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TENANTS IN WORKFORCE HOUSING COMPLEX ORDERED OUT AS CONCRETE BALCONY COLLAPSES

Residents still searching for answers with homes in limbo

Tenants in a 16-unit workforce housing complex located at 1655 Overseas Highway in Marathon are still looking for answers after they were ordered to vacate the complex’s four buildings due to a concrete balcony collapse around

4 p.m. on April 15.

According to residents who were home at the time of the collapse, no one was on the balcony at the time it fell, and there were no reported injuries.

Other tenants returned home to find Marathon Fire Rescue and Monroe County Sheriff’s Office personnel as well as city officials informing them of the unsafe buildings. Residents were allowed to collect belongings for the night before vacating the property, with St. Columba Episcopal Church, the

For the first time since 2016, Marathon crowds will experience the sheer power and speed of Race World Offshore’s 7 Mile Grand Prix next weekend. See page 20. RACE WORLD OFFSHORE/Contributed

building’s owner, providing temporary accommodations and meals for those with nowhere to go.

Though tenants were originally told the hope was to return them to their homes within the next few days, as of Wednesday morning, tenants were still displaced, with no definite date for re-entry.

City of Marathon Building Official Gerard Roussin originally told the Weekly on Saturday that the plan was to temporarily install additional supports on the remaining three balconies in an effort to return tenants to at least 12 of the complex’s units.

But as City Manager George Garrett confirmed on Tuesday afternoon, upon seeing the condition of the building, the contractor hired to install the additional supports, “got up there and said, ‘Holy (expletive). We’re not comfortable with this,’” a sentiment confirmed by an engineer hired by the contractor.

Since the collapse, several contractors have approached the Weekly. Speaking on the condition of anonymity, all expressed their concerns about the structural integrity of the building reaching back well before the balcony came down.

Garrett and St. Columba’s Rev. Deb Maconaughey confirmed that a second engineer has been hired by the church to conduct a complete Existing Building Recertification (EBR) inspection, with results expected by the end of the week.

As required by an ordinance passed by the city in September 2021 and amended in January 2022, the EBR inspections are required for multistory buildings more than 17 years old. They require an owner to hire state-certified engineers to inspect the building’s structure and electrical systems in an effort to prevent tragedies like Miami’s Surfside condominium collapse in June 2021 that resulted in 98 deaths.

Thus far, the inspections in Marathon have already caused the closure of Mariners Place, a 15-unit apartment building on Coco Plum Dr. built in 1978, along with temporary closures of popular eatery Panda House and a multi-unit commercial building on 53rd Street Ocean housing six small businesses, within the last 14 months.

The city began systematically working through Marathon’s buildings from the east to west end of town to

continued on page 10

Photos taken around 7 p.m. on April 15 show the immediate aftermath of a concrete balcony collapse at The Brigid Place, one of four buildings in a 16-unit workforce housing complex. ALEX RICKERT/KeysWeekly

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

Just because.

FKAA DIRECTOR PUSHES BACK ON STATE TAKEOVER CLAIM

VELIZ ANSWERS CONCERNS ABOUT KEYS’ PIPELINE ISSUES

The head of the Florida Keys’ water utility is pushing back against a recent news report that claimed a state agency had floated the idea of taking over the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority.

“To say that a regulatory agency is considering taking over the aqueduct authority is just not true,” FKAA executive director Greg Veliz told the Keys Weekly on April 18. “One speaker from the Keys got up during the public comment period of a recent public meeting of the South Florida Water Management District and started saying things.”

The SFWMD regulates the amount of water counties and cities can take from the Biscayne Aquifer. The Florida Keys currently pump about 22 million gallons of water per day.

That speaker at the SFWMD governing board’s April 13 meeting in Palm Beach was Capt. Ed Davidson, an Middle Keys resident, former school board member and government gadfly and watchdog. A roughly 15-minute speech by Davidson to the SFWMD criticized FKAA’s lack of a plan to replace a 40-year-old pipe when it knew what the lifespan would be decades ago. He proceeded to suggest that Gov. Ron DeSantis should seize control of FKAA and put the agency into the hands of the SFWMD. That happened in the Keys during the 1980s, when then-Gov. Bob Graham threw out FKAA commissioners and placed the SFWMD in control before new pipes went into the ground. Once the new water main was installed, the SFWMD members were gradually phased out as Graham appointed new FKAA commissioners.

“The aqueduct has such a soiled history that the last time they built the pipeline, Graham seized control of the aqueduct because of the lack of confidence and lack of competence,” Davidson told the Keys Weekly. “He oversaw the pipeline. I think that’s clearly needed here.

“We have known for some time that our transmission main was in desperate need of replacement. Why

did they sit on their asses for the last 40 years?” he continued.

Veliz added that SFWMD board member Cheryl Meads, former Islamorada resident and councilwoman, likely invited Davidson to the meeting.

But, Veliz said, he had not been able to reach Meads since learning about Davidson’s comments at the April 13 meeting from another news outlet. Meads did not return phone calls and texts from the Keys Weekly as of presstime.

“As a representative of a regulatory agency, I would think a callback would be appropriate given the topic of discussion,” Veliz said, inviting the Keys Weekly to ask him “absolutely anything” about the three consecutive water main breaks in the pipeline that brings drinking water down the Florida Keys from the mainland. The breaks occurred in the Upper Keys in early March and caused temporary water outages at all points south of the breaks. It affected schools, businesses and many households in the Keys.

The breaks also underscored the need for expediency in replacing all 130 miles of water pipeline throughout the Florida Keys, where a reverse osmosis plant is also under construction on Stock Island to turn ocean water into drinking water, such as occurs on ships.

During repair of the recent water main breaks, photos circulated showing the jarring deterioration of parts of the existing pipeline, which was completed 41 years ago in 1982.

“The pictures are disturbing; let’s face it,” Veliz said, acknowledging the

community’s concerns about the time that will be required to replace all 130 miles of pipeline, which prompted many residents to ask why the FKAA had waited so long to begin its replacement.

“If we have an Achilles heel in this issue, perhaps it was not looking forward enough,” Veliz told the Keys Weekly on April 18. “But we currently have $115 million worth of projects underway that are fully funded. And we have another 12 projects totaling another $100 or so million waiting to begin. We were successful last year in getting state and federal funding to the tune of about $37 million. We’ve been spending a lot of time in Talla-

hassee and we have lobbyists working on our funding requests. Congressman Carlos Gimenez is also helping us on the federal level.”

With a mile of pipe costing from $7 million to $10 million, a complete replacement of the Keys water main will be in the hundreds of millions — if not more than $1 billion when all is said and done.

Veliz added that water officials since March have decreased the water pressure that’s running through the pipeline in an effort to “hopefully help increase the longevity of the pipeline. But am I

so naive to think that we won’t have another break in the next 20 or 30 years while we’re replacing the pipe? No way. In fact, I know we’ll have several more breaks, and we’ll fix those as we did the recent ones. Right now, anything north of a pipeline break will still be fed water as usual from Florida City. But anything south of the break will be affected.”

The upcoming reverse osmosis plant on Stock Island offers hope for backup water when finished in 2025.

“If by 2025 or 2027, I can generate 8 million gallons a day we’ll be able to back pump water to where it’s needed,” Veliz said, adding that additional RO plants are being considered in Marathon and one other location in the Keys.

“A lot has been said about us not having a plan,” he added, referring to Davidson’s and Meads’ remarks at the SFWMD meeting. “But we have a plan. We’re designing projects to fit our funding sources. I’m very, very confident with where we are right now.”

When asked about any precedent for having a state agency step in to take over the FKAA operations, Veliz said, “About 40 years ago, there was an elected water board at FKAA and the governor did step in and ask the legislature to investigate some financial problems, and they did step in. But now we’re in a completely different era. There have been absolutely no findings of wrongdoing whatsoever.”

Davidson wasn’t the only Keys resident who trekked to Palm Beach for the SFWMD Governing Board on April 13. Islamorada residents Sue Miller and Joan Scholz also expressed their concern with the recent pipe breaks and the time it’ll take to replace all 130 miles of aging water line. Both asked for the SFWMD’s help to address an urgent matter.

“Perhaps the district can provide a strong reminder that it’s extremely urgent for our community to do all we can to remedy the water situation before it becomes a true catastrophic disaster,” Miller said.

Crews work to replace a portion of the water pipeline in Islamorada following three breaks in the line in early March. A 20-year project is in the works to replace all 130 miles of the pipeline that brings drinking water to the Keys from the mainland. DAVID GROSS/ Keys Weekly

Crews work to replace a portion of the water pipeline in Islamorada following three breaks in the line in early March. A 20-year project is in the works to replace all 130 miles of the pipeline that brings drinking water to the Keys from the mainland. FKAA/Contributed

— Jim McCarthy contributed to this report.

COUNCIL VOTES TO ISSUE PARTIAL BUILDING PERMIT FEE REFUNDS

Marathon corrects course with lower fees, partial refunds

On April 11, the Marathon City Council signed a resolution that will begin the process of refunding almost $2.2 million to homeowners who paid for city building permits between Dec. 14, 2020 and March 14, 2023. Staff said some 3,000 applicants qualify for refunds.

MARATHON COUNCIL AWARDS $99,900 TO NONPROFITS

27 receive grants ranging from $600 to $10,000

On April 11, the Marathon City Council announced awards to local nonprofits that provide cultural, educational, recreational or social services in the Middle Keys. Twenty-seven organizations applied for a portion of $100,000. The responses were ranked and awarded by the council in the amount of $99,900.

At the council meeting, many recipients stood up to thank the council for their consideration including Brandi Jordan, the director of Community Cooperative Preschool.

“With this grant, we will be able to install a water bottle refill station for the children and staff, instead of buying and transporting bottled water every week,” Jordan said. “Thank you very much.”

THE RECIPIENTS ARE:

• Marathon Recreation Center: $10,000

• The Hammock House: $8,800

• Grace Jones Community Center: $8,400

• Kreative Kids Christian Academy: $6,900

• Keys AHEC Health Centers: $6,300

• Florida Keys SPCA (Marathon campus): $5,700

• The Educational Coalition for Monroe County: $5,000

• Crane Point Museum & Nature Center: $4,500

• Autism Society of the Florida Keys: $4,500

• KAIR (Keys Area Interdenominational Resources): $4,400

• Domestic Abuse Shelter: $4,400

• R3EACH: $4,300

• Presents in Paradise: $4,200

• Dolphin Research Center: $3,300

• Guidance Care Center: $3,300

• Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys: $3,000

• Independence Cay: $3,000

• Marathon Wild Bird Center: $2,900

• Florida Keys Children’s Shelter

$2,500

• Leadership Monroe County: $1,800

• Community Cooperative Preschool: $1,500

• The Salvation Army: $600

• Florida Keys Concert Association: $600

— Contributed

The refunds coincide with a 42% decrease in building permit fees that was approved at the March meeting of the Marathon City Council. The reduced fees and refunds are to correct the current balance of the city’s building department, which exceeds the limits set by Florida state statute.

“Going forward, the Marathon City Council is going to re-evaluate building department balances annually at budget time to ensure this does not reoccur,” said Gerard Roussin, Marathon’s building official, who was hired in July 2022.

“There are several ways to address this excess,” said City Attorney Steve Williams at the March meeting. “We can operate the building department in the red to spend the balance down, or hire more people to spend it down. But I hear that it is the will of the council to refund the money.”

While the city has been working on this issue since late 2022, all five members of the Marathon City Council were determined that the excess fees should be resolved with refunds, rather than a large decrease in future fees. However, as four of the five council members or a family member would be eligible for a refund, Williams sought a solution from the Florida Commission on Ethics: the council members will waive the refunds to avoid any conflict.

At the meeting on April 11, the Marathon City Council unanimously agreed that the funds they personally waived, and funds that are not collected by eligible homeowners, would be set aside for charitable efforts that fall under the purview of the building department, such as reduced building permit fees for applicants who can demonstrate a financial hardship or incentives to promote the use of renewable energy.

The council directed staff to send out courtesy emails to homeowners in the affected time period regarding the available refunds, but stressed it is the responsibility of the homeowner to apply.

THE DETAILS

• Homeowners who paid for City of Marathon building permits between Dec. 14, 2020 and March 14, 2023 are eligible to apply. To apply, visit the City of Marathon website at ci.marathon. fl.us and navigate to the “Building Department” tab in the “Government” heading, then to “Forms” and click on the “Refund Request” to download. For more assistance, email refunds@ ci.marathon.fl.us.

• The amount of the partial refund will be limited to the difference between the building permit fees originally paid during the eligible time period ($30 per $1,000 of stated project cost) and the current building permit fees ($17.50 per $1,000 of stated project cost). For example, a homeowner who applied for permits for a $500,000 project would have paid $15,000 in permit fees, and is now entitled to a $6,250 refund.

• Refunds shall be made payable to the property owner of record at the time the building permit fee was paid, and should not be payable to any contractor or assignee, or the current owner if the property has been since sold.

• Applicants must submit an application. Hard copies of the online application are available at city hall. The deadline to apply is Sept. 30, 2023, the end of the fiscal year. After the deadline has passed, unclaimed funds will remain in the building permit fee fund and will be directed toward charitable endeavors.

The City of Marathon funded many nonprofits that offer services to area children. ALI ADAMS/City of Marathon

The Marathon City Council voted to issue partial building permit fee refunds for project applications from Dec. 14, 2020 to March 14, 2023. CITY OF MARATHON/ Contributed

3RD ANNUAL DAVE NAVARRO MEMORIAL

APRIL 27TH & 28TH

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FISHING TIMES THURSDAY 4:30PM - 8:30PM & FRIDAY 4PM - 8PM

AWARDS BANQUET AT FL KEYS STEAK & LOBSTER FRIDAY AFTER FISHING

Contact Barbara Hewlett at 305.304.8682 for more information or to be a sponsor

All proceeds to benefit American Foundation for Suicide Prevention SE Chapter

The New Home Spot, Ernest Rhodes Plumbing, Huntress Charters, Marathon Lumber, Marathon Boat Yard, Keys Weekly Newspapers

TRUSTS • WILLS POWERS

LADYBIRD DEEDS

Whether you are a resident or a snowbird, it is important to have your assets properly titled in a way that will avoid those assets going through probate.

KATHLEEN HENDRICKSON

ATTORNEY AT LAW

MASTERS OF LAW, ESTATE PLANNING 5701 Overseas Hwy • 305 393 2598

avoid flooding contractors with time-sensitive work, but had not yet reached the area of the apartment complex in question. But such a near miss that very well could have ended in tragedy necessitated the accelerated response for a building constructed in 1954.

“We believe that’s the right thing to do, the safest thing to do from a life safety perspective,” Garrett said.

Though it addresses an obvious threat, the inspection does little to ease the concerns of residents who are unsure whether they will have a home to return to, or any accommodations at all, beyond the end of the week.

In an email to tenants on April 18, property manager Josh Mothner informed residents that nonprofit KAIR would pay for motel rooms until the morning of April 21 for tenants without other accommodations. April rent was refunded to all tenants, with the option to withdraw their last month’s rent payments and security deposits required upon move-in.

“We understand some may wish to start finding other options. If you choose to move on to something else, we understand,” the email said, while assuring tenants that they would have first right of refusal to their old units if and when repairs are completed.

“We don’t want to have 16 families who are out on the street. But that said, I think that’s the only thing we can do until we have a full report,” Garrett told the Weekly. “We as a city will do whatever we can to help find other residences, assuming the worst case if it goes that way.”

“We’re going day by day,” said Maconaughey, praising the quick response of city officials, especially Roussin, and community members who sprang into action in the immediate aftermath of the collapse.

“I haven’t slept. … To have your home taken away by something that’s so bizarre is unbelievable. This is real workforce housing that people count on, and we don’t want it to go away.”

Anyone with knowledge of, or an ability to assist with, temporary or long-term housing options for tenants is encouraged to contact the church at 305-743-6412 or stcolumbamarathon.office@ gmail.com.

MOONEY’S FIANCÉE HURT IN SERIOUS CRASH IN ISLAMORADA

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

State Rep. Jim Mooney’s fiancée, Charity Rebl, is on a long path to recovery after she was involved in a serious crash in Islamorada last week.

Rebl, a local real estate agent, remains hospitalized at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami. She’s being treated for a number of broken bones after a tractor-trailer collided with her vehicle in Islamorada.

Mooney, who was in Tallahassee for legislative session, left the capital in order to be by his fiancée’s side. Rebl was being treated in the intensive care unit since arriving at the hospital. Mooney said she left the ICU on April 17.

Despite being away, Mooney continues to manage several bills he’s sponsoring, including legislation related to fees in lieu of security deposits that’s supposed to be heard before the House on April 20 (today). Mooney said his colleague, state Rep. Demi Busatta Cabrera, of Miami-Dade County, is helping to take on some of his bills appearing before legislators this week.

“We cover each other when things come up,” Mooney said regarding the camaraderie among his fellow representatives in the House.

Lee Young, Mooney’s legislative aide, said the hours, the stress and the time Mooney puts in to ensure his family and constituents “are both getting 100% from him is amazing.”

Mooney’s departure from the state capital came as the House was considering Senate Bill 300 on a 6-week abortion ban. Legislation passed through the chamber by a 70-40 vote and was signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis the next day. Mooney, who couldn’t vote as he was away, said he wasn’t in favor of such a move.

“I struggled to get to 15 weeks. I did so much research,” Mooney said, adding that the state legislature has important issues, such as property insurance, to consider before the session concludes next month.

Sunset Grill server Leisa Shaw always takes care of her regulars, even with a work schedule that some would find impossible.

ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

LEISA SHAW Server, Sunset Grille & Raw Bar

How did you originally come to the Keys? I was living in New York with my husband, and it wasn’t working out. My sister was working at Hawks Cay, so I left him and came down here. I was at Hawks Cay for six years, and when they closed after the hurricane I came over to Home Depot. While I was applying there, I heard about Sunset Grille and they hired me on the spot. I’ve been working both jobs for the last six and a half years now.

What’s the funniest thing you’ve ever seen on the internet? I saw this guy who dressed his dog up with blonde hair, a bandana around the dog’s head, a tank top and a mini skirt. The dog was bobbing to some music.

If you’re having a bad day, what’s the best way to cheer you up? I just think, “OK. People are out there having a worse day than me. I’m in a good spot, I have two jobs, and this is a beautiful place to work.” That cheers me up. I don’t really complain because I have two jobs and I’m in good health.

If you could shop for free at any store, which one would you pick? Prada.

Spotlighting the amazing individuals who live and work in the Middle Keys

No matter how many individuals appear in the pages of each edition of Keys Weekly, there are always so many more of our community members who deserve to be recognized. In an effort to shine a spotlight on more of the incredible individuals who live and work in these islands, Keys Weekly is proud to spotlight our Neighbor of the Week feature, dedicated to celebrating a community member with each issue. This week’s neighbor always keeps a sharp eye out for her regulars as she works her shifts at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar. As a few of them told the Weekly, she practically has their orders put in by the time they sit down. And she does it all with an insanely busy work schedule: rising at 4 a.m. to take the bus down from Homestead, she works a full shift at Sunset before moving over to her second job at Home Depot, taking the bus home at 9 or 11 p.m. before heading to bed around midnight and doing it all over again.

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? Because my daughter is a good cook, they think she cooks all the time, but I’m a good cook if I want to be.

The title of my autobiography would be … “It’s My Life.”

What is your most embarrassing moment ever? This lady used to always come in here and give me a good tip. One day, she gave me some 20s that were all stuck together. I didn’t count it properly and said, “Oh, you forgot to tip me.” She was like, “No…” I had to go back and peel them apart. She always leaves me a great tip, and I was so embarrassed.

Would you rather always have to sing instead of speaking or always have to dance everywhere you went? Sing, because sometimes I do that anyways when I go to my tables.

What’s one thing that’s on the menu that you never want to try? Oysters.

If you could have one chore taken away from you forever, what would it be? Laundry. I hate doing laundry.

If you could be any character from a TV show or movie, who would it be?

Angela Bassett from “How Stella Got Her Groove Back.”

State Rep. Jim Mooney

Congratulations on your magnificent new oceanfront paradise in Duck Key! You’ve made a brilliant choice that will provide you with endle ss opportunities to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones Your new home is simply breathtaking, and we can’t wait for you to start living the dream. So, welcome to your new oceanfront paradise in Duck Key , where endless adventures and unforgettable experiences await yo u!

The next time you’re at a party with friends, family, or neighbors and they mention they’re interested in buying or selling in this ar ea, would you recommend us? We’re passionate about helping people like you fi nd their dream home or sell their property for a great price. We know you’re well-connected and we’d be grateful for any referrals you can s end our way.

Let’s work together to make sure nobody misses out on the incredible benefits of living in the Florida Keys! Ashkarian/Ardis Team

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JUST THE TIPS

The epic highs and lows of the swordfish hunt

You toss and turn – “Don’t forget the harpoon.”

Roll over again – “I should rig another bait before we leave.”

Check the clock one more time – “Do I have enough lead and lights? Dammit, I don’t care that it’s 4:30, I’m just gonna get up now.”

I don’t know about everyone else, but such is my typical night before going swordfishing. It is truly a relationship of epic highs and lows. Love and hate, frustration and ohso-satisfying triumph. A high-risk, high-reward game that can lead to obsession and addiction.

Yes, I’m still talking about fishing. I’m talking about daytime swordfishing. Once you’ve done it, and experienced success at it, you’ll understand. If you’re like me, you just might close your eyes to sleep and have visions of that rod tip bouncing in your head.

Swordfish are the biggest and most highly-prized big game fish we target and catch with consistency here in the Keys. They are difficult to catch and excellent to eat, which makes for a great prize. We do see blue marlin here, but not in numbers great enough to really target and expect constant success.

A swordfish could be caught here any day of the year, with sizes ranging from a 30-pound pup to a 700-plus-pound monster. This is one of the things that make this fishery so unique and exciting. You’re drifting along, staring at the rod tip for any sign of life … and then you see it. A tap. A bump. It gets a little heavy, or maybe a little light. Your heart jumps – that’s a bite! It could be a pup, or it could be the one you’ve been waiting for that’s going to keep you out there all night.

It’s about a 30-mile ride to the zone. We try to reserve the calmest days for it as you’re drifting for long periods. We use an electric reel, but it can also be used manually, a feature often needed to inch up a quality fish. Six to 10 pounds of lead, depending on the current, and 65- to 100-pound braid keep your rigged dead bait close to the bottom in 1,500 to 1,800 feet of water. It takes

On April 2, Noreaster Sportfishing’s clients and crew completed a six-hour fight to land a massive swordfish estimated at more than 400 pounds. CONTRIBUTED

experience and a keen eye to know what a bite looks like. Sometimes it’s subtle, and other times very obvious.

CAPT. NICK BORRACCINO

is the owner and operator of Noreaster Sport Fishing in Marathon. A Massachusetts native, Nick fished for bluefin tuna and striped bass before moving to the Keys in 2005.

One of the most amazing things about these fish is their tolerance of depth and pressure changes.

It’s common to hook one on the bottom in 1,600 feet of water, have it race to the surface, jump and then go back down. They have soft mouths, and there are 100 things that need to go right – and 100 things that can go wrong – in the entire process from setting the bait to the bite to landing a fish with a well-placed harpoon shot.

Join an experienced local captain to get started, or to scratch that already-existing itch. The last month has been great, with many quality fish hitting the dock almost daily. On our last outing we boated one over 400 pounds after a six-hour fight! It was my second-largest in nearly 15 years of professional charters, with my record set at 504 pounds. Bring your patience and persistence, and let’s go get one!

To book a trip with Noreaster Sportfishing, text Capt. Nick at 508769-4189 or visit noreastersportfishing.com.

ACE

1.5-year-old male cattle dog mix.

Looking for: Someone to match my energy.

Turnoffs: I’m a little shy, but I’m working on it.

TAKE ME HOME

Adorable furry faces are waiting for families at the Florida Keys SPCA

Keys Weekly is thrilled each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for their perfect adoption “match” at the Florida Keys SPCA’s Marathon campus – complete with their best qualities, preferences and turnoffs to ensure the best fit.

From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you at one of the SPCA’s two campuses, in Key West and Marathon. 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.

See all the animals waiting for a home at fkspca.org. To contact the Marathon campus, call 305-743-4800 or visit the campus at 10550 Aviation Blvd.

EGAN

2-month-old male domestic shorthair.

Looking for: Playtime! I love exploring.

Turnoffs: I’m still getting used to this big world.

KEAGAN

2-month-old male domestic shorthair.

Looking for: My first ever home. I’m so excited!

Turnoffs: New things can be scary, but I’m learning and growing.

KEYS WEEKLY

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

THE SCOREBOARD

Senior, Coral Shores Weightlifting

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

JULIAN JUVIER

Julian Juvier competes for Coral Shores at the regional weightlifting championships. MIKKEL ROSS/Contributed

Coral Shores senior lifter Julian Juvier made school and Keys history on April 15 when he won dual state championships in Olympic and traditional weightlifting. His monster 375-pound bench press is among the top 10 heaviest lifts of any athlete in Florida’s 1A division, regardless of weight class. All of this is made more impressive by the fact that this was Juvier’s first season participating in the sport. “Since his freshman year, I encouraged him to come out for the team,” said coach Erin Hamilton. “This year he finally did.” Juvier’s strength is matched only by his kind-hearted nature. His sportsmanship and camaraderie captured the attention of other athletes and coaches who praised his character as much as his athletic prowess. For his huge accomplishments and giant heart, Julian Juvier is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

– Erin Hamilton, Coral Shores weightlifting coach

“Julian is a pleasant, light-hearted person. He has a heart of gold. He cares about everyone and works hard at everything he does.”

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

KEYS TRACK AND FIELD ATHLETES FINE-TUNE FOR DISTRICTS

Alaric Rodriguez is a Double Winner for ’Canes

Marathon’s top-seeded Adrien Holdinga lost his match in a 9-8 tiebreaker. Holdinga was the top Keys performer at districts this past week.

BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

TRACK & FIELD DISTRICTS AT PALMER

Coral Shores hosted its final meet of the season to compete against Somerset South Homestead on April 12. The Upper Keys Hurricanes blew by the Hurricanes of Somerset, 86-32. Alaric Rodriguez was the big winner for the ’Canes, winning first place in the one and two mile races. Ethan Margut took first in the 800m while hurdlers Xavier Johnson and Ambrose Sanchez won the 110m high and 400m intermediate events. Sanchez was also part of the ’Canes’ winning 4x400m relay team along with teammates Sean Andrews, Sean Harm and William Davila. In the field, Jamoris Davis won the triple jump while Eddie Holly took first in shot put and Evan Osipoz won the discus event.

The Lady ’Canes outscored Somerset 53-24, with first-place victories going to Niveah Howard in the 100m, Maya Gaden in the 400m, Jasmine Hollis in the 100m high hurdles and Sammy Bates in the 800m. Bates ran a leg of Coral Shores’ winning 4x400m team as well, with Sarina Huerta, Kacelyn Hollis and Jenna Mandozzi rounding out the relay crew. Throwers Syndey Eysenbach and Jennille Arias won the shot put and discus events, respectively.

Key West took the week off from competition, resting for its FHSAA 2A District 16 meet at Tropical Park on April 19. The Conchs have numerous athletes in contention for a district title, especially in the field events.

Marathon put the finishing touches on its own field events on April 12, hosting an intersquad throwing and jumping minimeet. A handful of Conchs attended to get in another official event to qualify for districts. The Dolphins are strong in the field, particularly in the pole vault, the specialty of head coach Darby Sheehan.

Coral Shores’ home meet was the final Keys competition prior to districts. Marathon and Coral Shores compete against one another and the rest of the FHSAA 1A District 16 challengers on Thursday, April 20 at Palmer Trinity School.

Courtside action came to a close for Monroe County prep tennis teams last week when all three squads competed at districts. No individual athletes or doubles pairs advanced beyond the district-level tournament, but that does not mean there were not some hard-fought matches. Perennial powerhouse Gulliver Prep put an end to Key West’s season in class 2A action. 1A Marathon and Coral Shores endured multiple rain delays in their singles and cancellations in doubles play. Those teams suffered the effects of redistricting recently, pitting them against some of the highest-caliber private schools in the state. Small, private schools often have the luxury of year-round professional coaching, making it extremely difficult for public school players to advance.

KEYS TENNIS HOPES END AT

DISTRICTS

All three teams fall short of regional brackets

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

TRACK & FIELD DISTRICTS AT PALMER APRIL

MARATHON FOOTBALL VISITS FIU

A small crew of Marathon’s returning football team enjoyed a tour of Florida International University’s football complex on April 13, just over two weeks before high school spring football season. The Dolphins were able to watch FIU’s morning practice session from the sidelines and were given access to key players and coaches for questionand-answer sessions. After the practice, the players were given a tour of the team meeting room, weight room and other campus facilities. Coaches Sean McDonald and Sean Roussin accompanied the team in an effort to drum up excitement for the upcoming spring season as well as to show the players what it takes to compete at the next level.

Spring football practice officially opens in Florida on the first day of May. This year, Marathon and Coral Shores both play at home on May 19, with kickoffs at 6 p.m. The Dolphins face Somerset South Homestead while the Hurricanes will play Coral Springs. Key West has not yet secured an opponent for its spring game and may opt for a classic intersquad soap bowl showcase. The soap bowl refers to a game in which fans are asked to bring laundry detergent in lieu of regular admission fees in order to keep the team’s uniforms laundered throughout the season.

TWO ’CANES BRING HOME THE GOLD

Juvier, Arrington win state championships

Five Keys athletes made the trip to Lakeland for the FHSAA

1A State Championship in boys weightlifting on April 15. When the final lift was complete, Coral Shores’ team of four earned fifth place in both the Olympic and traditional categories, solidifying the ’Canes’ top spot in Keys strongmen, particularly in the heavier categories. All five Keys lifters represented the four largest weight classes.

It’s no surprise that senior Xavyer Arrington made a trip to the podium. Arrington won the inaugural snatch competition in 2022 and was favored to win the Olympic category this season – which he did – but it was his final clean and jerk lift that pushed him into the top spot in the state. Arrington went on to combine his clean and jerk weight with a massive 365-pound bench press to take third place in the

traditional category, giving him three total state medals in his past two years lifting for Coral Shores. Arrington competed in the Unlimited category, in which some competitors outweighed him by up to 70 pounds.

One weight class below, in the 238 pound division, Julian Juvier was not to be outdone by anyone. Juvier, a senior

It’s no surprise that senior Xavyer Arrington made a trip to the podium. Arrington won the inaugural snatch competition in 2022 and was favored to win the Olympic category this season –which he did.

who joined the team for the first time this season, benched 375 pounds, which gave him a significant edge in the traditional category. His 235-pound snatch and 315-pound clean made it undeniable that he should be the champ in both categories. Juvier’s lifts were so big that he would have medaled in both categories in the next weight class.

The 219-pound class was represented by two Keys athletes: Marathon’s Thomas Eubank, the lone Fin to qualify for the event, and Coral Shores’ AJ Johnson. Eubank finished 15th in traditional lifts, ending a highly decorated athletic career for the senior Dolphin. Johnson cracked the top 10, finishing in ninth place in the Olympic category. Though he was three places from a medal, the junior will have another shot at hardware in 2024.

The lightest class represented at the championships was 199 pounds. Coral Shores’ Dantay Diorio finished in seventh place, one shy of a medal. Just a sophomore, the Keys' youngest state-qualifying male lifter will no doubt come home a little bit heavier in the coming years with a medal or two around his neck. In the meantime, Diorio will have about a week’s rest before heading out to the football field for spring practices.

Dolphins football players and coaches pose with FIU head coach Mike MacIntyre (center, with watch) after watching the Panthers’ workout during a spring practice. CONTRIBUTED

Coral Shores’ weightlifters brought home fifth place as a team and multiple individual medals this past week. Pictured at the state championship meet, from left, are Dantay Diorio, Xavyer Arrington, coach Erin Hamilton, Julian Juvier and AJ Johnson. CONTRIBUTED

Seen here in Key West races in 2022, the deafening sounds and incredible speeds of powerboat racing are set to return to Marathon with the 7 Mile Grand Prix on April 28-30. LARRY BLACKBURN/ Keys Weekly

Ifyou’reafanofbigboatsgoingreally,reallyfast–think140mph–next weekendisyourChristmasinApril.

7 Mile Grand Prix is next weekend

Forthefirsttimeinsevenyears,powerboatracingwillreturnto MarathonwithRaceWorldOffshore(RWO)’s7MileGrandPrix,takingplace onApril28-30.Withtheadditionofthenewofficially-sanctioned race, theFloridaKeyswillnowbookendtheAmericanPowerBoatAssociation (APBA)’sNationalSeries,whichreturnsinNovemberforitsconclusion in KeyWest.

ADMISSION

ViewingtheracesfromtheOldSevenMileBridgeisFREE.Two-dayVIPpackagesareavailableforpurchasefor$300andinclude designatedseating,foodanddrinks andadmissiontospecialevents throughouttheweekend.Moredetails are at raceworldoffshore.com

“WhenIsawthemmovingalltheconstructionequipmentoffthe(Old SevenMile)bridge,that’swhenIstartedplanningtohavethisaspartof ournationalseries,”RWOPresidentLarryBleiltoldtheWeekly.“I’mjustreallyproudandexcitedtobringthiseventtotwoplacesinMonroeCounty.”

Witha5.6-milecoursethatrunsalongtheOldSevenMileBridge in its finalstraightawaysbeforethefinish,spectatorscanwatchtheepicduels between12classesofboatsboastingthousandsofhorsepowerbyland or bysea,inadditiontoopportunitiesfordrypitvisitsandpost-raceparties atlocalbusinessesthroughouttheweekend.

WATCH THE RACES

THE PARKING ParkingforspectatorsisavailableatMarathonCommunityPark. ThePigeonKeytrainwillrunevery15 minutesfrom9:30a.m.to4:30p.m.on SaturdayandSundaytodeliverspectatorsfromtheparktoSunsetGrille, wheretheycanwalktothebridge.VIP guestsmayparkatSunsetGrille.

THE PARTIES FloridaKeysAquariumEncounters willhostawelcomepartyforracers andfansfrom5:30to8:30p.m.onFriday,April28withanafter-partyatFaro BlancoResort.Anawardsceremony willbeginat6p.m.onSunday,April30 atFaroBlancowithanafter-partyto follow.

Theprimaryviewingareaison theOldSevenMileBridge,butspectatorsmaybeabletoseesomepartsof theracesfromthewesterngulfside edgeofMarathonasshowninthe coursemap.ReservedVIPareaswill besectionedoffonportionsofOld Sevenaswellastheparkatthebase ofthebridge.Spectatorsarewelcome towatchfromthewater,providedthey staybehindthespectatorvessellines asindicatedonthecoursemap.

“We want to thank Faro Blanco Resort, Faro Blanco Marina, the CourtyardMarriott,AquariumEncounters,SunsetGrilleandallour other hospitalitysponsorsforhostingus,”saidRWOmanagingdirector Atif Awan,givingadditionalnodstothecityofMarathon,TouristDevelopment Councilandnearly30othereventsponsors,includinganewly-announced partnershipwithMonsterEnergy.

“ThecityofMarathonisabsolutelypleasedthatthepowerboat races arebackinourneighborhood,”saidMarathonCityManagerGeorge Garrett.“Welookforwardtowatchingtheevent…andhavingagreat time whiledoingit.”

TheKeysWeeklytooktimetosortthroughallavailableinformation abouttheracesandsatdownwithBleilandAwanonApril18toclarifya fewfinalpointers.Here’swhatspectatorsneedtoknow:

THE RACE SCHEDULE

CLOSURES

The33rdStreetboatrampand OldSevenMileBridgeparkingarea willbeclosedonApril29and30. The area around the race course and under the east end oftheSevenMileBridgewillbe closedtovesseltrafficthroughoutSaturdayandSunday.The areawilltemporarilyopento boat traffic from noon to 1 p.m.eachday.

Offshoretestingwilltakeplace from10a.m.tonoononSaturday. Saturday’sracesarescheduledtorun from1:30to4p.m.Sunday’sraces,includingseveralclassesoflargerboats, willrunfrom9:30a.m.to4p.m.Fora fullschedule,includingindividualclass races, visit raceworldoffshore.com/ marathon.

SEE THE BOATS

Fansmayvisitboatsandtheirrace crewsfrom9a.m.to5p.m.,Friday throughSunday,atthedrypitlocations at San Pablo Catholic Church and the west end of the Marathon InternationalAirport.Withadditionalsecurity considerations,inspectionsandfueling occurringattheairportpitlocation, fansareencouragedtovisitSanPablo astheprimarydrypitlocation.Wet pitsarelocatedatFaroBlancoMarina.

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

Anillustrationofthecoursemapshowsits runalongtheOldSevenMileBridge.Note thedesignatedareasforspectatorvessels andareasclosedtovesseltraffic.RACE

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1ST-EVER I.CARE TRASH DERBY

Keys-Wide Contest Has Plans to “Triumph Over Trash”

Annual,

On May 11-13, Islamorada restoration nonprofit I.CARE will host the first-ever Trash Derby. The Keys-wide, weekend-long contest and celebration plans to tackle the amount of debris affecting our islands. The format is loosely modeled on popular Lionfish Derbies, which bring concentrated effort into one place over a prescribed amount of time to make a big impact. For the Trash Derby, you can get involved picking up trash in three ways: on land, using private watercrafts or participating with local dive shops.

“Pulling debris aligns well with I.CARE’s mission to restore coral reefs here in the Keys,” said I.CARE founder and Key Dives owner Mike Goldberg. “If there’s one thing the Keys community can band together around, it is bringing back a healthy, thriving reef.”

I.CARE outplants coral every week –and 95% of that effort is done by hand by recreational divers with partnering dive shops. These citizen-scientists are locals and tourists who want to learn and lend a hand. In the two years the program has been in place, over 2,000 divers have gone through it.

Debris-free reefs aid coral restoration efforts by providing a “clean slate” for divers to outplant on. Trash in the water can also abrade, smash or otherwise destroy fragile corals. So, the efforts are inextricably linked. Debris is also dangerous for wildlife; it entangles sea turtles, dolphins, manatees and birds.

According to PADI AWARE, 80% of physical debris in our ocean comes from land-based sources, so stopping the flow of trash and plastic from land is a powerful way to protect our waters.

On land, trash is equally damaging. Ocean currents can bring trash from far away to our shorelines, where it acts as an eyesore to locals and tourists. Big storms can take trash from land, boats or the water (line and traps) and twist it around mangrove roots, corals and other critical habitats.

To combat this, the Trash Derby includes one and a half days of debris collection by land and sea, followed by a family-friendly festival at Islamorada’s Founders Park. The latter will include food, music, eco-minded vendors, local environmental organizations, an award ceremony, raffles, silent auction, games and activities. Oh, and almost $6,000 in

cash prizes for winners in the different cleanup categories.

“The original idea was to get all dive shops involved in this community project in a way that brought them all together for a common cause,” Goldberg told the Weekly. “We took it further, wanting to bring everyone together, including private boat owners and folks that want to do shoreline clean-ups.”

Sponsorship from throughout the community has been crucial to bringing this first-ever event to fruition, Goldberg said. The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, in support of Goal: Clean Seas Program, partnered with I.CARE, and generosity from other foundations, marinas, dive shops, waste disposal companies, rum manufacturers and apparel makers have made it possible.

“Marine debris is a massive problem worldwide, and this event helps address this issue,” Goldberg said. “At the same time, it brings awareness to the state of our coral reefs and the work that I.CARE and other reef restoration practitioners are doing to solve this local and global problem.”

Goldberg is hopeful that the effort will hit a minimum of 4,000 pounds of debris over the course of the derby. His dive shop, Key Dives, recently surpassed 20,000 pounds of debris removed through Dives Against Debris.

The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation hopes that as much debris collected as possible can be reused and repurposed locally. If local businesses and organizations can use old traps, lines, monofilament, buoys, various plastics and other common marine debris, contact Cortney Benson at cbenson@marinesanctuary.org.

So, what’s next?

Right now is the time to register – either as a team or with a local participating dive shop, Goldberg said. Land-based and private vessel teams are free to register. Dive operators pay $250, but registration is free for Blue Star Operators. Register and learn more at icaretrashderby.com/ participate.

“Let’s go have some fun helping our ocean,” Goldberg said.

From top: The I.CARE team participates in a shoreline cleanup. Land-based efforts are a critical part of the Trash Derby. I.CARE/Contributed

Monofilament from fishing lines is a big problem in the Florida Keys. It can wind around coral and wildlife, causing great harm. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly

Cortney Benson of the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation operates a lift bag during a Dive Against Debris with Key Dives.

Conservation coordinators with Rainbow Reef Dive Center take stock of a day’s Dive Against Debris haul. Properly sorting, counting and recording what’s collected informs better waste management policies.

THE SCHEDULE:

• May 11, 6:15 to 7:30 p.m., Bud N’ Mary’s Barn (79851 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada)mandatory captain’s meeting (in-person or virtual), gear pickup, and Mote coral nursery tour. Beer provided by Florida Keys Brewing Co.

• May 12, 6:40 a.m. to May 13 (2 p.m.), Key Largo to Big Pine - Trash Derby open; debris collection allowed for I.CARE Trash Derby teams

• May 12, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Indian Key Fill (U.S. 1, MM79 Bayside, Islamorada) - Lignumvitae Key Aquatic Preserve cleanup. RSVP required.

• May 13, 1 to 8 p.m., Founders Park (8700 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada) - I.CARE Trash Derby Festival with food, music, awards, vendors and games.

Plant the seeds of better hearing this year

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MARATHON SHRINE CLUB WOULD LIKE TO RECOGNIZE

Maria Ely and Florida Steak and Lobster have always been there for Marathon Shrine Club year after year.

Bob Britz has dedicated a large part of his life helping other Shriners help our Shriners Hospitals help our Kids.

Arnold George Steinmetz Jr. Dec. 3, 1961 –March 25, 2023

MARATHON HIGH SCHOOL BAND PREPS

FOR

SPRING CONCERT

The entire Marathon community is invited to join the Marathon High School Band for its annual spring concert on Thursday, April 27 at 6:30 p.m. at the high school’s performing arts center. The evening performance will feature the high school band’s “Jazz in Marathon” program. There are sure to be a few songs audiences will recognize. The students from several different instrument families will perform a few features from the band’s recent solo and ensemble performances. This evening will also include the beginning band as well as a full combined bands performance in the finale. The night will also celebrate the accomplishments of the group’s seniors as they play in their final school concert. The concert is free for all, while donations are always accepted, especially to help sponsor repairs of school instruments. The student musicians are eager to welcome jazz fans for a night of phenomenal tunes. PHOTO CONTRIBUTED.

CELEBRATING MCKINNEY

Sheriff Rick Ramsay presents Florida Highway Patrol Lt. Kathy McKinney with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Lifetime Achievement Award for her service to the community and her valued assistance to the agency. Lt. McKinney will retire on May 1, 2023, with more than 40 years of service.

“FHP Lt. Kathy McKinney has played an integral role in my team philosophy when it comes to law enforcement in the Florida Keys,” said Ramsay. “I wish her well in her retirement as she exemplifies professionalism and what it means to be a team player.” – Contributed

George was born in Fort Lauderdale to the late Jean Celeste (Schroeder) Steinmetz and late Arnold George Steinmetz Sr. Raised in Marathon, where his first job at 13 years old was delivering newspapers by bicycle and then working for his father at Coral Construction, he graduated from Marathon High School in 1979 before attending FIU in Miami.

George joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany, where he met his first wife and mother of his two children Chelsea and Alek, Petra (Schaaf) Steinmetz. Returning to Marathon, George joined the Marathon Fire Department while also working with his father for Coral Construction Company. George then joined the Florida Marine Patrol and quickly became a captain, a rank he held until his retirement in 2003.

He then founded Coral Marine Construction and completed many projects, including repairing bridges throughout the Keys and building his favorite dock, located on Pigeon Key. His love for Pigeon Key led him to become president of the Pigeon Key Foundation, a board he served on until his passing. In 2014, he went back to where it all began with Coral Construction Company and, in his own words, was “the best teacher” as he helped the fourth generation of family contractors learn the trade.

George passed away in his home in Marathon with his second wife, Angie.

George loved Marathon and the island life. He had a deep appreciation for the ocean that he shared with his family. He always said he felt most calm when he would lie on the ocean floor, looking up at the sky. He loved the small community where he was able to know everyone. Between his enormous stature and even bigger heart, he quickly became the person everyone would go to for any problem, big or small. He could either solve your problem or support you in such a way that you could do it on your own. His personality and heart made him a reallife superhero.

One of his greatest passions, other than his family and helping people, was working with his hands. Even when he was working a full-time job, he would be building a new home or renovating one for his family to live

in. He loved to work hard and see the beautiful results at the end. Continuing on with the family construction company was something he was very passionate about.

George was so special and always had a positive outlook. He had a demanding presence with just the right amount of goofiness, yet calming at the same time. He would always make you feel like everything was going to be okay. If there was ever anything you needed, he would respond with his big smile, a wisecrack, a hearty laugh and a “no problem,” and it was done. He was respected by all who knew him. He had a genuine interest in helping to better those around him while also learning all he could from his peers.

God “broke the mold” when George was born. He is a man who can never be replaced and has left an impression on all who have met him. George was larger than life, in every way.

Arnold George Steinmetz Jr. is survived by his daughter Chelsea Lyons (Evan) and her two children Avery & Alric; his son Alek Steinmetz; his wife Angie Pineda and her two sons Juan and Jean; his brother Erik Steinmetz; and his second mom Riet Steinmetz.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made, in George’s name, to the Pigeon Key Foundation.

A Celebration of Life will be held for George on Saturday, April 22 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Pigeon Key. A ferry, vans and the Pigeon Key Trolley will be available to transport guests from the 33rd Street boat ramp from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Private boats will not be permitted on the island during the service. If you would like to attend, we highly recommend taking your bicycle and enjoying a beautiful ride across the bridge for the celebration. If you decide to ride your bike, then please park at the Pigeon Key train parking lot. More information can be found at www. arnoldsteinmetz.com

FEED YOUR MIND

TWO CUPS OF ROMANCE, A TEASPOON OF SCOTTISH WHISKEY AND AN UNEXPECTED PINCH OF MURDER. FOOD AND FICTION – MY FAVORITE INGREDIENTS OF A BESTSELLER.

SADIE ON A PLATE

By Amanda Elliot

Sadie, a young chef from Seattle, is a rising star at the trendy Green Onion when her no-good boss chops her heart into tiny pieces. Embarrassed and heartbroken, Sadie is stunned to get a call welcoming her as a contestant on Chef Supreme, the world-class cooking competition she applied to months ago. On the flight to NYC, Sadie is seated next to a handsome man named Luke with the telltale hand scars only a chef would wear. Sworn to secrecy, they enjoy each other’s company and a farewell kiss, knowing Sadie will be incommunicado

RUBY SPENCER’S WHISKEY YEAR

By Rochelle Bilow

At 35, Ruby packs up her big-city life as a food writer and moves to the quaint village of Thistlecross in the Scottish Highlands. Her free-spirit parents encourage the adventure, and her best friend applauds this act of bravery. Once she lands in the cozy cottage she will now call home, her confidence – along with her luggage – seems to be missing. Luckily, her agreement to help cook at the local pub is an excellent way to meet the eccentric town characters and, most importantly,

THE GOLDEN SPOON

By Jessa Maxwell

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

for six weeks while the show is filming. When Luke shockingly walks into the studio the next day, Sadie is certain this is a recipe for disaster. She puts her heart and soul into cooking traditional Jewish foods with a modern twist while the whispers of her late Grandma Ruth’s advice stream through her mind. As the weekly challenges escalate, designed to thwart even the most confident competitors, Sadie cannot ignore the way Judge Luke devours every bite. Following the model of popular cooking competitions televised today, this book will leave the reader hungry for more.

the attractive bearded handyman in charge of fixing up her accommodations. As their friendship grows, Ruby’s heart opens for the first time in a long while. The walls she built after each outrageous breakup slowly come down while Brochan and Ruby can’t seem to keep their hands off each other. Feeling at home for the first time, Ruby struggles to find a way to save her career, love life and the town in one fell swoop. This absolutely delicious romance is a completely entertaining read filled with food and friendship. There is a great big world out there and love may be discovered where you least expect it.

The Golden Spoon has been a top-rated cooking show for the last decade. Hordes of fans wait for the weeklong event to see which of the six bakers will win the coveted title. Famous cookbook author Betsy Martin hosts the competition in the mansion where she was raised, Grafton Manor. Deep in the rolling hills of Vermont, the contestants arrive carrying their own baking baggage. As Betsy grapples with a despised co-host and untrustworthy assistant, she fights to protect the legacy of Grafton Manor, which cannot be maintained without

the revenue of Bake Week. Discrepancies in salt and sugar and oven temperatures begin to pique the chef’s curiosity, but no one can turn a blind eye when a dead body is discovered. As the competition, similar to the Great British Bake Off, follows each delicious recipe, the various backgrounds of each baker are slowly revealed. With all the ingredients of an escape room mystery, the contestants are trapped in the mansion on a stormy night. When the power fails and lightning flashes throughout, the frightening truth is slowly revealed. With a fun, fast-paced foodie thriller, this debut author is a rising star.

WATCH TIP: A young couple travels to a remote island with a hand-selected few to taste the food of a renowned and mysterious chef. The word “foodie” takes on a whole new meaning in this very (VERY!) dark comedy horror film. “The Menu” can be seen on Apple TV.

KAREN NEWFIELD

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

When Marathon High School sophomore Ella Dunn stepped on stage last Friday night to help tell the “tale as old as time” as Belle in the school’s production of “Beauty and the Beast,” she was also telling a tale of two generations.

“It took my breath away,” her mother Catherine told the Weekly. “It was like looking at my 16-year-old self.”

She’s referencing the eight years she herself spent as – in the Disney-approved verbiage for cast members in the parks – a “close friend” of Belle’s at the company’s Orlando theme park from 1993-2001.

When the Dunn family enters the conversation around Marathon, a few things come to mind: incredible kids, a dad who’s saved practically every animal in town, and a mom who followed up a dream career in Orlando with another one training dolphins here in the Keys.

So when the Weekly sat down with the mother-daughter duo, we got the obvious question out of the way immediately: Did Ella really not know?

“When my mom took me to Disney when we were little, I kind of knew,” she said. “Just because, there are Disney adults, and then there’s my mom. … She just had a crazy connection to people.”

But as they both tell it, the two had been content to let the mystery linger – that is, at least, until Catherine enlisted the help of her current and former coworkers to create a touching 10-minute video detailing her magical past with the classic Disney princess, shown to her daughter two days before opening night.

As part of the video, Ella learned she’d have some star-studded audiences that weekend, including Caity Ayers and Toby Williams – other close friends of Belle and The Beast, respectively, during and shortly after Catherine’s time in Orlando.

“Caity was her pen pal. Every time we’d visit, she would visit with Ella after the shows,” Catherine said. “She watched a lot of what Caity did growing up, and I think

that kind of ignited a little passion in there.”

Also in the seats were former Disney show directors Suzie Lalone and Chase Senge. Senge is a creator of “Beauty and the Beast: the Magic and the Music,” a live presentation in 1991 that reunited the film’s original voice actors with a live orchestra to illustrate the movie’s characters, animation and musical composition. The show’s reception served as a catalyst that paved the way for Disney’s first foray into Broadway with “Beauty and the Beast: The Broadway Musical.”

Needless to say, MHS’ auditorium had no shortage of qualified critics.

“Having all that history, and people knowing that history, that was a lot of pressure,” Ella said. “The scariest part was auditioning, even though our director Ms. Cox didn’t know. It was very intimidating. … What if my mom was Belle, but I was a spoon?”

“When Suzie said she was coming to this show, I got so nervous, and I wasn’t even doing anything,” Catherine said, recalling the days in which Lalone showed her the ropes and taught her to embody the character’s essence. “Part of me still wanted that good note, and halfway through, she leaned in and gave me one.”

“I have to know a performer right away. That was my job for a long time, was to keep that Disney quality,” Lalone told the Weekly. “This cast, in a very short amount of time, their enthusiasm was intoxicating.”

Although Catherine’s video for Ella never explicitly stated the nature of her friendship with the iconic Disney princess, the experience only deepened a bond with her daughter that will never be forgotten.

“Before, I didn’t really understand it,” Ella said. “I was like, ‘Oh man, Beauty and the Beast, my mom loves this.’ … But she understood how it was to say goodbye to my co-partner (Dakota Mertyris, who played The Beast), putting on the wig for the first time, putting on the dress for the first time. We had a lot in common in that.”

“Ella’s my daughter, but I had always seen more of (my husband) Mike in her,” Catherine said. “The similarities hadn’t presented themselves to me before, so it gave me all sorts of emotions.

“This whole thing has been a dream. Honestly, I’m still waiting to wake up.”

Catherine and Ella Dunn are forever bonded through Belle

Ella Dunn, bottom right, and Dakota Mertyris, bottom left, who played Belle and The Beast in MHS’ ‘Beauty and the Beast,’ pause for a postshow photo with Disney show directors Chase Senge, top right, and Suzie Lalone, top left, who taught Ella’s mother Catherine, top center, much of what it meant to be Belle in 1993. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

A young Ella Dunn meets The Beast at Walt Disney World Orlando.

From 1993 to 2001, Catherine Dunn and Belle had quite the close friendship at Walt Disney World Orlando. CONTRIBUTED

CONCH REPUBLIC

Independence Celebration

April 21-30, 2023

SCHEDULE of EVENTS

h DAILYh

10am-8pm: KEY WEST HISTORIC SEAPORT Conch Republic

Headquarters & Merchandise Booth at Elizabeth & Greene Streets, shopping, dining, live music, boats, schooners and more!

5:30pm: “CONCH REPUBLIC, THE MUSICAL!” at Little Room Jazz Club.

h FRIDAY, APRIL 21st h

FORTY YEARS ONE

“We’re All Here Because We’re Not All There ! ”

ConchRepublic.com

KEY WEST, FLORIDA

8-9am: CONCH REPUBLIC BEACH CLEANUP on Higgs Beach.

3-4am: “RAISING of the COLORS” CEREMONY at Mallory Square.

7am: CONCH REPUBLIC DAYS KICK-OFF PARTY at Schooner Wharf Bar.

7-9: “ADVENTURES of the CONCH REPUBLIC” Last Chance Bar in Florida City.

h SATURDAY, APRIL 22nd h

8am: EARTH DAY CLEANUP on STOCK ISLAND at Bernstein Park. 11am-3pm: CONCH CRAWL BAR STROLL Check in at 801 Duval.

3-4pm: CONCH REPUBLIC DRAG RACES Check in 724 Duval.

7-9pm: VIP Screening of “ADVENTURES of the CONCH REPUBLIC” at Tropic Cinema.

h SUNDAY, APRIL 23rd h

Noon-1pm: SECESSION RE-ENACTMENT at 401 Wall Street.

1-4pm: PARTY LIKE A CONCH-STAR POOL PARTY at The Gates Hotel.

2-4pm: Public Screening of “ADVENTURES of the CONCH REPUBLIC” at Tropic Cinema.

5-7pm: JAZZ IN THE GARDEN at The Gardens Hotel.

h MONDAY, APRIL 24th h

5-7pm: CONCH REPUBLIC K-9 MUSTER in the Backyard Bar at The EmPOURium.

5-7pm: BLIND WINE TASTING at The Gardens Hotel.

h TUESDAY, APRIL 25th h

6-8pm: MILITARY MUSTER & CONCH-TAIL PARTY at the Southernmost Point Bar.

h WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26th h

3-5pm: “ART of WINE”

GALLERY TOUR & WINE STROLL at The Saint Hotel.

6-10pm: HOT HAVANA NIGHT at Smokin’ Tuna Saloon.

h THURSDAY, APRIL 27th h

6-7pm: PRE-PARADE PARTY at Southernmost Point Guest House.

8-9pm: The WORLD’S LOOOOONGEST PARADE on Duval from the Atlantic to the Gulf.

9pm: PARADE AFTER PARTY & AWARDS at Schooner Wharf Bar.

h FRIDAY, APRIL 28th h

5:30pm: RACE WORLD OFFSHORE KICK-OFF PARTY at Aquarium Encounters, Marathon.

7pm: GREAT SEA BATTLE of the CONCH REPUBLIC in Key West Harbor.

8pm: “SURRENDER CEREMONY & VICTORY PARTY” at Schooner Wharf Bar.

h SATURDAY, APRIL 29th h

10am-6pm: CONCH REPUBLIC ART & CRAFT FAIR on Duval, between Eaton & Greene.

2-4pm: BLUE RIBBON BED RACES on Duval, starting at Bourbon St. Pub.

5:30pm: RACE WORLD OFFSHORE RACERS & FANS PARTY at Sunset Grill, Marathon.

7pm: PIRATE BALL & COSTUME CONTEST at Schooner Wharf Bar, Historic Seaport.

h

SUNDAY, APRIL 30th h

8am-3pm: RACE WORLD OFFSHORE CONCH REPUBLIC CUP 7-Mile Bridge, Marathon.

1-4pm: SCHOONER WHARF WRECKERS CUP RACE SERIES to Sand Key Lighthouse.

6pm: RACE WORLD OFFSHORE AWARDS

CEREMONY at Faro Blanco Resort, Marathon.

7pm: WRECKERS CUP RACE AWARDS PARTY & CEREMONY at Schooner Wharf Bar.

TICKETS & INFO: ConchRepublic.com

Come visit the Headquarters of CRIC 2023 at Elizabeth & Greene Streets in KW Historic Seaport, 10AM-8PM.

TUESDAY

SS WRECK & GALLEY

GRILL

LIVE MUSIC FRIDAY 5:30 - 8:30PM

WEDNESDAY THRU SUNDAY 4:20 - 11

Nominated for Best Key Lime Pie!

HAPPY HOUR

SUNDAY - THURSDAY 11AM-9PM

FRIDAY & SATURDAY 11AM-10PM

MONDAY - FRIDAY 3PM-5PM $8 FOOD MENU $1 OFF BEER, WINE & WELL DRINKS

Mile Marker 59, Grassy Key (next to the Dolphin Research Center), 305-517-6484 Visit our www.sswreck.com for online ordering and upcoming special events

LAW CHANGE: 101.62 REQUEST FOR VOTE-BY-MAIL BALLOTS

(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.

This weekend celebrates the moment we all give thanks to the Earth for her abundance and natural resources. That’s right, 420 Day is upon us (oh, and don’t forget about Earth Day on the 22nd), which likely serves as a holiday for many of your neighbors in the Florida Keys. For those who do partake, we assume you will not be at work on Thursday, so we created our best 420 movie playlist to pair with your favorite platter of munchies. This is, like, our opinion, man, of the …

420 DAY MOVIES OF ALL-TIME

10. “Super Troopers” (2001): Just about any revelation from the brain of Jay Chandrasekhar is deserving of this list, but “Super Troopers” remains a cannabiscult favorite, as it follows a goofball team of Vermont state troopers trying to save their jobs. Favorite line: “Am I saying Meow Don’t think boy, meow do you know how fast you were going?”

9. “Friday” (1995): No 420 list is complete without “Friday,” which propelled Chris Tucker (“Smokey”) into stardom, along with a cornucopia of tasty stoner quotes. Favorite line: “You’ve got to be one stupid mother%#er to get fired on your day off.”

8. “Dude, Where’s My Car” (2000): Critics of our Top 10 lists (and we have plenty) will debate this one, but this movie measures up against the true stoner movie test — “Can a movie be horrible without weed, but incredible when you’re on weed?” Favorite line: “Dude, what does mine say?” “Sweet, what does mine say!”

7. “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” (2019): For those who didn’t accept this as Tarantino’s masterpiece, you totally missed the point. Or maybe you need to give it another try on 420. Favorite line: “I’m as real as a donut.”

6. “Half Baked” (1998): Before Dave Chappelle was universally considered one of the greatest standup comics to ever live,

THE NEED FOR SPEED

Just how fast do you need to go?

It seems spring is the season for some big events in the Keys dedicated to speed: how fast can a human being propel his or her mechanical vehicle? The Blue Angels showed off incredible feats of aeronautical navigation at very high speeds over Key West skies last weekend. This weekend, Race World Offshore’s inaugural 7 Mile Offshore Grand Prix will feature high-powered speedboats racing for trophies in various classes, again at very high speeds. And just a bit outside our islands, the Homestead-Miami Speedway hosts various NASCAR and other races, where drivers guide their souped-up automobiles to a checkered flag at very high speeds.

at high speeds on open roads or other open areas like desert flats or beaches. My favorites are the commercials that show the new cars driving through the ocean surf … as if all that saltwater is really good for the car.

there was “Half Baked.” No list like this is complete without this film. Favorite line: “I don’t do drugs, though. Just weed.”

5. “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” (1998): They say movies never measure up to their books, particularly the words of Hunter S. Thompson. But this film came as close as they come. Favorite line: “Too weird to live. Too rare to die.” - HST

4. “Dazed and Confused” (1993): It’s a generational film that was never meant to be great. Perhaps that’s why it’s one of the best ever. Favorite line: “Alright, alright, alright.”

3. “Cheech & Chong’s Next Movie” (1980): If we have to explain this one, you probably have issues with the “Devil’s lettuce.” Favorite line: “Man, if you had a second brain, it would die of loneliness, man.”

2. “Pineapple Express” (2008): Even if the rest of the movie was horrible, the intro alone would land it on this list. Thankfully, the entire journey is a magic carpet ride. Favorite line: “It’s almost a shame to smoke it. It’s like killing a unicorn, with like, a bomb.”

1. “The Big Lebowski” (1998): This movie is to stoners what “Star Wars” is to dorks. There are people who only communicate in Big Lebowski lines and you likely know at least two of them. Favorite line: “The dude abides.”

It begs the question: why are humans so enthralled by going fast?

Part of it may just be the human condition. We were born explorers, destined to travel to new lands, go deep into the ocean and high into the sky. We send people into space. We climb mountains. And then we jump off of them in those winged glider suits! (Well … I don’t.)

One theory, espoused by professor Edna Duffy in “The Speed Handbook,” suggests that the widespread proliferation of the automobile transformed the human perception of speed. According to ABC’s Science website, “As you ‘floor’ the pedal, there is a sudden spurt of adrenaline through your body, which has many effects: your blood pressure rises instantly, your heartbeat races, your body temperature rises, and you can feel a slight tingling in your limbs. These effects are seen in both males and females, but are decidedly more pronounced in males. This is why the obsession with speed is commonly associated with testosterone. This is also why men are generally considered to be hastier and less cautious behind the wheel.” (Sorry to those who maintain the misconception about “women drivers.”)

Beyond simple testosterone, there is another biological factor that fuels our obsession with going fast: MAO (dopamine and monoamine oxidase). This is the brain chemical that controls the release of dopamine, the reward chemical associated with pleasure. If you have low levels of MAO, you may be more inclined to seek thrills and adventure … and maybe seek out higher speeds. It’s really all in the mind.

That thrill-seeking mindset is what car manufacturers highlight in their marketing. No car commercial shows the newest model spending time moving incrementally on a packed freeway during rush hour. Instead, they all show their beautiful vehicles moving

Sadly, we don’t have to look too far to see the unintended consequences of our obsession with speed. U.S. 1 in the Keys is not the open road of decades past. Our connecting highway tends to stay quite busy throughout the year, and is just two lanes for a large part of its distance. It doesn’t matter if you’re driving the newest Lamborghini or a 12-year-old Toyota Camry, excessive speeds are not your friend. The two tons of metal and plastic that you control should never be weaponized.

Enough of the moralizing — how fast can humans actually go? The record so far is held by the astronauts who visited the moon between 1968 and 1972 (orbital-only missions included). Riding the 7.5-million-poundsof-thrust Saturn V, those astronauts achieved the escape velocity (the speed necessary to escape Earth’s gravity) of nearly 25,000 miles per hour. That's almost seven miles each second! In many ways, from liftoff to reentry, that must have been one hell of a ride!

Until proven otherwise, the maximum speed for just about anything may be the speed of light: 186,000 miles per second. At that speed, the light from our sun still takes nine minutes to reach Earth. And the vast distances of space are measured in light-years — how far light can travel in one year. The most distant star we’ve found is over 13 billion light years from us … or at least that’s where it was 13 billion years ago. And that’s more than 8 billion years before Earth even existed!

No matter your speed, please drive safely!

— John’s Perpetual Island Tour stops every Monday at Boondocks, Tuesday and Wednesday at the Key Colony Inn, and Thursdays at Sparky’s Landing. Check out John’s music anywhere you stream or download your music! Or point your browser to: johnbartus.hearnow.com

John Bartus is a singer-songwriter and the former mayor of Marathon.

JOHN BARTUS

OBITUARY BRIEFLY

Second suspect arrested in Grassy Key overdose death

On April 16, 42-year-old Jeremiah Judson Johnson of Marathon was arrested in Tulsa, Oklahoma on a murder warrant out of Monroe County for his alleged role in the drug-related death of 42-year-old Brandon Marr of Grassy Key, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office said. Co-defendant Ronald Meyers III, 39, of Marathon, was arrested in February 2023.

The Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene of an overdose death on Grassy Key in February 2022 where Marr’s body was discovered at a friend’s apartment. His death was caused by a combination of alcohol and cocaine use, the Sheriff’s Office said.

Major crimes unit and special operations detectives worked with the State Attorney’s office and discovered Marr contacted Meyers several times to purchase cocaine in the hours before his death.

Meyers was unable to facilitate the transaction but allegedly made arrangements for Johnson to sell Marr the cocaine on his behalf. Detectives executed a search warrant at the suspects’ residence and obtained evidence of that communication between Meyers and Johnson. Police said Meyers and Johnson also removed evidence from their residence upon learning Marr died.

Felon arrested after hidden firearms found

Fifty-one-year-old Scott Stewart MacQuarrie of Marathon was arrested on April 17 after firearms and thousands of rounds of ammunition were found hidden at his residence, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. MacQuarrie was convicted of sexual battery in 2002 and it is illegal for him to possess firearms or ammunition.

The Sheriff’s Office received information MacQuarrie had weapons and obtained a search warrant. Detectives found a Taurus 9mm handgun and ammunition, about 1,500 rounds of 5.56-caliber rifle ammunition, several hundred rounds of .308-caliber rifle ammunition, and roughly 1,000 rounds of shotgun shells hidden in a secret compartment in a bathroom ceiling and in a shop area of the property.

Shawnna Kaye Conerly, 30, was at the scene and in possession of Xanax and alprazolam pills without a prescription. She was also arrested.

History of Dive Museum, NASA host environmental education village

The History of Diving Museum and NASA are hosting a free environmental education village for visitors to learn about NASA’s climate change research and other environmental initiatives. The village will feature local organizations

focused on environmental conservation. The event is set for Saturday, April 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Million Air, 9850 Overseas Highway in Marathon.

There will be a simultaneous mangrove tree planting at the nearby hammock, facilitated by CoastLove. This Earth Day event will feature hands-on demonstrations of the scientific instruments utilized by the BlueFlux team to measure the greenhouse gas fluxes in the mangroves, along with a guided tour of the CARbon Atmospheric Flux Experiment (CARAFE) aircraft used to study the mangrove ecosystems.

The event will also host the National Park Service South Florida Office, Florida International University’s Florida Coastal Everglades Long Term Research Program, CoastLove, Florida Wildlife Society, and others focused on environmental conservation and restoration to share about their efforts and ways the public can get involved.

Mark your calendars for Take Back Day

Mark the calendar for Saturday, April 22 to take part in the Drug Enforcement Administration's next National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. Take Back Day is a chance to rid medicine cabinets of unneeded and unwanted medication. Dropoff sites are open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For more than a decade, Take Back Day has helped Americans dispose of unneeded and unwanted medications that can often become a gateway to addiction. Collection sites will accept tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription drugs. To find a collection site, visit dea.gov/takebackday.

Domestic Abuse Shelter hosts ‘Pasta Mangia’ fundraiser

On Friday, April 28, Pasta Mangia, a fundraiser for the Domestic Abuse Shelter of the Florida Keys, will dish out a great meal from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Doc’s Diner in Key Largo. Four different pastas are offered, and guests can choose one favorite or try all four along with salad, garlic bread and dessert with a donation of $30 for adults and $10 for children 12 and younger. A cash bar will be available, along with raffle items. Meals are also available for take-out. More details are on the Domestic Abuse Shelter of the Florida Keys’ Facebook page, and tickets may be purchased by texting or calling 786-763-2589 or stopping by the First State Bank locations in Key Largo (Tradewinds or MM 97). 100% of donations go directly to assist the DAS thanks to the generosity of Key Largo Rotary Club, Blue Horizon, City Hall Cafe & Wine Bar and other community groups.

JANE DANIELS

1937-2023

Jane Ford Daniels of Marathon passed away on April 7 at the age of 85 in Boca Raton, Florida.

Jane was born in Uniontown, Pennsylvania to John and Monica Ford on Oct. 8, 1937. Jane attended and graduated from Uniontown High School. She married William S. Daniels on March 10, 1956 in Uniontown.

Jane and Bill Daniels started the Midas Touch jewelry store in 1974 in Marathon. Jane worked in the jewelry industry for 35 years before retiring to the mountains of Waynesville, North Carolina. Jane was involved in Rotary, Zonta, Pace program for girls, Big Brothers and Big Sisters. She was the creator of Swit City, an after-school program through Stanley Switlik, was a Pink Lady at Fishermen’s Hospital and sat on the board of Gulfside Village, Marine Bank and Hospice in Key West for many years. Jane was instrumental in starting the Marine Bank and was the spearhead behind building Rotary Park, a children’s playground in Marathon.

When Jane and Bill retired to Waynesville, they joined the Kiwanis Club and created Family Fun Day, which was a day all about children. The day included art and crafts, rides, bounce houses, and a barbecue at no cost to the community. Jane also worked with handicapped people, and she enjoyed spending time with them and enriching their lives.

Jane is preceded in death by her parents, John and Monica Ford; her beloved aunts Libby and Ruth Ford; her sister Peggy Jenkins; her brother John Ford; her mother-in-law Zella Bowermaster; and her grandchildren Colleen Holbert and Jonathon Paul.

Jane is survived by her husband William S. Daniels; her children Debi Daniels, Pam Daniels Holbert, Luann Daniels Paul, Bill Daniels and his wife Micheal, and Ben Daniels; and her sister Joan Dyer. Jane’s grandchildren include Stephanie (Stevie) Holbert; Travis, Katie and Lucas Paul; Kody and Noah Daniels; and Mathew, Ashley and Haley Daniels. Her greatgrandchildren are Kayla Brinson and Jacob, Jonathon, Caleb, Evan, Sophia and Amy Paul. Jane’s great-great-grandchildren are William (Billy) Paul, Liam Brinson Simon and Kaylianna Simon.

The family of Jane Daniels wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Vitas Hospice House as well as Jane’s caretaker of many years, Sue Chin, who was with Jane till the end. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to hospice or Alzheimer’s research.

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

FICTITIOUS NAME

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of SOUTHERN TIME

CHARTERS located at 1Loquat Dr., Monroe County in the City of Key Largo, Florida 33037-5009, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

Dated at Key Largo, Florida this 14th day of April, 2023.

By: HUNTER SLATE, LLC

Publish:

March 20, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

BEST LIEN SERVICES INC.

LOCATED AT 7290 SW 41 ST MIAMI, FL 33155 WILL SELL AT A RESERVE PUBLIC SALE AT 9:00

AM THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES AT SAID LOCATION TO SATISFY LIEN PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 713.585 OF THE FLORIDA

STATUES.

2018 CHEV 4D

1G1ZD5ST1JF271656

DATE OF SALE: MAY.8,2023 AT 9:00AM

LOCATION:1503 AQUEDUCT LN, KEY LARGO, FL 33037 P#:7863328-9393

OWNER/LIENHOLDER MAY INSPECT/RECOVER VEHICLE

BY CONTACTING BEST LIEN

SERVICES 7290 SW 41 ST MIAMI, FL 33155 (1-866-299-9391) AT LEAST 1 WEEK PRIOR TO THE LIEN SALE, ALL SALES ARE WITH RESERVE 20% BUYERS PREMIUM.

Publish:

April 20, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

City of Marathon, Florida

Second Public Hearing Notice

The City of Marathon is applying to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) for a FFY 2022 Small Cities

Community Development Block

Grant (CDBG) of $311,650.00 in the Neighborhood Revitalization category to raise Jesse Hobbs Park in order to mitigate flooding. The activities, dollar amounts and estimated percentage benefit to low- and moderate-income persons are as follows:

Activity Name

Estimated Cost

CDBG Funding LMI Benefit Design Services

$14,000.00

N/A Bonds $4,000.00

N/A Mobilization $15,000.00

N/A Demolition $35,000.00

100% Fill $60,000.00

100% Elevate Basketball Court $65,000.00

100% Elevate Sidewalks

$15,000.00

100% Elevate ADA Parking

$15,000.00

100% Adjust Irrigation

$12,000.00

100% Turf/Greenery $22,000.00

100% Install Pavilion

$8,000.00

100% Gravel $6,000.00

100% Contingency (15%)

$40,650.00

N/A

The City of Marathon does not expect that anyone will be displaced as a result of CDBG-funded activities. If any persons are displaced as a result of the planned activities,

the City of Marathon will assist them as described in the City’s anti-displacement and relocation policy, which is available for review at City Hall. A public hearing to provide citizens an opportunity to comment on the application will be held at Marathon City Hall, 9805 Overseas Highway, on April 27, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. A draft copy of the application will also be available for review during normal business hours in the Clerk’s Office at City Hall by noon on May 1, 2023. Persons wanting to submit written comments on the application should send them to Maria Covelli, Grants Coordinator, by e-mail at covellim@ci.marathon.fl.us, no later than 3:00pm on May 1,2023. A copy of the final application will be available for review in the Clerk’s Office at City Hall no later than noon, May 5, 2023. The application will be submitted to DEO on May 5, 2022 by 5pm. To obtain additional information concerning the application and the public hearing, contact Maria Covelli, Grants Coordinator, at (305) 743-0033 or by email at 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 20, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

MONROE COUNTY CONTRACTORS EXAMINING

BOARD MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

Notice is Hereby Given To Whom it may concern, that on Tuesday, May 9, 2023 the Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (CEB) will hold a scheduled meeting at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Second Floor, BOCC Room, Marathon, Florida scheduled to commence at 9:30

A.M. This meeting is to hear the following: any person(s) to come before the board; any reports from Monroe County Assistant Attorney; any reports from Monroe County Building Official; any reports from Staff.

The Monroe County Contractors

Examining Board (“CEB”) will review Certificate of Competency Trade applications and the Industry Input Section. All public participation in this meeting may be conducted via Communication Media Technology (“CMT”) using Zoom Webinar platform, during the scheduled meeting.

Meeting Agenda and Zoom Webinar information is available 7 days prior to meeting date on the Monroe County Web Calendar and the Contractors Examining Board webpage: www.monroecounty-fl.gov

PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTE

SECTION 286.0105, be advised that, if a person decides to appeal the decision made by the Contractors’ Examining Board with respect to any matter considered at today’s hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he or she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special recommendations 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”.

NOTICE:  It shall be the responsibility of each Respondent or other person addressing the Board to have an interpreter if the party is not able to understand or speak the English language.

Rick Griffin, Building Official/ Board Secretary

Maria Partington, Senior Coordinator – CEB Board Monroe County Building

Department

Publish:

April 20, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that

on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:

Emergency Management Consulting Services Monroe County, Florida

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

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

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl.

gov, no later than 3:00 P.M., on June 13, 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:

Emergency Management Consulting Services 06-13-2023

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 June 13, 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 20, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, June 8, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:

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

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

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00 P.M., on June 8, 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:

Disaster Response and Recovery Services 06-08-2023

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 June 8, 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 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-29-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF RAYMOND CHARLES ALFONSO, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of RAYMOND CHARLES ALFONSO, deceased, whose date of death was December 20, 2022, Case: 23-CP-29-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

LEGAL NOTICES

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 20, 2023.

Personal Representative: JENNIFER ROQUE

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 20 & 27, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-79-K

IN RE: ESTATE OF VAN NEVIN SMITH Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of VAN NEVIN SMITH, deceased, whose date of death was October 1 2022, and the last four digits of whose social security number are XXX-XX-4098, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 302 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 33040; that the total value of the estate is unknown at present and that the names and addresses of those to whom it has been assigned by such order are:

TAJ ADAMS

Personal Representative 806 Thomas Street, Apt. B Key West, FL 33040

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: April 20, 2023.

Personal Representative: TAJ ADAMS Attorney for Personal Representative: LINJE RIVERS, ESQ. The Witherspoon Law Group Florida Bar No. 79063

822 N. Hwy A1A, Ste. 310 Ponte Vedra, FL 32082 (904) 544-8502 (phone) (904) 506-00824 (fax) rivers@twlglawyers.com

Publish:

April 20 & 27, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 23-CP-13-P IN RE: ESTATE OF LOIS E. SARGENT, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of LOIS E. SARGENT, deceased, whose date of death was October 1, 2022, File Number 23-CP-13-P is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Plantation Key Government Center, 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice has been 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 TIME OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

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

ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: April 20, 2023.

Personal Representative:

JOE A. CATARINEAU

91750 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070

Attorney for Personal

Representative:

JOE A. CATARINEAU

Florida Bar Number: 0517291

91750 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070

Telephone: (305) 852-4833

Publish:

April 20 & 27, 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.

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 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 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

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 317450-7179

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

Marlow-Hunter 18' Daysailer w/spinnaker, Mercury fourstroke 3.5 engine, and trailer. Excellent condition. Lots of fun! Located in Middle Keys. $7,500 215-317-4073

EMPLOYMENT

NOW HIRING

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

DUI EVALUATOR/ INSTRUCTOR

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

The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a Customer-Service Oriented Server for the pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

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

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:

SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on quali cations and experience: $38.43/hr. - $43.04/hr.

For more information, including job duties and required quali cations, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being lled.

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Executive Department:

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.

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.

e Turtle Hospital in Marathon

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

The Advocate DUI Program is hiring for part time positions. DUI instructors and evaluators - 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse eld required. Bilingual preferred, not required. Of ce located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

We are now hiring for the following positions:

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers

CDL Drivers

Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

SUDOKU SOLUTION

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

CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES

305.743.0844

305.743.0844

RV LOT FOR RENT 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

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.

YARD SALES

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

IS HIRING!

DIRECT CARE STAFF  GROUP HOMES 24/7 FT/PT

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

IS HIRING!

PLANT STORE MANAGER TRAINEE

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

IS HIRING!

SUPPORTED LIVING COACH FULL TIME

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

Apply at 1401 Seminary St, Key West or online at marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org or phone 305-294-9526 *32

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

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

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

MAINTENANCE POSITION WITH BUSY NONPROFIT

FT with benefits. Long-term position w/room for growth. Valid DL required. Must have maintenance or related experience, computer skills and relate well with people. Very physical position, heavy lifting, heat, etc.

Drug-free workplace, EOE. Please send resume and cover letter to sholt@fkoc.org. No phone calls.

HIRING

• 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

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER IS HIRING

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

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

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

EXPERIENCED

ELECTRICIANS AND HELPERS NEEDED

Experience is required.

Must have a valid driver’s license. We offer 401K, medical insurance, paid holidays and paid vacation. Positions available in Key West and Marathon. 305-292-3369

ONSITE JOB FAIR

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26TH

9 AM - 3 PM

2 LOCATIONS: Mariners Hospital & Fisherman’s Community Hospital

OPENINGS AVAILABLE

- Housekeepers

- Cooks

- Food Crew

- Mechanics

- Dietitians

- Patient Advocates

- Med Techs

- Imaging Techs

- Registered Nurses

- RN Supv/Mgrs

- Physical Therapists

- +More!

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

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.

BETTER FUTURES BEGIN AT BAPTIST HEALTH

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 HIRING!

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

Technical Specialist (Part Time, Permanent) Human Resources Assistant (Part-Time, Permanent)

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.

A locals favorite, Bongos is an oasis of tropical fruit trees and herb gardens. Offering over 20 craft beers on tap, signature craft cocktails, and delicious light and local fare highlighting many of our “Grassy Grown” organic fruits, herbs, and fresh local Keez Beez honey.

Banquets and Catering available please contact events@GrassyFlats.com

Jump, climb, and slide your way through the twists and turns of our massive floating playground, which features everything from floating trampolines to towering climbing walls. Challenge your friends and family to a race along the course or take on the obstacles solo for an extra adrenaline rush.

Please call 305.414.8245 for inquiries and bookings or visit RideTheLagoon.com for more info!