Upper Keys Weekly 22-1201

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.

The U.S. men’s national soccer team advanced to the knockout stage of the 2022 FIFA World Cup after beat ing Iran 1-0 in Doha, Qatar on Nov. 29. The national team is the second youngest behind Ghana, with an average age of 25 years and two months. The U.S. will face the Netherlands on Saturday, Dec. 3.

Coral Shores boys basketball player Matthew St. Aubin (22) gets the tipoff against Mater Academy Bay on Nov. 28 at the Coral Shores gym. The Hurricanes went on to win over Mater Academy Bay 7824. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

A roughly 50-foot sailboat used to transport more than 180 Haitian migrants to the Florida Keys remains grounded on a sandbar not far from Whale Harbor in Islamorada.

DAVID

GROSS/Keys Weekly

"These people were packed into an overloaded, unsafe vessel without safety equipment," said Lt. C. Box, of Coast Guard District Seven. "The weather was so bad, these people are lucky we got to them when we did."

‘UNSAFE’ SHIP THAT CARRIED HAITIANS REMAINS GROUNDED OFF ISLAMORADA

Of the 190 on the sailboat, 89 were men, 55 were women and 46 were children. A total of 180 migrants were put on a U.S. Coast Guard cutter, given food, water and medical attention and repatriated to Haiti on Nov. 26. Ten people onboard the vessel were going through a joint interagency process. On Nov. 29, the Coast Guard said seven people were repatriated and three were transferred back to U.S. officials.

A record-breaking 2022 fiscal year, which ended Sept. 30, saw the Coast Guard interdicting 7,175 Haitian migrants. Since the start of the new fiscal year on Oct. 1, 2022, crews have intercepted vessels that contained 585 Haitians.

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

An American flag waves to the Atlantic Ocean breeze at one of the more popular Florida Keys sandbars. Located at Whale Harbor in Islamorada, hundreds of boats usually line the shallow, sandy bottoms during holidays and busy weekends for a day of sunshine, drinks and lounging.

For the past week, sandbar visitors haven’t only captured breathtaking views of the ocean on a pictur esque Keys day. Not far from where boats anchor, a roughly 50-foot wooden sailboat that carried almost 200 Haitian migrants from turmoil to hopes for a new life remains grounded.

While chugs hauling Cuban migrants continue to arrive at record levels, the island chain hasn’t wit nessed a large vessel carrying Haitian migrants to American soil in several months. That all changed dur ing the early morning hours of Nov. 21, when a good Samaritan alerted the Coast Guard that an overloaded boat carrying well over 100 people was crashing into 6- to 10-foot waves and being whipped by 25 mph winds not far from Rodriguez Key in Key Largo. Rescue efforts throughout the day by the Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection proved challenging due to the conditions, according to Matt James, Coast Guard Station Islamorada commander.

By evening, the sailboat traveled south to Islamo rada, where it grounded at a sandbar south of Whale Harbor. Rescue attempts intensified as 18 people hopped off the boat and into the treacherous waters. With help from other agencies, which included Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation and Islamorada Fire Rescue, CBP was able to rescue all the people in the water.

Not far from the famous sandbar, the grounded vessel remains a topic of conversation as boaters pass by and view it from afar. Buckets, netting, bags and other items remain onboard, and so does the story of a dangerous journey to escape a country in Haiti inflicted with violence, economic despair and major uncertainty as to its future.

The sailboat is the latest addition to the Florida Keys’ derelict vessel problem, which has grown with more Cuban chugs arriving by the day. Between 60 and 80 derelict vessels are taken out of the water each year, costing a little more than $200,000. Grant fund ing from Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commis sion and Monroe County Boating Improvement Funds are used to remove derelict vessels.

Removal of the wooden vessel that carried the Haitians now falls into the hands of Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission.

“It’ll go onto our (derelict vessel) list and it’ll be treated as such,” said Jason Rafter, public information officer with FWC.

21.

Migrants aboard the wooden vessel transported back to home country

A Coast Guard Cutter Escanaba crew member feeds a child rescued off an overloaded sailing vessel near Rodriguez Key on Nov.

LT. ROBERT COLLINS/U.S. Coast Guard

1.

WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

2. Monroe County Commissioner Syl via Murphy sits at her desk. She rep resented portions of the Upper Keys, from North Key Largo to Tavernier, from 2006 to 2020. CONTRIBUTED

3. Then-Monroe County Mayor Sylvia Murphy presents Jeanette Nuñez with an Honorary Conch certificate during a gathering in Marathon in 2019.

CONTRIBUTED

4. Sylvia Murphy is recognized as mayor emeritus during a Dec. 8, 2021 meeting of the Monroe County Com mission. MONROE COUNTY BOCC/ Contributed

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

FORMER KEYS COMMISSIONER SYLVIA MURPHY PASSES AWAY AT 86

‘ULTIMATE PUBLIC SERVANT’

Former Monroe County Commissioner Sylvia Murphy was in strumental in broker ing a deal for Rowell’s Park in Key Largo. She also played a pivotal role in saving lives during her career as an EMT.

A Keys resident dating back to her late teenage years, Murphy passed away during the morning hours of Nov. 26. She was 86.

Feisty, a walking history book and a true public servant, Murphy served 14 years as a county commissioner. But she was also a contributor to the community in ways many people didn’t see. A few weeks before the 13th annual Light Up Key Largo on Nov. 19, Murphy called Nola Acker, one of the event organizers. The two have known each other for many years. Murphy ap pointed Acker to serve on the Tourist Development Council’s District Advisory Committee in 2017.

Murphy was a regular contributor to Key Largo’s holiday event and donated funds so every kid could enjoy a hot dog and a drink. Acker told Murphy they were having some difficulties obtain ing everything they needed for the event. Murphy stepped up to help fill the holes.

“It was a two-hour conversation that night,” Acker said. “She was so excited when I talked to her three weeks ago. She’s like, ‘Nola I’ll give you $1,000; $250 to the kids and take the difference and put it where you need to put it.’”

Murphy spent much of her life serving the public, including her years as an EMT with Monroe County Emergency Medical Services, from which she retired in 1996, and two decades with the Tav ernier Volunteer Fire Department. She was elected to Monroe County Commission’s District 5, which serves North Key Largo and portions of Tavernier, in 2006. She kept serving and running for reelection until she decided to retire in November 2020.

“At 86, was I going to be a county commissioner at 90? Come on,” Murphy said during a sitdown interview with the Keys Weekly in December 2021.

County Commissioner Michelle Lincoln served two years with Murphy. But her time getting to know Murphy dates back to Lincoln’s days on the Marathon City Council.

“The first time I met her professionally, she said, ‘I’m going to give you some advice. You’re go ing to make some votes that won’t always make you popular. But do your homework, make your vote and move on to the next one.’ I loved that advice she had for me,” Lincoln said.

Murphy’s commitment to the job and Florida Keys residents was recognized by fellow commis

sioners, as she was named mayor emeritus on Dec. 8, 2021. She joined Wilhelmina Harvey as the only two to have the title.

“Sylvia is very active out in the community,” County Commissioner David Rice said in a 2021 in terview on Murphy’s recognition. “She truly seemed to enjoy her job. As a county commissioner, she ran up and down the Keys, going to everything. And you never have to question where Sylvia’s thoughts are, because they are at the tip of her tongue. And she would agree with that. I love Sylvia, and I think that she would appreciate the honor. It hasn’t been done that many times, so why not?”

Murphy told the Keys Weekly one of her proud est accomplishments was Key Largo’s Rowell’s Park at MM 104, bayside. She knew the owner of that land and was instrumental in brokering the deal.

“It doesn’t matter if the park sits vacant, it belongs to the county,” she said. “One day, after hurricanes pass and roads are raised, it will be a beautiful park. I arranged for Roman (county administrator Roman Gastesi) to meet with the owners of the marina with the price he quoted me. Roman met them for lunch and finalized it.”

State Attorney Dennis Ward was a close friend to Murphy. Describing her as frank, candid and a supporter of the county and its natural resources, Ward said Murphy was the ultimate public servant. He also said she was a walking history book.

“We used to travel together a lot to Key West for events. Every time you get into an area she’d tell a story when she was an EMT and the different calls she went on,” Ward said. “The history and knowl edge of the community that she had was incredible. Things would come up and she would know what people were around at that period of time and the events.”

Acker will remember Murphy’s passion and feistiness.

“All I had to do was say ‘I have a problem,’ and she’d say, ‘Let me send an email,’” Acker said. “Every time I asked her for anything she helped. She even got into a dunk tank for me during a 4th of July picnic.”

An outpouring of social media posts followed Murphy’s passing. Steve Torrence worked with Murphy on the county Health and Services Advisory Board. In a post, Torrence said Murphy was a tena cious spirit and had a wicked sense of humor.

“She said what she thought and thought what she said,” he wrote.

State Rep. Jim Mooney said Murphy was a life long public servant and truly loved the island chain.

“The Keys lost a fruitful part of the community,” he said.

A celebration of life for Murphy will be held Monday, Dec. 19 at 3 p.m. at the Murray Nelson Government Center.

Pictured from left, David Rice, county commissioner; Bob Shillinger, county attorney; Sylvia Murphy; and Lisa Tennyson, legislative affairs director, at Keys Day in 2014. KEYS

NEW-LOOK SCHOOL BOARD TACKLES TRUMBO HOUSING DETAILS

Griffiths, Woltanski to serve as chair, vice chair

OBITUARY

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

The Monroe County School Board welcomed one new face and two familiar ones as newly-elected District 1 board member Darren Horan and re-elected District 4 and 5 board members John Dick and Dr. Sue Woltanski were sworn in at the board’s annual organizational meeting on Nov. 22.

Horan, a Key West-based attor ney, secured a victory over Gabrielle Brown with 58% of the vote in August’s primary election. Woltanski will enter her second term on the board after earning a win with just shy of 54% of the vote in a hotly-contested campaign against Alexandria Suarez. Unopposed in August’s primary, former chair Dick will enter his fifth term with the board.

Andy Griffiths will serve as the board’s new chair, with Woltanski cho sen as vice chair.

The evening’s largest agenda item revolved around proposed divisions of units and rental rates for the upcoming housing development at the district’s Trumbo Road property in Key West, slated for construction through SPGL LLC. Designated as affordable housing, an initial draft from SPGL proposed to rent 25% of the development’s units at rental rates calculated from 80% of the area median income (AMI), 45% at rates calculated from 100% AMI, and 30% calculated from 120% of AMI.

In the 80% AMI category, a onebedroom unit would rent for roughly $1,350 per month, with two-bedroom units at $1,500 for households earn ing a maximum of $57,400 for a single family or $65,600 for a two-person family. 100% AMI units would rent for $1,700 and $1,900 for one- and twobedroom units, with income limits of $71,500 and $82,000 for one- and twoperson families. One- and two-bed room 120% AMI units would rent for $2,000 and $2,300, respectively, with income limits of $86,000 and $98,000 for one- and two-person families.

Board member Mindy Conn said she was concerned that while the pro posed rates may be suitable for some teachers, other critical district person nel would still find the units unafford able.

“I would like to see rent reflect housing that we can have bus drivers and maintenance workers and para professionals live in, not just teachers,” she said. “Some of those rents might still be too high for brand-new teach ers … or filling those other positions that are hourly pay.”

Superintendent Theresa Axford defended the proposed rents, saying the units were “better than anything anybody can get right now” in Key West.

“I understand how amazing they are,” Conn continued. “But if people can’t afford them, it doesn’t matter. I want to figure out … which people would still be able to afford to live there, and if we’re missing some sec tion of our employees that still can’t afford to live there, even at those great Key West rates.”

With no official vote taken, the board asked attorney Gaelan Jones to work with SPGL on several propos als for several splits in unit sizes and rental rates in the upcoming complex. As currently proposed, the develop ment’s 80 units would consist of 16 one-bedroom units, 40 two-bedroom units and 24 three-bedroom units.

“I think everybody, myself includ ed, that are involved in these negotia tions believe that the three-bedrooms are going to be the hardest to fill,” he said.

Jones also cautioned that addition of more 80% AMI units would likely be met with a compensatory addition of 120% units to recoup the lost rental income, decreasing the pool of 100% AMI units.

The board will work to potentially approve a final agreement at its Dec. 13 meeting, with Axford and Jones offering to bring an analysis of district salaries to the meeting to inform the final decision.

CARL JAMES WORDEN

On Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather

Carl James (CJ) Worden passed away at the age of 80.

Carl was born on Jan. 13, 1942 in Kansas City, Missouri to Carl and Dorothy Worden. He received his master’s degree in education at Central Missouri State College in 1969. He taught history and social studies at Butler High School in Butler, Missouri from 1965 to 1974. During his tenure at Butler High School, Carl founded the school’s first wrestling program. He then relocated to the Florida Keys and taught history, geography, social studies, science and horticulture at Coral Shores High School in Tavernier from 1974 to 2007. He also coached wrestling and football for many years during his tenure at Coral Shores.

Carl was married to Theresa Miscella for 41 years, with whom he had two children, Theodore (TJ) Worden and Theresa (Tessie) Robertson. Previously married to Carolyn Abrams for 17 years, he had six children: Renee Canella, Janelle Christon, Raymond Worden, Mitchell Worden and preceded in death by daughter Melinda Worden and son Carl (Sonny) Worden. He had 13 grandchildren and six greatgrandchildren.

Carl was a member of the Christian community from a young age. He was involved in Lutheran ministries in Kansas City and Butler, Missouri and continued his walk at Imman uel Lutheran Church in Tavernier. He became a member of First Baptist Church of Key Largo in 1999, where he enjoyed singing, performing in church productions and participating in prayer groups and Bible studies. Along with teaching, he loved coaching football and wrestling, and dedicated himself to his students. He was known to be a stern disciplinarian with a fatherly disposition to all. A proud Eagle Scout, he was also a staff member of Youth Conservation Corps to support efforts to preserve the Everglades. He also enjoyed garden ing and traveling with his family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Dec. 17 at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Key Largo. 99001 Overseas Highway, Key Largo.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent in memory of Carl Worden to: First Baptist Church of Key Largo Student Ministries, 99001 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037, fbckl.com/give (student ministries) or The Upper Keys Foundation in support of CSHS Athletics, P.O. Box 2009 Islamorada, FL 33036 (theupperkeysfoundation. org).

The 2022 Monroe County School Board. From left: board member John Dick, vice chair Sue Woltanski, board member Darren Horan, board chair Andy Griffiths, board member Mindy Conn. MONROE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT/Contributed

HOOPING AT HOME

’Canes basketball dominates Mater Bay

Hurricanes varsity basketball put on a dominant performance against Mater Academy Bay during the first home game at the Coral Shores gym on Nov. 28. The girls team took to the floor first, beating the visiting team 41-9. That was followed up by the ’Canes boys team, which crushed Mater Bay by a score of 78-24.

– Keys Weekly staff

1. Coral Shores boys basketball player Matthew St. Aubin (22) shoots for 2 against Mater Academy Bay.

2. Coral Shores Allen Perez (1) blocks the shot.

3. Coral Shores girls basketball player Makayla Hahn (1) shoots the ball.

4. Coral Shores’ Kim Lemus (4) looks to pass.

Photos by Doug Finger. Full gallery at keysweekly.com.

Open to the public

Date

December 15, 2022

Location

Founders Park Community Center 87000 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

Our Mission

To Protect the Residents' Right to Quiet Enjoyment of Life

To Plan for Enhancing Our Village Character To Preserve Our Community; Its People, Natural Resources, and Pride To Provide Basic Services to Support our Quality of Life

Islamorada, Village of Islands Incorporated December 31, 1997

www.Islamorada.fl.us

Council Workshop Islamorada Village of

8:30am | Check In

Islands

Check in desk will be open from 8:30am 9:00am 9:00am | Finance

Maria Bassett Finance Director 9:30am | Planning

Daniel Gulizio Planning Director 10:00am | Building

Sheila Denoncourt Chief Building Official 10:30am | Code Enforcement

Carlota De La Sierra 11:00am | 15 Minute Break

11:15am | Founders Park

Maria Bagiotti Founders Park Director 11:45am | Marina

Lisa Watts Head Doc Master 12:15pm| Lunch

Lunch will Be catered 1:15pm | Village Manager

Ted Yates Village Manager

1:45pm | Fire EMS

Terry Abel Fire Chief 2:15pm | Law Enforcement

Lieutenant Chuck Kellenberger 2:45pm| Village Clerk

Marne McGrath Village Clerk 3:15pm| IT

Vince Tarves Systems Engineer

Ramon Navarro IT Manager/ Network Engineer

3:45pm | 15 Minute Break

3:45pm | Public Works / Waste Water

A.J. Engelmeyer Public Works Director

4:15pm | Public Works Tour

A J will take volunteers on a tour of Public Works projects and Pump Stations in coordination with FreeBee

By:

THE SCOREBOARD

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

ALEXANDRA “ALLIE” BRABENEC

Marathon High School, Senior Weightlifting

head coach Jessie

The only thing small about Marathon’s two-time state qualifier is her size. Alexandra Brabenec has been making gains each year and already has two wins under her belt in the 101-pound weight class early this season. Brabenec is expected to make a third appearance this February representing Marathon at the FHSAA State Championship meet in Lakeland, and if her current lifts are any indication, she has a solid chance of medaling. Brabenec, described by her coach as quick, powerful and dynamic, is currently benching 110 pounds with a clean & jerk of 115 pounds. For her year-round dedication to her sport, solid work ethic and steady improvement, Allie Brabenec is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Tracy and Sean McDonald

“Allie has a great attitude, and her presence in the weight room is something people stop to watch.”

Schubert

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

THE

KEYS WEEKLY ALL-KEYS FOOTBALL TEAM

The 2022 season brought marked progress on the gridiron for many Monroe County football squads. With the highlyanticipated return of coach Ed Holly, the Coral Shores Hurricanes enjoyed their most successful season in recent memory, posting their highest win percentage in nearly 10 years. Halfway down the Keys, the Marathon Dolphins’ 5-4 record secured the team’s first winning season since 2017. And in the Southernmost City, the Key West Conchs fed off many individual standout performances as the team won their Keys rivalry match against the Hurricanes and faced stiff competition from some of Florida’s elite squads. With so many solid players deserving of recognition, the decisions throughout these next pages weren’t easy. But for the first time, the Keys Weekly Newspapers are proud to present the 2022 Keys Weekly AllKeys Football Team.

Graced with both size and speed, Hawkins was a threat every time he touched the ball. It often took a team effort to bring down the 6’1”, 200-pound running back. Many of his touchdowns were scored late in games, after he wore down the opposing team’s defense with his athleticism and refusal to quit. In just nine games, Hawkins had an incredible 186 carries for 1,839 yards and 20 rushing touchdowns plus a passing touchdown, averaging 204 yards per game.

Stay tuned for Keys Weekly’s All-Keys volleyball, cross country, golf and swim teams, coming in December.

— coach Ed Holly

Arrington is a recognizable force the moment he steps onto the field. His incredible stats speak for themselves: Arrington amassed 64 tackles, 23 of them for a loss, plus 19 assists, 19.5 sacks, one touchdown, one fumble recovery, 28 pressures, two forced fumbles, two pass breakups, three blocked punts and two blocked PATs. Arrington was consistently dependable and dominant for the ’Canes.

— coach Johnny Hughes

An all-around phenomenal athlete, prior to the 2022 football season Otto wrestled, played lacrosse and ran the 200 in track, making him strong enough to handle the best defensive lineman but athletic enough to get to the fastest defensive backs. His superior athleticism has caught the attention of more than 20 top colleges, from the Ivies to Power 5 programs. He made an impact everywhere he played on the field and is described as having a great work ethic and high character.

Just a sophomore, Eddie Holly did double duty, playing linebacker and serving as the team’s long snapper. He amassed 48 tackles, 21 assists, three sacks, 11 tackles for losses, an interception, three forced fumbles, 24 pressures, four pass breakups and a fumble recovery. He added 21 pancake blocks on offense and maintained a perfect long snapping record, making him a true asset to his team.

— coach Ed Holly

Described as the most determined player on the team, Jacobsen was the go-to man for the Hurricanes when the game was on the line.

“If it's 4th and 1 for the game,

cannot wait to give the ball to Chuck,” said head coach Ed Holly.

Jacobsen accumulated 1,268 yards and 16 touchdowns rushing this season, plus five catches for 54 yards and a touchdown reception, giving him 1,322 all-purpose yards and 17 total touchdowns.

GIRLS/BOYS SOCCER PACE MARATHON DECEMBER 2 | 4 & 6 P.M.

VS

MALACHI HAWKINS, RB Senior, Marathon

“His teammates fed off his toughness and determination. Malachi absolutely left a positive legacy at MHS.”

— coach Mac Childress

2022

CHUCK JACOBSEN, RB Senior, Coral Shores

“He could single-handedly take over the game. Any time you needed a first down he would get it.”

you

XAVYER ARRINGTON, DL Senior, Coral Shores

“He has the best first step I have ever seen. He takes over the game at the DT position. No one will be able to fill his shoes.”

CHRISTOPHER ANDRE OTTO, OT/DL Senior, Key West

“Andre is a freak athlete with great feet. He is the best drive blocker I have ever coached.”

EDDIE HOLLY, LB Sophomore, Coral Shores

“Eddie was 100% on all snaps this season. He can snap the ball 15 yards in less than a second.”

— coach Ed Holly

Defensive Player of the Year Special Teams Player of the

Year

Lineman of the Year

Offensive Player of the Year

BOYS SOCCER

KEY WEST CORAL SHORES DECEMBER 2 | 6 P.M.

VS

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

JOHN HOLLY, OL Senior, Coral Shores

Dubbed the Iron Man of the ’Canes, Holly’s ability to pull and run for downfield blocks enabled the Coral Shores offense to be successful. The 6-foot-5-inch 285-pound senior tackle always gave 100% effort, improving every week while he anchored the Coral Shores offensive line. He recorded 21 pancake blocks over the span of the season.

YEMCEL MORENO, QB Sophomore, Coral Shores

Described by his coach as a “great kid and even better player,” Moreno has a great future ahead of him. He led the Hurricanes to an 8-3 record this season, rushing 52 times for 540 yards and nine touchdowns. He was 32 for 63 through the air with 575 yards, six touchdowns, and just two interceptions.

ISAAC HOLMES, WR Junior, Coral Shores

As Coral Shores’ premier offensive target, Holmes was able to pull down passes in heavy coverage and used his size to tack on extra yardage on the run. Described as a very talented player, Holmes has consistently produced on the field for the ’Canes on Friday nights.

TANNER ROSS, OL Sophomore, Marathon

As smart as he is athletic, Ross’ ability to understand offensive blocking schemes and make the right blocking call for the Fins made him an asset to his team. Ross was flawless in his snaps this season and played every single offensive down.

CARLOS LEZCANO, WR Sophomore, Marathon

Lezcano’s ability to block from his position allowed the Marathon offense to rush for more than 3,000 yards this season. Even from the wide receiver position, Lezcano was a threat on the ground. In just seven games played, Lezcano had 19 carries for 226 yards and three rushing touchdowns.

FRANZ NOEL, OL Senior, Marathon

In his first year of varsity football, Noel became a crucial player for the Fins. In the single wing offense, the outside tackle position is called the “tip of the spear.” Noel capitalized on his deadly combination of speed and strength to tear holes into the opposing team’s defense, providing big opportunities for Marathon to score.

JAMES REYNOLDS, RB Senior, Key West

Described as a workhorse, Reynolds dealt with injuries but was able to turn it on by the end of the season. At over 200 pounds, he runs a sub-11-second 100 meter dash, giving him the speed to elude tackles. Reynolds had 149 carries for 831 yards with 11 touchdowns on the ground and one reception for seven yards in just seven games played this season.

RALPH RICHIE, OL Junior, Key West

Participating in wrestling last year has helped Richie develop his skills on the gridiron, making him a better athlete all around. He is dependable, has a strong work ethic and loves practice and the weight room. Richie has a lot of potential and Coach Hughes expects huge things from him next season.

GIRLS/BOYS SOCCER PACE MARATHON DECEMBER 2 | 4 & 6 P.M.

VS

BOYS SOCCER KEY WEST CORAL SHORES DECEMBER 2 | 6 P.M.

VS

AARON DOLTON, DL Senior, Marathon

Dolton started on offense, defense and special teams for the Fins. He had a solid pass rush, doing an excellent job keeping the quarterback in the pocket and locking down receivers in coverage when asked. In just nine games played, Dolton amassed 15 total tackles (11 solo) and three tackles for a loss.

Described as a tough and aggressive player who consistently performed on Friday nights, Palmisciano is regarded as one of the hardest, most physical players in the Hurricanes’ defensive unit. Palmisciano had 48 tackles this season, three of which were for a loss. Additionally, he forced two fumbles and had a fumble recovery.

KEVON MILLS, DB Senior, Key West

A dynamic defensive player, Mills played corner the past two seasons. This year, his ability to lock down the other team’s best receiver paid dividends for the Conchs.

THOMAS EUBANK, LB Senior, Marathon

The leader of Marathon’s defense, Eubank played middle linebacker, a role which required him to make a majority of the team’s tackles. Eubank used his size and speed to not only make tackles at the line of scrimmage but also to chase receivers downfield. He had 30 total tackles, 18 of which were in one game, 19 solo tackles and two for a loss.

JACOB LAVALLEE, LB Senior, Key West

A three-year starter, Lavallee has been the leading tackler for the Conchs in as many years. The fast, physical linebacker captained the Conchs’ defense this season.

TE’VON WATSON, DL Sophomore, Key West

The sky's the limit for the Conchs’ defensive lineman. Watson brought size, speed and athleticism to the D-line this season and added a lot of pressure from the edge.

DEREK SMITH, DB Senior, Coral Shores

SHAMAR WRIGHT, DB Freshman, Marathon

ing explosive plays at the most

Smith secured Coral Shores’ safety position, constantly making explosive plays at the most opportune times. He had 11 tackles and 12 pass breakups this season.

Fast and athletic, Wright excelled in pass coverage, locking down any receiver he was assigned to. His 12 total tackles, 10 of which were solos, do not speak to his abilities as the coverage he applied neutralized the other team’s receivers, negating the threat to the Fins’ defense. Only a freshman, Wright has the potential to be a game changer on both offense and defense.

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

VS

BASKETBALL GULF COAST KEY WEST DECEMBER

VS

ELIJAH PALMISCIANO, LB Senior, Coral Shores

FISHING THE ‘TRIPLECROWN’ SERIES Gold Cup Sailfish Championship set

The Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship triplecrown series will open with the 59th Islamorada Sailfish Tournament, set for Thursday through Sunday, Dec. 1-4. The tournament is a primary fundraiser for the Islamorada Charter Boat Association.

Social events will be headquartered at the Whale Harbor Inn and Marina complex at Mile Marker 83 in Islamorada, and will kick off with pre-registration and cocktails Thursday, Dec. 1.

All-release fishing is set for 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 2-3, and 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4. Awards and raffle prize drawings follow.

Optional categories offer boat teams more opportunities to win prize money. Categories include Day by Day, Overall Entry, Grand Puba, Go Big and Fun Fish. Additional entry fees are elective and are not required to enter the tournament, according to organizers.

A few spaces are available with entry fees $750 for the first angler fishing aboard a vessel and $650 for each additional angler. The junior angler (under age 16) entry fee is $350.

Subsequent fishing events in the Gold Cup Series are the Islamorada Fishing Club Sailfish Tournament scheduled for Jan. 17-18, 2023, and the Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Tournament set for Jan. 20-22, 2023, when the series culminates and an overall Gold Cup Series champion is crowned.

More information is at islamoradasailfishtournament.com/ or from Dianne Harbaugh at 305-522-4868.

Top left: Chef Jesus Ruvalcaba. CHARLOTTE TWINE/Keys Weekly

Top center: The cooks at DiGiorgio’s, from left: Andres, Mere and Asline.

Left: Owner Robert

THE SECRET SAUCE

Upper Keys Italian restaurant celebrates 30 years

CHARLOTTE TWINE www.keysweekly.com

Last Friday night was popping at DiGior gio’s Café Largo, which celebrated its 30-year anniversary last month.

The servers glided out of the kitch en with trays full of crowd favorites: lasagna al forno, gnocchi Bolognese and the yellowtail special. Strains of diners singing “Happy Birth day” could be heard while a couple enjoyed a date night dessert of an espresso martini and tiramisu.

And the Valdes and Espineira families were in high spirits at the bar, their Friday night ritual.

“The food is amazing,” Sonia Espineira told Keys Weekly. “From a 1 to a 10, it’s a 10, 10, 10.”

“I love this place, and my girls, Bella and Mia,” said her husband, Mario, about the DiGiorgio daughters, who grew up working in the restaurant.

“It’s perfect here, from the food to the atmosphere,” said Toro Valdes, with his arm around his wife, Cat.

Bella, a senior at Coral Shores High School and the hostess, watched smiling from the side until the group pulled her in to take a photo.

According to owner Robert DiGiorgio, out of all the recipes that have contributed to his restaurant’s successful run since 1992, the most important one has the following ingredi ents: family, food and consistent quality. With a heavy sprinkle of hard work.

“We have a staff that’s been here longterm,” Robert said. He stood in the kitchen on the side, so as not to get in the way of the servers and cooks as they hustled entrées out into the dining room. “Chef Jesus Ruvalcaba

has been here 10 years. When you keep your core base, you’ve got consistency.

“My job is to get Jesus the best quality ingredients,” he continued, pointing at the sacks of flour he imports from Italy to make pasta. “We also have canned plum tomatoes from San Marzano, Italy, and certified Angus beef. So it’s the food, and it’s the family atmo sphere.”

Italian restaurant DiGiorgio’s Café Largo was born. The menu was filled with favorites cre ated generations ago by the DiGiorgio and Maiani ancestors in Italy, such as Aunt Franc esca’s tiramisu and salad dressing — the only dressing that is served, aside from olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

In 2002, Robert took over the business, and the rest is history — helped along by the hard work of staff and his wife, Angel, and daughters Mia and Bella; the consistent patronage of local clientele; and a sprinkle of stardust from the Food Network TV show called “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” with Guy Fieri.

The famous bleached-blond-and-goateed host stopped by the restaurant to film a segment in 2016. Fieri sampled — and raved over — the entrees that Robert served up. “That’s about as old-school Italian-American as it comes,” he said to the camera, pointing at the Veal Chop Cutlet Florentine.

And you can’t get more Italian-American than sauce. Angel, on a break from her duties at Bayside Grille, which is also owned by the DiGiorgio family, stopped by to chat about this menu staple.

“The sauces are an all-day process,” she said. “All the cooking starts at 10 a.m., and everything is from scratch.”

Diners have three different tomato sauc es — or “gravies,” as Italian-Americans call them — to choose from for their pastas. St. Jacques, the creamy, garlicky, breadcrumby topping that’s liberally poured atop the scallop appetizer, is another sauce that takes hours of preparation.

The hard work does not go unnoticed.

“Delicious, all the way through,” said the male of the couple who had martinis and Aunt Francesca’s tiramisu.

Robert’s father, Pasquale “Pat” DiGiorgio, and mother, JoAnn (maiden name Maiani), both came from families who operated South Florida restaurants. Married in 1965, the couple ran their own eatery in Miami, then eventually made their way to Key Largo in 1992, along with Robert and his sister, Gina, who were grownups by that time.

Pat and JoAnn had purchased the current property, on which a B&G Goodyear shop stood. The family conducted an eight-month extensive remodel, and on Nov. 4, 1992,

At that moment, Loretta “Aunt Lo” Dett mann swept in to pick up her son, Danny, and give a giant hug to Bella.

“This is family,” Loretta said.

“We’re here every Friday,” said Mario, as he and Sonia were leaving for the night. “Come back.”

We just might.

DiGiorgio’s Café Largo is located at Mile Marker 99.5, bayside, Key Largo. For more information, call 305-451-4885 or go to www. keylargo-cafelargo.com.

In 2016, DiGiorgio’s Café Largo made an appear ance on the Food Network’s hit show “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” with Guy Fieri. From left, Rob ert DiGiorgio; his father, Pasquale “Pat” DiGiorgio; and Guy Fieri. COURTESY OF FOOD NETWORK/ Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives

DiGiorgio, center, holds his family-label wine, with daughter Bella, left, and wife Angel.

The DiGiorgio family has been operating restau rants in South Florida for over 50 years. Here, Pasquale “Pat” DiGiorgio flips pizza dough at his first establishment, Mary’s Italian Restaurant on NW 7th Avenue in Miami. 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

BLUE SAVAGES FINISH SEASON UNDEFEATED

The Florida Keys Soccer Club Recreational League’s U12 team Blue Savages finished the season undefeated following a hard-fought win over the Minions on Nov. 12 at the fields at Founders Park. The team was led by head coach Sean Savage and assistant coach Jim McCarthy. The Florida Keys Soccer Club helps develop youth in the community by providing soccer and life-enriching opportunities to young players. For more information, visit floridakeyssoccer. com.

AUTISM SOCIETY EQUIPS DEPUTIES WITH SENSORY BOXES

Jill Campbell, right, executive director of the Autism Society of the Keys, and Hope Haley, volunteer coordinator with the Autism Society of the Keys, recent ly presented Sheriff Rick Ramsay and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office with 75 autism sensory boxes to help deputies respond to calls with those affected by autism. The boxes contain items such as fidget toys, noise-sensitive head phones, and a dry-erase board among other items. MCSO/Contributed

1. The Mangrove Swamp Band performs holiday classics. DAVID KAY/Contributed

2. Kids enjoy an evening ice skate. ZACK WOLTANSKI/Keys Weekly

3. From left, event organizers Dawn De Brule and Nola Acker and a festival goer seeking a selfie with Mrs. Claus and Santa Claus. ZACK WOLTANSKI/Keys Weekly

4. Volunteers help festival goers cre ate crafts throughout the evening. ZACK WOLTANSKI/Contributed

5. “Holly” illuminates the front lawn of the Murray Nelson Government Center fol lowing the grand lighting during the 13th annual Light Up Key Largo. DAVID KAY/ Contributed

LIGHT UP TURNS UP HOLIDAY SPIRIT

Tree lighting highlights annual Key Largo festival

ZACK WOLTANSKI

www.keysweekly.com

In spite of the rainy weather, more than 1.000 locals gathered on Nov. 19 at the Murray Nelson Govern ment Center for the Key Largo Community Preservation Foundation’s 13th annual Light Up Key Largo event. The main attraction at this event, which is geared toward local families, was the lighting of “Holly,” a 10-yearold Christmas tree which sees itself refurbished every few years.

In the weeks prior to Light Up Key Largo, the tree, which saw its lights grow dimmer in each passing year, had its old ornaments and lights complete ly replaced. Now its lights glow brighter than ever.

Additionally, the festival had sev eral dozen booths, including local ven dors and activity tents. Local children could visit the ice skating rink, the craft tent (where they were invited to deco rate cookies and make Christmas orna ments), or the library booth, where local librarians read them Christmas stories and gave out free books and library cards. Key Largo’s Mangrove Swamp Band played Christmas songs and carols. Santa also made a visit, and kids were invited to confide with him their Christmas wishes. Free hot dogs and hamburgers were provided for kids at the Upper Keys Marine Con struction booth.

Light Up Key Largo has been with this community for more than a decade, during which it has substan tially grown year after year. This year, it occurred much earlier than in the past — in the weekend before Thanksgiv ing — to introduce festival-goers to the spirit of the holidays.

“I first organized Light Up Key Largo because I wanted a low-cost-tofree event for families for an old-timey Christmas get together,” said Dawn DeBrule, who organized the event more than 10 years ago. “There is no entrance fee, and a family of four can come with 20 bucks and have a fun holiday Christmas experience.”

She thanked the community for its generous help and involvement in sup porting the fest year after year.

OF POLAND’S

The playwright Eugene O’Neill once said, “The past is the present, isn’t it? It’s the future, too.”

Upper Keys resident Michael Kenneth Smith, author, historiographer and storyteller, took that to heart when writing his latest World War II historical novel, “All Is Fair,” which was published this month. Smith considered the moral dilemmas of warfare and the fight against anti-Semitism and authoritarianism, past and present, as he was writing the book.

But Smith’s skill as a writer is best demonstrated when he weaves his command of military history and the complexities of human nature and intimate relationships to create a gripping novel of adventure, mystery and romance.

When asked about striking a balance between maintaining historical accuracy with developing an interesting fictional narrative, he said, “My historical fiction always marches to the drumbeat of the historical period taking place at the time. My fictional characters are woven into that beat in such a way as to not change the true happenings at the time but to allow the reader a better understanding of what might have happened. In this way, I hope my writing can entertain the reader and also inform the reader so that he/she comes away with a better understanding of the historical aspects of the period.”

In “All Is Fair,” Smith introduces readers to the little-publicized heroism of Poland’s fighter pilots who bravely fought against Germany and the Axis forces.

The hero of the novel, Jan Orlinski, is a gifted pianist and Royal Air Force airman, who becomes a fighter pilot with Poland’s famed 303. The plot follows Jan through harrowing missions and narrow escapes from death. Through it all, he clings to his love for Sophie — who later tells him she works for a London newspaper — and often finds ingenious ways to see her.

He survives being captured and interrogated by the Nazis. As an escaped POW, he finds refuge at a farm in Belgium, where he is connected with an escort on a daring trek to freedom across the Pyrenees. But finally, Jan’s luck runs out. He is captured again and sent to Spain’s notorious concentra-

PILOTS

Michael Kenneth Smith is an awardwinning author who previously wrote ”The Postwoman, Scarred: A Civil War Novel of Redemption,” and ”In the Shadow of Gold: A Tale of Lost Confederate Treasure.” CONTRIBUTED

tion camp, Mirando de Ebro. While counting off the days — 421 — in captivity, he imagines playing piano and dreams of being with Sophie again. Jan’s story culminates in France in late July 1944, with the discovery of a devastating betrayal, a tense reunion and an unexpected gift.

Smith’s previous novels include ”The Postwoman,” “Scarred: A Civil War Novel of Redemption” and most recently, ”In the Shadow of Gold: A Tale of Lost Confederate Treasure.” All his novels, including the newly released “All Is Fair,” can be found on Amazon or at select booksellers.

is Fair” by Upper Keys resident Michael Kenneth Smith is available on Amazon and select bookstores.

EVENTS OFFER SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Fundraisers support wildlife and environment

Hi friends. Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” I hope everyone had a safe and happy Thanksgiving.

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

I had a special treat of whipped cream after dinner, but not because it was the holiday. My human grandma had to tempt me with it so mom could give Jasper his medicine without me getting in the way. It worked. This is a super busy time of year here in the Florida Keys. So many incredible events going on for the next few weeks. I don’t even know if I have space to list them all. Maybe the editor of this newspaper and my best friend should give me a full page of space in 2023 so I can really unleash my creative abilities for you all.

On Thursday, Dec. 1, the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center will fly its annual fundraiser at the Florida Keys Farm from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Light up the night with staff and fellow supporters on a private beach over looking the Florida Bay, complete with beer and wine, hors d'oeuvres, desserts, music, live animals, visual entertainment, a fire performer and a chance to win some prizes. Tickets are $60 at the door. Support our feathered friends as they prepare for another year of bird saving and rehabbing activities.

Also on tap Thursday, Dec. 1 is Marr-Velous Pet Rescue’s “Yappy Hour” from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Buzzard’s Roost in Key Largo. There will be raffles and retail items available, as well as some adorable adoptable pups. Bring your four-legged friends for a “yappy and merry” time shar ing dog tails and serving cocktails. Dogs should be fully vaccinated and must remain on a leash at all times.

On Saturday, Dec. 4, Cirque Salon will host its annual shopping event at Tradewinds Plaza from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. And next week we get into more fun with our own “Fox Trot at Sea” fundraiser from 4 to 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10 and the Key Largo Boat Parade at 7:30 p.m. on Blackwater Sound. Also, join Coral Restoration Foundation from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Dec. 10 in celebration of the coral reefs. This free event will feature rides, games, prizes, nonprofit booths, live music by the Skally wagz and an exclusive Captain Coral Science Show at 1 p.m.

That was a lot to cover! I need a nap now. If you haven’t received your tickets to “Fox Trot at Sea” yet, head over to pawsitivebeginnings. org/events. My mom hopes to see you there. Until next time, Reef, over and out!

KILO

Mature and chill, if Kilo had a drink it would be a martini, shaken and not stirred, to go with his cool demeanor. An 8-year-old shepherd mix, Kilo’s likes include sunbathing, munching on ice cubes and sleeping most of the day away. He also loves his food, and you can win his heart with a piece of hot dog. He does well with the two large dogs he currently lives with, but he is not a fan of small dogs. Kilo does not need a lot of cuddling and he is not a needy dog. He’s a bit of a loner and happy to be so. Give Kilo a soft dog bed and he’s a happy camper. Kilo is one of the dogs we refer to as our unicorns. Like the mythical unicorn, we consider these dogs as rare and beautiful beings. At some point all these dogs were failed by people. They have exhibited behavioral issues but have now been through an extensive rehabilitative training program and are ready for a home where they can continue to thrive and receive structure and support. MarrVelous Pet Rescues will cover continued training and support as needed to give these deserving dogs a second chance. Apply at www.mprescues.org.

SAVE THE DATE

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.

• First Friday Outdoor Concert series welcomes Ricky Valido at 6 p.m. at Key Largo Library.

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.

• Holiday Hoopla featuring activity stations and games for children and adults from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Key Largo Library.

• Chi Sigma’s fourth annual Bike/ Walk/Wagon/Hayride at 5 p.m. at Is lamorada Brewery & Distillery. Tickets for $25 can be purchased by contact ing Trish Biondoletti at 305-393-1099.

• Redbone Gallery show at 6 p.m. at Keys History & Discovery Center, Islamorada.

Sunday, Dec. 4

• Fifth annual Shop, Jingle & Mingle from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Cirque Salon Studios, Tradewinds Plaza in Key Largo.

Tuesday, Dec. 6

• Books on Tap to discuss “The Last Mona Lisa” by Jonathan Santlofer at 6 p.m. at Keys’ Meads, Key Largo.

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

Wednesday Dec. 7

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

• 12th annual Plantation Key School PTA Fish Fry fundraiser at 5:30 p.m. at Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar, Islamorada.

REEF THE FOX

Veterinarian Michael Claudio uses an X-ray machine at the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center to examine Jasper’s neurological and physical issues last April. CONTRIBUTED

could be advantageously grown only where there is complete absence of fresh water, where water is of the right temperature and salinity, where they can be protected from marauders, and where there is freedom from sand, and water is shallow enough to make planting and handling a matter of not too great difficulty.”

Chase’s company quickly grew, and by 1912, a community of about 100 people was living near the area of what is today the Sugarloaf Lodge at MM 17. Many of the community members worked for Chase and his company. The community had homes for the workers, a store, a boat repair shed, a refrigeration plant and – a rarity in the Florida Keys – a telephone. After Henry Flagler’s train made it to Key West in 1912, a depot was established at Sugarloaf Key. To satisfy the needs of the small community that grew up around Chase’s sponge farm, he petitioned to establish a post office. With the approval of the post office, named after Charles Chase, who was also named postmaster, the postal address and town of Chase, Florida, came into existence.

SPONGE OPERATIONS ON SUGARLOAF KEY

WORLD WAR I & MARAUDERS HAMPER A ONCE-THRIVING BUSINESS

Dr. J. Vinning Harris of Key West began experimenting with the cultivation of sponges at his Sugarloaf Key property in 1897. Circa 1901, Harris abandoned his sponges and allowed H. F. Moore, the head of the United States Bureau of Fisheries, who, like Harris, was interested in farm-raising sponges, to move into his house and operate his sponge experiments from the Sugarloaf Key property.

After studying the propagation of the sponge for several years and declaring it a feasible operation, he, too, left Sugarloaf Key. It would not be the end of sponge operations on the island.

The Florida Keys Sponge and Fruit Company was off to a promising start, and the Chase farm of sheepswool sponges was maturing nicely offshore. By 1915, Chase and his company had about 5,000 acres of sponge beds. “A crew of 12 operating from a barge and pontoons alongside it,” Chase said, “could plant 5,000 sponges per day.”

The Florida Keys Sponge and Fruit Company had some 650,000 sponges growing in 3-4 feet of water, an ideal depth for cultivation. The Chase sponges improved on the efforts of Harris and Moore and managed to drop the mortality rate to less than 5%. The company’s sponges growing offshore ranged from 1 to 3 years old, and they needed to be at least 3 to 4 years old before they could be commercially harvested, and maybe even a little older before they were ready. By 1915, about 170,000 sponges were on the cusp of commercial maturity.

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

Charles Chase stepped in and filled their shoes. Chase had been visiting Key West from London when he learned of Dr. Moore and his work with sponge cultivation. With his interest piqued, Chase partnered with his brother George and a friend named Henry Bate, and the group purchased the Sugarloaf Key property from Harris and developed The Florida Keys Sponge and Fruit Company. In addition to the sponges growing in the shallows surrounding the island, the company planted Key lime and fig trees.

In an article from the Miami Herald dated June 9, 1915, Chase made the following statement about his work at Sugarloaf Key. “We were led to go into this interesting and promising business through the eight years of successful experimental work done by Dr. H.F. Moore of the fisheries bureau of the United States government, and to him we are largely indebted for our success. Dr. Moore demonstrated that sponges

The company shipped a bale of the sponges to the Chicago firm Peter Van Schaak & Sons to be quality tested. The results were “pre-eminently satisfactory, demonstrating that the Chase sponge is greatly superior to the ordinary sheepswool sponge.” The problem for the partners and the company was that they were running out of capital and needed investors to keep their operation moving forward. The Chase brothers took a trip to England to raise funds, and, at first, they were successful. When World War I broke out, however, the funds were frozen, and the Chase brothers returned to Sugarloaf Key empty-handed. Without the capital necessary to continue their work at The Florida Keys Sponge and Fruit Company, it was decided to cease operations.

After they did, poachers swiped the mature sponges from the shallows surrounding Sugarloaf Key. In May 1917, The Florida Keys Sponge and Fruit Company declared bankruptcy. Then, a Miami Beach real estate investor named Clyde Richter Perky purchased the business and 23,000 acres of Monroe County property, including the Sugarloaf Key property. While he initially intended to try to reinvigorate the sponge and fruit business, he turned his eye to the burgeoning tourist industry and developed a fishing camp instead. He also built the world-famous Perky Bat Tower, but that is a story for another day.

Part 3 of this series will explore the sponge war that erupted between Key West and Tarpon Springs, on Florida’s west coast. Stay tuned for more in next week’s Keys Weekly.

BRAD BERTELLI

Planting sponges at Chase Farm on Sugarloaf Key during 1912-1914. MONROE COUNTY LIBRARY COLLECTION/George Cecil Bate

18TH

THE HOLIDAY RUNDOWN

ANNUAL HOLIDAY FEST

When: Friday, Dec. 2, 4 to 10 p.m. Where: Founders Park, Islamorada Details: Enjoy a 35-foot tree that blows magical snow, 30 tons of snow, a visit from Santa and more. A holiday parade begins at 7:30 p.m. Holiday music, a pet parade, a dance perfor mance and more will keep the family entertained.

CHI SIGMA 4TH ANNUAL BIKE/WALK/WAGON/HAYRIDE

When: Saturday, Dec. 3, 5 p.m. Where: Starts at Islamorada Brewery & Distillery Details: The ride goes through the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District and circles around The Nest and ends at Florida Keys Brewing Co. Register online for $25. Get beer tasters, stock ing stuffers and more. Decorate your bikes and wagons and come dressed in holiday attire.

LIGHTED BIKE PARADE

When: Friday, Dec. 9, 6:30 p.m. Where: Ride starts at Tropical Realty, MM 103, Key Largo Details: Join Mrs. Claus on a merry cause. Wear your festive attire and decorate your bike. After the ride, join Mrs. Claus for cookies and cocoa.

POPS IN THE PARK — JOY TO THE WORLD

When: Saturday, Dec. 10, 4 p.m. Where: Founders Park, Islamorada Details: Enjoy a free concert courtesy of the Keys Community Concert Band. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and pack a picnic basket for a family-friendly concert of holiday music, sing-along and a visit from Santa. Special guests are the Burton Handbell Ringers.

LIGNUMVITAE CHRISTMAS

When: Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: Lignumvitae State Park Details: Enjoy a boat ride out of Rob bie’s Marina to the park. Music will be provided by the Mangrove Swamp Band. There will also be ranger-led tours, games, stories by local historian Brad Bertelli and free cookies and limeade by the Boy Scouts and Winn Dixie. Tickets for $15 are available for purchase at Windley Key State Park.

5TH ANNUAL SHOP, JINGLE & MINGLE

When: Sunday, Dec. 4, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: Cirque Salon Studios, second floor of Tradewinds Plaza, Key Largo, Details: Get a jump on your holiday shopping with local vendors. Enjoy raffle prizes, holiday cheer and more.

SANTA, CAROLERS COME TO TOWN

When: Sunday, Dec. 11 Where: Islamorada neighborhoods Details: Santa, Marines collecting unwrapped toys and other holiday helpers will begin their journey at 5:30 p.m. at the Islamorada Mobil on Lower Matecumbe and head north to a number of streets and neighborhoods, arriving at Bee Street around 9:19 p.m. Visit the Islamorada Fire Rescue’s Facebook for more information on times.

PETS & PINA COLADAS

When: Saturday, Dec, 10 and Sunday, Dec. 11, 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Where: Keys Kritters, MM 100.5, Key Largo Details: A $5 donation gets you a Keys style picture with Santa, a goodie bag for your pet and a pina colada for you.

KEY LARGO BOAT PARADE

When: Saturday, Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m. Where: Blackwater Sound, Key Largo Details: This year’s theme is “A Car toon Christmas.” Sign your boat up for free. Cash prizes are available for most colorful, most original and best use of theme, as well as best business, best boat under 25 feet and best boat over 25 feet. Sign up at keylargoboatparade. com. Best viewing spots include Jimmy Johnson’s Big Chill, Sundowners and Caribbean Club.

The Thanksgiving festivities have come and gone, but the leftovers and holiday spirit remain. Neighbor hoods are beginning to dress up for the season as houses become filled with lights, inflatables, Christmas trees and more. Events are in full swing as well between festivals, parades and visits from Santa. Here’s a list of some events you might want to make time for with the family.

Upper Keys rings in the season with these happenings

WILLIAM DEPAULA

is an artist, designer and gemologist who believes in the power of art.

The end of November is a transition time here in the Florida Keys. Hurricane season is ending and the heat and humidity is not as intense as it usu ally is. For me, one thing that always sticks out is that I have a deadline to finish my holiday ornament.

As other Upper Keys artists know, this time of year is when we paint an ornament for the Islamorada Holiday Fest. The ornaments will be on display at the popular Holiday Gift Bazaar during Holiday Fest, where you will see 50 local artists’ unique creations which will be judged. Closer to the event there will be an online silent auction as well.

For a great introduction to Upper Keys artists, the Holiday Bazaar on Friday, Dec. 2 is a way to become acquainted with them. Every year before Halloween we get this lifeless ceramic ornament blank and have to transform it into a beautiful butterfly, er, ornament. It is a fun event and competition that helps you discover art ists you love and maybe didn’t know existed.

What most casual visitors to the Holiday Fest don’t realize is that these ornaments take a long time to make. It is not only me, but I have discussed the Holi day Ornament competition with other artists, and most of us take our time developing the concept in our minds and creating the ornament. The ornament brings with it a sense of delight, simplicity and anguish all at the same time.

The ornament is an ornament. It is not a big format in any way. The size of the sphere is much smaller than most artists use. What does this mean? It means that you have to do everything on a small scale – even if it’s not something you are used to — and still make it look good. The other challenge is it being a ce ramic ball, you can’t do much with it and you must adjust your artwork to the curved edges. If you get all-of-the-above in order you will still need to make sure it looks good on a tree or from a distance. Includ ing a lot of detail might be cool, but if you can’t really tell what it is when on the tree or in a display, it kind of defeats the purpose of the ornament.

Usually, I start thinking about my ornament a year before it is due. Yes, a full year before. Why, you say? Well, when I’m working on this year’s ornament, I think

Holiday ornaments, like the Pirate Santa created by William DePaula, will be on display during the annual Holiday Fest at Founders Park on Friday, Dec. 2. CONTRIBUTED

ADORNING AN ORNAMENT

Holiday Fest competition showcases artwork on a sphere

about next year. Maybe I think of things I would have done differently or another cool idea pops in my head while finishing the current year’s ornament. When the event is a year away, I think of all these elaborate things I’m going to do to the ornament. Then 11 months go by and the chamber hands you the ornament and you’re like, “Oh, good. I can get this bad boy started.” Then life happens and you don’t have a chance to work on the or nament. The deadline approaches and in the meantime, you have maybe thought of a dozen different ideas, but none of them is quite right.

When they hand you the ornament, the current year’s theme of the Holiday Fest is revealed. This kind of messes me up because what I was thinking usually has nothing to do with the theme picked. About two weeks before the deadline, I know it is time to get seri ous. I do a few different sketches of concepts related to the theme. Then I realize I don’t really like the way the theme fits into the ornament. It feels too static and contrived. If all else fails, I do something related to the Keys and Christmas. How can you go wrong with our enviable Florida Keys lifestyle during the holidays?

There is this love-hate relationship when making the ornament. You want to make something awesome and show off your art and be part of the community. It isn’t easy — there are so many limitations when making ornaments. Just because you are a good artist doesn’t mean you are good at adorning an adorable ornament everyone will love. There are limitations and concepts which don’t always transition into something worth while. These limitations, even though frustrat ing, keep it interesting.

When you go to this year’s Islamo rada Chamber Holiday Fest on Friday, Dec. 2 at Founders Park (it starts at 4 p.m.), enjoy the event, parade and the snow. Remember to take the time to admire the ornaments. It is an amazing collection where you can see the Upper Keys’ talented artists showcased all in one spot.

The artists invest a lot of hours, days and weeks into planning and mak ing their ornaments. Their ornaments reflect their art and the way they relate to the Keys and the holidays.

Take your time; don’t just rush through; look at each one. Try to understand what the artist was going for. You aren’t going to like all of them and that’s okay, everyone’s different. You’ll find some you like, and some will even put a smile on your face. Who knows, maybe you’ll discover an artist that you love.

LEGAL NOTICES

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

QUARTERLY MEETING NOTICE:

LOCAL COORDINATING BOARD FOR THE TRANSPORTATION DISADVANTAGED

The Monroe County Local Coordinating Board (LCB) will be holding its regularly scheduled quarterly meeting on Friday, December 2, 2022 from 10:00 am – 11:30 am. at the Marathon Government Center, BOCC Room, 2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. To join virtually via Zoom or teleconference, please email talbury@healthcouncil.org.

The primary purpose of the Coordinating Board is to provide information and advice to the Community Transportation Coordinator on the coordination of services provided to the transportation disadvantaged population of Monroe County, pursuant to Chapter 427.0157, Florida Statutes. Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), any person requiring special accommodations at this meeting due to a disability or physical impairment, and any related questions or inquiries concerning this meeting should be directed to Tiffany Albury at the Health Council of South Florida, Inc. at (305) 592-1452 ext. 121 at least 72 hours prior to the date of the meeting.

Publish: December 1, 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

LEGAL NOTICES

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 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

LEGAL NOTICES

within the County as authorized by section 197.3632, Florida Statutes, for the cost of providing roadway improvements and sea level rise improvements for the Fiscal Year beginning on October 1, 2023 and continuing until discontinued by the County.

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

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

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

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

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

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

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

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

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

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

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

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 2924441, between the hours of 8:30a.m. – 5:00p.m., prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”. Live Closed-Captioning is available via our web portal @ http://monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County 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 in the Commission Chambers, Murray E. Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Mile Marker 102 and by Communications Media Technology (CMT). Such resolution will state the need for the levy and will contain a legal description of the boundaries of the real property subject to the levy. All interested persons are invited to attend.

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

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

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

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodation in order to participate in these proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292- 4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”. Live Closed-Captioning is available via our web portal @ http://monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners. Dated at Key West, Florida this 2ndt day of November, 2022. Kevin Madok, Clerk and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: November 10, 17, 24 and December 1, 2022

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Engineering Design and Permitting Services for the Stillwright Point Road Elevation and Stormwater Project 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 Tuesday, January 10. 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:

Engineering Design and Permitting Services for the Stillwright Point Road Elevation and Stormwater Project 1-102023

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 January 10, 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: December 1, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, January 18, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:

Transportation Planning Professional Services

Monroe County, Florida

Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices.

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

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

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00P.M., on Wednesday, January 18, 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:

Transportation Planning Professional Services 1-18-2023

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 18, 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: December 1, 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

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

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

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

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

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

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN

THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

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

The date of first publication of this notice is: November 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: Mary Steele c/o Adams & Adams, P.A. 550 Biltmore Way, Suite 1200 Coral Gables, FL 33134

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 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

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

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

BOATS FOR SALE

2006 Willy Roberts, 15' Slo-Poke, 2006 40 hp Yamaha w/250 hours. Call for pics/info 870-615-2750

BOAT SLIP/TRAILER

STORAGE FOR RENT

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 336-4088140 or 336-287-3345.

EMPLOYMENT

CARETAKER COUPLE WANTED for small Abaco Bahamas beach resort. Call or text 305-439-9991.

Professional medical practice seeking FT Receptionist in Upper Keys. Computer skills necessary. Send resume: keysinc2@bellsouth.net

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

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

Deputy Clerk Publish: November 10, 17, 24 and December 1, 2022 The Weekly Newspapers

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT RV FOR SALE HOUSING FOR RENT

OPEN HOUSE HIRING

FAIR – Sun. Dec. 4 from 3p-6p at Million Air, 8800 Overseas Hwy, Marathon. Join our team – now hiring Line Service Professionals. 305-743-1995

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

WANTED - Handyman & Fishing companion in Marathon area. Call 305-481-7544

Coast to Coast Pizza Company in Marathon is looking for an Assistant Manager for the front of the house, full time either Monday - Friday 10-6 or Wed. through Sunday 10-6. Must be outgoing with leadership traits and must be organized, self-motivated, and have a passion for customer service. Salary commensurate with experience and includes tips and 401k. Please call Nicole at 305-4330515, or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com.

SS Wreck and Galley Grill on Grassy Key is looking for line cooks, full or part time. Please call Nicole at 305433-0515, or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com.

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

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

Immediate positions at the Grassy Key Marina. Under new ownership and looking for smiling faces. Full-time or parttime 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: Support Services/Logistics, Paralegal, Utilities Maintenance, Recreation

Specialist, Right of Way Technician, and Marina Tech/Pump Out Captain. Full Benefits. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us

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

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

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

Place your Employment ad here for $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

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 305-296-5621. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www. kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.

Place your Employment ad here for $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

PRIVATE COLLECTOR

WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578

HOUSING FOR RENT

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

LUXURY CONDO FOR RENT IN MARATHON.

Seawatch Condos. 2 BR, 2 Bath, Den. 1650 sq ft plus large open balcony. Beautiful water view. Pool, tennis, full gym. Adults only. No pets. Yearly lease--$5250/month plus utilities or Seasonal rental $7500/month(2 mo min). F/L/S [first, last, and security deposit]. Contact Norman at 800-324-6982.

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 305-7471700 RENTED!!!

RV FOR SALE

RV LOT FOR RENT

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

GARDEN SALE in Marathon. Pottery, plants, yard art, nautical items, lg. & sm. shells. Call 305-3950955 for more information.

SARA’S ESTATE SALE: 144 S. HAMMOCK RD, ISLAMORADA | Fri, Dec. 2 & Sat, Dec. 3, 9am to 1pm both days | GIGANTIC TOY AND CHRISTMAS SALE This sale is so huge, we had to break it into two parts! This weekend is toys and holiday gear. Literally thousands of items, most priced under $10. Toy cars, train sets, Easy Bake, blocks, books, figurines, Hello Kitty, kid-size musical instruments and more.

Holiday items include small trees, ornaments, lighted village sets and pieces, plushies, lights, tree skirts, display décor and more. Lots of things, low prices. Follow signs and park w consideration J Photos: Facebook (@sarasestatesales). Sorry no price quotes.

challenge? If so, we are offering an opportunity to join our team in a very fast paced, exciting and dynamic role that is structured with details varying on each project.

Dynasty Marine Associates, Inc.

www dynastymarine net

Located in the Florida Keys, is a highly-respected supplier of Caribbean marine life to public aquariums and zoos throughout the world

FRONT OFFICE ASSISTANT- FULLTIME

Duties to include invoice and inventory entry, booking airline shipments, creating and filing paperwork for international shipments, scheduling inspections needed for international shipments, customer communication and tracking, creating and maintaining customer accounts and some customer service. Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel. This position requires high attention to detail and the ability to multitask. Compensation will be dependent on experience with performance-based incentive program.

Benefits package including vacation, sick days, holidays and 401K PSP retirement plan. Please send cover letter and resume to sales@dynastymarine.net for consideration. No phone calls please.

HIRING: Full Time Marketing Coordinator

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

Florida

RV FOR SALE - 2017 Thor Citation RV, 24ft Mercedes V6 Diesel, 2 slides, Cummings Diesel Generator, Low Mileage, Many Upgrades, Call Richard 305-363-8021

NOW

Insurance,

experience preferred.

INN 13351

Keys

Energy

CUSTOMER SERVICES

REPRESENTATIVE I

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $19.82/hr. - $22.20/hr.

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

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

To apply, please contact Human Resources at careers@monroecounty-fl.gov.

Busy Key Largo Dive Center has immediate openings for BOAT CAPTAINS $1,500 SIGNING BONUS Experience Required. Paid per trip plus tips & sales commission. Send resume to resumes@rainbowreef.com

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon

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

Florida Keys diving conditions were stellar over the Thanksgiving weekend. It’s a popular time in the scuba industry with school out, and this past week was no exception.

Our dive shops welcomed divers from all around the country taking various classes, from learning how to spearfish to educating themselves on shark awareness and coral restoration. If you follow this dive report, you know that I talk a lot about our local wrecks, dive equipment, spearfishing and numerous ocean conservation opportunities. If any of this intrigues you and you'd like to learn more, then make a note to come visit us on Sunday, Dec. 11 for our annual Sunday Scuba Market. We'll have tents full of discounted gear, accessories and apparel. There'll be discounts on classes as well.

We'll also be doing gear maintenance tutorials and handing out information on our coral restoration, shark awareness and marine debris clean up dives. If spearfishing is something you'd like more information on than come on down and chat with me. I'll be there doing spearfishing talks all day. Sign up for dive packages or a wreck trek and save a ton. I.CARE will be represented there as well. There'll be a food truck for munchies and beverages for all ages. Come hang out with us at Florida Keys Dive Center in Tavernier from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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.

Chance

Winds east-northeast, 20-25 knots

5-6 foot seas

Windy, east-northeast, 20-25 knots Sunny 6 foot seas

Learn more about local wrecks, shipwrecks and dive equipment at the Sunday Scuba Market. CONTRIBUTED

Awareness is a wonderful way to help the ocean in and out of the water. If you can’t dive down to help, try talking about what you love about the ocean with friends and family.