Key West Weekly 23-1005

ROYAL KING & QUEEN FUNDRAISERS

NOW BENEFITTING THE FLORIDA KEYS SPCA

CANDIDATES FOR 2023 FANTASY FEST KING

Donations & tickets

DONALD WELLS

Saturday 10/7

Workout Like an Animal

9am @ Crossfit Mile Zero, 3224

Flagler Av.

Sunday 10/8

Drag Queen Bingo

5pm @ 22&Co, 504 Angela St.

BEN HENNINGTON

Thursday 10/12

Donations & tickets

A Night in Old Havana with Pilar Rum

7-9pm @ Old Havana Cigar Company, 606 Duval Street $100 entrance fee includes light bites, cigars, expert lesson pairing rum & cigars, raffles and silent auction.

CANDIDATES FOR 2023 FANTASY FEST QUEEN

Donations & tickets

TANGELA TORRES

Friday 10/13

Barbie and Ken Party

5-9pm @ The Woman's Club 319 Duval St., $20 entrance fee

Saturday 10/14

Pawfect Orchid & Art Auction

6-9pm @ Kate Miano’s Home 618 Freeschool Lane. $20 entrance fee

Donations & tickets

VICKY ROWDEN

Sunday 10/8

Tea Dance

4-6:30pm @ La Te Da, 1125 Duval St.

Thursday 10/12

Orchid & Art Auction

5-7pm @ The Gardens Hotel 526 Angela St.

Donations & tickets

SHAWN MONTGOMERY

Sunday 10/8

Mermaid and Ocean Party

4-6pm @ Bruce & Susan Mitchell's, 824 Terry Lane

$75 entrance fee includes light fare and drinks. Costumes for costume contest encouraged.

Wednesday 10/11

Orchid & Art Auction

6-8pm @ Key West Woman's Club, 319 Duval St.

$30 entrance fee includes light fare and bidding paddle.

One of a kind pots, exotic orchids and exclusive art for sale.

Thursday 10/12

Vibrator Races

6pm @ Mary Ellen's Bar, 420

Appelrouth St. Purchase tickets at maryellensbar.com

fkspca.org/donate/royal-campaign

KEYS

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The number of named tropical storms in the Atlantic so far this year: Arlene, Bret, Cindy, Don, Emily, Franklin, Gert, Harold, Idalia, Jose, Katia, Lee, Margot, Nigel, Ophelia, Philippe and Rina. Hurricane season officially ends on Nov. 30.

TEEN ACCUSED OF STABBING CO-WORKER IN THEATER PARKING LOT

PROSECUTORS WANT TO TRY THE 17-YEAR- OLD AS AN ADULT

GWEN FILOSA gwen@keysweekly.com

Monroe County prosecutors said on Oct. 2 they will charge a 17-yearold from Key West as an adult, a day after police arrested the teen on a charge of attempted first-degree murder in connection with a stabbing outside the Regal Cinema.

Marc Louissaint, a student at Key West High School, had a steak knife in each hand when he attacked another 17-year-old outside the movie theater, 3338 N. Roosevelt Blvd., at about 1:20 a.m. Oct. 1, according to Joseph Mansfield, the Chief Assistant State Attorney in Monroe County.

The teen, who suffered stab wounds to his shoulder, abdomen and one side of his chest, was in stable condition Monday in a MiamiDade hospital’s intensive care unit, Mansfield said, while Louissaint remained in juvenile detention.

Louissaint was not listed in the sheriff’s online jail records on Oct. 2 and it was unclear whether he had legal representation.

Police called the stabbing a premeditated attack designed to kill the teen.

“The stabbing would have resulted in the death of (the victim) except that he failed to do so,” according to Louissaint’s Monroe County juvenile arrest report.

The two teens worked at the movie theater, Mansfield told Keys Weekly on Monday.

The victim had borrowed Louissaint’s AirPods and said he would return them to him on Sept. 30 when they both were scheduled to work, Mansfield said.

That day, when the teen arrived at the theater at about 6 p.m., Louissaint “aggressively confronted” him after learning he had forgotten to bring the AirPods to work, the arrest report states.

“The victim told the suspect, ‘I don’t have them today, I’ll bring them tomorrow,’” Mansfield said. “The suspect left work. The victim was still at work.”

Louissaint left the theater and went home, but later returned to the Regal’s parking lot, Mansfield said.

“He picked up the knives from his house and went back to the movie theater with the intent to confront this kid,” Mansfield told Keys Weekly on Monday.

Louissaint showed up at the Regal with the knives stashed inside a crossbody “fanny pack,” he was wearing, according to a Monroe County juvenile arrest form, and found the victim standing in the parking lot. The two squared off as if they were about to have a fistfight, witnesses told police.

But then Louissaint brandished the knives, holding one in each hand, and began scraping the blades together “like a Hibachi chef sharpening” knives, Mansfield said.

The victim took off running but tripped on the sidewalk and fell to the ground. Louissaint, who had been chasing him, “pounced on top of (the victim) and began stabbing him,” police said a witness told them.

“He’s just pummeling him with stab wounds,” Mansfield said. “He’s got a knife in both hands puncturing him left and right.”

Key West police were called to the Regal after a 911 call that someone had been stabbed and was “bleeding out,” was made at 1:26 a.m. Oct. 1. But before police got to the theater, the wounded teen had already been taken to Lower Keys Medical Center by his friends, said police spokeswoman Alyson Crean.

Shortly after he arrived at the hospital, the victim was airlifted by Trauma Star to the HCA Florida Kendall Hospital, Crean said.

Meanwhile, outside the Regal, police found “a small puddle of blood in the parking lot and two steak knives were located nearby,” Crean said.

Police also found Louissaint, who had remained at the scene of the crime, and immediately detained him.

Detectives worked on three separate crime scenes at the site and obtained several search warrants before arresting Louissaint, Crean said.

Police took a DNA sample from Louissaint using a buccal swab, which collects DNA cells from inside a person’s cheek. They also searched his home and found steak knives in a kitchen drawer that matched those used in the attack, the arrest report states.

Candidates for King and Queen of Fantasy Fest, from left, Tangela Torres, Shawn Montgomery, Ben Hennington, Vicky Rowden and Donald Wells. The would-be royals are raising money for the SPCA until the Royal Coronation on Oct. 20. STEPHANIE MITCHELL/Keys Weekly

A ROYAL INTRODUCTION

Year” in recognition of her charitable efforts. “I am proud to have raised needed funds for individuals and agencies here in Key West,” she said.

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

MEET THE 5 VYING FOR FANTASY FEST CROWNS

Key West may be the Conch Republic, and a “sovereign state of mind,” but every October, the island becomes a monarchy, crowning a king and queen, dukes and duchesses, all in the name of charity.

For the six weeks preceding the annual Fantasy Fest celebration, a few community-minded residents embark on a fundraising campaign that this year benefits the Florida Keys SPCA.

Following a Royal Kickoff in September, the candidates host an array of events for their own campaigns and also share in the spoils of several all-candidate events that unite the campaigns and the community. Aqua Idol, a local spin on the “American Idol” singing competition, takes place each week at Aqua Nightclub. A randy and raucous Sunday bingo event also benefits all candidates, along with mixers and auctions at familiar island venues.

The candidates who raise the most money will be crowned King and Queen of Fantasy at a Royal Coronation Ball on Oct. 20 at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater. The other committed contestants are named dukes and duchesses and become members of the Royal Court.

Visit fantasyfest.com and fkspca. org to donate to one or all campaigns and to see each candidate’s event schedule.

Let’s meet the candidates:

BEN HENNINGTON

Ben Hennington is no stranger to Key West fundraising.

He is the founder of the Sunset Social Drinking Club (SSDC), Wienerpalooza and co-founder of POSH (Paws Often Steal Hearts), which all champion the welfare and adoption of shelter animals. The SSDC, his hobby, is a charitable organization that gives back as much as possible to the community they are a part of. To date, the group has helped raise over $150,000 for the FKSPCA and over $300,000 in total for other local charities.

When he’s not volunteering for community endeavors and business aspirations, Hennington is typically found in his “office” in the back room of Shots & Giggles working on a project. He is living, not dreaming, his best life.

DONALD WELLS

Donald Wells studied equine science before immersing himself in dance and choreography. He was choreographer of the NBA Washington Wizards dance team and director of entertainment and cheerleading for the NFL Washington Commanders. He built a brand that entertained service members on 35 tours across 45 countries before working for the Navy as director of morale, welfare and recreation, where he was committed to enhancing the well-being of those who serve our country and their families.

While working in Djibouti, Africa and Bahrain, Wells volunteered at animal refuges and the Bahrain SPCA. He adopted two kittens from the SPCA in Bahrain, then rescued JAX, a dog abandoned in an apartment building.

Wells moved to Key West in 2021 and embraced the island’s vibrant community. Upon learning that the Florida Keys SPCA would be the beneficiary of the royal campaign, he readily signed on to contribute to a cause he holds dear.

“My two cats, Luna and Gizmo, adopted from the FKSPCA, fully support this campaign effort, and I am happy to be able to focus my fundraising efforts on four-legged friends.”

SHAWN MONTGOMERY

Shawn Montgomery moved to Key West in 1996 and opened a lighting showroom at Truman and White. He immediately became involved in the community and its causes including MARC House, FKSPCA, Red Barn Theatre, Waterfront Playhouse, The Studios of Key West, Sister Season Fund and many others. He now continues his lighting work from home with his husband Michael Stella, as TLC the Lighting-Landscape Company.

Vicky Rowden has lived in Key West for 13 years and has participated in many past royal campaigns that benefitted AH Monroe County. She’s a prior winner of an Aqua Idol contest that benefited the Waterfront Playhouse. She was recently awarded the honor of “Mother of the

TANGELA TORRES

Tangela Torres is the owner of Lusain Medical Consulting and spent 20 years as an operating room nurse. She is on the board of Womankind, is a past board member of Zonta Club International and is a member of the Mystick Krewe Key West.

She was raised in Bahama Village and is married to Felix Torres Jr., a retired Navy corpsman. They have one furbaby, “Taz the Cat.”

Torres believes that our furry friends deserve the same love, care and attention as their human counterparts. “The housing crisis has challenged FKSPCA staffing and at times has caused the clinic to cancel muchneeded services to the community,” she said. “My prayer is that the funds raised will help with staff retention so our fur babies can continue to receive the care and attention they need and deserve.”

VICKY ROWDEN

DOES MONROE COUNTY NEED A ‘CHARTER’ GOVERNMENT?

OFFICIALS SAY THE CHANGE WOULD BRING FUNDING TO RAISE, IMPROVE ROADS

gwen@keysweekly.com

Monroe County Commissioners are taking steps to ask voters in November 2024 to adopt a charter county form of government, which is essentially creating a new Keyswide constitution.

The idea is in the early discussion stages, with nothing on paper yet. But some elected leaders say they already have reason to be wary.

Marathon Mayor Luis Gonzalez said he’s waiting to hear the pros and cons of how a charter county government would affect his city and hasn’t made up his mind. Still, he has one basic question.

“We incorporated 20 years ago for the purpose of standing alone, and is this a way of us losing some of our stand-alone power?” Gonzalez said.

But the five members of the county commission say they’re not planning a power grab; rather, they’re searching for a way to pay for the Florida Keys’ widespread needs for transportation repairs, upkeep and raising roads in the low-lying areas that routinely flood with saltwater.

“Our bridges, our roads, all those things need attention,” County Attorney Bob Shillinger said, during a presentation at the commission’s Sept 20 meeting in Key Largo, after being directed to begin the work to draft a charter.

“Those things require money to deal with that,” Shillinger said, of transportation issues. “This is a potential funding source to help address those needs, the county charter transportation surtax.”

WHO WOULD PAY A ‘TRANSPORTATION TAX’?

The plan remains in an early discussion stage. The target date for the vote is the general election set for Nov. 5, 2024, which is also a presidential election.

All Monroe voters would have a say at the polls, just as those in municipalities can vote for county commission.

The transportation tax, limited to 1 percent, would likely add up to multiple millions a year that the Keys could count on

Monroe County has aging bridges and heavily traveled roads to maintain, so county leaders are looking into adopting a county charter that would allow then to add a transportation tax they say will be paid for largely by tourists. KEYS

for roads, county leaders say. Tourists would pay two-thirds of the tax, Shillinger said.

That math was verified during the 2020 tourism shutdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he said.

“If someone has a better idea, we’re all ears,” Shillinger said.

No one presented another idea during the commission’s Sept. 20 meeting other than opposing the charter idea.

“It is doomed to failure, it will not pass,” said Patrick Foley of Islamorada. “The only purpose that I can see is primarily to raise taxes.

Commissioner David Rice, of Marathon, told Foley that tourists will pay most of it, rather than the county’s 80,000 residents.

“You want your roads fixed and your bridges fixed and things like that, you’ve gotta have money,” Rice told Foley. “We have some horribly expensive problems in this county.”

Foley stuck with his opinion, as he wore a yellow T-shirt with the words, “Fix the Road,” a reference to the longtime street flooding in Key Largo neighborhoods.

“Tourists may pay some part of it but you’re raising my taxes as well,” Foley said.

TOO EARLY TO CALL

Monroe County commissioners directed Shillinger to change as little as possible in the charter draft ordinance. A charter could be written so that it trumps those in municipalities.

“You said, ‘Don’t do that,’” Shillinger said. “Don’t be surprised if you see the same system that we have now come out in the draft.”

In Florida, 20 counties have charters that give them the authority to act directly

from the state constitution and not indirectly through the legislative system currently in place in Monroe.

In 1957, the Miami-Dade County Home Rule Charter was adopted, “essentially becoming the ‘constitution’ for Miami-Dade County,” its website reads. Wakulla County, with a population of about 34,000, was the last county to go charter, in 2008.

A charter would have to be approved at the polls before any new tax could appear, so the transportation tax would require two votes: first, approval of the charter itself, and then a year later whether the tax is created.

“We’re not raising taxes; it goes to a referendum,” said County Mayor Craig Cates of Key West. “The citizens of Monroe County will make that decision, not us.”

As for political power, a charter wouldn’t allow the county to touch its five constitutional officers: clerk, sheriff, property appraiser, tax collector and supervisor of elections.

A charter would allow the number of commissioners to rise, Shillinger said. MiamiDade has 13 while Jacksonville and Duval County have 19.

“I don’t know how they get anything done,” Shillinger said. “I’m not recommending that at all. I like five.”

Leaders like Marathon Vice Mayor Robyn Still said they’re prepared to listen to the county’s full pitch, but it’s too early for her to make a call on the idea.

“Commissioners are saying that they would make no changes to the municipalities, but they’re not always going to be the commissioners,” Still told Keys Weekly.

“I’m willing to talk about it, but at this point I have serious concerns about how it would affect our city,” Still said.

WEEKLY/File photo

GWEN FILOSA

TOUGH UPBRINGINGS DESERVE SOFT LANDINGS

YOUTH PROGRAM

EASES FOSTER KIDS INTO ADULTHOOD

CHRIS McNULTY www.keysweekly.com

Adulthood is a daunting endeavor, even for kids from stable, supportive families. So how is someone who didn’t grow up among mature, secure, capable adults expected to become one? Where do kids from broken homes, the foster home circuit, group homes or no home acquire the trust, confidence, skills and support they’ll need to navigate the rest of their life?

Enter the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter (FKCS). Its Transitional Living Program (TLP) in Key West helps young residents become mature, secure, well-rounded adults.

The residential program includes two five-bedroom, side-by-side townhouses in Poinciana Plaza on Duck Avenue that serve as transitional housing for young adults ages 18-21 and/or 16- to 17-year-old emancipated minors.

Guys live in one townhouse, girls are in the other, with full-time, live-in case managers for each side.

Transgender and gender-expansive individuals choose the side that aligns with their needs. The girls’ side is currently at capacity. The guys’ side has a few spaces open, but both will likely have a waitlist by the end of the year.

With live-in case managers — Giordan Pinzon with the guys and Meryl Berman with the girls — young residents find the support they need — and often have never had — to transition from difficult family situations or state custody programs into self-sufficient, independent adults.

“Most of these young individuals have never had a safe place to call their home due to their circumstances,” Pinzon said. “We’re structuring a plan to fit each of their specific needs. We want them to know this program is a sanctuary where they will be safe and given all the assistance they need to grow into their full potential.”

In lieu of rent, residents deposit $300 per month into a savings account, a nest egg that is theirs to keep upon exiting the program.

They get help finding jobs, educational options, medical and mental health care. They participate in skill-building workshops. And though they begin working immediately with TLP staff on an individualized exit strategy toward self-sufficiency, they may stay up

to two years while working to become the adult they envision.

Upon entering the program, residents must agree to adhere to a nightly curfew and a drug- and alcohol-free environment.

Funded in October 2021 with a $600,000 federal grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the program is maturing along with its residents.

The TLP added an outreach coordinator to its team in March 2023. Chris McNulty is working to increase awareness of the program and help build partnerships in the community, which has already proven willing and eager to help support the young Key Westers. (McNulty is also a contributing writer with the Key West Weekly and wrote this article.)

Individuals and businesses have donated and spruced up a trike from Island Bicycle for one young resident. Another got help accessing higher education through St. Leo’s University. Community Health of South Florida (CHI) regularly helps participants access health care services. Local businesses have hired the young residents and local business owners have donated group outings, such as a dinner at Benihana, which many had never before experienced.

Since its inception, 12 young people have successfully completed the program, but have not been abandoned by it. Each TLP alum continues to receive individual assessments, supportive planning and regular check-ins from Berman and Pinzon as they maneuver young adulthood and life in Key West.

Though success looks different for each resident, the core goals always include stable housing, employment, education, permanent connections and social-emotional well-being.

The TLP also works closely with Project Lighthouse, FKCS’s street outreach program in Key West that operates a drop-in center at 1102 Truman Ave. for runaway, homeless and street youth aged 21 and under.

Project Lighthouse program coordinator Jai Somers and outreach specialist Jess Warne offer necessities like donated clothing, laundry and shower facilities, as well as employment assistance, free workshops and creative outlets. TLP residents regularly participate in programs at Project Lighthouse and receive additional support from Somers and Warne as they navigate their way into adulthood.

“We’re not just meeting a need; we’re actively shaping the future of our youth,” said Ben Kemmer, CEO of the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter. “We’re excited to continue growing and providing even more support and opportunities for the young adults we serve.”

If you know a young person in need of transitional housing who is ready to make the commitment to their future, contact Pinzon at gpinzon@fkcs.org. If you are a local business, artist or expert interested in getting involved to support the TLP residents through employment opportunities or facilitating workshops, contact McNulty at cmcnulty@fkcs.org.

From left, the staff of the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter’s Transitional Living Program includes Chris McNulty, outreach specialist; Gio Pinzon, program coordinator/case manager, and Meryl Berman, case manager. CONTRIBUTED

COURT CONSOLIDATION QUESTIONS

A RALLY IN THE KEYS IS SET; IMPORTANT PUBLIC HEARING IN TAMPA APPROACHES

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Many questions remain over the potential consolidation of Florida’s 20 circuit courts, which have largely remained intact since 1969. Specifically, there’s uncertainty whether reducing and com bining the circuits would lead to greater efficiencies and a noticeable cost savings to taxpayers.

A state committee tasked with tell ing state lawmakers whether there’s a need to reduce the circuit courts — and potentially consolidate circuits like the 16th in Monroe County with the 11th in Miami-Dade County — is up against a Dec. 1 deadline. The committee continued to review a plethora of data from survey responses by the public and legal professionals during a virtual Sept. 29 meeting. The group also received a report from its fiscal and resource subcommittee, which spent weeks gathering information and assessing whether consolidations would create a positive, negative or neutral fiscal change.

A report presented by Margaret Steinbeck, 20th Circuit Court judge, stated the subcommittee determined there would be no fiscal impact to trial courts, clerks and justice entities if the judicial circuits consolidated. Notably, the subcommittee determined that judicial circuit consolidation would have an estimated short-term negative fiscal impact for specific functional categories, such as technology, for the trial courts and clerks.

As for public defenders and state attorneys, the report finds that consolidation would bring a negative fiscal change.

“Without knowing which judicial circuits are subject to consolidation, the subcommittee cannot truly know or appreciate the exact fiscal or other impacts of consolidation without extensive analysis,” the report states.

Up next for the Judicial Circuit Assessment Committee is a public hearing on Friday, Oct, 13 in Tampa, where they’re expected to hear from a number of attorneys, public defenders and residents.

Jonathan Gerber, Fourth District Court of Appeal judge and committee chair-

man, said they’ll take roughly three hours of public input, from 10 a.m to 1 p.m., before they move on to other business. Each commenter could get two to three minutes to speak, but that depends on the number of speakers.

“If we’re able to provide more time we will,” Gerber said.

In the Florida Keys, the potential consolidation of the southernmost circuit courts with Miami-Dade isn’t sitting well among judges, elected officials and residents. That’s evidenced by the 1,480 survey responses the JCAC received from Keys residents. Municipalities across the Keys have united against the consolidation idea. The cities of Key West and Marathon, village of Islamorada and Monroe County Board of County Commissioners all sent resolutions expressing strong opposition.

“This will likely cause significant logistical issues for Keys residents to have access to courts on the mainland. This issue is even more problematic for Key West residents, who live the farthest from Miami-Dade County,” wrote Ronald Ramsingh, attorney for the city of Key West.

The county’s constitutional officers have also chimed in over the proposal to combine the southernmost circuit courts with Miami-Dade County, which was initially referenced in a letter by House Speaker Paul Renner to Chief Justice Carlos Muñiz June.

“Since day one a lot of us have been fighting against this wholeheartedly,” said Robert Lockwood, Monroe County public defender.

Holly Elomina, court administrator, recently told county commissioners that residents would lose access to justice if the court was consolidated with the larger neighboring county with nearly 1.5 million registered voters.

“Our votes would not stand a chance with voters in Miami,” she said.

State Attorney Dennis Ward has made his rounds on the radio, television and other gatherings to discuss the consolidation idea, which he said has political motivations to keep state attorneys Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended from returning to office. Last year, DeSantis suspended Hillsborough County’s state attorney, Andrew Warren, for refusing to follow the law in certain cases. Warren has filed paperwork to run and get his job back.

Lockwood, Ward and Bob Shillinger, Monroe County attorney, are among the Keys contingent set to travel to Tampa for the public hearing.

Keys residents interested in learning more about the potential consolidation of the court system can attend a rally on Sunday, Oct. 8 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Juice House, 103200 Overseas Highway, Key Largo. The event will welcome guest speakers while sharing information with the attending public.

Those interested in virtually attending the Oct. 13 public hearing can scan the QR code.

The Judicial Circuit Assessment Committee will hold a public hearing on the potential consolidation of the courts on Friday, Oct. 13 in Tampa. Residents can attend virtually.

CAR DEALERSHIP CHANGES HANDS

WARREN HENRY AUTO GROUP BUYS NILES SALES & SERVICE

mandy@keysweekly.com

Alongtime Key West car dealership has new owners.

Warren Henry Auto Group recently bought Niles Sales & Service to expand its Keys Auto Center, which opened in 2017, when the family-owned dealership company bought the old Duncan Ford at 1618 N. Roosevelt Blvd.

Keys Auto Center now includes Niles Sales & Service, a mile or so away at 3500 N. Roosevelt.

“We’re really excited for this to all come together and we’re proud to continue our commitment to customer service and the local community,” said Larry Zinn, executive general manager of Warren Henry Auto Group, the dealership group his father launched in South Florida more than 40 years ago.

The purchase of Niles broadens Keys Auto Center’s product range to include five additional brands — Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Nissan and Cadillac. In total, Keys Auto Center will offer 13 brands to residents of the Lower Keys.

Keys Auto Center will operate for the time being from its two current locations — Key West North is at 3500 N. Roosevelt Blvd. and Niles is now its Key West South location at 1618 N. Roosevelt.

Construction and improvement plans are underway at the Key West North location, which will ultimately offer customers all 13 auto brands under one roof in Key West. An 18-month-long renovation plan includes the construction of a new 15,000-square-foot dealership at 1618 N. Roosevelt.

“I’ve been impressed by Jack Niles and his operation for a long time,” Larry Zinn said. “It’s an honor to merge this respected dealership with KAC and welcome Jack’s clients and friends to the Warren Henry Family.”

Zinn’s plan is to “keep the entire Niles staff for as long as they want to stay; we inherited a really great team there,” he told the Keys Weekly last week. “I want to reassure people that we’re coming in to improve on things, not to turn everything on its head.”

Warren Henry Auto Group recently bought the former Niles Sales & Service to expand its Keys Auto Center in Key West. MAISON SELLERS/Overseas Media Group

Lee Holt, general manager of Keys Auto Center, grew up in the Lower Keys community and knows how important family-owned businesses and local relationships are.

“Relationships mean everything in the Keys,” Holt said. “I understand the diverse community we serve and the importance of providing excellent service to all who walk through our doors.”

The Warren Henry Auto Group has received numerous awards and accolades for customer service, which Zinn says sets the company apart from other corporate and online car-shopping entities.

“The big benefit of buying from a family-owned dealership group is that there’s always someone there who’s gonna care,” he said. “The business has a soul. And I truly believe that.”

Larry Zinn’s father, Warren Henry Zinn, launched Warren Henry Auto Group in the Miami area in 1976.

So, what does a third-generation car guy — whose inventory includes Lamborghinis, Bugattis, Jaguars and Land Rovers — choose to drive for himself?

“I’m currently driving a Land Rover, but it changes,” Zinn said, laughing. “But I think my ultimate dream car would be a Lamborghini Miura — a classic Lamborghini that’s widely considered the world’s first supercar.”

More information about Keys Auto Center and Warren Henry Auto Group is at 305-690-6006 or warrenhenryauto.com.

FREE MOVIE NIGHT WITH AN OCEAN VIEW PARTY ANIMALS

KEY WEST OUTDOOR MOVIES ARE BACK — AND BETTER THAN EVER

FANTASY FEST PET MASQUERADE SET FOR OCT. 25

mandy@keysweekly.com

It’s been awhile, but the popular — and free — Key West Outdoor Movies are back and better than ever.

Bring your beach chairs, blankets and even the bean bags from your boat to the Parade Grounds at East Martello Museum on Friday, Oct. 13. Settle on the soft grass under the stars and enjoy a free screening of the “Super Mario Bros. Movie” starting at 7 p.m.

The popcorn is free, but donations will benefit the Key West High School video production class, which will also be selling soft drinks and snacks. A few other local food vendors will be on hand for the screening.

The recently renewed Parade Grounds at East Martello offer plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the show.

“We’ll also have a bounce house, some cornhole games and plenty of room for kids to throw a ball or play Frisbee before the movie starts,” said organizer Jason Hoegle, who started KWOM at Bayview Park in 2014 after he had been showing movies on a giant screen in his own backyard for his son and friends.

When the backyard got too crowded, Hoegle and Scott Gerke expanded the idea and invited the whole community.

The outdoor movies quickly became a beloved monthly event.

The arrival of Hurricane Irma in 2017 and COVID in 2020, followed by the departure of Gerke from Key West, put the program on hiatus — until now.

Hoegle has now partnered with the Key West Art & Historical Society and is still accepting local sponsors to continue to expand the program.

“We’re going to do the movies the first and third Friday of every month,” Hoegle said. “We’re starting this first one a week late on Oct. 13, but from then on, it’ll be the first and third Friday at 7 p.m.”

Hoegle will choose about half of the season’s movies, but will enable the community to vote on the others through the Key West Outdoor Movies Facebook page. Votes are currently being accepted for the Halloween-themed screening on Oct. 20. Options include: “COCO,” “Beetlejuice,” “Hocus Pocus 2,” “Hotel Transylvania: Transformania,” and a fan favorite, the original 1994 “Ghostbusters.”

Other movies will be selected based on a monthly theme, Hoegle said, adding that April will likely feature “The Lorax” or “Finding Nemo” in tribute to Earth Day.

“While I’ll always let the community pick most of the movies, there are a few I’ll absolutely insist on showing — “The Goonies” and “The Princess Bride” — those are two great nostalgic ones for the parents who grew up in the ’80s.”

All movies are family-friendly and screenings will take place October through May.

“We’re thrilled to have partnered with the Key West Art & Historical Society,” Hoegle said. “East Martello Parade Grounds is right on South Roosevelt Boulevard, making it easily accessible for everyone in New Town and Stock Island.”

More information is at kwoutdoormovies.com or on Facebook.

Dozens of masquerade contests, themed parties and other spectacles will challenge the creativity of mask and costume designers during Key West’s Oct. 20-29 Fantasy Fest celebration — but none more than the Pet Masquerade.

Scheduled Wednesday, Oct. 25, the family-friendly costume competition is designed for dogs, cats, birds and other domestic animals accompanied by their human companions. The offbeat event typically draws entries ranging from pet-and-person duos to groups of animals and people staging choreographed performances. Many entries are likely to reflect the 2023 Fantasy Fest theme of “Uniforms and Unicorns … 200 Years of Sailing into Fantasy,” saluting the Florida Keys’ bicentennial and the U.S. Navy’s two centuries in Key West.

Furred and feathered contestants might be attired as canine space cadets, saucy sailors, four-footed football stars or other uniformed originals — or adorned with the horn of a mythical unicorn.

For more than 25 years, the Pet Masquerade has been owned and produced by QuePasa KW Inc. to benefit the Lower Keys Friends of Animals.

QuePasa’s Nancy D’Amato will emcee the contest with local radio personality “Rude Girl.”

The 2023 competition is set to begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater at Key West’s Truman Waterfront Park, 21 E. Quay Road.

Each year, several dozen people and pets prance across the amphitheater stage as spectators applaud. Judges traditionally award prizes for the top junior contestants, most exotic attire, best theme adaptation, best pet-owner look-alikes and overall winner.

Highlights of past years’ masquerades have included a “Rocky Horror Picture Show” ensemble featuring four basset hounds, a lion tamer with a canine “lion,” an Italian greyhound costumed as the late rock star Prince, and a large troupe of people and animals spoofing the 1988 film “Beetlejuice.”

General admission for spectators is free, with ample seating and space for blankets and lawn chairs. Food and beverages will be available for purchase on-site; coolers are not allowed.

Registration for competitors begins at 5 p.m. and the fee is $25 per category. — Contributed

John Delaney and his pugs Angelo and Barbie portray the filming of ‘Sunset Boulevard’ during the 2022 Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade, which takes place this year on Oct. 25. FLORIDA KEYS NEWS BUREAU/Contributed

MANDY MILES

Key West Outdoor Movies, which launched in 2014 at Bayview Park, return Oct. 13 to a new venue at East Martello Parade Grounds. CONTRIBUTED

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SAUNDERS TO RUN FOR ELECTIONS SUPERVISOR

ROMERO SAYS SHE’S BEEN ASKED, BUT WON’T ANNOUNCE UNTIL JANUARY

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

GREATER KEY WEST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT/RECEPTIONIST

Full-Time: Monday - Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm

Salary: $24 per hour

Excellent Benefits include paid holidays, vacation time, sick time, and health insurance. Parking provided on premises for employees.

Responsibilities:

- Greet and welcome visitors in a professional and friendly manner in visitor center

- Answer and direct phone calls, take messages, and provide information to callers

- Manage the reception area, ensuring it is clean and organized

- Perform clerical duties such as data entry, filing, copying, posting daily mail and responding to Visitor email requests.

Ron Saunders, a Democrat, will run for supervisor of elections next August. CONTRIBUTED

Former State Rep. Ron Saunders announced on Sept. 29 that he will be seeking election as Monroe County supervisor of elections in the 2024 election. The current supervisor, Joyce Griffin, has said she will not seek re-election next year.

Saunders, a fifth-generation native of the Keys and a Democrat, served in the Florida House of Representatives for 14 years, representing all of Monroe County and parts of Miami-Dade County, states a press release from Saunders, who conducted his final Evening Edition radio show on US 1 Radio on Sept. 29.

a number of people up and down the Keys to run, and I will make a formal announcement in January,” Romero told the Keys Weekly on Sept. 29.

In his press release, Saunders writes that he was “selected twice by an independent panel as the most effective member of the 120-member House. He sponsored and passed the Save Our Homes cap on homestead property value assessments as well as the first Everglades Protection Act and the Save the Manatee license plate.

“He chaired the House Appropriations Committee in charge of the state budget and was recognized for his fiscal conservatism by Florida TaxWatch for passing the first state budget free of wasteful member projects, known as ‘turkeys,’” the release states.

- O er support for monthly and annual Chamber events such as "Business After Hours" networking events, Golf Tournament, etc.

- Provide administrative support as needed in updating membership database, compiling community calendar of events online, weekly lodging availability, and preparing deposits.

- Special Projects as assigned by the Executive Director

Qualifications:

- Previous experience as a receptionist or administrative assistant preferred

- Strong customer service skills with the ability to handle inquiries and resolve issues professionally

- Familiarity with Key West extremely helpful

Margaret Romero, a former Key West city commissioner and community watchdog, retired IBM businesswoman and a Republican, plans to announce her decision on whether to run for supervisor of elections in January. CONTRIBUTED

Margaret Romero, a multi-generation Conch from Key West, a former Key West city commissioner and a Republican, has also been mentioned repeatedly in local political circles as a potential candidate for supervisor of elections.

“I think it’s way too early to focus on next year’s August elections. I’ve been asked by

“While serving in the Legis lature, Saunders. an attorney, was regarded by other legisla tors as an election law expert due to his legal knowledge and political campaign experience. He served as a volunteer poll worker in last year’s primary and general elections.”

Saunders for the past six years has been a news anchor at 104.1 US1 Radio in the Keys.

“I will use my election law knowledge, leadership and communication skills, and leg islative experience, as well as the trust I hope I have earned from my years of community service, to make sure Monroe County voters have the fair and impartial elections they expect and deserve,’ Saunders said.

Former Florida Keys State Rep. and recent radio news anchor

MEET THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE PARADE FLOATS

STANLEY SHAW CONSTRUCTION BUILDS IT BIG

CAROL TEDESCO www.keysweekly.com

The 2023 Bud Light Fantasy Fest parade will roll down Duval Street on Saturday, Oct. 28, and for several weeks, anyone driving by the Stanley Shaw Construction property on Stock Island may have seen company president Stan Shaw, along with a team of friends and fabricators, busy at work sawing, drilling, painting and constructing what looks to be a vintage aircraft carrier. Keys Weekly was intrigued and caught up with Stan for some “behind the scenes” insider Q&As ahead of the parade.

Stan, first up, where were you born, and what brought you to the Keys? I was born in Bangor, Maine, and moved here from Saco, Maine, in 2004 because I was tired of working in the cold outdoors. I have two daughters, Eden, 14, who lives here in Key West with me, and a grown daughter Tasha, who lives in Lyman, Maine. Candy Hall has been my Stanley Shaw Construction, Inc., business partner for almost a decade.

What year did you first enter the Fantasy Fest Parade and how did it come about? We first built and entered a float in 2022, and we won the “Director’s Choice Award” with our “Madder than Mad Max” entry. Previously I’d always watched it from the post office lawn, but in 2021 I decided to purchase a 1946 Chevy 2-ton stake-bed truck with the intention of entering parades and becoming a more active member of the community.

How did you feel, being a prizewinner in your first parade? Elated! It wasn’t the top prize, though, so it inspires me to do bigger and better.

How did you and your team spend your prize money? We donated our winnings to the Key West Wildlife Center, and we’ve already decided that if we win the “big prize” this year, the money will be split equally between two excellent charities, so we are very motivated.

Any memorable mishaps, lessons learned or unforgettable moments from year one? Not

preparing the ’46 Chevy for such a slow parade was a huge lesson learned. I’ve since upgraded the oil and added an electric fan in front of the radiator to keep the engine cooler. The unforgettable moment was hearing for the first time thousands of people chanting the name of your float!

Will you tell us what you’re cooking up for 2023? We’re celebrating the Navy, i.e., the “uniforms” part of this year’s theme, ‘Uniforms & Unicorns — 200 Years of Sailing into Fantasy’ theme, and are building a representation of a 1940s aircraft carrier that will carry a live USO Camp Show like the ones that entertained troops during World War II. You’ll see classic World War II and USOstyle nostalgia: Rosie the Riveter, a Bob Hope-type stand-up comic, Andrews Sisters/Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy inspired performers and tunes, and eight World War II style pin-up girls who will be perched on spinning platforms installed on poles that we’re building based on World War II pin-up art.

How many people do you expect to have in your group? We expect to have 30 to 40, some walking and some on board the float.

How do you select your team each year? Word of mouth and a few dedicated, awesome friends. Also a few employees get volunteered in a pinch.

What would you say are your top 5 musthave materials for float building? Plywood, framing material, paint, fasteners and of course great costumes.

Do you have any advice to offer anyone thinking about entering? Have deep pockets (or collect a participation fee from everyone on your team) to do it right. Do it for the joy of doing it, and the satisfaction of making this event memorable for everyone.

Fantasy Fest 2023 is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and We’ve Got the Keys. For a full calendar of events, schedule updates, and a downloadable mobile app visit fantasyfest.com.

1. The ‘Madder than Mad Max’ float, designed by Stanley Shaw Construction, won the Director’s Choice Award in the 2022 Fantasy Fest Parade. CAROL TEDESCO/FantasyFest.com

2. Stan Shaw, center, channels Mad Max on his 2022 Fantasy Fest parade float, with teammates costumed as Wasteland inhabitants from the ‘Mad Max’ film franchise. CONTRIBUTED

3. From left, float builders Brian Miller, Stan Shaw, Mike Davis and Alan Sheppard pause while working on their team’s 2023 “Happy Anniversary United States Navy Key West” Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade float. CAROL TEDESCO/FantasyFest.com

4. Stan Shaw displays an example of World War II poster art used as inspiration for his team’s 2023 float. CAROL TEDESCO/FantasyFest.com

CAN’T STOP, WON’T STOP: KWHS BAND WORKS FOR LONDON

STUDENTS STILL SHORT $70K FOR NEW YEAR’S TRIP

GWEN FILOSA gwen@keysweekly.com

What do you do when you need more than a quarter of a million dollars for the opportunity of a lifetime? You hustle. Nonstop.

That’s what Key West High School Band members and their families have been doing for months, to put together about $340,000 so 75 students can travel to London, England, to perform in the city’s 2024 New Year’s Day parade.

The Marching Conchs earlier this year were invited to join more than 70 acts, made up of some 8,000 performers from 23 countries, for London’s New Year’s Day parade and festival.

Since then, band members, who pump up the crowds at Fighting Conchs football games, and also earn fine arts credits for band participation, have been all over the island raising money, holding car washes and yard sales and selling popcorn and snow cones at events like the Key Lime Pie Festival.

Every dollar gets them closer to what they’ve been told by other bands who’ve made such a trip is more than worth the daily grind of fundraising.

“There will be more than 700,000 people in attendance along with millions of television viewers,” band director Gary Hernandez told Keys Weekly.

But they’re still about $70,000 away from making their London dream come true, Hernandez said, and the deadline to pay event organizers in full is fast approaching.

“The last deposit to the company is due at the end of October and we still have quite a ways to go to make it there,” Hernandez said.

This type of travel isn’t covered in the Monroe County School District’s budget. “This is completely self-funded,” Hernandez said. “The district provides the credit card system and accounting software for all donations made.”

Donations continue to come in, $1,000 here and a couple thousand more here. Students accept each one with gratitude.

They glimpsed their future recently. On Sept. 25, the London Founders and Patrons of the New Year’s Day Parade and Festival sent representatives to Key West High School to present the formal invitation to perform on New Year’s Day.

Steve Summers, chair of the London’s Mayor’s Association, congratulated the band in person. “You guys are amazing and I can’t wait to see you in London,” Summers said, to cheers from the band students who suited up in their uniforms to attend the invitation ceremony, which included them performing.

The London reps also brought gifts. Band student Eddie Strunk accepted an official “lucky umbrella” from the parade organizers, a London tradition meant to ward off any chance of rain the day of the parade.

The band will have car washes from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sat. Oct. 7 at both the Key West Kia dealership and the Chevron station at Truman Avenue and White Street. Also on Saturday, they’ll hold a yard sale from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Strunk Ace Hardware, 1101 Eaton St.

The London parade invitation is an honor for any American high school band. But for the Marching Conchs, it’s a rare opportunity. They’ve had their hopes dashed before.

The band had planned a tour of Italy in March 2020, but that was canceled due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hernandez said.

“Before that, the band took a trip to Rome 16 years ago and to London 18 years ago,” Hernandez said. “We do not believe the KWHS band has ever performed for such an event this grand in scale.”

Key West High School band members have been hustling all year to raise money to travel to London, England, to perform on New Year’s Day, holding fundraising drives like this one recently at Fausto’s grocery. KEY WEST HIGH SCHOOL BAND/Contributed

The Key West High School band performs at a football game in 2023. HEATHER DOW/Contributed

IGNITING THE POWDER KEG

CHRIS McNULTY

is an astrologer, wanderer, bartender and advocate for queer justice. He is a loquacious Gemini with a cozy Cancer rising. Find him at hearthandheraldastrology.com

Happy Libra season, the time of year when we have reaped our harvest and are gathering and gabbing with loved ones to ensure we are all on good terms before we coop up together to keep warm in the cold, wintry months. OK, that image doesn’t quite match our experience in the Keys, but the metaphor still stands astrologically. Our week began with a little mind-fog as the cognitive planet Mercury opposed nebulous Neptune. Right now, however, the main event is Mars’ 90-degree square to Pluto. Mars oversees willpower, action and aggression, and Pluto rules raw power, unconscious drives and the transition from death to rebirth. When these two planets come together, it’s like a match to a powder keg. Be prepared for tempers to soar, survival instincts to set in, and some major changes to take place. Pro tip: Harness this time to break out of your old patterns and channel your internal combustion engine to incinerate what no longer serves you. Keep calm and carry on because everyone is going to be on edge.

Here are your horoscopes for Mars square Pluto. Read for your rising and sun signs.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 - Oct. 23

A very happy solar return, Libra. That’s how we astrologers say “Happy birthday!” The sun is shining its light on you, and we can all see you in your thoughtful, social and fair glory. Right now, you have the drive within you to create some change with home and family. You are the catalyst, so wield your power effectively. Stay focused and keep

your head level to produce a breakthrough rather than chaos.

SCORPIO

Oct. 24 - Nov. 21

Are you harboring some hidden frustrations? Perhaps they’ve been building for a little while. Now is the time to release some steam, but be careful not to overreact on your siblings or neighbors, even if they are the focus of your tensions. You have the chance to communicate with an unusual power, so choose your words carefully to garner the results you want.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 - Dec. 21

Your will-to-power is traveling a line connecting your collaborative efforts and your value systems. Self-worth has been a major theme for you for a long time, and now you can really work with others to light a fire under the activities that bring your value to the fore. However, be mindful not to unleash the beast when would-be collaborators aren’t up to snuff — seek out a different team.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 - Jan. 19

Famous Capricorn Dolly Parton got us foot-tapping to the perils of working 9-5, and you likely feel as if you’re living those lyrics. Frustration and work can go hand in hand, but don’t let the man getcha down. Fan the flames of your discontent and use the energy to transform into the version of yourself that you want to show up. Don’t burn bridges … step into your power.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 - Feb. 18

You’ve been doing some deep inner work for a long time, and it appears your process is going to be sparked by some new idea or belief system that doesn’t quite fit your inner world. This could be a fantastic learning oppor-

tunity or a moment of colliding perspectives, depending on how you approach the conflict. Take a breath before you act, because act you must.

PISCES

Feb. 19 - March 20

We all need to work with other people in some way, shape or form, and you’ve been transforming your network for years. Right now, you may encounter a serious disagreement about the shared values and resources with this crew. Dissent is actually quite healthy in a group setting as long as it doesn’t descend into a quarrel. Can you direct the group’s energy by keeping everyone’s eyes on the prize?

ARIES

March 21 - April 19

Balancing work and relationships can be a difficult task. There are only so many hours in a day. Expect a bit of dissonance between these two spheres of life, perhaps even some conflict. However, it looks like your partnerships will be affecting changes at work rather than the alternative. Let your love transform your priorities.

TAURUS

April 20 - May 20

There’s a classic distinction between the trades and the academy — working with your hands or with your mind. Let’s be honest, though, we all have to do a bit of both in our lives. Right now, the laborer in you is fighting with the high-falutin’ thinker. You’ve been on a long journey of expanding your horizons, but right now you’ve got to buckle down and get to work. You know the drill.

GEMINI

May 21 - June 21

Your own creative self-expression can experience friction with your more collaborative efforts. You are a singular person with

your own mark to make, and yet you are a social animal that must also invest in other people. A compromise certainly can be made, but you’re going to have to light a fire under your booty to find the way forward. Turn up the gas, Gemini.

CANCER

June 22 - July 22

The place you call home, whether that is your family of origin or the literal place you live, is somehow kindling tension with a significant partner. Now is the time to release that tension, perhaps a bit explosively. But conflict can lead to creative, unexpected results. Mind your temper, sweet Cancer, and let this crucible forge a new way forward for love and home.

LEO

July 23 - Aug. 22

You’re generally not one to hold back your opinions, Leo, but you might find that your words are particularly aggressive right now. You’ve been working on transforming your regular routines for a long time, and it looks like some challenges to your habits might be making you a little extra testy. Be assertive without being cruel. That’s the best lesson.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 - Sept. 22

Your self-expression and creativity have been growing through years of deep development. You may now be feeling some stress between your artistic pursuits and your need for financial and material stability. There’s a fire in this stress, and your need for security is a fuel for innovation. Let your base needs take priority right now, but don’t sacrifice your originality. How can you do both?

FRESH SEAFOOD, STRONG DRINKS, PANORAMIC WATERFRONT VIEWS, OUTDOOR DINING AND PLENTY OF LOCAL CHARACTERS.

TUCKED AWAY IN SAFE HARBOR, STOCK ISLAND, THE HOGFISH BAR & GRILL IS A TRUE “LOCALS” SPOT

TAKE ME HOME?

ANOTHER WEEK FILLED WITH POSSIBILITIES OF SECOND CHANCES

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

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

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

HELP KEEP KEY WEST CLEAN

JOIN A 1- HOUR CLEANUP FRIDAY MORNINGS

Oh, Stanky Leg. Yes, we said Stanky Leg. This 3-year-old, 7½ -pound Chihuahua has a bit of a limp, but don’t worry. His name bothers him far more than his leg.

“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they have the heart.”

Corn can be served in so many ways. Two-month-old Cream Corn is enjoyed best when playing, snuggling and receiving petpets.

Rosemary is used in aromatherapy to relieve stress. You’ll feel the same when you take Rosemary, this gorgeous female rabbit, home as well.

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

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

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

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

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

— Contributed

JOIN THE PLOGGERS FOR 1-HOUR CLEANUP FROM 8 TO 9 A.M. ON FRIDAY.

all kittens, a little salty.

Meet Dinklage. This beautiful 7-yearold male is only interested in one throne: your lap. Once you sit down, the game of love is on.

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

Oct. 6: Mallory Square: Meet in the parking lot near the Dumpster.

Oct. 13: Southard, Thomas & Whitehead streets: Meet in the parking lot behind the Courthouse.

Oct. 20: Duval and Eaton streets: Meet next to Berkshire Hathaway real estate office.

Oct. 27: North Roosevelt Boulevard: Meet in the Denny’s parking lot.

— Elizabeth Andrew

On Sept. 29, 27 volunteers spread over the Fort Street corridor and collected 271 pounds of trash, 10 pounds of recyclable materials and two gallons of cigarette butts – a rewarding cleanup in Key West’s historic district. Thank you to Marianne Finizio from CHI for hosting the Ploggers with refreshments after all their hard work. CONTRIBUTED

No butter needed here. Corn on the Cob, a 2-month-old kitten, is already sweet, delicious and, like

TAKE STOCK DESPERATELY NEEDS MENTORS

RECORD NUMBER OF STUDENTS APPLY FOR PROGRAM

SHELF HELP

Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection. What: “Gilgamesh: A New English Version” translated by Stephen Mitchell

SAVE THE DATE

Oct. 6-8

• Lower Keys Rotary presents ‘Haunted Hospital & Hayride’ at Big Pine Park. Friday & Saturday from sunset to 10 p.m., Sunday to 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 to $7.

Tuesday, Oct. 10

• Deadline to submit artwork to JAG Gallery’s Small Works 2023 juried exhibit. Artists are invited to submit up to six 2- or 3-D works: painting, drawing, photography, sculpture or textiles. The only stipulation is that submissions cannot exceed 10 inches in any direction. Small Works 2023 opens with a gallery reception on Nov. 3 and runs through Nov. 26. Works also will be available online. Entry information, details and application are at jaggallery.art.

Friday, Oct. 13

• Florida Keys Wildlife Society hosts a guided bird/nature walk on Long Beach Road, Big Pine Key. 8 to 9:30 a.m. RSVP to keydeer@fws.gov.

Take Stock in Children Monroe announced recently that more than 160 scholarship applications from 13 middle and high schools throughout the Florida Keys were submitted for review, resulting in the acceptance of 86 deserving students into the program.

“Following a 30% increase in the TSIC Monroe income eligibility thresholds, we have received a record number of scholarship applications from deserving students across Monroe County,” said Chuck LicisMasson, executive director of the Monroe County Education Foundation.

Now more than ever, Take Stock Monroe needs mentors. “We cannot bring in a new student until a volunteer mentor is trained and ready to be matched,” LicisMasson said.

Take Stock in Children Monroe is seeking volunteer mentors for these students. Each student accepted into

CONTRIBUTED

the program is matched with a mentor who provides guidance, support and inspiration throughout the student’s educational journey.

“We don’t want to leave a deserving student waiting for a mentor,” Licis-Masson said. “By volunteering as a mentor, you have the opportunity to transform the life of a deserving student and positively influence the future of our local as well as greater community.”

Take Stock in Children Monroe welcomes individuals from all walks of life to join its mentorship program. No experience is required; training is provided to all volunteers. Mentors are matched with students based on shared interests, personalities and goals.

More information is at monroecountyedfound. com or from Licis-Masson at chuck.licis@monroecountyedfound.com or at 305293-1546.

— Contributed

Why: Part mythical and possibly part historical, this work is likely the first epic in Western literature, circa 2700 to 2000 BC from Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq). The journey of Gilgamesh and his mate, Enkidu, in search of immortality is certainly myth, but some historians have linked a real Gilgamesh as king of the Sumerian city-state of Uruk (present-day city of Warka, Iraq). Gilgamesh symbolizes man’s vain attempt for fame, glory and immortality — themes repeated throughout Western literature.

In their travels, among other events, Gilgamesh and Enkidu encounter and kill the demon Humbaba and fight and kill the Bull of Heaven. This enrages the gods, who kill Enkidu. Heartbroken by the death, Gilgamesh sets off into the wilderness to find immortality. He searches for Utnapishtim, a Noah-like character to whom the gods granted eternal life after the flood. Gilgamesh hopes Utnapishtim can help him avoid death as well. Utnapishtim tells Gilgamesh that he will die, but mankind will survive. Reconciled at last to his own mortality, Gilgamesh returns to Uruk. (It should be noted that the flood narrative appears in the Hebrew Bible and that there are other connections between the two works. The epic is a quick read for a long weekend afternoon.)

Where: This is available as a large print book from the Monroe County Library system.

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

Recommended by: Richard Richardson, library assistant, Big Pine Key branch.

• Singer-songwriter Sarah McQuaid performs, 4 p.m., at the Key West branch of the Monroe County Library, 700 Fleming St. The concert is free, but seating is limited on a first come, first served basis.

Saturday, Oct. 14

• Coastlove Stock Island Cleanup & Community Celebration, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bernstein Park. Following the community cleanup, Coastlove will host a picnic at the park. Visit coastlove.org/stockisland for more information and to register volunteer groups of 8 to 10 people for the cleanup.

• Native Plant Giveaway at the Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuge Nature Center, 30587 Overseas Hwy., Big Pine Key. 10 a.m. to noon.

Sunday, Oct. 15

• Fall Family Day takes place from 1 to 6 p.m. at Seacamp on Big Pine Key, 1300 Big Pine Ave. The event includes a costume contest, concessions, kayak tours, a touch tank, bounce house, pumpkin crafts and more. Adult admission is $5. Kids are free. No pets, please. Call 305-8722331 or email info@seacamp.org for more information.

• Join local supporters on the Rooftop of The Studios Key West, 533 Eaton St., for entertainment and information on the petition initiative to place an amendment on the Florida 2024 ballot to limit interference in women’s health choices. 6 to 8:30 p.m. Hosted by Heather Carruthers, Mayor Teri Johnston, Natalia Duke, Darlene Thomas, and Key West NOW.

Students with Take Stock in Children Monroe conduct lab work during a visit to MarineLab in Key Largo in June.

HISTORY AT THE HUNGRY TARPON

SHARING STORIES OVER SOME BREAKFAST IS A NEW ENDEAVOR

Outside of Key West, there is little opportunity for a Florida Keys historian to make a living.

FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI

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.

For nearly two years, however, I have been planting seeds, tending my fields and watching things grow. One of those seeds was the Facebook group Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli. Not only has it grown and blossomed, but its popularity inspired me to begin a series of books exploring lesser-known local histories.

Volumes 1 and 2 have been published, Volume 3 is in the works, and Volumes 4 and 5, the Indian Key Chronicles, will become my ultimate passion project.

While I spend most of my time sitting on a wooden stool in front of my desk and tapping on the keyboard, I have been getting out at least once a month and sharing local history with the public at the Islamorada Moose Lodge. This free public event occurs on the first Monday of every month, and we have entered year two. I have not repeated a presentation yet, but that streak will likely end this year.

Maybe not; I could easily tell a different story about Indian Key every month for a year — hence the Indian Key Chronicles, scheduled to fill at least two volumes. Though there has been a lot written about Indian Key, there are definitely new and lesser-known stories connected to the island still out there to share.

At a more appropriate date, I’ll share details on future talks that include several on the schedule for December and January in Key West. One of the most exciting recent developments, potentially, was that I filmed for the pilot of a television series on which, if it gets picked up, I’ll have a small recurring role as the show’s historian. If it goes forward, I’m looking forward to an expanded platform to share some fantastic island histories. Fingers crossed.

For the pilot, I filmed some of the scenes at Islamorada’s Keys History & Discovery Center, where, for eight years, I worked as the curator. When I was hired in 2013, the facility had two floors of blank blue walls. While I was unable to complete my vision for the staircase and the second floor, I created amazing exhibits exploring the local history on the first floor.

When I went back last week to film for the show, it was the first time I had entered the facility in almost two years. It was a surreal experience as I took the show’s host and crew around the exhibits and shared stories detailing where each artifact came from, how the stories were developed, and the Easter egg I included in one of the artifact cases. The experience was bittersweet. It was good to see the exhibits

and be reminded of all the love I poured into my work there, but it was sad to see that the wealth of stories behind the artifacts and the exhibits is being lost.

Now, the odds are that the television show will not go anywhere, and I’ll tell the short story in a few months, but then again, you never know. In the meantime, busy is good, and I’ve been busy exploring the local history and sharing it with a growing audience. While my preference is to stay behind the scenes, do the research, learn the really cool history, write all the words and share what I have learned by telling the best stories that I can, it is time to step out from behind my computer and more consistently engage with the outside world.

The idea has been percolating on the back burner for some time. Ready or not, beginning Thursday, Oct. 12, I will be keeping “office hours” at Robbie’s Marina every Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. What better place to set up a “history hub” than at one of the classic roadside attractions where everyone stops anyway?

Between the history of Islamorada’s Lower Matecumbe Key and Robbie’s property, I could not think of a better place to share a tremendous array of local history. Like a cherry atop the whipped cream piled on a moist piece of chocolate cake, the marina overlooks Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park and Indian Key Historic State Park — once upon a time, the most important island in the Florida Keys not named Key West and my favorite island in the whole of the chain.

To kick things off at Robbie’s, what will (hopefully) become a recurring event is tentatively titled “Breakfast with Brad at the Hungry Tarpon.” On that Thursday, Oct. 12, from 8 to 10 a.m., I will be at the restaurant talking about local history and signing copies of the first two volumes of my book series Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli – and yes, along with the eggs, pancakes and coffee, books will be available, too.

The Hungry Tarpon is the waterfront restaurant at the property that came upon its name because feeding the schools of hungry tarpon that gather under the marina’s docks has been a local attraction since the 1970s.

The building no longer serves as the restaurant but as the kitchen for the old-school roadside attraction. Initially, it was built as the bait and tackle shop for the Starck family, who operated the first marina on the property, the Starck Fishing Camp. When they arrived on Lower Matecumbe Key circa 1946, the Starcks became the island’s first permanent residents.

So, going forward, if you are in the area on a Thursday or are driving down to Marathon, Key West, or somewhere in between, stop by to say “hello” and ask me about the local history.

Hungry Tarpon at Robbie’s Marina in Islamorada. BRAD BERTELLI/Contributed

SPECIAL OPERATIONS FROM ALL BRANCHES COMPETE IN KEY WEST

GREEN BERETS WIN BRAGGING RIGHTS AS BEST COMBAT DIVERS

No, Key West Harbor was not under attack last week, when Chinook helicopters dropped special operations divers into the churning water below.

Rather, elite military special operations teams including Army Green Berets and Navy SEALs were in town, competing in the Special Operations Command Best Combat Diver Competition hosted by the Army’s Special Forces Underwater Operations (SFUWO) on Fleming Key.

“In close competition, U.S. Army Green Berets assigned to the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) took first place last week in the U.S. Army Special Operations Command Best Combat Diver Competition,” wrote Elvia Kelly, deputy director of public affairs for the U.S. Army JFK Special Warfare Center and School in Key West, which hosted the competition.

The grueling, three-day challenge took place Sept. 25-27 in, under and around the waters of Key West, and at the underwater school.

Thirteen two-person teams from the Army and Navy completed 10 events, vying for the title of best combat dive team across the military’s special operations commands.

“The competition determines the best twoman ‘dive buddy’ team in the United States special operations force,” said Maj. Brandon Schwartz, SFUWO commander. “Everyone who competed has gone through a joint accredited institution and are all qualified combat divers.”

Teams were graded on time, accuracy and proficiency in performing operations they would conduct during a special operations dive mission, Schwartz said.

Judges used a point system to score each team.

The competition included a static-line jump from a Chinook helicopter into a kayak race, surface and underwater swims, and a 1,500-meter

navigation dive in Fleming Bay. Participants also competed to see which team could tread water the longest while passing a 15-pound weight back and forth. They tested their lung capacity during an underwater pool swim. And they topped it all off with a four-mile race on the third day.

“This competition was amazing,” he said. “I’m really proud of the organization and the competitors. The few points that separated the teams in the final standings speaks to how interoperable and capable SEAL and Green Beret divers are. Our nation should rest easy knowing we have a human capital advantage over any of our country’s strategic competitors.”

Participating dive-buddy teams were from: 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne), 2nd Special Warfare Training Group, 1st Special Warfare Training Group, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Navy SEALs Team 2, Navy SEALs Team 7 and Navy SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team 1, according to Kelly.

AND THE WINNERS ARE

First place: 5th Special Forces GroupAirborne (Team 4) under 1st Special Forces Command, with 787.9 points.

Second place: 2nd Special Warfare Training Group under the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School with 773.7 points.

Third place: 5th Special Forces Group (Team 5) under 1st Special Forces Command, with 766.6 points.

Fourth place: SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team One under Naval Special Warfare Command with 750.2 points.

1. A Chinook looks incongruous hovering near the swank island resort at Sunset Key while dropping military personnel into the water during the Best Combat Diver Competition. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

2. The three-day military competition ends with a hot four-mile run through Key West.

3. A U.S. military special operations soldier battles seaweed and jellyfish while competing in an open-water swim after jumping from a helicopter over Key West Harbor during the Special Operations Command Best Combat Diver Competition in Key West.

4. Chinook helicopters depart from the U.S. Army’s Special Warfare Center and School on Fleming Key and disgorge special operations teams into Key West Harbor during the Best Combat Diver Competition.

5. Military special operations competitors enter the water for a grueling underwater challenge on day three of the Special Operations Command Best Combat Diver Competition in Key West. 3rd POB, 1st SFC/Contributed

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MARATHON’S WOMAN OF STEEL IRON

Leandra Hutchinson set to take on Ironman World Championship in Kona

Afew months ago, Marathon triathlete Leandra Hutchinson could barely lift her left arm over her head. In nine days, she’ll take the start line for one of the most prestigious athletic contests in the world.

Saturday, Oct. 14 marks the women’s Ironman World Championships in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. It’s “the pinnacle of the sport,” as Hutchinson told the Weekly.

“Every Ironman triathlete’s dream is to get to Kona.”

But in the closing month of 2022, her next race was her last thought. A triathlete since 2019, Hutchinson had just recently completed her first full Ironman race – a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and 26.2-mile run, all back to back – in Cozumel, Mexico in November. But when she decided to test her mettle again in December with the Key West sprint triathlon, crowded streets and an unseen road hazard sent her flying off her bike at 27 mph, landing on her head and shoulder.

“I separated the shoulder, I tore muscles and had lacerations all over my body,” she said. “I was down for the count.”

Faced with orthopedic surgeons’ warnings that she may never swim again – one of her favorite components of the race, while “I only run because it’s part of a triathlon,” she joked – Hutchinson began an extensive rehab process for muscles and a bone structure that will never fully heal in the absence of a complex surgery.

But in July, she got an unexpected call: Her Cozumel time was good enough to qualify for the world championship race just three months away. With 48 hours to make her decision, Hutchinson had yet to ride her bike since the crash, and still lacked the range of motion to swim for more than a minute at a time. But the opportunity was “just the dream,” as she told her doctors, friends and family.

“If I say no, I’ll never know if I could have done it. So I said yes, and figured it out afterwards.”

Two and a half months later, Hutchinson said she knows she’s still recovering in some sense, and wishes she had a little more time to bike and swim. Just to note: “A bit more” is on top of the three 100-mile bike rides and one 70-mile ride

in the last month alone. On the date of her interview with the Weekly, since accepting the world championship slot on July 27, Hutchinson had logged 32 miles in the water, 1,202 miles of biking and 165 miles pounding the pavement.

“Taking in my effort level, my heart rate … all the biometric indicators are that I’m (actually) more fit than I was going into Cozumel,” she said, adding that her running is significantly stronger than it was a year ago.

She acknowledged the recovery and warp-speed training plan were all made possible by a wide-reaching support tribe at her back, including training partner Bucky Wile, therapist Christy Minor, Lara Martin and Hapynkeys Running, and international triathlon team The Betty Squad.

And when asked for the “why” behind what many would consider an impossible fitness climb after such a severe injury, Hutchinson left no doubt.

“Kona is celebrating the fact that I lived through what I lived through and I was able to recover,” she said. “We all are capable of more than we know. I have two daughters, and I want to show them that it would have been very easy for me to quit and give up, but you can achieve anything you want if you stay focused on your goals and dreams.”

To watch the best of the best compete in the world championship race, visit ironman.com/ live on Oct. 14.

Left: Hutchinson takes a brief pause during an early morning bike ride.

Top: A bike crash at nearly 30 mph left Hutchinson with torn muscles and fractures in her left shoulder after the Key West sprint triathlon in 2022.

Below: Leandra Hutchinson completes her first full Ironman race in Cozumel in November 2022, one month before her fateful accident.

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS DEBUNKING THE TOP 5 HEALTH MYTHS OF 2023

In our constantly evolving world, it’s crucial to stay informed about health-related matters. Misinformation and myths can easily spread, making it challenging to discern fact from fiction. As we get closer and closer to 2024, let’s debunk the top five health myths that have gained traction and clarify why they are, indeed, myths.

Myth: Detox diets can cleanse your body. Detox diets have been a popular trend for years, promising to rid the body of toxins and improve overall health. However, the concept of detoxing through specific diets or supplements lacks scientific support. The human body already has efficient systems, such as the liver and kidneys, for detoxifying and eliminating harmful substances. No diet can significantly enhance these natural processes. Instead of extreme detox diets, focus on maintaining a balanced, nutrientrich diet to support your body’s natural detoxification mechanisms.

Myth: Eating gluten-free is healthier for everyone. While a gluten-free diet is essential for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it is not necessarily healthier for everyone. Many gluten-free products are often lower in essential nutrients like fiber and can be higher in added sugars and unhealthy fats. For those without gluten-related conditions, eliminating gluten can lead to nutritional deficiencies. It’s vital to consult a health care professional before making drastic dietary changes.

Myth: Natural sweeteners are always better than sugar. The notion that natural sweeteners, like honey or maple syrup, are inherently healthier than refined sugar is misleading. While natural sweeteners may offer slightly more nutrients and antioxidants, they are still high in sugar and calories. Overconsumption of any sweetener, natural or not, can lead to health issues like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Moderation is key, and reducing overall sugar intake remains the primary goal for maintaining a healthy diet.

Myth: Eating at night causes weight gain. Weight management primarily hinges on the total daily calorie intake and expenditure, not the timing of meals. What matters most is the overall balance between calories consumed and calories burned throughout the day. Consuming appropriate portions and making healthy food choices is more crucial than when those calories are consumed. Latenight snacking itself doesn’t inherently lead to weight gain; it’s the quality

and quantity of food that matters most in achieving a healthy weight.

HAPPY HOUR WITH THE HISTORIAN COMBINES ART & HISTORY

JENNIFER BOLTZ HARVEY

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

Myth: Organic foods are always more nutritious. While organic foods often come with a higher price tag, the belief that they are inherently more nutritious is not entirely accurate. Organic foods may have lower pesticide residues, but there is limited evidence to suggest that they consistently offer superior nutritional content. Both organic and conventional foods can be part of a healthy diet. Focus on a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, regardless of whether they are organic or not. An easy way to combat pesticides is by washing your fruits and vegetables. Some “health” agencies have advocated the use of soap, vinegar, lemon juice or even commercial cleaners like bleach as a way to rid pesticides. However, health and food safety experts, including the Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, strongly urge consumers not to take this advice and stick with plain water ONLY. In fact, using such erroneous concoctions can lead to pitting, therefore leading to additional unwanted chemical deposits on food.

Staying informed and critical of health-related information is crucial in the era of easily accessible misinformation. These top five health myths of 2023 have been debunked with solid scientific evidence. To make informed decisions about your health, consult credible sources and healthcare professionals, and remember that moderation and balance are often the keys to a healthy lifestyle.

References:

Harvard Health Publishing - “The dubious practice of detox”

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases - “Celiac Disease”

American Heart Association - “Added Sugars”

Keim, N. L., et al. (2014). Weight Loss Is Greater with Consumption of Large Morning Meals and Fat-Free Mass Is Preserved with Large Evening Meals in Women on a Controlled Weight Reduction Regimen. Journal of Nutrition, 144(6), 1043-1049.

Mayo Clinic - “Organic Foods: Are They Safer? More Nutritious?”

FOLK ARTIST MARIO SANCHEZ IS FOCUS OF DISCUSSION

Raise a glass to Florida Keys art and history with Key West Art & Historical Society curator and historian Cori Convertito on Thursday, Oct. 19, from 5 to 6 p.m. during her “Happy Hour with the Historian” program at Comedy Key West, 218 Whitehead St. Enjoy a complimentary draft beer, glass of house wine or soft drink while Convertito discusses “Collecting Key West: The Sketches of Mario Sanchez.” The presentation will explore the techniques, places and recurring characters featured in the Cuban American artist’s works.

Much as sculptors employ maquettes, Sanchez used his brown paper bag sketches to visualize and experiment with shapes and concepts without undertaking the effort of producing elaborate wood carvings. Both his sketches and wood carvings tell the story of Old Key West, melding art and history in a single scene. His abilities led to Sanchez being presented with the Florida Folk Heritage Award conferred by the Florida Secretary of State and the Florida Folklife Council in 1985. He is still considered one of the nation’s greatest folk artists.

“Key West is fortunate to have Mario Sanchez as a prominent figure in its rich artistic

heritage,” said Convertito. “His sketches and wood carvings are emblematic of our community, making him a local treasure. The sketches and wood carvings appeal to a broad spectrum of people – locals, visitors, adults, and children. His storytelling is timeless.”

Sanchez was a self-taught artist, born in 1908 in Key West’s Gatoville neighborhood. Beginning with modest carvings of local fish in the 1930s, he cultivated his natural talent to create upwards of 600 intricate carvings during his lifetime. His work is renowned for capturing familiar local characters amid the simple life and activities he recalled from his childhood — flying kites, spinning tops, parades and passing the time rocking on front porches. The scenes reveal a valuable and colorful doorway into the cultural history of the island and its people.

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

More information is available from Convertito at 305-2956616 x507 or cconvertito@kwahs. org.

The sketches of Cuban American artist Mario Sanchez will be the subject of Key West Art & Historical Society’s upcoming Happy Hour with the Historian on Oct. 19 at Comedy Key West. KEY WEST ART & HISTORICAL SOCIETY/Contributed

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THE SCOREBOARD

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Fabbianho Louis

Junior, Marathon Football

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS ON

10 12 yards per carry tackles

In his first season of football, Marathon junior Fabbianho “Fab” Louis Jeune has been tearing it up for the Fins on offense, defense and special teams. The 6’2”, 185-pound defensive back and wide receiver has made countless key plays for Marathon this season, with the most memorable thus far being last week’s buzzerbeating interception to seal Marathon’s victory against Florida Christian. Louis Jeune averaged nearly 10 yards per carry in the game and amassed a dozen tackles defensively. In addition to his starting roles on offense and defense, Fab is the team’s kicker and punter.

On the field, Louis Jeune is a menace to any team he faces, but elsewhere, he is one of the kindest, friendliest students in the school. “Fab embodies sportsmanship and is a fantastic all-around athlete,” said McDonald. For his contributions to Marathon on and off the field, Fabbianho Louis Jeune is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Fab is an asset to this team. When we need to get something started, he is there ready to make things happen.”

— Sean McDonald, Marathon head coach

Photo by BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

Friday, Oct. 6 marks the 54th annual Battle of the Keys as Yemcel Moreno and the Hurricanes make the trip south to take on Eduardo Garcia and the Dolphins. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m., with a pregame reception for the 1987 Marathon football team at 6 p.m. See page 8. Photos by Barry Gaukel and Doug Finger.

fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.

The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

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grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.

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tracy mcdonald

sean mcdonald

MOMENTUM ON THE RISE FOR HURRICANES

Coral Shores improved to 9-4 last week, paving the way for a postseason run. After handing Mater Bay a 3-0 loss on the road last week, the Lady ’Canes were back at home in an all-out battle against Westwood Christian School on Sept. 28.

The Warriors entered the contest with six wins and proved their record was not a fluke in the back-andforth gameplay, which took five sets to settle. The Hurricanes entered the game short-handed, without three of their key athletes. Sabina Naranjo, Lily Hitchcock and Violet Matthews were all unable to play in an emotional senior night that head coach Sam Ovalle and coach Jarrod Mandozzi will not soon forget.

Before the match, the Lady ’Canes honored senior captains Iona Holmquist, Crystal Gutierrez-Sandoval and Brooke Mandozzi, all four-year players in the program and key contributors for Coral Shores.

“I knew tonight was going to be an emotional night. These three girls mean so much to the program and me personally,” said Mandozzi. “They are our captains for a reason and they are all just such special young ladies and great leaders and examples for our younger girls.” Though he and Ovalle would have preferred a less formidable opponent for senior night, the athletes stepped up and took care of business, beating Westwood 3-2.

The Hurricanes won the first two sets, but Westwood battled back to tie it up 2-2. With the emotions of senior night and some less experienced players in the mix, Coral Shores could easily have let the game slip away, but instead, they regrouped and defeated Westwood with resolve in the final set.

“I’m just so proud of this team. We got great games from a number of our girls, starting with our seniors,” said Ovalle. “Sofia Jans played so well tonight for us at libero, and we did a good job of getting into our offense with Grace Leffler, Deandra (Valverde) and Brooke having great games tonight. This was Deandra’s best game so far for us. That’s exciting because she’s been working so hard and she can really add another dimension for us on offense.”

Coral Shores will be busy in the final week of regular season play, with two road games against Keys Gate and a rematch with Westwood, then a series of tournament action in Orlando at the Bishop Moore Swing for a Cure Varsity Invitational.

Marathon upped its record to 2-10 with a decisive win over Dade Christian School. The Fins made short work of the Crusaders at home on Sept. 25, sweeping the sets 25-11, 2518 and 25-15.

Coach Kelley Cruz was impressed with the play of hitters Elena Eubank and Jasmine Keomaniboth, along with setter Jordan MacDonald. Cruz and the Lady Fins have been keeping their focus aimed at postseason play, which begins in Florida on Oct. 16.

“What kept us in the match was setting goals of what I would like to see in a district game,” Cruz said. The team rose to meet her expectations, and as they complete their regular season, Marathon will face both of its Keys rivals as well as Westwood Christian and Posnack School. With their play improving and their tempo picking up, the Fins have a great shot at improving their record further, just in time for districts.

Key West traveled to the Florida Christian Volleyball Tournament on Sept. 29 and 30. The Conchs lost both sets against True North Classical Academy on Friday night, then took on 5A Reagan High School on Saturday morning. Key West lost the first set, then dug deep and won the next two to defeat the Bisons. The 5-13 Conchs have continued to work against larger teams outside their district bracket in order to gain the experience necessary to compete at the highest level. They will find out whether the high-caliber regular season paid off beginning Oct. 12, as the 4A District 16 playoff bracket begins to determine a champion.

Coral Shores wins four of last five; Marathon picks up first sweep of the season

Marathon outside hitters Elena Eubank, left, and Kayesha Christian. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

PACE NO ISSUE FOR MARATHON RUNNERS

Dolphins claim 14 top20 spots at Pace High School meet

Marathon was the only Keys cross country team to participate in competition last week, traveling to Pace on Sept. 26. The Fins capitalized on their trip, bringing home 14 top-20 places between the girls and boys teams. Vance, Tony and Jakub Bursa took the top three overall places at the event. Vance finished in 16:51, beating out his younger brother by nearly two minutes. Tony crossed the finish line in second place in 18:49, followed by older brother Jakub two seconds later.

As if sweeping the podium was not enough for Marathon, Mason Buxton crossed in 11th place, followed by brothers Caleb and Dillon Shelar in 12th and 13th and Allan Taylor in 16th place. The boys’ incredible finish secured first place at the meet, which hosted a dozen teams in the boys division.

The girls team fared nearly as well, taking second place overall out of nine teams. Mikkel Ross finished first for the Dolphins in 22:21, which was fast enough for second place overall. Ella Dunn was next, finishing seventh overall in 24:32, with Rain Banks right on her heels in eighth place. Also earning top-20 status were Madelyn Thornton in 12th, Maeve Merryman in 14th, and Rebecca Merryman and Rilynn Richards in 19th and 20th, respectively.

Key West had a planned week off, while Coral Shores had a scheduling issue and had to settle for a week of rest, which may just be beneficial in their next meetup. The Fins, ’Canes and Conchs are all scheduled to race at the Larry Wooten Invitational on Thursday, Oct. 5. All three teams are working on a balance between rest and racing in preparation for postseason competition, which begins with districts for FHSAA 2A Key West and Coral Shores on Nov. 1, and for 1A Marathon the following day.

Medalists for the firstplace Marathon boys cross country team on Sept. 26 included, from left, Tony Bursa (2nd), Caleb Shelar (12th), Dillon Shelar (13th), Vance Bursa (1st), Mason Buxton (11th) and Jakub Bursa (3rd). JEFF SHELAR/Contributed

Mikkel Ross was the Lady Fins’ top finisher, claiming second place overall. CONTRIBUTED

CONCH SWIMMERS MAKE A SPLASH AT FSPA District

competition within sight

Key West made its annual trip to the FSPA Invitational in Orlando on Sept. 29 and 30. More than 30 teams from across the state participated in the event, and with less than three weeks before districts begin, the competition was a perfect opportunity for the Conchs to gauge their skills against the best the state has to offer.

Multiple Key West relay teams placed in the top 10, including the girls 200 yard medley relay (9th) and both the boys (9th) and girls (8th) 200 yard freestyle relay teams. Individual swimmers to claim top 10 honors were Colbie Turner, who placed 5th in the girls 100 yard butterfly, and Hadley Bardoni, who touched the wall 7th in the 200 Yard IM.

Key West will participate in the FHSAA 2A District 12 meet at Gulliver Prep on Oct. 18. Coral Shores will hit the pool at Ransom Everglades for the 1A competition on Oct. 19. The Hurricane divers will compete on the following day.

Colbie Turner. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

See more game photos at keysweekly.com

MARATHON EDGES FLORIDA CHRISTIAN WITH GOAL-LINE INTERCEPTION

54th Battle of the Keys set for Oct. 6

Marathon earned its second win of the season in front of a packed house on Sept. 29, defeating the Patriots of Florida Christian in a game that had fans from both sides on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer. Florida Christian came out strong, scoring 6 in the first quarter and keeping the Fins off the scoreboard. Alejandro “Astro” Gonzalez managed to get a hand on the point-after attempt, making the score 6-0 at the end of quarter one.

Marathon found its groove in the second quarter, scoring a pair of rushing TDs, both from Braulio Garcia. Fab Louis Jeune was perfect in his PATs, putting the Fins ahead 14-6. Florida Christian scored once more before halftime, but was unable to complete a two-point conversion attempt, making the score 14-12 at the half.

A second-half defensive battle ended with the Patriots on the 5-yard line with less than a minute to go in the game. A series of incredible defensive plays and a few penalties pushed Florida Christian back a bit, but with 20 seconds left in the game, it looked as if a TD was inevitable. Florida Christian’s QB tossed a ball into the end zone, intended for a receiver whose hands were within inches of the gameending score, but Marathon’s Louis Jeune leaped with an outstretched hand and intercepted the ball, turning it over to the Fins and sealing the win.

Key West knew what they faced last Friday against Fort Myers’ Bishop Verot. The team is ranked third in its class in the state, remains undefeated and has yet to end a game without scoring at least 40 points.

Prior to the contest, head coach Johnny Hughes said, “We will have to be perfect if we want a win against Verot.” Unfortunately for the Conchs, the upset win was not in the stars, but what they did have going for them was a long

This page: Marathon junior Fabbianho Louis Jeune (2) celebrates a buzzer-beating game-winning interception against Florida Christian. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

Opposite top: The Coral Shores Hurricanes duke it out with the Ransom Everglades Raiders on Sept. 29. Coral Shores ended the night on the wrong end of the one-score contest, 27-22.

DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly.

Opposite bottom: The Key West Conchs take on Bishop Verot on the road on Sept. 29. The Vikings proved too much for Key West as the Conchs sustained a 55-14 loss. GRACE ANDREW/ Keys Weekly

Walson Morin touchdown run. The sophomore running back has been coming into his own the past few games, adding a spark to Key West’s offensive game. Morin used his speed and evasiveness to take one to the house, adding 6 points on the kick return to the Conchs’ score. Despite Walson’s spectacular running, Key West was unable to overtake the Vikings, falling 55-14. “They were as advertised,” Hughes said. “I’m pleased with the effort of our team against a team like that.”

Key West will continue its road trip series Friday, Oct. 6 against South Fork High School. Though Hughes has not seen film of the Bulldogs in action, they are ranked similarly to the Conchs.

“It’s a must-win,” Hughes said of the South Fork game. Key West will need to add a few more wins to its record to earn a playoff spot. The Conchs definitely have the strength of schedule factor covered in FHSAA rankings, and a few wins at the end of their season should secure a coveted invite to postseason play.

Coral Shores faced Ransom Everglades at home last week. The undefeated Raiders made short work of Marathon the week prior and have been doing the same to teams across Miami-Dade all season. The Hurricanes fed off the energy of a lively, spirited crowd and came as close as any team has to taking down Ransom all season.

“There’s a reason they’re the number one offense in Dade County,” head coach Ed Holly said of Ransom.

The plan was to hold the ball and keep it out of the hands of nationally-ranked Ransom quarterback Niemann Lawrence. Though the ’Canes held the Raiders to their lowest offensive output of the season en route to Ransom’s smallest margin of victory thus far, Coral Shores fell just short of the win, 27-22.

Offensively, Dantay Diorio put up two rushing touchdowns and had 144 all-purpose yards for the ’Canes, with AJ Putetti adding some hard-earned runs. Holly had high praise for center Hugh Connolly and tackle Xico Reynoso for making some big blocks in the middle. But for now, all eyes are on the next game.

On Thursday, Oct. 5, Coral Shores and Marathon will continue the longest-standing rivalry in Monroe County sports when they face off in Marathon for the 54th time. The ’Canes have the slight edge in the series, with 28 wins to Marathon’s 25, including a five-game win streak against the Fins. Coral Shores has also put more points on the board against shared opponents. Adding to Coral Shores’ advantage is a larger school, bigger roster and older, more experienced squad. But don’t count the Dolphins out just yet – their scrappy, neversay-die play is just the type of thing which inspires people to root for an underdog. The Fins will also enjoy home-field advantage and the momentum of a last-second interception to win their latest game. Regardless of which team they cheer for, this is a game anyone residing from Big Pine to Key Largo will not want to miss. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at MHS.

To read more about the history of the Battle of the Keys from last year’s Sports Wrap, SCAN HERE:

strokes

On Sept. 25, the Hurricanes, Dolphins and Conchs met at Marathon for nine holes of friendly competition. Key West’s Jackson Barroso had the low score of the afternoon, shooting a 38 at the Florida Keys Country Club. Marathon’s Michael Merryman shot a 41 and teammate Dylan Ziels was one stroke behind with a 42. Key West’s Peyton Zubieta and Marathon’s Leo Mendez tied at 44. Key West’s Andrew Bassett shot a 45 in the number six spot. Marathon’s Mason Thornton (47) and Emmett Merryman (48) were seven and eight, and Ryan Kight of Key West finished ninth with a 49. Brock Bynum was the top golfer for Coral Shores and completed the round in 10th place with a 51.

KEYS GOLFERS TWO MATCHES AWAY FROM DISTRICTS

Marathon’s Summer

Haines playing up to par with two wins

Three days later, the teams met again, this time in Key West. Zubieta was first with a 41 and Michael Merryman tied for second with Ty Hill, both shooting a 42. Coral Shores’ Tanel Irons placed fourth, followed by Barroso, Thornton, Key West’s Smith Switzer, Ziels, Mendez and Kight.

Marathon’s Summer Haines placed first at both matches, shooting a 51 at Marathon and 49 in Key West. In the Marathon match, Key West’s Lexi Finigan placed second with a score of 60 while teammate Maeve O’Hearn tied with Coral Shores’ Gabby Thomas with 67 strokes apiece. Marathon’s Makenna Haines, Key West’s Althea Olsen and Parker Curry, and Coral Shores’ Sasha Mater rounded out the leaderboard on Sept. 29. In Key West, Claudia Steling enjoyed the home-course advantage, taking second that day followed by Thomas, O’Hearn, Olsen and Finigan.

Keys golfers have two regular season matches left, the first on Oct. 5 and then on the 12th, both in Key West before heading to districts in mid October.

Key West’s Peyton Zubieta. ALEX BEHLER/Contributed

Effective September 29, 2023, Luis Geada, M.D., is no longer practicing with Baptist Health General Surgery at the following location: 5701 Overseas Highway, Suite 17, Marathon, FL 33050.

Patients who wish to receive copies of their medical records may call 305-271-9777 or fax 786-260-0516 to request a records release.

Publish:

September 28, October 5, 12 & 19, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICES

DISTRICT I ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC I)

(Encompasses the City Limits of Key West) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council has an opening for a TOURIST RELATED BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVE - Shall be persons involved in business which is interdependent upon the tourist industry who have demonstrated an interest in tourist development but who shall not be employed in any position within the lodging industry (motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks, and other tourist accommodations and whose business is in the tax collection district for which they are applying).

Any person wishing to participate on the District I Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys. com. Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@ fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address below:

Department DAC

Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040 Deadline for receipt of application at the above address is 5:00 p.m. on Thursday November 9, 2023. A resume may be attached to the application.

Publish:

October 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

DISTRICT III ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC III)

Effective September 29, 2023, Luis Geada, M.D., is no longer practicing with Baptist Health General Surgery at the following location: 91550 Overseas Highway, Suite 214, Tavernier, FL 33070.

Patients who wish to receive copies of their medical records may call 305-271-9777 or fax 786-260-0510 to request a records release.

Publish:

September 28, October 5, 12 & 19, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

(From the west end of the Seven Mile Bridge to the Long Key Bridge) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL has an opening for a TOURIST RELATED BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVE - Shall be persons involved in business which is interdependent upon the tourist industry who have demonstrated an interest in tourist development but who shall not be employed in any position within the lodging industry (motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks, and other tourist accommodations and whose business is in the tax collection district for which they are applying).

Any person wishing to participate on the District III Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys. com. Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@ fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address below:

Department DAC

Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040 Deadline for receipt of application at the above address is 5:00 p.m. on Thursday November 9, 2023. A resume may be attached to the application.

Publish:

October 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

DISTRICT V ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC V) (From Mile Marker 90.940 to the Dade/Monroe County Line and any Mainland portions of Monroe County) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST

DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

has an opening for a TOURIST RELATED BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVE - Shall be persons involved in business which is interdependent upon the tourist industry who have demonstrated an interest in tourist development but who shall not be employed in any position within the lodging industry (motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks, and other tourist accommodations and whose business is in the tax collection district for which they are applying). Any person wishing to participate on the District V Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys. com. Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@ fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address below:

Department DAC Monroe County Tourist Development Council

1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040 Deadline for receipt of application at the above address is 5:00 p.m. Thursday November 9, 2023. A resume may be attached to the application.

Publish: October 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

Notice of Meeting/Workshop

Hearing

BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE INTERNAL IMPROVEMENT TRUST FUND

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection announces a public meeting to which all persons are invited.

DATE AND TIME: Tuesday, October 17, 2023, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

PLACE: Marathon City Council, 9805 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050

GENERAL SUBJECT MATTER TO BE CONSIDERED: The Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection is presenting the draft Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve Management Plan Meeting as an item during the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council Meeting, of which Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve is completely within the boundaries of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Members of the public are invited to review the management plan and provide feedback. The management plan is available at https://publicfiles.dep.state. fl.us/CAMA/Coupon-Bight-APManagement-Plan-DRAFT.pdf.

In addition to the Sanctuary Advisory Council, members of the Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve Management Plan Advisory Committee have also been invited to attend and listen to comments, and they may also participate in the discussion.

A copy of the agenda may be obtained by contacting: Dr. Nicholas Parr at Nicholas. Parr@FloridaDEP.gov. Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person requiring special accommodations to participate in this workshop/ meeting is asked to advise the agency at least 48 hours before the workshop/ meeting by contacting: Dr. Nicholas Parr at Nicholas.

Parr@FloridaDEP.gov. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the agency using the Florida Relay Service, 1(800)955-8771 (TDD) or 1(800)955-8770 (Voice).

Publish:

October 5 & 12, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH

NOTICE OF CODE

AMENDMENT HEARING

SECOND/FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 2023-487

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances.

DATE/TIME: Thursday, October 19th, 2023, 9:30 am

LOCATION: Located at the Temporary Meeting Place for the City of Key Colony Beach, at the Key Colony Inn Banquet Room, 700 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2023-487], entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FLORIDA AMENDING CHAPTER 101 ARTICLE VII OF THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FLORIDA TO ENACT REGULATIONS RELATING TO PROTECTION OF SEA TURTLES; SPECIFICALLY AMENDING ARTICLE III “ENVIRONMENTAL AND DRAINAGE REGULATIONS”, SECTIONS 101-79 THROUGH 101-92 "RESERVED" TO ESTABLISH REGULATIONS RELATED TO SEA TURTLE NESTING PROTECTION; PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF FOUND TO BE IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF ALL CODE PROVISIONS AND ORDINANCES INCONSISTENT WITH THIS ORDINANCE; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN THE CODE; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.”

The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www.keycolonybeach.net and at City Hall at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing on Thursday, October 19th, 2023, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to: City Commission, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, and your comments will be entered into the record.

City Clerk City of Key Colony Beach, Florida

Publish:

October 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF CODE AMENDMENT HEARING

SECOND/FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 2023-488

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances.

DATE/TIME: Thursday, October 19th, 2023, 9:30 am

LOCATION: Located at the Temporary Meeting Place for the City of Key Colony Beach, at the Key Colony Inn Banquet Room, 700 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2023-488], entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING ARTICLE III, CHAPTER 101 OF THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS RELATED TO REDUCTION OF SETBACKS FOR RESIDENTIAL POOLS; SPECIFICALLY AMENDING SECTIONS 101-13 AND 101-26 OF THE LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS TO PROVIDE FOR REDUCED SETBACKS FOR POOLS WITHIN THE R-2B ZONING DISTRICT; PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF FOUND TO BE IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY, REPEAL, AND CODIFICATION IN THE CODE OF ORDINANCES; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.”

The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www.keycolonybeach.net and at City Hall at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing on Thursday, October 19th, 2023, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to: City Commission, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, and your comments will be entered into the record.

City Clerk City of Key Colony Beach, Florida

Publish:

October 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDINANCE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on October 18, 2023, at 9:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, intends to consider adopting the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY

COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AMENDING SECTION 22129 OF ARTICLE VI OTHER MUNICIPAL SERVICE TAXING UNITS IN CHAPTER 22 SPECIAL DISTRICTS, OF THE MONROE COUNTY CODE GRANTING PURCHASING AUTHORITY TO THE FIRE AND AMBULANCE DISTRICT 1 BOARD OF GOVERNORS OR THEIR DESIGNEE; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS OF ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT WITH THIS ORDINANCE; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION INTO THE MONROE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

The proposed ordinance may be inspected by the public at the Monroe County website by viewing the agenda packet for the October 18, 2023 meeting, which will be posted beginning on October 13, 2023 at: http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx. The proposed ordinance may also be viewed at the Monroe County Attorney’s office at 1111 12th St. Ste. 408 Key West, FL 33040.

The public can participate in the October 18, 2023 meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, FL by attending in person or via Zoom. The Zoom link can be found in the agenda at http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx.

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

Dated at Key West, Florida, this 2nd day of October, 2023.

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Ex Officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: October 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 2023-CP-000201-K

IN RE: ESTATE OF LISA JANE DIGBY

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of LISA JANE DIGBY, deceased, whose date of death was May 14, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME

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

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: October 5, 2023.

Personal Representative: STEVEN JAMES DIGBY

Duval House, 4 Mount View

Ilfracombe, N. Devon EX34 9PD, UNITED KINGDOM Attorney for Personal

Representative:

Heather C. Kirson

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 0044359

The Elder Law Center of Kirson & Fuller 1407 E. Robinson Street Orlando, FL 32081 Telephone: (407) 422-3017

Fax: (407) 730-7101

E-mail: hwilson@kirsonfuller. com

Secondary E-Mail: kwakeman@kirsonfuller.com

Publish: October 5 & 12, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 2023-CP-065-M IN RE: ESTATE OF CYNTHIA PAIGE O. SHRIVER, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of CYNTHIA PAIGE O. SHRIVER, deceased, whose date of death was July 15, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The estate is testate and the date of the decedent’s Will and any codicils are July 11, 2023. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE

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

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

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

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

The

Personal Representative:

Kristen E. Shriver

72 Michener Court North Chesterfield, VA 23234

Attorney for Personal

Representative:

James J. Dorl, Esq. Florida Bar No. 618403

JAMES J. DORL, P.A. Suite 12 First Professional Centre 5701 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-6565

Facsimile: (305) 743-4143

e-mail: jjdorl@yahoo.com

Publish:

October 5 & 12, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO: 23-CP-000213-K IN RE: ESTATE OF LYNWOOD RAY SILAR, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the Estate of Lynwood Ray Silar, Deceased, whose date of death was July 8, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 302 Fleming Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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

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

The date of first publication of this Notice is September 28, 2023.

Signed on this 19th day of September, 2023.

Personal Representative Tammy Lynn Lehti-Silar, Petitioner 239 Caribbean Drive East Summerland Key, FL 33042

Attorney for Personal Representative

Lee Robert Rohe, ESQ.

Florida Bar Number: 271365

LEE ROBERT ROHE, P.A.

1100 Crestwood Court South

Unit 1117

Royal Palm Beach, Florida 33411

Telephone: (305) 745-2254

Email: lrrlaw@bellsouth.net

Publish:

September 28 & October 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 23-CP-244-K

IN RE: ESTATE OF GREGORY SZETELA

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Gregory Szetela, deceased, whose date of death was June 17, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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

The date of first publication of this notice is: September 28, 2023.

Personal Representative:

Elaine Holliday 508 Foxglove Ct. Peachtree City, Georgia 30269 Attorney for Personal

Representative: Brett Halperin

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 109695

HALPERIN LAW GROUP 2160 W. Atlantic Ave. Delray Beach, Florida 33445 Telephone: (561) 324-2420

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

LEGAL NOTICES

E-Mail: brett@halperinlawgroup. com

Secondary E-Mail: bretthalperinesq@gmail.com

Publish: September 28 & October 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND INTENT TO FORECLOSE

To: All persons listed below, their guardians, heirs and assigns, record owners of the unit week(s) as showing, all located in Monroe County, Florida comprised of Unit Weeks as more particularly defined in and governed by that certain: Declaration of Condominium for Florida Bay Club of Key largo, a condominium, recorded in O.R. Book 871 at pages 1215, et seq. Public Records, Monroe County, Florida.

You are hereby given Notice of Default and Intent to Foreclose on behalf of THE FLORIDA BAY CLUB CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC. a Florida not-for-profit corporation.

You may cure the default and redeem the timeshare interest by paying the amounts secured by the Association’s lien on your unit week(s) as showing below in cash or certified funds to Timeshare Trustee™ at any time prior to the issuance of the Certificate of Sale.

the right to cure your default in the manner set forth in this notice at any time before the trustee’s sale of your timeshare interest. If you do not object to the use of the trustee foreclosure procedure, you will not be subject to a deficiency judgment even if the proceeds from the sale of your timeshare interest by the TRUSTEE are insufficient to offset the amounts secured by the lien.

STAACK, SIMMS & REIGHARD, PLLC, d/b/a TIMESHARE TRUSTEE™

51 S. MAIN AVENUE, SUITE 319 CLEARWATER, FL 33765

PHONE: (727) 441-2635

FAX: (727) 461-4836

Website: www.staacklaw.com

Publish:

September 28 & October 5, 2023

The Weekly Newspapers

AUTOS WANTED

AUTOS ALL YEARS!

Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks.

Runs or Not.

$CASH 305-332-0483

EMPLOYMENT

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

apply in person at Discount Rock & Sand, 10500 Aviation Blvd, Unit 2, Marathon.

Hiring: Lead Gutter Installer - EXPERIENCE REQUIRED – valid Driver’s License - must be comfortable with heights - located in Tavernier. To apply, please call or text Jay 305-587-1581.

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Housing ManagerMiddle Keys, Resident Activities Coordinator, Housekeeper, HVAC Maintenance Mechanic, Personal Care Aide, Resident Assistant, 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.

If you fail to cure the default as set forth in this notice or take other appropriate action with regard to this foreclosure matter, you risk losing ownership of your timeshare interest through the trustee foreclosure procedure established in section 721.855, Florida Statutes. YOU HAVE THE RIGHT AS A MATTER OF LAW TO SEND TO THE TRUSTEE WRITTEN NOTICE THAT YOU OBJECT TO THIS PROCEDURE. UPON THE TRUSTEE’S RECEIPT OF YOUR OBJECTION, THE FORECLOSURE OF THE LIEN WITH RESPECT TO THE DEFAULT SPECIFIED IN THIS NOTICE SHALL BE SUBJECT TO THE JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE PROCEDURE ONLY. You have

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

Now Hiring in Marathon – Part time office position, needs to have prior office experience, Mon-Fri 8am-1pm. Starting at $17/hour. Please

SOLUTION

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

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time line cook. Responsible for food and kitchen prep. Competitive pay at a private club, opportunities to advance. Flexible afternoon/evening hours Wednesday – Saturday. Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview

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

SUDOKU

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

PRIVATE COLLECTOR

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

MISC. FOR SALE

Nice sturdy E-Bike Radcity 5+ stepthru regular tires essentially new (10mi) 30+ range 20mph. Located in Tavernier. $1500. Tandjef@gmail.com

MISC. WANTED

WANTED: 2500 gallon water cistern for underground installation. 650224-6294 camper@ sbcglobal.net

HOUSING FOR RENT

Islamorada: Very

Large 2BR Apt for rent in beautiful White Marlin Beach on the water. Yearly lease. $2,000/monthly - all utilities included . F/L/S 305-522-2702 Leave message.

2 Bedroom 1 Bath house in Marathon. Tile floor, appliances, gated property. No pets. $2,700/mo. including electric, water, & sewer. 305-610-8002

Large One Bedroom Suite, Conch House, carpet, tile, appliances, fully furnished in Marathon. $2,000/ month includes electric, water, sewer, cable, internet. No Pets. 305-610-8002

Place your Housing For Rent ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 .

YARD SALES

SARA’S ESTATE SALE: 304 Coco Plum St., Duck Key | Fri., Oct. 6 & Sat., Oct. 7, 9am to 1pm both days | A

GARDENER’S DREAM on Duck Key, near MM61. Beautiful plants, blue glazed pots and colorful Mexican painted pots from large to small; 6 sets of outdoor furniture seating, many in/outdoor area rugs; Pretty sectional

YARD SALES

couch & dining table for 6; Designer dresses, coats & shoes (women size small and shoe 6); Tropical & fish art: Van Sant bronze; sm kitchen appliances, wine refrigerator, wine glasses; baskets. Sale located on Yacht Club island, follow signs across three bridges and park with consideration.

Photos: Facebook (@sarasestatesales) and estatesales.net.

Place your YARD SALE ad here. $25.00/ week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and sell your stuff!

CDL CLASS A DRIVER

We are hiring CDL CLASS A Drivers with Hazmat endorsement.

Monday-Friday with overtime available.

Please apply at Charley Toppino & Sons, Inc.

129 Toppino Industrial Dr, Key West – ask for Cheryl 305-296-5606 extension 126

NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA

MARINA CASHIER

Must have customer service experience working in a retail environment and using a point of sale system. Additional duties include restocking, completing purchase orders, daily ordering of basic items in the store, and maintaining a clean appearance in the store. This is an hourly position and compensation is based on experience. Work hours are flexible and we try to maintain a set weekly schedule.

Please respond by email (Ma at islamarinama @gmail.com) with any relevant previous experience and at least two references.

NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA

BOAT RENTAL STAFF

HEAVY DIESEL MECHANIC

We are hiring a heavy diesel mechanic with experience working on John Deere, Caterpillar, Kubota, etc.

Monday-Friday with some overtime available.

Please apply at Charley Toppino & Sons, Inc.

129 Toppino Industrial Dr, Key West – ask for Cheryl 305-296-5606 extension 126

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

WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR A

LOCATION: CUDJOE KEY

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority’s WASTEWATER DIVISION is looking for a WWTP Operator with a Florida “A” license. You will perform skilled/technical work involving the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment plant. This requires technical knowledge and independent judgment to make treatment process adjustments and perform maintenance on plant equipment, machinery, and related control apparatus in accordance with established standards and procedures. Annual salary $90,000. Benefit package is extremely competitive!

Apply online at www. aa.com/employment EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

FLEXIBLE HOURS & COMPETITIVE WAGES

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

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

MONROE COUNTY ROADS DEPT.

40 hpw with Bene ts Training and promotional opportunities for career growth are encouraged within our department.

ROAD TECHNICIAN 2:

$42,198.38 - $65,407.50

Valid Florida Driver’s License required

ROAD TECHNICIAN 3:

$46,523.721 - $72,111.77

CDL B License required

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

$51,292.40 - $79,503.23

CDL A License required

Veteran’s Preference Available; E.O.E.

The primary function of these positions is to perform work repairing and maintaining county roads, bridges, and rights-of-way.

To view job descriptions and apply, visit: WWW.MONROECOUNTY-FL.GOV/JOBS

For questions, contact Human Resources at: Careers@MonroeCounty-FL.gov or 305.292.4554

FT administrative, salaried position. Responsible for oversight of adult day training programs, client transportation coordination and facility maintenance. Bachelor’s degree required and 2 years’ experience in eld required. Computer skills: moderate to advanced. FL driver’s license with clean driving record. Pre-employment training online and in person. Ability to pass a Level II background screening and references. EOE. Apply at 1401 Seminary St., Key West, FL or online at www.marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org Phone: 305-294-9526 *32 FAX 305-292-0078

MARC, 1401 Seminar y St, Key West, FL www.marchouse.org Come join our family! EOE

Full-time, split-shift, In-Home Support Coach/Trainer to provide companionship and assist clients with training/ support. HSD/GED & 1 yr. exp in a related field. 1 year of college can substitute for experience. Must be able to use a tablet for documentation purposes. The shift for this job is split shift 7-9 AM then 3-9 PM. We can be flexible. English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must.

FL driver’s license w/good driving record, references and background screening required. This is a rewarding position for the right person. Apply at 1401 Seminary St., Key West or online at www.marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org, phone: 305.294.9526 *32 , fax 305.292.0078

1401 Seminar y St, Key West, www.marchouse.org

Come join our family! EOE

IS HIRING!

SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT JOB COACH

UPPER KEYS (TAVERNIER) P/T

This position works with our clients in obtaining and retaining employment in the local community.

Minimum requirements: a bachelor’s degree OR 4 years of experience with DD individuals; a combination of formal education and experience are accepted. Good computer skills utilizing multiple applications. Florida driver’s license with a clean driving record required. English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Pre-hire coursework is required and ability to pass a Level 2 background check. Apply at 1401 Seminary St., Key West or online at www.marchouse.org

For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org, phone: 305-294-9526 *32, fax: 305-292-0078 Come join our family! EOE

NOW HIRING DIVE INSTRUCTOR

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.

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

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.

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

We are now hiring for the following positions:

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers

Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. IS HIRING!

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

KEY LARGO

Advocate

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child)

Case Manager (Child)

KEY WEST

Peer Support Specialist

Prevention Specialist

Advocate

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult)

Behavioral Health Counselor (Children)

Case Manager (Adult)

MARATHON

Driver Care Coordinator

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult)

RNs/LPNs - 3 shifts (also Per Diem)

Maintenance Specialist

*Behavioral Health Technicians

3 shifts (also Per Diem)

Peer Support Specialist

*Support Worker – Assisted Living

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

Background and drug screen req. COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!

Check out all available positions at: www.westcare.com (search by zip code) EEOC/DFWP

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER IS HIRING

Volunteer Resources

Administrative Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

Human Resources Assistant (Part-Time, Permanent)

Accounting Director (Full-Time, Permanent)

Facilities Maintenance Apprentice (Full-Time, Permanent)

Education Program Host (Full-Time, Permanent)

Medical Technician (Full-Time, Permanent)

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

Full job descriptions available at www.dolphins.org/career_opportunities

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

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL

Teaching... Learning... Caring

THEME: THE 2000s

ACROSS

1. Interest in a venture

6. Hundredweight, acr.

9. Med. sch. requirement

13. ____ the tail ___ the donkey

14. Duran Duran’s 1982 hit

15. All plants and animals

16. Part of an eye, pl.

17. Go for the bull’s eye

18. Reduction/oxidation portmanteau

19. *Best selling author of the 2000s

21. *Billboard’s music artist of the 2000s

23. Chicken ____ ____ king

24. From a thrift store

25. Class-conscious grp.

28. Formerly, once

30. Marine mammal in famous Beatles’ song

35. Fabled fliers

37. Jealous biblical brother

39. Averse

40. *”He’s Just Not That ____ You” (2009)

41. Acrylic fiber

43. Arabian chieftain

44. Apartments, e.g.

46. *Friendster or Facebook, e.g.

47. 5,280 feet

48. Metal detector, e.g.

50. Goose egg

52. Cry of horror in comics

53. Made a basket

55. *Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee or Nemo and Dory, e.g.

57. *Name for 2000s

60. *Popular social network of the 2000s

64. K-pop country

65. Woody creeper

67. Teletype machine, for short

68. Picture within a picture, e.g.

69. *”____ Smart” (2008)

70. Make a canyon, e.g.

71. Furniture wood

72. Utmost degree

73. Financing values

DOWN

1. Horse prod

2. *Popular DVR device

3. All over again

4. Eucalyptus-eating marsupial

5. Store in a silo

6. Mountain goat terrain

7. *Xbox competitor

8. Libraryful

9. Dignified manner

10. *”The Da Vinci ____,” best selling book of the 2000s

11. A-bomb particle

12. Levy

15. Like “something new” boutique

20. Beginning of sleeping disorder

22. Feline sound

24. Put to work

25. *Toyota Hybrid introduced worldwide in 2000

26. 1,000 kilograms

27. Play a part (2 words)

29. *2002-2004 zoonotic epidemic cause, acr.

31. Rich soil

32. China grass

33. Handy

34. *First ever recipient of Oscar for Best Animated Feature

36. Chronic drinkers

38. Post-it slip

42. Like #59 Down

45. *Pink’s 2008 hit (2 words)

49. Break down

51. Dismissal or ejection

54. “Peace” with fingers

56. “Madame Butterfly”, e.g.

57. First rate (2 words)

58. Sky’s Major one

59. *Like Best Buy’s Squad

60. Urban legend

61. Tons (2 words)

62. Relinquish, as in property

63. *Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt, after 2005

64. *American Girl ____ Kittredge

66. Doctor Dolittle, e.g.