Upper Keys Weekly 23-0330

Located in Key Largo, the essence of Florida Keys charm is exemplified on this property. 58 Sunset Road is a gated private 1/2 acre bayfront estate home with gorgeous mature trees and sprawling green lawns, where tranquil turquoise waters of the Florida Bay become an extension of your backyard. Enjoy stunning bay views from each of the four bedrooms, four baths, and living areas, both upstairs and down. Authentic hardwood floors and a lovely updated kitchen enhance the refreshed feel of this 1950's gem. A sandy beach with a soothing walk-in area, a bayside pool with tiki torches, and an outside shower add to the ambiance of true island living. The long T-dock pier provides protected dockage for multiple boats with plenty of depth to come and go without worrying about the tides. Additional features include a detached garage, Chicago brick drive, impact windows and doors, new AC, and a beautiful HOA park with boat ramp.

KEY LARGO | $4,999,999 | Listing ID: 604322

91760 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier, FL 33070

Office: 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com

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Se habla español THE UPPER KEYS WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES.

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According to the South Florida Water Management District, around 3 billion gallons of water are used every day in Central and Southern Florida by 9 million residents and visitors for watering lawns, drinking and bathing, growing crops and servicing industries. Future water demands are projected to increase to approximately 4.1 billion gallons per day by 2040.

FLOOD OF SURPRISE: COUNTY-REQUIRED DOWNSTAIRS ENCLOSURE INSPECTION PRIOR TO HOME SALE DRAWS OPPOSITION COUNTY COMMISSIONERS TO HOLD AN APRIL SPECIAL

MEETING

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

County flood regulations approved by Monroe County commissioners in late 2022 took effect March 7. With them came changes to the definition of an accessory structure and several updates, such as one that stipulates the size of an accessory structure.

Not new to the code, however, is an inspection that’s required of an elevated home’s enclosed area that’s located below base flood prior to the sale of property in unincorporated Monroe County. Known as the Transfer of Ownership program, the rule has been in effect since 2012.

Inspections of enclosed structures below flood, however, weren’t regularly performed by the county’s building department, which lacked the capacity to perform the task.

For many Keys title and real estate agents, the inspection requirement that carried forward into the new ordinance came as a surprise. Some within the Keys real estate world said they were made aware of the inspection requirement from an email by the Florida Keys Board of Realtors several days after the ordinance took effect. And several members on the county’s Contractors Examining Board said they weren’t particularly familiar with it during a March 14 meeting.

County commissioners acknowledged the confusion within the real estate community over the rule and concern over how it would affect upcoming closings. As a result, the BOCC put a temporary bandage on the issue by approving a resolution that shields sellers from any lawsuits by buyers in regard to the inspection program through the current and previous ordinance.

Commissioners also set a special April 6 meeting at 10 a.m. at the Marathon Government Center to further discuss the matter.

“Nobody was preparing for it to take effect,” Mayor Craig Cates said.

Through the Transfer of Ownership program, Karl Bursa, county senior floodplain manager, said a buyer or a seller would need to request an inspection if they have an enclosed structure below flood. County building staff would visit the home and document the enclosure. Once that inspection concluded, documentation would be provided stating whether the enclosure is in compliance with county standards.

If a downstairs enclosure was found to be illegal and unpermitted work, Bursa said there would be no code compliance case brought against the owner where a teardown would be required of the enclosure. But it would affect the new property owner’s ability to obtain a permit if that enclosure was identified by the county as illegal and unpermitted.

Bursa said the inspection requirement was put in place to inform the buyer whether the downstairs enclosure complies with current county regulations.

Key Largo resident Marlen Weeks is a title agent. She said she found out about the new ordinance and the inspection program through a friend who encouraged her to watch the March 14 Contractors Examining Board meeting. Weeks was critical of county staff for not reaching out to title agents, loan officers, real estate agents and local boards to hold presentations and present information. She said the industry is trying to figure out how to move forward while the county works on the details needed to carry out the inspections. She asked the BOCC to change the effective date of the inspection until the building department has forms and staff in place, as well as a timeline for reporting.

“If these revisions were adopted in November, why isn’t the process already in place? You have caused unnecessary chaos in our industry, which has real-world consequences for all of us.”

Changes to the code through an ordinance began with three community meetings to unveil the proposed changes. They were held in December 2021 and in January and February 2022. The proposal then went through the county’s Development Review Committee, the planning commission

Coral Shores freshman forward Kai Redruello fights for possession of the ball against Keys Gate. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

and the county commissioners. The BOCC approved the ordinance on Nov. 15, 2022.

Emily Schemper, county planning director, said the county doesn’t normally notify every single party who may be affected by an ordinance.

“They’re publicly noticed when there’s an adoption hearing. In November at the adoption hearing, it was noticed. And Karl went through all the community meetings.”

Explaining the ordinance adoption process leading up to the March 7 effective date, Schemper said there’s a 30-day appeal period once the BOCC gives approval. It’s then sent to the state for review. The state then issues a final order, which triggers a 21-day challenge period. If no one issues a challenge, the ordinance takes effect.

“It was not a specific date set up by the county for that ordinance,” she said. “That inspection requirement isn’t new. It’s on the books.”

County Commissioner Michelle Lincoln questioned whether anyone in the real estate industry requested the Transfer of Ownership inspection. Rick Griffin, county building official who appeared on Zoom, replied in short, “not to my knowledge.” Schemper said she wasn’t sure if that was true.

“There are records of inspections,” she said.

Tom Wright is a board-certified real estate attorney. He told commissioners that he was part of the committee that drafted the Florida FAR-BAR contract, or a standard form agreement used in real estate upon a sale. He said the contract already requires a disclosure of any unpermitted and illegal work from the seller to the buyer. And there are strict civil penalties for a seller who doesn’t comply with those contract requirements.

“I describe it to some people as killing a fly with an atomic bomb,” he said of the county’s ordinance on downstairs enclosure inspections. “It just seems like a really onerous requirement to put on to a seller. If they have complied with the contract, they provide a written disclosure of these issues to the buyer.”

Commissioner Holly Raschein said she’s looking forward to future conversations and work to resolve the matter.

“We never, to use somebody else’s quote from this weekend, would want to weaponize the industry for something like this,” she said.

Also included in the updated flood ordinance is a prohibition of breakaway walls in VE flood zones. But coverings made out of lattice or screening are allowed. Downstairs enclosures would also be limited in size to 299 square feet. Commissioners told staff to examine changes to the code to allow opaque breakaway walls for downstairs enclosures.

LARGE KEYS REQUESTS INCLUDED IN STATE BUDGET

STEWARDSHIP ACT & AHEC FUNDING PART OF HOUSE AND SENATE PROPOSALS

Several critical Keys programs found their way into the Florida Senate and House budget proposals that were unveiled last week in Tallahassee.

While the amounts for the Keys differ between the two chambers’ budgets, the inclusion of key funding for education and environmental programs is an encouraging sign as state legislators begin work on the budget. On March 28, the House and Senate Appropriations committees approved their own versions of a budget, each totaling more than $112 billion. State Rep. Jim Mooney and state Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez serve on their chambers’ appropriations committees. The representatives for the Keys voted in favor of their chambers’ budgets.

The chambers will need to agree on a spending plan before May 2 in order to meet a 72-hour “cooling off period” before lawmakers give final approval before the end of regular session on May 5.

Senate and House budgets include $20 million in Florida Keys Stewardship Act funding to construct projects that protect, restore or enhance nearshore water quality and fisheries. Many local municipalities have used the funds in recent years to address poor water quality in canals. The money also helps local governments in acquiring land.

Keys officials are hoping funds

allocated to the Florida Keys Stewardship Act are annually included in the state Department of Environmental Protection’s budget. For years, legislators representing the island chain fought not only to include an appropriation for the program, but also to secure the full amount needed for critical environmental projects. House Bill 135, sponsored by Mooney, would put funding for the Keys environment on a pedestal with the Everglades and water management districts. Mooney’s bill awaits consideration in the House. A companion Senate Bill 54, sponsored by Rodriguez, was supported by members in the Environment and Natural Resources Committee.

Some $5 million for a reverse osmosis plant in Marathon was included in the Senate’s budget proposal. Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is pumping 22 million gallons of water per day from its primary source in the Biscayne Aquifer. Seawater plants in Stock Island and Marathon help supply additional water in emergency situations, as when three pipe breaks earlier in March forced FKAA to use the Stock Island plant.

House and Senate budgets propose varying amounts for the Florida Keys Marine Protection Mooring Field project. The House budgeted $805,000 while the Senate allocated $500,000 in its proposal.

Both legislative chambers propose $9.7 million for operational expenses at the College of the Florida Keys. The House and Senate also propose similar amounts for college nursing grants, $748,000.

Three requests by the village of Islamorada made the House budget, including emergency backup generators storage facility, $150,000, an Islamorada Village Council Chambers/ Public Works Facility feasibility study, $150,000, and a new ambulance,

$190,000. The Senate’s budget proposal allocated $250,000 for the village’s council chambers and public works facility study.

To assist in the coral recovery effort, both chambers propose $1 million to Mote Marine Laboratory. The Senate’s budget includes a $10 million allocation to Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission to establish and implement the framework for placement, monitoring and maintenance of artificial habitat.

The Senate budget proposal also includes $2 million for renovations to Bruce Hall in Key West; $150,000 for ReMARCable Citizens and $500,000 for Key Colony Beach City Hall. The Senate proposed $250,000 for the Keys Area Health Education Center, or AHEC, while the House proposed $487,000. The House proposes $3.5 million for the county’s Emergency Operation Center in Marathon.

The budget also includes a pay increase for FWC officers and Florida Highway Patrol troopers in Monroe County.

Between Miami-Dade and Monroe counties, the budget includes $120 million for the School Readiness Program, $2.7 million for the Voluntary PreKindergarten Education Program and $623,000 for school district workforce education programs.

Rodriguez told the Keys Weekly on March 28 that she’s pleased so far as the budget process begins.

“I’m feeling confident about the positioning of our funding, but must remain vigilant and continue fighting for our community’s share,” she said.

Amendments were filed to the Senate’s budget to include projects for Pigeon Key, $950,000, Little Truman White House, $500,000, and Habitat for Humanity organizations in the Keys, $1.9 million.

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Florida Capitol Building. CONTRIBUTED

LARGER & FASTER MEDICAL CHOPPERS TO BOOST TRAUMA STAR OPERATIONS

COUNTY APPROVES THREE STATE - OF -THE - ART HELICOPTERS AT $52- MILLION PRICE TAG

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Speed, range and lift: That’s what three new air ambulances will provide to an area that averages close to 1,400 flights annually from the Keys to critical care facilities in Miami.

The county Trauma Star program, a partnership of the Monroe Board of County Commissioners, Sheriff’s Office and Fire Rescue, currently flies patients using three Sikorski S76s. The helicopters are over 20 years old, with a 25-year life expectancy. Monroe county commissioners approved the purchase of the larger and more powerful Italian-made Leonardo AW139 helicopters during a March 22 meeting at the Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo.

Sheriff Rick Ramsay said the program won’t receive those helicopters — at a total price of $52 million — for another two years, since they have to be built and outfitted. Pilots will also need training. Ramsay described Monroe County Trauma Star as one of the busier programs in the country. Average air medical programs across the U.S. conduct 260 flights a year.

County residents who are airlifted out of the county to a care facility in Miami aren’t balance billed, which is when a provider bills the difference between the provider’s charge and the allowed amount.

“This program is four flights a day and we’re saving lives each day,” Ramsay said. “We never thought this program would be flying in the black. … Public safety is never designed to make a profit, but we’re able to make a profit and still provide free service to citizens.”

Ramsay said Miami-Dade’s air ambulance program also uses the AW139 Leonardo. Flying at 190 mph, the helicopter would be able to get a patient from the Dry Tortugas to Miami without needing to stop and refuel. Ramsay said the program also needed a larger helicopter that could carry two adult patients along with pilots, medical staff and equipment.

“It made our decision to go after this aircraft very limited after looking at the special needs in our area,” Ramsay said. “Most other areas are flying a single patient and a 10-minute flight. Ours are longer.”

Funding for the three new helicopters comes out of the infrastructure penny sales tax, which is paid not only by residents but also by tourists. The penny sales tax was extended via referendum in November, according to the county. The money also helps pay for fire station projects, among other expenses.

A LETTER FROM THE FLORIDA KEYS AQUEDUCT AUTHORITY

WHAT TO

EXPECT MOVING FORWARD IN THE WAKE OF RECENT PIPE BREAKS

Dear Customer,

I wanted to take this opportunity to update you on the water situation that we are experiencing here in the Keys. As you know, we recently endured three very significant breaks in our system. Following the third break, we all suffered a complete loss of water, or at the very least, significant drops in pressure.

All of our leaks have now been repaired and service has been restored. However, all of us are still seeing reduced pressures at the tap. I am going to attempt to explain what is occurring and what you can expect going forward.

We have customarily pumped between 23 and 26 million gallons per day out of our Florida City location. Prior to COVID, our levels were closer to 19 to 21 million gallons a day. The demands on our system have continued to increase. We have known for some time that our transmission main that runs 130 miles from Florida City to Key West was in desperate need of replacing. Those of you that travel U.S. 1 more regularly have seen that the work has already begun.

The pipe, in its current condition, is simply not able to support the volume of water or the pressures required to move it, therefore we have been forced to make reductions.

Despite the reduced output from Florida City, we have been able to make gains in our water tanks that are spread throughout our system. These tanks hold reserve water stores so that if there is a break, we can continue to serve a majority of our customers until repairs are completed. By our third and final leak, we had exhausted our reserve supply, and that was why we were unable to supply water throughout the repair.

Unfortunately, despite the restoration of our reserves, we do not feel confident that our pipes can continue to handle 23-26 million gallons per day, so we have limited our output to 22 million gallons per day. In order to achieve these reductions and continue to serve all of you, we have had to reduce pressures at our master taps. This is why you are seeing pressures lower than those to which you have become accustomed. I apologize if these reductions in pressures have proven problematic for some of you, but we are making decisions that we believe will allow us to continually serve you, even if it is at lower levels.

We are continuing to make adjustments and get you back to the levels of pressure you have come to expect. I wish I could tell you that this will be a quick fix or even a temporary inconvenience, but I cannot. Rest assured, we are doing our very best and meeting daily to figure ways to better serve you. We thank you for your patience and your assistance in our conservation efforts.

— Gregory W. Veliz, executive director

Monroe County Trauma Star is operated in partnership with the Board of County Commissioners, Sheriff’s Office and Fire Rescue. Sikorski S76s, pictured, are currently used to transport patients to critical care facilities in Miami. On March 22, the BOCC approved the purchase of three new Leonardo AW139 helicopters to boost operations. MCSO/Contributed

MARINELAB SUMMER CAMP

JUNE 12-16, JUNE 26-30 & JULY 24-28

Key Largo’s MarineLab has educated thousands of students in marine science and our unique Florida Keys ecosystem for 36 years. Registration is now open for our very popular Summer Day Camp! Students entering 4th-8th grade in the fall are invited to enjoy:

Snorkeling instruction • Daily snorkeling excursion on our fleet of boats • Hands-on labs with live critters

• Engaging ecology discussions • Lunch & snack included daily • Safe, outdoor learning environment

• Small group sizes for individualized instruction

Please visit our website www.marinelab.org for details, cost and to enroll.

MarineLab

Questions? Contact us at 305.451.1139 ext 1 info@marinelab.org

FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI

ONE OF A ‘CONCH’

SEA SNAIL’S IMPRINT ON THE KEYS SPANS FROM THE MENU TO A FLAG

In the old days, fishing skiffs slowly paddled across the clear Atlantic waters with two fishermen on board. One man slowly paddled while the other dipped a glass-bottomed bucket beneath the surface and scanned the bottom for Strombus gigas

When one was spotted, his partner stopped paddling and grabbed a pole, sometimes 30 feet long. The “hooker” would skillfully maneuver the pole through the water until he was able to insert the hook at the end of the pole into the lip of the shell and bring it back to the surface. The process was repeated until the boat’s planks were covered with horny shells.

Strombus gigas is the elegantly-housed gastropod, or sea snail, more commonly called the queen conch. As this is the Florida Keys, there is a great deal to be said about the conch – specifically, the pink-lipped queen conch. The queen is only one of an entire family of Strombidae, slowly moving on their long foot through the warm shallows that roll up against Florida’s beaches and islands. Other species of true conchs in the waters surrounding Florida and the Keys are the milk conch and fighting conch.

The massive horse conch, the largest gastropod inhabiting the Sunshine State’s coastal waters, and Florida’s state shell, is not from the family Strombidae and, therefore, not a true conch. Neither a conch nor a whelk, the horse conch is the second largest gastropod in the world and a tulip snail from the Fasciolariidae family.

According to the dictionary by Merriam-Web-

ster: “conch (kongk, konch) is 1. the spiral shell of a gastropod, often used as a horn. 2. any of various marine gastropods. 3. the fabled shell trumpet of the Tritons. 4. a native or inhabitant of the Florida Keys.” Elegantly housed and slow-moving, the pinked-lipped shell of the queen conch is a fitting symbol for an island chain referred to as the Conch Republic.

For the record, conch rhymes with bonk and honk, and not haunch or paunch – though that is not what the aboriginal people called it. What they called it, I do not know. I do know they used the meat as a protein and the shell as a tool, weapon and ceremonial object. Inhabitants of the Florida Keys have always dined extensively on conchs. The meat was valued, and the shell has been a musthave souvenir for more than 100 years.

When they are not harvested, or eaten by turtles, octopus or nurse sharks, they can live 20 to 30 years. As fast as snails, however, the queen conch was nearly picked clean from Florida’s waters, and like the sponge and turtle industries before it, the conch fishery boomed and busted. The island chain’s old-timers sometimes talk about wading through the shallows, picking them up, and bringing them home for dinner. In the 1950s, they could take a watery stroll while pulling a small wooden skiff behind them and fill it up in a few hours.

The locals and fishermen had to see what was coming, especially as the 1960s began creeping up in the 1970s. Like many industries before and after it, the harvesting of conch and the industry it supported collapsed, and the culprit was overfishing. The first to go was the commercial side of conch fishing, with the commercial harvesting of conch being banned in 1975. The recreational harvest was banned in 1985, and in 1986, taking live conch was banned in federal waters.

A few years ago, I was at a Florida restaurant and, while perusing the menu, noticed that they offered conch fritters and “local” cracked conch. For the record, local conch has not been served in

the Florida Keys or anywhere else in the country for decades. However, I have long since heard rumors of one of the Florida Keys fast food establishments – which will not be identified – that, along with their chicken, served fried conch through their drive-through window. From what I have heard, it was amazing. I hope it was not poached conch.

The conch shell is a symbol of the Florida Keys, and fittingly it is emblazoned on the flag of the Conch Republic. The self-proclaimed micro-nation made international headlines when it was formed in 1982. More of a publicity stunt than anything else, the extraordinary measure was enacted to protest the United States government after it effectively erected a border checkpoint at the top of the road leading into the Florida Keys and constructively ended the tourism trade.

The motto of the newly formed “country” was “We seceded where others failed.” While the political protest was brief, and Conch Republic officials surrendered to the U.S. Navy shortly after declaring the Conch Republic a sovereign nation, the heart and soul of the Conch Republic (as well as the national flag) have remained an integral part of the island chain’s identity ever since.

Strombus gigas, on the other hand, has continued to struggle in its native waters. Though it is still found on menus up and down the Florida Keys, today’s conch is imported from Central America, Jamaica, and the Turks and Caicos – home to the Caicos Conch Farm, the world’s first commercial conch farm.

The Conchs who live on the islands, the families who have lived on these islands for generations, are as proud of their heritage and as strong as ever. The Honorary Conchs, on the other hand, are those residents who have been given the title by the official declaration of the acting mayors of the Florida Keys over the decades, myself among them, and like the horse conch, we will never be considered true Conchs.

A man hunts for conch while pulling a skiff. ARTHUR ROTHSTEIN/National Archives, Florida Keys Library Collection

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.

Covering All The Keys From Key Largo To Key West

QUITTING SMOKING? START HERE

WITH

Keys residents looking to kick their smoking habit for good will have even more support on their side thanks to a partnership between Keys Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) and Tobacco Free Florida (TFF).

Already known as one of the Keys’ largest advocates for community and children’s health and education, AHEC’s tobacco cessation services are offered for free within Monroe County. Those looking to quit can choose their preferred participation method with local tobacco treatment counselors, and for a limited time, group quit session participants are eligible for $50 to $125 gift cards for attending.

Quit Smoking Now is a fourweek, in-person, one-hour-per-session group course that works with clients on the process of planning, quitting, managing triggers and preventing relapse. Quit Smoking Now sessions are held throughout the Keys, with all clients eligible for two free disbursements of nicotine replacement therapy.

Tools to Quit is a one-time group counseling session preparing clients for the journey to quit smoking by reviewing steps in the process and identifying participants’ needs and challenges to give them a head start in the quitting process. Participants receive one free disbursement of nicotine replacement therapy and may return for another session if they need further support.

Clients may also participate virtually in Tools to Quit via a Zoom meeting available three days per week in Monroe County, and if none of the prior options are viable for

clients due to health or other considerations, counselors can arrange to conduct a telephone counseling session.

“Working with Tobacco Free Florida and the state surgeon general has allowed us to not only provide no-cost nicotine replacement therapy such as patches, gum and lozenges, but now also gift cards to Publix ranging from $50 to $125,” said Keys AHEC CEO Michael Cunningham. “There’s never been a better time to enroll.”

Responsible for more than 480,000 deaths each year, cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States, according to TFF. Every year, smoking claims 32,300 lives in Florida alone. For every person who dies because of smoking, at least 30 more live with a serious illness related to smoking, meaning that more than 16 million Americans live with a disease caused by smoking.

The body begins to heal within hours after quitting. According to TFF, two to five years after quitting, an individual’s risk of stroke is reduced to that of a non-smoker’s. In five years, the chance of cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus and bladder is cut in half. In 15 years, the risk of coronary heart disease is back to that of a non-smoker’s.

More information is available by calling 305-743-7111, ext. 205 or visiting keysahec.org/tobacco-cessation. Health care providers can provide client referrals by completing a Tobacco Cessation referral form and emailing it to tobacco@ahec. ufl.edu. For additional resources with even more support to help quit smoking, visit tobaccofreeflorida. com/quityourway.

With help from Keys AHEC and Tobacco Free Florida, Keys residents can say goodbye to their last cigarette. CONTRIBUTED ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

KEYS AHEC PARTNERS

TOBACCO FREE FLORIDA

FIREWORKS OF THE FUTURE

DIGITIZED DRONE LIGHT SHOWS DAZZLE THE SKIES WITHOUT FIRES, NOISE OR MESS

TIFFANY DUONG www.keysweekly.com

“Yes! A conch shell!”

On March 25, the skies above Key West’s historic Truman Waterfront dazzled with a drone “fireworks” display to end a night of fun for the Florida Keys’ bicentennial celebration. Some 250 synchronized drones illuminated the night with pictures from this little island chain’s storied history. It was a fitting tribute by and to the Florida Keys – a paradise worth protecting.

The drones moved in unison into different formations, much like a marching band does at halftime shows. Pre-programmed flight commands resulted in animated, large-scale, colorchanging displays hundreds of feet in the air. The drones were programmed to emit specific color LEDs for specified durations. The impressive show, while itself silent, synched to tropical music and made for an extra special – and eco-conscious – celebration.

In comparison to traditional fireworks, drone displays:

• Don’t come with loud bangs and flashes that scare dogs and/or harm babies and the hearing-sensitive.

• Create zero air pollution and don’t leave a toxic chemical fog residual.

• Leave no falling debris or plastic pollution that could end up in our waterways and harm our wildlife.

• Use electric batteries instead of greenhouse gases and chemicals to power them.

• Are reusable and more affordable ways to celebrate.

Joanne Delaney, NOAA’s resource protection and permit coordinator, warned of some of the other concerns with traditional fireworks displays.

“Permits issued by FKNMS emphasize

the need to conduct such activities away from sensitive wildlife habitats, carefully contain and dispose of plastics and wrappers from the pyrotechnics, and clean up any debris on land or in the water after events conclude. These efforts are important to ensure that debris doesn’t become entangled or embedded in sanctuary habitats or impact immobile organisms, and to maintain the aesthetic qualities of the sanctuary.”

Aside from sanctuary permits, traditional fireworks also require notice and permission from local fire marshals, the U.S. Coast Guard, and other municipal and federal entities. Drone fireworks – or any drone – within five miles of the Key West airport would require clearance from the Federal Aviation Administration. Drones are banned in restricted military airspace, including Boca Chica Field.

The procedures are grounded in real concerns. On New Year’s Day, Keys locals paddleboarding to Pelican Key quickly shifted their trip into a “garbage haul” of fireworks debris. Appalled guests from a nearby resort had been told that their fireworks were biodegradable; and yet, hard plastics, metal coils and plastic wrappers littered sanctuary waters from their revelries. These could easily damage corals, choke birds and fish and entangle manatees, sea turtles and dolphins.

One disheartened local commented, “Maybe it’s time for a change and to protect our fragile ecosystem that we all enjoy and live off down here. Maybe we could switch to a drone show ... good for environment and pets.”

With this latest, monumental celebration of “200 Years of Paradise,” perhaps we’re moving that way already. As one young conch screamed out, “This is the best thing ever!”

Monroe County’s bicentennial celebration included history, fun, margaritas and an environmentally-safe drone fireworks display. VINH

“A train – wait, it’s moving! Oh, it’s Flagler’s!”

A one hour paddleboard trip resulted in this much fireworks debris picked up – and that only accounts for what was floating. NEXT DOOR APP

PHAM PHOTOGRAPHY/Contributed

NEW ACTS & CROWD FAVORITES

ISLAND FEST BRINGS STRONG MUSIC LINEUP

Island Fest is back again with a lineup that will appeal to music lovers across genres. Artists specializing in country, blues, rock, jazz, latin, reggae and more will take the stage at the 31st annual Island Fest, presented by the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce.

The two-day festival, which also features the Taste of Islamorada, a gourmet food competition, a vintage car show and roughly 100 artists from around the country selling their goods, will take place on Saturday and Sunday, April 1-2 at Founders Park.

The start of Island Fest’s live music line-up will come shortly after the event’s 10 a.m. kick-off on April 1. Among that Saturday’s daytime performers will be Toko Irie & The Newton Band, a Keys reggae favorite, and I Land Vibes who will be playing joyful beach tunes.

“We’re an island band,” said head musician Rayner Washington. “So, we perform popular American songs with an island twist. And we promise you’ll leave feeling happy.”

Sunday’s entertainment will kick off with faces that are new to the Island Fest lineup, Cortadito. Since its origins 10 years ago, the evolution of Cortadito has led them to become one of the torch bearers of a pop culture phenomenon that is two centuries strong. A traditional folk and acoustic band that focuses on performing one of the earliest styles of Cuban country music known as Son (pronounced sown), their sound can best be described

as reminiscent of the famed Buena Vista Social Club.

The dynamic trio will be followed by the smooth sounds of the Pitbull of Blues Band. Renowned local painter Pasta will be painting to the rhythm of the blues. Attendees will enjoy the “Taste of Islamorada,” sampling food from the best restaurants in Islamorada (only on Sunday). Sunday afternoon would not be complete without some sing-along country performed by the Coconut Cowboys on the beach – from Hank to AC/DC, Skynyrd to Metallica, Waylon to Guns-N-Roses and everything in between.

Band frontman Dan Furmanik said, “We are honored and excited to perform our brand of entertainment for all the beautiful folks that will be attending Island Fest 2023 for the final concert on Sunday, April 2 starting at 2 p.m.”

Featuring music, art, food, classic cars and fun, Island Fest offers something for everyone. Admission is free and on-site parking is available for a $5 donation. The Islamorada Chamber of Commerce encourages the public to “Keep the Scene Green” and bring your own reusable water container. Make sure to bring lawn chairs and blankets for a fun-filled day at Founders Park. More information is available from the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce at 305-664-4503. - Contributed

Expect some sing-along country performed by the Coconut Cowboys on the beach. CONTRIBUTED

Artist Pasta Pantaleo paints to the tunes.

The Cortadito Trio.

Toko Irie Reggae.

I Land Vibes will be playing joyful beach tunes.

The Pitbull of Blues band plays smooth sounds.

KEYS WEEKLY

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

THE SCOREBOARD

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

Senior, Key West Baseball

On a team that stands out, it is difficult to be a standout player, but that’s just what Key West senior Jack Haggard has done with his bat this season. Haggard leads the Conchs in batting average (.465) and hits (20, three of which are triples). With a little more than half the season to go, he also leads the team in RBIs with 16. The threat he poses to opposing teams doesn’t end once he reaches a base; Haggard has successfully stolen seven this season, leading the Conchs in that category, too. For his dependability at the plate and explosive offensive play, Jack Haggard is this week’s Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

JACK HAGGARD

– Conchs head coach Ralph Henriquez

“Jack has become an outstanding baseball player for us and I expect him to continue this path in college. As we look down the road we are counting on him to carry our club into the playoffs.”

Key West senior slugger Jack Haggard. ELLA HALL/Keys Weekly

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

RAIN BANKS

Junior, Marathon

Banks has been a staple of Marathon’s varsity team since the sixth grade and only gets better each year. She was Marathon’s leading goal scorer as a defensive midfielder. Banks netted 20 goals and 11 assists as the top scorer in the FHSAA’s 3A District 16, made even more impressive by the fact that Marathon played fewer games than most other schools in the district. “Having Rain on our team is like having an extra coach,” said Marathon head coach Tracy McDonald. “She scored most of her goals under double- and tripleteam pressure and still managed to run our offense. Rain is truly a special player.”

JORDAN MacDONALD

Sophomore, Marathon

MacDonald scored nine goals and was credited with nine assists this season for the Lady Fins. With the ability to score with both feet from anywhere south of the 50yard line, MacDonald was a huge asset to Marathon. “Jordan has really developed into a more defensive player this season, which has helped us tremendously,” said McDonald. “She is completely unselfish, and her willingness to drop back and fight for possession has made us a far better team this year.”

THE 2023 KEYS WEEKLY ALL-KEYS GIRLS

SOCCER TEAM

This season, all three Monroe County teams managed winning records, a feat driven by the talented young women who populated the rosters. Key West finished 10-7 in its challenging schedule, stacking up seven shutouts and scoring 54 goals in the 17-game season.

Marathon finished 8-7 with five shutouts and 49 goals in just 15 games. Coral Shores finished 10-5 on the season. The ’Canes registered eight shutouts and netted 39 goals in 15 games, making it to the district final match. With just four seniors on the All-Keys roster, the future of prep soccer in the Keys looks exciting.

From all of us at the Keys Weekly Newspapers, congratulations to the 2023 Keys Weekly All-Keys Girls Soccer Team.

RILEY McDONALD Senior, Marathon

In her sixth year playing for the Lady Fins’ varsity program, McDonald shored up the midfield, serving as an integral link between the offense and defense. “Riley can be summed up in one word: dependable,” said McDonald, who coaches her daughter. “She is often overlooked on the field because she is where she needs to be, doing what she is supposed to be doing. She is also masterful in the area of clock management.”

REESE ELWELL Junior, Marathon

Forward Reese Elwell scored six goals for Marathon in the first half of the season, moving to wing when injuries forced changes for the Fins. “When we needed to change our lineup, Reese moved to her new role unselfishly and cheerfully,” said McDonald. “She is the type of player who will literally run herself into the ground before giving up and her tenacity is admirable.”

With 22 goals and five assists this season, junior forward Kathryn Smith was a threat every time she touched the ball. “Kathryn is one of those dominant offensive forces that only comes along a few times in a team’s history,” said Conchs head coach Scott Paul. “She has a combination of speed, athleticism and toughness that makes her very hard to stop in front of the goal. Kathryn came into her own this year and should be unstoppable next season.”

NIKOLE TOMITA Senior, Key West

Conchs midfielder Nikole “Nikki” Tomita netted seven goals and five assists this season. “Nikki is what you need as an engine in the midfield of any team,” said Paul. “She is super confident on the ball and can play with both speed and physical toughness through a crowded midfield. Nikki emerged as a leader on the field, ‘the straw that stirred the drink’ of the Lady Conchs’ offense.”

KATHRYN SMITH Junior, Key West

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

MADDIE KILDUFF Freshman, Key West

Maddie Kilduff chalked up six goals and five assists this season as just a freshman. “Players like Maddie don’t come around often, and it is a joy to see someone play with an abundance of developed talent and competitiveness on the field when you know she hasn’t even hit her prime,” said Paul. “She is playful off the field, but fierce and determined on the field. Her future here looks very bright.”

TEAGAN LAVIN Junior, Key West

Conchs goalie Teagan Lavin is the stingiest keeper in the Keys, shutting out seven opponents this season. “I said at the beginning of the season that I thought Teagan would be one of the best to ever play in goal for us, and we have had a few very good goalkeepers,” said Paul. “Teagan is always willing to learn and develop her game and is one of the most coachable players I have had the pleasure to work with. Dominance and loads of skill are just two of her strengths.”

Key West’s Grace Andrew is a multi-talented defender who found the goal three times this season and assisted twice. “Grace makes everything happen in the defensive half of the field when it comes to transitioning from defense to offense,” said Paul. “She has turned into a nearly perfect stopper or defensive midfielder in just a very short time span. She is very hard to beat and can get up and down the field with the best of players.”

SKYLAR LANOUE Senior, Key West

Conchs sweeper Skylar Lanoue helped Key West shut out opponents seven times this season. “Skylar grew quickly from a JV player a short time ago to a dominant sweeper who can control and guide the backline of the defense,” said Paul. “She was a strong voice in her position and an extremely fierce competitor. At her best, she could shut down strong offensive players with her smart play and physical toughness.”

SOFIA JANS Sophomore, Coral Shores

Hurricanes midfielder Sofia Jans scored nine goals with four assists this season. “Sofia was the core to our midfield,” said Coral Shores head coach Zachary Owens. “She distributed the ball well and was a great team player. She showed up to play every day at practice and at games. Teammates looked to her for help on the field and as a friend off the field.”

Freshman forward Kai Redruello netted nine goals and nine assists this season playing forward for the ’Canes. “Kai was our finisher. We looked to her to take a shot and place the ball in the back of the net,” said Owens. “Kai worked hard on and off the field. She knew when she needed to be selfish and when to distribute.”

SAYDIE HENDRIX Freshman, Coral Shores

Hurricanes defender Saydie Hendrix kept opponents’ offenses in check this season, playing a key role in Coral Shores’ ironclad defense. “Despite her small stature, Saydie was a force to be reckoned with on the right side,” said Owens. “She was quick and agile. Many teams had a tough time getting around her, and once she won the ball she would look to distribute the ball and start the attack.”

EDY KEMMER Senior, Coral Shores

A four-year varsity player for the Hurricanes, sweeper/fullback Edy Kemmer took her role as team captain seriously. “Edy was our anchor in the back. She was the team captain. She was trusted with the last line of defense and made her presence known to the opposing team. We had 8 clean sheets this year and Edy was a part of the reason why.”

KAI REDRUELLO Freshman, Coral Shores

GRACE ANDREW Junior, Key West

GOVERNOR REAPPOINTS HIGGINS & TOPPINO TO WATER UTILITY BOARD

EX- WIFE OF FORMER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR THEN SUES UTILITY

FLORIDA WITHDRAWS FROM MULTI-STATE VOTER DATABASE

MOVE SURPRISES AND DISAPPOINTS

MANY LOCAL ELECTION OFFICIALS

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis last month reappointed two members to the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority (FKAA) board of directors. Richard Toppino and Cara Higgins were reappointed to four-year terms.

Two weeks after the reappointment, Jolynn Reynolds, a former aqueduct authority employee and the ex-wife of its former executive director, Jim Reynolds, filed a lawsuit against the Florida Keys’ water company.

In the March 10 lawsuit, Jolynn Reynolds claims Cara Higgins “used her position on the aqueduct authority board to act in favor of her own personal interests and to retaliate against anyone who opposed her or attempted to bring her misconduct to light.”

The lawsuit alleges that Higgins, who has been in a relationship with the plaintiff’s ex-husband, Jim Reynolds, since the Reynoldses separated, contributed to the end of her marriage, and used her position on the FKAA board to help Jim Reynolds’ private company secure contracts with the FKAA involving inspection services for the new FKAA headquarters building in Key West.

Higgins told the Florida Commission on Ethics that she had abstained from voting on any and all matters related to Jim Reynolds’ company and any contracts potentially awarded to it.

The claims levied in Jolynn Reynolds’ lawsuit are the same eight allegations she filed in earlier ethics complaints against Higgins

that were dismissed by the Florida Commission on Ethics due to a lack of probable cause.

In July 2022, the Florida Commission on Ethics “found no probable cause on eight allegations of violations of the ethics laws,” against Higgins, according to documents from the state commission.

“(HIggins) is a public officer who is involved in a dating relationship with a vendor of her agency. The relationship was disclosed to the (FKAA) Board….(Higgins’) actions seemed reasonable and in the best interests of FKAA and the taxpayers,” wrote Elizabeth Miller, advocate for the Commission on Ethics, who investigated all of JoLynn Reynolds’ allegations against Higgins.

When reached by the Keys Weekly on March 28, Higgins said, “The Ethics Commission reviewed the numerous allegations made, performed an extensive investigation and found no evidence whatsoever to support any of it. The investigator did however find that my actions were not only reasonable, but also in the best interest of the FKAA. I will not comment on the rehashing of already refuted accusations. My focus remains on moving forward with the FKAA on improvements to our infrastructure, fiscal responsibility and service to our ratepayers. This is an exciting time for the FKAA. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve another term with our current Board and with Mr. Veliz at the helm.”

Greg Veliz, the current executive director of FKAA, told the Keys Weekly last week he cannot comment on pending litigation.

No hearings had been scheduled for the lawsuit as of March 28.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority’s new headquarters, 1100 Kennedy Drive, Key West. CONTRIBUTED

FLORIDA KEYS BOARD OF REALTORS

presents our annual

Wednesday, December 7

Doors Open 5:30pm • Play from 6-8pm

FLORIDA KEYS BREWERY’S “BEER GARDEN”

Corner of Old Hwy and Morada Way 81611 Old Hwy., Islamorada

$20 donation includes: 3 cards & dauber

$5 for 3 additional cards

Serving light hors d'oeuvres / Cash Bar

GRAND PRIZES FOR WINNING CARDS

Come in costume as your favorite Christmas/Holiday movie character

BEST COSTUME PRIZE awarded at 8pm

(fkcs.org)

Staff is amazing. Calling for assistance is always top-notch. Staff is just the nicest you will ever have. Very happy with everything. Thank you for all you do for us and our community!

SERVING ISLAMORADA PROUDLY SINCE EARLY 2020 TRUSTED SERVICE PROVIDER IN MONROE COUNTY SINCE 1995.

PICKING A PERFECT PIÑA COLADA

GILBERT’S RESORT IS THE PLACE TO GO

Whether you’re coming or going, it is so fitting that Gilbert’s Resort is either your first or last available option for a stop in the Keys. It’s fitting because they have the best piña colada, dare I say, in the world.

What better way to kick off a Keys visit, or say goodbye to the islands, than with the world’s best offerings. For credibility, may I add, I’ve had a lot of piña coladas in my time. If you’ve had a lot of frozen daiquiris as well, you know they can go very wrong. They can be icy or watery. The liquor-to-mix ratio can be off.

Gilbert’s, however, has it down to a science. The piña coladas at Gilbert’s are creamy like a milkshake, and that part is always consistent. It’s sweet but not too sweet. You feel equal parts guilt and pleasure while drinking it. A few key tips to consider. Always ask them if their piña colada machine is working, that’s the only piña colada I vouch for. Second, splurge on a floater. Specifically, Myers’s rum. It cuts the sweetness level down to just right and elevates the taste. It gives it almost a light nutty back flavor.

And sure, while you’re at it, extra cherries please. Now depending on the time of year is how long you have to drink this bad boy until it’s melted. My guess is, unless it’s one of our two cold fronts, it’s hot outside.

So, get sipping. You can get this drink by land or sea. Gilbert’s has a large parking lot for visitors as well as plenty of dockage. Cue the song. … “If you like pina coladas.”

WE ARE HIRING!

Marathon and Key Largo Elections Of ces

• Be proficient in basic computer knowledge – data entr y, email, internet.

• Employees must be able to occasionally carr y/lift voting equipment and boxes (30 – 40 lbs).

• Must be able to maintain a working knowledge of the Elections Laws, Rules, Opinions, and Office Policy

• Work with the public in a responsive, courteous, and professional manner. Work well with others.

• Commitment to continuous learning. Laws change daily

• Must sign a “do not smoke” affidavit for the county

• This office will use E-Verify once a job has been offered and has been accepted.

• FDLE Criminal Histor y check will be done once a job has been offered and has been accepted.

(305) 292-3416

Gilbert’s piña colada. SAMANTHA DELLILO/Keys Weekly

SAMANTHA DELLILO

Samantha Dellilo is a Keys native who has a passion for all things food. She runs the local food blog, “Florida Keys Eats.”

FLORIDA KEYS EATS

305.664.2692

www.loreleicabanabar.com

THURS Igor & The Red Elvises March 30 5:30-9-30 p.m.

FRI March 31 Ego Free 5:30-9:30 p.m.

Michael Trixx @ Sunset

SAT April 1 John Ciulla 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Trip Machine 6-10 p.m.

SUN April 2 Harry French 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Webb, Davidson & Meyer 6-10 p.m.

MON April 3 Carousers 6-10 p.m.

Michael Trixx @ Sunset

TUES April 4 Harry French 6-10 p.m.

WED April 5 Webb & Davidson 6-10 p.m.

Michael Trixx @ Sunset

ST. JAMES THE FISHERMAN EPISCOPAL CHURCH

HOLY WEEK SERVICES

SUNDAY, April 2, 10 a.m. The Liturgy of Palm Sunday and Procession of Palms

THURSDAY, April 6, 6 p.m. Maundy Thursday Liturgy including Vigil Before the Blessed Sacrament

FRIDAY, April 7 Good Friday Services 11 a.m. Bible Study; 1 p.m. Liturgy and 6 p.m. Stations of the Cross

SUNDAY, April 9, 10 a.m. Easter Sunday Liturgy. Easter Egg Hunt, Reception to follow

87500 Overseas Highway, Islamorada | 305.852.8468

JERRY WILKINSON

Covering All The Keys From Key Largo To Key West

Upper Keys Weekly 91760 O/S Hwy, Ste 3 Tavernier, FL 33070 305.363.2957

Marathon Weekly 9709 O/S Hwy Marathon, FL 33050 305.743.0844

Key West Weekly 5450 MacDonald Ave, Ste 5 Key West, FL 33040 305.453.6928

Jerry Sparkman Wilkinson, a fourth-generation Floridian who resided in Tavernier, passed away at the age of 94 on Friday, March 17.

Wilkinson was raised on a farm in Winston, located just west of Lakeland. He attended Webster Avenue Grammar School and Lakeland High School. He left high school to attend technical school to become a welder. He found employment as a welder at the St. John’s Shipyard in Jacksonville. He also purchased and operated a mobile roller skating rink, which he moved from town to town throughout the Sunshine State.

Wilkinson moved to Key West after the second hurricane in 1947, but joined the U.S. Army Air Corps, later known as the U.S. Air Force, in 1948. He served as drill instructor, electronics instructor, technical writer and superintendent of ground electronics for 24 years.

Following retirement from Homestead Air Base, he operated automatic, full-service car washes in Miami until the property was taken for construction of the South Miami retro rail station.

During his time in Miami, he met and married Mary Lou Pierce, of Coral Gables. The two traveled together to Key Largo for windsurfing, Colorado for river rafting and California where Wilkinson attended Rancho Santiago College in Santa Ana.

The Wilkinsons purchased a 1958 Oceanside home in Tavernier in 1988. Living on the outskirts of the old Key Largo 1880 community of Planter, Jerry Wilkinson’s enamoration with the Keys’ history led him on a lifelong journey of preservation of records and documents. During his time, he collected and summarized Keys history for various papers and magazines. The history of Indian Key, Key West extension and Overseas Highway were among Wilkinson’s interest points. He also collected many interviews and records from the 1935 Hurricane. Wilkinson would also dress as Henry Flagler at Indian Key celebrations.

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.

In 2018, the Keys History & Discovery Center opened the Jerry Wilkinson Research Library, which preserves resources while enriching Florida Keys history for all generations. The library houses a rich selection of donated archival and special collections that Wilkinson secured through the years. Wilkinson was an emeritus member of the Keys History and Discovery Foundation.

Wilkinson served as a board member of the Key Largo Wastewater Treatment District. He also served as president of the Historical Preservation Society of the Upper Keys.

Investing in history, Wilkinson also looked to the future as he donated $100,000 to the College of the Florida Keys Foundation in 2016.

Wilkinson is survived by his wife, Mary Lou; children, Ron, Keith, Mark and Chantal Wilkinson; and three grandchildren.

A celebration of life is set for Saturday, April 1 at 7:30 a.m. at Harry Harris Park’s Wilkinson Point (named after Kay Wilkinson). A family celebration will be held in Live Oak, where he will be laid to rest beside his mother in his Flagler suit.

In lieu of flowers, donate to a charity of your choice in Jerry’s honor.

Jerry Wilkinson in a Henry Flagler costume. DAVID KAY/Contributed

HIGHER GROUND MUSIC AND VIDEO PRESENTS KEY LARGO SOUND STAGE

On Friday, March 31, Higher Ground Music and Video will hold its Key Largo Sound Stage — an event where artists can showcase their musical talent. The event goes from 6 to 10 p.m. at MM 100.6, bayside.

Jordan Bobrick, the owner of Higher Ground Music and Video, is offering this free venue to artists and anyone interested in attending. All ages are welcome, and it is family-friendly.

“Key Largo Sound Stage is for up-andcoming headliners who haven’t easily gotten stage time here in the Keys,” Bobick said. “The artists have primarily been rap, folk and grunge but are not limited to those genres.

ADDRESSING ANIMAL AUCTIONS

MULTIBILLION - DOLLAR EXOTIC PET TRADE EXPOSED

Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” This week’s report is going to be a serious one. I’m going to talk about something that isn’t talked about much — animal auctions.

Everyone is welcome, and we even have instruments someone can borrow.”

Acts are 15 minutes long and go in a rotation. Refreshments are available thanks to Tower Pizza and Lola’s Kitchen.

To be a featured artist, message Bobrick via Instagram @higher_ground_keylargo.

REEF THE FOX

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

They happen all over the country, even here in Florida. My mom flew to Ohio last weekend to document what goes on at the Mt. Hope Alternative Animal Sale. This particular auction happens three times a year and it is where exotic animals are sold to the highest bidder. People come from all over the country to buy animals at that auction because anyone can bid, and anyone can buy. No one has to show proof of a permit for the animals they buy. This is all legal in Ohio.

My mom went last year and the photos and videos she took were turned over to the U.S. Department of Agriculture that prompted a series of inspections. It was discovered by PETA that the Mt. Hope auction had not been inspected in 10 years. A total of 10 whole years had gone by

Since last year, that auction has been cited numerous times and was given the opportunity to change their ways, but guess what, they haven’t. So, my mom spent March 24 taking more photos and videos and those were sent to the USDA, again. The USDA was also in attendance and taking their own photos.

Auctions like this one are just one part of the multibillion-dollar exotic pet trade. The animals sold at Mt. Hope come from private homes, fur farms, roadside zoos and breeders. My mom said the animals she saw there ranged from sloths to marmosets, foxes to kangaroos. And who knows where they will go, now that they have been sold?

It’s sad

What can we do here in the Florida Keys to help bring an end to things like this? We can use our voices to make it known that we are against animals being sold to the highest bidder with zero regard to the quality of life they will have once they are sold.

I told you all this was not going to be a fun post. But it is an important topic that needs to be talked about. These auctions are hidden in plain sight.

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

A fox found at the animal auction in Ohio on March 24. CONTRIBUTED

A WORTHWHILE PRICE TAG

MARATHON’S MANDY

RODRIGUEZ

GIVES THANKS FOR THE FLIGHT THAT SAVED HIS LIFE

KEYS MOSQUITO PROJECT ENTERS NEW PHASE

It’s not a hug, but we figured a photo with Pax the dolphin was close enough. On March 15, DRC co-founder Mandy Rodriguez invited Sheriff Rick Ramsay, left, and Fishermen’s Community Hospital CEO Drew Grossman, right, to his facility to thank Trauma Star and Fishermen’s staff for saving his life. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

On Feb. 20, the Keys Weekly Newspapers received a phone call from Dolphin Research Center co-founder Armando “Mandy” Rodriguez with a not-so-everyday request about Sheriff Rick Ramsay.

“I want to take a photo hugging that man,” Rodriguez said.

Of course, we at the Weekly are more than happy to support our law enforcement here in the Keys. But just to be on the safe side, we asked for the backstory behind Rodriguez’s comment, which he gladly offered:

On Feb. 17, just one day after having a heart monitor installed for atrial fibrillation, Rodriguez was on the way to pick up his grandchildren when he got a call from the teams monitoring his device.

“Get to the emergency room, now. Your heart just stopped,” he recalled.

With his family in tow, Rodriguez headed for Fishermen’s Community Hospital, where the decision was quickly made to fly him via Trauma Star to Miami’s Baptist Hospital.

“It’s an interesting feeling when the Trauma Star doors close and you see your family standing on the tarmac, and you wonder if it’s the last time you’ll see them,” he told the Weekly.

Thanks to a flight lasting just 26 minutes from helicopter door closure to touchdown in Miami, Rodriguez’s heart eventually stabilized after a stay in the hospital’s “code room.”

Now safely back home, stable and evaluating options for further procedures, he had endless praise for the air ambulance program and Baptist medi-

cal teams that saved him. So when our phone rang, the Weekly was more than happy to accommodate his request for a photo shoot to thank all involved in the life-altering effort.

“It was the best care I’ve ever had, both from the people up there and down here,” he said. “Citizens of Monroe County should count our blessings to have this service, because without it, a lot of us wouldn’t be here,” he said. “Anybody that has questions about how much the service costs, turn around and look at your family and ask yourself: How much are they worth?”

Rodriguez’s story comes at a particularly fitting time for both Trauma Star and Fishermen’s Community Hospital in Marathon.

On March 22, the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners approved a $52 million purchase of three new air ambulances for the Trauma Star program. The three Sikorski S76s currently used are more than 20 years old – the average life expectancy is 25 – and are no longer manufactured, making repairs difficult.

The larger, more powerful Leonardo AW139 craft that will replace them will allow for greater speed, range and lift, and will allow two adult passengers to fly in the ambulances as well as the pilots and medical staff. The new helicopters will be charged with continuing the legacy of one of the busiest air ambulance programs in the country as they fly nearly 1,400 flights each year.

Less than a month after Rodriguez’s flight, the Marathon City Council voted 3-2 to renew the Middle Keys Health Care Municipal Services Taxing Unit (MSTU) in support of uninsured and indigent care at Fishermen’s Community Hospital.

Oxitec and the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District (FKMCD) announced that the third season of the FKMCD-Oxitec Mosquito Project will begin in early April 2023.

Phase one of the 2023 mosquito season will involve placement of Oxitec’s just-add-water mosquito boxes on private property of volunteer residents on Vaca Key, with mosquito populations also monitored on untreated comparison sites at other locations on Vaca Key and on Key Colony Beach. The maximum number of non-biting, male Oxitec mosquitoes expected to be released in 2023 is less than 3 million.

Deployments during the 2022 season confirmed that Oxitec male mosquitoes disperse throughout release areas, that they are able to find and mate with invasive Aedes aegypti females and can reduce the local abundance of Aedes aegypti

Oxitec says its pest control technology is harmless to local ecosystems and is proven to control the disease-transmitting Aedes aegypti mosquito that threatens communities in Florida and other parts of the U.S. FKMCD and Oxitec are holding the first webinar of their 2023 public educational webinar series on Thursday, March 30 at 5 p.m. To register for this event and to view recordings of past webinars, please visit keysmosquitoproject.com/events. — Contributed

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.

• Fellowship fish fry at 4 p.m. at St. James the Fisherman, MM 87.5, Islamorada.

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.

Tuesday, April 4

• 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.

• Easter egg hunt and special story time for kids up to age 5 at 10:30 a.m. at Key Largo library. Bring your Easter basket.

Wednesday, April 5

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

• Tween scavenger hunt for ages 10-12 at 4:30 p.m. at Key Largo library.

The Aedes aegypti mosquito is one of the most common container-breeding mosquitoes in the Keys. CONTRIBUTED

Three generations will take on the Seven Mile Bridge Run as Paul Todd, left, Caidyn Young and Chris Todd Young plan to run the race together. CONTRIBUTED

THE BUCKET LIST BRIDGE

80-YEAR- OLD PAUL TODD WILL TACKLE THE 2023 SEVEN MILE RUN WITH THREE GENERATIONS OF FAMILY

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

For some, the Seven Mile Bridge run is a competitive dogfight at the front of the lead pack. For others, it’s an opportunity to take a pretty sweet selfie at the top of “the hump,” or perhaps just “beat the bus.” For the Young family, the 2023 bridge run will check off one more item on a multigenerational bucket list.

Islamorada to accept charitable contribution requests

Beginning April 3, the village of Islamorada will be accepting charitable contribution request forms. This is to help struggling organizations that promote good within the community. The village will be collecting the funding requests starting on April 3, for 60 days and anticipates the village council will make its awards at the July 6 regular meeting.

County online permitting system reduces issuance times

Ed Koconis, Monroe County administrative director of building and permitting, provided an update on the all-online electronic permitting system implemented in October 2022 at last week’s Board of County Commissioners meeting. Koconis said the system has dramatically decreased review times, and the department is meeting target timelines 95 percent of the time.

The review process takes about five business days for smaller permits, like for fencing, and about 12 business days for all other permit types, if changes are not needed, because departments can review plans simultaneously. Previously, the review time could take 40-plus business days with paper plans for the permits to go through each department’s process.

The department has also received more than 900 public records requests, often requiring scanning permits and plans to meet the requests. With electronic permitting, the timeline to respond to public records requests is significantly shortened due to plans and permits after October 2022 already being in the system.

“Of course, we have had some hiccups, but overall it continues to be a success,” said Koconis. “We have a hands-on working relationship with the program developers, which makes it quicker and easier to tailor the system to the public’s needs.”

More information is at monroecounty-fl.gov/permitting

Coral Shores students present “Into the Woods”

BRIDGE TO CLOSE ON SATURDAY MORNING

The first time Chris Todd Young, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys, ran a race with her dad, she had barely cracked double digits. Just 10 years old, she entered the 1980 Sarasota Herald Tribune 10K in the 13 & Under division, finishing the race in just over 64 minutes as her father Paul Todd crossed the line just 30 seconds behind her.

Please be advised that the Seven Mile Bridge will close from about 6 to 9 a.m. for the 2023 Seven Mile Bridge Run. Motorists should plan to be on their destination’s side of the bridge before 6 a.m. to avoid delays. For more race information, including packet pickup, shuttle times and parking info for runners, visit 7mbrun.com.

Though it would take another 36 years before the pair toed the same start line again, their next race had a third generation in tow, as Young’s daughter Caidyn joined the fatherdaughter duo at the 2016 Duck Key Turkey Trot.

With barely a month to go until his 80th birthday, Todd will make the journey down from Nokomis, Florida to once again lace them up with his daughter and granddaughter. According to him, racing with his family in his first tangle with the bridge is a prime “bucket list” opportunity.

“We’re making (Caidyn) do it with us, which is funny because she’s not a runner,” Young told the Weekly with a laugh. “I told her, ‘We’ve gotta get to the top of the hump, and we’ve gotta get a picture with dad. Then you can fall out.”

Though the full field for the 2023 race has yet to be revealed, if Todd ran in last year’s race, he would finish in a tie as the second-oldest participant. Even still, Young doubts the buses will catch her father, who still runs at least two days per week.

“He’s definitely going to beat the bus,” she said. “And he’s gonna beat me, unfortunately.”

When asked why he chose such a sweaty endeavor as his 80th birthday present, Todd’s answer is one that should resonate with most who’ve braved the bridge.

“I just wanted to see if I could do it.”

Students from the Coral Shores School Drama Club will offer the Upper Keys an amusingly different way to think about everyone’s favorite fairy tale characters through their production of “Into the Woods” on April 7-8 and 15-16.

The musical is directed by senior Aleisa Crumb and involves 25 students who have contributed to the show, from performing to designing sets and props, lights and scenery and working backstage. The Coral Shores Drama Club will present Into the Woods on April 7, 8 and 15 at 7 p.m., with a matinee on April 16 at 2 p.m.

Tickets prices are $10 for adults, $5 for children 12 and under and CSHS students. Performance will be held in CSHS Performing Art Center, 89901 Old Hwy, Tavernier. Tickets may be purchased at Coral Shores High School and at the door. More information is available via email to suzanne.gagliardini@keysschools.com.

AAA: Gas prices drop 9 cents

Florida gas prices are still responding to a big drop in the oil market that occurred two weeks ago. The state average declined 9 cents per gallon last week, with retail prices averaging $3.37 per gallon on March 26. That’s 21 cents less than this year’s high and 75 cents less than drivers paid this time last year.

After plunging 17% to a new 2023 low - two weeks ago - the U.S. price of oil recouped some of those losses last week, rising 4%. That could limit how much further gas prices fall. Since it often takes two weeks for retail prices to adjust to movement in the futures market, it’s possible that retail gas prices fall a little further this week, before leveling out or inching higher next week.

LOOK, UP IN THE SKY

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

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

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

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

By April 1823, a naval base was established at what is now known as Mallory Square, with Capt. David Porter and his Mosquito Fleet putting law, order and safety into action. The nation’s southernmost naval base at Trumbo Point – now a state-of-theart training facility for air-to-air combat fighter aircraft of all military services – was established six years after U.S. Naval Aviation began in 1911. Within a few decades, it

was well-integrated with the Navy’s mission to protect and control the seas and a cornerstone of American global military power.

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

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

FLIGHTS & DEMONSTRATIONS

- National Anthem – 11 a.m.

- Aftershock Jet Fire Truck

- Bill Stein – Edge 540

- H60 SAR Demo

- Legacy Flight – F/A-18 & Corsair

- AeroShell Aerobatic Team

- Rob Holland – MXS

- Precision Exotics vs. Rob Holland

- F-5 Demo

- Skip Stewart – PTS2

- AfterShock vs. Skip Stewart

- F-35 Demo

- Rob Holland & Bill Stein

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

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

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

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

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

For more information, visit www.airshowkeywest.com.

— Contributed

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

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

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

Guest Speaker: U.S. Marine Veteran and Purple Heart Recipient John Donnelly presenting Humanitarian in Courage Awards

KEYS MARINE LIFE ARTIST EXPANDS HER PASSION WITH CANDLE COLLECTION

When local marine life artist and entrepreneur Jessica Ann Hessing wanted to have a candle collection that coordinated with her art but it didn’t exist, she set out to create her own line of candles. In April 2022, Islamorada Candle Co. was born. Next month is its one-year anniversary.

“I love business, and I’m always helping other friends with their businesses. I had been painting full-time for 10 years and had never found candles I wanted to sell here, so I thought I would start our own line,” Hessing said. “I started the research process in December of 2021 and really researched for about five months before buying materials.”

Hessing is originally from the Keys, while her husband, Chris Hessing, is from Bradenton. They met during college in Key West and then made their way up to the Upper Keys.

“I sourced recycled glass from Spain and sustainable cork tops. I also researched wax and discovered coconut apricot wax, which works well because it’s a renewable wax and looks nice even when it’s hot, versus soy wax,” Hessing said.

The candles are hand-poured in small batches in their Jessica Ann Art Gallery in Islamorada by her husband, who is also behind the scenes with Jessica Ann Art.

“Jessica Ann Art has been at the 151 Morada Way location for about 3 ½ years, and we do everything in-house,” she said. “There is a lot of math that goes into it – for example, how much fragrance oil goes into each one.” They also use luxury fragrance oils that are cruelty-free, phthalate-free, skin safe, and made in the U.S.

“Wicks are super important, and most people do not realize this,” she continued. “Finding the right wick takes time and testing. Our wooden wicks have the crackle and are ethically sourced and produced in the USA. Everyone assumes a wick is a wick; however, the wick can vary by the fragrance oil being used. Some wicks will have a booster, some are longer, and some are wider. Watching the burn time

hours and making changes to the wick is essential.”

Their two sons, Griffin, 5, and Bennett, 8, are also involved.

“The boys love it. Bennett made his own fragrance for the family members. His favorite scent is Sandbar. Griffin likes to see the designs and helps with shipping and putting the labels on the boxes. Griff’s favorite scent is Key Lime,” Jessica Ann Hessing said.

“My favorite scent is Oceanside; my husband’s is Bayside,” she laughs as she shares how they all have different favorites.

Her sister, Kelsey Cecil, runs the websites and social media for both Jessica Ann Art and Islamorada Candle Co.

Islamorada Candle Co. offers six scents as part of its everyday collection: Bayside, Ocean Side, Rum Runner, Key Lime, Old Road, and Sandbar. Each name and corresponding scent has a local Keys flair. Each of the scents comes in three sizes — travel tin, 8-ounce candles, and 12-ounce candles.

Burn times are significant to any candle lover; Hessing explained, “40 to 50 hours on the 8-ounce, 60-plus on the 12-ounce, and the travel tins can be

up to 20 hours. So it’s important to ensure you trim the wick in between and not keep it under a fan to have a longer burn time.”

When asked about best sellers, Hessing said, “Different locations vary — Olive Morada may sell more Key Lime Pie and Rum Runner. We sell more Oceanside and Old Road as we are close to the Old Road and the ocean. And then whatever we are pouring in-house may be the top seller for the day.”

She is also very excited to offer customized wholesale scents and label designs to other retailers, event planners and entrepreneurs, such as real estate agents, who may need unique gifts for clients.

Some local businesses that carry custom wholesale candles are Florida Keys Brewing Co., which has a scent called Iguana Bait after one of its beers. Mary Jane’s Closet in the Lower Keys, which opened a retail and coffee shop by the Square Grouper, has three signature scents. Sandbar Books created its own “Keysy” book scent with a Key Lime blend. Evolve Boutique created a lavender pineapple with a eucalyptus scent. Lisa Lee, who is a local artist, mixed her two favorite scents together to make her own scent.

What does it take to create your own wholesale custom candle? “After we meet to gauge what they are thinking, I create three to four samples to try. That takes about two weeks. Then it takes about two weeks to test the wick, and we make the label. There is a design fee for the label and a testing fee. The minimums are 24 per scent per size.” To buy from their line, not custom, the minimum is 24 candles, and they can mix and match scents.

Between her incredible art and booming candle business, Hessing has been keeping very busy. “I still haven’t made a custom blend for my art collections yet,” she said with a chuckle. But, maybe she will soon, we will look forward to those scents too.

Islamorada Candle Co. is open seven days a week from noon to 5 p.m. Visit www.islamoradacandleco. com and follow on Instagram and Facebook @islamoradacandleco.

Jessica Ann Hessing creating a batch of hand-poured candles. CONTRIBUTED

Islamorada Candle Co.’s lavender pineapple with a eucalyptus scent can be found at Evolve Boutique. MARITZA THIBOS/Contributed

Local artist Lisa Lee mixed her two favorite scents together to make her own scent. MARITZA THIBOS/ Contributed

The Hessing family. CONTRIBUTED

MELINDA VAN FLEET www.keysweekly.com

Explore the Upper Keys

GOLFING ‘FORE’ A CAUSE HABITAT TOURNAMENT SUPPORTS HOUSING

Enjoy a round of golf and friendly competition at the Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys golf tournament presented by Sharkey’s. The tournament gathering starts at 9 a.m. on Friday, April 7, at the Redland Golf & Country Club, 24451 SW 177th Ave. in Homestead.

The best ball scramble has a shotgun start at 10 a.m. and includes greens fees, cart, lunch, beverages on the course, door prizes, an awards ceremony and an afterparty at Sharkey’s Grill following play. Prizes will be awarded for longest drive in the men’s and women’s divisions, closest to the pin and putting contest.

Entry fee is $150 per person. Individual hole sponsorships are also available for $150. Proceeds will benefit the HFHUK Building Fund, meaning all proceeds stay in the Upper Keys for use in building homes for deserving families in Key Largo, Tavernier and Islamorada.

“We just completed the ground-breaking of our latest project: a nine-home development we are calling Gardenia Place in Islamorada. The golf tournament is always a fun day for golfers and sponsors to help us raise funds to complete Gardenia Place and for our Building Fund in general,” said Lindsay Fast, HFHUK executive director.

For more information or to register, visit habitatupperkeys.org/2023golf. Major sponsors of the event include Sharkey’s SharkBite Grill, Coastal Realty, Dulce Vida Organic Tequila, Empress Gin, Price Automotive and Upper Keys Marine Construction. To inquire about sponsorship opportunities, email info@ habitatupperkeys.org.

— Contributed

Eddie Price Automotive team came out No. 1 in last year’s golf tournament. HFHUK/ Contributed

Participants in last year’s Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys golf tournament. HFHUK/Contributed

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of High Exposure Visuals located at 33 Blue Runner St Key Largo FL 33037 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Michael J Kanik, PA

Publish:

March 30, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Mr. Beans’ Books & Beans located at 2960 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Jeffrey Shapiro

Publish:

March 30, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of American Marina Properties located at 1646 W Snow Ave., Ste. 29, Tampa, FL 33606, intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: American Marina Properties, LLC

Publish: March 30, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Happy Landings Marina located at 1646 W Snow Ave., Ste. 29, Tampa, FL 33606, intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: American Marina Properties, LLC

Publish: March 30, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of BACKYARD STASH located at 2661 N. Roosevelt Blvd., Apt. 1, Monroe County in the City of Key West, Florida 33040, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Key West, Florida this 24th day of March, 2023.

By: AMR ONLINE MARKETING

LLC

Publish:

March 30, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

Florida Keys Council of the Arts

Notice of Upcoming Meetings

The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform.

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

JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@keysarts.com Cultural Umbrella Committee

Meeting Time: Mar 31, 2023 11:00 AM

Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 890 9699 8063

Passcode: 556714

Publish:

March 30, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDINANCE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on April 19th, 2023, at 9:00 A.M., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, in the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida, 33050 the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, intends to consider the adoption of the following County ordinance: AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, PROVIDING FOR THE CREATION OF THE RICHARD A. RECUPERO COUNTY PARK AT THE HAWK MISSILE SITE AMENDING CHAPTER 18, ARTICLE II, TO INCLUDE A SECTION ON CONDUCT SPECIFIC TO THE RICHARD A. RECUPERO COUNTY PARK AT THE HAWK MISSILE SITE FOR PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES AND REGULATIONS AND PARK HOURS; AND PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES INCONSISTENT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION INTO THE MONROE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Please note that public participation in these meetings may be conducted via Communications Media Technology (“CMT”). The connection information for members of the public who wish to attend or participate in the Public Hearing(s) via a Zoom virtual platform will be posted on the Monroe County website at @ http://monroecountyfl. iqm2.com/Citizens/Default.aspx.

Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, notice is given that if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at such hearings or meetings, he or she will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he or she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in these proceedings, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m.—5:00 p.m., prior to the scheduled meetings; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”. Live Closed-Captioning is available via our web portal @ http://monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners. Dated at Key West, Florida, this 24th day of March, 2023.

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:

Key West International Airport Monroe County Runway 9-27 Repairs 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 Tuesday, May 2, 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:

Key West International Airport Monroe County Runway 9-27 Repairs 5-2-2023

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: omb-purchasing@ 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 May 2, 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 30, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 23-CP-17-P DIVISION: UPPER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF ARTHUR E. BALLEN Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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 30, 2023.

Personal Representative:

Barbara Ballen

2 South Drive Key Largo, Florida 33037 Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner Attorney

Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A.

12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com

Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com

Publish:

March 30 & April 6, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

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

PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 2023-CP-34-P IN RE: THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM E. ZANE, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the Estate of William E. Zane, Deceased, whose date of death was January 28, 2023 and the last four digits of whose social security number are 2404, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, 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 WITHIN 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.

LEGAL NOTICES

YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of the first publication of this notice is the 30th day of March, 2023.

Personal Representative: Louise Harper c/o Law Office of Jack Bridges, P.A. P.O. Box 1714 Tavernier, FL 33070-1714 (305) 664-9690

Attorney for Personal

Representative: Jack Bridges Fla. Bar No. 175950

P.O. Box 1714 Tavernier, FL 33070-1714 (305) 664-9690 jack@jackbridges.us linda@jackbridges.us

Publish:

March 30 & April 6, 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-30-P IN RE: ESTATE OF ROSA WILTRAKIS Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of ROSA WILTRAKIS, deceased, whose date of death was December 27, 2022, 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 30, 2023.

Personal Representative: LINDA L. POWERS 914 S. Ruby Drive Key Largo, FL 33037 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.

LEGAL NOTICES

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

LEGAL NOTICES

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

P.O. Box 783 Islamorada, Florida 33036

Telephone: 305-664-5065

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

County,

Florida Publish: March 30, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

The administration of the estate of Arthur E. Ballen, deceased, whose date of death was January 6, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s

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 §733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

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

Publish: March 30 & April 6, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

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

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

IN 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

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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

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

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

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

Personal Representative:

Rosemary A. Steele

131 Harbor Lane

Tavernier, FL 33070

Attorney for Personal

Representative:

Robert K. Miller, Esq.

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173

Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938

Marathon, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-9428

Fax: (305) 743-8800

E-Mail: service@floridakeyslaw. com

Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com

Publish:

March 23 & 30, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

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

FILE NUMBER: 23-CP-64-K IN RE: ESTATE OF FLORENCE MAY BOUSQUET, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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.

OPENINGS AVAILABLE

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Environmental Tech, $5,000 Bonus

- Line Cook

- Medical Technologist, $15,000 Bonus

- Monitor Technician

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

- Patient Experience Advocate

- Pool Physical Therapist

- Registered Nurse, up to $25,000 Sign on Bonus

- Registered Respiratory Therapist, $15,000 Bonus

- Surgical Technologist

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- Cook, $5,000 Bonus

- Emergency Dept Team Coordinator

- Environmental Tech, $5,000 Bonus

- Food Service Worker, $5,000 Bonus

- Lead Med Technologist, $15,000 Bonus

- Medical Technologist, $15,000 Bonus

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

- Nurse Manager, Emergency Dept, $20,000 Bonus

- Patient Experience Advocate

- Patient Scheduler

- Pool Physical Therapist

- Registered Nurse, up to $25,000 Sign on Bonus

- Sanitation Technician

- Security Of cer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

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

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

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. Background screening, current FL driver’s license, and references required. Salary commensurate with experience. 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

IS HIRING!

DIRECT CARE STAFF AT ADULT DAY TRAINING PROGRAM

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, preemployment 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.

LEGAL NOTICES

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

CASE #: 2017-CA-195-K

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 14th day of April 2023 AT 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Lot 43, Block 3 of Pine Ridge, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 4, Page(s)

42, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida

Property address: 2110 Palm Beach Road, Big Pine Key, FL 33043

Pursuant to ORDER ON PLAINTIFF’S MOTION TO RESCHEDULE FORECLOSURE

SALE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 15th day of February 2023

Style of which is:

WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A.

Plaintiff VS. LEE R. ROHE; SUSAN L. ROHE, et. al

Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is Number 2017-CA-195-K

WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 28th day of March 2023.

KEVIN MADOK

Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Shonta McLeod

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

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.

Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish:

March 30 & April 6, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

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

AUTOS WANTED

ALL YEARS!

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

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.

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 305433-0515, or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com.

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: Admin. Asst. Public Works, WW Operator/Controls Trainee, and Right of Way Technician. Full Benefits. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us

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

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 404219-3359 and ask for Dave.

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

EMPLOYMENT

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.

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

26 ft. Trailer for rent, newly refurbished, on 25th Street. $1,400/mo F/L/S req. Electric & propane not included. See at Marathon Auto Air, corner of 25th St & US1, Marathon.

RV FOR SALE

RV FOR SALE - 2017 Thor Citation RV, 24ft Mercedes V6 Diesel, 2 slides, Cummings Diesel Generator, Low Mileage, Many Upgrades, Call Richard 305-363-8021

MAINTENANCE WORKER 4

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

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

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER IS HIRING

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

Job description available at www.dolphins.org. E-mail your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE 58901

NOW HIRING

DIVE INSTRUCTOR DIVEMASTER

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.

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

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

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

$17.00/hour

paid holidays and paid vacation. Positions available in Key West and Marathon. 305-292-3369

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

Architects

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

Carpenter

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

Interior Designer

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

Working Warehouse Manager

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. IS HIRING!

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

KEY LARGO

Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Crisis Counselor

KEY WEST

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult)

Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Crisis Counselor

Case Managers (Adult, Forensic, Children)

*Advocate (PT only)

Substance Abuse Counselor

Peer Support Specialist

MARATHON

Prevention Specialist (or KW)

Care Coordinator

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult)

RNs - 3 shifts (also Per Diem)

Maintenance Specialist

*Behavioral Health Technicians

3 shifts (also Per Diem)

*Support Worker – Assisted Living

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

Check

THEME: BOARD GAMES

ACROSS

1. G in mg

5. Medicinal amt.

8. Say no

11. Popular Scotch mixer

12. Country dance formation

13. List of candidates

15. Certain battery component

16. Exclamation of sorrow

17. *”The Game of Unspeakable Fun”

18. *”Fascinating two-handed strategy game”

20. Dutch cheese

21. Not quite right

22. *”I thee ____”

23. CrËme de ____

26. Where Japan is

30. Part of circumference

31. Threatened Asian or African odd-toed ungulate

34. Ready for picking

35. Reasons to sue

37. Romanian money

38. English county

39. Popular Arabic name

40. Lemon, in Paris

42. Latissimus dorsi, for short

43. Angola’s southern neighbor

45. Dairy farm glands

47. Relax, or ____ out

48. Brooke or John Jacob, of New York

50. USPS delivery

52. *Cards against what?

55. Medicinal plant with purple berries

56. Bug-eyed

57. Tiny bottle

59. a.k.a. jumping bone

60. Plucked string instrument

61. Makes a mistake

62. *”____ Day,” desirable square in The Game of Life

63. Bard’s before 64. Rip apart

(search

DOWN

1. Govt. property org.

2. Fabled fliers

3. Mine passage

4. India’s Chennai, pre-1996

5. Flooring choice, pl.

6. Hose woes

7. 100 centavos in Mexico

8. Rum cake

9. Particle in A-bomb

10. What’s-old-is-new-again

prefix

12. Somewhat late

13. Be at the helm

14. *Not chutes

19. #39 Across, pl.

22. Is no longer

23. *Trade, build, settle this island

24. Oenophile’s concern

25. Curtain fabric

26. *Connect how many?

27. Theater passage

28. Asparagus unit

29. Written works

32. Hipbones

33. Butterfly catcher

36. *Like pursuit of no vital importance

38. “____ ____ a high note”

40. A Camel, for short

41. Result of equipment failure

44. The beauty of the ball?

46. Morgan Freeman in “Driving Miss Daisy,” e.g.

48. Sign of bad news

49. Inflict a blow

50. Supernatural life force

Drunkard, slangily

Exhibiting good health

Swing seat, sometimes

Knitter’s supply

Tree fluid

Dropped drug, acr.

FEEDING A NEED

FOOD PANTRY PROVIDES A LIFELINE FOR STRUGGLING KEYS FAMILIES

Thursday evenings inside the Burton Memorial United Methodist Church food pantry can only be described as bustling. Energetic volunteers welcome patrons with a hearty hot meal; tonight, homemade chili with rice and green beans is on the menu.

On Thursday evenings, Keys residents are also able to stock up on food, leaving with a shopping cart full of meats, produce, breads, non-perishables and desserts.

This pantry has been serving the Upper Keys community for more than 20 years, but now, more than ever, it is a godsend.

“I’ve been down here 18 years and it’s just getting progressively worse with the inflation and everything. It shouldn’t be a decision to pay your bills or buy food,” said Key Largo resident Teresa Lybarger. Lybarger, who works as an office manager in the Upper Keys, stopped by the food pantry on her way home from work.

Like Lybarger, most of the people visiting this food pantry have jobs, but just don’t make enough to make ends meet living in the Keys.

“All the costs are going up and the salaries aren’t matching it,” explained Lybarger.

“The vast majority of people down here that use our food pantry, they’re not homeless, they have jobs but it costs so much to live down here they can’t balance the two,” said Burton Memorial Pastor Kerry Foote. Foote says the average person who comes to the food pantry is what’s called an ALICE, a United Way acronym which stands for “asset limited, income constrained, employed.”

“We had someone come in here

earlier who had got evicted, and finding housing down here is just ridiculous,” added Foote.

Foote estimates this pantry feeds 50 to 60 families a week. So far, between donations from Feeding South Florida, Publix, Winn-Dixie, as well as community grants and individual contributions, the pantry has been able to meet the growing need, but at times the staff must be innovative.

For example, the pantry recently acquired 60 10-pound logs of frozen hamburger meat, too much to distribute to a single family. Payfair Supermarket stepped in and offered to use its band saw to cut the meat into one-pound servings, suitable for distribution.

“What’s been amazing is how the community surrounds this food pantry and helps it out,” said Foote.

Cindi Miller, the pantry coordinator, said patrons are like family members and volunteers are quick to identify needs, even when it comes to pets.

“We know who has dogs and cats because we do have dog and cat food. We feed everyone. So if they come in and say ‘my puppy’s hungry this week,’ not a problem,” said Miller.

Thanks to support from the community and an army of volunteers, the pantry is doing well.

“In January I was getting worried but then we started getting these massive deliveries,” said intake coordinator Adele Budd.

Foote said food donations usually drop during the summer.

“If you’re looking to give, don’t wait until Thanksgiving or Christmas, give during the summer,” he urged.

Extra help at the pantry is always welcome. Those interested in volunteering can call the church to donate

their time and help in areas like stocking shelves and bagging groceries.

For individuals in a position to donate food, canned foods and dried goods are always appreciated.

“If they want to give, we’ve suggested go get the BOGOs (buy one, get one free) and give us the free one and you take the one that you buy,” said Foote. “Recently we had someone do Instacart and send it to us as a gift,” he said.

For Keys residents who rely on the

pantry to get by, every bit of help goes a long way.

“I’m just very grateful and appreciative we have this service in the Keys,” said Lybarger.

The food pantry is open on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon and on Thursdays from 5 to 7 p.m. Hot meals are also provided on Thursday evenings.

More information is at 305-8522581 or www.bmumc.net.

KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL www.keysweekly.com

1: Teresa Lybarger leaves the Burton Memorial Food Pantry with a shopping cart full of food. Lybarger works full-time, but like so many others is having a hard time making ends meet in the Keys. 2: The Burton Memorial Food Pantry, located at 93001 Overseas Highway, opens its pantry doors several times a week to Keys residents. On Thursdays, hot meals are also provided by God’s Kitchen. 3: Volunteers sort and bag fresh produce to be distributed to residents visiting the Burton Memorial Food Pantry. 4: Pantry coordinator Cindi Miller shows Keys Weekly a freezer stocked with meat to be distributed. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys Weekly

Cars

Fun

Food

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

Homemade Boat Race

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)!

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

Seahorses, Seashells and Starfish

Sand Sculpting Contest on the Beach!

Kite Flying

Sand Sculpting on the Beach

Paint the Dolphin: Art for Kids

Hula Hooping & Contests

Large Selection of Food & Drinks

Sunday, April 2

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

Adults & Kids Divisions People’s Choice

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!

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

Sponsor: Florida

8-ft. Sand Castle — Photo Op Keep

“Taste of Islamorada”

2023 poster signing by featured artist Osvaldo Fernandez