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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.

WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH THE SARGASSUM ‘BLOB?’

DEFINING THE DETAILS AS THE MACROALGAE APPROACH THE KEYS

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 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.

“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.

“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.

Visit keysweekly.com for the full story.

Jerry and Mary Lou Wilkinson dressed in outfits for the Indian Key Celebration held in April 2022. Jerry passed away at the age of 94 on March 16. KEYS HISTORY & DISCOVERY CENTER/Contributed

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

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

KEYS MARINE WORKER KILLED AFTER CRANE FALLS INTO WATER

A 29-year-old Homestead man died on March 21 after a construction crane fell over in Key Largo.

According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Jose Eduardo Reyes Ponce was an Upper Keys Marine Construction worker who was working with a crew to install dock pilings in the water. The workers were in the area of Mutiny Place when the crane fell into the water around 3:30 p.m. Ponce was pronounced dead at the scene. Foul play does not appear to be a factor in the incident. Autopsy results are pending. The sheriff’s office and OSHA are investigating the incident.

— Keys Weekly staff report.

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

KEYS HISTORIAN JERRY WILKINSON PASSES AWAY AT 94

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

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 California, Colorado and the Keys. In Cali-

fornia, 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

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

VILLAGE SEEKS PERMANENT PROGRAM FOR MOBILE CUISINE VENDORS

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Patrons grabbing a local brew at Florida Keys Brewing Co. in Islamorada don’t have far to go for some authentic Mexican fare from Tacos Jalisco.

A food truck with roots in Key Largo expanded south more than two years ago — a successful marriage between the two local businesses on the brewery’s property.

“It’s a great part of our business and community,” Craig McBay, owner of Florida Keys Brewing Co., told the village’s Local Planning Agency members inside Founders Park Community Center on March 13.

Tacos Jalisco is one of four food trucks licensed through the village’s mobile food vending program, which began as a pilot in 2020 following council’s approval. With 10 licenses available, a number of restrictions were implemented to keep mobile food vendors away from village facilities, the Fills and 50 feet from U.S. 1. It also restricted operations in residential-zoned neighborhoods and abandoned business locations while prohibiting the use of Styrofoam and single-use plastics.

With the two-year pilot expiring in 2022, village planning officials are now proposing a permanent program that follows a similar framework. The village’s program also acknowledges the state’s preemption on mobile food trucks in 2020, which disallows local governments from registering, licensing or permitting them.

But municipalities can still determine where food trucks and trailers can be set up for business. The Islamorada Planning Department and Dan Gulizio, director, are seeking to sort that out with staff and the village’s Local Planning Agency.

During the March 13 LPA meeting, Gulizio unveiled a draft proposal that set guidelines on where mobile vending trucks could do business. It also defined a mobile food vendor, or food truck, to be a moveable vehicle that may cook, prepare and assemble food items.

Per the draft, food trucks would be able to conduct business in village center, tourist commercial and mobile home park districts, so long as they submitted a site plan and followed

WATER FLOW RETURNS BUT CONSERVE MESSAGE REMAINS

any additional requirements within the area where they were handing out food. Due to the state preemption, Gulizio said he no longer believes food trucks for special events are viable in residential zones.

“We’re trying to thread the needle from what we’re preempted from doing and what’s not permitted at all right now,” Gulizio said. “We tried to provide an avenue for those commercial operations that currently aren’t permitted under current land development regulations.”

Food trucks would be allowed to obtain temporary use permits for up to four special events per year. Gulizio said food vendors who frequent the Gigantic Nautical Flea Market every February wouldn’t be affected.

“Temporary use permits on village properties are looked at in a separate category,” Gulizio said. “We wouldn’t jeopardize that.”

Several LPA members had concerns with allowing food trucks in mobile home parks that are more residential, like the one near Orchid Street on Plantation Key.

“Do we want to see food trucks parked out in front of their neighborhood? I don’t think so,” said Lorie LaLonde, LPA vice chair.

Then there’s the new Sun Outdoors Islamorada, an RV lot and vacation home destination situated along the Old Highway that’s also zoned mobile home park. Gulizio said Sun Outdoors Islamorada has submitted an application to the village for a food truck. Attorney Rob Stober, working on behalf of Sun Outdoors Islamorada, said an RV park is a transient facility.

“It would fit in with the character because a food truck and an RV

are often indistinguishable. They’re often built on the same frame, having the same outline. It does provide an affordable accommodation for the people who are visiting,” Stober said.

There were also questions over how the proposal and the food truck restriction in residential zones would affect caterers, like Craig Belcher, who runs Island Time Catering. He’s operated a food truck for five years and an open food trailer for more than 30 years.

“What’s the end goal that the village is trying to stop from happening? You’ve opened a Pandora’s box here when you talk about catering and events in people’s houses. There’s so many different scenarios, where’s the problem and what are you trying to fix?”

Gulizio said someone could still hire a caterer for a wedding event without drawing attention from the village or code enforcement. For events of more than 100 people, Gulizio said the village requires a temporary use permit. At that time, the village could condition the use of a food truck without any need to address it through the ordinance.

But Gulizio said the village would have several concerns if somebody wanted to run a food truck out of their single-family residence every day.

The matter was tabled by the LPA to consider more details on where food trucks are allowed.

Gulizio said he isn’t trying to put food trucks out of business or unfairly regulate catering operations. Rather, he said the village is trying to address issues of food trucks setting up in places such as the Fills or along the side of the road.

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.

Kona Ice serves shaved ice during the Gigantic Nautical Flea Market in 2022. Food trucks operating at Founders Park for events like the Gigantic Nautical Flea Market wouldn’t be affected by the village’s mobile food vendor guidelines. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

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

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,” shares 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

KEYS WEEKLY

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

THE SCOREBOARD

CHARLES “CHUCK” JACOBSEN

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

Senior, Coral Shores Lacrosse

Senior Charles Jacobsen, in his first season ever playing lacrosse, has been dominating faceoffs for the Hurricanes. He uses his strength and speed to outmaneuver opponents, and when those don’t work, he wills himself to be the best with pure grit.

“Not only is Chuck always showing great leadership, he is without a doubt going 100% on the practice field and in games,” said head coach Brian Lindback.

In his most recent performance, Jacobsen scored two of the ’Canes’ six goals, and he has amassed 28 ground balls so far this season. For his positive contributions to the Coral Shores lacrosse team in both gameplay and leadership, Chuck Jacobsen is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

“Chuck is the definition of a model player every coach wants on their roster.”

— Coral Shores head lacrosse coach Brian Lindback.

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.

VINCY

THREE YEARS FIELDING FOXES LOOKING

BACK AT ‘PAWSITIVE’S BEGINNINGS’

Vincy is the newest addition at MarrVelous Pet Rescues. This precious girl is 6-8 months old. She seems to be a lab/pitty mix. She weighs just under 30 pounds now but is still slightly underweight. Vincy is missing an ear, and had some sores/scabs on her little body, which make us wonder what all she has been through at such a young age. She is beautiful with a velvety soft black coat. She’s affectionate and just wants to give and receive love. She is gentle and well behaved. She’s also very playful and loves playing with other dogs. She does pretty well with cats; she just wants to play. If you are interested in meeting Vincy, or any of our available dogs, please complete an application at www.mprescues.org.

Saturday, March 25

• Florida Keys Board of Realtors’ blood drive and nonperishable food dropoff from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at First State Bank, MM 97, Key Largo.

• Activate & Ascend Your Business workshops from 9 a.m. to noon at J Kindred Art Gallery, MM 86.5, Islamorada. Email melinda@melindavanfleet.com for more info and to register.

Sunday, March 26

• Burgers on the Bay from noon to 4 p.m. at Florida Bay Forever, Islamorada.

Tuesday, March 28

• Mote Marine Laboratory tour through Islamorada nursery at 2 p.m. at Bud N’ Mary’s Marina, MM 79.8, oceanside, Islamorada. Visit mote.org/ tours to sign up.

Wednesday, March 29

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

Friday, March 31

• History of Diving Museum’s Dive Into Art & Music from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Safe Harbor Angler House, Islamorada. Purchase tickets at divingmuseum. org.

• Key Largo Sound Stage, sponsored by Higher Ground Music and Video, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m at MM 100.6, bayside. Message @higher_ ground_keylargo for more info or to sign up as an artist.

April 1-2

• 31st annual Island Fest at Founders Park, Islamorada. Visit islamoradachamber.com to learn more.

Saturday, April 1

• Florida Keys Quilters meet at 9:30 a.m. Visit Florida Keys Quilters Facebook to learn more.

Friday, April 7

• Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys annual golf tournament at 9 a.m. at Redland Golf & Country Club, Homestead. Register at habitatupperkeys.org/2023golf.

Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” Well, my mom left bright and early Thursday morning to go on a super secret mission up north. Any guesses on where she might be going or what she might be doing?

I know, but I have been sworn to secrecy, for now. I think she will let me report on it next week so make sure to check back. On March 18, Pawsitive Beginnings celebrated its three-year anniversary. Can you believe it? For three years my mom, Nicole Navarro, has been giving foxes like me a second chance at life here in the Florida Keys. It all started with my mom, Louie and Libby from a Minnesota fur farm. My mom had this to say about the special day:

“Three years ago in a world that was very uncertain I followed my heart, set aside my fears and took a leap of faith. Three years ago, I didn’t even have plans to start taking foxes yet, but I knew in my heart big things were on the horizon. This incredible Florida Keys community has supported the foxes and I every step of the way. Way down here, at the end of the road, seven foxes have found their freedom and

are embraced by this quirky little island chain every single day.

The Florida Keys celebrate uniqueness, and foxes in Key Largo are certainly that.

“Where else in the world could Reef the Fox have been named Best Local Celebrity?

“Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.”

I wonder if mom has any plans to bring home another fox this year? She hasn’t said anything to me about it, but she has been known to ignore my expert opinion and do what she wants. So we will see. I know my mom also met up with Liv Ullmann again a few days ago to work on a special project. I don’t know what it was but once I know the details, I will share them with my loyal readers, that’s for sure.

Picking up Reef the fox from Minnesota in early May 2021, Nicole Navarro drove 26 hours back to the Keys with the fox. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

Events coming up: Gardenia’s Bistro, located at 88720 Overseas Highway in Tavernier, is hosting a “Give Back Bingo” night for the foxes of Pawsitive Beginnings on April 5 at 6:30 p.m. It’s free admission, the bistro will be open selling food and nonalcoholic drinks, but you can bring your own beer. All donations raised from the six rounds of bingo will be donated to Pawsitive Beginnings and mom will be there calling numbers and handing out prizes for each round’s winner. So mark it on your calendar and head on down. I will remind you next week again, don’t worry.

Anywho, that’s all for this week; until next time, Reef, over and out!

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

Louie lounges inside his pen in Key Largo while Libby positions herself on a bed above. The two foxes were saved from a Minnesota fur farm. CONTRIBUTED

STAY HUSKY

‘SPOKES - WOLF’ FOR LOCAL HUMANE SOCIETY PASSES AWAY

Hunter Lobo Graham loved Happy Hour. He’d walk into the restaurant, greet his friends sitting around the bar, and lie down on the cool restaurant floor until his dad ordered him a side of bacon or a chicken wing.

He was a husky, after all.

But to the Upper Keys community, Hunter, also known as the Keys Husky, was more than a pet. The 89-pound, brown-eyed Siberian husky, who was owned by Islamorada locals Gene and Sharon Graham, had become an icon not only at the restaurants he frequented but also throughout the community at charity events and as the “spokes-wolf” for the Upper Keys Humane Society.

Now that community must mourn his loss. On March 4, after a year of fighting off several health conditions, Hunter died at the age of 12.

Hunter’s early years remain mostly unknown. According to his owners, Hunter grew up on a ranch in the California desert and came to the Keys on a sailboat, where he lived with a family until they gave him up. Hunter was around 5 or 6 years old when Gene and Sharon saw his picture at a MarrVelous Pet Rescues Yappy Hour and, not intending to adopt a dog, decided to foster him for a couple weeks. Though large and intimidating in appearance, they realized that Hunter was really “a big teddy bear.”

“It was so quick. We called back and said, ‘No, no, no. Nobody else can have him. Where do we sign the papers?’” Sharon said.

After spending only a few days with Hunter, the Grahams knew he

was their pet. On April 11, 2016, the Grahams adopted Hunter.

“He made people smile,” Sharon said. “It was his demeanor, I think.”

Stoic. Calm. Steady. Social. Gentle. Cool. Regal. These are just a few of the words friends and family used to describe Hunter’s personality.

As Sharon recalled, Hunter would often open his mouth in a wide smile, and, if he was really happy, stick his ears out sideways. Hunter seemed to like hats, according to his owners, sporting a green hat on St. Patrick’s Day, bunny ears for Easter and a sombrero for Cinco de Mayo. Shylon Martin, who serves on the board of the Upper Keys Humane Society with Gene, saw Hunter put his head in the lap of a disabled veteran and allow a child with special needs to crawl over him, put his hands in Hunter’s mouth and pull his tail without a reaction.

“He had a sense of when somebody was in distress or pain, and he reacted to it. He was really, really a very unique dog,” Martin said.

This unique dog also had some unique experiences. When his owners went away, Hunter accompanied Martin to her job as a real estate agent and private property manager. He enjoyed the luxurious homes of millionaires, met famous celebrities and athletes such as Caity Lotz and Tim Tebow, and got his photo taken with an Oscar and on the set of the television series “Bloodline.”

“All the while, even though he was amongst all these millionaires and celebrities, he constantly maintained his humble demeanor,” Martin said.

“Everybody knows Hunter. We could walk into a place and be with a very famous person, the head CEO or owner

of a billion-dollar company, and they don’t know who that person is at all. But they recognize Hunter.”

Hunter’s public appearances began soon after his adoption when the Grahams came home to find the husky had figured out how to open the cabinets and scattered trash all over their floor. They learned an important lesson from his misbehavior: Hunter didn’t enjoy being home alone. So, he began to go almost everywhere with Sharon and Gene. He dined with his owners at the Whistle Stop, Hog Heaven, SandBar, Snappers, Islamorada Brewery, Florida Keys Brewing and many other local restaurants.

Hunter was drawn to people, and people were drawn to him. At the dog park, he greeted the people before the other dogs. According to Gene, Hunter seemed to prefer bar seating over a table because there were more people at the bar. Locals and visitors alike would come to greet the dog who, though in size and appearance seemed formidable, was friendly and created community with his presence.

“People just want to be social, but I think they are a litle shy,” Gene said. “And here’s a big, intimidating animal that’s not intimidating. He’s super friendly and walking around, and everybody’s like, ‘I want to go talk to that dog.’ And then they want to ask questions. I think it’s more because they want to interact, not just with the animal, but I think people just want to interact with other people.”

His constantly calm demeanor and his ability to draw people together inspired Angela Boehm, president of the Upper Keys Humane Society, to make Hunter the “spokes-wolf” for the society.

“I’ve never met such an intuitive,

kind, tolerant dog,” Boehm said. “I don’t think there was a dog that he met that he didn’t get along with, even if they were aggressive.”

Hunter helped promote adoption and raise funds for the shelter. At events, Gene tied a cup to his harness and, as Hunter wandered to greet people, they’d donate to the organization. Hunter attended other charity events with Martin, helping raise money for the American Legion, the American Cancer Society, Pawsitive Beginnings, the Cancer Foundation of the Florida Keys, and more. He helped raise $4,000 for the Upper Keys Humane Society in one night at the Key Largo Moose Lodge.

“We raised a lot of money because of him,” Martin said. “People would see him and come over to the booths where we were at to meet him. And then they’d donate money. So he really, really was a big contributing factor to some of the funds and stuff that we have there.”

The Grahams ask for donations in memory of Hunter to be sent to the Upper Keys Humane Society, which is a local nonprofit, no-kill, donationsbased shelter. The shelter, which recently opened a new building, holds a spay and neuter clinic every Friday for feral cats and hopes to open a cat café in May to bring more awareness to the cats available for adoption. More information is at ukhsociety.org.

“He had a real impact on Key Largo and Islamorada,” Sharon said. “It’ll be a long time before somebody stops asking or tells us they miss Hunter. It’ll be a long time. He made a real impact down here.”

1. Hunter posed on the set of the television series “Bloodline” in the same location that actors Beau Bridges and Kyle Chandler stood for a photo. 2. Alongside board members and staff of the Upper Keys Humane Society, Hunter attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the facility’s new building. 3. Gene and Sharon Graham took Hunter to sandbars where he would swim in the water and play with other dogs. 4. Hunter got along especially well with Foxey Lewis, a sociable and calm white shepherd owned by Doug Lewis. 5. A calm, social and gentle husky, Hunter had a happy disposition and smiled often. All photos contributed.

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

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

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

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

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

Annual GolfTOURNAMENT

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

APRIL 7, 2023

Redland Golf & Country Club 24451 SW 177th Avenue Homestead, FL 33031

BEST BALL SCRAMBLE: Shotgun Start at 10 am

$150 ENTRY FEE INCLUDES: Round of Golf, Range Balls, Golf Cart, Beverages & Lunch, Awards Ceremony, Door Prize Entries and Eligibility for Great Contests

Sponsored by:

For more information, go to habitatupperkeys.org/2023golf

TO BENEFIT:

* if medically appropriate for those 18 years of age or older

Learn more about all of Tobacco Free Florida’s tools

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

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

OPEN MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION, INC.

MONDAY, MARCH 27, 2023 at 1:00 P.M.

FKEC TAVERNIER HEADQUARTERS, BOARD ROOM

COUPON FOR MILLIONAIRES?

ELEMENT5 DIGITAL/UnSplash

REPUBLICAN BILL OPENS SCHOLARSHIP ELIGIBILITY TO ALL K-12 STUDENTS

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

BLUE SEAS LAWNCARE

Established in 2020, Blue Seas Lawncare specializes in commercial and residential lawn care, including mowing, edging, trimming, palm trimming, weed removal, mulching and pea rock installation. The team at Blue Seas can also design gardens. This family-owned business prides itself on being predictable and reliable, while o ering competitive prices.

Owners Rick Riveron Perdomo and Amanda Riveron service clients out of their location in Key Largo. They o er free estimates, are licensed and insured and have more than 30 years of experience in lawn care and maintenance.

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.

305.879.0497 cell | 786.907.5531 o ce

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.

"Our passion is in creating clean and green spaces which make our clients' lives easier," said Amanda Riveron, co-owner and manager.

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

LAS VEGAS-STYLE PARTY RAISES MONEY FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING

Islamorada, Village of Islands

Parks & Recreation Presents

Kid’s Activities:

• DJ & Dance Party by B Be The Show entertainers!

• Airbrush Tattoos

• Face Painting

• Kid’s Coloring Area

• Bounce House

For Ages 12 & Under

Free Admission! $5 Parking Fee

9:30am:

Arrival of the Spring Bunny

Located at the Amphitheater (Be sure to bring your camera)

• Bunny “Hopstacle” Course! 11:30am:

Sno-Cones, Popcorn, Mini Donuts and Drinks will be available for purchase from P Polar Ice and J Joey’ s Mini Donuts!

Las Vegas scenes filled the Cheeca Lodge & Spa ballroom during the 20th annual Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys’ Cocktail Party on March 10. Holding special Habitat chips, more than 200 guests gathered around gaming tables and the roulette wheel. Live and silent auctions, dancing and food and drinks highlighted an evening of glitz and glamor. A total of $130,000 was raised for HFHUK’S building fund, which supports critical affordable housing projects. The evening welcomed glamorous dancers, as well attendees Ted Yates, Islamorada manager; Sharon Yates, his wife; Brett and Lindsay Ekblom and Ty and Mary Beth Harris. KEYS WEEKLY PHOTOS

SEASIDE SOIREE SUPPORTS KEYS COLLEGE PROGRAM

Costumes composed of swords and tails, fine dining and live entertainment by the Patxi Pastor All Star Band highlighted the annual Seaside Soiree at the College of the Florida Keys’ Upper Keys Center in Key Largo on March 4. The event also featured an 11-day virtual auction with items that included a Hawk’s Cay Resort vacation package and a tour with Fury Snorkel Adventures. Funds go to support college students who are embarking on their careers in nursing, oceanography and law enforcement, among others. Pictured are front, from left, Jonathan Gueverra, CFK president; Michelle Maxwell, CFK board member; Greg Sullivan, of Waste Management; back, Daniel Leben, CFK board member, and Tom Chasteen, local resident and CFK donor. KEYS WEEKLY PHOTO

Egg Hunt Begins!

Located on the Great Lawn (children will be split up into age groups, including infant area)

EACH AGE GROUP WILL HAV ON WINNE EGG

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT PARKS & RECREATION 305 853 1685 or email ifp@islamorada.fl.us

This event is open to the public. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, all persons who are disable d and who need special accommodations to participate in this event because of that disability should contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA@islamorada.fl.us or 305-664-6448 at least 48 hours before the scheduled event.

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

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

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES 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

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

NOW HIRING

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.

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.

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844

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

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!

SUPPORTED LIVING COACH FULL TIME

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

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

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

IS HIRING!

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

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

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.

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

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.

Explore the Upper Keys

FUN IN THE SUN

ISLAMORADA CHAMBER’S 31ST ISLAND FEST BRINGS SHOWS, A MERMAID AND RACES

Island Fest returns to Islamorada on April 1-2, featuring a juried art show, live music, food, classic cars and much more.

The annual Islamorada Chamber of Commerce event, now in its 31st year, will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday at Founders Park, MM 87, bayside.

The Plantation Yacht Harbor Arts and Crafts Show will feature some 100 artists whose works include everything from paintings and sculptures to jewelry, fine crafts and even driftwood carvings. Recognized as this year’s poster artist is local painter from Havana, Cuba, Osvaldo Fernandez, whose work “A Dolphin’s Greeting” captures the joyful nature of this majestic and powerful mammal. Fernandez, who works primarily in oil, is well-known in the Cuban art communities of Havana, Matanzas and Varadero. His vibrant paintings have been exhibited in various galleries, and have made their way into private collections in Spain, Italy, Mexico, Ecuador, Venezuela and the United States.

“We are excited to have Osvaldo on board as the poster artist for this year’s Island Fest,” said Craig McBay, Islamorada Chamber of Commerce board president. “His works are truly remarkable, and we look forward to introducing him to our community and showcasing his art.”

“To be named poster artist for Island Fest has meant the world to Fernandez, as he recently moved from Cuba to the Florida Keys. He is honored to be able to share his art with the local community this year for Island Fest,” said Yulia, Osvaldo’s wife.

Food is a mainstay during both days of Island Fest. The culmination of local culinary greatness will come Sunday at noon when the Taste of Islamorada competition brings out top local restaurants to show off their most mouthwatering dishes. Attendees will get to cast their ballot for the People’s Choice Award. The awards ceremony will take place on the stage at 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Back at Island Fest this year for is

the All-American Road Vintage Cruisers Car Show, featuring antique cars, trucks, motorcycles and rat rods. The show will be visible from U.S. 1, on the Florida Keys “All-American Road,” encouraging passersby with an interest in antique and unique cars to stop for a look. Awards will be presented for Coolest Cruiser, Raddest Rod, KeyZ Rider, Longest Haul, Big Kahuna, Funkiest Foreign, Best of Show and People’s Choice. New entrants are always encouraged.

An array of popular musical acts will perform. Acts will range from country and rock to blues, jazz, Latin and reggae. The Coconut Cowboys will be back again to rock the beach and close out the event on Sunday afternoon from 2 p.m to 5 p.m. The main stage is located on the beach.

Island Fest offers fun for the whole family. Children and child-like adults can help paint a life-sized dolphin statue, build sand castles and compete in hula hoop contests as kites fly high in the sky.

Visit keysweekly.com for the full story.

Children paint a life-sized dolphin. CONTRIBUTED

Artist Noel Skiba shows off her paintings during the 30th Island Fest in 2022. CONTRIBUTED

‘What Floats Your Boat?’ racers take off from Founders Park beach. CONTRIBUTED

CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844

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,

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

•

FULL TIME PROJECT MANAGER • CARPENTERS & LABORERS • EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

s

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

EXPERIENCED ELECTRICIANS

AND

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

driver’s

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.

Jr. Interior Designer

NOW HIRING! AEI ADVENTURE ENVIRONMENTAL INC

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

PAINTING THE WILD SIDE

NANCY COOPER’S LOVE

FOR

ANIMALS SPILLS TO THE CANVAS

When I think about wildlife art, I think about artist Nancy Cooper and her interesting bird portraits.

I had the pleasure of getting to know Cooper when I was teaching a paint class at Dolphin Plus Marine Mammal Rescue (DPMMR). The class took place with the dolphins swimming by to check out the artist’s progress on the dolphin portraits. I knew she had a special love for wildlife; who could head a rescue facility without that love?

I really didn’t know how far that admiration went until I got to know her art better. Cooper is modest about her art; she has more important things to do like rescue dolphins, but her wildlife art really knocks it out of the park.

From high school in Kansas City through College at Emory University in Atlanta, she always wanted to work with dolphins as a career. In college, she volunteered for The Dolphin Project, a longitudinal population study of wild dolphins in the area conducted by Randy Wells and the Mote Marine Laboratory. This experience further fueled her passion for dolphins and solidified her desire to work with these amazing creatures.

As most people discover, there were no jobs magically awaiting her following graduation — none which involved dolphins. She moved back to Kansas and became a veterinary technician in Louisville, working with small animals at a 24-hour emergency vet hospital. After a few years, she transitioned to working for a veterinary specialist hospital and eventually an equine vet. She gained a wealth of knowledge in the field of veterinary medicine, hands-on skills in a veterinary lab with a variety of animal species as well as some serious people skills. Throughout her four years as a vet tech, she continued to apply to dolphin facilities in hopes she would secure an interview.

“Dolphins Plus in Key Largo asked me to travel down for a working interview. I came down for a three-day interview and never left,” Cooper said. “I

began as a dolphin trainer (or animal behaviorist), then became an animal care supervisor, then the director of training, then president of DPMMR.”

I asked Cooper what things we could do to preserve our precious Florida Keys. She said visit local and accredited zoos and aquariums, as they are the ones responding to sick and injured animals and promoting conservation and protection of animal species worldwide.

“These organizations need your support,” she said. “Make sure to pick up garbage or marine debris whenever possible, as this usually ends up being ingested by wild animals or causing entanglement. Try to use reusable bags when heading to the stores. If you use a plastic bag — save it, reuse it and then recycle. If you are on the water fishing, please do not throw excess monofilament overboard, as this ends up entangling marine life and birds. Instead, find a local monofilament recovery and recycling program and dispose of your monofilament line in one of their bins.

“Abide by all local marine regulations and signs,” she continued. “This means slowing down in manatee zones, paying attention to channel markers. Lastly, do not feed or water any local wildlife — it teaches wild animals to rely on humans for food and to frequent busy marinas where they may get hit by a boat or otherwise injured. “

Cooper’s artistic endeavors began in 2015 with a paint class taught by Susan Jankowski. Cooper still paints with Jankowski, whose art classes are held at Limelight Studio on Morada Way in Islamorada. Cooper never thought painting would become a regular part of her life. She sees painting as her therapy. Would she call herself a wildlife painter?

“I would say I’m most comfortable painting anything with eyes. Eyes are definitely the window to the soul and I feel the eyes of an animal can make the whole canvas come to life,” she said.

Working with DPMMR and her 25-year history working with dolphins deepened her connection with animals and allowed her to see the heart of the animal in their eyes. Ironically, Cooper is never

Top: Cooper said she’s most comfortable painting the eyes, which she said are the window to the soul.

Middle left: Artist Nancy Cooper does commissions of what she calls fur-babies.

Bottom left: A deer painting by Nancy Cooper.

Right: An osprey painting by artist Nancy Cooper. All photos contributed.

satisfied with her rendition of dolphins because she knows them so intimately and can never quite capture them the way she would like to.

Her artistic inspiration comes from Julie Brun’s artwork, George Hubbs, and her grandmother Alice Parker. Locally, Nancy is inspired by Sue and Jul Jankowski’s artwork. She’s mostly an acrylic painter who aspires to do more oils. She does commissions of what she calls fur-babies.

Cooper truly sees and identifies pets as family members. “I want to capture the individual traits which shape the animal’s soul and personality.”

The advice she would give young adults is to work hard, be persistent, listen to your mentors and don’t be afraid to try new things.

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

WILLIAM DePAULA

Nancy Cooper

Saturday & Sunday 10 to 5

April 1 & 2

Presented by the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce on the beach at Founders Park MM87 Bayside

Plantation Yacht Harbor Arts & Crafts Show

Saturday, April 1

Live performances all day long on the Crooked Palm Distillery Stage on the beach

Toko Irie & The Newton Band – Reggae

I Land Vibe s – Beach Tunes

Generation Gap – Classic Rock/Dance

Saturday Highlights:

WHAT FLOATS YOUR BOAT

“Taste of Islamorada”

All-American Road Vintage Cruisers Show

Plantation Yacht Harbor Arts & Crafts Show Stroll along the Bay and enjoy the best collection of juried arts and crafts... from around the state, in all mediums and all price ranges.

All-American Vintage Cruisers

Featuring all makes and models plus custom designs (cars, trucks, rat rods, motorcycles, & more)!

Keep

Seahorses, Seashells and Starfish

Sand Sculpting Contest on the Beach!

Sunday, April 2

Live performances all day long on the Crooked Palm Distillery Stage on the beach

Cortadito Trio - Cuban Band

The Pit Bull of Blues Band – Blues while Pasta paints to the rhythm

Coconut Cowboys - Country Music

Sunday Highlight: Taste of Islamorada!

Homemade Boat Race Adults & Kids Divisions People’s Choice

Sample incredible food from local restaurants in Islamorada (only on Sunday)! Vote for the Best!

Music, Art, Food & These Activities (both days):

Kite Flying

Sand Sculpting on the Beach

Paint the Dolphin: Art for Kids

Hula Hooping & Contests

Large Selection of Food & Drinks

8-ft. Sand Castle — Photo Op

2023 poster signing by featured artist Osvaldo Fernandez