Key West Weekly 23-1109

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“Honor to the soldier and sailor everywhere who bravely bears his country’s causes.” — Abraham Lincoln

November 9, 2023

KEYS WEEKLY SALUTES OUR VETERANS | P. 12

HEALING WITH HUMOR

IRREVERENT WARRIORS EVENT FIGHTS VETERAN SUICIDE | P. 15

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

MESSAGE

FROM THE

SHERIFF Veterans Day is an important day at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. I’m proud to say we have many members who served in all branches of the military.

We celebrate and recognize those who put their country first, before themselves.

Their sacrifice represents the best of us, the best of the Florida Keys, and the best of America.

We salute you and appreciate the great costs that come with serving.

We should all also take a moment to acknowledge the families who helped shoulder the weight of that sacrifice. This is a day to also thank the mothers, fathers, spouses, and children of our military men and women.

Their commitment inspires me each and every day I come to work.

Let’s celebrate what we can accomplish when we work together while we honor our Veterans. They are proof we are stronger together.

They encourage and motivate us in all that we do.

Thank you to all who served and who continue to serve!

Monroe County Sheriff, Rick Ramsay

Download the MCSO App Today!

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

OPEN THE DOOR TO WHAT’S NEXT

Introducing Blue Water Lagoon, a stunning 2.33-acre property that embodies coastal luxury and offers an exceptional waterfront lifestyle. The grand Chicago brick paved driveway guides you to this remarkable property, surrounded by meticulously landscaped grounds. Indulge in the exclusive private marina, featuring dockage and outstanding amenities like a 25,000 lb boat lift, a 16,000 lb boat lift, and two extra boat slips. Boating enthusiasts will appreciate the additional allure of a boat ramp, old boat house area, and sea wall boat space. Enjoy the picturesque view of the iconic American Shoal lighthouse and revel in the serenity of your own private beach. Entertain guests from your oversized outdoor cabana bar and relax in the zero-entry pool. A recently rebuilt wood observation deck provides a perfect spot to soak in the coastal splendor. The open kitchen boasts custom cabinetry and top-of-the-line Viking appliances. This residence was the site of the feature film “True Lies,” adding a touch of Hollywood glamour to the property. Blue Water Lagoon offers a total of six bedrooms with three located downstairs. Two of these bedrooms share a convenient Jack and Jill bathroom, while the third bedroom features an en-suite bathroom. Additionally, a maid’s quarters equipped with an ice maker, deep freezer, and laundry facilities add an extra layer of convenience.

Upstairs you'll find three more bedrooms. The primary suite offers an en-suite bathroom and the other two bedrooms with a Jack and Jill bathroom plus a half bathroom. The luxurious primary suite features a glam room and a private bathroom with a shower and soaking tub.

It boasts a one car garage, lockers for convenience and a whole-house generator.

SUGARLOAF KEY | $7,995,000 | Listing ID: 605640

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

ON THE COVER KEYS

NEWSPAPERS

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

16.5M

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are 16.5 million veterans in the U.S. Veterans Day originated as “Armistice Day” on Nov. 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Congress passed a resolution in 1926 making it an annual observance, and it became a national holiday in 1938.

The nonprofit Irreverent Warriors group will host its Silkies Hike to combat veteran suicide with humor in Key West on Dec. 16. See page 15.

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

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Members of

COUNTY STAFF URGES BOCC: SUSPEND TDC DIRECTOR, HIRE MANAGEMENT BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS TO ADDRESS PROBLEMATIC AUDIT OF TOURISM AGENCY GWEN FILOSA

gwen@keysweekly.com

M

onroe County staff and officials decided Monday to ask the Board of County Commissioners to recommend suspending Tourist Development Council marketing director Stacey Mitchell with pay, according to county spokeswoman Kristen Livengood.

This comes a week after an audit from Monroe County Clerk Kevin Madok’s office reported the TDC had repeatedly violated the county’s purchasing policy, “a lack of controls and management oversight,” and appearances of “potential self-dealing by certain employees.”

County staff also suggests that the county hire an external management company to temporarily run the multimillion-dollar tourism marketing agency. The clerk’s office is currently auditing the TDC’s three partner agencies – NewmanPR, Tinsley Advertising & Marketing, and Two Oceans Digital.

The five county commissioners were to meet Wednesday at the Harvey Government Center in Key West. The meeting is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

But the hot-button TDC issue had its own time set on the Nov. 8 agenda: 9:45 a.m., Livengood said.

The county commission can’t implement any suspension and can only vote on whether to make recommendations to the TDC board.

“The TDC board will ultimately make any of these decisions,” Livengood said. “All we do is recommend.”

The TDC board is made up of nine members, who are appointed by the BOCC; six must work in a tourism-related business; the county

Monroe County Tourist Development Council staff display Flagler tourism marketing awards won by the TDC on Sept. 6, 2023, at the 2023 Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism in Orlando. From the left, Eric Gitlin, Jaclyn Fortier, Chad Newman, TDC marketing director Stacey Mitchell, Ashley Serrate, Kelli Fountain, Meera Tikku and Markham McGill. FLORIDA KEYS NEWS BUREAU/Contributed

mayor or a designee is a member; and two other elected officials serve – currently Key West Mayor Teri Johnston and Key West Utility Board member Timothy Root.

Mitchell told the Keys Weekly on Nov. 6 that she hasn’t yet spoken with the full TDC board about the matter.

“So I’m not at liberty to discuss before speaking to them,” Mitchell said.

The TDC board has scheduled a special meeting for Thursday, Nov. 16 at 10 a.m. at the DoubleTree Resort in Key West. It’s an in-person meeting only with no Zoom access available, Livengood said.

“We’re taking this seriously, looking at the recommendations and behaving in a professional manner to respond,” TDC chair Rita Irwin told the Keys Weekly on Oct. 31, the day the audit was publicly released.

The decision to recommend a temporary suspension with pay for Mitchell, whose annual salary

is $205,749, came after a Monday morning meeting attended by County Mayor Craig Cates, County Administrator Roman Gastesi, County Attorney Bob Shillinger, and Tina Boan, the senior director of the Monroe County Office of Management and Budget, Livengood said.

Mitchell is a 24-year veteran employee of the TDC, first hired as sales manager in April 1999 and within months promoted to director of sales. She was hired as the TDC’s marketing director in September 2017.

The clerk’s audit of the TDC covered the five-year period from October 2018 through September 2023.

Monroe County created the TDC in the 1980s to market, promote and manage itself as a desirable tourist destination. In fiscal year 2023, the county collected nearly $59 million in tourist development tax for the support of the TDC’s operations.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

STATE JUDICIAL COMMITTEE SAYS ‘NO’ TO MERGING FLORIDA’S COURTS JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

A

state committee is preparing to recommend no mergers or consolidations of Florida’s 20 judicial circuits to the state Supreme Court and the Florida Legislature. The decision by 14 members of the state’s court system was unanimous during a Nov. 3 virtual meeting, and it came after many hours weighing the data from thousands of surveys from law professionals and the public.

Tasked with determining whether there’s a need for consolidation, the committee believed such a move wouldn’t improve efficiency within the courts nor would it result in any substantial taxpayer savings. Part of the recommendation included no merger of the state’s smallest circuit court in Monroe County with a larger circuit court system in Miami-Dade — as outlined by House Speaker Paul Renner in a June letter to the state Supreme Court.

Committee members also acknowledged the uniqueness of certain circuit courts, like the 16th Judicial Circuit in Monroe County, and the high level of public trust in the system — as evidenced by the 1,400-plus survey responses from Keys residents to the committee.

Joining Keys residents were the cities of Key West and Marathon, village of Islamorada and Monroe County Board of County Commissioners, which all sent resolutions to Tallahassee explaining their reasons against the move.

There was even a rally in Key Largo that brought the likes of Monroe State Attorney Dennis Ward, Monroe County Public Defender Robert Lockwood and State Rep. Jim Mooney.

“It’s quite clear within that community and in each village, city and the county coming forward that they’re in opposition to consolidation,” said Chief Judge Shawn Crane of the 6th Judicial Circuit.

Some committee members pointed to the Keys’ high cost of living and the frequent turnover of assistant district attorneys in the Keys.

Some stressed the need for more funding from the state Legislature to boost pay.

“It’s really important that whatever is done, consolation is not solving it,” said Carlos Martinez, public defender for the 11th Judicial Circuit. “Whatever the Legislature can do to increase salaries significantly to reduce turnover throughout the Keys in the court system, that would be a significant improvement in efficiency.”

In June, Renner tasked the state Supreme Court with analyzing a consolidation of the 20 judicial circuits. In his letter to Chief Justice Carlos G. Muñiz, Renner said the courts have gone unchanged for decades despite significant population and demographic shifts over that time.

Renner’s letter alluded to the size of certain judicial courts, specifically the 2.7 million people within the 11th Circuit, which encompasses Miami-Dade, and the fewer than 100,000 people in Monroe County within the 16th Circuit.

Monroe County Attorney Bob Shillinger said

“What I hope is that it’s over and it won’t go to the state Legislature.”

— Monroe County State Attorney Dennis Ward

the committee’s decision is one step closer to ensuring no consolidation of Monroe County and Miami-Dade’s circuit courts.

“I would like to thank the stakeholders and the community members who came together in one voice to express opposition to this proposal,” he said.

Ward told the Keys Weekly he was particularly pleased with the residents’ involvement in the process and their realization of the ramifications if the 16th Judicial Circuit merged with the largest judicial circuit in Miami-Dade County. Ward also praised the JCAC’s hard work and due diligence throughout the process.

“What I hope is that it’s over and it won’t go to the state Legislature,” Ward said. “I’m hoping the Supreme Court administration receives the report from the committee and the chief judge doesn’t recommend it either and passes it to the speaker of the House, Paul Renner and (he) agrees with the committee.”

Ward added that he doesn’t see how the Legislature can have a more educated discussion on the topic than the JCAC, which is composed of judges and law professionals who are familiar with the court system.

The committee will begin to draft a report based on its recommendation.

The Judicial Circuit Assessment Committee will meet virtually Nov. 17 to review the draft report. Dec. 1 is the deadline to submit a final report to the Supreme Court.

SAVE THE DATE Friday, Nov. 10 • Race World Offshore presents day 2 of the Key West World Championship powerboat races. Races start at 10 a.m. Visit raceworldoffshore.com for details and a full schedule.

• SOS Foundation, which operates food pantries throughout the Keys and provides meals to low-income kids, will host its eighth annual Casino Night Gala fundraiser at the Key West Marriott Beachside Hotel from 7 to 11 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 11 • Veterans Day wreathlaying ceremony at Bayview Park, 11 a.m.

• Key West Botanical Garden and Florida Keys SPCA hosts Dogs in the Garden free family event. Dogs on leashes are welcome. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• Key West Veterans Day Parade down Duval Street, 4 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 12 • Race World Offshore presents day 3 of the Key West World Championship powerboat races. Races start at 10 a.m. Visit raceworldoffshore.com for details and a full schedule.

• The Sheriff’s Animal Farm, 5525 College Road, hosts an open house from 1 to 3 p.m. Visit the farm’s miniature horses, a steer, pigs, goats, bunnies, alligators, tropical birds, kinkajous, a capybara, lemur, alpaca, skunk, prairie dog, tortoises and turtles, snakes and more.

Admission is free, but donations are welcome, as they sustain the farm and animals.

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

750 United St., Key West.

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

Tickets and packages are available at kwfilmfest.com.

Sunday, Nov. 19 • Author Nathan Hill will discuss his new novel, “Well-

ness,” a 2023 Oprah Book Club selection, at 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 19 in the Key West Library’s Palm Garden. The garden is next to the library, in the 700 block of Fleming Street.

Wednesday, Nov. 22 • ‘Lighting of the Bight’ takes place to kick off the holiday season at the Historic Harbor Walk at Key West Harbor, 6 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 23 • Happy Thanksgiving • Southernmost VFW and its V Restaurant hosts free, allwelcome Thanksgiving Dinner at Mallory Square, noon to 4 p.m. Donations and sponsorships are welcome. See page 19.

Friday, Dec. 1 • World AIDS Day commemorates the worldwide AIDS epidemic and the thousands of local lives lost to the disease.

Saturday, Dec. 2 • The Key West Holiday Parade leaves at 6 p.m. from Bayview Park, proceeds down Truman Avenue, then turns right onto Duval Street. Santa and Mrs. Claus always ride on the final float.

Saturday, Dec. 9 • Deck the hulls for the 32nd annual Schooner Wharf Bar/Absolut Vodka Lighted Boat Parade. 8 p.m.

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

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

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

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

A Lung Screening Could Save Your Life.

Welcome to taking charge of your lung health.

During the month of November, we’re offering lung screenings at a special price of $35 if you meet the criteria.* To see if you meet the criteria, check with your physician or medical professional. Visit BaptistHealth.net/LungScreening or call 833-596-2473.

*Applies to patients who are uninsured. A prescription is required. If you don’t have a referring physician or medical professional to write a prescription for you, call 786-596-2464 and we’ll connect you with one. If further care is necessary, you can count on Baptist Health Cancer Care to remain by your side and provide you with the most comprehensive care.

November 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

FINE ART, FUN ARTISTS LISA & D. ARTHUR WILSON CREATED NEW WORKS DURING COVID

T

hese guys are a big deal.

Their artwork is in galleries at the Venetian Resort in Las Vegas and Laguna Beach, California.

Lisa Wilson’s and D. Arthur Wilson’s paintings, pastels, sculptures and characters are in private collections all over the world. And they’re two of the most optimistic and engaging people one could encounter in the fine art world.

Last year, they opened their signature gallery in Key West, the Wilson Signature Collection Fine Art Gallery, 407 D Front St., featuring all of their own creations.

“COVID was a creative time for us to write, to paint, to play with different mediums we’d wanted to try for a long time,” said Lisa Wilson.

“This gallery is the culmination of that COVID creativity.”

The Key West gallery shows the world what happens when two married artists have nearly two years of pandemic-prompted isolation in which to make art.

“Oh, we also became yoga instructors during the pandemic,” said Lisa, who describes her thickly textured works as abstract impressionism, created with 10 to 15 “veils of color, so once it all cures, you’re really able to look through the painting.”

Her “Sacred Motion” series mimics the ocean waves, with some works installed in authentic portholes. She also recently introduced abstract bronze sculptures to her repertoire, several of which are available at the Front Street gallery.

While Lisa Wilson seeks and embraces “the unpredictable” in her work and is eager to hear others’ interpretations of it, her husband, D. Arthur Wilson, who sold his first painting to his high school geometry teacher, approaches his work methodically, with a plan for the finished product.

D. Arthur Wilson’s wildlife paintings, done in pastels that are deceptively rich, and specifically the eyes of the animals, have earned him worldwide acclaim.

“I have thousands of photos from Africa,” he said, introducing “Zeus,” the bronze elephant in the gallery.

In fact, the Wilsons, through their artwork, have raised more than $1 million for wildlife conservation organizations.

1 2

“We like to give back and support causes in the local community,” Lisa Wilson said.

And through Nov. 15, they’ll donate a portion of all sales at the gallery to the Anchors Aweigh clubhouse in Key West, which hosts recovery meetings for Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous.

During the pandemic, D. Wilson began work on his “Heavy Metal” series of paintings — locomotives, airplanes, even a VW bus — to highlight the adventure of the journey.

And then there’s Rhupert — the lighthearted ostrich created by D. Arthur that’s decidedly less predictable than the detailed, spot-on wildlife sculptures and paintings. D Arthur paints Rhupert in front of the Duval Street sign; on a Key West beach, at the Eiffel Tower and within Van Gogh’s “Starry Night.”

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“Rhupert reminds people to always be themselves and to not take life — or themselves — too seriously,” D. Arthur said.

The Wilsons seem to have mastered that part of their artistic philosophy, and the friendly nature of their fine art gallery is proof that fine art can also be fun.

For more information visit wilsonsignaturecollection.com.

1. Rhupert, the ostrich, a popular character in paintings by D. Arthur Wilson, reminds viewers to be themselves and not to take life too seriously.

WILSON GALLERY/Contributed 2. Artist Lisa Wilson’s abstract impressionism works include her ‘Sacred Motion’ series that mimics the ocean.

3. Artist D. Arthur Wilson’s ‘Heavy Metal’ series of paintings explores the adventure of the journey, featuring trains, planes and a VW bus.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

HAPPY

THANKSGIVING THANKSGIVING MENU Serves 8-10 people

10-12 lb Oven Roasted Plainville All-Natural Turkey 1/2 Mashed Potatoes 1 qt Turkey Gravy 1/2 pan Green Beans with Almonds 1/2 pan Sweet Potato Casserole (contains nuts) 1 pint Cranberry Relish 1/2 pan Traditional Bread Stuffing $ 179.99 + tax

island inspired

Turkey (only) $ 89.99 Whole Spiral Ham $ 7.99 per pound Please place your order at the deli counter.

Orders must be placed by 7pm November 19.

Orders must be picked up by 5pm November 22.

You’ll find this island inspired boutique in the heart of Old Town Key West.

Fausto’s will be closed Thanksgiving Day.

The bright and airy space is a treasure trove of carefully curated clothing & accessories that embrace the island lifestyle.

624 Whitehead Street | Key West 305.735.4674 | Instagram @floatkeywest

10

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

1227 WASHINGTON STEET KEY WEST MOVE IN READY An exciting and new transformation of a Midtown home in the White Street Gallery district built on two lots just blocks from the Atlantic Ocean. A magnificent new addition and total property renovation utilizing quality materials, latest installation methods, highest building standards and custom finishes has produced a luxurious yet casually elegant 4BR/3.5BA single level home with pool, two cottages and generous off street parking. No expense has been spared to create the ultimate Key West home for indoor and outdoor island living. Furniture, furnishings, artwork and household goods are included. $4,840,000 | 4BR/3.5BA | 3,066 LIVING SQ FT | 9,408 LOT SQ FT

LUXURY SINGLE LEVEL HOME ON EXTRAORDINARY LOT Architect, William Horn • Landscape Design by Craig Reynolds • Detached Garage and Guest Cottage • Heated/Chilled Pool • Pool Cottage with AC & Outdoor Kitchen • Private Outdoor Shower • Historic Old Town Curbstones

NANCY SWIFT

• Original Cuban Tile on Porch • Dade County Pine Floors and Ceilings • Grand Custom Kitchen with Wolf Appliances • Smart Home Technology with Security Cameras • Sonos System with Indoor & Outdoor Speakers

Location 3 Real Estate of Key West, Inc. 201 Front Street, Suite 310, Key West

• Home Generator with Extra Large Propane Tank • Gated Off Street Parking

CPA, Realtor

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FRESH AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE

11

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ANDY GRIFFITHS?

30-YEAR-PLUS SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER WON’T SEEK REELECTION IN 2024

A

ndy Griffiths, one of the Florida Keys’ longestserving elected officials who has served on the county school board for more than 30 years, has decided he will not seek reelection when his term ends in November 2024.

Griffiths called the changes he has seen in his 30-plus years on the school board “mind-boggling.”

When he first was elected to the board in 1992 there was no internet in the schools — no Google, no social media, no touch screens, no smartphones. The rare cell phones had as much heft as a small child. Much of the equipment and methods in use had been largely unchanged for 50 years.

The onslaught of new technology requires constant policy creation, which is the job of a school board, Griffiths emphasized, saying, “Boards do not manage; they govern, at least in this instance. The board creates policy that sets parameters for management to stay within while pursuing board-approved district goals. And then the board has meetings to check on the progress towards said targets.”

In 1992, the average school building in the Florida Keys was 30 years old, and in most cases included structural and design flaws. Today, Griffiths’ name appears on the cornerstone of every traditional public school, each of which has been replaced during his tenure on the school board.

He said he believes each school will outlast the kids of today’s graduating class. This is the result of a half-billion dollar effort over the course of three decades that saw every traditional public school in the county replaced.

Andy Griffiths, who has served on the Monroe County school board since 1992, has decided not to seek reelection in 2024. CONTRIBUTED

All of the recently constructed schools are of superior engineering and built to withstand the strongest hurricane winds.

The school board kicked off its ambitious construction program to replace its school buildings by enacting a half-cent sales tax in 1995, and immediately bonded the revenue from that tax to its building plan, Griffiths said.

“With a sales tax, we export our tax burden to our visitors because tourists statistically pay far more sales tax than our permanent residents,” he added.

State law dictates that funds derived from sales tax can only be used for construction and renovation, not teacher salaries and other in-classroom needs.

So in 2004, the school board reduced the tax that it levies for construction needs, and with voter approval enacted a new tax in the same amount of the reduction, allowing the school district to use revenue from the new tax to increase teachers’ earnings.

Griffiths has worked with superintendents who were elected by the voters, appointed by the governor and more recently, selected by the board. Superintendent Theresa Axford is the 10th superintendent with whom Griffiths has worked — and the

district’s first female one.

After his first election in 1992, Griffiths faced challengers to his reelection in 1996, 2004 and 2012. He has run unopposed four times and faced an opponent as many times, for a total of eight election cycles. While he jokingly says that of course it’s better to run unopposed, he acknowledges that a challenger in an election forces the incumbent to reconnect with the community. It’s a long county, geographically, and a Keyswide campaign is challenging.

“I know a lot about this district, its inner workings and its history,” said Griffiths, the longest-serving elected official in the Florida Keys. “I also know the budget, and when I leave, that goes with me. I have worked well with other board members who have differences of opinion.

We have a great board right now and I’ll miss my colleagues. I will also miss my peers across Florida as I’ve developed great friendships with other board members statewide.”

In 2004, Griffiths became president of the Florida School Boards Association, which represents 65 of 67 school districts in Florida.

“It was one of my greatest honors to lead all Florida school board members. The association had 27 directors on its board, and I enjoyed chairing those meetings, which could get very lively.

By comparison, it’s a piece of cake to chair our local board of five members. I still plan to visit my colleagues by attending state conferences. In what capacity, that isn’t known yet,” he said.

What about a continued future in politics? Griffiths acknowledges that he has a strong network of contacts and connections throughout the state and beyond, plus decades of experience that could lend itself to other areas of governing. But the avid fisherman and father of two says he plans to enjoy his free time.

“I think I’m going to appreciate retirement for a while but, in addition to more advanced technology in schools, my interests run outside of education. Maybe I need to polish up my standup comedy routine?” he said, only half-joking.

— Contributed

SHELF HELP

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

S

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

What: “All Good People Here” by Ashley Flowers Why: Ashley Flowers has shifted from podcaster to novelist with this tale of small-town murder. Margot, returning to Wakarusa, Indiana, to care for her ailing uncle, hones her crime-beat reporter skills after another girl is killed within 30 miles of Wakarusa. The first was 6-year-old neighbor January, 20 years earlier; the latter, Natalie, a 7-year-old one town away, missing and presumed dead the month Margot got to town.

Margot finds sleuthing in her hometown challenging. It seems nobody wants to solve either crime. What could be so important that her hometown would willingly cover up two murders?

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

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

12

KEYS WEEKLY SALUTES OUR VETERANS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

DON STIER | Air Force

RAY RHASH | Army

ROBERT EUGENE LAMBERT | Navy

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE

A

rmy, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard: All are represented in the following pages, as the Keys Weekly, in preparation for Veterans Day on Nov. 11, proudly highlights some of the local men and women who placed service above self and country above everything.

These men and women make us proud and we sincerely thank them and all American veterans for their service.

DICK BARNES | Navy

LOUIS ZWIRLEIN | Army

JEREMY LAMBERT | Army

VETERANS DAY EVENTS IN THE FLORIDA KEYS SATURDAY, NOV. 11: 11 a.m — Key West: Wreathlaying ceremony at Veterans Memorial Garden at Bayview Park.

11 a.m. — Marathon: American Legion Post 154 hosts a Veterans Day parade from 20th Street, making a U-turn at 107th Street and ending with a ceremony at the American Legion, 4115 Overseas Hwy. 11 a.m. — Islamorada: Islamorada Fire Rescue Station 20 will host a Veterans Day ceremony at 81850 Overseas Highway.

11 a.m. — Key Largo: Ceremony at Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo, followed by a community picnic at Peace Park behind the government center hosted by Monroe County Veterans Affairs and the American Legion.

4 p.m. — Key West: Naval Air Station Key West hosts the annual Veterans Day Parade on Duval Street.

Keys government buildings will be lit in green from Nov. 6-12 to show support for veterans through Operation Green Light. County offices will be closed Friday, Nov. 10.

FRANK DERFLER | Air Force

MATT TURK | Marines

LARRY ZETTWOCH | Air Force

MICHAEL STEVE HURT | Air Force

WARREN RUSSELL | Air Force

JAMES CALLAHAN | Marines

DAVID ELLIS Marines & National Guard

ROD DELOSTRINOS | Army

JOSEPH GOETZ | Air Force

13

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON Air Force

BOBBY WELLSBY Marines

COL. BOB NOSSOV (retired) US Army

CHRIS GREEN | Army

JAMES TRUEMPER | Air Force

JOSEPH AND ROBERT STICKNEY | Navy

DAVID DOLQUEIST Marines

MONICA DEGNAN | Air Force

ROBERT ERICKSON | Army

ALBERT MURPHY | Army

JOHN DICK | Army

KEN BELL (WITH WIFE BARBIE BELL) | Marines

JOHN MADDOX | Marines

CAMERON UA | Army KARL STAHL | Navy

BILL VERGE | Coast Guard

DAN MEYERS | Coast Guard

PETER DSWONYK Marine Corps

CECIL ‘LEE’ LAWSON Army & Marines

DENNY HOWLEY | Army BRIAN BRANTLEY | Air Force

DANNY KING | Army

CARL GEORGE LINES | Navy

JON CRANE | Army

CATHY CRANE | Army

14

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

KEYS OFFICIALS SEEK HELP WITH AFFORDABLE HOUSING JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

A

s Florida legislators prepare for a March 2024 opening of session, Keys officials joined state Rep. Jim Mooney and state Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez to relay policy priorities and funding requests during a Nov. 2 virtual meeting.

Stakeholders from municipalities across Monroe County, as well as executives from various nonprofit agencies, were among the attendees of the annual Keys delegation meeting that’s held before the start of session in Tallahassee.

Many governmental agencies asked Mooney and Rodriguez to assist in again securing $20 million for the Florida Keys Stewardship Act. Passed by the state Legislature and signed into law in 2016, the act has historically meant millions of dollars for water quality projects like canal restoration.

In recent years, state officials have fully funded the Stewardship Act and another $5 million on top for land acquisition. Lisa Tennyson, county legislative affairs director, told Mooney and Rodriguez that the $20 million appropriation is the county’s No. 1 priority heading into session.

Many Keys officials also listed a merger of Monroe County’s court system with Miami-Dade as a top issue to watch as the Judicial Consolidation Assessment Committee forms its recommendation to the state Supreme Court and legislature. All municipalities acknowledged their opposition to the idea in the form of a letter to the 14-person committee.

“The county commission has formally opposed any consolidation of our circuit court with Dade with the understanding that it’s not something that would help in terms of representation,” Tennyson said.

The judicial committee met the following day and will recommend that Florida’s judicial circuits remain unchanged with no consolidations.

Rising insurance costs across Monroe County, specifically hikes on policyholders with Citizens, remains a concern for many officials.

Tennyson said the county would like to see a 10% cap on the yearly increases. In addition, Tennyson hopes the legislature will remove the unnecessary costs associated with a flood insurance requirement for elevated homes and properties with minimal flood hazard.

Increasing insurance costs aren’t only affecting homeowners. For residents living in Habitat for Humanity homes, the ability to afford insurance is becoming more difficult by the day. Mel Montagne, president of Fair Insurance Rates in Monroe (FIRM), said they’re working with Habitat officials and the Insurance Consumer Advocate office, which has the ability to put forth legislation, to find some kind of solution.

“Believe me, it’s a crisis,” Montagne said.

With the Keys in desperate straits for affordable housing, Monroe County Schools Superintendent Theresa Axford is asking for $20 million to advance the housing project at the school headquarters on Trumbo Road in Key West. Axford said the district saw 30 candidates for positions walk away due to the lack of affordable housing.

“The cost of living creates a revolving door in the classroom,” said Axford, adding that the district is still seeking an English teacher at Key West High School and an algebra teacher at Sugarloaf School.

“The list goes on. … Most of that relates to affordable housing.”

Mooney and Rodriguez agreed to tackle legislation that would allow county Tourist Development council funds for affordable housing in the Keys. Between 2020 and 2022, the TDC raked in $25 million in surplus revenue that the county commission would like to use for workers in the hospitality and tourism business. Florida law allows TDC funds for public facilities, but affordable housing isn’t currently an allowable use.

The TDC, an advisory committee for the county commission, uses bed tax revenues to advertise the Keys, promote the largest events and for large building projects that boost tourism.

MERRILL RASCHEIN IS COUNTY MAYOR SCHOLL TAPPED FOR MAYOR PRO TEM

Holly Merrill Raschein, incoming county mayor, is ready to take the gavel from Craig Cates, outgoing mayor, during a Nov. 8 meeting. KRISTEN LIVENGOOD/Monroe County

M

onroe County Commissioners chose Holly Merrill Raschein as the mayor during a Nov. 8 meeting at the Harvey Government Center in Key West. Commissioner Jim Scholl will serve as mayor pro tem.

Merrill Raschein has been a commissioner since 2021, and Scholl since 2022. Commissioners recognized outgoing Mayor Craig Cates for his performance for the past year and for leading the county through its 200th anniversary celebrations.

The mayor’s title is given to the Board of County Com-

missioners chairperson. The commissioners choose the designee based on a majority vote, usually at the November board meeting. A mayor pro tem is also designated to fill in when the mayor is unavailable.

The mayor presides over the Board of County Commissioners meetings and serves as the Monroe County representative at ceremonial occasions. The mayor is also responsible for signing and co-signing documents with the county clerk.

— Contributed

15

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

SOME GIVE ALL

ARMY SPC. ROBERT WISE WAS KILLED IN IRAQ 20 YEARS AGO THIS WEEK

IRREVERENT WARRIORS USE HUMOR TO STEM SUICIDE IN VETERANS SILKIES HIKE SET FOR DEC. 16 IN KEY WEST

Spc. Robert Wise, who grew up in Key West, joined the Florida National Guard at age 17. He was killed in Iraq 20 years ago this week when a bomb exploded 10 feet from his Humvee in Baghdad. He is the first Florida National Guardsman to be buried in Arlington National Cemetery. CONTRIBUTED

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

“I

’d rather fight them there than here.”

That’s what Robert Wise told his dad, David Wise, upon learning in January 2003 that his Florida National Guard unit was being sent to Iraq to serve in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

His team arrived the following month in Baghdad, where Wise, a machine-gunner, headed a Humvee crew during convoys.

Nine months later, on Nov. 12, 2003, Wise was killed in action when a roadside bomb exploded 10 feet from his Humvee.

His former teachers at Gerald Adams Elementary in Key West had just made plans with their classes, in honor of Veterans Day that year, to send letters and care packages to Wise in Iraq. But he died before the packages could reach him.

The Key West native who died 20 years ago this week became the firstever Florida National Guard soldier to be buried in Arlington National Cemetery. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart and the Florida Cross.

Spend just 10 minutes with David Wise, and you’ll feel as if you knew his son, with the giant smile and love of fantasy books that he devoured during down time in Iraq, sending letters home to his mom, Tammy, with the latest list of books he had read.

“It’s been a long 20 years,” David Wise said. “It’s still raw, and you never get over it.”

But he brightens instantly when talk turns back to his son’s life, his commitment, his leadership and his smile.

“This community has really supported us through all of this, as has the community in Tallahassee,” David Wise said.

“Robert is honored literally from the top of the state to the bottom.”

A leadership award is given in his name each year at his Tallahassee high school by the Air Force JROTC. Amos P. Godby High School retired his No. 9 soccer jersey. Tallahassee Community College, where Wise attended classes, awards a scholarship in his name. HBO and The New York Times featured Wise in a documentary about the Iraq war and published a hardcover book called, “Letters from Home,” that includes letters from fallen soldiers. The Robert Wise Dolphin Pride Award is given annually to a graduate of Gerald Adams Elementary who exemplifies his traits of positive attitude, doing your best and having fun. And just off Highway 90 in Tallahassee, a road was renamed Robert Wise Lane. The Miami Heat honored Wise during their tributes to South Florida’s fallen soldiers.

And the list goes on.

Wise grew up in Key West and attended Gerald Adams. After finishing eighth grade at Horace O’Bryant School in Key West, he moved with his mother to Tallahassee, where he attended high school and joined the Air Force Junior ROTC, which convinced him his future was in the military, which would then help him pay for college.

Wise’s mom was hesitant to sign his consent form when, at age 17, he wanted to enlist in the Florida National Guard. But upon hearing his determination, Tammy Wise signed the papers.

Both of his parents still take comfort in one of their son’s favorite historical quotes by Daniel Webster: “God grants liberty only to those who love it and are always ready to defend it.”

The Irreverent Warriors’ annual Silkies Hike, to provide humor and camaraderie to combat veteran suicide, takes place Dec. 16 in Key West. CONTRIBUTED

O

n Dec.16, veterans and military service members will take to the streets of Key West for the annual Irreverent Warriors Silkies Hike.

The nonprofit Irreverent Warriors bring thousands of veterans together at events across the United States. In the Silkies Hike, active duty personnel and veterans hike anywhere from 8 to 14 miles, some carrying heavy packs, some in wheelchairs, but all in a spirit of support and camaraderie with a singular mission – to eliminate veteran suicide. Veterans normally hike wearing only their combat boots and “silkies,” traditional military physical training shorts full of nostalgia that help promote an environment of humor and camaraderie.

Irreverent Warriors is a nonprofit whose mission is to bring veterans together using humor and camaraderie to improve mental health and prevent veteran suicide.

The Key West Silkies Hike involves scores of hikers as well as volunteers who line the route.

Many of the volunteers are from Kenna Construction, whose owner Jess Forsyth has been sponsoring the event since its inception in Key West and is and a true believer in the good it does.

Hurricane Hole is the other main sponsor for the Key West hike.

According to numerous studies, including a commonly referenced VA Suicide Data Report conducted in 2012, at least 22 veterans and military service members commit suicide daily. Although this statistic has

become very well known, it is often considered a gross underestimation of reality. Irreverent Warriors has stood up to fill an unmet demand by introducing its members and participants to a life-saving network of support through their events and community. “Everyone fights their battles and heals from trauma differently, but one thing is consistent — no one should have to do it alone,” states the group’s website.

Irreverent Warriors invites all veterans and military service members to hike in the event.

The group also asks family members, friends and the community for their support and invites them to register as a volunteer or join the hikers at the stops.

The hike is open to veterans and military service members, including active duty, reservists and National Guard.

Registration for the Key West Silkies Hike starts at 7:30 a.m. on Dec. 16 and the hike steps off at 9 a.m. from Hurricane Hole Bar & Grill on Stock Island. Stops include the Southernmost VFW Post 3911 on North Roosevelt Boulevard, Truman Waterfront Park, Southernmost Point, Heroes Bar on Southard Street and Dantes. Food, drinks and camaraderie will be provided at each stop and throughout the hike.

More information is available from Chad Salinero at 305-8492608 or Jess Forsyth at 305-3947184, on Facebook under “Irreverent Warriors Silkies Hike – Key West” and at irreverentwarriors. com.

— Contributed

16

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

BOCC wants a charter, but what’s in it for voters?

COUNTY ATTORNEYS CONTINUE TO PITCH CHANGE TO HELP THE KEYS

From left, County Administrator Roman Gastesi, County Attorney Bob Shillinger and consultant Kurt Spitzer at the Nov. 6 charter workshop in Marathon. GWEN FILOSA/Keys Weekly

GWEN FILOSA

gwen@keysweekly.com

T

he Monroe Board of County Commissioners wants voters to approve a charter form of government, which would allow them to create a new tax to pay the enormous costs of fixing bridges and roads across the island chain.

It’s still a big ask, according to Christopher Massicotte, of Key West.

“It seems like a power consolidation,” Massicotte told commissioners at a Nov. 6 public workshop in Marathon on the charter proposal. “This just seems like it’s being done very quickly and not well thought-out.”

The workshop was part of the public process of drafting a referendum in advance of the November 2024 election. If approved by a majority of Monroe County voters, the charter – a countywide constitution – would take effect Jan. 1, 2025.

The county’s pitch is that the charter isn’t a power grab, but the only move left to collect money to raise roads and repair aging bridges, a list that already adds up to $1 billion over the next decade.

Massicotte, who runs a marketing company in Key West that has worked on local political campaigns, said it’s not enough for the county to tell voters that tourists would pay two-thirds of a new transportation tax that would be possible under a charter government.

“We say tourists pay most of these taxes,” Massicotte said. “But tell that to a single mother of three who just got off her shift and has to buy McDonald’s for her kids and now has to pay another penny for that meal.”

Commissioners and county staff

say they’re still working on the referendum language and view the workshop as an example of their transparency.

“We are not interested in taxes on our residents only,” said Commissioner David Rice of Marathon.

Commissioner Holly Merrill Raschein of Key Largo said she wasn’t instantly convinced the charter form of government was the right move for the county, but County Attorney Bob Shillinger’s presentations have cleared up some questions she had.

“We’ve governed ourselves similarly for the last 200 years,” said Raschein.

“We just turned 200, and things have been working reasonably well. We are resilient and we will continue. The notion that we have not been transparent is not only untrue, I think that’s unfair.”

Raschein said as an example, she doesn’t agree with putting a recall effort section in the charter referendum.

“I’m all about the voters, but aren’t those what elections are for?” Raschein asked. “We have those regularly.”

When asked by a resident if the county has done any polling on the referendum proposed, Rice said that would be a waste of time because the charter referendum isn’t finished.

Commissioner Craig Cates of Key West said he wasn’t a big fan of the charter proposal at first either, but having a countywide charter isn’t only about adding a new tax.

“Tallahassee is making decisions for this county that we don’t always agree with,” Cates said. “This gives us the opportunity for home rule and to govern ourselves here.”

“It has to go to referendum,” Cates said. “Some people act like we’re pushing this down their throats. The citizens are going to decide.”

BRIEFLY VFW seeks volunteers, donations for Thanksgiving dinner at Mallory Square The Southernmost VFW Post 3911 will once again host a free community Thanksgiving dinner at Mallory Square from noon to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 23. The event is free and open to everyone. In addition to turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and more, the event will include live music and kids’ activities.

The VFW is seeking donations and sponsors for the meal. Contact post commander James Wende at 305-432-7344 or vfw391110@yahoo.com or Mark Johnson, manager of V Restaurant at the VFW at 786-282-3564 or vfw391110@ yahoo.com.

Botanical Garden hosts dogs, families Nov. 11 The Florida Keys Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden, along with the Florida Keys SPCA, will host Dogs in the Garden, a free family event, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 11.

The garden will be open to families with a playground and crafts for kids, a silly pet tricks contest, dog obedience training demonstrations and dogs available for adoption. Families are welcome to bring leashed dogs and explore the garden’s trails.

Veterinarian Dr. Doug Mader will be signing copies of his book, “The Vet at Noah’s Ark,” a memoir and Florida Book Award winner. The book is an account of Mader’s fight to protect his animal patients and human staff amid the dangerous realities of inner-city life and the Los Angeles riots in the 1990s — as well as a celebration of the remarkable humananimal bond.

Author Nathan Hill speaks at Key West library Nov. 19 Author Nathan Hill will discuss his new novel, “Wellness,” a 2023 Oprah Book Club selection, at 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 19 in the Key West library’s Palm Garden. The garden is next to the library, in the 700 block of Fleming Street.

“‘Wellness’ is a perfect novel for our age,” said NPR “It’s a monumental achievement: a masterpiece by an author who has, in the space of two novels, become indispensable.”

Hill’s 2016 novel, “The Nix,” was named a New York Times Notable Book in 2016.

A book signing will follow his presentation, and copies of “Wellness” will be available for purchase. This free event is sponsored by the Friends of the Key West Library and Books & Books at The Studios of Key West.

More information is available at the library at 700 Fleming St., keyslibraries.org/keywest, 305-292-3595 or via email to info@keyslibraries.org.

Key West police chief promotes Lt. Bradley Lariz to captain Key West Police Chief Sean Brandenburg recently promoted Lt. Bradley Lariz to the rank of captain.

Lariz has worked for the Key West Police Department since 2002, serving on road patrol, bicycle patrol and as a narcotics detective. He has also served as a field training officer, was a member of the Special Response Team and commanded the department’s Criminal Investigations Division.

Lariz has been recognized by the community and by the Key West Police Department for his dedicated service. He was named Officer of the Year in 2011 and is the recipient of several unit awards and chief’s commendations.

Lariz’s grandfather, father, two uncles and two cousins have also served in law enforcement.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

1

2

4

3

5

1. Mike Goldberg and the I.CARE team hosted the largest ever underwater cleanup in the Keys in May as part of the former’s ongoing efforts to protect the ocean. TIFFANY DUONG/ Keys Weekly. 2. I.CARE is a team effort and a community success. 3. Dr. Kylie Smith and Mike Goldberg co-founded I.CARE in Islamorada to restore local reefs. 4. Goldberg does everything he can to protect our oceans. 5. The I.CARE team celebrates together after a community fundraiser event in Islamorada.

MIKE GOLDBERG IN THE RUNNING FOR CNN’S HERO OF THE YEAR

I.CARE’S FOUNDER IS IN THE TOP 10, NEEDS VOTES TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

W

hat would you do with $100,000?

If you’re Mike Goldberg, a hometown hero in the coral restoration world and newlyminted Top 10 CNN Hero, you’d plant a lot of corals and spread the message about why they matter as widely as possible.

CNN Heroes are “everyday people who are making extraordinary contributions to help improve the lives of others,” the news agency says.

Nominated from around the world, CNN Heroes are selected and featured for their work and contributions to the world, an honor that Goldberg received earlier this year for his work with I.CARE, an Islamorada-based coral restoration nonprofit that he cofounded with Kylie Smith.

Corals are vital to the survival of people and planet, deflecting 95% of storm energy, nurturing 25% of marine life, and feeding more than a billion people worldwide. In the Keys, corals have been the backbone of the coastal economy and way of life for centuries.

Unfortunately, Goldberg noted, the Keys have already lost over 95% of the living coral. By partnering with

Mote Marine Laboratory and the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, I.CARE works to restore our marine ecosystem through science-based, community-backed action – starting with the endangered corals that used to dominate these waters. In doing so, Goldberg and Smith hope to revitalize the local blue economy and create resilience for the community. So far, I.CARE has planted over 10,000 corals and educated more than 2,000.

In November, Goldberg was announced as a Top 10 Hero.

“Michael Goldberg is a local hero in Islamorada,” said Monroe County Commissioner David Rice. “Through Mike’s dedication, he has accomplished a great deal in a short time. It is a remarkable thing to have a Keys homegrown cause elevated to such a high international honor.”

Goldberg is the only Top 10 Hero working on an environmental cause, and the only one from South Florida.

He and the other nine will each receive a $10,000 award and contend for the title of CNN’s Hero of the Year.

Chosen by public vote, that person earns an additional $100,000 prize for their cause.

“Restoring the coral reefs of the Florida Keys is so large of a challenge that it often feels as though we are unable, as individuals, to make a dif-

ference,” said Sarah Fangman, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary superintendent. “But Mike has proven otherwise, and I hope this recognition inspires others to join him, beginning with a vote that could bring $100,000 to the coral restoration effort in the Keys.”

“This is a huge honor,” Smith said.

Both Smith and Goldberg emphasized that the credit should be shared with the entire I.CARE team and the Keys community as a whole. The former added, “And we wouldn’t be here without the support of our community. … It has been a team effort, and I am so proud of our team of interns, staff, sponsors, and, of course, recreational divers that have helped put I.CARE on (this) stage.”

“This money will help fund our expansion,” Goldberg told the Weekly.

“Specifically, we want every recreational diver that visits the Keys to have the opportunity to become a citizen scientist – to become educated on the history of our reef and the science behind the coral we are planting and to go underwater and plant coral.”

CNN applauded I.CARE for this unique public-private model: recruiting “an army of recreational divers to help heal our oceans by transplanting coral and restoring our dying reefs.”

The ecotourism model is also a

scalable, replicable model that can be used around the world, said Patxi Pastor, founder and CEO of Celebration of the Seas Foundation, which works with I.CARE to share ocean expertise around the world.

So, what does the public need to do now to help get Goldberg over the finish line and much-needed funding to our reefs?

Vote.

People can cast up to 10 votes per day at cnnheroes.com through Tuesday, Dec. 5.

On Sunday, Dec. 10, at 8 p.m.

EST, Goldberg and the other Top 10 Heroes will be honored by CNN during a live All-Star Tribute program hosted

by Anderson Cooper. The 2023 Hero of the Year will be announced during that show.

“Mike is relentless in his efforts to restore our fragile coral reef ecosystem and a true champion of the Florida Keys,” said Monroe County Mayor Holly Merrill Raschein, offering her support. “His recognition by CNN showcases the plight of our coral reefs and how important they are to the entire world. Join me in voting for Mike and let’s help him receive even more support to reestablish and repopulate our coral reef ecosystem for all to enjoy for years and years to come.”

22

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023 OPINION

Avian nomenclature generally does not rate a lot of attention – or any attention, really – in the mainstream media. At least it didn’t until last week, when the American Ornithological Society sent out a press release.

MARK Stories soon followed HEDDEN in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Smithson... is a photographer, writer, and ian Magazine, Politico, on semi-professional NPR, CNN and other outlets, birdwatcher. He including a predictable rant has lived in Key against “wokeness” on Fox West for more than 25 years and News. may no longer What radical idea was in be employable in the press release? That birds the real world. He would no longer be named is also executive after people. director of the At first you might ask, Florida Keys Audubon Society. who is this group that thinks they get to decide what birds get which names? But the American Ornithological Society, formerly called the American Ornithological Union, has been in charge of the official English-language common names, as well as the official Latin and Greek scientific names, of all birds in North and South America since 1886. (They are also one of the keepers of avian taxonomy, the chart/list/concept of where birds fit in the evolutionary tree.)

Whenever I’m out with a newer birder and they screw up an ID – call a great egret a great hhite heron, or something like that – and they get apologetic, I usually make the same joke: Birds don’t care what you call them. Heck, I even have a 45-minute talk I’ve given a bunch of times with the subtitle, “Birds Don’t Care What You Call Them.” Because they don’t care.

But that isn’t to say what you call them doesn’t matter.

The fundamental unit of understanding birds is species. That’s the nucleus of our conception of not just birds, but all organisms and their lives. Which is why a consistent naming system is necessary. It’s a bulwark against the chaos of misunderstanding.

The concept of species is a little like art or pornography – hard to define, but you know it when you see it. Or you think you do. The definition has shifted since its earliest incarnations, and will no doubt continue to do so as we learn more. Currently, species and taxonomy are being somewhat radically redefined by DNA and genetic testing.

On average, several bird names get changed every year, and people generally don’t get upset. Species get lumped, like when the Audubon’s warbler and the Myrtle warbler were redefined as different populations of the same species, the yellow-rumped warbler. Or they get split, like last year when the Eastern meadowlark population was divided into the Eastern meadowlark and the newly-named Chihuahuan meadowlark.

Names also can be changed if they’re deemed offensive, such as oldsquaw, now con-

BIRDS DON’T CARE WHAT YOU CALL THEM, BUT IT STILL MATTERS

A Cooper’s hawk, named after the ornithologist William Cooper after he collected a specimen in 1828. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

sidered something of a racial slur, which was replaced with long-tailed duck.

The impetus for renaming all birds named after people was a little different. The short version is: Some birds are named after really horrible people. For instance, the Townsend’s warbler and the Townsend’s solitaire are both named after John Kirk Townsend, who collected many bird specimens new to science during an 1833 expedition through the Rocky Mountains.That sounds nice. But he also spent a lot of time on that trip robbing the graves of Native Americans and stealing their skulls in an attempt to prove their intellectual inferiority via the “cutting-edge science” of phrenology.

Hammond’s flycatcher is named after William Alexander Hammond, the U.S. Surgeon General during the Civil War until he was courtmartialed – though he was in the right in that instance. Hammond was also a pioneering neurologist who, while in the army, encouraged soldiers to pick fatal fights with Native Americans – and only those they thought were pure Native Americans – so he could study their brains. He was raised in a free state, but acquired slaves when he moved west, and despite being in the Union army, he was a hardened anti-abolitionist. Hammond also held numerous racist and misogynist beliefs that he acted upon during his career.

I could go on – about Winfield Scott (Scott’s oriole), who oversaw the forced relocation of the Cherokee people from North Caroline to Oklahoma in what we now call the Trail of Tears. Or about William Bachman (Bachman’s warbler), who was a sometimes pal of John James Audubon, but also a slave-owning antiabolitionist. Or about Audubon himself (Audubon’s shearwater and Audubon’s warbler), whose impact on American ornithology is deep,

so much so that he is the one ornithologist most people can name, but was also a slave owner who expressed many disturbingly racist ideas and once bragged about cajoling a family of escaped slaves into returning to their enslavers. (The Audubon Society name is a whole different conversation.)

And it doesn’t stop there, or anywhere near there.

The conversation about how problematic – or f*cked up, depending on how you want to phrase it – a lot of these eponyms are, and the question about whether something should be done about them, started just after the incident with Christian Cooper in Central Park in 2020.

At least that’s when a lot of people first started thinking about it.

There is the question of honoring people who perhaps shouldn’t be honored. There’s also the fact that some of these eponyms make a lot of black people, Native Americans and people of other ethnicities deeply uncomfortable, so it blunts a lot of people’s interests in the world of birds.

Birds are under threat from so many forces – habitat loss, light pollution, feral cats, tall buildings, etc. Avian populations are declining all over the place. People’s interest in birds is their best hope for survival and protection. Why would you want to leave in place a series of names that alienates large swaths of humanity?

There are about 150 birds in North and South America named after people, and 70 or 80 of those species get seen regularly in the U.S. Not all of their namesakes did reprehensible things. Most of them probably did not.

But the question of who was moral and ethical enough to have their name attached to a species is a deeply thorny one, as well as an exhausting one.

I am wowed by the AOS’ simple and clear solution: Don’t name birds after anyone.

Nobody is owed an honorific, especially someone who died 150 years ago. Naming birds should not be about egos or honor or reverence or sentimentality. It should be about the birds, what makes them distinctive, where they live, how they thrive.

I think it’s important to keep some poetry in there, but eponyms tell us nothing, other than the fact that some human had some social status back in the day. I’m relatively fond of humans – some of them anyway – but everything need not be about us. In fact, we gain a much better understanding of the world and how it works when we stop making everything about us.

And it’s not going to happen overnight.

Avian nomenclature is a slow-steering ship. It will take years, possibly decades. (They are not changing the scientific nomenclature, just the common names.) Everyone will survive the process. And a lot of new birders might feel more at home, might feel they have a stronger stake in the world of birds, and a greater understanding of the imperative to protect them.

I’m sure I, like a lot of birders, will screw up a lot when the new names come around, falling back on the well-worn grooves in my brain. And that’s fine. The birds really don’t care.

23

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

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28

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

MILES TO GO

MANDY MILES

BATTLE OF THE SEXES

Stan looked at me as if I had grown four heads the other night.

I was sitting on the couch opposite him, muttering darkly under my breath while rooting around in my purse and occasionally pulling out random items — a mascara tube, a longforgotten business card, a pen I was glad to have found, a few coins, a magnetic name tag and a roll of dental floss.

“What are you doing?” my husband asked, with one eye still on the Monday Night Football game.

“I need to get a new purse,” I answered. “The fabric liner inside this one has a big hole in it, and things keep slipping through.”

They ended up in the no man’s land between the fabric liner and the leather exterior that had started swallowing anything smaller than a wallet.

Stan just shook his head and returned his full attention to the game.

It was yet another example of problems men don’t have. Of course, when one of the inside flaps on his well-worn wallet finally let go and refused to keep his credit cards in their rightful place, it was an emergency that required an instant trip to TJ Maxx for a replacement wallet.

But the purse issue clearly doesn’t affect the opposite sex.

Don’t get me wrong, the challenges that only women experience are too numerous to list and many of the most obvious have been done to death so as to become cliche.

These differences between men and women go beyond the obvious physiological features and processes. If men were responsible for carrying and bearing children, humankind would have gone extinct within 30 years. drops stuff, breaks things and falls down more than any adult should. She’s married to a saintly — and handy — fisherman, and has been stringing words together in Key West since 1998.

But during my purse conundrum Monday evening, I started thinking of the other little nuisances men will never experience.

They can ditch their shirt and jump into any body of water, at any time, to cool off, then shake their head, air dry for a moment and then put their shirt back on.

Women, not so much.

There’s a multitude of considerations. If we don’t have a bathing suit AND change of clothes, then we’ll be stuck for the rest of the day in wet clothes and undergarments. Our hair, once wet, can’t just be shaken out.

Many women feel they look their best with their hair freshly washed and blown dry. A boat ride is disruptive enough to dry hair. But a boat ride, wind, a dip in the ocean and then a windy, return boat ride, is going to require another shower if we’re expected to go to dinner anywhere other than a restaurant AT a marina, where everyone just got off a boat.

Women (OK, well, myself at least) also experience that minor moment of panic when I realize my husband just took my car someplace — and it’s alarmingly low on gas.

I knew it was low. I was fully planning on stopping at the gas station on my way to work in the morning. But Stan wasn’t planning to stop for gas on his quick trip to CVS. Now, I’ll have to listen to “the speech” (again) when he gets home.

“How do you drive around with no gas? Your gauge was ON empty. It wasn’t NEAR empty; it was ON empty.”

“I know. I was going to stop in the morning. The car says I still have 17 miles to go,” I say in my lame defense.

Stan rolls his eyes and reminds me, “You’re putting an awful lot of faith into that little fuel sensor in your tank.”

On the bright side, he returns home in a huff, but with a full tank of gas in my car.

OBITUARY

GEORGIA WHITMAN PARKS SEPT. 7, 1942 OCT. 28, 2023

O

n Oct. 28, 2023, the Lord called another one of his earthly angels to heaven to be with Him. Georgia Whitman Parks made the unexpected passage and is now in Heaven with her family and friends.

Georgia was born in Scottsbluff, Nebraska on Sept. 7, 1942 to Elsie Heil Whitman and George Whitman. She graduated from Scottsbluff High School in May 1960 and continued her education with an associate of arts degree from Scottsbluff College in 1962 and a bachelor of arts degree from Colorado State College (now known as Colorado State University) in 1964. That same year, Georgia met and later married her husband of nearly 60 years, John G. Parks Jr. (retired certified public accountant) in Chicago, and the following year their first son, John Whitman (JW) Parks, was born. After her husband’s U.S. Army tour, they moved to Gainesville, Florida for John to finish his education and in 1968 they moved to Miami, where Georgia and John welcomed their second son, Patrick Delaney Parks. The Parks family settled in Key West in 1971 and have lived here since.

Georgia had a passion for teaching kindergarten that started in Chicago, and continued to Newberry, Florida; Miami, and finally Key West, where she devoted more than 21 years to the Monroe County School District, teaching at Douglass School, Mary Immaculate School and Poinciana Elementary School. Georgia was a kind, professional and dedicated teacher who was loved by her students and colleagues. After retiring, she would often run into her former students and they would

express their gratitude and share fond memories of their time in her classroom.

In 1983, the Greater Key West Chamber of Commerce named Georgia “Teacher of the Year” from Poinciana Elementary School. She also was honored to serve as a member of the board of directors at Wesley House Family Services and enjoyed singing with Keys Chorale. She was a wonderful person and lived an exemplary life as a wife, mother, motherin-law and grandmother. Georgia was loved and cherished by all who knew her. She will be missed but never forgotten.

Georgia is preceded in death by her parents Elsie and George Whitman; stepfather, Bill Williamson, and her husband’s parents, Gilmore and Louisa Parks. Georgia is survived by her husband John, sons JW (Marisol) of Key West, Florida, and Patrick (Chelle) of Colorado Springs, Colorado, and grandchildren Jordan and Mary Elizabeth Parks of Key West and Katie and Lia Parks of Colorado Springs. We love you. You were the rock of our family.

A viewing was held on Nov. 2, 2023 at Dean-Lopez Funeral Home and a funeral Mass took place on Nov. 3, 2023 at the Basilica of Saint Mary Star of the Sea. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Autism Society of the Florida Keys or to the Basilica School of Saint Mary Star of the Sea.

29

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

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31

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

BEST OF UPPER KEYS GOES DOWN THIS SATURDAY

PAWSITIVE PROGRAM GETS A BOOST THROUGH A GRANT Christi Franchini, Pilates in Paradise owner, reacts to being crowned Best Business as she shares the moment with Jeannette Silvestri, real estate agent with Coldwell Banker Schmidt who won Best Realtor during last year’s Best of Upper Keys. Also pictured are Victor Franchini, far left, and Janessa Silverstri, far right. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

H

i friends!

Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” The Upper Keys are gearing up for the “Best of” awards on REEF Saturday, Nov. 11, THE FOX at Whale Harbor Restaurants and Reef is a red fox that was saved Marina. from a fur farm.

My mother He now lives in and I had a team Key Largo with meeting, and we his human, Nicole both came to the Navarro. conclusion that I am just too fabulous to attend the awards.

What that means is, I am just too obnoxious to be out in public. I’m more of a “do best in my own environment” kind of fox, if you know what I mean?!

I just know that the Keys Weekly staff will put on the best awards ceremony ever. I’m not sure how they can top last year’s inaugural event, but I am sure they have something up their sleeves.

But it won’t be me. Although, that would break the internet if I popped out of Jason Koler’s sleeve, don’t you think?

I have some pretty big news to share. Pawsitive Beginnings was just awarded a $10,000 grant from the Marion and Richard Graham Foundation. I know, incredible right? This foundation found us and asked my mom, Nicole, to apply and we got it. These funds will be allocated to medical ex-

penses, food expenses and our “Pawsitive Change” program expenses. I think it is pretty cool that this foundation found us and took such an interest in what goes on here that they decided to invest in us in such an impactful way.

I’m not sure why “Reef’s Expenses” weren’t included in the grant agreement though.

Another exciting thing will be happening in the next month. We will be looking to our amazing community to help support our newly launched “Pawsitive Change” program by way of sponsorship. This program is something my mom offers to Monroe County free of charge. She takes no money away from the foxes to provide this unique service to facilities within the community whose mission it is to help humans. I know she is putting together a list of sponsorship levels and perks that will come with each level. So if you are a business or individual who wants to get involved with us, stay tuned to our website, pawsitivebeginnings.org for ways you can help.

As for upcoming events, get ready for the 14th annual Light Up Key Largo on Saturday, Nov. 18, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Murray Nelson Government Center. Organized by the Key Largo Community Preservation Foundation, this is always a great family-friendly event to celebrate the start of the holiday season in the Upper Keys. Local businesses and vendors will be on hand with music, food, fun and more.

That’s all for this week. Until next time, Reef, over and out!

CHICAGO MAN SETS NEW RECORD AT STONE CRAB EATING CONTEST

Scott Milison raises his hands to signify he has finished cracking and eating 25 stone crab claws at the Keys Fisheries Stone Crab Eating Contest. Milison, a Chicago resident vacationing in the Keys, broke the contest’s record turning in a time of 10 minutes and 17 seconds. STEVE PANARIELLO/Florida Keys News Bureau

SCOTT MILISON FINISHES 25 CLAWS IN 10 MINUTES, 17 SECONDS

A

Chicago man visiting the Florida Keys set a new record and took first place in the Keys Fisheries Stone Crab Eating Contest held Nov. 4.

Scott Milison triumphed over 39 other contestants, divided into individual and team divisions, in the raucous amateur eating competition in Marathon.

Contestants had to crack and eat 25 of the tasty stone crab claws and pick them completely clean in the fastest time. Participants received a 30-second penalty for each piece of claw meat left behind.

Milison set a new contest record with a final time of 10 minutes and 17 seconds, beating the previous record time of 10 minutes and 23 seconds.

“So I think I just cracked the world record for stone crab — first place — bringing home the prize back to Chi-town,” Milison said following his victory. “No experience in any contest of eating.

“And to be able to enjoy stone crab was just a bonus,” he added.

Milison entered the competition on a spur-of-the-moment suggestion from family and friends, who traveled to the Keys with him to celebrate their November birthdays.

Sally Mishmash, right, and other participants in the Keys Fisheries Stone Crab Eating Contest crack and eat meat from stone crab claws. Contestants were judged on their speed at cracking and eating 25 stone crab claws without leaving meat behind.

Marathon residents Tom Zajac and Justin Hare claimed the top team title, finishing in 6 minutes and 7 seconds, setting a new team record.

Stone crabs are considered a renewable resource because of the crabs’ ability to re-grow harvested claws. The Florida Keys are responsible for about half of the state’s stone crab harvest that averages about 2 million pounds annually, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Keys Fisheries is the largest processor of stone crab claws in Florida.

Stone crab harvest season runs Oct. 15 to May 1.

— Contributed

32

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

PLACE YOUR BETS — AND HELP END HUNGER IN THE KEYS SOS FOUNDATION HOSTS CASINO NIGHT FUNDRAISER

Mote Ocean Fest features touch tanks and other hands-on marine exhibits, along with vendors, food, drinks and informational booths. The event takes place Sunday, Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Key West’s Truman Waterfront Park.

CONTRIBUTED

The annual SOS Casino Night fundraiser features roulette, blackjack, slot machines and a silent auction with deluxe raffle prizes. CONTRIBUTED

T

he SOS Foundation is holding its eighth annual Casino Night Gala fundraiser at the Marriott Beachside Hotel on Friday, Nov. 10 from 7 to 11 p.m.

The event consists of various casino style games including roulette, blackjack and slot machines, as well as a silent auction.

Tickets are $100 in advance, or $115 at the door.

With the purchase of a ticket, guests receive admission to the event, 5,000 gaming chips, hors d’oeuvres, and two alcoholic (or non-alcoholic) beverages. At the end of the evening, guests can turn in their chips for raffle tickets to put toward any of three grand prize drawings, which include a Key West staycation, a five-night stay in Las Vegas (airfare included), and a week-long Aruba vacation.

All funds raised during the event will support SOS’s hunger relief operations and nutrition education efforts in Monroe County. The event comes at a time when Americans across the country, Monroe County included, are facing record levels of food insecurity, according to

a recent report released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Tickets can be purchased at sosfoundation.org.

About the SOS Foundation Star of the Sea Foundation (SOS) was founded in 2006 to increase the health and well-being of low-income individuals and families in Monroe County, Florida via a client-choice food pantry. As one of the largest pantries in South Florida, SOS distributes fresh produce, meats, dairy products, breads and canned goods to over 11,000 individuals across Monroe County each year. Using primarily volunteer support, SOS distributes 1.5 million pounds of food annually. Through the Callahan Community Kitchen, SOS prepares and delivers more than 70,000 meals annually to low-income children and seniors. SOS also conducts weekly nutrition education classes at Monroe County public schools and low-income child care centers, reaching over 300 students per year. More information is at sosfoundation.org.

— Contributed

CELEBRATE THE SEA DIVE INTO MOTE MARINE’S OCEAN FEST DEC. 3

O

cean aficionados and eco-travelers can celebrate the Florida Keys’ marine environment, including the continental United States’ only coral barrier reef, during Mote Marine Laboratory’s 2023 Ocean Fest: A Community Celebration.

The event takes place Sunday, Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Key West’s Truman Waterfront Park. The family-friendly festival is designed to entertain and educate while raising awareness about the Keys’ marine ecosystems and the need to preserve them.

The free-admission festival is presented by the Florida-based Mote Marine Laboratory.

Attendees can explore conservation and environmental exhibits from Keys and Florida groups, interact with live animals and touch tanks, view and purchase the creations of local marine artists and craftspeople, rock to the sounds of live music and enjoy hands-on activities for all ages.

Scientists from Mote and other conservation and environmental

organizations will be on hand to provide insights into their work and explain how individuals can play a role in ocean preservation.

Proceeds and donations from Ocean Fest benefit Mote’s ongoing coral reef research and restoration programs.

Festival attendees are also encouraged to visit the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center adjacent to Truman Waterfront Park. A visitor facility for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, the newly renovated center features interactive exhibits about regional ecosystems including Mote’s re-creation of an in-water coral nursery.

Founded in 1955, Mote is an independent nonprofit marine research institution based in Sarasota. Among its Florida Keys facilities are the Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research and Restoration on Summerland Key and coral nurseries in Islamorada and Key Largo.

More information is at mote. org/oceanfest.

— Contributed

33

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

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34

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

TAKE ME HOME? FIND A FRIEND AT THE FLORIDA KEYS SPCA

T

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

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

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

HELP KEEP KEY WEST CLEAN JOIN A 1-HOUR CLEANUP FRIDAY MORNINGS

38 volunteers meet at the corner of Flagler Avenue and Roosevelt Boulevard on Nov. 3. In one hour, they collected 398 pounds of trash, 12 pounds of recycling and 1.5 gallons of cigarette butts. CONTRIBUTED

At only 8 months, sweet Jezebel is nowhere near as scandalous as the character Bette Davis played in the 1938 film of the same name; but give her time.

Bean the Guinea pig is into the simple life: He grows his own organic veggies, believes strongly in composting and is a whiz on the loom.

Meet Summer. Winter, spring, summer or fall, all you have to do is call, and this 1-year-old kitty will be there, yeah she will … adopt her and you’ll have a friend.

With a big head and stubby legs, this handsome 2-year-old is giving off some serious Scrappy Doo vibes. His name is Kurry and we DOO want him to find a new home.

A Cat Called Wanda. If your name is Ken, then this 5-month-old kitten should really be yours to cherish, as well as to keep safe from Otto.

O

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

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

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

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

Please pick up around your home or apartment complex.

Every piece of trash picked up is one less that may end up in the ocean that surrounds and sustains our island community.

It is not just the large items you can see easily when you are walking, but the smaller items such as bottle caps and cigarette butts that are collected by the volunteers that make the biggest difference.

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

— Contributed Join the Ploggers for 1-hour cleanup from 8 to 9 a.m. on Friday: Nov. 10: Kennedy Drive & N. Roosevelt. Meet in the parking lot of H&R Block.

Nov. 17: Caroline Street. Meet in the city parking lot across from Harpoon Harry’s.

Nov. 24: N. Roosevelt & 7th Street. Meet in the GFS parking lot.

35

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

A turtle kraal at Key West Bight.

FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY CENTER/ Contributed

NOT ON THE MENU

PROTECTIONS IN PLACE FOR A TURTLE SPECIES ONCE HUNTED IN THE KEYS

T

he turtle industry in the Florida Keys has performed something of an about-face. Once upon a time, sea turtles like the green, hawksbill and loggerhead, among others, were hunted by indigenous coastal populations and later European explorers.

FLORIDA By the 20th century, turtle KEYS populations were nearly too HISTORY exhausted to recover.

WITH What was convenient BRAD about turtles as a protein BERTELLI source was that they could An author, be captured and stored live speaker, Florida with minimum effort. Before Keys historian and the days of refrigeration, the Honorary Conch. best way to keep a protein His latest book, fresh was to keep it alive. For “Florida Keys History with Brad European sailors, and later Bertelli, Volume commercial fishermen, the 1,” shares fasciturtles could be kept on ships, nating glimpses on their backs, for extended into the rich and periods. They could also be sometimes surprising histories of corralled like livestock in enthe Florida Keys. closures called kraals.

According to MerriamWebster, kraal is defined as “an enclosure for animals, especially in southern Africa.” When ornithologist John James Audubon visited the Florida Keys in 1832, he wrote letters about his experiences. According to one of those: “Each turtler has his crawl, which is a square wooden building or pen, formed of logs, which are so far separated as to allow the tide to pass freely

through, and stand erect in the mud. The turtles are placed in the enclosure, fed and kept there until sold.”

The reptiles were harvested in a number of ways. When Ponce de Leon and other European explorers collected them, one technique was to wait for the pregnant females to labor onto beaches to lay their clutches of ping-pongball-sized eggs. While beached, it was easy for someone walking along to secure the creature by flipping it over on its back until it could be transported to the ship.

Nets, too, could be unfurled across a shallow, grassy area where patient fishermen caught them when they swam into the net and became entangled. The trick for the fishermen was to get to the turtle before it drowned. There were other ways to catch them.

One of these techniques was described in the memoir, “A True Story of Some Eventful Years in Grandpa’s Life,” written by Henry Perrine Jr., who spent 20 months living in the Florida Keys as a boy. More than four decades later, in 1885, he recorded his memories.

About capturing turtles, Perrine wrote: “Another which is not so well understood is called pegging the turtle. A small square sharp-pointed iron peg about an inch and a half long, having a groove around its center, to which is attached a long line, is fitted into a socket up on the end of a pole about twelve or fourteen feet in length.

When a turtle is seen sleeping upon the surface of the water, or if seen swimming near the bottom, one man cautiously sculls or poles the boat as closely as possible to it, and then the man in the bow with a quick but not violent thrust of his pole plants the peg in the turtle’s back, at the

same time giving plenty of slack to the line. The turtle darting away brings the taut of the line at nearly right angles with the peg which thus remains firmly embedded in the shell.”

Commercially, turtles became another boom and bust industry. It boomed primarily because of the green turtle — named not for their outward color but for the color of the layer of fat found beneath its shell. It was this green fat that rendered the tastiest stock for the turtle soup that grew to attain worldwide popularity.

For a time, Key West became a hub for the processing and canning of turtle and turtle products, and it seems to be generally agreed that the French chef Armand Granday was the first to find success operating a turtle cannery in the Keys.

According to Norberg Thompson, who purchased Granday’s operation in 1910: “At the time the industry was first started, Mr. Granday secured his turtles from the water about Key West, but they become so scarce in these waters that the turtles used in the manufacture of the soup are now caught in the Caribbean Sea along the Gulf of Mexico, with some from the coast of Nicaragua” (Norberg Thompson, 1914, “The New and Greater Key West” told in picture and story).

Turtle populations dwindled not just because of their commercial harvest but because their nesting sites were being dug out and the eggs collected for human consumption, too. It took decades for the government to intervene. In the U.S., it started in earnest when the Endangered Species Conservation Act was passed in 1969.

Today, all sea turtles are protected by the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973.

While no longer found on restaurant menus, turtles in the Florida Keys remain a tourist draw.

Seen gliding through the clear water or resting at the surface and taking a breath of air, they are a wonder to see. Though they are no longer hunted for the meat or their eggs in the U.S. (though still in some countries), they do face unnatural dangers that include boat strikes, a herpes-like virus called fibropapillomatosis and garbage. For instance, when cigarette butts and plastic bags are floating in the water, they mimic primary food sources like shrimp (cigarette butts) and jellyfish (plastic bags).

Fortunately for the turtles and the Florida Keys, there is the old Hidden Harbor Motel.

Back in the 1950s, it was a roadside accommodation in a sleepy Marathon. Today, it represents a unique roadside attraction. The Hidden Harbor Marine Environmental Project is a nonprofit better known as the Turtle Hospital.

Its mission is to not only educate the public but also to rehabilitate and release injured and sick turtles. The education center offers daily guided tours of the hospital and rehabilitation facility where permanent and recuperating guests are kept. Because tours are limited in space, reservations are highly recommended for this one-of-akind tour.

36

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

RELATIONSHIP OUTBREATH Amid several weeks of intense astrological activity, we are given is an astrologer, wanderer, bara transit that tender and offers a repose. advocate for On Nov. 8, Venus queer justice. He moved into the is a loquacious sign of Libra, one Gemini with a cozy Cancer of the Zodiac rising. Find him at signs she rules. hearthandheraldWhen a planet astrology.com moves into its own sign, it expresses itself much as we do when returning home after a long journey. It relaxes and breathes out, rests in its own bed, knows where all of its resources are, and holds an air of confidence in being safe at home. Venus oversees love, beauty, relationships and money, among other things. For the next month, we should all feel some balance and peace return to these areas. However, in the pantheon of planetary personalities, there are usually some conflicts arising, and in the wee hours of the morning on Friday, Nov. 10, Mercury forms a 90-degree square with Saturn, forcing us into a position to communicate boundaries, think with a bit more coldness and feel more restricted in our movements. The positive side to Mercury’s square with Saturn is that we should be able to see these boundaries very clearly, even if they are not the easiest to uphold.

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

CHRIS McNULTY

SCORPIO Oct. 24 - Nov. 21 With Venus in Libra, you should feel a wave of peace wash over you in your quiet times. This will permeate your relationships as you are able to stand confidently on your own two feet knowing that you have the resources to manage your own heart. Thinking clearly about your value system will help you to build the necessary structures in your life that will allow you to approach joy with an air of maturity.

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22 - Dec. 21 Your friends are going to surround you in a big group hug, Sag. Perhaps you’ve been feeling the need for support, and for the next month you will find that your tribe is more than willing to be there for you. Your home life might have gone through a structural change recently, and it will force you to think about your own identity a bit differently. Step into your authority at home.

Capricorn Dec. 22 - Jan. 19 Meditation and quiet solitude will help you do the hard work of communicating your boundaries in a way you may not have done before. There is a new structure at play in your familiar world and neighborhood, and you are being given the chance to navigate these new systems as a mature adult. Relationships at work are poised to be very supportive right now, so lean on your colleagues as needed.

AQUARIUS Jan. 20 - Feb. 18 When you think about your hopes and dreams, what comes to mind?

It is an ideal time to clearly state for yourself what you are working toward, and this awareness will help you to make some hard financial decisions. It seems as though a strong desire for new experiences will strike you, and you will find that you are able to pursue them rather easily. Go after them and expand your world.

PISCES Feb. 19 - March 20 Your career and public persona are going to be top of mind, and as you think through your publicfacing life you will be forced to live in the world as an authority in your own right. Moving through the world a bit more conservatively will help you set necessary boundaries for your own well-being. A new investment will make

itself available to you, whether that involves time, money or energy. Throw your heart into it.

ARIES March 21 - April 19 You’re receiving planetary blessings and support in your partnership, Aries. Appreciation for and from your partner will flow freely for the next month, so use the peaceful air to return to love as a foundation. There is an adventure to new lands making its way into your mind, and you might discover a need to pull away from social engagements to achieve it. These decisions might be hard, but they are necessary.

TAURUS April 20 - May 20 Setting up solid routines in your life is a way to practice self-love and care, because it is a way of putting your well-being first.

Explore routines that you deeply appreciate over the next month and set yourself on the right path for self-maintenance. As you think about how you invest your time and energy, you may be forced to set up boundaries with friends.

Communicating shared values will ease this process.

GEMINI May 21 - June 21 Joy is your bottom line for the next month, Gem. Throw yourself into your creative project and let your bliss take over. The more you invest in your creative outlet, the better your relationships with others will fall into place. As you think critically about partnership, you will probably be forced to set some boundaries up at work. We cannot do everything, and setting priorities will help you trim the unnecessary fat.

CANCER June 22 - July 22 Home is where the heart is, as they say, and for the next month this pithy phrase will be your guiding light. Spending more time at

home and with family, whether blood or chosen, will help you to deepen peaceful roots for your life. Thinking about instilling new habits or doubling down on the ones you’ve developed may have you put a stop on learning new things. Focus on integrating what you’ve already learned.

LEO July 23 - Aug. 22 There’s a certain magic available to everyone when we surrender control and learn how to organically move with the world as it ebbs and flows. For the next month, you will have an uncanny ability to manifest your desires, as long as you lead with your heart and release resistance. Focus on something you want to nurture, and remove any investments you have that do not serve that goal.

VIRGO Aug. 23 - Sept. 22 Your family and your home space are becoming top of mind, Virgo, and this might create some barriers in a partnership that you have.

Boundaries are healthy in any partnership, and communicating what comes up from your family will help to set them in place. You are receiving strong support to get your finances in order, but be sure to financially prioritize anything that makes your heart sing.

LIBRA Sept. 23 - Oct. 23 Take a few extra glances in the mirror this month, Libra, because you are going to have a somewhat otherworldly glow as Venus moves through your first house.

Fall in love with yourself, and none of us will be able to take our eyes off you. There’s a mark that communication with siblings might be strained right now (whether these are blood siblings or chosen siblings). Getting really serious about your routines is the ultimate outcome of this tense discourse.

37

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

CELEBRATING

KEYS HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS INVITED TO APPLY FOR INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM

T

he Experiment in International Living invites Monroe County high school students to apply to its summer abroad programs across the globe in 2024. The open enrollment application deadline is Feb. 15, 2024.

Monroe County teens have participated in the programs for over 10 years, and the Florida Keys sends more participants than any other region in the U.S. outside of New York City.

In the summer of 2023, 17 Monroe County high school students participated in summer abroad programs, including 15 students who enrolled through Take Stock in Children and received full scholarships, with funding provided by the Monroe County Educational Foundation and the Experiment.

“Participating in an Experiment program has been a transformational experience for so many students in Monroe County, providing an opportunity for them to be immersed in another culture and learn what it means to be a young leader in today’s global world, said Christina Thomas, divisional vice president of the Experiment in International Living and youth exchanges at World Learning.

“It also helps with college applications and many students even identify their future fields of study. Additionally, we have programs offering academic credit, so students can earn college credit before beginning college or university.

In 2024, the Experiment offers a new, competitive program, the Leadership Institute: Climate Change in Costa Rica.

The Experiment in International Living has provided summer-abroad programs for high school students for more than 90 years. During the three- to four-week immersive programs, students explore the world through hands-on experiences and homestays in local communities. Each year, hundreds of students come away with cultural, interpersonal, leadership, language and college-prep skills.

The Experiment is the flagship program of World Learning Inc, which also includes the School for International Training, and World Learning, a nonprofit committed to creating a more peaceful and just world through education, sustainable development and exchange.

More information is at experiment.org and worldlearning.org.

— Contributed

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023 CHARLOTTE TWINE www.keysweekly.com

1

2

3

1. In this photo, taken in Islamorada for their first-ever visit to an American Starbucks, the Khionis were very proud to wear shirts of blue and gold — Ukrainian ‘colors of freedom’ — and other clothing of their native country. CHARLOTTE TWINE/Keys Weekly. 2. Violence is an everyday occurrence in the Khionis’ native country; here, Georgii stands in front of a ruined apartment building, in which his friends had died from a bomb explosion. CONTRIBUTED. 3. This was the Khioni family’s first night in a bomb shelter, in February 2022.

‘THE BOMBING WAS EVERY SINGLE NIGHT’ A FAMILY OF FOUR FLED FROM WAR AND FOUND A NEW HOME IN THE UPPER KEYS

T

he Khioni family walked into Islamorada’s Starbucks on a recent rainy Sunday evening, after battling classic end-ofweekend traffic. The parents, Georgii and Nina, walked to the counter with their sons Tony, 15, and Alex, 8, and debated what to order. Alex shyly looked at the rows of colorfully frosted cake pops. He had just competed in a soccer game at Founders Park and was looking forward to a treat.

At first glance, the foursome was a “typical” Keys family going about their busy weekend. But this was their first time — ever — in an American Starbucks. Alex was wearing a shirt that said “I am Ukrainian,” while Georgii and Tony had shirts of blue and yellow, and Nina wore a traditional embroidered Ukrainian dress.

They were at Starbucks to talk to Keys Weekly about their journey from their war-torn country, from which they immigrated in June. They have established residence in the Florida Keys, registered the children in the schools and now want to express gratitude to the community.

“We are so grateful to our friends and great supporters, Andrew and Nick,” said Georgii. He explained that these friends, who have Ukrainian roots, supported the family’s first days in the U.S. The Khionis are stay-

ing temporarily in Andrew and Nick’s Islamorada home while looking for affordable housing.

“So we can settle down, rest and do our studies,” said Tony, who is a student at Coral Shores High School.

And the family does need rest.

They are from Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine. The city of 3 million people, like the rest of the country, has been constantly bombed by Russia since its president, Vladimir Putin, declared war in February 2022.

The Khionis described how their happy, prosperous life was upended by war. Georgii, who has a doctorate, worked in management; Nina has a medical degree and led a hospital radiology department. Both Tony and Alex are excellent students and athletes and played soccer in their hometown.

Then the bombing started, on Feb. 24, 2022.

“For almost one and a half years, we lived and worked under bombing every single day and night,” said Nina.

The family slept many nights in a bomb shelter, where the kids spent their days studying. Georgii said that he once saw a 25-story building leveled by a missile right in front of him, and, in another incident, an entire family of friends were killed when their apartment complex was ripped

in two by a 500-kilogram bomb.

“Your phone rings when the bombing starts,” Tony said. “Listen.”

He pressed an app on his phone, and an ear-splitting — and hair-raising — siren blared.

Next, Tony showed a video, taken from within a shelter: Lights shot across a night sky over large buildings to the sound of screaming whistles.

“That sound? That’s the sound of kamikaze drones, which were directed at residential buildings,” he said.

At the beginning of summer 2023, Georgii knew that the family had to leave to save their lives.

“The bombing was every single night,” he said. “In May, 557 missiles and drones fell on Kyiv. I thought we may not wake up the next morning.”

Fortunately, in order to get out of the country, the Khionis were able to use their own resources and connections. And they want to continue to connect with the community about jobs in their fields: Nina for radiology and Georgii for real estate and management.

“We want to thank so many people,” said Nina, specifically requesting to mention them: Andrew and Nick, as well as A.J., Andrew’s son; friends Frank and Alex, who enabled the family to come to Florida; “great managers and people” Brian and Jeff; Linsey, a Special Olympics director “who provided amazing connections”; Pastor Tony Hammon and his wife, Colleen; school staff, including principals Laura Lietaert of Coral Shores

and Lisa Hayes-Taylor of PKS, and “all the teachers for magic support,” like Ms. Barker for Alex; Monroe County government; and “all incredible persons and neighbors around us in our community, like Carolyn, who is guiding and navigating us.”

Lietaert and Hammon are both impressed by the family.

“They have been very active supporters of the Coral Shores community,” said Lietaert. “We are all very proud of Tony’s most recent accomplishment, signing as a Take Stock in Children scholarship opportunity recipient.”

Hammon added, “They’re phenomenal. The kids are amazing to watch adjust, and Nina and Georgii are both highly educated and making progress with licensing.”

As the family walked from Starbucks out into the light rain falling that night, Georgii stopped and turned around. He had one last thing he wanted to say.

“Ukraine still exists because of Ukrainian courage, and the American leadership and its amazing support encouraged other countries to stand with Ukraine — the biggest country in Europe. We want everyone to know that.”

With that, the family got in their car. And they drove away, into the night, to their new home.

The Khionis would love to hear from locals and connect. Contact them at 786-917-7707 or Khioni.

Nina@gmail.com.

39

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

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As a result, Mount Sinai Medical Center advises high-risk individuals to be screened in order to diagnose lung cancer early, which can significantly improve survival rates. If you’re a smoker and are over 50, you should talk to your primary care physician about screening options. What better time to do so than November, which is Lung Cancer Awareness Month?

Lung cancer is frequently detected in its advanced stages, when treatment options are limited. However, early detection of lung cancer can cure more than 90% of patients, which is why we encourage our Key West community to schedule regular lung screenings. A lung test could save your life.

To book an appointment with one of our Key West primary care physicians, please call: 305.535.3434.

Dr. Christina Kemp Sawyer is a board certified, licensed Primary Care Physician. A Key West native, Dr. Sawyer earned her undergraduate degree in 2011 at the University of Florida and her medical degree in 2015 at Florida Atlantic University’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine. She completed her residency training at Florida Atlantic University’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine in Boca Raton, Florida in 2019.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023 OPINION

COAST GUARD, GOOD SAMARITAN RESPOND TO PLANE CRASH OFF MARATHON

The sole occupant of a single-engine fixed-wing aircraft that crashed into the Gulf of Mexico north of Marathon on Monday appeared to avoid significant injury, Coast Guard representatives said. U.S. COAST GUARD/ Contributed

No casualties reported from downed aircraft

T

he Coast Guard, partner agencies and a good Samaritan responded to a plane crash about three miles north of Marathon on Nov. 7.

Coast Guard Sector Key West command center watchstanders received notification from Air Traffic Control Key West around 2:30 p.m., notifying them of a downed aircraft near Marathon.

The watchstanders launched a Coast Guard Station Marathon rescue crew to the scene and put out an urgent marine information broadcast alerting mariners in the vicinity.

Officers from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Monroe County Sheriff’s Office also responded.

At 2:50 p.m., the boat crew found the single-engine, fixedwing aircraft crash, where the only person on the plane was already aboard a good Samaritan's vessel.

The Marathon crew transferred the man aboard their boat and took him to awaiting emergency medical services personnel at Coast Guard Station Marathon.

“The pilot, though shaken up, appeared to be in good condition,” a social media post from Coast Guard Station Marathon stated.

Coast Guard pollution responders are monitoring the scene and commercial salvage operators are determining appropriate actions to address the wreckage. The cause of the crash was not immediately released.

"Massive thank you and a job well done to the good Samaritan that assisted in this rescue," said Station Marathon coxswain Timothy Worthen.

"This individual's life was saved due to their actions."

– Contributed

WHITHER WYLAND’S WHALING WALL? Landmark mural under very real threat

L

egendary local commercial fisherman Tommy Coppedge had a saying — often directed at Chamber of Commerce CEO Daniel Samess when discussing new ideas for the Seafood Festival: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!”

Wyland’s 87th Whaling Wall, “Florida’s Radiant Reef,” certainly isn’t broke. With just a little over 100 Whaling Walls in existence worldwide, the greater Marathon community is lucky to have one. The mural painted on the exterior wall of the old Kmart by Wyland and Guy Harvey, just touched up and restored last year, has been a work of art and a community treasure for 22 years.

That’s why you know that someone’s going to try and screw with it.

Surf Style, a “leading beachwear and souvenir shopping destination,” is leasing the old Kmart space for one of its stores. Plans filed with Marathon’s building department detail what they intend to do with that exterior wall. If those plans are allowed to move forward, Marathon’s landmark Whaling Wall will indeed be broke.

As reported right here in the Weekly, “As currently permitted, the structure’s east end is set for a full redesign with a series of graphic metal panels, affixed with metal anchors over renowned artists Wyland and Guy Harvey’s 22-year-old ‘Whaling Wall #87.’” Not only will the Whaling Wall totally be covered by these panels, plans include breaking through the wall to install another set of doors.

When warned by Marathon Planning Director Brian Shea about potential community backlash, project architect David Keener wrote, “We have made the owner aware. He is working with Guy Harvey to either recreate the mural as a graphic applied to the metal panels or to repaint on them. We did what we could to keep the original but there was just no way with the exterior work proposed.”

Social media has been abuzz with a lot of back-and-forth, rumors and much discontent. Some posters in the Save Wyland’s Whale Mural Facebook group have engaged with people at Surf Style. One posted a response from the Surf Style support team that stated, “Thank you for your message regarding the Wyland mural at our new Marathon, FL

location. We want to reassure you that we have no plans to destroy this mural. We wholeheartedly recognize its value as a unique piece of public art JOHN in the town and BARTUS its importance to John Bartus is a the community. … singer-songwriter We are dedicated and the former to preserving this mayor of Maracherished mural thon. as a sign of our respect for the town we are becoming a part of.”

Sounds great, doesn’t it? Before anyone goes to bed thinking that the battle has been won, keep in mind that no revisions or alterations to the original permit have been filed.

While one voice at the company is attempting to ameliorate public outcry, no effort to actually make those changes is happening. I’m willing to bet that the higher-ups at Surf Style don’t care that much about what locals think — because their core business will be our visitors, who won’t be aware of what they may potentially destroy.

Alex Rickert’s article in last week’s Weekly offered some hope of federal protection of the mural under the Visual Artists Rights Act. Multimillion-dollar judgments have been awarded to artists after developers painted over or destroyed works of public art. One can only hope that the threat of losing money, as well as face in the community, will inspire Surf Style to do the right thing and preserve the Whaling Wall.

In the meantime, continued pressure from the community just might make a big difference. Check out the Save Wyland’s Whale Mural Facebook group, contact the company with your feelings and stay informed. In my opinion, the only good outcome is the total preservation of Wyland’s 87th Whaling Wall.

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

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45

KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

REALITY CHECK: NON-FICTION NOVEMBER Explore captivating stories through these three compelling reads

ELON MUSK

By Walter Isaacson At 52, Elon Musk has accomplished things most people deemed impossible. Following a rough childhood in South Africa, Elon moved to Canada with his mother, brother and sister.

After college, he and his brother began work on what would become their first startup. With a background in physics and computer science, it became quickly apparent he needed to run his own company. Musk’s strong personality and unstoppable drive were a gift and a curse. He was difficult to work for, but most employees would rather be stimulated by his enlightenment than bored working for someone else.

After making his mark with PayPal, he transferred his boundless energy to creating Tesla, leading to batteries and AI, Space X, The Boring Company and X. While Musk surrounds himself with teams of scientists and engineers, there is no doubt he is the driving force. Musk struggles with some social awkwardness and is often misunderstood. His unfortunate relationship with his abusive father left painful marks. Musk’s lofty goals are not dollar-driven, but he possesses an unyielding determination to do what he believes will save humanity. Expertly written, this is a lengthy biography, but the chapters are well-structured and manageable. I devoured every word.

THE MANY LIVES OF MAMA LOVE

By Lara Love Hardin Lara is going to jail. It was always a possibility in the back of her mind as she furtively swiped credit cards from unsuspecting neighbors and cars in the school parking lot. As an attractive mother of four, Lara appears to be a typical soccer mom. The truth is Lara and her husband, DJ, spend every waking moment securing cash to purchase heroin and shoot up. They are addicts, barely functioning. Growing up in an unloving home, Lara dreamed of becoming a writer and mother. Now she is going to jail with 32 felony counts, and so is DJ. Her youngest son is hysterical as police drag Lara away. Determined to survive and keep her kids, Lara must first figure out the complicated hierarchy in prison. Surprisingly, Lara learns about herself through these women who have been abused and bullied their entire lives. They crave to be heard, and she becomes a good listener. Upon release, Lara must create a new life for herself and her children. She must face life without the drugs that nearly destroyed her. This smart, sensitive, beautifully-written memoir is an honest retelling of a life worth living.

KAREN NEWFIELD First and foremost a reader, she has reviewed hundreds of books on her blog www. readingandeating. com. And, more recently, this new Keys resident has also begun writing.

GOING INFINITE

By Michael Lewis Sam Bankman-Fried is 31 and has been convicted of seven criminal counts for defrauding his customers.

He awaits sentencing. Bankman-Fried grew up in California, his parents law professors at Stanford. From a young age it was clear he thought differently from other children and didn’t have any friends. While attending math camp, he finally met others he felt a kinship with. After a degree in physics from MIT, Bankman-Fried used his extraordinary math and thinking skills to obtain a job with a high-caliber private equity firm in New York. It did not take long for him to learn about cryptocurrency and realize he could easily perform similar trading skills in this new realm. He built a world shared with only a few key people where they created software that bought and sold cryptocurrency faster than any human trader could imagine. With small profits per trade, the volume was so enormous that they were soon making millions, then billions. Alameda and FTX, his two trading companies, grew to unimaginable proportions for a group of “kids” with little experience and scary accounting practices. There is no doubt Bankman-Fried is brilliant and this trial will go down in history.

#WORTHWATCHING: A documentary detailing the very real and deadly consequences of food illnesses and contaminants found in what we eat every day. Originally based on a book, “Poisoned: The Dirty Truth About Your Food” can be seen on Netflix.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

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November 9, 2023

AJ Smith earns record-setting gold medal | P.4

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3

NOVEMBER 9, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

NOV. 9

THE SCOREBOARD

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Team

Sport

Opponent

Date

Result

Coral Shores

Football

Palm Glades Prep

11/1

W, 50-12

Marathon

Girls Weightlifting

Coral Shores

11/2

W, 46-32

Marathon

Football

Somerset South Homestead

11/3

L, 48-14

Key West

Football

Archbishop McCarthy

11/3

L, 51-47

THIS WEEK

AJ

SMITH

NOV. 9

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

Date

School

Sport

Opponent

Start Time

11/9

Marathon

Cross Country

Regionals @ Spanish River

8:30 a.m.

11/9

KWHS & CSHS Cross Country

Regionals @ Boca Raton

8 a.m.

11/11

Key West

Girls Soccer

@ Doral Academy

2 p.m.

11/11

Key West

Boys Soccer

Ransom

1 p.m.

11/14

Coral Shores

Boys Soccer

@ Monsignor Pace

4 p.m.

11/15

Marathon

Boys Soccer

Coral Shores

5 p.m.

11/15

Key West

Girls Weightlifting

Marathon

4 p.m.

11/16

Coral Shores

Boys Soccer

SLAM

7 p.m.

Senior, Key West Swimming

AJ works extremely hard every day. He takes his role as captain seriously and leads by example.”

— Lori Bosco, Conchs head swimming coach.

STATE CHAMP

20.89S 50 freestyle

AJ Smith receives his gold medal at the FHSAA state championships. CONTRIBUTED

ON THE COVER For the first time in school history, Key West High School is home to a state champion swimmer with AJ Smith’s gold medal performance in the 50 free. See page 4. GRACE ANDREW/Keys Weekly

For the first time in school history, a Conch swimmer is a state champion, and that swimmer is Key West’s AJ Smith. Chosen as our Athlete of the Week a little over a month ago for breaking the school record in his best event, the 50 free, Smith managed to re-break the record twice more since his previous honor. In addition, he returned from regionals with a gold medal and the top seed in the 50 at states. Smith balanced the pressure with his usual relentless work ethic and did what he was predicted to do: claim a state title for the southernmost swim team and earn a spot on the Conch Wall of Fame in the school’s gymnasium.

For his unwavering commitment to his team and sport and for putting Key West swimming on the map, AJ Smith is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Photo by: GRACE ANDREW/Keys Weekly

4

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / NOVEMBER 9, 2023 SPORTS WRITER

The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West.

Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.

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

PODCAST HOST

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Managing Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Director of Sales

Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com

Business Development

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

Production Manager

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Graphic Design

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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.

MARKET EDITORS

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

Se habla español

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

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

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

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

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

AJ Smith, right, pauses for a photo op with Key West High School principal Rebecca Palomino. CONTRIBUTED

5

NOVEMBER 9, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

FKAA The Key West community lines the streets to welcome home state champion swimmer AJ Smith. CONTRIBUTED

SOLID GOLD AJ Smith is Key West’s first state champion swimmer

O

n Nov. 3, Key West senior AJ Smith made school history, re-breaking his own school record in the 50 freestyle event at the FHSAA Florida swimming state championships. Smith’s 20.89-second effort was the fastest time in the pool, making him the 2A state champion in the event.

Smith is the first swimmer in the Conchs’ rich history to bring home state gold, and the 2023 season marked his second trip to the state meet. Last season he placed 10th in the same event. Smith’s dedication to his sport and rock-solid work ethic made the difference this year.

Longtime Conchs coach Lori Bosco’s pride in her senior captain is twofold.

“He definitely put in all the hard work,” she said. “He’s always thinking about the rest of the team and he leads by example. He wanted to show the rest of the team that they could achieve their goals, too. We are all very proud of him.”

Smith has not decided on whether he will pursue swimming at the collegiate level, but his coach said he is keeping his mind open.

“This has definitely opened some doors for him,” Bosco said.

The phenom also qualified for the 100 free at the state meet, held at the Ocala Florida Aquatics Swimming and Training (FAST) Center. His preliminary time was fast enough to qualify for a chance to bring home a second medal, but a false start in the finals disqualified him from the event.

“He’s always thinking about the rest of the team and he leads by example. He wanted to show the rest of the team that they could achieve their goals, too. We are all very proud of him.” ­— coach Lori Bosco

Coral Shores sent four athletes to the 1A state championships, also held at FAST, on Nov. 4. Junior Abbie Sargent qualified for the meet in the individual 100 breaststroke race as well as the 200 yard medley relay with Layne Smith, Allegra Fucaraccio and Riley Cooper.

Sargent ended in 21st place in the 100 breaststroke, and the relay team suffered an early takeoff, disqualifying them from the race. All four athletes are highly decorated after an impressive showing at both districts and regionals, and will likely continue to improve next season.

Their training is extensive and includes open-water distance swims “for the fun of it.” Earlier this fall, Smith became the youngest solo swimmer in the eight-mile Swim for Alligator Lighthouse, placing second in the women’s division, while Cooper and Sargent were part of the winning relay team in the event.

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6

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

4

THAT’S A WRAP

1 2

5

3

T

he Key West Conchs came very close to upsetting Archbishop McCarthy’s perfect season on Nov. 3, but a sluggish start in the second half would prove too much to overcome. Key West struck first, then traded touchdowns with McCarthy in a back-and-forth game.

At halftime, Key West was down 14-13 despite the physical mismatch of the teams.

In quarter three, the Conchs had four failed offensive series, including three turned over on downs and one interception. Refusing to say die and down 34-13, the Conchs began executing, and a comeback seemed possible as they racked up 34 points throughout the remainder of the game.

In all, four Conchs crossed the goal line, as Adrian Mira, Clerff Alexandre and Jaden Fox scored one touchdown each and Walson Morin scored twice.

“We ran out of time,” head coach Johnny Hughes said of the 51-47 loss.

The Conchs closed their season at 3-7, but as Hughes explained to his team, “if 10 or 11 plays had different outcomes, it’s a 7-3 season.”

“We were physically outmanned against McCarthy,” he told the Weekly. “We’re going to spend some time in the

weight room this offseason and get to where we need to be.”

Key West had a season beleaguered with turnovers, with 22 in the first four games alone. Later in the season, minor injuries began to pile up, testing the depth of the team. While the Conchs had a dozen seniors on their roster, the younger players had plenty of opportunities to earn time on the field this year.

“We didn’t have a JV this year. We had nine freshmen on the varsity team instead, and they all ended up playing,” Hughes said. The experience gained by the freshmen as well as “a talented sophomore class and some really strong juniors” should spell success for Key West in the 2024 season.

The Dolphins traveled to Harris Field in Homestead on Nov. 3 to play their final game of the season. Across the line of scrimmage were the Hurricanes of Somerset South Homestead. On their opening drive, the Fins did what they do best: controlling the clock and holding the ball as long as they could.

Marathon marched down the field on a 70-yard drive, capped off with an 11-yard Braulio Garcia touchdown run. All systems pointed toward a win with the Fins moving the ball at will and managing decent chunks of yardage for their first possession.

Two plays later, the score was tied up, and Marathon’s hopes began to ebb. A turnover further set the Fins back, and the Hurricanes scored again just moments into the second quarter.

Down 14-7, Marathon got back to work on offense, but

This page: 1. It takes two Archbishop McCarthy defenders to get Key West running back Walson Morin to the ground.

2. Key West’s defense readies for an Archbishop McCarthy snap.

3. Key West’s Walson Morin turns upfield.

4. Key West’s Jaden Fox (6) takes a handoff from quarterback Adrian Mira.

5. Key West’s players push the pile for a short touchdown.

Opposite page: 1. Marathon’s Carlos Lezcano catches the snap early in the first quarter of the Fins’ final game of the season.

2. Lezcano has nowhere to run in the Dolphins’ game against Somerset South Homestead.

3. Carlos Lezcano (1) follows Tanner Ross (5) into a wall of Hurricanes on Nov. 3.

4. Ball carrier Fab Louis Jeune awaits a block from Alexandre Cruz in the second half of Marathon’s final game Nov. 3.

Photos by TRACY LAVALLEE and CAYLIE GLOBE/Contributed

7

NOVEMBER 9, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

1

Prep football season concludes in the Keys

2

3

an interception returned the ball to the Hurricanes, who were given a first-and-goal scenario. The ’Canes quickly scored not once, but twice, with both TDs being called back on penalties. The Fins’ defense held strong, and a series of big defensive plays, including an Eddie Garcia sack, put the Hurricanes on the 50-yard line in a third-and-47 situation.

But Somerset managed to dig themselves out of their mess and scored on the next play. Marathon was able to stop the Hurricanes from capitalizing on the extra point, making the score 20-7.

With 7:40 to go in the half, the Fins were driving again, but a fumble recovered by Somerset gave them a quick extra 6 along with a 2-point conversion. One more turnover in the first half led to a 35-7 deficit that Marathon wasn’t able to undo in the second half of play.

Marathon did some regrouping in the second half, holding Somerset to just a pair of touchdowns, both in quarter three, but a running clock and deep deficit would prevent a victory. The Dolphins did manage another touchdown in the fourth quarter, this time a 4-yard run from Tanner Ross, who willed himself into the end zone. At the final buzzer, the score was 48-14, giving the Fins a 2-8 record for the season.

The Dolphins will return to action next season hungry for more wins and ready to put in the work with a nearly intact roster – the team has just two seniors this year.

Coral Shores was slated to play Ransom Everglades for the third-place trophy in the FIFC conference consolation game. The game was scheduled for Nov. 2 and coach

SEASON RECORDS Coral Shores 6-4 Marathon 2-8 Key West 3-7

4

Ed Holly and his team worked all week in preparation for a rematch against Raiders. On Monday, they learned that Ransom would not play the game, citing their team’s health after being banged up the previous week.

Despite having a deep varsity and full JV roster, the Raiders were unwilling to consider the scheduled matchup, leaving Holly to either end his season early or scramble for another opponent.

“It’s not just a game,” he said. “Our kids have only 10 chances to play all year. Not playing a game takes away 10% of their year and we didn’t want to do that to them, especially our seniors.”

Holly was able to find a worthy opponent who was not only willing to play, but was close and within the conference. The Hurricanes quickly changed their gameplan, preparing for Palm Glades Prep in a walk-through practice on Tuesday afternoon, then playing them on Wednesday evening at Harris Park in Homestead.

In their last matchup on Sept. 8, the ’Canes bested Palm Glades 20-12. This time, the score would be 5012, a testament to the Hurricanes’ hard work the past two months. Holly summed up his team’s season in one word: “Improvement.”

“My litmus test is, are we playing the best ball at the end of the year? The answer to that this season is yes,” he said.

On Wednesday night, the ’Canes certainly looked to be playing well.

The scoring started on their first drive with an Isaac Holmes 16-yard pass to Austin Vogt. It would be the first of three passing TDs from Holmes, including a 38-yard bomb to AJ Putetti and one more for 16 yards to Kristers Vutnans. Putetti also scored on an interception which he carried 50 yards for the score. Holmes, who had close to 300 all-purpose yards on the night, also ran one in for a 33-yard touchdown, capping off the senior’s career in style.

Kicker Ethan Margut put 3 on the board with a 31-yard field goal, and Dantay Diorio added a touchdown on the ground. He was also credited with a forced fumble, which was recovered by Micah Carr. RJ Dube had a 1-yard TD run to complete the scoring onslaught for the ’Canes.

Coral Shores finished its season 6-4, picking up steam as the season went on. The Hurricanes earned third-place honors in their conference with the forfeit by Ransom, making their lopsided win over Palm Glades an added bonus to an already stat-studded season.

8

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

7 1 2

3

8

MOVING ON UP Fins, Conchs win district hardware; all three Keys schools send athletes to regionals

C

4

5

6

ross country district races are complete and Keys runners performed very well, with many moving on to regionals.

Marathon ran at Palmer Trinity School on Nov. 2 for the 1A District 8 championships. The Fins’ boys earned a district runner-up title and an automatic entry into regionals. Vance Bursa was the first Dolphin, finishing in 16:52 and earning a silver medal for the district. Tony Bursa was fifth overall and second for his team, crossing the line in 17:55. Senior Mason Buxton also cracked the top 10, finishing in ninth place overall and third for Marathon. Jakub Bursa, Adrien Holdinga, Dillon Shelar and Allan Taylor also counted toward the Fins’ total and will move on in their quest for their ninth consecutive state appearance as a team.

They will need to get through some stiff regional competition first, though. For the 1A Dolphins, that means racing against the top 16 teams, four from each district, in South Florida.

“Our region is racing at Spanish River, which is the FAU home course. It is known to be one of the faster courses in South Florida,” said coach Jim Murphy. “As long as it stays dry, it is going to be a very fast race.”

In preparation for the challenge that awaits them on Thursday, Nov. 9, he said, “We have shifted our workouts to prepare for the faster course and tougher teams. It’s been a speed work, recovery, speed work cycle for the last few weeks in preparation for this postseason. The kids have bought in and have been working hard to prepare. I’m excited to see how we end up on Thursday and if we can make another run at states.”

The girls team was third overall, qualifying them for the next round of racing. Ella Dunn was the first Fin to cross the line in 22:49, which was fast enough to take the number 10 spot in the district.

Maeve Merryman was next in 23:10, and Mikkel Ross, Rain Banks, Sara Robinson, Madelyn Thornton and Rebecca Merryman also contributed to the team scoring.

2A Key West and Coral Shores competed on Nov. 1 at Larry and Penny Thompson Park in Miami. The Lady Conchs buckled down and took fourth place, qualifying the entire team for regionals. Caylaa Makimaa and Naima Thomas both finished with personal best times and top-15 finishes, helping spur the team’s success. Makimaa crossed the finish line third overall in 20:00, with Thomas earning 12th in 21:44. Laira Anaya, Violet Jangraw, Briana Nodal, Ava Gonzalez and Mia Steer all contributed to the scoring and will move on.

Photos by RICK MACKENZIE and LYNDIE MEYERS/Contributed

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1. Coral Shores and Key West explode off the start line of the boys’ 2A District 8 championships.

2. Key West’s Colbin Hill runs strong at districts, placing first for the Conchs and earning an individual bid to regionals.

3. Key West’s Jerven Louis focuses midrace. Louis qualified for regionals with a strong individual time.

4. Coral Shores’ Nathaniel Shugarman races to the best finish for his team at districts.

5. Jenna Mandozzi finishes strong at districts. Mandozzi was second for the Lady ‘Canes.

6. Coral Shores’ Kai Guth pushes past another runner at districts. Guth’s time qualified her for regionals.

7. The Lady Conchs’ fourth place team poses with their hardware with head coach Keara McGraw. From left: Violet Jangraw, Laira Anaya, Briana Nodal, Mia Steer, McGraw, Zoe Basham, Ava Gonzalez, Naima Thomas and Caylaa Makimaa.

8. Ella Dunn works her way through the middle of the course at districts. Dunn was first for Marathon and placed 10th in the district.

9. Marathon girls Sara Robinson (172), Rain Banks (168) and Maeve Merryman (169) work in a pack early in the race.

10.Tony Bursa crosses the line at districts. Bursa finished fifth overall and second for Marathon.

11. Marathon’s Mason Buxton (181) kicks at the finish of the district championships.

12. The Coral Shores’ girls cross country team toes the line at the start of the FHSAA 2A District 8 championships on Nov. 1.

Key West’s boys finished in ninth place overall, which did not qualify the team for regionals, but Colbin Hill and Jerven Louis finished fast enough to qualify as individuals. Hill ran an 18:34, while Louis finished in 19:37. One of the team’s goals was to make it to regionals this season. With that checked off, the focus is now to get to Tallahassee.

Coral Shores’ young teams did not qualify for regionals this season, but Kai Guth made it as an individual runner, finishing first for her team in 24:49.

Jenna Mandozzi finished second for the Lady ‘Canes. Nathaniel Shugarman was first for the boys, finishing in 20:48, while teammate Jamie Cary was second.

Guth will make the trip to Boca for the regional race with first-year coach Lyndie Meyers, who said she could not be prouder of her entire team. Their hard work, as well as that of the boys, has paid off with marked improvement as the season went on, and Meyers has plans to include some middle school athletes next year to keep strengthening the Hurricane program.

For 2A Coral Shores and Key West, their race will be at South County Regional Park in Boca Raton on Nov. 9. The top eight teams plus the top four individuals not included in a qualifying team in each region will make the trip to Tallahassee for the state championships later this month.

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WINTER SPORTS OFFICIALLY BEGIN 1

who are still in the running for cross country regionals, and Justice Lee Isom, who is finishing out her football season before returning to the weightlifting team.

Dolphin coach Jessie Schubert was the first to bring weightlifting to Monroe County, and he is confident this season could be the best yet.

“We’re all really excited about the season and the girls are looking promising,” he said after meet number one was complete.

Keys lifters were to meet again Nov. 8, this time at Marathon. Results were not available at press time.

1. Marathon’s Sierra Earnhardt, pictured in a meet late last season, was a dual winner at the opening meet of the 2023-24 girls weightlifting season.

2. Elise Dolton 3. Marathon coach Jessie Schubert and Ella Dunn with some postseason hardware from the 2022-23 season.

4. Sierra Earnhardt 5. Elizabeth Piper Photos by JUSTICE LEE ISOM and DOUG FINGER

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Girls weightlifting season opens competition

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irls weightlifting officially opened for regular competition in Florida on Oct. 30, and two Keys teams wasted no time getting the first meet under their weight belts, as Marathon traveled to Tavernier to compete with Coral Shores on Nov. 1. Both teams produced strong early-season lifts, but the Dolphins edged out the Hurricanes 46-32 in Olympic lifts and 44-39 in traditional.

Olympic lifting combines weight totals for the clean and jerk plus the snatch lift, while traditional lifting combines clean and jerk with bench press. Coral Shores’ Mallory Hughes won the traditional lifting event in the 101-pound class, while Rachel Rusch won both events in the 110-pound class. Marathon’s Elizabeth Vanderlee and Coral Shores’ Leticia Lima split the 119-pound division, with Vanderlee winning Olympic style and Lima winning traditional. Marathon’s Sierra Earnhardt, Cami Wrinn, Marquisha Abraham and Sabrina Schofield were all dual winners in their weight classes, while

Grace Patterson, Jenille Arias and Sydney Eisenbach were dual winners for the Hurricanes.

Eisenbach had the highest bench press of the afternoon, putting up 125 pounds. Teammate Arias’ 125-pound clean and jerk was the high score of the day in that event. Eisenbach and Arias tied for the top snatch score, each lifting 105 pounds.

Marathon is without several top returners, including state qualifiers Mikkel Ross and Ella Dunn,

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• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

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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

County, FLORIDA ELECTING TO USE THE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS LEVIED WITHIN THE County FOR THE PROVISION OF ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS, FLOOD MITIGATION PROJECTS AND ADDRESSING SEA LEVEL RISE PROJECTS FOR TWIN LAKES; STATING A NEED FOR SUCH LEVY; PROVIDING FOR THE MAILING OF THIS RESOLUTION; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The resolution, if adopted, would indicate the County’s intent to use the uniform method of collecting non-ad valorem special assessments to be levied within the County as authorized by section 197.3632, Florida Statutes, for the cost of providing roadway improvements, flood mitigation projects and sea level rise projects for the Fiscal Year beginning on October 1, 2024 and continuing until discontinued by the County.

The proposed resolution, which contains the legal description of the real property subject to the levy and states the need for the special assessment, can be inspected by the public by viewing the agenda packet for this meeting at: http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx All interested persons are invited to attend, either in person or by zoom. The zoom link can be found at: http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, notice is given that if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at such hearings or meetings, he will need a record of the proceedings and that, for such purpose, he may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 2924441, between the hours of 8:30a.m. – 5:00p.m., prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”. Live Closed-Captioning is available via our web portal @ http://monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners.

Dated at Key West, Florida, this 30th day of October 2023.

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: November 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

470, 472, 474, 475 and 476 IN GEIGER KEY; STATING A NEED FOR SUCH LEVY; PROVIDING FOR THE MAILING OF THIS RESOLUTION; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The proposed resolution, which contains the legal description of the real property subject to the levy and states the need for the special assessment, can be inspected by the public by viewing the agenda packet for this meeting at: http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx All interested persons are invited to attend, either in person or by zoom. The zoom link can be found at: http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ citizens/default.aspx Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, notice is given that if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at such hearings or meetings, he will need a record of the proceedings and that, for such purpose, he may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 2924441, between the hours of 8:30a.m. – 5:00p.m., prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice-impaired, call “711”. Live Closed-Captioning is available via our web portal @ http://monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners.

Dated at Key West, Florida, this 31st day of October 2023.

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: November 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071.

If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on December 14, 2023. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,, 4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,, 4509326156# US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: November 9, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

designated or be defaulted.

Dated at Miami, Florida, this 23rd day of October, 2023.

Angela E. Noble UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA By: J. Adams Deputy Clerk Publish: November 9, 16, 23 & 30, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

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

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

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meeting The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed.

Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@keysarts.com Art in Public Places Committee Meeting Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023 12:00PM Eastern Time Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 879 9635 8555 Passcode: 025260 Publish: November 9, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a special meeting on Thursday, November 16, 2023, at 10:00 A.M., at the Doubletree Resort at 3990 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040 for the purpose of discussing the TDC’s recent audit.

The Visit Florida Keys Corporation will also convene during this meeting.

All Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public, and one or more County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the Monroe County Administrator’s Office, by phoning (305) 2924441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting. If you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”.

Publish: November 9, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF INTENT TO USE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on December 13, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. or as soon thereafter as it may be heard, at the Monroe County BOCC Chambers at the Murray Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Florida, the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners will consider adoption of the following resolution: A RESOLUTION OF Monroe

NOTICE OF INTENT TO USE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on December 13, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. or as soon thereafter as it may be heard, at the Monroe County BOCC Chambers at the Murray Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Florida, the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners will consider adoption of the following resolution: A RESOLUTION OF Monroe County, FLORIDA ANNOUNCING NOTICE OF INTENT TO USE THE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS LEVIED WITHIN THE County BEGINNING WITH the TAX BILL ISSUED IN NOVEMBER 2024 FOR CANAL RESTORATION PROJECTS ON CANALS 255, 293, 297, and 299 IN BIG PINE KEY; AND CANALs

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, December 14, 2023, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Request for Proposals for Operation and Management Services Jacobs Aquatic Center, Key Largo, Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices.

Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request.

Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids.

Emailed/mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/ responses WILL NOT be accepted.

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https:// monroecounty-fl.bonfirehub. com, no later than 3:00P.M. on December 14, 2023. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform.

Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA IN ADMIRALTY Case No.: 4:23-mc-10081-KMM IN THE MATTER OF THE: PETITION OF UPPER KEYS MARINE CONSTRUCTION LLC AS TITLED OWNER OF ONE INTERCONNECTED DECK BARGE MEASURING 60’ x 24’ x 4’ FOR EXONERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. ________________________/ NOTICE OF PETITION FOR EXONERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY NOTICE is hereby given that UPPER KEYS MARINE CONSTRUCTION LLC (hereinafter “Petitioner”), as owner of One Interconnected Deck Barge Measuring 60’ x 24’ x 4’, her gear, tackle, and appurtenances (the “Vessel”), has filed a Petition claiming the benefit of exoneration from and/or limitation of liability according to law and as provided in Section 30501 et seq. of Title 46, United States Code, Rule F of the Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Claims of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, and the statutes supplemental thereto and amendatory thereof, and also contesting liability independently of the limitation of liability claimed in said Petition for any loss, damage or injury occurring on or about March 21, 2023 in navigable waters of Florida Bay off Mutiny Place, Key Largo, FL 33037 as described in the Petition and said Petition also stating the facts and circumstances upon which exoneration from and/or limitation or liability is claimed.

All persons, estates, or corporations having claims arising out of the events mentioned above and as more particularly described in the Petition must present them as provided in Rule F of the Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Claims of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, to the Clerk, United States District Courthouse for the Southern District of Florida located at 301 Simonton St, Key West, FL 33040 and serve on or mail copies thereof to the Petitioner’s attorney, Marcus G. Mahfood, CHARTWELL LAW, 100 SE 2nd Street, Suite 2150, Miami, Florida, 33131, on or before December 18, 2023 or be defaulted. Personal attendance is not required.

Any claimant desiring to contest the allegations of the Petition shall file and serve on counsel for Petitioner, an Answer to the Petition on or before the aforesaid date unless the Claim includes an Answer so

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA DIVISION: PROBATE FILE NO.: 2023-CP-0055-M DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF CHRISTINE BARON Dceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of CHRISTINE BARON, deceased, whose date of death was March 4, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal 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 9, 2023.

Personal Representative: LORI BARON 700 Latonka Drive Mercer, Pennsylvania 16137 Attorney for Personal Representative: LORI R. KILPECK, ESQ. Florida Bar Number: 0012371 Brouse McDowell 600 Superior Avenue East, St. 1600 Cleveland, OH 44114 Telephone: (216) 830-6830 E-Mail: lkilpeck@brouse.com Publish: November 9 & 16, 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

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

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 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

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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

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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 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

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

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

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

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

Clerk Publish: October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

October 26 and November 2, 9 & 16, 2023 The Weekly Newspapers

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

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

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

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2023-30 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: 2021/1437 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 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

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 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 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

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 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 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:

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 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 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

13

NOVEMBER 9, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

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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: 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

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: 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

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 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

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 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

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

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

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

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 2023-41 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

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:

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

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

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

Runs or Not. $CASH 305-332-0483

AUTOS FOR SALE 2009 Toyota Rav4 166k miles - excellent running condition.

Located in Marathon. $5,500 305-393-3230 1964 Ford Galaxy, 427 Big Block, 5-speed, located in Key Largo. 954-445-6647 2008 Acura TL. Recent rebuilt A/C. Brand new battery. Runs wells $2,995.

Located in Key Largo. Call 305451-8410 or 305-852-3471.

SOLD IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!

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

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Med Tech, 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!

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

HOUSING FOR RENT 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 screened-in porch w/full size refrigerator. $900.00/month includes utilities. $300.00 security. Call 305-395-8485 3BR/2.5BA for rent in Key Largo - on the water with dockage available. Jan/ Feb/Mar 954-445-6647

EMPLOYMENT BOAT SALESPERSON: Great opportunity to sell new and used boats in Islamorada.

Contact brad@sevensports. com or call 305.393.3883 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.

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time line cook.

Responsible for food and kitchen prep.

Competitive pay at a private club, opportunities to advance. Flexible morning/ afternoon/evening hours Tuesday–Sunday. Call 305743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com | 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 rental company in Marathon needs an Outboard Mechanic. Some general marina work, and boat experience a plus. Call 305-481-7006

2 Bedroom 1 Bath house in Marathon. Tile & carpet floors, new appliances, gated property.

No pets.

305-610-8002 Large One Bedroom Suite, Conch House, carpet, tile, appliances, fully furnished in Marathon. $2,000/month includes electric, water, sewer, cable, internet.

No Pets.

305-610-8002 Place your Housing For Rent ad here. $25.00/ week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844.

ROOMMATE WANTED Roommates wanted - Key Largo. Lg. house - A/C, 4 BR/2.5 baths, Wash/Dryer, enclosed patio, parking. Util inc., no smokers. Deposit, References, Immed. occup. $1250/mo. Call/text Eric-305393-6495 or 305-664-1353.

SERVICES OFFERED CAREGIVER available in Key Largo. Available Live-In 7 days a week. Call Dinorah 786-222-2192 Place your Services Offered ad here. $25.00/ week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844.

14

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / NOVEMBER 9, 2023

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844 YARD SALES Garage Sale behind the Marathon Airport this Saturday, Nov. 11 from 8am-12noon. Tools, Harley Davidson stuff, wall hangings and more. Look for signs on Aviation Boulevard.

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

Place your YARD SALE ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-7430844 today and sell your stuff!

IS HIRING D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals. Overtime and benefits are available. For full details, please visit: DAsignSource.com/careers

Pool & Landscape Technician Experienced in landscaping, hardscape install, irrigation and lighting systems. Competitive compensation plus benefits.

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

IN THE UPPER KEYS

FULL TIME PROJECT MANAGER EXPERIENCED TRIM CARPENTER CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR – WILL TRAIN Send resume to: admin@cbtconstruction.com Or call: 305-852-3002

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

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

WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR A LOCATION: CUDJOE KEY

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority’s WASTEWATER DIVISION is looking for a WWTP Operator with a Florida “A” license. You will perform skilled/technical work involving the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment plant. This requires technical knowledge and independent judgment to make treatment process adjustments and perform maintenance on plant equipment, machinery, and related control apparatus in accordance with established standards and procedures. Annual salary $95,000. Benefit package is extremely competitive! Apply online at www.fkaa.com/212/opportunities

EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

HEAVY DIESEL MECHANIC

SUNSET GRILLE IS HIRING

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

Monday-Friday with some overtime available.

• Bussers • Hosts • Line Cooks • Waitstaff • Bartenders • Dishwashers • Bar Backs

Please apply at Charley Toppino & Sons, Inc. 129 Toppino Industrial Dr, Key West – ask for Cheryl 305-296-5606 extension 126

Apply in person at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, 7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon

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! PROGRAM COORDINATOR / SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT JOB COACH DIRECT CARE (F/T) (TAVERNIER OFFICE) Responsible for development, implementation, and goal setting for clients. Interaction with co-workers and supervision, and any miscellaneous training and/or counseling that is needed to acquire and maintain employment.

This position requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree OR 4 years of experience with DD individuals; a combination of formal education and experience are accepted.

Min requirements: English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Computer skills: moderate to advanced. FL Driver’s license w/clean driving record, pre-employment training online and in person.

Level II background screening and references. EOE. 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

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 9, 2023 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

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

Work with the BEST!

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.

11710 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON

“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

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

• 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 Key West Facilities & Grounds Maintenance Technician Full Time Teller

KEY WEST

DUI EVALUATOR/ INSTRUCTOR The Advocate DUI Program is hiring for part time positions.

DUI instructors and evaluators - 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse field required. Bilingual preferred, not required. Office located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE We are now hiring for the following positions:

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

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

MARATHON

Driver (CDL) Behavioral Health Therapist (Child, Adult) RNs/LPNs - 3 shifts (also Per Diem) Maintenance Specialist Peer Support Specialist *Support Worker – Assisted Living (PT) *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)

Lower Keys Customer Service Representative/Branch Lobby

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.

Medical Technician (Full-Time, Permanent)

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

Media & Marketing Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

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

Full job descriptions available at www.dolphins.org/career_opportunities Email cover letter, DRC application & resume to drc-hr@dolphins.org EOE

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

NOW HIRING 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.