Upper Keys Weekly 23-0713

91760 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier, FL 33070

Office: 305.363.2957

www.keysweekly.com

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Editor / Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

Director of Sales

Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com

Business Development Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Mandy Miles mandy@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

Diana Striker www.keysweekly.com

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

305.743.0844

Se habla español

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

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

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.

@KeysWeekly

@theWeekly

Members of

Is the Heat Miser vacationing in the Florida Keys? One would think so with the recent hot spell. Per the National Weather Service Key West, the Marathon International Airport reached 98 degrees on July 11, breaking the previous record of 96 degrees that was set in 1991.

DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly

DIVISION ON ISLAMORADA COUNCIL REARS ITS UGLIEST HEAD OVER MANAGER CONTRACT

SPECIAL CALL MEETING SET TO HASH OUT MATTER

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Adivided village council was on full display inside Founders Park Community Center on the evening of July 6. The point of immense contention surrounded the future of Village Manager Ted Yates, specifically whether the council would elect not to renew his employment with his contract expiring at the end of July.

A six-hour-plus meeting didn’t yield a decision from the dais on Yates’ contract, as a council majority voted to conclude the session at 11:45 p.m. Several items on a 19-tab agenda weren’t considered by time the council shut the books and left the building. At the request of Councilman Henry Rosenthal, a special call meeting set for Monday, July 17 will discuss the manager’s contract and an agreement with Island Disposal Company to haul trash beginning Jan. 1, 2024.

Before the council was a resolution put forth by Councilman Henry Rosenthal, seeking a nonrenewal of a contract with Yates, who was hired by a previous council via a 5-0 vote in May 2022. A former Twinsburg, Ohio mayor, Yates’ first day began later that summer in August after he packed his belongings, sold his Ohio home and embarked on a new beginning with his wife, Sharon. He’s since bought a home all while ingraining himself into the community.

Attached to the resolution on a nonrenewal of Yates’ contract was a memorandum that detailed seven questions posed by council members Rosenthal and Elizabeth Jolin to Alison Smith, counsel for the village, regard-

ing the employment agreement. A majority of those questions surrounded the implications of not renewing the contract with Yates, who’s been the subject of public ridicule over his recent firing of planning director Dan Gulizio. Both Jolin and Rosenthal were critical of Yates’ decision in the days and weeks after Gulizio was let go.

Discussion over the village manager brought some tense moments and displays of divide between members on the dais. Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney pointed comments toward Mayor Buddy Pinder and Councilman Mark Gregg that they’re kept in the loop on village matters more than other council members.

“This has been a cake walk for you guys. It hasn’t been a cake walk for me, Henry or Elizabeth. We have been treated differently and that bothers me,” Mahoney said. “I don’t know why you guys get phone calls, you’re in the loop. We’re not, and that bothers me

big time.”

Mahoney, who won a seat last November, went on to say that new council members sought some kind of an orientation and never got it.

“I don’t even know the staff,” she said. “We didn’t get the opportunity to be treated like (Pinder and Gregg) got treated.”

Gregg was part of the previous council that hired Yates. Pinder and Rosenthal were also on the dais. Gregg said Pinder and he had the chance to personally know Yates before he was hired.

“You (Pinder) and I took Ted on the boat before he was hired. We did a circumnavigation of the village. We bonded with Ted and maybe that’s why there is the perception that’s there,” Gregg said, adding that he never meant to alienate anyone.

Islamorada Village Manager Ted Yates presents the state of the village to members of the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce inside Islamorada Fishing Club last January.

A photograph turned sketch of Alligator Lighthouse, located off the Islamorada shore.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

Gregg added that he’s had moments with Yates where voices were raised. “It wasn’t the golden boy thing like you think it was,” he said. We’ve had some bumps in the road. But Ted’s a professional. I think he’s the first professional manager we’ve ever had.”

Mahoney said she ran for office to make a difference, and everything she tried to do has been met with resistance.

“It makes zero sense to me,” Mahoney said. “I don’t want to be in this position. I hate the fact that this council has a line down it.”

Gregg believed the resolution for a nonrenewal of Yates’ contract was “all or nothing.” He issued a different proposal that would keep Yates but institute a professional improvement program to solve some of the issues between the village manager and council. Gregg said it’s a remedy that does not “bring out the guillotine” that government agencies and corporations can implement if there’s an issue with an executive or employee.

“Give Ted a fair chance. He hasn’t even been here a year,” Gregg said. “He is not perfect and I’m not trying to make that argument. I don’t think it’s right to sever our relationship with him without a fair opportunity to provide constructive criticism, to provide standards for performance and measure that over a period of time, call it probation, and then we come back.”

Gregg’s proposal didn’t garner approval from the dais following discussion that got heated at times. Rosenthal said he didn’t think a program for Yates will change much because “he’s past that point.” Rosenthal also told the dais and public that before Yates fired Gulizio, Rosenthal told Yates that “If I had to choose between you and Dan, I’m choosing Dan.”

“Somebody has to pull this thing together, and I just don’t think he’s prepared for that job,” Rosenthal said. “I really don’t. I wish I could say something nicer, I really do. I just don’t think as we go down the road together that anything’s going to change.”

Jolin said the dais hasn’t conducted a review process like other employers provide to recommend improvement and monitor progress. Jolin wrote a review for Yates, and she said she didn’t get the sense it was taken seriously.

“In my opinion it was a fair review which would require improvement in

performance,” she said. “The issues I brought forward are not personal. They’re professional.”

Jolin said it’s critical to recognize the role the dais plays in the severe dysfunction that she identifies on a management level.

“He was employed under a different set of council people who had a different agenda for the town. We had an election and now we have a new set of people who are elected by our community to choose a path for this community,” she said. “This group is a disruption of the status quo. If we can’t recognize that as a council, we will continue to be divided.”

Pinder said he’s worked to bring unity to the village since he was elected to the council in 2020. Pinder disagreed with Jolin’s statements and said that she came on the dais divided.

“There’s a force in our community that does not want what we want. They want what they want,” Pinder said. “When I got on here Maria Bassett was the acting manager. We hired Mr. Oravec. He resigned from here and I’m going to say something: There’s a certain group in our community. … Mr Oravec could not take it any more.”

Yates took a moment to issue some comment following the backand-forth between the council and a number of public commenters speaking for and against the nonrenewal. Yates said he conducted a lot of research to prepare for the village manager’s role. Before his entry into the village, Yates served as a mayor in the Ohio city of Twinsburg from January 2015 to July 1, 2022.

“It wasn’t like this where I came from. I knew this was different,” Yates said. “I had councilmen who disagreed but they rose above, they shared a vision and got work done. It actually functioned better when they don’t disagree because that’s what makes the system work.”

Yates said the job’s been very difficult and noted that this council is more divided than anyone that’s been seated before. It’s something staff and residents are noticing, he said.

“I had challenges building relationships with each council member. I’ve had rough roads with every single person sitting up here,” he said.

Yates added that many people have reached out to him in support. He sent a text back to those supporters stating that “I love this town, I want to be part of the future of this town and I think with more time I can

bring the council together and bring the community together. I have to bring you guys together if you’re ever going to have a productive future in Islamorada.”

Several members from the public took to the podium to announce their support for Yates. By the direction of Pinder, commenters against Yates’ renewal spoke first, followed by supporters of Yates. Among the supporters were Pastor Tony Hammon, who has served on the Local Planning Agency for several years. He told the dais he wasn’t sure if the village could survive any more village managers. He also said he surveyed village staff to find that morale inside the administrative building is better than it’s ever been.

“I believe there’s a more redemptive path. There’s a path that doesn’t involve malicious payback which I see happening here,” Hammon said. “I believe that Mr. Yates has functioned with great integrity, even by refusing to publicly air for terminating his employee. And that’s what he was hired to do.”

Craig McBay, president of the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce, said the board of directors met on July 5 to discuss the nonrenewal of Yates’ contract. McBay said the chamber board believed the resolution would not be in the best interest of the village.

“The village needs continuity and stability to move us forward. This resolution will not accomplish any of these issues,” McBay said.

Local resident Joe Wischmeier said many inconsistencies since Yates’ reign as village manager led to dissension among certain council members during meetings. He said there was also dissension among staff members which led to the firing of Guilizo.

“He (Yates) did not even consult with council members to let them know of his plans to fire him,” Wischmeier said. “While he did not have to, it would have been considerate since he (Gulizio) was a high ranking official and not in the best interest of the village to let him go.”

Van Cadenhead said any issues with Yates should have been addressed by the council. He criticized the dais for failing to conduct a sixmonth review of the village manager.

“That’s a failure of all five of you,” he said.

Robert Moser, of Lower Matecumbe, may have said it best among all public commenters speaking on the village manager’s situation.

“This meeting sucks,” he said.

HOUSING COMPLEX COULD BENEFIT COUNTY & SCHOOLS

County and school officials are examining the possible purchase of a 28-unit housing development currently under construction near MM 95, oceanside, in Key Largo.

Developers of South Cliff Estates, Richard Riehl and Frank Pia, are offering the project for an $11.5-million asking price to Monroe County and the school district. Both entities would split the units and the cost over a period of five years to acquire the housing development, which secured a major conditional use approval by the county planning commission in February 2021.

Gaelan Jones, attorney for the school board, told board members at a June meeting that developers approached the county and school district over potentially buying the development for their workforce.

“The project is already well underway. The developers are just looking for additional investment in this project to finish construction,” Jones said, adding that the board of county commissioners directed the county administrator to proceed with a possible partnering with school officials.

The units, which vary from onebedroom to three-bedroom, would be designed for workers in the 80-100% area median income category. Jones said food service and transportation staff would qualify for the 80% AMI housing, and entry-level teachers who are expected to see a pay raise would still be eligible to live in the 100% AMI units.

However, Jones said it’s unclear if starting teachers with recent raises would qualify for the 80% AMI units. Jones said the county is seeking to adjust income restrictions.

Jones said the school district has some concerns over funding the housing project. He asked the board to conceptually support the project.

— Visit keysweekly.com for the full story.

A rendition of South Cliff Estates. CONTRIBUTED JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

THREE ARRESTED IN LARGE FRAUD/ DRUG CASE

AAA: Gas prices rebound

Florida gas prices suddenly rebounded last week, rising an average of 20 cents per gallon. The increase snapped a 22-day streak of declines that sent the state average to $3.26 per gallon - the lowest daily average price since March.

Sunday’s state average was $3.46 per gallon. That’s what drivers paid four weeks ago.

“Last week’s jump at the pump came immediately after Independence Day, when AAA forecast a record number of Floridians would take a road trip for the holiday,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman for AAA — The Auto Club Group. “Fortunately, oil prices remain low. Unless that changes this week, the upward pressure on gas prices should ease soon.”

Law enforcement scam reported

ARREST WARRANT LEADS TO DISCOVERY OF 100- PLUS STOLEN CREDIT CARDS

Monroe County sheriff’s deputies arrested three individuals at a Key Largo motel on July 6 after they were reportedly found with a large number of stolen credit cards, IDs and checks and other items in what appeared to be a large criminal enterprise.

According to the sheriff’s office, deputies descended upon Sunset Cove Beach Resort around 2:30 p.m. to assist a bail bondsman. He stated that Katie Campbell, 42, of Islamorada, had an arrest warrant and was at the hotel along with two other people. Deputies say they discovered evidence of stolen mail and illegal narcotics while taking all three people into custody.

Criminal investigations detectives then executed a search warrant and found passports, more than 100 credit cards that did not belong to any of the suspects, burglary tools, forged checks and more than 20 different identification cards/paperwork from different states/countries that did not belong to the suspects. Detectives also discovered hundreds of items of mail that did not belong to the suspects and a scanner used to make illegal credit cards.

Fentanyl, marijuana, hallucinogenic mushrooms and drug paraphernalia were also found during the search. Deputies also arrested Jacob Michael

Majewski, 27, of Miami; and Michael George Harvey, 30, of Miami.

Sheriff Rick Ramsay said the sheriff’s office is working alongside other law enforcement agencies in the Keys and South Florida in the ongoing investigation.

“Detectives are alerting banks, credit card companies and the U.S. Post Office of this incident. To have an investigation of this magnitude in our area is significant,” Ramsay said. “It is so important for law enforcement, financial institutions, the U.S. Post Office, and our citizens to be vigilant and work together.”

Campbell, Majewski and Harvey were charged with 125 counts of criminal use of personal identification information; 100 counts of traffic in or possessing counterfeit credit cards; 100 counts of theft/obtaining credit card through fraudulent means; 25 counts of unauthorized possession of, and other unlawful acts concerning a driver’s license or ID card. They were also charged with possession of burglary tools; grand theft of more than $10,000; possession of fentanyl (under 2 grams); possession of mushrooms (under 1 gram); possession of marijuana (less than 20 grams; and six counts of possession of drug paraphernalia.

— Keys Weekly staff report

Multiple Keys residents have reported scammers posing as Monroe County Sheriff’s Office members asking for money and making threats about fake arrest warrants. These criminals are using the names of real Sheriff’s Office members and often use phone numbers that appear real on caller ID. They also use computer software that may mimic the voice of a real public official or loved one.

Law enforcement will never call you asking for money via gift cards — a sure sign you are being scammed — or money via an electronic financial transfer network such as Zelle or a mobile payment service such as PayPal or Venmo. Phone scams often involve criminals posing as law enforcement officers, utility workers, insurance adjusters, lawyers, and computer or business professionals. The thieves often ask for information such as the victim’s full name, address, passport, phone number, and other personal information, as well as money for fake administration costs.

Always hang up and contact the government organization, family member or company the caller claims to be affiliated with. Whenever you are asked for large sums of money over the phone, hang up. Call the Sheriff’s Office Substation nearest your location to report the scam: www.keysso. net/locations.

Two men cited in wildlife cases

A 37-year-old Miami man was given a mandatory notice to appear in court for allegedly possessing an illegal fish. Upper Keys Deputy Jason Farr was conducting resource checks at the Steamboat Creek Bridge on Card Sound Round in Key Largo on

July 8. According to the sheriff’s office, Jorge Isael Frontela Diaz was allegedly found with four undersized schoolmaster snapper and four undersized mangrove snapper.

A 24-year-old Fort Lauderdale, man was given a mandatory notice to appear in court for reportedly possessing an illegal lobster. Middle Keys Marine Deputy Willie Guerra was conducting resource checks at Channel Five Bridge on July 8. Guerra conducted a resource check on Sergio Alejandro Mena Rivero and found five wrung lobster tails, three of which were undersized. Mena Rivero was also cited for possession of lobster out of season and having no measuring device.

Commissioner Lincoln elected to counties association post Monroe County Commissioner Michelle Lincoln was recently elected as the first vice president of the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) at the association’s annual conference in Orlando. Commissioners Holly Merrill Raschein and Jim Scholl were also at the conference. Lincoln previously served as second vice president and sits on many policy committees, including Health, Safety, and Justice and Water and Environmental Sustainability.

“Public service is something I truly enjoy,” Lincoln said. “By continuing to serve on the association’s executive committee, I have the opportunity to assist my community in a unique way by being their representative at a state and national level.”

In addition to her leadership position at FAC, Lincoln holds an Advanced County Commissioner II designation, the highest level of commissioner education offered by the Institute for county government. As first vice president, Lincoln plays a vital role in the association’s advocacy and policy efforts along with representatives from Charlotte, Okeechobee, Pinellas and Seminole counties.

Mosquito project update at upcoming seminar

The Florida Keys Mosquito Control District and Oxitec will hold a public educational webinar to provide an update on this year’s mosquito project. The virtual gathering will be held Thursday, July 27 at 5 p.m.

Sheriff’s vehicle. KEYS WEEKLY

Upper Keys Baseball Development Foundation

ELKS AWARDS $30,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS

25 GRADUATES TO USE FUNDS TO FURTHER THEIR EDUCATION

Florida Keys Elks Lodge 1872 awarded $30,000 to 25 graduates at senior awards night at Coral Shores High School on May 23. On June 8, the lodge and its membership honored the 2023 CSHS scholarship recipients.

Kim Youngblood, scholarship chairperson, and committee members Michelle Lane, Alesa Rehman, Kim McDaniel and Karen Daugherty had a difficult time selecting candidates for this year’s scholarships due to the amazing stories the applicants shared with the scholarship committee. This year the Elks Lodge Local Scholarship focused on any student who wanted to further their education.

Welcoming all applicants, regardless of their academic standing, number of service hours or goals for the future, the lodge asked the students to share in an essay what, if any, of the Elks four guiding principles – charity, justice, brotherly love and fidelity – resonated with them.

Refreshments and a dinner were served to the scholarship recipients and their families. The lodge and the scholarship recipients shared a special cake in their honor. The graduates received a scholarship certificate and received financial scholarship awards in various amounts.

Congratulations were extended to these graduates as they embark on their next journey to further their education.

— Contributed

LOCAL FOUNDATION SEEKS MORE DIVERSITY IN KEYS TEACHERS

BLACK EDUCATORS INITIATIVE PROVIDES FINANCIAL FELLOWSHIPS FOR BLACK TEACHERS

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

Public schools in Monroe County have about 1,500 black students, representing 16% of the overall enrollment, but as of two years ago, there were only eight black teachers in the county school district, representing 3% of all teachers. Gerald Adams Elementary School in Key West, for example, has a student population that is 40% black.

The Black Educators Initiative, created and funded by Key West businessman and philanthropist John Padget through his Golden Fleece Foundation, provides financial fellowships as an incentive for black teachers to apply for jobs in the Monroe County School District.

at all to do with the hiring process,” so these educators need to apply through the normal routes, get hired by the school district and start teaching.

“Fellowship awards will be presented to teachers in their respective classrooms next week by Terry Huff, representing the Golden Fleece Foundation,” Padget said.

Huff is a graduate of North Carolina Central University (NCCU), the nation’s first public liberal arts institution for African Americans and a Historically Black College/University in Durham, North Carolina.

Scholarship recipients

Courtney Judeikis

Daniela Ciriaco Fermin

Kendall Bulkiewicz

Corley Frances Smith

Arlenis Pardo Perez

Kaitlyn Dickerson

Keegan Wittke

Aiden Edward Pegues

Kelly Ramos

Brooke Albury

Edy Kemmer

Joshua Dionne

Eleanor Snodgrass

Matthew Patterson

Simon Gutierrez

Mayara Gadea Mayer

Paul Jones

Christian Buckles

Savana Mangel

Mia Milchman

Kaiden Weinstock

Beckett Blackburn

Cayson Johnson

Jenna Castillo

Mackenzie Baker

Research shows that having a black teacher has several positive effects on black students. One study found that black students who had one black teacher by third grade were 7% more likely to graduate high school and 13% more likely to enroll in college. After having two black teachers, black students’ likelihood of enrolling in college increased by 32%.

“I think the ramifications of this program could be dramatic,” Padget told the Keys Weekly on July 11.

“We expect this program to expand,” said Bryan Green, board member of the Golden Fleece Foundation that funds the fellowships. “Including the newly hired teachers, the district will now have 22 black teachers (provided the new hires can find housing in the Keys). The Black Educator Initiative has made good progress, but the goal is to have teachers that fully represent the demographics of the students.”

The Black Educators Initiative, with funding from the Golden Fleece Foundation, provides a $30,000 fellowship to black teachers who are hired by the local school district.

Padget emphasized that he and the foundation “have nothing

The $30,000 fellowships are awarded to newly hired black teachers in Monroe County. Huff said that awardees from out-ofcounty receive $15,000 at the beginning of their first year. Then, coinciding with their continued employment, they receive $10,000 at the start of their second year, and $5,000 for their third year.

Key West High School teacher Anita Linville is one of the first recipients of a fellowship provided through the Black Educators Initiative in Monroe County schools. CONTRIBUTED

Teacher Anita Linville was one of the first teachers to receive a BEI fellowship after being offered a job at Key West High School.

“The Black Educator Initiative is designed to bridge the gap of inequity and inequality so often seen in education today,” Linville said. “It is a powerful program to provide an opportunity for diverse students to learn from a diverse group of teachers. Because the intent is so radically genuine, the Golden Fleece foundation makes the process easy for potential Black educators.”

For more information and to apply, black educators should visit blackeducatorinitiative.com for details.

VERONICA ALEGRE GUTIERREZ

Adevout Catholic, devoted wife and mother, a passionate and award-winning artist, and a patient educator, Veronica Alegre Gutierrez passed away with her beloved “Lucho” by her side on July 3, 2023 after a courageous two-year battle with aggressive cancer.

It’s no coincidence that one of her many artistic talents included stained glass. As when light hits stained glass it shines brightly, so too did Veronica throughout her life with a rare and powerful positivity touching everyone she encountered.

In a recent biography Veronica wrote, “Although my degree is in sculpture, GLASS, COLOR AND LIGHT have been my passions since I was in elementary school and stained glass is a medium that allows me to express my creations.”

Born in Lima, Peru on July 16, 1964 to Zoila Rosas de Alegre and Miguel Alegre Gonzales, she was the oldest of five children. Educated in Catholic schools and faith, she remained devout through the end. Her childhood was full of adventures including traveling around Europe. She was braver than most around her and always committed to seeing every task through. The focus was always on family as evidenced through the raising of her sons, weekly phone conversations with her mother and maintaining close ties with extended family despite great distances.

She met Luis, whom she called “Lucho,” in 1985 and they married in 1990. Veronica graduated from the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru in 1993 with a bachelor of visual arts and a major in sculpture. Even before graduation, she worked in the art world, opening her first studio in 1988, Vitrales Veronica Stained Glass Studio, which she ran for 14 years. Two of her most significant projects include restoration of several windows and large door panels for the Peruvian National Congress (Parliament) Building and the restoration of a 5,040-foot dome for Hotel Bolivar, originally built in 1921 and considered a historical landmark.

In addition, she participated in collective exhibitions in different galleries in Lima and she served as a summer course teacher for eight years with the Art Museum of Lima. She opened her second studio, Vero Clay Studio, in 1992, where she designed and taught while also developing unique formulas for glazings and other clay paintings for extreme temperatures.

Veronica and Luis arrived in the Keys in early 2000, where she began building her art career locally, first at the Rain Barrel as a visiting artist/consultant. They opened Veronica’s Art and Stained Glass Studio in 2002 in Key Largo, later moving to Tavernier. The same year, they welcomed their first son, Luke, then Simon in 2004. They became U.S. citizens in 2012 while maintaining citizenship in Peru.

For the past 20 years, she was the stained glass and mosaic instructor for the Art League at Ocean Reef Club. She also taught workshops at her studio, the former Gallery 84 and Our Place in Paradise. For eight years she taught art at The Academy of Ocean Reef then moved to Island Christian School for four years.

She was an active member in the Keys community and could often be seen at art shows, community events and networking lunches, often with family. She served as advisor with the Florida Keys Council of the Arts and participated in their annual Connections project for nearly 10 years. A member of the Art Guild of the Purple Isles, she received top honors for her submissions in their annual juried show, including first place in sculpture in 2019 and 2020.

An active member of the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce, she is a five-time award winner in the annual Holiday Fest Christmas Ornament Show, in categories of most traditional, best use of talent and best adherence to theme.

She was also active in the American Business Women’s Association, Homestead chapter, where she served as co-chair of the education committee awarding scholarships. She also was a member of the Florida Arts Education Association.

She was dedicated to raising her sons, teaching them to live by the principles of faith, being good humans and working hard. She never once hesitated to make sacrifices for the betterment of her children.

She is now out of pain and in the afterlife with God, joining her father and brother Miguel. She leaves behind her pride and joy, her family, including her loving husband and sons, as well as her mother, siblings Claudia, Mario, Carla and large extended families.

A Catholic mass was held in Peru and a private service was held locally. A celebration of life will be held at a future date to be determined.

Our Place in Paradise, a not-for-profit organization, is accepting donations on the family’s behalf to assist with medical and funeral expenses as well as those related to closing her gallery. Monetary donations can be dropped off or mailed to 88711 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, 33070, or scan the QR code.

“People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.” — Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

is an author, speaker, Florida Keys historian and Honorary Conch. His latest book, “Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli, Volume 1,” shares fascinating glimpses into the rich and sometimes surprising histories of the Florida Keys.

BOOM & BUST

THE KEYS ONCE HAD THRIVING WRECKING, SPONGE, PINEAPPLE & CIGAR INDUSTRIES

When the second escalation of the Seminole War erupted in 1835, fear spread throughout South Florida and the Keys. Between 1836 and 1840, both experienced several acts of hostility, including attacks at New River (Fort Lauderdale), Cape Florida Lighthouse (Key Biscayne), Key Largo, Tavernier Key and the southernmost attack in the Florida Keys, the Aug. 7, 1840 event at Indian Key.

With the conclusion of the second escalation in 1842, the Navy depot, established first on Tea Table Key and later moved to Indian Key, was abandoned. At Indian Key, the only evidence of the former military presence is three round red-bricked cisterns. While Indian Key, once the most important island in the Florida Keys not named Key West, had been deserted, Key West was thriving.

As it turned out, the outpost city was not some one-trick pony relying solely on the wrecking industry to bring dollars to Key West. New industries were on the rise. In 1849, a sampling of sponges harvested from local waters was sent to markets in New York to be graded for their quality. They were judged to be just as good as those imported from the Mediterranean, and with that nod of approval, the sponge industry was born.

Did you know that the sponge industry inadvertently spawned what has become the Florida Keys’ very own sweet claim to fame, Key lime pie? It began as a hooker’s tale. Hookers, in

this case, were the men manipulating 30-, 40- and 50-foot poles as they scooped up sponges growing on the ocean floor. They did not work alone and were accompanied on their boats by partners who peered beneath the surface through glass-bottom barrels and worked to direct the aim of their partner’s pronged poles.

In 1856, the process for making sweetened condensed milk was patented, and that accomplishment significantly affected local history. For the spongers out on their boats for days at a time, it enabled them to keep a dairy product to sweeten their coffee. At some point, they began to use those cans of sweetened condensed milk to create a treat. After pouring milk into their coffees, they mixed fresh squeezed lime, egg and stale Cuban bread in the can.

When they returned to the mother ship with their haul of sponges, a sweet treat awaited them. Eventually, the combination of ingredients made its way to Key West kitchens, and Key lime pie went on to become Florida’s official state pie.

While the sponge industry was booming, the wrecking industry was being affected by navigational improvements. On Dec. 3, 1855, the following appeared in the Bangor Daily Whig and Courier: “Since the erection of the celebrated Carysfort and Sand Key Iron Lighthouses and the establishment of the Coast Survey of a chain of beacons along the whole extent of the reef, the falling off in the wrecking business has been very great. In 1846 and 1847, over forty vessels were engaged wholly in saving lives and property upon this coast. At the

present time, there are but twenty regularly employed and this number will soon be reduced, the business being too uncertain and the salvage decreased where service is rendered too inadequate. Since, then, wreckers are falling and wrecks becoming rare, rates of insurance must be reduced to correspond more equally with the risks incurred.”

Work marking the Florida Reef continued. In 1857, the Lighthouse Board recommended a series of iron lighthouses to mark the reef line so that it would become “as perfectly lighted as it is believed any capable and intelligent mariner could desire. In a distance of three hundred miles there will then be Dry Tortugas, Sand Key, Dry Bank (Sombrero Reef), Alligator Reef, Carysfort Reef, Cape Florida and Sebastian Inlet seacoast lights.”

Some lighthouses were finished before others, thanks in no small part to delays caused by the Civil War. Eventually, six lighthouses were established at the reef. In addition to the Carysfort Reef and Sand Key lighthouses, Sombrero Key Lighthouse was lit in 1858, Alligator Reef Lighthouse in 1873, Fowey Rocks Lighthouse in 1878, and American Shoal Lighthouse in 1880.

By the turn of the century, the wrecking industry was gasping its last breaths. Back on land, however, new industries had blossomed. Because wrecking was not a full-time job, many wreckers developed side jobs like fishing, turtling and, for Captain Ben Baker, pineapple farming. Baker, once referred to as the King of the Florida Wreckers, is considered the first to introduce pineapple farming to the Florida Keys. He was not the last.

Editor’s Note: This is the second in a four-part series on Monroe County’s 200th year.

BRAD BERTELLI

The Max Marx cigar factor in Key West. IDA WOODWARD BARRON COLLECTION/ Florida Keys History Center

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

THE 2023 KEYS WEEKLY ALL-KEYS BASEBALL TEAM

2023 was quite a year for Keys baseball. Key West powered through opponent after opponent, stacking up 22 wins with just six losses during the season. One of those losses came during their regional championship game, which they lost by a single run. Key West brought home another district championship and made it to the elite eight of Florida ball clubs. Marathon had a stellar 17-9 season, landing themselves in their conference championship game, but were not able to bring home the trophy this season. In district play, Coral Shores knocked Marathon out of contention in the first round, defeating the Fins for the second time in the Hurricanes’ 8-13 season. The ’Canes lost in round two, ending their season one win shy of a district championship.

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

Barroso, whose nickname is “Lucky,” proved to be the Conchs’ good luck charm this season. He won nine games for Key West, including three shutouts and a no-hitter. In 63.2 innings pitched, Barroso fanned 73 batters and walked just 18. As if he wasn’t busy enough sending batters back to the dugout dejected, every now and then the senior stood on the other side of the plate and earned a hit this season.

Marathon’s ace completed the season with a 2.93 ERA, winning six of his nine outings on the mound. Ziels struck out 129 batters in 57.1 innings pitched, the second-most Ks in the state of Florida. His prowess regularly earned him a spot on the top 10 national strikeout leaders list throughout the season. Offensively, Ziels racked up a dozen hits, including three doubles.

Sophomore, Marathon Catcher

With a .365 batting average which included 23 hits, Leal’s bat was often just what the Fins needed. Defensively, the sophomore earned a .995 fielding percentage behind the plate and turned a pair of double plays for Marathon.

Haggard’s .436 batting average was key for the Conchs this season. He scored 26 runs, batted in 30, and with four doubles and four triples in his stats, his slugging percentage stands at .563 this season. Once on base, he didn’t stay put too long, stealing 11 bases. Defensively, Haggard earned a .966 fielding percentage this year and turned three double plays, making him indispensable for Key West on both sides of the plate.

Senior, Marathon Pitcher/Infielder

Marathon’s most dependable hitter, Yablon had a .403 batting average, amassing 32 hits including six doubles and a homerun. He also stole 15 bases for the Fins. On the mound, he struck out 52 batters in 37.1 innings pitched.

ANDREW PUTETTI

Sophomore, Coral Shores

Outfielder

Offensively, Putetti earned 22 hits including six doubles, a triple and 13 RBIs. The .355-hitting sophomore stole 11 bases this season. Defensively he had a .900 fielding percentage, making him a dual threat for the ’Canes.

ANDRIS BARROSO Senior, Key West Pitcher

JACK HAGGARD Senior, Key West Outfielder

DYLAN ZIELS

Junior, Marathon Pitcher/Third Base

RYAN YABLON

GABE LEAL

Marathon photos by Barry Gaukel. Key West photos by Ella Hall. Coral Shores photos by Joy Smith.

DEFENSIVE MVP OFFENSIVE MVP

By: Tracy and Sean McDonald

STEEL MIENTKIEWICZ

Junior, Coral Shores Catcher

Mientkiewicz was perfect defensively for the Hurricanes, covering the plate with no errors the entire season. Offensively, he batted .281 and had an on base percentage of .500, further proving he is a solid decision maker on the field.

CAMPBELL LAVOIE

Sophomore, Coral Shores

First Base/Designated Hitter

Lavoie batted .281 this season, amassing 18 hits for the Hurricanes including four doubles. The hard-hitting sophomore committed just one error this season playing infield, and as a designated hitter, he kept the ’Canes in multiple games with his bat.

ANDEN RADY

Senior, Key West Outfielder

As if a .383 batting average isn’t enough, Anden Rady piled on the extra base hits to boost his slugging percentage to an incredible .641. Rady’s 31 hits include nine doubles, three triples and two home runs. Rady stole nine bases this season and was perfect on defense, committing zero errors in his senior campaign.

FELIX ONG

Junior, Key West Pitcher

Ong won eight of his 10 appearances on the mound for Key West, throwing two complete games and earning a pair of shutouts, a pair of no-hitters and a 2.58 ERA. The junior struck out 75 batters over 57 innings pitched, walking just 23.

MAYKOL BONITO

Freshman, Coral Shores Infielder

Maykol Bonito had an impressive freshman campaign, batting .333 for the ’Canes. He earned 13 hits this season and was a key player for Coral Shores’ infield with a solid fielding percentage and a lot of hustle.

MICHAEL GREENBERG

Junior, Key West Second Base

On defense, Greenberg made three double plays this season and earned a .924 fielding percentage, making him a fantastic infielder for the Conchs. His bat was his major weapon, though, as he ripped 30 hits for Key West including six doubles and a pair of triples, earning a .385 batting average. His extra base hits boosted his slugging percentage to .512.

WYATT KUHN

Senior, Key West Shortstop

Wyatt Kuhn earned a .338 batting average this season, scoring 24 runs off of 23 hits. His on base percentage was .511, boosted by his record-setting 14 bases earned “the hard way” –Kuhn now shares the Key West record for being hit by a pitch in a single season.

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

SERVING ISLAMORADA

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

CHARLOTTE TWINE www.keysweekly.com

Gabriela Tejeda drove down a cypress-lined side road in Everglades National Park. The newly minted National Geographic Society 2023 Young Explorer was on one of her regular jaunts to the park to take photos and video to document the scenes for her social media — 10,000 followers and counting.

“The water levels are high,” she said, looking into the clusters of trees. “It brings out the reds and golds — wow, an owl. Two owls!”

She suddenly skidded her car to a halt.

“I saw them fly,” she exclaimed. “I never thought I’d see them in action.”

Tejeda grabbed her camera and, slowly and gingerly, got out of the car so as not to scare away the pair of barred owls, which had settled onto tree branches opposite the road from each other. She swiped away dive-bombing mosquitos while snapping photos of the squat, puffy creatures, which were giving her the side eye.

“I think one is male and one is female,” she said. “See? One of them is bigger.”

Yes, we see. Keys Weekly was along for this romp in the wilderness, and now we couldn’t help but be stoked too. And that is the allure of Tejeda — her enthusiasm for nature is infectious. Stomping around in a swamp while battling heat and insects? Sure, count us in!

And the world is catching on. Over the past couple of years, the 25-yearold Tavernier resident, content creator and wildlife storyteller (and former Keys Weekly staffer) has racked up a resume that could impress nature documentarian David Attenborough. She received a National Geographic Society Young Explorer designation in May 2023. Her 2021 wordand-photography project called “Fire & Water” documented prescribed burns in the Everglades and was sponsored by National Geographic, The Nature Conservancy and Paragon One. She’s been appointed as a Jackson Wild 2022 Summit Fellow and Jackson Wild 2023 LatinX Film Lab Fellow, during which she covered marine conservation issues; and, as a cherry on the sundae, in November 2022, her video of barred owls cozily nestled together in a tree went viral and was seen by over one million viewers.

“To have people be like, ‘You’re great at this,’ and also love to do it, that’s lucky,” she said. “How often is it that you can turn that passion into impactful work?”

Her latest project is an immersive

ENTRANCED WITH THE WILD

Tavernier Resident & National Geographic Young Explorer Tells Innovative Nature Stories

The creature that launched Tejeda’s viral video: a barred owl. GABRIELA TEJEDA/Contributed

South Florida prescribed fire manager, on her “Fire & Water: An Ecological Love Story” project.

“Gabby provides a valuable service,” Gue said. “The public don’t realize how fire is a critical piece to ecosystems to help them remain healthy. People like Gabby help us tell that story in a way to push the communities in the right direction to find a balance with nature. It’s more digestible than the scientific jargon. … Also, she doesn’t have an inside track to Nat Geo like other people I know. She’s done all this all on her own. That says a lot about her.”

CONTRIBUTED

experience for the Everglades that she has been pitching to outlets such as Zoo Miami.

“Think ‘Van Gogh Exhibit’ (the immersive experience in Miami) meets Disney. It’s physical props and augmented reality so you can blast it on a wall and really evoke the feeling you get when you walk through the Everglades.”

Tejeda’s colleagues are applauding her creativity.

“I’ve had the privilege of being ‘in the backroom’ with her on several projects, and it is fun and exciting to think about how she will interpret and represent our natural world for all to access,” said Tiffany T.V. Duong, who is an environmental advocate and writer for such venues as Keys Weekly, where she met Tejeda as a staffer. “She’s self-aware, up to any challenge, and boatloads of fun. I mean, who else could make owls go viral and romanticize a swamp?”

Tejeda worked with Michael Gue,

Tejeda was born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Athens, Georgia, where she “spent hours outside in rocks and mud.” She graduated from Boston College, and through a marine conservation internship with REEF, found her way to the Florida Keys. And she has stayed after becoming entranced with the wilds of South Florida.

Her goal for now is to continue to pitch her projects, work her side hustles in nonprofit marketing and as a Florida Keys Brewing Company bartender — and keep on exploring the Everglades. Meanwhile, back on that Everglades road trip, she pointed out more wildlife through the car window. “Look at that anhinga!” she said. “Look at that spearshaped beak. I feel like I’m in Jurassic Park.”

With Tejeda, we silently watched the bird cut through the sky. And we felt like we were in Jurassic Park too.

Follow Tejeda on Instagram @gabtejeda or at gabtejeda.weebly.com.

MOON TO MARS

HISTORY OF DIVING LECTURE DELVES INTO SPACE PROGRAMS

The History of Diving Museum’s virtual “Immerse Yourself” presentation on Wednesday, July 19 at 7 p.m. will be “Packing for a Spacewalk: to the Moon and Mars” with Adele Luta.

This discussion will cover lessons learned from Apollo, Space Shuttle and International Space Station programs with a forward look at lunar and Martian environments. Luta is an exploration extravehicular activity (EVA, spacewalks) project manager at Oceaneering International Inc. Before that, she was a NASA astronaut instructor and Mission Control Center flight controller.

Over the last 19 years, Luta’s background in physics has empowered her to support multiple domains, including human spaceflight, defense and healthcare. She is a seaplane pilot, triathlete and coral restoration volunteer scuba diver. Luta will be broadcasting remotely from Texas.

A signup link is at divingmuseum.org. This session will also be recorded and posted to the HDM YouTube channel. This month’s Immerse Yourself sponsors are David and Patti Gross.

— Contributed

1. Adele Luta is a former NASA astronaut instructor and Mission Control Center flight controller. CONTRIBUTED. 2. Adele Luta is an extravehicular activity (spacewalks) project manager at Oceaneering International Inc.

305.664.2692 www.loreleicabanabar.com

EXPERIENCING THE KEYS VIP STYLE

LOCAL COUPLE OPENS NEW E - BIKE BUSINESS

“You miss the quirkiness of the Keys when you are in a car.” It’s something Cassie Beeny’s mother always said.

Marcelo Frizzo and Cassie Beeny are the founders and owners of Bike The Florida Keys, a new rental e-bike service specializing in exploring the Upper Florida Keys — VIP style.

Beeny grew up in Miami, coming down to the Keys regularly, but relocated to Texas after Hurricane Andrew. Frizzo, originally from Brazil, moved to the U.S. 21 years ago. They spend half their time in Texas and the other half in the Keys.

“We had a health care business since 2016, billing and scheduling, that didn’t capture our hearts, so we sold that and reinvented ourselves,” Beeny said.

“South Florida is my heart, and so I knew we wanted something here,” Beeny said. “We realized we were not the ‘sit at our desk 9-to-5 entrepreneurs,’ so this was a good fit for our lifestyle. We also have five children, ages 10 to 20, so it’s a way to involve the whole family.”

Frizzo is an avid biker and travels for various bike races, most recently one in Vancouver, Canada. He started biking 15 years ago after a knee issue from “too many years playing soccer” became too painful.

“I did rehab, wore a brace, but was advised to stop playing soccer and get a bike instead to regain strength,” Frizzo said.

“We wanted to bring something

THURS July 13 Webb & Bellamy 6-10 p.m.

FRI July 14 Brothers of Others 6-10 p.m. Michael Trixx @ Sunset

SAT July 15 Scott Youngberg 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sailor Ripley 6- 10 p.m.

SUN July 16 Micah 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Webb & Bellamy 6-10 p.m.

MON July 17 Uncle Rico 6-10 p.m. Michael Trixx @ Sunset

TUES July 18 Micah 6-10 p.m.

WED July 19 Webb & Bellamy 6-10 p.m. Michael Trixx @ Sunset

fun, easy, and different that would appeal to people who come here,” Frizzo said. “You get a bike; you can go slow, enjoy a breeze and see everything.”

The e-bike brand the couple chose to go with is called Lectric Bikes. They said they loved the bikes and the owner’s entrepreneur journey.

“We were very careful in selecting one model, Lectric XP, in white and in dark blue. It has a good range single charge for a long time (approximately 45 miles and 28 mph). It’s very stable, easy to handle with wider tires, a comfy seat and disc brakes,” Frizzo said. “The bike can get wet and stops easily. It has a weather-resistant bag for the back basket to store your phone, helmets, etc.”

“The bike is suitable for all ages who can ride. Florida law states that the age to ride an e-bike is 16 years old or over,” he continued. “Heights can be from 4’10” to 6’5”, and it’s very easy to adjust the seat and handlebars. Each bike comes with a nicesized rear basket for groceries or other shopping. They have an upper limit of 330 pounds of capacity. So, a wide range of people can use it.”

Since the charge is by distance, it can vary due to weight and pedaling. If someone rents an e-bike overnight, they suggest they charge it, but it’s not always necessary — precautionary.

“It’s straightforward to charge, like charging your laptop. If you run out of battery, you can pedal; however, it will be heavier than a regular bike. The bike is fully functional,” Frizzo said.

Some people assume an e-bike is a motorcycle. “E-bikes are not classified as motor vehicles,” Frizzo said. “They are their own category so that they can be on the bike path. They can ride anywhere a regular bike can ride. The throttle is very smooth and easy to control.”

The e-bikes have lights and an LCD screen. The lithium pack is inside the frame, and there is a key that is not only how you access the battery to charge it but also is a safety feature, as when you pull it out, the bike stops. They strongly recommend wearing a helmet, which is included. Also, upon delivery, they provide instructions to ensure everyone knows how they operate to ensure the best time possible.

The couple plans to start offering bike tours at the end of July. They want people to get a flavor of the Keys — history, nature, sites not everyone knows about or explores — Red Cross Houses, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the Islamorada Art District, Harry Harris Park and Hurricane Monument in Islamorada.

And using an e-bike makes the elements, such as the wind, easier on your body while exploring. Booking is simple and convenient through their website, and the bike(s) get delivered free to your location. You can rent by a half-day or full-day in Key Largo, Tavernier or Islamorada.

More information is at www. biketheflkeys.com, Instagram and Facebook @biketheflkeys, or WhatsApp at 305-783-6066.

MELINDA VAN FLEET www.keysweekly.com

1. Cassie Beeny and Marcelo Frizzo with an e-bike by Lectric after riding to Coco Plum in Key Largo. CONTRIBUTED.

2. Frankie Yochum rides an e-bike.

3. Jack Beeny rides an e-bike.

POWERING A NEW REEF

Decommissioned FKEC Electric Poles Saved For Artificial Marine Habitat Projects

Some 37 concrete electric utility poles that once stood about 55 feet high and were recently removed from the Sea Oats Beach region in Islamorada, along the Overseas Highway, are destined to be repurposed as new artificial marine habitats off the Keys.

The poles, originally installed in a several-mile line on the ocean side of the highway, once carried the main transmission line for the Florida Keys Electric Cooperative. However, after more than 40 years of use, the harsh marine environment had taken its toll and a replacement and relocation program was in order.

The almost two-year replacement program features new, spun-concrete transmission poles installed on the bay side of the highway. It cost almost $8 million and was 75 percent funded by a FEMA mitigation grant, according to FKEC CEO Scott Newberry.

Meanwhile, the old poles were originally to be ground and trucked to a mainland landfill, but an effort evolved to save them for potential use as artificial reefs. Discussions were initiated among the co-op, Monroe County and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials.

“Florida Keys Electric Cooperative strives to protect and preserve the unique Florida Keys environment in all the projects we undertake,” Newberry said, adding that the co-op contributed $42,550 to the project that it saved from not having to dispose of the old poles. “We are pleased to work with Monroe County to repurpose the transmission poles into new habitat that will benefit marine life and provide a new attraction to residents and visitors alike.”

According to FWC officials, sinking the power poles could take one to three years due to the need for surveying locations and various permits.

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary officials have no near-term plans to permit artificial marine habitats in sanctuary waters, according to Superintendent Sarah Fangman.

Monroe County Administrator Roman Gastesi said that if the county is not able to procure a permit from the sanctuary, there are locations outside sanctuary boundaries that could likely be used with permitting from the Army Corp of Engineers and other agencies.

But Gastesi noted the best part is that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis recently signed off on a bill providing $10 million “in nonrecurring funds from general revenue to FWC for the purpose of establishing and implementing a framework for the placement, monitoring and maintenance of artificial habitat in Monroe County.”

“The hardest part of this type of program is getting the money,” Gastesi said. “We have the money.

“Now we need to put a comprehensive artificial reef program together that would go way beyond just the FKEC poles.”

Gastesi said he is communicating with other coastal counties as well as FWC officials for guidance.

The effort to help secure state funds for Monroe County artificial marine habitats was fostered by Robert Spottswood Jr., president of Key Westbased Spottswood Companies.

“We’ve been blessed with the opportunity to establish an artificial reef program in the Keys,” Spottswood said. “This will be of great benefit to our environment, residents and our tourismcentered economy, which is based largely on our surrounding waters.”

Spottswood lauded Florida Sen. Ben Albritton, the senate majority leader, who championed funding for Monroe County.

“What’s really nice is that our legislators understand that our fishery resources are not only important to Monroe County, but they are critical for the rest of the state and nation,” Spottswood said. “Legislators from other parts of the state are listening to local communities and are making a difference.”

Officials at FWC seem eager to assist Monroe County with creating more artificial marine habitats.

“FWC looks forward to working with Keys partners to develop a diverse artificial reef program for Monroe County,” said Keith Mille, the artificial reef program administrator for the FWC Division of Marine Fisheries Management. “We want to help the Keys carefully identify locations and appropriate materials to achieve multiple objectives that benefit anglers and divers.

“Artificial reefs can maximize ecological benefits that help achieve fisheries management goals,” he said.

Spottswood said the old FKEC power poles, weighing about 20,000 pounds each with dimensions that average two feet by two feet at the base and one by one foot at the top, are worth setting aside for future use.

“We get a couple of benefits,” he said. “They’re expensive to discard and truck them out of the county, but more importantly they can be repurposed to help us.

“It’s a win-win for everyone,” he said.

A Florida Keys Electric Cooperative contractor removes an old transmission pole from the Sea Oats Beach region on Lower Matecumbe Key in Islamorada. ANDY NEWMAN/Contributed

WHO WILL IT BE?

11TH BIG KAHUNA CONTEST KICKS OFF

July 1 marked the start of Good Health Clinic’s 11th annual Big Kahuna Contest — a three-month competitive event to raise awareness and operating funds for the organization.

Participants are selected from a pool of nominees who embody the supportive and generous nature of our islands. This year, six individuals have been chosen to raise funds for the friends, family and neighbors in our community who need the services of Good Health Clinic. The individual who raises the most funds will be crowned the Big Kahuna winner at the Annual Luau for Health on Oct. 14 hosted at Dolphins Plus Bayside in Key Largo. They will also have the honor of hosting the coveted Kahuna trophy for one year.

You can support Good Health Clinic and help determine the 2023 Big Kahuna winner by donating on behalf of your chosen contestant. Donations may be given directly to Kahunas, dropped off at the clinic or given online at www.thegoodhealthclinic.org. Individuals who need Good Health Clinic’s services may visit their website or contact the office at 305-853-1788.

Good Health Clinic is a local nonprofit that has provided needed health care for uninsured, income-constrained residents of the Florida Keys for nearly 20 years. Since inception, the organization has coordinated nearly $100 million in donated medical services and medications for our Keys residents in need.

Past Big Kahuna winners include: Rick Freeburg, former CEO of Mariners Hospital; Captain Skip Bradeen of Blue Chip Charters; Vicki Walker; Rob Stober of Hershoff, Lupino & Yagel law firm; Nelson Sanchez, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office deputy; Retz Reeves of Islamorada Investment Management; Jason Richards of Florida Keys Electric Cooperative; Dr. Tom Morrison of Doc on the Rock; and Dr. Derek Papp. Currently crowned Big Kahuna is Yvette Doherty of Coldwell Banker Schmitt, who raised a record-breaking $53,456 last year.

— Contributed

KATHY CALHOUN

Kathy Calhoun is a certified registered dental hygienist who was introduced to Good Health Clinic while providing free dental care to its patients through a partnership with Caring for Miami Project Smile. She loves the staff at the Good Health Clinic and their hearts for serving the community. Kathy also works with Miami Southridge Senior High School providing free dental screenings to students through the Community Partner School program. Calhoun earned her degree in dental hygiene in 1986 and is passionate about public health.

Kathy and her husband, Dennis, have a home in Key Largo and spend their free time boating, fishing, snorkeling, kayaking and paddle boarding. Calhoun shares her passion for oral health and the Keys via her Instagram @thesaltyhygienist. Calhoun said she is thrilled to be nominated as a Kahuna. When asked why she ran, she said, “If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and truth.”

SHARON DETWEILER

Sharon Detweiler has been a nurse for 29 years. Originally from the Philadelphia suburbs, Sharon and her husband moved to Key Largo in 2002 where they later welcomed a son. Currently the director of nursing for surgical services, she has worked for Baptist Health Fishermen’s Community Hospital and Mariners Hospital for 19 years. Sharon loves the lifestyle and the people of the Florida Keys and is thrilled to be involved in the 11th annual Big Kahuna Contest.

“In my profession, I frequently see the struggle the community members endure trying to obtain health care when insurance is too expensive,” she said. “This is why I am happy to help raise funds to help provide health care to those individuals who cannot afford insurance.”

EMILY STRAIN & HEATHER PABOTOY

Emily Strain and Heather Pabotoy grew up in the Florida Keys, giving them a deep-rooted appreciation of the area and the unique lifestyle it offers. They developed a lasting friendship as they grew up swimming at the Quay, exploring under the bridge to nowhere, fishing, shrimping and even camping in Heather’s grandparents’ backyard. In addition to their real estate endeavors as agents, both Emily and Heather are actively involved in giving back and making positive impacts to their community. Emily serves as a board member of the Coldwell Banker Schmitt Charitable Foundation and Heather dedicates her time as a board member for Upper Keys Habitat for Humanity. Their journey from childhood friends to a formidable professional duo showcases their unwavering determination, strong work ethic and genuine passion for the place they call home.

“We are so honored to be nominated for the Big Kahuna, because I was once a patient at the Good Health Clinic and I couldn’t think of a better way to say thank you,” Strain said.

MICHAEL ROJEWSKI

Michael is a luxury real estate specialist in the Florida Keys. He grew up in central New York and always dreamed of living far away from cold weather and snow. During college, he spent years working in aviation, allowing him to travel the world, explore new destinations and cultures and experience diverse climates. When he first visited the Florida Keys, he instantly fell in love with this island paradise and finally discovered a place he wanted to call home.

He loves to share his enthusiasm with prospective homebuyers and sellers in the area. Working as a real estate professional, his aim is to assist clients in finding the perfect home to suit their needs or selling their property for top dollar. The Florida Keys offer incredible diversity, with each Key having its own unique charm.

Rojewski is a director for both the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce and Florida Keys Association of Realtors.

“I have accepted the Kahuna Challenge as there is nothing more vital than one’s well-being and supporting our community. We are incredibly lucky to have the Good Health Clinic, an institution dedicated to ensuring it,” he said. “I hold great affection for this community and feel immense joy and pride in contributing to this fundraising initiative.”

SAM STEELE

The elected tax collector for Monroe County, Steele grew up in Miami and is a graduate of Florida State University. While attending college, he met his wife, Lauren, a sixth-generation Conch. They live in Key West with their three children: Carter, 5, Audrey, 3, and Jax, 1. Steele has a passion for public service and is involved with nonprofit organizations throughout the Keys. Some of his community involvement includes receiving the 2023 Men of Valor Award from Samuel’s House; board member of United Way of Collier and the Keys, board member and treasurer for A Positive Step of Monroe County; board of Key Haven Park and Recreation Inc.; Rotary Club of Key West; active student mentor with Take Stock in Children; past chair for the American Cancer Society Diamond Gala of the Keys; Special Olympics volunteer; co-founder of Caring for the Keys, a large-scale Hurricane Irma relief effort founded by Jessica Haim; and Leadership Monroe County Class XXVIII. In his free time, Steele loves to spend time on the boat with his family.

“The only person we should be in competition with is the person we were yesterday. I am honored for the opportunity to help better our community by raising funds and awareness for Good Health Clinic,” Steele said.

CASEY WATKINS

Casey Watkins’ love for the Upper Keys started in childhood while visiting on weekends with his best friend’s family to fish and play in the sun. A full-time resident of Islamorada and a managing partner at the Key Largo Starbucks, he employs and encourages many of the community’s next generation of leaders. He said his heart is volunteering at community events, raising money for local charities or stocking the shelves at the First Baptist Church of Islamorada’s food pantry. He is also the “voice” of Coral Shores Hurricanes outdoor sports.

“The most critical part of a healthy community is its access to nutrition and health care. I love Good Health Clinic and their ability to provide a great service to the uninsured in our community. This is why I’m running for The Big Kahuna,” he said.

Established as a not-for-profit organization in 2007, MarrVelous Pet Rescues and Adoptions (MPR) a 100% foster-based animal rescue and adoption organization serving the Florida Keys with a mission to provide immediate counsel, care, medical treatment, and shelter for animals in need until permanent adoption is achieved, as well as to promote education for responsible animal care, spay and neuter, microchipping, and training.

With a staff of two, one full time and one part time, Suzi Youngberg and Lisa Layne, led by a volunteer board and assisted by a team of volunteers, they handle all rescues, fosters and matches. Animals live in foster care until they are adopted. "This provides a nurturing environment and allows us to expose the animals socially as well as introduce them to home life," Suzi said. "Staff, volunteers and fosters get to know the animals which helps expedite a strong match with the adopting parties." Through MarrVelous's social media presence and our website connected to national databases, animals needing foster care and adoption are widely promoted. Oﬞen, adoptive parents share stories, photos and updates. More than 130 dogs were rehomed in 2022 with 58 of those being puppies under six month old.

Monthly activities include free community dog training with an animal trainer/behaviorist and Yappy Hours at various outdoor local establishments. At the Rescue House, fundraising and social events are held, and the annual gala is every November at Snook's Bayside.

Rescue House is at 68 Silver Springs Drive, Key Largo. 305.453.1315 | info@mprescues.org

MR. WORLDWIDE IN THE HOUSE

Pitbull and Kaelyn Gomez, of Key Largo, meet at Jimmy Johnson’s Big Chill. KAELYN GOMEZ/Via Facebook

CELEBRITY HAS LOCAL CONNECTION

PIP

REEF THE FOX

Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” We had a celebrity sighting in North Key Largo last Wednesday.

ously to our local restaurant staff.

Pitbull was born on Jan.15, 1981, in Miami to Cuban immigrant parents. While growing up, he was strongly encouraged by his family to take advantage of the privilege of living in America, and the opportunities it came with. He learned English by watching Sesame Street as a child. He attended South Miami Senior High School and Miami Coral Park High School.

Pip is a 5-year-old chihuahua who’s looking for a “furever” home. According to the Upper Keys Humane Society, Pip is very sweet, friendly with cats, other dogs and young kids. If you would like to make Pip a part of your family, or to learn more about other pets available for adoption, give the Upper Keys Humane Society (UKHS) a call at 305-451-3848. UKHS is a nonprofit no-kill shelter that provides food, shelter, medical care and adoption services for unwanted and abandoned animals.

Saturday, July 15

• I.CARE dive and coral transplant at 8:30 a.m. at Islamorada Dive Company. Learn more and sign up at icareaboutcoral.org.

Sunday, July 16

• African Dance and Drum Class from 9:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. at Jacobs Aquatic Center, Key Largo, second floor. Seniors, beginners and advanced drums will be provided.

• Leadership Monroe Class XXXI recruitment social from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Florida Keys Brewing Co., Islamorada.

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

Armando Christian Pérez, aka Mr. Worldwide and Pitbull, was out to dinner last Wednesday when my friend Kaelyn Gomez ran into him while she and her family were celebrating a birthday. Kaelyn is 16 and attends Coral Shores High School. She is also a superstar volunteer at the Upper Keys Humane Society where she helps bottle-feed neonatal kittens.

Pitbull has a house in Key Largo and frequently dines out when he is in town. He has also been known to pick up the tab for patrons and tip gener-

In 2020, Pitbull partnered with local artist Wyland and the Wyland Foundation to raise awareness about water conservation and the “My Water Pledge” campaign to encourage residents of cities all over the United States to conserve water, energy and other natural resources.

So here’s my question: how do I get a cool nickname like “Mr. Worldwide?” Maybe my nickname could be “Mr. Keyswide,” “The Most Interesting Fox in the World” or “Mr. Furwide”? I’ll have to think about that one. I do believe that Pitbull should stop and meet me though, perhaps let me use my vocals on his next single? Sounds like the collaboration the world needs right now.

Anywho, that’s all for this week. Stay up to date with all things fox by visiting pawsitivebeginnings.org

Until next time, Reef, over and out!

• I.CARE dive and coral transplant at 8:30 a.m. at Conch Republic Divers, Tavernier. Learn more and sign up at icareaboutcoral.org.

Tuesday, July 18

• Mote’s Islamorada coral nursery tour at 2 p.m. at Bud N’ Mary’s Marina. Visit mote.org/keystours.

Wednesday, July 19

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

CORRECTION

• “Immerse Yourself” presentation welcomes Adele Luta for a talk on “Packing for a Spacewalk: to the Moon and Mars,” at 7 p.m. at History of Diving Museum, Islamorada. Register at www.divingmuseum.org.

Thursday, July 20

• Morada Way Art Walk from 6 to 9 p.m. at Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, Islamorada.

The June 29 edition of the Upper Keys Weekly incorrectly identified Conner Ellis as a sales manager in the Neighbor of the Week. Ellis is a recruiting and staff manager with Islamorada Resort Collection.

SUN OUTDOORS ISLAMORADA NOW OPEN

ACTIVITY BUSTLES AT FORMER SEA BREEZE & SAN PEDRO PROPERTIES

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Land that once housed a pair of mobile home communities along the Islamorada shores is breathing new life as an RV and vacation home destination with resort-style amenities.

March marked the beginning of business for Sun Outdoors Islamorada — an array of RVs filed into some 82 full hook-up sites by May. Located along the Old Highway, the newly-developed site also brings 48 modular vacation homes — 30 are still available for purchase — as well as 47 boat slips in three marinas and amenities such as a heated pool and cabanas.

“We are thrilled to officially open our newest location, Sun Outdoors Islamorada, in the beautiful, sunny Florida Keys,” said Nick DiBella, senior vice president of operations and sales. “As we continue to offer our guests fun and transformative outdoors experiences, the Islamorada resort is an exciting addition to our portfolio, meeting the continued demand for premium amenities alongside Sun Outdoors’ award-winning quality of service.”

In 2017, Hurricane Irma ravaged San Pedro and Sea Breeze trailer parks, located just a quarter mile apart on the Old Highway near MM 87.4. Many residents weren’t able to pick up the pieces and rebuild, leaving them packing what they had for a new beginning somewhere else. But some waited until the new Sun Outdoors Islamorada resort’s stilted homes were

complete. Sun Outdoors stuck to its word, giving residents who wished to come back the opportunity to purchase a home at cost.

According to Sun Outdoors officials, five residents are returning after buying homes in the gated, residential section of the property. All homes are 1,230 square feet and come in two different layouts — all offering picturesque ocean views. Homeowners are able to rent out their homes for a minimum of 28 days, so long as they follow rules and guidelines laid out by the village code.

Sun Outdoors Islamorada is also participating in the village’s affordable housing program in coordination with the village’s planning and development department. Five income-based homes, all onebedroom and one-bathroom, are available for lease. Those wishing to submit an application must visit the resort sales office in person by Friday, July 14.

Those vacationing and living at Sun Outdoors Islamorada are able to take advantage of amenities that include an ocean view lounge, watersport rentals, onsite food and drinks, a clubhouse, laundry room and dog walk.

Sun Outdoors operates several RV and vacation home sites throughout the island chain, including Key Largo, Marathon and Sugarloaf Key. Sun Outdoors Islamorada is slated to hold a grand opening Tuesday, July 18.

1. Land is cleared to make way for Sun Outdoors’ RV lots and homes in September 2021. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly. 2. Stilts are placed for vacation homes at Sun Outdoors Islamorada grounds. 3. An aerial from September 2022. 4. RV lots are complete while new modular homes are placed in January 2023. 5: Trailers and RVs take their sports at Sun Outdoors Islamorada in April 2023.

COLLEGE GETS APPROVAL FOR NEW 4-YEAR DEGREE

PROGRAM PROVIDES BACHELOR’S IN EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EDUCATION

CAN YOU HELP MONITOR CORAL BLEACHING AT THE REEF?

FREE TRAINING OFFERED JULY 15 AT ECO DISCOVERY CENTER

As sea temperatures rise to record highs, Mission: Iconic Reefs (M:IR) coral restoration practitioners and NOAA resource managers are bracing for large-scale, coral bleaching events that devastate the coral reef and its ecosystem.

On Saturday, July 15, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS) invites citizen scientists to learn how to collect field observations and report on conditions at the reefs before, during and after bleaching events. The Florida Keys BleachWatch program training led by M:IR partner Mote Marine Lab’s coral reef assessment & monitoring senior biologist Cory Walter will take place at the Eco-Discovery Center at Truman Waterfront in Key West from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

The College of the Florida Keys recently received final approvals to launch its new bachelor of science degree in exceptional student education (BS-ESE). Both the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and the Florida Department of Education sent formal notification of final approvals at the end of June for CFK’s fourth baccalaureate degree program.

The bachelor’s degree in ESE enables aspiring educators to become Florida certified teachers ready to fill teaching positions locally and beyond. Through coursework and field experience, the curriculum trains and educates individuals to assist and empower children with disabilities who need specially designed instruction and related services. Graduates of the program will be eligible to earn a Florida professional teacher certification in exceptional student education (ESE) with additional endorsements in reading and English for speakers of other languages.

The college’s BS-ESE was born through collaboration with the Monroe County School District to help meet the need for credentialed K-12 teachers in the Keys. Through the district’s Grow Our Own initiative, MSCD is encouraging its paraprofessionals to pursue this

opportunity and will provide tuition support for eligible individuals.

CFK’s new bachelor’s program follows a 2+2 model, in which a student first earns an associate in arts degree or equivalent from CFK or another accredited institution before applying to the bachelor’s degree program to complete two years of upper-level courses.

BS-ESE pre-req bootcamp:

To help students seeking to start the new BS-ESE in the fall, the college is offering a “pre-req bootcamp.” Students will be able to quickly complete one or two courses that are required for admission in the BS-ESE program. The courses are Introduction to the Teaching Profession (EDF 2005) and Introduction to Special Education (EEX2010). Classes for the bootcamp run July 31 through Aug. 8 and will use technology to provide access to individuals throughout the Keys. Students have the option of attending classes in person on the Key West campus or virtually during scheduled class meeting times. Field work associated with each course will be completed outside of classes.

More information is at cfk.edu/ education/bs-ese or from Marissa Owens, CFK director of recruitment, at recruiter@cfk.edu or 305-8093207.

Initiated by FKNMS in coordination with Mote Marine Lab in 2005, the community-based reporting program serves as an early warning network for bleaching events. BleachWatch volunteers help scientists understand where bleaching is occurring, what coral species are more vulnerable, how long and severe the event is, and ultimately, what the recovery and resilience potential is.

BleachWatch field observation data is integrated with existing NOAA satellite analysis to provide a comprehensive overview of current conditions throughout the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary –3,800 square miles of coastal and ocean waters and since 2019, home to M:IR, one of the world’s largest coral restoration initiatives.

“Although remote sensing and in-situ data collection can provide an indication of when conditions are ideal for onset of coral bleaching, the actual onset of bleaching can be a gradual process, and effects can vary over an area as large as FKNMS,” said Walter. “In order to accurately assess the initial effects of bleaching events and to assess coral condition during and after bleaching events, a large network of trained observers are needed to provide regular reports of actual coral conditions on the reefs – our “eyes on the water.”

Florida’s corals require temperatures in the 64- to 86-degree range; sudden changes can cause them to expel the nutrient-producing zooxanthellae they host.

NOAA’s Coral Reef Watch’s summer outlook predicts an Alert Level 2 for a bleaching event which means mortality is likely, Walter said.

Observers can also play a crucial role in identifying corals that aren’t bleaching, especially in areas with corals that are. This can provide restoration practitioners with potential founder stock for heatresilient genotype sourcing.

For those interested but unable to attend, visit www.mote.org/ bleachwatch for online training. Future workshops will take place at Mote and the Upper Keys. More information is available from Walter at 305-395-8730 or cwalter@mote. org, or at www.mote.org/bleach.`

A CFK student studies in a classroom on the Key West campus. CONTRIBUTED

Iconic Reefs field team diver monitors coral outplants. A special BleachWatch training program helps support their efforts. JAY CLUE/Contributed

BREWS ’N’ ’CUES

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THIS WEEKEND’S FESTIVAL IN MARATHON

Beer and barbecue lovers, rejoice: Your favorite weekend in the Keys is here.

Friday and Saturday, July 14 and 15 will see the return of the third annual Florida Keys BrewBQ, a celebration of savory grilled meats and craft beers presented by the Marathon Chamber of Commerce. The festival will see the return of the live music lineup, delicious food, kids’ games and vendors that have become staples of the weekend. A renewed amateur barbecue contest and second year of the People’s Choice Awards is sure to highlight both evenings – see our competition preview page for plenty of smack talk – and new for this year, the Marathon Community Park will host a petting zoo as exotic animals from Julio’s Zoo 2 U make an appearance on Saturday. Ready for the festival? We’ve got everything you need to know, all in one place.

THE HOURS

Friday, July 14: 5 to 9 p.m.

Saturday, July 15: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Marathon Community Park, 200 36th St. Ocean, Marathon

THE COST

Tickets are $5 per person per day. Children under 12 are admitted free.

THE BEERS

Islamorada Beer Co., Florida Keys Brewing Co., Waterfront Brewery, Founders Brewing Co., Veza Sur Brewing Co., JDub’s Brewing Co., Goose Island Beer Co., Cigar City Brewing, Wynwood Brewing, J. Wakefield Brewing, Broski Ciderworks, Cycle Brewing, Dogfish Head, Swamp Head Brewery, Funky Buddha, Hard Bottom Brewing, South Beach Brewing Co., Sailfish Brewing Co., Inlet Brewing Co.

THE FOOD

Joe the Smoking Pig, Brutus Restaurant & Seafood Market, BattleRig BBQ, Lazy Days South, Sweet Savannah’s of the Florida Keys

THE COMPETITION

People’s Choice tasting tickets for the amateur barbecue competition are available for $2 per sample ($10 per night to sample all five competitors’ dishes). Tasting for pork belly burnt ends goes from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, and tasting for pulled pork goes from 5 to 7 p.m. on Saturday. Please note that all tasting is while supplies last. Vote for your favorite pitmaster to win prizes and glory by dropping a ticket in the voting boxes at their booths!

Rock cover band Apache Dragon will headline Saturday’s music lineup. CONTRIBUTED

NO TRICKS WITH LOMELO’S

MEAT MARKET DELIVERS THE GOODS TO THE KEYS

Itell everyone and I’ll go ahead and tell you, we are a Lomelo’s household. What is that, you might ask.

Those craving Lomelo’s steak can have it delivered to the Keys. SAMANTHA DELLILO/Keys Weekly

NEIGHBOR OF THE WEEK

SPOTLIGHTING THE AMAZING INDIVIDUALS WHO LIVE AND WORK IN THE UPPER KEYS

No matter how many individuals appear in the pages of each edition of Keys Weekly, there are always so many more of our community members who deserve to be recognized. In an effort to shine a spotlight on more of the incredible individuals who live and work in these islands, Keys Weekly is proud to spotlight our Neighbor of the Week feature, dedicated to celebrating a community member with each issue.

This week’s neighbor is a Key Largo resident who owns Rojewski & Rebl Group LLC, working exclusively with the broker Century 21 Circle. He’s worked there since 2020. Before that, he spent nine years with US Airways.

If you could meet anyone in the world, dead or alive, who would it be? Betty White.

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

Lomelo’s is a high-end meat market located in Miami, slightly under an hour from Key Largo. The irony of this article is I loathe driving to Miami, and I actually wasn’t a huge red meat fan prior to Lomelo’s. For me to ask for a steak, I had to really be craving one. Lucky for me and everyone else, they now deliver to the Keys and just about anywhere.

But let me be clear, if they didn’t deliver, I’d gladly drive up there to grab my order — that’s how obsessed I am. Through a Seahunter customer’s involvement with Lomelo’s, we were given a nice care package a few years back with a selection of all their different cuts of meats, including the wagyu. You know those moments in life where something draws a line in time of before and after. That was this moment.

There was my life before Lomelo’s and my life after. I don’t care if you’re

the worst cook on earth, something about their quality of meat still serves beautifully on a plate. It got to a point my fiancé knew I was uninterested in even burdening my arteries with a steak at home if it wasn’t from Lomelo’s. I walked in the door one day and saw he was cooking up a storm.

“I’m making your favorite,” he said. “Lomelo’s Australian wagyu churrasco.”

I sat down so excited for dinner and after a few sips of vino, dinner was served. I took a bite, the flavor was all there. Mark perfectly seasoned and cooked this steak, but I knew this was not Lomelo’s. I started in with the questions, “So, when did you have time to go up to Miami?” He quickly replied, “a customer gifted it at the marina.” I kept eating, the flavor was a 10 and – let me be clear – the actual steak would have also been a 10 had I not crossed that line in life of having Lomelo’s.

I finally blurted out, “This isn’t Lomelo’s I know it!” He started laughing and was adamant that it was, that is until cleanup time. As I was throwing something out in the garbage I saw it, a Publix steak label. I shouted like Sherlock Holmes solving a crime, “I knew it!”

Visit keysweekly.com for more.

What’s one thing people don’t know about you? I earned my degree in psychology while traveling the world as a flight attendant.

What can people find you doing when you’re not working? Exploring the restaurants and tiki bars all over the Keys and still traveling the world when I have time.

What would you do if you won the lottery? Spend more time focusing on my favorite nonprofits and volunteering at local hospitals and senior centers.

What is the best and worst part of the Keys? I think the best part of the Keys would be the hidden locals areas such as the jumping bridge on Sugarloaf Key and all of the hidden restaurants. The worst part. … Is there such a thing? Not that I know of.

If you could improve one thing in the Keys, what would it be? Traffic. I wish we could get around more easily without the heavy traffic during the season.

What is your spirit animal? Dolphin. They are known for their intelligence, playfulness and strong social bonds. They exhibit a deep sense of community and communication, which aligns with my love for people and our community.

The title of my autobiography would be: “Embracing the World: Tales of Connection, Community and Adventure.”

Your favorite movie: “Titanic.”

Favorite app on your phone? Instagram.

Michael Rojewski Owner, Rojewski & Rebl Group LLC

SAMANTHA DELLILO

305.743.0844

EMPLOYMENT PETS FOR SALE EMPLOYMENT

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.

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

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

PRIVATE COLLECTOR

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

LOT FOR SALE

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

3 yr. old soft-coated Wheaten Terrier, neutered male, good jogger, trained. AKC registered. Price negotiable. 505-699-4199

YARD SALES

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

NOW HIRING FT FRONT OFFICE ASSISTANT MARATHON, FL

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

BOAT RENTAL STAFF

FLEXIBLE HOURS

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.

We are looking for a hard-working, self-motivated salesman in Islamorada with previous and demonstratable sales experience.

PLEASE DO NOT APPLY IF YOU: oversleep, have no alarm clock, have no car, have court often, have no baby sitter every day, have to give friends rides to work later than we start work, experience flat tires every week, have to hold on to cell phone all day, need to go on a vacation in the next three weeks, or become an expert at your job with no need to learn or take advice after the first day.

Should not expect to receive Purple Ribbons or Gold Stars for showing up.

If this is you, please send your resume to: brandon@oceanrecruiting.com

JOIN OUR TEAM !

PEDRO FALCON CONTRACTORS INC.

WE ARE HIRING FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS:

• Carpenters • Laborers

• Electricians & Electricians helpers

• Supervisor(s)

Email resume to mari@pedrofalcon.com or call our office at 305-872-2200. Competitive pay & benefits. Contact us for more information. O ffice located in Big Pine Key.

P.F.C, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Section 3 Candidates are encouraged to apply.

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 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.

Please contact April at 305.407.3262 or

SUDOKU SOLUTION

TRUCK DRIVERS CDL CLASS A

We are hiring CDL CLASS A Drivers, Monday-Friday with overtime available. Hazmat not needed.

Volunteer Resources

Administrative Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

Media & Marketing Staff Member

Human Resources Assistant (Part-Time, Permanent)

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.

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

Accounting Director (Full-Time, Permanent)

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

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

58901

and enter your availability.

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

“A Wave of Color: Promoting Ocean Conservation” art exhibit is on display at Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder’s new Protect Center in Islamorada. CONTRIBUTED

OCEAN-INSPIRED WORKS

ART EXHIBIT SHOWCASES CONSERVATION AT NEW PROTECT CENTER

The light dances across the ocean’s surface. The dance is suddenly broken by a bottlenose dolphin jumping into the air. The dolphin’s acrobatics stun as she plunges back into the water. Residents and visitors take a moment to look around the environment — thankful for being in the beautiful Florida Keys.

This summer, there is a little more art than usual in Islamorada. The art exhibit, “A Wave of Color: Promoting Ocean Conservation,” is inspired by the local waters and conservation. The exhibit is brought together by the Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder (DPMMR) at their brand-new Whale and Dolphin Hospital, the Protect Center in Islamorada.

The exhibit features ocean-inspired works of art, conservation themed pieces and marine animal pieces. The artwork was created by over 20 wellknown local and regional artists. DPMMR’s mission as a nonprofit organization is to connect and inspire people with marine mammals.

“The premise behind the new center is protecting whales, dolphins and our oceans,” said Hunter Kinney, DPMMR’s director of fundraising, marketing and development. “There are so many talented artists in the area collaborating with us to raise awareness for ocean conservation and the Protect Center while we navigate permitting and develop the actual facilities. The art show is the perfect opportunity to share with our community what’s coming while showcasing some amazing works of art.”

The Protect Center opened in May as a retail store and information center. DPMMR’s leadership is hopeful the art show will give locals and visitors

a reason to stop in throughout the summer and see what the facility will be once complete. Once permitting is finalized, the Protect Center will house a 40-foot diameter pool to serve as an ICU for sick, injured and orphaned whales and dolphins, and other marine mammals in need, serving as the only cetacean rehabilitation center in the Keys and South Florida. While the facility will be a working veterinary hospital at its core, it will also serve as an education center complete with guided tours as well as a 3,000-square-foot museum themed around marine conservation.

When you go to the exhibition and see this fantastic art, you realize the talent of our local community, how much the artists care about our environment, and the appreciation these artists have for our beautiful natural home. The works of art are very different from each other — every artist has his or her own style — but all showcase “A Wave of Color.”

Oscar Wilde wrote in an essay that “life imitates art far more than art imitates life.” Hopefully, this art shows a path to help our community and the DPMMR can do their thing and help.

Some of the artists are Pasta Pantaleo, Lisa Lee, Jul Jankowski, Sue Jankowski, Osvaldo Fernandez, Jason Barth, myself, Penny Hart and Felipe Correa. Many of the pieces will be offered for sale, with proceeds benefiting the development of rehabilitation facilities for whales and dolphins in need.

The showcase is open through Sept. 7 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Protect Center will also host a Meet the Artists and Closing Night on Thursday, Sept. 7 from 6 to 9 p.m.

If you are in Islamorada, take the time and check out the exhibit; you will be glad you did. The exhibit at the Protect Center is located at 82748 Overseas Highway in Islamorada. More information is available at the DPMMR’s social media pages and connecttoprotect.org.

is an artist, designer and gemologist who believes in the power of art.

WILLIAM DEPAULA