Marathon Weekly 23-0427

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83 anglers square off in sailfish tourney | P.26

Plant the seeds of better hearing this year

As warm weather arrives, plant the seeds of better hearing by calling Dr. Michelle today and scheduling your hearing consultation. Don’t miss a moment with the people who matter most! Call now to reserve your space and start your hearing journey!

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A company known for its bedding products, kitchen wares and bath items is closing its 360 stores. Bed Bath & Beyond recently filed for bankruptcy following attempts to turn the business around. According to reports, April 26 was the last day to use coupons. All stores are expected to be closed by June 30.

BOCC, DEO OPEN TALKS ON NEW HURRICANE EVACUATION MODEL

The Marathon Dolphins baseball team, seen here in a win against South Homestead, can complete its 2023 revenge tour with a win in the conference championship game on April 28. See page 20.

BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

affordable housing development pressures and takings claims.”

In addition to accounting for sitebuilt homes, tourist units, and vehicle use in relation to the road capacity along U.S. 1, the new model would account for mobile homes and certain military personnel – some of which were previously included in a 48-hour evacuation – in its 24-hour evacuation.

While DEO regional planning administrator Barbara Powell said the new model is largely produced by updating the variables used to create the previous iteration – including the use of the same modeling program, as confirmed by Ivey – County Administrator Roman Gastesi stressed a need for community involvement as the new model takes shape, highlighting the importance of future workshops or meetings where residents can provide their impressions and concerns directly to DEO.

UPDATES WITH 2020 CENSUS DATA LOOM LARGE FOR KEYS DEVELOPMENT

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

Anew hurricane evacuation model is on the way, with massive implications for continued development in Monroe County.

The April 19 meeting of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) marked the commission’s first public exchange with the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) as the agency works to create new data-driven hurricane evacuation models for the Florida Keys. The evacuation models, and the statutes they inform, are monumentally important to future development in the Keys, as building allocations dwindle across multiple municipalities within the Keys’ closely-monitored Areas of State Concern.

The statutes have significant legal implications as Keys governments brace for possible takings cases and other litigation when building allocations expire. One such high-profile case resulted in the temporary revocation of 1,300 affordable housing allocations – some of which were already built and occupied – in August 2022 based on statutory language involving the models.

And as Keys utilities and infrastructure struggle to support increasing crowds, with developers eyeing nearly every buildable space throughout the islands, residents have begun to question whether development has already reached a breaking point.

Based on 2010 census data, the prior evacuation model created in 2012 paved the way for a regimented distribution of 3,550 residential building permits throughout the county over a 10-year period from 2013 to 2023. In theory, the number of allocations given would continue to allow for safe evacuation of the Keys over a 24-hour period in the event of an impending storm.

Addressing the commission, acting DEO Secretary Meredith Ivey said that DEO is still in a stage of research and fact-finding as it works with the Division of Emergency Management to create a more formal report by the end of the calendar year based on 2020 census data.

“We recognize there is a need to update this evacuation model, and it is foundational for planning residential development in the Florida Keys over the coming decade,” she said. “Over the last several months, we have met with various local government officials and other stakeholders regarding the need for additional allocations to address

“Let’s make sure that whatever assumptions we’re going to make, the community is on board,” he said.

A ‘BREAKTHROUGH’ FOR SPECIALTY CONTRACTOR LICENSE CARVE-OUT

Lisa Tennyson, the county’s legislative affairs director, delivered an update on efforts in the current Florida legislative session to modify or repeal House Bill 735. As the subject of understandable uproar among local contractors since it took effect in July 2021, the bill prevents local governments from offering specialty licenses. While not required in other areas of the state with looser requirements, the Keys’ designation as an Area of Critical State Concern requires contractors to pull permits for even small jobs like laying pavers or putting up a fence, rendering them unable to do many jobs legally if existing specialty licenses expire this July.

Though Tennyson said the House has “wanted to do little or nothing to help” House Bill 1383, which would provide relief, she praised the “unbelievable leadership” of Rep. Jim Mooney to keep the bill alive.

“Just this week, the Senate and House bills have been amended to offer some carve-out relief for Monroe County in terms of these licenses,” she said. “It’s been a big breakthrough, and we’re fairly confident that those bills will proceed.”

As of April 24, the bill had passed through committees but had yet to see

Law enforcement professionals and first responders from throughout Monroe County joined the Board of County Commissioners on April 19 to recognize Lt. Kathleen McKinney for her 40 years of service. KRISTEN LIVENGOOD/Monroe County.

HAMMERING OUT BOAT RAMP DETAILS

Marathon City Council addresses fee questions, celebrates code enforcement progress

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

The Marathon City Council’s April 25 workshop revealed a step in the right direction for the city’s code enforcement efforts, with questions still left unanswered about the public messaging and enforcement of newly-enacted beach and boat ramp parking and usage fees.

The Nuts and Bolts of Boat Ramps

Following a discussion of the city’s direction in regard to beautification standards, the council dove into discussion with Public Works Director Carlos Solis regarding the city’s new boat ramp and beach fees. Since taking effect on April 1, Solis reported total collected revenues of $75,450 – a number that’s come even in the absence of the cameras required to scan license plates and levy fines against violators.

Along with passing on requests from long-term seasonal visitors for monthly or yearly passes, Solis said residents are still confused about parking fee exemptions for Marathon homes held in trusts, LLCs or other similar entities. He also raised questions about charges for local nonprofits frequently traveling to use Marathon’s ramps, as well as commercial operations such as repair shops that use locally-owned vehicles to launch vessels with out-of-town plates for sea trials.

“I think there’s a lot of misconceptions out there about this whole issue of if (a car or home) is in an LLC or a trust,” said councilman Jeff Smith. “I really want to be clear exactly how that database (of exempt plates) is being built and that we message it well so people understand that it’s the plate and the zip code where it’s registered.”

Smith’s comments were met by a commitment from City Manager George Garrett to clarify the uncertainties with official city messaging.

The council is set to vote at an upcoming meeting on the issue of exempting nonprofits, an idea that drew support from most council members, and local businesses, which saw split opinions in the informal discussion. With enforcement cameras set for installation over the next few weeks, questions still remain about fee exemptions if a car and trailer use a ramp with only one of the two registered in Marathon. As most vehicle plates will be obstructed throughout the launch process, the system is likely to focus more on trailer tags in determining fees and fines.

Solis also informed the council that as video footage of each ramp use is individually reviewed to levy fines, vehicles that briefly drive through the ramps will not be charged for usage, regardless of where they are registered.

As the parking and ramp fees are projected to provide north of $1 million in revenue for the city, Smith, councilman Lynn Landry and Vice Mayor Robyn Still stressed the importance of accurate projections adjusted from actual revenues collected, as well as a need to clearly identify, and solicit public comment on, the intended uses for the funds in the city’s upcoming budget.

Code Enforcement Sees Encouraging Results

In a report to the council, Code Director Ted Lozier said that with increased code enforcement during nights and weekends, aided by two recent hires, the department has conducted 203 investigations of potential violations since January, resulting in 15 code cases and total fines of $60,000. Lozier also noted increased compliance from vacation rental properties with trash can rules along several hot-button roads, including Sombrero Beach Road.

“I drove the entire Sombrero Beach Road this Saturday, through the loop, and I only saw one garbage can,” Mayor Luis Gonzalez confirmed. “So whatever they’re doing, they’re doing good.”

Still also praised the work of Lozier and his staff, adding that efforts in recent months seem to be a solid step toward addressing concerns posed by the community in the council’s vacation rentals workshop earlier this year. She also reiterated the importance of consistent, clear communication from the department to those who report violations about staff’s plan to ensure compliance in each case.

Councilman Kenny Matlock requested the creation of a phone number for residents to call and report code violations in real time. The city currently has an emergency contact number, but it is reserved for more pressing issues like wastewater emergencies.

“We haven’t had that for code, because we haven’t had those people out there before 8 in the morning or 7:45 at night,” said Garrett. “We are now doing that. … We will get a phone for that individual.”

BILL PROVIDES A CHEAPER MOVE-IN OPTION FOR RENTERS

Mooney legislation passes the House

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Fronting thousands of dollars in move-in expenses can be challenging for working families or a single person needing a place to live sooner than later.

In the Florida Keys, a required first and last months’ rent — seemingly rising by the year as housing costs increase — on top of a security deposit can seem insurmountable.

State Rep. Jim Mooney’s House Bill 133, which passed through the House on April 20, seeks to address some of those issues through an option for a monthly fee in lieu of a security deposit that the landlord can offer a tenant.

Mooney’s bill, which failed to pass through the state legislature last session, doesn’t require a landlord to provide a tenant the option to pay a nominal, monthly fee. Per Mooney, those fees can be as low as $11 a month or upward of $25 monthly. It’s the landlord’s sole choice to offer such an arrangement for a tenant to pay a monthly fee to secure occupancy without dipping into their savings to pay a full security deposit upfront.

Tenants would still be required to pay the full security deposit once they have the means, as the monthly fee wouldn’t go toward that expense. Funds paid monthly by the tenant can be used by the landlord at their discretion, such as for insurance or a surety bond.

Following a serious accident involving his fiancée just a week before, Mooney traveled to Tallahassee to present his bill before the full House on April 20.

Mooney told fellow members that the bill places guardrails on a process that’s already occurring in Florida. His proposal was met with opposition by House Democrats claiming the bill was a “junk fee” and a tax on the poor renter, as Jacksonvillebased state Rep. Angela Nixon stated.

Some 16 amendments were filed by Democrats to expand the bill and add what some Republican bill supporters referred to as rent control language. Mooney passionately responded to those remarks in his closing.

“There’s nothing in perpetuity here. When you sign a lease, it is clearly stated that you may opt out of that fee at any given time,” he said. “If you get a bonus three days after you sign and you want to give the landlord $2,000, $1,000 or whatever the amount is, give it to them and opt out of the fee.”

“I think it’s wrong for your constituents to not have the opportunity to make the decisions themselves,” he continued. “This gets you and your family where you need to be at that moment.”

Per the bill, landlords who offer the monthly fee in lieu of security deposit arrangement must provide the option to all tenants renting dwelling units on the premises.

The House passed Mooney’s bill via an 89-22 vote. Similar legislation, Senate Bill 494, sponsored by Republican state Sen. Nick DiCeglie, is moving through several committees following favorable rulings.

State Rep. Jim Mooney

JUDGE REFUSES TO REQUIRE HAIR SAMPLES FROM WITNESSES IN HUGHES SHOOTING CASE

PRESTON BREWER’S DEFENSE ATTORNEY SOUGHT TO IMPEACH WITNESSES’ TESTIMONY WITH HAIR TESTING

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

An April 26 hearing in the case against Lloyd Preston Brewer III, who is accused of fatally shooting Garrett Hughes outside a Key West bar on Feb. 13, ended with the judge refusing to force witnesses to provide hair samples for drug testing.

Brewer, 57, has been in jail since the Feb. 13 shooting death of Hughes, who was 21 when he was shot in the parking lot of Conch Town Liquor & Lounge on North Roosevelt Boulevard in Key West, a few hours after the Super Bowl had ended.

Brewer, whose family owns the building that houses the bar, faces felony murder and firearms charges.

His defense attorney, Chris Mancini, at the April 26 hearing before Judge Mark Wilson, argued that hair samples for drug testing should be taken from the three witnesses who were present that night with the victim. One of the witnesses, Carson Hughes, is Garrett Hughes’ brother.

Toxicology reports taken during Hughes’ autopsy showed a bloodalcohol limit of 0.24, which is three times the legal limit for driving, as well as evidence of cannabinoids in his blood and urine.

Monroe County Medical Examiner Michael Steckbauer, who conducted the autopsy, noted that the level of cannabinoids after death was not necessarily a reliable indicator, as substances often get “redistributed post-mortem.”

Mancini said during the hearing that Garrett Hughes had a medical marijuana card. Mancini also said that video footage from the bar that night showed Garrett Hughes and the witnesses passing something back and forth that “with great likelihood was a marijuana cigarette.”

He told the judge that hair samples for drug testing would provide evidence as to whether the

witnesses were under the influence and to what degree that would have influenced their perception and reactions to what happened that night.

“It also goes to the witnesses’ willingness to testify to their own illegal activities,” Mancini said.

The defense attorney said the video footage of the actual shooting shows that “Garrett Hughes aggressively turned toward Mr. Brewer in the parking lot.”

Prosecutor Joe Mansfield, in his argument against the hair samples, told the judge that what Mancini described as a marijuana cigarette was actually a Black & Mild cigarillo.

Mansfield further told the judge, “What Mr. Mancini says he sees in the videos is not what I see. The only person who appears to be agitated is the defendant, who reaches into his waistband, pulls out a firearm and begins to march toward Garrett Hughes.”

Ultimately, Judge Wilson denied the defense’s request for hair samples from the three witnesses, Carson Hughes, Blake Arencibia and Logan Pellicier. Wilson cited legal precedent and said, “It’s not that their level of intoxication wouldn’t be relevant or helpful to impeach their testimony, but legal precedent prevails.”

If the hair samples would serve to place a person at a crime scene, or exclude them as a suspect, Judge Wilson said, that would be a different scenario, “so I’ll deny the motion.”

“The witnesses are not direct parties to this case, and have a right to privacy,” Judge Wilson ruled.

A second hearing was scheduled for 3 p.m. on the afternoon of April 26 (after presstime) involving the civil wrongful death case that Hughes’ family filed against Brewer. That hearing was scheduled to involve the freezing of Brewer’s financial assets. Stay tuned to keysweekly.com for more information.

NASA CLIMATE PLANE VISITS KEYS FOR EARTH DAY

Aircraft flies over Everglades to measure greenhouse gas fluxes from mangrove ecosystems

TIFFANY

NASA, the History of Diving Museum, FIU and Coastlove celebrated Earth Day at Million Air in Marathon. The star of the show was a NASA climate plane that usually deploys over the Everglades to measure climate change. The N87Q was open to the public for touring, with NASA climate scientists giving tours inside and answering questions.

“This is the Blue Flux Flight Campaign,” said Ayia Lindquist, NASA’s climate change outreach and engagement coordinator at Goddard Space Flight Center near Washington, D.C. “We fly this plane 300 feet above the mangroves and we study the methane and carbon dioxide fluxes of the mangrove ecosystems to better understand the impact on our Earth’s climate.”

The studies represent the cutting edge of climate science in South Florida. “Mangroves withdraw or suck down a lot of CO2 (carbon dioxide) from the atmosphere to perform photosynthesis,” said NASA earth sciences research scientist Ben Poulter. “That CO2 makes its way down to the sediments of the mangrove soils, where this carbon becomes buried for hundreds and thousands of years. That sort of massive drawdown of CO2 from the atmosphere and the permanence of the burial of carbon makes mangroves a very attractive target for mitigating climate change and helping us lower CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere.”

In this way, mangroves help regulate our planet’s temperature. “What this does is help out our planet’s AC system – keeping it cool when we need it cool and warmer when we need it warm,” Lindquist said.

There’s a small catch that the scientists are studying: when mangroves store carbon, they release methane – another greenhouse gas that is 20 times more powerful than carbon dioxide but lasts half as long. “So,

we’re really interested in understanding these fluxes between these gases,” Lindquist said, “and these science dynamics to better understand our planet.”

How does it work?

The plane is pretty small – carrying two pilots and one or two scientists, with gear. There are four instruments on board to study fluxes of methane and carbon dioxide emissions above mangroves.

“We fly 300 feet above the mangroves, which is pretty low,” said research physical scientist Glenn Wolfe. “We have to be pretty close to the surface to measure what’s happening – low enough to count the individual leaves on the trees if we need to.”

“It’s bumpy and hot, but there’s bluetooth to listen to music,” he added. “And, it’s a beautiful thing to see the Everglades from 300 feet. You see the whole area, and you know you’re doing science – it’s pretty great.”

The atmospheric measurement technique that Wolfe, Poulter and their colleagues use is called “eddy covariance.” It measures and

calculates the vertical turbulent fluxes existing within atmospheric boundary layers. Put another way, it observes the exchange of gas, energy and momentum between ecosystems like mangroves and the atmosphere.

Only four or five groups in the world have the capability and expertise to carry out eddy covariance measurements from an aircraft. The NASA team is one of them, and they hope to complete two more missions over the Everglades by this time next year.

NASA also works with a field team that goes into the mangroves on foot to validate the measurements taken by the plane. The hope is eventually to include corresponding satellite data to get a much more comprehensive idea of the carbon budget of mangroves and the role they play in climate change regulation, Poulter said.

“So, what we’re trying to do with Blue Flux is collect more data, so we can actually understand how much CO2 is being taken out of the atmosphere by mangroves and wetland ecosystems in South Florida and how much methane is being produced,” Poulter said. “We have to keep that in mind when we restore and conserve these blue carbon ecosystems.”

The scientists estimate that methane production actually decreases the climate benefit of mangroves by 5% to 15%. “The pros outweigh the cons, but as things like sea-level rise and hurricane frequency cause mangrove die offs, that balance is going to fluctuate,” Poulter said.

In the end, the mission’s aim is to develop products to help understand the carbon cycle at any scale – from a stand of trees up to a full ecosystem, Poulter said. All of these will help to inform mangrove restoration and conservation efforts.

“Obviously, what's needed first is for us to move immediately and rapidly to renewable energies and stop burning fossil fuels,” he concluded. “But, in the meantime, natural ecosystems can help us buy time before we make that transition.”

To complement the tour of the plane and its mission, the History of Diving Museum has a new exhibit about the similarities between ocean and space exploration, and Coastlove held a simultaneous mangrove cleanup and planting.

Research scientist Benn Poulter

Research physical scientist Glenn Wolfe

These spectrometers measure carbon dioxide, methane and water vapor coming off of mangroves

On Earth Day, NASA parked its climate plane at Million Air in Marathon for the public to tour and learn more about the Blue Flux program. TIFFANY

First Horizon Bank. Member FDIC.

REBUILDING THE REEFS FOR EARTH DAY

Aquarium Encounters, Reef Renewal USA team up again for coral fragmenting

Helping to rebuild the Keys’ vital coral reef ecosystem fits the bill for Earth Day, and that was the goal on April 20-22 as Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters once again partnered with Reef Renewal USA and Captain Hook’s for a coral fragmentation workshop and coral nursery maintenance dives.

In a continuation of the partnership’s first Marathon event in September 2022, Reef Renewal, Aquarium Encounters and Captain Hook’s staff spent Thursday and Friday afternoon helping members of the public use band saws to cut larger pieces of boulder corals into smaller pieces. Known as fragmenting, the process accelerates the growth of the corals, allowing each coral to grow, cover the cement plug to which it is affixed, and eventually spawn earlier than it would otherwise. The fragments are typically ready to outplant on areas of the reef after six to 12 months spent in a nursery.

On Saturday, teams of divers headed out to the reefs off Marathon and Big Pine Key to return the fragmented corals to nurseries where they can grow undisturbed under close supervision. Volunteers also spent time cleaning coral trees and touring restoration sites to showcase the progress of already-outplanted corals.

— Alex Rickert

Volunteer divers clean coral trees at offshore nurseries.

Marathon dive crew celebrates a successful day on the reef. CONTRIBUTED

Reef Renewal USA’s Jim Brittsan, right, supervises Clara Hill as she makes her cuts.

Heather Jennings, left, helps Lincoln Hill affix coral fragments to cement plugs. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

KUDOS FOR KRAGER

Christina Krager has been recognized as the 2023 Fishermen’s Community Hospital Nurse of the Year. Noted as a knowledgeable leader who always takes opportunities to further her education and teach others what she knows, Krager was recognized for exemplifying Baptist Health South Florida’s standards of structural empowerment, transformational leadership, exemplary professional practice and pursuit of new knowledge, innovations and improvements. “Christina represents the nursing profession well,” said Fishermen’s Hospital nursing director Melanie O’Neill. Krager is now a nominee for the Baptist Health South Florida Nurse of the Year award and will be recognized at a dinner in May. Pictured is Krager, fifth from left, as her Fishermen’s coworkers congratulate her on her achievement. CONTRIBUTED.

FKMCD ASKS: ARE YOU READY

FOR SUMMER MOSQUITOES?

As daily, soaking spring showers become more plentiful, the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District (FKMCD) is using Florida Mosquito Control Awareness Week 2023 as an occasion to remind residents to prepare now for the normal summer uptick in local mosquito populations.

By making a thorough inspection of their properties now, residents of the Keys can greatly reduce the likelihood that their property will become a breeding ground for potentially dangerous biting mosquitoes such as the disease-spreading Aedes aegypti, which prefers to live and breed around human hosts.

FKMCD reminds residents that a few simple tasks can greatly diminish the chances of contracting dengue or other mosquito-borne diseases:

• Walk around the property and dump any standing water.

• Cover or turn over anything that might catch and hold water during a rain.

• Flush bromeliads and other water-holding plants every few days.

• Wear long sleeves and pants if going outside.

• Keep homes mosquito-free by checking and repairing all screens.

• Keep doors and windows closed.

• Use insect repellent (with DEET) when going outdoors.

The district is always prepared to help with any mosquito issue a Monroe County resident may have. Service requests can be submitted by calling 305-292-7190 or online at keysmosquito.org.

The mission of the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District is to control the mosquito population using the most effective methods, techniques, equipment and insecticides, thus enhancing the quality of life for all residents and reducing the possibility of mosquito transmitted diseases.

Follow FKMCD on Twitter at @FlKeysMosquito and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District, please visit www.keysmosquito.org.

— Contributed

Florida Keys residents can help curtail the threat posed by the disease-carrying Aedes aegypti mosquito by eliminating standing water around their properties. CONTRIBUTED.

Eliminate standing water to prevent breeding grounds

’TIS THE SEASON... GROUPER SEASON!

Grouper season is almost upon us. Starting Monday, May 1, groupers are in season until Dec. 31 in Monroe County waters. The season closes the rest of the year to protect them while they are spawning and allow for a sustainable fishery.

Several species are primarily targeted on the reefs of the Florida Keys, including black, red and gag grouper. There is a three-grouper aggregate regulation, which allows for the harvest of one gag or one black grouper, or up to three red groupers per angler per day. For example, you are allowed to harvest a black grouper and two red groupers, or a gag grouper and two red groupers, but no more than a combined three fish per person. The rules for most groupers vary based on species and your location, so make sure you read FWC regulations closely and use a trusted app like FishRules to fish within your limits.

The minimum size is 24 inches total length – from the snout to the tip of the tail – on black and gag grouper, and 20 inches for red grouper. The FWC requires anglers to possess a descending device or venting tool that is readily available onboard a vessel while targeting any species of grouper. These tools assist in the successful release and survivorship of undersized fish so they don’t expire due to barotrauma, a condition caused by quick changes in pressure as the fish travels up through the water column.

Now that we have covered all the regulations, let’s get to the fun part of how to catch these delicious, rodbending fish and get some dinner.

We target these species on most reef habitats in 25 to 120 feet of water. Live bait, including pinfish, ballyhoo, blue runners and pilchards, is preferred, but if the sargassum and bay grass aren’t too thick, trolling plugs along the patch reefs is another successful tactic. One of my favorite plugs

to troll is the Nomad DTX-Minnow, which is available in different sizes and dives to various depths depending on where you want your lure in the water column.

Since grouper species typically occupy holes in structure on reefs and wrecks, the bottom 20 feet of the water column are the most difficult part of catching these fish. Groupers have an enormous amount of strength, so getting “rocked up” or having your line chafed and broken on a sharp rock as the fish try to hide is a common occurrence if you don’t immediately recognize the bite. Make sure your fishing line and leader is fresh and your knots are tied well, because they will be put to the test when you hook into a quality grouper.

is the owner and operator of Top Notch Sportfishing in Marathon. His passions include scuba diving and enjoying the natural beauty of the Florida Keys.

MORE TEAMS MEAN MORE PRIZE MONEY AT BULL AND COW DOLPHIN TOURNAMENT

The 17th annual Tom Thumb Marathon Offshore Bull and Cow Dolphin Tournament will challenge anglers Friday through Sunday, May 5-7.

A grand prize of $10,000 cash will go to the team with the largest combined weight of a bull and a cow dolphin fish. However, the top prize payout grows as more boats register.

With a field of 70 to 89 boats, the first-place cash award would be $15,000, with the amount increasing incrementally with every 10 additional boats. If a field of 100 boats is reached, the first-place cash prize can reach $25,000.

I typically move to several different spots while grouper fishing. If I don’t get a bite in 20 minutes, I move on to the next spot or I make a minor move to get my bait down to a different area of the reef, where hopefully it will fall right in front of the eyes of a hungry grouper.

In order to keep the bite going for another day, consider releasing the fish that won’t fit on your plate for dinner. Depending on the species, these fish take between 4 and 10 years to reach sexual maturity when they can repopulate the reef. Whether they are in season or just a lucky bite, these fish are a fun and hard-hitting fight from the reef to the boat.

Good luck and angling success this grouper season here in the beautiful Florida Keys!

To book a trip with Top Notch Sportfishing, call Captain Bill at 732-674-8323.

Prizes are also awarded for the largest bull dolphin fish, largest cow dolphin, heaviest combined weight of three dolphin fish and for the largest wahoo, blackfin tuna and tripletail. Other awards recognize the top female angler, top junior angler and more.

Final registration and captains meeting for the Bull and Cow is by drop-in Friday, May 5, between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. at Two Conchs Bait & Tackle at 11499 Overseas Highway.

Fishing is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, May 6-7. Weigh-in each day is set for 4 to 6 p.m. at Two Conchs Bait & Tackle.

The awards banquet is planned for 7 p.m. Sunday at Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters, 11710 Overseas Highway. Non-anglers can purchase tickets to attend the banquet for $25 per person.

More information is at marathonoffshoretournament. com. The entry fee is $995 per boat with a team of up to six anglers.

‘Young guns’ captain Tucker Carlson, J.C. Carlson, Clay Daniels and Michael Ruiz fished their way to a third-place finish in the Largest Dolphin category in the 2022 Bull & Cow tournament. The foursome reeled in a 36.4-pound fish. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

Trophies like this black grouper will be open for harvest in just a few days. BILL GILIBERTI/Contributed

CAPT. BILL GILIBERTI

KEYS WEEKLY

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

THE SCOREBOARD

SAVANNAH CHADIC

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

Senior, Key West Track & Field

Key West’s Savannah Chadic has been making a name for herself on the track this season. The senior, whose blazing speed won her two individual district championships last week, is ranked second in the region in the 400 meter event and seventh in the 200 meter. Chadic’s 400 time of 56.02s should open the door for her to compete at the state level later in May. Chadic’s leadership was integral to the success of her sprint relay team and in bringing home district hardware for the entire team.

“Savannah leads on the track by example,” said coach Dave Perkins. “We depend on her to get the team ready to go.”

– Conchs coach Dave Perkins Savannah Chadic carries the baton in a recent relay for Key West. RICK MacKENZIE/ Contributed

For her hard work on the track and the great things she is doing for Key West track and field, Savannah Chadic is this week’s Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

“Savannah is one of the most talented runners we’ve had at Key West High School.”

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

KEY WEST, MARATHON SOFTBALL CRUISE TOWARD DISTRICTS

Lady Conchs ranked first in 4A District 16 bracket

The Lady Conchs softball team picked up a road win against Westminster Christian on April 21, beating the Warriors 14-8. Chloe Gilday earned the win, pitching 5-2/3 innings and striking out five. Nevaeh Arnold closed the game, striking out another three batters over 1-1/3 innings. Ty Cervantes led the offense for Key West with three hits, including a double. Dharma Murray, Caroline Smith, Isabella Franco and Tavyn Gage each picked up a pair of hits and Miesha Hernandez, Scarlet Niles and Madelyn Perusse added one each to make it 14 total for Key West.

The 14-3 Conchs play their last regular season game at Western High School in Davie on Friday, April 28. They should claim a bye in the first round of the district tournament, placing them in the 4A District 16 championship game on May 4 if they can hold onto their top seed.

Marathon softball split a pair of games last week, picking up a forfeit win from Hialeah Educational Academy but falling to Gulliver 9-4 on April 17. The Lady Fins managed eight hits in the loss, with three from the bat of Elena Eubank. Sage Brown had two hits and Sara Robinson, Allison Garcia and Eli Roque each had one hit. Garcia was solid in the circle in the loss for Marathon, pitching to 30 batters over six innings and striking out nine while walking just two. The 7-4 Fins will play two more games before districts begin. Their first playoff game should be on May 2 in 2A District 16 action.

Coral Shores beat Mater Bay at home on April 19, 17-15. Freshman Ivy Tiedemann had four hits on four plate appearances for the ’Canes. Coach Lesa Boneé said the team hit the ball well but struggled defensively. The Lady Hurricanes played the next day, losing 9-3 against Ransom Everglades on April 20. The ’Canes ended their regular season with a 5-6 record. The Hurricanes will host the South Florida conference championship game against Mater Bay on Friday, April 28 at 5 p.m.

LADY CONCHS LACROSSE FALLS IN REGIONAL QUARTERFINALS

Keys prep lacrosse season closes with district champion squad’s loss

The scoring machine that is Key West reached the net just four times in its regional quarterfinal loss to Delray Beach’s American Heritage High School on April 21. The Lady Conchs ended their season at 11-3, with a perfect 6-0 record in their district. Unfortunate seeding pitted the Lady Conchs against the top-ranked Stallions. The 22-4 loss effectively ends their season, which has been nothing short of amazing. American Heritage will move on to face the other American Heritage High School out of Plantation in the semifinals.

Top: Coral Shores freshman Ivy Tiedemann approaches home plate. She had four hits on four plate appearances. Bottom: senior third baseman Mackenzie Baker. Photos by DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly. See more game photos at keysweekly.com

Isabella Marchiano and the Key West Lady Conchs ended their season at 11-3 with a loss in their regional quarterfinal matchup. Photo by ELLA HALL/Keys Weekly.

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

KEY WEST TRACK AND FIELD SQUADS ARE DISTRICT CHAMPIONS

Keys athletes claim 13 individual district titles

Key West and Coral Shores traveled to Tropical Park in Miami on April 19 for the 2A district track and field championships. The Conchs had multiple district champions and collected enough points to secure team wins for both boys and girls.

A total of 25 runners, jumpers, hurdlers and vaulters will represent Key West at the 2A regional competition on May 3 at Calvary Christian High School. Athletes who finish in the top four places at district meets move on to the next level.

In addition to the team championships, the Conchs won 11 individual championships at districts. Sprinter Savannah Chadic won both the 200m and 400m events in arguably the fastest district in Florida. Suharevskis Niks-Davis took firsts in the pole vault and the 110m high hurdles, and teammate Kevon Mills won both the high and long jump events. Lucas Montiel won the 800m race. Abigail Cowen won the long jump and also qualified for the triple jump event. Throwers Valerie Thene, Abby Collins and Angeline Foster won the discus, javelin and shot put competitions, respectively. Foster qualified for regionals in all three.

Other boys regional qualifiers for Key West were Colbin Hill (3200m), Jeremiah Harvey (javelin, 110m and 400m hurdles), Anthony Jenner (400m hurdles, javelin), Brandon Etienne (high jump), Clerf Alexandre (triple jump), Josh Cantervury (pole vault, discuss), Liam Flores (pole vault), Benndy Ambrose (discus, shot put), James Reynolds (javelin) and Jean Louis (shot put). The boys 4x400m and 4x800m relays will also compete at regionals.

Rounding out the girls regional qualifiers are Nikole Tomita (100m), Jenesis Perloff (100m hurdles and 400m hurdles), Ruth Azard (100m hurdles), Anabel Portuondo (high jump, pole vault), Riley Richard (pole vault), Kaylee Matas Cabezuelo (pole vault, discus, shot) and Victoria Daley-Willy (javelin). All three of the Conchs’ girls relay teams will also move on.

Coral Shores had its own double district champ in Xavyer Arrington. Fresh from his state championship in weightlifting, the ’Canes’ strongman won first-place medals in the discus and shot put events. Arrington will be joined at regionals by Ethan Marguet

(400m), Sean Andrews (800m), Xavier Johnson (110m hurdles), Ambrose Sanchez (400m hurdles), Riley Froman (pole vault) and Evan Osipov (discus). The Hurricanes’ 4x800m and 4x400m relay teams also made the cut and will race at regionals. No Lady ’Canes took a top-four spot at districts, ending their season at Tropical Park.

1A Marathon traveled to Palmer Trinity on April 20 for its district championship meet. The Lady Fins ended the day ranked third of nine district teams, and the boys secured the runner-up trophy. Though there were no district champions this season, 14 Fins earned individual spots at the regional event held at Westminster Christian School on May 6.

Moving on for the Fins are Ava Merryman, Samantha Batzer and Cullen Coleman-Sayer in the pole vault event. Jumpers Kayesha Christian, Fabbianho Louis Jeune and Shamar Wright qualified in long jump. Louis Jeune also qualified in the triple jump, and Daysi Williams will represent Marathon in the high jump event. Throwers Nicole Merryman (shot put), Mason Buxton (javelin) and Justice Lee (discus) round out the field qualifiers for Marathon. Buxton also qualified for the 800m race. Two sprinters made the cut as Tinashay Cunningham and Jakub Bursa will compete in the 400m. Vance Bursa qualified in the 800m, 1600m and 3200m races. Aaron Dolton, who signed to continue his track career with Flagler College this week, will represent the Fins in the 110m and 400m hurdles. The girls 4x100m and both boys and girls 4x800m relay teams will also compete on May 6.

1. Key West boys and girls track & field teams.

2. Mason Buxton qualifies in the javelin.

3. Fabiannho Louis Jeune qualifies in the long jump.

4. Ava Merryman qualifies in the pole vault.

5. Suharevskis Niks-Davis takes first in the pole vault.

Photos by RICK MacKENZIE/Contributed. See more meet photos at keysweekly.com

MARATHON’S ZIELS EARNS 100TH SEASON STRIKEOUT

Dolphins are conference championship-bound; district action begins May 1

The Marathon Dolphins completed their regular season with three wins last week, bringing their record to 16-7. The Dolphins beat Somerset South Homestead on April 18, 10-1, cranking out nine hits in the game. The Fins called up some of their middle school players to give them some varsitylevel experience, and seventh grader Jack Chapman wasted no time, making the most of his varsity debut with two hits in the win. Gavin Leal also had a pair of hits and Dylan Globe, Mason Thornton, Alex Reininger, Ryan Yablon and Gabe Leal each had one. The Fins stole eight bases in total, with four by Nolan O’Hara. Gavin Leal earned the win on the mound, facing 16 batters over four innings and striking out four. Ethan Sauders closed out the final three innings.

A doubleheader on April 19 became a single game after the Fins handed Redland Christian a decisive 18-3 loss. Bryan Broche, Brody Reininger and Leo Mendez each earned a pair of hits. The rest of the 11 were from Yablon, Globe, Sauders, Chapman and eighth grader Jack Dunn. Chapman earned his first varsity win on the mound, pitching two innings and striking out four with no hits. Alex Reininger completed the final inning on the mound before both teams decided a second game would not be beneficial.

The Dolphins’ final regular season game was a road win against Westwood Christian School. Marathon had 13 hits in the romp, beating Westwood 18-0 over five innings. Yablon led the offensive onslaught with three hits and two RBIs. Thornton, Globe and Ziels had two hits apiece and Broche, Gabe Leal, Aidan Gon-

zalez and Gavin Leal each had one.

Ziels earned his 100th season strikeout against Westwood, facing 11 batters over three innings. The junior ace made school history with number 100, but went on to add seven more in the win. (As of April 26, Ziels stands as Florida’s strikeout leader with the third-highest strikeout total in the nation, according to MaxPreps. com). Yablon closed it for Marathon, striking out four of the nine batters he faced and allowing no hits in his two innings on the mound.

The Fins opened their postseason on a high note on April 26, exacting first-round tournament revenge against Ransom Everglades in a rematch of the 2022 South Florida Baseball Conference championship game. Led by 16 strikeouts from Ziels in a complete-game effort, the Fins used six hits – three by Yablon alone – to top the Raiders 6-3. The Palmer Trinity Falcons are now the lone obstacle standing between the Fins and an SFBC conference championship, with the tournament final scheduled for Friday, April 28 at 7 p.m. at Miami Country Day School. A live stream of the game will be available on the Marathon Dolphins Baseball Facebook page.

Coral Shores traveled to LaSalle on April 18, picking up a road win against the Royal Lions. Donovan Thiery picked up the win, pitching 2-2/3 innings for the ’Canes. Tate Brumbalow, Dylan Bloom and Riley O’Berry all pitched in on the mound. The Hurricane bats could not be stopped, with 10 hits coming from five athletes. Campbell Lavoie had three, while Thiery and Ian Anderson each had two, including a triple from Anderson. A.J.

Putetti and Zeke

Marathon’s Dylan Ziels fields the ball at third and throws a Somerset runner out at first.

Bryan Broche slides safely into second against Somerset.

GAUKEL/Keys Weekly. For more game photos, including MHS Senior Night photos, see keysweekly.com

Data taken from MaxPreps.com on the morning of April 26 shows Dylan Ziels with the third-most strikeouts in the nation. Ziels’ 123 strikeouts through 54.1 innings pitched tops all other Florida hurlers by more than 30. CONTRIBUTED

Myers each had a base hit in the win. The ’Canes lost on April 21 to NSU University School 8-1. District play begins for Coral Shores on Monday, May 1.

Key West experienced what many Florida teams face when they visit the Southernmost City on April 20 when they traveled to Broward County to take on the top-ranked Eagles of Stoneman Douglas High. The defending 7A state champion Eagles proved they deserve the number one rank in Florida baseball, beating the 4A Conchs 13-2.

After struggling in the opening frames, the Conchs managed to put numbers on the scoreboard in the fifth inning, but it would be too little, too late to take down Stoneman Douglas. Anden Rady was able to find his way around the Eagles’ pitching, registering three hits in the game. Jack Haggard had a base hit and Gabe Williams made the most of his hit, sending the ball over the fence for a fifth-inning homer. Andris Barroso started the game, lasting three innings with relief from Jacob Burnham and Marlin Takovich. The Conchs gave up nine hits, including four home runs, in the loss.

On April 22, Key West rebounded against another highlyranked 7A team in the South Dade Buccaneers. The Conchs won 4-2, with Felix Ong on the mound for six innings, striking out five. Burnham threw one inning of relief. Haggard had a single and a double, leading the hitting for Key West. Williams, Jose Perdigon and Sam Holland each added one hit to make five hits in the win. The 16-5 Conchs play the Stingarees of Miami High School on Friday and Saturday, April 28 and 29 to close out their regular season.

CARRIE WOHLERS

On Tuesday March 28, 2023 heaven gained a new angel, with the unexpected loss of our beloved Carrie Wohlers. She is survived by her son Thomas Wohlers and wife Tiffany, son Ryan Wohlers, and her three grandchildren Ethan, Colton and Isla Wohlers. She was preceded in death by her parents Beverly and William Maloy, and brother William Maloy, Jr.

Carrie was a loving and caring person, whose kind-hearted nature will be dearly missed. She spent her career days in banking and loved living the keys life by the ocean. Her family was her everything. Carrie was the definition of selfless and would do anything for anyone without a single hesitation. We will love and miss her forever.

Jacob Burnham takes on South Dade on April 22.

Anthony Lariz takes on South Dade on April 22.

Photos by ELLA HALL/Keys Weekly. See more game photos at keysweekly.com.

A SCOUNDREL’S SOLUTION

Marathon Community Theater’s new show is “Scapino!,” a witty comedy full of surprises and laughs. Set in a charmingly designed – and somehow familiar? – Naples, Italy, Frank Dunlop and Jim Dale’s script follows the loveable but roguish trickster for whom the play is titled, with a name meaning “little escape artist” in Italian. When two young men beg Scapino to use his wit and charm to solve their love affairs and family dramas, the scoundrel weaves a hilarious tale which mostly solves things – for himself, that is.

Director Michael Wagner wanted to bring “Scapino” to MCT after being in it years ago as an actor. He highlighted that the show is immersive and interactive for the audience.

“The waiters sing the menu of the restaurant,” he said, “and the audience is encouraged to sing along with lyrics in the playbill. The actors come and go through the audience throughout the show.”

The cast includes a blend of returning MCT talent and new actors joining the theater’s stage. Several were quite close even before rehearsals for “Scapino!” began, having worked together on previous projects.

Returning for his fourth show at MCT and 98th show in his lifetime, Ashley Andrews plays the booming, intense father figure Senior Argante.

“I’ve now worked with a lot of this cast in previous shows,” said Andrews. “It’s a family you’re working with.”

The group’s on-stage chemistry comes through, whether in fastpaced dialogue, whacking each other with deli meats, or even just a well-timed gag, and their family dynamic works for a show reliant on timing and trust.

Much like its namesake, “Scapino!” is clever and quick. Just as entertaining as the humor of the show is figuring out how Scapino is about to talk his way out of the next situation, as layers of flattery, deception, misdirection and pasta are all put to good use. Unusual characters lead to unusual circumstances, and the cast said the “How did we get here?” hijinks were a fun challenge.

“A lot of shows have the same couple of characters,” said actress Noelle Belden. “In this show I wanted to go outside of the box and do acting beyond the typical characters that you see.”

“Scapino!” is full of the unexpected. There’s music, drama, a very impressive magic trick from Dion Watson, and of course, lots of comedy.

The titular character is a “master trickster,” according to Abbi Colella, who plays Leandro in the show, and is described in the script as, “a rogue, a villain, a scoundrel!”

But as others in the case tell it, the “scoundrel” is, in fact, a “lovable trickster” who “uses his wit to get what he wants, but the audience will fall in love with him by the end.”

“Scapino” is directed by Michael Wagner. The show runs from April 27 through May 13 on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., with a 3 p.m. matinee on Sunday, May. 7. Tickets are $28 and are available at www.marathontheater.org or by calling 305-7430994.

‘Scapino!’ opens this weekend at MCT

Ottavio (Lee Lawson, right) consoles his beloved Giacinta (Nikki Sunshine).

Bethany Bartlett plays a lovely waitress in Naples.

ABIGAIL HADDOCK www.keysweekly.com

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.

WE ARE NOW TAKING VOTE BY MAIL REQUEST FOR THE 2024 ELECTION CYCLE.

WATERFRONT RESTAURANT

Fish,

CHASIN’ SAIL

The 83 anglers in last weekend’s Marathon Premier Sailfish Tournament enjoyed a welcome change from the 2022 tournament’s 30 mph wind gusts and four- to eightfoot seas as the contest’s 2023 iteration treated them to calm seas, a light breeze and sunny skies.

On April 21 and 22, the goal was simple: race to catch and safely release as many sailfish as possible over 15 hours of competition, with an option to apply research tags supplied by Gray Taxidermy to caught fish. By the end of the tournament’s second day, only two fish separated the top three podium positions, with three boats reporting hooked fish a mere minute before tournament officials called “lines out” at 3 p.m.

Tales of the ones that got away were told at an awards banquet on Saturday night hosted by Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters and catered by Brutus Seafood Restaurant and Market. Winners received trophies from Gray Taxidermy along with artwork by Eddie Forbes Art, with top teams earning cash prizes.

Now in its second year, proceeds from the tournament will benefit Mission Fishin’, an organization dedicated to providing memorable fishing trips and other marine adventures for special needs children, foster children and their families who would not otherwise be afforded these opportunities. Tournament director Katie Lewis confirmed that the contest will return in 2024. More information is at marathonsailfish. com.

— Alex Rickert

Eighty-three anglers battle for top honors in the second Marathon Premier Sailfish Tournament

THE WINNERS CIRCLE

Team Winners

1. ViceVersa – 500 points – Capt. Sam Milazzo, mate Tyler Rodriguez, anglers Justin Miller, Marc Toledo, Scott Stoky, Doug Mientkiewicz, Brandon Simmons and Trevor Finns.

2. Big Game – 400 points – Capt. Ariel Medero, mate Robert "Reggie" Hiro, anglers Doug and Lorri Cwanek, Brandon Biffell and Trace Goodwin.

3. No Slack – 300 points – Capt. James "Bucko" Platt, mate Ely Hernandez, anglers Melissa Bennet, Jared Dieguez, Kavon Mehranipornejad and James Platt III.

Top Male Angler - Tyler Rodriguez/ ViceVersa

Top Female Angler - Jill Paglia/Executive Decision

Top Junior Angler - Corbin Buckley/ Killbox

Most Tagged Fish - Big Game Sportfishing (four fish tagged)

1. With 500 points from five caught fish, Team Vice Versa claims the tournament’s top prize.

2. Team Big Game takes second place with 400 points.

3. Team No Slack claims third place with 300 points.

4. Executive Decision’s Jill Paglia earns the tournament’s Top Female Angler title.

5. Team Big Game earns top honors for the most tagged fish in the tournament.

Photos by Michael Finiguerra and Neil Mellies

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MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH BUFFET

SUNDAY, MAY 14

11 AM - 3 PM

Celebrate Mother’s Day in paradise at Isla Bella Beach Resort! Treat Mom to a beautiful brunch at Town Square, full of fresh seafood, savory mains, and sweet treats for the whole family to enjoy.

Relax and unwind in the serenity of our coastal oasis as we honor and cherish the mothers who make our families possible.

"There’s no better way to celebrate Earth Day in the Florida Keys than releasing two iconic sea turtles that were rehabilitated at the Turtle Hospital since November." said Bette Zirkelbach, the Turtle Hospital's manager. “Sea turtles are a symbol for our marine ecosystem.

“Helping to save sea turtles makes people aware to protect our oceans and there’s no better time to think of it (than) on Earth Day,” Zirkelbach added. “It’s great to celebrate Earth Day, but every day needs to be Earth Day.”

TURTLE HOSPITAL MARKS EARTH DAY WITH A PAIR OF RELEASES

TAKE ME HOME

Two rehabilitated green sea turtles were released back to their ocean home off the Florida Keys on April 22 to mark Earth Day in the subtropical island chain.

The two juvenile reptiles, named "Larry” and “Moe,” were rescued last year off the Lower Keys and diagnosed with fibropapillomatosis, a debilitating tumor-causing disease that affects sea turtles around the world.

Treatment at the Turtle Hospital included surgeries to remove the cauliflower-like tumors, broad-spectrum antibiotics, fluids, vitamins and a diet of greens and mixed seafood.

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

BRANDY

13-year-old female labrador mix.

Looking for: People, small dogs and lots of walks!

Turnoffs: Some big dogs, but not all.

DOT

7-month-old female rabbit. Looking for: Aren’t there any rabbit lovers out there?

Turnoffs: Please don’t try to pick me up.

WALNUT

2-month-old female domestic shorthair.

Looking for: Attention, affection and lots of playtime.

Turnoffs: I haven’t met dogs yet. What are those?

Before the releases, kids and their parents, who enthusiastically applauded the released turtles, had a chance to see the turtles up close and learn from Zirkelbach about the need to protect the oceans.

The Turtle Hospital, based in Marathon, is the world's first statelicensed veterinary hospital solely dedicated to the rehabilitation of endangered sea turtles. The facility has been rescuing, rehabilitating and returning turtles to the wild for 37 years.

— Contributed

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.

‘Larry’ and ‘Moe’ test the open ocean for the first time since 2022. ANDY NEWMAN/Florida Keys News Bureau

THE BEST THINGS IN LIFE ARE FREE BUT HOW DO THE MUSICIANS GET PAID?

My friend, local musician/ singer/songwriter Billy Davidson, recently posted what he called a rant on Facebook. Based on the very pertinent (to musicians) subject matter, I don’t see it as a rant — it’s just a statement on the sad state of affairs for independent musicians. Here’s Billy’s statement:

“Tonight I just spent $70.00 on a new harmonica. I can't sell CDs any more because there are no more CD players in cars and computers and I don’t have anywhere that I can sell my music. I just bought my daughter a coffee at Starbucks for $8.00, but I get (just) 99 cents for my songs on iTunes, (much less — $0.010 with Spotify, etc.) on a new song that I spend hours of studio time. Plus, I pay my drummer and bass player, and maybe a keyboard player and pedal steel player… (It’s a song) that you can keep forever. When I was 14, I could buy a new Beatles single for $1.29. That was 60 years ago, folks. I’ve got some new songs I’m about to release. … I’m thinking of charging $9.99 per song and I’m hoping that you can appreciate the fact that what I do is worth it. Let me know if I’m crazy.”

Billy makes so many good points. The cost of making music is still pretty high, especially for harmonicas that used to cost just $5.00 back in the 1970s. Studio time or professional recording equipment will set you back several thousand. But people believe that their recorded music should be free, or simply a part of their incredibly inexpensive streaming subscription. It doesn’t work that way for other entertainment options like movies or cable. So why is it that musicians are the ones who constantly get screwed?

The music streaming business is quite lucrative, to the tune of more than $12 billion a year. Yet the musician/artist earns no more than a penny per stream. And some, like Amazon, pay out just 3/10ths of a cent per stream. The distributors rake in the dough, while the actual content creators get shafted. I know this to be true — all my music is on those streaming services. Every now and then I get a direct deposit for $20.00.

Other musicians let their voices be heard in response to Billy’s statement. Paul Case wrote, “I am so disgusted that it’s everything is free — once you let it go it’s gone and free. … I’m charging $25.00 per CD and it’s still not enough to pay for my recording (and) cost of everything.”

Gary Hempsey responded, “I had 220,000 views on a video — zero dollars. That video cost $10,000.00 and the recording of the song (cost)

$2,500.00.”

David Goodman added, “No one wants to have what they have produced, created, invented and spent years perfecting, given away without compensation. But for some reason, people think it is okay to give our music, our ‘intellectual property’ away, or get it, for free. And here's another rant. The venues we play, we are making the same as or less money than we made in 1990!! Our equipment costs, fuel costs, vehicles, rent/mortgage, food, taxes, etc. have gone through the frickin’ roof and we’re actually earning half of what we made thirty years ago!” David continued, “People have no idea the expenses we incur to do what we do. Or how hard we have worked to sound as good as we do. They hear some hack in a bar who sucks but he can play ‘Slow Dancing In a Burning Room’ with some watered down internet tracks and sh***y-sounding modeled guitar and licks he learned from YouTube, and they don't know the damned difference anymore.” Preach on, brother!

Brian Le Mar wrote, “Unfortunately, the recording (no matter what it costs to make) is now a promotional tool to entice attendance at live performances (that’s why concert ticket prices are so high).”

Even artists who rack up hundreds of thousands or millions of streams think the new music business model sucks. Peter Frampton is a sad example, as he tweeted about his situation back in 2018: “For 55 million streams of ‘Baby I Love Your Way,’ I got $1,700.00. I went to Washington with ASCAP last year to talk to lawmakers about this. Their jaws dropped and they asked me to repeat that for them.”

If a music legend like Frampton can’t do anything about it, what chance do we have? Our best bet is to support the local live artists by buying a CD or other merchandise, and sharing how to get their music with our friends. Otherwise, we will watch the death of good recorded music in front of our very eyes.

— 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

Established in 1970, Grassy Key Marina and Market offers a wide array of services including dry and wet boat storage, and a well maintained boat ramp. Grassy Key Marina and Market is a one stop shop that includes boat rentals, a well stocked grocery store, live/frozen bait, and all of your tackle needs. The marina is recently under new ownership and an emphasis has been placed on providing the customer service and setting that allows consumers to enjoy the beautiful Florida Keys. Jeff Vastola, owner, says the keys to their success is the upbeat atmosphere and helpful employees. "We are constantly striving to make improvements in our operations and aesthetically so that the marina is a place that suits the needs of all and provides a memorable experience" said Vastola. Grassy Key Marina and Market will never stop pushing to make its service and atmosphere better in hopes of continuing to meet all needs of Keys Residents and visitors alike.

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

JOHN BARTUS

SQUEAKY CLEAN BEACHES

Twenty-six members of the Marathon Moose Lodge celebrated Earth Day on April 22 with a cleanup of Loggerhead Beach at Bahia Honda State Park. Pictured, from left, are volunteers JoAnne Costa, John Dziedzic, Pam Gauthier, Ginger Perrault, Ron and Peggy McEwan, Bob Kroschel, Holly Kepcha, Linda Wilton, Barbara Paget, Judy Dahlfues, Bob Wilkinson, Donna Ferenci, Melissa Thomas, Janie Byland and Twyla Sweetmoon. CONTRIBUTED

FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS

Healing through letting go

Life is full of experiences that can leave us with emotional wounds. From traumatic events to broken relationships, unresolved conflicts to past mistakes, these emotional wounds can linger within us, affecting our mental, emotional and even physical well-being.

However, the process of healing often begins with letting go – releasing and surrendering what no longer serves us. Letting go can be a powerful tool for healing, allowing us to free ourselves from the shackles of the past and move towards a brighter, more fulfilling future.

Letting go is not about forgetting or denying our experiences. It's about acknowledging them, processing the emotions associated with them, and then releasing them from our grip. It's about allowing ourselves to feel the pain, grief, anger or any other emotions that arise, without holding on to them indefinitely.

Letting go is an active process that requires conscious effort and self-compassion. It's not always easy, but it can be immensely liberating and empowering.

One of the key aspects of letting go is forgiveness – both of ourselves and others. Holding onto grudges, resentments and self-blame can weigh heavily on our hearts and minds, preventing us from moving forward. Forgiveness is not about condoning or excusing the actions that hurt us, but rather about releasing the emotional burden they have placed upon us. It's about accepting what has happened, acknowledging our feelings and choosing to let go of the negative emotions associated with the experience.

INNER BEAUTY FOR HISTORIC HOME AT

CRANE POINT

Crane Point Museum and Nature Center rang in Earth Day on April 22 with the dedication of the Crane House, one of the property’s most historic structures. Built in 1954 for Francis and Mary Crane, a Massachusetts couple who purchased the property in 1949, it was eventually bought by the Florida Keys Land and Sea Trust in 1989. From 1995 to 2005, it served as a temporary home for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), but had been vacant since. Following an exterior facelift in 2021, the home underwent a complete interior renovation – while still preserving decor styles from the 1950s – that concluded earlier this year, thanks to the vision of local artist and philanthropist Lynn Voit. It will now be available to book for weddings and special events, along with public viewing in the near future. Pictured, from left, are Crane Point CEO Charlotte Quinn, Voit, Marathon Vice Mayor Robyn Still and board chairman George Garrett. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

Research demonstrates that forgiveness is linked to improved mental health and well-being. A study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that forgiveness was associated with lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress and higher levels of life satisfaction and psychological well-being. Another study published in the Journal of Behavioral Medicine found that forgiveness was associated with better physical health outcomes, including lower blood pressure and improved immune function. Letting go of grudges and practicing forgiveness can also lead to improved relationships and increased social support, which further contribute to overall healing and well-being.

JENNIFER BOLTZ HARVEY

...is a Marathonbased ACSMcertified personal trainer and precision nutrition coach who owns and operates Highly Motivated Functionally Caffeinated LLC.

Letting go also involves releasing attachment to outcomes and expectations. Many times we hold on tightly to our desires, dreams and plans, and when they don't manifest as we had hoped, we experience disappointment, frustration and even despair. However, when we learn to let go of our attachment to specific outcomes, we create space for new possibilities to emerge. We become more adaptable, resilient and open to change, which can lead to greater creativity, innovation and growth.

Letting go can also involve surrendering to the present moment. Many of us spend a significant amount of time dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, which can rob us of the joy and peace that can be found in the present moment. By letting go of our attachment to the past and the future, we can cultivate mindfulness and be fully present in the here and now. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, deep breathing and body scan, can help us develop the skill of letting go of thoughts and emotions that arise without judgment, allowing us to be more present and fully engaged in our lives.

Often, we are our harshest critics, constantly berating ourselves with negative self-talk and believing limiting beliefs about our abilities, worthiness, and potential. These self-sabotaging patterns can keep us stuck in a cycle of self-doubt and prevent us from realizing our full potential. Letting go of these negative self-perceptions and replacing them with compassion and self-love can be transformative and empowering.

So right now, in this moment, I want you to take a deep breath in through the nose for a count of five, hold that breath for a count of five, and then exhale for a count of five. Repeat this style of breathing for as many cycles as you want and focus on letting go of one thing at a time that doesn’t serve your mental or physical well-being.

Allow yourself the room to grow into your most positive and powerful self with each breath. You deserve it.

Whether

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 ! ”

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.

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!

from page 4

a full vote in the Florida House or Senate.

IN OTHER NEWS

• Following a presentation from board chair Mel Montagne of Fair Insurance Rates in Monroe (FIRM), a nonprofit and nonpartisan advocacy and lobbying group that works to bring insurance inequities to light in the eyes of state officials, the commission elected to give the group $50,000 to continue addressing pressing concerns affecting Keys property owners.

• The commission unanimously voted to approve an employment agreement with current Medical Examiner Michael Steckbauer to create a County Medical Examiner Department with Steckbauer as its head. Addressing the commission, Steckbauer said that absorbing the previously independent office will allow for greater control of the position and easier recruitment of new employees as necessary.

• The commission unanimously approved an ordinance to create the Richard A. Recupero Park at Key West’s Hawk Missile Site. As set forth in the ordinance, the park will be open for recreational use by the public between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. Camping, alcohol, fires, grilling, drones and overnight parking are prohibited.

• The commission unanimously accepted a proposal from Banc of America Capital Corp. to provide the county with lease-purchase financing for the three Leonardo AW139 helicopters that will eventually replace the current Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Trauma Star air ambulances. The 15year agreement for the $53 million purchase comes with an interest rate of 3.25%.

• Dozens of law enforcement personnel and other first responders filled the meeting’s early portion to support Florida Highway Patrol Lt. Kathleen McKinney. Due to retire after 40 years of service, McKinney was presented with an Honorary Conch certificate by the commission.

BRIEFLY

Traffic advisory issued for Marathon boat races

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind motorists and mariners that the Seven Mile Offshore Grand Prix is this weekend, April 29 and 30. The race will occur in the Gulf of Mexico, north of the Old Seven Mile Bridge. Motorists should expect some delays on U.S. 1 during the race and plan accordingly. There will be no stopping or parking allowed on the shoulder, curb or directly on U.S. 1 during this event. Sheriff’s Office deputies and Florida Highway Patrol troopers will be patrolling to ensure this behavior does not occur.

Driver in stolen vehicle arrested after pursuit

A 36-year-old New Albany, Ohio man who allegedly fled from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office in a van reported stolen out of Key West was arrested on April 25.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, Evan Joseph Dodge was charged with fleeing and eluding, DUI, reckless driving and possession of drug paraphernalia. Additional charges with the Key West Police Department may be pending.

The Sheriff’s Office saw the van northbound on U.S. 1 near MM 18 at about 4:41 p.m. The van, driven by Dodge, did not stop and continued northbound on its rims after the Sheriff’s Office spiked its tires.

Dodge eventually stopped near MM 30 and was taken into custody without further incident. Dodge allegedly stated he had been smoking methamphetamine. There were no passengers in the vehicle.

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 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). One hundred percent 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.

Habitat for Humanity to hold applicant information sessions

Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys will hold an informational meeting for residents of the Middle Keys interested in applying for their homeownership program. The meeting is on Saturday, May 6 at 10 a.m. at the Marathon fire station, 8900 Overseas Hwy. Interested applicants are encouraged to attend prior to applying for Habitat’s homeownership program. Spanish translators will be available. Contact 305-743-9828 or fsm@habitatmiddlekeys.org with questions.

Marathon Community Church plans another hot dog fundraiser

The Marathon Community Church will have another drive-through hot dog fundraiser on Saturday, April 29 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Donors will receive a grilled hot dog, chips, cookies and a bottle of water for a $5 donation. Funds raised will continue to support costs to renew, replace and maintain the church building, built in 1948 by local citizens seeking a nondenominational place of worship. Today, the church conducts regular Sunday worship services, Bible study groups, Haitian church services and community meetings while supporting the work of Keys Area Interdenominational Resources (KAIR).

America’s Boating Club to offer NASBLA boating course

America's Boating Club is offering a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) boating course necessary to obtain the required Florida State Boater ID Card. The course qualifies participants for rate reductions from many insurance companies. America’s Boating Course teaches the basic skills of boat handling and seamanship, boating regulations, safety skills, aids to navigation, charting, weather, radio operation and the Florida boating regulations. Students will also learn to use flares, tie some knots, and learn facts about local waters.

This 1-1/2 day course will be offered on Saturday, May 6 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, May 7 from 8 a.m. to noon. The cost is $70, or $85 for two students sharing materials. Class will be held at the America’s Boating Club building at 5205 College Road, Stock Island. Saturday will include a free lunch followed by a guest speaker from Florida Fish and Wildlife. To reserve a place in this class, please call Vince Melendy at 305-296-1126.

Come take a class at the Marathon library

The Marathon library has a wide variety of class offerings, ranging from photography to book clubs, robots, virtual reality and more.

Scan the QR code here to see the schedule and get involved.

Keys Watercolor Society opens scholarship applications

The Florida Keys Watercolor Society will award a $250 scholarship to a Monroe County graduating senior pursuing a higher education degree in visual arts. The deadline to apply is Sunday, April 30. Please contact FKWCS scholarship chair Peter Turner at psterlingtri@gmail.com or 305-857-5746.

Marathon Garden Club invites scholarship applicants

Marathon High School collegebound seniors are invited to apply for the Nancy Miller Garden Club Scholarship. The scholarship is for a student with an interest in the environment, horticulture and science who intends to major in the areas of STEM. The application is online under the “CCAPS Scholarship Opportunities” tab on the Marathon High School website, with additional hard copies available at the high school. Applications are due Sunday, April 30, and the award will be presented on Class Night.

MHS band seeks instrument repair sponsors

The Marathon High School band currently has many older wind instruments that are in need of repair to work properly for students. There are 65 instruments that are in need of repair. Most repairs are more than $100 each. The band is asking for sponsors to “adopt an instrument” for repair. Each sponsorship is for $75 and will include a brass engraved name plate on the instrument case with the sponsor's name, foundation name or business name in a prominent location. Each instrument repair sponsor will also be listed in the band concert programs for the remainder of the 2022-23 and 2023-24 school years. Community support will help keep participation in band and music classes free for every student. Sponsors may write checks payable to “Marathon Band” with “instrument repair sponsorship” in the memo line. They can be mailed to the high school, dropped off, or picked up if requested. Contact morris.brooker@ keysschools.com for more information.

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

BEST LIEN SERVICES INC., LOCATED AT 7290 SW 41 ST, MIAMI, FL 33155, WILL SELL AT A RESERVE PUBLIC SALE ON MAY 24, 2023 AT 9:00 AM THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES AT SAID LOCATION TO SATISFY LIEN

PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 713.585 OF THE FLORIDA STATUES.

2004 XMO VS XMO08161M404

DATE OF SALE: MAY 24,2023 AT 9:00 AM LOCATION: :97951 OVERSEAS

HWY KEYLARGO, FL33037 P#:305-852-2025

OWNER/LIENHOLDER: TYLER

WESTBROOK/GOODFAITH TO PD

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 27, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

DISTRICT II ADVISORY

COMMITTEE (DAC II)

(From the city limits of Key West to the west end of the Seven Mile Bridge) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL has an opening for a LODGING INDUSTRY REPRESENTATIVE – shall be owners or operating/general managers of motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks, or other tourist accommodations which are subject to bed tax in the tax collection district for which they are applying.

Any person wishing to participate on the District II Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys.com.

Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@fla-keys. com, or may be sent via U.S. Mail to the address below:

Department DAC Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040

Deadline for receipt of applications at the above address is Friday, May 19, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. A resume may be attached to the application.

Publish:

April 27, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDI-

NANCE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO

WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on May 17, 2023, at 9:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the Harvey Government Center, 1200 Truman Avenue, Key West, Florida, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, intends to consider adopting the following ordinance:

AN ORDINANCE BY THE MONROE COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AMENDING

SECTION 8-37 (“PASSAGE OF FOUR YEARS TO PROSECUTIONS”) OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF MONROE COUNTY

TO CLARIFY THAT CODE COMPLIANCE PROSECUTIONS MUST BE INITIATED WITHIN FOUR YEARS OF THE ACTUAL DISCOVERY OF THE VIOLATION BY THE MONROE COUNTY CODE COMPLIANCE DEPARTMENT; PROVIDING THAT THIS CONSTITUTES AN AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE THAT THE RESPONDENT CARRIES THE BURDEN TO RAISE AND DISCHARGE BEFORE THE CODE COMPLIANCE SPECIAL MAGISTRATE; TO CLARIFY THAT THIS SECTION DOES NOT APPLY TO PROSECUTION(S) BASED UPON FAILURE TO OBTAIN A PERMIT; TO CLARIFY THAT WORK WITHOUT A PERMIT, SUCH AS DEVELOPMENT (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO CONSTRUCTION OR LAND CLEARING), IS CONSIDERED A CONTINUING

LEGAL NOTICES

VIOLATION THAT CONTINUES UNTIL REQUIRED AFTER-THEFACT PERMIT(S) ARE OBTAINED AND CLOSED OUT. The proposed ordinance may be inspected by the public at the Monroe County website by viewing the agenda packet for the May 17, 2023 meeting, which will be posted beginning on May 5, 2023 at: http://monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/citizens/default. aspx. The ordinance may also be viewed at the Monroe County Attorney’s office at 1111 12th St. Ste. 408 Key West, FL 33040. The public can participate in the May 17, 2023 meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, FL by attending in person or via Zoom. The Zoom link can be found in the agenda at http://monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/citizens/ default.aspx.

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

Dated at Key West, Florida, this 21st day of April, 2023.

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Ex Officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida

Publish:

April 27, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDINANCE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on May 17, 2023, at 9:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the Harvey Government Center, 1200 Truman Avenue, Key West, Florida, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, intends to consider adopting the following ordinance:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, ADDING DIVISION 4 TO ARTICLE VII, OF CHAPTER 2 OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES INCLUDING SECTION 2-428 THROUGH 2-432, TO CREATE THE MONROE COUNTY CONSERVATION LANDS ORDINANCE WHICH ESTABLISHES A DEFINITION OF “MONROE COUNTY CONSERVATION LANDS”; DEFINES THE ROLE OF THE COUNTY LAND STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SAID LANDS; CREATES A PROCESS TO ADD COUNTY-OWNED PROPERTIES TO THE INVENTORY OF MONROE COUNTY CONSERVATION LANDS; AND PROVIDES FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

The proposed ordinance may be inspected by the public at the Monroe County website by viewing the agenda packet for the May 17, 2023 meeting, which will be posted beginning on May 5, 2023 at: http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx. The ordinance may also be viewed at the Monroe County Attorney’s office at 1111 12th St. Ste. 408 Key West, FL 33040.

The public can participate in the May 17, 2023 meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, FL by attending in person or via Zoom. The Zoom link can be found in the agenda at http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact

LEGAL NOTICES

the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 2924441, between the hours of 8:30a.m.—5:00p.m., prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”. Live Closed-Captioning is available via our web portal @ http://monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners. Dated at Key West, Florida, this 21st day of April, 2023.

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Ex Officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida

Publish:

April 27, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

City of Key Colony Beach

600 W Ocean Drive Key Colony Beach, FL, 33501

ITB - Invitation to Bid City Hall

ITB -2023001-0-2023/DJT

The City of Key Colony Beach Commissioners requests interested parties to submit formal sealed bids/proposals for the above.

Scope of Work: See bid package Ordering Instructions: This package can be downloaded from DemandStar Corporation on our website at https://www. demandstar.com.

Bid Bond: See bid package

Pre/Bid Proposal Conference:

NON-MANDATORY SEE BID

PACKAGE

Due Date/Time: 6/5/2023 4:00:00 PM Eastern City of Key Colony Beach must receive bids no later than said date and time. Bids received after such time will be returned unopened.

NOTE: ALL PROSPECTIVE BIDDERS/RESPONDENTS ARE HEREBY CAUTIONED NOT TO CONTACT ANY MEMBER OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH STAFF OR OFFICIALS OTHER THAN THE SPECIFIED CONTACT PERSON.

M/WBE's are encouraged to participate in the bid process.

Contact:

David Turner City Administrator

Phone: 305-289-1212 ext. 2

Publish:

April 27, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE

On June 5, 2023, at 10:00AM, Vacation Ownership Title Agency, Inc., whose address is 2900 Adams St., C-19, Riverside, CA 92504, as Trustee pursuant to the Notice of Appointment of Trustee recorded March 8, 2023 in Official Records Book 3214, Page 2438, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, will, in accordance with Sec. 721.855, Florida Statutes, sell at public auction to the highest bidder at front entrance to Monroe County Courthouse, 302 Fleming St., Key West, FL 33040 all right, title, and interest in and to the timeshare units and weeks described in Exhibit ‘’A’’ attached hereto, all of such timeshare units and weeks being in The Reef at Marathon, according to the Declaration of Condominium for The Reef at Marathon, a Condominium recorded in Book 849 at Page 2268, and any amendments thereto. The foreclosure is in respect of Claims of Lien (the ‘’Lien’’) recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41 in the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida with respect to each of the aforesaid timeshare units and weeks.

EXHIBIT “A” WILLIAM L.

MALONEY, LEONOR MALONEY, JOHN BILLER AND CYNTHIA N. BILER, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: P.O. BOX 610041, NORTH MIAMI, FL 33261; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL. Total Due: $2,938.36 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 4, Week No. 24, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a

LEGAL NOTICES

Condominium. JAMIE FAULRING, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: 9138 STATE RD., COLDEN, NY 14033; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL.

Total Due: $3,369.65 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 11, Week No. 52, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. JAMIE FAULRING, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: 9138 STATE RD., COLDEN, NY 14033; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL.

Total Due: $7,238.66 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 15, Week No. 50, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. JAMIE FAULRING, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: 9138 STATE RD., COLDEN, NY 14033; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL.

Total Due: $4,346.31 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 15, Week No. 51, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. EDDY FAYLE, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: P.O. BOX 2231, BUCKEYE LAKE, OH 43008-2231; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL.

Total Due: $4,275.85 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 2, Week No. 41, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. EFREN GALLARDO AND BRUNA GALLARDO, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: 905 E. 24TH ST., HIALEAH, FL 33013; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL. Total Due: $5,482.26 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 12, Week No. 46, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. ALLEN C. HOWERTON AND JANET K. HOWERTON, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: 7471 S. CLINTON ST., APT. 1503, ENGLEWOOD, CO 80112; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL. Total Due: $5,024.86 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 18, Week No. 13, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. WILLIAM MARTIN, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to:

7822 KILBOURN AVE., SKOKIE, IL 60077; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL. Total Due: $4,601.57 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 02, Week No. 03, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. WILLIAM MARTIN, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to:

7822 KILBOURN AVE., SKOKIE, IL 60077; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL. Total Due:

$4,435.31 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 02, Week No. 04, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. WILLIAM MARTIN, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to:

7822 KILBOURN AVE., SKOKIE, IL 60077; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL. Total Due:

$4,826.96 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 02, Week No. 5, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. WILLIAM MARTIN, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to:

7822 KILBOURN AVE., SKOKIE, IL 60077; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL. Total Due: $5,697.80 as of April 21, 2023;

LEGAL NOTICES

Described as Unit No. 22, Week No. 40, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. MILLENNIUM HOLDING CORP., Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: P.O. BOX 615, LAKE DELTON, WI 53940; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL.

Total Due: $8,980.43 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 16, Week No. 49, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. CAROL B. NISSEN, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: 280 N. SYKES CREEK PKWY., MERRITT ISLAND, FL 32953; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL. Total Due: $3,786.72 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 15, Week No. 20, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. ALAN SACKS, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: 1022

TARPON AVE., PORT ISABEL, TX 78578; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL. Total Due: $26,887.06 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 14, Week No. 33, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. ALAN SACKS, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: 1022

TARPON AVE., PORT ISABEL, TX 78578; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL. Total Due: $11,261.23 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 14, Week No. 47, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. ALAN SACKS, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: 1022

TARPON AVE., PORT ISABEL, TX 78578; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL. Total Due:

$9,565.07 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 14, Week No. 43, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. CHARLES L. TALLENT AND MARIETTA TALLENT, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to:

14532 BOURNEMUTH DR., SHELBY, MI 48315; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL.

Total Due: $5,230.77 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 18, Week No. 44, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. DAVID H. TUCKER AND JANIECE

A. TUCKER, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to:

6200 TOLLBRIDGE RD., BELTON, TX 76513-7581; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL.

Total Due: $6,683.61 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 2, Week No. 34, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. ELLSWORTH F. WARMOUTH, JR., Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: 6 EAGLE LANE, PALM HARBOR, FL 34683; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL. Total Due: $6,208.21 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 2, Week No. 31, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. SHERRI Y. WIDMANN, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: 3321 ORANGE BLOSSOM CT., PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL 33410; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL.

Total Due: $6,807.89 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 16, Week No. 40, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. LISA L. WOJCIECHOWSKI, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: 404 LAKE DORA RD., MT. DORA, FL 32757; Claim

LEGAL NOTICES

of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL. Total Due: $8,731.14 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 12, Week No. 21, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. WALTER WOJCIECHOWSKI AND LISA L. WOJCIECHOWSKI, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: 404 LAKE DORA RD., MT. DORA, FL 32757; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL. Total Due: $12,360.63

as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 8, Week No. 35, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. LISA L. WOJCIECHOWSKI, Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose sent via first class mail and certified mail to: 404 LAKE DORA RD., MT. DORA, FL 32757; Claim of Lien recorded February 23, 2023 in Book 3213 at Page 41, Public Records of Monroe County, FL. Total Due: $11,013.23 as of April 21, 2023; Described as Unit No. 15, Week No. 37, THE REEF AT MARATHON, a Condominium. The default of each obligor that is the basis for the foreclosure is the failure of the obligors to make payment of assessments under the applicable provisions of the Declaration of Condominium referenced above and under Sec. 721.15, Florida Statutes. Exhibit ‘’A’’ attached hereto also sets forth: the names and notice addresses of each obligor and any junior interest holders (if applicable); the amounts secured by the Lien (and per diem amounts, if applicable) to account for further accrual of the amounts secured by the Lien. The obligors may cure the default and any junior interest holder (if applicable) may redeem its interest up to the date the Trustee issues the certificate of sale by paying in full the amounts due. The sale hereunder will be made without any covenants or warranty.

EXECUTED this 18th day of April 2023. Vacation Ownership Title Agency, Inc., as Trustee: By: Deborah Macias, Authorized

Agent

Publish:

April 27 & May 4, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

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

FILE NO.: 23-CP-000047-P

IN RE: ESTATE OF JEAN ELLEN PINDER, Deceased.

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION

The administration of the estate of Jean Ellen Pinder, deceased, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, Florida 33070.

The file number for the estate is 23-CP-000047-P. The estate is testate and the date of the decedent’s Will is March 23, 2017.

The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below. The fiduciary lawyer-client privilege in Section 90.5021, Florida Statutes, applies with respect to the personal representative and any attorney employed by the personal representative. Any interested person on whom a copy of the notice of administration is served must file with the court, on or before the date that is 3 months after the date of service of a copy of the Notice of Administration on that person, any objection that challenges the validity of the will or any codicils, venue, or jurisdiction of the court. The 3 month time period may only be extended for estoppel based upon a misstatement by the personal representative regarding the time period within which an objection must be filed. The time period may

not be extended for any other reason, including affirmative representation, failure to disclose information, or misconduct by the personal representative or any other person. Unless sooner barred by section 733.212(3), Florida Statutes, all objections to the validity of a will or any codicils, venue or the jurisdiction of the court must be filed no later than the earlier of the entry of an order of final discharge of the personal representative or 1 year after service of the notice of administration.

Persons who may be entitled to exempt property under section 732.402, Florida Statutes, will be deemed to have waived their rights to claim that property as exempt property unless a petition for determination of exempt property is filed by such persons or on their behalf on or before the later of the date that is 4 months after the date of service of a copy of the notice of administration on such persons or the date that is 40 days after the date of termination of any proceedings involving the construction, admission to probate, or validity of the will or involving any other matter affecting any part of the exempt property. Unless an extension is granted pursuant to section 732.2135(2), Florida Statutes, an election to take an elective share must be filed on or before the earlier of the date that is 6 months after the date of service of a copy of the notice of administration on the surviving spouse, an agent under chapter 709, Florida Statutes, or a guardian of the property of the surviving spouse; or the date that is 2 years after the date of the decedent's death. Under certain circumstances and by failing to contest the will, the recipient of the notice of administration may be waiving his or her right to contest the validity of a trust or other writing incorporated by reference into a will.

Attorney for Personal

Representative:

Personal Representative: Jeffery M. Fine 9010 S.W. 117 Street Miami, Florida 33176

Attorney for Personal

Representative: Nicholas E. Christin, Esquire Florida Bar Number: 179561 Patricia D. Blanco, Esquire Florida Bar Number: 101707 Wicker, Smith, O'Hara. McCoy & Ford, P.A. Attorneys for Personal Representative 2800 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Suite 800 Coral Gables, Florida 33139 Telephone: (305) 448-3939 Fax: (305) 530-9409 E-Mail: miapleasdings@ wickermsith.com

Publish:

April 27 & May 4, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 23-CP-000047-P IN RE: ESTATE OF JEAN ELLEN PINDER Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Jean Ellen Pinder, deceased, whose date of death was January 9, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, Florida 33070 The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

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

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

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN

THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

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

The date of first publication of this notice is: April 27, 2023.

Personal Representative:

Jeffery M. Fine 9010 S.W. 117 Street

Miami, Florida 33176

Attorney for Personal

Representative:

Nicholas E. Christin, Esquire Wicker, Smith, O'Hara. McCoy & Ford, P.A. 2800 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Suite 800

Coral Gables, Florida 33139

Telephone: (305) 448-3939

Fax: (305) 530-9409

E-Mail: miapleadings@ wickermsith.com

Publish:

April 27 & May 4, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-23-M

DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS

IN RE: ESTATE OF ARNOLD GEORGE STEINMETZ, JR.

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Arnold George Steinmetz, Jr., deceased, whose date of death was March 25, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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

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

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME 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 27, 2023.

Personal Representative:

Chelsea S. Lyons

1156 Camino Del Vientos

Marathon, Florida 33050

Attorney for Personal Representative:

Richard E. Warner

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134

RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A.

12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-6022

Fax: (305) 743-6216

E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw.com

Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com

Publish: April 27 & May 4, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

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

CASE NO.: 23-CP-000021-M IN RE: ESTATE OF JAMES BARNHILL, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of James Barnhill, deceased, whose date of death was February 20, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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

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

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME 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 27, 2023.

HUNG V. NGUYEN

Personal Representative

2020 Ponce de Leon Blvd., #1105-B

Coral Gables, FL 33134

HUNG V. NGUYEN, ESQUIRE Florida Bar Number: 597260

THE NGUYEN LAW FIRM

Attorneys for Personal Representative

2020 Ponce de Leon Blvd., #1105-B Coral Gables, FL 33134

Phone: (786) 600-2530

Fax: (844) 838-5197

E-Mail: hung@nguyenlawfirm.net

Publish:

April 27 & May 4, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-000101-K

IN RE: ESTATE OF GEORGE H. GOULD, IV

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The ancillary administration of the estate of George H. Gould, IV, deceased, whose date of death

was June 29, 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 ancillary personal representative and the ancillary personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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

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

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

The date of first publication of this notice is: April 27, 2023.

Ancillary Personal

Representative:

George H. Gould, V 186 Tioga Drive Rochester, New York 14616

Attorney for Ancillary Personal

Representative:

Brian C. Perlin

Attorney

Florida Bar Number: 357898

Law Office of Brian C. Perlin, P.A. 201 Alhambra Circle, Suite 503 Coral Gables, FL 33134

Telephone: (305) 443-3104

Fax: (305) 443-0106

E-Mail: brian@ perlinestateplanning.com

Secondary E-Mail: florencia@ perlinestateplanning.com

Publish:

April 27 & May 4, 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-000040-P

IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBERT A. MATHIAS, JR., Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of ROBERT A. MATHIAS, JR., deceased, whose date of death was January 9, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal

DUI EVALUATOR/ INSTRUCTOR

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.

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

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

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

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: April 27, 2023.

Personal Representative: ROBERT CORRADI 12185 SW 78th Place Dunnellon, FL 34432

Attorney for Personal Representative: VICTORIA MIRANDA, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 1015363 HERSHOFF, LUPINO & YAGEL, LLP 88539 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070

E-Mail: VMiranda@HLYlaw.com

Publish:

April 27 & May 4, 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 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

LEGAL NOTICES

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 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

SUDOKU SOLUTION

CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844

EMPLOYMENT COMMERCIAL/ AUTOS ALL YEARS!

AUTOS WANTED

Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not. $CASH 305-332-0483

BOATS FOR SALE

1989 Parker Southwester Cabin Boat w/2008 250hp Suzuki 4 stroke w/130 hrs. Hull newly painted w/Alexseal. Located in Marathon. $25,000 910-269-7629

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

BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

Boat Dockage for rent in Marathon. Private bay bottom, up to 40' boat, self containing, offshore water, car & dingy parking provided. 305-928-9057

COMMERCIAL/

NOW HIRING

DIVE INSTRUCTOR

DIVEMASTER TOUCH TANK ATTENDANT GUEST SERVICES

PART-TIME LAWN MAINTENANCE ASSISTANT MANAGER

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

11710 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON

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

SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN

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

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

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

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

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

TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION T&D ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $103,172/annually$106,061/annually.

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

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

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

OFFICE SPACE

1100 sq ft Office Space available for rent in Marathon. $2,000 triple net 305-928-9258

EMPLOYMENT

Food for Thought in Marathon is hiring! FT and PT positions available, customer service, retail and kitchen prep. Healthy lifestyle and good sense of humor preferred. Call (305) 743-3297

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 or 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

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

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

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

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

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

We are now hiring for the following positions:

Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers

Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

Coast to Coast Pizza Company in Marathon is looking for front of the house cashier, part time. Will train, but should be outgoing with leadership traits and wellorganized, self-motivated, with a passion for customer service. Salary commensurate with experience and includes tips and 401k. Please call Nicole at 305-4330515, or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com.

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

The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a Customer-Service Oriented Server for the pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404219-3359 and ask for Dave.

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!

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 LOT FOR RENT

RV Site for rent in Marathon. Up to 35', private gated property. $1,500/mo + utilities. Dockage available - inquire for price. 305-610-8002

YARD SALES

Place your Yard Sale Ad here for $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

Having Fun in the Middle Keys

DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATORS

LOCATION: MARATHON

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for Distribution System Operators to perform semi-skilled work, involving the repair and maintenance of FKAA water distribution and transmission systems.  We provide on the job training for qualified applicants. Requires a High School Diploma or GED and valid Florida Driver’s License. Salary:  $48,909.19. Excellent benefits and opportunities for advancement.

Apply online at www. aa.com/employment

EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER IS HIRING

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

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

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

IS HIRING!

This position is available at our Adult Day program. This position provides direct care service and support to our clients in the day program. This position requires the minimum of high school completion or GED. English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must.

FL Driver’s license w/clean driving record, pre-employment training online and in person. Ability to pass a Level II background screening and references. EOE. Apply at 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

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.

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

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

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

IS HIRING!

DIRECT CARE STAFF 

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

• FULL TIME PROJECT MANAGER

• CARPENTERS & LABORERS

• EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

• ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Must have valid Driver’s License & Transportation

Location: Upper Keys

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

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

OPENINGS AVAILABLE

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Line Cook

- Medical Technologist, $15,000 Bonus

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

- Patient Experience Advocate

- Pool Physical Therapist

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

- Registered Respiratory Therapist, $15,000 Bonus

- Surgical Technologist

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- Cook, $5,000 Bonus

- Emergency Dept Team Coordinator

- Environmental Tech, $5,000 Bonus

- Lead Med Technologist, $15,000 Bonus

- Medical Technologist, $15,000 Bonus

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

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

- Patient Experience Advocate

- Patient Scheduler

- Pool Physical Therapist

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

- Sanitation Technician

- Security Of cer

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

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!

Volunteer Resources Administrative Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

IT Technical Specialist (Part Time, Permanent)

Human Resources Assistant (Part-Time, Permanent)

Guest Services Staff (Full-Time/Part-Time, Temporary/Permanent) Accounting Director (Full-Time, Permanent)

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

KEY LARGO

Behavioral Health Counselor (Children)

Crisis Counselor

KEY WEST

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult)

Behavioral Health Counselor (Children)

Crisis Counselor

Case Managers (Adult, Forensic, Children)

*Advocate (PT only)

Substance Abuse Counselor

Peer Support Specialist

MARATHON

Prevention Specialist (or KW)

Care Coordinator

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult)

RNs - 3 shifts (also Per Diem)

Maintenance Specialist

*Behavioral Health Technicians

3 shifts (also Per Diem)

*Support Worker – Assisted Living

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