Key West Weekly 23-0608

NOTHING COMPARES TO ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES

The possibilities are endless! Build your dream waterfront property right in the heart of Shark Key with a Gulf view worthy of a postcard. It's time to claim the Florida Keys as home and Shark Key as your island home in paradise. This is an affordable and rare opportunity that won't last! At almost 13,000 square feet and 80 feet of frontage on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, this lot is an ideal size and location. Catch sunrise views and sea breezes while you make yourself at home in Shark Key – the exclusive and private gated community just 11 miles from Key West. Only Shark Key homeowners have access to secluded saltwater lagoons, private beaches, tennis courts and a clubhouse. Call now to learn more about this exciting opportunity!

SHARK KEY | $759,000 | Listing ID: 605352

5450 MacDonald Ave. No.5 Key West, FL 33040 Office: 305.453.6928

www.keysweekly.com

Publisher / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Editor / Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

Director of Sales

Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com

Account Executive Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Production Manager

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Design / Pre-Press

Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Diana Striker www.keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

305.743.0844

Se habla español

THE KEY WEST WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050.

APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES.

All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

Postmaster

SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO THE KEYS WEEKLY, 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050

News Deadline Monday Noon

Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.

70

June 8 is World Oceans Day. Covering 70% of the planet, the Earth’s oceans produce around 50% of its oxygen. Per the U.S. Census Bureau, the U.S. ocean economy produces goods and services equating to $282 billion. Ocean-dependent businesses employ roughly 3 million people.

OFFICIALS KICK OFF NEW MEETING STYLE

COMMISSION REAFFIRMS KEY WEST AS A

‘WELCOMING CITY FOR ALL’

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

Change isn’t always popular in Key West, where the city commission has met on Tuesday evenings, twice a month, for the past 20+ years, but it’s not always a bad thing.

The city commission is trying out a new meeting schedule meant to avoid long, late-night meetings that force members of the public to wait through hours of reports, proclamations and awards before commenting on the topic that affects them.

City Manager Al Childress has changed things up a bit. The commission now meets once a month, on the second Thursday, in both a morning and evening session.

While the first of the new meetings took place after presstime, a full report from the meeting is available at keysweekly. com.

But here’s a look at what’s expected. In the morning session, the commission will cover the less controversial and more housekeeping type of items: proclamations, reports, presentations and

the consent agenda. The session will still be televised and online and the public may comment during each session.

One proclamation of note at this week’s meeting is a tribute to local businessman and philanthropist Frank Toppino, who turns 100 on June 15. (See the June 15 edition of the Key West Weekly for a full tribute and profile of “Mr. Frank.”)

The evening session starts at 5 p.m. and includes the deeper discussion items that will likely draw more public interest and attention.

On June 8, the commission was expected to name a new city clerk, as longtime Clerk Cheri Smith retires this summer, along with outgoing City Manager Patti McLauchlin.

Both candidates for the clerk position — Angela Budde and Keri O’Brien — have already worked in the Key West City Clerk’s office. Budde has worked for the city for 25 years, spent 11 years in the clerk’s office and has earned the Master Municipal Clerk certification. O’Brien has worked in the clerk’s office since 2019 and is in the process of earning the Master Municipal Clerk certification.

Key West’s Pride celebration, June 7-11, features loads of events and a commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the island’s Sea-to-Sea Rainbow Flag. (Cover design includes Pride stickers available at Amazon.com.)

In keeping with the island’s Pride celebration, the commission was also expected to pass a resolution, sponsored by Commissioner Jimmy Weekley, “Affirming that the city of Key West continues to be a welcoming city, committed to ensuring the rights of residents and visitors, including drag queens, gender nonconforming, transgender, cisgender and all manner of humans to walk upon, and to use, public spaces while wearing attire of their own choosing (so long as it is in compliance with the City’s nudity ordinance and public health requirements; acknowledging the drag community for elegance and originality, for their ability to unite the community and for boundless events and contributions benefiting the charitable causes of our city.”

Stay tuned to keysweekly. com for a full report from the June 8 city commission meeting.

RAINBOWS OVER KEY WEST

PRIDE KICKS OFF IN SOUTHERNMOST CITY

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

In 2003, a rainbow covered Key West’s Duval Street. Held aloft by 2,000 volunteers, the 1.25-milelong Sea-to-Sea Diversity Flag covered the length and width of Duval Street, from sidewalk to sidewalk, and eventually connected the Gulf of Mexico with the Atlantic Ocean.

Conceived by the late Gregg McGrady and executed by local officials, corporate sponsors and scores of volunteers, “flag day” took on a new meaning in Key West on June 15, 2003.

Gilbert Baker, who had designed the original rainbow flag 25 years earlier in response to anti-gay activities in 1978, headed up the crew of volunteers that sewed Key West’s flag. Dozens of them spent months hunched over sewing machines in the old Alice’s Restaurant at Duval and Amelia streets (across from LaTeDa), nearly drowning in swaths of color.

The unfurling was one of McGrady’s best memories.

“How cool was it to see so many people from all walks of life come together to make this one moment in time happen?” he would say. “Key West is attached to this for the rest of our lives.”

The flag was then divided into numbered sections and has been sent to communities around the globe for use in

LGBT celebrations, events and displays.

“It’s about sharing the One Human Family message,” says Mark Ebenhoch, who has brought 100-foot sections of the flag to places as far as Australia and as close as Orlando, where Key West’s flag hung in solidarity and solemnity following the Pulse nightclub shooting that killed 49 people in June 2016.

“We want everyone else to have what we have here in Key West,” said Ebenhoch.

Key West will celebrate what it has during its Pride celebration June 7-11, presented by the Key West Business Guild. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, at 8 p.m., the sea-to-sea flag will be recreated with a laser light show above Duval Street, and once again, a throng of volunteers will heft a 100-foot section of the original flag down the street for the Pride parade, which starts at 5 p.m. Sunday at Truman Waterfront.

Just as Baker created the first rainbow in response to anti-gay activities in 1978, Key West’s Pride celebration this year centers on the 20th anniversary of the Sea-to-Sea Flag — once again, when the LGBTQ+ community faces troubling times and anti-gay legislation.

For a complete schedule of Pride events, visit the Key West Business Guild at gaykeywestfl. com.

KEY WEST PROUDLY CELEBRATES PRIDE

Happy Key West Pride!

In recent months, there have been many attacks on our LGBTQ+ community, from our political leaders who are supposed to represent us. There have also been attacks on our local LGBTQ+ business community from those who believe that they are allies. There have been organizations in our state calling for visitors not to come to Florida and/or encourage our families to leave the state because of the actions of our political leaders.

In times like these we must come together as a community and remember where we have come from, where we are, and where we hope to go. We must be PROUD of who we are, stand up for each other, support each other.

Pride began as a fight for equal rights, and that fight continues, only if we all work together.

This year, our community has the privilege of celebrating 20 years of the Sea-to-Sea diversity flag. Key West has always been a community of inclusion – let’s continue to celebrate that. LGBTQ+ includes everyone. We hope you enjoy the many events we have planned for this year’s Pride celebration. We sincerely wish you all a very Happy Pride.

Kevin Theriault Executive Director Key West Business Guild

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1910

SQUARE GROUPER AND MY NEW JOINT ENCOURAGE YOU TO COME ON IN AND SEE WHAT YOU THINK WE SHOULD BE NOMINATED FOR IN 2023.

BEST LUNCH

BEST SEAFOOD

BEST DESSERT

BEST CONCH CHOWDER

BEST RESTAURANT SERVICE & STAFF

BEST FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS

BEST RESTAURANT

BEST BUSINESS

NOMINATE US FOR

• BEST CONTRACTOR

• BEST FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS

• BEST BUSINESS

BEST BAR

BEST BARTENDER

BEST BEER SELECTION

BEST OYSTERS

THANK YOU!

WIND INSURANCE HIKES MAY POSE GREATER RISK THAN HURRICANES

KEYS GROUP HEADS TO TALLAHASSEE TO FIGHT FOR FAIR PREMIUMS

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

Insurance is never a sexy topic, but it’s become a critical one in the Florida Keys.

Previous and proposed hikes to windstorm insurance by the state-run Citizens Property Insurance threaten more than wealthy second- and third-home owners, and it’s time to pay attention.

The steeply rising costs of windstorm insurance through Citizens affect renters whose landlords have to pass on the increases to their tenants — or sell their property. The price hikes affect government agencies, such as the Key West Housing Authority, which must maintain windstorm insurance on dozens of properties while unable to raise the rents of their low-income tenants.

And now, on Thursday, June 8, Citizens will ask the state Office of Insurance Regulation to allow additional hikes that would increase wind insurance costs to Florida Keys policyholders by 14% to 26%. Those increases are in addition to a new requirement that forces all Citizens policyholders to also carry flood insurance, thus adding to an owner’s insurance costs.

The nonprofit Fair Insurance Rates in Monroe — FIRM — has worked for more than a decade to fight the increases that force Monroe County to pay some of the highest rates despite having the lowest number of claims and the strictest building codes in the state. The organization is now asking all Monroe County residents to contact the Office of Insurance Regulation and ask them to deny the sharp increases. Visit firmkeys.org for a formatted letter that can be sent to representatives in Tallahassee.

STATE TAKES AIM AT FLOOD INSURANCE

FLORIDA JOINS LAWSUIT AGAINST FEDS

Mel Montagne, president of FIRM, and other board members are in Tallahassee this week to oppose the increases proposed in Monroe County.

“At a hearing Thursday afternoon, Citizens will present their proposed rates to the Office of Insurance Regulation, which also takes public comment, and FIRM will continue to provide commentary against the increases,” Montagne told the Keys Weekly on June 5. “Since 2003, Monroe County policyholders have given Citizens a profit of $850 million.”

In other words, Keys owners have paid $850 million more in premiums than they have received in insurance claims.

In addition, Montagne said, the county that provides the most profit to Citizens Insurance has no representative on the Citizens’ board of governors.

“Since 2021, Monroe County, which has 19,000 policyholders, has been without a representative on the Citizens board, yet there are two people on the board from St. Johns County, where there are only 4,800 policyholders. Tell me that’s not political,” he said.

“Monroe County residents consistently shoulder the burden of fraud and Citizens’ inconsistencies in addressing these circumstances for the rest of the state,” states the FIRM website.

Visit firmkeys.org for further information and to take part in the Call to Action to oppose unfair rate increases for Monroe County.

Help FIRM fight for fair insurance rates. Visit firmkeys.org and click on the Call to Action to contact state insurance officials.

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

Wind insurance rate increases aren’t the only costs crippling Monroe County property owners.

A new requirement forces everyone with a wind insurance policy with the state-run Citizens Property Insurance to also carry flood insurance.

The state of Florida has joined nine other states in a lawsuit filed against the federal government that opposes sharp increases to the cost of flood insurance through the national flood insurance program.

Board members from the Keys nonprofit group Fair Insurance Rates in Monroe — FIRM — are in Tallahassee this week opposing Citizens’ increases to wind insurance, but also offering their support and research to Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody in the federal lawsuit.

“Citizens policyholders must secure and maintain flood insurance regardless

of whether they are in areas prone to inundation, elevated, or do not have a federally backed mortgage,” states the FIRM website. “FIRM supports efforts to protect from floods and ensure homeowners are educated about what their policies do and do not cover. However, the flood insurance requirement has led to an additional financial burden for Monroe County residents already struggling to afford astronomical windstorm insurance rates.”

Mel Montagne, president of FIRM, told the Keys Weekly on June 5 that he is hoping to schedule a meeting with Moody “to let her know we’re behind her and are willing to help with this flood insurance lawsuit that Florida has joined with nine other states.”

For more information about the proposed Citizens rate hikes and the flood insurance requirement, visit firmkeys.org and take part in the Call to Action to help the organization’s efforts on behalf of Monroe County property owners.

Florida has joined a suit challenging federal requirements for flood insurance. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

KEY WEST DOCTOR HELPS UKRAINIAN REFUGEES IN POLAND

POLISH PRIEST WHO RUNS REFUGEE CENTER VISITS KEY WEST

The blue-and-yellow Ukrainian flag has become a common sight in Key West as footage of the war-torn nation continues to dominate news coverage.

Key Westers are famous for their fierce support of friends, neighbors — and strangers — who are struggling.

The island comes together to raise money, pay medical expenses, fund scholarships, cook meals, provide transportation, donate clothes, repair homes or fill any other need in someone’s life.

Now, a Key West doctor has found a way to help the people of Ukraine, who have been forced from their devastated homes and shattered lives.

Dr. Bruce Guerdan, who has worked nights in the emergency room at Lower Keys Medical Center for more than 20 years, is preparing for his fourth trip to Poland, where he volunteers to provide medical treatment to Ukrainian refugees who come across the border to the town of Przemysl, Poland.

“The Polish people deserve the Nobel Prize,” Guerdan told the Keys Weekly over a recent lunch in Key West. “They have taken Ukrainians into their homes by the millions.”

Guerdan has made three two-week trips to Przemysl, Poland, where Father Marek Machala, a Roman Catholic priest, has established a refugee center that has aided an estimated 2 million Ukrainians.

Przemyśl, Poland is just a few kilometers from the Ukraine border, and the train station at the border has refugees arriving by the millions.

Guerdan and other volunteers work in the medical clinic that Machala established to help the refugees.

“They’re all women and children, because all able-bodied men are required to remain in Ukraine,” Guerdan said. “If the men aren’t fighting, then they’re working in other ways to keep the country operating. It was strange when I first arrived at the medical clinic in Poland, because you’re sort

of expecting to treat war injuries, but mainly we’re providing primary care to the refugees, getting them the prescriptions they need.”

Not surprisingly, there’s also a staggering amount of depression among the refugees, many of whom don’t know whether they’ll see their fathers, brothers, husbands and sons — or their homes — again.

Machala will be in Key West through June 11 on a fundraising trip for his refugee center, Pastoral Family Care Foundation. He’ll say Mass at the Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea on Sunday, June 11 at 10:30 a.m. And at the end of the Mass, Guerdan will present the priest with a Distinguished Service Award from the American Academy of Disaster Medicine.

Donations can be made to Machala’s Ukrainian refugee center through the Archdiocese of Miami and at the Mass on June 11.

1. Dr. Bruce Guerdan volunteers for two weeks at a time in a medical clinic for Ukrainian refugees just across the border in Poland. The priest who launched the center, Father Marek Machala, will say Mass in Key West on Sunday, June 11 at 10:30 a.m. CONTRIBUTED

2. Dr. Bruce Guerdan of Key West is seen with Ukrainian refugees at a medical clinic in Poland, where he has volunteered for three two-week stints and will return in August.

3. Przemysl, Poland is just a few kilometers from the Ukraine border and has seen more than a million refugees arrive at its train station.

Hover your phone’s camera over the QR code to be taken to the donation page for Ukrainian refugees through Catholic Relief Services.

WATERFRONT PLAYHOUSE CELEBRATES PRIDE WITH ‘HEDWIG

& THE ANGRY INCH’

AWARD - WINNING MUSICAL RUNS JUNE 7-10

TAKE ME HOME?

FIND A FRIEND AT THE FLORIDA KEYS SPCA

The Keys Weekly family loves animals as much as our friends at the Florida Keys SPCA do, and we’re honored each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for adoption at the organization’s Key West campus.

From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.

The SPCA’s Golden Paw program also provides special assistance with vet bills and medications for special-needs and older animals that require a little extra TLC. Check these pages each week for just a few of the animals waiting for a home and see them all at fkspca.org.

Waterfront Playhouse on Mallory Square presents the awardwinning musical, “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” for four performances, June 7, 8, 9 and 10.

“Hedwig and the Angry Inch” is a rock musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Trask and a book by John Cameron Mitchell. The musical follows Hedwig Robinson, a genderqueer East German singer of a fictional rock and roll band. The story draws on Mitchell’s life as the child of a U.S. Army major general who once commanded the U.S. sector of occupied West Berlin. The character of Hedwig was inspired by a divorced, German U.S. Army wife who was Mitchell’s family babysitter and moonlighted as a prostitute at her trailer park home in Junction City, Kansas. The music is steeped in the androgynous 1970s glam rock style of David Bowie (who co-produced the Los Angeles production of the show), as well as the work of John Lennon and early punk performers Lou Reed and Iggy Pop.

The musical opened OffBroadway in 1998, and won the Obie Award and Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Off-Broadway Musical. The production ran for two years, then in 2014, the show saw its first Broadway incarnation, opening that April at the Belasco Theatre and winning the year’s Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical.

Tom Thayer directs and stages the Key West show. Design is by Michael Boyer, lighting design by Kim Hanson, projection design by Willie Alsedek and music direction by Roberta Jackshyn.

The cast features Phillip Cole White as Hedwig and Heather-May Sloan. Cole White played Hedwig five years ago with the Key West Theatre. He has been seen in “The Pickpocket’s Daughter” with The Studios of Key West and dozens of other shows.

Sloan last appeared in “Matilda: The Musical” at the Waterfront. She studied at the Tisch School of the Arts at NYU and later performed in NYC at several venues. She fronted the rock band Polychrome in the ’90s, and has performed in Key West at The Waterfront Playhouse, Tennessee Williams Theater, Key West Theater, Fantasy Fest Coronation, the Headdress Ball, Pride Follies and numerous burlesque and vaudeville shows.

— Contributed

Waterfront Playhouse presents ‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’ for four performances June 7-10. For tickets, call 305-294-5015 or visit waterfrontplayhouse.org.

Maui is a 7-month-old male medium terrier/American pit bull mix. He’s young, playful and can spend hours snuggling or playing.

Dimples is a 6-year-old female domestic shorthair. She is a bit shy at first, but likes to spend her days sharing a pillow with her BFF, Penny. These two would be perfect if adopted together.

Penny is a 4½-year-old male domestic shorthair. He gets along with other cats and finds comfort in cuddling up to Dimples, one of his roommates. These two would be the best duo if adopted together.

‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’ is a musical about a genderqueer rock singer. LARRY BLACKBURN/Contributed

Gabby is a 1½-year-old female domestic shorthair. She’s a super-friendly young cat who loves to spend time playing or curled up in a lap.

Zowee, the hamster, loves getting exercise on a hamster wheel and can make a great pet for the whole family.

HUMOR

Just 18 months ago, LIV Golf, the Saudi-backed professional golf league, formed and lured some of the sport’s top players away from the PGA, paying hundreds of millions in contracts for individual players. Since then, a contentious battle has ensued between the PGA and LIV players. Aside from several lawsuits, PGA players and leadership have been quick to point out everything from the Saudi monarch’s human rights records to their alleged involvement with the 9/11 attacks (investigations and an ongoing court case continue to this day). So when the PGA and LIV announced a merger this past Tuesday, the world, along with many PGA golfers, were stunned to hear that shareholders had succumbed to the mighty dollar (or the Saudi Riyal) and traded away one of Europe’s and America’s most traditional sports for $6 billion Saudi “public investment fund” made of oil money. Always here to help, we offer our…

MOST INTERESTING THINGS ABOUT THE PGA & LIV (SAUDI) GOLF MERGER

10. Instead of golf carts, participants can now opt for a yellow or orange Lamborghini to traverse the 18 holes. (We know, pro golfers walk the course, but the idea of Rory Mcllroy getting out of a Lambo to hit his 8-iron is priceless.)

9. All tournaments are sponsored by the oil conglomerate Saudi Aramco. And if you don’t like it, they’ll chop off your putting hand.

8. The Masters Tournament winnings will now be $2.3 billion — and a Barbary falcon to everyone else who makes the cut.

7. Phil Mickelson will now only be referred to as Prince Lefty.

6. We’ll boycott Target and Bud Light over their inclusiveness, but celebrate a merger that includes two nations with the worst human rights records

(Saudi Arabia, China’s largest global oil supplier) by handing them the longeststanding sports tradition in the free world.

5. Now that Donald Trump will be an instrumental figure in a sports startup, we wonder if anyone recalls the fate of the New Jersey Generals?

4. Soooo, the statute of limitations on giving a shit about 9/11 ended yesterday?

3. Can we assume this merger will neither apply to, nor benefit, the LPGA, given the Saudis’ view of women, who weren’t allowed to drive until 2018?

2. Another 600 billion reasons to move to electric cars.

1. We now know that money can buy anything. Even one’s soul. RIP PGA Golf: 1929–2023.

MANDY MILES

MILES TO GO I WANT MY 30S BACK

Encyclopedia Britannica defines middle age as the period between the ages of 40 and 60. Just kidding, I won’t start a column as if writing the world’s worst — and most boring — speech. But I did Google, “When does middle age start?” the other day — right after I found myself turning on the lamp next to my couch and holding some tiny-print instruction manual directly next to the lightbulb so I could see it. But even that didn’t work, and I had to grab one of the 17 pairs of reading glasses Stan keeps around the house.

drops stuff, breaks things and falls down more than any adult should. She’s married to a saintly — and handy — fisherman, and has been stringing words together in Key West since 1998.

I was ready, beyond ready. I couldn’t wait to get contacts.

And I nailed it, my very first pair of lenses. Even the ophthalmologist was impressed when I didn’t pull away or instinctively clench my eyes shut when he dabbed the lenses onto my eyeballs.

It all happened just before my 14th birthday, spring of eighth grade, well in time for my high school start.

I’m now 47, and so for the past 42 years I’ve been a person who’s legally blind without corrective lenses. The vision in my left eye is 20/500.

For 42 years, I’ve gone to sleep and awakened to a blurry world. For 42 years, the very first thing I’ve done upon waking is reach for my glasses on the nightstand.

It’s not fair, this “age-related far-sightedness.” (I Googled that, too.)

I know it happens to everyone, but it doesn’t seem fair.

I’ve been wearing glasses — thick glasses — since I was five, and contact lenses since eighth grade.

I’d watched for more than a decade as my mom squirted a bit of saline solution into her palm, rubbed each lens around, and then tapped them into her eyes. I’d watched her pluck them out each night.

Now I need to reach for “cheaters” simply to read — even while wearing my contacts. It’s simply not fair. I’ve paid my dues. In a perfect world, people with deficient eyesight throughout their life would be exempt from the age-related farsightedness.

But yeah, no, that’s not how things work. Instead, I now carry cheaters in my purse. Soon enough, they’ll be perched atop my head due to their constant necessity.

This whole middle-age thing is a pain in the ass — and the eyes.

I want my 30s back.

KEYS ENERGY LOWERS POWER BILLS BY 12%

Keys Energy Services’ (KEYS) customers will experience a decrease in their June energy bills, as a result of reductions in natural gas costs.

An average KEYS’ residential customer consuming 1,000 kilowatt hours (kwh) of electricity during June will see a 12.3% decrease on their total energy bill from May to June. The bill will be $136 compared to $155 for the same consumption in May. The amount of the decrease will vary based on how much electricity a customer uses. One year ago, the same consumption would have resulted in a bill of $210. The 35% decrease in bills over the last year is directly attributable to reductions in natural gas costs.

The power cost adjustment (PCA) charge for June will be 25 cents per 1,000 kwh, compared to $19.25 per 1,000 kwh in May. The utility’s Energy Charge is $108.40 per 1,000 kwh for residential customers and assumes wholesale power costs of $62.20 per 1,000 kwh. When energy costs fluctuate above or below that $62.20 per 1,000 kwh, KEYS passes the increase/decrease along to customers via an extra charge or a credit.

“Natural gas prices have decreased significantly from one year ago, and we are able to pass those savings on to customers,” said Lynne Tejeda, KEYS’ general manager & CEO. “The price of natural gas became extremely volatile in 2022 and surged to unprecedented levels domestically and internationally.”

She cited disruptions in natural gas production, reduced rig counts during the pandemic, lower gas storage inventory, and the exporting of fuel as a result of the war in Ukraine as drivers of the natural gas price increase.

In recent years, Keys Energy’s PCA appeared as a credit on energy bills. The credit was replaced with a charge in January 2022, with additional increases in March and June of that year before decreases were implemented beginning in October 2022. Tejeda did not rule out future power cost adjustments.

“As the cost of natural gas fluctuates, KEYS will adjust the PCA charge,” she said. “We will be monitoring costs carefully and working with our power supplier to mitigate increases.”

Tejeda said the total bill is driven by both the rate and energy usage. The rate is decreasing, but as we move into the warmer summer months, consumption will likely increase. Conservation is helpful and customers can help offset the PCA charge by consuming less energy if they are interested in making some adjustments. She urged KEYS’ customers to log on to keysenergy.com and click on the “Top 10 Energy Saving Tips” link for tips on how to best conserve energy. While online, customers can sign up for a free home energy survey, rebates for qualified energy efficient appliances, and receive information on how to better track their monthly energy usage.

WITH LATEST DECREASE, BILLS ARE 35% LOWER THAN A YEAR AGO

SMOOTH TRAVEL

FDOT PROJECT AIMS TO IMPROVE SAFETY AND TRAFFIC FLOW

KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL www.keysweekly.com

Along a 112-mile stretch, from Key Largo to Key West, contractors with the Florida Department of Transportation have been busy installing a combination of 51 road side unit sensors and cameras.

The work is part of a $5-million pilot project that started in 2021 called the Florida Keys Connecting Overseas to Advance Safe Travel –or Keys COAST for short.

If all goes as planned, by the end of the year, information collected in real time will be shared among 250 vehicles countywide equipped with on-board units. These vehicles will be emergency response vehicles and volunteer agency fleets.

“We have vehicles from the Department (FDOT), Monroe County, City of Key West, City of Marathon, Islamorada and Florida Highway Patrol too,” said Carmen Negron, engineer and project manager for Keys COAST.

“They are going to receive messages like potential red light, you are going to approach a school or work zone, excessive speed, pedestrian in the roadway and also potential vehicle collisions,” added Negron.

FDOT will monitor the success of the Keys COAST project with the ultimate goal being to develop a smartphone application that would be accessible to the general public, including motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

A representative for FDOT said the program is still a few years away from being offered to the general public.

“The pilot project is going to last about two years. We’ll go back and see what the results were and move forward from there,” said FDOT spokeswoman Cynthia Turcios.

The new cameras and sensors will be used to gather information about conditions on the road, not for traffic enforcement purposes.

HELP KEEP KEY WEST CLEAN

JOIN A 1- HOUR CLEANUP FRIDAY MORNINGS

“So we’re hoping that helps with traffic flow, so if you know certain areas are clogged up you maybe want to wait a few minutes before heading out,” said Turcios.

Negron said similar pilot programs are underway in Tallahassee, Gainesville and Ocala.

“We’re excited to try this new technology down in the Keys. We think it’s going to be very beneficial for the Keys, for the residents and tourists alike,” added Turcios.

Fifteen Ploggers met at The Restaurant Store at the corner of White Street and Palm Avenue for the Friday morning clean up on June 2. They collected 98 pounds of trash, 5 pounds of recycling and a gallon of cigarette butts. Thank you to Richard and Kathy Tallmadge for hosting the volunteers this week with refreshments and coffee. The next cleanup is Friday, June 9 in the back of the city hall parking lot from 8 to 9 a.m. CONTRIBUTED

One hour a week makes a huge difference, and volunteers are welcome every Friday and some Saturday mornings, from 8 to 9 a.m., when the Key West Ploggers clean up a designated area of the island.

Gloves, pickers, buckets, vests, hand sanitizer and a parking pass are provided to all volunteers.

A troubling number of cigarette butts and plastic bags have been included in recent hauls. Please remember your reusable bags when shopping so we can keep the plastic off the streets, parking lots and, most importantly, out of the water. And dispose of cigarette butts in any receptacle rather than the street or sidewalk, as from there, they easily end up in the ocean.

The city of Key West and its residents ask everyone to do their part to help keep Key West beautiful. With simple steps like making sure you bag your trash before putting it in your Waste Management trash cans or Dumpsters, and making sure the lids on Dumpsters are closed, will keep a lot of trash from blowing into the streets. Call Waste Management at 305-296-8297 for any furniture items left on the city right of way.

Please pick up around your home or apartment complex. Every piece of trash picked up is one less that may end up in the ocean that surrounds and sustains our island community. It is not just the large items you can see easily when you are walking, but the smaller items such as bottle caps and cigarette butts that are collected by the volunteers that make the biggest difference.

It takes committed community involvement to keep Key West beautiful and we are making progress with every cleanup event and every spot that’s adopted. Call Dorian Patton at 305-809-3782 to find out how your business, nonprofit or club can help.

— Contributed

Join a Friday morning cleanup from 8 to 9 a.m.

Friday, June 9: City Hall – meet in the back parking lot

Friday, June 16: North Roosevelt by Denny’s

Friday, June 23: First State Bank on North Roosevelt – meet at the bank, park in the back lot

Friday, June 30: Nelson English Park at the end of Catherine Street

Contractors with the Florida Department of Transportation install a camera at the traffic signal in front of the Tradewinds Plaza in Key Largo. The camera is part of the FDOT pilot program to monitor and share road conditions throughout the island chain. CONTRIBUTED

Contractors with the Florida Department of Transportation install a road side unit sensor (RSU) and camera along Truman Avenue and North Roosevelt Boulevard in Key West. This is part of a new FDOT safety improvement pilot project.

RALPH MORROW

... a veteran sports columnist, says the only sport he doesn’t follow is cricket. That leaves plenty of others to fill his time.

SPORTS & MORE

PRO - BASKETBALL COACHING JOBS ARE OFTEN TEMPORARY

Ajob offer to be an NBA coach means but one thing: You’ll be fired — eventually.

sure of an inappropriate relationship he had with a female Boston staffer.

The Celtics have named Joe Mazzulla as their head coach. He has been the interim head coach since September, when Boston suspended Udoka.

TY MARIE CERVANTES

As of late, several NBA coaches — some with impeccable credentials — are coaches no longer. Several of these fired coaches have been hired by other teams, but relocating is never fun.

ralphmoro1936 @gmail.com

The recent firing that rubbed me most was that of Doc Rivers, who was let go from Philadelphia after leading the 76ers to the top of the Eastern Division three years in a row.

Apparently, Rivers had problems getting along with a member of management and with player James Harden, who made a reported $33 million.

Two years ago, Mike Budenholzer led the Milwaukee Bucks to the NBA championship. He’s a coach no more. Fired.

In 2019, his first year as a head coach, Nick Nurse led Toronto to its only NBA championship. With the Raptors he was 41-41 this season, but had a career win-loss record of 227-163. Nurse was out of work for a bit, but before June began, he was hired to replace Rivers as coach of the 76ers.

A few years ago, Monty Williams was hired to revive the Phoenix Suns and did just that. But he was among those fired this spring. The very talented Williams didn’t stay unemployed for long as the Detroit Pistons have hired him to run their operation, replacing Duane Casey, who was moved to a management position.

At the end of last season, Frank Vogel was fired as the Los Angeles Lakers’ coach and has since been replaced by Darvin Ham. After a season of rest, Vogel has been hired to coach the Phoenix Suns.

Ime Udoka, the new coach of the Houston Rockets, was fired by the Boston Celtics after serving a suspension this season, imposed by the team, following the disclo-

OUR NEAREST TEAM, the Miami Heat, fortunately has had stability and success in its head coaching position. The Heat’s Erik Spoelstra, 52, makes a reported $8.5 million annually, and was named Miami’s head coach on April 28, 2008. His reported coaching salary is third highest in the NBA, behind Gregg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs ($11.5 million) and Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors ($9.5 million).

“The fact that Erik Spoelstra has never won Coach of the Year is, quite frankly, absurd. Real ones know. He’s arguably the best coach in the NBA, and at absolute worst, one of the 3 to 5 best,” writes Trevor Hass of the Boston Globe.

Pat Riley, the Miami Heat’s team president, now 78, was the team’s coach from 1995 to 2003 and again from 2005 to 2008. Stan Van Gundy was a coach of the Heat for part of 2003, all of 2004 and part of 2005. Other Miami coaches have included Ron Rothstein (1988-91, Kevin Loughery (1991-95) and Alvin Gentry (1995).

The Heat won NBA championships in 2006 under Riley, in 2012 and 2013 under Spoelstra, and now, still under Spoelstra, are playing Denver for the NBA championship.

Aside from a losing record, there seem to be several other reasons for releasing a coach. One is when a person in management with coaching experience wants the job. Another is when the coach clashes with a valuable player or with a top administrator.

Good coaching requires a great deal of ability, and that doesn’t fall off a tree. It takes a lot to identify good coaches. Most of the coaches who were fired this year apparently just weren’t good enough.

Senior, Key West Softball

Conch softball put the state on notice the past few years, reaching the final four in 2022 and 2023. Key West’s newlyforged dynasty was built on years of tradition and on hardworking, dedicated athletes like Ty Cervantes.

The senior amassed 26 hits, 19 RBIs and 8 stolen bases this season alone. Her .382 batting average included a home run, and defensively, Cervantes was near-perfect with a .900 fielding percentage.

Cervantes’ strong stats speak for themselves, but it is her attitude and leadership which set the Conchs’ shortstop apart on a team full of talented players. Coach Jason Garia called her “a team leader who is always giving encouragement.”

For her dedication to Key West softball, her dependable gameplay and ability to advance the gameplay of her teammates, Ty Cervantes is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

“TY IS A COACH ON THE FIELD, HELPING OUT THE YOUNGER GIRLS CONSTANTLY.”

Ty Cervantes. ELLA HALL/Keys Weekly

– Jason Garcia, Lady Conchs head coach

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

LOCAL ATHLETES TAKE IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL

gifted in Keys history

Many young athletes dream of making it to the pros one day, and for more than 20 Keys athletes, that dream is now one step closer. Though the Keys are small, the talent is huge, and this year, quite a few homegrown athletes will be taking the next step and playing at the collegiate level. Through hard work and a relentless pursuit of excellence, athletes from all three high schools will represent the Keys in a variety of sports at all types of college programs, with several more still weighing their next moves with options on the table.

Corley Smith will travel the farthest from her Coral Shores alma mater, but long distances are nothing new to her. Smith was a distance swimming specialist for the Hurricanes. Her accomplishments include setting the record for the Alligator Reef Lighthouse Swim, an eight-mile open water challenge. The two-time state finalist was named Monroe County Swimmer of the Year twice, and her times, often minutes ahead of the nearest competitor, caught the eye of Harvey Mudd College in Claremont, California. Smith’s strength and hard work was also notable in the classroom. She graduated fifth in her class of 186 students, earning multiple academic awards.

Xavyer Arrington will take his talents to the U.S. Naval Prep School this fall, then to the Naval Academy the following year. The multi-sport standout chose to play football at the collegiate level. His gridiron accomplishments include being named the Monroe County Defensive Player of the Year and making the FACA All-State team. Arrington also holds two state championships in weightlifting and multiple state medals in track and field, where his strength made him a standout in throwing events.

Johnny Holly will also be playing football at the college level next fall, at Holmes Community College in Mississippi. The lineman earned the MVP nod for the Hurricanes last season, earned a spot on the All-Keys Team, and was named to the FACA All-State team. The multi-sport athlete bolstered the basketball and lacrosse teams for Coral Shores as well.

Marathon High School’s Fisher Coleman-Sayer will head off to Emmitsburg, Maryland in the fall to play golf at Division I Mount St. Mary’s University. Coleman-Sayer earned All-County honors multiple years and led the Fins on the links. ColemanSayer was also a standout in basketball and baseball.

Aaron Dolton caught the eye of several college coaches for his football skills, but decided to take Flagler College up on their offer to run track for the Saints. Dolton holds the school record for the 300m and 400m hurdles, and was a talented jumper as well. The St. Augustine-bound record-setter was a member of the All-Keys team in football last season and won numerous academic awards at Marathon’s senior class night.

Dylan Globe is another multi-sport Dolphin headed to play in college. Globe will be kicking for the Avila Eagles in Kansas City, Missouri. Though football was a strong suit for the senior, Globe was also a standout for Marathon’s baseball team.

Frantz Noel was a strong lineman for the Dolphins, earning All-Keys team honors on the gridiron last fall. Noel will join Globe at Avila University, where he will hold down the line for the Eagles. Noel is also a talented soccer player and was a standout on Marathon’s weightlifting team the past few seasons.

2023 graduates are some of the most athletically

1. CORLEY SMITH Harvey Mudd College

2. JAMES REYNOLDS University of Miami

3. Lacrosse 0427

4. ANDRIS BARROSO Indian River State College

5. FISHER COLEMAN-SAYER Mount St. Mary’s University

6. JOHN HOLLY Holmes Community College

7. LUCAS SILVA International soccer program

8. Miesha Hernandez St. Thomas University

9. CHRISTOPHER OTTO Florida State University

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

Two Keys soccer players will continue their paths on the pitch next season. Lucas Silva, goalkeeper for Marathon, and Jackson Castillo, defender and defensive midfielder for Key West, will attend international soccer programs, which allow athletes to hone their skills while working toward undergraduate degrees. Silva will participate in Soccer Universities, which places athletes at various programs depending upon their skill level, while Castillo will attend Richmond International Academic & Soccer Academy in the United Kingdom.

Christopher “Andre” Otto made headlines when he was courted by dozens of colleges and universities for his speed and size on the gridiron. The 6’5” scholar-athlete was wooed by some of the highest-rated universities in the country. He is a two-time state medalist in wrestling, but decided to take his talents to Florida State University, where he will play football and major in film. Otto was a member of the All-Keys football and wrestling teams, won a pair of state medals in wrestling and has won numerous awards for his efforts in film production.

Kevon Mills was a game changer in three varsity sports at Key West High School. The multi-talented athlete will trade in his Conch red and gray for the blue and gold of Beloit College in Crestview, Wisconsin next fall, where he will join the Buccaneer football roster. Mills was an evasive offensive threat for Key West’s football team, and his speed and athleticism carried over to the basketball court and onto the track, where Mills was a state medalist in the high jump for the Conchs.

James Reynolds caught the eye of multiple university coaches, but turned down scholarship offers for a chance to play at the highest level when he accepted a preferred walk-on opportunity at the University of Miami. The evasive running back has speed and strength, and once he was finished decimating the defenses of Conch rivals on the football field, he tapped into those skills to be successful in Key West’s track and field program, where he was a standout sprinter and thrower.

Conchs outfielder and reserve pitcher Jack Haggard is off to Quincy University in Illinois in the fall. Haggard amassed 72 career hits for Key West, with 41 in this season alone. His .436 batting average, paired with 11 stolen bases and a near-perfect record in the field, made him very attractive to several colleges, but Haggard inked his letter with the Hawks last November.

Anden Rady will continue to wear red and gray next year, but he will trade in his Conchs logo for that of a Lagrange College Panther. Rady heads to Georgia after an impressive season in Key West, earning 31 hits, 2 home runs, 31 RBIs and a perfect record fielding this season.

Conch baseball fans won’t have to travel too far to watch Marlin Takovich play at the next level; he is going to Florida International University in Miami this fall. The big righty was solid on the mound for Key West, amassing 49 career strikeouts. Takovich was twice named Player of the Game in his time with the Conchs.

Andris “Lucky” Barroso gave the Conchs the confidence to win when he took the mound, and he delivered a W for his team nine times this season alone. His .818 winning percentage, 1.76 ERA and 142 career strikeouts, 73 coming from this season, made him an enticing prospect for teams across the country. Barroso chose Indian River State College to advance his career. The 6’5” right-handed pitcher will most certainly be making waves at The River next spring.

Conchs shortstop Wyatt Kuhn will head to Tennessee next year to play for Dyersburg State Community College. Kuhn amassed 10 career double plays for Key West defensively and earned a respectable .338 batting average this season against some of the top teams in the state. He shares the single

season record (14) and holds the career record (26) for being hit by pitches, which boosted his on-base percentage to .511 this season.

Samantha Ventimiglia will further her volleyball career at the United States Coast Guard Academy. The outside hitter

Miesha Hernandez will play softball at St. Thomas University in Miami next year. Hernandez had a .384 batting average for Key West this year, including three home runs that brought her career total to seven in two years of varsity play for the Lady Conchs. Defensively, the third baseman had two double plays this season.

Bella Marchiano is heading to Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach next year, the first Lady Conchs lacrosse player to do so in the nine years the program has been in place. Marchiano caught the eye of college scouts early, signing her letter of intent last year. She has more than 100 career goals, despite being well-known as a selfless passer, and has received many honors, including Player of the Year and All-County and AllRegion team selections.

Key West sprinter Savannah Chadic isn’t finished blowing past competitors just yet. She signed with Jacksonville University, where she will further her track and field career with the Dolphins. Chadic had a stellar senior season with the Conchs in both weightlifting and track, earning multiple medals at districts, regionals and ultimately states, where she qualified for the maximum number of events and brought home two medals.

recorded 178 kills, 36 aces, 10 blocks and 234 digs last season. A multi-year standout for the Conchs, Ventimiglia boasted an amazing 94.8% service return rating in her senior season.

Ty Marie Cervantes signed her letter of intent to play softball at Miami Dade College next season. Cervantes brings impressive stats in both offense and defense to the Sharks. Her .382 batting average this season consisted of 26 hits, including a home run. Her career fielding percentage was .917 for Key West, making her a dual threat and catching the eyes of college scouts across the nation, but Cervantes ultimately chose to keep her talents closer to home.

Conchs catcher Dharma Murray will play softball for the Division I University of South Florida Bulls next year after two very successful varsity seasons with Key West. Murray racked up 22 hits and 21 RBIs this season, but her greatest asset is her ability to protect the plate. She earned a .984 fielding percentage last season and helped keep the Conchs in the running deep into the playoffs.

Lauren Walterson will feel right at home during her college swimming career; she has signed to swim for the College of the Florida Keys. The Conchs call the CFK pool home during meets and practices, giving Walterson a great advantage. Walterson was a team captain for Key West last season, was a regional qualifier in the 200 medley relay and was a standout in both the butterfly and 200 individual medley.

Bella Oliviero will also be wearing a Tugas swim cap in the fall. She will join Walterson at College of the Florida Keys. Oliviero was a standout in the backstroke but was also a strong competitor in multiple strokes for the Conchs.

Also taking her skills to the next level is the Keys Weekly’s own Ella Hall. Her talent for sports photography made her an enormous asset to Key West High School, and the athletic offices at LSU took note. Hall is already on campus putting her photography skills to work for the Tigers, working on media days for the football team as well as documenting team practices, events and games. Her photographs will be added to the permanent archives for the LSU football team.

THE PAST YEARS WE’VE BEEN NOMINATED FOR BEST BRUNCH, BEST WATERFRONT DINING, BEST HOTEL AND BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE.

BRAD BERTELLI www.keysweekly.com

My birthday was on June 4, and man, the years are flying by. For the record, every year gets better and better. It is hard to believe that I have been calling the Florida Keys home for 22 years.

It is harder to believe all that has transpired since I decided to move here instead of going back to Sanibel Island after graduating from the University of Miami with my MFA in 2001. Either way, I would still write something every day — though probably nothing about Florida Keys history had I gone back to the west coast.

No matter where I ended up, my goal has always been to one day have my writing habit pay for my living habit. I get closer every year. As the amazing Dolly Parton told country artist Lainey Wilson, “If you are going to be a dreamer, you better be a doer.”

Thankfully, as the beautiful Mrs. Michelle Bertelli will attest, I work and work at the dream, knowing while I will probably never be an Ernest Hemingway, a Carl Hiaasen, or a Tim Dorsey, who now calls the Florida Keys home, every year I become a better Brad Bertelli.

As a boy who grew up with a stutter, it was early on that writing became a safe place to visit. Back in grade school, I was excused from my English class once a week to attend speech therapy. As a teenager, between the stutter, the acne and the braces, I was not much of a social butterfly. By 15 or 16, I started to disappear into the solace and peace writing creates in my world. To this day, and I turned 58 over the weekend, it is when I am writing that the world makes the most sense.

As an independent, self-employed local historian, writing my social media content, column, and books, what I consider my primary job, helps to pay the bills and allows me the freedom to create and share some of the many aspects of history connected to the Florida Keys. Bartending a couple of days every week at the world-famous Robbie’s Marina helps to fill the coffers, too.

While writing has been my love since I was a teenager, I appreciate my ability to share the local history

on multiple platforms. I am lucky to have been invited to appear on local and national television programs to talk mostly about history and, occasionally, my writing and what brought me to the Keys. What has turned out to be a surprising and amazing twist in my story is that, as it turns out, I enjoy standing up in front of groups and talking about history. No one is more surprised than I. I look forward to talking to groups, sharing my knowledge and hoping that I am able to impart some historical nuggets the audience can take with them.

Thankfully, the stutter dissipated in my late teens and early 20s, though it still rears its head from time to time when I get nervous or, oddly enough, when I have to call someone on the telephone. Usually, during a talk, I’ll start stumbling over my words or just stare for one second and then maybe two as I try to find the words I want to use (another great thing about writing is that nobody sees that part).

It is not really stuttering but a stammering search for the right way to share a piece of history without getting all bogged down in a needless array of details that can distract from and not add to what is essentially a short story. Details are important, but only so much information can be comfortably shared during a 45-minute talk. In that limited

amount of time, it is important to share some historical moments, provide visuals like awesome old photographs, and hopefully tell an engaging story.

One of the nice things about my former role as a curator was that part of what I was paid to do was to go out into the public and share my knowledge with any group or school that asked. Being largely self-employed, I no longer have that luxury. Sometimes I am asked to give a talk, and there is no budget to cover my speaking fee. For example, recently, the Big Pine Garden Club asked if I was available to give a talk to their members. Unfortunately, their group was decimated by Hurricane Irma, and they do not have the resources.

So, I am going to put something out there and see what happens when it shows up in print. You can leave it there, pick it up, or ignore it altogether. I just want to put it out there and see what happens. If there is an individual, group or business that would be interested in sponsoring history talks for under-funded groups like the Big Pine Garden Club, schools, and others who do not have the resources, please reach out to me via email, text, or phone so we can work together.

PRESENTATION SPONSORS SOUGHT FOR TALKS WITH UNDERFUNDED GROUPS

FLORIDA

KEYS

WE WOULD APPRECIATE YOUR NOMINATIONS AGAIN FOR BEST REALTOR BEST BEST OVERALL BUSINESS BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY

NOMINATE HANK’S FOR BEST BAR, BEST BARTENDER & BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE

NOMINATE GARBO’S GRILL FOR BEST TACO & BEST FOOD TRUCK

AVOID THE LONG DRIVE TO MIAMI AND HAVE ALL YOUR CHILDREN’S NEEDS MET RIGHT HERE IN THE FLORIDA KEYS.

Dr. Christina Smith DDS is now accepting new patients and is thrilled to be part of the 7-time Bubba Award-winning Doc Guzman’s o ce.

AMATEUR DRAG PAGEANT CROWNS MISS ISLAND QUEEN

EVENT RAISES $55K FOR SAMUEL’S HOUSE

There weren’t any kids in the audience, but there were plenty of drag queens — amateur and professional — on stage at Key West Theater on May 23.

The second annual Miss Island Queen amateur drag pageant raised $55,374 for Samuel’s House women’s shelter and had the crowd in hysterics.

The event was created by Samuel’s House board member Kirby Myers, owner of Kirby’s Closet, who emceed the event with her husband, the Key West Weekly’s own Britt Myers.

Each of the six contestants was paired with a professional drag queen who coached them in style, wardrobe, makeup, talent and over-the-top personalities.

The audience voted with their wallets, throwing money on the stage and writing checks to Samuel’s House on behalf of one or more contestants.

At the end of it all, business owner Casey Arnold — aka “WyMOANa Juggs” — was crowned the 2023 Miss Island Queen under the guidance of his coach, Sushi.

The event and the $55,374 that was raised to help women and families in Key West wouldn’t have been possible without the enthusiasm of each contestant, their coach, the Samuel’s House staff, board members and former contestants.

2023 CONTESTANTS

• Casey Arnold aka “WyMOANa Juggs” and coach Sushi

• Beth Moyes aka “Clutch Mashaft” and coach Jessica Deveraux

• Tom Dustin aka “Lucille Ballz” and coach Puddin’ Taine

• Dorian Patton aka “DeeDee Royale” and coach Hugh Janus

• Andrew Morawski aka “Poetic Pussycat” and coach Blu Diamond

• DJ Sanaris aka “Rizzo Vybez” and coach QMitch

1. Casey Arnold aka ‘WyMOANa Juggs’ celebrates his crowning achievement as 2023 Miss Island Queen. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

2. The 2023 Miss Island Queen pageant and its amateur drag contestants raised $55,374 for the nonprofit Samuel’s House women’s shelter that helps local women and families.

3. Dorian Patton aka ‘DeeDee Royale’ plays to the crowd.

4. DJ Sanaris aka ‘Rizzo Vybez’ struts his stuff.

5. On stage, contestant Andrew Morawski, aka ‘Poetic Pussycat,’ is showered with donations from 2022 contestant Bill Lay, who reprised his 2022 drag character as the ‘Cuban Missile Crisis.’

6. Liz Love, Samuel’s House board member, sweeps up buckets of donations.

LOCALS SPECIAL 2 COURSE DINNER $46 ADD DESSERT FOR 50% OFF

CHOOSE 1 STARTER & 1 ENTREE

STARTER: Caprese Salad or Caesar Salad. ENTRÉE: Chicken Piccata, 6oz. Filet Mignon, Key West Yellow Tail or Vegetarian

Pasta. DESSERT: Award Winning Key Lime Pie or Dulce de Leche Cheesecake

Wednesday - Sunday 5pm - 7pm. Reservations recommended 305-295-3255. Excludes Holidays and must present a local ID.

SPA SPECIAL COUPLES MASSAGE

50-Minute couples massage (deep tissue or Swedish) Champagne (2 glasses) | Small spa amenity $300 per couple (plus tax and 20% gratuity)

Pi er House Resort & Spa 1 Duval St | Key West, FL 33040 305.296.4600 | pierhouse.com

FLORIDA KEYS BREWBQ AND CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL SET

TO READ OR NOT TO READ ( SHEET MUSIC, THAT IS )

I’ve had the opportunity this week to play guitar with a group of talented professionals at the Waterfront Playhouse for the play “Hedwig and the Angry Inch.” I find the show both weird and wonderful, but the unique part for me is this is a gig reading music. It’s not difficult music, fortunately. It’s straight rock-n-roll.

There have been two schools of thought about needing to read music to be a musician, ever since one caveman taught another how to beat two rocks together twice in a row. Jimi Hendrix, Paul McCartney, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Eddie Van Halen are all on the list of Hall of Famers who don’t find note-reading fundamental to music.

Bach, Mozart, Chopin, Zappa, Chicago’s horn section – all read music the way I read titles of YouTube videos. There are distinct advantages and disadvantages to both. A main difference is the way we learn to play. Many musicians play by ear. They learn by listening. We often learn chords and scales by diagrams, letters and numbers. We listen and change what we know to fit what we hear. Some musicians are very adept at listening, so much so that the chords they play are not the same ones I learned, but they sound a little better, a little fresher. These folks can listen to a song and pick the lines out within minutes. Most of us walk the line in between, using everything we can to learn more about what we love.

Another group of musicians has learned to play by reading sheet music, which, in some regards, is an instruction manual, but written by lawyers. It breaks down every bit of the music into hundreds of sym-

RAY WEST

... a professional musician, singer, actor and executive director of the Key West Music Awards, is known to sacrifice his comfort for that of his cat.

bols, on dozens of lines, with accents, tied to other notes, with letters above it in a language you don’t understand. But the guy down the street reads it like a magazine. It differs from lawyer speak in that it is designed to actually be understood, and that knowledge is absolutely attainable for nearly everyone.

While the ability to read anything put in front of you would seem most advantageous, the ability to write by listening, without having to name or number anything, has led to some of the most creative and groundbreaking sounds we have ever heard.

There’s a meme that says if you want to shut up a loud rock guitarist, put sheet music in front of him; another says if you want to shut up a snobby, classical guitarist, take his sheet music away.

Personally, it has come time to do both. I have been both envious of those who can read, and dizzied by the confusion brought about by a complicated-looking piece of sheet music. It seems best to have both skills, not unlike the busiest and most sought-after musicians in town. Besides, the older I get, the more I like to find those things that used to intimidate me — and crush them.

The third annual Florida Keys BrewBQ festival will take place Friday evening and all day Saturday, July 14 and 15, in celebration of great craft beer and barbecue.

Organized by the Marathon Chamber of Commerce, the popular festival will take advantage of cooler summer evenings by opening from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday.

Staged at the open-air Marathon Community Park, MM 49, the barbecue and craft beer festival boasts taste-tempting meaty goodness, live music, games for kids, retail vendors and barbecue and other food vendors.

Teams of amateur pitmasters will vie for cash prizes and top honors from a panel of judges scoring their entries in two categories – Best Pork Belly Burnt Ends, with judging announced Friday at 8 p.m., and Best Pulled Pork, with judging announced Saturday at 7 p.m.

The competition includes a “People’s Choice” division to encourage hungry meat lovers to cast their votes.

Tickets for beer and barbecue, including People’s Choice taste “tokens” for the amateur competition, will be available for purchase. Individuals can vote for their favorite bites by dropping one or more tokens in a team’s ballot box. An-

nouncement of the People’s Choice and Best Overall award winners takes place Saturday at 7:30 and 7:45 p.m., respectively.

In addition to the People’s Choice tastings, food will be available for purchase from Battle Rig BBQ, Lazy Days South, Brutus Seafood, Sweet Savannah’s, Marathon Youth Sports Burgers & Dogs, and the Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce smoker slinging barbecue pulled-pork sandwiches.

To wash down all the great barbecue, the latest lagers, hard ciders and hoppy beers will be offered by the Keys’ own craft brewers: Florida Keys Brewing Co., Islamorada Beer Company, Hard Bottom Brewing and Waterfront Brewery, as well as other Florida brewers. Frozen drinks and cocktails will be available for purchase from Ultra Beverages.

Live musical performances begin Friday at 5 p.m. with the 79th Street Band, followed at 7 p.m. by Abstract Radio. Saturday’s music lineup includes John Bartus and Adrienne Z, the Lady A Band and, to close out the festival, the popular six-piece classic rock party band Apache Dragon.

Festival tickets are $5 per person each day; children under 12 accompanied by a paying adult are admitted free.

Pulled pork and pork belly burnt ends will replace ribs as this year’s competition categories at the Florida Keys BrewBQ. SANDRA LEE PHOTOGRAPHY/Keys Weekly

FRESH AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE

MARK HEDDEN

... is a photographer, writer, and semi-professional birdwatcher. He has lived in Key West for more than 25 years and may no longer be employable in the real world. He is also executive director of the Florida Keys Audubon Society.

There are two ways to look at summertime birdwatching in the Florida Keys. First, there aren’t many birds around, so it’s kind of boring. Second, there aren’t many birds around, so it’s a great time to start birdwatching. A little over 800 species of birds have been recorded in North America. About 350 of those have been seen in the Florida Keys, which is loosely defined as everything from the 18-Mile Stretch down to Key West. (If you define the Florida Keys as Monroe County, then a large chunk of it is the Everglades, a whole different — alligator-filled — ballgame.)

Of those 350 species, about 70 can be seen pretty readily year-round if you spend a bit of time outdoors. Seventy species may seem like a lot, but not if you break them up into smaller, more easily identifiable groups – ducks, gulls, songbirds, chickens, etc.

(Birding in the summer is a great way to get your footing, but it’s best to do it in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat, unless you like the dizzy, de-energized feeling that comes from the relentless noonday sun.)

Herons and egrets —creatures of shallow waters and shorelines — are a great starting point for beginners. We have a lot of them. Also, they’re rather large, easy to find and not too difficult to tell apart. A field guide really helps, but this list should narrow down the possibilities.

Great blue heron

Approximately 4 feet tall, it’s the tallest bird you’ll see in the Keys. It’s got a solid, railroad spike of a bill, and plumage that is primarily a slaty blue, but with a whitish face and a black crown. Their range is all over North America, stretching down through Mexico and Central America. You see them most often standing statue-like on the shore, as if posing for a postage stamp photo, but they’ll occasionally be flying or hunting for fish in the flats.

Great white heron

The great white heron only occurs in the Florida Keys and extreme South Florida. They are officially considered a subspecies of the great blue heron, but that could change, depending on how the folks at the American Ornithological Society define a species. Many people call the great white heron the wordier, more technically correct, “great blue heron, white color morph.” (That’s how it’s listed on most checklists.) But they’re a hometown bird, and I’m rooting for them to be considered their own species again, so I always refer to them as great whites. They are essentially the same size and shape as the great blue, with the same

HERONS & EGRETS IN THE KEYS: A GOOD STARTING POINT

railroad spike bill, but their plumage is all white, as if they’re wearing a fancy tuxedo from the ’80s. It’s difficult to confuse them with any other species … except the…

Great egret

The great egret is also a tall, all-white wading bird that hangs around in similar habitats as the great white heron. It’s about two-thirds the size of a great white, though that’s not a great field mark if they’re not standing next to each other. They also have an overall slimmer build and less hefty bill, all of which doesn’t necessarily inspire confidence if you’re trying to make an ID, especially when you’re first starting out. So here’s the cheat: Great white herons have pale, tannish legs. Great egrets have black legs. They are a pretty cosmopolitan species, found not just in North and South America, but also in all the A continents – Asia, Australia, and Africa.

Snowy egret

Another all-white wading bird, the snowy egret is two-thirds the size of the great egret. They give the impression of a slighter build, and often have a few longer plume feathers hanging off the back of their head like a cowlick.

They’re usually in the company of other snowy egrets, but sometimes are seen solo. They’re denizens of the lower half of North America, the Caribbean and nearly all of South America. Their dark legs and yellow feet, a.k.a. golden slippers, are the easiest way to identify them.

Reddish egret

Reddish egrets come in two flavors (properly called color phases) — the reddish/mauve of their name, and white. There is no in-between. It’s an either/or situation. The mauve ones are easy. The white ones take a little more attention. They are bulkier than snowy egrets – linebackers, compared to running backs. But the adults have two-toned bills, pinkish toward the face, dark toward the outer tip. Also, if you see a bird dancing like a freak in the shallows, it’s a reddish.

Tri-colored heron

I generally clue into tri-colored herons because they’re the skinniest of the herons. Their necks are so long and so thin, I wonder how they can be functional. They actually do have a three-colored plumage when young, though when they mature, it is more like four colors. The biggest clue is their white belly and the heavily contrasting dark breast, neck and wings. I do, on occasion, see a lone tri-color, but over the last few years I’ve seen them in groups of five to 40 birds.

Little blue heron

Little blue herons were named simply as if they’re the small version of the great blue heron, but they have their own thing going on. They’re only 2 feet tall, with a more compact build. From a great distance it’s possible to confuse them with a reddish, but they skew more towards the dark blue end of color spectrum, as opposed to reddish/mauve. And they are smaller. They are white for the first year of their life, and you could confuse them with a whitephase reddish egret, but again it comes down to the legs – little blues have yellow/green legs, and the reddish have dark gray legs. Little blues also undergo an amazing phase: When they transition from juvenile to adult, their plumage is a patchwork of blue and white.

Green heron

The smallest of the herons in Keys, green herons are shapeshifters, looking sometimes like a no-necked bowling pin, and sometimes like a thick-necked, avian relative of the giraffe. It depends on their mood and activity. You generally see them hunting from low branches in the mangroves. But you also see them hunting from dock lines in marinas and other opportunistic perches. Sometimes they’ll actually drop a small twig into the water and wait for a fish to come investigate, only to get snatched up. You have to love a bird that knows how to use tools.

Ellwood Insurance Agency

BIG PINE’S PUBLIC LIBRARY REOPENS JUNE

10

COUNTY SYSTEM OFFERS WAY MORE THAN BOOKS

OPEN JUNE 1-18 NOMINATIONS

SUBMIT YOUR FAVORITE

The Big Pine Key branch of the Monroe County Public Library has undergone a full refurbishment, with new floors, ceiling, paint, shelves and furniture. The library, at 213 Key Deer Blvd. in the Winn-Dixie Shopping Center, will celebrate its renewal with a ribbon-cutting and celebration planned for Saturday, June 10.

“It is a true pleasure to update and re-invigorate our current library facilities. The library system is a vital resource and gathering place for our community and citizens,” said Kimberly Matthews, senior director of libraries and strategic planning. “Our Lower Keys branch in Big Pine is well used and loved and long overdue for this remodel. We hope the community is pleased with the result.”

The new shelving and furnishings allow for more opportunity and flexibility for library users to connect with the system’s free WiFi and laptop computers that can be borrowed for up to two hours at a time. The refurbishment also allows for more programming in the library.

On Saturday, the newly refurbished branch will host a ribboncutting at 10 a.m., followed by a “book chain,” where volunteers can help return books to the branch’s shelves. There will be two story times for little ones, at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., and staff will conduct tours throughout the day, showing off the new branch’s amenities and demonstrating the technology library patrons can use.

The Big Pine Key branch was originally opened in 1995 and later expanded. This is its first major refurbishment. The Monroe County Public Library is committed to expanding access for all Keys residents. A brand-new branch opened in Marathon in 2021, and in 2022 the library system installed booklending machines at Bernstein Park on Stock Island and at the Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo. The system also has digital resources accessible any time, including more than 30,000 streaming movies and TV shows and almost 20,000 e-books and eaudiobooks.

The newly renovated Big Pine branch of the Monroe County library will host a ribbon-cutting celebration at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 10.

BRACELETS TO BRACE CORALS

MOTE & OPAL COLLECTION PARTNER IN RESTORATION CAUSE

Mote Marine Laboratory is expanding what it says is an already transformative partnership with Opal Collection, a premier assortment of luxury hotels and resorts.

In honor of World Ocean Day on Thursday, June 8, Opal is giving 3,000 Coral Legend bracelets to guests across all of its Florida properties. Each bracelet, produced and sold by Follow Your Legend, a corporate partner with Mote, provides financial support to Mote’s Coral Restoration Program and is filled with sand from the area where corals have been planted because of that support.

“Florida’s Coral Reef is on the brink of functional extinction and Mote, through our innovative Coral Restoration Initiative, is committed to reversing that course,” said Michael P. Crosby, Mote president & CEO. “To accomplish that, we need the support of visionary philanthropy from exceptional partners like Opal Collection and Follow Your Legend. It is critical to couple science-based coral reef restoration with public outreach and education on the importance of conservation and sustainable use of our marine resources, which is what this partnership achieves.”

Alongside the bracelet, guests will also receive a handout with information that will educate them about the challenges facing coral reefs with details about Mote’s diverse research programs and its efforts to develop science-based solutions to those challenges.

“If coral reefs were above the water and all of the public,

JIM McCARTHY/

not just divers and snorkelers, could see them dwindling away and going extinct before their eyes, everyone would want to help restore these rainforests of the sea,” said Mark Walsh, vice president of Opal Collection. “We are proud to work with Mote in meaningful ways to both support their critical research and broaden awareness around it.”

In addition to the World Ocean Day promotion, Opal Collection also houses Mote’s Key Largo Coral Nursery at Opal’s Reefhouse Resort & Marina. The nursery includes 20 seawater raceways, which can hold more than 10,000 fragments of coral at any given time and will produce between 6,000 and 10,000 coral fragments per year for outplanting efforts. In addition, like the promotion, it furthers the mission of Mote to translate and transfer the outcomes of research to help increase broader ocean literacy and public awareness.

— Contributed

SAVE THE DATE

June 7-11

• Key West celebrates Pride and diversity while marking the 20th “birthday” of Key West’s famed 1.25-mile sea-to-sea rainbow flag with a three-night laser light show during Key West Pride 2023. Presented by the Key West Business Guild, Pride salutes the Florida Keys’ all-accepting “One Human Family” mindset on the subtropical island internationally known as a top LGBTQ vacation spot.

Wednesday, June 7

• Kick off Pride in Key West with the 20th anniversary of the Sea-to-Sea Rainbow Flag Bash at Hard Rock Cafe, 313 Duval St.

June 9, 10 & 11

• Key West Pride 20th Anniversary Sea-to-Sea Diversity Flag Laser Light Show on the entire length of Duval Street. All ages welcome. 8 to 10 p.m.

Thursday, June 15

• Walk on White art stroll in the White Street gallery district now includes the Golden Heron House and the studios of Violet and H.E. Jangraw, 1106 Georgia St. 5-8 p.m.

• Key West City Commissioner Clayton Lopez hosts a quarterly District VI Community Meeting at 6 p.m. at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Pool at the corner of Catherine and Thomas streets. The agenda includes a welcome from City Manager Al Childress and several updates on issues regarding the Bahama Village community.

Saturday, June 17

• Native plant sale at the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden, 9 a.m. to noon on College Road, Stock Island.

• The Key West chapter of NOW hosts a petition-signing event to protect the freedoms of Ameicans and Floridians in an attempt to overturn Florida’s and other states’ abortion bans. 10:30 a.m. to noon at Bayview Park.

• The Rotary Club of Key West presents ‘Hippie Go Lucky’ Casino Night fundraiser from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Marriott Beachside Hotel. $100 per person benefits Take Stock in Children. Visit the club’s Facebook page for information and to buy tickets.

SHELF HELP

Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.

What: “Killers of the Flower Moon” by David Grann

Why: David Grann writes the kind of page-turning nonfiction that reads more like a thriller. He may be best known for “The Lost City of Z,” but this book, too, has been turned into a movie, so if you’re one of those bookbefore-movie types, you might want to get on it. It’s a jaw-dropping story in whatever format, one of those slices of history that has been largely forgotten (except by the people who were swindled if not murdered out of their rights and inheritance). The Osage people, in the early 20th century, had already been relocated for the convenience of white settlers. But the place they were relocated to, in Oklahoma, turned out to be a rich oil reserve. You can probably guess how that played out, but the details are still incredible. Grann is an automatic read for me, but this is the book of his that has stayed with me the longest. The movie just debuted at the Cannes Film Festival but if you couldn’t make it there, it’s not scheduled for wide release until October so you’ve got time.

Where: This is available as a print book, e-book and e-audiobook from the Monroe County Library system.

How: You can request books online by logging in to www.keyslibraries. org and get e-books and e-audiobooks 24/7 at www.estuff.keyslibraries.org. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? info@keyslibraries.org

Recommended by: Nancy Klingener, community affairs manager

Michael Crosby, president and CEO of Mote, zip-ties an elkhorn coral to a small metal post during an outplanting at French Reef off Key Largo last August.

Keys Weekly File Photo

KEY LIME FESTIVAL ADDS NEW EVENTS

KEY WEST’S CITRUS CELEBRATION IS JUNE 30- JULY 4

evening of July 3, when the Lower Keys Rotary Club hosts Monroe County’s bid to reclaim the “world’s largest Key lime pie” title as part of the county’s bicentennial celebration.

LEARN ABOUT SERVICES FOR SENIORS

POINCIANA GARDENS TO HOST EVENT ON JUNE 24

Key West’s Key Lime Festival takes place June 30-July 4 and includes the annual Key Lime Pie Eating Contest. FILDA KONEC/keylimefestival.com

During five days of flavorful fun, June 30-July 4, Key West’s Key Lime Festival invites lovers of the lime to celebrate the citrus via a series of events at multiple venues across the island where Key lime pie was conceived.

Festival events kick off with a cookbook signing and champagne reception with David Sloan, author of the “Key West Key Lime Pie Cookbook,” on June 30 on the veranda of the Curry Mansion Inn. A full menu of happenings ranges from culinary adventures to outrageous competitions. Here’s a sampling of some, but not all, of the lineup:

Culinary events

The schedule includes a “Living the Key Lime Life” four-course dinner at Kaya Island Eats, a fivecourse “Key Lime Unity Table Dinner” with Great Events Catering at Williams Hall, and a five-course “Key Lime Dewey Deck Dinner & Wine Pairing” event at Le Mer & Dewey House. For those who like to get hands-on in the kitchen, there are mini-Key lime piemaking classes at the Key West Key Lime Pie Co.

Limey libations

Activities for those of legal age include a Key Lime Sip & Stroll where participants vote for the best Key lime cocktails and margaritas from multiple participating bars, and a Key lime rum- tasting experience at the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery.

Competitive events

Don’t miss the World Famous Key Lime Pie Eating Championship or the gravity-defying Key Lime Pie Drop — from the top of the Key West Lighthouse.

There’s also a Key Lime Scavenger Hunt, Key Lime Pie Hop, a Key lime tree master class, and morning Key Lime Bike Tours that visit iconic landmarks and conclude with a slice of Key lime pie. Those who care to explore even further can make the 29-mile trek from Key West to Big Pine Key the

Fourth of July events begin early with the annual Rotary Club of Key West 4th of July 5K, and continue into the night with the Rotary’s “Patriotic Dinner Under the Fireworks.” In the hours between, revelers can dive into a 4th of July pool party at Dante’s Key West Pool Bar & Restaurant and head over to the Southernmost Beach Café, where the wild World Famous Key Lime Pie Eating Championship takes place.

Island Home Care and Poinciana Gardens assisted-living center will host their second annual Community Seniors’ Event on Saturday, June 24 from 10 a.m. to noon.

The event takes place at Poinciana Gardens and is designed to provide Monroe County seniors with more information about services available to them.

The session will include 15 or so speakers who will share information about services their programs offer.

Several local seniors have expressed interest in hearing about specific topics and the organizers have done their best to make that happen. Requests and recommendations about additional topics are always appreciated.

The Florida Legislature made Key lime pie the official state pie in 2006. Launched in 2013, the Key Lime Festival was concocted by author, ghost hunter, historian and cuisinier David Sloan and artist, production designer and Wonderdog Studios founder Marky Pierson. The 2023 festival includes numerous family-friendly activities and is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and We’ve Got the Keys. Some events require advance reservations/registration. A full calendar with registration and reservation links is at keylimefestival.com.

“It is our hope to get information out to as many people as possible and to grow our list of speakers each year,” said Teresa Corbitt, administrator of Poinciana Gardens. “The ultimate goal is to have all Monroe County senior residents well informed regarding support and options that are available to them in many areas of life, not only medical.”

In the annual Key Lime Pie Drop, competitors must engineer a way to drop a Key lime pie from the 86-foot-high lighthouse without damaging the pie.

During a previous festival, author David Sloan shares the history of Key lime pie with a group visiting the kitchen of the Curry Mansion Inn, where the iconic dessert was originally created.

Poinciana Gardens, on Duck Avenue in Key West, will host a Community Seniors’ Event on Saturday, June 24 from 10 a.m. to noon. Keys Weekly file photo

COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL

COME WORSHIP WITH US

‘‘The churches of Christ greet you.’’ Romans 16:16 NKJV

ENGLISH SERVICE

Sunday Bible Study 10am

Service 11am & Service 6pm

Wednesday Bible Study 7:30pm

Evangelist Rodrigue Aleandre Cell 305.296.3331

KREYOL SEVIS

Dimanch Klas Biblik 7:30pm

Adorasyon 8:30pm

Madi Klas Biblik 7:30pm

EXPERIENCE. COMMITMENT.

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL

ADMIN@KEYSTARINC.COM PH: (305) 517-6270 WWW.KEYSTARCONSTRUCTION.COM

Minis Rodrigue Aleandre Cell 305.296.3331

SERVICIO ESPAÑOL

Domingo Estudio Biblico a las 4:30pm

Servicio de Adoración a las 5pm

Jueves Estudio Biblico a las 7pm

Ministro Pedro Ruiz Celda 347.430.2263

1700 VON PHISTER ST, KEY WEST

“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name.’’

‒ Psalms 1:12 NKJV

CASTAWAYS AGAINST CANCER EMBARK ON 2023 TOUR

THREE ‘RIDICULOUS STUNTS’

Starting Saturday, June 10, the Castaways Against Cancer will embark on their 24th yearly trek to combat arguably the world’s most hated illness.

And as if the trip some would call insane isn’t enough, for the first time, the group is celebrating a “triathlon” of sorts – kayakers, bikers and even a pair of ultramarathon runners will traverse more than 500 miles raising money for cutting-edge treatments and research through the University of Miami’s Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Striking a solid partnership with the center in 2020, the organization announced a five-year, $1.5 million pledge to the research institute on World Cancer Day in February 2022, with the University of Miami promising to match donations 50 cents on the dollar. Within the past year, the team is already ahead of schedule, raising $225,000 and hoping to tack on another $25,000 before this year’s paddle is over. And since the group’s inception in 2000, the Castaways have amassed more than $2 million in donations, paddling more than 3,600 miles in the process. Projects funded by Castaways donations within the last year include research to enhance the activity of certain tumor suppressor genes, new therapies for blood cancers, and investigations into new therapeutic targets that determine resistance to endocrine therapies in breast cancer.

The 2023 “Ridiculous Stunt Tour” is the Castaways’ newest endeavor to honor their aggressive pledge. On Saturday, a team of paddlers – the original “castaways” – will launch from “Castaway Beach,” as declared by the City of Miami. Their 160-mile journey stretches from Miami’s Virginia Key to Key West’s Simonton Beach, where the crew will make landfall on Friday, June 16. Leaving that Friday morning, a team of cyclists who joined the Castaways in 2020 will make the most comparable land-based journey in a single day –a grueling 170-mile spin. And departing on Thursday, ultramarathoners Vince Yllanes and Paige Douglass will trade off running 85-mile legs to complete the entire journey on foot. Marathon resident, breast cancer survivor and paddling legend Suzy Curry – crowned “Mayor of the Keys” on the Castaways’ website –will pass the 1,000-mile mark with the organization as she joins the kayak team for the 110-mile Keys portion of their journey.

While most athletes dedicate their yearly trip to a particular individual, Curry said hers will be dedicated by day – the first day for her friends, including Nancy Miller and Carol Gross, who passed away from lymphoma and brain cancer, respectively; the second day to those

currently battling all forms of the disease, including the Weekly’s own Anneke Patterson; the third to her “breast cancer sisters,” remembering her own diagnosis and subsequent fight in 2011; the fourth to children fighting pediatric cancers; and the fifth in memory of Castaways founder Steve O’Brien’s mother, Joyce.

“I wasn’t going to do the trip this year, but my friend passed,” she told the Weekly. “She and her husband had always been longtime sponsors, and that broke my heart.

“You can put it in the paper: cancer sucks,” she continued. “We try to light a candle instead of cursing the darkness. You can’t say being on the water is like going through cancer, but the intensity, the despair, and the endlessness of it, it’s a way to compare to the hardship of cancer. And there’s a light at the end of the tunnel when you come ashore and celebrate survivorship.”

The Castaways invite the public to join them at their kayaker landing on Friday, June 16 at 2 p.m. at Key West’s Simonton Beach, followed by the cyclists’ arrival at 5 p.m. and a closing ceremony from 7:15 to 9:30 p.m. at the Hyatt Centric Key West. For more information, including donation opportunities, research studies and trip reports, visit castawaysagainstcancer.org.

1. MCSO detective Ian Barnett helps keep the Castaways safe on their 2022 paddle. CONTRIBUTED

2. South Florida mangrove trails provide welcome shade for the kayak team.

3. The 2022 Castaways Against Cancer cyclist team, from left: Tim Rea, Emilio Pineda, Jorge Bustamante, Josh Kantor, Andy Martinez, Dani Girado, Eric Stabaneu, Javi Hermida, Jesus Lopez and Stephanie Weldon.

4. The 2022 Castaways Against Cancer kayak team, from left: Caleb Isenberg, Roger Dabdab, Kari Linfors, team captain Eric Pino, Suzy Cury, Castaways founder Steve O’Brien, Patrick Linfors, Paul Kumer, Jaime Lemus and Omar Beceiro.

5. A growing memorial pays tribute to those who have fought valiant battles against cancer.

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

LOCAL TEEN AUTHOR DONATES BOOK PROCEEDS

HOLLY JOY EDDLESTON SUPPORTS FLORIDA KEYS WILDLIFE SOCIETY

LEARN ABOUT THE LIFE OF ARTIST STANLEY PAPIO

‘HAPPY HOUR WITH THE HISTORIAN’ TAKES PLACE JUNE 15

Holly Joy Eddleston recently presented a $500 check to the Florida Keys Wildlife Society from the proceeds of her book, “Can a Key Deer Save Christmas?”

The book has been so successful that this is the second $500 donation Holly has made to the society.

Eddleston is a junior in high school and splits her time between Duck Key and Rhode Island. Her book is about a Key deer that helps Santa and his reindeer deliver gifts in the Florida Keys.

Eddleston is well on the way to publishing a second book featuring other iconic Keys wildlife.

She first learned about Florida’s Key deer while living on Duck Key. One night on a drive back from Key West with her family, she encountered a small group of Key deer peacefully grazing on Big Pine Key. She was later surprised to learn there are fewer than 800 in existence. That fact, along with their incredible cuteness, gave her two ideas: to create a Christmas story that showcases Key deer, and inspire others to support their protection. She hopes this story teaches children about the beautiful Florida Keys islands and the many amazing animals that live here and need conservation.

The book, available in hard or soft cover, can be purchased from Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or the Nature Store at the Nature Center on Big Pine Key.

— Contributed

Raise a toast to Florida Keys art and history with Key West Art & Historical Society curator and historian Cori Convertito on Thursday, June 15, from 5 to 6 p.m. during her “Happy Hour with the Historian” program at Comedy Key West, 218 Whitehead St. Enjoy a free draft beer, glass of house wine or soft drink while Convertito presents “With a Rebel Yell: The Life & Art of Stanley Papio,” exploring the rebellious welderturned-metal-artist who transformed other people’s junk into works of art.

Papio was 34 when he settled in Key Largo in 1949. He had worked a series of odd jobs across Canada and the United States; his favorite of these was welding. He started his own welding business along U.S. 1 at MM 101 and encouraged people to leave old cars, washing machines, trailers, motors and pieces of scrap metal in his yard.

Papio once remarked that “a bunch of junk is a welder’s glory. Buying new stuff is not a welder’s way.” He breathed life into this old junk. Trash piles assumed new identities. Car fenders became alligators. Dishwashers became people. Eventually, he constructed his own folk art environment using bed springs to create a fence around his property. He re-named his welding shop “Stanley’s Art Museum,” and charged 25 cents admission, creating a lawn of folk art for travelers on the nearby highway to view with amazement.

“Papio was a quirky Keys character who settled in Key Largo before most of the large hotels and businesses were established,” said Convertito. “As the population swelled and en-

croached on his property, complaints were logged with the local authorities by the newly arrived residents that his welding business was an eyesore. Annoyed with the neighbors, Papio grabbed the discarded appliances and cars on his property and created caustic and satirical pieces of artwork representing his neighbors, as a way of fighting back.”

The imagination and resourcefulness of Papio is what inspired the Key West Art & Historical Society’s annual Stanley Papio Kinetic Sculpture and Art Bike Parade. Each spring, the society encourages the community to take objects that would otherwise be discarded and create art with parts that move for a parade that travels the length of Duval Street.

“Happy Hour with the Historian” is limited to 70 attendees; reserve your spot now at kwahs.org/rebelpapio. The cost is $12 for KWAHS members, $15 for non-members.

Holly Joy Eddleston presents a check to Florida Keys Wildlife Society chair Kathy Rhodes. CONTRIBUTED

Key Largo welder and folk artist Stanley Papio.

Stanley Papio’s Folk Art Museum in Key Largo in the late 1970s. The artist will be the subject of a June 15 lecture at Comedy Key West. KEY WEST ART & HISTORICAL SOCIETY/ Contributed

‘BRAIN BUS’ VISITS KEYS BUY LOCAL, PLANT LOCAL

KEY WEST TROPICAL FOREST & BOTANICAL GARDEN HOSTS PLANT SALE JUNE 17

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION PROVIDES FREE SUPPORT SERVICES

This month, the Alzheimer’s Association “Brain Bus” will make several stops in the Florida Keys to provide free support services to families facing this disease.

Currently, more than 11% of Monroe County residents age 65 and up are living with Alzheimer’s. Trained staff will be available at the bus to help families understand steps to get an accurate diagnosis, warning signs, caregiving tips and connect to local resources. No appointment is needed.

As part of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month in June, the Brain Bus will host free programs at each stop to share information on how to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and other dementia. Research shows making changes in what you eat, your activity levels and how you engage your brain all affect risk for the disease.

Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that affects memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms eventually grow severe enough to interfere with daily tasks. The number of Floridians living with Alzheimer’s is projected to increase to 720,000 by 2025, a 24% increase since 2020.

“Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging,” said Joe Baledelomar, Brain Bus program manager. “It’s vital that all Floridians know the warning signs of the disease so they can get an accurate diagnosis and access to treatment options as soon as possible. We are here to serve the community and hope those who need help stop by.”

Unique to Florida, the Brain Bus program is managed by the Alzheim-

Brain Bus schedule

• Friday, June 9: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Key Largo Branch Library, 101485 Overseas Highway, Key Largo. Healthy living program at 11 a.m.

• Saturday, June 10 at 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at East Winds Apartments, 240 Sombrero Beach, Marathon. Healthy living program at 12 p.m.

• Monday, June 12: 6 to 9 p.m. at Bernstein Park, 6751 5th Street, Stock Island. Healthy living program at 7 p.m.

• Tuesday, June 13: 1 to 4 p.m. at Bahama Village, 111 Olivia Street, Key West. Healthy living program at 2 p.m.

er’s Association Florida chapters and funded in partnership with the Department of Elder Affairs and Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas. Two vehicles travel the state providing dementia education and resources to at-risk and heavily impacted communities.

The Alzheimer’s Association

Southeast Florida Chapter works in eight counties to provide education and support, advocate for the needs and rights of those facing Alzheimer’s and other dementia and advance critical research to develop new treatments, prevention and a cure.

For more information, including upcoming programs and support groups, call 800-272-3900 or visit alz. org/SEFL.

The native plant nursery at the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden, 5210 College Road on Stock Island, will hold its monthly native plant sale from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, June 17. Master gardeners will be on site to answer any plant questions and plants that are available for sale are listed on the garden’s website.

The June sale will feature 25% off Florida privet (Forestiera segregata) in 3-gallon pots.

The nursery on College Road contains 160 species of native plants available includ-

ing native and Cuban palms, tomato and pepper plants. The nursery inventory totals more than 2,000 plants that attract birds, butterflies and other pollinators in one- to 15-gallon pots.

Key West Botanical Garden members receive a 15% discount. The garden is a nonprofit organization and all proceeds directly benefit its conservation program.

More information is at 305296-1504 or keywest.garden.

— Contributed

Rob Harris, Brain Bus driver and program manager for the Alzheimer’s Association, stands outside the bus during a stop in Key Largo in June 2022. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly File Photo

The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden’s June 17 native plant sale will offer 25% off 3-gallon pots of two varieties of the Florida privet. CONTRIBUTED

THE ANGLER’S OUTLOOK

MANGROVE MANIA

Mangrove snapper, commonly known as gray snapper, is one of the few species targeted by fishermen here in the Florida Keys year-round, and the bite is about to turn on! Mangrove snapper spawn on local patch reefs in June through August in anywhere from 20 to 90 feet of water. This makes them one of the most sought-after species in the coming months. Not only are they a fun fighting fish, but they taste delicious too.

Don’t stress about the bait. For many species of fish, live bait is a necessity. However, when targeting mangrove snapper, using cut bait is fine. Although a live pilchard, pinfish or ballyhoo is a prime choice of bait, several other types will suffice. Cut ballyhoo, live or dead shrimp, scented imitation bait or artificial lures can also attract mangrove snapper. Soft plastic lures such as DOA or NLBN paddle tails on a lightly weighted jig head offer a thrilling strike when attacked by a snapper.

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.

Mangrove snapper are found all over the Keys, but begin to congregate on reef patches this time of year. In the winter months, mangrove snapper can be found near bridges, in the bay on grass beds, on wrecks or in channels. Once spring comes and begins raising the water temperature, mangrove snapper begin to move out of Florida Bay and toward the reef on the Atlantic side.

I prefer to use lighter tackle when targeting most species, and mangrove snapper is no exception. My favorite setup is a seven-foot light action rod with a 4500 series spinning reel, spooled with 12-pound monofilament. As always, I use a Bimini twist on the main line to connect my fluorocarbon leader, typically six feet of of 20-pound fluorocarbon. Depending on the current and size of your bait, a weighted jig head of ¼ to ⅜ ounce should get the job done. The goal is to get your bait in the lower portion of the water column where the snapper spend most of their time, but not to continuously snag the bottom. Some anglers prefer to use a knocker rig with a ½-ounce egg sinker and 3/0 to 5/0 circle hook.

When you anchor up at your favorite spot to target mangrove snapper, start out by deploying a chum hoop with a block of chum to put a scent in the water. Remember, we are just putting some scent in the water to get the attention of the fish, not actually shaking the chum bag rigorously as we would do if we were yellowtail snapper fishing. Fish your spot for at least 30 minutes before giving up and moving on, as it may take some time to get bites if the current is slow. When showing up to a popular reef site, remember to be courteous of the anglers and chum slicks that are already there.

Regulations on this snapper vary from state to federal waters, so be mindful of where you are fishing. In state waters, you’re allowed to possess five mangrove snapper with a minimum size limit of 10 inches total length (from the fish’s snout to the tip of the tail). In federal waters, you’re allowed to possess 10 mangrove snapper with a minimum total length of 12 inches. Before leaving the dock, always check for any new updated regulations or closures on the FWC website. I personally don’t keep mangrove snapper under 14 inches, since the girth from a 10-inch to a 14-inch fish is doubled, giving you a more substantial filet for dinner and the smaller fish time to grow.

I wish you the best of luck this summer targeting mangrove snapper, as it is a great way to put some meat in the box while having fun. Bring the kids and grandkids, as the conditions are typically calmer this time of year and you can help the younger generation get hooked on fishing. Tight lines!

CAPT. BILL GILIBERTI

An early-summer migration of mangrove snapper from bay waters to patch reefs in the Atlantic can yield some solid dinners. BILL GILIBERTI/Keys Weekly

FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS

THE INCREDIBLE GUT MICROBIOME

CORAL CRAZE

ANNUAL RESTORATION EFFORT AIMS TO PROTECT BARRIER REEF

In recognition of World Oceans Day promoting ocean preservation, Key Largo’s Coral Restoration Foundation (CRF) is hosting its annual Coralpalooza Dive Day and Festival on Saturday, June 10, featuring in-person reef diving in Key Largo and Key West as well as two land-based celebrations.

Coralpalooza, one of the world’s largest coral restoration efforts, helps raise awareness about the importance of preserving and conserving the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef, which parallels the Florida Keys. The event is planned each year around World Oceans Day, recognized internationally on June 8.

Hundreds of recreational divers from across the nation will join the effort to outplant corals on reefs off Key Largo and Key West during the Coralpalooza Dive Day Saturday, June 10.

Hands-on dive activities include helping CRF staff and interns in underwater coral nurseries and outplanting corals on Upper and Lower Keys reef sites.

For nondivers, the June 10 Coralpalooza Festival 2023 brings landbased celebrations to locations in Islamorada and Key West.

In Islamorada at Dockside Raw Bar & Grill, located at 90311 Old Highway, attendees can enjoy kayak and paddleboard ecotours, coral trivia with CRF “edutainment” mascot Captain Coral, a paint-along party, live music, food and drink for purchase and lawn games from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

In Key West at Margaritaville Beach House, located at 2001 S. Roosevelt Blvd., participants can jump into a pool party and enjoy lawn games, virtual reality coral restoration dive experiences, a Smathers Beach cleanup and food

and drinks for purchase from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Both locations will feature information booths from Florida Keys–based coral heroes including Mote Marine Laboratory and I.CARE.

Although the 2023 dive day is already sold out, interested divers can register to receive a first-alert email when the 2024 registration opens. Registration cost is typically $100 per person and includes two Coralpalooza restoration dives, a swag bag and T-shirt.

All in-water activities are weather-dependent. Certified divers must provide proof they have dived within the last year.

Funds raised through Coralpalooza event registrations and donations contribute to CRF’s efforts to restore reefs in the Florida Keys and other areas of the world.

JENNIFER BOLTZ HARVEY

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

n recent years, research has uncovered a hidden world within us that holds tremendous power over our overall health – the gut microbiome. This vast ecosystem of trillions of microorganisms residing in our digestive tract has been found to play a crucial role in various aspects of our well-being, from digestion and immune function to mental health and disease prevention. As we delve deeper into the mysteries of the gut microbiome, it becomes evident that nurturing its health is vital.

The gut microbiome is composed of a diverse array of bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microbes that coexist in a delicate balance. These tiny organisms not only aid in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients from our food, but also interact with our immune system, produce essential vitamins and even influence our mood and brain function. An unhealthy gut microbiome, on the other hand, has been associated with a range of health problems, including gastrointestinal disorders, obesity, diabetes, autoimmune diseases and mental health disorders.

Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some evidence-based strategies to improve and nurture your gut health:

1. Eat a fiber-rich diet. Consuming a variety of fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. These bacteria thrive on dietary fiber and produce short-chain fatty acids that help nourish the gut lining and reduce inflammation.

2. Include fermented foods. Fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir and kimchi contain live beneficial bacteria that can help replenish and diversify the gut

Imicrobiome. These foods provide a natural source of probiotics, which can aid digestion and support a healthy gut.

3. Limit processed foods and added sugars. A diet high in processed foods and added sugars can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to inflammation and a less diverse microbiome. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods and limit sugary treats to promote a healthier gut environment.

4. Stay hydrated. Drinking an adequate amount of water supports proper digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut environment. Aim for at least half of your body weight in ounces of water per day to keep your gut microbiome functioning optimally. If you are extremely active, work outdoors, live in a humid climate, etc., your body may need more.

5. Minimize stress. Chronic stress can negatively affect the gut microbiome, leading to digestive issues and an increased risk of gastrointestinal disorders. Engaging in stress-reducing activities like exercise, meditation, and spending time in nature can promote a healthier gut and overall well-being.

6. Consider probiotic supplements. Probiotic supplements can provide an additional boost of beneficial bacteria to the gut microbiome. Consult with a nutrition coach such as myself or your health care professional to determine if probiotic supplementation is appropriate for your individual needs.

It’s important to note that everyone’s gut microbiome is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s always best to listen to your body and make adjustments accordingly.

Understanding the importance of the gut microbiome and taking proactive steps to improve its health can have far-reaching benefits for overall well-being. By nurturing our gut, we can support digestion, enhance immune function, promote mental health and reduce the risk of numerous chronic diseases.

As our understanding of the gut microbiome continues to evolve, it’s clear that this hidden world within us holds immense potential for improving our health and quality of life. By harnessing the power of our gut microbiome, we can embark on a journey towards holistic wellbeing.

1. A diver swims away from Coral Restoration Foundation’s Coral Tree Nursery, located off the shores of Tavernier. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly File Photo. 2. CRF grows several types of corals in its coral tree nurseries. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly File Photo

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing O ce will receive and open sealed responses for the following:

NOTICE OF CALLING FOR BID OF SURPLUS PROPERTY MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Wheatons Towing gives notice that on 06/30/2023 at 10:00 am, the following vehicle(s) may be sold by public sale at 101500 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 to satisfy the lien for the amount owed on each vehicle for any recovery, towing, or storage services charges and administrative fees allowed pursuant to Florida statute 713.78. Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.

1GYEC63T84R286617 2004 CADI

Publish:

June 8 & 15, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Wheatons Towing gives notice that on 07/07/2023 at 10:00 am, the following vehicle(s) may be sold by public sale at 101500 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 to satisfy the lien for the amount owed on each vehicle for any recovery, towing, or storage services charges and administrative fees allowed pursuant to Florida statute 713.78. Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.

1FAHP2EW0BG154358 2011 FORD

1FTVF14585NA05196 2005 FORD

Publish:

June 8 & 15, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

For information or to schedule a viewing of these units & equipment listed above, please contact Joe Zoppy at 305-393-5476

LEGAL NOTICES

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District I Advisory Committee (DAC I) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, June 28, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., at the DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Grand Key, 3990 South Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West, FL 33040.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30

A.M. – 5:00 P.M., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.

Publish:

June 8, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICES

Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30

A.M. – 5:00 P.M., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.

Publish:

June 8, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District V Advisory Committee (DAC V) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at 10:00 A.M., at the Murray Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037. All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

WITHIN THE ABUTTING RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION MAY BE DENIED ENTRY TO AND REASONABLE USE OF THE OPEN SPACE; PROVDING FOR SEVERABILITY, CODIFICATION, AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The proposed Ordinance may be inspected by the public at the Monroe County website by viewing the agenda packet for the June 21, 2023 meeting, which will be posted beginning on June 13, 2023, at: http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx. The proposed Ordinance may also be viewed at the Monroe County Attorney’s Office, 1111 12th Street, Suite 408, Key West, FL 33040.

The public can participate in the June 21, 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 on the agenda at: http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx.

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

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

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to:

OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl.gov, no later than 3:00 P.M., on July 11, 2023. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows:

NOTICE OF CALLING FOR BID OF SURPLUS PROPERTY 07112023

Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum le size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB, in advance of the bid opening, please email: omb-purchasing@monroecounty-fl.gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or con rm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on July 11, 2023. You may call in by phone or internet using the following:

JOIN ZOOM MEETING

https://mcbocc.zoom.us/j/4509326156

Meeting ID: 4509326156

One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York)

+16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 (New York) + 1 669 900 6833 (San Jose)

Publish: June 8, 2023. The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: BEST LIEN SERVICES INC. LOCATED AT: 7290 SW 41 ST MIAMI, FL 33155 WILL SELL AT A RESERVED PUBLIC SALE AT 9:00 AM THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES TO SATISFY LIEN PURSUANT TO CHAPTERS 713.585/713.78/67 7.209/677.210/328.17 OF THE FLORIDA STATUES.

1996 VYPER VS CAJW00013096 DATEOFSALE: JUN. 27,2023 LOCATED AT: 97951 OVERSEAS HWY KEYLARGO,FL33037

P#305-852-2025 OWNER/LIEN HOLDER:RONALD SHARLETTE/NONE OWNER/LIENHOLDER MAY RECOVER VEHICLE PURSUANT TO THE ABOVE MENTIONED CHAPTERS OF THE F.S. ANY PERSON(S) CLAIMING ANY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE VEHICLES/VESSELS SHOULD CONTACT BEST LIEN SERVICES (1-866-299-9391) AT LEAST 1 WEEK PRIOR TO THE LIEN SALE.

Publish:

June 8, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

Florida Keys Council of the Arts

Notice of Upcoming Meetings

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

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

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

Board of Directors Meeting

Thursday, Jun 15, 2023 04:00 PM

Eastern Time

Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 895 5165 6978

Passcode: 092944

Art in Public Places Committee

Meeting

Tuesday, Jun 20, 2023 12:00 PM

Eastern Time

Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 838 2776 2931

Passcode: 650148

Publish:

June 8, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

The District II Advisory Committee (DAC II) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at 6:00 P.M., at the Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Road, Key West, FL 33040.

All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30

A.M. – 5:00 P.M., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.

Publish:

June 8, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District III Advisory Committee (DAC III) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, June 28, 2023, at 9:30 A.M., at the Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club, 1996 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050.

All District Advisory Committee

Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30

A.M. – 5:00 P.M., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.

Publish:

June 8, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The District IV Advisory Committee (DAC IV) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at 2:00 P.M., at the Islander Resort, 82100 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036. All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30

A.M. – 5:00 P.M., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”.

Publish:

June 8, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDINANCE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, that on June 21, 2023, at 9:00 A.M., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the Murray E. Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Florida, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, intends to consider the adoption of the following Ordinance: AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA AMENDING PARAGRAPH (B) OF SECTION 19-1 OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE TO INSERT A SUBPARAGRAPH (4) WHICH CREATES AN EXCEPTION TO THE PROHIBITION AGAINST THE BOARD ABANDONING PLATTED RIGHTS-OF-WAY THAT TERMINATE ON A BODY OF OPEN WATER, PROVIDES ACCESS TO THE PUBLIC TO LAND ON OPEN WATER; OR PRECLUDES A WAY FOR THE PUBLIC TO MAINTAIN ACCESS TO THE WATER WHERE THE RIGHT-OF -WAY IS A RECORDED RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION PLAT AND THE ABUTTING FEE OWNERS AGREE TO DEDICATE THE RIGHT-OF-WAY AS OPEN SPACE FOR USE AND ENJOYMENT WITHIN THE RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION; THE ABUTTING FEE OWNERS CONVEY THEIR REVERSIONARY INTERESTS TO A HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION MADE UP OF AT LEAST 75% OF OWNERS IN AN ABUTTING RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION; IF THE HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION IS A NOT-FOR-PROFIT CORPORATION AND IN GOOD STANDING UNDER CHAPTER 617 AND SATISIFIES THE DEFINITION OF “HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCATION” IN F.S. 720.301(9) WITH THE POWER TO LEVY AND COLLECT ASSESSMENTS FOR ROUTINE AND PERIODIC MAJOR MAINTENANCE; THE HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF THE RIGHTOF-WAY AS OPEN SPACE; AND PROVIDED THAT NO OWNER

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)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 at: http://monroecountyfl,iqm2. com/citizens/default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners. Dated at Key West, Florida, this 1st day of June, 2023.

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

June 8, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICE

Pursuant to the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA), the South Florida Local Emergency Planning Committee (SoFlaLEPC) announces the availability of the following information: Hazardous Chemical Inventory (Tier2) Forms, Hazards Analyses for Facilities with Extremely Hazardous Substances, SoFlaLEPC Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan, How-to-Comply Information for Hazardous Materials Users, and other public education materials. The SoFlaLEPC serves Miami-Dade, Broward, and Monroe Counties. To obtain information, please contact the SoFlaLEPC Coordinator at (954)924-3653. Publish:

June 8, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Florida Department of Corrections intends to enter in a contract for the lease of office space at 88005 Overseas Highway, Tavernier (Islamorada), FL. This location will house a Department's Probation & Parole Office and will supervise high-risk offenders. The new lease set to commence July 1, 2023. Questions or concerns regarding the proposed lease may be directed to the Department of Corrections' representative as noted herein.

Fran Rowls, Leasing Manager Office of Community Corrections

501 S. Calhoun Street Tallahassee, FL 32399-2500

Telephone: (850) 717-3697

Fran.Rowls@fdc.myflorida.com

This public Notice has been placed in accordance with Section 945.28, F.S.

Publish:

June 8, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00027673-CU-BC-CTL SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL)

NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): ROBERT MICK, AN INDIVIDUAL YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: (LO ESTA DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): VAN DYKE & ASSOCIATES, A PROFESSIONAL LAW CORPORATION

NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below.

You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online SelfHelp Center (www.courtinfo. ca.gov/se!fhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court. There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you

may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www.lawhelpcalifornia. org), the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www. courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court's lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case.

AVISO! Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 dfas, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su version. Lea la inforrnacion a continuacion.

Tiene 30 DIAS DE CALENDARIO despues de que le entreguen esta citacion y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefonica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y mas inforrnacion en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte. ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede mas cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentacion, pida al secretario de la corte que le de un formulario de exencion de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podra quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin mas advertencia. Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente.

Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remision a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www.lawhelpcalifomia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www. sucorte.ca.gov) o poniendose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales.

AVISO: Par ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperacion de $10,000 o mas de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesion de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso.

The name and address of the court is: (El nombre y direccion de la corte es): 330 W. Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101

The name, address and telephone number of the plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney is: (El nombre, la direccion y el numero de telefono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es):

Richard S. Van Dyke, Esq., Van Dyke & Associates, APLC, 451 A Street, Suite 600, San Diego, CA 92101, (619) 344-0977

Dated July 15, 2022

By: Gabriel Lopez, Deputy Clerk

Publish:

June 8, 15, 22 & 29, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

E ective June 27th, 2023, HCA Healthcare’s Miami International Cardiology OFFICE PRACTICE, located at 100460 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 will be closing.

E ective June 27th, 2023, Dr. Bruce Boros will no longer be a liated with HCA Miami International Cardiology-Key Largo, located at 100460 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037.

Our Mercy cardiology practice is open for your patient care needs. The practice is located at 3683 South Miami Avenue, Suite 500, Miami, FL 33133. Please call the Mercy o ce at (305) 285-5666 to schedule an appointment. You may also contact your insurance carrier or primary care physician for a list of behavioral health providers in the area.

Your o ce medical records will be maintained at 3801 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33137. To obtain your o ce medical records, please feel free to call 305-571-0620.

Publish:

May 25, June 1, 8 & 15, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND INTENT TO FORECLOSE

To: The following Owners of Timeshare Units at the Marathon Key Beach Club, to wit:

1. Sioux Shelton, 1712 Rio Vista, Ft. Pierce, FL 34949, Wk 47/E202, Due $2,070.07

2. Charles Khoury, 7343 Brisbane Hills St., Las Vegas, NV, Wk 46 and 47/B-201, Due $3,918.26

3. John & Kimberly Chandler, 2501 Snow Creek Lane, Charlotte, NC 28273, Wk 45/E102, Due $2,756.98

4. Jacqueline Mandica Lurch, P.O. Box 102, Allenwood, NJ 08720, Wk 37/C-102, Due $3,466.33

5. Dario Morell, 13405 SW First Terrace, Miami, FL 33184, Wk 40/E-101, Due $2,318.94

6. Charles & Joanne Nimmericher, 25706 Countryside Dr., Millsboro, ND 19966, Wk 28/A102, Due $3,053.44

7. Pamela Reznik, 6630 Scott St., Hollywood, FL 33024, Wk 28/D102, Due $3118.38

8. Jack & Emily Taylor, 2230 Cady Way, Winter Park, FL 32792, Wk 47/C-101, Due $5,372.79

9. Douglas & Laura Merrill, 40 Main St., Hampton, NJ 07827, Wk 17/A-102, Due $13, 081.76

10. Estate of Violet Sibert, 132855 Third Avenue East, Owen Sound, Ontario N4K 2K6, Wk

7/C-102, Due $3,484.92

11. Estate of Linda Nascarella, 13337 Lamirada Circle, West Palm Beach, FL 33414, Wk 41/D101, Due $2,318.70

12. Estate of Ronald Little, 17030 No. 49th St., Apt. 1026, Scottsdale, AZ 85254, Wk 15/D101, Due $3,474.92

13. Tony & Heather Sanders, 806 Eagle Lane, Apollo Beach, FL 33572, Wk 30/D-201, Due $5,610.39

14. Robert Fine C/O Mathew & Michael Fine, 1408 Brickell Bay Dr. #701, Miami, FL 33131, Wk 34/D-102, Due $7,168.31

15. Earl & Ernestine Johnson, 301 Bloomingfield Dr., Brandon, FL 33511, Wk37/D-202, Due $4,349.76

16. Joseph McCarrie, 2 Teaberry Dr., Medford, NJ 08055, Wk 15/B101, Due $12,664.49

17. Harold & Greta Wahlman, 215 Cypress Way East, #E-2, Naples, FL 34110, Wk20/B-102, Due $4,439.46

18. Morris & Linda Morley, 10450 S.W. 149th Terrace, Miami, FL 33176, Wk 27/E-102, Due 5,681.82

19. Estate of Jerry & Sarah Hagler, 5341 S.E. Bumingtree Circle, Stuart, FL 34997, Wk 40 and 41/B-101, Due $3,982.87

YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action to foreclose on a lien for delinquent assessments on the week(s) of interval ownership you own at the Marathon Key Beach Club Condominium II, according to the Declaration of Condominium, recorded in Official Records Book 859, at Page 786, in the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and as subsequently may have been emended, has been filed against you and you are required to redeem your timeshare interest by paying the amounts secured by the lien, as set forth above, in cash or certified funds, together with interest thereon at the rate of 18%, remitted to Margaret A. Broz, Esq., the foreclosure trustee duly appointed by the Condominium Association, whose address is 434 Chatham U, West Palm Beach, FL 33417, or or before June 27, 2023; if you fail to do so, the above-named foreclosure trustee will proceed to conduct a sale of your week(s) of interval ownership pursuant to the provisions of F.S. 781.855 and to issue a Certificate of Sale to the highest bidder at such sale.

Margaret A. Broz, Esq.

FBN 712507

434 Chatham U West Palm Beach, FL 33417

Phone: 561-312-3263

peggy_broz@yahoo.com

Publish:

LEGAL NOTICES

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-29-M

DIVISION: MARATHON

IN RE: ESTATE OF CAROLE DIANNE RHODES A/K/A C. DIANNE RHODES

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of CAROLE DIANNE RHODES A/K/A C. DIANNE RHODES, deceased, whose date of death was April 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 representatives and the personal representatives’ 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: June 8, 2023.

Personal Representatives:

Lori LeAnn Ferguson-Harvey 147 NW 466 P Road

Clinton, Missouri 64735

Jon Robert Ferguson 31734 133rd Trail Road Nelson, Missouri 65347

Attorney for Personal

Representatives:

Robert K. Miller, Esq.

Attorney

Florida Bar Number: 359173

Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938

Marathon, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-9428

Fax: (305) 743-8800

E-Mail: service@floridakeyslaw. com

Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com

Publish:

June 8 & 15, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

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

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2023-CP-65-P IN RE: ESTATE OF MICHAEL LANSING GAYLORD Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of MICHAEL LANSING GAYLORD, deceased, whose date of death was December 3, 2022, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER

THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS

AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: June 8, 2023.

Personal Representative: PAUL ASHLEY GAYLORD CMR 460 Box 441 APO, AE 09752

Attorney for Personal Representatives: URBAN J. W. PATTERSON, ESQ. Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com

Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@ yahoo.com Florida Bar No. 382035 Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A. P.O. Box 783 Islamorada, Florida 33036

Telephone: 305-664-5065

Publish: June 8 & 15, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

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

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2023-CP-60-P IN RE: ESTATE OF CHRISTOPHER CHARLES UHLAND Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of CHRISTOPHER CHARLES UHLAND, deceased, whose date of death was January 25, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS

AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: June 8, 2023.

Personal Representative:

SUSAN L. MILLER 138 Mockingbird Rd. Tavernier, FL 33070

Attorney for Personal Representatives:

URBAN J. W. PATTERSON, ESQ.

Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com

Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@ yahoo.com

Florida Bar No. 382035

Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A.

P.O. Box 783

Islamorada, Florida 33036

Telephone: 305-664-5065

Publish: June 8 & 15, 2023 The Weekly

CIRCUIT

FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 2022-CP-000045-M

IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JOANN ROSE BEETSCHEN, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the Estate of JOANN ROSE BEETSCHEN, deceased, whose date of death was December 05, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, File No.: 2022-CP000045-M, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative(s) and the personal representatives’ attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN

THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the 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 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 June 1, 2023.

Co-Personal Representatives:

Eileen Cronin

Theresa McCormick Estate of Joann Rose Beetschen c/o Cynthia F. Civil, Esq. CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, P.A. 5196 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida 33050 (305) 743-5884 cfc@ccivillaw.com

Attorney for Co-Personal

Representatives: CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, ESQ. Florida Bar No.: 0082988 CYNTHIA F. CIVIL, P.A. 5196 Overseas Highway Marathon, Florida 33050 305-743-5884 Email: cfc@ccivillaw.com Publish: June 1 & 8, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

AUTOS ALL YEARS!

Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.

$CASH 305-332-0483

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

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

Debs Dream Canvas in Tavernier now hiring. Pulling staples & help making patterns. Call 305-394-3747

City of Marathon Current Job Openings: Right of Way Technician. Full Benefits. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us

Groundskeeper/ Maintenance person, KCB, Sea Isle Condominium, 20 - 40 hrs. per week, $24 per hr., apply by e-mail to HardingThomasL@ aol.com, text or call 734-476-0531.

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

AUTO DIESEL VEHICLE TECHNICIAN

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on quali cations and experience: $28.53/hr. - $31.95/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 Engineering Department:

TREE TRIMMER

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on quali cations and experience: $26.29/hr. - $29.45/hr.

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.

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.

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT

AUTOS WAMTED EMPLOYMENT 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

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

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: $40.35/hr. - $45.19/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: $108,332/annually$111,365/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.

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

APPRENTICE AUTO MECHANIC

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on quali cations and experience: $23.73/hr. - $26.57/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.

E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

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

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

Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder is hiring an overnight Security Guardresponsibilities include but are not limited to observing marine mammals to ensure quality care, the ability to follow written instructions, and follow protocol and procedures as directed. Candidates must be able to lift 50

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.

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

We are now hiring for the following positions: Diesel Mechanic

lbs and must be able to stay awake and alert for a 13 hour shift (6:00pm7am). DPMMR is a drugfree workplace. To apply, please send your resume to nancyc@dpmmr.org.

Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder now hiring Guest Service Representativeresponsibilities include assisting guests at our Key Largo and Islamorada locations, making reservations and/or answering questions over phone and in-person, taking and processing photos, and checking-in and out guests visiting our facility. To apply, please send your resume to andreaw@dpmmr.org.

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Cook, Maintenance Administrative Assistant (bilingual preferred) Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker), Med Tech (caregiver), and Grounds Caretaker. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha.org or 305-296-5621 Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www. kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.

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

Applicants must apply in person to be considered. 4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

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

Also, hiring for summer CASHIER/ICE CREAM SCOOPER positions. Great hourly pay plus tips. Ideal job for high schooler or intern! High School Scholarships available.

HOBBIES &

COLLECTIBLES

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

LOT FOR SALE

Oceanside-Lot with building permit in Tavernier $399K OBO 305-933-9594 OwnerAgent [3% to selling office]

RV LOT FOR RENT

RV Site for rent in Marathon. Up to 35', private gated property. $1,500/mo + utilities. Dockage wavailable - inquire for price. 305-610-8002 up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

SERVICES OFFERED

Registered Nurse available to help with your home health care needs. In-home care assistance is also available. Local references. 305-5870892. Please call and leave message or text.

YARD SALES

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

IS HIRING!

Paradise Watersports Rentals in Marathon is looking to hire reliable, friendly employees for a new location. Pay will be commensurate with experience and we are willing to train quali ed applicants. The only requirement for employment beyond being reliable and friendly, is that you must be willing and able to operate boats and personal watercraft.

If interested in either management or sta positions, please email Je Vastola at Je V@paradisewatersportsrentals.com to schedule a live interview in Marathon on June 14th.

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.

NOW HIRING

LAWN MAINTENANCE (PART-TIME)

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

11710 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON

NOW HIRING

BOAT RENTAL STAFF

FLEXIBLE HOURS & COMPETITIVE WAGES

Need to have experience driving boats and a working knowledge of the Islamorada area by water. Duties include taking reservations, giving captains lessons and routine boat maintenance.

Email Ma at eliteboatrentalsma @gmail.com. Please include contact information and any relevant experience.

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!

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

•

HIRING

• FULL TIME PROJECT MANAGER

• CARPENTERS & LABORERS

• EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

• ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Must have valid Driver’s License & Transportation

Location: Upper Keys

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

EXPERIENCED ELECTRICIANS AND HELPERS NEEDED

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

OPENINGS AVAILABLE

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Environmental Tech, $5,000 Sign-on Bonus*

- Line Cook

- Medical Technologist, $15,000 Sign-on Bonus*

- Multi-Modality Imag Tech, $9,000 Sign-on Bonus*

- Patient Experience Advocate

- Pool Physical Therapist

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

- Registered Respiratory Therapist, up to $15,000 Sign-on Bonus*

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S

COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- Cook, $5,000 Sign-on Bonus*

- Emergency Dept Team Coordinator

- Environmental Tech, $5,000 Sign-on Bonus*

- Lead Med Technologist, $15,000 Sign-on Bonus*

- Medical Technologist, $15,000 Sign-on Bonus*

- Multi-Modality Imag Tech, $9,000 Sign-on Bonus*

- Nurse Manager, Emergency Dept, $20,000 Sign-on Bonus*

- Nurse Practitioner

- Patient Experience Advocate

- 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.

* Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience.

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

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

Great pay, bene ts and perks. We o er 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.

We have re-opened as a brand-new full-service restaurant & bar, with a full kitchen with all brand new equipment, a beautiful bar, indoor and outdoor seating, and a beachfront lounge on our own private beach. COME JOIN US!

**We are an Equal Opportunity Employer**

Oceanside Safari Restaurant & Lounge, 786-626-6124 73814 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER IS HIRING

Visual Communications (Full-Time/Part-Time, Seasonal)

Volunteer Resources

Administrative Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

Media & Marketing Staff Member (Full-Time, Permanent)

Human Resources Assistant (Part-Time, Permanent)

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

Accounting Director (Full-Time, Permanent)

Trainer (Full-Time/Permanent)

Benefits include medical, life & disability insurance, 401(k) plan, paid vacation, sick time & holidays

Full job descriptions available at www dolphins org/career opportunities

Email cover letter, DRC application & resume to drc-hr@dolphins org EOE

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

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

NOW HIRING FT FRONT OFFICE ASSISTANT MARATHON, FL

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING!

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

KEY LARGO

Behavioral Health Counselor (Children)

Crisis Counselor

KEY WEST

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult)

Behavioral Health Counselor (Children)

Crisis Counselor

Case Managers (Adult, Forensic, Children)

*Advocate (PT only)

Substance Abuse Counselor

Peer Support Specialist

MARATHON

Prevention Specialist (or KW)

Care Coordinator

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult)

RNs - 3 shifts (also Per Diem)

Maintenance Specialist

*Behavioral Health Technicians 3 shifts (also Per Diem)

*Support Worker – Assisted Living *No experience required for these positions. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands required.

Duties to include invoice and inventory entry, booking airline shipments, creating and filing paperwork for international shipments, scheduling inspections needed for international shipments, customer communication and tracking, creating and maintaining customer accounts and some customer service. Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel. This position requires high attention to detail and the ability to multitask. Compensation will be dependent on experience.

Benefits package including vacation, sick days, holidays and 401K PSP retirement plan. Please send cover letter and resume to sales@dynastymarine.net for consideration. No phone calls please. dynastymarine.net

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