Key West Weekly 23-1102

Fall back on Sunday — or accidentally get to work early on Monday.

November 2, 2023

TEENS IN TROUBLE LOCAL KIDS ARRESTED FOR ATTACK | P. 4

KEEP SMILING DENTIST FRED TROXEL RECALLS 46 YEARS OF SMILES | P. 10

POWERING THROUGH OFFSHORE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS RETURN NOV. 5 | P. 8

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

ON THE COVER

KEYS

NEWSPAPERS

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

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November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. According to the American Lung Association, the lung cancer survival rate has increased by nearly 40% over the past 10 years thanks to advances in treatment and access to care.

Raceworld Offshore once again presents the Offshore World Championship powerboat races Nov. 5-12 in Key West. See Page 8. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

Publisher / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com Publishing Partner / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com Editor / Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com Digital Editor / Gwen Filosa gwen@keysweekly.com Director of Sales Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com Account Executive Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com Staff Writers Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com Design / Pre-Press Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com Diana Striker www.keysweekly.com Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844 Se habla español THE KEY WEST WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR

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3 KEY WEST TEENS CHARGED IN TRAUMATIC ATTACK ON MINORS

BOYS, 14, THREATENED 11-YEAR-GIRL & HER BROTHER WITH SODOMY & KIDNAPPING; FACING ASSAULT & FALSE IMPRISONMENT CHARGES MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

T

hree Key West teens, all 14, are facing felony charges following their Oct. 24 arrest at Sigsbee Park Navy Base for charges that include false imprisonment, aggravated assault and burglary. The charges do not include sexual assault, although the police investigation indicates some of the suspects carried out attempted acts of sodomy with a spoon on the 14-year-old victim, along with forcing a minor to watch porn from a gaming console.

Their victims were an 11-yearold girl and her 14-year-old brother who live in military housing at Sigsbee Park, police said.

The accused, whose names were removed from the Key West Police report due to their age, reportedly followed the 11-year-old girl home from the Navy’s MWR building while harassing her with questions about her boyfriend’s girlfriend.

The boys reportedly pushed the girl down and threatened to kidnap her if she ran away. The girl ran to her house, where her 14-year-old brother was home alone, with the boys chasing her. She found the back door of her screened-in porch locked when she arrived.

When her brother arrived at the door from inside the house, the attackers held a 10-pound metal weight from a weight bench over his sister’s head and counted backward from three, threatening to drop the

weight on the sister’s head if the boy did not let them inside his house.

The boy, “fearing for his sister’s safety,” reluctantly opened the door and the attackers rushed inside, according to the police report. The girl then ran to a friend’s house for help.

Once inside, the three suspects reportedly forced the male victim down the hallway and locked themselves in a game room, “accessed the internet through an Xbox and began to play a pornographic video at the highest volume. The suspect then grabbed the victim by his shoulders, forced him onto the couch and held him down while they retrieved a spoon from the victim’s kitchen and “attempted to place the straight edge of the spoon into the victim’s rear end,” states the police report.

The victim thrashed and tried to evade the attackers, finally breaking free and running outside, despite his fear of what the boys would do inside his house.

After the attackers then broke several eggs on the walkway of the victims’ house, the victims’ mother returned home, ordered the attackers out of her house and called police.

The victims’ parents told Navy Police and then Key West Police they wanted to press charges against all three teens.

The three were arrested and charged with aggravated assault, false imprisonment and burglary.

The incident and arrests occurred shortly after 5 p.m. on Oct. 24.

As of Oct. 31, Schools Superintendent Theresa Axford told the Keys Weekly, “We are cooperating with law enforcement to support the investigation and are reviewing placement for the students moving forward.”

But as of Oct. 31, there was no reason the suspects could not have returned to their normal classes at Key West High School pending the results of the ongoing investigation, said Deputy Superintendent Amber Acevedo.

She emphasized that the school district’s role in a case like this, when the incident occurred off school grounds and after school hours, is to cooperate with law enforcement and make plans to continue the suspects’ education, regardless of whether they end up being detained in a juvenile facility, attending alternative classes at Key West High School, where they are kept separately from the rest of the students, or whether they return to their normal classes.

“One thing we’re always careful about is placing victims and aggressors together in a situation that could potentially be dangerous or difficult,” Acevedo said, adding that the law enforcement investigation is continuing.

State Attorney Dennis Ward told the Keys Weekly on Oct. 31 that his office had not been involved in the case yet, and added that it would be up to the school officials whether to keep the suspects out of school.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

KEYS TOURISM AGENCY FAILS FINANCIAL AUDIT

REPORT FAULTS TDC FOR ‘REPEATED NONCOMPLIANCE,’ ‘POTENTIAL SELF-DEALING’ & ‘ETHICAL CONCERNS’

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recent county audit of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council (TDC) — the Florida Keys’ multimillion-dollar tourism marketing agency — revealed significant concerns with its financial oversight and operations.

“The audit found repeated noncompliance with Monroe County’s purchasing policy, … a lack of controls and management oversight, … appearances of potential selfdealing by certain employees as well as possibly one of the TDC’s agencies of record.”

The county clerk’s audit of the TDC covered the five-year period from October 2018 through September 2023 and resulted in a 32-page report of its findings and recommendations.

The TDC’s marketing director, Stacey Mitchell, who heads the agency, is identified only by title in the report. She spoke with the Keys Weekly on Oct. 31 about the audit report.

“I’m still digesting it,” said Mitchell, who had been at a TDC meeting in the Upper Keys in the morning and then received news that her friend and TDC predecessor Harold Wheeler had died on Oct. 31. “I just received the report. Obviously we’ll work in full cooperation with all county departments to implement the recommendations and improvements. I’m honestly still processing this after learning of the death of Harold.”

TDC Chair Rita Irwin echoed Mitchell’s comments.

“I’m very much process- and rulebound,” she said, adding that she would be included in an internal staff meeting set for Nov. 2 to discuss the report with Mitchell and County Administrator Roman Gastesi, among others. “We’re taking this seriously, looking at the recommendations and behaving in a professional manner to respond.

We’re also in the process of scheduling a public meeting of the TDC board, which requires proper public notice.”

CAUSES FOR CONCERN • Auditors report that the TDC’s longtime public relations firm, NewmanPR, submitted reimbursement requests of about $14,000 last year that may represent “double billing,” as they were paid to a company the auditors believe doesn’t exist. Andy Newman, who owns NewmanPR, told auditors he had started the company in question 35 years ago to be paid for services that he himself performs for NewmanPR such as photography. But the audit report states that those services are included in NewmanPR’s contract with the TDC, which should not be billed for them separately. “Due to the serious nature of the potential double-billing and the use of an entity that likely does not exist, the clerk’s office finds it necessary to immediately alert the BOCC of this audit finding. The clerk also is exercising the Right To Audit clause that is in the NewmanPR contract to review additional invoices to determine the legitimacy, compliance with contract, and adherence to Monroe County purchasing policy. Given the severity of the issue, finance cannot process any further payments for NewmanPR on behalf of the TDC until there is some resolution to this matter,” the report states.

• Auditors are currently conducting additional audits of the TDC’s three partner agencies — NewmanPR, which handles public relations; Two Oceans Digital, which handles website and digital marketing and Tinsley Advertising & Marketing, which handles advertising for the TDC. The additional audits will be released separately when completed, the report states.

• Auditors report “serious ethical concerns” over an agreement between Mitchell and local photographer Rob O’Neal, who since 2008 has produced an annual Florida Keys photography calendar for the TDC. The report notes that Mitchell and O’Neal also have a long-term personal relationship that calls into question the TDC’s impartiality in selecting vendors. The TDC gives away the calendars as a marketing tool, but then gives O’Neal some of the calendars to sell himself for a profit, the report states. “It appears that the marketing director misused her official position to allow Mr. O’Neal to profit from the photo calendar, especially since no other vendors were given an opportunity to bid on its production…,” the report states. “The clerk’s office believes the purchase of the cal-

The Tourist Development Council is the subject of a critical audit by the Monroe County clerk.

MONROE COUNTY/Contributed

endars … could be … improper payment and, therefore, has declined to pay Mr. O’Neal’s invoice for the 2024 calendars, which totals $14,850,” the report states.

• Auditors found several instances in which invoices for services and reimbursements were paid without proper documentation or details of services rendered, and often were approved by someone without proper authority given the agency’s practice of sharing secure online login credentials and passwords. They have recommended tighter controls and additional staff training.

• Auditors “found that the TDC’s annual financial reports that were presented to the BOCC and the public materially misstated the TDC’s fiscal year revenues and expenditures,” the report states. When compared to the county’s audited financial statements, the amounts differed by $2 to $6 million, according to charts in the report. “Due to the importance of TDC’s financial reporting being accurate as well as being transparent to the public, consideration may be given to requiring one TDC member having a financial background and/or requiring TDC’s executive office to have an annual compliance audit,” the report states.

WHAT NEXT? The county commission will likely discuss the audit report at its regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 8 in Key West, Monroe County Mayor Craig Cates told the Keys Weekly on Oct. 31.

“Kevin Madok, as the county’s clerk of court and comptroller, is a constitutional officer and it’s his responsibility to make sure all public funds are spent and accounted for properly,” Cates said. “This audit was part of normal procedures and now the county commission will have to discuss how to proceed.”

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

COUNTY: CHARTER IS KEY TO SAVING AGING BRIDGES ANOTHER WORKSHOP SET FOR NOV. 6 IN MARATHON GWEN FILOSA

gwen@keysweekly.com

T

he Monroe County Commission’s proposal to switch the Florida Keys to a charter form of government is a pursuit of the type of money needed to repair aging bridges and beaten down roads, along with the daunting task of making sure it all withstands the rising waters.

It could all add up to more than $1 billion by the 2030s, according to county leaders.

They say adding a new tax, only available to charter counties that essentially are run by a county constitution, is a solution to protecting Keys homes and roads by paying the inevitable and exponential price of construction projects.

“Do we want to share the burden of paying for all of that with our 5.1 million tourists or would we really prefer to jack up our property taxes paid by everybody who owns property?” Monroe County Commissioner David Rice told The Keys Weekly on Oct. 31.

Charters can allow a county to have more control over some local issues but the first draft of Monroe’s charter referendum, which is available on the county’s website, includes a section saying that the county wouldn’t interfere with municipalities’ laws. To change that would require a unanimous vote by the county commission to put any changes on a referendum for voters.

“Monroe County has no interest in overseeing the municipalities,” said county spokeswoman Kristen Livengood in a statement. “The draft charter would preserve municipal independence.”

Commissioners say county staff has exhausted the available options for Monroe to plan ahead on road and bridge projects. So they’re putting together a pitch for voters in the Nov. 5 general election to make Monroe a charter-government county.

If that were to pass at the polls, the county would have to come back to voters a second time in order to create what’s called the Charter County and Regional Transportation System Sales Surtax.

The county has scheduled a workshop for Monday, Nov. 6 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the second floor of the Marathon Government Center,

2798 Overseas Highway. People may participate via Zoom and the workshop will be aired online, on cable – channel 76 on Comcast, channel 99 on U-verse and on Hulu, Roku and Apple TV. This isn’t your last chance to attend a county-led event about the charter. More public hearings will be scheduled in 2024.

County Attorney Bob Shillinger has been on a Keyswide tour, making presentations before elected leaders and community groups.

Since late September, Monroe County’s legal team has made presentations at the Key West City Commission and both the Middle and Upper Keys Republican Clubs.

SIMILAR TO THE PENNY TAX County leaders like Rice believe the transportation tax would act much like the one penny infrastructure sales surtax that’s been in the Keys for decades.

In 2022, more than 65 percent of Monroe voters approved extending the one penny tax.

“Experience has shown that roughly two-thirds of sales taxes collected in the Florida Keys are paid by visitors,” Livengood said in a statement. “So the transportation surtax would be expected to shift the majority of the cost of the transportation and transit improvements from local taxpayers to visitors.”

Rice said the two-thirds estimate comes from hard experience in 2020, when the county put roadblocks at the entrances to the Keys in 2020 to keep out visitors due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. “We shut down tourism for two months and our tax revenues dropped by twothirds,” Rice said. “That’s about as real life an experiment as you can do to find out.”

Rice said as a property taxpayer he wants the new tax, and the charter form of government that Monroe needs in order to add it. But it’s voters who will decide, he said. “We have 26 bridges the county is totally responsible for,” Rice said. “They’re not on U.S. 1 but they provide service to residents. We don’t want to lose them.”

As examples, the county points to the No Name Key Bridge, which is almost the same length as Card Sound Road Bridge and links 42 homes to the island chain. It will likely cost more than $20 million to replace.

POWERING THROUGH

OFFSHORE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS RETURN TO KEY WEST NOV. 5-12

The annual powerboat races, seen here in 2019, return to Key West Nov. 5, presented by Race World Offshore. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

R

ace World Offshore once again brings powerboat teams and fans to Key West for an Offshore World Championship experience presented by Performance Boat Center. RWO is the premier Offshore Racing Sanctioning body in the United States and its team is dedicated to producing an unforgettable week. With the most experienced team in all of offshore racing around the world, RWO anticipates another spectacular event with the world’s best offshore race teams in attendance.

Visit raceworldoffshore.com for schedule, full details and results during race week.

— Contributed

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

Dr. Fred Troxel and his Key Smile staff in their scrubs and bare feet. CONTRIBUTED

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

H

e’s been to Burning Man 11 times. He’s a bonefishing world champion.

He and his staff typically work in scrubs and bare feet.

Jimmy Buffett played at his wedding 13 years ago. He started the Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival with local radio legend Bill Becker 30 years ago. And he had to reschedule an interview about his upcoming retirement — to go skydiving on Sugarloaf Key. He is Dr. Fred Troxel, venerable Keys dentist, yet still a self-described “old hippie” who was born in Allentown, Pennsylvania, but grew up in the Fort Lauderdale area.

His dad was a Pennsylvania Dutch sea captain and his mom was a U.S. Army nurse from Memphis.

Troxel’s Key Smile restorative and aesthetic dental practice has been housed in one of the coolest buildings on Big Pine Key since 1977, but Troxel had fallen in love with the Keys in the late ’60s.

“I went to SeaCamp on Big Pine in 1965 when I was a junior in high school and my family lived in Fort Lauderdale,” he told the Keys Weekly on Oct. 31, a day after his second skydiving adventure. “Then I came back to it as a counselor after college and before I started dental school, which I signed up for to avoid the draft.

“But that was the part of the Keys that I knew and fell in love with,” Troxel said of Big Pine. “When I first opened my practice here in 1977, there were probably only 1,000 full-time residents on Big Pine. But this island and all the Keys grew up and grew up fast.”

Dr. Chris Forsee, left, has bought Dr. Fred Troxel’s Key Smile restorative dental practice on Big Pine Key. CONTRIBUTED

KEYS’ BAREFOOT DENTIST TO RETIRE AFTER NEARLY 50 YEARS Dr. Fred Troxel sells venerable Big Pine practice to Dr. Chris Forsee

So did his dental practice.

“Oh man, back in the beginning, I barely knew enough not to be dangerous,” he said laughing. “I hired my first wife to run the office and a bank teller that I liked from my bank to be my dental assistant. But we made a living. I was just an old hippie. I grew into it and I spent a jillion hours on continuing education to improve my skills and I found some fantastic mentors.”

Troxel for years has specialized in full-mouth restorative and aesthetic dentistry, creating the smiles that people wish they had.

“There’s an artistic element to not making everyone look the same,” he said, admitting that he can’t look at someone — on television or in person — without mentally noting what he could “fix” with their teeth and smile.

And as for the Jimmy Buffett connection?

“Well, my first wife was an artist and then went to school to become an architect,” Troxel recalled. “It was in the mid-’80s and Jimmy had already had musical success.

He had bought a house on Riviera Drive and after seeing some of my wife’s architectural work, he hired her. Then she hooked us both up to go bonefishing together. Once we started fishing together, we just continued the friendship. And when Rita and I got married 13 years ago, he played at our wedding.”

It’s a story Keys locals have heard even if they don’t know the Troxels personally.

Rita Troxel was an actress in Key West, usually at Red Barn Theater, when Fred met her.

“We’d be at the same parties and events,” Fred Troxel said. “Actually, Tony Falcone likes to take credit

for us getting together, but Dr. Michael Berman takes the same credit.

That was 13 years ago.”

As Troxel wraps up his long and successful dental career, he and his wife are looking forward to retirement. But they’re not going anywhere too far away for too long.

“We’re here forever. Rita’s been here even longer than I and these are our people,” he said.

Troxel will turn 75 in a few weeks, and didn’t know how he would ever retire and leave his patients, staff and practice in good and capable hands.

Then Dr. Chris Forsee arrived back on the Keys scene.

“He had actually been down here 20 years ago on Simonton Street and he loved the Keys,” Troxel said of Forsee. “Then he moved up to the mainland to practice, but always wanted to come back to the Keys. When he called and asked if I was ready to retire yet, I knew he was the perfect guy to buy my practice.

“He’s a really, really good dentist,” Troxel said. “He and his wife are just the greatest people, and once he met my staff and patients, we all said, ‘This is perfect.’ No qualms whatsoever about him taking over.”

Troxel says he’ll wrap things up around January 2024, as he still has long-term cases he’s working on with some patients.

“It’s been a really great ride, through it all, and I couldn’t be more comfortable leaving the practice in the hands of Dr. Chris Forsee.”

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

FACTS FROM THE TAX COLLECTOR

Sam Steele

monroetaxcollector.com 305.295.5000

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

NOVEMBER • The 2023 property tax roll is open for collection. If you have not received your tax bill yet, please contact us at 305-295-5044.

• The Tax Collector’s Office returned over $5.2 million in unused fees to the taxing authorities for the 2023 fiscal year, which goes towards funding essential services for our community.

• In partnership with the City of Marathon, our office has brought 133 fraudulent vacation rentals located within the City of Marathon into compliance since April 2023, which has accounted for over $230,000 in taxes, penalties, and interest allocated to their district.

Follow us on

COME WORSHIP WITH US

• As a reminder, online rental platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.)

DO NOT remit the 5% tourist development tax to our office.

It is the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure the tax has been remitted.

• All rental properties must also have a local business tax, regardless of how long they are being rented.

• If you suspect a fraudulent property rental, you may report it on our hotline at 1-855-422-4540 • All our offices will be closed on Friday, November 10, in observance of Veterans Day.

for more important tax information.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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BASILICA SCHOOL STUDENTS DRESS THE PART ON HALLOWEEN

A

fter the grownups had their costumed fun throughout Fantasy Fest week, it was the kids’ turn on Halloween.

While the New Town neighborhood surrounding Staples Avenue teemed with monsters, Barbies, pirates and princesses, the Basilica School of St. Mary Star of the Sea got a head start on the sugar rush at its annual Trunk or Treat event the morning of Oct. 31 in the school’s parking lot.

Costumed parents turned the trunks of their cars into miniature themed booths, handing out candy and taking photos.

— Keys Weekly staff report

Students at the Basilica School of St. Mary Star of the Sea fill their satchels with candy during the school’s annual Trunk or Treat event on Halloween morning. BRITT MYERS/Keys Weekly

13

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

CAROL TEDESCO www.keysweekly.com

FAMOUSLY WRONG — FOR 75 YEARS

KEY WEST & MIAMI HONOR ‘DEWEY DEFEATS TRUMAN’ HEADLINE MISTAKE

C

linton Curry, executive director of the Key West Harry S. Truman Foundation, and the foundation team are putting the finishing touches in place for the upcoming 75th anniversary of the infamous “Dewey Defeats Truman” mistaken newspaper headline.

We sat down with Clinton to learn more about the events surrounding the anniversary.

What is the significance of “Dewey Defeats Truman” and why are you celebrating its 75th anniversary? Seventy-five years ago, the 33rd president, Harry S. Truman was seeking a second term in office.

Opinion polls and political experts predicted that his opponent, Gov. Thomas Dewey of New York, would prevail. Plenty of folks got it wrong, but most visibly, the Chicago Daily Tribune, whose Nov. 3, 1948 headline announced, “Dewey Defeats Truman.”

What burned this gaffe into our collective memory is that while all this was occurring, Harry Truman was on a cross-country “whistle-stop” campaign tour aboard the “Ferdinand Magellan” railcar, and on Nov. 4, at the St. Louis Union Train Station, surrounded by spectators, Truman held that paper and its erroneous headline up for all to see, and at that moment, photographers captured what has been described as possibly “the most famous political photograph of all time.”

How are you commemorating the date?

With two events over two days: First, on Friday, Nov. 3, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. we’re staging a historic re-enactment of the iconic St. Louis scene, but at the Gold Coast Railroad Museum in Miami, where the original “Ferdinand Magellan” railcar is now on display. The following day we’ll host a celebration from noon until 2 p.m. on the grounds of the Harry S. Truman Little White House in Key West.

How will the part with Harry Truman holding the newspaper on board the “Ferdinand Magellan” work? Didn’t he die in 1972? He did – but standing in his place

Clinton Curry is executive director of the Key West Harry S. Truman Foundation. CAROL TEDESCO/ The Key West Harry S. Truman Foundation

will be his own grandson, Clifton Truman Daniel, an actor who regularly portrays his grandfather in the stage production “Give ‘Em Hell, Harry!”

Would you describe the Miami event as more of a spectator or participatory event? Definitely a participatory event. The plan is to have all the guests surround the railcar, holding up their cameras – meaning phones — and be part of the recreated scene. Shutters will click; flashes will fire – and history will be re-enacted.

Was there anyone with a local connection in the crowd that day in 1948? Yes, there was one that we know of. Edwin O. Swift Jr., father of Historic Tours of America President and Director Ed Swift, was chief photographer for the St. Louis Star Times.

He can be seen in the 1948 photograph, top of the lower right hand side, in a light colored jacket holding his camera above the crowd. I am looking forward to having Mr. Swift in the crowd, standing in the same position his father did 75 years earlier.

How long has the Ferdinand Magellan railcar been in the collection of the Gold Coast Railroad Museum? The railcar was acquired by the museum in 1959 and is one of more than 40 historic rail cars now housed there. One of those railcars has a very historic tie to the Florida Keys, having

President Harry S. Truman, aboard the Ferdinand Magellan railcar, holds up the Nov. 3, 1948, Chicago Daily Tribune with its infamously incorrect ‘Dewey Defeats Truman’ headline. W. EUGENE SMITH/Courtesy of The Key West Harry S. Truman Foundation via Getty Images

The crowd surrounding President Harry S. Truman in 1948 includes Edwin O. Swift Jr., chief photographer for the St. Louis Star Times and father of Key West businessman Edwin O. Swift III. HARRY S. TRUMAN LIBRARY & MUSEUM/Contributed

been used for the Miami to Key West rail service and for pulling the “rescue train” out of Marathon before the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935; FEC No. 153.

Are these ticketed events? Friday’s “Dewey Defeats Truman” news photo reenactment is a ticketed event that runs from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tickets include hors d’oeuvres and 2 drink tickets, and are $25 for Key West Harry S. Truman Foundation and Gold Coast Railroad Museum members, $30 for non-members, and $15 for children under 12. Saturday’s event at the Harry S. Truman Little White House is free and open to the public.

Recommended attire? Since we are celebrating in Florida, we decided to go with what was labeled Truman’s presidential wardrobe during his stays in Key West, tropical and guayabera style shirts. That being said, there is no formal dress code.

For tickets visit trumanlittlewhitehouse.org/ foundation/events. For more information contact Michael Ables at michael.ables@ kwtrumanfoundation.org.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

HERE’S TO HIGHER EDUCATION COLLEGE OF THE FLORIDA

DECK THE HULLS

KEY WEST ROTARY CLUB PRESENTS STOCK ISLAND LIGHTED BOAT PARADE DEC. 8

KEYS WELCOMES ALL TO COMMUNITY DAY ON NOV. 4

A crowd gathers to dance at a past Community Day event.

CONTRIBUTED

T

he College of the Florida Keys (CFK) invites all to its ninth annual Community Day on Saturday, Nov. 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the Key West campus.

The free, family-friendly event will feature a full slate of attractions — including CFK academic showcases, interactive exhibits, live performances, a bounce house and other children’s activities, arts and crafts, vendors, music, free food and drinks, and free T-shirts. As tra-

dition, CFK President Jonathan Gueverra will lead a salute to veterans and military service members.

CFK’s Community Day is supported by First Horizon Bank, Waste Management, Lisa Ferringo Group Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate, Yamaha, Essential Net Solutions, Florida Keys Media, the Keys Citizen, and the Key West Weekly.

More information is available at 305-809-3198.

— Contributed

The Rotary Club of Key West will present the 2023 Stock Island Lighted Boat Parade on Friday, Dec. 8, starting at 5:30 p.m. on the lawn of the Perry Hotel on Stock Island. CONTRIBUTED

T

he Rotary Club of Key West and the Perry Hotel & Marina present the Holiday Lighted Boat Parade of Stock Island on Friday, Dec. 8 starting at 5:30 p.m. on the lawn of the Perry Hotel on Stock Island.

This event will be familyfriendly with games, activities and treats for the children.

Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph and the elves will come all the way from the North Pole. There will also be a surprise appearance by the Grinch.

Photo opportunities will be available.

The main event will begin at 7 p.m. with the start of the parade. Entry is free with cash prizes awarded in three categories — Best Overall wins $1,000; Best Boat Under 30 feet wins $500 and Best Boat Over 30 feet wins $500.

The event will also include some surprise giveaways.

For more information about registering a vessel or sponsoring the event, contact Danielle at 845-742-3843, Christina at 585-255-0174 or Yvette Talbott at 305-304-7650 or visit keywestrotary.com.

— Contributed

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

An osprey migrates through the Florida Keys. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

I

t was weird. The last time I was on Mount Wachusett in northern Massachusetts I was 8, riding the chairlift alone. It was spring break and my elementary school had a weeklong program where they would take you up MARK every morning from the HEDDEN school to the mountain. You could ski all day for cheap ... is a photographer, writer, and on the slightly slushy snow, semi-professional which was cool. Except I’d birdwatcher. He found out, just before my has lived in Key parents dropped me off that West for more than 25 years and morning, that my dog had to may no longer be put to sleep, and he’d be be employable in gone when I got back. the real world. He It wasn’t a fancy ski is also executive area (at the time) but they director of the had loudspeakers on the lift Florida Keys Audubon Society. poles playing the Top 40 of the era, and Eric Carmen’s just-released maudlin dirge “All By Myself” came on. I didn’t totally understand the lyrics, but I got the nominate chorus, and the crushing, violin-fueled bathos it evoked. It was all about loss and despair and hopelessness, sentiments I felt fully enveloped by in that moment, and the 4 minutes and 22 seconds it took the song to play. I can’t remember if I bawled my eyes out, but it seems statistically likely. The song seemed to back up my sense that life was going to be this miserable from there on out.

(This turned out to mostly not to be the case.)

My more recent trip to Mount Wachusett was less traumatic, though it did contain some minor misadventure.

The directions I read online said to take the first road on the right after the ski area parking lot, which I did. It looked a little rough for a road in a state park – mostly dirt with a lot of potholes. After a while I saw someone on the side of the road with an ATV and an array of tools, working on what I think was snowmaking machinery. I asked if this was the road to the hawkwatch. He said, What? No. This was a service road. I had to go back out to the main road and about a half mile up the hill to get to the state park.

The actual park road was well paved, but also steeper and twistier. You live in Florida long enough, you forget the world has such things as up and down and sharp corners that you can accidentally drive off. Which adds to the thrill.

It was late afternoon when I finally parked the car.

It wasn’t the tallest mountain in New England, but it was the tallest one around, and it felt like the whole world lay below. You could see the skyscrapers of Boston, about 40 miles away through the haze. You could also see parts of New Hampshire and Vermont, a little under 20 miles away, though the detail was diminished at that distance.

‘TOP OF THE WORLD, LOOKING DOWN ON CREATION’

There was a fire tower, which was closed for the season, and a wider deck below. On the deck I could see a guy with a cat on a leash, walking it around the railing. I could also see a man in a telltale floppy hat with a spotting scope on a tripod, a clipboard and a pair of binoculars.

There are about 200 hawkwatches in North America, places where the geology or the geography tend to be focal points for migrating raptors – hawks, eagles, falcons, kites, harriers and vultures – and where observers work to track and census them as they pass. Most of those hawkwatches are on the east coast, and most of them count the birds on the southbound fall migration.

My favorite, of course, is the Florida Keys Hawkwatch at Curry Hammock State Park in Marathon, which will be 25 years old next season. Somehow I managed to be up north visiting family during the peak of the season in the Keys this year. Reading the nightly reports of the birds they were seeing was killing me.

(They had two days of 500+ peregrine falcons in the span of three days.)

So I found the Mount Wachusett count, which was one of three spring counts run by the Eastern Massachusetts Hawk Watch, an all-volunteer group. Maybe I’d get to see a bird up there that would later migrate through the Keys. Or any raptor, for that matter. I was jonesing pretty hard for a bird of prey.

The counter at the sight was an older gentleman named Eric Mueller, who was the chief volunteer at the project. He told me the count had been active since 1977, but he’d only been in charge of the site for the last four years. He told me they averaged around 10,000 raptors per season, though this year they were already up to 16,000. The Florida Keys Hawkwatch tends to average about 15,000 to 20,000 raptors per season, though we’ve had over 30,000 in a season before.

Mueller said that 85% to 95% of the birds they get are broad-winged hawks, which tend to travel in big kettles. He said it was nice to see such big numbers, but he was a little frustrated when he compared them to the numbers coming out of Clarry Hill, a site just north of them in Maine, which usually had comparable counts.

He said the Maine site had a count of over 11,000 raptors in a single day. The next day, the Wachusett site had about 3,200 birds come through, possibly from that group.

The Maine site then had a day with nearly 5,000 raptors, which Mueller thought might mean a good day at Wachusett, but the next day they only saw 75 birds.

Those are the vagaries of hawkwatching, though, and he was pretty sanguine about it, as are most hawkwatchers in such times. The numbers are always going to be better at some other count site, the same way the grass is always greener on the other side. It is insanely pleasing to look up and see a cloud of 1,000 living birds right overhead. But collecting the data on the slow days is just as important in trying to create a more detailed picture of how bird migration works. Consistent monitoring is what makes the whole process valuable.

The afternoon I was there was, of course, one of the slowest days they’d had all season.

We did manage to catch sight of a distant osprey, then a distant bald eagle and a few turkey vultures, but that was about it, raptor-wise.

There were also a few common ravens flying in and out of a nearby cell phone tower – not exactly rare birds, but ones you don’t see in the Keys.

Still, there was something very edifying in staring out into a vast open sky, scanning, hoping something interesting is going to come along. And if nothing else, it was certainly a far better experience than the last time I was on Mount Wachusett.

18

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

PARTY ANIMALS & TALKING HEADS A LOOK AT 2023 FANTASY FEST EVENTS

1 2

3

T

ributes to the late singer/songwriter Jimmy Buffett were prevalent this year at Key West’s Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade on Oct. 25.

The fur-filled festivities were a highlight of the island’s 10-day Fantasy Fest costuming and masking celebration.

Several groups feted Buffett, who died Sept. 1 at age 76. Other group entries included a family staging a “Smokey the Bear” skit with a Newfoundland portraying Smokey.

As well as providing a tail-waggin’ good time, the Pet Masquerade benefits the Lower Keys Friends of Animals.

The following night brought the 40th anniversary of the Key West Business Guild’s Headdress Ball, where decadent and dazzling designs towered over the stage at Coffee Butler Amphitheater.

4 5

— Mandy Miles 1. Erica Rachal of Summerland Key wins first prize for her Headdress Ball creation, ‘Lady Seraphina — Guardian of the Unicorn.’ LARRY BLACKBURN/ Keys Weekly 2. Newfoundland ‘Teddy’ is dressed as Smokey the Bear and 2-year-old Aelwyn Morgan portrays a firefighting forest ranger during the Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade on Oct. 25. FLORIDA KEYS NEWS BUREAU/Contributed A dog disguised as a unicorn prances across the stage at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater during the 26th annual Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade on Oct. 25. CAROL TEDESCO/FantasyFest.com

3. DJ Rude Girl, left, with unicorn horn, watches as Nancy D’Amato helps ‘Princess Butterfly’ Jasmine Clark Allen of Key West, and ‘Princess Puppy’ into position during the Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade. CAROL TEDESCO/FantasyFest.com 4. Guy Hermelin of Key West’s ‘Derby Dazzler’ creation takes second place in the 40th annual Headdress Ball on Oct. 19. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly 5. ‘Tin Man’ Saul David, left, and ‘Scarecrow’ Jeff Jolly, right, of Key West follow the yellow brick road to the Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade with the ‘Cowardly Lion’ portrayed by canine companion Sequin, a 4-year-old Dalmatian, and ‘Dorothy’ portrayed by Gus, a 3-year-old ‘Huskalabraterribull.’ CAROL TEDESCO/FantasyFest.com

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

Ross Brown and Cayo Ritmo add their own sound to some familiar songs while playing at The Backyard Bar during Fantasy Fest. BILL KLIPP/Key West Wanderings

NEW AGREEMENT HELPS POWER AIRPORT

UTILITY BOARD PLANS UNDERGROUND REDUNDANCY POWER FEED

WHAT’S THAT SOUND? AND WHY AM I HEARING IT?

A

s a musician watching and listening to live music, my mind has a tendency to wander.

I start to ask myself why that player chose this chord, or why the singer sang those notes. During Fantasy Fest I began to wonder if I could understand what factors determine why the same song sounds so different when played by two different bands.

Obviously, the difference lies in the players themselves, but what does that mean?

First, each player has had different influences. Musicians, like kids, learn from the heroes they love and the music that surrounds them. These influences vary greatly among working musicians. If a drummer heavily influenced by Latin music writes with a guitar player from a heavy metal background, the music they create would produce its own particular sound and feel.

Another obvious factor in this equation is the number of players in a band. Your average threepiece band’s version of a song will not sound the same when played by a band with an additional guitar, some keyboards, another singer and a tambourine player.

Each version can be great, but they won’t be the same. (The tambourine solo alone adds an extra two minutes to every song.)

As with every workplace, leadership is a big factor in determining the sound and style of a song. Sometimes the leader is a diplomat, musically directing traf-

RAY WEST

fic and ensur... a professional musician, singer, ing all players actor and execuget what they need creatively tive director of the Key West Music to remain Awards, is known interested and to sacrifice his comfort for that enthusiastic. of his cat.

That leader may point to the person next in line for a solo while directing a bit of the group dynamics. Other leaders may be the primary focus of the group, with most solos and vocals performed by that leader. But they still work to keep everyone happy. There are advantages and limitations to this primary-focus approach, but when it works, it really works.

The musicians’ interpersonal relationships are a subtle but important factor. The ease with which people in the band communicate and relax within their role helps determine the shape and sound of the music. Something special happens when one player notices and appreciates a bandmate doing something special. And when that bandmate notices the player’s appreciation, everything seems to work.

Some players intentionally change the way a song sounds, taking creative approaches to make it their own, while others strive to give the audience their best version of the original. Other times, the differences are just a natural result of the universal language of music. It comes about organically and appeals to those playing — and to those listening.

T

he Utility Board authorized Keys Energy Services’ (KEYS) staff to finalize and approve an agreement for an underground redundant power feed to Key West International Airport (EYW) with Monroe County, during its meeting on Oct. 25.

Electric service to EYW is provided from a single power feed that originates at the Kennedy Drive Electrical Substation, meaning airport operations are affected by any outage or interruption affecting that feed. To increase reliability, the county requested that KEYS install a redundant power feed to provide an alternate power supply route to EYW. The proposed redundant power feed will originate at the Thompson Street Electrical Substation and run along the “Bridle Path.” Due to the cultural, historical and ecological significance of this area, the proposed feed will be placed underground.

“KEYS and the county have negotiated a cost share for the proposed alternate feed,” said Lynne Tejeda, KEYS’ general manager & CEO. “KEYS will bear the estimated $200,000 design cost and the county will cover the estimated $1.5 million construction cost.”

The Board of County Commissioners will take action on

the agreement at its meeting Wednesday, Nov. 8.

In other business, the Utility Board: • Approved a piggy-back of a University of Virginia contract for the purchase of Cisco licensing and hardware maintenance services with ePlus Technology in the amount of $276,916. The contract includes three-year licensing, maintenance and support necessary for KEYS’ continued use of its Cisco network switching, security, wireless and enterprise routing solutions. KEYS uses hundreds of Cisco switches to enable communication, security and proper routing of data among various network devices, each of which requires a license subscription for continued operation.

• Approved the sole source unit price purchase of programmable meters from Anixter Power Solutions in the total estimated amount of $186,020.

KEYS purchases an annual supply of programmable meters to serve new customers and to replace damaged or malfunctioning meters. This purchase is for about 350 meters. Anixter is the only distributor for Itron electric metering products in Florida.

— Contributed

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

I

hope everyone made it through the double dose is an astrologer, wanderer, barof Fantasy Fest tender and and eclipse seaadvocate for son transformed queer justice. He in the difficult yet is a loquacious necessary ways.

Gemini with a cozy Cancer Things are not rising. Find him at what they seem hearthandheraldunder the skies astrology.com of eclipse season, and working through the illusions is all part of the evolution we are all experiencing in our own ways.

Expect the choices you’ve made to become integrated in your life over the next several months. The cycles of the planets never stop, and this week we have two powerful oppositions taking place. The Sun opposes Jupiter as Venus opposes Neptune, meaning these planetary pairs are playing an energetic tug-of-war directly through us. The Sun-Jupiter opposition can bring about epic ego battles, abundant creativity, and clarity about leadership roles. The Venus-Neptune opposition marks blissful romanticism, confusion in relationships and mystical artistry.

This is a lot of action to consolidate into a single image, but imagine sitting in a hot tub having a disagreement with your boss while the Flaming Lips are playing a concert under the laser lights in your backyard.

This weekend should feel a little like that.

Here are your horoscopes for the week. Read for your rising and sun signs.

CHRIS McNULTY

Scorpio Oct. 24 - Nov. 21 You may experience a power struggle with a partner, but this dynamic is fertile for a genuine appreciation of one another and creative teamwork. Keep the egos in check and turn your attention on a shared goal. Daydreaming of your own creations may pull you away from being present with your friends.

Taking the time to appreciate your supporters will aid your own blissful pursuits.

EGOS IN THE HOT TUB Sagittarius Nov. 22 - Dec. 21 Double, double, toil and trouble, Sag has lots of work to juggle. Your labors may seem to get in the way of your inner peace and spiritual solitude. How can you turn your chores into personal meditations this week? In the same vein, the love you are putting into your career is putting tension on the healing taking place at home. You don’t need to choose one over the other, but let them hold a dynamic tension.

Capricorn Dec. 22 - Jan. 19 Your heart is pulling you to explore new things as your familiar surroundings may seem to be losing their hold on you. Follow your heart’s desire to high adventure and let that help you romanticize your community of origin. Take time to clarify your most essential hopes and dreams without falling into the trap of thinking you have to achieve them all on your own.

Let yourself have some fun without losing sight of your life goals.

Aquarius Jan. 20 - Feb. 18 Your career and your life in public are still in focus right now, but the pull to appreciate the joys of home and family is strong. Don’t get caught in the belief that these two spheres of life are at odds — in fact, they grow together. Investing your heart into other people does not dissolve your personal safety net. Making the right choices in the groups you associate with will heal your personal resourcefulness.

Pisces Feb. 19 - March 20 The more you clarify the things you want to change in your life, the more you will find joy in things as they are. Nostalgia for the familiar people and places right in front of you will help you appreciate them more as you plan for your next great life experience. Allow yourself to be allured by a partner without

losing yourself in the process. Remember you are a mythic figure in your own right.

Aries March 21 - April 19 You should be able to see clearly the return on your investments, whether financial, social or energetic. In fact, they should be offering you abundance. Remember, however, that you are the source of your own wealth and resourcefulness. You may feel a strong pull to keep doing and working rather than simply being in meditative stillness, but loving your labor is where your inner world can find its peace.

Taurus April 20 - May 20 The more you gravitate toward your personal creative outlets, the more your social world may seem to dissolve as you fall in love with your own creative energy. But stay tethered to your supporters out there, because there are muses in that mix. Seeing a partner more and more clearly may inflate your own sense of self, but remember that self-love and humility are the best checks and balances.

Gemini May 21 - June 21 Diving into all of the things you need to get done is really important right now, but remember to take moments of solitude to maintain your joy in the process. A dance between being and doing is so important this week. Your heart is at home while work may seem a bit unclear or amorphous, but remember that your work in the world is what dreams your home into existence.

Cancer June 22 - July 22 The joys of life and your creative spirit are really pulling you in, perhaps they’re even pulling you away from the social networks that are aiding your development. This distance from your friends can

actually make them loom larger.

Clarify your priorities first and foremost, particularly the things in life that make your heart sing, then make your important decisions.

Love your community and dream of the future.

Leo July 23 - Aug. 22 Follow the impulse to be a homebody right now and check in with your family. Doing so, you will feel the growing presence of work in the periphery. But honestly, your roots need tending. Do the tasks for work that you enjoy and leave the rest for later. Take stock of your finances and your possessions and see to it that they reflect your personal values. Your dream life should be reflected in things you surround yourself with.

Virgo Aug. 23 - Sept. 22 You can see the people and places that are familiar to you very clearly right now, and this may actually be causing you to seek something new to break up the humdrum.

However, choosing gratitude for the usual rather than resentment will allow your adventure elsewhere to produce real joy. Take time to really love and appreciate yourself right now.

Libra Sept. 23 - Oct. 23 Alone is not the same as lonely, and your solitude is very precious right now. Going on an inner journey can help you to determine your ideal routines in the outer world, rather than routines that serve as an escape. You may feel called to make a big investment or a big withdrawal right now, but take just a moment to be sure that the impulse aligns with your true values.

27

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

1

2

3 4

DRESSED FOR SUCCESS? COSTUMED CREATIONS FILL KEY WEST

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2. This group came from the North Pole to warm up before Christmas and watch the Fantasy Fest parade. MARK HEDDENKeys Weekly

he last weekend of October never disappoints in Key West, where the annual Fantasy Fest wrapped up with the ever-popular Masquerade March on Oct. 27 and then the wildly popular Fantasy Fest Parade on Oct. 28.

As our photographers prove every year, the crowds have as much fun as the marchers in both events.

— Mandy Miles

5

1. The Lower Keys Fluffers ‘Conchtucky Derby’ entry won the $6,000 Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade Grand Prize for Best Overall in Saturday night’s parade. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

3. The Barbie and Ken theme made repeat appearances throughout this year’s Fantasy Fest activities.

LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly 4. The Caribbean Junkanoo dancers spice up the Fantasy Fest Parade on Oct. 28. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

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5. Masked crusaders watch the parade. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly 6. A Captain Morgan Masquerade March group pays tribute to Key West’s most flamboyant jogger, Douglas Miller, also known as “Red Zorro” and “The Flag Man.” CAROL TEDESCO/FantasyFest.com 7. Revelers follow the call of the disco ball during Friday’s Captain Morgan Masquerade March.

CAROL TEDESCO/FantasyFest.com 8. Two Masquerade March participants pay tribute to the Florida Keys’ fragile coral reef. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

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8

9. Minions watch the Fantasy Fest Parade. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly 10. A group depicting an offbeat Kentucky Derby for unicorns performs on Duval Street during the Oct. 28 Fantasy Fest Parade.

The Derby takeoff, produced by the Lower Keys Fluffers, was named the parade’s best overall entry.

ANDY NEWMAN/Florida Keys News Bureau

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10

28

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

THE LAST TRAIN

DELAYS PREVENTED LOCOMOTIVE FROM EVACUATING VETERANS FROM WORK CAMPS

T

he Key West Extension of Henry Flagler’s Florida East Coast Railway was never the successful enterprise he imagined. For all the money and the effort required to build the OverSea Railroad (the project FLORIDA required 11 or so years to complete), it only rambled KEYS and steamed across the HISTORY island chain for 23 years.

WITH 1929 was the beginning BRAD of the end for the Key West BERTELLI Extension. The combinaAn author, tion one-two punch landed speaker, Florida with the arrival of Seatrain Keys historian and Lines Inc. and the Great Honorary Conch.

Depression. Seatrain offered His latest book, railroad car ferry service “Florida Keys History with Brad between New Orleans and Bertelli, Volume Havana at a better price than 1,” shares fasciits competition — including nating glimpses Henry Flagler’s railroad ferry into the rich and operating between Key West sometimes surprising histories of and Havana. the Florida Keys.

The Great Depression began in 1929, too. When it did, competition between the F.E.C. and Seatrain only intensified. As a result, the shipping between Havana and Key West through the Florida East Coast Railway system substantially dwindled. Because the Key West Extension of Henry Flagler’s railroad was struggling financially, by 1932, it had been placed into receivership.

The final and definitive nail hammered into the coffin of Flagler’s Folly – what skeptics called his plan during the construction of the Key West Extension – arrived in late August 1935.

It started on Thursday, Aug. 29, 1935, when a relatively nondescript tropical disturbance was identified circulating east of the central Bahamas.

The disturbance churned over the warm Atlantic waters toward Andros Island as a slow-moving tropical storm. It was initially projected to pass between Key West and the Dry Tortugas. The initial projection was wrong. By Sunday, Sept. 1, the Category 1 hurricane with 84 mph winds was swirling about 200 miles from the Upper Keys. At 7 p.m., the Category 2

The relief train sent to rescue World War I veterans from work camps in the Keys. FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY CENTER/Contributed

hurricane had sustained winds of 104 mph. It had also begun to turn.

Because of work projects undertaken by the Federal Emergency Relief Administration, which included the building of a series of automobile bridges between Lower Matecumbe Key and Big Pine Key, hundreds of World War I veterans were brought to the Keys and housed in work camps on Windley and Lower Matecumbe Keys.

At 3:30 a.m., someone from the Weather Bureau called the Matecumbe Hotel on Upper Matecumbe Key to relay a message to the F.E.R.A. officials in charge of the camps: “Caution high tides and gales on Florida Keys.”

Work camp officials learned of the Weather Bureau report at 7:30 a.m. A reporter for the Miami Daily News called to inquire about the government’s plan to evacuate the veterans and was told that two trains in Miami could reach the Keys on three or four hours’ notice.

One of the Sunday morning headlines in the Washington Post read: “Hurricane Heads Toward Florida.” The reporting caused enough concern for officials in Washington to reach out to the work camps to ensure evacuation plans were in place, and they were told “yes.”

By 10:30 a.m. Monday morning, Labor Day, the Weather Bureau had issued hurricane warnings for Key West. Ray Sheldon, one of the men in charge of the works camps in the Keys, had a plan but needed to run it by his boss, Fred Ghent, for approval.

One of the problems was that it was a holiday weekend. Ghent rolled out of bed around 11 a.m., checked in with his office, and headed out for what turned out to be a long lunch. No one in his office was aware of where he went, and it was not until 1:45 p.m. that he was contacted and told that the vets needed to be evacuated.

Ghent assured Sheldon that he would take care of it, and, at about 2 p.m., he called the F.E.C. train dispatcher to order a train sent to the Keys. Again, it was a holiday weekend. The

process took time, and by the time locomotive engine number 447 was up to steam and coupled to six passenger cars, three baggage cars, and a pair of boxcars, it was 4:25 p.m.

Almost immediately, the train was stopped by a drawbridge, allowing boat traffic to pass, and was idle for 10 minutes. It was not the last delay.

At 5:15 p.m., when the train steamed into Homestead, it stopped to load telephone wires and allow a repair crew to board. Also while at Homestead, the decision was made to turn the engine around and make the run to Islamorada in reverse.

Locomotive engine 447 rolled out of Homestead at 5:30 p.m. The train rocked and rolled over the 18-Mile Stretch, over Jewfish Creek, and down the Keys. It arrived at Windley Key, at Camp 1, at 6:50 p.m. When the engine’s pistons began to thrust down, and the train moved forward, the wheels became entangled with a cable that had fallen across the railroad tracks.

It took more than an hour to untangle it and free the train.

The relief train arrived at the Islamorada Depot, 2.7 miles away from the Camp 1 site, at approximately 8:10 p.m. Shortly after, screaming winds blew over one of the 75-ton boxcars coupled to the train. A reporter for the Miami Daily News, William Johns, who was aboard the train, later wrote: “We had been stopped but 10 or 15 minutes when a wall of water from 15 to 20 feet high picks up our coaches and swirls them about like straws.”

The 1935 Labor Day Hurricane remains the most powerful storm ever to make a North American landfall. Forces associated with the Category 5 storm destroyed 40 miles of railroad tracks that were never repaired. Because the Key West Extension of the Florida East Coast Railway was bankrupt, the right-of-way was sold to the state of Florida for $640,000, making Sept. 2, 1935, the last day Henry Flagler’s train shook, rattled and rolled over the island chain.

29

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

SAVE THE DATE Saturday, Nov. 4 • The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) invites all to Community Day, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the Key West campus. The free, family-friendly event will feature a full slate of attractions — including CFK academic showcases, interactive exhibits, live performances, a bounce house and other children’s activities, arts and crafts, vendors, music, free food and drinks, and free Tshirts.

SHELF HELP

S

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

What: “The Fraud” by Zadie

Smith.

Why: I’ve always loved historical fiction so I’m delighted when some of our best writers look to the past – like Hilary Mantel, Lauren Groff and now, Zadie Smith. Her new novel is based on a real-life court case from 19th century Britain, when a workingclass butcher claimed to be the long-lost heir to an aristocratic fortune. His primary witness was a black man who grew up enslaved on the family’s plantation in Jamaica.

The story is told mostly from the point of view of another real-life character, Eliza Touchet, who was the housekeeper for her cousin, William Ainsworth. He was a 19th century novelist who experienced early success but retreated into writing not-verygood historical fiction. Smith uses this cast of characters (including Ainsworth’s young working-class wife, a former housemaid he slept with and got pregnant) to explore gender, race and class – without it feeling like a sociology treatise. And it includes some excellently sly depictions of the literary scene in Victorian Britain. Charles Dickens does not come off well. But mostly it’s the story of a woman who, after a life serving others, takes up the question of whether she has authority to become a storyteller.

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

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

Sunday, Nov. 5 • Deadline to apply for College of the Florida Keys scholarships. CFK’s spring semester begins Jan 5. Students must be registered for spring classes to be eligible for spring scholarships. For information about scholarships, contact foundation@cfk.edu or 305-809-3153.

For information about becoming a student, visit cfk.edu/futurestudents, email recruiter@ cfk.edu, or call 305-809-3207.

Monday, Nov. 13 • Congregation B’Nai Zion restarts its free monthly movie series. “Deli Man” will screen at 7:30 p.m. All are welcome. 750 United St., Key West.

Nov. 15-19 • Tropic Cinema presents the Key West Film Festival.

Tickets and packages are available at kwfilmfest.com.

Saturday, Dec. 16 • 15th Annual A Positive Step of Monroe County 5K Rudolph Red Nose Run starts at 7 a.m. and begins and ends at the Southernmost Beach Cafe. Auction items are being sought. Bidding will take place online in advance of the run and via an app on the day of the run. The run is presented

by A Positive Step of Monroe County, a nonprofit serving Monroe County’s highestrisk kids and their families since 1999, and the Key West Southernmost Runners Club.

To donate, contact APSMC executive director Billy Davis at 305-304-1969 or apsmccrp@ aol.com.

RAMSINGH HOUSE WINS FANTASY FACADE DECOR CONTEST COMMUNITY CHOOSES STAPLES AVENUE DESIGN IN ONLINE VOTING

The Ramsingh household at 2812 Staples Ave. won the ‘Community Favorite’ prize package in this year’s Key West Chamber of Commerce Fantasy Facade Competition for “Thriller on Staples,” MICHAEL BLADES./FantasyFest.com

E

ach year Key West guesthouses, businesses and private homes compete for cash prizes in the Key West Chamber of Commerce Fantasy Facade Competition, with the winners selected by a panel of judges. This year for the first time, a “Community Favorite” component was added, with the public invited to visit all 22 competition locations and then cast “Community Favorite” votes online.

The Ramsingh household at 2812 Staples Ave. took the most votes with their towering “Thriller on Staples” presentation and have scored

a valuable prize package provided by Key West Chamber of Commerce members, including a Hemingway Rum gift bundle, single-day passes for RokIsland Fest, Mile 0 Fest or Key Western Fest, a onenight stay at Ocean’s Edge Resort, and gift certificates to Key Lime Bike Tours, Historic Tours of America, Key West Express, Little Whitehouse Subs, Tavern N Town, Benihana, La Trattoria, Mattheessen’s, Latitudes, Bistro 245, Yellowfin Bar & Kitchen at Ocean’s Edge Resort, McKee’s Tiki Bar at the Capitana Key West Resort and Love In Bloom.

— Contributed

31

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

QUAY PROPERTY ISSUES Scrap everything done to this point?

L

et me begin this week’s column by stating that I have the utmost respect for our current City Council. To a person, I believe every individual occupying those seats is doing their best to do the right thing for the people of Marathon.

Sometimes, however, good people disagree on what may be the best solution to a particular issue.

Democracy can be a messy business sometimes, but that’s why we have multi-member councils, commissions and legislatures. People can get together, discuss and debate and hopefully come to the right decision.

It’s just the nature of government that not everyone will agree on a particular course of action. A current case in point is the recent decision by the council concerning the Quay property. As a member of the City Council who voted to purchase the Quay property, I do not believe that the project’s design — and nearly $850,000 in grant funding — should be scrapped in favor of adding another boat ramp and additional trailer parking.

The Marathon City Council of 2018 voted to acquire the Quay property to enhance the existing boat ramp as well as provide a beautiful waterfront park for our residents and visitors. The city hosted multiple workshops, got a lot of citizen input, and then hired design consultants.

All this effort resulted in plans that were moving forward until the council meeting on Oct. 24. All that progress is now on hold because three council members want to put in another boat ramp at the site.

The city manager and city staff didn’t agree with this decision, and neither do I. Remember, this was brought to the residents, and the city received a whole lot of public input as to the design. The Quay site was destined to become an enticing off-highway attraction and a perfect recreational green space with stunning waterfront views — a tropical park to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. To throw all this away now because some want another boat ramp and trailer parking is short-sighted at best.

This is not to say that there isn’t a problem with our boat ramps.

The worst times of year are always around lobster mini-season and the opening of regular season. Given that, and the occasional weekend demands of seasonal boaters, it’s still

safe to say that there is no boat ramp congestion for more than 300 days in each calendar year. So why would we kill off a park that would benefit our JOHN residents yearBARTUS round in favor of John Bartus is a something that singer-songwriter will exist primarily and the former for Marathon and mayor of MaraKey Colony Beach thon. tourists?

As I mentioned previously, I was on the city council that voted to acquire the Quay property. We understood that the development of the park would take time. As former council member and Mayor Randy Mearns said, “Government moves at the pace of a dead snake.” The process of developing a property to its best use with taxpayer dollars and grants is a slow, laborious grind. That’s why things take as long as they do when the government is involved. If the current decision stands, more than four years of effort and tax dollars already spent will be thrown away in order to begin the process anew.

Starting over will put off any progress at the Quay site for likely another four years while permits are considered, grants and funding sources investigated, contractors hired, and construction commences.

Let’s not forget all the resident input the city already received in those workshops — all those voices will be ignored and thrown out as well.

As a resident and taxpayer, I strongly disagree with the idea of tossing out a beautiful green space that benefits everyone and replacing it with another boat ramp that mostly benefits tourists. If you feel the same, contact your city council members — respectfully, with understanding and kindness. It’s often a thankless job to sit in those seats and make those decisions. Even though I disagree with some of them sometimes, I appreciate the effort all of them put into making Marathon a better place.

— Catch John live Wednesdays at Brutus Seafood, Thursdays at Sparky’s Landing, Saturday at the Presents In Paradise fundraiser at the Marathon Elks Lodge, and Sunday at the Skipjack Resort Tiki Bar. Find his music anywhere you download or stream your music. www.johnbartus.com • johnbartus.hearnow.com

COLORFUL HEADDRESS HISTORY

Pieces from this year’s Key West Headdress Ball will be featured in the forthcoming exhibit ‘Key West Headdress Ball: Celebrating 40 Years of Creativity,’ which opens at the Key West Museum of Art & History on the evening of Friday, Nov.10. CONTRIBUTED

KEY WEST MUSEUM OF ART & HISTORY TO SHOWCASE ICONIC DESIGNS

T

he Key West Art & Historical Society will open its new exhibit “Key West Headdress Ball: Celebrating 40 Years of Creativity” at a reception on Friday, Nov. 10 at 5 p.m. at the Custom House Museum, 281 Front St. This exhibit will showcase many of the elaborate creations of the Headdress Ball – produced for four decades by the Key West Business Guild – including some from this year’s event alongside vintage headdresses from years past. More than 20 assemblages will be presented, offering an upclose view of the work involved in creating pieces for the annual contest.

The Headdress Ball was one of the first organized Fantasy Fest events, originating four years after the first parade in 1979. Initially held at the Monster Bar on Front Street, the headdress competition relocated to the Copa Nightclub, Bourbon Street Pub, Atlantic Shores, Southernmost Hotel and eventually to its new home at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater. Each year, headdresses have become more and more

ostentatious, often incorporating unique elements such as moving parts, bubble guns and surprise reveals. The event is also the Key West Business Guild’s major fundraiser, with proceeds benefiting the promotion of the island as a LGBTQ+ destination.

“During a conversation with Peter Arnow, organizer of Headdress Ball for the last 30 years, it struck us both that after four decades of the competition, the society should host an exhibition to applaud and commend the long-running program,” said Cori Convertito, curator and historian for the Key West Museum of Art & History. “We enjoy staging exhibitions that combine both art and history elements. Headdress is the ideal confluence of these themes, and we are thrilled that our visitors will get a glimpse into the complex elements incorporated into the head pieces and accompanying costumes.”

The exhibit runs until Dec. 3. More information is available from Convertito at 305-295-6616 ext. 507 or cconvertito@kwahs. org.

— Contributed

32

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023 ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

ARTISTRY ERASED New SurfStyle installment in Kmart building set to destroy Wyland mural

Wyland works in March 2022 to restore ‘Whaling Wall #87 - Florida’s Radiant Reef’ on the shuttered Kmart building. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

M

arathon locals may be delighted to know the official answer to a hot-button question: “What’s going into the Kmart building?”

They might be less than thrilled about the cost of the transition.

According to a permit currently on file with the city of Marathon, the building shuttered for two and a half years is slated to become the newest location for trendy beach clothing retailer SurfStyle. In addition to considerable retail space, the area formerly occupied by Kmart’s outdoor and fishing section is designated for use as a Flow Rider attraction, a small pool with pumps to provide a perpetual “wave” for its users.

Still, the face of the building will likely draw the attention of most locals. As currently submitted, the structure’s east end is set for a full redesign with a series of graphic metal panels, affixed with metal anchors over renowned artists Wyland and Guy Harvey’s 22-year-old “Whaling Wall #87.”

Originally dedicated on March 9, 2001, the mural, titled “Florida’s Radiant Reef,” is one installment in a nearly 30-year series painted from 1981 to 2008 to raise global ocean awareness. In March 2022, with the assistance of several local businesses and Stanley Switlik art teacher Shannon Paul Wiley, Wyland returned to restore the mural, touching up outlines and adding a few new elements before applying a new clear protective coating to the entire piece.

As this piece was written, the duo was together again in Havana to paint what Wyland said will be his final large-scale mural on the National Aquarium of Cuba.

“It’s hard to believe that somebody would even consider destroying a public work of art that is so much a part of the community,” Wyland told the Weekly by

phone on Oct. 27. “Talk about bad branding.

To come in as a new business and try to do that is really disrespectful, not only to myself but everyone that supported that wall.”

"I believe Wyland's murals, those found here in the Keys and at hundreds of locations throughout the world, should be preserved and maintained as part of our history,” added Wiley. “His creations are not only aesthetically magnificent, but speak volumes about the importance of conservation of marine species and preservation of this precious planet we are all blessed to share."

Wyland pointed to protections he believes are afforded to the mural by the federal Visual Artists Rights Act. Passed in 1990, the legislation provides additional rights to the creators of significant artwork that meets a certain set of requirements, regardless of physical ownership of the work itself.

Several cases throughout the last 20 years would appear to be similar to this one.

In 2018, a federal judge awarded $6.7 million to 21 graffiti artists after their works were abruptly painted over during the process of constructing luxury condominiums in Queens, New York. Ten years earlier, the U.S. government was among 11 defendants that paid $1.1 million to Los Angeles artist Kent Twitchell after his six-story mural honoring artist Ed Ruscha was painted over without his knowledge or consent.

In an email exchange obtained by the Weekly via a public records request, Marathon planning director Brian Shea cautioned David Keener, one of the project’s architects, about potential “community backlash” if the original mural is destroyed.

“Locals are very fond of the Wyland/Guy Harvey painting on the building,” Shea wrote, “And it looks like you are bisecting it to add the new entrance, and then covering it up

A rendering from architects’ plans currently on file with the city of Marathon show a revamped facade on the new SurfStyle building. The plans would obscure Wyland’s original mural with graphic metal panels affixed to the existing wall with metal anchors. ARCHITECTUREPLUS INTERNATIONAL/Contributed with the metal panel system with graphics.”

(Ironically, potential renderings for graphics on the new panels include work by none other than Guy Harvey.)

“We have made the owner aware,” Keener wrote in response. “He is working with Guy Harvey to either recreate the mural as a graphic applied to the metal panels or to repaint on them. We did what we could to keep the original but there was just no way with the exterior work proposed.”

SurfStyle’s permit (P-23-1065) is currently on hold for review by city staff. Its status may be monitored by typing the permit number in the “Search for Records” function at marathonfl.portal.opengov.com. Once issued by the city, it will enter a five-day local appeal period, during which residents can voice their concerns, before being rendered to the state for a 45-day review by the Florida Department of Commerce.

Conversations with several city officials indicated to the Weekly that the city’s ability to deny the permit outside of a civil suit is limited, as the mural is on private property owned by real estate investment trust Kimco.

A request seeking an official comment from Marathon officials about efforts to preserve the mural, if any, was not returned by press time.

An email sent to SurfStyle’s Gilad Ovaknin, listed as the permit’s point of contact, seeking comment on the proposed design and impacts to the existing mural, had gotten no response by press time.

34

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

5th Annual

September 2 - November 30

Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden 5210 College Road MM 4.5 in Key West Sponsored in part by:

For more information on this and other Garden events, visit our website at www.keywest.garden

35

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

CELEBRATING

TAKE ME HOME?

T

he 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.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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37

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

A FOND LOOK BACK AT THE PAST FIVE YEARS

A

lot has transpired in the Florida Keys since my first day on the job with the Keys Weekly NewspaJIM pers five years McCARTHY ago.

Nov. 1, 2018 serves as editor of the Upper Keys marked the Weekly. A Taverstart of a new nier resident, he gig in the Upper believes in comKeys — my first munity reporting, big adventure giving back and life on the waters. on my own, away from western New York where I spent the first 26 years of my life. The move was a huge leap. My excitement oozed as I packed my belongings, mainly short-sleeved clothes and shorts, and thought about the endless summer days, leaving the cold winters and the lake-effect snow.

But I remember feeling some angst moving so far away from family and friends and breaking from my routine and lifestyle I had in New York. And I really didn’t know all that much about the island chain other than the family trips we took during Easter holidays to camp near Key West.

I was introduced to the Keys rather quickly during my first weekend as a resident and Keys Weekly employee. I woke up during the wee hours on a Saturday morning to attend the Key Largo Bridge Run with my colleague at the time, Nola Acker, to set up a booth. By afternoon, we hopped on over to participate in the chili cookoff in Key Largo. As the evening rolled around, I ventured to the Keys History & Discovery Center for a bootlegger bash. As I gazed out at the crowd dressed to the 1920s, I thought to myself that this gig was going to keep me quite busy. And boy was I ready for it.

As editor of the Upper Keys Weekly, I’ve had the great pleasure of establishing many connections with members of the community from the nonprofit and business world to the fish and dive industry.

Not a day goes by where I don’t run into someone I know while out and about at the store, the gas station or a restaurant. Outside the many visitors, there’s a tight-knit community in the Upper Keys that I’ve come to enjoy. And everyone in the community has a story idea worth sharing.

The job has also afforded me the opportunity to be an active member of the community.

In 2019, I decided to become a Rotarian after speaking with Jen McComb, who I met during her time at the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter. I eventually became president of the Key Largo Sunset Rotary Club, which was something I never thought I’d take on. Seeing the dedication and energy of fellow members, I said to myself, “Why not?”

I’ve made many memories in my first five years in the Keys.

Obtaining my diver certification, visiting the Everglades, putting on the first Best of Upper Keys last year with my beloved Keys Weekly crew and speaking with Travis Pastrana before a stunt are some of the clips I replay back in my head.

I also have to include carving a pumpkin underwater in Key Largo, which somehow made the news on my dad’s television in New York.

I told him, “Yeah, I was part of that group.”

More than anything, the job has given me the opportunity to establish roots in a community with my family. I never knew where the journey would take me as I began my new life in the Keys solo.

Today, I live in a beautiful home with my love, Brie, our 11-year-old, Liam, and our energetic 1-year-old, Lucas.

Finally, I wouldn’t be where I am without my hard working crew at the Keys Weekly Newspapers.

From our writers and photographers to our business development team, we are committed to bringing the best news and opportunities to help grow our local businesses in town. After all, we’re all local. And we call care.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

COURT CONSOLIDATION DETRIMENTAL TO MONROE COUNTY Dear Editor, Any attempt by a government to alter and politically maneuver the functioning of our courts, for any reason whatsoever, is a breach of the public’s trust that will immediately begin to disintegrate and destroy the fabric of our constitutional republic.

Disenfranchising, limiting or restricting a citizen’s “constitutional right” to elect the judges, prosecutors and public defenders they believe best protect and serve them and their families is a criminal breach and violation.

As knowledge of the state of Florida’s drive for a “political takeover of our judicial system,” by combining Monroe County’s 16th Judicial Circuit into Miami-Dade’s 11th Judicial Circuit, begins to grasp political prominence, the enormity of the harm and destructive nature of such a consolidation upon Monroe County’s citizens and residents will be a reprehensible shock.

There will be a political backlash against those politicians responsible for introducing this despotic destruction into our already stressful lives.

There will be a price to pay for them, having dared to undercut and defile the fabric of our judicial system, attempting to eradicate one of our most fundamental and precious rights as Americans.

Consolidating the 11th and 16th Judicial Circuits will significantly diminish the ability of Monroe County residents to have direct involvement in electing those public officials that will govern them. Their ballots cast on Election Day will be ravaged and watered

down by the enormous voter turnout coming from MiamiDade County residents. These residents have very little awareness or concern for the “distinct uniqueness” needs and geographical structure of those residing in the Florida Keys.

This attempted “forced consolidation” of judicial circuits is unnecessary. It appears to be politically motivated. It’s a clear and evident fact, citizens of the 16th Judicial Circuit (Monroe County) are becoming more vocal in asserting their resistance to this coercive and heavy-handed proposal, which will bring suffering into their lives, if this “consolidation effort” is approved. Monroe County residents will be required to drive and be answerable and held accountable, in courts many hundreds of miles away.

At this contentious time within our nation, this unnecessarily “consolidation nonsense” will not benefit any constituents on any level.

We do not need any more dysfunctional and discredited ideas from anyone in government, purporting and masquerading as bearers of relief, good judgment and compassionate resolve, for the people they’ve taken an oath to protect and serve.

If this “consolidation proposal” causes you to be alarmed and concerned, please contact Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, along with the sponsor of this proposal in Florida House Speaker Paul Renner, and urge them to withdraw and prevent this perversion from becoming our reality.

John Donnelly, Key Largo

38

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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November 2, 2023

Hurricanes, Conchs steamroll opponents ahead of final matchups | P.8

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3

NOVEMBER 2, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

NOV. 2

THE SCOREBOARD

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Team

Sport

Opponent

Date

Result

Marathon

Football

Palmer Trinity

10/26

L, 40-10

Coral Shores

Football

Somerset South Homestead

10/27

W, 45-14

Key West

Football

Gateway

10/27

W, 42-0

THIS WEEK

Marco NOV. 2

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

Date

School

Sport

Opponent

Start Time

11/2

Coral Shores

Football

@ Ransom

7 p.m.

11/3

Key West

Swimming

@ States

9 a.m.

11/3

Key West

Football

Archbishop McCarthy

7 p.m.

11/3

Marathon

Football

@ Somerset South Homestead

7 p.m.

11/4

Coral Shores

Swimming

@ States

9 a.m.

11/8

Coral Shores

Girls Soccer

Key West

6 p.m.

11/8

Marathon

Girls Weightlifting

Coral Shores

4:30 p.m.

DAVILA

Senior, Football Key West

Marco works very hard and I was ecstatic that he was able to break the record in front of the home crowd.”

– Judd Wise, Conchs kicking coach

41

Key West High School record for career touchbacks Marco Davila kicks off in a game earlier this fall. MILA GRAVES/Contributed

ON THE COVER Jhonathan Mesa, left, and the Coral Shores Hurricanes, along with RJ Estevez and the Key West Conchs, both obliterated their next-to-last opponents of the regular season last weekend by a combined score of 87-14. See page 8. Photos by Doug Finger and Grace Andrew.

Key West senior kicker Marco Davila is a four-year starter for the Conchs. Last Friday, he made school history by breaking the Key West High School record for career touchbacks with 41, four of which happened that night. Davila is described

by Conchs kicking coach Judd Wise as hard-working and willing to put in extra effort in the offseason. Davila attends kicking camps and combines and is being recruited by a number of universities hoping to secure him and his deadly leg next fall. For his multiple years of excellence for Key West and his strong work ethic, Marco Davila is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Photo by: GREG DAVILA/Contributed

4

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / NOVEMBER 2, 2023 SPORTS WRITER

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.

tracy mcdonald 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.

PODCAST HOST

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Managing Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Director of Sales

Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com

Business Development

Patti Childress patti@keysweekly.com Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com

Production Manager

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Graphic Design

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

sean mcdonald 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.

MARKET EDITORS

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

Se habla español

THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR

BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050.

APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050 Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

SEASON COMPLETE FOR KEYS GOLFERS Despite great rounds, Monroe County athletes fall short of regional play

K

eys golfers came up just short of making regionals this season, but athletes and coaches are optimistic for future play and are already planning off-season practices and fundraising.

1A Marathon and Coral Shores played their final matches at Crandon Course in Key Biscayne on Oct. 24. 2A Key West was at Grand Palms the same day. Each school sent one athlete to represent the girls’ teams and the outcome was similar to regular season play.

All three golfers were within two strokes of one another. The top female golfer of the day was Coral Shores’ Gabby Thomas.

Thomas shot a 104, and coach Danielle Thomas was excited that she shot multiple pars on the 18-hole course. The junior will return for another season with the ’Canes next year.

Marathon’s Summer Haines was next with a 105.

Haines, a senior, played her final round of high school golf at Crandon, and coach Mary Coleman-Sayer said she played as well as one could expect, considering a lack of experience at varying courses. Miami-Dade golfers enjoy a wide variety of courses and can hone their skills more readily than Keys golfers, who almost exclusively play the same three nine-hole courses throughout the season.

Key West’s Claudia Steling, a sophomore, shot a 106.

Conchs coach Josh Bassett was proud of Steling not only for her play on the course, but her attitude as well.

“She played with an outstanding can-do attitude and I received various comments on her positivity and joyfulness on the course,” he said.

Last week was not the first time Steling, Haines and Thomas received praise for their sportsmanship and kindness. It

has been the theme all season long. Their camaraderie is commendable and they help one another improve at each match despite being competitors.

For the gentlemen, a pair of Conchs had the low scores, with junior duo Andrew Bassett and Peyton Zubieta each shooting an 84.

“I'm extremely proud of this team. All of our returning members improved from last year's district scores and our overall score was lower than the previous years,” Bassett said of his crew. He and coach Robert Barrios are pleased with the improvement of every member of their team.

“Our returning team has talked about wanting to golf in the offseason, and we are hoping to see them out there,” Bassett added. “Golf is all about being consistent. We want them to take a little time off to recover, but it's important to keep playing and improve upon what they have learned this year. If you're not catching golf fever, you're missing out.”

Marathon senior Michael Merryman was the top golfer for the Fins. “Michael played well for the first time out of 18 holes,” said Coleman-Sayer. “He had a great season.” Merryman shot a 96 on a course he had never played before.

Coral Shores’ Derek Ramos shot a 98 at Crandon, placing first for the Hurricanes.

The junior will return in 2024 alongside classmate Preston Carroll, who broke 100 as well by shooting a 99 at the match.

Coach Thomas said she has great pride for her entire team after watching them improve steadily throughout the season.

“We are excited for next season and have already started thinking about fundraising so we can try and participate in some invitationals and practice at more courses,” she said.

5

NOVEMBER 2, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

CROSS COUNTRY RUNNERS TO TAKE THEIR MARKS AT DISTRICTS Marathon, Coral Shores add one final training race

W

ith just days before districts, Marathon and Coral Shores headed to Miami for one last regular-season race. Both teams ran at Larry and Penny Thompson Park in Miami at the Junior Orange Bowl Invitational and Open 5K race. Coral Shores ran the open and Marathon received the coveted invite to a race with some of the fastest competition in the area.

Both the girls and boys Coral Shores teams are young, with just one senior between the two squads.

But what the teams lack in experience, they more than compensate for in effort. Both groups have shown steady improvement throughout the season. The top finisher for the boys team last week was sophomore Nathaniel Shugarman, who crossed the finish line in 21:17.

Connor Daniels clocked in at 21:43, followed by Sean Andrews in 22:37. Lochlain James (22:53), Tristan Sanchez (23:43), Kellan Bourbeau (24:00), Willy Valdez (24:32) and Alex Perez (27:07) will also represent the Hurricanes at districts.

Coral Shores junior Kai Guth took the top spot for the Hurricanes’ girls team, finishing in 25:31. Second for Coral Shores was Jenna Mandozzi in 28:19. Saige Ensign (29:24), Julia Rusch (29:31) and Hayden Teal (30:18), a trio of freshmen, will look to run their best race at districts and pick up some PRs for the young team.

Marathon’s girls and boys teams have enjoyed large numbers and stiff competition all season long. The postseason lineups have been finalized and athletes can now focus on the long road to Tallahassee. The Bursa brothers have earned the top three spots on Marathon’s district roster. Vance clocked in at 17:05, followed by Tony in 18:13 and Jakub in 19:12. Mason Buxton ran a 19:22, giving him the fourth spot for the Fins. Dillon Shelar (19:37), Allan Taylor (20:06), Caleb Shelar (20:40) and Adrien Holdinga (20:46) will also make the trip to districts.

The girls team also has an official district lineup, starting with senior Mikkel Ross, who has consistently been first for Marathon all season. Ross ran the course in 23:11. Ella Dunn was next in 23:24. Maeve Merryman was third for Marathon, breaking the 24-minute mark with a 23:43 finish. Sara Robinson (24:56), Madelyn Thornton (25:24), Rebecca Merryman (25:34), Rilynn Richards (26:31), Rain Banks (27:47) and Shaina Robinson (28:27) will also compete for the Fins at districts.

Key West’s runners had a week packed with homecoming activities and opted to rest and recuperate for districts.

With the regular season officially closed, it’s do-or-die time for runners.

Athletes who do not qualify for regional competition at districts will see their seasons end at the finish line. The Conchs and ’Canes competed together at the FHSAA 2A meet at Larry and Penny Thompson Park on Nov. 1 (results not available at press time). 1A Marathon will take their marks on Nov. 2 at Palmer Trinity School.

25:34

Top: Marathon’s senior trio of Jakub Bursa, left, Mason Buxton and Dillon Shelar will head to Palmer Trinity on Thursday, Nov. 2 to begin their final postseason racing campaign.

BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly Right: Just a seventh grader, Rebecca Merryman has already established herself among the varsity Dolphin ranks, running just seconds slower than her personal record on Oct. 26.

BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

6

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

TORNADOES TEAR UP THE GRIDIRON Inaugural season brings optimism for future of Upper Keys football

A

bit of history was made in the Upper Keys in early August when a group of middle school athletes strapped on their new helmets and took to the practice field in Key Largo.

An inaugural Tornado football program had no problems recruiting players in sixth through eighth grades from various Upper Keys schools like Key Largo School and Plantation Key School. They even received a bit of help securing helmets thanks to former NFL defensive star J.J. Watt’s foundation, which supports middle school athletic programs.

There was a learning curve, however, as players donned pads, practiced form tackling, learned plays and experienced game action against some formidable opponents for the first time. The Tornado squad even played a game that saw seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady watching from the sideline. His son, Benny, played for the Spartans out of Miami.

“There were a lot of growing pains, but the kids really stuck together,” said head coach Will Jones. “It’s hard to take kids playing backyard football with each other and playing a game that’s not about yourself but rather the team.”

Behind the scenes, work to jumpstart the Tornado football program took a group effort. Jones is a second-year teacher at Key Largo School. Upon arriving, he was surprised to learn

there was no middle school football team in the Upper Keys. Jones spoke to Darren Pais, Key Largo School principal, and expressed interest in being part of a program.

Pais took the idea to district officials who expressed support.

Joining Jones’ Tornado staff were Mark Leffler, Jose Zepeda, Kevin Williams, Danny MacShane and Augie Wampler. After three weeks of hitting the sleds and learning plays, the team had its first game against Marathon. Despite the lack of real-game experience, the Tornadoes had no problem reaching the end zone and playing stingy defense in a 34-0 win over Marathon.

They faced tougher opponents on the mainland, but the Tornadoes’ inaugural season saw them finishing 2-2.

Overall, Jones said he was impressed with the improvement from day one of training camp to the season’s end. Melanie Estevez served as quarterback toward the end of the season.

“We took a group of kids who were excited but didn’t know what to expect and (had them) hit someone for the first time,” he said.

“By the end of the season they had no fear. Everyone bought into the program.”

Jones was particularly impressed with the play of Charles Royal and Evan Campanioni. Royal is considered one of the better all-around players on the Tornado squad, serving as running back and lineman. Jones said Campanioni’s talent and

athleticism had him playing everywhere from cornerback and receiver to running back. And Jones is excited to bring back Sean Connolly and Rene Castillo, both sixth graders who were exceptional as linemen.

Ed Holly, Coral Shores Hurricanes football coach, lent his help to the team with a playbook and some gear. Holly said the new program’s success is a testament to Jones and his staff.

He said Tornadoes football will improve the level of play in the Upper Keys.

“Our goal is to give the players the opportunity after spending time in the KLS program the chance to run the same system at Coral Shores,” he said. “It gives them the opportunity to continue their careers at the collegiate level.”

The Tornado football program will look for momentum in year two. Practice begins in August 2024.

From top: The Key Largo Tornadoes youth football team plays against Ransom Everglades at Coral Shores High School on Oct. 18. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly Key Largo Tornadoes back Gyo Diorio runs upfield.

Key Largo Tornadoes quarterback Melanie Estevez throws against Ransom Everglades.

Key Largo Tornadoes running back Charles Royal runs upfield against Ransom Everglades.

7

NOVEMBER 2, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP Key West High School Baseball Coach Ralph Henriquez. HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL NETWORK/contributed

CONCH LEGEND, NOW A HALL OF FAMER Key West’s Ralph Henriquez inducted into inaugural South Florida hall of fame class

K

ey West High School Baseball Coach Ralph Henriquez is already a living legend on the island’s diamonds.

And on Oct. 26, Henriquez became one of the first people inducted into the High School Baseball Network South Florida Hall of Fame. The class of 2023 numbered 23 of “the best and most influential coaches who have ever stepped foot in South Florida dugouts,” the HSBN said.

With 550 wins, Henriquez was honored with 22 other coaches from the region at a ceremony at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale.

“Our baseball program in Key West is really special,” Henriquez said during his acceptance speech. “Key West has embraced Key West High School baseball. It’s been a blessing.”

During his introduction to the podium, Henriquez was lauded for a 30year baseball coaching career that included working for the Atlanta Braves before returning to KWHS in 2014.

Since then, he became the winningest coach in the school’s history, with 373 wins at KWHS, and presided over a program known nationally for its tremendous competition. More than 100 of Henriquez’s players have won college scholarships and more than 10 have gone on to the major leagues.

Henriquez said along with his coaching career successes, he is also proud of having helped develop a chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at KWHS. “Coaching baseball down here in South Florida has been one of the best experiences of my life,” Henriquez told HSBN. “Looking down the list of coaches that are being inducted, I see a lot of familiar names, coaches who I have developed friendships with through the years. I am humbled and honored to be one of the members of the first HSBN Hall of Fame class.”

— Weekly staff report

8

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

1

KEY WEST, CORAL SHORES DEVASTATE OPPONENTS 2

C

oral Shores started its third quarterback in as many weeks on Oct. 27 against Somerset Academy South Homestead, and from the way AJ Putetti played, it’s difficult to believe he had never taken the snaps before Friday. Putetti and the Hurricanes started the game fast, marching down the field 68 yards on their opening drive.

Dantay Diorio put the ’Canes on the board with a four-yard touchdown run. The ’Canes’ kicker was not feeling well, so Coral Shores went for 2 and got them.

The Hurricanes had a bit of trouble in the middle of quarter one, fumbling the ball on their second drive and fueling a quick touchdown and 2-point conversion from Somerset to tie the game at 8. Diorio quickly scored two more TDs, one on a 4-yard run and one punching it in from the 1-yard line.

Though the ’Canes were up 24-8, the game was far from in the bag and Somerset was driving again. Putetti, playing double duty on defense, intercepted a pass, then stayed on the field to run his offense. He threw a pass of his own, this one landing in the hands of Diorio for a 33-yard touchdown to end the half 30-8.

Diorio had a 6-yard touchdown early in the second half, then Somerset added their final points to the game. Late in the contest, with the ’Canes up 38-16, Putetti dove in for a 1-yard touchdown. For the final extra-point attempt, Putetti split the uprights in his first career kicking attempt, giving the first-time quarterback a running touchdown, a passing touchdown, an extra-point kick and an interception to help fuel the ’Canes to their fifth win of the season, 45-14.

Coral Shores plays Nov. 2 at Ransom for third place in their conference. The 5-4 ’Canes are looking for win number six and some redemption against a team who beat them by just five points on Sept. 29.

Key West held their homecoming game against Gateway on Oct. 27 in front of a packed crowd. The matchup was a must-win in order to keep the Conchs statistically alive in the hunt for a playoff game. Key West is the only Monroe County team eligible for the state championship series, as the other

Kickers come alive, break records

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NOVEMBER 2, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

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schools operate as independents.

The night would be a game of big plays, starting off with a 49-yard touchdown run from Walson Morin. Morin hit for another TD on the Conchs’ next possession, this one for 21 yards. Next up for the Conchs’ onslaught was QB Adrian Mira, who carried the ball 65 yards but was stopped just shy of the goal line. He carried it in the final 3 yards on the next play for Key West’s third score of the night. Morin added a second 21-yard touchdown run, followed by a Brondson Etienne 76-yard score. Clerff Alexandre ran for 65 yards for the Conchs’ final touchdown of the game, a resounding 42-0 victory over the Fort Myers squad.

In its first shutout of the season, Key West’s defense came out strong and stayed that way the entire game.

Etienne was outstanding at defensive end, rushing the passer all night long. Corners Jondel Toro and Jeff Dejean locked down the Eagles’ receivers, nullifying any hopes of Gateway’s spread offense to put points on the board. Also in the Conchs’ favor was a game free of turnovers, something which has plagued them much of the season. The district win gave the Conchs a 3-6 record and allowed them to stay mathematically alive in their quest for a postseason run.

Key West will need to defeat the 8-0 Mavericks of Archbishop McCarthy on Nov. 3 to boost its power rankings in order to have a hope of a playoff game. Kickoff for the Conchs is 7 p.m. in Fort Lauderdale.

Marathon hosted Palmer Trinity School on Oct. 26. The game served as senior night, honoring the Fins’ members of the Class of 2024 before kickoff. The freshman-heavy roster boasts just two seniors this season, Yaniel Garcia and Alex Cruz.

Marathon was the underdog of the contest – Palmer has six wins this season and has beaten both Coral Shores

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1. Coral Shores Hurricanes back-up quarterback A.J. Putetti runs the ball upfield against Somerset Academy Silver Palms.

The ‘Canes went on to beat the Stallions 45-14.

2. Coral Shores Hurricanes back Jhonathan Mesa celebrates his catch for a two-point conversion. Mesa had a 100-plus-yard rushing game.

3. Key West takes on Gateway on homecoming.

4. Key West’s Te’Von Watson buries a Gateway ball carrier.

5. Marathon’s Braulio Garcia (11) earns his yardage the hard way.

Photos by DOUG FINGER, TRACY MCDONALD and GRACE ANDREW/Keys Weekly

and Ransom, two teams that defeated Marathon earlier this season.

The Fins were down by just seven in the first quarter and were driving the ball, but a fumble deep in Falcon territory turned the ball over. Marathon’s defense then found some steam and managed to pin Palmer back in what could have been great field position. But on third and 24, Palmer broke for an 87-yard touchdown run, breaking Marathon’s spirits in the process.

The Dolphins started to get things rolling by the end of the second quarter, but ran out of time. With just seconds left in the half and no points on the board, Marathon’s Fabbianho Louis Jeune connected on a booming 51-yard field goal, breathing life back into the crowd and breaking Ryan Parros’ long-standing school record at the same time. In the second half, the Fins did manage some long drives and Carlos Lezcano capitalized on one of them, adding a seven-yard touchdown run to his stats. Louis Jeune added the point-after to give Marathon 10.

“We played well in the second half,” Marathon coach Sean McDonald said of the loss. “It was just too late.”

McDonald had high praise for Josh Wall, who stepped in for an injured Tanner Ross at fullback. “Wall ran well and is really coming into his own,” he said, “and Charlie (Apollony) came in at tailback and caught a pass. They are good players and they are going to be great. The team is working hard. We are young and we knew it would be a struggle, but we are keeping our heads up and we are going to put in the work in the weightroom. The payoff is coming.”

The 40-10 loss puts the Fins at 2-7 this season with one game to go. They play Somerset South Homestead at Harris Field on Nov. 3.

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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

SMITH WINS GOLD AT REGIONALS

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ess than two weeks after earning double district gold, Key West’s AJ Smith is at it again.

Key West’s swimmers went to Jensen Beach to compete at the FHSAA 2A Regional Championships on Oct. 28. The Conchs had multiple individual and relay teams earning lanes at regionals this year, spelling out a successful season for the team. The Conch relays performed well, but the competition in other regions was just too strong to win an at-large bid to the state meet.

Senior AJ Smith took his fate into his own hands, qualifying automatically for a lane at states with gold and silver performances in his swim sprint specialties. Smith won the 50 freestyle event outright, adding a gold regional medal to his collection. He then went on to take second in the 100 free, making him a dual individual competitor in Ocala.

Smith made the cut last season as well, and his performance in the 50 free event cracked the top 10 but was just shy of a medal.

This year, Smith is ranked number one in the entire state in the 50, with his qualifying time well ahead of last year’s first place performance. Smith is ranked number six in the 100 free event, putting him in contention for two state medals this season, which would cap off an amazing high school career. Smith already owns a school record and is one of the most decorated athletes to swim for the Conchs.

One day before Smith’s performance, a talented group of Hurricane swimmers traveled to Nova Southeastern University Aquatics Complex to compete against the most elite athletes in South Florida.

Coral Shores coach Kelly Kater could not be prouder of her team and how they performed at regionals. “Every single athlete dropped time from districts,” she said, which is exactly what a coach wants to happen at the end of the season. But for four swimmers, last week did not spell out the end.

The Coral Shores 200 yard medley relay team finished ninth out of 28 teams competing, and their 1:55.08 time was strong enough to qualify for the state championship meet on Friday, Nov. 3. The

foursome of Layne Smith, Allegra Fucaraccio, Abbie Sargent and Riley Cooper will make the trip to Ocala in hopes of returning with a state medal for the Hurricanes.

Sargent will be performing double duties for the ’Canes.

She qualified in the individual 100 yard breaststroke event, in which she placed second at districts. At regionals, Sargent shaved off an incredible 2 seconds from her district time. Her sixth-place finish was fast enough for a lane at states, putting her in contention for two medals this season.

“The girls have been working incredibly hard to get to this point,” Kater said. “Jon (Olsen) has been helping with technique to help shave off time and compete with confidence, and it shows. I’m super proud of them and cannot wait to watch them compete with the best of the state next week.”

The accomplishments of the Keys swimmers are unquestionably fantastic, but the nature of private and charter schools catering to athletics in the past decade has made what local athletes have done so far even more incredible. This is especially true in the 1A division, in which Coral Shores participates. The 200 yard medley team ranks 18th in the entire state of Florida, a feat in itself, but when the private and charter schools are removed from the mix, the Hurricanes’ relay team ranks third among public schools. Of 24 qualifiers plus two alternates making the cut in the individual 100 yard backstroke event, Sargent is just one of two swimmers representing a Florida 1A public school.

Five Keys swimmers earn lanes at state championships

Seen here in an earlier meet against the Doral Firebirds, Key West sprint swimmer AJ Smith, right, will enter the FHSAA State Championships as a medal favorite, following a gold-medal performance at the 2A regional championships. GRACE ANDREW/Keys Weekly

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NOVEMBER 2, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Wheatons Towing gives notice that on 11/24/2023 at 10:00 am, the following vehicle(s) may be sold by public sale at 101500 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 to satisfy the lien for the amount owed on each vehicle for any recovery, towing, or storage services charges and administrative fees allowed pursuant to Florida statute 713.78. Wheatons Towing reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.

1FTRW08L22KA85905 2002 FORD 1J4GL48K06W253435 2006 JEEP 2B3KA43GX6H427293 2006 DODG 2C3LA63T59H602537 2009 CHRYSLER JA4MT21H41P012521 2001 MITS JTMZD33V486076124 2008 TOYT Publish: November 2 & 9, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS INVITATION TO RE-BID LEGO Construction Company and FLHSMV/FHP cordially invite interested subcontractors to complete and submit sealed bids by November 14th, 2023 no later than 03:00 PM for the following project/bid packages: RE-BID - ADA Restroom Renovation – Marathon FHP – Phase 2 (02219020) RE-BID SELECT TRADE BID PACKAGES (see below) This invitation to re-bid includes the following trades only. All contractors certified as SBE, MBE & M/WBE are encouraged to participate in any of these trades.

TRADES: • Millwork • Painting • Flooring • Drywall • Mechanical The bid manual, bid requirements, bid forms, specifications, drawings, and other construction documents will be available by reaching out to Ruturaj Sonawane at rs@ legocc.com or at 305-381-8421 Ext 105.

All bids must be received no later than November 14th, 2023 @ 03:00 PM at LEGO Construction Co office located at 1011 Sunnybrook Road, Suite 905, Miami, Florida 33136. Bids must be delivered in a sealed envelope clearly marked “Sealed Bid for Re-Bid of ADA Restroom Renovation – Marathon FHP – Phase 2” along with the name of your firm and the trades covered in your bid.

Subcontractors interested in working with LEGO must obtain prequalification with LEGO prior to bidding. All questions regarding prequalification & the bid process should be directed to Ruturaj Sonawane at rs@ legocc.com

LEGAL NOTICES Publish: October 19, 26 & November 2, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA UPPER KEYS PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 23-CP-000117-P IN RE: ESTATE OF JOHN J. BANGMA, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of JOHN J. BANGMA, deceased, whose date of death was July 3, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN 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: November 2, 2023.

Personal Representative: James K. Bangma 535 Key Royale Dr. Holmes Beach, FL 34217 Attorney for Personal Representative: VICTORIA MIRANDA, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 1015363 HERSHOFF, LUPINO & YAGEL, LLP 88539 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 E-Mail: VMiranda@HLYlaw.com Publish: November 2 & 9, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

305.743.0844

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IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA DIVISION: PROBATE FILE NO.: 2023-CP-61-M IN RE: ESTATE OF GENE A. MIDNIGHT Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Gene A. Midnight, deceased, whose date of death was July 15, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is November 2, 2023.

The date of the second publication of this notice is November 9, 2023.

Personal Representative: Blaise A. Midnight 950 Shoemaker Road Webster, NY 14580 Attorney for Personal Representative: Anthony J. Barrows Attorney for Blaise A. Midnight Florida Bar Number: 662569 WRIGHT BARROWS PLLC 9711 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-8118 Fax: (305) 489-0307 E-mail: Tony@keysclosings.com Publish: November 2 & 9, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION File No. 23-CP-127-P IN RE: ESTATE OF MARGARET A. CHRISTIAN, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS (summary administration) TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS OR DEMANDS AGAINST THE ABOVE ESTATE: You are hereby notified that an Order of Summary Administration has been entered in the estate of Margaret A. Christian, deceased, File Number 23-CP-127-P, by the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Plantation Key Government Center, 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070; that the decedent’s date of death was May 18, 2023; that the total value of the estate is $5,000.00 and that the names and addresses of those to whom it has been assigned by such order are: NAME The Allen Leslie Christian and Margaret Anne Christian Living Trust, dtd 06/13/19 ADDRESS Centene Center 7676 Forsyth Blvd, Floor 24 MO9-250-24-01 Clayton, MO 63105-3404 ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE NOTIFIED THAT: All creditors of the estate of the decedent and persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate other than those for whom provision for full payment was made in the Order of Summary Administration must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702.

ALL CLAIMS AND DEMANDS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING ANY OTHER APPLICABLE TIME PERIOD, 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: November 2, 2023.

Personal Representative: BANK OF AMERICA, N.A. By: Kathleen Selinger, Vice President of Bank of America, NA, Petitioner LANCE D. CHRISTIAN Attorney for Personal Representative: JOE A. CATARINEAU Florida Bar Number: 0517291 91750 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 Telephone: (305) 852-4833 Publish: November 2 & 9, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

November 24, 2023, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address.

(You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: October 20, 2023 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Destiny Johnson Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

By: Lisa M. Pierce Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

MEETING NOTICE

MONROE COUNTY LAND AUTHORITY Notice is hereby given that the Governing Board of the Monroe County Land Authority will hold a public hearing on the Amendment of the adopted budget for fiscal year 2024 on November 8, 2023 at 9:25 a.m. at the Harvey Government Center in Key West. A copy of the proposed amended budget is available online at www.monroecounty-fl.gov or by contacting the Land Authority office at 305-295-5180.

ADA ASSISTANCE If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in these proceedings, please contact the County Administrator's Office, by phoning 305-292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 23-DR-701-K DIVISION: FAMILY REBECCA MARIA TREMINIO GOMEZ Petitioner, and, EDWIN DE JESUS SUAREZ BALMACEDA Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: EDWIN DE JESUS SUAREZ BALMACEDA RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: UNKNOWN YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on REBECCA MARIA TREMINIO GOMEZ, whose address is 6705 Shrimp Road, Apt. 104, Key West, FL 33040 on or before

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 23-DR-711-K DIVISION: FAMILY KENNETH E. KINGSLEY Petitioner, and, ANGELA DAWN HUFF Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: ANGELA DAWN HUFF RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: UNKNOWN YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Kenneth E. Kingsley, whose address is 55 Boca Chica Road, Lot 63, Key West, FL 33040 on or before November 27, 2023, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address.

(You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: October 18, 2023 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-26 Notice is hereby given that KEYS FUNDING LLC - 6021 holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/185 Alt Key No: 8675712 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00065322-000100 Description of Property: UNIT 101 KEY WEST PROFESSIONAL PLAZA A CONDOMINIUM OR922-2171/72 OR26191091/92 OR2917-100/01 Name in which assessed: KEY BRIDGE INC All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-27 Notice is hereby given that ASSEMBLY TAX 36, LLC ASSEMBLY TAX 36, LLC FBO SEC PTY holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/1680 Alt Key No: 1657972 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00534470-000000 Description of Property: BK 3 LT 21 LAKE SURPRISE ESTATES KEY LARGO PB4-162 OR564-159 OR564-160 OR91531D/C OR915-30/AFF OR915-32 OR1121-2028 OR1244-1298/99 OR1667-187 OR1667-211/12/ AFF OR1754-134/35QC OR17871005 OR2290-1804/15F/J OR2293-1175/77 OR2873659/60 Along with mobile home Make ADAM IN-HOUSE Title nr.: 11287574 Vehicle ID Number: 1082A Year: 1973 Name in which assessed: FINAL HOLDINGS LLC All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9

LEGAL NOTICES & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-28 Notice is hereby given that TLOA OF FLORIDA, LLC FOR SECURED PARTY holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/1650 Alt Key No: 1641596 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00522380-000000 Description of Property: BK 6 LT 15 HARBOR SHORES PB3-56 KEY LARGO OR512653 OR602-764 OR609-896 OR778-515 OR2193-1817/18 OR2499-2407 OR2758-949 Name in which assessed: GUY WILLIAM G III All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-29 Notice is hereby given that TLOA OF FLORIDA, LLC FOR SECURED PARTY holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/1513 Alt Key No: 9101569 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00483401-005500 Description of Property: UNIT 55 KEY LARGO OCEAN RESORT CONDOMINIUM OR2611-829 OR2813-2342D/C OR2818-842/43 OR2925-551AFF OR3031-1537 OR3031-1539 Name in which assessed: KLOR 55 INVESTMENT LLC All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-30 Notice is hereby given that KEYS FUNDING LLC - 6021 holder of the following

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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

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Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/1437 Alt Key No: 1563005 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00459470-000000 Description of Property: BK 4 LT 4 KEY LARGO TRAILER VILLAGE KEY LARGO PB4-43 OR627-854 OR981-1203P/R OR998-804AFF OR998-805D/C OR998-802/03 OR1525-1327 OR1667-159 OR1667-160 OR2537-1180 Along with mobile home: Make: Homette Year: 1969 Title: 3648224 Vehicle ID nr.: MF2979C Name in which assessed: GARCIA MAURICO GARCIA DEISY All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/1423 Alt Key No: 1560910 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00457350-000000 Description of Property: BK 10 LT 11 LARGO GARDENS KEY LARGO PB4-38 OR566-722 OR825-694 OR995-686 OR1306505C/T OR1574-821/821A OR25442203R/S Name in which assessed: MITCHELL ROBERT MITCHELL FATIMA MITCHELL TONY All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/1222 Alt Key No: 1470805 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00386571-002800 Description of Property: LT 28 PROPERTY LINE SURVEY SECTION 1 LONG KEY PROJECT PB6-44 (OUTDOOR RESORTS) OR548-811 OR735-362D/C OR735-364 OR783-690 OR818141 OR818-142 OR910-148 OR1320-27/29POA OR1320-2130 OR1320- 2131 OR2522-247/48 Along with a mobile home MAKE: Tara Vehicle ID: T7776723 TITLE NR.:14672691 YEAR: 1977 Name in which assessed: OTANO DOMINGO OTANO MARINA OTANO JUAN All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/1006 Alt Key No: 1401714 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00327480-000000 Description of Property: LT 15 TIPTONS SUBD MARATHON PB2-46 OR9-300 OR425-826/827 OR1032982/983 OR1233-1062/63 OR1570-515 Along with mobile home TITLE NR.: 49518161 TITLE NR.: 49522296 VEHICLE ID NR.: N14060B VEHICLE ID NR.: N14060A YEAR: 1991 MAKE: Nobility Name in which assessed: MALONE JAMES D MALONE ANNE J All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

Certificate Number: 2021/934 Alt Key No: 1377015 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00304950-000000 Description of Property: BK 36 LT 1 SANDS SUB PB1-65 BIG PINE KEY OR378-597/598 OR38015/E OR626-130 OR1093378 OR1093-378 OR1224-540 OR1529-1557 OR1998-32/33 Along with a mobile home TITLE: 2705243 VEHICLE ID NR.: G602CDR12WEA649 YEAR: 1967 MAKE: Craftmade Name in which assessed: CARTER LAWRENCE D All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

2021/820 Alt Key No: 1315273 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00246221-011400 Description of Property: BK 5 LT 4 PINE KEY YACHT CLUB ESTATES BIG PINE KEY PB6-98 OR531-183 OR564-70 OR560871 OR1097-1483 OR1111-365 OR1476-1748 OR1625-25 OR2673-1157/58 OR2676-1217/19C OR27461658/60 OR3064-1057 Name in which assessed: MAESTRE LUZ ELENA All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

OR825-1707 OR898-2328 OR1110-1746 OR1673-346D/ C OR1789-603 OR2738-944/45 OR3051-1627 Name in which assessed: SZETELA GREGORY S All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-31 Notice is hereby given that ASSEMBLY TAX 36, LLC ASSEMBLY TAX 36, LLC FBO SEC PTY holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/1416 Alt Key No: 1560014 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00456440-000000 Description of Property: BK 6 LT 4 LARGO GARDENS KEY LARGO PB4-38 OR531-87 OR2483-904/06 OR3033-1878 Along with mobile home TITLE NUMBER:6231720 VEHICLE ID NR.:60451812 YEAR: 1973 MAKE: Charm Name in which assessed: MAESTRE LUZ ELENA All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-32 Notice is hereby given that ASSEMBLY TAX 36, LLC ASSEMBLY TAX 36, LLC FBO SEC PTY holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-33 Notice is hereby given that ASSEMBLY TAX 36, LLC ASSEMBLY TAX 36, LLC FBO SEC PTY holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/1378 Alt Key No: 1536415 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00437493-003700 Description of Property: BK 2 LT 7 TAVERNAERO INC PLANTATION KEY PB6-80 OR498-798 OR620-455/45 OR655-223 OR655-224 OR724-86 OR724-87 OR8481386 OR1011-99/101 OR1215817/18 OR1216-460 OR1216462 OR2877-1691/92 OR2908-444 OR2908-446/47 OR2959-2380 OR3023-2268 OR3023-2270 Name in which assessed: MCKEOWN JAMES All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-34 Notice is hereby given that KEYS FUNDING LLC - 2021 holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-35 Notice is hereby given that MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/1024 Alt Key No: 1408158 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00332130-000000 Description of Property: BK 3 LT 16 VENICE KEY VACCAS PB3-22 OR447-724 OR760365 OR777-1212 OR839-1362 OR1094-2459 OR1098-1561C OR1603-1566 OR1793-1753 OR2064-759/760 OR2064-761 OR2310-1309 Name in which assessed: MOWDER ROBERT E JR All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-36 Notice is hereby given that ASSEMBLY TAX 36, LLC ASSEMBLY TAX 36, LLC FBO SEC PTY holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-37 Notice is hereby given that ATCF II FLORIDA – A LLC holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/941 Alt Key No: 1377953 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00305900-000000 Description of Property: BK 41 LT 12 SANDS SUB BIG PINE KEY PB1-65 OR482-473/74 OR654-203 OR1029-2498 OR1043-61 OR2347-1473 OR2347-1474D/C OR2876-47/48 OR28932293/94C OR2893-2298/99 Name in which assessed: JOHNSTON JIMMY JOHNSTON JANET All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-39 Notice is hereby given that KENEFICK & CO., CPAS, P.A. holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2016/791 Alt Key No: 1373648 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2016 RE: 00301550-000000 Description of Property: BK 15 PT LT 6 SANDS SUB PB165 BIG PINE KEY F1-361 OR431905/09 OR522-974 OR605-200 OR689-198 OR701-661D/C OR770-958 OR790-658/59 OR790-660/61 OR790-662 OR1155-704 OR1155-705 OR1430-277 OR1836-362/63 OR1878-1078/79C OR25062319/36F/J OR2518-2371 Name in which assessed: BOTSFORD BRIAN H All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-38 Notice is hereby given that ASSEMBLY TAX 36, LLC ASSEMBLY TAX 36, LLC FBO SEC PTY holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-40 Notice is hereby given that MIKON FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND OCEAN BANK holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number:

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-41 Notice is hereby given that KEYS FUNDING LLC – 6021 holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/712 Alt Key No: 1234826 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00182850-000000 Description of Property: BK 29 AND LOTS 7 AND 8 CUTTHROAT HARBOR ESTATES PB4-165 CUDJOE KEY OR225-510 OR55732 OR1396-1213 OR24601382/83 Name in which assessed: LANGER ROSE G IRREVOCABLE TRUST 3/29/2010 All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-42 Notice is hereby given that ATCF II FLORIDA-A LLC holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/700 Alt Key No: 1230731 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00178720-000000 Description of Property: BK 9 LT 19 CUTTHROAT HARBOR ESTATES CUDJOE KEY PB4-165 OR242-149 OR787-799 OR8161658

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-43 Notice is hereby given that KEYS FUNDING LLC - 2021 holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/386 Alt Key No: 1137065 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00111075-046000 Description of Property: 22 66 29 BIG PINE KEY PINE KEY ACRES TRACT TU OR528266 OR630-548 OR766-1317 OR3012-1395 Name in which assessed: POND LANE LLC All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-44 Notice is hereby given that CANAL TAXSB MUNI CUST FOR CANAL TAX holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/382 Alt Key No: 1131466 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00111000-000000 Description of Property: 25 66 29 BIG PINE KEY PT GOV LT 1 OR412-944 OR538-172 OR814-2116 OR830-1350 OR1380-778 OR1311-1214 OR1336-1615 OR1450-87 OR2999-1232 Name in which assessed: MAESTRE LUZ ELENA All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or

13

NOVEMBER 2, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

HOUSING FOR RENT

SERVICES OFFERED

certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

Marathon Auto Air looking for Shop Help - full or part-time. Pay based on experience.

Apply in person at 2525 Overseas Highway, Marathon. 305-289-9884 BOAT SALESPERSON: Great opportunity to sell new and used boats in Islamorada. Contact brad@sevensports.com or call 305.393.3883

35' Travel Trailer with 2 pullouts for rent in Key Largo (MM112).

Fully furnished 1BR/1BA. Small, very clean, newly renovated, new floors & paint. Small screenedin porch w/full size refrigerator. $900.00/ month includes utilities. $300.00 security.

Call 305-395-8485

CAREGIVER available in Key Largo. Available Live-In 7 days a week. Call Dinorah 786-222-2192

AUTOS WANTED

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

Place your Help Wanted ad here for $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

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

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-45 Notice is hereby given that KEYS FUNDING LLC - 2021 holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/331 Alt Key No: 1116751 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00099990-000000 Description of Property: 19 65 34 GRASSY KEY PT LOT 2 G62-425 OR1437-306 OR1437310 OR1635-814 OR1782-108 OR3042-1984 OR3154-1010 Name in which assessed: R&R PROGRESSIVE LLC All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-46 Notice is hereby given that ASSEMBLY TAX 36, LLC ASSEMBLY TAX 36, LLC FBO SEC PTY holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/300 Alt Key No: 8591331 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00091101-003300 Description of Property: THE LANDINGS OF LARGO A TOWNHOME CONDOMINIUM PHASE 1 BOAT UNIT #33 OR856459/460 OR1176-1405/09 OR1395-701 OR1513-859 OR2847-2138/39 OR3015-1554 Name in which assessed: PARSON YENEYS PARSON DAVID All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-47 Notice is hereby given that ASSEMBLY TAX 36, LLC ASSEMBLY TAX 36, LLC FBO SEC PTY holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/196 Alt Key No: 1070033 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00066171-010100 Description of Property: UNIT 706 SANTA CLARA CONDOMINIUM-PHASE I OR802-265 OR851-1968/69WILL OR912-208/13 OR925-553/54 OR925-555 OR1052-517 OR1099-253 OR2195-546/47L/E OR22692293/95 OR2398-1543/49AGR OR23981551ORD OR2402-2405/06ORD OR2561-900/03 OR25691626D/C Name in which assessed: CHIPS MARK CHIPS LORI CHIPS GARY All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023 KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-48 Notice is hereby given that CANAL TAXSB MUNI CUST FOR CANAL TAX holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/186 Alt Key No: 9075826 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00065570-001050 Description of Property: NORTHERLY 126.67 FT OF TRACT A TRINITY SUB PB7-72 OR216-146/147 OR1922427/430E OR2017-2387(RES NO 04-228) OR2146-872/933DEC/ REST OR2151-2037C/E OR2363341/45 Name in which assessed: CHABAD OF KEY WEST All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: December 6th, 2023 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 20th day of September 2023

AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks.

Runs or Not. $CASH 305-332-0483 AUTOS FOR SALE

2008 Acura TL. Recent rebuilt A/C. Brand new battery.

Runs wells $2,995.

Located in Key Largo.

Call 305-451-8410 or 305-852-3471.

1964 Ford Galaxy, 427 Big Block, 5-speed, located in Key Largo.

954-445-6647 BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

Boat Dockage for rent in Marathon. Private bay bottom, up to 40' boat, self containing, offshore water, car & dingy parking space provided. 305-610-8002

Boat rental company in Marathon needs an Outboard Mechanic.

Some general marina work, and boat experience a plus.

Call 305-481-7006 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.

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

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

P R I V A T E C O L L E C T O R WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches.

Call 305-743-4578

HARRY HARRIS PARK, MM93 - 3BR/2BA Central Air, No Pets, Long Term Lease. $3,000/mo F/L/S Call 786-493-7829 2 Bedroom 1 Bath house in Marathon.

Tile & carpet floors, new appliances, gated property. No pets.

305-610-8002

YARD SALES

Community-wide Yard Sale - Sat Nov. 11 from 8am-3pm. Community of Port Antigua, MM 74.5 Individual yard sales throughout neighborhood.

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!

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

WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR A 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

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

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 $95,000. Benefit package is extremely competitive! Apply online at www.fkaa.com/212/opportunities

EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

14

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844

JOB FAIR!

FRIDAY, NOV. 3

Apply on site at 1313 Ocean Bay Drive, Key Largo from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm POSITIONS: cashier, retail, cutters, freezer, sales/office (full-time, part-time , temporary, and permanent positions available).

If you cannot make it to our job fair, please send resume to klfcareers@keylargofisheries.com (no phone calls).

BENEFITS OFFERED: health, dental, vision, paid vacation, 401K plus other benefits (compensation is based on experience).

KEY LARGO FISHERIES 1313 OCEAN BAY DRIVE, KEY LARGO

JOIN OUR TEAM!

Work with the BEST!

• Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance • Tuition Reimbursement • Paid Holidays, Vacation & Sick Time • 401K Employer Match • Quarterly Cash Profit Sharing • Fun, Fast-Paced Environment • Great Hours

Voted Best Bank 2014 - 2023

IS HIRING IN THE UPPER KEYS

FULL TIME PROJECT MANAGER EXPERIENCED TRIM CARPENTER CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR – WILL TRAIN

Key West

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

Facilities & Grounds Maintenance Technician Full Time Teller

Lower Keys Customer Service Representative/Branch Lobby

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

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 Seminary 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

SUNSET GRILLE IS HIRING

Middle Keys Assistant Branch Operations Manager

Apply Online at KeysBank.com/Careers

Member FDIC

EOE-M/F/V/D

Equal Housing Lender

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 (Matt at islamarinamatt@gmail.com) with any relevant previous experience and at least two references.

NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA

BOAT RENTAL STAFF

FLEXIBLE HOURS & COMPETITIVE WAGES Need to have experience driving boats and a working knowledge of the Islamorada area by water.

Duties include taking reservations, giving captains lessons and routine boat maintenance.

Email Matt at eliteboatrentalsmatt@gmail.com.

Please include contact information and any relevant experience.

• Bussers • Hosts • Line Cooks • Waitstaff • Bartenders • Dishwashers • Bar Backs Apply in person at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, 7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon

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 qualifications and experience: $40.35/hr. - $45.19/hr.

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

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

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

15

NOVEMBER 2, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC && LEGAL NOTICES • • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

NOW HIRING DIVE INSTRUCTOR Please contact April at 305.407.3262 or april@floridakeysaquariumencounters.com for more information.

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

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

11710 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON

Advocate (PT) Behavioral Health Counselor (Child) Behavioral Health Therapist (Child) Case Manager (Child)

DUI EVALUATOR/ INSTRUCTOR

Peer Support Specialist Prevention Specialist Advocate Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult) Behavioral Health Counselor (Child) Case Manager (Adult)

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 field required. Bilingual preferred, not required. Office located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

MARATHON

KEY WEST

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

Driver (CDL) Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult) RNs/LPNs - 3 shifts (also Per Diem) Maintenance Specialist Peer Support Specialist *Behavioral Health Technicians 3 shifts (also Per Diem) *No experience required for this position. 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)

Accounting Director (Full-Time, Permanent)

Facilities Maintenance Apprentice (Full-Time, Permanent)

Education Program Host (Full-Time, Permanent)

Medical Technician (Full-Time, Permanent)

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

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: SWEET TOOTH ACROSS 1. *Bow Wow Wow’s “I ____ Candy” 5. Money source 8. *____’s Root Beer 11. Pelvic parts 12. Start of something big?

13. Round openings 15. RPM gauge 16. Cantina cooker 17. Car sound, to a toddler 18. *Ninepins namesake 20. Kiln for drying hops 21. They had 22. Division, abbr.

23. Informal wear 26. “Tail” on letter C 30. Kamakawiwo’ole’s strings 31. Real estate sale agreement 34. Denials 35. 9 a.m. prayer 37. Even, to a poet 38. *Desert plant harvested for sweet syrup 39. Forbidden 40. Quickly or slowly, e.g.

42. *Sweet ____ brew 43. Breathe in 45. Westernmost city in Germany 47. Soldier’s bed 48. Mensch, alt. sp.

50. Italian car brand 52. *Jolly livestock raisers?

55. Russia’s hard liquor 56. Ctrl + Z 57. Consumes food 59. Checks out 60. Famous French couturier (1905-1957) 61. Heavy Metal’s Quiet ____ 62. Caustic soda 63. Newsman Rather 64. Kill, as in dragon

DOWN 1. Clever humor 2. Unfortunately, exclamation 3. Actor Nolte 4. Island in French Polynesia 5. *Donut filler 6. Checked out 7. Bleats 8. Rocky & Bullwinkle and Mary Kate & Ashley, pl.

9. To a very great degree (2 words) 10. Not bright 12. Sacred choral compositions 13. Roundish 14. *Sweet tooth, technically 19. *___ Musketeers, spelled out 22. Drops at dawn 23. *____-Frutti 24. Highlander’s dagger 25. Sage and rosemary 26. *Scoop holder 27. Averse 28. “Drove my chevy to the ____” 29. Southeast Asian org.

32. Relinquish, as in property 33. Clergyman’s title, abbr.

36. *Single serving treat 38. Embarrass 40. Arthur, to friends 41. Hard feelings 44. I to Greeks, pl.

46. TV’s “Where everybody knows your name” 48. Opposite of depression 49. “____ ____ a high note” 50. Same as fogey 51. Inactive 52. “Ant-Man” leading actor 53. Not top-shelf in a bar 54. Greek portico 55. Radio knob, abbr.

58. Farm pen

THE REGAN ROTH TEAM IS HERE TO PROTECT YOU...

YOUR FAMILY, YOUR LIFESTYLE, YOUR HOME!

Family owned and operated since 1958 ADMINISTRATION

Joseph H. Roth III President 25 years

Lorie Head Office Manager 34 years

Jennifer Miller Assistant Manager 2 years

ACCOUNTING

Sara Roth Executive Assistant/Agent 1 year

SALES

Linda Griswold Agent/Sales 17 years

Holly Redding Agent/Sales 21 years

Maria Bell Receptionist 1 year

Aileen Joiner Accounting/ Automation 17 years

Irma Guerra Accounting 4 years

COMMERCIAL LINES

Grimi Betancourt Manager/Sales Agent-Marathon 4 years

Lilliam Reyes Supervisor 18 years

Lisa Maguire Account Manager 14 years

Remorna Pottinger Kyra Beyer Account Processor Ochoa 2 years Account Processor 15 years

PERSONAL LINES

Paula Sachs Supervisor 18 years

Vianey Diaz Account Manager 1 year

Jennifer Paul Account Manager 20 years

Miriam Marin Account Manager 19 years

Elizabeth Kubishen Renee Sebastian Account Processor Account Processor 5 years 7 years

Kayla Soriano Account Processor 1 year

Home, wind and flood. All lines of commercial/business insurance.

Boats, autos, golf carts and recreational vehicles

REST ASSURED, WE ARE ALWAYS HERE TO HELP YOU WEATHER ANY STORM! 305.852.3234 90144 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier

305.743.3414 8065 Overseas Hwy. Marathon

www.ReganRoth.com | Response@ReganRoth.com