Upper Florida Keys, EEO, VPE, ADA, DFWP Apply online at: http://www.fkaa. com/employment.htm
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Grounds Caretaker, 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 available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www.kwha.orgEOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.
NOW HIRING: Sweet Savannah's is now hiring for multiple positions: Cashier - must be 16 yrs or older, Fulltime 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
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 404-219-3359 and ask for Dave
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.
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
Location: Upper Keys Send resume to: admin@cbtconstruct.com Or call: 305-852-3002
an opportunity to join our team in a very fast paced, exciting and dynamic role that is structured with details varying on each project.
www
Located in the Florida Keys, is a highly-respected supplier of Caribbean marine life to public aquariums and zoos throughout the world
Duties to include invoice and inventory entry, booking airline shipments, creating and filing paperwork for international shipments, scheduling inspections needed for international shipments, customer communication and tracking, creating and maintaining customer accounts and some customer service. Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel. This position requires high attention to detail and the ability to multitask. Compensation will be dependent on experience with performance-based incentive program. Benefits package including vacation, sick days, holidays and 401K PSP retirement plan. Please send cover letter and resume to sales@dynastymarine.net for consideration. No phone calls please.
- 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
PHYSICIAN PRACTICE - TAVERNIER
- Advance Practice Provider (Physician Assistant)
- Nurse Practitioner
- Physician Practice Patient Rep, $1,000 Bonus
- Medical Assistant, $3,000 Bonus
APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507
Join our team! Full and part-time Educational Program Guides/Gift Shop Sales. Public speaking & retail sales experience helpful. $16.00/hour to start. Send resume to: TurtleHospitalMarathon@gmail.com
instructors and evaluators - 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse eld required. Bilingual preferred, not required. Of ce located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.
e really help people understand what they need.” Those were the words of Ooh la la Salon owner Susie Misini-Hassett.
She’s an Australian native who moved to Hong Kong in 1994. Misini-Hassett met her husband, James Hassett, while in Hong Kong 12 years ago, and they were married in 2021. They met through a business-oriented connection, worked together through the gym she owned, became friends and then got together.
“He let me be who I wanted to be,” said Misini-Hassett, who already owned a home in Ocean Reef and had retired. They moved to Ocean Reef in 2016 but still traveled a lot before deciding to start their next adventure.
In 2017, the two started Barracuda Carts in which they rent, sell and fix golf carts at Ocean Reef. “The business did so well that James thought, ‘What else does Ocean Reef need?’ And I realized many people were driving to Miami, including myself, to get their hair done every four to five weeks. I traveled all around the world, and I wanted that feeling a little bit.”
In January 2020, they opened a hair and nail salon — a one-room salon at Ocean Reef. They were passionate about curating a staff that wasn’t only from the Keys, but was also a mix of locations. “That’s a lovely way to be because of the education that comes from that,” said MisiniHassett. “They enhanced a lot of the idea of what the salons are about, the quality and standard of the stylists.”
“The urban feel along with the quality of service provided a raise to Ooh la la to another game,” she continued. “What’s wonderful is that the staff all have an opportunity to learn more and have dual expertise.”
The couple then met Jeri Delgado-Ioannou and her husband, Alex Ioannou, who owned Trio Salon in Chicago for 25 years. Ioannou is the executive director for Ooh la la. Both had worked for Vidal Sassoon, traveling and working internationally.
“We learned early on it’s the cut that counts and have moved to the present day and adjusted for that. Hairdressers are artists and still need to be taught the technique, the business side and feel inspired working as a team and on projects together,” Delgado Ioannou said.
Altogether, they have created a vision, culture and a happy staff that’s operating out of Baker’s Cay Resort in Key Largo. In June 2022, Baker’s Cay approached them when salon space at the resort became available. The property wanted a cohesive salon, and Misini-Hassett was able to give them what they were seeking at the resort.
“We have the largest staff of hair stylists, nail techs skilled in many nail services, massage therapists and estheticians. We are really focused on different dimensions of wellness — not just hair and nails.”
Ooh la la also provides hydrafacials, facials, waxing, spray tans, massage/couples massage (inside and at the beach), eyelash extensions, brows and professional makeup. They also have services for men so they can look and feel their best, and
they specialize in wedding parties either at the salon or on location.
One of the very popular treatments is the hydrafacial, which is conducted via a professional patented technology machine along with the trained esthetician. It hydrates and cleanses the skin, and people can choose from six boosters that help with anything from detox, aging and sunspots to acne.
“The process makes the skin nice and plump just right for makeup, even before a wedding. We can also do dermaplaning, which preps the skin for the most effective penetration,” Misini-Hassett said.
Ooh la la offers its own makeup line consisting of blush, eye shadow, eyeliner, highlighters, lip gloss and lipstick, to name a few. It’s all hypoallergenic and not tested on animals. They use this line for weddings and sell the complete line at Ocean Reef.
“Cosmedix is our product brand of choice and includes various masks including charcoal, serums, cleanser, body scrub, and a don’t leave the house SPF sunblock. We also do treatments here using these products such as a body scrub,” Misini-Hassett said.
What sets Ooh la la apart? “We get walk-ins and last-minute calls, so we have therapists and stylists here all day so we can help you. Having staff available makes us different from many other salons and spas where scheduling someone may be difficult because they don’t have their team there all day.”
Misini-Hassett added, “We really hope our staff sees the bigger picture, believes what we believe in and the long-term growth. The salon industry is very come-and-go, so it's educating the staff that we are here and together. We really aim to keep the group together.”
The salon can work with large groups between all the massage therapists, and the space at Baker’s Cay including two remote rooms and beach area for massages.
“At Baker’s Cay, we offer a 10% local discount. So, scheduling a service or two at Baker’s Cay and enjoying a nice lunch and the property is a great way to pamper yourself. We also have gift cards which are the perfect holiday present.” She chuckles, smiles and finalizes by saying, “I don’t know what I was thinking that it was just going to be a dry hair salon. Now it’s evolved to this.”
Call to schedule an appointment at 305-8523143 or www.oohlalaorc.com.
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
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.
The Florida Keys saw sporty but doable conditions out there this past week. Welcome to winter in the Keys. We talked about wetsuits last week so I wanted to continue on this scuba equipment topic and chat about the most important piece of equipment you will own: Your regulator. If there is one piece of equipment I recommend divers to personally own, it's the regulator. At first glance you may think that all regulators are the same, but there are some important differences you need to consider before purchasing. The most important factors when selecting a reg are comfort and ease of breathing.
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.
Some regulators can be heavier and actually pull down on your mouth while diving. Others have larger mouthpieces, some are compact for travel and some are just larger in general. Find one that fits you and is comfortable while breathing. Next check the ease of breathing. This can be a little difficult to accomplish at a dive shop, but use the expertise of the store personnel. Some regs actually perform better at depth while others perform much worse at depth. This is due to a regulator being a "balanced" regulator versus an "unbalanced" regulator.
East-northeast winds, 15-20 knots
40% showers 3 foot seas chance of
An unbalanced will require slightly more breathing effort at depth. You definitely want your reg performing its best the deeper you go. Another factor to consider is adjustable versus non-adjustable. Most of the lower priced regs will not have an adjustable lever. This lever allows you to control the gas flow delivered with each inhalation to suit the diver’s preferences. There is a variety of different materials regs are made out of as well. Full metal, full plastic, titanium or carbon fiber are the most popular. Price adjusts based on the material used, with titanium and carbon fiber being at the top.
When going to buy a regulator, which I suggest every diver should do, it can be a bit overwhelming and technical. Diaphragms versus pistons, balanced versus unbalanced, metal versus plastic. But having a little knowledge prior and trusting your local dive shop will give you an advantage. My suggestion is to choose a balanced regulator that fits your mouth comfortably as far as material, choose the look you like. Go to a local dive shop you trust and test some out with the help of staff. Ask about warranty and service. You need to service your reg annually and some regs come with a lifetime warranty. Plus buying locally means you can take the reg to the shop you purchased it for annual service.
Some shops will provide annual service at no charge if you purchase it there. Prices can range from $500 to $2,000 for a good regulator. I know this might seem like a lot of money, but this piece of equipment is your lifeline and should be a must expenditure for any diver, whether you go occasionally or every weekend. It’s a smart investment.
