Upper Keys 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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‘FOUR’ FRESH WATER

$42- MILLION WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT BEGINS IN ISLAMORADA

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Thousands of vehicles traverse the Florida Keys on any given day, between the large out-of-county workforce and visitors flocking to their destinations. But an Overseas Highway that’s lined with vehicles, trucks hauling boats and RVs isn’t the only busy thoroughfare on the island chain.

Beneath the road, millions of gallons of water from the Biscayne Aquifer — the Keys’ primary source — rush through a 40-year-old transmission main to the water treatment plant, eventually reaching faucets inside Keys homes, businesses and resorts.

Late last month, some 24 millions gallons of water flowed through the pipes to the Keys. According to Greg Veliz, executive director for Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority (FKAA), they couldn’t pump one gallon more.

“We were running the entire day at 24 million gallons,” he said.

With an aging transmission line nearing its 50-year lifespan, as evidenced by a water main break at MM 84 on the morning of March 8, FKAA is setting out on a major overhaul of its 130 miles of piping. With plans to replace a little bit at a time, FKAA’s project begins at Tea Table Key in Islamorada, MM 79, through Whale Harbor Channel near MM 84. FKAA is installing roughly four miles of new cathodically-protected, 36-inch-diameter steel pipe to replace the current 30-inch main. Cathodic protection is used to control corrosion of the metal surface.

According to FKAA, the new transmission main will be installed via open-cut trench installation. The contractor leading the replacement work expects to place around 150 linear feet of piping into the ground

per day.

The project also includes connection to existing mains and master taps. New transmission mains will also be installed at Tea Table Key and Whale Harbor bridge crossings via horizontal directional drill. At the bridges, Veliz said the new pipes will be installed underwater so they’re not threatened by high winds or storm surges.

Replacing four miles of transmission line in Islamorada will cost about $42 million, according to FKAA. A total of $35 million is funded through grants while $7 million is funded through low-interest loans. FKAA was successful in securing $20 million from the state in last year’s budget. Veliz said the village of Islamorada was instrumental in helping FKAA obtain those funds.

“We’re going to continue to try to deliver you good, quality water,” he said. “We continue to pump out a good product. In order to keep doing that, we gotta do this project.”

In continuing to pump clean water, Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is beginning to replace its aging transmission main with a 4-mile, $40-plusmillion project in Islamorada. ERDA ESTREMERA/Unsplash

Motorists driving through the southern end of Islamorada can expect construction activity to pick up in April when excavation begins. While the southbound lane will be closed for construction during weekdays, Veliz said two-lane traffic through the construction zone will be maintained by using the shoulder. Bike lanes and the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail in the area will also remain open.

“We’ll be able to get you in and out except in the immediate area where we’re working,” Veliz said.

Veliz said FKAA received approval from Florida Department of Transportation to have a 24-hour work schedule. But construction won’t take place on weekends, nor will it happen on busy holidays such as the Fourth of July or during the two-day lobster mini-season at the end of July.

FKAA said project completion is expected around early 2025.

New, 36-inch water main is placed alongside Overseas Highway at Tea Table Key in Islamorada. Construction will begin next month. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly

“We’re going to continue to try to deliver you good, quality water. We continue to pump out a good product. In order to keep doing that, we gotta do this project.”

— Greg Veliz, FKAA executive director

GOVERNMENT OVERREACH?

BILL WOULD RESTRICT CERTAIN FLAGS FROM STATE AND LOCAL MUNICIPAL GROUNDS

By Jim McCarthy & Mandy Miles

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 Republicancontrolled 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

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.

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

RED TIDE WREAKS HAVOC ON FLORIDA COAST

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Issues of red tide are popping up throughout southwest Florida, from Pinellas County to Monroe County’s offshore.

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

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

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.

According to the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, red tide was detected in 114 samples, of which 56 possessed medium concentrations throughout the state’s southwest coast. Fifteen of those samples were found offshore of Collier County and one offshore of Monroe County. The rest were found in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee and Sarasota counties.

“We continue to use satellite imagery to help track this patchy event,” FWC states.

Possible effects from medium concentrations of red tide include respiratory irritation, shellfish harvest closures and probably fish kills. According to FWC, reports of fish kills in those counties are suspected to be related to the recent red tide event.

Per the University of South Florida and FWC, forecasts for Pinellas County to northern Monroe County predicted northern movement of surface waters and northwestern transport of subsurface waters in most areas.

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

— Key West Mayor Teri Johnston

BACKFILL PROJECT BACKFIRES?

CANAL DEPTH & CONTRACTOR SELECTION CONCERNS LEAD COUNCIL TO TABLE MATTER

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Acanal backfilling project in the village of Islamorada is on hold after one resident voiced concern that he wouldn’t be able to use his large boat. Issues over the selection process for a contractor were also revealed during the March 2 village council meeting.

Peter Frezza, village environmental resources manager, told the dais that a canal backfilling project at canal No. 116, located on North Plantation Key between Ocean and Plantation drives, began two years ago. Per the Florida Keys Area of Critical State Concern program, the village and other municipalities are being tasked with completing a number of canal restoration projects, with water quality improvement as the main goal.

It’s the first time a canal in Islamorada was proposed to undergo backfilling. Frezza said Monroe County completed six canal projects in the Upper Keys by using backfill. Everything Frezza heard from those projects was positive.

“They’ve resulted in dramaticallyimproved water quality for the residents living on these canals,” he said. “I haven’t heard any reports from engineers, county staff or residents that there have been any impediments to navigation in the canal because of the backfill … no issues with boats stored in the canal, no issues with davits being able to be used or issues with boat lifts being used.”

Frezza said the project is currently designed so the canal’s depth is 7.6 feet at mean lower low water, or the average of all the low water heights observed over the National Tidal Datum Epoch. Originally, the project was designed for a 6-foot depth at mean lower low water. With less backfill needed from the original proposal, the project cost was cut by $466,235.

There were still concerns over the project even with the change. Resident Dave Boerner told the dais following Frezza’s presentation that he has the boat that draws the deepest depth at 5.5 feet. He said he bought property there because the canal was deep. Boerner had issues over depth calculations provided by the village and noted that it should consider filling deeper

holes in the canal rather than entirely filling the canal.

“One’s behind my house. It’s 17 feet deep. It’s stagnant,” he said. “Be careful what you ask for because sometimes you might get it. Instead of filling the deep holes we got, ‘let’s fill the whole canal in.’”

Besides a few calls against the proposed canal backfilling, Frezza said most calls he took from residents in that area were supportive of the project. Frezza maintained that the village is using the best available data, which shows the project designed to provide 7.6 feet at mean lower low water. Reducing the quantity of backfill to provide more depth in the canal wouldn’t improve the overall water quality, according to Frezza,

Overall, Frezza said he’s working on other canal projects that the village could proceed with this year.

“We have 64 canals and I can very quickly move on,” Frezza said, adding that a canal ranking list showed No. 116 had the poorest water qualities. In addition, the neighborhood had homeowners who “were all about it,” Freeza said

“They were all in. Everything was going fine honestly until the one resident got involved and started talking to his neighbors. If they don’t want to do it, it’s fine,” he said.

Frezza added that he’s ready to proceed with a backfill project on Lower Matecumbe. He reiterated that the state is requiring Keys municipalities to conduct canal restoration projects — failure to do so could lead to penalties from the state.

Councilman Mark Gregg said he needed a higher comfort level that the majority of people in the neighborhood are going to be satisfied with the project.

“I don’t want the phone ringing that ‘I ran aground because you idiots filled in the canal too much,’” Gregg said.

The council ultimately tabled the resolution to pick a contractor for the backfilling project. It’s unknown whether the matter will come back to the dais at the March 30 meeting at Founders Park Community Center.

Before the tabling, issues were

also heard regarding the selection of Orlando-based Sea & Shoreline as the contractor to conduct the backfill project. Last December, the village issued a request for proposals to secure a contractor to complete the backfill project. The village manager appointed an evaluation committee to rank and score the applications. The firm Sea and Shoreline was ranked the highest based on combined scores. Sea and Shoreline’s proposed cost was $1.588 million. Frezza said the scoring was close between Sea and Shoreline and Adventure Environmental, based out of Tavernier. Sea and Shoreline’s proposal was $211,000 less and its timeline was significantly less than Adventure Environmental. Frezza said it was those two factors that led to the scoring. No local preference points were issued in this RFP due to procurement policies of the grants and other potential sources for these types of projects.

“While cost is a major factor in the scoring, it’s not the only factor that’s taken into consideration,” Frezza said.

The village hasn’t used the firm before but it has worked for Monroe County. Frezza said county officials and the village’s engineers spoke highly of Sea & Shoreline. Greg Tolpin, owner of Adventure Environmental, said Sea & Shoreline’s math didn’t add up when it came to hauling all the material needed for the project via dump trucks in 30 days.

“In their proposal, they said they’d use three dump trucks running five trips a day to Florida City to pick up material and bring back. That’s awfully tough to do, Tolpin said. “The quarry closes at 3:30 (p.m.) and closes on weekends. I did the math on that, and it equals 90 calendar days”

Adventure Environmental conducted six backfill projects in the Upper Keys with success.

“Nobody can do the job faster than us. This is all we do,” he said.

Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney had issues with picking an out-of-town contractor.

“The more we can do locally the better for our economy,” she said.

SNORKELER DIES OFF ALLIGATOR REEF

AMassachusetts man snorkeling not far from Alligator Reef off Islamorada died after signaling for help on the afternoon of March 5.

According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the 61-year-old man, later identified as Patrick Alan Martinec, was snorkeling off the Sundance Watersports boat around 2:20 p.m. when he needed help.

He was brought back to the vessel where the Sundance Watersports crew performed CPR and transported him to the shore. Martinec was taken to Mariners Hospital in Tavernier where he was pronounced dead.

Foul play is not expected to be a factor in the investigation. Autopsy results are pending.

The incident is the second such death witnessed in the Upper Keys this year. On Feb. 16, a 76-year-old Missouri man snorkeling off Key Largo’s Molasses Reef with Sea Dwellers Dive Center died after he was found unresponsive in the water. Foul play wasn’t a factor in the incident.

— Keys Weekly staff report

Alligator Reef Lighthouse. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

A map shows the canals slated for restoration on Plantation Key in Islamorada. VILLAGE OF ISLAMORADA/Via website

FLORIDA LIGHTSHIP DEALT WITH DIMNESS & DRUNKENNESS

CREW HAD RUN-INS WITH NATIVE AMERICANS

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.

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.

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.

BRAD BERTELLI

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.

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.”

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

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 Native Americans 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 Native Americans 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

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

KEYS WEEKLY

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

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

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

FINS HOLD ON TO PERFECT RECORD WITH ZIELS’ MONSTER OUTING

will look to avenge a pair of losses last week. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

PREP LACROSSE NEARS HALFWAY POINT OF SEASON

The Key West Conchs boys lacrosse team hit the road for a pair of games in St. Augustine last week, playing St. Augustine High on March 3 and Menendez High the following day. Key West lost both games, bringing them to 0-7 on the season. With a little more than half the season ahead of them, the Conchs still have plenty of time to smooth things out and find their winning ways again.

Coral Shores improved to 2-3 last week after a Feb. 28 win against LaSalle. The Hurricanes outscored the Royal Lions 16-3, with 5 goals coming from Nick Petrusha. Sully McDonough added 3; Andrew Kumar, Luas Carballo and Dominic Gonzalez each netted 2; and Alex Sebben and Matthew Patterson each scored 1 in the win. Chuck Jacobsen was good for 10 ground balls and was 12-15 on faceoffs. Reece Jahn and Brock Bynum combined for 9 saves in goal.

In girls lacrosse, Key West and Coral Shores faced off on Feb. 28 in Key West, giving both teams a chance to play in-county. The game was intense, but at the final whistle there were no hard feelings.

“While we may be Keys rivals, we are also each other's allies as the only two public schools in our district and being in the Keys. We enjoy playing Coral Shores,” said Conchs coach Marisa Giacopuzzi.

The Conchs won the game 15-6 with scores from Maria Chaney (5), Ella Baxter (3), Ada Van Loon (2), Bella Marchiano (2), Sophia Felini (2) and Katie Collins (1). Coral Shores did its homework prior to game time, putting extra pressure on Key West’s go-to scorer, Marchiano, who was held to an unusual 2 goals. The extra pressure on Marchiano opened up scoring opportunities for the rest of Key West’s talented roster to get the ball in the net.

Giacopuzzi had nothing but praise for the ’Canes, particularly Coral Shores goalkeeper Emily Murphy.

“Their goalie was on fire, denying shots right after another. I tallied around 19 saves,” she said.

Key West is off to an impressive 6-1 start after defeating Coral Shores, Ransom and Westminster last week. Their only blemish was a 15-6 loss to American Heritage midweek. The Conchs will get a break in action until March 14 when they play Archbishop McCarthy at home.

After their loss to Key West, the Lady ’Canes dropped one more game last week, falling to Archbishop McCarthy at home. The losses bring Coral Shores to a 3-3 record at just about the halfway point of the regular season.

Key West, Coral Shores at .500

Marathon is holding on to a 4-0 record after wins against Posnack and Miami Country Day last week. The Fins faced Posnak on March 2, pounding out 10 hits in 5 innings of play. Ryan Yablon fanned 8 batters over 4 innings and Bryan Broche closed out the game, striking out 2 in the final inning. Yablon went on the offensive as well, racking up 3 hits in the game. Tommy Norris added 2 hits and Gabe Leal, Gavin Leal, Mason Thornton, Dylan Globe and Tiago Rivero each added 1 to their stats in the matchup.

The Fins won 14-4 in a mercy rule victory, giving them momentum in their home game the following night against Country Day. They won that one 8-0. Marathon ace Dylan Ziels went 7 full innings for the Fins, throwing a 1-hitter while striking out 20 with no walks in the shutout. The Dolphins racked up 11 hits in the game, led by three from Mason Thornton. Gabe Leal, Yablon and Norris each had 2, and Gavin Leal and Dylan Globe had 1 hit each.

The Hurricanes evened out their record to 2-2 with a pair of wins last week, starting with a Feb. 27 home victory over ABF Hialeah. Dylan Bloom, Andrew Putetti and Ian Anderson had 2 hits each while Donovan Thiery and Campbell Lavoie each had 1. Lavoie drove in 5 runs in the 16-7 win. Tate Brumbalow went 5 innings on the mound for the ’Canes, striking out 7, and Riley O’Berry closed out the final 2 innings for Coral Shores.

On March 1, the ’Canes battled Somerset Silver Palms on the road to a 10-8 victory. Lavoie and O’Berry had 2 hits each and Thiery, Putetti, Ezekiel Myers and Steel Mientkiewicz added hits for Coral Shores. Bloom and Thiery teamed up on the pitcher’s mound, striking out 12 in total and securing the win.

Key West lost a pair of games to West Broward this week. On March 3, the Conchs met the Bobcats at Rex Weech Field. Despite hits from Anthony Lariz, Matthew Greenberg, Anden Rady and Wyatt Kuhn and 2 from Jack Haggard, Key West lost 8-5. The following night, Caden Pichardo had a double and a single while Greenberg, Rady, Kuhn, and Haggard logged 1 hit each. The Bobcat bats came alive, though, and 11 hits from West Broward would be too much for the Conchs to overcome. The final score was 14-6, giving Key West a 2-2 record coming into a set of games against 6A Bartow High School on Friday and Saturday, March 10 and 11 at home.

Shay Stober and the Coral Shores Lady ’Canes

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

The 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.

JACQUELINE HALE

www.keysweekly.com

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 News Bureau

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.

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

STATE LEGISLATORS SUPPORT MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVES

BRIEFLY

CONTRIBUTED

History of Diving lecture welcomes biologist

Join the History of Diving Museum on Wednesday, March 15 at 7 p.m. for the Immerse Yourself lecture on “Sharks and Groupers of Florida.” by biologist Chris Malinowski. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, and upon graduation, he began studying fish ecology at the University of Wisconsin. He went on to complete a master’s degree at Florida Atlantic University, followed by a Ph.D at Florida State University. He currently works as Director of Research and Conservation at Ocean First Institute (OFI), where he is working to establish research and community engagement programs. If you are interested in attending inperson, reserve your seat today by calling the Museum at (305) 664-9737 or emailing the Community Outreach team at programs@divingmuseum.org.

Plantar community subject of upcoming program

The Historical Preservation Society of the Upper Keys’ March program will delve into the community of Planter, which was located in the area of Harry Harris Park. The speaker will be Richard Sites, who is the great-grandson of Samuel Johnson, an original settler of Planter. The program will be Monday, March 13, 7 p.m. at the Coral Isles Church, MM 90, Plantation Key.

United Way scholarship open for marine science

United Way of Collier and the Keys (UWCK) continues to support the Florida Keys community and its investment in the marine environment. Now in its second year, UWCK has opened its 2023 marine science educational advancement scholarship for Monroe County residents pursuing marine science-related studies.

Last year, UWCK awarded six scholarships to students throughout the Florida Keys. With these scholarships the recipients have been afforded opportunities for success, including Key West residents Gracia Rojas and Cricket Desmarais. Rojas completed an EPP/ MSI funded research study titled “Effects of direct removal on the population dynamics of corallivorous snails” and was on the College of the Florida Keys President’s List in the fall of 2022. Using her marine science education and experience in creative writing, Desmarais has recently taken a position as NOAA’s communications coordinator for Mission: Iconic Reefs.

A scholarship committee will review the applicants, taking into consideration educational achievement, career objectives, school activities, references, and financial status. Priority will be given to students already participating in this work and demonstrating financial need. The application period is open and ends Friday, April 7.

State Rep. Jim Mooney and state Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez are vigorously supporting mental health issues including the 988 crisis hotline and the Heron House renovations. Members of the Florida Advocacy Coalition for Mental Health, Advocates for Mental Health South Florida and NAMI recently traveled to Tallhassee for Behavioral Health Day at the Capitol and thanked the Mooney and Rodriguez for their support of the hotline and the Heron renovations. Mental health advocates are pictured with Rodriguez inside her office in Tallahassee.

COLLECTING FISH DATA WITH A ‘SMILE’

REEF UNVEILS NEW CITIZEN - SCIENCE PROJECT

Size matters, especially when it comes to fisheries management. A new collaborative, known as project SMILE, or Size Matters: Innovative Length Estimate, is underway in the Florida Keys to help collect information about fish lengths. This data is critical for fisheries stock assessments, which are used to manage ecologically and economically important marine species.

Funded through NOAA’s Coral Reef Conservation Program (CRCP), the SMILE project involves volunteer divers, innovative underwater camera technology and the expansion of a citizen-science approach to collect length data for reef fish in the South Atlantic.

The SMILE project team includes Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF), the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s (SAFMC) Citizen Science Program, Southeast Coastal Ocean Observing Regional Association (SECOORA) and Axiom Data Science.

Launched in 1993, the REEF Volunteer Fish Survey Project has successfully worked with trained recreational divers to create one of the largest citizen science-based marine life databases in the world. The SMILE project will incorporate diver-collected fish length data, through the use of stereo video technology, as a companion to the REEF Volunteer Fish Survey Project.

“We appreciate the opportunity to be part of this collaborative effort supporting citizen-science,” said Carolyn Belcher, chair of the SAFMC. “Generating length distribution data for key species across a broad geographic range will better inform population assessments, leading to more effective conservation and management strategies.”

Fish length data traditionally require a fish in-hand to make measurements, and it can be difficult for scientists to collect this information. By leveraging trained REEF citizen-scientist divers, this collaboration will provide valuable fish length data for fisheries stock assessments and ecosystem-based management.

Citizen-science programs, such as the REEF Volunteer Fish Survey Project and the SMILE project, empower the public to generate monitoring data and promote active participation in resource management science. Divers and snorkelers are in a unique position, as they can serve as the “eyes” of scientists in marine ecosystems by reporting their findings.

The camera technology for this project is being developed by a team of engineers at the University of California San Diego, Engineers for Exploration program. Field testing and camera technology development was previously supported by UCSD Kastner Research Lab and the Nature Conservancy California, and a grant from the nonprofit Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida from proceeds from the “Discover Florida’s Oceans” license plate. A stakeholder panel will provide expertise throughout the project on survey methodology, fish species of interest, and site selection for image collection. All video, images, species abundance and length data will be made publicly accessible for current research and management needs and future advancement of machine learning technologies.

Through the funding support of NOAA CRCP, the partnership between REEF, SAFMC’s Citizen Science Program, SECOORA and Axiom Data Science will bring new data sources into stock and ecosystem assessment processes and increase communication to the dive community about fisheries management issues. Visit www.reef.org/smile-project for more information.

Divers David Ehlert and Summer Huber use cameras to measure fish lengths.

DARYL DUDA/Contributed

A diver performs a Size Matters: Innovative Length Estimate (SMILE) survey in the Florida Keys.

DARYL DUDA/Contributed

4 BARS

4 LUCKY COCKTAILS

ANNUAL ST. PATRICK’S DAY BAR CRAWL: FRIDAY MARCH 17

TICKETS: $35 per person (includes four cocktails)

STARTS at 6 p.m. at Postcard Inn and Pelican Cove

4 STOPS: Tiki Bar, Raw Bar, Kokomo’s and Wild & Lime

LIVE IRISH BAND at Wild & Lime, followed by LIVE MUSIC at Tiki Bar at Postcard Inn

WEAR YOUR IRISH KILT and receive an extra prize at Wild & Lime

200 Years of Paradise.

Free Bicentennial Concert & Drone Show.

Saturday, March 25th | Truman Waterfront Park, Key West Gates open at 5 PM | fla-keys.com/keys200

Our Bicentennial kicks off with food, fun and a free concert featuring Nick Norman followed by trop-rock all-star Howard Livingston. We’ll then light up the skies with a Keys-centric drone show. This event was 200 years in the making. So come party like there’s no tomorrow.

Presented by the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners and the Tourist Development Council.

SCAN QR-CODE

REOPENING THE TACKLE BOX

LONG - ESTABLISHED ISLAMORADA SHOP MARKS NEW BEGINNING

CAROLYN DePAULA

Local community members and Islamorada Chamber representatives gathered on March 1 to celebrate the grand re-opening of local iconic general store Abel’s Tackle Box and General Goods.

The shop reopened at its new location at Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina after it sustained damage from Hurricane Ian at its former location, which used to be closer to Overseas Highway near Pelican Cove Resort.

Tiffany Holmes, area general manager, said it was important to maintain the authenticity and local atmosphere which has made Abel’s Tackle Box special since its establishment in 1961.

Top: A ceremonial ribbon-cutting marked Abel’s Tackle Box and General Goods reopening at Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina on March 1.

CONTRIBUTED

Center: Sarah Crisafulli, left, director of marketing at Islamorada Resort Collection, and Tiffany Holmes, area general manager at Islamorada Resort Collection. CAROLYN DePAULA/Keys Weekly

Bottom: Hats, fishing gear, shirts and drinks are among the products found inside the newly-reopened Abel’s Tackle Box and General Goods. CONTRIBUTED

Warm weather is just around the corner! Don’t miss a moment of the conversation when Spring has sprung — call us today to schedule your appointment and start hearing clearly again!

“Fish Like a Local” classes, emphasizing sustainable fishing, will continue under the tutelage of local fishing legend Patrick Frampton.

Attendees enjoyed light appetizers and beer, while Craig McBay, Islamorada Chamber of Commerce board president, cut the ribbon to much fanfare.

Abel’s Tackle Box opened in 1961 as a tackle shop and marina next to what was then known as Holiday Isle and has served Islamorada for more than 60 years. The Islamorada Resort Collection team recognizes the importance of the Abel’s family name to the local community and is dedicated to keeping it alive.

The new Abel’s Tackle Box and General Goods is located at Postcard Inn Marina & Beach Resort, 84001 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036.

In addition to offering frozen bait, snacks, apparel and other items boaters and fishermen need for a day on the water, the new location will include fuel and a marina & boat charter reservation office providing more connection and accessibility to the fleet of captains.

The Islamorada Resort Collection has four premier oceanfront resorts (Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina, Pelican Cove Resort & Marina, Amara Cay Resort, and La Siesta Resort & Villas) offering a combination of suites, villas, cottages, restaurants, bars, retail shops, meeting and event space, five pools, four private beaches, four marinas, watersports, and the Islamorada Dive Center.

Get ready to Spring into life again with better hearing!

CELEBRATE OUR FIRST BIRTHDAY WITH US THIS SATURDAY, MARCH 11! PRIZES AND GOODIES AVAILABLE.

Author M. DENNIS TAYLOR and the legendary “Keys Don,” Book Signing from 1-3 p.m.!

91272 OVERSEAS HWY, TAVERNIER TOWNE CENTER (NEAR CINEMA) 786-640-1401 WWW.SANDBARBOOKSTORE.COM SANDBAR BOOKS @SANDBARBOOKS

NONPROFIT ANIMAL CLINIC REMOVES FOX’S ‘TROUBLE PUFFS’

A GREEN DAY: GET YOUR IRISH ON AT UPCOMING KEY LARGO FESTIVAL

Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” Well, the day finally came. Little Kai fox had his trouble puffs removed.

For anyone not familiar with the term “trouble puffs,” that is mom’s slang for his boy parts. Once again, our friends at Whiskers and Paws Forever of Monroe County performed a surgery free of charge for us. Yep, you read that right, they donated Kai’s neuter to Pawsitive Beginnings. How amazing is that?

Whiskers and Paws mission is to support our community. They are a not-for-profit organization that proactively addresses the feral-cat

overpopulation in the Upper Keys. Their volunteers have been rescuing feral cats for 20 years. They recently moved locations and are now in a brand new surgical suite at the Upper Keys Humane Society. They will spay, neuter, vaccinate and ear-tip any community cat that is trapped and brought to their clinic.

I think they are heroes. But they won’t be taking any parts from me. My trouble puffs have been gone since 2021. If you’re looking to volunteer or if you have community cats that need spay or neuter services, you can visit their website at whiskersandpawsforever.com.

Get ready to party because this Saturday, March 11, at the Caribbean Club, the Upper Keys Irish Festival kicks off at 11 a.m. Get ready for the biggest and best Saint Patrick’s Party in the Upper Keys. It will be a day filled with live music, a parade, green beer, Irish whiskey, food, Irish dancers, vendors and more. This fundraiser will benefit T.I.P.S. and their work

CAMILLA

with Key Largo School athletics and Upper Key Kids.

It sounds like a little too much excitement for this festive fox, but I’m sure all the humans in town will have

Thursday, March 9

• Adult art program: Paint a birdhouse or a lighthouse at 2 p.m at Key Largo library. Supplies are limited, registration encouraged. Email keylargolib@gmail.com to reserve a spot.

March 10-11

• Residential hazardous household collection from 9 a.m. to noon outside Village of Islamorada Administrative Building at Founders Park. Free disposal for village residents.

Friday, March 10

one heck of a good time. Just remember, drink responsibly and have a designated driver. Anywho, that’s all for this week. Until next time, Reef, over and out!

• Keys Marine Laboratory open house from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Keys Marine Laboratory, 68486 Overseas Hwy., Long Key.

• 23rd annual Upper Keys Irish Festival at 11 a.m. at Caribbean Club, Key Largo.

Wednesday, March 15

• Second annual Community Resource Fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Key Largo library.

Camilla is a 6-month-old female Jack Russell, basenji and chi mix. Camilla is a sweet puppy who just wants to be loved. She needs basic training and is mostly house-potty trained, but she is smart and eager to please and learning quickly. She has been vaccinated and spayed, so she is ready for adoption. Camilla is one of a litter of eight sweet and adorable pups coming to MarrVelous Pet Rescues — the “Eight is Enough” pups. If you are interested in meeting Camilla or any of her siblings, please complete an application at www.mprescues.org.

• Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys’ 20th annual Cocktail Party, with a Las Vegas theme, at 6:30 p.m. at Cheeca Lodge & Spa, Key Largo. Tickets are $225 each. Visit habitatupperkeys. org/lasvegas2023 for tickets and more information.

Saturday, March 11

• Sandbar Books 1st birthday featuring drawings, book signing and goodies at 10 a.m. at 91727 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier.

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

Thursday, March 16

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

Friday, March 17

• St. Patrick’s Party featuring bands, food trucks and drinks beginning at noon at Florida Keys Brewing Co., Islamorada.

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

Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay rides in a green Jeep during the 2020 Upper Keys Irish Festival in Key Largo. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

Brian Huntsman, left; Margie Schwartz, founder of Whiskers and Paws; and volunteer staff on clinic day with Kai the fox. CONTRIBUTED

FLIPPING THE PAGES FOR FUNDS

ST. JAMES CHILDREN CENTER KICKS OFF ANNUAL READ - A-THON

Covering All The Keys From Key Largo To Key West

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

St. James Children’s Center is kicking off the second annual Read-A-Thon fundraiser to support the nonprofit preschool and VPK.

Throughout March, students will log their reading and collect pledges based on the number of books read. Donations to the Read-A-Thon will help the school provide the instructional materials, books, arts and crafts supplies, playground toys and equipment, nutritious snacks and health and safety items used by students on a daily basis.

“The Read-A-Thon serves a dual purpose,” said SueEllen Bennett, Children’s Center director. “We love that the event promotes literacy and encourages reading together as a family, all while raising critical funds to support our school.”

Support the students’ efforts by visiting stjames.rallyup. com/read. Sponsor an individual student by making a flat pledge or pledging a specific amount for each book the student reads. Donors can also select a class to support or make a general donation to the fundraiser.

Event sponsor Sandbar Books is providing an additional opportunity to support this fundraiser. Mention St. James when shopping at Sandbar Books during the month of March and the store will donate 10% of your purchase to the school. Sandbar Books, the Upper Keys’ locally-owned, independent bookstore, is located in the Tavernier Towne Center, MM 91.2 bayside. Contact stjamespreschoolfundraising@gmail.com or 305852-2161 for more information.

— Contributed

Established in 1972 by the Hill family, the new ownership of Key Largo Fisheries continues staying true to the original mission of providing high-quality, fresh, locally-caught seafood daily.

A working waterfront, it is a must-see must-eat destination when visiting the Upper Keys. Enjoy dining at the waterside for lunch or dinner, purchase all the needed ingredients for your home seafood feast (including dessert) or come to the marina to find the best bait available.

While visiting Key Largo Fisheries, you’ll experience how generations have earned a living o the sea and children can delight in the experience of feeding the fish in the marina or shooing away pelicans.

“It is impossible not to be drawn into this authentic working waterfront,” said owner Robert Charney. “Local captains bring in their catches of the day, the sta process and package everything on site, and locals and visitors come to eat and shop.”

With a sta of nearly 100 working in one location, Key Largo Fisheries is one of the largest locally owned businesses in the Upper Keys. Overnight shipping within the continental U.S. is available Monday through Thursdays and orders can be done online at www.keylargofisheries.com.

305-451-3782

Shop online @ www.keylargofisheries.com

Market Hours

Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

Friday-Saturday 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

Sunday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Cafe Hours

Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Sunday 11-6 p.m.

VPK students at St. James Children’s Center in Islamorada hold up books. ST. JAMES CHILDREN’S CENTER/Contributed

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.

LEGAL NOTICES 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

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 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.

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.

LEGAL NOTICES

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.

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844

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 PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-10-M

DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF NANCY J. MILLER Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate

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.

16th Judicial Circuit is hiring

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

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.,

IS HIRING!

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

This position is available at our Adult Day program. This position provides direct care service and support to our clients in the day program. This position requires the minimum of high school completion or GED. English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. FL Driver’s license w/clean driving record, pre-employment training online and in person. Ability to pass a Level II background screening and references. EOE Apply at 1401 Seminary St., Key West or online at marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org or phone: 305-294-9526 *32.

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.

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

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 Executive Department:

$1000 SIGNON BONUS AFTER 3 MONTHS

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

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.

CASE MANAGER – FAMILY COURT

Explore the Upper Keys

SUPER SEAFOOD

FESTIVAL BRINGS FISH DIP CONTEST & KEY WEST JUNKANOOS FOR SCHOLARSHIPS

www.keysweekly.com

The Upper Keys celebrated its culinary culture and local arts on March 5 at the fifth annual Seafood Fest, hosted by the Islamorada Moose Lodge. Visitors enjoyed dozens of vendors selling seafood, art and jewelry, and live music by local musicians.

The event raises thousands of dollars year after year to benefit the Coral Shores graduating class.

Food booths included those run by the Moose Lodge, M.E.A.T. and private chef Michael Maxwell. Maxwell, whose booth sold bang bang shrimp, sees the event as an outlet to share his best recipes with the community.

“I’ve been doing this event for the last six years and I think it’s a great thing for the community,” he said. “I love seeing people enjoy the food I’ve made for them.”

For the seafood-averse, a range of booths offered Mediterranean food, salsa, flan and gelato.

Several vendors participated in the yearly fish dip contest, each putting their own unique spin on the dish. Bobby Singer, co-owner of What Are We Smokin’, describes the long history of his recipe.

“It took me and my best friend six years to come to this formula,” Singer said. “Its spice profile elevates it.”

Beyond the food, many of the booths represented local artists, businesses and charitable organizations like MarrVelous Pet Rescue and the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center. Local gallery artist Mariano “Marty” Leonel presented his artwork, distinguished

by its vibrant colors painted across recycled wood. Jewelry was sold by Freckled Blondie earrings, Shelling Sisters, Earth to Ocean and Lionfish Jewelry, which sold earrings and necklaces made from the spines of invasive lionfish.

Live music was provided by Keys rock bands Coconut Cowboys and the Lower Mat Cats. The parading Key West Junkanoos also made an appearance, expressing their Caribbean culture through elaborate dress and music.

As an event, the Seafood Fest represents more than just a community gathering to enjoy the culinary and art culture of the Florida Keys. Money from the $5 admission fee and from several of the vendors is donated by the Moose to the Coral Shores graduating class of 2023. Money raised by the Moose provides for many college, career and technical scholarships every year. This year the Moose hopes to surpass the previous year’s total by extensively working to run community events and charitable efforts.

What Are We Smokin co-owner Bobby Singer displays smoked fish dips. ZACK WOLTANSKI/Keys Weekly

The Key West Junkanoos showcase their Caribbean culture as they parade the Old Highway. K. SHYLON MARTIN/Contributed

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

EMPLOYMENT 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

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?

Madok, CPA

of the Circuit Court

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.

City of 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 in person at 10700 5th Avenue

Marathon or email resume to:

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: HCV Specialist, Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker), Med Tech, Resident Activities Coordinator, Grounds Caretaker. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha.org or 305-296-5621. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www.kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.

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

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

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.

OPENINGS AVAILABLE

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Cook, $5,000 Bonus

- Environmental Tech 1, $5,000 Bonus

- Exercise Assistant

- Exercise Physiologist 1

- Medical Technologist 2, $15,000 Bonus

- Monitor Technician

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

- Patient Experience Advocate

- Registered Nurse, $20,000 Bonus

- Registered Respiratory Therapist 2

- Supervisor Pharmacy Operations, $5,000 Bonus

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- 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!

Hiring

• FULL TIME PROJECT MANAGER

• CARPENTERS & LABORERS

• EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

• ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Must have valid Driver’s License & Transportation

305-440-3304

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.

Location: Upper Keys Send resume to: admin@cbtconstruct.com Or call: 305-852-3002

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

hiring for the following positions: Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

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.

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.

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

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.

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 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.

“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.”

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

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