Key West Weekly 23-0316

March 16, 2023

IT’S IN THE BAG MARC client celebrates 30 years at Fausto’s | P. 16

WHAT’S UP WITH THE WATER? Pipeline leaks expose resource vulnerability | P. 7

SPRING SPORTS UPDATE Softball, baseball, tennis & track | P. 21

Two bedroom, two bathroom home with additional pull-out couch — sleeps 6! This home is beautifully furnished and was fully redone in 2019 with high-end appliances and finishes throughout. The open livingroom/kitchen has countertop dining and is beautifully appointed. The private porch is perfect for outside meals and evening cocktails. Both bedrooms are located on the upper level and can be set up with king beds or two twin beds. There is a full bath on the lower level and one on the upper level. A washer and dryer is an added convenience and there is a lockable owners closet on the first level. Unit 410 has its own parking space plus multiple guest parking spaces available for visitors. Live in full time or use as a vacation rental.Gumbo's BoathousePub/Bar is located on the property at the Marina, and it is very popular with locals and guests of Coconut Mallory.

5450 MacDonald Ave. No.5 Key West, FL 33040 Office: 305.453.6928 www.keysweekly.com

Publisher Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

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Editor Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

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Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com

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Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers

Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

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Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

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Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

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Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com

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As many as 100 million brackets are filled out each year during the men’s and women’s NCAA basketball tournaments. As far as having a perfect bracket, good luck with that. The odds are very slim, 1 in 9.2 quintillion.

David Ciuffetelli is a client of the Monroe Association of Remarkable Citizens (MARC), and has worked as a bagger at Fausto’s Food Palace for 30 years. See page 16. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

LAWSUITS CLAIM KEY WEST DOCTOR INJECTED PATIENTS WITH ILLEGAL, CHEAPER, FOREIGN VERSIONS OF COSMETIC FILLERS

Complaints target Dr. Adrienne Curran and Doctors Spa of Duval Square Inc.

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

Two lawsuits filed this month against Key West doctor Adrienne Curran and Doctors Spa of Duval Square Inc. claim Curran defrauded and misled patients by injecting them with cheaper, illegal, foreign versions of cosmetic fillers unapproved by the FDA, rather than brand-name, FDA-approved products that patients expected and purchased.

Class-action lawsuit

The brand-name products that Curran is accused of secretly replacing with cheaper, illegal foreign versions include Botox, Juvederm Ultra, Juvederm Voluma, Restylane with lidocaine, and/or Sculptra, according to a classaction lawsuit filed March 8 against Curran and the medical spa she has owned since 2012.

“For a period of several years, defendants ran a scheme to buy foreign, non-FDA approved cosmetic injectables, at a great discount, which are illegal in the United States, for defendants to inject patients with, with the intent to defraud and mislead patients,” the class-action lawsuit states.

The lawsuit claims Curran altered patient files to show that legal, FDAapproved, brand-name products were used, and injected patients with less than the promised amount of products to increase profits.

Federal whistleblower lawsuit

The March 8 class-action lawsuit was the second suit filed this month against Curran and Doctors Spa.

On March 1, former office manager at the medical spa, Catherine Whitney, filed a separate, federal whistleblower lawsuit against Curran and her business. That suit claims Curran retaliated against Whitney and withheld $49,000 of overtime pay after the employee repeatedly complained about and objected to Curran’s alleged illegal acts.

The former office manager “complained of, and objected to, the abovereferenced illegal acts numerous times to defendant Dr. Curran. Despite plaintiff’s complaints and objections to Dr. Curran’s illegal acts, such acts continued unabated,” the federal lawsuit states. “In retaliation for lodging such complaints and objections to Dr. Curran’s illegal acts, the defendant Dr. Curran began retaliating against the plaintiff by frustrating and angering her with the hope that the plaintiff would resign or alternatively with the intention of ultimately terminating the plaintiff.”

The whistleblower suit contains the same allegations as the classaction lawsuit regarding illegal foreign substances and altered patient files, but further claims that Curran had the foreign, illegal substances shipped to the former office manager’s home address to avoid scrutiny by U.S. Customs agents, who had begun seizing

Curran’s overseas shipments due to suspicion that they were illegal and unregulated medical products.

Alleged financial fraud

The federal whistleblower lawsuit also claims that Curran defrauded the U.S. government and a local bank by “knowingly providing and certifying to false information on two Payroll Protection Program (PPP) applications.”

The federal COVID assistance program provided loans to help U.S. businesses stay afloat, then forgave those loans if the businesses continued paying full-time employees during the pandemic.

Curran classified and paid her workers as independent contractors, not full-time employees, the lawsuit states.

The PPP rules did not allow businesses to count independent contractors as full-time employees, as such contractors could apply for their own assistance.

Online records of PPP disbursements show that Doctors Spa of Duval Square Inc. received $47,300 in April 2020 to retain six full-time employees. Ten months later, in February 2021, Dr. Adrienne Curran applied for and received $77,500 to retain five full-time employees, for a total of $124,800 in PPP funding.

Curran declines to comment

Curran declined to comment on the lawsuits when reached by phone on March 10. She asked the Keys

Dr. Adrienne Curran and Doctors Spa of Duval Square, Inc. face two lawsuits alleging medical and financial fraud. CONTRIBUTED

PROMOTING CONCH PRIDE SINCE 1971

VOTED BEST FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS IN 2021

SINCE 1997

THE LARGEST & MOST TRUSTED PROFESSIONALLY CONDUCTED ESTATE & MOVING SALES IN THE FLORIDA KEYS

FRI MARCH 17 & SAT MARCH 18

VOTED BEST OVERALL BUSINESS IN 2022

CUSTOM EMBROIDERY AND T-SHIRT PRINTING

3255 FLAGLER AVE. | STE. 301 | KEY WEST 305-296-9962 | MON - FRI 10AM-5:30PM

9AM - NOON

1114 FLEMING STREET | KEY WEST

Furniture and decor for every room, general household items, original art by Sal Salinero and Duke Rood, 2022 Bintelli scooter and much more!

For more information and pictures of this sale, check out our website SusiesKeyWestEstateSales.net

A KEY WEST FAMILY TRADITION IN FINE FOODS SINCE 1926

DELIVERY & GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE

522 FLEMING ST. | 1105 WHITE ST. WWW.FAUSTOS.COM

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

MARCH 26 TO APRIL 1

Join your favorite restaurants in supporting the mission of MARC. Each participating restaurant will donate a portion of their sales for the week

MARC. Enjoy your meals!

March is National Developmental Disabilities Awareness month. MARC provides wrap around life services for adults throughout Monroe County with Developmental and Intellectual disabilities.

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS INCLUDE:

KEYS RESIDENTS ASKED TO CONSERVE WATER AMID THIRD WATER MAIN BREAK IN LESS THAN A WEEK

“We need to put out a 50 or 100year plan,” Veliz said, adding that FKAA can’t drop pipes into the ground and worry about it later down the road.

The first break in the Keys occurred during the early morning hours of March 8 near Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina. Repair crews battled the sun and heat as they spent 12 hours repairing the break and the road. Sheriff’s deputies and flagmen directed northbound traffic to the Old Highway and southbound traffic onto the northbound lane of U.S. 1.

Just as Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority crews were finishing repairs of a water main break at MM 84 near Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina on the evening of March 8, a second major leak was reported roughly eight miles north at MM 92 in Tavernier. As a result, crews were sent to the Tavernier water leak that Veliz said was much worse than the break in Islamorada.

Veliz said repair crews were working more than 29 hours between the first two breaks.

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Homes and businesses from the Upper Keys to Key West turned their faucet handles to find little to no water flowing following a third pipe break during the evening hours of March 11.

Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority repair crews worked throughout the night and into the morning at MM 84.5 — an area that witnessed two breaks in less than week — to restore the flow.

With water now running out of the faucets, FKAA is asking residents, the many tourists staying at hotels and campgrounds during spring break and businesses throughout the island chain to conserve water to allow the system to return to normal operations. In a statement, Greg Veliz, Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority executive director, said the agency reduced output from its Florida City plan to relieve pressure on the system.

“We are asking for assistance from the public, in an effort to conserve water and rebuild our services,” Veliz said. “FKAA is generating enough water to service our customers. However, we are limited in our ability to build our reserves, which have been depleted as a result of the leaks that occurred last week.”

Veliz added that people should reduce irrigation systems, boat washing and running water through the faucet or shower for too long.

“Irrigation systems are a big killer for us,” Veliz said during a March 14 appearance on Keys Talk 96.9 radio with Michael Stapleford.

The many motorists traveling south on a heavily congested U.S. 1 on Plantation Key on March 13 passed by a Monroe County Sheriff’s Office message board urging them to conserve water.

FKAA had issued a precautionary boil water notice to residents from Windley Key to Key West, all of whom were affected by the latest water main break over the weekend. The precautionary measure ended on March 14. All water passed testing in all areas, FKAA said.

Pipe breaks in the Upper Keys happened as FKAA prepares to begin a 4-mile, $42-million water main replacement project from Tea Table Relief at MM 79 to Whale Harbor at MM 84. Excavation work is slated for April to place new 36-inch water main transmission alongside U.S. 1. Veliz said the breaks at MM 84.5 are outside the scope of the project. Veliz told Stapleford during an interview with Keys Talk that FKAA will eventually replace 130 miles of water main. Veliz also emphasized the importance of planning once the new pipes are in the ground.

“And this isn’t sitting under the tree, this is 29 (hours) in the hole,” Veliz told the Keys Weekly.

Stanley Switlik and Plantation Key schools closed on March 9 due to the low water pressure. Coral Shores and Marathon high schools also closed, as well as the village of Islamorada administrative building and the county tax collector’s offices in the Upper and Middle Keys. All schools and government buildings are currently open.

A number of restaurants throughout the Keys were forced to close on March 8 and March 12 due to the lack of water.

from page 4

U.S. 1 heading north closes to allow FKAA crews to repair a major pipe burst at MM 92 on March 9. Traffic was diverted to a southbound lane.

Weekly what the lawsuits allege.

The Keys Weekly emailed Curran copies of the legal complaints and invited her to submit comments — from herself or her attorney — to be included in this article.

Less than an hour after speaking with Keys Weekly, Curran’s office sent a notice to all patients that said, “Our company system crashed. We are putting records back together. If you paid by Venmo, please respond so we don’t bill you twice.”

Lawsuits request jury trials

Fort Lauderdale attorney Brian Militzok filed the federal whistleblower lawsuit on behalf of the former office manager. That suit requests a jury trial, the employee’s unpaid overtime, plus attorneys’ fees and additional compensatory and punitive damages.

Brian Militzok and Matthew Militzok are both listed as attorneys in the class-action lawsuit, filed in Monroe County. Sharon Davidson, a former patient and one-time business consultant for Curran, is the lead plaintiff in the class-action suit.

The class-action suit also requests a jury trial and is enrolling additional affected plaintiffs who are eligible to join the lawsuit.

“There are hundreds, if not thousands, of members of the class described,” states the class-action lawsuit that applies to “all patients who, between March 9, 2019 and Sept. 15, 2022, were a paying patient of defendants and who paid defendants, at least in part, to receive a cosmetic injectable treatment of one or more of Botox, Juvederm Ultra, Juvederm Voluma, Restylane with lidocaine, and/or Sculptra injection treatment from defendants, and who did in fact receive a non-FDA-approved substitute cosmetic injectable.”

No hearings had been scheduled for the cases, as of March 15, according to court records.

Southbound traffic uses the northbound lane on U.S. 1 to allow FKAA repair crews to repair a water main break at MM 84.5 on March 8. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

The 30-inch pipe that burst at MM 92 on March 9. FKAA/Contributed

JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

Dr. Adrienne Curran worked as an emergency room physician in the Florida Keys before opening Doctors Spa of Duval Square in Key West in 2012. CONTRIBUTED

STATE SESSION BEGINS

CRUCIAL SPECIALTY LICENSE CONTRACTOR BILL FILED; AFFORDABLE HOUSING BILL MOVES THROUGH SENATE

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Time is of the essence for painters, pavers, landscapers and other specialty contractors in the Florida Keys and throughout the state affected by a 2021 bill that preempted local occupational licensing.

A 60-day legislative session that began in Tallahassee on March 7 is the last shot to change House Bill 735 that was approved by the legislature and signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis following a 2021 session. Legislation sought to eliminate redundant licenses for contractors who work in various municipalities, all while protecting a homeowner against subpar work from inexperienced contractors.

However, the bill ultimately prevented local municipalities, like Monroe County, from issuing specialty licenses to those who work outside the scope of general contractors.

County officials stopped issuing new specialty licenses in July 2021, but existing licenses were honored for two years, the maximum allowed by law, before they expire this year.

Recently, state Rep. Jim Mooney, Republican who represents the Keys and a portion of south Miami-Dade, filed legislation after learning that a House member who was going to file the bill decided against leading such a change. Mooney filed the four-page House Bill 1625 on March 8. He called the bill important and noted that it has an uphill battle.

The bill’s text states that a license from a local government or the state isn’t needed for a job that’s outside the scope of contractor work. That would include painting, flooring, cabinetry, interior remodeling without a structural component, driveway installation, handyman services, decorative stone, plastering, pressure washing, caulking, awning and ornamental iron installation, to name several. All work performed within the job scopes without a license issued by a local government or the state must comply with all applicable local ordinances.

But specialty contractors could need a license that’s issued by a local government for a number of specialty

jobs if the local government imposed a licensing requirement before Jan. 1, 2021. Those jobs would include aluminum or screen enclosure, carpentry with a structural component, pool barriers, marine work, demolition, excavation and clearing, concrete forming, plaster and lath, rental apartment maintenance, roof painting, paving, hurricane windows, garage door installation and pile driving, to name several.

Changes to House Bill 735 sit high on the legislative agenda for Monroe County this year. Lisa Tennyson, legislative affairs director, said House Bill 1625 fixes the issues the county saw with House Bill 735 by reestablishing local licensing for important trade work. Now, she’s urging all contractors to reach out to representatives in Tallahassee by writing letters of support.

“I told the local contractors board that we will have to get personally engaged,” she said.

Legislation was referred to the House Commerce Committee, Regulatory Reform & Economic Development Subcommittee, State Administration & Technology Appropriations Subcommittee and Regulatory Reform & Economic Development Subcommittee.

A similar bill in the Senate was filed by Republican state Sen. Ed Hooper. Senate Bill 1570 was referred to the Regulated Industries and Rules committees. Tennyson said Hooper’s bill has the support of Senate President Kathleen Passidomo.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING BILL MOVES THROUGH SENATE

On March 8, Florida senators voted 40-0 for an affordable housing bill that proposes hundreds of millions for housing programs. Senate Bill 102, sponsored by Republican state Sen. Alexis Calatayud, also included language pertaining to the Florida Keys’ 1,300 new building permit allocations for deed restricted affordable housing. In 2018, then-Gov. Rick Scott approved the Keys Workforce Housing Initiative that provided those allocations, which included a 48-hour evacuation in advance of hurricane landfall.

Those units went through a legal battle with the Third District Court of Appeals (Third DCA) ruling that the “early evacuation” requirement violated Florida Statute, which requires comprehensive plans of cities within the Florida Keys Area of Critical State Concern (ACSC), established in 1974, to “maintain a hurricane evacuation clearance time for permanent residents of no more than 24 hours.”

Requests for the Third DCA to rehear the case weren’t fulfilled. On Jan. 13, the state Supreme Court rejected an escalation of the appeal, seemingly leaving a legislative fix as the only viable option.

Marathon, Islamorada and unincorporated Monroe County were affected by the Aug. 3, 2022 reversal that put each municipality’s 300 units at risk. A total of 100 units for Key Colony Beach and Layton were also in jeopardy.

Legislation is especially vital for Marathon since it already allocated its units. As its own Area of Critical State Concern outlined in 1984, Key West’s units were protected.

State Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez said she already filed a standalone bill that wasn’t part of the bigger affordable housing legislation that would have codified the 1,300 workforce housing units. Overall, Rodriguez said she’s delighted that Calatayud amended her bill to include language for the Keys workforce housing that unanimously passed the Senate floor.

“These desperately needed units will bring much needed affordable inventory for our workforce in the Florida Keys,” Rodriguez told the Keys Weekly.

Senate Bill 102 dedicates $100 million to the Hometown Heroes Program, which provides down-payment assistance to the community workforce. Teachers, health care workers, law enforcement and service members are among the workers who can receive assistance. The bill also prohibits government-mandated rent controls, outlines procedures for expediting permits and promotes multifamily housing opportunities in commercial, industrial and mixed-use areas, provided that 40% of those residential units are for families earning up to 120% of the area median income for at least 30 years.

Legislation was sent to the House for consideration.

The Florida State Capitol. CONTRIBUTED

KEYS CONGRESSMAN HEADS TO SOUTHERN BORDER

Carlos Gimenez takes part in a Homeland Security hearing

U.S. Rep. Carlos Gimenez, whose district includes the Florida Keys, visits the United States’ southern border March 14 and 15, in McAllen, Texas, for the first Homeland Security Committee Field Hearing to examine policies at the Southwest border.

Gimenez chairs the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Maritime and Transportation Security. For the first time, many of the Homeland Security officials who were previously barred from testifying will be testifying on the southern border situation.

The hearing will be open to the public and press and will be live streamed online at youtube.com/HomelandSecurity.

Gimenez is on the House Armed Services Committee, Select Committee on China, and the Homeland Security Committee. He is the only Cuban-born member of the 118th Congress and is the former mayor of Miami-Dade County.

— Contributed

KEY WEST AIRPORT’S ‘HAPPY FAMILY’ HEADS NORTH

Seward Johnson sculpture will return after construction

Key West International Airport’s “Happy Family” has left the Southernmost City for New York, but will return prior to the end of the construction phase of the new Concourse A.

The family of seven was seen March 13 headed out of the Keys on U.S. 1, after which the group was spotted on I-95 north by WPBF 25 ABC anchor Jade Jarvis.

“We’ve received many comments on their journey as they head to New York,” said Richard Strickland, executive director of airports for Monroe County. “The family members are in need of a vacation after standing in the sun and welcoming travelers at the airport since taking up residency on the roof around 2008.”

While in the Empire State, the family will enjoy some rest and restoration until their return.

“They are a part of the overall plan,” Strickland said.

The group of seven is the work of Seward Johnson, who was a part-time Key West resident. He was best known for his life-size cast bronzes of ordinary people engaged in day-to-day activities. Seward’s work can be seen in public settings throughout the world and at Grounds for Sculpture, a 35-acre public sculpture garden and museum he established

New Jersey

feature the work of leading American and international sculptors.

in

to

‘The Happy Family,’ a sculpture by artist Seward Johnson, has greeted passengers at Key West International Airport for more than a decade.

WPBF 25 ABC anchor Jade Jarvis tweeted this photo of the family headed north on I-95 on March 13. The beloved sculpture family will return following the completion of the new concourse at Key West International Airport. JADE JARVIS/WPBF 25

U.S. Rep. Carlos Gimenez, left, visits the southern border this week for a Homeland Security hearing. CONTRIBUTED

GET A MOVE ON

Papio Kinetic Sculpture & Bike Parade rolls on Earth Day

Mark Hedden has been photographing birds and other wildlife, including the human kind during Key West’s Fantasy Fest, for decades. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

The family-friendly

Kinetic

&

Parade returns this Earth Day, April

visit papiokineticparade.com KEY WEST ART & HISTORICAL SOCIETY/Contributed

The annual Papio Kinetic Sculpture and Art Bike Parade — a family-friendly, art-inspired, human-powered mobile sculpture and art-bike parade that celebrates creativity and innovation using recycled materials — is set to roll down Duval Street on Saturday, April 22, which happens to be Earth Day. Mobile sculptures and art bikes will launch at noon from the Key West Museum of Art & History and travel the full length of Duval Street to the Southernmost Pocket Park, where a block party and awards ceremony will take place from 1 to 3 p.m.

The parade celebrates imagination and encourages the use of reused materials, while honoring Stanley Papio, a Florida Keys pioneering folk artist whose recycled metal sculptures teem with a clever sense of satire, tenacity and innovation. The country’s first kinetic sculpture race rolled out in Ferndale, California in 1969, igniting a craze that later grew to include national race events in Philadelphia, Baltimore and elsewhere. Since then, other communities, including Key West, have hosted kinetic events, offering their own variation of these floats-with-moving-parts parades.

When kicking off its own parade in 2016, the Key West Art & Historical Society took the region’s laid-back attitude and eco-friendliness into account, eliminating the “race” component and adding the element of “art bikes” for the town known for its pedaling revelers.

Arising from a long-percolating idea, the project won the support of

a prestigious Knight Arts Challenge grant that rewards the best and most innovative ideas in the arts, along with additional support from the Helmerich Trust, the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys and the Monroe County Tourist Development Council.

In years past, Papio Parade spectators have been treated to the sight of inspired, entirely human-powered works of art, including a supersized narwhal that winked at onlookers, a pelican whose wings flapped as it towed parasailing minnows, an eagle ray powered by three bicycling men dressed as remoras, a race car with an engine made of discarded plumbing parts, and a 30-foot-long iguana fashioned from scrap cardboard spines. With 2023 creations underway by several “Papio Ambassador” artist teams and several school registrants supported by scholarships, this year’s parade promises to offer another visual feast for the eyes.

Add to the kinetic fun by registering your own kinetic sculpture float or art bike and joining the parade. You can also support the parade and its participants by becoming a “Papio Pal.” Each year, the society raises muchneeded funds to offer scholarships to local schools and artists to help propel select participants forward as they make their own floats and art bikes for the Papio Kinetic Parade, focusing on the elements of recycling and teambuilding.

More information is at papiokineticparade.com.

— Contributed

KEYS WEEKLY’S OWN MARK HEDDEN SPEAKS AT BOTANICAL GARDEN

Wildlife photographer and writer discusses Ballast Key

The Key West Botanical Garden Society presents Mark Hedden, writer, photographer and semi-professional bird watcher on Saturday, March 18 at 1 p.m. in the Toppino Nature Chapel at the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden. Hedden’s subject is “South of Southernmost,” a photo project that focused on wildlife and environs of Ballast Key, a once private island that has now been incorporated into the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Hedden is a photographer, writer and semi-professional birdwatcher. He has lived in Key West for more than 30 years and is the executive director of the Florida Keys Audubon Society. He also writes the Wild Things column, largely about birds, for the Keys Weekly. His photography work tends to focus on nightscapes, wildlife documentation and street photography. He did shoot a wedding once and has nearly recovered. His work has appeared in the New York Times, BirdWatching, Birding, and Birder's World.

The garden is located at 5210 College Road on Stock Island. Admission is free for members and $5 for non-members. The event will also be recorded and available after this date on the Garden’s website. More information is at keywest.garden or 305-296-1504.

— Contributed

Papio

Sculpture

Art Bike

22. For more information,

Writer, photographer, birding expert and Keys Weekly columnist Mark Hedden speaks at the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden March 18. NAN KLINGENER/Contributed

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.

COME WORSHIP WITH US

‘‘The churches of Christ greet you.’’ Romans 16:16 NKJV

ENGLISH SERVICE

Sunday Bible Study 10am (on site)

Service 11am (on site) & Service 6pm (on site)

Wednesday Bible Study 7:30pm (on site)

Evangelist Rodrigue Aleandre Cell 305.296.3331

KREYOL SEVIS

Dimanch Klas Biblik 7:30pm (on site)

Adorasyon 8:30pm (on site)

Madi Klas Biblik 7:30pm (on site)

Minis Rodrigue Aleandre Cell 305.296.3331

SERVICIO ESPAÑOL

Servicio de adoración dominical a las 5pm (en el sitio)

Estudio bíblico del jueves a las 7pm (en el sitio)

Ministro Pedro Ruiz Celda 347.430.2263

1700 VON PHISTER ST, KEY WEST

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

‒ I Corinthians 15:58 NKJV

WAYS TO CONSERVE WATER IN THE KEYS

SHERIFF’S OFFICE HONORS VETERINARIAN DR. DOUG MADER

Renowned vet treats animal farm residents & K9 officers

Sheriff Rick Ramsay honored veterinarian, Dr. Doug Mader, on March 14 for his current, past and continuing support of the Sheriff’s Office Animal Farm.

Dr. Mader will also be treating the Sheriff’s Office K9 officers, Coral and Mako, at the Farm Mobile Clinic, which is operational thanks to generous donations from the community.

“Dr. Mader has been donating his own time in order to keep our animals healthy for more than 25 years,” said Ramsay. “And he will now also be able to treat our K9 units right here at the farm as well. Dr. Mader is a great community partner, a good friend and a testament to what can be accomplished when we all work together.”

— Contributed

10. Serve your margaritas and mojitos “neat.”

9. Disconnect your bidet and get back to basics by repurposing this newspaper.

8. Communal showers.

7. Look up. Those green things in the palm trees have healthy, drinking water.

6. Fill your waterbed with pudding.

5. Instead of holy water, try locally owned Bombora vodka.

4. Saltwater baths. (Joy and Dawn still foam in the ocean. Ask a sailor.)

3. Use your neighbor’s garden hose to wash your boat, car or golf cart.

2. Boil pasta in your hot tub.

1. Boycott “Avatar: The Way of Water.”

From left, Sheriff Rick Ramsay, K9 Coral, Dr. Doug Mader, farmer Jeanne Selander and Sheriff’s Aide Donatella Kelly, as well as K9 Mako and Deputy Aaron Roddy. CONTRIBUTED

STEP INSIDE THE REAL KEY WEST

Weekend home tours combine history, charm & luxury

MANDY

Come on in. See what we’ve done with the place.

Four historic Key West houses are on display for this weekend’s Home Tours presented by Old Island Restoration Foundation.

The homes are open for ticket holders from 1 to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 17 and 18. Participants will receive the addresses when they buy their tickets and can visit the houses in any order on either day.

The foundation operates the Oldest House Museum & Gardens, 322 Duval St., and works to preserve and protect Key West’s collection of historic wooden structures, thought to be the largest collection in the country.

The Oldest House is always a featured stop on the Home Tours, and offers an immersive and authentic history lesson about life in Key West from 1820 to 1850.

Richard Currans, a ship’s carpenter, built the house as shipwrights did in 1829 without nails, which can cause the wood to split and crack. He then rented it to Capt. Francis and Emeline Watlington, who lived there with their eight daughters until the Civil War.

The house was occupied by the Watlingtons and their descendants from the 1830s through the 1970s, when it was purchased for historic preservation.

“Here at the Oldest House, we really want to tell the story, not just of the Watlington family, but of Key West from 1820 to 1850. The people who came here to live, often from New England, New York and Virginia, obviously had to come by boat, and Key West became a bustling city because of its deep-water port,” said curator Tom Greenwood.

While the men, often shop owners and ship captains, engaged in the wrecking industry — rescuing people and cargo from ships that wrecked on the coral reef offshore — “the women were really civilizing Key West,” Greenwood said. “They were creating schools and churches and entertaining.”

Emeline Watlington was one of the founders of St. Paul’s Church, less than 100 yards from her home.

The Oldest House is decorated with furniture and accessories that are authentic to the period of 1830-1850, with some original items that belonged to and were used by the Watlington family. The dark wooden sideboard in the dining room came from New York with Emeline Watlington on the ship that brought her to Key West.

The bed is made from hand-carved mahogany and the dining table is set with blue and white dishes bearing the china pattern used by the Watlingtons.

“We had archaeology students excavate the backyard, and they found numerous fragments of dishes, so we were able to match the pattern,” Greenwood said.

The home and museum also features an outdoor cookhouse that was typical of the time. It was kept separate from the main to reduce heat and the threat of fire.

The home also has a large cistern underneath it, which collected rainwater and provided the only fresh water for drinking and bathing.

Now cherished by Old Island Restoration Foundation, “the house has survived fires, floods, hurricanes and repeated economic hardships. It serves as a physical chronicle of the history of Key West and its people from the earliest days to the present,” states the OIRF website.

YOU’RE INVITED TO THE DINNER PARTY, A PLAY WITH SONGS & SNACKS

Top: Herbed shrimp cakes are on the Dinner Party menu. ABIGAIL HOUFF/The Studios of Key West

Right: Clockwise from left, Jessica Newman, Lauren Thompson and Donna Stabile perform at The Studios’ new Dinner Party event March 22-April 1. MARK HEDDEN/ The Studios of Key West

The Studios offers unique spin on dinner theater

This month, The Studios of Key West presents one of the most anticipated theatrical productions of the year. The Dinner Party, a play with songs and snacks written and directed by Chantal Pavageaux, will be staged in the Helmerich Theater for a limited run of eight nights from March 22-April 1. Tickets are available at tskw.org or 305-296-0458.

Audiences are invited to join the hottest new fictional girl group in this deliciously tart take on art, fame, trust, truth and … dinner theater. This “play-within-a-play” pulls inspiration from ’80s sitcoms to Scorcese films, and is created by an all-female cast and crew. The Dinner Party tells the story of "Meme Zeitgeist" and her band The Dinner Party, beginning when they were five waitresses in a tiny diner in Alice, Texas. As the narrative takes shape, we learn how different each person’s story can be, depending on who’s doing the telling.

To put a delicious spin on the evening, Key West chef extraordinaire Abigail Houff has created a tasting menu of one-bite courses paired with each of the eight acts. The menu is meant to capture the emotional state of each act, and includes dishes like gazpacho, beet tartare and zucchini fudge cake. For Act Three, Houff is serving herbed shrimp cakes with mint and dill tzatziki, which will perfectly capture the act’s sense of “truth, lies and fantasy on a bed of dreams with just a hint of phoenix rising”.

Pavageaux is a writer, director and artist whose glittery performances and installations have been produced around the U.S. Pavageaux trained at New York University’s Tisch School for the Arts and worked at the Drama League of New York and the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis.

The production stars a cast of local and national actresses including Moriah Joy, Jessica Newman, Donna Stabile, Janae Thompson, Lauren Thompson, and Mariah Woessner.

Tickets for the play are $110 front row, $70, $55 for members.

Explore the Oldest House Museum & Gardens, 322 Duval St., during this weekend’s Key West Home Tours, presented by Old Island Restoration Foundation. CONTRIBUTED

AVOID THE LONG DRIVE TO MIAMI AND HAVE ALL YOUR CHILDREN’S NEEDS MET RIGHT HERE IN THE FLORIDA KEYS.

Dr. Christina Smith DDS is now accepting new patients and is thrilled to be part of the 7-time Bubba Award-winning Doc Guzman’s o ce.

SEASON FINALE CONCERT!

DVOŘÁK MASTERWORKS: “New World Symphony” & Cello Concerto

Featuring GRAMMY Award-winning Cellist, Zuill Bailey

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

Saturday, March 25 | 7:30 pm

Tennessee Williams Theatre at The College of the Florida Keys

DINING OUT DOES GOOD

IT’S IN THE BAG

suited to the clients’ individual abilities.

In support of the Monroe Association for Remarkable Citizens (MARC), local restaurants throughout Key West are coming together to participate in Dining out for MARC.

From March 26 to April 1, participating restaurants will donate a portion of their sales to MARC, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to providing services and support to individuals with developmental disabilities.

Dining out for MARC is an excellent opportunity for the Key West community to come together and support a fantastic cause while enjoying meals from some of the area’s most popular restaurants.

By eating at participating restaurants during the weeklong event, residents and visitors can help MARC continue to provide invaluable services and support to developmentally disabled adults in the community.

“We are thrilled to see so many of our local restaurants come together to support MARC,” said Diana Flenard, executive director of MARC. “Their generosity and commitment to our organization will make a real difference in the lives of the individuals we serve. We encourage everyone to come out and enjoy a great meal at one of our participating restaurants during this week-long event.”

Participating restaurants include:

Thirsty Mermaid, Poke in the Rear, 915, Mary Ellen’s, Bagatelle, Antonia’s, First Flight, General Horseplay, Tavern N Town. Waterfront Brewery, Kaya Island Eats, Mangoes, Salty Frog’s, Milagro, Smoke on the Water BBQ, The Grand Cafe, Santiago’s Bodega. Goldman’s Deli, La Grignote, Little Pearl and Cruisin’ Tikis Key West

— Contributed

If you’ve been inside Fausto's Food Palace any weekday for the last 30 years, you’ve seen David Ciuffetelli, who has been bagging groceries at the island’s most social grocery store since Feb. 1, 1993.

With his salt-and-pepper hair and mustache, Ciuffetelli is often asked if he’s related to City Commissioner Jimmy Weekley, who owns the two Fausto’s locations with his brother, Alton Weekley.

“It seems like half the people I see in there ask me if I’m related to Jimmy and Alton,” Ciuffetelli said on a recent Saturday at the Monroe Association of Remarkable Citizens (MARC), where he is a client. “But I’m not related. I’m just really glad to have my job there. Eggs and bread go on the top of the bags and heavy stuff on the bottom. The paper bags we use at Fausto’s are a lot easier than the old plastic bags. But we haven’t used those in a really long time. The paper bags stand up a lot more easily.”

Jimmy Weekley also gets similar questions on a near-daily basis.

“People always ask if he’s my son, or a relative,” Weekley said. “There’s no relation, but he’s certainly been like part of the family for the past 30 years.”

For more than 50 years, the nonprofit MARC organization has served adults with developmental disabilities, providing them with day-training classes, life skills lessons, a group home living situation for many, community field trips and jobs in the community

Ciuffetelli moved to Key West from New York state with his parents, who are now deceased, in 1989 when he was in his 20s.

“Now I’m 57. I have an apartment in Key West. I have my job at Fausto’s and I have my girlfriend, Maira Ortiz,” he said, beaming while looking at photos of the surprise party and cake he received on Feb. 1 for his 30th anniversary at Fausto’s. “I got called in to talk to someone at MARC and I thought I had done something wrong, but really it was a surprise party and someone had made me a chocolate cake. Susan and Alton Weekley came to celebrate with me. It was really nice.”

Ciuffetelli speaks in an earnest and emphatic matter that leaves no doubt about the genuine emotions behind his words.

His face lights up when he talks about his bowling skills with the Special Olympics, where he competes with Maira.

“She was born in Matanza, Cuba,” he said. “I met her in 2013 at the Dollar Tree.”

Ciuffetelli lives with a roommate and receives disability benefits for rent and groceries, which are overseen by Marlesa Whitney-Curtis, MARC’s director of supported living for clients who are able to live on their own with some assistance.

“My sister lives in Pasadena, Maryland and she calls me every Sunday,” Ciuffetelli said. “She’s gonna be so excited that my picture is in the paper. I’m really excited.

— Cruisin’ for MARC.

Local restaurants donate a portion of sales to MARC March 26-April 1

Tavern N Town at the Marriott Beachside Hotel, with its ribeye steam buns, will donate a portion of all sales to the Dining Out for MARC fundraiser March 26-April 1. CONTRIBUTED

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

David Ciuffetelli, center, is joined by Fausto’s owners Susan Weekley and Alton Weekley for a surprise 30th anniversary party at MARC. CONTRIBUTED

MARC client David Ciuffetelli celebrates 30 years at Fausto’s

SHELF HELP

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

What: “Slow Horses” by Mick Herron

Why: This is the first book in a terrific, funny but still gripping espionage series, now being wonderfully adapted for TV by Apple+. The titular slow horses are disgraced MI5 agents who have been banished to a department known as Slough House, because “it might as well be in Slough." River Cartwright is the newest arrival, possibly protected from being fired after a catastrophic training screw-up by his grandfather, who was high up in the service. Veteran and apparently shambolic spy Jackson Lamb leads the group, who are sharper than they’re given credit for (and, like River, mostly desperate to escape exile and get back to HQ). The TV show is great, but even if you’ve seen it, the book is still worth reading for all the detail and interior character illumination that you just can’t cram into a limited TV series. And – good news! – if you get hooked, there are already eight books in the series out there and more on the way.

Where: This is available as a book, ebook and e-audiobook from the Monroe County Library system. How: You can request books online by logging in to www. keyslibraries.org and get ebooks and e-audiobooks 24/7 at www. estuff.keyslibraries.org. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? info@keyslibraries.org

Recommended by: Nancy Klingener, community affairs manager

OLD-SCHOOL MARINA HAS ENTHUSIASTIC OWNER

Shelby Roberson now helms Sugarloaf Marina

TOM WALKER www.keysweekly.com

What does one do with a hard-earned college degree in psychology? Apparently, you become a self-proclaimed “shrimp scooper.” That’s exactly what Shelby Roberson did.

Roberson, 31, attended the University of North Carolina-Asheville and went on to become theowner/operator of Sugarloaf Marina at MM 17 on Sugarloaf Key.

“I was going to go on to graduate school, but I came down here over nine years ago and neverwent back,” she said on a recent breezy Wednesday.

However, Roberson, who hails from Asheville, North Carolina, was no stranger to the Keys. She was a frequent visitor growing up as her family owned a home on Cudjoe Key.

About 3-½ years ago, Roberson took over the full-service marina, having worked forthe previous owners since 2014.

“It was pretty challenging at first because I didn’t know anything about fishing,” she said of her day-to-day responsibilities and the overall marine business. “But the fishing guides were a big help and gave me great advice.”

One of the last “old-school marinas,” Sugarloaf Marina sits on a property steeped richly in Keys history that also includes the Sugarloaf Lodge and Hotel, a small airport and was once the home of the infamous Bat Tower.

Built in 1929 by one of the first property owners, Richter Clyde Perky, a Colorado real estate developer, the tower was erected to house bats to combat the swarms of mosquitoes in the area. Unfortunately, Perky’s experiment was a failure. The bats never came, and the tower stood empty until it was destroyed by Hurricane Irma in 2017.

Offering an easily accessible boat ramp, fresh and frozen bait sales and kayak rentals, the Sugarloaf Marina store is also brimming with a wide variety of anything a boater or fisherman may need for a day on the water. Boat supplies, fishing gear, apparel, sandwiches, drinks, ice and more are readily available for the most amateur

boater or the hard-core angler.

As small sharks slowly scoured the bottom of the clear, channel waters below the dock looking for a morning snack, Roberson highlighted the marina’s convenient location.

“It’s only a short run out to Marvin Key,” she said. “You can pretty much get to any of the popular spots from here.”

When asked what makes her business stand out from the other boutique marinas that are seemingly popping up in the Keys, she was quick to cite her many regular customers.

“At the end of the day, it’s the people,” she said. “They’ll come back in, and many of them will just hang out. Even after we close up at 6 p.m., some of the locals will still linger.”

Two weathered picnic tables under an awning have become a popular spot where people can unwind with a cold beer, maybe smoke a cigar and swap fish tales.

“After all these years, that area has come to be known as the Liars’ Bench,” Roberson joked.

Summing up why she chose to veer from her college path to become an owner of a local, maritime-related business, Roberson said it was a no-brainer.

“Are you kidding me? Look out there at that sunshine and the water. I could not have not picked a better place,” she said.

Shelby Roberson breathes new life into the old-school Sugarloaf Marina. TOM WALKER/Keys Weekly

HERE’S TO THE SOUTHERNMOST CITY, THE EARLY SETTLERS & THE SIPPING OF A KEYS COCKTAIL

The year 2023 marks Monroe County’s 200th anniversary, and the celebrations are underway.

Unsurprisingly, the Southernmost City has absorbed much of the attention. It stands to reason, as Key West has always been Monroe’s heart, soul and county seat. Indeed, it has been its historical anchor, and there is much about Key West, the Florida Keys and Monroe County to celebrate.

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

The wrecking industry that transformed Key West into the country’s wealthiest city per capita is a significant nugget of local history. Sponges, cigars, turtles, writers, artists and pineapples have all contributed to the Monroe County story. The arrival of Henry Flagler’s train and the Overseas Highway went a long way to civilizing the Florida Keys by delivering conveniences like mail, food and household staples, which brought a greater sense of daily security — and not just to Key West but to all the communities developing up and down the island chain.

Settling in an outpost community like Key West, the county seat, was one thing. Carving out a life on one of the islands not named Key West was an altogether different experience. Those brave souls who struck out on their own, cleared paths, homesteads and farmland are often overlooked when stories about Key West and the Florida Keys are told, and those brave pioneers should most definitely be celebrated.

Their ancestral blood is the true conduit that links one island to another and joins the Florida Keys together. Let’s take a moment to recognize (among others, for which I will apologize in advance for not identifying) the Pents,

Currys, Pinders, Alburys, Lowes, Saunders, Johnsons, Parkers, Thompsons, Bakers, Russells, Sands, Sweetings and so many others for their contributions to Monroe County history. In the spirit of the county’s 200th anniversary, let’s raise a toast to those good people.

It should be noted that the county looked very different than it does today, and not just because of development. Its modern boundaries incorporate 3,737 square miles, of which about 73 percent is water. When the county was established on July 2, 1823, it was a significantly larger piece of real estate.

The county became the territory’s sixth and was named after the then-sitting fifth President of the United States, James Monroe. In those days, the county lines extended north from Key West to the southern shore of Lake Okeechobee and west to the Gulf of Mexico. As Florida grew in population, Monroe County shrank in size.

On Feb. 4, 1836, the newly formed Dade County carved out a chunk of Monroe County that included some of the Keys. Dade County incorporated all the islands north (or east) of Bahia Honda. However, when the county lines were redrawn on Dec. 8, 1866, most of the Keys were returned to Monroe. At that point, Broad Creek, flowing north of Key Largo and between Broad Key and Swan Key, became the new and permanent county line. The handful of islands north of the creek remained in Dade County –though the spirit of Monroe County hopefully remains with them.

Southwest of Broad Creek, Manatee Creek flows under the first bridge encountered along the 18-Mile Stretch that links Key Largo to the mainland (Jewfish Creek Bridge is the second). At Manatee Creek, around Mile Marker 115, on one side of the bridge is Dade County and the

South Dixie Highway and, on the other, Monroe County and the Overseas Highway. To the west, up on the mainland, Monroe County borders Collier County, which means that the modern county is largely made up of islands and Everglades.

So, let’s celebrate the 200th anniversary of the county by risking a little case of brain freeze. Let’s make a toast with what should be considered the official drink of the Florida Keys, an ice-cold rumrunner. The sub-tropical libation was first concocted at a tiki bar on Windley Key in the Islamorada area back in the 1970s. The bartender who invented the drink was officially named John Egert but was locally known as Tiki John.

The impetus behind the drink was overstocked bottles, and Tiki John’s manager challenged him to create a drink in order to use up some excess inventory. Tiki John started experimenting, and the winning drink was a combination of rum, lime juice, sugar, banana, and blackberry liqueurs mixed in a blender with a scoop of ice and served frozen.

The original rumrunner did not have the reddish-pink hue it has today. The drink’s famous color came about after Tiki John ran out of sugar while at the tiki bar one day and had to improvise, which he did by substituting grenadine for the sugar. Grenadine, by the way, is made from pomegranate. Ever since his bar ran out of sugar, the rumrunner has been served frozen, red and frequently with a floater of dark rum or 151 – sure, you can have it on the rocks, but that is not how this classic Florida Keys cocktail was first imagined.

I think every one of them should have a little floater spilled on top for this special occasion. Cheers, Monroe County, and happy anniversary.

The quintessential Florida Keys cocktail, the rumrunner. CONTRIBUTED

BRAD BERTELLI

KITTY CLEMENTS IS ‘A WOMAN OF THE WORLD’

Fringe Theater celebrates Women’s History Month

Fringe Theater, in partnership with the Key West Woman’s Club, presents Rebecca Gilman’s one-woman play, “A Woman of the World,” at 7 p.m. through March 18 at the Key West Woman’s Club, 319 Duval St.

Gilman is an award-winning playwright and recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship, the Harold and Mimi Steinberg ATCA New Play Award, the Harper Lee Award, the Scott McPherson Award and the George Devine Award. Her play, “The Glory of Living,” was a finalist for the 2001 Pulitzer Prize.

“A Woman of the World” is based on the life of Mabel Loomis Todd, neighbor to poet Emily Dickinson, who probably would not have been as well known a figure were it not for the efforts of Todd, who was the first to edit and publish her poems. In all, she published three volumes and spent much of her life promoting Dickinson’s works with national tours and lectures.

It is here that the play picks up. We find Todd at a special lecture toward the end of her life.

Slowly the carefully crafted stories of a lifetime merge with the long hidden and unspoken truths.

Todd, it turns out, was not the woman she seemed. She was so very much more.

“A Woman of the World” is directed by Glenda Donovan, who has served on Fringe’s board of directors for the last four years. Fringe audiences will remember her as the director of “Golda’sBalcony,” the star of “Collected Stories,”and as Tallulah Bankhead in last year’s “Looped.”

Kitty Clements, the grande dame of Fringe Theater, stars as Mabel Loomis Todd.

Clements has been acting with Fringe Theater for more than 10 years. Her long list of Fringe acting credits include “Agnes of God,” “Blithe Spirit,” “Marion” and “Private Lives.”

She has been seen often in productions at The Studios of Key West, including “Here’s Your Hat, What’s Your Hurry?”

Fringe’s production crew for “A Woman of the World” includes light designer Kendall Cameron, sound designer Su Nubia, light board operator Aramis Ikatu, and production dream team Don Lynch, Charlie Bengel and Jim Beyl. This production is presented in conjunction with Women’s History Month.

JUST THE TIPS

Spring changes are just right for sailfish, tuna and permit

Spring has seemingly sprung here in the Keys, regardless of what that groundhog saw or didn’t see. It actually seemed to have done so a few weeks ago.

To those of you not here long enough to experience our “seasons” – or even know we really had them – I assure you we do, even though sometimes it feels like summer, and summer XL. This seasonality is particularly evident through the eyes of an angler. Allow me to elaborate.

SPORTS & MORE

SYRACUSE COACH LOSES JOB AFTER 47 YEARS

When I was a lot younger, I would knock off any sort of depression or malaise by going to, and probably reporting on, high school sports games near Rochester, New York. I was a rookie sports writer then, at the Rochester Times-Union.

is the owner and operator of Noreaster Sport

Fishing in Marathon. A Massachusetts native, Nick fished for bluefin tuna and striped bass before moving to the Keys in 2005.

The transition from winter to spring here in the Keys, with regard to fishing, can be marked by a number of factors or changes. Here are a few:

• Water temperature is on the rise as low 70s give way to upper 70s. Check.

• Large schools of mullet arrive. Check.

• Tarpon are appearing at the bridges in numbers, whether biting or not. Check.

• Schools of spawning permit arrive on oceanside wrecks. Check.

• Tailing conditions form off the edge of the reef where sailfish can be seen and caught in impressive numbers. Check.

• Bluefin tuna (yes, you read that right) are traveling through. Check.

As winter is on its way out, expect the mackerel to follow. There are still good numbers of Spanish mackerel out in the bay, but likely not for long as that water heats up. But if you’re looking for some action and calm seas, start anywhere in the grass five to 10 miles out in the bay. Get the chum flowing and cast small lures or jigs tipped with shrimp on a light wire for steady action. There should be some mangrove snappers out there as well that can usually be taken on cut bait.

On the ocean side, everything will depend on the current and water clarity, as usual. If you are looking at the bottom in 50 feet, forget about yellowtail. A moderate current and slightly cloudy water is a much better scenario there. Lots of chum and small pieces of bait are the recipe, usually in 40 to 80 feet of water.

If the current is running like a river (to the east) it might be time to go look for those sailfish tailing down sea as they surf waves offshore. A live bait placed just right usually gets the bite. The best tailing conditions will be in very powdery-looking water where you can easily see the dark body of a sailfish or giant tuna coming from far away. Link up with Noreaster or another local charter service to experience this spectacular phenomenon, as it truly is a sight to behold. And if you’re wondering about those big tunas, yes, it’s possible to catch one with the right tackle and the perfect presentation. They are primarily migrating when seen here and not aggressively feeding, but a number of boats last week were successful in catching and releasing a giant.

Out in the deep, good numbers of big mutton snapper have been taken on wrecks in 150-250 feet of water. Live baits on the bottom and patience pays here.

Some permit have begun to show on the usual oceanside haunts and usually will take a well-placed live crab. Again, a seasoned guide will provide you your best opportunity at these trophies.

As far as offshore goes, blackfin tuna at the humps have been consistent, but unfortunately, so have the sharks. Plan on landing half of what you hook trolling small lures and feathers at about five knots.

And the million dollar question: NO, the mahi are not here yet!

Stay tuned for further updates on all these fronts and call or text Captain Nick at 508-769-4189 to set up your next adventure.

I wasn’t assigned to cover any events very far from Rochester. I just did it. No mileage reimbursement, no overtime pay. One evening, I headed to Lyons, New York. I don’t think I’d ever been there. I went, covered the high school basketball game and wrote a short article.

In my story, I did not mention the name of Lyons’ best player, the one who would go on to play and coach basketball at Syracuse University, collecting more coaching victories (1,015) than any other coach except nowretired Duke Coach Mike Krzyzewski.

That would be Jim Boeheim, now also retired as of March 8, when the Syracuse Orange lost to Wake Forest in the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament.

Boeheim’s retirement was not necessarily of his own choosing, despite his successes of 47 seasons. At his post-game press conference, after the loss, he was asked about his future, a normal question for a 78-year-old. He said something like, “You’ll have to ask the university.” Later, a university press release cleared up any questions. Boeheim was being replaced by Adrian Autry, a 51-year-old assistant coach who had played four years for the Syracuse Orange. No one was saying it, but the school was dumping its coach.

One evening, I drove from Rochester to Syracuse, a distance of about 50 miles, to cover a game involving Syracuse and its two stars, Boeheim and Dave Bing, who would go on to a solid pro career of a dozen years and post-pro career that included him being elected mayor of Detroit. I later became acquainted with Boeheim at college basketball’s Final Four when Syracuse wasn’t involved – as it was in 2003, when Boeheim’s team won the National Championship. He took Syracuse to five other Final Fours.

We became acquaintances and often engaged in conversations during Final Four tournaments. I found him to be a very nice person, a good conversationalist. And a good coach.

When everything had settled down after the announcement, Boeheim became his humorous self,

RALPH MORROW

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

saying, “I’ve been unbelievably fortunate that I’ve been here 47 years. Mike Breen is thrilled to have his job (as Notre Dame coach) for 23 years. He’s a puppy.”

I hope that, if Boeheim wishes, another university hires him as coach of its varsity squad.

ONCE AGAIN, I DID NOT attend The Players Championship golf tournament at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.

ralphmoro1936 @gmail.com

I’d love to go. I’d take a comfortable folding chair and sit at the 17th hole so I could watch the golfers try to keep their balls out of the water. I’d hope the weather was perfect. And I’d wear my Key West Conchs cap to keep the sun off my head.

I’d root for Jordan Spieth and if he wasn’t playing well, I’d have several other names to take his place.

Prices for tickets appear to be $100 to $200 per day plus extras, according to American Express.

Parking is $40 per day for Thursday through Sunday.

If you’re going for more than one day, you’ll need a hotel or motel, and prices will run the gamut.

Apparently my children should be involved in sponsoring my attendance. As if I haven’t thought of that before.

CAPT. NICK BORRACCINO

Longtime Syracuse University basketball coach Jim Boeheim in 2014. WIKIPEDIA/ Contributed

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

THE SCOREBOARD

KEY WEST GIRLS TRACK & FIELD CAPTURES FIRST PLACE AT BIG BLUE INVITATIONAL Boys Take

Fourth

second-place 4x800m team with Makimaa, Alicia Bahri and Naima Thomas. Bahri also took third in the two-mile race. Rounding out the top performers on the track was Ruth Azard with a solid fourth-place finish in the 100m hurdles.

Key West’s gentlemen were fourth overall, led by a 10’6” first place finish in the pole vault from Josh Canterbury and a third place finish from Liam Flores, who cleared 10 feet. Kevon Mills cleared the high jump bar at 6 feet which was good enough for second place. Mills also teamed up with Clerf Alexandre, Shane LaVallee and James Reynolds in the Conchs’ fourth-place 4x100m team. The 4x800m relay team took third with a squad of Colbin Hill, Logan Phillips, Williams Forster and Lucas Montiel.

Key West’s throwers made a good showing with a second-place shot put throw from Benndy Ambrose and fourth-place tosses from Canterbury in the discus and Brondson Etienne in javelin.

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

It’s been more than a week since the Key West Conchs saw action on the track due to a cancellation last week, giving the teams some much needed rest after an extremely successful outing at the Big Blue Invitational at Archbishop McCarthy on March 4. The Lady Conchs outscored the home team and the rest of the field of 13, taking top honors in the meet.

In the field events, Abigail Cowan won the long jump with a 14’8” leap. Rodamaelle Cineus took fourth in the triple jump, Anabel Portuonodo was fourth in pole vault and Angeline Foster won third in the shot put.

Notable performers on the track were Savannah Chadic, who won the 400m in an incredible 57.76 seconds. Chadic was also part of the team’s second-place 4x100m relay with teammates Dazmine Jenkins, Nikole Tomita and Caylaa Makimaa as well as the third-place 4x400m team with Tomita, Makimaa and Kathryn Smith.

The Lady Conchs’ distance specialists racked up plenty of points. Makimaa came in second in the open 800m race and third in the mile. Laira Anaya was right behind Makimaa in the mile and ran a leg of the Conchs’

The Marathon Dolphins sent a handful of athletes to the Miami Elite Invitational on March 11. Vance Bursa blazed to a second-place finish in the mile, running the four laps in 4:36.68. Teammate Justice Lee owned the throwing events, winning the javelin with a toss of 86’7”. Lee also took third in discus and was a last-minute addition to shot put, where she secured another third-place finish.

The Conchs will travel to Calvary Christian for an invitational on Friday, March 17, then are off again for spring break. The Conchs, Coral Shores Hurricanes and Dolphins will race one another in an all-Keys showdown in Key West on Friday, March 31.

Seen here in a preseason meet, Key West’s Savannah Chadic turned in a blazing 57.76s finish in the 400m at the Big Blue Invitational. ELLA HALL/Keys Weekly

Seen here in a preseason meet, Key West’s Caylaa Makimaa turned in second- and third-place individual finishes in the 800m and mile races as well as a trio of podium finishes in the 4x100m, 4x400m and 4x800m relays.

Key West Back on Top

On March 7, Coral Shores traveled to Marathon to play the only matchup between two Keys teams scheduled this season. The result was a win for the Hurricanes and the first blemish on Marathon’s season record.

Coral Shores racked up 12 hits in the game. Leadoff hitter Andrew Putetti went 4-5, including two doubles. Campbell Lavoie and Zeke Myers each had a pair of hits and Riley O’Berry, Dylan Bloom, Donovan Thiery and Steel Mientkiewicz each had a hit in their offensive onslaught. Three ’Canes combined on the mound for the win, including Grayden Ross, who went five innings, and MacIntyre and Tate Brumbalow, who covered one inning each. Marathon managed six hits in the game, led by Ryan Yablon with two, Dylan Ziels with a double and base hits from Dylan Globe, Mason Thornton and Gabe Leal.

Coral Shores evened up their record on March 10 following a 6-1 loss to True North Classical Academy. The ’Canes managed three base hits in the game off the bats of Mientkiewicz, Myers and O’Berry, scoring one run in the non-district matchup. The 3-3 Hurricanes are winning when it counts the most, though, remaining undefeated in district play.

Following their tough loss to district and Keys rival Coral Shores, Marathon hoped to salvage their week with a win against conference rival Palmer Trinity. It wasn’t in the cards for the Fins, though, as Palmer bested Marathon 8-0 on March 10. The Dolphins tallied three base hits, one each from Ryan Yablon, Tommy Norris and Dylan Ziels.

Pitching duties for the Fins were split between Ziels, who went for 5-1/3 innings against the Falcons, and Bryan Broche. The pair faced a team that averages nearly 10 hits per game, with its first six batters all carrying batting averages over .400. Marathon will face the Falcons again in April for a chance to balance the series.

CORAL SHORES HANDS MARATHON FIRST LOSS OF SEASON

It didn’t take long for the Key West Conchs to reestablish the winning machine after a pair of losses to West Broward. On March 10, Key West stacked up 12 hits against the Yellow Jackets of Bartow, who traveled nearly seven hours to meet the Conchs on the diamond.

When they arrived, they faced Andrew Barroso and Felix Ong, who teamed up to pitch a no-hitter, walking just one batter each. Senior Jack Haggard had the magic bat Friday night, going 3-4 at the plate and driving home two for the Conchs. Wyatt Kuhn and Andrew Lariz each had a pair of hits, with the rest of them coming from Caden Pichardo, Anden Rady, Jose Perdigon, Matthew Greenberg and Gabe Williams. Rady made it to first four times after being hit by a pitch and walking twice.

One night later, the Yellow Jackets did some regrouping, narrowing the score, yet the result was still the same. Key West added another win at Rex Weech field, defeating Bartow 2-1. In Saturday’s outing, Greenberg had two base hits and the Conchs added one each from Haggard, Pichardo, Kuhn, Williams and Noah Burnham. Burnham started on the mound, facing 19 batters over five innings pitched. Lariz combined with Marlin Takovich to close the game. The Conchs protected home plate until the sixth inning, when Bartow scored their lone run. Key West will be busy over spring break with a pair of home games on March 17 and 18 against True North Classical Academy and a tournament.

From top: It’s a close call at first base as Marathon’s Ryan Yablon, center, tries to beat a Coral Shores runner to the bag.

Coral Shores batter Donovan Thiery takes a swing in the team’s 14-2 victory.

Marathon’s Ryan Yablon (7) races Coral Shores’ Dylan Bloom to second base.

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

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

KEY WEST’S MIESHA HERNANDEZ CRUSHES TWO HOME RUNS IN TWO GAMES

It took an extra inning for Santa Fe to beat the Lady Conchs softball team on March 10, when the aptly named Raiders stole away Key West’s perfect record.

Nevaeh Arnold faced 40 batters in eight innings, keeping the score close, but the Raiders’ bats were a menace, racking up 16 hits in the game. Key West earned six hits of their own, including a bomb from Miesha Hernandez to tie it up in the fifth inning. Hernandez also connected for a base hit, and the Conchs amassed singles from Madelyn Perusse, Scarlet Niles, Dharma Murray and Isabella Franco.

The next afternoon, the Conchs faced Chaminade Madonna, winning 121. Chloe Gilday went seven innings for Key West, facing 27 batters and sending 13 back to the dugout. Hernandez homered again to tally her third this season, racking up three RBIs with the big hit in the third inning. Vera Rodger had a solo homer in the sixth. Niles had a pair of base hits and Perusse, Murray, Ty Cervantes, Tavyn Gage, Caroline Smith and Alexandra Rodriguez added the rest in the 10-run pile against the Lions. Key West will look to improve its 4-1 record heading into a four-game tournament next weekend.

A postponed game against Greater Miami gave Marathon’s Lady Fins just one game last week, when they traveled to Somerset South Homestead to take on the Hurricanes. Marathon made the most of its single outing, winning the game 19-2 in just three innings of play. Pitcher Allison Garcia was back in the circle for Marathon, striking out seven of 13 batters faced. Ryleigh Garcia and Elena Eubank were perfect at the plate with three hits each. Maeve Merryman chalked up two base hits and Sara Robinson, Daniella Gonzalez, Alba Rodriguez, Madelyn Thornton and Sage Brown earned one hit each. The 3-1 Fins will be on the road until March 28 against Monsignor Pace.

Coral Shores traveled to Miami on March 10 to take on the Bobcats of Lourdes Academy. The ’Canes lost 19-4 in three innings of play.

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

Above: Key West senior Miesha Hernandez now has three home runs on the season, with two in her last two games.

From top left: Pitcher Neveah Arnold Dharma Murray Scarlet Niles

MARK HEDDEN

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

Sometimes it can feel as if you’re starting over again. For instance, I’ve never thought much about dragonflies, though I’ve always liked them and the hovering, near-linear way they move around the world. It’s not like I know nothing about dragonflies. I know they and their closest relatives, the damselflies, are part of the order odonata, which biophiles usually just call odes. And I knew that a damselfly, when it lands, will hold its wings straight up, or fold them next to its body. And a dragonfly, when it lands, will just lay its wings flat and sticking out, like a set of temporarily unused oars. But I’d never gotten much further than that.

My curiosity has always been an unmarshallable force. I can’t tell it what to be interested in.

It tells me.

But sitting on a bench by the muddy little puddle pond in the back corner at the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden the other day, my curiosity perked up a bit when a dragonfly came in and landed on a stalk.

It was red from tip to tail, a shiny deep carmine that gleamed metallic in the sun. The part of my brain that didn’t know better thought it might be a tiny little robot. Its four wings looked like minuscule stained glass windows if they’d been made out of clear, unstained glass.

Something sparked, and I thought, Huh, I wonder what that thing is called?

It was a familiar feeling, though not recently familiar. This is kind of how I came to birds. One day, I just thought, Birds, what the heck? And I started thinking about them. I started paying attention, I started building a framework of understanding.

I didn’t know how far I was going to run down Dragonfly Road, but I knew I had to at least gain some understanding of what I saw.

The first step is always putting a name to what you see. So I took a bunch of photos to try and figure it out when I got home.

There are a lot of fun facts about dragonflies. Like birds, the males tend to be the brightly colored ones. They are generally found near water. They often mate on the wing. Males have two sets of genitals, females one. Females can lay up to 1,500 eggs. Eggs take 7 to 8 days to hatch, but have also been known to take up to 360 days. Between the egg stage and the adult stage, they are flightless aquatic things called naiads (also called larvae or nymphs). In that stage they will shed their exoskeletons up to 17 times before they’re ready to take wing.

Adults can live up to 10 weeks, but most species live about five. Some dragonflies species migrate, some don’t. Some species migrate so far that it takes multiple generations to complete the journey. Dragonflies existed before dinosaurs.

But none of these fun facts got me closer to being able to name that red dragonfly’s species.

There are about 3,000 species of dragonflies in the world, and about 330 in North America, about 100 of which occur in Florida. Which is a lot to choose from. I do own one dragonfly field guide – the Stoke’s Beginner’s Guide to Dragonflies – and there was one species in there called the roseate skimmer that looked kind of, sort of, like the dragonfly I saw, and which occurred in Florida. But it didn’t look quite right. The photo made it look more on the coral end of red spectrum than the scarlet end. So I did some Googling.

One of the things I found was a 2007 blog post from a man named Ed Lam who was writing a field guide to North American dragonflies, and who came to the Florida Keys to see some hard-to-find specimens. And one of the photos in the post rang the bell – it was the same type of dragonfly I saw at the Key West Botanical Garden. It was an Antillean skimmer, a species generally found in the Caribbean and at its edges. Stock Island is one of the few places in North America to reliably find them.

Ah, I thought, itch scratched.

When I looked at the Latin name, though, it seems the itch was only partly scratched. The Antillean skimmer was listed as Orthemis sp., the “sp.” part being how you describe a species when you’re not quite sure where it fits in the taxonomy, or when it is not officially considered a species.

Since the blog entry was from 2007, I figured this taxonomic homelessness would have been worked out by now. But digging deeper, and reading what I could find in more recent

literature, it seemed the Antillean skimmer is still not fully placed in the taxonomic tree. (In biological parlance, when a species doesn’t have official status, it is called “undescribed.”)

One of the names that kept popping up in what I read about dragonflies was Dennis Paulson, who seemed to be the dean of North American dragonflies. He’d written multiple field guides and numerous scientific papers about them.

He looked to be retired, but I sent an email off to the Slater Museum of Natural History in Oregon, where he’d been director for 15 years, asking for contact information, or for them to forward my email to him. My question? Why was the species still undescribed?

I didn’t really expect to hear back, but the next morning I had an email from him.

Paulson said that essentially, several decades back, an odontologist named Thomas Donnelly had looked at the roseate skimmer and decided it was really two species, one that was purple-ish, and one that was red, which was the Antillean skimmer. Most odontologists agreed with that, and later genetic testing backed it up.

“Unfortunately, Donnelly never described either of them, and he is now retired and probably won’t be writing anything more about dragonflies. No one else has picked up on it, and I don’t know who if anyone will. There has been a shocking decline in dragonfly researchers in this country, at the same time as a tremendous increase in amateur dragonfly enthusiasts. But universities aren’t training taxonomists or organismal biologists much anymore, so there are few people to take the place of the retirees,” wrote Paulson.

So I’m starting this whole dragonfly thing with a species that is distinct, but not officially a species, and may never be. It makes it hard to tick off a list, which is fine. I never keep lists anyhow. And I like a complicated backstory.

AN ODE TO ODES, THOUGH IT’S COMPLICATED

An Antillean skimmer, a dragonfly, seen recently at the Key West Botanical Garden. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

Roberto Fabelo

Congratulations to Gallery on Greene artist Roberto Fabelo, exhibiting in Madrid with Spain’s famed artist Goya at the Conde Duque Museum through July 2023.

Fabelo exhibited in Key West curated by the Gallery and TSKW eight years ago in the only museum to museum exchange since 1959.

Our own Mario Sanchez exhibited at Cubas National Museum of Fine Art and twelve of Cubas most revered artists came to Key West. “One Race” showed at The Oldest House, the Hemingway museum, Mel Fisher, the Gato building, and the Studios.

Works Available on Approval & Concierge Services from Key West to Key Largo

The Gallery on Greene | 606 Greene Street | Key West, Florida galleryongreene.com | 305-304-2323

Don'tmention the R"word

Dr.Fred TroxelJr., DDS

Unlessyouaretalkingabout RESTORATIVEDENTISTRY whichiswhatILOVEand do.I'vespent45years practicingonBigPineKey developingmyskillsin complexrestorativeand estheticdentistryand developingaworldclass team.Iwouldlovetohelp YOUgetthesmileyoudesire andthehealthyfunction youdeserve.

A play with songs and snacks!

Join the hottest new fictional girl group in this deliciously tart take on art, fame, trust and…dinner theater.

Ticket includes one-bite courses perfectly matched to the themes of each eight acts.

MARCH 22-25 & MARCH 29-APR 1, 8PM

$110 FRONT ROW (VIP), $70, $55 MBRS.

tickets at tskw.org or call 305-296-0458

Drawing Your Favorite Memories in Sepia Ink with German artist Heidi Theissen

Learn the steps to capture treasured moments of your life in the distinctive style of sepia ink!

$310, $280 mbrs. Register at tskw.org. Scholarships & discounts available!

Fri, Sat & Sun Mar 31-Apr 2 1-6pm

WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY Chantal Pavageaux

MENU OF SMALL TASTES Abigail Houff

sponsored by Maggie Ruley Island Inspirations

200 Years of Paradise.

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.

FRESH AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE

SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATIONS

DO YOU HAVE AN EMPLOYEE WHO IS DEPENDABLE, PASSIONATE AND EXEMPLIFIES GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE? NOMINATE THEM FOR A ROSE AWARD TODAY!

APRIL 20, 2023 at Hawks Cay Resort

ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence)

Awards recognize Monroe County front line hospitality employees who demonstrate excellent customer service.

These industry champions showcase the region’s commitment to creating an extraordinary visitor experience.

Any business in the hospitality and tourism industry is invited to submit nominations (you do not have to be a member of FRLA to nominate)

Nominees can also include tour drivers, attractions, welcome center, boat tour, etc.

NOMINATION DEADLINE

APRIL 6, 2023

TO VIEW THE CATEGORIES, SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATION AND LEARN ABOUT SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES PLEASE VISIT

FRLA.org/monroe-rose-awards

KEYS STORMS & CLIMATE CHANGE

METEOROLOGIST SET TO PRESENT AT LECTURE SERIES IN KEY LARGO

BLUE ANGELS TO HEADLINE NAS KEY WEST’S BICENTENNIAL AIR SHOW APRIL 15-16

Aviation aficionados can view the dynamic flying of the U.S. Navy’s elite Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Squadron as well as other military and civilian professionals Saturday and Sunday, April 15-16, during the Southernmost Air Spectacular.

Presented by Naval Air Station Key West and held in the vast skies above the Lower Florida Keys, the 2023 show is themed “200 Years of the Navy in Key West.” The theme commemorates Commodore David Porter’s 1823 arrival and construction of the first U.S. Navy buildings on the island. Today, Naval Air Station Key West is the Navy’s premier air-to-air combat training station.

Other planned show highlights include demonstrations by the U.S. Navy Reserve Adversary Squadron VFC-111 “Sun Downers,” flying the supersonic Northrop F-5N Tiger II, the same aircraft featured in the 1986 film “Top Gun”; the F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team, operating the Air Force’s most advanced multirole fighter aircraft; the NAS Key West Search and Rescue Unit; the Legacy Flight team, created to honor the people and aircraft that have defended the U.S. and featuring a historic P-51 Mustang; and the U.S. Special Operations Para-Commandos Parachute Team, whose members skydive from 12,500 feet.

The 32nd annual lecture series, The Delicate Balance of Nature, returns to its inperson venue in Key Largo with a lecture that delves into the correlation between climate change and the impacts of tropical storm and lower-end hurricanes in the Florida Keys.

Nancy Barnhardt, of the Florida Keys National Weather Service in Key West, will serve as guest speaker on Wednesday, March 22 at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Doors open at 7 p.m. with the lecture beginning at 7:30 p.m.

The duration, speed, size and direction all play a part in how a storm affects the Florida Keys. With sea level rise and king tides already affecting coastal flooding, storm surge and additional flooding is a major concern. A longerduration, weaker storm, which is becoming more prevalent, may be able to produce damage similar to a faster-moving, stronger storm. Barnhardt will address these concerns.

The lecture is sponsored by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park. Attendees can view the lecture in person at the Visitor Center and Aquarium Auditorium at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. It will also be offered virtually on Zoom, sponsored by the Friends of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park.

available to Friends members, and everyone is invited to join and support the Key Largo Florida State Parks. Early Zoom registration is also offered to members. For more information on the Friends and to join online, visit: https://pennekampparkfriends.org/

There is no cost to enter the park for the lecture series. Seating is limited, so it is recommended that visitors arrive on time to be assured a seat in the wheelchairaccessible auditorium.

Attendees may wish to bring a cushion for added seating comfort. Temperatures in the auditorium vary and a sweater or light jacket may be desired. Please help us to accommodate those who are chemically sensitive by not wearing fragrances or other scented products.

To attend this event virtually, registration is required. The Zoom format creates the opportunity for others to attend, but it will be a limited audience (100 online participants). Please plan to sign on a few minutes in advance of the presentation to ensure your inclusion in the list of attendees. Information to register will be available on the Friends web page: https:// pennekampparkfriends.org/events Click on the event shown on the calendar.

For more information or accessibility needs, contact Elena Muratori, park services specialist, at 305-676-3786. For more information on Florida’s State Parks, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org.

The air show is headquartered at NAS Key West’s Boca Chica Field, located at MM 8 on the Florida Keys Overseas Highway. Gates will open at 10 a.m. both days, with the show scheduled to begin at 11 a.m.

The legendary Blue Angels are internationally recognized for their superb formation flying and demonstrations of maneuvers used in aerial combat. The squadron, whose winter home was NAS Key West in the 1960s, will perform maneuvers in F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter aircraft beginning around 2:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

The Blue Angels date back to the end of World War II, when Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Chester W. Nimitz ordered the formation of a flight demonstration team to showcase naval aviation. An estimated 11 million spectators view their shows each year.

Also scheduled are civilian aerobatic exhibitions by leading air show performers including the four-man AeroShell Aerobatic Team, four-time World Aerobatic Championships freestyle winner Rob Holland, showman Skip Stewart flying his custom-built biplane Prometheus and flyer Bill Stein in his Zivko Edge 540.

Demonstrations by the famous Aftershock Jet Fire Truck and Eric Nelson’s Precision Exotics cars are planned as well.

In addition, attendees can view the Chapters Health Valor Program’s “American Veterans Traveling Tribute Wall,” an 80% scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C.

Static displays of more than 30 civilian and military aircraft, food and beverage vendors, virtual games and other attractions at vendor booths, a kids’ zone with rides and inflatables, souvenir booths and the presence of the Southernmost Car Club are to add to the show’s appeal.

General admission to the air show is free and spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets. Alternatively, they can purchase reserved box seats or “Flightline Club” VIP seating either in advance or, if available, on show days. Event information and ticketing is at airshowkeywest.com. — Contributed

U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Brian Vaught stands on an F/A-18F Super Hornet of the Blue Angels flight demonstration squadron on Naval Air Station Key West’s Boca Chica Field. The Blue Angels are set to headline the Southernmost Air Spectacular April 15 & 16.

V. HUYNH/U.S. Navy

Tropical Storm Eta’s winds brought a large billboard down in Key Largo in 2020. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

JANICE GARY

is a writer, dog mama and author of the awardwinning memoir, “Short Leash.” Her lifelong love of the Keys led her to living local on the rock with her husband and their dog, Ozzy, the Canine Tornado. janicegary.com

PAWS IN PARADISE

MEET KEY WEST’S LEGENDARY ‘CATMAN’ & HIS FLYING FELINES

Iwas sitting at Andy’s Cabana enjoying a fish taco when I heard someone mention the cat herder. A cat herder? Impossible.

Everyone knows you can’t herd cats. Ah, but there was a man who could.

Didn’t I know about the Catman? He’d performed at Mallory Square. Surely, I’d seen him.

Actually, I hadn’t.

I had been coming to Key West for years, but somehow had missed this act. When I moved to town full-time in 2019, I still couldn’t find the Catman and his flying cats. (He had moved the show to the docks at the then-Westin Resort.)

For me, he remained a Key West mythic figure, a bit of the elusive magic of the island.

Then last month, I was at Frenchie’s Cafe having lunch with friends when a charming man with curly gray locks and a French accent came through the door. “Dominique! Dominique!” everyone said.

“Who’s that?” I asked. My friend turned to me.

“Dominique LeFort. The Catman.”

It was an incredible moment. The Catman! Finally, my opportunity to get the scoop on the show, the man, the real story behind the flying cats of Key West.

Dominique graciously agreed to be interviewed. We met again at Frenchie’s the next week, where he began to unspool the fascinating tale of how this legendary show came to happen.

A quick search online showed me what had enthralled thousands in Key West over the years. I saw cats flying through the air. Cats leaping through rings of fire. And I saw the Catman in action, a whirlwind of stagecraft, magic and performance that was as amazing as the cats themselves.

And here’s where the story of the legendary show begins. Not with the training of the cats, but the training of the Catman.

It begins in Paris, where Dominique

LeFort studied drama, opera, mime and acrobatics at the famed Ecole Internationale de Theatre LeCoq. He went on to great success as “Rou Dou Dou the Clown,” performing in Canada, Las Vegas and Florida.

Eventually, he moved to the States for good.

One day, his young daughter begged him to get her a kitten. She adored it, but like any toddler sometimes pulled the kitty’s tail. The kitten, Chaton, began coming to Dominque for protection and the two bonded. As he watched the cat, he noticed the acrobatic playfulness and got an idea: Why not add the cat to his act?

The “Flying House Cats” were born when he observed the natural leaping abilities of felines and their extraordinary capability to land on four feet from a high distance. He taught Chaton to jump on a stool upon command by placing treats on it and encouraging the leap. Then he added other stools for the cat to leap on and off across the room.

Dominique’s philosophy on training is that first and foremost, the cat must choose you. All of his performers, he says, have been island cats with no special talents, except an interest in being with him. His training tips are pretty basic: Start slow, reward with dry treats and keep the training sessions very short at first. Repetition and patience are key. You are building a relationship, not just an obedient kitty.

After Chaton came Marlene. She was the cat he owned at the time he visited Key West for vacation. The weather and the performers at Mallory impressed him.

“I thought, why not live here?” That was in 1984 and the show grew to three, then four cats.

Along with Dominique’s outsized charisma and extensive training as an entertainer, it took off, leaping from the docks of Key West to stints at Las Vegas and Disney World. He and his fantastic felines — Oscar and Cossette, Sara, Chopin, George and Mandarin — have been on national television and garnered media attention around the world.

And then came March 2020.

“COVID came and everything was shut down. At that time, my oldest cat was 18 and another was 17 and it was time for them to retire,” he said.

That’s when Dominique realized he, like his cats, was at a point where it was time to stop working and enjoy life.

The cats spend their retirement as regular house cats, sleeping a lot during the day and being active at night. “They do what normal cats do,” he says. “Sometimes they play, sometimes they want to be alone.”

I asked if they missed performing. “Oh, yes. Like all animals, they like their routines. Performing was part of their routine.”

Then I asked if he missed performing. He grinned. “Of course. It was my life.”

These days, Dominique spends his time writing, “playing with his neurons” (thinking), and prowling the town on his own.

And his timing is right. Fire is no longer allowed at Mallory Square, and other longtime performers at the Sunset Celebration, such as Will Soto, are leaving town.

But Dominique is still here. You can find him at Mallory Square most evenings (part of my routine, he jokes), kibitzing with the performers and taking pictures with his fans. You can also see his show online at catmankeywest.com. Or stop by Frenchie’s Cafe on United Street, where he’s known to grab a cup of coffee and chat in his native tongue with owners Frenchie and Stephanie.

With Saint Patrick’s Day coming up, I suggested he help the Key West community by taking his cats out of retirement and training them to herd our rats into the sea, much like St. Patrick of Irish lore.

“Not interested,” he said. “Besides, cats don’t work in a team. They’re not dogs.”

He had already told me he doesn’t work with dogs. “Not challenging enough.”

So, Dominique LeFort is passing on a chance for sainthood. But who needs that? How can you top flying cats and the magic of being the Key West Catman?

You can’t.

Dominique ‘Catman’ LeFort and one of his flying felines, Sara, spent years as sunset performers in Key West. JOE AULT/Contributed

Raise a glass

CELEBRATE WITH BUBBLY

Celebrate!

Célébrer! Świętować!

Celebrare! In any language, Champagne is the wine of choice for celebrations.

Three hundred million bottles and $5 billion later, it must be said that there is something incredibly special about those bubbles. About 150 km, or 90 miles, east of Paris is the coldest wine-growing region in France and also one of the smallest, just about twice the size of San Francisco. Here is the only place in the world that is allowed to call its wine Champagne. Every other sparkling wine made in the world; and most every other wine-producing country makes a sparkling wine, cannot use the term Champagne. In Spain it is called Cava, in Germany it is called Sekt, in Italy it is Asti or Prosecco or Franciacorta. In Burgundy, Loire and Alsace it is Crémant, and in America it is sparkling wine.

What makes Champagne so special? The region has a rugged cold climate, hillside vineyards, and a unique chalk-and-limestone-rich soil that you can taste in the wine. There are only three grapes allowed to make Champagne and they must be handharvested — Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. The blend of each Champagne house directly affects the aromas, flavor and style of the finished wine. Chardonnay brings floral aromas, freshness, acidity and biscuit flavors. Pinot Noir gives red berry aroma, structure and spiciness. Pinot Meunier adds a bright fruitiness to the wine. Most are a blend, aka cuvée, of these grapes. When the label says Blanc de Blancs (white from white), it is made only with Chardonnay. When the label says Blanc de Noirs (white from black), it is made only with Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier. If the label has a vintage date, like 2010 Lanson, all the grapes must come from that year’s harvest. These are not common and are usually expensive. Most Champagne is non-vintage, meaning the wine is blended from reserves at the winery to create a consistent house-style year after year, such as, for instance, Veuve Clicquot.

How does Champagne make 10 to 15 million bubbles per glass? It happens in the bottle with the second fermentation; Champagne is the only wine made this way. It starts out as still wine. The grapes are fermented dry in stainless steel vats. Note: A few houses ferment in oak, namely, Krug and Bol-

linger, and some special bottlings such as Clos Lanson and Sous Bois.

Assemblage: The grapes are intricately blended to create a consistent house style.

DRUMMERS SET THE PACE

RAY WEST

... is a wine lover and expert, and is the eighth woman in the world to earn the title of Master Sommelier, the highest professional qualification in the hospitality industry.

Liqueur de tirage: This blend is bottled with a small amount of cane sugar and yeast, which creates a second fermentation in the bottle. This second fermentation creates alcohol and carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide dissolves into the wine and, simply put, this is the magic that creates those Champagne bubbles. The corks are cylindrical when inserted, but due to compression, develop the iconic mushroom shape over time.

The cork is held with a muselet, the wire cage around the cork. A bottle of Champagne has the pressure of a bus tire; open with care.

Before the 17th century, sparkling wine was nicknamed “le vin du diable” (“the devil’s wine”).

Cellar workers wore masks and body armor due to the exploding bottles and shooting corks. A littleknown fact is that Dom Perignon did not invent Champagne. Truth is, an English scientist C. Merrett, in 1662, presented the theory of the Champenoise method (second fermentation in the bottle) many years before DP. Sorry to disappoint. Another Englishman invented the thick glass bottles still used today.

I love Champagne; I drink it often. The price? Drink less, drink better. Until next time, cheers!

LIZ’S WINE PICKS

Save a little: Champagne Lanson. Black Label Brut. (A personal favorite). Pinot Noir dominates, ripe, rich, red fruit, brioche and honeycomb. Balanced and elegant. $50.

Spend a little: Champagne Pol Roger Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill 2013. Powerful, structured, creamy, vanilla, candied fruit, citrus and pie crust, endless finish. $250.

When most of us see a super nice car, we are taken with the aesthetics or how fast it can go. Only a few of us consider the intricacies of the internal combustion engine that dictates how fast the car goes or how much power the truck has. Such is the plight of the average working drummer.

The drummer, though rarely the “face of the franchise,” is perhaps the most important player on the field of live music. Often hidden behind a wall of shiny brass, the drummer dictates the tempo, volume and intensity of most live playing situations.

Let’s work our way through a very average song structure. The drummer counts it off — 1, 2, 3, 4. From this exact point on, the speed or tempo of the song is laid down by the drummer. And he has to know what that is going to be, then stay as true to that tempo for the entire song, unless the song changes tempo, then he needs to handle that also. The entire band depends on that tempo, and everything they do is governed by it.

As we play through the intro, which can include any number of specific hits and fills, we come to the verse. The texture of the verse needs to differ from that of the intro, while creating a “feel” that is in line with what the band intends. A chorus usually follows the verse, and the drummer changes “feels” yet again, increasing the intensity as the music requires. The drummer may strike the drums with

more velocity or increased frequency while keeping the tempo intact. Many songs include a bridge, which is an entirely new section, with yet a different “feel.”

... a professional musician, singer, actor and executive director of the Key West Music Awards, is known to sacrifice his comfort for that of his cat.

Then back to a chorus, which may change in intensity as the song proceeds. This does not include solos. Those require intense listening skills and the ability to play well with others. All the while remaining conscious of volume. All this for a simple song.

In some situations, the drummer is filling in and is not well rehearsed in the material. He must rely on his practice, his technique, his musical instinct and his communication skills to guide him through the gig. Robert Brandon, a professional drummer who travels the country playing with bands and multiple theater groups explains it this way.

“Cues and communication come from a plethora of options that include a look, physical gestures and even in a verbal manner,” he said. “Sure, there are chord progressions, melodies, callbacks to phrases and fills that musically set up a transition or indicate moving forward with new ideas. The most important thing you can do is to look up, communicate and enjoy creating art with those you share the space with.”

None of what we have touched on here includes the thousands of hours of practice, the understanding of rhythm and time signatures, a steady tempo, hundreds of possible beats and flavors, syncopation and back beat, downbeat, paradiddles, a one drop and the knowledge of not only which drums are which, but how to put those drum kits together, take them apart and then put it all on your scooter and get it home each night.

Robert Brandon travels the country playing with a new group every few months. CONTRIBUTED

ELIZABETH SCH -

Thursday, March 16

• The Big Pine Key Botanical Society will hold its monthly meeting at 7:30 p.m. at the Big Pine United Methodist Church, 280 Key Deer Boulevard on Big Pine Key.

Friday, March 17

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

Saturday, March 18

• Key West’s chapter of National Organization for Women (NOW) will host a fundraiser for its Connie Gilbert Scholarship from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Gardens Hotel, 526 Angela St., Key West. KWNOW is hosting a live orchid auction, silent auction and plein air painting. Funds will be used for scholarships for Monroe County women to continue their education. In 2022 four scholarships were given, totaling $7,000. Free admission, cash bar. Donations to the auction greatly appreciated; contact Darlene Lovell Thomas at 305-304-1043 or email kwnowinfo@ gmail.com.

Monday, March 20

• Congregation B’nai Zion will host a free screening of “The Keeper,” about a German prisoner of war in the United Kingdom who becomes a football (soccer) star after the war, causing outrage to thousands of fans. Movies are shown the 3rd Monday of the month from November to April at the synagogue, 750 United St. Movies are free and open to all. Doors open at 7 and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. Coffee is served after the movie.

Wednesday, March 22

• The Key West chapter of NOW’s Women’s Film Festival continues with a screening of “Cleo from 5 to 7,” two hours in the life of a beautiful, young, famous pop singer as she awaits the results of cancer tests. The film starts at 6 p.m. at the Tropic Cinema, Key West.

Friday, March 24

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

Saturday, March 25

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

Tuesday, March 28

• The Keys Chamber Orchestra and the Lower Keys Community Choir will perform Easter cantatas at 7:30 p.m. at the Big Pine United Methodist Church, 280 Key Deer Blvd.

Wednesday March 29

• The Keys Chamber Orchestra and the Lower Keys Community Choir will perform Easter cantatas at 7:30 p.m. at Venture Out on Spanish Main Drive, Cudjoe Key. Concerts are free and last about an hour.

• The Key West chapter of NOW closes its month-long Women’s Film Festival with the landmark documentary from 2022, “The Janes.” The Jane Collective provided thousands of safe abortions in Chicago in the late ’60s and early ’70s before Roe v. Wade was decided in 1973. The film’s directors, Emma Pildes and Tia Lessen, won the Alfred I. duPont-Columbia Award’s Silver Baton for outstanding public service for reporting in television, radio and digital journalism for this film. After the 6 p.m. screening, two of the original Janes, now in their 80s, will be available for discussion about how the current situation compares with their experiences 50 years ago.

April 15 & 16

• Blue Angels return for the Southernmost Air Spectacular at Naval Air Station Key West at MM 8. Admission is free both days. Gates open at 10 a.m. and the show starts at 11 a.m.

BRIEFLY

Key West honors Women’s History Month

Mayor Teri Johnston and the Key West City Commission proclaimed March as Women’s History Month. The proclamation notes that women of every race, class and ethnic background have made historic contributions to the growth and strength of our nation and our community.

In fact, women have played a unique role throughout history by providing the majority of the volunteer labor force and were particularly important in the establishment of charitable, philanthropic and cultural institutions.

They have served in the military and are leaders who secured their own rights of suffrage and equal opportunity, but were also integral in the abolitionist movement, industrial labor movement, civil rights movement, and in the peace movement.

The proclamation was accepted by Darlene Lovell Thomas, executive director of the local chapter of the National Organization for Women.

Road construction in Key West will affect traffic

Two road work projects are taking place in Key West.

Travel on South Roosevelt Boulevard from Bertha Street to the end of Smathers Beach is reduced to a single lane in each direction while staging of equipment and materials takes place in preparation for new drainage installation.

Portions of the promenade remain open. Please follow the designated pedestrian path for areas where the promenade is closed. Stairway No. 11 is closed. Please use open stairways for beach access.

Electrical work is in progress on Whitehead Street from Fleming Street to west of Truman Avenue. Sidewalk repair will begin at the corners of Angela and Whitehead streets.

No lane closures or detours are anticipated this week; however, traffic may be delayed or detoured at intersections while equipment is in use. Temporary pedestrian detours near intersections may be necessary. Some parking spaces near intersections will be closed for equipment.

Botanical Garden seeks volunteers

The 15-acre Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden seeks volunteers who want to learn about native plants by helping preserve the only "frost-free" botanical garden in the continental United States. Enjoy sharing time with fellow gardeners, trimming, weeding, installing new plants and performing general maintenance in the garden or in the native plant nursery where propagation and maintenance of over 1,500 plants takes place. All tools and gloves are supplied.

Volunteers meet in the nursery on Wednesday and Saturday mornings from 9 a.m. to noon.Call 305-296-1504 or visit keywest.garden. The garden is located at 5210 College Road, Stock Island.

Key West man arrested for battery with knife

A 70-year-old Key West liveaboard resident was arrested March 13 for attacking another liveaboard resident with a knife. There were no life-threatening injuries reported.

Scott Alan King was charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.

The Sheriff’s Office was called to Margaret Street near the Key West Harbor at about 11:45 a.m. King and the 31-year-old male victim were present. The victim was being treated by the Key West Fire Department for cuts to his hands. The victim said King’s vessel had begun dragging anchor, causing their boats to hit each other.

The victim was working to resolve the issue when King became angry and cut both the victim’s hands with a filet knife. King was taken to jail.

KEEP KEY WEST BEAUTIFUL

TAKE ME HOME?

HOUR

JOIN A 1-HOUR CLEANUP EVERY FRIDAY MORNING

FIND A FRIEND AT THE FLORIDA KEYS SPCA

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

From cats and dogs to Guinea

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

The SPCA’s Golden Paw program also provides special assistance with vet bills and medications for special-needs and older animals that require a little extra TLC. Check these pages each week for just a few of the animals waiting for a home and see them all at fkspca.org.

Another record-breaking Friday cleanup occurred March 10, when 54 Ploggers met at the corner of Duval and Virginia streets. In one hour, they collected 173 pounds of trash, 17 pounds of recycling and 4 gallons of cigarette butts. Bethony and Juliet received the city manager’s extra mile coin for bringing in an additional 3.5 gallons of cigarette butts collected from around the city during the week. Special thank you to host Flamingo Crossing, which provided everyone with water and a coupon to come back for a free ice cream. CONTRIBUTED

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

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

A troubling number of cigarette butts and plastic bags have been included in recent hauls. Please remember your reusable bags when shopping so we can keep the plastic off the streets, parking lots and, most importantly, out of the water. And dispose of cigarette butts in any receptacle rather

Join an upcoming Friday morning cleanup from 8 to 9 a.m.

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

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

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

than the street or sidewalk, as from there, they easily end up in the ocean.

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

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

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

Betty is a 4-year-old female pit bull terrier. She loves her toys, snuggles with humans once she gets to know you and gets along with other pups. She is a staff favorite and could be yours.

Ninja is a 5-year-old female domestic shorthair. Her owner was deployed overseas two years ago and Ninja is a sweet kitty still looking for her furever home.

Fruit Stripe is a 1-year-old female domestic shorthair. She was found as a stray, so we are still learning her personality, but she has a lot of energy and is ready for a fun home.

Sunny is a 4-year-old male domestic shorthair. He’s had a lot of ups and downs in his life, making him timid at first. But once he knows you, he is all cuddles.

Splinter is a 1-year-old male rat. Splinter and his pal Gus will be adopted together. Rats are social, smart and make great pets.

FRIDAY

SUNDAY, APRIL 9 TH 2023

FLAGLER BALLROOM BREAKFAST

7:00AM–10:30AM | FLAGLER BALLROOM

EASTER EGG HUNT

11:00AM | EAST BEACH | EASTER BUNNY ARRIVES AFTER THE EGG HUNT

EASTER BRUNCH

11:30AM–3:00PM | FLAGLER BALLROOM | LIVE MUSIC | $95++/ADULT, $30++/CHILD Soup | Salads | Ice Sculpted Raw Bar & Sushi Boat Display | Charcuterie & Cheese

1855 Angus Ribeye | Huli Huli Grilled Chicken | Coconut Cashew Crusted Mahi Mahi Kids Buffet | Omelet Station | Home Baked Desserts | Ice Cream Sundae Bar

EASTER DINNER

5:30PM–9:30PM | SUN-SUN BEACH BAR & GRILL | LIVE MUSIC

Regular Dinner Menu with Chef’s Easter Special Plate | A la Carte Pricing

RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED:

OPENTABLE.COM | 305 296 3535 X7865

CASAMARINARESORT COM

1500 REYNOLDS ST, KEY WEST, FL

UNDER CONTRACT

1500 Atlantic Blvd. 311 | Key West | MLS # 604361

True Oceanfront Living on the edge of the Atlantic! 2 bed /2 bath condo at the Key West Beach Club with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. $1,730,000

PENDING SALE

LOCALS SPECIAL 2 COURSE DINNER $39 ADD DESSERT FOR 50% OFF

CHOOSE 1 STARTER & 1 ENTREE

STARTER: Caprese Salad or Caesar Salad. ENTRÉE: Chicken Piccata, 6oz. Filet Mignon, Key West Yellow Tail or Vegetarian Pasta. DESSERT: Award Winning Key Lime Pie or Dulce de Leche Cheesecake

Wednesday - Sunday 5pm - 7pm. Reservations recommended 305-295-3255. Excludes Holidays and must present a local ID.

2012 Patterson Ave. | Key West | MLS # 601696

Lovely midtown 2 bed/3 bath home has an in-law suite with 3rd full bath & separate front entry. Galley kitchen is updated with stainless steel appliances. Mature tropical poolside and covered outdoor living space. Home being sold fully furnished. $999,000

SPA SPECIAL COUPLES MASSAGE

50-Minute couples massage (deep tissue or Swedish) Champagne (2 glasses) | Small spa amenity $300 per couple (plus tax and 20% gratuity)

CFK GRAD WINS AQUACULTURE AWARD FOR BLACK GROUPER RESEARCH

Caeley Flowers, a recent graduate of the College of the Florida Keys’ (CFK), was recognized last month for her research on black grouper at the World Aquaculture Society’s “Aquaculture America 2023” conference in New Orleans.

She was the only undergraduate to receive a Best Student Abstract Travel Award from the American Fisheries Society, Fish Culture Section, for her presentation on research conducted in the capstone experience of the bachelor’s degree in marine resource management program.

Flowers’ presentation was titled “From Guts to Glory: Recirculating Aquaculture of Black Grouper Myceteroperca bonaci at the College of the Florida Keys.”

Flowers graduated from CFK with a bachelor’s in marine resource management (’22), an associate’s degree in marine environmental technology (’20), and college credit certificates in professional research diving (’20) as well as tropical ornamental mariculture technician (’22). She is now employed at CFK as the STEM coordinator.

Flowers’ research on black grouper is part of an ongoing project at CFK’s Southernmost Marine Aquaculture Research and Training (SMART) Center. The goal of the SMART Center is to conduct undergraduate research as a training tool while providing students professional experience through internships and research assistantships

— all while helping to restore the marine environment back to historic levels. The “Guts to Glory” project centers on using grouper gonads discarded in the fishing industry to perform in-vitro fertilization to breed the species. Grouper is commercially valuable as a food source, but aquaculture of the species is difficult.

FCS recognizes excellence in student research by offering "best abstract travel awards" to student members for AFS Annual Meetings and Aquaculture America conferences. To be eligible, a student must be a current member of the Fish Culture Section and should be giving an oral or poster presentation relevant to fish culture at the conference.

The American Fisheries Society, the world’s oldest and largest professional organization dedicated to the fisheries sciences, started in 1870 as the American Fish Culturists’ Association. The society’s fish culture-related concerns are now represented by the Fish Culture Section, formed in 1974 as one of its first fisheries disciplineoriented units. The section represents those directly involved in fish culture and those involved in allied fields such as nutrition, physiology, toxicology, drug development, genetics and breeding, bioengineering and system design, economics, fisheries management and ecology.

— Contributed

Caeley Flowers honored at New Orleans aquaculture conference

Above: American Fisheries Society Fish Culture Section (FCS) President Jeff Heindel, CFK graduate Caeley Flowers, and FCS Immediate Past President and CFK instructor Mick Walsh at the World Aquaculture Society conference in February.

Below: Caeley Flowers (center) and fellow student marine research assistants check on a female black grouper at CFK in 2021.

LIFE IS MEANT FOR LIVING

KEYS YOGI LEADS LIFE - CHANGING RETREATS AROUND THE WORLD

“My heart hasn’t been this open since I gave birth!” a grateful Lauren Ferrante told her laughing yoga students, travel partners and friends. Seated around a long, communal table, the group of 27 had just spent the prior week together at La Dogana, a traditional organic olive oil estate in the middle of Italy. Now, we held up generous glasses of red and white wine while singing Dean Martin’s classic-and-kitschy “That’s Amore” to toast our gracious teacher and host on our last night together.

This was actually Ferrante’s first-ever retreat – though you wouldn’t know it by how incredible the week was. Beneath the Tuscan sun, we all became a little family –exploring, laughing, eating and, yes, doing some yoga.

We would have anywhere from one to three hours of morning practice that were completely and truly optional – no judgment. You could get on the mat or sleep in. Then we’d sit down for a fresh cappuccino and breakfast, sweaty, happy and together, before starting our day’s adventures. These included cultural experiences like pizza-making class and wine tastings, a picnic with fresh cheeses and more wine, wandering around medieval Italian cities and experiencing la dolce vita. All of it felt steeped in tradition and genuine, and never touristy. Finally, we’d return home to our villa for a homemade, communal dinner, followed by more relaxing, dancing, chatting and connecting.

“Thinking about Italy gives me goosebumps,” Ferrante told the Keys Weekly from her beachfront “yoga studio” at Islamorada’s Cheeca Lodge, a few months after returning. “I love traveling, new experiences and getting out of my comfort zone, and I absolutely f***ing adore what I do,

TIFFANY DUONG

is a self-made mermaid who loves all things cheesy (romantic and dairy) and thrives in the 3 a.m. hour. She believes in leaving it all on the field and has never met a (mis)adventure she didn’t love.

so to marry all those things was just out of this world!”

Ferrante’s retreats are – in her words –“yoga AND …,” meaning there is a balance of time on the mat and everything else that the host location has to offer. She curates balance and fun alongside deep and “juicy” yoga practices.

“A lot of people who come to my retreats are in the grind and living that life, and this takes them out of that,” Ferrante said. “It allows them to reset and get a taste of what I try to create for myself every day here in the Keys – being surrounded by nature and enjoying a simpler life. It’s just so much more beautiful to me. Those are the things I want my retreats to allow people to experience.”

Ferrante’s appeal – among many things – is her authenticity. She explained, “There are days I’m feeling woo-woo, and I’ll get emotional and deep, and there are days when it’ll be light, and there will be f-bombs, and it’ll be whatever it’s going to be. And, I’m just being me.”

“And, that gives other people the permission to do the same. I do think this practice is for every body, every single body, and the more people can come to everything they do in life as themselves and be honest and be in alignment with

what their truth is, then the happier they’re going to be,” she added.

The Keys yogi is an Islamorada mainstay, teaching daily classes at Cheeca Lodge and Casa Morada. The retreat guests who weren’t her Keys regulars were past resort guests who had wandered into Ferrante’s classes and became hooked on her particular zest for life and style of teaching.

“My style of yoga is intuitive,” she explained. “I really try to feel into the people that have shown up to my class and what they need and try to tap into my intuition. And, when I do so, it’s always right. People seem to be getting exactly what they need.”

It doesn’t matter if you can do warrior two or a headstand, or if you just want to stay in child’s pose the entire time, she encourages. She knows, and she teaches, that yoga is about giving yourself what you need and nothing else.

Her style clearly resonates with people. Ferrante’s classes are the No. 1 attraction listed for the village’s Spa and Wellness category on TripAdvisor – with a perfect, five-star rating. Her first retreat sold out in a record three days; her upcoming retreat in Greece also sold out in days. And, this year’s revamped Italy itinerary includes “experiences you couldn’t imagine” during two back-to-back weeks at La Dogana. There are just a few spots left in each week.

“It’s going to be incredible – not to be missed,” Ferrante closed. “Life is to be lived and experienced. So, let’s do it.”

To learn more about Ferrante’s classes or retreats, follow her on Instagram @IslandFlowYoga, email Laurenferrante1@gmail.com or call (516) 458-8622.

The entire retreat “famiglia” gathers for a photo during the traditional white party dinner on the last night. CONTRIBUTED

Lauren Ferrante leads a “juicy” vinyasa flow class at La Dogana during her 2022 retreat. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly

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

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of T COMMERCE CENTRAL located at P.O. BOX 29, TAVERNIER, FL 33070 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Tristan Garcia

Publish:

March 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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Island Storage, Inc., 10730 4th Avenue, Gulf, Marathon, Florida 33050, will sell or otherwise dispose of the contents of the following units to satisfy delinquent storage liens.

The following unit contains commercial kitchen items:

Shamera Simmons

Unit H-13

$472.50

Auction will occur from 8:00AM – 5:00PM on Thursday, March 30, 2023 at Island Storage, Inc., 10730 4th Avenue, Gulf, Marathon, FL 33050. The terms of the sale will be cash only. Island Storage, Inc. reserves the right to refuse any bids.

Publish:

March 16 & 23, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

BEST LIEN SERVICES INC. LOCATED

AT9:00AM AT: 7290 SW 41 ST

MIAMI, FL 33155 WILL SELL AT A

RESERVE PUBLIC SALE AT 9:00 AM

THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES AT SAID LOCATION TO SATISFY LIEN

PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 713.585 OF THE FLORIDA STATUES.

1974 PORS CV 4742920800

DATE OF SALE: APR. 3,

2023 AT: 1503 AQUEDUCT

LANE, KEY LARGO, FL 33037

PHONE#:786-328-9393

2019 ROCE TL

7KJBYEX26KA015287

DATE OF SALE: APR. 10,

2023 AT: 97951 OVERSEAS

HWY, KEY LARGO, FL 33037

PHONE#:305-852-2025

OWNER/LIENHOLDER MAY

INSPECT/RECOVER VEHICLE BY CONTACTING BEST LIEN SERVICES

7290 SW 41 ST MIAMI, FL 33155

(1-866-299-9391) AT LEAST 1 WEEK

PRIOR TO THE LIEN SALE, ALL

SALES ARE WITH RESERVE 20%

BUYERS PREMIUM.

Publish:

March 16, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-32-K

IN RE: ESTATE OF FLORA A. VAUGHN

A/K/A DYNE B. VAUGHN

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

of Flora A. Vaughn a/k/a Dyne B. Vaughn, deceased, whose date of death was November 5, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: March 16, 2023.

Personal Representative:

Michael S. Vaughn 29520 Cupon Rd. Big Pine Key, Florida 33043

Attorney for Personal

Representative:

Robert K. Miller, Esq.

Attorney

Florida Bar Number: 359173

Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938

Marathon, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-9428

Fax: (305) 743-8800

E-Mail: service@floridakeyslaw. com

Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com

Publish:

March 16 & 23, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 23-CP-45-K IN RE: ESTATE OF PATRICIA A. IMMENDORF-GEORGE

A/K/A PATTI A. GEORGE

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Patricia A. Immendorf-George a/k/a Patti A. George, deceased, whose date of death was January 15, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION

733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS

Robert K. Miller, Esq.

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173

Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938

Marathon, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-9428

Fax: (305) 743-8800

E-Mail: service@floridakeyslaw. com

Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com

Publish: March 16 & 23, 2023

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

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-000063-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF GENO J POPOLI, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of GENO J POPOLI, deceased, whose date of death was February 21, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division: File Number 23-CP-000063-K the address of which is 500 Whitehead St., Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative(s) and the personal representative(s)’ attorney is set forth below. The Fiduciary lawyerclient privilege in s. 90.5021 FLA. STAT. applies with respect to the personal representative and any attorney employed by the personal representative.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons, who have claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmature, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this notice, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 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 who have 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 SO FILED 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 16, 2023.

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE:

ALTOVISE E. MOORE 414 Julia Street Key West, Florida 33040

ATTORNEY FOR PERSONAL

REPRESENTATIVE:

Nakeitha Sweeting Hodrick, Esq.

FBN: 0079847

Sweeting Law & Mediation, P.A. 20451 NW 2nd Avenue, Suite 1125 Miami, Florida 33169 786.279.4841

Publish: March 16 & 23, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-000038-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF GLORIA L. WINDUS, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of GLORIA L. WINDUS, deceased, whose date of death was October 7, 2022; File Number 23-CP000038-K, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representatives and the personal representatives’ attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of Decedent and other persons having claims or demands against Decedent’s

LEGAL NOTICES

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 the 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 PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is March 16, 2023. Signed on this 6th day of March, 2023.

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES:

VALERIE L. TRUDEAU 263 Lake Street Saranac Lake, New York 12983 VICTORIA L. RUSSO 2926 W. Balmoral Avenue Chicago, Illinois 60625

ATTORNEY FOR PERSONAL

REPRESENTATIVES:

Joshua T. Keleske, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0548472 Joshua T. Keleske, P.L. 3333 W. Kennedy Blvd. Suite 204 Tampa, Florida 33609 Telephone: (813) 254-0044

Email: jkeleske@trustedcounselors. com

Publish:

March 16 & 23, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 22-CP-000086-M

IN RE: ESTATE OF KIMBERLY FARIS SCHMIDT,

LEGAL NOTICES

aka KIMBERLY SCHMIDT WEAVER Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of KIMBERLY FARIS SCHMIDT, also known as KIMBERLY SCHMIDT WEAVER, deceased, whose date of death was July 28, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: March 16, 2023. Signed on this 6th day of March, 2023.

Personal Representative:

SAMANTHA L. WEAVER 2313 Calle Lobina San Clemente, CA 92673

Attorney for Personal

Representative: Steven A. Sciarretta, Esquire Florida Bar No. 542695 STEVEN A. SCIARRETTA, P.A. 2799 NW Boca Raton Blvd., Suite 203

NOW HIRING

IT Support Analyst

INCLUDES MONROE COUNTY BENEFITS PACKAGE

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

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

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

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

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

LEGAL NOTICES

Boca Raton, FL 33431

Telephone: 561-368-7978

E-mail: steve@saslaw.net

Secondary E-Mail: susan@saslaw. net

Publish:

March 16 & 23, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

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

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-000046-K

IN RE: ESTATE OF SARA ELLEN MARIE VITA, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Sara Ellen Marie Vita, 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 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 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 16, 2023.

Personal Representative:

Donna Marie Vita

3 Foster Lane Norwalk, CT 06853

Attorney for Personal Representative:

Dawn Ellis, Esq.,

Dawn@MyFloridaProbate.com

Florida Bar Number: 091979

My Florida Probate, P.A. P.O. Box 952 Floral City, FL 34436-0952 (352) 726-5444 Publish:

March 16 & 23, 2023

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

FILE NO.: 2023-CP-19-P IN RE: ESTATE OF WILLIAM EDWIN ARMSTRONG Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of WILLIAM EDWIN ARMSTRONG, deceased, whose date of death was January 17, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal 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

NOW HIRING

Network Administrator

INCLUDES MONROE COUNTY BENEFITS PACKAGE

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

The Network Administrator is primarily responsible for maintenance and support of all network and server infrastructure services including LAN, firewalls, servers, wireless and associated network management, and monitoring platforms. This includes enterprise network planning, high-level troubleshooting, security, and network system administration.

Salary is $65,000 – $72,000 annually, depending on experience, plus Monroe County benefit package. See complete job description at www.Keyscourts.net.

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

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

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS

AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN

THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

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

The date of first publication of this notice is: March 16, 2023.

Personal Representative: KSENIA LEONTEVA

82260 Overseas Highway

Islamorada, FL 33036

Attorney for Personal Representatives:

URBAN J. W. PATTERSON, ESQ.

Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com

Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@ yahoo.com

Florida Bar No. 382035

Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A.

P.O. Box 783 Islamorada, Florida 33036

Telephone: 305-664-5065

Publish: March 16 & 23, 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.

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 OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 23-DR-44-K

DIVISION: FAMILY IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF: HADAR MOSHE, Petitioner, and, CLAUDIA GALINDO, Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT)

TO: CLAUDIA GALINDO

LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 4320 SW 5TH STREET, MIAMI, FL 33134

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 HADAR MOSHE, whose address is 3839 DUCK AVENUE, KEY WEST, FL 33040 on or before April 17, 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 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: March 13, 2023

Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida

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

Dated: February 15, 2023

Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk 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!

EMPLOYMENT

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

Coast to Coast Pizza Company in Marathon is looking for front of the house cashier, part time. Will train, but should be outgoing with leadership traits and wellorganized, self-motivated, with a passion for customer service. Salary commensurate with experience and includes tips and 401k. Please call Nicole at 305-433-0515, or email nicole@themoongroupfl.com.

Grassy Flats Resort on Grassy Key now hiring Housemen, Housekeepers, Kitchen Staff & Front Desk Agent. Email: hiring@grassyflats.com

Come Join Our Family and Have Fun At Work!

Hiring: Host, Hostess & Servers - Full &/or parttime. AM & PM Shifts. Apply in person at Castaway Restaurant, end of 15th Street, Oceanside, Marathon or email: lobstercrawl@gmail.com

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

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. $3750 per month plus utilities F/L/S [first, last, and security deposit]. 800-324-6982.

Kevin

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

By: Marissa Lockwood

Deputy Clerk

Publish:

March 16, 23, 30 and April 6, 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 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

Cars - Vans - TrucksRunning or Not.

$CASH$ 305-332-0483

EMPLOYMENT

Frank's Grill in Marathon now hiring servers and bussers. 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.

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time dishwasher. $14/hr, Private Club & Friendly Atmosphere, Flexible Afternoon/Evening Hours Tuesday – Saturday. Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.

Keys Cable Park on Grassy Key now hiring Kitchen Staff, Watersports Guide & Retail Manager. Email: hiring@grassyflats.com

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

City of Marathon Current Job Openings: Customer Service Rep./Admin. Asst., WW Operator/Controls Trainee, and Right of Way Technician. Full Benefits. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us

Administrative Assistant III/ Receptionist

INCLUDES STATE OF FLORIDA BENEFITS PACKAGE

The 16th Judicial Circuit Court 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.

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.

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: Cashier - must be 16 yrs or older, Full- time Baker & Part-time Baker's Assistant. Stop by for an application at 8919 Overseas Highway, Marathon or email: info@sweetsavannahs.com

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

CROSSWORD SOLUTION IS HIRING!

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.

3

SUPPORTED LIVING COACH

FULL TIME

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

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

NOW HIRING CONSTRUCTION

• 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

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 Executive Department:

TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION T&D ELECTRICAL 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.

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.

MAINTENANCE WORKER 4

Monroe County BOCC is looking for applicants for a Maintenance Worker 4 within our Facilities Maintenance department. Locations include Marathon & the Middle Keys areas. The primary function of this position is to perform all related repairs and/or maintenance to county facilities and grounds. High School Diploma or GED, 5 years minimum of prior related work experience in electrical, plumbing or carpentry & a valid FL driver’s license required. $44,308.30 to $68,677.88 annually (depending on experience).

APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE AT WWW.MONROECOUNTY-FL.GOV. For questions, please contact us at careers@monroecounty-fl.gov or 305-292-4557. Veteran’s Preference Available; E.O.E

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. EOE

•

HIRING

Must have valid Driver’s License & Transportation

Location: Upper Keys

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

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.

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.

Benefits

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

JOURNEYMAN ELECTRICIAN

LOCATION: MIDDLE KEYS

MUST HAVE an active Journeyman Electrician License. Duties: Install, inspect, test, repair and maintain all new and existing generators, motors, transformers, motor controllers, and associated equipment throughout our system, with base location in the middle keys. Minimum qualifications: Journeyman’s License, emphasis on electronics, industrial electrical, pneumatics, controls, building automation, fire alarm and HVAC systems, load calculations, conduit requirements, thorough knowledge of NEC requirements. Must be able to operate and use computers with various so ware applications, including Microso O ce Suite. Must have a valid Florida driver’s license. Must be able to communicate and comprehend the English language. Competitive benefit package including Florida Retirement System. $62,155.44-$98,454.90. DOQ

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

DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATOR

LOCATION: MARATHON

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for a Distribution System Operator to perform semi-skilled work, involving the repair and maintenance of FKAA water distribution and transmission systems. Qualifications: H.S. diploma or GED; supplemented by 1 yr. previous experience and/or training as a pipefi er with a public utility, construction or plumbing company preferred. Must have a High School; Diploma or GED and valid Florida Driver’s License. Must obtain a FDEP Level 3 license w/in 18 mos. of hire date. Salary: $48,909.19. Excellent benefits.

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

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

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

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

Great pay, benefits and perks. We offer a stable 40 hrs-per-week to our hourly employees, and more hours if you want! Part-time positions available if you are looking for a second job, or after-school job.

No Inglés. No Problema. Lo importante es que trabajes bien. Pa gen angle. Pa gen pwoblèm. Tout sa ki enpòtan se ke ou travay byen.

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

COME JOIN US!

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

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. IS HIRING!

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.

(search

THEME: COLLEGE BASKETBALL

ACROSS

1. Matt Damon/Ben Affleck

1999 movie

6. *Top seed

9. *Player’s target

13. Earth Day month

14. State V.I.P.

15. ____ firma

16. Rationalistic theology

17. Former name of Tokyo

18. Formed a curve

19. *One-____-____ rule

21. *Last year’s NCAA men’s tournament winner

23. Lenon’s wife

24. E-mail command

25. Bug spray brand

28. “By ____ of” or “by means of”

30. Like certain floss

35. Life stories, for short

37. Gulf War missile

39. Dough

40. Tiny purse or case

41. Mandarin’s headquarters

43. Like an omelette

44. Jaunty rhythms

46. Derived from capable

47. Party in Maui

48. Trouser measurement

50. L in SNL

52. *Encouragement from coach

53. Foretell

55. Lt.’s subordinate

57. *J in NJCAA

60. *Gambling scheme

64. Dick Van Dyke’s “____ ____

a Happy Face”

65. Freudian topic

67. Kind of ray

68. Silly 69. Mudbath site

70. Artemis’ companion 71. Type of salmon 72. College entrance exam 73. Instagram videos

DOWN

1. Bit of baby talk

2. Precedes sesame

3. Power system

4. Botch

5. Marcona nut

6. Curved molding

7. Endorsement

8. Call forth

9. Not his

10. Aquarium show star

11. Mine deposits

12. Water lily leaf

15. One behind the other

20. *Like crowd of fans?

22. “____ the crowd goes wild!”

24. Misstep

25. Obelus, pl.

26. Oddball’s attempt? (2 words)

27. *Each player gets 5 before disqualification

29. *Org.

31. Witty Coward

32. Dress up or deck out (2 words)

33. Blue-Green scum

34. *Easiest shot?

36. Location

38. Hero shop

42. Never say what?

45. Abduction of the ____

Women, Roman myth

49. Farm call

51. Bewitch

54. One step to success?

56. Close call

57. Elliot Page’s 2007 role

58. Home of Jazz

59. Unacceptable, to a baby

60. Gravy holder

61. ACL location

62. Short for “and elsewhere”

63. Small amounts

64. Selfie, e.g.

66. *Qualifying ____, eligibility criterion

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

FRESH

Breakfast: 8am – 11:30am

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

LIVE FROM THE LAWN

free concerts, featuring:

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

March 25th | 8pm Rob Benton with Special Guest, Sheldon Benton