This iconic Fleming Street residence has it all! Complete with three bedrooms, two full bathrooms and two bathrooms. This two-story historic Key West home features wrap-around porches, formal living and dining rooms, a luxurious kitchen and baths, a master suite, pool, service bar, outdoor shower, off-street parking, covered patio, master suite with walk-in closet and shower, hard wood floors and an amazing location walkable to everything Old Town Key West has to offer!
KEY WEST | $3,950,000 | Listing ID: 604782
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The Boston Bruins’ 2022-23 season hit an epic milestone on April 9, reaching a new NHL single-season record with 63 wins following a 5-3 win over the Philadelphia Flyers. The record was previously held by the 1995-96 Detroit Red Wings and 2018-19 Tampa Bay Lightning.
The Blue Angels F/A-18 Super Hornets are ready to rock the Southernmost Air Spectacular
Saturday and Sunday at Naval Air Station Key West.
LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly
As this paper headed to the printer on April 12, our publisher Britt Myers was donning a blue flight suit and climbing into the cockpit of a Blue Angels F/A-18 Super Hornet. Stay tuned to keysweekly.com for his full report of the once-ina-lifetime experience.
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 world-famous 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.
Seventy-seven years later, they are 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.
The free, two-day event includes displays of nearly three dozen aircraft, including the combat-proven F/A18 Super Hornet, the Marine Corps’ premiere logistics support aircraft, and the C-130J Super Hercules (aka “Fat Albert”), food and beverage booths, aviation-specific merchandise, Southernmost Air Spectacular swag, and a ticketed Kids Zone with inflatable rides, slides, a bungee jump and bounce houses.
Limited upgraded VIP and Preferred seating with a full-service bar are available for $149 and $49. Gates open at 10 a.m. Flights begin at 11 a.m. Blue Angels fly at 2:30 p.m.
The hot tarmac can cause heat exhaustion and sunburn — stay hydrated and bring sunscreen, hats and/ or umbrellas.
To learn more about volunteering, contact naskw.mwr.fct@navy.mil or call 305-293-2503. For more information, visit www.airshowkeywest.com.
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.
drops stuff, breaks things and falls down more than any adult should. She’s married to a saintly — and handy — fisherman, and has been stringing words together in Key West since 1998.
Editor’s Note: The Southernmost Air Spectacular featuring the Blue Angels returns this weekend to Naval Air Station Key West. As I write these words on Wednesday, April 13, the Keys Weekly’s own Britt Myers is donning a flight suit and preparing to fly in the back of the No. 7 Blue Angels jet. Stay tuned for his take on the oncein-a lifetime experience. Meanwhile, well, any time I can relive my own flight with them in 2006 is a good day. So here goes…
Ididn’t throw up and I didn’t wet my pants.
Normally, those wouldn’t be newsworthy accomplishments. But then, I had never spent an afternoon in the cockpit of a Blue Angels F/A-18 Hornet. But there I sat grinning stupidly and reminding myself to breathe as U.S. Navy Crew Chief Chris Fancher secured the 11 buckles that would hold me in place for 45 heart-stopping minutes.
“Don’t scream,” he said with a wry smirk as he handed me a blue and gold helmet.
“And don’t touch anything,” Fancher instructed for the sixth time. “Most importantly, don’t touch THAT.” He was pointing to the yellow loop of the ejection handle between my knees that would launch me and my pilot, U.S. Marine Maj. Len “Loni” Anderson, on a “bonus ride” that wasn’t included in my itinerary.
Earlier that day, Fancher had spent an hour with me and two other local media representatives selected to experience the most exciting ride of our lives in a Blue Angels jet a few days before the precision flying team demonstrated their supersonic skills, strength and training at a weekend air show.
Fancher had reviewed with us mere mortals the physiology of flying at the speed of sound and “pulling Gs” that would press us into our seats as the blood left our heads and tried to puddle around in our feet — along with any other puddles that might also end up down there.
The ever-patient crew chief went over the effective, yet entirely unattractive, “hic” maneuver in which you try to flex all the muscles in your body at once to force the blood (and consciousness) back into your brain.
(Thanks, Chris. The maneuver worked and my vision only got blurry once. Note: It’s not a look you want to demonstrate on a first date. I imagine my face looked as it would if I were giving birth.)
The anticipation had mounted as Fancher handed out blue flight suits and led us out to the tarmac, where other aviators from the air station, including retired fighter pilot and current County Commissioner Jim Scholl, exchanged knowing looks they apparently learned in flight school.
By the time I lowered myself into the cockpit, my face already hurt from smiling and my eyes weren’t blinking at regular intervals. Fancher didn’t seem alarmed.
He gave me a thumbs-up as Major Anderson ascended the ladder and shook my hand before taking his seat in front of me. I’m not sure what he said, but I think I managed to blurt out my own name before he started laughing, sat down and tugged on his gold helmet, constantly reassuring me and explaining everything he was going to do, and everything I was going to feel.
But no one can prepare you for the immense rush of adrenaline that comes as the F/A-18 gathers speed instantly, hovers above the runway for a second and then launches straight up into the airspace surrounding the Naval Air Station Key West. It was phenomenal. I wish I could start every day with that takeoff.
Anderson, through his laughter and my screams of glee, expertly maneuvered the plane through fluffy white clouds and tipped us on our side “to give me a better view” of the water below. We broke the sound barrier. We were inverted. We flew on our side. We were weightless. We barrel- rolled, diamond rolled, performed a split S and pulled a total of 7.4 Gs. (Again, not an attractive look, but I stayed conscious and vomit-free.)
We also discussed the precision of the Blue Angels flight team, which flies with only 18 inches of space between their wings, and times everything perfectly according to “the Boss,” who flies the lead plane and calls out the maneuvers over the radio. Of course, it must be a little easier to maneuver in formation without a crazed blond in the backseat screaming, “This is awesome,” from my helmet’s microphone to Anderson’s.
The trip could have lasted all day, and I would trade jobs with Anderson in a heartbeat (although he didn’t seem real willing to give up his super-sonic career). I think I may also have asked him to marry me at one point.
As we settled safely back on the ground, I was exhausted. I was exhilarated. I was jealous of the pilots who get to experience that rush every day. And I was honored to be allowed into the cockpit of the F/A-18 Hornet as it went hurtling through the sky.
So when you’re at the air station this weekend watching these guys deftly maneuver the multimillion-dollar insects, give them the thumbs-up, wish them well — and don’t touch anything. Godspeed, guys. Thanks for the permanent smile.
new locker rooms, training facilities, a new field surface and several other amenities.
No one at the April 11 school board meeting questioned Key West High School’s need for a new football stadium.
But as the price tag approaches $20 million of taxpayer money, some school board members — and loads of baseball supporters — would rather pump the brakes than complete a project that doesn’t adequately serve the school’s football and baseball programs, whose fields back into each other.
“I feel like we’re pushing this down people’s throats,” board member Mindy Conn said at the meeting in Key West. “If we push the entire project to next May, we’ll have time to ensure that some of the baseball program’s concerns are addressed. We just had a meeting with the superintendent, baseball coach Ralph Henriquez (and other baseball supporters). If we’re going to include some of the additions that baseball wants, then it behooves us to review the entire plan.”
Community member Sam Holland agreed.
“It’s not about baseball versus football. Football needs a new stadium without delay. Meanwhile baseball is number three in the state. With this kind of budget, everyone should be on board.”
One of the main concerns from baseball fans is the proposed replacement of the iconic “11-Time Conch Cafe” concession stand with a portable food truck rather than a permanent building. The design and location of a new baseball press box are also a concern.
Meanwhile, the football side of Tommy Roberts Memorial Stadium, which backs into baseball’s Rex Weech Field, is slated to get new bleachers for 3,140 people,
Community member and Key West High graduate Scott Atwell told the school board on April 11, “Both sides of the field are not being recognized in this proposal.” He pointed out that the baseball improvements account for just 3% of the overall budget. “Three percent doesn’t acknowledge the history of baseball that gave us the privilege of 12 state championships. Acknowledge that history with fairness.”
Former Monroe County tax collector Dee Dee Henriquez, who’s married to baseball coach Ralph Henriquez, told the board, “My concern is what the taxpayers are getting in return for their $19.4 million. The proposed food wagon for a concession stand, to me, is a joke. Conch baseball deserves better and I hope you realize how we need to revisit this project until the proposal is fair.”
Board member Conn agreed, and Upper Keys board member Sue Woltanski said she would be OK with postponing the project. Her primary concerns involved safety, as the new plans include no warning track between the new baseball outfield and the new football bleachers.
“I would never have designed an outfield like that, with those sharp corners and bleacher steps coming down so close to the baseball outfield,” Woltanski said.
In the end, board members sent Pat Lefere, the district’s director of operations and planning, back to meet with the team at Ajax Building Co. to determine the cost, feasibility and timeline of adding some of baseball’s requests into the project.
The board agreed to move its April 25 meeting from the Upper Keys to Key West to continue the discussion and determine how to proceed.
While relatives, friends and supporters prepare to celebrate the life of the late Garrett Hughes with a benefit concert on Saturday, April 8 at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater, Hughes’ accused killer, Lloyd Preston Brewer III, is preparing for a bond hearing on Wednesday, April 26 at 9 a.m. in the county courthouse.
Brewer, 57, has been in jail since the Feb. 13 shooting death of Hughes, who was 21 when he was shot in the parking lot of Conch Town Liquor & Lounge on North Roosevelt Boulevard in Key West, a few hours after the Super Bowl had ended.
Brewer, whose family owns the building that houses the bar, faces felony murder and firearms charges.
While the criminal case works its way through the courts, Hughes’ father, John Hughes, has filed a civil suit against Brewer; his father, Bud Brewer; the family’s trust; and the property it owns.
In the civil suit, John Hughes’ attorney, Stuart Grossman, states that Brewer and the other defendants had a duty to maintain a safe and secure premises, and to warn people of any reasonably foreseeable dangers and risks.
Grossman claims the defendants were derelict in this duty given their knowledge of Lloyd Preston Brewer’s “history of violence and weapons possession.”
In addition, the suit states, “The (defendants) furnished alcohol to defendant Brewer III, who became intoxicated. At the time of the incident, defendant Brewer III was habitually addicted to alcohol.”
Grossman told the Keys Weekly on April 6, “The Hughes family wishes to express to the entire Key West community its deep appreciation for the outpouring of love, kindness and sympathy it has received over the senseless loss of their beloved son Garrett. We will work tirelessly as their lawyers to bring Preston Brewer to justice and we know the State Attorney’s office will do the same.”
No bond was granted upon Brewer’s arrest, and he has pleaded not guilty.
Prosecutor Joe Mansfield has said he fully expects some type of self-defense or mental deficiency argument from Brewer’s defense attorneys, but added that the bar’s security video from that night does not support any self-defense claim.
Hughes, his brother and friends were reportedly drinking at the bar on Super Bowl Sunday, as was Brewer. After midnight, Brewer reportedly exited the bar and saw a shirtless and intoxicated Hughes allegedly urinating outside on the building. A short verbal exchange ended when Brewer allegedly pulled a gun and shot Hughes in his abdomen. He died later at Lower Keys Medical Center.
I hopefully will be one of many people in Key West taking the time to thank (and give a standing “O”) to Lynda Frechette for all the tireless and amazing work she put toward this year’s Aqua Idol fundraiser for the Waterfront Playhouse in Key West.
She began by asking various talented singers she’d either heard personally around town, or had been told of their talent by others in the community, if they’d like to participate in the 2023 Aqua Idol, modeled after the long-standing TV vocal competition, “American Idol.”
It should be noted that this was the first year, since COVID hit, that Aqua Idol was brought back by the Waterfront Playhouse.
Lynda was able to assemble 17 talented vocalists from Key West who were up to the challenge. The competition ran weekly from Feb. 20 to April 10. Each week challenged the singers with a different theme, like Broadway, country, duets, etc.
Most contestants donned costumes and had choreography in their performances. Some invited others up on stage to perform small skits and dance moves. Laurie Thibaud was the emcee, Jimmy Harcup was the sound and lighting technician, and each week featured celebrity guest judges. It was standing-roomonly every week by Waterfront Playhouse supporters and fans of the vocalists.
While each singer performs, audience members place money in their tip buckets to show their support of a favorite singer. Each week the vocalist raising the least amount of money is eliminated. On April 10, after eight weeks, the six finalists were Dominic Paollilo, Jessica Miano-Kruel, Richard Carraway, Jordan Upchurch, Jess Wachs and Samuel Costilow.
Each sang two songs, one of their own choosing and one song that was made famous in the movies. At the end of the evening, the finalists were called onstage. All six were presented with cash and substantial prize packages valued at over $44,000.
Jessica Miano-Kruel took first place and won the coveted title of 2023 Waterfront Playhouse Aqua Idol.
It takes a village to orchestrate an event such as this. Congratulations and thanks to everyone involved in this original and fun fundraiser. Thanks to MichaeL Ingram, owner of Aqua Nightclub and manager, Tyler McNab, for the hosting venue for this long-running fundraiser and for the staff. Thanks to Bunnie Smith who was in charge of money counting every week. And thanks to the audience members who supported this event right from the start.
Rarely has something like this gained traction and been as successful as the Waterfront’s Aqua Idol. Why? Because of Lynda Frechette; her husband, Bob Frechette; and even their daughter, Melissa Lang, who got involved as part of Bunnie’s team of money counters.
Lucky that Lynda has been front and center in making this one of the best fundraisers in Key West, bar none. Thank you to everyone who worked so hard either performing in, contributing funds to, and/or donating to this fundraising lollapalooza event.
At the end of the night on April 10, over $28,000 was raised at the finale alone ... and in total for the entire event, over $54,380. It takes a village.
Very sincerely,
JImmy Olson Key West‘‘The churches of Christ greet you.’’ Romans 16:16 NKJV
ENGLISH SERVICE
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‘‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.’’
‒ Deuteronomy 6:5 NKJV
Ayear-long study by Florida International University (FIU) and Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) discovered pharmaceutical contaminants in the blood and other tissues of redfish in Florida waters.
This research follows a similar study of bonefish in the Florida Keys, which revealed high levels of pharmaceutical contamination. This new study shows that these waterborne contaminants are a concern statewide.
“The results underscore the urgent need to modernize Florida’s wastewater treatment systems,” said Jim McDuffie, BTT president and CEO. “Human-based contaminants like these pose a significant threat to Florida’s recreational fishery, which has an annual economic impact of $13.9 billion and directly supports more than 120,000 jobs.”
Scientists and volunteer guides and anglers sampled redfish in nine of Florida’s most important estuaries: Pensacola, Apalachicola, Cedar Key, Tampa Bay, Charlotte Harbor, Florida Bay, Northern Indian River Lagoon, St. Augustine and Jacksonville.
Similar to the results of the previous bonefish study, pharmaceuticals were found in all of the estuaries sampled, with an average number of 2.1 drugs per fish and a maximum of five. Only seven out of the 113 sampled fish had zero drugs in their system. On average, 25.7% of the fish exceeded a level of pharmaceuticals considered safe, which equates to one-third of the therapeutic levels in humans.
“These studies of bonefish and redfish are the first to document the concerning presence of pharmaceuticals in species that are important to Florida’s recreational fisheries,” said Jennifer Rehage, FIU professor and the study’s lead researcher. “Given the impacts of many of these pharmaceu-
ticals on other fish species and the types of pharmaceuticals found, we are concerned about the role pharmaceuticals play in the health of our fisheries. We will continue this work to get more answers to these concerning questions.”
Cardiovascular medications, opioid pain relievers and psychoactive medications were most commonly detected (from highest to lowest detections). The antiarrhythmic medication flecainide and the opioid pain reliever tramadol were detected in over 50% of the redfish. The antipsychotic medication flupentixol was detected above safe levels in one in five of the redfish samples. These are very concerning levels of exposure for redfish.
Some 5 billion prescriptions are filled each year in the U.S., yet there are no environmental regulations for the production or disposal of pharmaceuticals worldwide. Pharmaceutical contaminants originate most often from human wastewater and are not sufficiently removed by conventional water treatment. They remain active at low doses, can be released constantly, and exposure can affect all aspects of fish behavior, with negative consequences for their reproduction and survival. Pharmaceutical contaminants have been shown to affect all aspects of the life of fish, including their feeding, activity, sociability, and migratory behavior.
“Florida is a leader in addressing water quality issues and wastewater infrastructure, including converting septic systems to sewage treatment,” said Kellie Ralston, BTT’s vice president for conservation and public policy.
“The results of this study indicate that there are additional opportunities for improvement by retrofitting existing wastewater treatment plants with innovative technologies, like ozone treatment, to remove pharmaceuticals and requiring such technology on new wastewater facilities.”
A summary of the study’s findings is at bonefishtarpontrust.org.
In the Florida Keys, scientists at Mote Marine Laboratory work to advance critical coral reef restoration in hopes of bringing back an ailing reef tract. At local schools, educators with Mote join the classroom to teach students about the research, the accomplishments and the work ahead.
On March 31, Mote’s scientists gathered with local Keys stakeholders to celebrate 30 years of marine research on the island chain. At Ocean Reef Club, scientists discussed some of the ongoing coral restoration research, outplanting efforts off the island’s shores, expansion of nurseries in the Upper Keys and other Mote missions on red tide and seagrass.
Michael Crosby, president and CEO of Mote, credited then-state Rep. Holly Raschein as being the “champion for coral reefs and Mote.” Crosby recalled a time several years ago when he traveled to the state’s capital to discuss the urgency surrounding the reefs and the support needed to begin the restoration.
“She understood they were going to be extinct before our eyes. She understood that we really need to do something different,” Crosby said. “She listened to our proposal for a whole paradigm, sciencebased restoration and community engagement.”
Since then, the Florida Legislature has regularly contributed around $1 million for Mote’s coral
restoration activities, which have resulted in 173,000-plus coral outplants restored to Florida’s coral reef. Raschein, now a Monroe County commissioner, said she couldn’t say no to Crosby’s request for support. She remembers being pulled off the House floor during the throes of discussion and debate to see Crosby.
“I remember like it was yesterday. He’s got his sandals on in the Capitol. I’m sitting there and he’s telling me these things. For me, it was an absolute no-brainer. We were studying it and we knew what the issue was, but what were we going to do about it?” she said.
“Mote had the plan.”
Speaking before the audience at Ocean Reef Club, Raschein lauded Crosby’s mission and passion to restore corals and Mote’s growth with new land-based nurseries in Islamorada and Key Largo the last few years. She ended her speech by presenting Crosby the highlycoveted Honorary Conch certificate.
“These certificates are made
A. DiBiase arranged by Monroe County Attorney Bob Shillinger. Conversations with FEMA lasted more than an hour and covered a wide range of topics from insurance hikes to the unique statutory challenges hindering rebuilding efforts in the Keys and the lived reality of residents searching for decisive answers in the wake of major disasters.
“I’m very enthusiastic about building the bridge between our federal government and the Florida Keys,” said Sullivan. “Every representative and agency we met with was very receptive to our concerns.”
“The reception from Florida’s delegation and organizations we met with was overwhelming, especially for a first-time visit,” said Rivett. “Every office expressed their commitment to maintaining and developing a partnership to enhance their connection and communication with Keys community leaders moving forward.”
“We generated some exciting initial momentum toward our goal, and established new relationships while learning valuable lessons about ways to be impactful with federal agencies and elected officials,” added Fangman.
The Florida Keys represent less than 0.004% of the land area in the United States. But on March 27-29, unique challenges facing the island chain had a national audience as 10 members of Leadership Monroe County (LMC) Class XXX – “Leaders Gone Wild” – flew to the nation’s capital on a nonpartisan advocacy mission.
Representing Class XXX were real estate agent Lauren Hoefert Dunn, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Superintendent Sarah Fangman, First Horizon Bank Market President Dwight Hill, Monroe County Project Management Director Cary Knight, Assistant County Attorney Christine Limbert-Barrows, Florida Keys Brewing owner Craig McBay, Hemingway Home and Museum Director Andrew Morawski, Marathon Weekly Editor Alex Rickert, First State Bank residential lending Vice President Chris Rivett and Monroe County Solid Waste Management Director Cheryl Sullivan. The delegation was joined by County Administrator Roman Gastesi and virtually by United Way Keys Area President Leah Stockton.
Tasked, as is every group graduating from the LMC program, with developing a year-end class project, Class XXX identified a need and opportunity for members of Florida’s congressional delegation to be reminded of critical issues in the island chain as they work to pass legislation during the spring 2023 sessions of the U.S. House and Senate.
Inspired by the example set by LMC Class XVII’s Florida Keys Days in Tallahassee, now a hallmark event for elected officials and government staff throughout the islands, Class XXX hopes the inaugural trip will serve as the opening chapter for expanding yearly advocacy visits well into the future.
“It’s not often that our legislators are approached in person by such a diverse group of community leaders from their home states, without a devoted special interest agenda, during their time on Capitol Hill,” said Knight. “Providing firsthand, honest accounts of our daily realities impacted by legislation in the hands of these representatives can be a powerful tool that we hope can serve our islands well into the future.”
The contingent’s perseverance found a welcoming audience in D.C., where class members secured meetings with five members of Florida’s Congressional delegation, including U.S. Sen. Rick Scott and U.S. Reps. Carlos Gimenez, Jared Moskowitz, John Rutherford and Mario Diaz-Balart. The class also attended the opening of a photography exhibition showcasing the Florida Wildlife Corridor, where they had the pleasure of conversing with U.S. Reps. Kathy Castor and Darren Soto at the Florida House, the only established state embassy on Capitol Hill.
Billed from the start as a nonpartisan mission with a focus on education and advocacy while avoiding direct lobbying, the trip’s priority topics with Congressional delegates included Everglades and coral reef restoration and protection; necessary upgrades to bridges, pipelines and other related infrastructure; and addressing the Keys’ status as ground zero for sea level rise. With roughly half of Class XXX making the trip to D.C., the remaining class members tackled similar issues in advocacy letters addressed to the same delegates.
The group also secured a heavily-staffed meeting with more than a dozen representatives from FEMA and a presentation from U.S. Capitol Police general counsel Thomas
Tours of the Capitol building, Library of Congress and National Archives, as well as admission to the House gallery during active debates of the HR 1 energy bill passed on March 30, rounded out an all-encompassing 72 hours.
Class XXX extends its sincere thanks to each and every senator, representative and agency and their staff who made such crucial meetings and opportunities a reality, including Erin Miles, Clayton Stein, E.J. Valentine, Elliott Shin, Carlos Fanjul, Alex Ferro, Katie Heffernan, Elizabeth Dos Santos and Diana Beckmann.
The class also extends its thanks for the generosity of the Gardens Hotel Key West, Monroe County, Florida Keys Brewing Company, Waste Management, First State Bank, First Horizon Bank, the Hemingway Home and the Keys Weekly Newspapers in sponsoring the ambitious project. They also extend a special thanks to County Commissioner Holly Raschein for her presence and invaluable guidance throughout the planning of the inaugural visit.
“The trip was a phenomenal experience for all of us,” McBay concluded. “We will start working towards making it a yearly visit to continue advocating and working to keep issues facing the Keys in the minds of our federal legislators and agencies.”
Established in 1992, Leadership Monroe County is an educational nonprofit community leadership organization developed to address the rapidly changing needs and concerns of the county, develop a group of well-educated leaders, help guide the community in a positive direction and foster countywide effective and nonpartisan alliances. Through a series of single or multi-day sessions over seven months, participants examine the fundamental public and private segments throughout the county. These experiences help participants grow as Monroe County residents and leaders as well as provide invaluable connections among other leaders across the county.
The City of Key West thanks the Key West community for its participation in the Mallory Square visioning process. In the fall and winter of last year, the city received over 2,000 survey responses from residents. The feedback has been instrumental in the planning team’s development of the Mallory Square Master Plan.
The planning team recently unveiled the plan, which can be viewed at the Mallory Square Visioning Hub, at mallorysquare.engage.sasaki.com.
Residents can also see the plan and ask questions at two events on Saturday, April 15, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at NAS Key West Southernmost Air Spectacular and from 5 to 9 p.m. at Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square
The project team will continue to document, incorporate and ask for additional feedback as the Mallory Square Master Plan moves through the next phases of design and implementation. — Contributed
MANDY MILES
mandy@keysweekly.com
The long-awaited workforce housing neighborhood at Truman Waterfront is working its way through funding, permitting and approval processes in the hopes of breaking ground around October.
After that, construction will take about 18 months. The application process for potential renters and homeowners will take place six months before the new community’s “opening day,” said Scott Pridgen, executive director of AH Monroe, which is part of the community’s development team.
Known as The Lofts at Bahama Village, the new neighborhood will feature 98 rental units and 28 home ownership townhouses, with rent and purchase prices based on income.
The units will be built on the last 3.2 acres of the Truman Waterfront property, which the city of Key West received from the Navy back around 1998.
The project developers on April 10 hosted a community meeting to update the public about the plans and timeline. Approximately 80 people filled the William Weech American Legion hall on Emma to hear the update and ask questions.
Pridgen reviewed the income guidelines that will determine eligibility for the rentals and owned homes. Units will be available for people making 40% to 160% of the Area Median Income, but Pridgen cautioned attendees that the AMI and income guidelines change every year, so it’s too soon to start accepting applications and determining eligibility.
“We’re not there yet,” he said. “We’re nowhere near there.”
But based on today’s figures, households making 60% to 80% of the AMI would pay $229,000 for a two-bedroom home and $254,000 for a three-bedroom.
For people making more than that, there are some issues to be resolved among the city of Key West, the Key West Land Authority and the development team. The developers include the for-profit company Vestcor, based in Jacksonville, and the local nonprofit AH Monroe, which has built and manages several affordable housing developments in Key West, including Poinciana Royale and Marty’s Place.
As the income formula stands now, people making 81% to 140% of the AMI would have to pay $595,000 for a two-bedroom home and $661,000 for a three-bedroom — prices that everyone acknowledges are hardly affordable. Those higher prices would apply to 14 of the 28 owned homes and would eliminate the affordable aspect of those homes.
The developers have asked the Key West Land Authority for about $4.2 million that would lower those prices to affordable levels. But that money comes with strings attached, the developers said. And if they accept the land authority money to lower the home prices for the higher income levels, then homeowners at The Lofts would be required to requalify for their home every year, and anyone who ends up earning more than the income limits — even if it’s years after they bought their house — would be forced to sell it and move out.
“We don’t want that to happen,” Pridgen said, adding that the team is working to resolve the issue, which could require state legislative action.
Stay tuned to keysweekly.com as the project continues.
STATE COMMITTEES
Attainable Workforce Housing Committee
Member-Elect 2023
State Insurance Committee
Member-Elect 2023
Legislative + Regulatory Business Committee
Member-Elect 2023
2023 PRESIDENT OF THE KEY WEST ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS
Florida Governor DeSantis recently signed the "Live Local Act," one of the largest and most significant acts of legislation in recent history that will help more Floridians attain the American Dream of home ownership.
I was honored to be present in Tallahassee for the signing last week with the Key West Association of Realtors, our PresidentElect Darrin Smith, CEO Darla Frye-Guevremont, District 4 VP Jamie Caballero, local broker Stacy Stahl and the leadership of Florida Realtors.
Florida Realtors will continue to be the voice of real estate in Florida and in Washington, DC. Myself and the rest of our leadership team are battling at the state and federal level for lower inurance rates and answers to the long-debated issue of attainable housing.
Thank you,
Derek Epperly Principal Broker
... is a photographer, writer, and semi-professional birdwatcher. He has lived in Key West for more than 25 years and may no longer be employable in the real world. He is also executive director of the Florida Keys Audubon Society.
Time was, it was easy to find a burrowing owl in the Florida Keys. You would just go to Key Colony Beach (obeying the rabidly enforced 25 mph speed limit) and stop at this one particular corner lot. A sign in the corner declared “burrowing owls” with an arrow pointing downward to a foot-long length of PVC pipe, 4 inches in diameter. In that pipe would be a burrowing owl with big yellow eyes, blinking at you. But not always. Some days the owls would just sit on top of the sign and blink at you.
If, for some reason, the owls weren’t there – say they were out hunting or enjoying their ability to slip the bonds of gravity, as birds do – you could always take the short trip to Sombrero Beach and scan along the edge of the golf course. You had to work a little harder to find those birds, but often there would be a few sets. The golf course even adopted them as their mascot and put them on their signs.
I can’t remember the last time I saw the owls on that particular corner lot, but I stopped by one day around 2015 and a house had been built on the lot, the owls gone. I stopped at the city hall and asked if they had any idea where the owls might have gone and the woman working the front desk said that they’d been hanging out in her yard once in a while, and gave me her address.
The owl was actually sitting on her fence like some kind of movie prop.
I generally don’t find birds cute, but owls, they slay me. Especially burrowing owls, with their big round heads, their cartoonishly large eyes, and their long tails and skinny legs that make them look strangely like they are wearing the era-appropriate formal wear to sign the Declaration of Independence. I sat and watched that one for a few minutes, then headed down to Key West.
That was the last time I saw a burrowing owl in Marathon.
Looking at eBird reports, it seems the owls were last reported there in 2017. The owls at Sombrero Beach were last reported in 2015.
There are no concrete answers as to why they disappeared. Development is generally one of the usual suspects when bird populations decline, and is probably why that one nest in Key Colony Beach disappeared. But burrowing owls are usually pretty happy living on golf
courses and undeveloped bits of land surrounded by development. They don’t seem to be averse to human activity, as long as people keep a little distance.
I gave a talk about peregrine falcons to the folks at the Marathon Rotary a couple weeks ago – they gave me a very nice pen, which I am currently declining to let anyone else borrow – and when I was done, I asked if anyone had seen any burrowing owls lately. They had not. Then I asked if anyone had any theories on what happened to them.
The prevailing opinion on the cause of their recent absence from the area? Iguanas.
For anyone somehow unawares, the green iguana population in South Florida has exploded over the last two decades. I remember taking the Florida Master Naturalist course at Fairchild Tropical Gardens around 2001 and seeing my first one, and then my first hundred, all on the same day. They were an invasive species, introduced by humans to an ecosystem in which they had no significant predators. And their population just exploded.
I suppose I should have realized they would be coming this way, but it didn’t immediately dawn on me. I saw my first one on No Name Key in 2003. I now have to chase them off my back porch in Key West on a regular basis, and I’ll see a dozen or two every time I ride my bike through the cemetery, sunning themselves on tombstones, crawling in and out of crypts. Recently I saw one burying eggs everywhere all over the softball field at Bayview Park.
The evidence for green iguanas driving out burrowing owls is anecdotal, but it makes sense. Adult male green iguanas are said to eat bird eggs. And even if they aren’t eating them, green iguanas have been recorded entering
burrowing owl nests to shelter or lay their own eggs, driving out the burrowing owls.
Whether there is a way to reintroduce breeding burrowing owls into the Keys is questionable. It would be great to do, but if iguanas are a large part of the problem, it’s hard to hold out a lot of hope of it working in the long run.
This is not to say we don’t see burrowing owls in the Keys anymore. It’s just that they are usually migrants moving between the Caribbean and the mainland. I come across them at Fort Zach every couple years, usually out in the big open field. My favorite interaction with them was in that field one spring, when I wasn’t paying attention, and I suddenly found myself face to face with one, about 10 feet away. (Face to shin might be a more apt description.) We stared at each other for a moment, and I expected the bird to fly away. Instead it looked at me and stomped his feet several dozen times to make it clear I was on his turf. It was hilarious and adorable, at least if you look at it through an anthropomorphic lens, and I slowly backed away.
Looking at eBird data, they’ve been spotted in the Keys in the last two years at Crane Point Hammock in Marathon, in Layton, on No Name Key and in Tavernier.
And just last week the folks at the Key West Wildlife Center rescued one at Garrison Bight. The bird was waterlogged and on the edge of the avian equivalent of hypothermia, most likely exhausted by the effort of crossing over to the Keys from Cuba. They dried him off, warmed him up, hydrated and fed him, then the next day released him on his own recognizance on Fleming Key. It would be kind of cool if he stuck around.
As always, Key West stepped up — and threw down — to honor the short life and lasting memory of one its own.
The Garrett Hughes Benefit Concert on April 8 at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater raised more than $50,000 for a scholarship fund created in honor of the 21-year-old Key Wester struck down by gun violence on Feb. 13 outside of a Key West bar.
More than 2,000 people packed the amphitheater for the concert organized by local rapper Mike Stack, whose song, “I’m From Key West,” has become an island anthem.
It was also the grand finale for the April 8 concert, where thousands of people joined Stack and collaborator D-Lew as they sang, “Livin’ where the sunshine stays / Southernmost City in the USA / I’m from Key West….”
The lineup also included DJ Sanaris, the pint-sized Lil Caleb, LuffKid, The Home Grown Band, Elle Haley and others.
“The artists all said yes before I could even finish asking the question,” said Stack, who was a close friend of Hughes. “Garrett believed in Mike Stack before I believed in myself.”
But Stack is quick to insist he never could have put together the musical event without the help of the entire Florida Keys community.
“I wanted to use my platform to make sure his name stays alive, but I couldn’t do this by myself,” Stack told coach Sean McDonald on the April 7 episode of the Keys Weekly Sports Wrap Podcast. “I contacted the amphitheater as soon as the family said they were on board with me putting together a benefit concert. I just asked one question — how can we make this happen? — and everyone pulled together to do
it. Kelly Norman from Rams Head and the amphitheater, the police, fire department, EMTs, food companies, local businesses,
“The whole city, the whole community, from Key West to Key Largo, came out, wrapped its arms around this and made it happen,” Stack said.
McDonald agreed.
“The reason we’re having this event is absolutely tragic, but the way this community rallied really made me proud to live here,” he said during the podcast interview.
Holding up a mirror to our consciousness — both spoken and unspoken — is what great playwrights like Edward Albee often do to expose what it means to be human.
“Three Tall Women,” a two-act performance now on stage at Key West’s Waterfront Playhouse, is just such a reflection.
Albee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning autobiographical think piece about a life with all its attending fears, longing, regret, you name it, is meant to teach us something about living our best life now, the show’s artistic director, Tom Thayer, said.
“I like the fact that this moment — today — is truly the best time of our lives. It’s important to realize that, and I see that message for the audience in this material,” Thayer added.
“Three Tall Women” opens to the scene of a posh bedroom, where we meet “A,” a cranky, impossibly demanding and imperious 94-year-old woman (portrayed by Playhouse alum Leslie Greene) whose health is failing. What little sympathy we initially may have for her soon fades once her angry mouth spews rhetoric of intolerance and bigotry.
“Why can’t I be nice?” she wonders at some point.
A’s long-suffering caretaker “B” (Maggie McCollester) tries hard to reign in the old lady’s offending remarks, to little success. Joining the two onstage is a third character, “C” (Jessica Miano Kruel), a legal assistant who is attempting to untangle A’s legal affairs from the jumble they have become.
The elderly widow’s words and deeds, though, aren’t just funny filler for the play’s script. At the root of the politically incorrect character’s life was Albee’s own complicated relationship with his real-life mother who rejected him early on for his homosexuality. “All I see around here are boys, boys and more boys,” A laments.
The effect of Albee’s mother’s disfavor throughout his life shows broadly in the message of “Three Tall Women.” Albee’s other works
If you’re up for a night of quickwitted comedic microdosing, head over to the Red Barn Theatre, 319 Duval St., for a rollicking production of Short Attention Span Theatre’s “Parallel Universes.” The show features six 10-minute, one-act plays with a talented cast and crew that’s on stage through April 29.
include the Broadway hit “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf,” which garnered the literary legend much critical and commercial acclaim during his creative career until his passing in 2016.
The story of “Three Tall Women” brings some redemption, for the audience at least. In Act II we see A, B and C as generationally separate incarnations of a single life. C in her 20s swears not to become B at a decade older; and B hopes not to become A at 56, a person we see as a discontented woman seemingly trapped in a loveless marriage and bound by social convention. Worse, she has cast her gay son out of her sphere. The takeaway, says Thayer, is to “be like that 26-year-old. See the promise in life so you can look back with no regrets.”
The play’s costuming and set design by R. Michael Boyer is incandescent with a past portrayal of the 50ish protagonist draped in pearls and sporting a stylish satin peach strapless dress made to show the era and social status of her uppermiddle class lifestyle. Her younger carefree self as a free and open spirit wears a flowy sheath and beaded headband.
Whatever closure there is in the play offers little resolution with the estranged son. However Albee’s writing reflects how both the brightest and darkest versions of “A” converge to tell the story of a life mostly regrettably lived.
In the end, “Three Tall Women” is a story in which the true function of vanity and intolerance is only folly.
“It’s all a wild and crazy collaboration,” laughed the venue’s executive producer, Mimi McDonald, on opening night April 7. The packed house confirmed, it seems, that Key West audiences may or may not have the mental fortitude to sit through and absorb two-hour performances elsewhere.
Regardless, the zany bits will make you laugh, as well as think, said McDonald.
So, what exactly are we learning?
“Well, the performers are asking questions about life, what could happen or what could be,” explained the producer. “The humor is just part of it; we want to make people think about what truly matters in their daily lives. The directors and writers in this show plugged their own points of view and (literary) subtext into what it means to be human today. The cool costumes and the great music help to bring it all together.”
This existential journey begins with the opening act: A woman in a supermarket (played by Susannah Wells) gazes at a frozen meal package wondering why a five-for-one sale is happening at the moment. Her friend (Erin McKenna) tries to shake the shopper out of her trance-like bewilderment. Later we see a census-taker (Cassidy Mills) attempting to deconstruct the gender kaleidoscope that is the present-day LGBTQ community. Actors Arthur Crocker, Jack McDonald and Jeremy Zoma join the fun by further confusing the government worker, all of the tomfoolery eliciting paroxysms of laughter from the audience.
Other comedic vignettes include a father lying on his hospital deathbed while his grown kids
This year’s Short Attention Span Theatre includes several short plays that explore the idea of parallel universes.
bicker about who will hang around while he lingers. Serious stuff, yes, but McDonald’s crew, which includes actor Iain Wilcox, manage to find the humor in such a scenario: ”Daddy, if you need to drift off to that bright light, now may be the time,” says one of the sons who is presumably too busy in his own life to hang around the edgy scene. “We love you, we’ll miss you!”
Chirps the daughter, “Why are you trying to push daddy off the ledge?”
Much of the production of “Parallel Universes” is a family affair: thespians Amber McDonald Good and her brother Jack have been in show business for years and are also Red Barn producer Mimi’s kids along with her husband Gary, the McDonald patriarch.
Writers for the material in these quickie “dramedy” pieces of “Parallel Universes” include: Ian August, Connie Bennett, Jacqueline Bircher, Jacob T. Zach, Laurie Allen and David Ives.
So if you’re feeling a bit of attention deficit syndrome coming on, head over to Red Barn Theatre in April to catch the train of the hilariously entertaining 10-minute bursts of thought pieces about life and death and our place in the universe — if there is one — mixed in with lots of laughs. The show is a lighthearted journey through metaphysical space and time and penned by playwrights who have clearly been conjuring serious and not-so-serious thoughts to these ideas.
Fringe Theater presents Sharr White’s drama, “The Other Place,” through April 22 at 7 p.m. at the Key West Armory, 600 White St.
The play was written by the award-winning playwright Sharr White, whose works have been performed both on and off Broadway. His current play, “Pictures from Home,” opened at Studio 54 in January.
“The Other Place,” which opened at the MCC Theater with Laurie Metcalf in 2011, received the Playwrights First Award, the Theatre Visions Fund Award and a nomination for the Outer Critics Circle for Outstanding New OffBroadway Play.
“The Other Place” is a psychological drama that explores the disorienting turns that Juliana Smithton’s personal life takes just as her neurological research is poised to revolutionize the medical field. Divorce, marital affairs and an estranged daughter create the backdrop to an unfolding mystery. The truth awaits, but only at “The Other Place.”
Variety called the play “A haunting drama,” and the San Francisco Chronicle proclaimed it “tantalizingly intense, and edgily suspenseful.”
“This is an incredible script. A play like this allows for a range of approaches in staging. We’ve chosen a very abstract style which I think our audiences will find intriguing,” said Rebecca Tomlinson, Fringe Theater’s managing artistic director who is directing the show.
“The Other Place” stars Wende Shoer as Juliana Smithton.
“Audiences are used to seeing Wende shine in comic roles,” Rebecca said. “This play showcases her equally significant talent for drama.”
Juliana’s husband is played by Michael Mulligan, a veteran stage actor who has performed to rave reviews on all of the island’s stages. The versatile Martha Hooten-Hattingh and Richard Quint complete the acting ensemble by portraying a variety of characters who move the play’s unfolding mystery forward.
— Contributed
‘THE OTHER PLACE’
Through April 22 at 7 p.m. Key West Armory, 600 White St. Tickets $35 and $50. 305-731-0581/fringetheater.org. Seating is limited, advanced tickets are encouraged.
Back after a five-year hiatus, “Conch Republic — The Musical: A Decade of Music & Mayhem” returns to Key West in time for the Conch Republic Independence Celebration. In celebration of its 10th anniversary, this year’s production also returns to the original eight-actor format.
In a special nod to 10 years of retelling this Key West, true-tolife story onstage, the 2023 cast features only actors who have been cast in previous productions of the show. Notably, four original cast members have returned to reprise their roles: Michael Aaglan, Billy Cartledge, Tony Konrath and Annie Miners. The other four actors were cast in canceled productions that had been slated for 2016 and 2020: Don Bearden, Trey Forsyth, Camille Toler and Wayne LaRue Smith.
This year’s production is presented by Seaglass Theatrical and directed by Gayla Morgan and Lauren Thompson, with lighting design by Aramis Ikatu, and poster design by JT Thompson/Design Group Key West that features a new, original illustration created for the show by Jack McDonald.
The musical was written by Monnie King (book) and Gayla Morgan (music/lyrics) while they were
both locals in Key West. Originally commissioned by the Fringe Theater, the show premiered in April 2013 at Kelly’s Upstairs. The Fringe produced a total of five iterations of the show at three different venues: Kelly’s, San Carlos Institute and The Studios of Key West.
This year, Fringe handed the reins to Morgan’s producing company, Seaglass Theatrical, which also produced her show, “A Dog Story” Off Broadway (written with the late Eric Weinberger, who was also a part-time Key West resident until his passing, and which had its premiere at the Waterfront Playhouse).
“Conch Republic — The Musical” is an official event of Conch Republic Days 2023. — Contributed
‘CONCH REPUBLIC — THE MUSICAL’
Opens Tuesday, April 18 at 5:30 p.m. at the Little Room Jazz Club, 821 Duval St. It runs Tuesdays through Sundays through April 30. Tickets $30 to $85 SeaglassTheatrical.com.
We salute John Picco (left) and Matt Pearce, both Key West locals, for their service to our nation. Picco was commissioned into the Navy in 1993, earning the Navy Wings of Gold and flew in 9 di erent squadrons. A Top Gun graduate, Picco has over 3000 flight hours, 800 carrier landings and 80 combat missions. Matt Pearce has over 24 years of service in the United States Marine Corps and Navy. With over 50 combat missions, Pearce is the VFC-111 Public A airs O cer and the F-5 Program Manager.
The local chapter of Silverliners, retired flight attendants dedicated to helping their community, also helped the Easter Bunny this year. With the help of Deborah Bailey, an advocate for local kids in foster care, the Silverliners helped the big bunny assemble giant Easter baskets for seven local foster kids, aged 2 to 15.
The individualized baskets included specific items requested by each child as well as bath items, wallets, toiletries and Dairy Queen gift cards. One little girl’s basket included pool noodles, beach toys and a hula hoop. Another child wanted stuffed animals, while teens received makeup, wallets, a salon hair cut and styling session from Salty Roots, movie tickets from Regal Cinema with $20 for snacks, gift cards from Smoothie Shuttle and assorted candy. — Contributed
Lieutenant Commander Matt “LC” Reed has been an adversary instructor pilot with the Sundowners since 2013. Before Key West, he flew the F/A-18C Hornet in support of Operation Enduring Freedom on three combat deployments on board the USS Eisenhower. His wife Colleen is an attorney with Reed Palacios Law Firm. They have two kids and too many animals to list. When he isn’t filming HGTV specials, he’s coaching Little League baseball.
(On a lighter note, here’s the bio Reed’s Navy “friends” wrote for him in jest: “LCDR Matt ‘LC’ Reed continues to thrive in the U.S. Navy after parlaying a clerical error allowing him into pilot training instead of submarine supply service. Not only did he hoodwink the Navy into allowing him to fly F-18s off of boats, he also married well above his pay grade. Somehow all his kids and pets (the American ones) are thriving and doing well, in spite of his addictive fishing habit.”
An April 6 workshop to address concerns from increasingly agitated title companies, contractors and real estate agents over provisions in unincorporated Monroe County’s newly-effective floodplain ordinance shed further light on its origins as county officials and commissioners vowed to pursue remedies with FEMA.
Several items in the ordinance, some of which are either new or established but historically rarely enforced, drew the ire of industry professionals who said they were unaware of the changes, including the limiting of construction materials for some enclosures below flood elevation to screen or open lattice walls; the restriction of enclosures below flood elevation to 299 square feet or less; and inspections of downstairs enclosures during home sales.
Known as the Transfer of Ownership program since its adoption in 2012, the last item requires buyers and sellers to request an inspection upon sale of a property if there is an enclosed structure below flood elevation. Documentation provided by the county would certify whether the enclosure complies with county standards, and though work identified as illegal and unpermitted would theoretically not result in a code case brought against the current owner, it would affect the new owner’s ability to pull a permit later on.
With confusion throughout the industry about the inspections and impacts on closings, the BOCC passed a resolution to temporarily shield both buyers and sellers from lawsuits relating to the inspections. But as the commission noted on Thursday, the resolution was a shortterm Band-Aid rather than a long-term fix.
As detailed by senior floodplain administrator Karl Bursa, most of the onerous aspects of the ordinance stem from the county’s remedial plan established with FEMA after numerous violations of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
In a notice dated Feb. 27, 2002, Monroe County policyholders were informed by the NFIP that unless the county took immediate corrective action, it would be placed on probation in May of the same year due to “deficiencies in the administration and enforcement of the County’s floodplain management ordinance that have resulted in a large number of noncompliant enclosures being constructed under elevated buildings in special flood hazard areas.”
In order to avoid the probation and withdrawal of disaster relief, Bursa said, the county entered into its remedial plan in 2002, including, as the notice stated, “an enclosure inspection procedure developed jointly by the County and FEMA.” The square footage restriction was added via a subsequent resolution in 2003.
As pointed out by commissioner David Rice, Marathon and Islamorada both incorporated in the midst of the county’s back-andforth with FEMA, and thus established new municipalities without a documented history of violations, thereby avoiding inclusion in the same remedial plan.
“They didn’t get busted,” he said. “We did.”
County Commissioner Michelle Lincoln and County Attorney Bob Shillinger said the county’s plan was to use what it hoped would be a strong report from its most recent audit by FEMA as a bargaining chip for removal from the remedial plan. But with Hurricane Ian demanding much of the agency’s attention last fall, Lincoln said, the county has been kept waiting for nearly a year.
On a scale of 1-10, with lower numbers favorable, Monroe County currently sits at a Class 3 in the Community Rating System, a program created to incentivize floodplain management practices that exceed minimum NFIP requirements by offering flood insurance discounts. Since joining the program in 2017, unincorporated Monroe County has dropped from a Class 6 to Class 3 and currently receives a 35% discount.
“The first ask (to FEMA) is going to be, ‘Look, we’re done. We’ve shown everything, we’ve come into compliance, and you’ve given us a high rating in the Community Rating Service, so we believe we can get past the remedial plan,’” said Shillinger. “A lot of these questions we were going to ask once we got that report back. … Now, we’re going to advance that schedule, and hopefully it won’t have adverse consequences.”
Though most public speakers thanked the commission for calling the special meeting, they said the intent of the ordinance as presented was a far cry from the reality experienced by the industry over the past month.
“Since last month’s BOCC meeting, I can honestly say things have gotten more confusing for all of us in this industry,” Key Largo title agent Marlen Weeks told the commission.
Case in point: Although the transfer of ownership inspection was billed as unable to trigger an immediate code case, she said one of her buyers’ agents reached out to the county for an inspection, only to be told via phone, “You re-
ally don’t want us inspecting the property. If I go over there, I may find something that shouldn’t be there, and then I’ll have to open a code case and make the seller take everything out that shouldn’t be there.”
“The response from this building official left us all shocked, paralyzed and wondering, what do we do now?” Weeks said. “The public has a right to get a straight answer from those in power, and the answer should be the same no matter who we reach out to. Anything short of this is chaos.”
Weeks also said that as news of the ordinance spread, buyers’ agents have begun to limit showings to homes in incorporated areas of Monroe County such as Key West, Islamorada and Marathon, which do not fall under the same restrictions. Turnaround times for inspections are also affecting transactions that are on the clock to lock in a mortgage rate.
“The situation you’ve created is causing property owners and real estate professionals in unincorporated Monroe to be discriminated against, whether you realize it or not,” she concluded.
Several others, including Coral Reef Title Company president Carla Bahn, noted that buyers are already provided with a due diligence period while a property is under contract, and that sellers are already legally required to disclose any illegal unpermitted work, rendering the inspections redundant and an “onerous responsibility on professionals.”
Shillinger cautioned that FEMA was unlikely to agree to wholesale changes to the scrutinized clauses in the ordinance, and that allowing living spaces in enclosures was “probably not going to fly.”
Nonetheless, the commission directed staff to schedule meetings with the agency as quickly as possible to pursue: a change to the county’s Flood Insurance Rate Map effective date from June 15, 1973 to Jan. 1, 1975 in order to provide protections to currently-noncompliant pre-FIRM enclosures built during that 18-month window; an allowance for increased storage space under homes to align with other jurisdictions in the Keys, including a full-footprint enclosure if allowed; and alteration or removal of the Transfer of Ownership Inspection Program to the maximum extent that would still allow the county’s participation in the NFIP. The commission also supported a change in the ordinance to once again allow breakaway walls in enclosures.
County Administrator Roman Gastesi said meetings with FEMA will take place as soon as possible at the agency’s Atlanta regional offices or headquarters in Washington, D.C., noting that, fortunately, many of the agency’s current administrators were not in place when the county’s original probation and threat of removal occurred.
“We have been behaving. More than half of the closings … in municipalities aren’t required to go through this process; we would like to be on the same page as them,” he said. “Based on how well we have done … we should not be on FEMA’s ‘naughty list’ anymore.”
Conchs midfielder Sophia Felini has been making a name for herself, scoring 11 goals, causing seven turnovers, and amassing 20 ground balls and 12 draw controls so far this season. Described by head coach Marissa Giacopuzzi as aggressive with incredible speed, Felini “doesn’t shy away from the ball, from defenders or a challenge. She practices at 100%, 100% of the time.”
Recently, she stepped up for Key West in a five-game winning streak and helped keep her team in the game until the very end in the Conchs’ only loss since March 3. For her fiercely competitive play and willingness to leave it all on the field for her team, Sophia Felini is this week’s Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
“Sophia is an all-around hustler. She never gives up and she goes exactly where she is told. She never complains; she even runs down the field with a giant grin on her face.”
— Conchs coach Marissa Giacopuzzi
Key West hosted the Tigers of Palmetto on April 7-8. In game one, Anden Rady went 3 for 3 at the plate, earning a single, double and triple with three of the Conchs’ four hits. Gabe Williams earned the final hit of the 3-0 win. Andris Barroso threw for six innings, earning the W for Key West, and Jacob Burnham gave him an inning of relief in the game.
The following day, the Conchs collected multiple hits from Jack Haggard, Matt Greenberg, Sam Holland, Jose Perdigon, Williams and Rady while Wyatt Kuhn added a base hit to make it 13 for Key West. Felix Ong earned the win for the Conchs, throwing six innings against the Tigers, and Marlin Takovich closed it out to give Key West a solid 15-4 record with seven games left in the regular season.
Key West is holding on to the top spot in the FHSAA
4A rankings with district action beginning May 1.
Marathon had a mixed bag last week, losing to Highlands Christian on April 3 before defeating Palmer Trinity on April 5 and earning a win via forfeit from Everglades Prep on April 7. In the loss against Highlands, Gabe Leal, Gavin Leal and Ryan Yablon each had a base hit. Yablon went the distance on the mound for the Dolphins, striking out eight in the game.
Two nights later, Yablon registered two hits, one a home run, in a game that would need an eighth inning to decide a victor. Gabe Leal also had a pair of hits and Gavin Leal, Micah Sauders and Dylan Globe each had base hits in the win. Dylan Ziels and Bryan Broche teamed up on the mound for Marathon as Broche was awarded the win. The Fins’ record stands at 11 wins and 5 losses.
Marathon’s Ryan Yablon hit a home run to help secure a victory against Palmer Trinity on April 5. BARRY
GAUKEL/Keys Weekly
On April 5, Coral Shores and Marathon sent their qualifying strongmen to Frostproof to compete with the best in FHSAA’s 1A Region 4. And on April 14, four Hurricanes and a lone Dolphin will travel to Lakeland to represent the Keys against the best in the state.
The Hurricanes brought home the runner-up trophy in Olympic style lifting and third-place honors in traditional, with multiple individual champions. Xavyer Arrrington will look to earn a second state championship in his division after winning the regional championships in both Olympic and traditional style lifting. He is ranked first in his division heading into states. Arrington won last year’s snatch competition, which was rolled into the Olympic category for 2023. He matched his state-winning 235-pound snatch at regionals and improved his bench and clean and jerk lifts by 20 and 45 pounds, respectively.
Julian Juvier destroyed the competition in his weight category at regionals, bringing home first-place medals in both lifting styles. Juvier is ranked first in both categories at the state level and leads his closest competitor by 15 pounds in Olympic lifting and 20 in traditional.
Coral Shores suffered two losses, bringing its record to 4-11 on the season. They played at Chaminade-Madonna on April 4, losing 10-0. Maykol Bonito-Rodriguez registered the only hit for the ’Canes against the Lions. On April 7, the result would be closer but not quite close enough for a win against Keys Gate in an 11-7 loss.
Joining Arrington and Juvier in Lakeland will be AJ Johnson and Dantay Diorio. Johnson won the first-place medal in his weight class in Olympic lifting, giving him an automatic bid to states. Diorio was second in his class at regionals, but his scores were high enough to send him to the state meet with an at-large bid.
The final Keys competitor earning a spot on the state qualifier sheet was Marathon’s Thomas Eubank in the traditional event. Eubank was third in the highly-competitive region, earning him an at-large spot at the big meet.
(1)(a)... One request is deemed sufficient to receive a vote-by-mail ballot for all elections through the end of the calendar year of the next regularly scheduled general election.
Many of MONROE COUNTY voters vote by mail. These voters may think that they have a request in for the 2024 election cycle but they do not. A NEW VOTE BY MAIL REQUEST IS NEEDED FOR THE 2024 ELECTION CYCLE.
WE ARE NOW TAKING VOTE BY MAIL REQUEST FOR THE 2024 ELECTION CYCLE.
Whitehead St. #101 | Key West 305-292-3416 | info@keys-elections.org www.KeysElections.org Scan qr code to visit the website
APRIL 13-15, 8PM
CREATED, PRODUCED AND DIRECTED BY HURRICANE ALAINA
The anonymous confessions of Key Westers—along with secrets collected from all over the country— are retold onstage by a cast of professional actors, including New York City-based Alaina Albertson, Emmanuel Achigbu, Hari Bhaskar, as well as Key West actors Kitty Clements and Jeffrey Johnson.
TICKETS AT TSKW.ORG OR CALL 305-296-0458
$80 FRONT ROW (VIP), $60, $50 MBRS. sponsored by Rent Key West Vacations
Concert series sponsored by Blue Heaven
APRIL 17& 18
APRIL 25 & 26
JAKE SHIMABUKURO VANCE GILBERT
Transcendent skills on the ukelele in jazz, rock & more.
SCAN HERE FOR TICKETS!
Powerful lyrics & popfriendly melodies.
FEB 2023 SOLD 3029 Key Cove #31
$1,050,000
Caroline represented both sides, buyer and sellers
MARCH 2023 SOLD 2807 Patterson Avenue
$975,000
Caroline represented the buyers
MARCH 2023 SOLD 1025 Grinnell Street
$1,600,000
Caroline represented the buyer
APRIL 2023
1210 Bay Street
$579,000
Unlessyouaretalkingabout RESTORATIVEDENTISTRY whichiswhatILOVEand do.I'vespent45years practicingonBigPineKey developingmyskillsin complexrestorativeand estheticdentistryand developingaworldclass team.Iwouldlovetohelp YOUgetthesmileyoudesire andthehealthyfunction youdeserve.
DR. CORI CONVERTITO
CFK adjunct faculty, maritime and Florida Keys Historian, author, lecturer and museum curator. Dr. Convertito will discuss the symbiotic relationship between the U.S. Navy and Key West extending as far back as 1823. This talk provides a rare opportunity for attendees to recognize and appreciate the interlaced connection between the Navy and the Southernmost city.
Thursday - April 20th - 7PM at Tennessee Williams Theatre
$5 ADMISSION Free for Monroe County & CFK Students
AVOID THE LONG DRIVE TO MIAMI AND HAVE ALL YOUR CHILDREN’S NEEDS MET RIGHT HERE IN THE FLORIDA KEYS.
Dr. Christina Smith DDS is now accepting new patients and is thrilled to be part of the 7-time Bubba Award-winning Doc Guzman’s o ce.
CONCH REPUBLIC Citizen Passports, Merchandise & Event Tickets are available at ConchRepublic.com
10AM-8PM - CRIC 2023 Welcome Center & Merch Center at Thompson Plaza, KW’s Historic Seaport, foot of Greene & Elizabeth. FREE
SAIL ABOARD MAJESTIC Key West Historic Schooners, Catamarans & Sloops including Conch Republic Flagship Wolf, Danger Charters, When & If, Jolly II Rover & America 2.0, High Tide, Fury, and the Luxury Catamaran Argo Navis. DAY & SUNSET SAILS, SNORKEL TRIPS & ALL-DAY ADVENTURES AT SEA
APRIL 18 thru 30 @ 5:30PM, “CONCH REPUBLIC, THE MUSICAL!”
A DECADE OF MUSIC & MAYHEM! at Little Room Jazz Club, 821 Duval.
$30–$85. (No show April 24) Limited Seating, reserve early!!!
3PM - EASTER BONNET MAKING PARTY The Gardens Hotel, 526 Angela. Create a stunning men’s and ladies’ chapeau for Easter Stroll! Hats, ribbons, feathers & flowers supplied for your special Bonnet with Floral Designer Dan Ward. Reserve your space at ConchRepublic.com • $25
2PM - EASTER STROLL Wear your Easter finest at the Gardens Hotel, 526 Angela, for a Prosecco hunt, games and contests for best hat & best couple. Then stroll in your Easter finest down Duval to 801 Bourbon Bar, 801 Duval, for a free well cocktail with your bunny bucks. The stroll to LaTeDa, 1125 Duval, at 4PM for Tea Dance & Easter Bonnet Contest. Prizes! (Cash Bar)
3-4PM - RAISING OF THE COLORS at Mallory Square. Hear messages from our fearless leaders and the Blowing of the Sacred Conch Shell by the Conch Republic Jesters Guild. FREE
8-9AM - 3rd Annual CONCH REPUBLIC CONCHY BEACH CLEANUP at Higgs Beach. Meet at Salute! On The Beach, 1000 Atlantic Blvd FREE
5:30PM - “CONCH REPUBLIC, THE MUSICAL!” A DECADE OF MUSIC & MAYHEM! at Little Room Jazz Club, 821 Duval. $30–$85 at ConchRepublic.com. Limited Seating, reserve early!!!
7PM - CONCH REPUBLIC DAYS KICK-OFF PARTY & Conch Shell Blowing Contest hosted by Schooner Wharf Bar, “Official Party Headquarters,” 202 William @ Historic Seaport. FREE (Cash Bar)
7-9PM - Public Screening of “ADVENTURES OF THE CONCH REPUBLIC” at Last Chance Bar, 35800 S Dixie Hwy., Florida City. See the documentary, have a beer and meet Skeeter’s family. Q&A after the show. Hear all the details of the upcoming Hollywood film based on this amazing documentary. Tickets available at Last Chance Bar, 6PM, day of the show.
8AM-NOON - EARTH DAY CLEANUP ON STOCK ISLAND Volunteers are given bags and bright tags. Filled bags are picked up all morning and dropped at Bernstein Park. High school students earn community service credits, elementary school children and younger children are encouraged to come with their families. Visitors are welcome too! Sponsored by Stock Island Association. Details at ConchRepublic.com FREE
11AM-3PM - CONCH CRAWL BAR STROLL in Old Town. Includes drinks at each stop, and FREE Event T-shirt. $45/$55 in advance, by April 20. Stops include: 801 Bourbon Bar, Willie T’s, Rick’s, RockHouse Live, Island Dogs, The EmPOURium. Sponsors: Key West Trading Co., First Legal Rum Distillery, Mutiny Vodka. Details at ConchRepublic.com
3-4PM - 40th Annual CONCH REPUBLIC DRAG RACES on Duval at Bourbon Street Pub, 724 Duval St. Don high heels, a frock and lipstick! Be a racer or witness this “Only in Key West” event! Cheer on the men, queens and questionable characters as they go for a series of high stakes in high heels races & obstacle courses. No Entry Fee! Signup the day of the race. FREE
530PM - “CONCH REPUBLIC, THE MUSICAL!” A DECADE OF MUSIC & MAYHEM! at Little Room Jazz Club, 821 Duval. $30–$85 at ConchRepublic.com. Limited Seating, reserve early!!!
6-10PM - 3rd Annual CONCH REPUBLIC WEARABLE ART FASHION SHOW at Key West Theater, 512 Eaton St. (benefit for Wesley House CR Foster Children’s Fund). Bid on the latest Conch Republic Designers’ Couture & Costume Creations! Tickets $30 to VIP $100. (Limited seating). Tickets at ConchRepublic.com and the Key West Theater Box Office.
10AM-2PM - KEY WEST ARTISAN MARKET at Higgs Beach, 1801 White St. FREE
Noon-1PM - SECESSION RE-ENACTMENT Step back to 1982 ith former Mayor Dennis Wardlow, local businessman Ed Swift, former Chamber President Virginia Panico, andh others as they recreate the famous secession. Bring your camera, conch fritters and your stale Cuban bread to relive the glorious birth of the Conch Republic. A rare chance to witness history in the re-making! at the former Chamber of Commerce Building, 401 Wall Street in Old Town Key West. Open to the public and FREE
5-7PM - CONCH REPUBLIC DAYS’ “JAZZ IN THE GARDEN” The Gardens Hotel, 626 Angela. (Cash Bar) FREE
5:30PM - “CONCH REPUBLIC, THE MUSICAL!” A DECADE OF MUSIC & MAYHEM! at Little Room Jazz Club, 821 Duval. $30–$85 at ConchRepublic.com. Limited Seating, reserve early!!!
7-9PM - VIP Screening of the documentary “ADVENTURES OF THE CONCH REPUBLIC” at the Tropic Cinema 416 Eaton. You’ll hear stories told by the founders of the Conch Republic with a Q&A after the show. Hear all the details of the upcoming Hollywood film based on the documentary. Tickets are $10 and available at the door at the Tropic Cinema the day of the show.
5-7PM - 2ND ANNUAL CONCH REPUBLIC K-9 MUSTER Hosted by The Backyard Bar at the EmPOURium, 618 Duval St. • Pirate Radio will broadcast a Key West Live Remote. (Cash Bar) FREE
5-7PM - 3rd Annual “BLIND WINE TASTING” The Gardens Hotel, 526 Angela. Blind taste, then name the grape & country for wines and win prizes! Wines provided by Break-Thru Beverage $30
“CONCH REPUBLIC, THE MUSICAL!” A DECADE OF MUSIC & MAYHEM! at Little Room Jazz Club, 821 Duval. $30–$85 at ConchRepublic.com. Limited Seating!!!
6-8PM - CR MILITARY MUSTER & CONCH-TAIL PARTY Benefits Wesley House CR Foster Children’s Fund. Southernmost Point Bar 1327 Duval. Join the Conch Republic Military for fun and merriment. GENERAL: $20/$15 in Uniform. VIP Diplomatic Reserved Seats (includes CR pin): $60/$50 in advance at ConchRepublic.com
9PM - MANDATORY CAPTAINS’ MEETING for the CRIC 2023
INDEPENDENCE BOAT PARADE at Schooner Wharf Bar, “Official Party HQ” 202 William at the KW Historic Seaport. FREE
3-5PM - 2nd ANNUAL CONCH REPUBLIC “ART of WINE” GALLERY TOUR & WINE STROLL begins at Gingerbread Square Gallery, 1207 Duval. Benefits Sister Season Fund. Fine wines provided by The Saint Hotel. $40
5:30PM - “CONCH REPUBLIC, THE MUSICAL!” A DECADE OF MUSIC & MAYHEM! at Little Room Jazz Club, 821 Duval. $30–$85 at ConchRepublic.com. Limited Seating, reserve early!!!
6-10PM - HOT HAVANA NIGHT Dinner & Benefit Smokin’ Tuna, 4 Charles St. Dance to Caribe Key West, savor Cuban Food & Drink, bid on Cuban Treasures. Enjoy the Outdoor Cigar Lounge w& cigar roller. Win a Trip to Havana! Sponsored by Smokin’ Tuna Saloon, Key West First Legal Rum Distillery, The Key West Citizen & Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shoppe, benefits TREE Institute Int’l Cuba Program & Flagship WOLF’s Humanitarian Relief Missions. (Info@FlagshipWolf.org.) Tickets: ConchRepublic.com
5:30PM - “CONCH REPUBLIC, THE MUSICAL!” A DECADE OF MUSIC & MAYHEM! at Little Room Jazz Club, 821 Duval. $30–$85 at ConchRepublic.com. Limited Seating, reserve early!!!
6-7PM - PRE-PARADE PARTY at Southernmost Point Guest House, 1327 Duval. (Cash Bar) FREE
8-9PM - “WORLD’S LOOOOONGEST PARADE” on Duval (from the Atlantic to the Gulf of Mexico!) FREE
9PM-LATE - “LATE PARADE” After Party & Awards Ceremony at Schooner Wharf Bar, “Official Party HQ” 202 William, at KW Historic Seaport. (Cash Bar.) FREE
5:30PM - “CONCH REPUBLIC, THE MUSICAL!” A DECADE OF MUSIC & MAYHEM! at Little Room Jazz Club, 821 Duval. $30–$85 at ConchRepublic.com. Limited Seating, reserve early!!!
5:30PM - RACE WORLD OFFSHORE and the CONCH REPUBLIC KICK-OFF PARTY in Marathon for the 7-Mile Grand Prix Race featuring the Conch Republic Cup at The Florida Keys Key Aquarium Encounters, 11710 Overseas Hwy. RaceWorldOoffshore.com. Cash Bar FREE
7PM - 41st Annual REENACTMENT of the GREAT SEA BATTLE of the CONCH REPUBLIC, in Key West Harbor, this is the highlight of our celebration. This large scale, hilarious battle pits the CR’s Military Forces (Air Force, Army & Navy) and CR Privateers against their valiant foe, the good-natured USCG Cutter Diligence (attacked on Apr. 23, 1982, by the Schooner Western Union). Best free viewing at Ocean Key Resort & Spa Sunset Pier, Opal Key Resort & Marina, and Mallory Square Sunset Celebration. Cash Bar FREE
7PM - 40th Annual CONCH REPUBLIC INDEPENDENCE NAVAL PARADE in Key West Harbor. The Conch Republic Naval Fleet & Privateers sail past Ocean Key House Resort & Spa, Sunset Pier & Mallory Square. Cheer them on before the Great Sea Battle! FREE
8PM-Late - “SURRENDER CEREMONY & VICTORY PARTY” Schooner Wharf Bar, “Official Party HQ,” 202 William St., KW Historic Seaport. FREE Cash Bar.
10AM-6PM - CONCH REPUBLIC ART & CRAFT FAIR on Duval, between Eaton & Greene. Benefits KW High School Senior Art Scholarships. FREE
2-4PM - Annual “CR BLUE RIBBON BED RACES” On Duval between 900 block at Olivia and the 500 block at Southard. Teams compete for prizes in this hilarious race. Proceeds benefit Key West’s Sister Season Fund. Info and sign-ups: SisterSeason.com. BED RACES AWARDS CEREMONY immediately following the races on Duval Street.
5:30PM - RACE WORLD OFFSHORE and CONCH REPUBLIC RACERS & FANS PARTY
Held at Sunset Grill in Marathon mingle with the Race Teams. The Conch Republic Jesters Guild will provide Fire Performances (Yes, we said FIRE!)
5:30PM - “CONCH REPUBLIC, THE MUSICAL!” A DECADE OF MUSIC & MAYHEM! at Little Room Jazz Club, 821 Duval. $30–$85 at ConchRepublic.com. Limited Seating, reserve early!!!
7-8PM - 38th Annual “SCHOONER WHARF WRECKERS CUP RACE SERIES” Captains’ Meeting at Schooner Wharf Bar, “CR Official Party Headquarters” 202 William St. FREE (Cash Bar)
7PM - 38th Annual “PIRATE BALL & COSTUME CONTEST” with prizes at Schooner Wharf Bar, “CR Official Party Headquarters” 202 William St. FREE (Cash Bar)
8AM-3PM - RACE WORLD OFFSHORE “CONCH REPUBLIC CUP” View the official kick-off of the 2023 Powerboat Race Season on the 7-Mile Bridge in Marathon. This is the first ever running for the “Conch Republic Cup.” Don’t miss it! Tickets: RaceWorldOffshore.com
1-4PM - 38th ANNUAL SCHOONER WHARF WRECKERS CUP RACE SERIES to Sand Key Lighthouse with Schooner Wharf Wreckers Fleet. View at Mallory Square. FREE
5:30PM - “CONCH REPUBLIC, THE MUSICAL!” A DECADE OF MUSIC & MAYHEM! at Little Room Jazz Club, 821 Duval. $30–$85 at ConchRepublic.com. Limited Seating, reserve early!!!
6PM-Late - RACE WORLD OFFSHORE AWARDS CEREMONY Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club, 1996 Overseas Hwy, in Marathon. Our Jester’s Guild will blow the Sacred Conch Shell to end the races. The first-ever “Conch Republic Cup” will be awarded! Info: RaceWorldOffshore.com
7PM - 38th Annual SCHOONER WHARF WRECKERS CUP RACE SERIES AWARDS PARTY & CEREMONY at Schooner Wharf Bar, “CR Official Party Headquarters” 202 William. FREE (Cash Bar.) TICKETS & INFO: ConchRepublic.com • Visit the Headquarters of CRIC 2023 at Elizabeth & Greene Streets in KW Historic Seaport, 10AM-8PM.
DELIVERY & GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE
522 FLEMING ST. | 1105 WHITE ST. WWW.FAUSTOS.COM
FISH FROM DECEMBER 1ST TO JULY 31ST
Master Angler titles & Most R eleases awards to Men, Women, Junior & Peewee anglers
Certificates for all entries & Trophies awarded for the heaviest of 37 different species in 9 different line classes. Free and no pre-registration Go fishing and enter your catch! See www KeyWestFishingTournament com
TOP RATED GLUTEN-FREE PIZZA AND VEGETARIAN MENU
WE LOVE KIDS & DOGS
made the natural career transition from dolphin trainer to newspaper editor after six years at Dolphin Research Center. His passions include running, watersports, and civil disagreements with sharks while spearfishing.
n March 30, an announcement from the Miami Seaquarium shook the marine mammal training world to its core as the facility announced plans to relocate its lone killer whale Tokitae, colloquially known as Lolita, to an ocean sanctuary or sea pen in the Pacific Northwest. Captured in 1970 near that area, Tokitae is believed to be the oldest or second-oldest orca in human care at roughly 57 years old.
The announcement comes with news of a binding agreement between the Dolphin Company, which announced its purchase of the Miami Seaquarium in August 2021, and Friends of Lolita, a nonprofit dedicated to “helping” the whale.
Before we continue, I won’t lie: I was an animal trainer for nearly seven years, and I will defend the ability of animals in human care to inspire curiosity, wonder and a desire to conserve our oceans and all their creatures to my last breath. If this newspaper was the Miami Weekly, this opinion column would be a four-page investigative journalism piece. It’s not one that I enjoy writing, and the layers to the decades-long legal battles surrounding this beloved whale are absolutely mind-boggling.
The announcement is the latest chapter in the book of ways in which the corporations and governments responsible for Tokitae’s care have failed her throughout her entire life. And at the end of the day, it’s too little, too late.
Captured from the wild at approximately age 4, the 22-foot, four-ton whale resides in a 20-footdeep tank with its largest section measuring 80 feet by 35 feet. Even as a lover of accredited zoos and aquariums, seeing her in this pool in person for the first time several years ago was jarring, to say the least.
When the Seaquarium planned a $40 million expansion in the 1990s to include Tokitae’s pool and create a more suitable habitat, her own Key Biscayne neighbors brought the park to court –and won. A 2022 U.S. Department of Agriculture report sharply criticized the facility – the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), a USDA agency, is responsible for inspecting animal care facilities – but in the same year, the agency granted a new exhibitor’s license to a subsidiary of the Dolphin Company as it purchased the facility – under the condition that Tokitae was removed from public display.
There’s a reason the March 30 announcement has been widely denounced throughout the zoological community, particularly by Tokitae’s former
trainers, veterinarians and other care professionals. There’s a reason #truth4toki is trending as a wealth of firsthand accounts from those who know her best fill the internet via posts, podcasts and “tell-all” videos, chronicling the writing on the wall in the months prior to this announcement and begging the Seaquarium to reverse its course.
There’s a reason the dedicated team directly caring for Tokitae celebrates each new day: every sunrise is a record-breaking occurrence for one of the oldest killer whales ever in human care fast approaching the age of 60, especially with a highly-publicized health scare in 2022.
A health and welfare assessment released on March 31 by veterinarians James McBain and Dr. Stephanie Norman described her as “relatively stable” while barely opening the door for “some optimism to enter the discussion.” She receives daily antibiotics and antifungal medications. A journey across the continent to an entirely new environment after more than 50 years is treacherous, to say the least, especially with an animal described by her trainers as a creature of habit who does not do well with change.
There’s a reason widely-accredited agencies like the International Marine Animal Trainers Association (IMATA) released statements on the announcement, carefully noting the absence of an “actionable, science-based plan” at the “publicity event.” A Q&A published by NOAA fisheries noted that the Seaquarium has yet to submit any formal proposal to move or release Tokitae, and that any such move would face regulatory hurdles. A statement by the Animal Behavior Management Alliance (ABMA) said “the announcement did not include any science-based details, logistics, explanations or risk assessments that would be relevant to their relocation plan.”
These organizations will tiptoe. I won’t.
Add it all up, and this reeks of a publicity stunt that serves as a convenient final chapter for a commodity that holds no further financial value to a large corporation with more than 30 parks around the globe. I pray the circle of life won’t catch up to Tokitae in this process, but let’s call it like it is: headlines will be kinder about a death that occurs during the pursuit of “freedom” than they would be if she stays in her current home.
Further sweetening the deal is the fact that the estimated eight-figure cost of moving the company’s financial deadweight will be bankrolled by philanthropists like Jim Irsay. (I’d love to sit down
with the NFL owner and see just how much he knows about animal care, or ask how his support of the move squares with his $1 million donation to the Indianapolis Zoo a few months ago, but that’s another story.)
To be clear, netted seawater lagoons can be wonderful environments full of phenomenal natural enrichment for their residents, as facilities like Dolphin Research Center, Dolphins Plus and Dolphin Connection here in the Keys demonstrate. But for an animal of Tokitae’s age, a move like this is akin to removing your grandmother from a nursing home in favor of semi-supervised jaunts in the woods. Maybe the idea would have been viable decades ago. It’s not now.
To those who champion the idea of taking the current plan a step further to a full release for Tokitae as a true “Free Willy” story – as suggested by Irsay – let’s recall how that “true story” ended: in the only attempt thus far to reintroduce a killer whale to the wild after significant time in human care, the star of the movie, 27-year-old Keiko, died in a Norwegian bay after less than two years of full freedom. He never successfully re-integrated with any other orcas – a possibility romanticized for Tokitae’s move as some speculate about a reunion with her original family – and while he did re-learn to feed himself somewhat, he consistently returned to humans for food and companionship. Capitulating to anti-captivity activists and re-attempting this process with a whale three decades older than Keiko sets a dangerous precedent for a practice that has yet to find any measure of consistent success.
So before we rejoice over the move, let’s consider whether it’s truly in the best interest of a geriatric animal accustomed to 50 years of a consistent routine to attempt one of the most ambitious animal moves ever undertaken. It’s true her current home is inadequate, but sadly, the true chance to remedy that injustice died in courtrooms years ago.
If nothing else, I can hope we at least agree that this magnificent animal deserves so much more than to be martyred for a flawed cause in a business move by people who barely know her, all because it will provide for a more palatable end in the press.
Tokitae deserves so much more than that. Have thoughts? Let’s talk! Alex@keysweekly. com.
Announced killer whale move may be just like ‘Free Willy,’ in all the wrong waysOTokitae (Lolita) performs at the Miami Seaquarium before her stadium was closed last year. MERCI L/Unsplash
... a professional musician, singer, actor and executive director of the Key West Music Awards, is known to sacrifice his comfort for that of his cat.
There has been a fair amount of news in the rock music world regarding certain ’80s rock bands using backing tracks in their live performances. The crux of the argument is whether using tracks to enhance a player’s performance is fair to the fan who purchased the ticket. Adding to the debate is the fact that many fans don’t seem to mind either way.
Not every type of backing track garners decisiveness. Since the onset of advanced recording technologies in the late ’60s and early ’70s, bands have recorded music that they couldn’t play by themselves in a live situation. It started by adding a horn section, string section, background singers, five extra guitar parts, percussion and a tambourine solo. And soon moved into Pink Floyd recreating the sound of 20 grandfather clocks chiming at perfectly timed intervals. As you can imagine, the thought of touring with so many musicians is fraught with issues and financial impracticalities.
These backing tracks can be triggered manually by the players themselves, by computer or by people behind the scenes. The more complex and involved these tracks are, the more difficult they are to play along with. Should you, as a mere human, make a mistake, the track will never stop to help. It will plow through and over anything in its path until a player is somehow able to right himself and continue.
Another type of backing track mistakenly falls under the umbrella of lip syncing. We’ve all heard the notorious cases of straight lip syncing, but most artists still use a live microphone and do sing. Some, however, will have a prerecorded track of themselves singing that they can fill in at any second and back up parts that sounded great in the studio that one day, but may not sound quite as good live. When you see an artist completing a rigorous dance routine, climbing 10 stairs and sailing back down on a rope while still singing smoothly and in as perfect pitch as the studio recording you heard in your car earlier that day, despite looking like a normal, out-of-breath person, let’s just say, it may be Memorex.
And therein lies the rub.
In the news recently, bands like Kiss and Motley Crue have been under fire for using this type of backing track not only for vocals, but also for drums and guitars. There are countless videos of drum intros in which the drummer is seen running to the drum set, and instances of perfect vocals while no one is on the mic. Some bands deny using tracks entirely, while most admit to using “some,” and saying “everybody does it.”
The question becomes, if a player can no longer perform the songs live for whatever reason, should they? If you cannot perform that dance routine and sing that complex melody at the same time, should you? If you recorded 10 guitar tracks in the studio, but you’re a three-piece band, should you hire nine more guitar players to tour with, play the decidedly emptier three-piece version, or just record one guitar?
In the end, all the arguing seems moot as the shirts get sold and the seats get filled.
“Extravagant,” “elegant” and “eclectic” are commonly used to describe Eiswein (ice wine), a style of dessert wine made from grapes that have frozen on the vine.
Instead of being harvested in early autumn, like most others, the fruit is left on the vines for much longer and hand picked at the height of winter, usually in the middle of the night at temperatures of -7°C (19.4°F) or below. It is labor intensive and only done in ideal conditions, so it is not made every year.
Frigid temperatures with plenty of sunshine are needed to ripen the grapes. The frozen fruit ensures that the grapes have a high sugar level when picked. Sweet wines must have this high concentration of fruit sugar. During fermentation for a dry wine, the chemical reaction is complete once all the yeasts die, usually when the alcohol reaches 13% to 15% when at this point there is no sugar left, hence producing a dry wine.
To produce a wine that still has some sweetness left in it once the yeast has all disappeared, the winemaker needs grapes that are higher in glucose than usual. The frozen grapes contain very little water and the sugar percentage is very high. It is a long fermentation, nearly 6 months, while the yeasts attempt to eat through all the sugar.
German Eiswein is a rare wine specialty. Tasting it is often described as drinking liquid gold; the flavors cannot be compared to any other wine. Highly aromatic, honey, ripe peaches and mangoes, marmalade, jasmine, caramel, a lush fruit cocktail syrup. Most German Eiswein is made from the Riesling grape, but many other countries make ice wine from Vidal Blanc, Grüner Veltliner, Chenin Blanc, Gewürztraminer for white and Cabernet Franc and Merlot for red, but these are very rare.
German Eiswein is the most famous and expensive, but ice wine is also produced in Austria, Northern Michigan, Finger Lakes New York, many Eastern European countries, China and Canada, which is the world’s largest producer of ice wine. The Niagara Peninsula, Nova Scotia, Ontario and British Columbia
consistently have freezing temperatures in winter and their volume is greater than all the other countries combined. Inniskillin, Pelee Island, and Pillitteri are world-renowned producers of Canadian ice wine. Royal DeMaria, a small Canadian winery, released five cases of Chardonnay ice wine in 2006 with a half-bottle price of C$30,000 each.
Serving Eiswein (ice wine if it is not German) is a special time. It is sweet, very sweet, sweeter than a can of soda, so a little goes a long way. For this reason, it is mostly sold in half bottles. Serve it cool, not cold, to reap the most flavors. Small flutes or small wine glasses are best, as the pour will be only a few ounces. Savor it, smell it and sip it slowly. Best on its own, be careful pairing it with anything too sweet. Marcona almonds with ginger, a savory slice of sausage, sliced peaches with a soft cheese are a few suggested pairings.
Enchanting. Ethereal. Eiswein. Until next time, Cheers. Reach me at raiseaglass2023@gmail.com.
Save a little: Chateau Chantal Vidal Ice Wine, Old Mission Peninsula, Michigan.
President Obama and Prime Minister Trudeau sipped this wine at a White House state dinner. Decadent apricot, toasted caramel, baked apples with balanced sweetness. Half bottle. $45.
Spend a little: Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Brücke Goldkapsel Riesling Eiswein 2020. Explosive nose of tropical fruits, papaya, mango and candied citrus. Dense and concentrated, caramelized nuts, raisins, round, refined and endless racy finish. Organic. Very limited production. Half bottle. $220.
SAVE
Friday, April 14
• Application deadline for May Sands Montessori School in Key West. The free, public charter school serves students in pre-K through eighth grade. Application packets and instructions are at maysandsmontessori.com or at the school’s front office. The public admissions lottery drawing will be held on May 5. For more information, call 305-293-1400 ext. 53418.
April 15-16
• Blue Angels return for the Southernmost Air Spectacular at Naval Air Station Key West at MM 8. Admission is free both days. Gates open at 10 a.m. and the show starts at 11 a.m. See page 4.
Saturday, April 15
• Following a $1 million renovation, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary’s Eco-Discovery Center in Key West reopens with a “Community Day’’ celebration with games and hands-on activities for children and families, and tours of the re-imagined visitor center and exhibits. This event is free, just like admission to the Eco-Discovery Center itself, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
April 21-30
• Conch Republic Days commemorate the Florida Keys’ symbolic 1982 secession from the United States and formation of the independent republic. Visit conchrepublic.com for schedule and details.
Thursday, April 20
Grant applications for the Anne McKee Artists Fund close at 5 p.m. Friday, April 14.
The Anne McKee Artists Fund awards grants up to $2,000 for project-based work. The grants are given to individual visual, performing and literary artists who reside in Key West and the Florida Keys.
In addition, there are three youth-based scholarships, with categories for kids over 14 and under 14, as well as the Jon McIntosh Student Grant for Artistic Advancement.
The artists’ fund was created to give projectbased assistance to individual artists. Grants are awarded on the basis of financial need and/or to promote recognition of emerging talent. Other factors considered are a history of dedication and excellence in the applicant’s area of expertise and the applicants’ commitment to and involvement in the cultural community of Key West and the Florida Keys.
Grants are awarded at the sole discretion of the board of directors, after fair and careful consideration. Proceeds from the Anne McKee Art Auction recently held on March 12 fund the annual grants.
Applications and details for interested applicants can be found online at McKeeFund.org or via email McKeeFund@gmail.com Deadline for submissions is 5 p.m. Friday, April 14.
• Reef Relief and Sunset Social Drinking Club host 420 Key West Fest, 4:20 to 9 p.m. at Sunset Pier, 0 Duval. St. Event features food, drinks and live music by the Red Not Chili Peppers, Reggie Lou and the Kind Budz, plus a silent auction and raffle for the benefit of Reef Relief. Ten prize packages including watersports passes, gift certificates for local bars and restaurants, and other luxury items will be auctioned.
Saturday, April 22
• Papio Kinetic Sculpture and Art Bike Parade kicks off at noon from the Key West Museum of Art & History, 281 Front St. Mobile sculptures and art bikes will travel the length of Duval Street to the Southernmost Pocket Park, where a block party and awards ceremony celebration will take place from 1 to 3 p.m.
Saturday, April 29
• 2nd annual Cuban Sandwich Throwdown, noon to 3 p.m. at the Green Parrot Bar, Key West. Tickets are $20 to participate in taste tests of nine Cuban sandwich entries. 100% of proceeds benefit The Learning Center preschool.
• Cori Convertito from the Key West Art & Historical Society discusses “Crossing the Florida Straits: 150 Years of Cuban Migration to South Florida,” 1 p.m. in the Toppino Nature Chapel at the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden, College Road, Stock Island.
Monday, April 24
• Taste of Key West, 7 to 10 p.m. at Truman Waterfront Park to benefit AH Monroe.
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “My Best Friend’s Exorcism” and “The Southern Book Club’s Guide To Slaying Vampires,” both by Grady Hendrix
Why: I recommend both these books because the author identifies the latter as an unofficial sequel. They both take place in the same South Carolina neighborhood in the late ’80s. Common themes in these books are friendship, trusting yourself, the silencing of women’s voices to the detriment of problem solving, monsters, and the importance of working together. Both stories follow the arc of frustration, determination and eventual resolution. “The Southern Book Club” felt like historical fiction, a frighteningly realistic view on an ’80s housewife’s concerns in and outside the home; the titular vampire isn’t the only monster in the story. “My Best Friend’s Exorcism,” on the other hand, reads like a thriller filtered through the lens of an increasingly frustrated teenager — the epilogue of which houses the most touching discussion of love in friendship I have ever personally read. Both books display the power and capacity of women put to test, without feeling like hard “anti-men” literature. A+
Where: “My Best Friend’s Exorcism” is available as a print book and “The Southern Book Club’s Guide To Slaying Vampires” is available as a print book, ebook and e-audiobook from the Monroe County Library system.
How: You can request books online by logging in to www.keyslibraries. org and get ebooks and e-audiobooks 24/7 at www.estuff.keyslibraries.org.
If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? info@keyslibraries.org
Recommended by: Faith Price, librarian, Key West branch.
The Keys Weekly family loves animals as much as our friends at the Florida Keys SPCA do, and we’re honored each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for adoption at the organization’s Key West campus.
From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.
The SPCA’s Golden Paw program also provides special assistance with vet bills and medications for special-needs and older animals that require a little extra TLC.
Check these pages each week for just a few of the animals waiting for a home and see them all at fkspca.org.
Robert Wyland, known to millions simply as Wyland, is one of the most renowned and recognized artists and conservationists on the globe. He joins the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to discuss his love
for the Florida Keys, his Whaling Wall murals seen around the world and the 45th anniversary of Wyland Galleries. USA Today called him the “Marine Michelangelo” and during his career an estimated 1 billion people have seen his artwork on an annual basis. But for us in the Keys, he’s a guy who regularly shows up and gives back to the community, which is why we hope you enjoy a few minutes with one of our favorites.
— Keys Weekly staff report
Kerrigan is a 2-year-old female domestic shorthair. She’s been with the SPCA for over a year and is looking for a home with treats, other friendly cats and lots of cuddles.
Espresso is a 5-year-old, male domestic shorthair. He’s been at the shelter nearly five years waiting for a family that has patience and time to understand his shy personality.
Artist Wyland draws a crowd of fans as he retouches and revitalizes his Whaling Wall mural at Key West Bight in March 2022. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly
Hover your phone’s camera over the QR code to listen to the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast, as host Britt Myers interviews renowned artist Wyland.
Who makes the best Cuban sandwich in Key West?
Margeaux is a 2½-year old female large mixed breed. She’s had several homes in her short life, so she will need a patient home full of consistency and love to help her adapt.
A panel of judges (including Commissioner Clayton Lopez, business owner George Fernandez, Key West Weekly editor Mandy Miles and comedian Gwen Filosa) will decide on Saturday, April 29, from noon to 3 p.m. when the second annual Cuban Sandwich Throwdown returns to the Green Parrot Bar.
Will Sandy’s Cafe keep the title it earned last year, or will a new winner be crowned from among the nine entrants?
Created by Marcia Weaver at Frita’s Cuban Burger Cafe, the event will take place inside the bar and will expand this year to the surrounding 400 block of Whitehead Street.
ble drag queen QMitch. In addition to the judges, audience members can pay $20 to join in the tasting.
Blueberry is a 1-year-old female American rabbit. She’s a bouncy bunny who loves her tunnels, carrot treats and tossing her toy keys around her home.
Stetson is a 4-year-old male domestic shorthair. He loves attention and would do well with children, other pets and any home willing to give him affection.
The event is a fundraiser for the Key West Learning Center preschool and is hosted by the inimita-
Businesses and amateur chefs are invited to enter their own version of the Cuban sandwich in the contest. Contact Weaver at Frita’s Cuban Burger Cafe, 425 Southard St., 305-509-7075.
Last week I wrote about the Middle Keys, or how Key West and the Upper Keys often overshadow the Middle Keys. There is absolutely amazing history in the Middle Keys, and as I discover more, the thing I always say just rings truer and truer: It is hard to tell a Key West, Islamorada, Marathon or Key Largo story without telling a larger story about the Florida Keys.
is an author, speaker, Florida Keys historian and Honorary Conch. His latest book, “Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli, Volume 1,” shares fascinating glimpses into the rich and sometimes surprising histories of the Florida Keys.
While digging through old newspapers, I stumbled upon a story that combined many of last week’s column elements, including the Spanish land grants, circa 1850 Key Vaca, and Conch Town. The story was published in the Jan. 19, 1858 edition of the Charleston Daily Courier. The headline was “Key West”; the byline was Messrs. Editors Courier –. Messrs is the plural of Mr. The first-person narrative tells the story of a visit to Key West and the Middle Keys, and, in the end, the writer identifies himself simply as W.P.
W.P. left Charleston, South Carolina, on Dec. 4, 1857, aboard the steamer Isabel and arrived in Key West on Dec. 6. The purpose of his visit, as best as can be ascertained by his account, was to visit the island chain and see some of the islands in the Middle Keys, of which he states he had a one-third ownership. One of the other owners is not identified, but the other is referenced as Mr. H., a deputy collector at Key West.
Mr. H. could reference Charles Howe, a collector of customs in Key West who owned or used to own the islands addressed in the newspaper column. Howe left a historical footprint in the Upper Keys, the Middle Keys and in Key West. He was semifamously living on Indian Key with his family during the island’s infamous 1840 attack. The Howe family home was one of the few structures not set on fire by the Indians that morning. He later moved to Key West and, by 1845, was working as the collector of customs.
Charles Howe also once owned several islands in the Middle Keys, islands like Key Vaca that can be connected to the Spanish land grants. The land grants encouraged pioneer settlement, much like the U.S. version, the Homestead Act of 1862. In 1814, when Spain still governed these islands, several Middle Keys, Key Vaca, Boot, Viper (Long), Duck, and Knight Keys, were deeded to a Spanish friar named Francisco Ferreira.
Ferreira apparently sold Duck Key to Soloman Snyder on June 11, 1823. The collection of islands, including Duck Key, was also sold to Ferreira’s friend Isaac Cox for $3,000. Cox, in turn, sold the islands to Charles Howe in 1827 for $1,500 – including Duck Key, where Howe lived for several years and developed salt ponds before moving to Indian Key.
Sources also indicate that Charles Howe sold “Key Vacas” to Charles Edmonton on June 1, 1832. In any case, according to the story, Mr. H. “chartered a beautiful little yacht schooner, called the Foary (spelling might be off because the newspaper print is blurry), and we having added to the stores, as well as a first-rate cook and steward, sailed to visit the Keys we were interested in, on the morning of the 12th of December.”
About the partnership with Mr. H., he wrote: “Our titles (which are indisputable, dating as far back as a grant by the Spanish Government to an old Spanish fisherman, and confirmed at Washington city after the cession of Florida to the United States) commenced with Knights’ Key, containing about one hundred and twenty-five acres of arable land, and has a comfortable house with a good cistern.”
According to Mr. P., the writer, “We sailed on rear of our Key Vaccas, supposed to contain 1,500 acres; also Torch Key, smaller, but very fine soil, on which we have about 10,000 hemp plants; then Fat Deer Key, about 1,000 acres – no plants here, but plenty of the animal it is named after, indeed most of these Keys have plenty of deer on them. Next, Long Point Key, well suited for a cocoanut plantation, has about 800 acres. Crawl Key, Grassy Key about 1,500 acres, land good and many springs or rock wells of fresh water, which never dry up.”
The firsthand account included ideas being discussed for future plans for Key Vaca.
“Next day we sailed down between the Reef and the front of our Islands, as far as Thomas’ Harbor ...” Thomas’ Harbor likely refers to what is called the Toms Harbor Keys, located between Duck Key and Grassy Key.
He continued, “… and the following morning visited Jacob’s Harbor, or Conch Town, a considerable settlement on the front of our Key Vaccas, consisting of about thirteen families, some of whom have good garden spots, the soil being good and producing well which is the case with most of these Keys. The several owners of our islands have it now under consideration to lay off a town at or near this spot, and sell our lots, where invalids or others could spend a few of the cold winter months and at little expense – two or more families joining and chartering a vessel, and bringing their framed buildings and provisions.”
It does not appear that the owners followed through with their plan – or maybe, more digging will reveal that they did. In any case, it was not until the turn of the century that the railroad town of Marathon developed and became the heart of the Middle Keys.
Coral Shores seniors Maggie Lavoie and Bella DiGiorgio, as well as their marine science teacher, Beth Rosenow, had an experience of a lifetime on April 12. Thirty feet underwater, the three learned from a scientist seeking to discover the mysteries of the ocean.
The two students, who will be succeeded by two other marine science students in the following week, have been invited to dive down to Jules’ Undersea Lodge in Key Largo for a 24-hour stay. The famous underwater hotel, which offers rooms to lucky scuba divers, is more than just a tourist destination. It is currently host to one of the most ambitious local science experiments in years, wherein a marine scientist seeks to live for 100 days in an underwater laboratory.
Joseph Dituri, an ex-Navy diver and a professor at the University of South Florida, was inspired to conceptualize Project Neptune after a call from filmmaker James Cameron’s dive team – following their Mariana Trench mission on the Deepsea Challenger – alerted him to their discoveries in the deepest parts of the ocean. In their findings, they discovered a sea louse whose DNA sample matched up as a partial cure for Alzheimer’s. Thrilled by their discovery, Dituri pursued his interest in marine research with renewed rigor.
“Everything we need is right here on this planet,” said Dituri. “We have the cures, we just have to find them.”
The idea for Project Neptune 100, the name for Dituri’s three-and-a-half month experiment in underwater living, coalesced after a series of similar research projects. He set his sights on Jules’ Undersea Lodge, a common hotspot for scientific research, relatively early on in his planning. In Project Neptune 5 several years back, he joined a team of four other researchers to study there for a week.
Inspired by talk of a manned mission to Mars, he decided that, in a 100-day stay, he would try to gain valuable insights in the science of isolation and extreme environments through constant psychological and physiological testing, as well as try to better understand how the human body reacts to high-pressure environments.
Throughout his stay, he will complete more than a dozen psychological and psychosocial tests, as well as countless blood, urine and saliva analyses, and frequent electroencephalograms, pulmonary function tests and blood pressure monitoring in order to gain an unprecedented under-
standing of the body’s reaction to deep-sea environments.
“It will be the most comprehensive blood test that’s ever been done on a deep-sea diver,” Dituri said. Additionally, he will study new technologies with boundless future potential.
“I’m testing an AI program that will kind of act like a tricorder from ‘Star Trek,’” Dituri said. “It will tell you what’s wrong (with your body), and where (that problem) is located.”
Despite being mostly alone, Dituri is frequently visited by fellow researchers and by students. Student divers will learn and participate in scientific studies with Dituri in the undersea lodge, and many schools have scheduled talks with him via Zoom.
“By the time that the mission ends, we anticipate that Dituri will have interacted with around 2,000 students,” said Kim Gregory, director of development at MarineLab. Dituri sees educational outreach as an important part of his mission.
“I want to make science cool,” Dituri said. “Science is about more than beakers, microscopes and white coats. Students can get out in the field and make a difference.”
Also supporting Dituri is a team of more than 100 fellow researchers, scientists and health experts. His project is financially supported by MarineLab, the International Board of Undersea Medicine and the Marine Resources Development Foundation.
Even though he’s largely cut off from the outside world, Dituri consistently finds awe and beauty in his surroundings. “Just today I watched lobsters molt,” he said. “I’m watching stuff that people never get to see.”
Although similar research has been conducted at the Jules’ Undersea Lodge before, Dituri’s project is unmatched in terms of its strict scientific focus and immense scope. In 2014, for example, two researchers broke the world record for longest time spent underwater during their 73-day stay at the lodge. But their research failed to truly explore the effects this undersea living has on the human body. Dituri’s stay, which began March 1, is scheduled to conclude on July 9.
www.keysweekly.com
The Florida Keys is a renowned fishing community. According to the TCPalm.com, recreational fishing supports 1,700 jobs and $180.4 million of the Keys economy. On the commercial side, fish caught are one of the key export industries in Monroe County – accounting for 5% to 8% of the total income or jobs in our local economy, NOAA reports. So, there are a lot of fishermen and women out there using nets, line and traps to haul in their daily catch.
What happens to gear that has lived out its useful life?
A lot of fishing gear is made of plastic, which doesn’t biodegrade in the ocean. “Ghost gear” – lost or abandoned fishing gear – continues to “fish” and harm fragile environments like coral reefs after it’s been discarded into the ocean. A 2016 report by the Ocean Conservancy called it the deadliest form of marine debris – a “silent killer.”
We don’t want this plastic to end up in our landfills, either, because it still won’t biodegrade there.
So, what’s the solution?
A Seattle-based company, Net Your Problem, wants us to start recycling the plastic in our fishing gear into new products and alternative energy sources. And the company wants to help.
Net Your Problem’s mission is to create an economically viable way to recycle end-of-life fishing gear, improve waste management, contribute to the circular economy and reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions related to virgin plastic production. They do this by engaging a variety of stakeholders and partners – like Florida Keys fishermen.
The recycling process can look like this:
• Net Your Problem acquires end-of-life fishing gear. This can be from fishermen, the port, organizations or cities – anyone that needs help figuring out disposal alternatives.
• The company uses technology and testing to figure out what types of plastic each contain, then sells each type to the appropriate buyer. Only high-quality, non-mixed plastics can be remelted.
• Buyers clean and “upcycle” the old gear into
“new” plastic products or process it into certain types of energy.
Nicole Baker, Net Your Problem’s founder and Alaska and Pacific Northwest division coordinator, emphasizes how this model is economic and environmental. “We charge a fee for recycling, then we sell the materials to the recycling company,” Baker said. “So, we get money from both ends, and that is used to cover all the cost of collecting, sorting and shipping. So the fishermen, or the city, or the port just pays us to recycle and then they don’t have to do anything else.”
In the Keys, a recycling fee would hopefully replace what fishing houses already pay to waste management companies. For example, a trap yard in Big Pine Key pays hundreds of dollars monthly for management of a huge Dumpster full of old gear. What if this went toward economically-viable and environmentally-preferred recycling, instead?
On the other side of the transaction, Net Your Problem sells collected and sorted plastic to the appropriate buyers, who then process it into new products or burn it for energy. “The recyclers that we work with depend on us sending them good quality material – all of the same type – so that they can actually use it in the future for other product,” said Net Your Problem’s business and project development coordinator, Sara Aubery.
While this work started in Alaska, Net Your Problem has expanded to Seattle, California and Maine. So, can we implement this solution in the Keys?
In February, Baker and Aubery traveled the island chain to chat with locals and fishermen. The goal was to understand the key issues here – everything from when is the season really over
1. Buoys are a type of foam plastic that can be recycled under the right circumstances. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly
2. Commercial fisherman Michael Becker welcomes the Net Your Problem team to his lobster and stone crab trap yard in Big Pine Key to discuss the needs of local fishermen.
3. This Trinamix device analyzes different types of plastic. Using this on old fishing gear, the Net Your Problem team is able to analyze more quickly what can and can’t be recycled. VINH PHAM PHOTOGRAPHY/Contributed
4. NOAA “Buoy Boy” Benjamin D’Avanzo analyzes Net Your Problem’s implementation suggestions for the Florida Keys at the Key West workshop.
to who currently pays for gear disposal to where collected gear could be stored.
While visiting the trap yard in Big Pine Key, they collected samples of different gear that can be recycled to send for testing. Hopefully, by the time a program gets set up here, Net Your Problem will already have identified a buyer for our old plastic.
Through community workshops in Islamorada, Marathon and Key West, as well as a day on the water with Big Pine’s Conch Republic Marine Army, the Net Your Problem team came to understand the nuances of our local fishing industry and made connections with some locals.
After the Key West workshop, fifth-generation Conch Joshua Nicholas said, “The reason I’m here is because it’s important to educate the new generation of fishermen to recycle their fishing gear that does not biodegrade and can potentially do harm to the environment.”
As the president of the Florida Keys Commercial Fishing Association, he understands the importance of innovative solutions like this for our island chain. “I want to preserve our resource for future generations – that’s basically what it comes down to,” he added. “Hopefully, we can figure something out together.”
FICTITIOUS NAME
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of PUP’S PET SERVICE located at 2944 Dolphin Drive, Marathon, Florida 33050 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
By: Ramon T. OquendoPublish:
April 13, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
FICTITIOUS NAME
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of The Boardwalk located at 419 Caroline Street, Key West, FL 33040, intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
By: LKT Services & Companies, LLC
Publish:
April 13, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
FICTITIOUS NAME
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Willow Bailey located at 414 Avenue A, Key West, FL 33040 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
By: Willow Bailey Incorporated
Publish:
April 13, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
Wheatons Towing gives notice that on 04/27/2023 at 10:00 am, the following vehicle(s) may be sold by public sale at 101500 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 to satisfy the lien for the amount owed on each vehicle for any recovery, towing, or storage services charges and administrative fees allowed pursuant to Florida statute 713.78. Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.
JH2RC50546M200427 2006
HOND
Publish:
April 6 & 13, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
City of Marathon, Florida
First Public Hearing Notice
– Monday, April 17th 5:30pm –6:00pm
The City of Marathon is considering applying to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity for a
FFY 2022 Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). The City is eligible to apply for up to $650,000 in the neighborhood revitalization, commercial revitalization and housing rehabilitation categories and up to $1.5 million in the economic development category.
Construction activities funded through the CDBG Program must meet one of the following National Objectives:
1. Provide benefit to low- and moderate-income persons;
2. Prevent or eliminate slum or blight conditions; or
3. Meet a need of recent origin having a particular urgency.
The types of activities that CDBG funds may be used for include constructing stormwater ponds, paving roads and sidewalks, installing sewer and water lines, building a community center or park, making improvements to a sewage treatment plant, and rehabilitating low-income homes. Additional information regarding the range of activities that could be funded will be provided at the public hearing. In developing a CDBG application, the City of Marathon must plan to minimize displacement of persons as a result of the activities. In addition, the City of Marathon is required to develop a plan to assist displaced persons.
A public hearing to obtain citizen comment concerning the City’s economic and community development needs will be held at Jessie Hobbs Park at 4104 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050 on Monday, April 17th from 5:30pm – 6:30pm. For information concerning the public hearing, contact Maria Covelli, Grants Coordinator, at (305) 743-0033 or covellim@ ci.marathon.fl.us
Please note that more than one Marathon City Council/ Board/Committee member may participate in the meeting. The City of Marathon complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you are a disabled person requiring special accommodations or assistance, please notify the City ADA Coordinator at (305) 289-5022 of such need at least 72 hours (3 days) in advance.
Publish:
April 13, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE
The District I Advisory Committee (DAC I) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform
The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/88447587131
Meeting ID: 884 4758 7131
One tap mobile: +13052241968,,88447587131# US +19292056099,,88447587131# US
Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing: MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at: Maxine@fla-keys.com, or by calling (305) 296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than 12:00 P.M., on Friday, April 21, 2023.
All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.
ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.
Publish:
April 13, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE
The District II Advisory Committee (DAC II) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at 6:00 P.M., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be:
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/83176515394
Meeting ID: 831 7651 5394
One tap mobile: +13052241968,,83176515394# US +13092053325,,83176515394# US
Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing: MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email
at: Maxine@fla-keys.com, or by calling (305) 296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. – 5:00
P.M., Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than 12:00 P.M., on Friday, April 21, 2023.
All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.
ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30
A.M. – 5:00 P.M., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.
Publish:
April 13, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE
The District III Advisory Committee (DAC III) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, at 9:30 A.M., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform. The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be:
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.
us/j/83497997982
Meeting ID: 834 9799 7982
One tap mobile: +13052241968,,83497997982# US +16469313860,,83497997982# US
Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing: MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at: Maxine@fla-keys.com, or by calling (305) 296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than 12:00 P.M., on Friday, April 21, 2023.
All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.
ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.
Publish: April 13, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE
The District IV Advisory Committee (DAC IV) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at 2:00 P.M., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform
The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be:
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.
us/j/89776909732
Meeting ID: 897 7690 9732
One tap mobile:
+13052241968,,89776909732#
US
1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at: Maxine@fla-keys.com, or by calling (305) 296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday. Documents must be received no later than 12:00 P.M., on Friday, April 21, 2023.
All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.
ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.
Publish:
April 13, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE
The District V Advisory Committee (DAC V) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at 10:00 A.M., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/84708081248
Meeting ID: 847 0808 1248
One tap mobile: +13052241968,,84708081248# US +13126266799,,84708081248# US
Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing: MCTDC, 1201 White Street, Suite 102, Key West, FL 33040, by email at: Maxine@fla-keys.com, or by calling (305) 296-1552 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday.
Documents must be received no later than 12:00 P.M., on Friday, April 21, 2023.
All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.
ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.
Publish:
April 13, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:
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 May 17, 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: Card Sound Navigational Lighting Replacement 05-17-2023
Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl. gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on May 17, 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:
April 13, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION
CASE NO.: 22-CP-000320-K
IN RE: THE ESTATE OF TIFFANY HENDRY a/k/a LYNN HOLT, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the Estate of Tiffany Hendry, a/k/a Lynn Holt, deceased, File No. 22-CP000320-K, whose date of death was August 24, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, 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 THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this Notice to Creditors is April 13, 2023.
Personal Representative:
James J. Colligan
1101 Casa Marina Court
Key West, FL 33040
Attorney for Personal
Representative:
JOHN K. BUCKLEY Florida Bar No. 667692
401 West Atlantic Avenue, Ste. 0-11
Delray Beach, FL 33444
Telephone: (561) 392-2323
Email: bucklaw@mindspring.com
Publish:
April 13 & 20, 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-80-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF THOMAS J. STERNER, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of THOMAS J. STERNER, deceased, whose date of death was December 18, 2022, Case: 23-CP-80-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: April 6, 2023.
Personal Representative: CHRIS WELTS
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:
April 6 & 13, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CASE NO.: 23-DR-116-M
DIVISION: FAMILY IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF: JENESYS GIDSEG GARCIA Petitioner, and, MIGUEL ANGEL GARCIA FLORES, Respondent.
NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE TO: MIGUEL ANGEL GARCIA FLORES
LAST KNOWN ADDRESS:
UNKNOWN
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 JENESYS GIDSEG GARCIA, whose address is 240 SOMBRERO BEACH ROAD, APT. 4D, MARATHON, FL 33050 on or before May 15, 2023, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050, 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: UNKNOWN
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: April 4, 2023
Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Barbie Morales
Deputy Clerk Publish:
April 13, 20, 27 & May 4, 2023
The Weekly Newspapers
+16469313860,,89776909732#
US
Please contact Maxine Pacini or Ammie Machan to submit written information or for additional information by writing: MCTDC,
Card Sound Navigational Lighting Replacement Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www.floridapublicnotices. com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar at www.demandstar. com OR www.monroecounty-fl. gov/bids. The Public Record is available upon request. Monroe County Purchasing
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 THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED OR 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 YEARS OF MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S
AUTOS WANTED
ALL YEARS!
Cars - Vans - TrucksRunning or Not. $CASH$ 305-332-0483
AUTOS FOR SALE
2011 Chrysler Town & Country Van, only 109,000 Indiana miles. New tires. Located in Marathon. $5,500 317-450-7179
BOATS FOR SALE
1992 24' Sovereign Sailboat w/Yenmar Diesel, spacious cabin w/enclosed head. Marathon located w/ Bahamas capability. $6,500 317-450-7179
SS Wreck and Galley Grill on Grassy Key is looking for servers and bartenders, full or part time. Please call Nicole at 305-4330515, or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com.
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:
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.
EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT
NOW HIRING: Bookkeeper. Key by the Sea Board of Directors is hiring an Office Manager with bookeeping experience for a 200 unit condo association. Associate Degree with concentration in bookkeeping preferred of equivalent combination of education, minimum 2 years of related bookkeeping experience required. Starting range $21-$25/hour. Apply by email: manager@ keybythesea.org
Groundskeeper/ Maintenance person, KCB, Sea Isle Condominium, 20 - 40 hrs. per week, $23 per hr., apply by e-mail to HardingThomasL@ aol.com, text or call 734-476-0531.
Come join our team. St. Columba Episcopal Church in Marathon is seeking an experienced keyboard musician to rehearse and play with choir and with contemporary band. For more information email stcolumbamarathon. office.com
Come join our team. Organist/Pianist – St. Columba Episcopal Church in Marathon is seeking an experienced organist. St. Columba has a long standing commitment and appreciation for traditional music in the liturgical setting. For more information email stcolumbamarathon. office.com.
Boat rental company in Marathon needs an Outboard Mechanic. Some general marina work, and boat experience a plus. Call 305-481-7006
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 well-organized, self-motivated, with a passion for customer service. Salary commensurate with experience and includes tips and 401k. Please call Nicole at 305-4330515, or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.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
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
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.
Join our team! Full and part-time Educational Program Guides/ Gift Shop Sales. Public speaking & retail sales experience helpful. $17.00/hour to start. Send resume to: TurtleHospitalMarathon@gmail.com
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
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.
We are now hiring for the following positions:
Applicants must apply in person to be considered.
4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a Customer-Service Oriented Server for the pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.
NOW HIRING: Sweet Savannah's is now hiring for multiple positions: Cashier - must be 16 yrs or older, Full-time Baker & Part-time Baker's Assistant. Stop by for an application at 8919 Overseas Highway, Marathon or email: info@ sweetsavannahs.com
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Housing Assistant, 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.
Place your Employment Ad here for $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!
CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES
RV FOR SALE YARD SALES HOBBIES/COLLECT.
PRIVATE COLLECTOR
WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
HOUSING FOR RENT
2 Bedroom 1 Bath in Marathon. Tile, carpet, appliances, gated property. No pets. $2400/ mo. 305-610-8002
Place your Housing For Rent Ad here for $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844.
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
RV LOT FOR RENT
RV Site for rent in Marathon. Up to 35', private gated property. $1,500/mo + utilities. Dockage available - inquire for price. 305-610-8002
Place your RV Lot For Rent Ad here for $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844.
Place your Yard Sale Ad here for $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!
MARC is looking for Direct Care Staff – Group Homes 24/7 (FT/PT). Position requires a minimum of high school completion and 1 yr. exp. or 1 yr. college. English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. FL driver’s license w/good driving record, references and background screening required. EOE
Apply at the MARC office, 1401 Seminary Street, Key West – or online at www.marchouse.org.
For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org, phone: 305-294-9526 *32
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26TH
9 AM - 3 PM
2 LOCATIONS: Mariners Hospital & Fisherman’s Community Hospital
- Housekeepers
- Cooks
- Food Crew
- Mechanics
- Dietitians
- Patient Advocates
- Med Techs
- Imaging Techs
- Registered Nurses
Grassy Flats Resort & Beach Club on Grassy Key now hiring Housemen, Housekeepers, Kitchen Staff & Front Desk Agent.
The Lagoon Grassy Key Adventure Park & Bongo’s Botanical Beer Garden on Grassy Key now hiring Watersports Guide, Kitchen Staff & Retail Manager.
Email: hiring@grassyflats.com
MARC is looking for a 40-hr/wk. Manager Trainee Good social/business skills, above average computer skills required (knowledge of POS a plus). Knowledge of tropical plants helpful. Requires a lot of manual labor and must be able to lift at least 50 pounds. FL driver’s license w/good driving record, references and background screening required. EOE
Apply at the MARC office, 1401 Seminary Street, Key West – or online at www.marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org, phone: 305-294-9526 *32
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
Dolphin Research Center has Full-Time/Part-Time, Permanent/Temporary Gift Shop positions that involve direct contact with our visitors & is another opportunity to ensure they leave DRC with a happy & positive experience. Some of the duties involve; being familiar with all merchandise in the selling area, suggest specific merchandise & offer product advise. Walk around the grounds and see dolphins every day.
Job description available at www.dolphins.org. E-mail your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE
58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL Teaching...
- RN Supv/Mgrs
- Physical Therapists
- +More!
For details and to RSVP, visit: www.baptisthires.com
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.
• FULL TIME PROJECT MANAGER
• CARPENTERS & LABORERS
• EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
• ACCOUNTS PAYABLE
Must have valid Driver’s License & Transportation
Location: Upper Keys
Send resume to: admin@cbtconstruct.com
Or call: 305-852-3002
Experience is required.
Must have a valid driver’s license. We offer 401K, medical insurance, paid holidays and paid vacation. Positions available in Key West and Marathon. 305-292-3369
Oceanside Safari Restaurant & Lounge in Islamorada is NOW OPEN and serving lunch and dinner 7 days a week.
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.
NOW 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 have re-opened as a brand-new fullservice 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. 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
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.
