Upper Keys Weekly 23-1102

“I am not great with the advice. Can I interest you in a sarcastic comment?” — Chandler Bing

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November 2, 2023

DODGING THE HIGH

STUDENTS ORGANIZE RED RIBBON ACTIVITIES | P. 14 FINANCIALS UNDER THE SCOPE AUDIT OF TOURIST AGENCY REVEALS LACK OF CONTROLS | P. 5 COMEDY TAKES STAGE PLAY BRINGS THE LAUGHS | P. 26

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

KEYS

NEWSPAPERS

91760 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier, FL 33070 Office: 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com Editor / Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Digital Editor / Gwen Filosa gwen@keysweekly.com Director of Sales Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com Business Development Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com Staff Writers Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com Design / Pre-Press Diana Striker www.keysweekly.com Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844 Se habla español THE UPPER KEYS WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR

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

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

Postmaster SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO THE KEYS WEEKLY, 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050 News Deadline Monday Noon Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m. @KeysWeekly @theWeekly Members of

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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.

Coral Shores High School students participate in a dodgeball tournament during Red Ribbon Week activities on Oct. 31. JIM McCARTHY/ Keys Weekly

VILLAGE MANAGER SEMIFINALISTS AWAIT INTERVIEWS COUNCIL COULD MEET CANDIDATES MID-NOVEMBER JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

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eventeen names are on a list as semifinalists for the Islamorada village manager position. A council tasked with selection is still figuring out how many to interview from the list — and how.

Following the departure of Ted Yates, former village manager, council members decided to advertise the job. The council took a different route from the previous two councils, which worked with a head hunting firm to find former village manager Greg Oravec in 2021 and Yates in 2022.

This time, about 45 applications came to the village, with interested men and women from Florida and other states who believed they possessed the credentials to take on the job.

From that list, each council member worked with their own liaisons from the community to develop their finalist lists. The council members further reduced their lists by Oct. 25 and provided the village clerk with six to eight preferred candidates for interviews.

All council members are seeking to interview Douglas Maxeiner. He recently retired after serving 30 years in government positions, including 21 years as an administrator at Illinois municipalities. He recently served as administrator of East Moline. Maxeiner said his management style is highly collaborative and team-oriented, tapping into the strengths of the organization. He believes his philosophy will mesh well with Islamorada’s management team.

“The village council and community will appreciate my ability to assess problems quickly and effectively while explaining complex issues succinctly and clearly,” Maxeiner said in his cover letter.

Islamorada Administrative Center. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

Questions posed to the candidates asked them what their minimum compensation would be for the job, to which Maxeiner replied anywhere between $150,000 and $175,000.

Four council members are looking to sit down with David Couch, a business administrator for the city of Virginia Beach’s planning and community development department.

Couch oversees 143 employees and a $75 million annual operating budget.

He previously held a business administrator position with Virginia Beach Economic Development. Couch’s responsibilities include strategy development and implementation along with traditional business attraction, retention and expansion.

Couch said he grew up in a coastal community. He’s seeking $200,000 in minimum compensation.

“I am acutely familiar with the unique issues of an oceanfront community both for the year-round residents and the visitors,” Couch said in his cover letter.

Remaining candidates on the finalist list only received interest from one or two council members. Among the candidates drawing interest from two council members were Elizabeth Vogel, current Missaukee County

administrator in Michigan; Michael Brillhart, current city administrator for the Ohio city of Wapakoneta; William Lawrence, city manager for Bowling Green, Florida; Patrick Marsh, city manager for Fernley, Nevada; and Christopher Russo, city manager for Sunny Isles, Florida.

Those drawing interest from one council member are Ricardo Mendez, former assistant city administrator for West Palm Beach; Robert Cole, former village manager of Scarsdale, New York; Maryanne Crawford, town manager of New Shoreham, Rhode Island; Fred Ventresco, town administrator for the North Carolina town of Pinetops; Angelo DiPierro, financial manager with Palm Beach County; and Daniel Finz, town manager/senior management consultant for Lawrenceville, Virginia.

A few candidates appeared on the finalist list but didn’t receive any council interest for interviews. They include Carl Brown, assistant manager of grants and capital programming for Jacksonville Transportation Authority; Michael Szlosek, former business operations manager for Enfield Public Works in Connecticut; Jonathan Lynn, city manager of Rincon, Georgia; and Jonathan Kohn, senior director of mission advancement for YMCA in Lexington, Kentucky.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

COUNTY: CHARTER IS KEY KEYS TOURISM AGENCY TO SAVING AGING BRIDGES FAILS FINANCIAL AUDIT ANOTHER WORKSHOP SET FOR NOV. 6 IN MARATHON GWEN FILOSA

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gwen@keysweekly.com

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.

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

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mandy@keysweekly.com

recent county audit of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council (TDC) — the Florida Keys’ multimilliondollar 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 self-dealing 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.”

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

Tourist Development Council is the subject of a critical audit by the Monroe County clerk. MONROE COUNTY/Contributed

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 Continued on page 25

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

THE VOTES ARE CAST WHO WILL BE CROWNED THE BEST IN THE UPPER KEYS?

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or the last 18 days, finalists for the 2023 Best of Upper Keys vied for votes as community members from the Keys and various parts of the country — and world — cast their ballots. The competition was fierce for all worthy finalists. Who will come away with the plaque and bragging rights? The community will know on Saturday, Nov. 11 at Whale Harbor Restaurants & Marina at the Best of Upper Keys awards ceremony. From the staff at the Upper Keys Weekly, thank you to all who took the time to nominate and cast votes, and good luck to all the finalists. ­— Keys Weekly staff report

BY THE NUMBERS 65 Best of Upper Keys categories 217,170 Total votes cast 5,825 People casting votes 2,248 Votes cast from Key Largo’s 33037 ZIP code THE AWARDS: Saturday, Nov. 11 at Whale Harbor Restaurants & Marina.

THE BENEFICIARY: All funds raised will go to the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter.

Votes cast in this year’s Best of Upper Keys spanned from the Keys to California. GOOGLE MAPS/ Contributed

Houston, We have a Rocket Air Problem.

• Big corporations are buying up local familyowned Keys businesses and bussing their employees in from the mainland • Rex Air is a local family-owned business that provides local affordable housing for its employees Rex Houston, Owner

87805 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada State License RA13067300 | County License AC427A

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

REALTOR® SPOTLIGHT

Lorie Leal

AMERICAN CARIBBEAN CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE

Lorie Leal is a native Floridian, and she and her husband Roland chose Key Largo to be their home in 2001! Lorie is a 22-year, full time, professional Realtor® with American Caribbean Real Estate in Key Largo. She is recognized as a company top performer and has also earned her Christie’s Luxury Specialist designation. In 2021, she was inducted into the Christie’s Masters Circle. She has also appeared on HGTV’s ‘Beachfront Bargain Hunt’ and ‘Island Life’ TV shows!

Known for her enthusiasm, sincerity and quick wit, Lorie guides her clients through the real estate process with care, diligence and humor – making it FUN! She was elected by her peers to serve as President 2017 for the FKBR, and in 2018 was awarded Realtor of the Year. She also served as FKBR’s Government Affairs director and Florida Realtors Key Contact to State Rep. Holly Raschein in 2019 & 2020. Lorie likes to stay current on local, state and national issues, laws and other matters important to Real Estate.

A believer in giving back to the community, Lorie serves as an associate board member for Wesley House Family Services. She also works as an Ambassador for MarrVelous Pet Rescues, a local non-profit organization dedicated to finding loving permanent homes for pets in need. Aside from charitable work, Lorie’s interests include fishing, boating, exotic cars and track racing, cooking, reading, and spending time with her rescue mini schnauzer.

Lorie would love to help you find your place in our amazing island community!

Claire Johnson, 2023 President Deb Bennett, President-Elect Jennifer Miller, Immediate Past Pres.

Karen Williams deCastro, Sec./Treas.

Kathe Kaile, Director Erin Kiel, Director

Christine Garcia Castellanos, Director Corie McGraw-Abel, Director Amy Bruggeman, Director Lindsey Davis, Director Michael Rojewski, Director Lynda Anthony, CEO

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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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

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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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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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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

LODGE OFFERS COMFORT IN THE EVERGLADES

Flamingo Lodge’s one-bedroom suite. FLAMINGO EVERGLADES ADVENTURES/Contributed. Inset: The view from the balcony of the new Flamingo Lodge.

24-ROOM HOTEL AND RESTAURANT NOW OPEN

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n Everglades lodge destroyed by two hurricanes is back and better equipped to handle the elements. The newly-constructed Flamingo Lodge & Restaurant offers a place to escape the nagging mosquitoes, cool off in the air-conditioning and relax while looking out at the river of grass from the balcony.

Following the lodge’s destruction by hurricanes in 2005, the National Park Service conducted extensive feasibility studies and began planning for a new lodge in 2018. Considerations for resiliency and storm protection in the face of sea level rise from climate

The new Guy Bradley Visitor center in Flamingo. FEDERICO ACEVDEO/NPS

change were integrated in the design and building of the lodge, restaurant and visitor center. Lodge stays began Nov. 1.

Funded by the NPS and Everglades Guest Services LLC, an authorized concessionaire of the NPS, Flamingo Lodge & Restaurant stands as a testament to infrastructure built with care in a delicate ecosystem.

“It is an honor to partner with the National Park Service to open the Flamingo Lodge and Restaurant,” said Nico Foris, chief executive officer of Everglades Guest Services. “We are thrilled to continue our tradition of excellence in hospitality, offering another option at Flamingo in addition to our campsites, eco-tents and houseboats.

We look forward to welcoming more park visitors this season and beyond.”

The lodge features a total of 24 rooms, constructed from durable shipping containers and raised off the ground by stairs. This includes eight two-bedroom suites that can accommodate up to six guests,12 onebedroom suites suitable for up to four guests and four studios designed for two guests.

Four of the 24 rooms are ADAaccessible and can be reached by an elevator and walkway. The interiors blend industrial chic with subtropical influences, from palm tree-themed window shades to calming blue and green tones. Every room boasts an

eastward-facing balcony, offering sunrise and sunset views over Florida Bay. Next to the lodge, Flamingo Restaurant invites guests to indulge in traditional South Florida fare while enjoying views of nearby Florida Bay. Like the lodge, the restaurant is made from durable shipping containers. The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus a full-service bar.

A grand opening for the Flamingo Lodge & Restaurant and the reconstructed Guy Bradley Visitor Center was held Oct. 27. The Guy Bradley Visitor Center opened its doors in July. The former Flamingo Visitor Center was renamed for the first Audubon game warden, who was killed in the line of duty protecting wading birds during the plume hunting era of the late 1800s and early 1900s.

“We are excited to see these projects come to fruition after years of planning and hard work,” said Pedro Ramos, superintendent of Everglades and Dry Tortugas national parks. “We are grateful for the incredible public and private partnerships that have enabled us to once again make Flamingo a world-class destination for our park visitors.”

More information about Everglades National Park is at nps.gov/ever or follow the park on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

— Keys Weekly staff report

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

a 501(c)3 organization promoting COMMUNITY THEATER in the UPPER KEYS

presents

THEPLAY THAT GOES

by HENRY LEWIS JONATHAN SAYER & HENRY SHIELDS

Presented by arrangement with Dramatists Play Service under license from Mischief Worldwide Ltd. The Mischief Production of THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG was originally produced on the West End Stage by Kenny Wax & Stage Presence and on Broadway by Kevin McCollum, J.J. Abrams, Kenny Wax & Stage Presence

Producer Jonelle KOP

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2023

Murray E. Nelson

SUNDAY SUNDAY MATINEE MATINEE

Produced in conjunction with

Gov. & Cultural Center

102050 Overseas Hwy. Key Largo

2:00 PM

Lobby opens one hour before curtain; seating 1/2 hour before curtain .

Tickets $18 online and at the door • Tickets available at the ticket outlets in advance for $15 Key Largo Chocolates & Ice Cream MM 100.5

Shear Paradise (Cedar Towers Plaza) MM 99.3

PostNet Store Plaza 88, Islamorada MM 88

More info/online tickets: www.TheKeyPlayers.org

82100 Overseas Highway Islamorada, FL 33036 Mile Marker 82.1

COME JOIN THE ISLANDER FAMILY FOR THANKSGIVING! THANKSGIVING BUFFET AT ELEMENTS THURSDAY, NOV. 23, 3-7 P.M. Butternut squash soup, spiced toasted pumpkin seeds, cinnamon crème fraiche Assorted dinner rolls, whipped maple butter Mixed greens, dried fruit, goat cheese, pomegranate, sweet cider vinaigrette Green beans almondine, glazed baby carrots Whipped yukon gold mashed potatoes Candied yam casserole with marshmallows Whole berry orange port cranberry sauce Hand carved herb cured roast turkey Velvety giblet gravy Honey glazed virginia ham Orange-pineapple rum sauce Buttery southern cornbread dressing with sage Assorted holiday themed desserts & miniatures

$55 for adults $25 for children 12 & under Reserve at or call 305-664-2031

All pricing is per person, unless noted otherwise. *Consuming raw or undercooked meat, poultry, fish, shellfish or eggs may increase your risk of food-borne illnesses.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

Join us for the MEETING SCHEDULE NOVEMBER 2023 Unless otherwise noted, meetings are held at the Founders Park Community Center, 87000 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada.

ANNUAL AUCTION

Friday, Nov. 3, 1 p.m.

Washington DC Fundraiser

Auditor Selection Committee Meeting to Evaluate Proposals for RFP 23-15 Professional Auditing Services Location: Islamorada Administrative Center and Public Safety Headquarters, 86800 Overseas Hwy., 3rd Floor Conference Room.

Sunday, November 5, 2023 12pm-5pm

Tuesday, Nov. 7, 5:30 p.m.

Regular Village Council Meeting

Thursday, Nov. 9, 5:30 p.m.

Supporting the 2023-2024 KLS 5th grade Safety Patrol

Silent Auction 12pm-4pm Wine Pull 4pm Live Auction 4pm

Regular Village Council Meeting

Monday, Nov. 13, 5:30 p.m.

Local Planning Agency (LPA)

Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2 p.m.

Code Compliance Hearing Location: Islamorada Administrative Center and Public Safety Headquarters, 86800 Overseas Hwy., 3rd Floor Conference Room.

Tuesday, Nov. 14, 5:30 p.m.

Village Manager Virtual Interviews Two or more members from the Village Council and members from various Village Committees may be present at meetings. These meetings are open to the public.

great selection of items to bid on: • Scuba Diving Tours • Resort Stays throughout Florida • Theme Park Tickets • Gift Certificates AND MORE

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, all persons who are disabled and who need special accommodations to participate in this meeting because of that disability should contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA@Islamorada.fl.us or by phone at 305-664-6448 at least 48 hours before the scheduled meeting.

Largo Key Ballroom 103800 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037

To participate via Zoom, please scan code to the Village Calendar and refer to the Public Notice for specific meeting log-in information.

FREE ENTRY FOOD • CASH BAR MCSD APPROVED FUNDRAISER

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

THE LAST TRAIN

DELAYS PREVENTED LOCOMOTIVE FROM EVACUATING VETERANS FROM WORK CAMPS

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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 Over-Sea Railroad (the project required 11 or so years to complete), it only FLORIDA rambled and steamed across KEYS the island chain for 23 years.

HISTORY 1929 was the beginning of WITH the end for the Key West Extension. The combination one-two BRAD BERTELLI punch landed with the arrival of Seatrain Lines Inc. and the An author, Great Depression. Seatrain ofspeaker, Florida Keys historian and fered railroad car ferry service Honorary Conch. between New Orleans and Havana at a better price than its His latest book, “Florida Keys competition — including Henry History with Brad Flagler’s railroad ferry operating Bertelli, Volume between Key West and Havana.

1,” shares fasciThe Great Depression nating glimpses began in 1929, too. When it did, into the rich and sometimes surcompetition between the F.E.C. prising histories of and Seatrain only intensified. As the Florida Keys. 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

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

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 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.

14

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

Your Place for Local Entertainment and Poolside Bites

Coral Shores High School students make a Red Ribbon in the courtyard during the activities in the morning of Oct. 31.

5-8 p.m.

Wednesdays: Dennis Holmes Saturdays: Ryan Lee

DODGING THE HIGH

STUDENTS ORGANIZE A SUCCESSFUL RED RIBBON WEEK

D

“

THANKSGIVING TO GO!

odge the high and tell drugs goodbye” was the message during a Red Ribbon Week celebration at Coral Shores High School, which began Oct. 23 and ended on the morning Oct. 31. Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s largest and longest drug-prevention campaign. Activities organized by student leaders included a dodgeball tournament, a rally and a little basketball knockout. Students, dressed in red T-shirts, gathered in a ribbon shape to close out the activities. Shyara Lara, activities director, and Wilmarie Lopez, counselor with the Westcare Guidance Care Center, assisted with the activities. The Elks Lodge in Tavernier, Pinfish Entertainment, Native Construction and Monroe County Education Coalition were among the sponsors.

— Keys Weekly staff report

LET US DO THE WORK FOR YOU! Meals for 2-4 ppl $85 Meals for 6-8 ppl $175 Place order by Tuesday, Nov. 21, 5 p.m.

Call 305-664-2031 Pick up Thanksgiving Day, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Islander Conference Center 82100 Overseas Highway

Participants enjoy a dodgeball tournament put on by the student leadership in charge of the Red Ribbon Week activities at Coral Shores High School. JIM

McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

15

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

MEMBERSHIP SOCIAL LUNCHEON Thursday, Nov. 9, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

PILOT HOUSE 13 SEAGATE BLVD. Annual meeting and announcement of the 2024-2026 Board of Directors

RIBBON CUTTING & OPEN HOUSE

Tuesday, Nov. 14, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Pinfish Entertainment, Tavernier Towne

MEMBERS IN MOTION Thursday, Nov. 16, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Hosted by Advanced Urgent Care, Key Largo Chocolates and Keystalk 96.9/102.5 FM - Party 105.7 FM

RSVP ONLINE FOR ALL EVENTS OR CALL

LEGENDARY KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & FLORIDA KEYS VISITOR CENTER 305.451.1414 - 1.800.822.1088 events@keylargochamber.org 106000 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037

WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG

16

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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17

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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18

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

Benefiting

Presented by

FLORIDA KEYS EATS

BAYSIDE GOURMET’S BRUSCHETTA IS A MUST-TRY

T

THE VOTES ARE IN! WINNERS ARE BEING COMPILED! Be sure to pick up the Nov. 16 copy of Upper Keys Weekly for the full list of the Best of Upper Keys.

Winners & Awards to be presented Saturday, Nov. 11 Sponsored by:

his heavenly antipasto dish is spelled bruschetta and pronounced “bruu-skeh-tuh.”

Traditionally, you take a SAMANTHA slice of bread or DELLILO baguette, grill is a Keys native who or toast it, rub has a passion for all a garlic clove all things food. She runs over and top it with chopped the local food blog, “Florida Keys Eats.” tomatoes, basil, olive oil , salt and maybe a little balsamic glaze. It’s a very healthy appetizer that punches a huge flavor.

Although I love it, a couple things I’ve never been a fan of is the toast level of the bread with the chopped raw tomatoes. Basically, you take a bite and everything falls off of your little slice. I never order bruschetta anywhere if I’m wearing a nice dress.

A local restaurant has solved all those problems and made it the best I’ve ever had. Bayside Gourmet at MM 82 is a retro ’80s and Philadelphia-style hybrid of a restaurant. If you’ve eaten there you know every single thing on the menu any time of day is good. The pasta is high quality and they literally roast whole tomatoes for fresh sauce. How many restaurants can say that?

We never make plans after dinner at Bayside Gourmet. The pasta entrees are so massive that you’re lucky to make a dent in them and get home in time for a food coma. I can’t rave about them enough, but the unique winner that I absolutely adore is their bruschetta appetizer.

Right out of the gate, when you pick up your bruschetta, you’ll notice none of the tomato is falling off. This is because Bayside Gourmet bakes its rosemary bread in-house and uses a wider slice of crostini. They don’t grill it to oblivion like most places. It has a light toasty, crispy outside with a slightly doughy middle. The tomatoes are like candy.

Bruschetta at Bayside Gourmet in Islamorada. SAMANTHA DELLILO/Keys Weekly

They’re roasted with garlic and just have this soft, perfect bite. Since they’re cooked and not raw like most bruschetta, they form to the top of the crostini better and don’t try to jump off the bread before making it to your mouth. I retract my previous statement: Bayside Gourmet is the only restaurant where I’ll order bruschetta in a nice dress. No mess there.

On top of the little mound of tomato confit is the freshest shredded basil in the land. I’ll bet this basil is grown near oregano because I got hints of both herbs in this mouthwatering dish. They top it off with a little extra virgin olive oil drizzle, parmesan, orchid garnish and voila, delizioso. This is not one of those appetizers about which you’ll hear someone at the table saying “no, you take the last one” with all the back and forth pleasantries. Every man for themselves when this app is set in the center.

Don’t let the pronunciation discourage you from trying out this starter; you can always just point to the menu. Head over to Bayside Gourmet and sit among the ’80s memorabilia to make some new memories at this upbeat joint.

19

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

BACON & BEATS

FOOD FEST AND JAMS BY THE BAY RETURN TO ISLAMORADA

‘Mangrove Spring’ is an acrylic on canvas by Maggie Ruley. CONTRIBUTED

ART SHOW GOES KEYSWIDE

Hungry eaters down a pound of bacon during a contest at last year’s Bacon Fest.

DONNA STARK/Contributed

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

A

ctivities in Islamorada are ramping up, as the beats along Florida Bay return to Founders Park on Friday, Nov. 3. And wafts of bacon will fill Islamorada’s Morada Way Arts & Cultural District to conclude the weekend.

2022 marked the inaugural year of the Beats on the Bay Music Series, which brought cover bands to the Islamorada Community Entertainment (ICE) amphitheater for an evening of jams. Food and drinks complemented the music as the sun set over the bay.

The Rolling Stones tribute band Music City Stones will make their way to the ICE amphitheater on Friday, Nov. 3. Based out of Nashville, the band prides itself on musicianship along with Louis Lee Napolitano’s spot-on rendition of Mick Jagger.

They’ve played at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas, as well as venues across Florida.

ICE, the Upper Keys Rotary Club and the village of Islamorada are among the sponsors of this year’s music series. Attendees can enjoy fare and drinks from local food trucks.

Admission is free, but there is a $10 parking fee. Visit keysice.com for more information.

With the beats come the sizzling goodness on Sunday, Nov. 5 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the return of Bacon Fest & Vendor show at the MM 81.5, oceanside, in Islamorada. Attendees can take a stroll on the Old Highway and indulge in tasty bacon dishes from local chefs. Artists and craft vendors will also be on hand to sell their creative offerings. There will also be live music, a dunk tank and other contests.

Proceeds from Bacon Fest support local charities, the Moose Lodge and Coral Shores High School scholarships. Visit 2023 Bacon Fest & Vendor Show on Facebook for more information.

‘LIVING IN HARMONY’ OPENS IN KEY LARGO, KEY WEST

T

he Florida Keys Council of the Arts is holding its 2024 members show, “Living in Harmony,” with opening receptions in Key Largo on Thursday, Nov. 2 and Key West on Friday, Nov. 3.

Member artists share in celebrating the theme of living in harmony with all, inspired by tropical landscapes, diverse culture, the unique history of the land and sea and the colorful sights and sounds of the Keys.

The opening reception in Key Largo will go from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Key Largo library, located in the Tradewinds Shopping Plaza at 101485 Overseas Hwy. The exhibit will be on display at the library during business hours through November.

The opening reception in Key West will go from 5 to 7 p.m. at the

Gato Building, 1100 Simonton St., Key West. The exhibit will remain on display through January 2024. This reception is sponsored by Ocean Sotheby’s Key West.

The Gato building, which is home to state and county offices, supports the Art in Public Buildings program, which offers an alternate space for artists to display their work. Free parking is available, and the building is ADA accessible. Refreshments will be served.

The Florida Keys Council of the Arts supports visual, literary and performing artists and cultural organizations throughout the Keys with several grant programs and scholarships, connecting artists to each other and to their audiences.

More information is at 305-2954369 or keysarts.com.

— Contributed

21

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

FACTS FROM THE TAX COLLECTOR

Sam Steele

monroetaxcollector.com 305.295.5000

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.

RINGING IN THE HOLIDAYS Kids enjoy an evening ice skate during last year’s Light Up Key Largo. ZACK WOLTANSKI/Keys Weekly File Photo

LIGHT UP KEY LARGO HAS A NEW DATE

L

ight Up Key Largo brings the holiday spirit to the Florida Keys Saturday, Nov. 18, with the lighting of “Holly,” the 45-foot-tall Key Largo holiday tree, and loads of activities for kids at the Murray E. Nelson Government and Cultural Center at MM 102, bayside.

With the holiday festivities kicking off at 4 p.m., organizers will flip the switch to illuminate Holly at 6 p.m., followed by more seasonal celebrations until 8 p.m.

Organized by the Key Largo Community Preservation Foundation, the event promises new surprises this year including “train” rides around the holiday tree. Cookie decorating and craft tents will keep the kids busy, along with interactive activities from Keys nonprofit vendors. Key Largo library representatives will be on hand to host holiday

storytimes for children.

The guest of honor will be Santa, sitting in his new sleigh — the perfect setting for attendees to join him for selfies and holiday snapshots.

Snow machines will blow flurries and the Mangrove Swamp Band will be accompanied by carolers.

All children attending can take their choice of either a free hotdog or hamburger. In addition, food vendors will be available. Parking for Light Up Key Largo will be available at Key Largo School, located at MM 105, with free shuttle service provided.

Information will be posted to facebook.com/LUKLKEYLARGO as the event gets nearer. More information, including volunteering and sponsorship opportunities, is at 305399-2265 or 305-916-8373.

— Contributed

• 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

• 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.

22

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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23

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

1

2

1. Pork belly and bluefin otoro with red cabbage microgreens. CHEF EMILIO/ Contributed. 2. ‘Not Your Eda-mame’s Toast’ with sunflower microgreens.

SEASIDE TEA HOUSE/ Contributed. 3. Leek and mustard microgreens by Alligator Lighthouse. MAUREEN GORETTI/Contributed

3

DELICIOUS HEALTHY MICROGREENS KEYS NATIVE BRINGS NICHE LOCAL FARM TO THE DINING SCENE MELINDA VAN FLEET www.keysweekly.com

M

atecumbe Microgreens is not only a local farm with healthy, delicious crops, but it’s also a unique business model which requires an entrepreneur with next-level skills to navigate its intricacies.

“After I graduated from Florida Gulf Coast, I applied to be in a program called the Institute of Entrepreneurship,” said Jonathon Lindback, Matecumbe Microgreens owner. “I loved the environment and everything about startups.”

After that, Lindback worked for his dad and then landed in Ocala, where he began studying microgreens on YouTube and started his farm.

Lindback is from a family of business owners, so when he returned to the Keys early this year, he realized no one here was growing food for the locals. In May, he decided to bring his farm down from Ocala.

“The best lesson is just doing it. Radish was my tester crop, and due to how fast it grows, eight to nine days versus a three-week grow, I was able to test a variety of ways to grow, learn its nutrients and how to harvest it,” Lindback said. “Right now, I have about 20 different varieties of microgreens growing, but I have over 40 varieties that I have grown.”

Microgreens are a stage of crop growth. The first two leaves that grow out are called cotyledons. After that comes the first true leaf — a microgreen. Then let it grow into a petite green, baby greens and a fullgrown green. The nature of seeds can also vary with germination, which is the sprouting of the seed.

“Top products that I sell consistently are cilantro, basil, and the salad mix, a nice mix of five different seeds. Those five seeds are broccoli, arugula, cabbage, kale and kohlrabi, as they have the same germination and growth cycle time. For the community, the sunflower, salad mix and radish are popular. My favorite is the purple radish.”

“Chef Alan Wilkinson, who was my first order down here, really helped me grow in the community,” Lindback said. “He helped me with some restaurants, and I knocked on doors, sharing sample boxes.

Building a business is sometimes growing things to

give stuff away to get started. I never short on my restaurants. Anything left over is what I have open to the public, I take to Key Roots or sell to the public.”

Working with Lindback is Robyn Leary, who started helping him about a month ago.

“I enjoy it; it’s really fun. And honestly, eating the microgreens is one of my favorite things,” Leary said.

Lindback’s girlfriend, Katie Cleek, whom he met when calling on a local restaurant, helps with his social media and other things, too.

Microgreens are powerfully potent with incredible health benefits. A little goes a long way, as they are so nutrient-dense. Lindback also referred to them as “vegetable confetti.” Microgreens across the board have a high level of sulforaphane, which has been recognized to help fight cancer and is continuing to be researched.

“Average microgreens are about 40 times more nutrient-dense than the full-grown counterpart. An ounce of broccoli microgreens is equivalent to 4 pounds of broccoli. Cilantro has six times more betacarotene,” Lindback said.

“I am grateful to my brother, Brian, and sister-inlaw, Patti, who own Islamorada Hemp Company, for their support as my farm is on the same property; and also Take Two Kitchen, who is a great customer,” he continued.

Local restaurants that buy Lindback’s crops are Take Two Kitchen Food Truck, Pierre’s Restaurant, Marker 88, SHIMA, Cheeca Lodge & Spa, Square Grouper, Key Roots, Seaside Eatery and Off the Hook.

“One of my favorite things to grow are the live trays that SHIMA keeps on their counter,” Lindback said. “With microgreens, the quality and shelf-life are there. Since I cut out about five delivery days, the shelf life is longer, and the quality of being fresh is better than other food suppliers. The chefs have been very happy.”

What’s next for Matecumbe Microgreens? “Specialty mushrooms and edible flowers are on my list, and more space overall,” Lindback said. “It’s exciting to see the community support for a niche local farm.

I am so thankful.”

Matecumbe Microgreens is on Instagram @ matecumbemicrogreens or Facebook; orders can be picked up at the farm or Islamorada Hemp Co. at MM 81.9. Open farm is on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or pick up regularly stocked boxes from Key Roots at MM 81.

Matecumbe Microgreens owner Jonathon Lindback with two microgreen varieties. KATIE CLEEK/Contributed

24

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

PAWSITIVE CHANGE PICKS UP CLIENTS

Ridley in his official Pawsitive Change “work” vest. PAWSITIVE BEGINNINGS/Contributed

NEW PROGRAM TO ASSIST YOUTH

H

i friends!

Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” First of all, thank you to everyone who took time out of their day REEF to vote for Pawsitive THE FOX Beginnings and me in our respective Reef is a red fox categories for the that was saved Best of the Upfrom a fur farm. per Keys awards.

He now lives in My mom, Nicole Key Largo with his human, Nicole Navarro will be in Navarro. attendance Nov. 11 at Whale Harbor for the awards ceremony to cheer on all of the nominees.

I have some very exciting news to share. Our Pawsitive Change program is hitting the road starting Monday, Nov. 6. We have created not one, not two, but three new partnerships in Key West. Two programs overseen by the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter, Project Lighthouse and the Transitional Living Program will add Pawsitive Change to their list of community workshops offered.

Project Lighthouse is a safe space for young people who are on the street for whatever reason, including traveling through the country. They have a safe place in the heart of Key West where they can take a shower, pick up toiletries and get a change of clothing.

Youth can use their computers and musical instruments or participate in arts and crafts. There is a team of local experts who can assist with resources including food, medical care, employment and lodging possibilities. Their goal is to encourage each young person to become a welcome, positively contributing member of the community.

The Transitional Living Program conducts intake and assessment, crisis intervention, individual, group and family counseling, tutoring, recreational activities, case management services, job search and placement, career readiness, financial counseling, reunification services and aftercare services. Their onsite support staff also assist youth in accessing necessary educational, health care and wellness focus.

Our new program will also be working with Key Bridge, a therapy office specializing in group therapy, individual and family therapy and trauma informed care.

I am so excited that this new program my mom created is continuing to make a difference in the lives of the humans in our community, and I know she hopes to keep adding to our list of partners.

If you want to learn more about Pawsitive Change, visit pawsitivebeginnings.org That’s all for this week. Until next time, Reef, over and out!

LIZZIE

T

his 3-year-old chihuahua mix is seeking a “furever” home that doesn’t have other dogs. If you would like to make Lizzie a part of your family, or to learn more about other pets available for adoption, give the Upper Keys Humane Society (UKHS) a call at 305-451-3848. UKHS is a notfor-profit no-kill shelter that provides food, shelter, medical care and adoption services for unwanted and abandoned animals.

SAVE THE DATE Nov 2-4 • The Key Players’ “The Play that Goes Wrong” production at Murray Nelson Government & Cultural Center, Key Largo. Visit thekeyplayers.org to learn more.

Thursday, Nov. 2 • MarrVelous Pet Rescue’s Yappy Hour at 5:30 p.m. at Caribbean Club, Key Largo. Dogs must be well-socialized and leashed.

Friday, Nov. 3 • Dia de los Muertos 2023 with live performances by Ameyal Folkloric ensemble at 5 p.m. at Florida Keys Brewing Co., Islamorada. Visit cacmiami.org to learn more.

• Beats on the Bay featuring the Music City Stones at 6:30 p.m. at ICE ampitheater at Founders Park.

Sunday, Nov. 5 • Islamorada Moose Lodge Bacon Fest from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at MM 81.5, oceanside, Islamorada.

Monday, Nov. 6 • Bereavement group gathering at 6 p.m. at St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church conference room.

For details, call Janet Gillow at 561396-5626.

Tuesday, Nov. 7 • Islamorada Council meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Founders Park Commu-

nity Center, Islamorada. Agenda at islamorada.fl.us.

Wednesday, Nov. 8 • Just Older Youth (JOY) Center classes from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Visit justolderyouthinc.org for a complete schedule.

Thursday, Nov. 9 • Islamorada Council meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Founders Park Community Center, Islamorada. Agenda at islamorada.fl.us.

• Coral Restoration’s Coral Conversations from 6-8 p.m. at The Hale Gallery, 81888 Overseas Hwy, Unit 2, Islamorada.

• Bingo from 7-9 p.m. at Florida Keys Brewing Co., Islamorada. Proceeds support Mote Marine Laboratory.

Nov. 9-12 • The Key Players’ “The Play that Goes Wrong” production at Murray Nelson Government & Cultural Center, Key Largo. Visit thekeyplayers.org to learn more.

Friday, Nov. 10 • MarrVelous Pet Rescues & Adoptions presents 12th annual Spayghetti & No Balls at 6:30 p.m. at Snook’s Bayside, Key Largo. More information at mprescues.org/spayghetti-no-balls-2021.

25

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

TDC from page 5 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 calendars … 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

OBITUARY 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 million 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.”

ROBIN LEE DANEKER 1952-2023

R

obin Lee Daneker (Bohnstedt) died Oct. 20, 2023.

She was preceded in death by her mom and dad, Doris (Brender) and George M. Daneker Jr. Daneker is survived by Melanie Jordan, sister, and George Daneker III, brother; Richard Bohnstedt, husband; sons Ryan Breneman and Conan Penick; step-daughters Shannon Slaughenhoupt, Erika Osborne, Tammy Bohnstedt and Christina Bonstedt; and grandchildren Chelsey Breneman, Andrew Bohnstedt and Karlee Penick.

She will be missed by her friends and family. Ashes will be spread out to sea Nov. 20, 2023.

Meet at Robbie’s at 9 a.m. and the remembrance will go until 2 p.m.

Those wishing to go can reserve a spot by calling Erika at 304-3656328.

26

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

COMEDY WILL LEAVE AUDIENCE IN STITCHES THE KEY PLAYERS PRESENT ‘THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG’ KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL

had a co-director, Jonathon Bogue.

However, Bogue had to step into a stage role after one of the actors was injured during rehearsal. Bogue gladly took on the challenge. He saw the play on Broadway in 2017 and was thrilled to bring it to an Upper Keys audience.

“It’s very clever, it has a ‘classicness’ about it, that’s akin to maybe Monty Python or some of the old slapstick, more British comedies,” Bogue said.

Brock Gilliard will be making his debut with the Key Players but he is certainly not new to acting. Before moving to the Keys, Gilliard was a longtime actor with the Theatre Guild Valdosta in Georgia. Gilliard is looking forward to getting the audience involved in the play.

“I think we’re definitely ready for an audience because this show is so interactive,” Gilliard said.

This will be Jessica Garcia’s first time acting in a play. She is passionate about the theater and has always dreamed of performing in a show. In “The Play That Goes Wrong,” Garcia plays the clumsy butler.

“I don’t know my lines, I’m constantly tripping over things, feeding people things that they shouldn’t be eating or drinking,” said Garcia with a laugh.

“The Play That Goes Wrong” opens on Thursday, Nov. 2 at the Murray E. Nelson Government and Cultural Center. There will be a total of seven performances. Tickets are $18 online and at the door or they can be purchased in advance for $15 at Key Largo Chocolates and Ice Cream, Shear Paradise, and PostNet Store in Islamorada.

More information is at thekeyplayers.org.

www.keysweekly.com

Cast and crew of ‘The Play That Goes Wrong’ prepare to entertain audiences with the comedy that opens Thursday, Nov. 2. LUNA RIVERA/Contributed

In the comedy ‘The Play That Goes Wrong,’ there are hilarious follies and blunders, including actors tripping over their lines and a corpse that can’t play dead. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys Weekly

This two-story, collapsing set is one of the most labor-intensive and technical sets ever built for a Key Players production.

Collapsing sets, prop flops and actors forgetting their lines: it’s a recipe for chaos — and laughter.

“It’s a play-within-a-play and everything that can go wrong, does go wrong,” said director DJ Mills.

On Thursday, Nov. 2, the curtain rises on the most recent Key Players production, “The Play That Goes Wrong,” and it’s hilarious.

The Broadway play is described as part Monty Python and part Sherlock Holmes. It follows a troupe of fumbling and bumbling actors as they attempt to muddle their way through a 1920s whodunit.

“It has all of those stereotypes that you always have in theater, the person that always forgets their lines, the person who is so over-dramatic,” Mills said. Mills, who has been acting with the Key Players since the fifth grade, is making his directorial debut with this production. Mills says the biggest challenge of this play is, without a doubt, the set.

“The set is probably the most labor-intensive and the most technical set we’ve done for the Key Players in a very long time,” said Mills. That’s because during the show, part of the two-story set actually collapses. Cast and crew members call the mechanism that controls the collapsing set “The Beast.”

“This is probably one of the most dangerous, if not the most dangerous shows we’ve ever put on, because of The Beast and because of the insanity that goes on onstage,” said Jonelle Kop, show producer.

When rehearsals started a month and a half ago at the Murray E. Nelson Government and Cultural Center, Mills

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28

UPPER KEYS 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 JIM Weekly Newspapers five years McCARTHY ago.

Nov. 1, 2018 serves as editor marked the start of the Upper Keys Weekly. A Taverof a new gig in nier resident, he the Upper Keys believes in com— my first big munity reporting, giving back and adventure on life on the waters. 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 Miami-Dade 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 heavyhanded 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

29

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

CAN PUMPKINS GROW IN THE FLORIDA KEYS? Certain varieties can tolerate the heat

to ripen after harvest and are typically grown as annual plants with a life cycle maturing over a year.

Don Maynard, researcher with the UF/IFAS, compares a Calabaza, left, with the typical North American pumpkin. UF/IFAS/ Contributed

P

umpkins hold significant cultural value worldwide, symbolizing themes of harvest, abundance and changing seasons. They are versatile in culinary traditions, from pumpkin pies to soups. Beyond culinary use, pumpkins have become iconic in art and folklore, closely associated with creating Jack-o'-lanterns. The Jack-o'-lantern tradition has its roots in Ireland. Initially, it involved carved turnips, beets and potato lanterns with spooky faces to ward off evil spirits or welcome the deceased. Pumpkins gradually replaced these vegetables as they proved more convenient for carving.

Pumpkin Origins Pumpkins are native to the Americas, specifically in regions now part of modern-day Mexico and the southwestern United States. Their cultivation dates back over 7,000 years, with the Aztecs and Native American tribes being some of the first pumpkin growers.

Nutritional Value Pumpkins offer a range of nutritional benefits. Flesh is low in calories and high in dietary fiber. Pumpkins are rich in vitamins A, C and B. They also provide essential minerals like potassium, calcium and magnesium.

Pumpkin seeds, known as pepitas, contribute healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, and are protein-rich.

Botanical Features Pumpkins, members of the Cucurbitaceae family, exhibit distinct botanical characteristics. They are sprawling, vining plants with large palmate leaves. These plants produce male and female flowers, essential for pollination, and often develop tendrils for climbing support.

The fruit's shape, size and color feature rugged, ribbed skin and numerous seeds embedded in fibrous flesh.

Pumpkins are classified as climacteric fruits, continuing

is the University of Florida, IFAS Monroe County Extension Environmental Horticulture Agent.

In this role, she actively promotes the principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ and offers the community essential education, guidance, and resources concerning horticultural and environmental topics.

Florida Varieties Various pumpkin varieties can be cultivated in Florida, ranging from giant carving pumpkins to more petite culinary favorites. Among the extensive pumpkin options, Howden and Jackpot are favored for Florida growers. Other large varieties well-suited to Florida's climate include Big Max, Big Moon, Jack O' Lantern, Spirit and Funny Face.

South Florida pumpkin cultivation also includes heat-tolerant varieties, such as Seminole Pumpkins and Calabaza. Seminole pumpkins are resistant to pests and thrive in the heat. They yield smaller, sweet pumpkins similar in flavor to butternut squash, with vines extending up to 25 feet. Calabaza, a tropical pumpkin commonly grown in the Caribbean, has a good taste and can withstand high temperatures and humid conditions.

Challenges in the Keys Cultivating pumpkins in the Florida Keys can be arduous, given the challenging tropical climate and alkaline soils. Raised beds with amended soils and climbing structures for vine support are good ideas for a better chance of success. Raised beds facilitate control over soil quality, including pH and nutrient levels. Selecting adaptable and resilient pumpkin varieties such as Seminole pumpkins and Calabaza is essential for a successful harvest in the Florida Keys.

For more horticultural advice, contact the UF IFAS Monroe County Extension office at 305-292-4501.

Pumpkins and Squashes TYLER JONES/UF/IFAS

MARIA QUIRICO

Cultivation • Successful pumpkin cultivation involves a series of techniques: • Select a sunny, well-drained location with ample space or a structure for sprawling vines.

• Add organic matter like compost to improve fertility and drainage.

• Be consistent with irrigation and use mulch.

• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.

• Promote pollination through natural bee activity or hand pollination.

• Be vigilant against common pests and diseases.

• Pumpkins can be composted by burying them.

30

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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31

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

ARTIST’S CORNER

BOLD BRUSH STROKES

WILDLIFE INSPIRES ARTIST TIM BORKSI

A

ffectionately called the “gray ghost” because of its ethereal ability to evade capture, the bonefish has held Tim Borski’s imagination for as long as WILLIAM he can remember.

DEPAULA Everything was going perfectly. is an artist, Borksi just arrived in designer and Miami; he had never gemologist who fished for bonefish believes in the before, but he had power of art. an ace in hand. Legendary angler Bill Curtis was his guide.

The Borski family comes from a place far removed from the tropical wonderland — a place north and terribly cold — Wisconsin. Borski was an outdoorsman: he lived in a cabin in Stevens Point. He hunted and fished. He went to college at Wisconsin-Stevens Point and took a watercolor class that introduced him to one of his great passions in life, painting.

The winters were nothing to ignore. One day, Borski saw that there were 9 inches of fresh snow on the ground. Spending winter after winter in bitter cold just got to him. He went to the bank and took his student loan money and booked a round-trip plane ticket to Miami.

Borski’s process starts with a sketch; if he likes it, he continues and starts to paint. CONTRIBUTED

As fate would have it, Bill Curtis had a last-minute cancellation and took Borski out. Finally, at the end of the day, he caught his bonefish. Borski just picked up a six-pack of beer at a convenience store. When a nearby Dumpster caught his eye, he took his return ticket and threw it out. This is where he was going to be. This is Tim Borksi, the artist who wanted to fish.

At first Borski tried traditional jobs; he worked retail and stocked shelves.

He eventually found a job where he could work a few days a week and fish the rest of them. It was through this job in an arts and crafts store that he met Frank Oblak, who taught Borski the basics of fly-tying. He would come to the Florida Keys and fish for mostly tarpon and snook.

“I just fell in love with the wideopen spaces of the Keys,” Borski said.

Borski’s flies gained popularity and is an essential part of him being an artist. As Borski says, “My flies are unique — they are kind of an abstract contemporary version of a fly.” Borski was also working on his art. With the flies selling well and giving Borski attention, the artwork started to do well, too.

With each of Borski’s works, he wants it to be interesting, he wants to push the envelope with his art. He also took a job as the caretaker for Craig

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Key. This would give him enough time to do his art, work on his flies and, most importantly, fish. Fishing tournaments helped Borski get more serious with his paintings. He started making bigger canvases.

Borski’s contemporary wildlife art is visually distinctive, with bold outlines and unique color combinations.

The bold brushstrokes and abstract backgrounds might make you think you were looking at a piece of modern art, if it were not for the fish or bird that comfortably lives in the painting.

Borski’s style is identifiable.

“It is just something that I like,” Borski said. “I’ll work on a painting and that is just the way it comes out. It is the way I see it. It is just the way I like it and that just turns out to be that style.

If the finished product is cool and I like it, then I put my name on it. If I don’t like it, I won’t put my name on it.”

Borski doesn’t have a real favorite artist who inspires him; he enjoys impressionism but his interests lie more in the literary realm. He enjoys reading books while on his adventures.

His biggest inspiration is fishing and the wide-open spaces of the Florida Keys and the wildlife that inhabits it. As to how Borski gets his painting ideas, he said it just comes to him. He likes

Tim Borski is an outdoorsman who hunted and fished in Wisconsin before coming to the Keys to paint and fish.

painting birds besides his classic fish for which he is well known. The birds he paints are not commercial birds; you won’t catch him painting a pelican on a pier or a flamingo. Borski’s process starts with a sketch; if he likes it, he continues and starts to paint. He paints mostly in acrylics. The focus of the artwork is usually the eyes.

Borski’s life is the pursuit of fishing.

His aim is to live life and not sacrifice his time to traditional work. Instead, he paved a path that had fishing come first.

“I didn’t want to become a guide, because then fishing became work,” he said. Instead, he did work that was fish- and outdoor-adjacent.

Borski’s work can be found at the Angling Company in Key West. More information is at timborskiart.com, 305-393-2684 or timborskiart@gmail. com.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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

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FOLLOW PRECAUTIONARY/ MANDATORY BOIL WATER NOTICES IF A NOTICE IS ISSUED, DISINFECT YOUR WATER BY EITHER BOILING FOR 1 MINUTE, OR ADDING 1/8 TEASPOON OF BLEACH, OR USING PURIFICATION TABLETS.

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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.

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Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

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Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com

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

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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.

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

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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.

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NOVEMBER 2, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

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

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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KEY WEST, CORAL SHORES DEVASTATE OPPONENTS 2

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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

3 4

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

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

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

12

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / NOVEMBER 2, 2023

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

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