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The mass of the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt – also known as the “blob” making its way towards Florida – is currently estimated at 13 million tons. This number may not be accurate for long, though, as the belt is capable of doubling in size in less than a month. See below.

13 million

Key West High School’s lacrosse team enjoys a successful 7-1 record this season.

ELLA HALL/Keys

Weekly

DEAL WITH THE SARGASSUM ‘BLOB?’

WHAT’S THE

habitat is a hotspot for biodiversity. In addition to providing vital food and protection for fish, mammals, marine birds, turtles, crabs and more, it serves as a nursery for mahi mahi and jack species.

The belt’s annual bloom usually begins in the winter and spring months, typically peaking in early to mid summer. Its distribution throughout the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea is largely driven by currents and ocean circulation.

“The ‘blob’ moves into the Caribbean … and some of that is carried up into the Gulf, and some of it is carried by the Gulf Stream around past the Tortugas along the Florida Keys up to Miami,” Bruckner said.

WHAT’S THE ISSUE?

While the floating version of sargassum provides a critical offshore habitat, piles of the algae on beaches and in nearshore waters can prove problematic.

While it serves many important ecological purposes, excessive quantities of the brown macroalgae known as sargassum can pose ecological and human health risks. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

DEFINING THE DETAILS AS THE MACROALGAE APPROACH THE KEYS

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

Massive offshore weedlines are the stuff of Keys bluewater anglers’ dreams. But though it’s too early to say for sure, the latest mass approaching the island chain is one they might wish went elsewhere.

By now, most have heard about the massive “blob” of sargassum – an umbrella term for hundreds of species of brown algae – approaching the Keys. Stretching nearly all the way across the Atlantic Ocean, with an estimated current mass of 13 million tons, it may undoubtedly prove problematic for the Keys in the coming months, as it has done most notably in the summers of 2018 and 2022.

But regardless of the picture painted by other reports, according to those who study the macroalgae, it doesn’t mean that thousands of miles of weeds are about to wash up on Keys beaches all at once. And it’s still too

early to predict the final picture for the island chain when all is said and done.

This week, Keys Weekly was fortunate to sit down with renowned Florida Atlantic University researcher Brian Lapointe and Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary research coordinator Andy Bruckner to better understand what’s driving the algae, and what the Keys can expect from here.

WHAT IS “THE BLOB?”

First things first: This isn’t a onetime traveling mass that appeared out of nowhere, and it’s entirely separate from red tide, although the two can cause similar effects.

The Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt is the world’s largest recurring macroalgae bloom, often extending from the west coast of Africa to the Gulf of Mexico across the southern edge of the Sargasso Sea. With air bladders that help it stay afloat and a rough, intertwining shape that helps keep large patches together, the massive floating

“Dead zones” can replace vital nurseries as large quantities of sargassum create anoxic conditions that threaten marine life. In shallow water, degrading algae masses can kill plants and animals on the seafloor, while hydrogen sulfide gas released by the decomposing organism is a toxic eye and respiratory irritant. As if that wasn’t enough, it smells like rotten eggs, an unwelcome scent for the throngs of tourists who frequent Florida’s beaches each year.

continued on page 12

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POINCIANA PLANS NEW BUILDINGS

PUBLIC MEETING SCHEDULED FOR MARCH 30

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

Agovernment and nonprofit partnership soon could lead to the replacement of the Poinciana Plaza public housing buildings on Duck Avenue, although one neighbor wants to be sure the public is apprised of the plans.

The U.S Navy built the boxy cement buildings in the 1950s to house some 212 sailors.

Nearly 50 years later, in 1996, the Navy gave the 33-acre property and its buildings to the city of Key West. At the time, the Navy’s Base Realignment & Closure (BRAC) process was closing several military installations worldwide, declaring the property surplus and giving it to cities, counties and qualified nonprofit providers that could demonstrate a valid plan for its future use.

In Key West, the city agreed to lease some of the buildings at Poinciana to local nonprofits that served the island’s most vulnerable residents — homeless, mentally ill, developmentally disabled and victims of domestic violence.

The Key West Housing Authority took ownership of the remaining buildings, and has rented those out to tenants who qualify for low-income housing.

Although all of the buildings are aging beyond their usefulness, for now, it’s the city’s social services buildings that could be slated for replacement, said City Commissioner Sam Kaufman, who also chairs the Florida Keys Outreach Coalition for the Homeless, which leases four Poinciana buildings from the city and provides a combination of transitional and permanent housing for residents who have struggled with homelessness and other challenges, including addiction, abuse and poverty.

“We’re only focused, for now, on the social services side of the Poinciana property,” Kaufman told the Keys Weekly on March 21.

Kaufman called the preliminary plans, which have not been submitted to or approved by any

city department, an exciting partnership among the city of Key West, which owns the land, and FKOC for the homeless, the MARC House (for developmentally disabled adults), and AH Monroe, which has built several affordable and workplace housing units throughout Key West.

The plan calls for the replacement of three FKOC buildings and one that’s leased by MARC (Monroe Association for Remarkable Citizens).

“But the need we have is to be able to house current residents of the buildings that will be demolished while we replace them,” Kaufman said.

So the plan, Kaufman said, is first to build two new buildings that will temporarily house residents whose buildings are being replaced.

“After those residents are in their new units, those two buildings will be used to house local first responders, police and firefighters,” Kaufman said.

He added that the very preliminary plans also include a parking garage for 120 or 150 cars that would be built inside the Poinciana complex to help relieve the parking shortage along Duck Avenue.

Kaufman said he hopes to have the plans before the city’s Development Review Committee, the first stop for any major construction or development application, in April.

“We want FKOC’s permanent housing to be replaced and increased with additional beds,” Kaufman said, emphasizing that the new and additional units will not be for transitional housing, but for permanent homes, for full-time working residents who have “graduated” from FKOC’s programs.

Nearby, Allen Tidball, who owns the only private house that abuts the Poinciana property, told the Keys Weekly that the preliminary plans concern him. Tidball wants to alert the community and surrounding neighborhood to the March 30 public meeting at Poinciana Royale.

Tidball is concerned about the plans to replace the current twostory buildings with three-story buildings, and questions the plans for the new parking garage.

FLORIDA WITHDRAWS FROM MULTI-STATE VOTER DATABASE

MOVE SURPRISES AND DISAPPOINTS

MANY LOCAL ELECTION OFFICIALS

Florida’s March 6 withdrawal from a nonprofit, multi-state database created to ensure accurate voter rolls and avoid duplicate voting shocked and disappointed many local election officials, including Monroe County Supervisor of Elections Joyce Griffin.

“I was stunned. We were all stunned,” Griffin told the Keys Weekly on March 21. “All the supervisors in Florida had fought for our state to join ERIC (Electronic Registration Information Center). But we didn’t know Florida was withdrawing until 15 minutes before it was announced. I don’t know why the governor and Florida secretary of state Cord Byrd did this. I’m really sorry that it happened, but I have to accept what I can’t change.”

Byrd announced Florida’s withdrawal from ERIC in a March 6 press release that alluded to partisan leadership on the board of the nonprofit and questions about data security.

“Today’s announcement follows efforts led by Florida over the past year to reform ERIC through attempts to secure data and eliminate ERIC’s partisan tendencies, all of which were rejected,” Byrd’s press release states. “Withdrawing from ERIC will ensure the data privacy of Florida voters is protected. Florida is joined in withdrawing from ERIC Membership today by the states of Missouri and West Virginia.

“As secretary of state, I have an obligation to protect the personal information of Florida’s citizens, which the ERIC agreement requires us to share. Florida has tried to back reforms to increase protections, but these protections were refused. Therefore, we have lost confidence in ERIC.”

But those statements from Byrd came just weeks after he had praised ERIC for helping Florida identify voters who had voted in more than one state, according to a March 6 article in Politico.

“Byrd told members of a legislative panel that the information was used in the arrest of a woman last November who had allegedly voted in both Alaska and Florida,” Politico’s Zach Montellaro and Gary Fineout write.

“‘We do derive valid information from ERIC in order to do list maintenance,’ Byrd told legislators.

“DeSantis himself pushed for Florida to join the group in 2019 after former Gov. Rick Scott had blocked it. The likely presidential contender has made ‘election integrity’ a talking point in his speeches and pushed to create a special unit to investigate election related crimes, including voter fraud. DeSantis even praised ERIC in passing during a press conference last summer as an important tool in that toolbox,” the Politico article continues.

Yet the multi-state partnership is now without one of its leading partners in Florida, which has one of the highest populations of seasonal residents.

‘COUPON FOR MILLIONAIRES’

WATER FLOW RETURNS BUT CONSERVE MESSAGE REMAINS

REPUBLICAN BILL OPENS SCHOLARSHIP ELIGIBILITY TO ALL K-12 STUDENTS

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Legislation that would open scholarship eligibility to more Florida students in kindergarten through 12th grade passed through the Republican-controlled House on day 11 of a 60-day session.

Currently, a student in a household of four making no more than $111,000, or 400% percent of the federal poverty line, is eligible for the Florida Tax Credit (FTC) Scholarship or the Family Empowerment Scholarship Program (FES). THE FTC provides scholarships to students with priority given to children of low-income families and those who are in foster care.

The FES program provides students with financial resources if they’re children of law enforcement or a military member, as well as children with disabilities. One part of the program assists students to pay for tuition and fees to attend a private school or transportation to a public school. The other part covers certain costs associated with disabled students, including instructional materials, tutoring and specialized services, to name a few.

Under Republican Rep. Kaylee Tuck’s House Bill 1, financial resources associated with those programs would expand beyond low- and middleincome families to any Florida K-12 student. A similar bill in the Senate, SB 202, is sponsored by Republican state Sen. Corey Simon.

Republican supporters touted the bill, which passed in the House via an 83-27 vote on March 17. It expands school choice to 2.9 million school-aged children, regardless of background, all while prioritizing lowincome families followed by middleincome families. Per the bill, students could receive an average of $8,000 from the state for school expenses.

“The goal is to deliver education in a much different way than the onesize-fits-all model that we all knew growing up,” Speaker Paul Renner said

following passage in the House. “The Florida model factors in the unique learning needs of every child to deliver education by empowering parents and students to choose the best way to achieve their educational goals, regardless of ZIP code, race or income.”

Many Democrats opposing the bill expressed concern that it would destroy the public school system and give wealthier families that already can afford sending their child to a private school a voucher. There were also issues with the projected cost associated with the scholarship expansion. According to a House analysis, scholarship funding would total $209.6 million. A Senate analysis of the expansion shows costs at $646.5 million.

“The truth is we don’t know how much that cost will be,” said Democratic Rep. Daryl Campbell, of Jacksonville. “Researchers are saying this will cost $2.1 billion. This money can be used to make the worst public schools in the state the best in the country.”

Democratic state Rep. Robin Bartleman, of Broward County, called the proposal a “coupon for millionaires” on the House floor before a vote. The Florida Education Association, composed of unions representing educators and school professionals, called on the public to oppose House Bill 1 and a Senate Bill 202, saying they “rip money away from public schools and give that money to unaccountable, private and religious schools vouchers.”

“All of Florida’s children should be able to get the education they deserve and need at fully funded and staffed public schools. This bill is going to make life tougher for a lot of kids. It will mean fewer resources in their schools, and fewer teachers and staff to meet their day-to-day needs,” said Andrew Spar, Florida Education Association president.

With approval of House Bill 1, Senate Bill 202 was set for a vote on March 22.

CAN’T AFFORD A LAWYER?

FREE LEGAL SERVICES AVAILABLE MARCH 31 IN KEY WEST

Legal Services of the Florida Keys will offer free legal consultations from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, March 31 at the Freeman Justice Center, 302 Fleming St., Key West. Attorneys will be available to help those who cannot afford legal services with issues such as landlord disputes, mortgage foreclosures, predatory lending, divorce and family law, disability benefits and other topics.

The free, legal clinic is for Florida Keys residents who cannot afford a lawyer, so income and residency restrictions apply.

Call 866-686-2760 to schedule a consultation, or register online at legalservicesmiami.org.

— Contributed

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Keys residents and visitors are witnessing improved water pressure coming out of the faucets after several breaks earlier in the month caused a decrease in the flow.

While water tanks are at acceptable levels, the millions of gallons pumping through the aged pipes were reduced in hopes to avoid another major break.

Conserve water requests remain on message boards along U.S. 1 and on FKAA’s website following three transmission line breaks in the Upper Keys over a three-day span in early to mid-March. Greg Veliz, FKAA executive director, said the breaks weren’t an isolated incident — it’s the reality of a transmission line reaching the end of its life as more water flowed through the pipes ever since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Veliz said some 25 million gallons of water were pumping through the pipes each day. FKAA has since reduced that to 22 million gallons a day.

“We believe that this will help us stay in operation far longer than running wide open (at 25 million gallons),” Veliz said.

The first break occurred across from Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina at MM 84.5 in Islamorada on March 8. Repair crews battled intense sun and heat to repair an aged pipe.

Just when that repair finished, a second break occurred roughly seven miles north at MM 92 in Tavernier. The break was worse than the first one, Veliz said, as northbound lanes of U.S. 1 were shut down to allow for the placement of new pipe. Crews worked some 30 hours between the first two breaks.

A third break occurred near the scene of the first break at MM 84.5 in Islamorada during the evening hours of March 11. That break was eventually fixed, but water pressure remained low, from Islamorada as far south as Key West.

An aged 30-inch pipe that burst at MM 92 in Tavernier on March 9. FKAA/Contributed

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KEYS HISTORIAN JERRY WILKINSON PASSES AWAY AT 94

Apassion for history ignited fourth-generation Floridian Jerry Wilkinson upon settling in Tavernier in 1988.

He amassed collections of records and the Keys’ unique stories. He invested in the community through a library at one local museum and scholarships for students.

Wilkinson passed away on March 16 at a hospital in South Miami. The famed historian, entrepreneur, philanthropist and adventurer who loved stained glass and photography was 94.

Per a biography by the Historical Preservation Society of the Upper Keys, which he served as president, Wilkinson was born in 1928 and raised on a farm west of Lakeland. He attended Webster Avenue Grammar School and Lakeland High School.

His father passed away in 1944, leading to the sale of the family farm and a move to Tampa. Wilkinson quit high school and attended technical school for welding. He eventually gained employment as a welder in the St. Johns Shipyard in Jacksonville and purchased a portable roller skating rink.

His introduction to the Keys came in 1947 on a motorcycle as he headed to Key West. The young Wilkinson quickly noticed the challenges seeking female friends with swarms of sailors at the Southernmost City. He applied to the Navy but failed a vision test. He subsequently joined the Army Air Corps, which became the Air Force, whose recruiting office was across the hall from the Navy’s. A new military career began for Wilkinson.

He climbed the ranks from drill instructor and special electronics instructor to electronics supervisor at a radar station in Alaska. He retired in 1970 at Homestead Air Force Base as a command sergeant major following 22 years of service. His service led him to Guam during the Korean War and Spain, where he landed in Madrid the night Castro took over Cuba.

Following retirement, he ran several full-service, automatic car washes in Miami. That was until the primary property was taken via eminent domain for construction of the South Miami Metro Rail Station.

During his time in Miami, he met and married Mary Lou Pierce, of Coral Gables.

Following the eminent domain of the car washes in 1978, the Wilkinsons traveled a circuit that included Califor-

nia, Colorado and the Keys. In California, he attended college classes at Rancho Santiago College in Santa Ana for the fall semesters of the following 10 years. In Colorado, they rafted the rivers and hiked the mountains. In the Keys, they taught windsurfing.

The Wilkinsons settled in the Keys in 1988 when they purchased a 1958 oceanside home adjacent to Harry Harris Park in Tavernier. There, he dug into the history and preserved the stories of many people of the Keys and events of the island chain. He collected and summarized Keys history for various newspapers and magazines in the Florida Keys and served as president of the Historical Preservation Society of the Upper Keys.

For Wilkinson, finding the historical documentation of the Upper Keys wasn’t an easy task.

He journeyed the southeastern U.S. each summer, copying printed material and photographs on any and all Upper Keys-related material. When not traveling and using the bibliographies of copied materials, he purchased items from the National Archives, Library of Congress and south Florida libraries.

“Although all facets of Upper Keys history were of interest, the history of Indian Key, the Key West extension, Overseas Highway, censuses, photographs and hurricanes were of special interest,” his biography reads.

“Through his research of the Florida East Coast Railway System, he made the acquaintance of William Krome, son of the FECR construction engineer, who resided in Homestead, Florida. Days were spent interviewing Mr. Krome who generously gave of his time. Next, he met John (Jack) Krome of Norfolk, Virginia while vacationing with his brother William. An agreement was made with the Krome families to compile, copy, bind and disseminate to agencies interested in providing the public with access to the information.”

He wrote weekly and special newspaper articles, including “A Bit of Keys History,” “Mile Markers,” “Key Largo Times” and “Celebrating Our Past.”

Wilkinson said history is what kept him in the Keys, but when asked what kept him young, Wilkinson told Keys Weekly columnist Emily Steele, “Why, having a wife 25 years younger than you.” Followed by, “Having younger people around keeps you thinking young.”

Wilkinson’s vast collection of rich Keys history is currently housed at the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center, located at the Islander Resort in Islamorada. The library opened on Sept. 18, 2018 with research and manuscripts from the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935, artifacts from the earlier Keys inhabitants and historical records of Florida Keys organizations. Wilkinson was also a Florida Keys History and Discovery Foundation emeritus board member.

“I’m not sure you can overstate the role Jerry Wilkinson played in collecting, preserving and promoting the history of the Upper Keys,” Richard Russell, Keys History & Discovery Center board of directors president, wrote on Facebook.

The 2021 “Adventures in History”

documented Wilkinson’s remarkable quest to save Florida Keys history from being forgotten. Filmed on location in Tavernier, Islamorada, Marathon and Key West, “Adventures in History” runs just under 20 minutes and features stunning aerial footage, archival images, music and multiple interviews with colleagues from museums and archives. The documentary had its North American premiere at the Hollywood Florida Film Festival in November 2021.

Wilkinson established not only a legacy of preserving the past, but also investing in the future. Wilkinson donated $100,000 to the College of the Florida Keys Foundation in 2016 to establish a scholarship that provided funds for worthy CFK students in perpetuity.

Jonathan Gueverra, college president, said he was saddened to learn of Wilkinson’s passing. Earlier in the month, Gueverra said Wilkinson and he spoke and were trying to determine where and when to show a film he helped document on a slave ship that sank off Key Largo.

“Jerry said, ‘Doc, we have to tell these stories so that we all remember the past and how inhumane we can be to each other.’ Jerry was a humanitarian first,” Gueverra said.

1. Jerry and Mary Lou Wilkinson. CONTRIBUTED 2. Jerry Wilkinson and residents of the Harry Harris community celebrate the reopening of Wilkinson Point. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly 3. Jerry Wilkinson and Sylvia Murphy, former Monroe County mayor, sit under a tent at a renovated Wilkinson Point at Harry Harris Park during a ceremony on June 14, 2022. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly 4. Lorelea Carrera and Jerry Wilkinson. CONTRIBUTED

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

TREASURED PAST

MEETING JERRY WILKINSON WAS ONE FOR THE HISTORY BOOKS

BRAD BERTELLI

is an author, speaker, Florida Keys historian and Honorary Conch. His latest book, “Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli, Volume 1,”

fascinating glimpses into the rich and sometimes surprising histories of the Florida Keys.

History can be complicated, and historians can be complicated, too. However, the more you invest in history and historians, the more you understand how the past shapes the present — at least for me.

Jerry Wilkinson, the historian who mentored me for a decade, passed away the other night. He was 94, led a pretty extraordinary life, and left a lasting impact on the history of this amazing island chain. Jerry helped to form my history foundation and stoked my desire to learn more about the local history. He became one of the primary reasons I work so hard to share these stories.

When I moved to the Florida Keys in 2001, I would have rolled my eyes if someone had told me that I would become a local historian. I have been a documented eye-roller since the second grade when Mrs. Permenter called me to her desk and said something that I do not remember but apparently it elicited an eye roll. While my back was turned and I was returning to my seat, she said, “Don’t you roll your eyes at me.”

When I was still in school, even in graduate school, history was not something I was interested in learning about. I was an English major, both in my undergraduate and graduate years. The only thing I ever wanted to learn was how to write better stories. It was not until I finished school and moved to the Keys that I caught the history bug.

It had to have been something in the water because I moved to the Keys to finish my excellent island novel that remains unfinished, still. Lucky for me, I walked backwards into a publishing deal for my first book, “Snorkeling Florida” (University Press of Florida), and have had a hard time getting back to fiction ever since. While researching the book and snorkeling over the reefs here in the Keys, every dive captain, mate and local had a different story about how the reefs were named, and I became curious about the real stories. I started doing a little research in that area, too, and that was it; that was what cracked the door open and invited me to step inside, take the steps and wander down a fortuitous rabbit hole.

Curious about the local history scene, I contacted several history groups. I set my fiction pen aside and started exploring the history of the Upper Keys, and wrote a little piece I called “Sketches of Islamorada” that I emailed to Jerry Wilkinson. I had never met him, but I attached the file, introduced myself and said something like, “Let me know what you think.”

Jerry responded positively to my query, and the rest, as they say, is history. He invited me to

his house, as he was prone to do, and for much of the next decade, I visited Jerry’s Tavernier home, walked up the wooden steps, past the orchids, and knocked on his front door, sometimes weekly. He opened the door not just to his home overlooking the Atlantic Ocean but to his history, curiosity, passion and story after story about the Florida Keys.

Jerry invited me to join the board of his history group, the Historical Preservation Society of the Upper Keys. For a time, I served as its vice president (and even its president for one short week). We published two books together, and I introduced him to another who co-wrote several books with him, too. I once told him that I could not name a bridge after him, but I could work to name a library in his honor, and now the Jerry Wilkinson Research Library holds much of the fruit of his tremendous labors.

History can be complicated, especially local history that disagrees with long-espoused legends and lore. Some historians cave and pass on legends posing as historical facts, and others, like Jerry, tend to take more of a Joe Friday “just the facts” approach.

One of the things that we used to talk about was that all of the island chain’s historians were older, Tom, Irving, Dan, John and Jerry, and that no one outside of Key West was working to pick up the torches that those men carried. I’m happy he knew that his torch would continue to burn bright. At the end of every day, I am thankful for the day we met, and every subsequent day I knocked on his door, he opened it, and we shook hands.

The other day I got a call from a gentleman looking for information about the Long Key Fishing Camp. Jerry gave him my phone number and told him I was who he should call. I thought about shooting Jerry a text or giving him a call. It had been some time since we last talked, but I didn’t, and two days later, I found out that he had passed.

The Florida Keys are richer for his presence, as am I.

Local historians Jerry Wilkinson, left, and Brad Bertelli. CONTRIBUTED

Jerry Wilkinson walks into the research library at the Keys History & Discovery Center that was named in his honor. BRAD BERTELLI/Contributed

shares

continued

CONCERT, HISTORY AND DRONE SHOW LAUNCH KEYS’ BICENTENNIAL

EVENTS TAKE PLACE IN KEY WEST ON MARCH 25

“The biggest thing is that if there is a lot of this material that comes into the shoreline, there should be recommendations that people aren’t swimming in that water,” said Bruckner.

Unfortunately, disposing of the piles of smelly sargassum when it washes ashore isn’t as simple as scooping it all up and using it for fertilizer.

With such a high arsenic content, the macroalgae can’t safely supplement any plant intended for human consumption.

HOW DID WE GET HERE?

Lapointe has studied sargassum since the 1980s, but he said that as he analyzed tissue from algae in the belt in more recent years, one nutrient in particular stood out.

“I was analyzing data from the 1980s that I collected. … In comparing the 1980s with post-2010 data, that’s where we see nitrogen levels going up 35%, and the nitrogen:phospate ratio went up by 111%. That was my eureka moment,” he told Keys Weekly. “This sargassum looks like it’s being fed by the major rivers like the Amazon, the Orinoco, the Congo and the Mississippi.

“It just so happens that the nitrogen and phosphorus contents are highest in the winter and spring, just when the rivers are discharging the most. … By summertime, those river discharges are actually going down, and that’s when the plants and their growth slows down as their tissues become depleted of nitrogen and phosphorus.”

Over the past 12 years, a formerly limiting nutrient to the growth and biomass of the belt ceased to be a handcuff, as human

population growth fueled high reactive nitrogen levels with wastewater, fertilizers, deforestation and other contributors, Lapointe said. The belt is capable of doubling its size in anywhere from two to four weeks under ideal conditions, and with the algae continuing to exhaust the amount of available phosphorus, another critical nutrient, the macroalgae turn to a chemical analog: arsenate, a salt of arsenic acid.

Adding further fuel to the fire are rising sea temperatures.

“The winter temperatures are anywhere between two to six degrees higher than what we’d typically see at this time of year,” said Bruckner. “We’ve now shifted to an El Nino event … (and) because it’s already warmer than it should be this year, that could help fuel the growth.”

WHERE ARE WE NOW?

Researchers began actively tracking the size of the belt with multiple methods, including satellite imagery, during the first bloom in 2011. Since then, the 2018 bloom has been the record-setting standard, with 2022 as another severe event.

Thus far in 2023, the blob had an early start to its annual growth. But the final impact is yet to be seen. A sargassum outlook summary published by the University of South Florida’s Optical Oceanography Lab noted that “although the overall sargassum quantity in the central Atlantic Ocean decreased from January to February … this abundance (6.1 million tons) is still the second-highest amount recorded for the month of February.

Visit keysweekly.com for the full story.

Florida Keys visitors and residents can celebrate the bicentennial of the subtropical island chain throughout 2023, starting with the “200 Years of Paradise Kick-off Concert” that includes a drone fireworks show on Saturday, March 25, in Key West.

The concert and other activities salute the 200th anniversary of the Florida legislature’s founding of Monroe County, which contains the entire Florida Keys, on July 3, 1823. From Key Largo to Key West, events in the coming months are to recognize the historic anniversary and recall the Keys’ two centuries of rich and vibrant history.

The festivities begin at 6 p.m. on March 25 at Key West’s Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Truman Waterfront Park with a program combining live music, Keys history presentations and drone “fireworks.” Gates open at 5 p.m. and admission is free.

Popular local musician Nick Norman will open the celebration, followed by a welcome and commentary by local leaders. At 7:15 p.m., regional trop-rock musician Howard Livingston will take the stage to perform his signature Keys-inspired tunes. Livingston’s sets will alternate with segments of South Florida PBS’ documentary, “The Florida Keys: 200 Years of Paradise,” that chronicles the dramatic history of the island chain.

A drone “fireworks” display will cap the evening’s attractions. Plans call for 250 drones to illuminate the sky over Truman Waterfront Park

with imagery highlighting the Keys and their bicentennial.

“The Florida Keys that our visitors and residents experience today are built on our unique and intriguing history, and that’s what we’re celebrating with the kick-off event and throughout our bicentennial year,” said Craig Cates, mayor of Monroe County and a fifth-generation Keys resident. “We invite everyone who loves the Keys to join us in commemorating this milestone.”

ADDITIONAL EVENTS

Subsequent 200th anniversary celebrations include Naval Air Station Key West’s Southernmost Air Spectacular, an April 15-16 weekend air show starring the famed Blue Angels and honoring two centuries of the U.S. Navy’s presence in Key West; a sea-to-table dinner set for Saturday, June 10, in Islamorada highlighting the island chain’s local chefs, fishing captains, artists and coral restoration initiatives; and Bicentennial Day festivities and fireworks Monday, July 3, in the Lower Keys, featuring the creation of the world’s largest Key lime pie.

In addition, museum exhibits around the Keys, annual festivals and the Florida Keys Council of the Arts’ 300-canvas “Connections Project” mosaic mural are themed to celebrate the historic bicentennial and the Keys’ multifaceted heritage. More information is at fla-keys. com/keys200.

— Contributed

A full-frame fisheye lens provides a unique view of the Florida Keys’ Overseas Highway, the Atlantic Ocean, left, and the Gulf of Mexico, right, near Big Pine Key. ANDY NEWMAN/Florida Keys News Bureau

The Sargasso Sea is bordered by four currents that form an ocean gyre. The Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt typically runs along the sea’s southern edge and is pushed westward by an equatorial current. WIKIPEDIA/Contributed

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

For more information, contact Lynne Hernandez at LHernandez@FRLA.org

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY AVAILABLE IN KEY WEST

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.

LOOK, UP IN THE SKY

SOUTHERNMOST AIR SPECTACULAR FEATURES BLUE ANGELS & MORE APRIL 15-16

The Southernmost Air Spectacular, presented by Naval Air Station Key West, roars through the sky on Saturday, April 15 and Sunday, April 16 for a weekend show that helps celebrate 200 years of the Navy in Key West. The naval aviation showcase of power and precision features more than a dozen flight demonstrations by civilians, military and the worldfamous U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels.

“It’s an honor to welcome the Blue Angels back to Key West this year, on the 200th anniversary of the establishment of a Navy base in Key West,” said Capt. Beth Regoli, commander of NAS Key West. “Our staff, both military and civilians, have worked hard to present the best family-friendly event we can offer our neighbors and community.”

The event dates back to 1946, when the Blue Angels Squadron was established to raise public interest in naval aviation and boost Navy morale. More than a hundred years prior in 1821, Key West businessman John W. Simonton set the runway when he lobbied for a naval base on the island. Its location was strategic and pirates were a problem.

By April 1823, a naval base was established at what is now known as Mallory Square, with Capt. David Porter and his Mosquito Fleet putting law, order and safety into action. The nation’s southernmost naval base at Trumbo Point – now a state-of-theart training facility for air-to-air combat fighter aircraft of all military services – was established six years after U.S. Naval Avia-

tion began in 1911. Within a few decades, it was well-integrated with the Navy’s mission to protect and control the seas and a cornerstone of American global military power.

Seventy-seven years later, they are still steadfast in their mission of creating a culture of excellence and service to the country through flight demonstrations and community outreach. The 138 members of the Blue Angels are selected from more than 800,000 people in the Navy and Marine Corps, epitomizing the impeccable ethic, professionalism, precision and teamwork found there. They perform at 32 locations across the country, wowing millions with maneuvers used in aerial combat while flying the most technologically advanced aircraft in the world.

“We look forward to inviting the community onto our airfield so that together we can enjoy all our remarkable military and civilian performers, as well as view each of the magnificent aircraft up close, and witness the incredible maneuvers the Blue Angels execute with precision,” Regoli said.

FLIGHTS & DEMONSTRATIONS

- National Anthem – 11 a.m.

- Aftershock Jet Fire Truck

- Bill Stein – Edge 540

- H60 SAR Demo

- Legacy Flight – F/A-18 & Corsair

- AeroShell Aerobatic Team

- Rob Holland – MXS

- Precision Exotics vs. Rob Holland

- F-5 Demo

- Skip Stewart – PTS2

- AfterShock vs. Skip Stewart

- F-35 Demo

- Rob Holland & Bill Stein

- U.S. Navy Blue Angels: 2:30 p.m.

The free, day-long event includes displays of nearly three dozen aircraft, including the combat-proven F/A-18 Super Hornet, the Marine Corps’ premiere logistics support aircraft, and the C-130J Super Hercules (aka “Fat Albert”), food and beverage booths, aviation-specific merchandise, Southernmost Air Spectacular swag, and a ticketed Kids Zone with inflatable rides, slides, a bungee jump and bounce houses.

Limited upgraded VIP and Preferred seating with a full-service bar are available for $149 and $49. Gates open at 10 a.m. Flights begin at 11 a.m. Blue Angels fly at 2:30 p.m.

The hot tarmac can cause heat exhaustion and sunburn — stay hydrated and bring sunscreen, hats and/or umbrellas.

To learn more about volunteering, contact naskw.mwr.fct@navy.mil or call 305-2932503.

For more information, visit www.airshowkeywest.com.

— Contributed

The Southernmost Air Spectacular April 15 and 16 features talented civilians, military and the worldfamous U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels. The free event starts at 10 a.m and offers limited upgraded VIP and preferred seating with a full-service bar available for $149 and $49. U.S. NAVY/Contributed

Since 1946, the Blue Angels have been wowing crowds with their flight demonstrations.

ONE

PERSON REMAINS MISSING COAST GUARD RESCUES 28 OFF KEY WEST

As of March 21, Coast Guard Station Key West rescue crews were searching for a missing person in the water from a group of migrants, about 6 miles south of Key West.

The rescue crew saved 18 people who were in the water and another 10 from a migrant vessel. Two people were medically evacuated to a higher level of care, the Coast Guard said.

A good Samaritan notified Coast Guard Sector Key West watchstanders of people in the water from a migrant vessel at about 8:40 a.m. on Monday, March 20.

Coast Guard air and surface crews searched throughout the night and were scheduled to continue searching throughout the day Tuesday for the missing person.

“Coast Guard crews will continue to search for this person until all efforts are exhausted,” said Capt. Jason Ingram, commander of Sector Key West. “Taking to the sea in dangerous weather and unseaworthy vessels greatly increases the risk for loss of life. Don’t take to the sea. Use safe and legal means of immigrating to the U.S.”

The weather on scene at the time of the incident was 5-foot seas and 20-knot winds.

The nationality of the people isn’t known at this time.

If anyone has any information regarding this person, please contact Sector Key West watchstanders at 305-292-8727.

— Contributed

A Coast Guard vessel from Station Key West rescues 28 migrants at sea about 6 miles south of Key West, but one person was still missing. The nationality of the migrants was not released as of March 21. CONTRIBUTED

HUMOR

As the Florida Keys and other Gulf regions of Florida await the 13 million tons of seaweed (or sargassum — see page 4) to wash ashore, many residents have a mixed range of expectations and emotions.

Will the nutrient-rich blob offer fishermen a bountiful habitat for fish and sea life? Or will it be detrimental to our waters, spurring dangerous toxins and messy shorelines?

Regardless, much of Florida is monitoring the sargassum’s arrival in similar fashion to a hurricane track, which got us thinking, why does the seaweed blob not have an official name? Always here to help, here are our…

NAMES & LOGOS FOR THE SARGASSUM BLOB

MILES TO GO SMARTEN UP, SUCKERS, THIS IS EMBARRASSING

MANDY MILES

drops stuff, breaks things and falls down more than any adult should. She’s married to a saintly — and handy — fisherman, and has been stringing words together in Key West since 1998.

n email that arrived on Valentine’s Day this year caught my eye — then raised my blood pressure. According to the Federal Trade Commission, nearly 70,000 Americans lost $1.3 billion (with a B) to “romance scams” last year.

Really? REALLY?

Shouldn’t this disappointing trend be over by now? Shouldn’t these online dating scams be a thing of the past by now? Shouldn’t we ALL know by now that there’s no Nigerian prince who’s willing to share his $40 million inheritance with you if you just send him all of your money immediately. And shouldn’t we all know by now not to wire our life savings to someone we’ve never met just because they say they love us and want to marry us?

This has reached the point of absurdity. I’ve lost nearly all sympathy for these suckers (OK, victims), especially those who are repeatedly told by real-life friends and relatives that they’re being scammed. Yet they continue to sneak away and shove cash into cereal boxes to mail overseas so their “fiance” can get back to America and marry them.

It’s insane. But it’s also sad how some people, many of them seniors, are simply desperate for love and companionship. So desperate that they’re willing to pay for the fantasy to continue. It’s as if they continue to pump coins into a slot machine they’ve been TOLD is rigged.

For some, the hope and potential is apparently priceless. To a degree.

But once they’re in too deep, with loved ones harassing them, they have no choice but to dig their heels in, shut those real people out and cling more desperately to their anonymous, online love.

So, please, let’s stop this bullshit before it gets to that point. It’s not difficult.

AInstead of sending FBI agents to investigate Nigerian internet cafes, where so many of these “fiances” spend their days, why not send volunteers to senior living communities, local libraries and pickleball courts to educate and warn people about these rampant scams that are so obvious to most people. Teach them reverse photo searches.

Get potential victims talking to each other. Show them how quickly online scammers find their online profiles and start asking for money. Show them the red flags.

And why aren’t online dating sites required to show a full-screen, pop up warning at every login? I’ll even write it for them:

DON’T GET SCAMMED. PEOPLE LIE.

DON’T SEND MONEY TO ANYONE YOU MEET ON THIS SITE. EVER.

DON’T GIVE ANYONE THE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT.

THEY’RE NOT TRAPPED IN ANOTHER COUNTRY. THEY DON’T WORK OVERSEAS FOR A GOVERNMENT CONTRACTOR. THEY DON’T HAVE $30M THAT’S BEING HELD HOSTAGE BY VAGUE & MYSTERIOUS FOREIGN ENTITIES.

THEY WEREN’T ROBBED AT GUNPOINT. THEY’RE NOT IN THE HOSPITAL.

THEY’RE NOT THE PERSON IN THE PHOTOS YOU’VE SEEN.

THEY DON’T LOVE YOU. THEY DON’T WANT TO MARRY YOU.

THEY WANT MONEY, AND THEY’LL TAKE EVERYTHING THEY CAN GET FROM YOU.

WAKE UP, PEOPLE! STOP MAKING IT SO EASY FOR THESE CROOKS. THEY’RE NOT EVEN CLEVER.

BUT THEN, THEY DON’T HAVE TO BE. YOU’RE MAKING IT TOO EASY.

That distinguished-looking silver fox from the profile photo you love has no clue who you are. None. Because a gang of thieves has right clicked his photo and is pretending to be that person on that boat or in that golf cart.

Get it through your head. The truth hurts, but this nonsense has to stop. If it seems too good to be true, it is. Always.

10. Summer’s Ectoplasm Spasm

9. The Green Floater

8. The Beach Sweeper

7. The Tourism Eliminator

6. The Dank Weed

5. The Florida Keys: Come as you are; leave covered in shit.

4. The Wet Blanket

3. Capt. DeSantis’ Seaweed Salad

2. Sargassapalooza

1. Seaweed Jam 2023

HELP STOCK THE COMMUNITY’S PANTRY

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.

The City of Key West is turning to the community to help keep the Bahama Village Food Pantry, 111 Olivia St., at the Douglass Gym, stocked. Donations are gladly accepted, both at the pantry and at City Hall.

The food pantry provides free non-perishable food items six days a week to families and individu-

als in need. It’s open from 1:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday.

City Manager Patti McLauchlin spearheaded the effort in September 2020 to help members of the community who are in need, and that need continues.

— Contributed

WOMEN’S FLAG FOOTBALL REACHES GUAM

ISLAND TERRITORY IS FIRST IN PACIFIC ASIAN REGION TO JOIN KEY WEST- BASED LEAGUE

Diane Beruldsen, president and founder of the International Women Flag Football Association (IWFFA), was in Guam March 10-20 to coach Chamorro women, the indigenous people of the Mariana Islands and Guam, as well as military women, in 8 on 8, semi-blocking flag football for their newly formed female league, Flag Football Ladies Association of Guam (FFLAG).

Four teams of women, over 100 players and a team of female officials will receive training in IWFFA-style flag football, which includes: field goals, punting, kickoffs, fake kicks, blocking from shoulder to waist, rushing from the scrimmage line, 10 yards to gain first down.

“IWFFA flag football rules are the closest set of flag football rules to NFL rules, but there are no helmets nor shoulder pads, no tackling, no fumbles and we develop the female style of play, which is focused on finesse and strategy vs. brute strength,” Beruldsen said.

Guam is the first country in the Pacific Asia region to fall under the IWFFA umbrella, and the

sanctioned FFLAG league members have some huge tasks in front of them.

“The first year the women learn to play by IWFFA rules, the second year each women’s team will coach a girls’ flag football team,” Beruldsen said. “We want young girls to see the women in leadership positions, to know they too can be a coach and leader when they get older. And the girls will play for free. Ages 8-11 will be sponsored by the IWFFA as well as local businesses.

We are a women’s organization that strives to empower females all over the world putting women in leadership positions. We are a unity of women all over the world in almost two dozen countries: Norway, Sweden, Spain, Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Cuba, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Jamaica, Morocco, USA (and Puerto Rico), Guam, Canada and Mexico,” Beruldsen added.

The organization is involved with more than flag football games.

Recently, the IWFFA was successful in getting asylum for 70 female Afghanistan players and their families to Mexico after the Taliban took over their country, by recruiting the legal forces of: Aldea Law Firm and Greenberg Traurig. The first group of 37 Afghans arrived safely to Mexico City on Nov. 16, 2022, as the work of the IWFFA continues to raise money to fly the second group of Afghans to Mexico.

Linda Salas, founding mother of FFLAG, contacted the IWFFA wanting Guam women to become sanctioned. Originally, FFLAG stemmed from the Guam Women’s Tackle Football League (GWTFL), which disbanded as a result of COVID as well as corruption in the Women’s Football League Association.

“In searching for a sanctioning body, there were three organizations I was interested in joining; however, it was the IWFFA who I saw treated the women very nice,” Salas explained. “They produce a women’s flag football magazine, which is all about the women and girls, and they send out a monthly flag football news, which was informative, and the IWFFA looked very supportive of all their women.”

Following a week of training, the first IWFFA-Guam Friendship Games, hosted by FFLAG, were played on March 19 at the University of Guam.

An all-star team from Guam has been invited to compete and represent Guam in the 32nd annual Kelly McGillis Classic International Female Flag Football Championship in Key West in January 2024. The league is looking for sponsors to be a part of the FFLAG travel team.

For more information, visit IWFFA.com.

Women wanting to join the new Guam team as a player, coach or official can contact League President Linda Salas at 671-788-3856. Businesses or individuals wanting to sponsor the Flag Football Ladies Association of Guam can contact Linda Salas at 671-788-3856.

— Contributed

SHELF HELP

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

What: “Beasts and Beauty” by Soman Chainani

Why: These short story retellings are unbelievably unique. Many of the very Europeancentric tales have been remastered to be diverse. Snow White is African-American, Hansel and Gretel are Indian, Belle is Chinese, just to name a few of the changes. What I loved the most was that each story did not end how we are used to. But that did not mean they did not have happy endings, just that they were different happy endings. The illustrations are also just gorgeous and have wonderfully bold and bright colors.

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

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

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

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.

Thursday, March 30

• The College of the Florida Keys continues its VIP lecture seriers with “Truckin’ — a Grateful Look at Cooking,” at 7 p.m. in the Tennessee Williams Theatre, Key West, featuring Chef Stephan Juliusburger, faculty of Culinary Arts at CFK. In his 20s, he was the tour chef for the Grateful Dead for six years and later wrote his master’s thesis on the sociology of food. Tickets are $5 at the door. Admission is free for CFK and Monroe County students. For information, call 305-296-9081 or visit the College’s website at CFK.edu/VIP.

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

THE SCOREBOARD

CONCHS, DOLPHINS BASEBALL EACH ADD PAIR OF WINS

Hurricanes Unbeaten in District

Key West started their week at Columbus on March 14, losing to the Explorers 4-0. The smaller 4A Conchs amassed three hits against the 7A school with one each from Anden Rady, Gabe Williams and Anthony Lariz. Eager to avenge the loss, the Conchs came out swinging three days later, scoring nine runs off nine hits for a win against the True North Classical Academy Titans. Matt Greenberg was perfect at the plate while pounding two doubles and a single for three hits on the night. Jose Perdigon slammed a triple and a base hit with two RBIs in the game. Williams, Caden Pichardo, Jack Haggard and Wyatt Kuhn accounted for the rest of the Conchs’ hits while Jacob Burnham, Marlin Takovich and Haggard teamed up on the mound in the 9-6 win.

The next night was more of the same. Anthony Lariz and Andris Barroso worked together to shut down True North, holding them to just four hits and one run in the 9-1 win. Greenberg and Kuhn had multiple hits on the night and Haggard, Rady, Perdigon, Barroso and Noah Burnham accounted for the other four hits of the game.

In Middle Keys action, Marathon played three games last week, starting off with Ransom Everglades on March 14. Ryan Yablon had two of the Dolphins’ four hits in the game. Tommy Norris added a double and Dylan Ziels had a base hit in the 4-0 loss.

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

The Fins fared better on the 17th, pounding Westwood 16-1. Bryan Broche struck out six over three innings and Ethan Sauders closed out the win for Marathon. Broche also added a hit and three RBIs to his stats. Mason Thornton and Brody Reininger had two hits each and Yablon, Gavin Leal, Nolan O’Hare, Gabe Leal and Dylan Globe added one hit each. The final hit of Marathon’s 11 came from the bat of Tiago Rivero with a home run to right field.

The next morning, Miami High School made the long trip to the Middle Keys, losing 4-1 to Marathon. The Dolphins accumulated nine hits in the win with three from Gabe Leal, two from Norris and Yablon, and one each from Gavin Leal and Ziels. Ziels pitched 5-1/3 innings, striking out 12 of 23 batters faced, and Gavin Leal closed for the Fins, striking out two of six batters. Marathon will play Posnack away on Monday, March 27.

Coral Shores lost a pair of games last week to Riviera Prep and Schoolhouse Prep on March 15 and 16. The ’Canes managed a pair of hits against Riviera, both from senior Andy Ledesma. Against Schoolhouse Prep, the team combined for six hits, with three coming off the bat of Dylan Bloom. Zeke Myers, Hugh Connolly and Maykol Bonito-Lopez accounted for the rest. Coral Shores’ record now stands at 3-5 but in district action, they are still unbeaten.

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

MARATHON PITCHER ALLISON GARCIA BLANKS PACE WITH NO-HITTER

Whether it’s baseball or softball, Marathon High School pitchers have sent a clear message to opponents in 2023: Don’t challenge them on the mound.

The Dolphins traveled to Pace on March 13, winning 13-0. Junior pitcher Allison Garcia faced 17 batters, striking out nine over five innings in the no-hitter. She then matched her defensive performance in the batter’s box, registering three of the Fins’ 14 hits with a pair of triples and a double. Maeve Merryman had three hits; Dani Perdomo, Elianys Roque and Madelyn Thornton were good for two each; and Elena Eubank and Daniella Gonzalez each had one hit in the game. The Lady Fins will square off against Pace again after spring break, this time at home on Tuesday, March 28, then head to Davie the following day to face the Titans of Nova High School.

Key West bats crank out 54 hits in fourwin Orange Bowl Fastpitch Classic

ping 15 hits. Gage had three while Franco, Cervantes and Dharma Murray each added two. The rest came from Caroline Smith, Rodriguez, Perusse, Rodger, Niles and Miesha Hernandez with one each in the 17-1 win.

The following day, the Conchs played Riverdale and Pompano Beach High School, adding two more wins to their record. Hernandez pitched six innings for the Conchs in the Riverdale game and added three hits, including a triple. Niles had three hits of her own, and Murray, Perusse and Cervantes each had two, while sophomore Alexa Condella fired off a home run in the fourth inning to make 18 total hits for Key West in the 13-3 win.

The Lady Conchs made quite the splash at the Orange Bowl Fastpitch Classic, going undefeated at the tourney. On March 17, the Conchs faced the Hawks of Lake Minneola early in the day, winning 9-4. Nevaeh Arnold lasted five innings pitching for the Conchs and Chloe Gilday closed it out. Key West poured on 13 hits with three from Caroline Smith and two each from Alexandra Rodriguez and Madelyn Perusse. Isabella Franco, Tavyn Gage, Vera Rodger, Ty Cervantes and Scarlet Niles each registered one hit for Key West. Later in the day, the Conchs played Gulf Coast High School out of Naples. In that outing, Key West piled up a whop-

Later that afternoon, Pompano Beach met a similar fate in a 4-1 defeat as the Conchs extended their win streak to five games. Arnold went the full seven innings for Key West, allowing just three hits for the Tornadoes. Niles and Franco had two hits each for the Conchs and Murray, Smith, Condella and Gage added one each, making it eight for the game and a grand total of 54 for their weekend of play.

Key West will rest their bats for a week, then face Lake Wales for a pair of games Friday and Saturday, March 24 and 25.

Coral Shores split their games last week, winning 10-5 against LaSalle on March 13, then falling to Carrollton 11-1 two days later. The Lady ’Canes play again on Thursday, March 30 at Somerset South Homestead before hosting Marathon on Tuesday, April 4.

Marathon’s Allison Garcia pitched a no-hitter against Pace on March 13. Photos by BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

Eighth grader Maeve Merryman had a trio of hits in Marathon’s 13-0 win against Pace.

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

LADY CONCHS LACROSSE DOMINATES SENIOR NIGHT District Playoffs Less Than One Month Away

In a showdown Key West girls lacrosse coach Marisa Giacopuzzi called “a night to remember,” the Lady Conchs squared off against Archbishop McCarthy on March 14, outscoring the Mavericks 17-5.

It was Senior Night for Key West and the seniors, escorted by the band, stole the show, scoring nine of the team’s 17 goals. Senior captain Bella Marchiano had an impressive night, scoring two goals and an assist plus five draw controls, three ground balls and three forced turnovers. Fellow captain Ada Van Loon scored three times and was credited with an assist, two ground balls and two draw controls.

Low defender and captain Rachel Owens caused a turnover and scooped up a ground ball for Key West. Katie Collins netted two goals and caused a turnover and Michaela Kevalova scored one. Sophia Felini had a goal, five ground balls, two draw controls and a forced turnover. Although she’s a defensive specialist, Devan Bittner still found the net once and added a ground ball, two draw controls and a forced turnover.

The seniors weren’t the only ones scoring for the Conchs. Freshman Maria Chaney had three goals, sophomore Kaitlyn Piloto had two plus an assist, and junior captain Ella Baxter scored two goals, assisted five times and forced a turnover. Freshman defender Colbie Turner caused four turnovers and sophomore goalkeeper Coutney Grabus was credited with one save and a ground ball in the game.

Giacopuzzi credited the win to her team’s willingness to share the spotlight, especially on a night set aside to honor the seniors.

“I loved seeing how selfless everyone was, passing the ball around, trying to get everyone to score – especially our seniors,” she explained.

The 7-1 Conchs are undefeated in district play and hope to maintain the top spot heading into the playoffs, which begin April 11. Their next game is against Miami Country Day Thursday, March 30, and they’ll head up U.S. 1 to face Coral Shores the next day.

Coral Shores’ lone game this week was canceled, giving the Lady ’Canes a nearly three-week break between games. They will see action again on

Tuesday, March 28 when they travel to Coral Reef High School.

Key West’s boys had a busy week, playing three games in four days. On March 14, the Conchs played at Ransom, losing the game 16-2. Even worse, though, captain and key offensive attacker Mack Hill broke his arm in the matchup and will be out for an indefinite period. A bright spot was Carter Sessoms, who managed to get the ball in the net for Key West.

Twelve was the unlucky number as the Conchs dropped a pair to Archbishop McCarthy and Coral Reef on March 16 and 17, 12-2 and

12-10. Brooks Pellicier scored the two goals for Key West on night one, then another the following night. Sessoms had three goals and two assists against Coral Reef while Noah Collins netted three goals, Smith Switzer had two and Morgan McPherson scored one. Daniel Ognian was credited with an assist. Key West is off until Friday, March 31 when they travel to Coral Shores to face the Hurricanes.

Coral Shores traveled to Miami on March 14 to take on the Barracudas of Coral Reef. Reece Jahn helped keep it close with 17 saves in goal, but in the end, the ’Canes lost 8-6. Chuck Jacobsen found the net twice and had five ground balls, but it was faceoffs where he truly excelled, winning eight of 11 attempts. Lucas Carballo, Alex Sebben, Andrew Kumar and Landon Blackford each scored once. The ’Canes are off for spring break and play again on Wednesday, March 29 at home, facing LaSalle. They won 16-3 in their last encounter with the Royal Lions on Feb. 28.

The Key West Lady Conchs’ seniors enjoyed a dominant victory on Senior Night. From left: Rachel Owens, Devan Bittner, Michaela Kevalova, Kathryn Collins, Sophia Felini, Ada Van Loon and Isabella Marchiano. ELLA HALL/Keys Weekly.

Senior Devan Bittner with her family.

... 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.

One of the central tenets of my wife’s and my marriage is: we don’t tell each other what to do. It’s not a rule so much as a guideline, one we both make an effort not to stray too far beyond. We’re both long-time fans of hard-won personal autonomy.

There’s been a big asterisk on that tenet in recent weeks, though, one perpetrated by my wife that could almost be considered borderline nagging.

It has mostly manifested itself in her repeated use of a single sentence: “Why don’t you write something about Flaco?” I’m not sure if I punctuated her phrase correctly. Do you use a question mark at the end of a sentence that is not so much a question as a directive?

Flaco, for those unaware, is an owl, specifically a Eurasian eagle-owl, who escaped from the Central Park Zoo in Manhattan on Feb. 2 after vandals cut open the wire mesh on his cage. He’s spent the last month and a half hanging around what is arguably the most famous public space in the world. Flaco was captive bred, and at first it was worried that he would starve to death because he wouldn’t know how to hunt and feed himself, and having spent most of his life in a cage that has been described as about the size of a bus stop shelter, he was not the best flier. But his flying skills have apparently greatly improved, and he seems to be thriving on a steady diet of readily available, and easily catchable, rats. And he’s become something of a celebrity. In certain New York social circles, catching sight of Flaco has more cachet than seeing J-Lo and Ben out on a tear, or overhearing Fran Lebowitz complain about the quality of the bagels or how you can’t get proper jelly beans since Schrafft’s went out of business or whatever.

Flaco also has a serious media profile, having been the subject of stories in venerable media outlets such as the New York Times, CNN, CBS, ABC, NPR, the New York Post, the New Yorker and National Geographic.

Eurasian eagle-owls are one of the biggest owl species in the world, with the Latin name Bubo bubo, with “bubo” meaning owl, arguably making them the owliest of owls. It helps that Flaco is drop-dead gorgeous, a big owl with a 6-foot wingspan, long ear tufts, and an earthy plumage that ranges from dark taupe to fawn to mocha to tiger orange.

The term for such a creature in the ecoworld is charismatic megafauna. People just love them.

This time of year, with all the bare-limbed trees in the park, he’s been pretty easy to spot.

OF OWLS AND MARRIAGE

Birders, and people interested in celebrity owls, have been tracking him around the park. One of the easiest ways to spot him is to wander around Central Park looking for a small group of people with binoculars and cameras all staring at the same thing. There have been some great photos produced – Flaco with skyscrapers in the background, Flaco sitting on the arms of backhoes, Flaco getting harassed by squirrels, Flaco standing next to a trap, declining to take the bait.

Trying to get a good look at an owl can bring out the ruthlessness in some people, especially photographers. Several websites and Facebook pages will no longer post “paparazzilike” photos of owls for fear of the disruptive, unethical and sometimes outright dangerous (for the owl) techniques some photographers will use to get a good shot.

Eurasian eagle-owls tend to breed and live in remote places that are only sparsely settled – narrow gorges, high cliffs, swampy forests, uninhabited grasslands and the occasional bit of rocky farmland. Flaco has seen, and been surrounded by, far more humans than any member of his species is supposed to – even if you don’t count his 13 years on display in the zoo.

Interestingly, the crowds that have followed Flaco around seem to have been respectful.

You have not seen a lot of stories about boorish behavior, about people crowding too close and disturbing the bird, or about people chasing it aggressively around the park. My guess is because there are so many people keeping tabs on Flaco, and so many people emotionally invested in his wellbeing, that anyone who might bother the owl will get called out before they have a chance to create much of an effect.

A lot of people are viewing Flaco’s escape, as well as his post-escape exploits, as something of a metaphor. Michiko Kakutani, the

famously fierce book critic for the New York Times, wrote, “Many New Yorkers, especially those confined to small apartments during COVID, identified with Flaco’s story,” adding, “Flaco gave a weary city still trying to come back from the pandemic a heartening sense of resilience.” (Kakutani seems to have a thing for Manhattanite owls, as this was the third story about a Central Park owl that she’s come out of retirement to write.)

I’m always wary of seeing birds as metaphors for our lives. Birds have a tough enough existence without us saddling them with our emotional baggage. And their actual lives are generally far more interesting than whatever symbolism we project upon them.

The fact that Flaco seems to be thriving is great, but the road ahead has many risks for a bird so far from its natural habitat. The biggest, in a city famous for its rodents, is most likely rat poison, which tends to travel up the food chain and accumulate at the top.

Even when it doesn’t outright kill an alpha predator like an owl, it will often impair them and make them vulnerable to other risks.

There is also the omnipresent danger of cars. The previous most famous Central Park owl – a barred owl nicknamed Barry – was killed in 2021 when it collided with a moving Central Park Conservancy maintenance vehicle. (Kakutani’s story about this owl was sweet, but contained a level of sentimentality for which she would have excoriated any first-time novelist. Which shows how owls can soften even the seemingly hardest of hearts.)

I’m not sure how it’ll go for Flaco. I wish him well, though I’m not sure whether I want to see him re-captured, which would be the safest thing for him, or whether I want to see him continue to make his way in Central Park, which is probably the most fulfilling way for him to live. But I appreciate him providing me with the opportunity to keep my marriage on track.

Flaco, the Eurasian eagle-owl that has been loose in Central Park since Feb. 2.

Photo courtesy of Rhododendrites/Creative Commons

MARK HEDDEN

Henry Faulkner

Henry Lawrence Faulkner (1924 – 1981) was a Kentucky-born Key West resident artist and poet known as an eccentric rebel and bohemian. He felt right at home on this island.

Faulkner is best known for his wildly colorful oil paintings and eccentric acts, including his bringing a bourbondrinking goat to parties and art openings. He taught Tennessee Williams to paint even though his friend was color blind. He was a Colorist linked to famed artists such as Gustav Klimt. It is said he took inspiration from sources ranging from Key West to the Far East, but his most popular works were orals, strawberries, sailors, architecture and his companion & beloved goat Alice.

©2023 First Horizon Bank. Member FDIC.

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.

Free

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

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

ALWAYS

SATURDAYS 12-3PM

NEW LISTING!

Wonderful Opportunity to own property in Key West right on the Atlantic Ocean. The rooms are spacious and the views are incomparable in this 2 bed/2 bath condo at the Key West Beach Club. $1,600,000

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‘RALLY FOR OUR RIGHTS’ ON MARCH 25

ORGANIZERS SHOW TALLAHASSEE THE ISLAND BELIEVES IN EQUITY & LOVE FOR ALL

The

Like many states in the country, Florida is currently awash in antiLGBTQIA+ legislation. From criminalizing genderaffirming care to the erasure of LGBTQIA+ people from public education to banning inclusive books, our state government is actively working to instill fear, impose a particular worldview, and take away life chances from members of our community.

Key West is a powerful community, and while it may feel sometimes like we are a world away, we are not. We have a responsibility to stand as and with our LGBTQIA+ community in the face of state oppression and attacks on our humanity.

Join Queer Keys in Bayview Park on Saturday, March 25 at 12 p.m. to stand together in solidarity. We want to show Tallahassee that the Conch Republic believes in equity, justice, and love for all members of our One Human Family. We will have speakers addressing the issues, direct action, and letter writing to our representatives. We will have sign-making materials available. Wear your finest Pride outfits, your glam, your butch, and your sparkles — but most of all, show up as YOU!

If you have questions, want to help or have an offering, reach us at info@queerkeys. org.

— Susan Kent, Queer Keys

Queer Keys is coordinating a Rally for Our Rights at 12 p.m. Saturday, March 25 at Bayview Park in Key West. CONTRIBUTED

MILITARY AFFAIRS THIS MONTH

THE LATEST FROM THE KEY WEST MILITARY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

Key West Military Affairs Committee’s (MAC) mission is to foster and strengthen the relationship between the military and civilians in our community through education and service. The MAC strives to provide educational opportunities to the community to increase understanding of military initiatives to avoid potential conflicts and incompatible operations.

Quality-of-life initiatives such as sponsoring programs for the well-being of the military and supporting Sigsbee Charter School, Wounded Warrior Project’s Soldier Ride and our namesake nuclear submarine, USS Key West, are key focus areas.

MESSAGE FROM MAC PRESIDENT RON DEMES:

At the March MAC meeting, in addition to recognizing local commands’ military members of the quarter and year, the committee was privileged to have Capt. Andy Pate, commanding officer of the USCGC Mohawk, speak about his last two years commanding the Mohawk and a few of his command’s many noteworthy accomplishments. These include two deployments to the Pacific Ocean involving intercepts of illicit drug traffickers, escort of the U.S. Coast Guard’s newest two Fast Response Cutters across the Atlantic as far as Portugal (for the two cutters to continue to Bahrain), continuing on after meeting with dignitaries in Portugal to make six port calls in Africa while on patrol protecting U.S. interests and building relationships with various African nations such as Nigeria.

Upon return to Key West, Mohawk quickly mobilized again with Capt. Pate serving as commander of the surface action group leading nine vessels out of harm’s way of Hurricane Ian with 450 USCG personnel underway and 130 intercepted migrants on board Mohawk.

Capt. Pate departs this summer for Alameda, California to serve as USCG Chief of Maritime Forces Pacific Area. We are hopeful for his return someday, just as former Mohawk Commanding Officer Rear Adm. Mark Fedor did. Fedor is now director of Joint Interagency Task Force - South (JIATFS).

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

March is Women’s History month and the MAC, along with the military, especially acknowledge the pioneering women, past and present, as important contributors to the achievements of the Military Services and civilian workforce. Key West Military Affairs Committee is proud to highlight one such pioneer, Captain Lin V. Hutton, who served in Key West from 1995 to1997 as the U.S. Navy’s first female commanding officer of a Naval Air Station. Captain Hutton was truly a force to be reckoned with coming to Key West after also serving as the first Aircraft Carrier-Based Squadron female commanding officer. She went on to build strong relationships with the Key West community, was a graduate of Leadership Monroe County and member of Key West Sunrise Rotary Club. Upon leaving Key West, she reported to the Chief of Naval Operations Strategic Studies Group whose mission is to generate revolutionary naval warfare concepts. Hutton later retired from the Navy and followed her calling to be an Episcopal minister and currently serves in Orange, Virginia.

Hutton will long be remembered for putting her career on the line when successfully fighting to keep Naval Air Station Key West from closing under the Base Realignment and Closure Act of 1995. She is one of my heroes and I am extremely proud to have served under her command.

1. MAC president Ron Demes presents Andy Pate with the “Bravo Zulu MAC Club Champion Mug” in appreciation of his contributions to MAC and the local community.

2. The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter William Trump names Jarika Nuffer the Coastguardswoman of the Quarter. Pictured from left, Commanding Officer LCDR Travis Murray, Nuffer and MAC president Ron Demes.

3. The U.S. Navy’s Fighter Squadron Composite (VFC-111) names Chelsea Kile Junior Sailor of the Quarter. Pictured from left, Senior Enlisted Advisor CMDSC Will Simpkins, Commanding Officer CDR Lee Smallwood, Kile and MAC president Ron Demes.

4. The U.S. Navy’s Fleet Readiness Command Southeast Detachment Key West names Malcolm Holder its 2022 Sailor of the Year. Pictured from left, Senior Enlisted Advisor AFCM Edger Delacerda, Holder and MAC president Ron Demes.

Captain Lin V. Hutton was commanding officer of Naval Air Station Key West from 1995 to 1997. CONTRIBUTED

ORIGINAL ARTISTS RESTORE AFRICAN CEMETERY AT HIGGS BEACH

MEMORIAL IS LISTED ON THE NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES

NEED FUNDING TO PROMOTE A CULTURAL EVENT?

ARTS COUNCIL OFFERS FREE WORKSHOPS TO HELP GRANT APPLICANTS

Carlos Delgado and his wife Diana from Dega Art Surfaces, the original artists of the African Cemetery Memorial at Higgs Beach in Key West, are doing touch-up painting work of the ground mural this and next week. The site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

In 1860, three illegal slave ships were intercepted by the U.S. Navy and diverted to Key West. The Key West community was so appalled at the treatment of the human cargo that they worked collectively to provide food and shelter for the almost 1,500 Africans who would have been sold into slavery. Despite the efforts, hundreds died and were buried at Higgs Beach.

In the summer of 2002, archaeologists and volunteers conducted a ground-penetrating radar survey around Higgs Beach, finding shallow graves near the sidewalk. During additional surveys in 2010, at least 100 more graves were located.

The historical and archaeological details from the interception can be found on exhibit at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum at 200 Greene Street in Key West. More information on the burial site is at www.africanburialgroundathiggsbeach.org. To take a 3-D tour of the site, visit youtu.be/ gjomFl_rCAQ.

— Contributed

Do you need money to advertise and promote a cultural event in the Florida Keys?

The Florida Keys Council of the Arts helps organizations apply for funding from the Tourist Development Council’s (TDC) Cultural Umbrella to promote events that highlight the arts, culture, theater and history of the island chain.

Grants can range from $25,000 to $35,000 and the application for Cultural Umbrella funding is now available at keysarts.com.

This year’s application has changed and many applicants will be able to apply for $25,000, $30,000 or $35,000.

Cultural events taking place between Oct. 1, 2023 and Sept. 30, 2024 are eligible to apply for this round of TDC funding.

The arts council offers free online workshops to help organizations navigate the TDC’s grant application process and understand its media /marketing procedures.

Organizations intending to apply for Cultural Umbrella funding are strongly encouraged to attend one of the free workshops offered via Zoom by the Florida Keys Council of the Arts.

Past recipients of Cultural Umbrella funding include the Harry S. Truman Little White House, South Florida Symphony, The Studios of

Key West, Key West Literary Seminar, Red Barn Theatre, Waterfront Playhouse, Marathon Community Theatre, Mel Fisher Maritime Museum and the Morada Way Arts & Culture District.

Register in advance for one of the online workshops by contacting the Arts Council office at 305-295-4369 or director@keysarts. com. Please make sure someone from your organization attends the workshop.

The workshops will be held online at the following times:

• Tuesday, April 11 at 4 p.m.

• Wednesday, April 12 at 10 a.m. (For Zoom links, visit keysarts.com.)

The TDC’s application deadline is Wednesday, April 26, 2023 at 5 p.m. Applications will be reviewed by the Cultural Umbrella committee on May 23, and their recommendations for funding will be forwarded to the TDC and BOCC for final approval.

The arts council will also offer an application review of the Arts Council’s “Art Builds Community” grant program, which awards funding of $5,000, $7,500 and $10,000 for projects occurring in the 20232024 season.

More information is available at 305-295-4369 or www.keysarts. com.

— Contributed

The Harry S. Truman Little White House is a past recipient of funding to help promote its cultural events. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

Artist Carlos Delgado revitalizes the African Cemetery Memorial at Higgs Beach that he helped paint about 20 years ago following the discovery of graves belonging to hundreds of Africans who were brought to Key West when the slave ship that captured them was intercepted by the U.S. Navy in 1860. JOHN ALLEN/Monroe County Parks and Beaches

DEALER CHARGED WITH MURDER IN OVERDOSE DEATH

Alexis Joy Sather, 23, of Marathon, was arrested for murder on March 15 for allegedly selling fentanyl that resulted in the overdose of 53-year-old Amanda Roberts of Grassy Key.

According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, this is the third time in about the last 12 months the Sheriff’s Office has arrested a drug dealer in connection with a death resulting from their sale of narcotics.

Roberts was found dead at her residence on Sept. 2, 2022. Evidence of drug use was found at the scene. The Medical Examiner’s Office determined the cause of death to be a fentanyl and diazepam overdose. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the ensuing investigation showed Sather sold Roberts the fentanyl that led to her death.

“I hope this message is very clear: Quit selling this poison in our community. It is ruining lives and killing people,” said Sheriff Rick Ramsay. “If you sell these drugs and someone dies, we will pursue murder charges against you.”

The Sheriff’s Office Special Operations and Major Crimes Divisions as well as the State Attorney’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration worked together on this case.

Sather was already in jail Wednesday on other drugrelated charges when she was charged with Roberts’ death. According to the Sheriff’s Office records, the March 15 arrest is her third since September 2022.

According to MCSO and Monroe County court records, on Sept. 21, Sather was arrested for a conditional release violation as well as possession of 2.9 grams of fentanyl.

On Jan. 12, she was arrested again after deputies found 3.7 grams of heroin, $1,239 in cash, a digital scale, multiple baggies and razor blades and straws containing heroin residue during a traffic stop.

Sather is being held at the Key West jail.

— Contributed

Alexis Sather was arrested for murder for her alleged role in the death of 53-year-old Amanda Roberts. MCSO/Contributed

TAKE ME HOME?

FIND A FRIEND AT THE FLORIDA KEYS SPCA

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

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

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

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

HELP KEEP KEY WEST CLEAN

JOIN A 1- HOUR CLEANUP EVERY FRIDAY MORNING

Mint Chip is a leopard gecko who was brought to the Key West campus in early March with a group of other leopard geckos, each one sweeter than the last. While they are receiving the best possible care with us, they are still waiting for their forever homes.

Zeke is a year-old male domestic shorthair and is a friendly, playful cat who seeks out attention from humans. He gets along well with other cats and would do very well with children of any age.

Maya is a 3-year-old female domestic shorthair. She’s on the shy side and a little wary of other cats. Once she knows you, she warms up and likes to be cuddled. She would definitely delight in receiving a gentle petting and one-onone time.

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

ment 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.

— Contributed

Oliver is a male, 4-year-old, blackmouth cur. A sensitive soul, he lives for snuggles and sniffs. His nose is always on the ground as per his breed.

Twinklenose is a nearly 2-year-old male domestic shorthair. He’s cautious at first, but with patience and love will make a great companion. Twinklenose is FIV+, so he should live with his new family as the only cat, or with other FIV+ cats.

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 Manage-

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

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

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

The Ploggers met at Key Plaza on March 17 along with volunteers from this week’s host Publix Supermarket. A total of 41 volunteers collected a record 7 gallons of cigarette butts, 110 pounds of trash and 38 pounds of recycling. CONTRIBUTED

St. Leo University in Key West offers psychology degree

BACHELOR’S PROGRAM IS SCHOOL’S NEWEST

Saint Leo University’s Key West Education Center is offering a new bachelor’s degree program, adding to the center’s 12 existing degree programs. The new addition is a bachelor’s in psychology-general.

“We at the Key West Center want to see the center itself grow and adding the program to this location has truly opened doors for us; our students are excited to have a new program at this location and to gain the new experience that comes along with it,” said Jeffrey Hite, center director.

Saint Leo University began educating students in Key West in 1975. Now, the education center is located at Naval Air Station Key West, A-718 Essex Circle, Key West, FL 33040. While Saint Leo’s location on base makes it accessible and convenient for military-affiliated students, the center staff also are able to sponsor anyone who may then attend classes on base, Hite said.

“Earning a psychology degree means that students have learned skills that are essential and applicable to a wide variety of career paths,” said Keith Burton, associate chair of Saint Leo’s Social Sciences Department and an assistant professor of psychology. “These skills include critical thinking, independent and group work experience, research techniques, a familiarity with statistics, and both written and oral communication. Thus, there are few limits on what kinds of careers students can build for themselves. I like to point students to the (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) Occupational Outlook Handbook’s psychology page (bls.gov/ooh/ field-of-degree/psychology/psychology-fieldof-degree.htm) to help them start digging more into what’s possible.”

Prospective psychology students should think about what interests them in that field, Burton said. “If they want to help people in need, there are many careers within the helping professions that they could look to, such as community and social service roles,” he said. “If they’re interested in education, there are many roles they could pursue there, too. There are many management, business and sales roles they’d be qualified for, and there are plenty of roles for them in the health care field. Some of these paths would require additional education or training, and a psychology undergraduate degree would offer an excellent foundation.”

While professionals are needed in all fields, Hite said he thinks that the Florida Keys population “can highly benefit from this program and the many benefits that it brings to us all.”

Additional degree programs offered in-person and online at the Key West Education Center include: associate’s degrees in in liberal arts, business administration, and criminal justice; bachelor’s degrees in business administration: management, marketing, and technology management; criminal justice: criminalistics and homeland security; elementary education; human resource management; and middle grades education: English and social science.

Saint Leo University is a nonprofit, Catholic university that is regionally accredited, and its residential campus is in Saint Leo, north of Tampa. At its Key West Education Center, students have access to onsite advising, library resources and a computer lab.

“The most important thing is that the students who become affiliated with the Key West Center have staff who are local and are present,” Hite said. “We are able to be here for one-on-one meetings to accommodate students’ needs.”

Students at Saint Leo’s Key West Education Center also have opportunities to join clubs, honor societies, and organizations as well as giving back by participating in community service projects to benefit the area. In addition, Saint Leo students complete internships and externships with Key West businesses.

For the convenience of students — most of whom are working, adult learners — classes are held after 5 p.m., Monday through Thursday. The summer 1 term begins May 8, summer 2 classes begin July 5, and the fall 1 term classes start August 28.

For more information, email Jeff Hite, interim Key West Education Center director, jeffrey.hite@saintleo.edu or 305-293-2847. He also may be reached at Ext. 3621.

ABOUT SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY

Saint Leo University is one of the largest Catholic universities in the nation, offering more than 100 undergraduate and graduate-level degree programs and specializations to more than 15,300 students each year. Founded in 1889 in the Benedictine tradition, the private, nonprofit university is known for providing an education to learners of all backgrounds and ages. Saint Leo is regionally accredited and offers a residential campus in the Tampa Bay region of Florida, at education centers, and through an online program for students anywhere. The university is home to more than 103,000 alumni. More information is at saintleo.edu. — Contributed

CONCH REPUBLIC COMMEMORATES ‘SECESSION’

APRIL 21-30

KEYSWIDE EVENTS RECALL 1982 BORDER PATROL BLOCKADE

KEY WEST DRAG RACE FEATURES HIGH-HEELED HIJINKS

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS CONCH REPUBLIC INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION

Activities including a lighthearted sea battle featuring tall ships, a parade dubbed the world’s longest and a “drag” race for female impersonators await Key West fans April 21-30 during the 41st annual Conch Republic Days celebration.

The offbeat 10-day festival commemorates the Florida Keys’ symbolic secession from the United States and reinvention as the independent Conch Republic.

The republic, whose motto is “We seceded where others failed,” was born following a 1982 U.S. Border Patrol blockade of the island chain. In protest, citizens organized the secession, declared war on the mother country, surrendered 60 seconds later and demanded $1 billion in foreign aid. The anniversary of the secession is marked each year with a roster of irreverent events.

The 2023 schedule includes the Great Conch Republic Drag Race Saturday, April 22, in the 700 block of Duval Street. The challenge typically stars drag queens and intrepid men in dresses, wigs and makeup who sprint down the pavement in startlingly high heels.

The secession’s anniversary Sunday, April 23, features a noontime reenactment of the historic act at 401 Wall St. beside Mallory Square, the site of the original rebellion. Many of the Conch Republic’s founders including Key West’s former mayor, Dennis Wardlow, will re-create the 1982

ceremony that marked the renowned republic’s birth.

Thursday, April 27, brings the World’s Longest Parade. Stepping off at 8 p.m. on Duval Street, the procession is so named because it begins at the Atlantic Ocean and proceeds down the length of Duval to the Gulf of Mexico.

The action moves to Key West Harbor at 7 p.m. Friday for the Great Sea Battle of the Conch Republic, featuring weapons ranging from water cannons to flying Cuban bread. Noncombatants can view the seafaring spectacle from Mallory Square and harborfront resorts, restaurants and bars.

Landlubbers will vie for victory Saturday, April 29, during a charity race featuring “strange bedfellows” piloting decorated beds on wheels along Duval Street.

Other festival attractions include daily tall ship and catamaran sails, a pirates ball and other parties, a wearable art fashion show, artisan extravaganzas and a sailing race that recalls the Florida Keys’ colorful maritime heritage.

Finally, all Conch Republic friends and fans are invited to view Race World Offshore’s inaugural 7 Mile Offshore Grand Prix, a powerboat race beside the historic Seven Mile Bridge in the Middle Keys. Racing is set for Sunday, April 30, with events to culminate in the presentation of the Conch Republic Cup. VIP spectator tickets are available at raceworldoffshore.com.

Merrymakers will gather in Key West for a playful parody of auto racing, with entrants swapping high-speed cars for high-heeled shoes and female drag “ah-tire” while dashing along an improvised racetrack on Saturday, April 22.

The annual Conch Republic Drag Race is to take place in the 700 block of famed Duval Street, home to the island’s vibrant LGBTQ entertainment district.

Presented by the Petronia Street Neighborhood Association and under the direction of the Bourbon Street Pub staff, the zany race will “clock in” with registration at 2:30 p.m. and trials at 3 p.m. followed by qualifying heats and finals.

Traditional auto racing is spoofed throughout the lighthearted event, with gregarious organizers posing as “pit crew” while waving checkered flags and a local DJ improvising the roar of revving engines.

The event’s “dragsters” — sporting lavish lipstick, extravagant wigs and race-mandated

high-heeled footwear — entertain audiences while attempting to outpace their rivals. Racers must navigate various hazards on the “track” including an obstacle course of tires and other wipeout-worthy perils as spectators cheer on their favorites.

Race registration is free for all contestants willing to don the required towering heels and dresses or other female finery.

The drag challenge is part of Key West’s 41st annual Conch Republic Days celebration. Scheduled April 21-30, the festival commemorates the Florida Keys’ symbolic 1982 secession from the United States and formation of the independent republic.

Among its highlights are a reenactment of the secession, the so-called “World’s Longest Parade” that proceeds along Duval Street from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico, a lighthearted sea battle featuring tall ships and a wearable art fashion show.

— Contributed

The Conch Republic flag celebrates the fiercely independent and famously inclusive island chain. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

Female impersonators compete in pancake makeup, extravagant wigs and race-mandated high-heeled footwear. CONTRIBUTED

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AMAZING WOMEN YOU’VE NEVER HEARD OF

DISCOVERING THE POLIO VACCINE. FIGHTING FOR EQUALITY. CRACKING CODES. WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATES THESE RELATIVELY UNKNOWN AND UNSUNG HEROINES WHO CHANGED THE WORLD.

THE WOMAN WITH THE CURE

By Lynn Cullen

In the 1940s and 1950s the world is battling the poliovirus. It spreads quickly, paralyzing and often killing its victims. Doctors don’t know how it spreads or enters the body. They don’t know how to cure or eradicate this disease. As summers go by with children locked in their homes, parents remain terrified. Teams of scientists across the globe research a multitude of theories. Dr. Dorothy Horstmann is a child of immigrants. She claws her way through medical school. Dorothy is one of a few women working in medicine and specifically epidemiology. Dorothy’s gentle bedside manner extends to everyone; never searching for fame or money, she only wants to help people. It takes years for scientists to finally recognize her research into poliovirus in the human bloodstream which led to the vaccine that was ultimately created. Dorothy works tirelessly, placing her personal life second to this horrific disease. The race for a cure overrode war, politics and notoriety. Dorothy is not a household name but this account of her contributions is simply incredible.

KAREN NEWFIELD

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

HER LOST WORDS

By Stephanie Marie Thornton

THE PIRATE’S WIFE

By Daphne Palmer Geanacopoulos

Mary

Wollstone

craft was a British writer, philosopher and one of the first advocates for women’s rights in the late 1700s. After leaving her childhood home and a violent alcoholic father, Mary found trust in a London publisher who introduced her work to the literary world, a door closed to women at the time. Experiencing poverty, pregnancy out of wedlock and Paris’ Reign of Terror, Wollstonecraft spent her short life championing education and equality for women. Mary Shelley, celebrated author of Frankenstein, never knew her mother but discovered guidance through her intelligent and often scandalous words. She grew up craving her father’s attention and fell in love with Percy Shelley, a poet who turned her world upside down. Mother and daughter express their thoughts and emotions through pen and paper at a time when women had virtually no voice or vote, when women were completely dependent on their male counterparts. Mary and Mary led extremely uncommon and unconventional lives that were criticized and dangerous but forced change within their conformist society. Narrated through their relationships and endeavors, we travel back in time to understand these trailblazing women on whose shoulders we stand.

Sarah Bradley was born in England circa 1665. After her mother died, Sarah helped raise her younger brothers while her seafaring father was mostly away. Maturing quickly due to her circumstance, Sarah was married to William Cox at 15 years old when the Bradleys arrived in the New York Colony. Becoming even more self-sufficient, Sarah possessed natural business acumen and quickly married a second time after the untimely demise of Cox. When John Oort passed away, Sarah met Captain William Kidd, a dashing and adventurous man with a notorious reputation that followed him the world over. As Sarah was already a beautiful and well-to-do woman with multiple businesses and land acquisitions – unheard of for women during this time – the two became something of a power couple. When the dashing captain made a privateering arrangement with duplicitous investors, their adventurous lives came crumbling down. Astounding account of a period in history most know little about, including horrendous conditions for women, dependency on the whims of a monarchy and a colony on the cusp of change. This author brings a rare story to life revealing shocking secrets, survival and ingenuity of a pirate’s wife.

WATCH TIP: The Codebreaker tells the fascinating true story of Elizabeth Smith Friedman, a groundbreaking cryptanalyst whose topsecret decoding work changed the outcome of wars and saved thousands of lives. Can be seen on PBS, Hoopla and Prime Video.

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District I Advisory Committee

(DAC I) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be:

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.

us/j/87354296070

Meeting ID: 873 5429 6070

One tap mobile

+13052241968,,87354296070# US

+13017158592,,87354296070# US (Washington, D.C.)

Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing: MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at: Maxine@fla-keys.com, or by calling (305) 296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday.

All District Advisory Committee

Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.

Publish: March 23, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District II Advisory Committee (DAC II) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at 6:00 P.M., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be:

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.

us/j/87081008430

Meeting ID: 870 8100 8430

One tap mobile

+13052241968,,87081008430# US

+13017158592,,87081008430# US (Washington DC)

Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing: MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at: Maxine@fla-keys.com, or by calling (305) 296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.

Publish:

March 23, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District III Advisory Committee (DAC III) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, at 9:30 A.M., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be:

Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/89723392622

Meeting ID: 897 2339 2622

One tap mobile +13052241968,,89723392622# US

+16469313860,,89723392622# US

Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing: MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at: Maxine@fla-keys.com, or by calling (305) 296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.

Publish:

March 23, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District IV Advisory Committee (DAC IV) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at 2:00 P.M., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be:

Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/88906165890

Meeting ID: 889 0616 5890

One tap mobile: +13052241968,,88906165890# US +13017158592,,88906165890# US

Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing: MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at: Maxine@fla-keys.com, or by calling (305) 296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.

Publish:

March 23, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District V Advisory Committee (DAC V) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at 10:00 A.M., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be:

Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.

us/j/89802653757

Meeting ID: 898 0265 3757

One tap mobile +13052241968,,89802653757# US +16469313860,,89802653757# US

Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing: MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at: Maxine@fla-keys.com, or by calling (305) 296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.

Publish:

March 23, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, at 9:00 A.M., the Monroe County

NOTICE OF FUNDING AVAILABILITY FOR MONROE COUNTY HUMAN SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS

Electronic applications for Monroe County Fiscal Year 2024 are now available to eligible 501(c)3 organizations. The new application is available on the Monroe County website on the Human Services Advisory Board page at: www.monroecounty-fl.gov/318/Human-Services-Advisory-Board.

Applications must be submitted electronically at noon, Thursday, May 4, 2023. Applications are reviewed and funding recommendations are made by the Human Services Advisory Board, appointed by the Board of County Commissioners. All HSAB meetings are open to the public. For questions contact Oksana Christow at Christow-Oksana@monroecounty-fl.gov or 305.292.4474

Purchasing Office will open sealed responses for the following: FY 2024 Destination/Turn Key Event applications Bids must be submitted no later than 5:00P.M. June 6, 2023. Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3)(a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar at www.demandstar.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/bids. The Public Record is available upon request.

Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids electronically. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/ responses WILL NOT be accepted. The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl.gov, no later than 5:00P.M., on June 6, 2023. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows:

FY 2024 Destination/Turn Key Event applications 6-6-2023 Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl.gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 9:00 A.M., on June 7, 2023. You may call in by phone or internet using the following:

Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom.

us/j/4509326156

Meeting ID: 4509326156

One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York)

+16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location:

+1 646 518 9805 (New York)

+1 669 900 6833 (San Jose)

Publish: March 23, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:

Marathon Professional Center Building Roof Replacement Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3)(a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar at www.demandstar.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/bids. The Public Record is available upon request.

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

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00P.M., on April 25, 2023. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows:

Marathon Professional Center Building Roof Replacement 0425-2023

Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED.

Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl.gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on April 25, 2023. You may call in by phone or internet using the following:

Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 (New York) +1 669 900 6833 (San Jose)

Publish: March 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-25-P

IN RE: ESTATE OF THOMAS JOSEPH CONROY

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of THOMAS JOSEPH CONROY, deceased, whose date of death was January 26, 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 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 23, 2023.

Personal Representative:

JAMES C. CONROY

121 Navajo St. Tavernier, FL 33070 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 23 & 30, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 2023-CP-33-P

IN RE: ESTATE OF JOSEPH JAMES OLIVEROS Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of JOSEPH JAMES OLIVEROS, deceased, whose date of death was March 1, 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 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 23, 2023.

Personal Representative: GEORGE VASTARDIS 8777 SW 134th St. Miami, FL 33176

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 23 & 30, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

CASE NO.: 23-CP-21-P IN RE: THE ESTATE OF RICHARD CLAIRE MCCOMB, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS (summary administration) TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS OR DEMANDS AGAINST THE ABOVE ESTATE:

You are hereby notified that an Order of Summary Administration has been entered in the Estate of Richard Claire McComb, deceased, File Number 23-CP-21-P, by the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 33070; that the Decedent’s date of death was November 17, 2022; that the total value of the Estate is $5,000.00; and that the names and addresses of those to whom it has been assigned by such order are:

NAME

Sandra Sheffler

2594 S County Rd 7 Loveland, CO 80537

Patrick Buckley 3190 Hwy 95, Lot 1605

Bullhead City, AZ 86442

Jodi Candlin

Box 1 Silver Plume, CO 80476

Brandon Sheffler 512 Wildcat Parkway Wiggins, CO 80654

ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE

NOTIFIED THAT:

All creditors of the Estate of the Decedent and persons having claims or demands against the Estate of the Decedent other than those for whom provision for full payment was made in the Order

of Summary Administration must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702. ALL CLAIMS AND DEMANDS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING ANY OTHER APPLICABLE TIME PERIOD, 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 23, 2023.

Person Giving Notice:

Sandra Sheffler

2594 S County Rd 7 Loveland, CO 80537

Attorney for Person Giving Notice:

Nicholas W. Mulick

E-mail Address: lisa@mulicklaw. com Florida Bar No. 0337757

Nicholas W. Mulick P.A. 91645 Overseas Highway Tavernier, Florida 33070 Publish:

March 23 & 30, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

I N THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-24-P DIVISION: PLANTATION KEY IN RE: ESTATE OF DANIEL H. STEELE Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Daniel H. Steele, deceased, whose date of death was January 3, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Ste 2, Plantation Key, Florida 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 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 23, 2023.

Personal Representative:

Rosemary A. Steele 131 Harbor Lane Tavernier, FL 33070

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 23 & 30, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL

LEGAL NOTICES

The administration of the estate of FLORENCE MAY BOUSQUET, deceased, whose date of death was 9 December 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, the address of which is Freeman Justice Center, 302 Fleming 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS

AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT 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 23, 2023.

Personal Representative:

Kenneth Bousquet

2407 Blue Water Bay Drive Katy, TX 77494

Attorney for Personal

Representative:

Tom Woods, Esq. Florida Bar No.: 0525197 116 Porto Salvo Drive Islamorada, Florida 33036 Phone: 305.664.2200 Fax 2205

Primary Email: tom@ tomwoodslaw.com

Secondary Email: eserve@ tomwoodslaw.com

Publish: March 23 & 30, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 23-CP-36-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MARK STEPHEN DEJONG, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of MARK STEPHEN DEJONG, deceased, whose date of death was January 7, 2023, Case: 23-CP-36-K, is pending in the Circuit Court, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS

AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

The date of first publication of this Notice is: March 23, 2023.

Personal Representative: MARIE CHRISTINE DEJONG

c/o Samuel J. Kaufman

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

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

Key West, Florida 33040

Attorney for Personal Representative: Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0144304

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

Key West, Florida 33040

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

Telephone: (305) 292-3926

Fax: (305) 295-7947

Publish: March 23 & 30, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-000077-K IN RE: ESTATE OF MARK DENNIS THOMPSON

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the Estate of MARK DENNIS THOMPSON, Deceased, whose date of death was January 14, 2023; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; File No.: 23-CP-000077-K, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The name and addresses of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the Decedent and other persons who have claims or demands against the Decedent’s Estate, including unmatured, 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 23, 2023.

Personal Representative: Cynthia Fleming Zachares 625 Overseas Highway, Apt. 202 Key West, Florida 33040 Attorney for Personal

Representative:

Paul F. Berman, Esq. Berman & Berman, P.A. 9560 SW 107 Avenue, Suite 208 Miami, Florida 33176 Telephone (305) 274-0829

Facsimile (305) 274-7829 Florida Bar No. 156612 paul@bermanandbermanlaw.com

Publish:

March 23 & 30, 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 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

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.

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

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

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

LEGAL NOTICES

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

LEGAL NOTICES

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 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: Victoria A. Lynch 16623 35th Place Wellborn, Florida 32094

Attorney for Personal

Representative: Robert K. Miller, Esq. Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173 Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA

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

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

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

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 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, 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

ONSITE JOB FAIR

STEVEN A. SCIARRETTA, P.A.

2799 NW Boca Raton Blvd., Suite

203 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

$1000

OPENINGS AVAILABLE

- Housekeepers

- Cooks

- Food Crew

- Mechanics

- Dietitians

- Patient Advocates

- Med Techs

- Imaging Techs

- Registered Nurses

- RN Supv/Mgrs

- Physical Therapists

- +More!

For details and to RSVP, visit: www.baptisthires.com

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

IS HIRING!

3

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.

LEGAL NOTICES

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

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

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN

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

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME 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 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

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

BUSY NONPROFIT HAS NEED FOR BOTH A WOMEN & FAMILY PROGRAM MANAGER AND A MEN’S PROGRAM MANAGER

These are full-time salary positions. Great benefits. Must have excellent communication, organizational, and computer skills. Must be compassionate and professional. Bachelor’s degree, field experience, and Spanish is a plus.

Drug-free workplace, EOE. Please send resume and cover letter to sholt@fkoc.org

MAINTENANCE POSITION WITH BUSY NONPROFIT

ALL YEARS!

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

AUTOS FOR SALE

2005 Toyota Sienna - Runs Great,A/C,Good Work Truck,located in Marathon. $1000 obo (339) 832-0485

BOATS FOR SALE

8 Foot West Marine Inflatable Dingy, all accessories included. Located in Marathon. $200 (339) 832-0485

EMPLOYMENT

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.

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.

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

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

AFTER 3 MONTHS

PROGRAM

FT/PT  TAVERNIER OFFICE

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.

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

The 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.

EMPLOYMENT HOUSING FOR RENT

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker), Med Tech, Resident Activities Coordinator, Grounds Caretaker, and HCV Specialist (No experience necessary. The KWHA will provide training for this position to the right candidate). 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.

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

Place your Help Wanted ad here for $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-7430844 today.

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

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

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

LOT FOR SALE

Nice Lot with Building Permit For Sale, 50' X 100' Built up with 3 ft. of fill. $249K 768 82nd Street, Marathon, FL. Call 305-905-2838

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

Grassy Flats Resort & Beach Club on Grassy Key now hiring Housemen, Housekeepers, Kitchen Staff & Front Desk Agent.

The Lagoon Grassy Key Adventure Park & Bongo’s Botanical Beer Garden on Grassy Key now hiring Watersports Guide, Kitchen Staff & Retail Manager.

Email: hiring@grassyflats.com

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

NOW HIRING CONSTRUCTION ADMIN

• Full time.

• Flexible start and end times.

• Must have excellent database and Quickbooks knowledge.

• Marathon location.

Email resume to bhager@royalcompletehome.com

NOW HIRING Program Coordinator

Full time position, starting April 3. Responsible for program development, coordinating presentations, media relations and traveling exhibits. Must have excellent writing and public speaking skills. Knowledge of graphic design programs helpful. $45K annual salary.

Keys History & Discovery Center 82100 Overseas Hwy. Located on the property of the Islander Resort. For more information, email vivian@keysdiscovery.com

NOW HIRING

DIVE INSTRUCTOR

TOUCH TANK ATTENDANT GUEST SERVICES

FULL OR PART-TIME LAWN MAINTENANCE

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

11710 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON

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.

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.

WASTEWATER PUMP TECHNICIAN

LOCATION: MIDDLE KEYS

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for a Wastewater Pump Technician to perform specialized troubleshooting, maintenance, repair and rebuilding of pumps utilized in the Authority's wastewater collection systems. MUST HAVE: high school diploma or GED; supplemented by training in pipefi ing, mechanical, pumps, electrical troubleshooting; supplemented by five (5) years previous experience and/or training that includes pipefi ing, mechanical and pump experience. Must possess a CDL Class A license. Competitive benefits including Florida Retirement System. Salary: $59,507.15 - $76,883.40. DOQ.

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

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

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

58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL Teaching... Learning... Caring

•

HIRING

• ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Must have valid Driver’s License & Transportation

Location: Upper Keys Send

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

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

Architects

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

Carpenter

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

Interior Designer

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

Working Warehouse Manager

Jr. Interior Designer

Hiring machine operators, deckhands, general labor, mechanics & welders in the Upper Keys. 40/hrs per week. Monday-Friday. 305-440-3304

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

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.

Benefits

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

LIVE FROM THE LAWN

free concerts, featuring:

March 25th | 8pm

Rob Benton with Special Guest, Sheldon Benton

April 21st | 7pm

Nick Norman with Special Guest, Cliff Cody