Upper Keys Weekly 22-1124

OCEAN OASIS

Islamorada beach house is a private oceanfront estate with sandy walk-in beach, pool, outdoor bar and a hammock retreat where you may enjoy rocking your cares away under the coconut palms while gazing at the ever-changing ocean colors. The perfect setting for unforgettable celebrations, romantic get aways or family gatherings, the Islamorada Beach House residence includes two living levels with three bedrooms, 2 baths, living, dining, kitchen and laundry upstairs and offers 2 bed rooms, 2 baths and kitchenette with laundry on the lower level. Convenient lockout owners closets found on each level provide plenty of storage for a turn-key experience. Huge area for parking and room for RV. This estate offers best of both worlds as a private residence or a turn-key successful wedding venue/vacation property with a fully booked calendar for a substantial income.

ISLAMORADA | $5,800,000 | Listing ID: 602942

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

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

Publisher Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Editor Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

Director of Sales Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com

Business Development

Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers

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

Copy Editor Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Design / Pre-Press Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com

Design / Web Master Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classifieds

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

SE HABLA ESPAÑOL

THE UPPER KEYS WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARA THON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POST AGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITION AL MAILING OFFICES.

All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO THE KEYS WEEKLY, 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050.

News Deadline Monday Noon

Advertising Deadline Monday 2 p.m.

2.9M

AAA estimates that 54.6 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home this Thanksgiving. Travel in Florida is forecast to be the busiest in nearly two decades (since 2005). AAA forecasts more than 2.9 million Floridians will travel 50 miles or more for Thanksgiving. That’s 50,000 more Florida travelers than last year’s holiday and nearly 22,000 more than in 2019.

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

FLOODING PERSISTS

TWIN LAKES RESIDENTS ANXIOUSLY AWAIT PROJECT

Seven years have passed since Monroe County officials initi ated a pilot project to address flooding at Key Largo’s Twin Lakes community. For resident Stepha nie Russo, it’s been a long seven years.

On Nov. 15, Monroe County com missioners authorized County Admin istrator Roman Gastesi to execute a $3.9-million grant agreement with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for the project’s construc tion phase. With federal funds secured by U.S. Rep. Carlos Gimenez totaling around $5.5 million, the county has se cured $9,415,567 in total grant money. An engineer’s estimate has construc tion around $9,943,907, however, and that number could rise with inflation, construction companies too busy for the work and other possible delays.

Speaking to county commission ers on Nov. 15, Russo said her com munity has witnessed their quality of life deteriorating and essential services fading with the rising waters. Russo said they’ve dealt with flooding every day dating back to September.

Flooding has caused damage to Russo’s vehicles in recent times. Not only that, Russo and fellow residents aren’t seeing garbage trucks stop ping at their homes anymore. Instead, residents are hauling their bags to a Dumpster parked outside their com munity.

Deputies are also having trouble accessing homes in the neighborhood, according to Russo.

“Late one evening, my husband encountered two sheriff’s SUVs parked in our neighborhood with three of ficers standing at the corner of Crane and Shaw,” she said. “He asked if they needed assistance and they explained a burglar alarm was going off down the street, but they weren’t allowed to drive through the flood. He gave them a ride to the property and back to their vehicles so that they could respond.”

Russo said the rising waters within the Twin Lakes community makes it impossible to walk dogs, ride bikes or welcome friends and family to the house. The U.S. Postal Service also stopped mail delivery due to the heavy flooding.

“Our quality of life, safety, health and well-being continue to degrade and we can’t obtain essential services we pay for while property taxes con tinue to increase,” Russo told county commissioners.

Twin Lakes’ sea level rise road and drainage project includes recon structing and elevating low-lying areas of Shaw Drive and Adams Drive to a minimum elevation of 13 inches. The minimum target elevation was deter mined using the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s inter mediate high sea level rise projections for 2040. The project will also install a gravity wall along a portion of Shaw Drive, a pump-and-treat stormwater

collection system, a pump station on Crane Street and five injection wells.

County officials submitted a grant application to the state in October 2021 for the Twin Lakes pilot project. By December 2021, the county re ceived word that the application was approved and granted funds through the Statewide Flooding and Sea Level Rise Resilience Plan. Roughly a year later, county and state officials are executing the agreement. Once that’s complete, a request for proposals will go out to interested construction companies.

With the county waiting on approv als from the state and federal govern ments, Russo said continued delays could mean increased construction costs. Russo asked county officials to seek ways to expedite those approv als and find ways to come up with any shortfalls between the awarded grant money and construction costs.

“I’m begging you not to wait until bids come in to start looking at how the shortfall is going to be made for this project,” Russo said.

County Commissioner Holly Merrill Raschein said the project remains a priority and “we’ll try to figure out what the holdup is.” County Mayor Craig Cates said he could hear frustration within Russo’s voice.

“It’s taken so long,” he said. “Now that law enforcement doesn’t want to go out there, that’s concerning. We’ve got to keep this a priority.”

Happy Thanksgiving from the team at the Keys Weekly Newspapers.

Flooded streets in the Twin Lakes community in Key Largo in 2020. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

OUTGOING COUNCIL APPROVES SCHEDULE FOR REMAINING BUILDING PERMITS

WEBB, BACHELER OFFER PARTING REMARKS

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

An outgoing Islamorada council approved a schedule to hand out the village’s remain ing building permits at a Nov. 17 meeting. A new council seated in December will face the tough task of figuring out what comes next with no more permits available despite many still waiting to build on their vacant lots.

The meeting, with 17 agenda items up for consid eration, was the last one for Councilman David Webb and Mayor Pete Bacheler. Both were elected to the council in 2020 when five seats were up for grabs.

“The village spoke and Pete and I were not part of that phrase,” Webb said. “But I’m very pleased with the selections that were made ultimately and more pleased with some that were not. I think the village and staff will be in good hands going forward.”

Webb encouraged the incumbents reelected to the dais to ensure they incorporate newly-elected councilwomen Elizabeth Jolin and Sharon Mahoney as rapidly as possible.

“They’re both going to be drinking from a fire hose. I think they both realize that. Just make sure they don’t get left out,” he said.

Webb also shared words of praise for Jolin, a per son he described as committed, objective and smart.

Bacheler praised the work and camaraderie of his fellow council members the past two years. He previously served on the Local Planning Agency before his election victory in 2020. He was vice mayor before becoming mayor the past year.

“This is a hell of a town. And I like and love the village of Islamorada. I think you guys will serve it well and I think you will help the two new people serve it well. I wasn’t pleased with the election, but I’m very pleased to have been here and very pleased to have seen people in the audience. I’d like to think more people will participate because that’s what it is all about.”

Current councilmen Buddy Pinder, Mark Gregg and Henry Rosenthal will return for another two-year term. Rosenthal is in line to become the next mayor after previously serving as vice mayor. The council selects the mayor and vice mayor posts at the first meeting, which is set for Tuesday, Dec. 6 at Founders Park Community Center.

Before closing of the final meeting, the council approved six requests by applicants seeking adminis trative relief in order to construct single-family homes on their vacant lots. All applications were in the build ing permit allocation system, or BPAS, but they failed to receive a permit. Applications were considered and turned down for a permit during the last four alloca tion periods.

A village staff analysis states that all applications wouldn’t receive an allocation before the program ends in 2023. Properties approved for administrative relief are located at 36 Park Road, 137 Indian Mound

Left: Mayor Pete Bacheler runs the Nov. 17 meeting, which marked the end of his two-year term. Right: Councilman David Webb offers remarks at the final meeting of his term. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

Trail, 161 Mohawk St., 60 Wrenn St., 80 Wrenn St. and 206 Harbor Drive.

Council members also approved market rate building permit allocations for five applications with out a land dedication. The applications are ranked ninth through 13th in a list of 80 waiting for a building permit. Applicants receiving permits were Donna and Daniel Fischer, Ello 213 Holdings LLC, Stephan and Marilyn Hayes, Island Elixir LLC and Julio Colomba. 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 was unanimously approved by the dais. Vil lage 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 allocation. Eleven market rate allocations are available for 2023. Of those, nine al locations will be handed out to applications without a land dedication. And two will be given to applicants with a land dedication.

Rosenthal expressed that he’d like to extend the remaining allocations to 2026, but his colleagues were against the idea.

“I’m certainly not against people in BPAS. I under stand their problem. But how do we avoid 2023? The only way we can do that is to extend the permits for that length of time. That’s the only way,” Rosenthal said.

Funding through the Florida Keys Stewardship Act for a backfill restoration project at Canal 116 on Plantation Key was unanimously approved 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 Steward ship Act funds totaling $1,759,627.10 to cover project costs.

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Aridesharing service that transports locals and guests to and from loca tions in Islamorada could expand with help from a state grant.

During the early portion of the Nov. 17 village council meeting, Maria Bassett, finance director, informed the dais that she was able to secure a Florida Depart ment of Transportation Public Transit Service Development grant, which pays roughly half the costs associated with the service from Freebee. Serving Islamorada and portions of Tavernier near the plaza, the village must expand ser vice hours and add more vehicles if it receives the grant.

Overall costs for the service, which would expand to seven days a week at 17 hours a day, would total $553,000 for the year. The village would pay half the cost, $276,665, which is less than the roughly $371,000 it currently pays for the service.

A six-month trial with Freebee began in November 2018 when vil lage council approved $80,000 for the service. What began with golf carts grew to vehicles and vans after the village council approved a two-year agreement in May 2019 at an annual cost of $317,280. A new one-year agreement was approved last May at a cost of $371,000. Freebee currently oper ates two Tesla X vehicles, which can hold seven passengers, and one large van.

If the village opts to accept the FDOT grant to fund 50% of the in creased cost of expanded services, the village and Freebee would need to enter into an agreement for services effective July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024. No decision was made by the outgoing council on the grant and service. A new coun cil will decide the next direction for Freebee in Islamorada.

MEALS & MEMORIES

THE KEYS WEEKLY STAFF REFLECTS ON TURKEY DAY STANDOUTS

ANNIE BRIENING

So many favorite memories to name, but one of my favorites is when Shane and I went to Disney World with my family 11 years ago. My oldest sister was very preg nant with my nephew. My niece was nearly 3 and at the cutest age to watch with all the Disney characters. This trip was also when Shane asked my dad for his “blessing” to marry me and we got to tell everyone in person our exciting news together.

When it comes to food traditions in my family, there’s always “The Bobbie” Thanks giving sandwich after the main-event meal — no matter how full I am.

I don’t know if this is just a Philly thing, but “The Bobbie” is basically Thanksgiving between two slices of bread with layers of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce. (Pro tip: Mix the cranberry sauce and some mayo and warm it in the microwave.)

STEPHANIE MITCHELL

Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday (not a gift in sight) so when I started dating a Canadian in 2004 my new favorite tradition began. Not one, but TWO separate Thanksgivings every year: American in November and Canadian Thanksgiving in October.

We begin Thanksgiving morning with cinnamon rolls and mimosas while we get the turkey ready for the oven with the Macy’s parade on in the background.

The Mitchells love to party, so we host a big dinner every year with a rotating cast of characters and my mashed potatoes are leg endary, for many different reasons. (If you know, you know. #mashedpotatoes).

And if you happen to be the first one to “fall asleep” on the couch you’ll wake up draped in a fur coat, just for giggles.

MIKE HOWIE

My mother grew up in the Upper Pen insula of Michigan, where men would carry pasties into the iron and copper mines of the region. Pasty rhymes with nasty, but it has nothing to do with strippers. It’s a meatand-potato pie that is easy to make and, in a mine, can be eaten without utensils. Noth ing in the world smells as good as a kitchen where pasties are baking. It was the special meal of my childhood and remains the per fect comfort food to this day.

Our kitchen in Marathon is going to smell amazing on Thanksgiving.

MANDY MILES

One of my favorite memories is the scent of my dad’s Thanksgiving stuffing cooking on the stovetop. Those perfectly seasoned little cubes of bread were the per fect snack every time I passed through the kitchen — usually to make a drink.

My favorite memories are from the giant family reunions that would fill my parents’ guest house at the South Jersey Shore for the holiday weekend, with relatives and friends in every nook and cranny of the century-old house “down the Shore.”

IRENE DE BRUIJN

Being from the Netherlands, I didn’t grow up celebrating Thanksgiving. So my first Thanksgiving wasn’t until I was in my 20s when I visited a friend in Ohio. We cel ebrated Thanksgiving with her family in the small town of East Sparta.

What a surprise that Thanksgiving “din ner” was at 1 p.m. It sounded more like a lunch to me, but I didn’t realize the meal kept on going through dinner time. My friend is from an Italian family, so our Thanksgiving dinner/lunch included the best pasta and meatballs I’ve ever had! And after that, the boxes and boxes of Christmas decorations came out to move straight into the next holiday. A big thank you to the Parianos for my first Thanksgiving!

ALEX RICKERT

Our Thanksgiving traditions are pretty fluid, but by far my most memorable turkey day was a gathering with my dad’s side of the family in Connecticut. After a big dinner, we all went for a walk to try and work out our food babies, and at one point in the walk I was shocked – putting it lightly – to turn around and find an emu following us down the road. Yes, a literal emu. As we found out the next day, it had escaped from a zoo earlier that day and was making its rounds through the town.

I’m sure my parents will want to watch the Macy’s parade in the morning this year, but after that … it’s football time.

CHAR HRUSKA

Growing up, big family Thanksgiving din ners were the best when grandparents and cousins would squeeze into our little house to have a huge dinner. Once I was older, it was all about preparing dinner for my family and having the guys all leave the house to check their tree stands for deer hunting the next day. Today, I love decorating like a kid and preparing a dinner for two. I thank God for my daily life, my children and grandchil dren and all the blessings that I have.

MANUELA CARRILLO MOBLEY

I love the holiday season. For me everything starts November 1st. There’s something in the air… It’s Thanksgiving, it’s Christmas, it’s just the season! Weather starts getting colder and the cozyness of the family gatherings kick in. My favorite part is preparing the food and sharing stories while we watch the Thanksgiving parade on TV followed by “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” - a must watch! Then later in the afternoon, after dinner, we all pass out on the couch from all the food.

JILL MIRANDA BAKER

My parents hosted our extended family for Thanksgiving for many years during my childhood. These gatherings could be for 40-50 people – grandparents, aunts, uncles, and so many cousins and second cousins. We’d rent tables and chairs and clear out our garage or expand from the dining room into the living room, moving out furniture. My job was to set the tables, and still today I love setting a beautiful table. And the food was endless, from the traditional American fare to the Italian family favorites.

JIM MCCARTHY

A McCarthy Thanksgiving in western New York began with a pancake breakfast my dad made during the early morning before the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Once the parade was over, we’d flip the channel to some Thanksgiving Day football. Most games weren’t that great besides the one year the Bills beat the Cowboys. The day progressed and the smells of turkey and stuffing would fill the house as my grandpa, uncle, aunt and cousins came over for the feast. By nighttime, it was video games and sleep.

SNOW MUCH FUN

ISLAMORADA HOLIDAY FEST BRINGS PARADE, SANTA & MORE

NO NEED TO REASON WITH HURRICANE SEASON

FLAG - BURNING CEREMONY MARKS END OF STORM THREAT IN KEY WEST

The forecast calls for lots of snow during the 18th an nual Islamorada Chamber of Commerce Holiday Fest, set for Friday, Dec. 2, from 4 to 10 p.m at Founders Park.

“Bundle up for one of the most exciting community events on the calendar,” said Craig McBay, presi dent of the chamber of commerce. “This will be a great time for every one to kick off the holiday season.”

The event’s star attraction, the Holiday Fest Snow Mountain, will once again be made out of 30 tons of the cold white stuff — more than enough to delight mitten-clad children and some of their more playful parents too. Meanwhile, throughout the evening, Islamo rada’s 35-foot-high official holiday tree will be blowing magical snow through its branches.

Snow is far from the only thing promised at Holiday Fest. At 7:30 p.m., the Holiday Parade will kick off with floats, antique cars and Santa himself. The chamber is seek ing more entrants for the parade.

The festival also offers a holiday gift bazaar for getting the shopping season started. A popular feature of the bazaar is the silent auction of handcrafted ornaments. In preparation, 50 local artists are creating original holiday treasures starting from a blank ceramic mold. The finished pieces will be on dis play throughout the evening. The silent auction is scheduled to end at 9 p.m. The bazaar also features jewelry and crafts.

The mountainous snow is an attraction for the many kids who visit Holiday Fest every year. CONTRIBUTED

Returning to the festival this year is Santa’s Sweet Shoppe, fea turing a selection of desserts and coffee. A wide variety of other food will also be on offer throughout the evening.

Anyone interested in participat ing as a vendor in the Holiday Gift Bazaar should fill out the Vendor Application at islamoradachamber. com and return it to director@ islamoradachamber.com or mail to Islamorada Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 915, Islamorada, FL 33036.

For information, or if you would like to volunteer at Holiday Fest, call 305-664-4503 or stop by the Is lamorada Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center at MM 87, bayside. — Contributed

The Conch Republic will celebrate another end to hur ricane season by burning the black-and-red hurricane flag at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 30.

The event takes place at Truman Waterfront Park in front of the historic Coast Guard ship Ingham.

As the Conch Republic’s First Sea Lord, Admiral Finbar Gittleman fondly says, “We celebrate our ‘Conch Thanks giving.’”

Join Conch Republic dig nitaries and military forces, elected officials and civic lead ers to say farewell to the 2022 hurricane season. Make a toast to the sunset and listen to live music on the deck of the Ing ham at Truman Waterfront.

Learn about (and sign up) to join) a branch of the Conch Republic Military Forces (includ ing the Air Force, Army, CIA, Marine Army and Navy.)

Jonathan Carey will give the benediction and provide an up date on their ‘Bahamas Reset’ Outreach Program, including upcoming 2023 Flagship Wolf Bahamian Humanitarian Sails to Nassau, bringing relief sup plies for distribution.

Live music with Raven Coo per and Uncle Bob begins at 4 p.m., and the ceremony starts at 4:30 p.m. The event will include the blowing of a conch shell and presentation of the colors by the Key West Cadet Squadron U.S. Civil Air Patrol

The Conch Republic suf fered only minor damage when Hurricane Ian passed and the island nation sends its prayers to the many who were not as fortunate.

Staff from the village of Islamorada won first place for the cartoon-inspired float at last year’s Holiday Fest parade. CONTRIBUTED

Glad Tidings Bishop

Officials from the Conch Republic again will burn the hurricane flag on Nov. 30 at Truman Waterfront to celebrate the end of hurricane season. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

Key West resident Jeremy Fogarty was one of the early pioneers experimenting with sponge propagation. He was both a sponge buyer and a sponge packer. Fogarty understood the money to be made in sponging and began experimenting with their cultivation in the Lower Keys. Commodore Ralph Munroe, who lived in a small Miami community bordering Biscayne Bay, also experimented with growing sponges. His “fields” were in the shallow waters surrounding the Northern Keys.

Munroe’s efforts demonstrated better success. His sponges had a 75% survival rate and doubled in size in six months. Both men, however, suffered from the same big problem – poachers. To thwart the sponge bandits’ efforts, Munroe and Fogarty joined forces and attempted to get an area of Biscayne Bay set aside that government agencies could protect. The bill was on its way to passing through the senate when it was discovered that the senator who introduced the bill had a financial interest in the project.

The bill failed to pass, and without government support to help keep the poachers from stealing their sponges, Munroe and Fogarty read the writing on the wall and gave up.

SOAKING IN A NEW BUSINESS

THE FLORIDA KEYS’ EARLY SPONGE FARMERS

The Feb. 23, 1913, edition of the Washington Eve ning Star reported the cultivation of sponges in the warm, shallow waters of Biscayne Bay, the waters surrounding Sugarloaf Key and Key West, and Anclote Key, located offshore of the west coast’s Tarpon Springs.

Another Key Wester, Dr. J. Vinning Harris, stepped into the shoes left empty by Fogarty and Munroe. Harris graduated from the University of Mississippi medical school in 1859. During the Civil War, Harris worked as an assistant surgeon in the Confederate Army and Navy. After the war, Harris moved to Key West, where he became a prominent citizen. He continued working as a doctor but also worked as a customs collec tor and served as the school superintendent for Monroe County.

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.

“The various methods are as follows: ‘seed’ sponges are cut into small pieces, and, after having been attached by wiring or spindle to circular or triangular cement blocks, are dropped or lowered (depending upon the depth) to rest on the ocean bottom, where they remain for a year or two, until they reach a proper size for com mercial purposes. They are then taken by the hook, when new cuttings are attached and the cement blocks let down again.”

Farming sponges and harvesting the fruits of the la bor as if they were Key limes or pineapples made perfect sense. Sponging had grown into a big business. Before 1849, the American sponge market was primarily satis fied by products harvested from the Mediterranean Sea. In 1849, however, sponges culled from local waters were taken to New York and tested on the open market. As it turned out, the sponges harvested from the Florida Keys were equal to those from overseas waters.

Back in Key West, sponges were auctioned off on the docks at 3 p.m. daily. Sponges were graded for size and quality be fore the day’s auctions began, and size made a difference. Mediumsized sponges were more desirable than those considered too big or too small. By 1890, as many as 300 sponge ships were operating out of Key West, with 2,000 men employed in the field. Before the turn of the century, the Monroe County sponge industry generated as much as $1 million annually.

The doctor also owned Sugarloaf Key — well, all of it except for what was described as its southern shore. On the island, he built a large house. In 1897, the Florida State Legislature passed a bill that Fogarty and Munroe must have envied. The bill made it possible for landowners to plant sponges in the shallow waters adjacent to their property and have those waters be eligible for government protec tion. Also, in 1897, Harris began experimenting with the propagation of sponges in the warm, shallow waters offshore of his Sugarloaf Key property. Two years later, the bill was rescinded. However, it was de termined that if protections had been afforded a sponge field while the law was still valid, those sponge fields remained protected areas.

Harris’ work attracted the attention of Dr. H. F. Moore, the head of the United States Bureau of Fisheries, who, like Harris, was interested in farm-raising sponges. Circa 1901, Harris abandoned his sponges and allowed Moore to move into his house and operate his experiments from the Sugarloaf Key property. With government support and funding, Moore spent several years developing the techniques necessary to make commercial sponge farming a feasible operation.

Moore’s technique used concrete disks with a hole in the middle that allowed the sponge to be attached by wiring. The concrete disks were prepared on Harris’ Sugarloaf Key property. The sponges, bound to the disks, were then “planted” in the shallows offshore of Sugarloaf Key and monitored.

Though slow growing, by 1908, Moore had determined, to his own satisfaction, that commercial sponge farming was possible as long as certain guidelines were followed. The sponges could not be planted where freshwater or freshwater runoff might affect them, and they should not be planted in sandy areas. Lastly, they should be protected from poachers.

Next week, part 2 will explore the rise and fall of the Sugarloaf Keys community of Chase and the Florida Keys Sponge and Fruit Company.

BRAD BERTELLI

Sponge market on the docks of Key West. FLORIDA MEMORY PROJECT/ Contributed

FLORIDA KEYS COMMUNITY GIVES THANKS

In the Florida Keys, life gets busy, money gets tight and hurricanes form off Africa. But as the first cool breezes cross the island chain in November, the locals in this tourist destination seem to breathe a sigh of relief and a smile of welcome to our returning snowbirds and visitors.

The Keys Weekly tracked down several Florida Keys officials, business owners and community activists to see what makes them grateful this week. From our fami lies to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!

KEY WEST CITY ATTORNEY SHAWN SMITH

“I’m extremely thankful for my supportive family, excellent friends, great Key West softball and the stellar water provided by the Florida Keys Aqueduct Author ity.”

DOMESTIC ABUSE SHELTER BOARD PRESIDENT JENNIFER POWELL

“Many years ago I wrote a purpose statement for my life: To live a life of adventure; to be courageous and help others find their courage; to be a light for others to find their way. I am thankful for the physical, emotional and mental health to live my life on purpose.”

of birth and their whole life and worldly possessions and achieve ments behind them and come to an uncertain destiny in a new land, culture and language. I have a debt of love and honor that can never ever be repaid or forgotten.”

“I’m thankful for family, friends, colleagues, our military service members on watch around the world and being here in the Florida Keys.”

KEY WEST RESTAURATEUR BOBBY MONGELLI

“My family, my wife, my life and so many memories.”

MARATHON ROTARY PRESIDENT “MR. MARATHON” MIKE PUTO

MONROE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER SUE WOLTANSKI

“On Nov. 15, I was sworn in to my second term on the Monroe County School Board. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve the children of Monroe. I am constantly grateful for the tremen dous support our community has for our schools. This Thanksgiv ing, my daughter will be home from college and I am thankful for the time our family can spend together. We are blessed to live in the beautiful Florida Keys. Wish ing everyone a safe and happy Thanksgiving.”

COUNTY COMMISSIONER MICHELLE LINCOLN

“This year, I am especially thankful to serve the residents of the Keys with this amazing team of commis sioners. We are not afraid to hold hands and jump into the deep end of the water together!”

“I’ve been blessed and lucky. It’s very humbling to hold so many positions in the organizations I’ve been involved in, and there’s no body I can’t call for help in this city. I’m thankful to be a part of Habitat for Humanity’s huge project on 79th Street, and I cherish being able to come into Rotary and have some fun. I love being a go-to guy when someone needs to get something done.”

SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS

THERESA AXFORD

“I’m grateful that our referendum to support teacher salaries and school resource officers passed with 74.27% voter approval. It’s very energizing to know we have community support for our teach ers and schools.”

MARATHON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CEO DANIEL SAMESS

“I am most thankful for my amaz ing family (Liz, Ava and Emily) and friends! Wishing everyone a great Thanksgiving holiday.”

KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESIDENT ROBERTO ALONSO

“This Thanksgiving dinner I will be at the table surrounded by the people I love most in this world. I will be offering thanks to the Al mighty for my parents’ life-altering decision to leave their country

“This year in considering what I am thankful for, I have to acknowledge the people in my life that have motivated and inspired me to live my life. This starts with my parents and the examples they set for me throughout my life. I only hope that my actions have inspired my own kids for a lifetime.”

COUNTY COMMISSIONER JIM SCHOLL

FLORIDA KEYS CHILDREN’S SHELTER CEO BEN KEMMER

‘FUREVER’ THANKFUL

FOX GOES FROM FARM TO KEYS FAME

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

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

First things first. I want to give a big “thank you” to our friends at the Keys Weekly Newspapers. They recently became a “Gold Fox” sponsor for our event and this little foxy boy could not be more appreciative for all of the support they have shown Pawsitive Beginnings since day one. You’ll notice my photo this week is a flashback from when I first arrived in Key Largo and made a guest appearance at the Upper Keys Weekly of fice. Who could have known that visit would lead to where we are today? Reef’s Reports, awards and a host of friends we could not imagine our lives with out. Pretty amazing, right?

Since this issue will be out on Thanksgiving Day, this is the perfect time to thank you, my loyal read ers, for sticking with me for another year. Time sure does fly when you are having fun. What a year it has been. What a year to be thankful. Pawsitive Beginnings has reached more people around the world in the past year than the year prior. I have been featured in some great stories that were funny, yet educa tional. Mom was able to bring home another fox from a horrible fur farm in the Midwest. As I look forward to next year, I wonder, where will we be then? It’s pretty exciting to think that we will just keep growing as a nonprofit — being able to help more fur trade survivors.

Mom wanted me to let you know that if you are making out your holiday card list this year and would like to include us, we would be grateful. Mom likes taking photos of us with letters and cards from our supporters, and who knows, you might just get a surprise in return. Our address is: Pawsitive Beginnings PO Box 1165 Tavernier, FL 33070

If you haven’t heard, our friends at the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center are having their annual fundraiser on Thursday, Dec. 1. They will Light up the Night at the Florida Keys Farm in Tavernier from 5:30 to 8 p.m. It will be a fun night of drinks, small bites, raffles and more. Tickets are $50 in advance or $60 at the door. You can get tickets on their website at keepthemflying.org/events

Anywho, that’s all for this week. Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiv ing and until next time, Reef, over and out!

LIONEL & LIPS

Lionel and his sister, Lips, are seeking a forever home this holiday season. Both are very sweet, and more importantly, they get along with others in the house. These 4-month-old kittens are spayed and neutered. If you would like to make Lionel or Lips a part of your family, or to learn more about other pets available for adoption, give the Upper Keys Humane Society (UKHS) a call at 305-451-3848. UKHS is a not-for-profit no-kill shelter that provides food, shelter, medical care and adoption services for unwanted and abandoned animals.

SAVE THE DATE

Thursday, Nov. 24

• Thanksgiving dinner from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Islamorada Moose Lodge.

Friday, Nov. 25

• Thanksgiving Paint class with Go With the Flow artist Brittany Parker from 4 to 6 p.m. at Angler House Ma rina, Islamorada.

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, Islamo rada. Visit floridabayforever.org/ssc to learn more.

• Pops in the Park’s “Strike up the Band” performance at 4 p.m. at Found ers Park amphitheater.

Tuesday, Nov. 29

• Mote Marine Laboratory’s Toys for a Tour from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Mote’s Islamorada Coral Nursery, Bud n’ Mary’s Marina, Islamorada.

Wednesday, Nov. 30

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

• Mote Marine Laboratory’s Toys for a Tour from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Reefhouse Resort, Key Largo.

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 Taver nier. Pre-order tickets at keepthemfly ing.org.

Friday, Dec. 2

• Islamorada Chamber of Com merce’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 Wind ley Key State Park from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

REEF THE FOX

A young Reef visits the Upper Keys Weekly office after Pawsitive Beginnings Inc. and founder Nicole Navarro successfully rescued the fox in spring 2020.

THE SCOREBOARD

Team Sport Opponent Date Result

Marathon Girls Basketball @Carrollton 11/14 L, 60-18

Coral Shores Girls Basketball @Divine Savior 11/14 W, 41-33

Key West Girls Soccer Keys Gate 11/15 W, 8-0

Coral Shores Boys Soccer @St. Brendan 11/15 L, 6-0

Key West Boys Soccer Keys Gate 11/15 W, 3-1

Marathon Girls Soccer @Silver Palms 11/15 L, 9-3

Marathon Girls Basketball @Gulliver Prep 11/16 L, 45-39

Marathon Girls Soccer @Everglades Prep 11/16 Postponed

Coral Shores Boys Soccer @Florida Christian 11/16 Canceled

Marathon Girls Basketball SoHo 11/17 L, 40-44

Coral Shores Girls Soccer St. Brendan 11/17 L, 6-0

Key West Girls Basketball @Barron Collier 11/18 Canceled

Key West Girls Soccer @Port Charlotte 11/18 Canceled

Key West Boys Soccer @Dade Christian 11/18 W, 10-0

Marathon Boys Soccer Palmer 11/18 L, 8-0

Key West Girls Basketball @Golden Gate 11/19 Canceled

Key West Girls Soccer @Lemon Bay 11/19 W, 4-2

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

Date School Sport Opponent Time

BROOKE MANDOZZI

11/28

Coral Shores Girls Basketball Mater Bay 4:30 p.m. 11/28 Key West Boys Soccer @ Boca Raton 5 p.m. 11/28 Coral Shores Boys Basketball Mater Bay 6 p.m. 11/29 Marathon Girls Soccer @ Archimedian 3 p.m. 11/29 Marathon Boys Basketball @ Somerset S. Home stead 4 p.m. 11/29

Coral Shores, Junior Basketball

Coral Shores’ win over Divine Savior might have ended differently if starting forward Brooke Mandozzi had not been so determined to play in the game. Mandozzi, known for her physical play, had already reopened a fresh set of stitches above one eye in the week leading up to the ’Canes’ season start.

“She’s such a tough competitor that she made it clear that the only way she would be sitting is if I benched her, so she was out there for us,” coach Jarrod Mandozzi said. In the matchup, Mandozzi scored 19 points, pulled down 11 rebounds and had 4 steals to help propel the Hurricanes to an unexpected start to their season in the win column.

For her unwaver ing drive to compete, intense play and her dedication to her team, Brooke Mandozzi is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

— Jarrod Mandozzi, Coral Shores basketball coach

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

“She’s just such a team player. In any sport she plays she’s ready to do whatever the team needs her to do.”

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

BASKETBALL BEGINS FOR MARATHON, CORAL SHORES Boys start season with games next week

Marathon

Marathon’s record is not where the Dolphins were hoping it would be this season, but with their 0-3 start comes valuable learning experiences.

“We are starting a bit slow this season, but we know as the season goes on, we will learn from it and we will be picking it up more,” said coach Jaymie Robinson. “We are looking forward to winning a district playoff and going further on after.”

Each game has brought the team closer to a win, and with a solid returning lineup, Marathon should begin to stack some wins after the fall break. So far this season, senior Abrianna Marshall leads the team in scoring with a total of 44 points, 22 rebounds, 11 blocks and 11 steals in three games. Sophomore Elena Eubank is close behind with 32 points, 20 rebounds, six assists and 10 steals.

Coral Shores

Coral Shores enjoyed a big 41-33 win over the Sharks of Divine Savior on Nov. 14. The ’Canes had concerns coming into the start of the season, given their young, inexperienced team; the loss of longtime coach Pat Meyers, who stepped down last season; and some equipment issues in their gym, which made practices chal lenging. Interim coach Jarrod Mandozzi steadied the team with some solid goals.

“I told the girls that our priority was to get through game one the best we could,” he said. “Run what we were able to run, sub as much as we needed or could given where everyone was at and work as hard as we could. Stay positive and focused, ideally get a win and then we’d have some more practice time to get better before our next game on the 28th.”

Mandozzi’s advice worked for the ’Canes, who hope to continue their momentum. Leading the team in scoring was Brooke Man dozzi, who shot 9 for 11 with 19 points and 11 rebounds. Grace Leffler, called “an absolute force” by coach Mandozzi, had seven blocks and 12 rebounds with seven points in the books.

Coral Shores plays again on Monday, Nov. 28 in its home opener against Mater Bay at 3 p.m.

Key West

The yet-untested Lady Conchs face Pace on Tuesday, Nov. 29 in Miami. Games scheduled with Barron Collier and Immokalee were canceled earlier this week.

Boys start next week

Boys basketball action begins Tuesday, Nov. 29 for Marathon, which plays at Somerset South Homestead. The following day, Coral Shores opens at home against Mater Bay. Their first sched uled game was canceled by Everglades Prep. Key West’s boys open their season on the road against Miami Christian the same day.

KEYS SWIMMERS REPRESENT AT STATE MEETS IN STUART

After a weeklong delay due to concerns over impacts from Hurricane Nicole, the FHSAA 2022 Swimming and Diving State Championships for the 1A and 2A divisions are finally complete.

Coral Shores sent five athletes to Sailfish Splash Waterpark and Aquat ics Center in Stuart to compete in 1A races on Nov. 18. The top finisher for the ’Canes was senior Corley Smith, who qualified in two individual events as well as two relays. Smith took 12th place in the 200 Freestyle event, finish ing about a second off of the medal platform. She was 11th in the 500 Freestyle and just five seconds from medaling in an event in which she often beat opponents by minutes in regular season competition. Teammate Abbie Sargent qualified for the individual 100 Breaststroke event and in both of the ’Canes relay events. Sargent finished 19th in the preliminaries.

Smith and Sargent teamed up with their sisters for the 400 Freestyle Relay. The team of Corley and Layne Smith plus Abbie and Olivia Sargent came in 17th place in the race. Riley Cooper teamed up with Abbie Sargent and both Smith siblings for the 200 Freestyle Relay, but the team was disqualified for an early start.

While a visit to the podium was not in the cards for the Hurricanes, the team achieved their goals set by coach es Jon Olsen and Kelly Owens. Prior to their season opener, Owens said, “Jon and I are hoping to see athletes ad vance to regionals and hopefully states. Corley Smith and Abbie Sargent both qualified for the state competition last year. We would love to see them con tinue on again and see other athletes qualify as well.”

The Conchs sent one athlete to the state meet this season as Key West’s Alexander “AJ” Smith represented the southernmost swimmers at the 2A championships on Nov. 19. Smith competed in the 50 Freestyle event and finished in 10th place, just two hun dredths of a second from a medal.

Abrianna Marshall (11) charges up the court against Somerset Academy South Homestead.

CONTRIBUTED

Elena Eubank (3) scans the defense.

Payton Junker (10) is ready to defend.

By:

Girls Boys

Key West

Key West has achieved a 3-2 record early this season. The Conchs won at home against Keys Gate on Nov. 15, then took to the road three days later, defeating Dade Christian in a single half on Nov. 18 by mercy rule. Seven different Key West players scored in the game, including two by Jona than Gvili and Daniel Quiche and one each from Jonathan Bahri, Loubins Fleuridor, Jan Charles, Finley McKnight and Nicolas Silak. The 10th goal scored in the match was an own-goal by Dade Christian. The Conchs play again on Monday, Nov. 28 at Boca Raton.

Marathon

An 8-0 loss to Palmer Trinity School on Nov. 19 gave the Dolphins a 1-2 record to start the season. The Fins will have plenty of opportunities to add to their win column coming back from Thanksgiving break – they play four games in five days, starting with a rematch of their defeat by Coral Shores on Nov. 28.

Coral Shores

Coral Shores sits on an even 1-1 record after a 6-0 loss against St. Brendan on Nov. 15. The Sabres had the advan tage of a larger division and in the second half, played with the advantage of an uneven lineup. The ’Canes had four double yellow cards handed to them, forcing them to play 7 on 11 for a good part of the second half of the match.

Coral Shores has three games the week following the break, starting with Marathon on Nov. 28 on home turf.

Key West

A victory over Lemon Bay on Nov. 19 gave the Lady Conchs a solid 3-1 start for the season heading into the fall break. Prior to their 4-2 win over Lemon Bay, Key West enjoyed an 8-0 mercy rule victory over Keys Gate on Nov. 15. Scoring for the Conchs were Kathryn Smith, Nicole Tomita and Ella Baxter with two goals each, and Maddie Kilduff and Kaitlyn Franco with one apiece. Their game against Port Charlotte was canceled just before the break, making their next game an away matchup against St. Brendan on Nov. 30.

Marathon

Heading into fall break, the Lady Fins sit at 0-1 after a loss to Somerset Silver Palms on Nov. 15. The Dolphins got off to a slow start but got things going after a second half goal from Jordan MacDonald fol lowed by a Sara Strama goal 10 minutes later. Rain Banks’ penalty kick hit a corner late in the game, giving Marathon three on the board, but it would be too little, too late to overcome Somerset’s first half onslaught. The 9-3 loss is the team’s only game in the books until Nov. 29 when they take on Archimedean on the road, but the Fins will likely add a win by forfeit over Everglades Prep, who failed to secure referees for their game sched uled for Nov. 16.

Coral Shores

Coral Shores took on power house St. Brendan at home on Nov. 17. The ’Canes held their own with the larger 2A Sabres, narrowing the margin of loss from their last meetup by two in a 6-0 defeat. Coral Shores plays next at Pace on Nov. 30.

Tracy and Sean McDonald

GIRLS SOCCER MATER BAY MARATHON NOVEMBER 30 | 3 P.M.

VS

DUANE ANNIVERSARY ARRIVES

COAST GUARD CUTTER A MARVEL FOR DIVERS

Conditions this past week were typi cal for November in the Keys. We experienced a little bit of wind with slight current and great visibility.

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.

The north wind brought in some colder temperatures, but that didn’t stop us from diving one of our favorite wrecks in the Florida Keys and the whole country — the Duane. We are so fortunate to live in a place where some of the best wrecks to recreationally dive can be found in our backyard. Divers come from around the world to dive these wrecks, but for us, there are several just a few miles off shore.

The Keys have a unique dive challenge called the wreck trek. It challenges divers to experience the flagship wrecks from Key Largo to Key West. And one of the wrecks on that list is the Duane — a 327-foot steel-hulled Coast Guard cutter. She was

intentionally sunk on Nov. 27, 1987 as part of the Florida Keys artificial reef program. She was one of many cutters in that class named after former secretaries of the United States treasury.

Named after William J. Duane, who served as treasury secretary for just four months under President Andrew Jackson in 1833, the Duane now lies in 125 feet of water roughly 7.5 miles off of Key Largo. The Duane is suitable for advanced divers due to her depth. Although the highest point reaches a depth of 60 feet at her radar tower, the bulk of the wreck sits at 90 feet and below.

Divers will find three mooring buoys at the wreck, so you don’t have to drop anchor. Be advised that she does sit close to the gulf stream and is just outside the reef line, which results in strong currents

occasionally. This is one of our go-to spots to see sharks and other marine life. Due to her depth, I recommend having a plan before you stride in. A great route to follow would be to descend to the main deck at a depth of 105 feet and explore the super structure and wheelhouse (loaded with colorful sponges, bring a light). Then finish off your dive in the radar room located at the radar tower located just aft of midship, depending on which mooring buoy line you descend.

The Duane is an absolute gift for divers. I’ve dove wrecks all over the world and I can honestly say that this girl is my favorite. I may be a little biased but I’d be willing to debate my claim with anyone. So do your self a favor, get out and dive the Duane. The anniversary of the sinking is Sunday, Nov. 27. Go celebrate it with her.

ERIC BILLIPS

The U.S. Coast Guard cutter Duane lies upright on a sandy bottom in 125 feet of water one mile south of Molasses Reef in Key Largo. CONTRIBUTED

The Duane is a 327-foot steel-hulled Coast Guard cutter. CONTRIBUTED

Lighted boats will illuminate Key Largo’s Blackwater Sound during the annual Key Largo Boat Parade on Dec. 10. Organized by the Key Lar go Sunset Rotary Club, the evening will culminate with an extravagant fireworks display sponsored by Plantation Boat Mart.

Boats can enter the lighted parade for free, and a total of $2,500 in cash and prizes are on the line in various categories for small and large vessels. This year’s boat parade theme is “A Cartoon Christmas.”

“The theme will give boat parade participants the ability to get creative with some of their fa vorite holiday movies and cartoon shows,” said Lisa Feliciano, Key Largo Sunset Rotary past president and organizer of the Key Largo Boat Parade. “Plenty of prizes and gifts are available for those who enter their boats.”

With assistance from Sea Tow, boats will line up near Dusenbury Creek Green Marker 41 around 6:30 p.m. in anticipation of a 7:30 p.m. start. Spectators can get a good glimpse of the boat parade from Jimmy Johnson’s Big Chill, Sundowners, Caribbean Club and

Reefhouse Resort & Marina. Boats will continue the procession toward Stillwright Point.

Following the parade, fireworks will light the skies of Blackwater Sound. The fireworks display is sponsored by Plantation Boat Mart and Dennis De La Torre, owner. Lo cated in Tavernier, Plantation Boat Mart has been a part of the com munity for 36 years. De La Torre bought the business Oct. 6, 1996.

“The Keys have always been water related,” he said. “I remem ber growing up in the Keys and go ing over there and seeing the boat parade and seeing fireworks. I just wanted to give back to the commu nity and bring that whole unity. We thought, ‘Who doesn’t like fireworks displays?’ Why not do it during the actual boat parade.”

Those wishing to sign up their boats for the parade can visit keylargoboatparade.com and click on the parade entry form at the top of the page. Stay up to date with all the happenings by follow ing the Key Largo Boat Parade on Facebook. Proceeds from the boat parade go to support the Key Largo Sunset Rotary Club’s efforts to as sist the community. — Contributed

A boat lined with holiday lights rides up Blackwater Sound in Key Largo during the 2021 Key Largo Boat Parade. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly

Runners and walkers from across the Keys and South Florida took to the starting line near Treasure Village Montessori for the 19th annual 5K Walk/Run and 10K for Mariners Hospital on Nov. 19. From young children to adults, runners and walkers enjoyed a morning race up and down the Old Highway in Islamorada. Proceeds from the run support equip ment and nursing education at the hospital, lo cated in Tavernier. Results weren’t posted before press time. Scan QR code for more information.

RACERS FOR MARINERS

1 4 5 6

ANNUAL RUN & WALK SUPPORTS NURSES

1. Race co-chair and ER nurse Sylvia Gonzalez crosses the finish line. 2. Young runners successfully complete the Mariners 5K. 3. The 10K overall winner crosses the finish line. 4. Runners and walkers pose for a photo before the start of the race. 5. Runners, walkers, family and friends gather for the 19th annual Mariners Hospital 5K Walk/Run and 10K Run.

6. First place 5K run overall winner Anthony Pallaria crosses the finish line.

Photos by Doug Finger. Full gallery at keysweekly.com. For full results

KEYS CELEBRATES

PROCESSION THROUGH ISLAMORADA SHOWCASES MEXICAN CULTURE

Community Arts & Culture presented a special installation of several traditional Dia de los Muertos altar displays at the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center (FKHDC) in Islamorada. The celebration culminated with a traditional sugar skull-making workshop, and an Ameyal Mexi can Cultural Organization held a procession that started from the museum and ended at Florida Keys Brewing Co. Ameyal is dedi cated to fomenting and spread ing popular Mexican culture by focusing on sharing the richness of its cultural heritage through four pillars: pre-Hispanic dance, traditional music, folkloric ballet, and cultural dissemination.

DIVE SAFETY

HISTORY OF DIVING MUSEUM LECTURE DELVES INTO HYPERBARIC MEDICINE

FINGER/Keys Weekly

1. Ameyal Mexican Cultural Orga nization leads a procession, which started from the Keys History & Dis covery Center and ended at Florida Keys Brewing Co. 2. Dia de los Muertos participants paint their faces ahead of the celebration. 3. An Ameyal Mexican Cultural Organization member performs a dance at Florida Keys Brewing Co.

Members of the Ameyal Mexican Cultural Organization perform traditional dances and songs. 5. In their masks, Dia de los Muer tos participants take a selfie.

Dr. David Charash is board certified in emergency medicine and hyperbaric medi cine. He is a NOAA dive medicine physi cian and a certified dive medical fitness exam iner. CONTRIBUTED

Join the History of Diving Museum on Sunday, Dec. 4 for an in-person presentation on hyperbaric medi cine, presented by Dr. David Charash, physician and diving expert. The lecture begins at 2 p.m. Understanding how decompression sickness and arterial gas embolism might occur is the first step in recognizing its symptoms. Dur ing the discussion, Charash will review things to look for and the steps to take to improve your dive safety. There will be plenty of opportunities for ques tions.

Charash is a physician who has cared for the diving community for over 30 years. He is board certified in emergency medicine and hyperbaric medicine. He is a NOAA dive medicine physician and a certified dive medi cal fitness examiner. He recently received the Divers Alert Network (DAN)/Rolex Diver of the Year Award for 2022, and is a DAN Referral Physician and DAN Instructor.

He is founder of Dive Medicine and Hy perbaric Consultants. Charash lectures locally, nationally and internationally on all aspects of dive medicine, safety and technology. He volunteers as a researcher with DAN, and is currently involved in an investigation looking at the effects of diving and decompression sickness. He is the host on the podcast series “Fitness in Diving.”

Charash will be presenting in-person as well as over Zoom. The museum will be hosting the presentation on-site with limited seating in the Bauer Diving History Research Library as well as through a private Zoom meeting. If you are interested in attending in person, email the community outreach team at programs@divingmuseum.org or call the museum at 305-664-9737. To register for the Zoom Meeting visit DivingMuseum.org. Spaces will be limited; you must register in advance. For those unable to attend in-person or virtually, the session will be recorded and posted to the HDM YouTube channel.

— Keys Weekly staff

DOUG

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

An overloaded vessel initially sighted in Key Largo carrying a large number of Haitian migrants on rough waters ran aground at the sandbar south of Whale Harbor in Islamorada around 6:45 p.m. on Nov. 21. Eighteen people were found in the water as multiple agencies rescued them from dan gerous ocean currents.

The vessel carrying the mi grants was spotted off the shores of Key Largo during the early morn ing hours of Nov. 21. The rescue ef fort started after a good samaritan contacted Sector Key West around 5 a.m.

Around 22 people were suc cessfully rescued from the sailboat off Rodriguez Key during the morn ing hours. Efforts by the U.S. Coast Guard to rescue those remaining on the vessel was a day-long effort, according to Matt James, Coast Guard Station Islamorada com mander.

“We’ve transferred dozens of folks from the overloaded vessel to Coast Guard cutters on scene. There are still a lot more onboard,” he said.

The vessel kept going, however, until it landed on a sandbar not far from Whale Harbor.

The Coast Guard said more than 100 people were rescued be fore the vessel hit the sandbar. U.S Customs & Border Patrol, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation, Is lamorada Fire Rescue and Monroe County Sheriff’s Office were among the responding agencies.

As for rescue operations on the

water, Coast Guard crews battled high seas and 25 mph winds to safely remove the people from the vessel throughout the day.

“They were reporting 8- to 10foot seas. Seaside it increased from 10 feet to 10 to 14 (foot seas). We paused the effort until we could get better seas. Right now they’re doing it in 6- to 8-foot seas,” James told the Keys Weekly late afternoon on Nov. 21.

The Keys continue to see a steady flow of Cuban migrants ar riving on chugs, but it’s been several months since the island chain has dealt with a large vessel carry ing Haitians. On Aug. 6, a sailboat with more than 300 Haitian men, women and children grounded near North Key Largo’s Ocean Reef Club. A total of 113 migrants hopped off the vessel and made it to land at the exclusive Ocean Reef Club. But 220 migrants remained on the boat. A swift rescue ensued by the U.S. Coast Guard, as many migrants were in the water without life jackets.

Just two days later, the Florida Keys experienced another large migrant landing, this time a sailboat carrying 123 Haitian migrants ran aground offshore in the area of 79th Street Ocean in Marathon.

On March 6, multiple federal, state and local agencies responded to a massive migrant landing just off Ocean Reef in North Key Largo. According to the U.S. Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protec tion, some 356 Haitian migrants were on an overloaded wooden vessel. Eight days later, a landing in Summerland Key saw roughly 120 Haitians coming to shore.

Covering All The Keys From Key Largo To Key West

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

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

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

Left: The U.S. Coast Guard intercepts a sailing vessel carrying Haitian migrants near Rodriguez Key on the morning of Nov. 21. Right: A U.S. Coast Guard member feeds a young migrant who was rescued from the overloaded sailboat. U.S. COAST GUARD/Contributed

A time to be thankful

Wielding crayons, Ocean Stud ies Charter School’s Sea Stars class were hard at work on some Thanksgiving crafts last week. Not only did they color in the turkey feathers, but they also penciled in some things they’re thank ful for, which ranged from family to food. Up per Keys Weekly recently stopped by Jennifer Lavoie and Samantha Simpson’s classroom to see the crafts and hear what the kindergartners are thankful for this holiday season.

I am thankful for my teachers because they help me learn and read.

I am thankful for my family.

SAMANTHA SIMPSON

I’m thankful for my husband and our three daughters and being able to work at this amaz ing school with my co-teacher, Jen.

JENNIFER LAVOIE

I’m thankful for just time with my family and daughter who will be graduating from high school. I always appreciate time with family because it’s right in the present.

LIAM VALLE

I’m thankful for my family, video games, books and my bed.

RIO BLUE

I am thankful for video games. I play Mario.

ETHAN RAY

I’m thankful for my family. I’m thankful for my pet fish.

ARIANA MARIN

I’m thankful that we get to be free. I’m thankful for my pets. I have two dogs and two cats.

CHASE TROEGER

I’m thankful for my family eating Thanksgiving with me and my dog and chicken. Her name is Shelly.

MADELEINE “MADDIE” MAHLER-RODGRIUEZ

MONA RESTREPO

I am thankful for...

mybed Shelly my mom

my family doctors my teachers

JUDE SMITH

I’m thankful for the turkey getting eaten.

JOVIE RUFFOLO

I am thankful for my animal. I have a real monkey.

EVELYN MILAZZO

I’m thankful for my family.

AURELIA MCDONALD

I’m thankful for my mom and my dog, Riley.

VIOLEOTTA CRUZ

I’m thankful for my mom because she helps me clean my room and she gives me lollipops.

ALEX RODRIGUEZ

I’m thankful that I’m going to go up to see my grandma in Fort Lauderdale.

ORION CERRA

I’m thankful for doctors.

DANTE COPPOLA

I’m thankful for my mom and dad who are working hard to get lots and lots of money.

ALAN PACILLO

I’m thankful for my mom.

BRANDON HURT

I’m thankful for giving my mom flowers.

GUS BOWERS

I’m thankful for school, math and learning how to read.

LIAM BOVILL

I’m thankful for helping my mom do chores. I’m thankful for helping my dad get my sister to dance.

MOTE HOSTS SECOND

Mote Marine Laboratory is once again teaming up with local Toys for Tots organizers to help give back this holiday season.

Last year, with the help from the com munity, Mote donated dozens of toys from its inaugural “Toys for Tours” event. Over 6,000 toys were distributed to nearly 2,000 children in the community by local Toys for Tots organizers in 2021.

This year, Mote is hosting this event at all three of its land-based nursery locations in Summerland Key, Islamo rada and Key Largo. When you bring a new, unwrapped toy to one of the locations during designated dates/times, you will receive an exclusive behind the scenes tour in return. Tours will start at the top of each hour during the designated times at each location and are free to the pub lic (with a toy). The dates and times are as follows:

• Tuesday, Nov. 29 at Mote’s Islamorada Coral Nurs ery at Bud n’ Mary’s Marina (79851 Overseas Highway) from 2 to 6 p.m.

• Wednesday, Nov. 30 at Mote’s Key Largo Nursery at Reefhouse Resort and Marina (103800 Overseas Highway) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Thursday, Dec. 1 at Mote’s Elizabeth Moore Interna tional Center for Coral Reef Research and Restoration in Summerland Key (24244 Overseas Hwy) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This is a way to see science-based coral restoration from the world’s leading scientists and give back to the community at the same time. Toys for Tours is a familyfriendly event and the entire community is invited to attend at the location closest to them.

— Contributed

Mote Marine’s “Toys for Tours’ supports the annual Toys for Tots drive, which distributed more than 6,000 toys to children in the community last year. CONTRIBUTED

SAVED BY THE ... KEY DEER?

HOLLY EDDLESTON PENS KEYS CHRISTMAS CLASSIC

ABIGAIL HADDOCK www.keysweekly.com

The Keys may never have a white Christmas, but teen au thor Holly Eddleston has writ ten a children’s book about an island Christmas adventure in which a Key deer saves the day.

The book, aptly titled “Can a Key Deer Save Christmas,” follows the journey of Winnie McKee, a Key deer who must travel throughout the Keys to help a stranded Santa when one of his reindeer loses a magic bell. Along the way, she visits many famous and charmingly illustrated Keys landmarks, and gets help from other Keys animals. Proceeds from the book are being donated to Big Pine Key’s National Key Deer Refuge, and Eddleston’s goal is to raise $500.

Eddleston moved to the Keys with her family from Rhode Island when she was 14, but said she never really thought of herself as a writer until about two years ago.

“Since then, it’s been a really fun journey, figuring out what my style of writing is,” she said. “And children’s books are fun to write.”

Growing up as a fan of Junie B. Jones and Dr. Seuss books, Eddleston enjoys the upbeat, positive story tell ing of children’s books and combining writing with illustration.

“I’m not really the best artist,” said Holly about the book’s art. “We reached out to Blueberry Illustrations to find a good illustrator who matched the style I wanted in the book. Every children’s book has a different style, and I wanted a very bubbly, happy and colorful one. It took a good five to six

months for every drawing to be done. I’m very happy about it; everything is perfect to what I imagined.”

Holly knew right away that her first book would “of course” be a Christmas story. “My family puts the Christmas tree up on Nov. 1, and I’ve always loved Christmas,” she said. “It’s been my favorite holiday since I was little, so that was an easy choice right off the bat. Christmas has always been a big deal to my family.”

For other writers who are just starting on their craft, Eddleston advised, “If you have an idea that you think works, just start writing. Write it all down. And write multiple drafts. Eventually it’ll all come together. If you think it’s good, it is probably good. It took a lot of encouragement from my family to finally get (this book) pub lished, so I think another important thing is having people around you who support your ideas and your vision.”

With more Winnie McKee story ideas in the works, Eddleston’s vision is to continue featuring different Keys animals like manatees and sea turtles while still continuing Winnie’s journey.

For a chance to meet the artist in person, visit Eddleston at the Islamo rada Holiday Fest on Friday, Dec. 2 for a book signing. “Can a Key Deer Save Christmas?” is available online from Amazon and Barnes and Noble and has already sold more than 100 copies. It is also sold in Islamorada at Florida Keys Kayak and Ski at Robbie’s, the Sea Turtle Gallery and Gifts, One Drunk Monkey gift shop, the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce and Tourist Center and in Duck Key at Hawks Cay Resort.

Teen author Holly Eddleston shows off her latest release, ‘Can a Key Deer Save Christ mas?’ Proceeds from the children’s book will go to support the National Key Deer Refuge in Big Pine Key. CONTRIBUTED

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

LEGAL NOTICES

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of BDM PROPERTY SERVICES located at 3312 Northside Drive, Unit 104, Key West, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Awesomeness Enterprises LLC

Publish: November 24, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI

Notice is here by given that on December 12th, 2022, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold. The names of whose units will be sold are as follows:

103530 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL. 33037.

James Stogner Unit 1652 $865.60 Sheila Chamberlain Unit 1167 $641.50

Norma de la Torre Unit 1581 $1,434.28 Publish: November 24th & December 1st, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF INTENT TO USE

UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM

LEGAL NOTICES

ASSESSMENTS

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

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

The resolution, if adopted, would indicate the County’s intent to use the uniform method of collecting non-ad valorem special assessments to be levied within the County as authorized by section 197.3632, Florida Statutes, for the cost of providing roadway improvements and sea level rise improvements for the Fiscal Year beginning on October 1, 2023 and continuing until discontinued by the County.

The proposed resolution, which contains the legal description of the real property subject to the levy and states the need for the special assessment, can be inspected by the public by viewing the agenda packet for this meeting at: http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx

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

Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, notice is given

LEGAL NOTICES

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

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

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.

LEGAL NOTICES

A RESOLUTION OF Monroe County, FLORIDA ANNOUNCING

NOTICE OF INTENT TO USE THE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS LEVIED WITHIN THE County BEGINNING WITH the TAX BILL ISSUED IN NOVEMBER 2023 FOR CANAL RESTORATION PROJECTS ON CANALS 82, 83 AND 84 IN KEY LARGO; CANAL 105 IN TAVERNIER; CANALS 255, 287, 290, 295, 297 AND 315 IN BIG PINE KEY; AND CANAL 474 IN GEIGER KEY; STATING A NEED FOR SUCH LEVY; PROVIDING FOR THE MAILING OF THIS RESOLUTION; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

The proposed resolution, which contains the legal description of the real property subject to the levy and states the need for the special assessment, can be inspected by the public by viewing the agenda packet for this meeting at: http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx

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

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

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 2924441, between the hours of 8:30a.m. – 5:00p.m., prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”. Live Closed-Captioning is available via our web portal @ http://monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County 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

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

The Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida (“the County”) hereby provides notice, pursuant to Section 197.3632(3)(a), Florida Statutes, of its intent to use the uniform method of collecting non-ad valorem special assessments, for the cost of providing certain wastewater capital improvements and connections, to be levied within the unincorporated area of Monroe County encompassing the Stock Island, Key Haven, Big Coppitt, Lower Sugarloaf through Big Pine Key, No Name Key, Long Key, Duck Key; excluding Indies Islands, and three (3) parcels on Boca Chica: RE# 122870-000000, 012288000000, and 122890-000000 for the fiscal year beginning on October 1, 2023 and continuing each year until discontinued by the County. The County will consider the adoption of a resolution electing to use the uniform method of collecting such assessments authorized by Section 197.3632, Florida Statutes, at a public hearing to be held on December 7, 2022

NOTICES

in the Commission Chambers, Murray E. Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo,

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 OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDINANCE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on December 7, 2022, at 9:00 A.M., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the Murray Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, Florida, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, intends to consider adopting the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 18, PARKS AND RECREATION, OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE, TO RENAME LITTLE DUCK KEY PARK AS VETERANS MEMORIAL BEACH; AMENDING MONROE COUNTY CODE SECTION 1827(a) TO REFLECT THE PARK NAME CHANGE TO VETERANS MEMORIAL BEACH IN THAT SPECIFIC CODE SECTION; PROVIDING FOR PENALTIES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES INCONSISTENT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION INTO THE MONROE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The proposed ordinance may be inspected by the public at the Monroe County website by

viewing the agenda packet for the December 7, 2022 meeting, which will be posted beginning on November 22, 2022 at: http://monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/citizens/default.aspx. The ordinance 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.

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 15th 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 24, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNFICANT IMPACT AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST

RELEASE OF FUNDS October 14, 2022

City of Marathon 9805 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050 305.743.0033

These notices shall satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be undertaken by the City of Marathon.

ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION

The City of Marathon certifies to Florida Department of Economic Opportunity John Bartus in his capacity as Mayor consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. Florida

Department of Economic Opportunity’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the City of Marathon to use Program funds.

OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS

REQUEST

FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS

On or about November 20, 2022, the City of Marathon will submit a request to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity for the release of Community Development Block Grant – Mitigation funds under Title I of the Housing and Community Development (HCD) Act, as amended, to undertake a project known as Infrastructure Repair Program for the purpose of hardening the City's wastewater infrastructure making it more resistant to the impacts of another hurricane such as Hurricane Irma. The locations for the project are at (5) different treatment plants in the City of Marathon. Areas 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 are included in this project with addresses as follows: Area 3 WWTP - 4095 Overseas Hwy; Area 4 WWTP - 140 Sombrero Beach Rd; Area 5 WWTP - 10685 Overseas Hwy; Area 5 Vac Station - 7280 Overseas Hwy; Area 6 WWTP - 100 Avenue I; Area 7 WWTP - 59255 Overseas Hwy.

FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT

The City of Marathon has determined that the project will have no significant impact on the human environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR) on file at The City of Marathon 9805 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 and may be examined or copied weekdays _9_A.M to _4_P.M PUBLIC

COMMENTS

Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to the Grants Coordinator, Maria Covelli at covellim@ci.marathon. fl.us. All comments received by November 20, 2022 will be considered by the City of

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity will accept objections to its release of fund and the City of Marathon’s certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the City of Marathon; (b) the City of Marathon has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, Office of Long Term Resiliency at 107 E Madison Street, Tallahassee, FL 32399. Potential objectors should contact the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity to verify the actual last day of the objection period.

Luis Gonzalez, Mayor Publish: November 24, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

AVISO DE CONSTATACIÓN DE QUE NO HAY IMPACTO SIGNIFICATIVO Y AVISO DE INTENCIÓN DE SOLICITAR LA LIBERACIÓN DE FONDOS Octubre 14, 2022 Ciudad de Maratón 9805 Autopista de Ultramar Maratón, FL 33050 305.743.0033

Estos avisos deberán cumplir con dos requisitos de procedimiento separados pero relacionados para las actividades que llevará a cabo la Ciudad de Maratón. SOLICITUD DE LIBERACIÓN DE FONDOS

Alrededor del 20 de Noviembre de 2022, la Ciudad de Marathon presentará una solicitud al Departamento de Oportunidades Económicas de la Florida para la liberación de la Subvención en Bloque de Desarrollo Comunitario – Fondos de mitigación bajo el Título I de la Ley de Vivienda y Desarrollo Comunitario (HCD), según enmendada, para llevar a cabo un proyecto conocido como Programa de Reparación de Infraestructura con el propósito de endurecer la infraestructura de aguas residuales de la Ciudad haciéndola más resistente a los impactos de otro huracán como el huracán. Irma. Las ubicaciones para el proyecto se encuentran en (5) diferentes plantas de tratamiento en la ciudad de Maraton. Las áreas 3, 4, 5, 6 y 7 se incluyen en este proyecto con las siguientes direcciones: Área

Commissioners will consider adoption of the following resolution:

Mile Marker 102

Marathon prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds. Comments should specify which Notice they are addressing.

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

SIGNIFICATIVO

La Ciudad de Maratón ha determinado que el proyecto no tendrá un impacto significativo en el medio ambiente humano.

Por lo tanto, no se requiere una Declaración de Impacto Ambiental bajo la Ley de Política Ambiental Nacional de 1969 (NEPA). La información adicional del proyecto está contenida en el Registro de Revisión Ambiental (ERR) en el archivo de The City of Marathon 9805 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 y puede examinarse o copiarse de lunes a viernes de 9 A.M. a 4 P.M.

COMENTARIOS PÚBLICOS

Cualquier individuo, grupo o agencia puede enviar comentarios por escrito sobre el ERR a la Coordinadora de Subvenciones, Maria Covelli en covellim@ci.marathon.fl.us.

Todos los comentarios recibidos antes del 20 de noviembre de 2022 serán considerados por la Ciudad de Marathon antes de autorizar la presentación de una solicitud de liberación de fondos. Los comentarios deben especificar a qué Aviso se dirigen.

CERTIFICACIÓN AMBIENTAL

La Ciudad de Marathon certifica al Departamento de Oportunidades Económicas de Florida a John Bartus en su calidad de Alcalde que acepta la jurisdicción de los Tribunales Federales si se presenta una acción para hacer cumplir las responsabilidades en relación con el proceso de revisión ambiental y que estas responsabilidades se han cumplido. La aprobación de la certificación por parte del Departamento de Oportunidades Económicas de florida satisface sus responsabilidades bajo NEPA y las leyes y autoridades relacionadas y permite a la Ciudad de Marathon usar los fondos del OBJECIONESPrograma.

A LA LIBERACIÓN DE FONDOS

El Departamento de Oportunidades Económicas de la Florida aceptará objeciones a su liberación de fondos y la certificación de la Ciudad de Marathon por un período de quince días después de la fecha de presentación anticipada o su recepción real de la solicitud (lo que sea posterior) solo si se basan en una de las siguientes bases: (a) la certificación no fue ejecutada por el Oficial Certificador de la Ciudad de Marathon; (b) la Ciudad de Marathon ha omitido un paso o no ha tomado una decisión o hallazgo requerido por las regulaciones de HUD en 24 CFR parte 58; (c) el beneficiario de la subvención u otros participantes en el proceso de desarrollo han comprometido fondos, incurrido en costos o emprendido actividades no autorizadas por 24 CFR Parte 58 antes de la aprobación de una liberación de fondos por parte del Departamento de Oportunidades Económicas de la Florida; o (d) otra agencia federal que actúe de conformidad con 40 CFR Parte 1504 ha presentado una conclusión por escrito de que el proyecto no es satisfactorio desde el punto de vista de la calidad ambiental. Las objeciones deben prepararse y presentarse de acuerdo con los procedimientos requeridos (24 CFR Parte 58, Sec. 58.76) y deben dirigirse al Departamento de Oportunidades Económicas de Florida, Oficina de Resiliencia a Largo Plazo en 107 E Madison Street, Tallahassee, FL 32399. Los posibles objetores deben comunicarse con el Departamento de Oportunidades Económicas de Florida para verificar el último día real del período de objeción. Alcalde, Luis Gonzalez Publish: November 24, 2022

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, January 11, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:

Florida Keys Marathon International Airport Relocate Automated Surface Observation System (ASOS) 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 Wednesday, January 11, 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:

Florida Keys Marathon International Airport Relocate Automated Surface Observation System (ASOS) 1-11-2023

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 Wednesday, January 11, 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: +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 24, 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 JUDGE Publish: November 10, 17, 24 & December 1, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 2022-CP-000102-M IN RE: ESTATE OF FRANKLIN EMIGDIO MEJIA, Deceased.

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION

The administration of the estate of FRANKLIN EMIGDIO MEJIA, deceased, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, Plantation Key Courthouse, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050, file number 2022-CP000102-M. The estate is intestate. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative's attorney are set forth below. The fiduciary lawyer-client privilege in Florida Statutes Section 90.5021 applies with respect to the Personal Representative and any attorney employed by the Personal Representative. Any interested person on whom a copy of the notice of administration is served is who challenges the validity of the will or codicils, qualification of the personal representative, venue, or the jurisdiction of the court is required to file any objection with the court in the manner provided in Florida Probate Rules WITHIN THE TIME REQUIRED BY LAW, which is on or before the date that is 3 months after the date of service of a copy of the Notice of Administration on that person, or those objections are forever barred.

A petition for determination of exempt property is required to be filed by or on behalf of any person entitled to exempt property under Section 732.402, WITHIN THE TIME REQUIRED BY LAW, which is on or before the later of the date that is 4 months after the date of service of a copy of the Notice of Administration on such person or the date that is 40 days after the date of termination of any proceeding involving the construction, admission to probate, or validity of a will or involving any other matter affecting any part of the exempt property, or the right of such person to exempt property is deemed waived.

An election to take an elective share must be filed by or on behalf of the surviving spouse entitled to an elective share under Sections 732.201732.2155 WITHIN THE TIME REQUIRED BY LAW, which is on or before the earlier of the date that is 6 months after the date of service of a copy of the Notice of Administration on the surviving

spouse, or an attorney in fact or a guardian of the property of the surviving spouse, or the date that is 2 years after the date of the decedent's death. The time for filing an election to take an elective share may be extended as provided in the Florida Probate Rules.

Personal Representative: Felicita Franco Lopez 1570 Overseas Hwy, Lot 64 Marathon, FL 33050

Attorney for Personal Representative: Alexandra J. Sanchez, Esq./FBN 154423

Attorney for Petitioner Heller, Zion & Sanchez, LLP 1428 Brickell Avenue, Suite 600 Miami, Florida 33131 Tel: (305) 373-8001 Publish: November 24 & December 1, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 2022-CP-000102-M

IN RE: ESTATE OF FRANKLIN EMIGDIO MEJIA, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of FRANKLIN EMIGDIO MEJIA, deceased, whose date of death was January 15, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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

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

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

The date of first publication of this notice is: November 24, 2022.

Personal Representative: Felicita Franco Lopez 1570 Overseas Hwy, Lot 64 Marathon, FL 33050

Attorney for Personal Representative: Alexandra J. Sanchez, Esq./FBN 154423

Attorney for Petitioner Heller, Zion & Sanchez, LLP 1428 Brickell Avenue, Suite 600 Miami, Florida 33131 Tel: (305) 373-8001 Publish: November 24 & December 1, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 21-CP-91-M DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF HELEN BARBARA MUSACCHIA Deceased.

AMENDED NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of HELEN BARBARA MUSACCHIA, deceased, whose date of death was November 7, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway,

LEGAL NOTICES

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 24, 2022.

Personal Representative: Michele Maria Eichler 22250 County Road 44 Aguilar, Colorado 81020

Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: November 24 and December 1, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2022-000311-CP-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF CLIFFORD R. STEELE, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Clifford R. Steele, deceased, File Number 2022--000311-CP-K, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, 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 WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OF MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is: November 24, 2022.

Personal Representative:

Telephone 305-448-9022

Attorney for Personal Representative: Susan Strickroot Adams, Esq. Florida Bar No. 616605

Adams & Adams, P.A. 550 Biltmore Way, Suite 1200 Coral Gables, FL 33134 E-mail: susan@adams-adams. com Publish: November 24 and December 1, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 22-CP-68-M

DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF J.T. ODOM Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of J.T. Odom, deceased, whose date of death was April 20, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: November 24, 2022.

Personal Representative: Jean R. Odom 11260 5th Avenue Gulf Marathon, Florida 33050

Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert K. Miller, Esq.

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173 Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938

Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-9428 Fax: (305) 743-8800

E-Mail: service@floridakeyslaw. com Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com Publish: November 24 and 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.

TO CREDITORS

NOTICE

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

Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

Mary Steele c/o Adams & Adams, P.A. 550 Biltmore Way, Suite 1200 Coral Gables, FL 33134

LEGAL NOTICES

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 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.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE

TO: Laura Zurita

LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: Mexico

YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Mario Torres, whose address is 1019 Margaret Street, Apt. 5, Key West, FL 33040 on or before December 12, 2022, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE

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

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

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

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply 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

LEGAL NOTICES BOAT SLIP/TRAILER LEGAL NOTICES

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

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

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

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

Dated: October 31, 2022

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

By: Calvin Joseph Deputy Clerk Publish: November 3, 10, 17 & 24, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

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

CIVIL DIVISION CASE NO.: 2022-CA-000674-K JUDGE: Timothy Koenig RAYMOND J. VAZQUEZ AND MATTHEW A. NOONER, Plaintiff, Vs. NANCY MILLINGER a/k/a NANCY B. MILLINGER, deceased, her unknown heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, and all other parties claiming by, through, under or against the aforesaid parties; and all unknown natural persons, if alive, and if dead or not known be dead or alive, their several and respective unknown spouses, heirs, devisees, grantees, creditors, or other parties claiming by, through or under those unknown natural persons; and the several and respective unknown assigns, successors in interest, trustees or any other person claiming by, through, under or against 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

EMPLOYMENT

Islamorada Mercantile, an upscale island wear & vacation essentials boutique, is seeking a friendly, customer oriented, fashion forward individual to join our team as a part time sales associate. 81900 O/S Hwy, Islamorada. Contact us today by emailing info@ islamoradamercantile.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker), Med Tech, Resident Activities Coordinator. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha.org or 305296-5621. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www.kwha.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

FRONT OFFICE ASSISTANT- FULLTIME

Boat Trailer Spaces Available. $100 per week. Boat dockage available $100 per week. Easy access to the Atlantic and lighthouse. Boat length 32’ or less! Dockage is eighty feet long with good depth for boats. Phone 336408-8140 or 336-287-3345.

HOUSING FOR RENT

APARTMENT FOR RENTBeautiful 2 BR, Islamorada, Venetian Shores. On canal, equipped kitchen, W/D, $2,950 + $85 for utilities. 305-393-1002

Key Largo - 2BR/2BA Spacious Doublewide, 1400 sq ft modular on canal w/40’ dock, direct ocean access. Very nice community $3200/month 786-258-3127

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 LOTS

FOR SALE

RV LOT FOR RENT

Large

their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.

is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

TEMPORARY DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATORS

LOCATION: UPPER FLORIDA KEYS

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for several temporary D.S.O.s to perform entry-level, semi-skilled work, involving the repair and maintenance of FKAA water distribu tion 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. EEO, VPE, ADA, DFWP.

Apply online at www. aa.com/employment

WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR

LOCATION: CUDJOE KEY & DUCK KEY

with a Florida “C” license or higher. You will perform skilled/ technical work involving the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment plant. This requires technical knowledge and independent judgment to make treatment process adjustments and perform maintenance on plant equipment, machinery, and related control apparatus in accordance with established standards and procedures. Benefit package is extremely competitive! Salary Range: $54,645.98 - $98,454.90.

Apply online at www. aa.com/employment EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

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

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