Key West Weekly 23-0309

R e p r e s e n t a t i v e J i m M o o n e y & S e n a t o r A n a

M a r i a R o d r i g u e z w o u l d l i k e t o t h a n k o u r

s p o n s o r s a n d e v e r y o n e w h o h e l p e d m a k e

t h i s y e a r ’ s F l o r i d a K e y s D a y a s u c c e s s !

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THE KEY WEST WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050.

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A total of 1.1 million Florida drivers with a SunPass saved $37 million in January as part of the state’s new Toll Relief Program signed into law last December. The year-long program automatically gives customers with at least 35 monthly toll transactions a 50% credit on their account.

KEY WEST OFFICIALS OPPOSE TALLAHASSEE PROPOSALS

FLAG LAWS, AFRICAN - AMERICAN STUDIES & UNREGULATED TAXIS DRAW CRITICISM

vided however nothing contained herein shall be construed to prevent or prohibit the use of such flags for decorative or patriotic purposes,” states Florida Statute 256.10.)

The Key West commission also voted to oppose the state Department of Education’s decision to prohibit advanced placement courses about African-American Studies.

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

Key West officials on Tuesday denounced multiple proposals by Tallahassee politicians, who convened this week for the legislative session.

The city commission threw the challenge flag at House Bill 1011, which, if passed, will make the Conch Republic flag and the rainbow flag illegal at Key West government buildings.

Proposed by Republican State Rep. David Borrero of the MiamiDade area, HB 1011 would allow government buildings to display only the American flag, the Florida flag, the POW/MIA flag and the Firefighter Memorial flag.

Key West business owner Jim Gilleran, who owns a gay bar and produces the city’s annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration, urged Key West lawmakers at their March 7 city commission meeting to voice their opposition to Republican State Rep. Jim Mooney, who represents the Florida Keys.

“Gainesville and Tallahassee buildings couldn’t display the UF and FSU flags,” Gilleran said. “It’s onerous, ridiculous and would take away a community’s right to display flags that reflect those communities.”

Key West Commissioner Jimmy Weekley spoke vehemently against the flag bill and others being proposed in Tallahassee.

“So many of our rights are being taken away, and we must speak out,” Weekley said. “If this passes, I’d like to give direction to our city not to remove those flags. We have a governor running around the country, saying Florida is a free state — unless you disagree with him. We cannot let this man become the leader of this country. This is a fascist movement and it scares me.”

Commissioner Sam Kaufman noted that the bill “would seem to be a violation of our First Amendment rights.”

City Attorney Ron Ramsingh acknowledged that the bill is being reviewed by a state constitutional committee, which could come to the same conclusion, though that remains to be seen.

(Although Florida Statutes protect and prohibit the mutilation of the Confederate flag, its display would also be prohibited at government buildings under House Bill 1011. “No person shall publicly mutilate, deface, defile, defy, trample upon, or by word or act cast contempt upon the flags of the Confederacy, or replicas thereof, for crass or commercial purposes; pro-

Commissioner Clayton Lopez spoke passionately about the importance of American history — all facets of American history.

Finally, the Key West commission passed a resolution opposing House Bill 807, which, if passed, would allow any driver with a taxi or vehicle-for-hire license from one county or city to operate a vehiclefor-hire in any other county or city without being subject to additional licensing or permitting requirements.

“Anyone could come here, from anywhere else in Florida, and operate as a taxi or vehicle for hire on a busy weekend,” Weekley said. “This is deregulation without an ordinance.”

Ramsingh agreed, saying, “They could come and operate in Monroe County as long as their license is in good standing wherever it originated.”

Key West and other cities have long regulated and restricted the issuance of taxi and vehicle-for-hire licenses to prohibit price gouging, unlicensed “gypsy” cabs, traffic congestion posed by loitering cabs and other difficulties in the industry.

See page 9 for details about House Bill 1011 that would ban all but four flags from

being displayed at Florida government buildings.

Two of the five flags displayed at Key West city hall would be prohibited by a proposed bill in Tallahassee. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

Ocean Blue Gallery, 109 Duval St., features works by artist Tom Everhart, known for his paintings of Charles Schulz-influenced art. See page 22. CONTRIBUTED

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KEY WEST GETS NEXT CITY MANAGER & NEW ATTORNEY

AL CHILDRESS STARTS APRIL 3; RON RAMSINGH ALREADY AT WORK

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

assistant city attorney. Before that, he worked for a personal-injury law firm on Florida’s Treasure Coast. Ramsingh also spent five years in the Miami-Dade County State Attorney’s Office.

“Ron grew up in Key West, is a proud KWHS Conch, graduating in 1991, and is an even bigger Florida Gator fan where he went to college,” states the city’s website.

As for the city manager, Childress starts work on April 3, but was in town for orientation this week, and for the March 7 city commission meeting, where lawmakers approved his fouryear contract with an annual salary of $225,000. The contract also provides Childress with $15,000 in relocation expenses, $150-per-month cell phone allowance and either a city-owned vehicle or a $500-per-month car allowance.

McLauchlin, who has seen it all in her 35-plus years working for the city, retires in June, thus providing sufficient overlap for Childress to learn the ropes in time to begin the city’s budget process in the spring.

Childress was selected from 43 total applicants, nine finalists and three top candidates to be the city’s top administrator.

Key West lawmakers made it official.

Al Childress will succeed Patti McLauchlin as city manager. And Ron Ramsingh will take the legal reins as city attorney.

The city commission voted unanimously on March 7 to promote Ramsingh from interim city attorney to permanent city attorney. His contract is being negotiated and is expected to be finalized at the April 4 commission meeting. Local attorney Greg Oropeza, who chaired the selection committee that recommended Ramsingh for the job, has volunteered to represent the city in those negotiations, said Ramsingh, who has been doing the job of city attorney since the Dec. 30 resignation of Shawn Smith.

Ramsingh has worked in the city attorney’s office since 2007. He was an assistant city attorney and then chief

The commission voted at a special meeting on Feb. 15 to hire Childress after hearing statements from the top three finalists — Childress, Abe Conn, David Burke.

More than a dozen residents spoke in favor of Conn at that Feb. 15 meeting, while local government watchdog Tom Milone touted Childress as the most qualified given his education and experience, and based on the city’s job description and criteria.

Following the commission’s vote for Childress, Conn immediately took to social media, responding to the Keys Weekly’s breaking news post about Childress’s selection.

“Wishing Al the best,” Conn wrote. “He’s going to be awesome. Can’t wait to help anyway I can. Welcome to the Key West family.”

Childress has master’s degrees in business administration and public administration and spent eight years as city manager and assistant city manager in Doral, Florida.

FACTS FROM THE TAX COLLECTOR

Sam Steele

monroetaxcollector.com

305.295.5000

MARCH

• We would like to congratulate Chief Deputy Tax Collector Angela J. Hitchcock on her retirement of 37 years of service with the Tax Collector’s o ce!

• All unpaid 2022 property tax must be paid by March 31 in order to avoid delinquent penalties on April 1

• The fourth and final 2022 installment property tax bill is due by March 31

• A property that is being rented out for six months or less must have a tourist development tax account

• As a reminder, online rental platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.) DO NOT remit the 5% tourist development tax to our o ce. It is the homeowner’s

responsibility to ensure the tax has been remitted

• A local business tax is required for ALL property rentals, regardless of how long they are being rented

• Renew your vehicle and vessel registration through our website and save time with our ExpressLane by prepaying online and selecting an o ce location of your choice to pick up the registration

• Save time with our ExpressLane by prepaying your vehicle and vessel registrations online and choosing an o ce location of your choice for pickup

• Please visit our website and follow us on Facebook for helpful information, forms, applications, and important announcements

Follow us on for more important tax information

The Monroe County Tourist Development Council has funding available to governmental entities and non-profit organizations for capital projects.

The project/facility must have the primary purpose of promoting tourism and must fall into one of the following categories:

Convention Center, Sports Stadium, Sports Arena, Coliseum, Auditorium, Aquarium, Museum, Zoological Park, Nature Center, Fishing Pier, Beach or Beach Park Facility, Channel, Estuary, or Lagoon, Public Facilities in Accordance with Conditions set forth in the Florida Statutes.

The deadline for receipt of applications is April 18, 2023 , and applications must be downloaded from Demandstar (www.monroecounty-fl.gov/bids).

For more information, please call the TDC Administrative Office at: 305-296-1552, and ask to speak with Ammie or Maxine.

Key West’s incoming City Manager Al Childress

Key West City Attorney Ron Ramsingh

BREWER PLEADS NOT GUILTY; NEXT HEARING IS MAY 3

HUGHES’ ACCUSED SHOOTER JAILED WITH NO BOND

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

The Key West man charged with fatally shooting fellow Key Wester Daniel Garrett Hughes, 21, in the pre-dawn hours of Feb. 13 outside Conch Town Liquor & Lounge remains in jail with no bond allowed.

Lloyd Preston Brewer, 57, faces felony charges of murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon for the Feb. 13 shooting death of Garrett Hughes.

MONROE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE/ Contributed

Lloyd Preston Brewer, 57, faces two felony charges — second-degree murder with a deadly weapon without premeditation and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon for allegedly threatening the victim’s brother, Carson Hughes, with the gun that killed the victim, according to documents filed March 1 by prosecutors in the State Attorney’s Office.

Brewer also faces a misdemeanor charge for violating a federal law that prohibits firearms in establishments whose primary business is the sale and consumption of alcohol, court records state.

Brewer has pleaded not guilty, according to a Feb. 25 document filed by his attorneys, Donald Yates and Chris Mancini, who did not respond to requests for comment as of presstime.

A pre-trial hearing is scheduled for May 3 in front of Judge Mark Wilson.

If convicted, Brewer faces 25 years to life in prison, a mandatory minimum sentence for a gun crime that results in death, Chief Assistant State Attorney Joe Mansfield, who is prosecuting the case, told the Keys Weekly.

Wilson has prohibited Brewer from having any contact or communication — directly or indirectly — with witnesses Carson Hughes (the victim’s brother) and Logan Manuel Pellicier, who were with Garrett Hughes the night of the shooting.

Mansfield told the Keys Weekly on Feb. 13 and again on March 6 that he expects Brewer’s attorneys to raise some sort of selfdefense claim on their client’s behalf.

“They may try to present some psychological or mental defect — maybe a PTSD diagnosis from some episode earlier in his life — that would warrant Brewer’s warped interpretation of the situation that caused him to fire the gun,” Mansfield said on March 6.

“Florida’s Stand Your Ground selfdefense law is based on what a reasonable person would reasonably perceive to be a deadly threat requiring the use of deadly force to save their life. And based on the video evidence that I now know frame by frame, no reasonable person would have viewed Garrett Hughes’ actions as a threat, much less a deadly threat requiring deadly force,” Mansfield said. “Garrett was unarmed. There is no evidence of any ‘beef’ between them that evening. Mr. Brewer drew his gun from about 40 feet away and advanced on Garrett, who posed no threat to Brewer. It was a point-blank shooting. Truly senseless.”

The prosecutor said he’s still awaiting the results of toxicology tests that were conducted using blood samples collected from Brewer at the jail several hours after the shooting.

The security footage from the outside of Conch Town Liquor & Lounge showed a drunk and shirtless Hughes outside the bar, urinating on the side of the building, Mansfield told the Keys Weekly on the afternoon of Feb. 13, about 15 hours after the shooting.

The video shows Brewer approaching Hughes and “exchanging words” with him, Mansfield said.

“The shirtless victim was clearly intoxicated and urinating on the wall when the suspect approached,” Mansfield said. “I suspect the shooter was annoyed by what he saw, confronted the kid, then pulled a gun and shot him in the stomach, which proved fatal. There are no weapons on or near the victim, nor is the victim seen reaching for anything.”

Hughes was a well-known Key West High School athlete before graduating in 2020. His father is the high school football coach.

Brewer’s father owns the building that houses Conch Town Bar, where Brewer, Hughes and others were reportedly drinking following the Super Bowl on Feb 12. The Brewer family does not own Conch Town Liquor & Lounge, but rather the building that houses it at 3340 N. Roosevelt Blvd.

“I reviewed the bar’s interior video footage and saw no prior interactions between the victim and Mr. Brewer inside the bar,” Mansfield said.

The night of the shooting, Key West Police received a 911 call at 12:28 a.m.on Monday, Feb. 13.

“Upon arrival, police encountered a subject who was lying in the parking lot and had been shot,” states a police press release from Feb. 13. “While the subject was being treated for his injuries, officers immediately detained the suspect who was still on scene and recovered the gun. The victim was transported to the Lower Keys Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased shortly after. The scene was secured for several hours while KWPD detectives responded and took over the investigation. The suspect was transported to the police station, interviewed and arrested.”

Garrett Hughes, 21, died of a gunshot wound to his abdomen on Feb. 13 outside a Key West bar. CONTRIBUTED

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

GOVERNMENT OVERREACH?

BILL WOULD RESTRICT CERTAIN FLAGS FROM STATE AND LOCAL MUNICIPAL GROUNDS

A60-day legislative session in Tallahassee that began March 7 could bring some serious policy shifts to Florida’s school curriculum and concealed-carry firearm laws. The House and Senate could be on their way to addressing an affordable housing crisis, while Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis aims to slide his priorities through a Republican-controlled legislature.

Of the 1,000 bills filed so far, one particular piece of legislation could lower and remove certain flags that wave outside government buildings and inside legislative chambers and offices.

Legislation recently filed by state Rep. David Borrero, a Republican representing Miami-Dade County, would restrict a number of flags being displayed at government buildings at the state and local level, as well as public schools. Specifically, House Bill 1011 would only let agencies exhibit the state flag, U.S. flag and POW/MIA flag. The official firefighter memorial flag can be also displayed at state-owned facilities.

That means the Pride flag and the storied Conch Republic flag would need to come off government buildings in the Keys. Some governments have also flown the Ukraine flag to support the country’s ongoing war against Russia.

“No other flag may be exposed to public view for exhibition or display, in any matter, by a governmental agency, local government or unit of local government,” according to the bill’s text.

In Key West, the bill would affect the Conch Republic flag and the rainbow flag that has long symbolized LGBTQ rights. Both are displayed inside and outside Key West’s City Hall, and have been for more than 20 years.

“This bill came onto my radar last week,” Key West Mayor Teri Johnston told the Keys Weekly on March 6. “The focus of this legislative session should squarely be on our housing crisis, hardening our communities to the effects of sea level rise, infrastructure issues, coral reef and Everglades protections and windstorm insurance rates. None of our hot-button issues include dictating which

flags a governmental agency can fly. This clearly falls into the category of ‘government overreach.’”

The Conch Republic flag dates back to April 23, 1982, when the federal government placed a Border Patrol roadblock at the Last Chance Saloon in Florida City. A search initially announced to find illegal migrants became more of an operation targeting drugs as law enforcement scoured through engines and glove compartments.

“While the event was not overly prolonged, it went on long enough to ding the tourist economy,” Keys historian Brad Bertelli wrote in a 2021 Keys Weekly History column.

Then-Key West Mayor Dennis Wardlow sought an injunction in Miami Superior Court in hopes of removing the checkpoint and bringing regular tourist activity back without any hindrance. Wardlow and his constituents were told that while the checkpoint would not be dismantled, it would cease to operate in its previous, egregious manner. Wardlow left the courthouse with his head held high, and the following day he announced that Key West and the Florida Keys would secede, thus declaring the new Conch Republic. A conch shell-emblazoned flag has waved throughout the Keys since then.

Legislation only allows for the display of the state and U.S. flags on the grounds of public postsecondary schools. K-12 institutions can display the U.S. flag inside the classroom, but that’s it.

Monroe County school board member Sue Woltanski said she believes the flags a community displays during local government meetings or in their buildings should be a local decision.

“We don’t need Tallahassee telling us how to decorate our offices or board rooms,” she said.

— Key West Mayor Teri Johnston

State Rep. Jim Mooney told the Keys Weekly he hadn’t seen the bill, but said he would talk to Borrero to see what he’s thinking with the proposal. The Keys Weekly reached out to Borrero for a comment, but didn’t receive a response before press time.

Legislation was referred to the House’s State Affairs Committee and Constitutional Rights, Rule of Law & Government Operations Subcommittee. A similar bill filed in the Senate by state Sen. Jay Collins was referred to the Senate Government Oversight and Accountability, Community and Rules committees.

Top: In addition to the American and state flags, Key West’s city hall also flies the POW/MIA flag, the Conch Republic flag, the rainbow flag and more recently, the Ukrainian flag as a show of support for the war-torn nation. Bottom: For more than 20 years, Key West’s city commission chambers have displayed the American flag, along with the state flag of Florida, the POW/MIA flag, the rainbow flag and the Conch Republic flag. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

“None of our hot-button issues include dictating which flags a governmental agency can fly.”

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‘‘Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.’’

‒ I Corinthians 15:58 NKJV

SPORTS & MORE

WHERE HAVE SOME OF THE PRO GOLFERS GONE?

R2023 Season

March 12 - American Brass

RALPH MORROW

... a veteran sports columnist, says the only sport he doesn’t follow is cricket. That leaves plenty of others to fill his time.

ralphmoro1936 @gmail.com

The other day, I was flipping through the index on my television set and popped onto a LIV golf tournament. I stayed for a while and went back a few more times the next few days. There were several golfers whom I hadn’t seen on the PGA channels for a few months. Actually, I hadn’t thought of most of the LIV golfers.

If you’ll recall, a year or so ago, the rich constituency, backed by Saudi Arabia, started up their own LIV golf league and a string of tournaments to compete with the PGA. The multimillion-dollar paydays for golfers who left the PGA and joined LIV were astronomical. (The PGA ruled that the golfers couldn’t play under both umbrellas.)

Each LIV tournament winner receives $4 million, while the lastplace finisher in a field of 48 gets $120,000. Team winners split $3 million. The top player at season’s end earns $18 million.

This year, LIV has a nearly full schedule of tournaments. The reasons you didn’t hear of LIV last season were that most of their tournaments were held in Europe or Asia and they had no TV coverage. This year, they’re televised and have some humorous announcers, including David Feherty. He and the other announcers, with whom I am not familiar, have an objective to entertain as well as to inform.

The scoring is similar to what we’re used to, but not completely. Of course, there’s the individual scoring that tells who wins. But there are also payments to the best of four-man teams. Captains select teams of several golfers, then further reduce it to four players who are designated as their teams. They even have names such as Crushers, 4Aces, Fireballs, Rippers, Smash, Majestiques and so on. You’ll recognize team members because they’ll be wearing similar shirts. The captain has the authority to change the members of his four-man team between each round. Also, LIV tournaments are only three days, or 54

holes of golf, rather than the PGA’s 72 holes over four days.

LIV players whom I recognized included Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Charles Howell III, Paul Casey, Taylor Gooch, Matthew Wolff, Graeme McDowell, Abraham Ancer, Marc Leishman, Patrick Read, Ian Poulter, Bubba Watson, Brooks Koepka, Charl Schwartzel, Bryson DeChambeau, Pat Perry, Harold Varner, Kevin Na and Cameron Smith.

I believe I had seen each player’s name mentioned previously with LIV. So there were no surprises last week.

The LIV viewership on the CW network has grown from its first tournament of the season, which drew a dismal number of viewers. At the recent tournament in Mexico, total viewership was listed as an average of 3.2 million total viewers. The Los Angeles market had more than 40,000 viewers on Saturday. In Chicago, the figure was 12,000, according to Deadline. Out of the top 10 markets, the worst showing was Philadelphia (5,900 Saturday and 3,500 Sunday) and Washington, D.C. (2,100 and 3,400).

As Deadline reported, eight of the CBS-owned CW affiliates declined to air LIV tournaments.

However, LIV officials have reported that whenever CW stations do not telecast the tournaments, other non-CW channels have picked them up.

Dustin Johnson hoists the championship trophy following his victory in a LIV Golf Invitational in Bolton, Massachusetts. JAZZYJOEYD/Wikipedia

THE SCOREBOARD

SHANNON AND AILEE BRIGGS

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

Senior/Freshman

Key West Wrestling

It isn’t too often that two athletes from the same team bring home runnerup medals from the state finals in an individual sport such as wrestling. But when those athletes have the last name Briggs, the odds become significantly greater. Teammates and sisters Shannon and Ailee Briggs did just that last week, taking their rightful place on their respective podiums and making Conch history with their FHSAA 1A second place medals, capping off a stellar inaugural season for Lady Conchs wrestling.

“As a coach I couldn’t be any prouder of both of them,” coach Chaz Jimenez said of the sisters.

For their dedication, leadership, and amazing accomplishments, Shannon and Ailee Briggs are this week’s Keys Weekly Athletes of the Week.

“Ailee is determined to be great, and is extremely dedicated to her craft. She is a talented wrestler, but it is her heart and work ethic that sets her apart. Shannon is a great leader and has become the glue that binds our program together. She never quits and has a true heart of a champion.”

Ailee Briggs and Shannon Briggs at the FHSAA 1A state finals after both girls won second-place medals. CONTRIBUTED

– Chaz Jimenez, Key West wrestling coach

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

By:

FOUR CONCHS REACH THE PODIUM

The wrestling dynasty established by Key West over the past two decades intensified this past weekend when head coach Chaz Jimenez and six Conch grapplers traveled to Kissimmee for the FHSAA 1A state championship meet at Silver Spurs Arena on March 2-4.

Ralph Riche brought home a fifthplace medal, pinning his opponent in his final match to earn a spot on the podium. The junior, known for his determination and work ethic, has all it takes to be a repeat placer next season.

Florida State University commit Andre Otto captured a third-place medal, pinning his final two opponents in typical Otto style – fast and relentless. Otto improved from his seventh-place finish last season, ending his wrestling career on a high note.

The Lady Conchs made big waves in

their first year of team competition, taking down athletes across south Florida.

Senior Shannon Briggs made the most of her single season with Key West, capturing a second-place medal in her weight class. Briggs was seeded 11th in her weight class.

The senior will have to share bragging rights with sister Ailee, a freshman, who also captured a second-place medal. Ailee was seeded seventh for her weight class in the event, winning three straight matches to earn her spot in the finals. Briggs lost her final match to last year’s runner-up and the top-seeded wrestler in her class in a 6-3 decision. She is already preparing for ’24, saying, “My plans for the off season are to go to as many high level competitions as possible throughout the east coast so that come the next states, I am ready to take the gold.”

SOUTHERNMOST SHOWDOWN Conchs down Dolphins in tennis

n March 1, the Key West Conchs and Marathon Dolphins met in the southernmost island to continue a battle for Keys court supremacy. In the two teams’ second meeting in as many weeks, the Conchs emerged with a 6-1 win, duplicating the outcome of their Feb. 15 matchup. Marathon sophomore standout Adrien Holdinga was the lone Dolphin to emerge victorious from the evening, winning his #1 singles match 8-6.

— Alex Rickert

Key West and Marathon players battle for court supremacy on March 1 in the southernmost city.

Photos by ELLA HALL/Keys Weekly See more game photos at keysweekly.com

Conchs head coach Chaz Jimenez stands between Ailee Briggs (left) and Shannon Briggs. CONTRIBUTED

Tracy and Sean McDonald

he Lady Conchs poured on the runs against South Dade High School in a doubleheader on March 5, including a home run from the bat of Miesha Hernandez in game one. Chloe Gilday threw a no-hitter in the shutout, striking out 10 in just 4 innings of play in their 15-0 mercy rule win over the Buccaneers.

In game two, Hernandez and Nevaeh Arnold paired up in the circle for the Conchs, allowing just 2 hits and striking out 10 in the victory. Game two ended in a 17-2 win for Key West. The lopsided victories were made possible by solid hitting in the two-game series. Lady Conchs earning hits in addition to Hernandez were Isabella Franco, Dharma Murray, Vera Rodger and Madelyn Perusse with 2 hits each over the span of both games. Maicey Malgrat, Shylo Sanchez, Alexa Condella, Ty Cervantes and Lindsey Koppal all earned hits as well. The wins place Key West at 3-0 heading into their next game on Friday, March 10 at home against Santa Fe.

DOLPHINS, HURRICANES SOFTBALL TRADE RUNS IN CLOSE KEYS MATCHUP

Conchs Remain Unbeaten

Marathon improved to 2-1 this week after defeating Coral Shores 18-16 at home on Feb. 28. The Fins sealed the victory with 13 hits. Three came from pitcher Allison Garcia, who struck out nine ’Canes over the course of the seveninning game. Sage Brown amassed 2 hits, 3 stolen bases and an RBI, and Daniella Gonzalez added 2 hits and 1 RBI. The rest of the Fins’ hits came from Elena Eubank, Maeve Merryman, Sara Robinson, Madelyn Thornton, Alba Rodriguez and Ryleigh Garcia with 1 apiece. Both teams meet again in early April, this time in Tavernier.

Marathon went on to play Somerset South Homestead on March 1, beating them 11-0 at home. Pitching duties in that game were shared by the sisters Garcia. Senior Allison went 3 innings, striking out 8, and 8th grader Ryleigh closed out the win, striking out 2 through the final 2 innings in the mercy-rule shutout. Both Garcias had hits in the game as well as Merryman and Thornton. Elena Eubank earned 3 RBIs in the win.

Coral Shores lost two games last week, bringing their record to 1-2 early in the season. After the loss to Marathon, the ’Canes fell to Carrollton 12-5 at home on March 2. They will have a chance to even their record on March 10 when they travel to Lourdes Academy.

The Coral Shores High School varsity softball team takes on Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart on Thursday, March 2 at Coral Shores. Carrollton went on to beat the Hurricanes 12-6. Photos by DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly. See more game photos at keysweekly.com.

Eighth grader Ryleigh Garcia is a pitcher and also plays second base.

Photos by BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly. See more game photos at keysweekly.com

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

SEASON FINALE CONCERT!

DVOŘÁK MASTERWORKS: “New World Symphony” & Cello Concerto

Featuring GRAMMY Award-winning Cellist, Zuill Bailey

South Florida Symphony Orchestra presents an evening of Dvořák Masterworks, featuring his love letter to America, “New World Symphony,” as well as the greatest of all cello concertos (Cello Concerto in B minor), performed by Zuill Bailey — who also appeared during the Symphony’s 1998 inaugural concert in Key West!

Saturday, March 25 | 7:30 pm

Tennessee Williams Theatre at The College of the Florida Keys

LILLY PULITZER STORE HELPS A POSITIVE STEP OF MONROE COUNTY

10% OF ALL SALES ON MARCH 25 BENEFIT YOUTH SUMMER JOB PROGRAM

FILM FESTIVAL CELEBRATES WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

KEY WEST’S NOW CHAPTER OFFERS WEDNESDAY SCREENINGS

The Lilly Pulitzer shop at 600 Front St. in Key West will donate 10% of all sales to A Positive Step of Monroe County to help fund the organization’s 2023 Idle Hands Summer Youth Employment program. The fundraiser takes place Saturday, March 25 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Southernmost City and Lilly Pulitzer share a colorful historic relationship, as the late celebrated Key West artist and sculptor Suzie dePoo (Agnes Helen Zuzek dePoo) created many of the brand’s imaginative and colorful fabric art designs.

On March 25, shoppers can support a great program while lifting their spirits among a vibrant array of classic “Lilly” dresses, tops, shorts, jumpsuits, swimwear and accessories available at the Key West shop.

The Idle Hands Summer Youth Employment program was founded by A Positive Step of Monroe County and is operated by APSMC in partnership with the City of Key West. APSMC is a nonprofit organization that has been serving Monroe County’s highest risk kids and their families since

1999. Since 2010, the organization has partnered with the city to provide summer jobs for Key West High School students. Each year, the city has provided the jobs as well as $35,000 toward the approximately $70,000 payroll required to pay the students and one APSMC staff person. APSMC raises the remainder of the budget with the support of individuals, community organizations and local businesses such as Lilly Pulitzer.

“We are very grateful to Key West’s Lilly Pulitzer for their annual fundraising in support of our Idle Hands program, which not only teaches our teen participants important work and social skills, but helps to devitalize old patterns of low expectations, helping to launch these fantastic kids into a better life,” said APSMC founder and executive director Billy Davis.

More information about the Lilly Pulitzer fundraiser for APSMC is available from Mark Rotella at mrotella@lillypulitzer. com. More information about APSMC and its community support programs is available from Davis at apsmccrp@aol.com or apsmc.org.

— Contributed

The Third Annual Women’s Film Festival will screen the third of its five great films on March 15 at the Tropic Cinema. “Trouble with Angels” is a light-hearted comedy starring Hayley Mills and Rosalind Russell at the peak of their careers. Directed by Ida Lupino, who became an influential director and producer in the Hollywood studio system after her decades of acting, this is a romp with mischievous girls in a convent school.

The festival will continue for the two remaining Wednesdays in March. On March 22, French New Wave icon Agnès Varda’s most famous film, “Cleo from 5 to 7,” tells the story of a young French pop star who awaits biopsy results in Paris in the 1950s.

The festival ends March 29 with “The Janes.” This HBO documentary about the Abortion Counseling Service in Chicago tracks a group of women

who provided thousands of safe abortions in the late ’60s and early ’70s, before Roe v. Wade was decided. Two of the original Janes, now in their 80s, will join the Tropic audience by Zoom for an important discussion after the screening.

The Key West Chapter of the National Organization for Women (NOW) promotes women’s rights to reproductive health care, fairness in education and employment, freedom from violence, justice for LGBTQIA citizens and life without racism.

The Tropic Cinema is an award-winning, independent, non-profit theater showing popular, classic, foreign, regional and experimental films.

All showings begin at 6 p.m. Tickets are available at tropiccinema.com or at the door.

All screenings are in the spacious Carper Theater. — Contributed

Billy Davis, founder of A Positive Step Monroe County, center, Miki Yaras-Davis, left, and Lilly Pulitzer sales associate Catherine Whitney get warmed up for a day of shopping to benefit APSMC. CAROL TEDESCO/A Positive Step

The NOW Women’s Film Festival screens films at 6 p.m. Wednesdays through March at Tropic Cinema. CONTRIBUTED

BAHAMA VILLAGE EXHIBIT EXTENDED THROUGH MAY 21

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND... LECTURE COVERS ‘LAST TURTLEMEN OF THE CARIBBEAN’

EVENT TAKES PLACE MARCH 17 AT TROPIC CINEMA

Due to popular demand, the Key West Museum of Art & History has extended the duration of the “Bahama Village: Relics of a Fading Community” exhibit. Visitors can immerse themselves in the history and culture of the historically black neighborhood until May 21.

Originally scheduled to leave March 19, this exhibit features never-before-on-view objects including a football helmet and shoulder pads from Frederick Douglass School, musical instruments from the estate of William McKinzie, a 19th-century Sanchez family bible and a suit once belonging to illustrious local musician Coffee Butler. These items, along with several others, tell the inspiring history, culture and contributions of the black residents.

“In collaboration with Florida Humanities, this exhibition aims to build cultural equity by telling narratives of the Black community’s significant contributions,” said Cori Convertito, Key West Museum of Art & History curator. “We seek to redress a serious omission: that the substantial impacts of people of color are under-represented in our island’s historical narrative. The contributions of these skilled workers have been marginalized, when in truth, their engagements were vital and valuable.”

According to Convertito, the biggest takeaway from the exhibit is that Bahama Village is more

Residents of Bahama Village outside the Key West Lighthouse. Bahama Village is the subject of an exhibit that has been extended through May 21 at the Key West Museum of Art & History, 281 Front St. KWAHS/Contributed

than neighborhood designation. The exhibit recognizes its crucial position in the growth of Key West. Blacks built homes, ran businesses, sought employment in a variety of island industries, facilitated the popularity of the Southernmost Point and served their country valiantly in several global conflicts.

“Bahama Village has many educational and enriching components that hit multiple different learning styles,” said Convertito. “For example, visitors who have little knowledge of the origins of our black community, or its settlement pattern, can learn through images, artifacts and storytelling. History and stories are woven together through various events that shaped the Black and Indigenous cultures of Key West.”

More information is available from Convertito at 305-295-6616 x507 or cconvertito@kwahs.org.

— Contributed

The Key West Art & Historical Society will offer a free lecture by Sharika Crawford titled, “The Last Turtlemen of the Caribbean: Labor, Conservation and Boundary Making from the Cayman Island to Key West.” The lecture will be held at Tropic Cinema, 416 Eaton St., on Friday, March 17 at 6 p.m. The program is free, but advance registration is required to ensure seating. To register online, visit kwahs.org/ dss-crawford.

Crawford will discuss the entangled histories of peoples and commodities that circulated across the greater Caribbean, which connected places like Key West to the Cayman Islands and further south toward Nicaragua and Costa Rica. The story of the turtle and its hunter, Crawford argues, came to play a significant role in shaping the maritime boundaries of the modern Caribbean.

Focusing on the 19th and 20th centuries, she traces and connects the expansion of turtle hunting to matters of race, labor, political and economic change, and the natural environment.

Crawford is associate professor of history at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis. Her scholarship focuses on Latin America, the circum-Caribbean, and the West African nation of Ghana. Her book “The Last Turtlemen of the Caribbean: Labor, Conservation, and Boundary Making” was published by the University of North Carolina Press in 2020. This program is limited to 150 attendees.

More information is available from Cori Convertito at 305-295-6616 x507 or cconvertito@kwahs.org.

— Contributed

Marching band members from the segregated Frederick Douglass School formerly located in Bahama Village. FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY CENTER/Contributed

The Key West Art & Historical Society’s upcoming Distinguished Speaker Series lecture will be ‘The Last Turtlemen of the Caribbean’ on Friday, March 17 at Tropic Cinema and is free. KWAHS/Contributed

CITY AND COUNTY NEGOTIATE TRADE

COUNTY TO GET HAWK MISSILE SITE; CITY WOULD GET BIKE PATH AND BALL FIELD

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

In the next two years, an elevated bike path will connect

Key West’s Flagler Avenue with South Roosevelt Boulevard, thanks to a potential new agreement between the city of Key West and Monroe County.

Each government entity would get something it needs out of a newly negotiated agreement that city officials approved on March 7 and that county officials will consider at their next meeting.

Under the agreement, the county will get the undeveloped, city-owned property known as the HAWK Missile site, which is next to the county-owned Key West Airport. The county needs the property to meet environmental mitigation requirements for work being done to the airport taxiway.

The HAWK Missile site is so named due to the 1962 installation of HAWK missiles there, following the United States’ discovery of Soviet missiles in Cuba, just 90 miles from Key West. Due to its proximity to Cuba, Key West prepared for possible invasion. Large numbers of U.S. troops gathered in Key West to invade Cuba; defensive measures included HAWK missiles to shoot down Soviet planes, and barbed wire and machine gun emplacements along the beach to deter invasion by Cuban and Soviets troops to Key West, according to the Harry S. Truman LIttle White House Museum in Key West.

In return for the now-barren missile site, the county will provide the city with the new bike path between Flagler Avenue, near Government Road, and South Roosevelt Boulevard. (A connection for motorized vehicles is prohibited by countless laws given the sensitive nature of the wetlands the bike path will cross.)

In addition, the county has agreed to remove a navigational

which needs a portion of the property for environmental mitigation. CONTRIBUTED

beacon currently located at the county-owned Higgs Beach in Key West. In its place, the county will either build or fund a new, $2 million, open-recreational field at Higgs Beach.

“The main attention-grabber from my perspective is the new field, which we definitely need,” Commissioner Sam Kaufman said at the March 7 meeting. “Years ago, we didn’t have lacrosse, and now we do. Soccer alone uses all the fields in Key West, including space at Bernstein Park on Stock Island.”

City Manager Patti McLauchin is a fan of the bike path, which will provide unprecedented access for bikes and pedestrians between Flagler Avenue and the beach area at Smathers Beach along South Roosevelt Boulevard.

The agreement further outlines a method for the city to take control of the entire 16 acres of Higgs Beach Park through a 99-year lease of $10 per year, but not unless or until Key West voters approve an eventual referendum, as voter approval is required for the city to acquire any property.

Full control of Higgs Beach by the city requires further work and agreements, given some outstanding concerns about the Salute restaurant lease at Higgs Beach.

The former HAWK missile site off Government Road in Key West is owned but underused by the city, due to environmental restrictions and proximity to the airport,

MIAMI MARLINS’ MASCOT VISITS KEY WEST KEY WEST HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL LEAVING THIS MONTH

DAVE PERKINS TO REPLACE LARRY SCHMIEGEL IN INTERIM

BILLY THE MARLIN SIGNS AUTOGRAPHS AT SOUTHERNMOST POINT

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

“We wish Dr. Schmiegel great success in his new role and appreciate his service to the Monroe County School District,” Axford added.

Schmiegel came to the Florida Keys in 2016 from New York state, where he earned two master’s degrees, a doctorate and state certifications to be both principal and superintendent.

He was principal of Poinciana Elementary School in Key West from 2016 until 2021, when he was tapped to lead Key West High School.

Larry Schmiegel, principal of Key West High School for the past few years, is leaving at the end of the month to take a superintendent job in Watertown, New York.

Dave Perkins, a longtime assistant principal, teacher and track coach at Key West High School, has been appointed interim principal, Superintendent Theresa Axford announced.

“We greatly appreciate Dave Perkins’ willingness to assume the role of interim principal of Key West High School,” Axford said in a statement. “His extensive experience at the school guarantees that we will have a successful completion of the school year.

A report from ABC50 , a northern New York-based news outlet, states that Schmiegel was selected from three finalists for the Watertown City School District superintendent position.

“Each candidate participated in a series of sessions with the Watertown City School District’s staff, students and community during the recruitment process,” the report states.

“Schmiegel is currently a high school principal at Monroe County School District in Key West, Florida. He previously served as an administrator in the Syracuse City School District and Oswego City School District,” the New York report states. “He is originally from Chittenango, New York.”

AMajor League Baseball mascot visited the Southernmost City on March 3. Billy the Marlin, from the Miami Marlins, stopped at city hall, where he sat in Mayor Teri Johnston’s seat on the city commission dais and held the gavel.

He also visited folks in line for photos at the Southernmost Point monument, and signed autographs for school kids from Horace O’Bryant School.

Principal Larry Schmiegel is leaving Key West High School at the end of the month to take a superintendent job in Watertown, New York. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

Dave Perkins, a longtime assistant principal and coach at Key West High School, has been appointed interim principal. CONTRIBUTED

— Mandy Miles

Billy the Marlin and Rick Lopez of US 1 Radio visit the Southernmost Point on March 3. DORIAN PATTON/City of Key West

Above: Billy the Marlin, the Miami Marlins’ mascot, signs autographs for kids from Horace O’Bryant School. Left: Billy the Marlin takes up the mayor’s gavel at Key West’s city hall.

RED BARN SHOW RECALLS TINSELTOWN’S TARNISH

‘THE CODE’ SHINES LIGHT ON HOLLYWOOD’S DARK DAYS

“But I love him and he loves me,” Manford cries.

The slimy agent’s move highlights the heartbreaking sacrifice that, in a not-sodistant era of Hollywood, was seen as the only way to protect an acting career. McKeever’s compelling narrative details the efforts to falsify perceptions and hide the details of an actor’s personal life.

The audience sees Haines shift his focus from performing as a major screen star in the 1930s to launching a career in set design, mostly due to the pressures of hiding his homosexuality.

His plans to move to upstate New York with his partner Jimmie and buy an apple farm has Bankhead in hysterics, but also pleading with her friend to stay in L.A.

“You’re the only thing in this town I don’t hate,” she quips.

Now onstage at Key West’s Red Barn Theatre, “The Code” conjures the glitter and glamour of 1950s Hollywood.

But there’s a dark side.

The four-actor play tells the tale of former matinee idol Billy Haines (played by Tom Wahl), a semi-closeted homosexual who laments the state of affairs in which gays are shunned in show business and same-sex relationships are still regarded as “deviant” by the House UnAmerican Activities Committee.

Haines’ gal pal Tallullah Bankhead (Mary Falconer) and friend Henry Wilson (David Black) are joined by tagalong young actor Chad Manford (Carlos Ortega Amorin). Hanging with Haines in his stylish living room with its black-and-white checkerboard floor, the Los Angeles trio laments Hollywood’s dreadful socio-political mores.

Playwright Michael McKeever crafted “The Code” in 2021 as a period-piece parable intended to illuminate the hypocrisy of a movie-making era in which studios operated with an eyes- wide-shut agenda toward gays.

All this “in a town built by homosexuals that will not acknowledge that they exist,” says Bankhead, who adds with a chuckle, “This entire town is a cesspool.”

The show’s director, Christopher Renshaw, said his passion for McKeever’s message drove him to get “The Code” onstage in Key West after a previous run at Fort Lauderdale’s Foundry in Wilton Manors.

“It’s horribly relevant,” he noted after the play’s March 6 dress rehearsal at Red Barn Theatre. “In Tennessee they are trying to outlaw drag queen shows. I’ve been in theater all my life and that has historically always been the most accepting place for us.”

Artistic director Joy Hawkins added, “I think it’s important work that’s being done on this subject.”

“The Code,” which runs through March 25, is a 90-minute comedy whose edge needs little explanation.

“I’m a lesbian, and what do you do?” Bankhead queries the audience early in the performance. The fledgling actor Manford is a manufactured star, battered by the Svengali-style agent Wilson to dump his gay lover by way of an immediate phone call.

The soul-crushing implications of one’s personal sexual identity getting in the way of ambition and talent is the recurrent theme in “The Code.”

British-born Renshaw’s direction is unsurprisingly tight given his impressive history of bringing stories to the stage. His Broadway production of “The King and I” has garnered four Tony awards. Renshaw also co-produced “We Will Rock You” with the band Queen and Robert DeNiro. The director’s credits evince a skillful dedication to live theater here and abroad.

As “The Code” comes to a close, McKeever’s message is clear. The bigotry toward America’s LGBTQ performing arts community is its own paradox, as the very same people produce so much of the entertainment enjoyed by millions.

“Your plight may someday be someone’s salvation,” Bankhead says hopefully of Haines’ singular sacrifice on the altar of personal freedom.

“The Code” runs through March 25 at Red Barn Theatre, 319 Duval St.

For tickets, visit redbarntheatre.com or call 305-296-9911.

From left, David Black, Mary Falconer and Carlos Ortega Amorin star in Michael McKeever’s play, ‘The Code,’ now showing at Red Barn Theatre in Key West. ROBERTA DePIERO/Contributed

THE GANG’S ALL HERE

CLASSIC PEANUTS ARTWORK AVAILABLE AT OCEAN BLUE GALLERIES

GIMENEZ ANNOUNCES FUNDS AVAILABLE GRANT APPLICATIONS

ARE DUE MARCH 17

U.S. Rep. Carlos Gimenez, whose district includes the Florida Keys, is accepting applications for fiscal year 2024 Community Project Funding (CPF) requests. CPF comes in the form of congressionally directed grants that are included in annual government funding legislation. Last year, Gimenez secured over $23.7 million in funding for South Florida community projects.

Tom Everhart was the only fine artist granted permission by Peanuts cartoonist Charles Schulz to use the Peanuts characters in his paintings. CONTRIBUTED

The familiar faces of beloved cartoon characters peer out from the walls of Ocean Blue Gallery, 109 Duval St. Snoopy, Woodstock, Charlie Brown, Lucy and the whole Peanuts gang are represented in colorful drawings created by artist Tom Everhart, the only fine art artist ever granted permission by Peanuts creator Charles Schulz to use the characters in his paintings.

In the 1980s, while still painting full-time on his previous body of work in his own studio, Everhart began drawing special projects for Schulz and United Media, both in New York and Tokyo. These authentic Schulz-style drawings included covers and interiors of magazines, art for the White House, and the majority of the MetLife advertising campaign that featured the gang.

By then, Everhart became the only fine artist authorized and educated by Schulz to draw the actual Schulz line that gave life to the Peanuts characters.

“After Charles Schulz passed away in February 2000, it left Everhart with a deep sense of loss as well as an even stronger desire to communicate the incredible gift bestowed on him by Schulz,” states

a biography of Everhart. “Thus, in 2000 Everhart discovered French Polynesia, a small group of islands in the center of the Pacific Ocean. The ongoing trips between French Polynesia and Venice, California have had a significant effect on the paintings most easily observed in the luminous color palette. But, most importantly, it offered Everhart a new way of seeing the work he was dedicated to continuing.

“The Charles M Schulz Museum opened in August 2002 and the following year … Everhart had the honor of presenting his works in a solo exhibition titled ‘Under The Influence.’”

Everhart continues to lecture around the world on the artwork of Schulz and to communicate the unique collaborative relationship they shared.

— Contributed

“One of the most important functions in my role as a member of Congress is ensuring that Florida’s 28th Congressional District gets the funding it needs to support critical infrastructure projects and the work of our community’s non-profit organizations,” Gimenez said in a March 3 statement. “Please carefully review the attached guidance before submitting an application, and direct any questions to my office.”

PLEASE NOTE:

• Gimenez can only submit 15 CPF requests to the Appropriations Committee, which has final say in whether a request is included in FY24 appropriations bills. As such, selection by his office does not guarantee funding for a project. Funding is subject to the passage of an appropriations law that contains CPFs. Project sponsors should be aware that selection by Gimenez is the first step in a months-long process.

• Requests must meet the criteria for funding established by the Appropriations Committee. Any requests that are not eligible for one of these accounts will not be accepted.

post information online about any projects he selects to submit to the Appropriations Committee. The posting will include the name of the proposed recipient, the address, the amount of the request and an explanation of the purpose and justification for the use of taxpayer funds.

• Any required matching funds must be available for each project. This does not mean that matching funds must be in-hand prior to requesting a project, but that project sponsors must have a plan to meet such requirements in order for such a project to be viable.

• Only the following entities may apply:

- State, local and tribal governments

- Publicly owned entities (e.g. ports, universities, etc.)

- Certain nonprofit entities with a quasi-governmental purpose (e.g. special districts)

- Certain nonprofit organizations

• Only projects with demonstrated community support will be considered. Examples of support include:

- Letters of support from elected community leaders (e.g. mayors or other officials);

- Press articles highlighting the need for the requested funding;

- Support from newspaper editorial boards;

- Projects listed on state intended use plans, community development plans, or other publicly available planning documents; or

- Resolutions passed by city councils or boards.

ARTIST

will appear at Ocean Blue Gallery, 109 Duval St. from 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, March 10 and 11.

• Each project is subject to strict legal and ethical review. Projects that contain even the appearance of impropriety will not be accepted. In the interest of transparency, Gimenez will

Applications may be submitted at gimenez.house.gov/community-project-funding. Applications are due Friday, March 17.

TOM EVERHART

Family owned and operated by Damien, Cathy, Tiffany & Nikki.

NORTHERN PARULAS, FIRST OF THEIR NAME

Iwent out to the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden the other day with something of a mission – to write a column about the first bird I saw. Because sometimes you need to surprise yourself.

I first stopped by the pond, thinking I could put something together about a common gallinule, formerly the common moorhen, if I saw one. Because who doesn’t like a bird with a candy corn-patterned bill? But the only animate beings I saw were a half dozen turtles who swam over and slowly treaded water while looking disappointed in my lack of snacks. Though it’s possible that turtles always look disappointed.

... is a photographer, writer, and semi-professional birdwatcher. He has lived in Key West for more than 25 years and may no longer be employable in the real world. He is also executive director of the Florida Keys Audubon Society.

It was almost 3 p.m., so it probably wasn’t the best time to find birds, but the morning had gotten away from me, as well as a good chunk of the afternoon.

Walking down the boardwalk a shadow passed over me, the kind of shadow that would be mystically foreboding, if you believed in that sort of thing, though really, it was just a turkey vulture, flying low, which you can’t take personally. At least if you’re still ambulatory. Vultures. Feh. Done them. I was going to have to write something about the second bird I saw.

In a thicket at the intersection of three paths I heard the softest of chip notes. So soft I wasn’t sure at first. I froze and listened. First there was the high ping of a golf club hitting a ball, then the distant muffled voices of people with opinions about how well the ball was hit. Then there was a jet taking off, then an ambulance passing. Then the chip note again.

I saw a shadow in the thicket and lifted my binoculars. A small, blurry moving shape, which got blurrier when I turned the knob the wrong way, then clearer when I turned it the right way. It disappeared and reappeared a few times, but I caught enough quick glances to know it was a northern parula.

I love northern parulas. I’m a sucker for their white bellies and yellow throats, which sometimes have dark necklaces of red feathers across them. And I’m a sucker for their white wing bars, their broken white eye rings, and their cool, slate blue everything else. But I never feel as if I have a deep understanding of them. A lot of times they seem like attractive strangers one passes on the street.

Northern parulas are members of the wood warbler family, known in scientific Latin as the Parulidae – which is the plural of parula, which is the diminutive of parus, which is the scientific Latin name for the tit family, which is derived from the Icelandic word titlingur, which means sparrow, even though neither tits nor warblers are sparrows. And though wood warblers are also not closely related to the tit family – they just kind of sort of look like some of them – parula translates to small tit, and Parulidae translates to small tits. That’s not snigger-worthy at all, and frankly I’m a little disappointed in your reaction.

There is another parula in the Parulidae family, the tropical parula, but it used to be called Sennett’s warbler, which makes the northern parula, like Daenerys Targaryen, first of their name, at least in the Parulidae family.

There are 120 members of the wood warbler family, 56 of which have made it north of the Mexican border, 49 of which regularly breed in the U.S. and Canada. Thirty-eight of those wood warbler species have been recorded in the Florida Keys. (During migration I once managed to see 24 warbler species in a single day.)

Most American and Canadian birders tend to just call them warblers. To keep things confusing though, not all wood warblers have warbler in their common name, and not all birds with warbler in their common name are wood warblers.

Warblers are on the diminutive side of the bird-size spectrum, most 6 inches or less from bill tip to tail tip, most weighing about a third of an ounce, which is the equivalent of two-and-ahalf Wint-O-Green Life Savers, three Sour Patch Kids, one Goldenberg’s Peanut Chew, or one black Sharpie pen. (You choose.)

Northern parulas, which my spell check is relentlessly trying to change to Northern Paula’s, are on the diminutive end of the diminutive spectrum – 4.5 inches long and .3 ounces.

When you flip through the warbler section in a field guide, it seems like a lot of variations on a theme, an armada of similarly sized and shaped birds with dozens of different paint jobs.

It keeps you on your toes, but also makes it hard to think of them as individual species, or even individual birds, when you’re sorting through this vast array of possibilities. And once you kind of figure them out, you can feel a little exhausted.

All this is complicated exponentially by the fact that warblers really don’t sit still. They flit constantly from branch to branch, going deep into the foliage, then popping out again, mostly allowing only partial glimpses of them. (One ornithologist tracked a northern parula through 130 flights and calculated that it flew to another branch every 18.1 seconds, with the flights lasting an average of .64 seconds. This did not including hopping and walking on the same branch.)

When I used to guide, I would occasionally have a client who would see a warbler and ask, “What’s that?” I’d say, “Prairie warbler,” and they’d nod. Three minutes later, they’d say, “What that?” Prairie warbler. Five minutes later, they’d ask, “What’s that?” again, and it would inevitably be a prairie warbler.

I would try to sound good-natured about it, but I would start to get a little frustrated with them. Then I would get frustrated with myself for getting frustrated with them, because it takes time and repetition to learn that stuff, and I was lucky enough to have a little facility for telling all those tiny birds apart, and there were birders I knew who had far broader and deeper facilities than I had, so who was I to get shitty?

So yeah, northern parulas. I have no idea what to say about them.

A northern parula in Key West. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

MARK HEDDEN

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‘ON THE ROAD AGAIN’ — WILLIE NELSON RETURNS TO KEY WEST

RAMS HEAD PRESENTS THE COUNTRY MUSIC — AND CANNABIS — LEGEND

PUCKER UP AND BLOW

HOT AIR & HIJINKS MARK ANNUAL CONCH SHELL BLOWING CONTEST

Country music legend Willie Nelson was “On the Road Again,” performing on March 1 to a packed house at Key West’s Coffee Butler Amphitheater.

Country music — and marijuana — wouldn’t be the same without the vocal influence of singer/ songwriter Nelson.

The outlaw country star’s music has spanned more than six decades and earned him nearly every award in the country music industry.

Even those who don’t consider themselves fans of Willie Nelson –or of country music – appreciate and recognize classics that have spanned generations, including several covers and duets. Nearly every American older than 40 can sing along to “Blue Eyes Cryin’ in

the Rain,” “To All the Girls I’ve Loved Before” (a duet with Julio Iglesias), “Pancho and Lefty,” “On the Road Again,” “Seven Spanish Angels” and “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys.”

Nelson has earned 15 Grammy Awards, along with dozens of Country Music Association and American Music Association awards. He ranks among Rolling Stone’s Top 100 musicians of all time. He was part of the 1980s country band, the Highwaymen, with Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings and Kris Kristofferson.

He helped organize the annual Farm Aid concerts that started in 1985 and has served on the advisory board of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws.

Their musical prowess may not win them any Grammy Awards, but their enthusiasm for Key West and the Conch Republic earned them applause and awards at the annual Conch Shell Blowing Contest on March 4 at the Oldest House Museum & Gardens.

A Canadian woman and a pediatric cardiologist from Georgia won the men’s and women’s contests using different techniques to impress the judges.

Brian Cardis of Macon, Georgia, played the Jimmy Buffett song “Fins” on a pink-lined conch shell with holes so it can be played like a flute, while Carol Whiteley of Ontario, Canada, blew a long, loud blast with her shell to best other competitors.

“You sort of have to just buzz your lips when you’re blowing into it,” Cardis said. “You have to make a ‘pffft’ noise with your lips to generate the sound.”

Judges evaluated entrants ranging from children to seniors on the quality, novelty, duration and volume of sounds they produced.

Other winners included Michael and Georgann Wachter, a couple from Avon Lake, Ohio, who performed a conch-shell-andvocal duet parodying Elvis Presley’s

1. Nearly 20 contestants competed in this year’s Conch Shell Blowing Contest on March 4 at Key West’s Oldest House Museum & Gardens. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

2. From left, Brian Cardis, Finley Ray, Carol Whiteley and Georgann and Michael Wachter win medals in various categories of Key West’s annual Conch Shell Blowing Contest.

3. Key Wester David Johnson aka ‘Son of Poseidon’ competes in full costume.

“Hound Dog” that drew cheers and laughter from spectators.

The conch shell, an enduring symbol of the Florida Keys, has been used as a maritime signaling device in the region for more than two centuries.

The contest was conceived by the Old Island Restoration Foundation in 1972.

At 89, country music superstar Willie Nelson still draws enthusiastic crowds. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

Willie Nelson performs in Key West with his son, Micah Nelson, and his Family band.

Sunday, March 12

• Impromptu Concerts presents the American Brass Quintet featuring works from Jennifer Higdon, David Snow and Eric Ewazen. 4 p.m. at St. Paul’s Church, 401 Duval St., Key West. Admission is $20 at the door. Students are admitted free. Visit keywestimpromptu.org.

• Anne McKee Artists Fund Fine Art Auction at The Studios of Key West features fine artwork, gourmet hors d’oeuvres and champagne. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. and the auction begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30 per person and $60 for VIP seating and can be purchased at mckeefund.org.

Monday, March 13

• The Friends of the Key West Library’s speaker series presents Gaelin Rosenwaks, a marine scientist, explorer, photographer and filmmaker at 6 p.m., 700 Fleming St. Lectures are free and open to all, but you must register to receive a ticket at https://www.friendsofthekeywestlibrary.org.

Wednesday, March 15

• The third annual Key West NOW Women’s Film Festival will screen the third of five films at the Tropic Cinema at 6 p.m. “Trouble with Angels” is a light-hearted comedy starring Hayley Mills and Rosalind Russell as mischievous girls in a convent school.

• The College of the Florida Keys and Dr. Doug Mader present “Pythons in the Everglades.” 7 p.m. in the auditorium of the CFK Upper Keys Center in Key Largo.

Friday, March 17

• The Key West Art & Historical Society offers free lecture by Sharika Crawford, “The Last Turtlemen of the Caribbean: Labor, Conservation and Boundary Making from the Cayman Island to Key West.” 6 p.m. at Tropic Cinema, 416 Eaton St. Register at kwahs.org.

Saturday, March 18

• Key West’s chapter of NOW will host a fundraiser for its Connie Gilbert Scholarship from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Gardens Hotel, 526 Angela St., Key West. KWNOW is hosting a live orchid auction, silent auction and plein air painting. Funds will be used for scholarships for Monroe County women to continue their education. In 2022 four scholarships were given, totaling $7,000. Free admission, cash bar. Donations to the auction greatly appreciated; contact Darlene Lovell Thomas at 305-3041043 or email kwnowinfo@gmail.com.

Friday, March 24

• The Tropic Cinema will host a fundraiser and preview screening of “Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret,” based on the book by Key West resident Judy Blume. The event will welcome Blume as well as star Rachel McAdams, producer James L. Brooks and others. Visit tropiccinema.com for tickets.

Saturday, March 25

• The Lilly Pulitzer shop at 600 Front St. in Key West will donate 10% of all sales to A Positive Step of Monroe County to help fund the organization’s 2023 Idle Hands Summer Youth Employment program. The fundraiser takes place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

SHELF HELP

Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.

What: “The Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan

Why: Meddling gods? Check. Can-do, semi-unwilling hero? Check. Sarcasm out the wazoo? Check! Overall, a great book for children and adults. The sarcasm is well written and I personally found it made Percy extremely relatable and likable. The mythology aspect of the book is fantastic. Not only do you have your classically famous guys like Zeus and Poseidon, but you’ve got your lesser-known myths like the Fates and Charon. The way the mythology is woven into the modern world is not only entertaining, but also educational. It is easy to see why this book has become a well-loved read.

Where: This is available as a print book, audiobook on CD, ebook, e-audiobook and graphic novel from the Monroe County Library system.

How: You can request books online by logging in to www. keyslibraries.org and get ebooks and e-audiobooks 24/7 at www. estuff.keyslibraries.org. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? info@ keyslibraries.org

Recommended by: Haley Kilgour, library assistant, Key Largo branch

GOING ONCE, GOING TWICE...

ANNE MCKEE ARTISTS FUND FINE ART AUCTION IS MARCH 12

The Anne McKee Artists Fund’s 28th annual Fine Art Auction takes place Sunday, March 12 at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Doors open at 6:15 and the auction begins at 7 p.m.

The 42 works of art have been on view at the Studios’ gallery as well as on the Anne McKee website and social media.

The artwork includes photography, oils, sculpture, watercolors, jewelry, ceramics and more.

Many of the artists are former Anne McKee Fund grant recipients whose work is highly prized.

Tickets are still available for this event: $30 per

person or enjoy gourmet hors d’oeuvres and champagne with a VIP ticket for $60.

Tickets and previews are available at mckeefund.org.

Artists who are participating in the auction receive 50% of the proceeds from the sale of their work, while the McKee Fund receives the remainder. That money is awarded as grants to Keys artists for select projects.

Founded by longtime Key West resident and arts patron Anne McKee, the nonprofit fund has awarded more than $400,000 to more than 450 artists since 1994. — Contributed

‘Poppies on the Beach,’ a painting by Tony Gregory, and dozens of other works will be available at the Anne McKee Art Auction on March 12. CONTRIBUTED

‘Kolorful Swimmer,’ a fish sculpture by Nancy Adams, will be available at the Anne McKee Art Auction on Sunday, March 12. CONTRIBUTED

CHRIS

McNULTY

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

his month, three planets plus the Sun move into new signs, making March the most astrologically exciting and active month of the year by far. Saturn kicks off these momentous shifts by moving from the sign of Aquarius into the sign of Pisces on Tuesday, March 7.

Whenever a planet moves into a new sign, it’s as if everything that planet rules takes on a new flavor, or like the character of that planet puts on a new costume. Saturn rules maturity, boundaries, consolidation, the cold, and slowing down – it has a reputation for being a bit of a grumpy Gus. As Saturn moves from the forward-thinking and analytical Aquarius, where it has been since December 2020, into the dreamy and spiritual Pisces, we are given the chance to take seriously the more ethereal aspects of life. Frozen hallucinations, mature empathy, wizened gurus, nightmarish lessons, serious contemplation – all are par for the course with Saturn in Pisces for the next two and a half years.

Here are your horoscopes for Saturn’s ingress into Pisces. Read for your rising and sun signs.

Pisces

Feb. 19 - March 20

You’ve been on a timeout for the past couple of years, using your alone time to work through some hard lessons and to mature as an individual. Now, you get to reap the benefits of that time spent alone because you can step out with the confidence and wisdom that can only be gained through individual hard work and dedication. Consider this your astrological cotillion and figure out how to show the world what you’ve learned on your retreat.

PSYCHEDELIC ICE CUBE

TAries

March 21 - April 19

After a few years of getting serious about who your friends and supporters are, perhaps even cutting some folks out who didn’t serve your highest needs, you are embarking on a journey of intimate self-discovery. Starting now, every moment when you are in solitude is a moment to solidify your boundaries and grow into your personal authority. You’re a boss, you’ve always been a boss, but what does it mean to be the boss of yourself?

Taurus

April 20 - May 20

You’ve consolidated your work life in the past few years, really honing in on what you want to be doing in the public sphere. You’ve cut the fat, put in the time, and grown as an authoritative figure. Now, start to carefully analyze the people who surround you. There are folks who genuinely want what is best for you and there are folks who feed off negativity. Sometimes it can be hard to tell the difference, but now is the time to start a true analysis.

Gemini

May 21 - June 21

Since December 2020, you’ve been really honing in and getting serious about your worldview and belief systems, which has served to put your career into context. How do you live out your value system on a daily basis? Either you’re doing the work you should be doing and you are ready to double down and mature in your role, or it is time to make some serious changes so your career aligns with your beliefs. You are the authority in your lifetake charge.

Cancer

June 22 - July 22

You’ve been growing into your own confidence by seriously processing feelings connected to old loves and/or by getting deliberate about your financial debts. Now

that you’ve freed up that baggage, you can get serious about the open vistas that await you. What is the new world without the weights that used to hold you back? You have the opportunity to define fresh new values for the life you want to live.

Leo

July 23 - Aug. 22

Well, Leo, the astrology of the moment reads “breakup.” Now, it’s never cut and dried like that for everyone. Perhaps you’ve ended a relationship, perhaps you’ve ended a relationship for what it was, perhaps you’ve entered a new phase of a relationship. However this has manifested, you now have to get serious about dealing with the emotional and financial aftermath. Time for some serious compromise.

Virgo

Aug. 23 - Sept. 22

A couple years of sincere analysis of your routines have come to fruition, Virgo, and you know how to organize your life around your needs now. Your routines are on point, you have mature habits and you are focused on your physical well-being. Now it is time to bring that same level of scrutiny to your romantic and professional partnerships. Get serious about your boundaries in these spaces and speak your needs.

Libra

Sept. 23 - Oct. 23

Joy is serious work, and you’ve been putting in the hours to make sure that you can pursue your bliss. You’ve gotten mature in your creative endeavors, building the necessary structures around your artistry so that it can take on a life of its own. Now, you are being called to turn your attention to your own routines. How do you structure your days? Do you structure your days? Time to create some new habits and develop your muscle memory.

Scorpio

Oct. 24 - Nov. 21

Either you’ve grown into your home or you’ve grown out of your home. You’ve made serious choices regarding your home life, and now it is time to do the same for your creative life. You are starting a process of getting serious about your craft, whatever it may be. Build the walls necessary to incubate your creative process. Mature bliss is your method right now.

Sagittarius

Nov. 22 - Dec. 21

How do you feel about your communication style and methods of getting your point across? You’ve had a few years to learn some hard lessons in this area and dive deep into your authoritative voice. Now it’s time to bring it home. Home and family are going to be major themes in the next two yearsdefine them and get serious about them. What is your foundation?

Capricorn

Dec. 22 - Jan. 19

It looks like you’ve spent some time getting your finances in order, taking control of your income and spending. The same can be said about your emotional accounts, taking control of your needs and empathy. Now that you’re an authority on your own needs, you get to step out into your community as a leader. Consider how you communicate your wisdom to others and make it digestible.

Aquarius

Jan. 20 - Feb. 18

After a few years of self-development, becoming the expert on your own health and personality, now you have the opportunity to become the expert on your financial and material well-being. Now that you know who you are, how do you surround yourself with the things that support you? Start doing some rearranging so that your possessions reflect your mature sense of self.

JACQUELINE HALE

www.keysweekly.com

RESEARCHER DESCENDS TO JULES UNDERSEA LODGE IN KEY LARGO IN PURSUIT OF RESEARCH, EDUCATION AND A WORLD RECORD

Just as he had done thousands of times since the age of 10, at 9:30 a.m. on March 1, Joseph Dituri stood at the edge of the water, suited up to scuba dive.

But this dive would be unlike any that he – or anyone else – has ever done.

“We have to descend to succeed. We are going to figure out this planet and everything that lives on it. The only way to do it is to look,” Dituri said to a camera crew and a small group gathered to witness the event as he placed his mask over his eyes and made a peace sign with his fingers. “100 days, ya’ll.”

Dituri took a breath, felt the warmth of the sun on his skin one last time, released the air from his buoyancy control device and descended into the lagoon at the Jules Undersea Lodge compound in Key Largo. If all goes according to plan, Dituri will not see the sunlight or the surface for 100 days.

His descent marked the beginning of Project Neptune 100, a mission to break the world record for time spent in an underwater fixed habitat, with the goals of spreading awareness about marine conservation and furthering medical and marine research.

Only bubbles at the surface now hinted at what was happening below: Dituri swam toward his underwater home for the next 100 days – Jules Undersea Lodge. After a few pictures, he emerged into the moon pool entrance to the lodge, which sits 30 feet underwater and consists of the wet room entrance, two bedrooms, a common room, a kitchenette with a microwave and minifridge, a toilet, a shower, Wi-Fi and round windows with a view of the lagoon’s sea life.

As Dituri dried off and got accustomed to the space, on the surface, another diver stepped into the water. Ian Koblick, a pioneer in undersea living and the designer of the habitat, dipped beneath the surface to complete a simpler, yet still important mission. He appeared in the round window of the habitat to present Dituri with the Explorers Club flag, a prestigious honor for the professional society of explorers and scientists.

“This has never been done before,” said Koblick, who has been involved in every world record for living underwater since 1969. “This is so different because this is not about a world

record. Will it be the longest anybody stayed under water? Yes. Will it be a world record? Yes. But that’s not what it’s about. It’s about real marine diving medicine.”

While still only bubbles show on the surface, the habitat has been a hub of activity since day one of the mission. In the first week, Dituri made significant steps toward achieving the mission’s goals of research and education.

Dituri, a retired Navy commander and chief researcher for the Undersea Oxygen Clinic who holds a doctorate in biomedical engineering, completed preliminary testing in several experiments. The research, focused on learning more about the body’s response to significant time under pressure, has implications for hyperbaric medicine as a treatment for traumatic brain injury.

The habitat has already seen its first guests. Hunter Hines, who holds a doctorate in microbial ecology, and Harrison Albert, who is focusing on virtual outreach to kids in landlocked states, descended to the habitat for a five-day mission. In addition, five divers from DiveN2Life, a youth organization seeking to connect kids with science and the environment through scuba diving, stayed overnight, got hands-on

1. Before descending to begin his 100-day mission underwater, retired U.S. Navy commander Joseph Dituri enjoyed the last few minutes of sunlight. JACQUELINE HALE/Keys Weekly

2. On day one of the 100-day mission, Joseph Dituri emerged from the water into the moon pool entrance of Jules Undersea Lodge.

FRAZIER NIVENS/Florida Keys News Bureau

3. Joseph Dituri views the Jules Undersea Lodge habitat 30 feet underwater where he will spend 100 days living and researching.

FRAZIER NIVENS/Florida Keys News Bureau

4. Ian Koblick, a pioneer in ocean exploration and designer of the Jules Undersea Lodge habitat, prepares to present the Explorers Club flag to Joseph Dituri. JACQUELINE HALE/Keys Weekly

5. Ian Koblick presents the Explorers Club flag to Joseph Dituri through the habitat window. Koblick has been a member of the club for 45 years, and Dituri is the chairman of the Florida chapter.

FRAZIER NIVENS/Florida Keys

with research and emerged as aquanauts.

“What it’s really all about is energizing the youth to take care of the problems that our generations and those before us have created,” mission director Thane Milhoan said. “We’ve done bad, bad things to the ocean. It’s in a state where, if we don’t act quickly and aggressively, then we may already be past the point of no return. But we’re not going to give up, and we want to use this mission as a way to inspire everyone that we can and certainly the young people who have the biggest stake in the game.”

Between now and June 9, some 40 students will have a chance to join Dituri in the habitat while many others will participate in virtual talks and question-and-answer sessions. A lineup of researchers and social media influencers will make the descent to conduct research and use their platforms to spread marine conservation awareness, including Sylvia Earle, a world-renowned oceanographer and explorer.

The mission and its research will also be a stepping stone to further missions both underwater and in space. Project Neptune 100 will contribute to a NASA program run out of Stanford University looking at safety protocols for extreme environments.

“That’s an extreme environment,” Koblick said. “It’s as close to leaving this earth as you can get without going into space. It’s a hostile environment. I mean, try getting out of the habitat without your gear on. Walk around. It doesn’t work.”

As for the man living in this extreme environment, everything has gone relatively swimmingly. Dituri’s only complaint: a lack of caffeinated coffee, an issue that has been resolved by a French press and Folgers coffee. Friends are sending him photos of the sun every morning and evening. Logistics continue to be an issue, particularly transporting expensive video cameras and microscopes underwater and under pressure, and the separation from his girlfriend and three daughters is understandably difficult. But in those moments, he remembers why he is down there: to advance science and to inspire the next generation.

“I’m not sleeping in the field. Nobody is shooting at me. This is pretty darn easy. There are tough people out there and I don’t have to be one of those to be in here,” Dituri said. “You got to go live in a mobile home for 100 days with this view? Okay. You can get out, swim and have lobsters as friends? Come on. It’s okay. It’s not bad.”

Follow Jules Undersea Lodge on Facebook and the Jules Undersea TV YouTube Channel for mission updates and live streams.

News Bureau

TAKE ME HOME?

FIND A FRIEND AT THE FLORIDA KEYS SPCA

The Keys Weekly family loves animals as much as our friends at the Florida Keys SPCA do, and we’re honored each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for adoption at the organization’s Key West campus.

From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.

The SPCA’s Golden Paw program also provides special assistance with vet bills and medications for special-needs and older animals that require a little extra TLC.

Check these pages each week for just a few of the animals waiting for a home and see them all at fkspca.org.

HELP KEEP KEY WEST CLEAN

JOIN A 1- HOUR CLEANUP EVERY FRIDAY MORNING

Margie is a 10-month-old female domestic shorthair. We are learning more about this friendly kitty every day. She likes soft beds, treats and meeting new people.

Smokey is an adult male rat. Rats are intelligent, social and love their rat friends. Consider adopting Smokey with one of his friends to keep them happy and healthy.

To show the impact Plogging the Keys makes, consider last year’s volunteer numbers. From January to February 2022, 127 volunteers collected 314 pounds of trash and 13 gallons of cigarette butts compared to this year’s 306 volunteers, 1,744 pounds of trash, and 24.5 gallons of cigarette butts. What a difference one hour a week makes to the environment and the city of Key West.

Special thanks to the Key West Weekly for getting the word out and posting the schedule in a weekly article, which has been a key contributor to increasing the amount of volunteers we get each week. CONTRIBUTED

One hour a week makes a huge difference, and volunteers are welcome every Friday and some Saturday mornings, from 8 to 9 a.m., when the Key West Ploggers clean up a designated area of the island.

Gloves, pickers, buckets, vests, hand sanitizer and a parking pass are provided to all volunteers.

Garfield is a 1½-year-old male domestic shorthair. He was found as a stray kitty who is friendly and FIV positive. He will need a loving home willing to keep him inside.

A troubling number of cigarette butts and plastic bags have been included in recent hauls. Please remember your reusable bags when shopping so we can keep the plastic off the streets, parking lots and, most importantly, out of the water. And dispose of cigarette butts in any receptacle rather than the street or sidewalk, as from there, they easily end up in the ocean.

piece of trash picked up is one less that may end up in the ocean that surrounds and sustains our island community. It is not just the large items you can see easily when you are walking, but the smaller items such as bottle caps and cigarette butts that are collected by the volunteers that make the biggest difference.

It takes committed community involvement to Keep Key West Beautiful and we are making progress with every cleanup event and every spot that’s adopted. Call Dorian Patton at 305-809-3782 to find out how your business, nonprofit or club can help.

— Contributed

Oliver is a 4-year-old male black mouth cur. He’s a sweet boy who is heartworm positive. He will need a calm home while he goes through treatments to become a healthy pup.

Macie is a 1-year-old female domestic shorthair. She has a lot of energy and is ready for a home willing to play and give her lots of attention.

The city of Key West and its residents ask everyone to do their part to help keep Key West beautiful. With simple steps like making sure you bag your trash before putting it in your Waste Management trash cans or Dumpsters, and making sure the lids on Dumpsters are closed, will keep a lot of trash from blowing into the streets. Call Waste Management at 305-296-8297 for any furniture items left on the city right of way.

Please pick up around your home or apartment complex. Every

JOIN AN UPCOMING FRIDAY MORNING CLEANUP FROM 8 TO 9 A.M.

March 10: Virginia and Duval streets (Meet at Flamingo Crossing ice cream shop.)

March 17: North Roosevelt & Kennedy Drive (Meet at Publix in Key Plaza.)

March 24: Simonton & Greene streets (Meet in the parking lot at 0 Simonton St.)

March 31: Mallory Square (Meet in the parking lot near Dumpsters.)

The city recognized Brian Fields (B Man) for being one of the original founders of Plogging the Keys with a plaque and a city manager’s extra-mile coin.

FLORIDA LIGHTSHIP DEALT WITH DIMNESS & DRUNKENNESS

CREW HAD RUN - INS WITH INDIANS

The Caesar was the first lightship to anchor at Turtle Harbor, where it worked to warn passing sailors of their proximity to the dangerous Carysfort Reef. The ship arrived in 1826 and only served a handful of years before it was condemned.

In 1829, Capt. John Whalton ordered the anchors brought in, employed the schooner’s sails, and set a course for Key West (and not for the first time). On May 26, 1829, the lightship Caesar arrived for repairs. After a survey of the ship was completed, the Collector of Customs, Mr. Pinkney, remarked that the Caesar’s timbers were “an entire mass of dry rot and fungus. I must say that there never was a grosser imposition practiced than by the contractor in this instance.”

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.

The anchor, chains and sails were removed, and the hull was sold to a salvager named Fitzpatrick for $300. Congress allocated $20,000 for the construction of a replacement lightship. Named Florida, the lightship was anchored at Turtle Harbor and was first lit on Dec. 7, 1830. The ship served to warn passing mariners of their proximity to the large, shallow and treacherous Carysfort Reef.

Whalton transitioned from the Caesar to the Florida, where he remained until the day he died. Because food rations were somewhat limited aboard the lightship during its tenure at the reef, Whalton developed a garden on the shores of a cove on nearby Key Largo where he grew onions, tomatoes, melons and other fruits and vegetables to augment their general provisions. The area has since become known as Garden Cove.

On Oct. 5, 1836, as the second escalation of the Seminole War was ramping up, Whalton reported that Indians destroyed his garden. It was not the last time he would encounter the presence of Indians at the Key Largo garden. The following year, sometime

in June, Whalton’s family sailed up from Key West to visit him on the Florida. The captain and four of his crew took their auxiliary boat to the cove for fresh fruit and vegetables, charcoal, or some combination of the two (depending on the account).

When they came ashore, the captain and his crew were greeted by a barrage of rifle fire from Indians who had watched them approach the cove from the garden. Four of the Florida’s men were struck, two mortally. Whalton and one crew member were shot dead on the beach. Two other crew members were wounded but were able to escape with the help of the lone member who escaped unharmed.

After Whalton’s death, a series of captains manned the helm of the Florida. One of the more colorful was Capt. Leonard Sistone, who abandoned his post one day and decided to get drunk instead. Charges against Sistone stemmed from the sworn testimony of Capt. R. L. Morris of the U.S. mail packet Hayne. According to Morris, when he sailed past Carysfort in the early hours of Oct. 19, 1841, the lightship Florida was not lit, and the only thing that saved him from wrecking was the fortuitous rising of the sun.

Morris went on to report that later that day, at Indian Key, Sistone was at the island, drunk, and that the lightship remained unlit on Oct. 20, too. The lightship captain was relieved of his duties and dismissed. While other captains would step in and command

the lightship, the end of its service was in sight once construction of Carysfort Reef Lighthouse began in 1849.

The lightships were not always effective, as Navy Commander David D. Porter, of the U.S. mail steamer Georgia, pointed out in a letter dated July 1851. “On the reef near Cape Large, the floating lightship, showing two lights, intended to be seen twelve miles, but they are scarcely discernible from the outer ledge of Carysfort Reef, which is from four to five miles distant. On to (sic) occasions I have passed it at night, when the lights were either very dim or not lighted.”

The lighthouse sparked its light for the first time on March 10, 1852. On the 27th, the lightship Florida picked up its anchor, abandoned its post, and sailed for Key West. There, the ship was provisioned, and on April 13, the Florida sailed away from the harbor at Key West, hoping to make it all the way to Newport, Rhode Island. The Florida never arrived at her destination.

By April 17, things aboard the Florida had already begun to go awry, and the captain ordered the anchors dropped at Carysfort Reef to undergo repairs. Repairs were done as best as they could be made, and the Florida hauled up its anchors, hoisted its sails, and set a course for Charleston for further repairs.

The lightship Florida never arrived at Charleston. En route, on April 27, the Florida sank.

Lightship Florida at Carysfort Reef. USLHS J. CANDACE CLIFFORD LIGHTHOUSE RESEARCH CATALOG/Contributed

BRAD BERTELLI

200 Years of Paradise.

THE MAKING OF HER

By Bernadette Jiwa

Growing up in Dublin in the 1960s was hard for Joan. After losing her mother at a young age, she did everything to hold the family together. Her dad barely worked and mostly drank, and her younger siblings needed more care than she could provide. Slowly, all but her sister Teresa were sent away for adoption. Working in the local candy factory left little for Joan to look forward to day in and day out, with no hope on the horizon. One day she meets Martin. Handsome, smart and sweet but completely out of her league, Joan cannot take her eyes off the young man. Martin’s meddling mother makes their lives unbearable and their secret dalliance leads to the biggest regret of Joan’s life. Years later, Joan is confronted with her past, which has been haunting her dreams for decades and must finally come out of the closet. Narrated between life in the ’60s and the ’90s, this heartbreaking novel is filled with the struggles of class, marriage and motherhood as Joan contemplates whether it is too late to set things right. This Irish-born author debuts with a powerful story.

CHECK OUT THREE EXTRAORDINARY IRISH AUTHORS TO CELEBRATE ST. PATRICK’S DAY

ALL THE BROKEN PLACES

By John Boyne Gretel Fernsby

FOSTER

By Claire Keegan

KAREN NEWFIELD

... a reader and now a writer, has hundreds of book reviews at: www. readingandeating.com. For questions and comments, email karen@newfield. org.

keeps to herself. At 91, she lives quietly in the London apartment she has resided in for more than 60 years. Her neighbor Heidi is a lovely woman suffering from dementia and her son Caden visits sporadically. When a new family moves into the apartment building, Gretel becomes curious about the 9-year-old boy named Henry who reminds her of a name she will not mention. Gretel has spent her life hiding, taking many surnames while suffering from memories of a place she will not name. Haunted by her father, a highranking Nazi officer who did unspeakable things, Gretel has lived in vain to find the ending she deserves. Consumed with shame and fearing consequences of discovery, she is exhausted by her own ghosts. When Henry threads his way into her heart, she learns he is in danger and can no longer be a bystander. Narrated by Gretel’s past and present, this sequel to “The Boy in the Striped Pajamas” explores guilt, punishment and grief.

After attending Sunday Mass, an unnamed young girl is driven by her father through the beautiful Irish countryside to the home of distant relatives she has never met. The girl’s mother is about to give birth to yet another baby, and the girl is to be looked after by the Kinsellas. Upon arrival, her father departs with barely a glance and she bashfully faces these tall strangers. Helping Edna in the home while the man works outside becomes not a chore but a comforting routine where the girl receives gentle instruction and basks in this newfound attention. As the girl senses their affection, her eyes open wide to the world around her. She slowly becomes comfortable and is surprised by emotions she has never experienced. The girl doesn’t know how long she will be staying with these lovely people, but starts to think it would be okay if she never left. As if someone is gently lulling you to sleep, this novella is quietly whispered. A small book with a big impact and words chosen so carefully it doesn’t need a single additional page to feel complete. A stunning Irish author, not to be missed.

WATCH TIP: “Bad Sisters” on Apple TV+ is a dark (dark) comedy set in Dublin. The five inseparable Garvey sisters will do anything for each other – and I mean anything.

STUDIO SPOTLIGHT

PHOTOGRAPHER FELIPE CORREA’S WORK DEPICTS A WILD, MAGICAL WORLD

Do you remember a time when the world felt magical? When I was a kid, the Keys were an exploration of the wilderness and a discovery of nature.

bodyguard, Fabian Redwing, of the most tender gator kiss. That may be my favorite photo yet.”

Correa’s landscape photos are like walking into a magical natural world that is hard to find. He travels around to take photographs of this world. Some of his favorite spots are in the Upper Keys.

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

Walking through the woods you might see a large osprey or an outline of a hammerhead shark while looking at the ocean from the shore. Today, the Keys are traffic-laden and more commercial than ever. But there is a photographer out there who brings back that sense of adventure and magic. His name is Felipe Correa, wildlife and landscape photographer, whose work reminds us of a wild, magical world filled with personality.

If you start to speak to Correa about art and photography, be prepared to put aside a good hour to talk about his passion; rightfully so, when you see what he captures. His career started in 2012, when he decided to become a photographer. He had been practicing the medium for a while and loved what it did for him — particularly his sense of attention to the world. This brought him closer to his family, who themselves are all in the arts. He is grateful he happened to be naturally good at it.

“I just want to show something about life that compels, that helps people to see,” he said.

He knew this was a destiny he wanted to fulfill. His inspiration derives from the father of national parks, John Muir, and photographers Eddie Adams, Ansel Adams and Edward Burtynsky. Correa said the painters Matisse, Van Gogh, Monet and the poets Mary Oliver and Wendell Berry have all been his teachers.

“I am a self-taught photographer; I have leaned heavily on the body of knowledge from the masters of art for help on technique and composition. There are many other constituent influences. I am grateful I can stand on the shoulder of these giants,” says Correa.

When Correa photographs an animal, it is almost as if he is taking a portrait of the animal. His wildlife portraits have unique, relatable personalities. When I asked him how he brings out the personality of the wildlife and which was his favorite, Felipe let me know.

“So many unique encounters, each one equally special. I do often recall an image I took of my friend and gator

“The Keys are so beautiful, there are so many great spots. I particularly enjoyed the views of the Florida Bay from Islamorada. The light is so beautiful, I have been lucky to get that “morada” tonality at sunset.”

As an artist you have two ways to go into a project: you carefully plan out what you are going to do or you don’t plan at all. You just essentially see what happens and kind of go with the flow of what is coming at you. How does Correa go about his process?

“I definitely have a goal, I intend to show essence, I plan for the bold and sharp angles. I prepare for it with calmness. No panic or urgency in my attitude, I actually ask my subjects for permission. It works.”

Correa also believes in giving back. He has been helping kids at the Treasure Village Montessori in Islamorada learn about photography.

“The best thing I can do with my gift is to share it. I proceed from a deep sense of wonder, and when you see the world with wonder the world reveals its wonders. That is such a terrific sensation and a great thing to help people to experience and see. I feel that all forms of artistic expression help us to learn who we are and what our purpose is in this world. Photography is a simple and elegant medium; all it takes is pushing a button, right? Yes, and the energy to push that button at the right and compelling time comes from a fierce type of attention. That is what I love to teach.”

Correa’s work can be found at Lobster Trap Art Gallery at MM 82 in Islamorada. What should someone look for when buying art? Correa muses, “I think one should get what truly compels, what stirs one’s feelings beyond the aesthetics of the piece. A good photograph invites the viewer to their own imagination, it makes one reason, wonder and fantasize. That is what one should buy, art that goes beyond its primary mission of filling/decorating some space in a room. One should buy art that helps decorate one’s soul.”

WILLIAM DePAULA

Photographer Felipe Correa.

Felipe Correa captures a tarpon emerging from the water with its mouth wide open at Robbie’s Marina in Islamorada.

In this Felipe Correa photograph, flamingos arch their necks to the shape of a heart.

A great white egret photographed by Felipe Correa. CONTRIBUTED

LEGAL NOTICES

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of LFish located at 5409 Overseas Highway, # 347, Marathon, FL 33050 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Lance Adventures, LLC

Publish: March 9 & 16, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Wheatons Towing gives notice that on 03/24/2023 at 10:00 am, the following vehicle(s) may be sold by public sale at 101500 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 to satisfy the lien for the amount owed on each vehicle for any recovery, towing, or storage services charges and administrative fees allowed pursuant to Florida statute 713.78. Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.

1FAHP2EW0BG154358 2011 FORD

5J6YH18563L004553 2003 HOND

5N1ED28T1YC531945 2000 NISS

JM3LW28JX50532360 2005 MAZD

Publish: March 9 & 16, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

Florida Keys Council of the Arts

Notice of Upcoming Meetings

The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@keysarts.com

Art in Public Places Committee

Meeting

Time: Mar 21, 2023 12:00 PM

Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 854 7254 7232

Passcode: 041837

Topic: Board of Directors Meeting

Time: Mar 23, 2023 04:00 PM

Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 886 6349 0145

Passcode: 799797

Publish: March 9, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

THE DISTRICT III ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC III)

(From the West End of the Seven Mile Bridge to the Long Key Bridge) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST

DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL has an opening for a LODGING INDUSTRY REPRESENTATIVE – shall be an owner or operating/general manager of motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks, or other tourist accommodations which are subject to bed tax in the tax collection district for which they are applying.

Any person wishing to participate on the District III Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application from the TDC Administrative Office by emailing: sydney@fla-keys. com, and submit the completed application via email to: sydney@ fla-keys.com, or via U.S. Mail to the address shown below:

Department DAC

Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102

Key West, FL 33040

Deadline for receipt of applications at the above address is: Friday, March 31, 2023, at 5:00 P.M. A resume may be attached to the submitted application.

Publish: March 9, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on March 22, 2023, at 9:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the Murray Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Hwy., Key Largo, Florida, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, intends to consider adopting the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 2-180 OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES TO GRANT AUTHORITY TO THE COUNTY ATTORNEY TO RETAIN OUTSIDE COUNSEL UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES SUBJECT TO RATIFICATION OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AND TO WAIVE CONFLICTS OF INTEREST FOR OUTSIDE COUNSEL UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES; AMENDING SECTION 2-181(C) OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE TO UPDATE THE COUNTY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE ORDINANCE CURRENTLY CODIFIED IN CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE III, DIVISION 5 OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE; EXPANDING THE SUBJECT MATTER AREAS IN WHICH ATTORNEYS MAY RECEIVE COMPENSATION FOR ACHIEVING CERTIFICATION UNDER THE FLORIDA BAR; CREATING SECTION 2-181(D) PROVIDING THAT THE COUNTY ATTORNEY’S SIGNATURE SHALL BE FINAL WITH RESPECT TO PERSONNEL ACTIONS FOR OFFICE PERSONNEL AND SUPPORT STAFF; AMENDING SECTION 2-182 OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE TO CLARIFY THE SCOPE OF THE COUNTY ATTORNEY’S AUTHORITY TO DEFEND ACTIONS AGAINST THE COUNTY; AMENDING

SECTIONS 2-184 AND 2-185 OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES IN ORDER TO CLARIFY THE COUNTY ATTORNEY’S SETTLEMENT AUTHORITY FOR CLAIMS FILED BY AND AGAINST THE COUNTY; CREATING SECTION 2-187 WITHIN CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE III DIVISION 5 OF THE

LEGAL NOTICES

MONROE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES, GRANTING THE COUNTY ATTORNEY AUTHORITY TO EXECUTE SATISFACTION OF MORTGAGE DOCUMENTS; AMENDING CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE V DIVISION 4 (RISK MANAGEMENT PROGRAM) OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE IN ORDER TO REVISE MONETARY AMOUNTS FOR SETTLEMENT AUTHORITY AND ALSO TO CHANGE THE LOCATION OF ORDINANCES CONCERNING THE RISK MANAGEMENT PROGRAM WITHIN THE MONROE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES; AMENDING SECTIONS 2-328 AND 2-329 OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE IN ORDER TO CLARIFY THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE COUNTY ATTORNEY TO PERFORM LEGAL SERVICES FOR THE RISK MANAGEMENT PROGRAM AND TO CLARIFY THAT UNALLOCATED COSTS AND EXPENSES ASSOCIATED WITH THE RISK MANAGEMENT PROGRAM MAY BE PAID FOR BY THE RISK FUND; CREATING DIVISION 8 WITHIN ARTICLE III, “PUBLIC RECORDS,” AND LAYING OUT THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS UNIT WITHIN THE COUNTY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION WITHIN THE MONROE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES AND RENUMBERING AS NECESSARY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

The proposed ordinance may be inspected by the public at the Monroe County website by viewing the agenda packet for the March 22, 2023 meeting, which will be posted beginning on March 9, 2023 at: http://monroecountyfl. iqm2.com/citizens/default.aspx.

The ordinance may also be viewed at the Monroe County Attorney’s office at 1111 12th St. Ste. 408 Key West, FL 33040.

The public can participate in the March 22, 2023 meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, FL by attending in person or via Zoom. The Zoom

16th Judicial Circuit is hiring

IT Support Analyst

The 16th Judicial Circuit is seeking applicants for a full-time IT Support Analyst in the FLORIDA KEYS

The IT Support Analyst will provide front-line primary technical support to end users on various technical issues and problems relating to hardware, software, and peripherals. They will also be responsible for responding to, documenting, and resolving service requests in a timely manner. The IT Support Analyst must have excellent problem-solving skills to diagnose, evaluate and resolve complex problem situations.

Salary is $45,000 – $52,000 annually, depending on experience, plus Monroe County benefit package. See complete job description at www.Keyscourts.net.

Interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter and State of Florida Application to Personnel@ Keyscourts.net or Personnel, 302 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida 33040. State of Florida applications can be found at www.Keyscourts.net.

The successful applicant will be required to pass a complete background check. Applications are being accepted until position is filled. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, disability or sexual orientation. EOE. If you need an accommodation to participate in the application/ selection process, please notify us in at advance at 305-292-3423; to make call through the Florida Relay Center, you can dial 7-1-1.

LEGAL NOTICES

link can be found in the agenda at http://monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, 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 3rd day of March 2023.

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Ex Officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida

Publish:

March 9, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR

COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:

Fence Installation on Two County Conservation Lands on Key Largo 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

LEGAL NOTICES

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, April 12, 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: Fence Installation on Two County Conservation Lands on Key Largo 04-12-23 Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl.gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on April 12, 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: March 9, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

16th Judicial Circuit is hiring

Probation Of cer

The 16th Judicial Circuit is seeking applicants for a full-time Probation Officer in KEY WEST.

This is responsible and professional work that attends court hearings and ensures the effective supervision of defendants placed on misdemeanor probation and diversionary programs.

Salary is $40,000 annually, plus Monroe County benefit package. See complete job description at www.Keyscourts.net.

Interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter and State of Florida Application to Personnel@Keyscourts.net or Personnel, 302 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida 33040. State of Florida applications can be found at www.Keyscourts.net.

The successful applicant will be required to pass a complete background check. Applications are being accepted until position is filled. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, disability or sexual orientation. EOE. If you need an accommodation to participate in the application/selection process, please notify us in at advance at 305-292-3423; to make call through the Florida Relay Center, you can dial 7-1-1.

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: West Martello HVAC, Doors, and Windows 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 April 11, 2023. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows:

West Martello HVAC, Doors and Windows 04-11-2023 Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl.gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery

of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on April 11, 2023. You may call in by phone or internet using the following:

Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156

Meeting ID: 4509326156

One tap mobile:

+16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York)

+16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location:

+1 646 518 9805 (New York) +1 669 900 6833 (San Jose) Publish:

March 9, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-000006-M IN RE: ESTATE OF VIVIAN H. WILSON

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Vivian H. Wilson, deceased, whose date of death was June 30, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division (Marathon Courthouse), 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.

16th Judicial Circuit is hiring

Administrative Assistant III/ Receptionist

The 16th Judicial Circuit is seeking applicants for a full-time Administrative Assistant III/Receptionist in KEY WEST

This position is responsible for high level administrative, clerical and accounting/budget responsibilities in Court Administration within the Senior Judge/Magistrate and Finance divisions, as well as acting as the Administrative Assistant to the Trial Court Administrator and the receptionist for the Freeman Justice Center.

Salary is $43,867.09 annually, plus State of Florida benefits package. See complete job description at www.Keyscourts.net.

Interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter and State of Florida Application to Personnel@Keyscourts.net or Personnel, 302 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida 33040. State of Florida applications can be found at www.Keyscourts.net.

The successful applicant will be required to pass a complete background check. Applications are being accepted until position is filled. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, disability or sexual orientation. EOE. If you need an accommodation to participate in the application/selection process, please notify us in at advance at 305-292-3423; to make call through the Florida Relay Center, you can dial 7-1-1.

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

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: March 9, 2023.

Personal Representative:

Heidi I. Begeot 869 Smith Road New Wilmington, PA 16142

Attorney for Personal

Representative:

Evan C. Leach, Esq. Florida Bar No. 91794

Loshak Leach LLP

1221 S 21st Ave

Hollywood, FL 33020

Telephone: (954) 334-1122

E-Mail: evan@loshakleach.com

Secondary E-Mail: service@ loshakleach.com

Publish: March 9 & 16, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-0004-M

DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS

IN RE: ESTATE OF JIM WADKINS

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Jim Wadkins, deceased, whose date of death was December 24, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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

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

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

The date of first publication of this notice is: March 9, 2023.

Personal Representative:

Jennifer A. Hammond

166 Valley Street, Apt 6M320

Providence, Rhode Island 02909

Attorney for Personal

Representative:

Katherine B. Schnauss Naugle

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 514381

SCHNAUSS NAUGLE LAW

810 Margaret Street JACKSONVILLE, FL 32204

Telephone: (904) 366-2703

Fax: (904) 353-9040

E-Mail: knaugle@jaxlawteam.com

Secondary E-Mail: aforquer@ jaxlawteam.com

Publish:

March 9 & 16, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

of Nancy J. Miller, deceased, whose date of death was November 25, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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

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

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

The date of first publication of this notice is: March 2, 2023.

Personal Representative:

Carl E. Miller

305 Sombrero Blvd. Marathon, Florida 33050 Attorney for Personal

Representative:

Richard E. Warner

Attorney

Florida Bar Number: 283134

RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A.

12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-6022

Fax: (305) 743-6216

E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.com

Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com

Publish: March 2 & 9, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

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

CASE NO.: 23-CP-52-K

IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JAY SCOTT RYLANDER, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of JAY SCOTT RYLANDER, deceased, whose date of death was January 5, 2023, Case: 23-CP-52-K, is pending in the Circuit Court, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this court WITHIN

THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS

AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

CASE MANAGER – FAMILY COURT

The 16th Judicial Circuit is seeking applicants for a full-time Court Program Specialist II (Case Manager–Family Court) in KEY WEST.

This position assists judges and magistrates with the timely disposition of cases through case management, case monitoring, and program implementation. The position also serves as the point of contact for the public seeking to represent themselves in Family Court cases.

Salary is $38,058.32 annually, plus State of Florida benefit package. See complete job description at www.Keyscourts.net.

Interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter and State of Florida Application to Personnel@Keyscourts.net or Personnel, 302 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida 33040. State of Florida applications can be found at www.Keyscourts.net.

The successful applicant will be required to pass a complete background check. Applications are being accepted until position is filled. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, disability or sexual orientation. EOE. If you need an accommodation to participate in the application/selection process, please notify us in at advance at 305-292-3423; to make call through the Florida Relay Center, you can dial 7-1-1.

The date of first publication of this Notice is: March 2, 2023.

Personal Representative: MICHAEL REPPAS

c/o Samuel J. Kaufman

Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A.

3130 Northside Drive

Key West, Florida 33040

Attorney for Personal

Representative:

Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0144304

Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A. 3130 Northside Drive

Key West, Florida 33040

Email designation for service: Service.Probate@ samkaufmanlaw.com

Telephone: (305) 292-3926

Fax: (305) 295-7947

Publish: March 2 & 9, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-000015-P IN RE: ESTATE OF WILLIAM F. PEEL, JR. Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of WILLIAM F. PEEL, JR., deceased, whose date of death was May 26, 2022; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 23-CP-000015-P, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, FL 33070. 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 required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE

$1000

LEGAL NOTICES

LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS

AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN THE 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: March 2, 2023.

Personal Representative: BARBARA K. PEEL 5 Sunset Cay Road Key Largo, FL 33037 Attorney for Personal Representative: JOHN MICHAEL LYNN, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 0147273 Turner & Lynn, P.A. 7 Barracuda Lane Key Largo, Florida 33037 Telephone: (305) 367-0911 turnerlynnpa@gmail.com

Publish: March 2 & 9, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 23-CP-000016-P IN RE: ESTATE OF FREDERICK R. FREY, JR. Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of FREDERICK R. FREY, JR.,

deceased, whose date of death was January 20, 2023; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 23-CP-000016-P, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, FL 33070. 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 required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the

decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN THE 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: March 2, 2023.

Personal Representative: HENNY FREY 24 Dockside Lane, PMB 466 Key Largo, FL 33037 Attorney for Personal

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:

SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on quali cations and experience: $38.43/hr. - $43.04/hr.

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

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

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

IS HIRING!

AFTER 3

DIRECT CARE STAFF AT ADULT DAY TRAINING PROGRAM FT/PT 

OFFICE

SCADA/RELAY TECHNICIAN

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on quali cations and experience: $30.64/hr. - $34.32/hr. For more information, including job duties and required quali cations, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

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

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department: IS HIRING!

$1000 SIGNON BONUS AFTER 3 MONTHS

SUPPORTED LIVING COACH FULL TIME

Responsibilities include management of developmentally disabled clients in independent living environments, management of office and In Home Support staff. Must be available for some evenings and weekends. Bachelor’s degree in related field or year for year experience working with developmentally disabled clients in lieu of degree. Salary commensurate with experience.

Background screening, current FL driver’s license, and references required. Apply at the MARC office, 1401 Seminary Street, Key West - EOE

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Executive Department:

TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION (T&D) PROJECT ENGINEER

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $103,172/annually$106,061/annually.

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

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

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

LEGAL NOTICES

Representative: JOHN MICHAEL LYNN, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 0147273

Turner & Lynn, P.A.

7 Barracuda Lane

Key Largo, Florida 33037

Telephone: (305) 367-0911

turnerlynnpa@gmail.com

Publish:

March 2 & 9, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

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

CASE NO.: 23-DR-98-K

DIVISION: FAMILY

IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF: PETAGAY MEGAN STRONG, Petitioner, and, TRAVIANCE MARQUIS STRONG, Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR

DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: TRAVIANCE MARQUIS STRONG LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 2729 FLINTLOCK PLACE, EAUSTELL, GA 30106

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 PETAGAY MEGAN STRONG, whose address is 3930

S. ROOSEVELT BLVD., APT 414W, KEY WEST, FL 33040 on or before March 27, 2023, 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

LEGAL NOTICES

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: February 15, 2023

Kevin Madok, CPA

of the Circuit Court

Clerk

Shell World Key Largo, seeking engaging, dependable, experienced person(s) to work with the team at Mile Marker 97.5, full-time opportunities available, some weekend and evening hours. Opportunities for advancement, great benefits, competitive salary and flexible hours. Please stop by and fill out application or fax resume to 305-852-9639.

Love Retail?

EMPLOYMENT

Monroe County, Florida

By: Marissa Lockwood

Deputy

Clerk

Publish: February 23, March 2, 9 & 16, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

AUTOS WANTED

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

EMPLOYMENT

Frank's Grill in Marathon now hiring servers. Evening and daytime. Call Joanna at 305-731-8346

Groundskeeper/ Maintenance person, KCB, Sea Isle Condominium, 20 - 40 hrs. per week, $21 per hr., apply by e-mail to HardingThomasL@aol.com, text or call 734-476-0531.

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

San Pedro Church in Tavernier needs a Music Director (Part Time). Should share the Catholic faith, have knowledge of the Liturgy and Music. Email a Resume to the Pastor at ferrybrutus@gmail.com

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER IS HIRING

Dolphin Research Center has Full-Time/Part-Time, Permanent/Temporary Gift Shop positions that involve direct contact with our visitors & is another opportunity to ensure they leave DRC with a happy & positive experience. Some of the duties involve; being familiar with all merchandise in the selling area, suggest specific merchandise & offer product advise. Walk around the grounds and see dolphins every day.

Job description available at www.dolphins.org. E-mail your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org.

Marathon

WW Operator/Controls

and Right of Way

Technician. Full Benefits. EOE

Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us

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

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

This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.

Apply in person at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, 7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon

salary. Keys History & Discovery Center

Overseas Hwy. Located on the property of the Islander Resort. For more information, email vivian@keysdiscovery.com

The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a Customer-Service Oriented Server for the pool deck, beach and/or bar lounge. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-219-3359 and ask for Dave.

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

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

BASEBALL AND SPORTS MEMORABILIA WANTED.

Private collector buying sports cards, old programs, pennants, autographs, photographs, ticket stubs, bobbin’ head dolls, etc. Call Alan 503-481-0719

PRIVATE COLLECTOR

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

LUXURY CONDO FOR RENT

IN MARATHON. 2 BR, 2 Bath, Den. 1650 sq ft plus 350 sq ft open balcony. Beautiful water view. Full gym, pool, tennis, fishing. Adults only. No pets. $4250 per month plus utilities

F/L/S [first, last, and security deposit]. 800-324-6982.

2 BR/1 BA with bonus room for rent on Conch Key. Large double lot. Boat ramp close by. Long term rental. $2,750/ mo. F/L/S Call 305-570-8639

Key Largo - like new, very nice ground floor private room and bathroom. Marble tile flooring. Furnished. Private community. Pet restrictions.

$1,950/month. 786 -258 -3127

RV FOR SALE

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

YARD SALES

Place your YARD SALE ad here for $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and get your stuff sold!

NOW HIRING CONSTRUCTION ADMIN

• Full time.

• Flexible start and end times.

• Must have excellent database and Quickbooks knowledge.

• Marathon location. Email resume to bhager@royalcompletehome.com

NOW HIRING

DIVE INSTRUCTOR TOUCH TANK ATTENDANT GUEST SERVICES MARKETING COORDINATOR PART-TIME LAWN MAINTENANCE

Please contact April at 305.407.3262 or april@floridakeysaquariumencounters.com for more information.

11710 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON

Hiring

DEMOLITION SALE

LOWER MATECUMBE, TOLLGATE SHORES, 241 TOLLGATE BOULEVARD

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, MARCH 11 & 12, 9 A.M. TO 3 P.M.

Home being demo’ed early April. Contents for sale to include Samsung and LG refrigerators, Kitchen Aid Slide-In Range/Oven Glass Cooktop, Kitchen Aid Dishwasher, Sharp Built-in Microwave, 20 Feet Wall and 20 Feet Base Cabinets, like new white shaker, 18 Feet Blue Quartz Countertop w/ Stainless Sink. 80”

Leather Sofa in Green Natuzzi, Modern Desk with Tommy Bahama Chair, Pottery Barn Base Cabinet, glass doors. Pottery Barn 24 table, drawer. 2 Suncast sheds one 5x4.6x2.6’ and 5x7x2.6’ great shape, Maytag top Loader Washer and GE Frontloader Dryer, great cond. and clean, Laundry Tub on Base, 2 Flat screen TV’s one 32”, 1 28” 15 cases 8x40 ceramic floor tile, Plumbing Fixtures all great cond. Bathroom custom 75” Double Vanity w/quartz top, matching tall custom linen cabinet. Glass doors, exterior impact doors, impact windows various sizes, interior 5 panel doors, 2” white blinds, curtains & rods. Small Bait Freezer, Air Conditioner/ Heat system, Metal shelving, Weber Grill, plants and shrubs, Underground Sprinkler Controller, many other items we are saying goodbye to.

MAINTENANCE POSITION WITH BUSY NONPROFIT

FT with benefits. Long-term position w/room for growth. Valid DL required. Must have maintenance or related experience, computer skills and relate well with people. Very physical position, heavy lifting, heat, etc.

Drug-free workplace, EOE. Please send resume and cover letter to sholt@fkoc.org. No phone calls.

- Cook, $5,000 Bonus

- Environmental Tech 1, $5,000 Bonus

- Exercise Assistant

-

- Monitor Technician

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

- Registered Nurse, $20,000 Bonus

- Registered Respiratory Therapist 2

- Cook, $5,000 Bonus

- ED Team Coordinator 1

- Environmental Tech 1, $5,000 Bonus

- Food Service Worker, $5,000 Bonus

EXPERIENCED ELECTRICIANS

AND HELPERS NEEDED

Experience is required. Must have a valid driver’s license. We offer 401K, medical insurance, paid holidays and paid vacation. Positions available in Key West and Marathon. 305-292-3369

- Lead Med Technologist, $15,000 Bonus

- Mechanic 3

- Medical Technologist 2, $15,000 Bonus

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

- Patient Experience Advocate

- Registered Nurse, $20,000 Bonus

- Registered Respiratory Therapist 2

- Security Of cer

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

Oceanside Safari Restaurant & Lounge in Islamorada is getting ready for a GRAND OPENING and we're looking to hire for all restaurant positions!

Open interviews Monday – Friday from 11am to 4pm at Oceanside Safari. Located at MM 73.5 right on the ocean at Caloosa Cove Marina, 73814 Overseas Highway, Islamorada.

HIRING: FOH: HOSTS, SERVERS, BARTENDERS, BUSSERS, RUNNERS. BOH: LINE COOKS, PREP COOKS, DISHWASHERS.

Great pay, benefits and perks. We offer a stable 40 hrs-per-week to our hourly employees, and more hours if you want! Part-time positions available if you are looking for a second job, or after-school job. No Inglés. No Problema. Lo importante es que trabajes bien. Pa gen angle. Pa gen pwoblèm. Tout sa ki enpòtan se ke ou travay byen.

We are re-opening as a brand new full-service restaurant & bar, with a full kitchen with all brand new equipment, a beautiful bar, indoor and outdoor seating, and a beachfront lounge on our own private beach. We’re currently in the final stages of renovation of the building and property, and we’re planning on opening in March. We need to start assembling and training our team now! COME JOIN US!

**We are an Equal Opportunity Employer** Oceanside Safari Restaurant & Lounge, 786-626-6124 73814 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036

D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals. Overtime and benefits are available. For full details & additional openings, please visit DAsignSource.com/careers

Architects

We have openings for Intern Architects, Emerging Professionals, and Production Architects. Experience in High End Residential design is a plus.

Carpenter

Framing & drywall repairs, kitchen & bathroom remodeling, etc.

Interior Designer

Apply knowledge & creative skills to projects at our high-end design center. Must possess an interior design background and history of achievement in quality projects.

Junior Interior Designer

Jr. Interior Designer

Tired of your boring job?

Looking for an exciting new 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

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.

THE FLORIDA KEYS AQUEDUCT AUTHORITY IS LOOKING TO FILL POSITIONS THROUGHOUT THE KEYS

ARE CENTER, Inc.

GCC offers excellent benefits for full-time employment, but we realize some would prefer part-time to enjoy the Florida Keys lifestyle more. All positions can be considered for full or part-time unless notated. Apply at westcare.com and enter your availability.

KEY LARGO

Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Crisis Counselor

KEY WEST

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult) Care Coordinator

Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Crisis Counselor

Case Managers (Adult, Forensic, Children)

*Advocate (PT only)

MARATHON

Prevention Specialist (or KW) Admissions Utilization Specialist Care Coordinator

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult)

RNs and LPNs - 3 shifts (also Per Diem) Maintenance Specialist

*Behavioral Health Technicians 3 shifts (also Per Diem)

*Support Worker – Assisted Living (PT only)

*No experience required for these positions. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands required.

Key West Engineering Technician

Key West Distribution Systems Operator D

Middle Keys Journeyman Electrician

Middle Keys Distribution Systems Operator D

Middle Keys Wastewater Maintenance Mechanic C

Middle Keys Wastewater Pump Technician

Duck Key Wastewater Treatment Operator

Upper Keys Temporary Distribution Systems Operator D

Benefit package and salary is extremely competitive!  See Job description, salary and on-line application at www. aa.com/employment EEO, VPE, ADA, DFWP

NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA

PART TIME MORNING DOCKHANDS BOAT RENTAL STAFF

FLEXIBLE HOURS & COMPETITIVE WAGES

DOCKHAND DUTIES include customer service, helping customers with bait and ice and helping cashiers with restocking.

BOAT RENTAL APPLICANTS need to have experience driving boats and a working knowledge of the Islamorada area by water. Duties include taking reservations, giving captains lessons and routine boat maintenance.

Applicants can email Ma at eliteboatrentalsma @gmail.com. Please include contact information and any relevant experience.

No visit to Key West is complete without a trip to Matt’s Stock Island, a local and tourist favorite. Enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience with unobstructed views of our state-of-the-art marina, outdoor fire pits, and your favorite cocktails

FRESH

NEW MENU

Breakfast: 8am – 11:30am

Sunday Brunch: 8am – 1pm Dinner: 5:30pm – 9pm

LIVE FROM THE LAWN

free concerts, featuring:

March 4th | 7pm Nick Norman with Special Guest, Chris Weaver

March 17th | 6pm Mike Stack & DLew with DJ Chaka, Jason Lamson, & Kaira Jayde