Upper Keys Weekly 24-0104

“My New Year’s resolution was to stop saying ‘You go, girl’ to myself.” — Zach Galifianakis

1¢

January 4, 2024

NEW YEAR BLESSING A tradition continues on the water | P. 6 NOW THE LAW Florida has new rules in 2024; take a look | P. 5 A LIFE UNDERCOVER Retired Keys detective went through it all | P. 12

Houston, We have a Rocket Air Problem.

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

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

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

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MM 99 Median

MM 50 Oceanside

Searstown by Publix

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

KEY LARGO | $2,995,000 | LISTING ID: 607688

Nothing compares to getting even more than expected.

Experience modern coastal design and opulent island living in this captivating new construction home. Located in the heart of Key Largo, this home offers an open-concept layout flooded with natural light, a gourmet chef's kitchen, smart kitchen appliances, 8-foot doorways, and spacious bedrooms with designer en-suites. This magnificent four-bedroom plus den, three-and-a-half-bathroom home is your gateway to paradise. Step inside and experience the seamless fusion of modern architecture with coastal charm. The gourmet kitchen is adorned with high-end finishes, custom cabinetry, sleek countertops, and top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances. The expansive outdoor living spaces are ideal for hosting gatherings and relaxing. Step into your private oasis with a resort-style pool and outdoor entertainment area. This property offers convenient water access where you can dock your vessel just steps from your door, making it easy to explore the surrounding islands and reefs. Water access for boating enthusiasts and proximity to Key Largo's dining and outdoor activities complete the picture. Enjoy a plethora of restaurants, shops, and outdoor activities at your fingertips. Explore John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, go snorkeling or fishing, or simply bask in the laid-back island atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to make this your forever home or vacation retreat - paradise awaits.

81888 Overseas Highway | Islamorada 305.712.8888 | oceansir.com Each office is independently owned and operated.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

KEYS

NEWSPAPERS

91760 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier, FL 33070 Office: 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com

$300,000

The season couldn’t conclude soon enough for fans of the 2-14 Carolina Panthers. Adding insult to injury was a Dec. 31 incident involving owner David Tepper, who was seen on video tossing his drink at Jacksonville Jaguars fans at the end of the game, which saw the Panthers losing 26-0. Tepper was fined $300,000 by the NFL.

Pelicans perch on a post overlooking boats awaiting their New Year’s blessing during the annual Blessing of Fleet in Islamorada.

DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

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

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SEAS OFF THE KEYS SEE UPTICK IN MIGRANT VOYAGES More than 100 Cubans repatriated JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

S

ea voyages by Cuban migrants to the U.S. are on the uptick, as evidenced by recent interdictions and repatriations by the U.S. Coast Guard off the Florida Keys.

Before 2023 came to a close, the Coast Guard cutter Charles David Jr.’s crew sent back 45 migrants to Cuba following an interdiction off Islamo-

nounced crews repatriated 56 migrants to Cuba following multiple interdictions off the Florida Keys.

Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations crews interdicted three separate unlawful migrant voyages off Florida’s coast and in the Florida Straits from Dec. 26-29.

“Migrants attempting to circumvent lawful pathways to enter the United States by sea will be rescued and repatriated to their country of origin or departure.” — Lt. Cmdr. John W. Beal

rada on Dec. 23. A Coast Guard Air Station Miami surveying the water notified Coast Guard Sector District Seven of the migrant voyage on Dec. 11 some 40 miles southeast of Islamorada.

Lt. Cmdr. John W. Beal, Coast Guard District Seven public affairs officer, said the Coast Guard and Homeland Security Task Force are continuing to patrol the many migrant routes including Florida Straits, Windward and Mona passages.

“Anyone attempting to unlawfully immigrate to the United States by sea will be repatriated to their country of origin or departure. Do not take to the sea; use safe and lawful pathways,” Beal said.

On Jan. 2, the Coast Guard an-

“As we enter the new year, the Coast Guard and our Homeland Security Task Force-Southeast partners remain committed to patrolling the Florida Straits, Windward and Mona passages to prevent and deter unlawful entry into the U.S. by sea,” Beal said.

Coast Guard crews have repatriated 235 migrants to Cuba in fiscal 2024, which began on Oct. 1, 2023.

On land, U.S. Border Patrol agents have stayed busy responding to various Cuban migrant landings, including one in Key Largo on Jan. 2 involving 11 Cuban migrants. Samuel Briggs II, acting chief patrol agent, said the migrants will go through removal proceedings.

Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m. @KeysWeekly @theWeekly Members of

Top: In mid-December, U.S. Coast interdicted migrants on this makeshift chug with the word ‘Freedom’ etched on the side. U.S. COAST GUARD/Contributed. Bottom: Cuban migrants aboard a wooden chug receive life jackets following an interdiction by the U.S. Coast Guard crews in the Florida Straits on Dec. 29.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

NEW YEAR & NEW LAWS IN FLORIDA

‘Move Over’ bolstered & financial disclosures for more elected officials JIM McCARTHY

F

jim@keysweekly.com

lorida rang in the new year with fireworks displays and celebrations from the Panhandle to the Southernmost City. The start of 2024 also brought new laws which took effect throughout the state.

Bills passed by the Florida Legislature and signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis during the 2022-23 session expanded existing laws surrounding motor vehicle safety while creating new systems for law enforcement to better understand a person’s situation before meeting them at a call. Known as the Protect Our Loved Ones Act, the legislation gives local police the ability to develop and maintain a database of people who have developmental or psychological disabilities.

Law enforcement agencies nationally and locally are using voluntary registry systems which give officers and deputies relevant information on individuals with disabilities such as down syndrome, autism or Alzheimer’s. Not only does it promote safety, but it also promotes community partnerships in responding to those with special needs. It’s something the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and Key West Police Department have used working alongside families with autistic children.

“I always tell families that our police officers should know your kids,”

said Jill Campbell, founder of Autism Society of the Florida Keys. “We live in a small town. I always encourage families to reach out to police, especially if their kids are runners or are nonverbal or whatever the struggle might be.”

Per the bill, any adult with a disability or a legal guardian of a minor with a disability can voluntarily register with a law enforcement agency.

Legislation expressly permits local law enforcement agencies to provide relevant information from the registry to an officer during duty.

“It’s good for the community,” Campbell said in relation to a registry. “If a neighbor calls the police and says there’s a suspicious kid in the yard, once they type in the address of that neighbor, they know the kid who lives nearby and the disability. In two seconds they can figure it out and not come guns drawn.”

A Move Over Law in the state requiring motorists to give first responders, tow trucks and municipal vehicles room was bolstered by the legislature effective Jan. 1. Drivers in the state must move from the lane closest to a disabled vehicle displaying hazard lights, emergency flares or signage. In cases where a vehicle can’t move to another lane, motorists must slow to 20 mph less than the posted speed limit. Violators could be cited with a noncriminal moving violation and a fine of up to $158.

Gov. Ron DeSantis signs a tax relief bill in May. GOVERNOR’S OFFICE/Contributed

“The roadside is a dangerous place for anyone, whether it’s a first responder or a daily commuter. We hope this enhancement to the current law will save lives by reminding drivers to give extra space when passing anyone on the roadside,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman for AAA. Another law taking effect in 2024 forced local elected officials, such as city commissioners and village council members, to disclose their financial interests. Previously, the Florida Constitution required all elected constitutional officers, statewide elected officials, county commissioners and school board members to file to the Commission on Ethics a full and public disclosure of their financial interests when net worth, assets and liabilities exceed $1,000.

Last session, the Florida legislature expanded the requirement to include elected officials in local town, village and city government. The new law

stated that local elected officials had until Jan. 1 to fill and send the form to the Florida Commission on Ethics.

Local elected officials across Florida resigned or quit due to the new financial disclosure law, including 15 from Pinellas County, according to Fox 13.

State legislators also amended several statutes related to bail, pretrial detention and pretrial release which all took effect Jan. 1. Specifically, a judge may set, reduce or alter a defendant’s bail. The new law requires the Florida Supreme Court to adopt a uniform statewide bond schedule and provides circumstances in which a person may not be released before a first appearance hearing.

A back-to-school sales tax holiday passed through the legislature and took effect at the start of the new year. The tax break on school supplies, clothing, footwear and computers and related accessories goes through Sunday, Jan. 14.

VILLAGE MANAGER DECISION UPCOMING JIM McCARTHY

I

jim@keysweekly.com

slamorada council members enter the new year with a decision as to who will become the village’s next permanent manager.

On Jan. 8, the village will welcome its fourth interim manager in five months with the arrival of Kimberly Matthews, county senior director of strategic planning and libraries. Her 60-day stint is similar to previous agreements between Monroe County and the village which lent Bryan Cook, human resources director, and Ed Koconis, county permitting director

between August and December. Finance Director Maria Bassett stepped in as interim manager once Koconis departed Dec. 6. The moves came following a 3-2 vote not to renew the employment contract of then-village manager Ted Yates.

Council members conducted virtual interviews with various candidates on Nov. 14. Last month, the council whittled the list to three finalists: Douglas Maxeiner, David Couch and Robert Cole. The three will arrive in Islamorada on Jan. 17-18 for a tour of the village, a meet-and-greet with the public and one-on-one interviews.

Council members will convene at Founders Park Community Center on Jan. 22 to select the next manager.

Maxeiner is a former administrator in Illinois who received requests for interviews by all council members.

Couch is a business administrator for the city of Virginia Beach’s planning and community development department. Cole is the former village manager of Scarsdale, New York.

Contract negotiations would follow the manager selection. At a December meeting, the council reviewed a first draft of a contract, which was prepared by John Quick,

village attorney. Language was added to the contract detailing an evaluation of the manager in written form.

The evaluation can also be conducted through discussions between a council member and the member in private. The human resources department would notify the village attorney and council of the need for a performance evaluation 60 days before the manager’s anniversary date.

A salary and housing allowance are among the items up for negotiation. Yates received a $200,000 salary and a $48,000 housing allowance.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

BOATS GET A BLESSING

New Year’s tradition continues in Islamorada

1 JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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ocal pastors stood on the bridge at Whale Harbor Channel in Islamorada as a fleet of boats approached for a blessing on a brisk and picturesque New Year’s morning. Vessels lined up at 8 a.m. for the Islamorada Charter Boat Association’s annual Blessing of the Fleet. The procession was led by the Gonefishin. On land, spectators found a spot near shore to view the parade of boats.

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1. Boats gather near Whale Harbor Channel as they prepare to receive a blessing. 2. Vessels of all sizes participate in the annual Blessing of the Fleet. 3. Boats make their way toward the bridge at Whale Harbor Channel. 4. Sue Boyle, of Islamorada, takes in the sights of the Annual Blessing of the Fleet. 5. Marlin Simon and fellow pastors begin the first of many blessings. Photos by DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly. Full gallery at keysweekly.com.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY & DISCOVERY CENTER PRESENTS

Florida Bay Forever The Importance of a Healthy Florida Bay

January 10, 2024 6:00 PM

In-person or Virtual www.keysdiscovery.com

Dr. Raechel Littman Marine Biologist and Environmental Policy Professor

For questions or additional information email programs@keydiscovery.com or call 305-922-2237 82100 Overseas Highway, MM 82 on the property of the Islander Resort 2024 Series Sponsored by the Joe and Lindy Roth Foundation Winter Lecture Season Sponsored by Phyllis Mitchell in memory of Bob Mitchell

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

BRIEFLY Delays expected for work on Card Sound Road The Tubby’s Creek and Mosquito Creek bridge replacement project consists of the replacement of two threespan concrete slab bridges located on Highway 905A (Card Sound Road) in Monroe County. For the preliminary design phase, there will be intermittent lane closures with flaggers to direct and assist motorists around the work zone on Tuesday, Jan. 8 through Jan. 10, starting at 9 a.m. each day to conduct an additional survey of the existing bridges and a geotechnical soil boring investigation.

Grower Bello to speak at orchid society The Florida Keys Orchid Society will host grower Alex Bello for a presentation on landscaping with orchids and bromeliads in the Keys on Tuesday, Jan. 9 at 6 p.m. at the Key Largo Civic Club. Bello has collected and grown all kinds of weird and unusual orchids, bromeliads and exotic ferns. The evening will also feature plant sales and raffles. Everyone is welcome.

Seafood Fest set in Key West Florida Keys commercial fishermen and fans of fresh fish and seafood will gather Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 13-14, to share and celebrate the island chain’s bountiful ocean harvest during the annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival.

Presented by the Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen’s Association, the family-friendly feast is set for.

Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Key West’s Bayview Park, located at Truman Avenue and Jose Marti Drive.

The seafood menu features fresh grilled Florida spiny lobster platters, peel-and-eat Key West pink shrimp, stone crab claws with Key lime mustard sauce, fried local fish baskets, smoked fish dip with crackers, stone crab chowder and more — all caught, prepared and served by Keys commercial fishermen and their families.

Admission is $10 per adult, good for both days, and includes entry in a raffle for $250 worth of seafood. Children under age 12 are admitted free.

Festival proceeds benefit the association’s sustainable fisheries management programs and its youth scholarships.

South Florida Symphony to perform in Key West Classical music aficionados can celebrate the South Florida Symphony Orchestra’s 2024 season by joining the orchestra in Key West for three Mas-

LETTER TO THE EDITOR terworks concerts.

Founded in Key West, the symphony is guided by award-winning conductor and Key West native Sebrina María Alfonso. Its 26th Masterworks season in the island city launches Saturday, Jan. 20, with a concert spotlighting female composers Florence Price and Jessie Montgomery.

The symphony will demonstrate its mastery on “Andante Moderato” for strings by Price, who in 1933 became the first Black woman to have a composition performed by a major American orchestra. The symphony will feature internationally-acclaimed pianist Awadagin Pratt for Montgomery’s “Rounds,” a 2023 Grammy nominee for best contemporary classical composition.

Also on the concert program are Johann Sebastian Bach’s lyrical Keyboard Concerto No. 4 in A Major, also with Pratt at the piano, and Johannes Brahms’ Symphony No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 68.

Two- and three-concert subscription packages can be purchased by clicking the Key West “subscribe” links at southfloridasymphony.org/202324-season/. Tickets for individual performances are available as well.

Food waste & composting presentations planned Maria Quirico, UF/IFAS Extension Monroe County Horticulture agent, and Melody Tuschel, recycling coordinator for Monroe County Solid Waste Management, will give a free talk on composting food waste and sowing seeds. These events are free with no registration required.

• Tuesday, Feb. 20 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Monroe County Public Library Islamorada Branch, 81830 Overseas Highway.

• Saturday, March 2 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Monroe County Public Library Big Pine Key Branch, 213 Key Deer Blvd.

21st Cocktail Party set for March 8 Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys’ 21st annual Cocktail Party is set for March 8 at Cheeca Lodge & Spa in Islamorada. The event will be a Kentucky Derby-themed party and fundraiser. Guests dressed in derby attire will enjoy food stations, dancing, live and silent auctions. Sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Lindsay Fast, executive director, at lindsay@habitatupperkeys.org or 305-453-0050. The party organizing committee is seeking contributions for the silent auction; contact them at info@habitatupperkeys.org.

SUPPORT THE WOUNDED VETERANS RIDING THROUGH THE KEYS

Veterans in last year’s Wounded Warrior Project Soldier Ride arrive at Coral Shores High School. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

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n Friday, Jan. 5, our Wounded Warrior bicycle riders will arrive at the Upper Keys Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10211 in Key Largo at MM 102, oceanside, at about 8 a.m. Please come and encourage them as they prepare for their journey south to Key West.

This year they will not have the invigorating benefit and big boost from our students and staff, as schools will be closed.

If you’re not able to make it to the VFW Post, perhaps you can greet them on the road or cheer them on from their first rest stop at Coral Shores High School.

I’ve witnessed the energy and support that you’ve exchanged with these wounded veterans over the course of 20 years. State Attorney Dennis Ward, Sheriff Rick Ramsay and Veterans Affairs Director of Monroe County Cathy Crane, along with their affiliates, have served as essential elements in establishing and maintaining the foundation required for this life-changing experience.

The love, gratitude and respect that our citizens have rendered to these disabled veterans over two decades has healed and uplifted their minds and bodies. You’ve given them hope and resolve to press forward and complete their rehabilitation. The vigor of your appreciation is an acknowledgment that their sacrifices were not made in vain. You’ve made them aware that despite their injuries and disfigurements, they’re welcomed and accepted, as their lives have meaning and purpose.

It’s crystal clear via my many conversations with these veterans over the years that this event and the kindness that’s been shared with them has saved lives. They’ve been inspired to continue with their surgeries and medical treatment and not give up. A new determination, with expansive ideas about the possibilities of a future and a career, has taken hold of them.

The Wounded Warrior Project and your support is etched upon the hearts and minds of these veterans. They will cherish that renewed hope and spirit, not only during their journey through the Florida Keys. It will be taken and built upon wherever they go, incentivizing, motivating and reaffirming the awakenings within them, as these wounded veterans work toward establishing their rightful place in society. Thank you so very much.

John Donnelly, Key Largo Purple Heart recipient/Wounded Warrior rider

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

MAKING A DIVING DIFFERENCE

OBITUARY

DOROTHEA JOAN WRIGHT

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Brenda Altmeier, left, receives the Silver Sherman Award from John Armor. JESSICA KONDEL/NOAA

Marine Sanctuary’s maritime heritage coordinator recognized

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renda Altmeier, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary maritime heritage coordinator, recently received the Silver Sherman Award. The honor recognizes NOAA employees who perform work above their normal requirements to help fulfill NOAA’s mission, achieve a milestone that contributes significantly or critically toward a particular program goal, or demonstrate leadership toward process improvement of a significant magnitude.

Awarded on an ad hoc basis by each member of the NOAA senior executive service once a year, the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries Director John Armor selected Altmeier from among more than 400 colleagues and made the award presentation in Key Largo.

“In Brenda’s 30-year career supporting Florida Keys National Marine

Sanctuary, she has been dedicated to promoting inclusivity and diversity in marine archaeology,” Armor said. “She has led many successful projects and has made a lasting difference in many lives.”

Altmeier has been with the sanctuary since 1993, where she has established and nurtured a collaboration with Diving With a Purpose program, an initiative designed to inspire and empower new generations of potential underwater archaeologists, focusing on individuals from underrepresented communities.

“It was a well-deserved recognition for an outstanding member of our team,” said Sarah Fangman, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary superintendent.

NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries serves as the trustee for a network of underwater parks encompassing more than 620,000 square miles of marine and Great Lakes waters. The network includes 15 national marine sanctuaries and two marine national monuments.

— Contributed

orothea Joan (née Matthews) Wright, known as Joan throughout her life, died peacefully at her home in Tavernier, on Nov. 12, 2023, at the age of 90.

Joan is survived by her children, Adele Budd of Tavernier, Lee (spouse Shelly) Wright of New Paltz, New York, and Jan (spouse David) Schuyler of Washingtonville, New York; her brother George Matthews of Sandy, Utah, and sister Carol Bigwood of Arlington, Virginia; her brother-in-law Bill Homis of Murrieta, California; her daughter-in-law Judy Wright of Honolulu, Hawaii; eight grandchildren and several great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, George and Dorothea (Hoffman) Matthews; her sisters Lois Homis and Marion Olsen and brother Richard Matthews; brothers-in-law Artie Olsen and Bob Bigwood and sister-in-law Joan Matthews; her son Larry Wright; her husband, Francis K. Wright; and her partner of 44 years, James R. Cox. Joan was born on Feb. 22, 1933, in Hempstead, New York, the oldest of six children of George Arthur and Dorothea Marie (Hoffman) Matthews. As a child, she lived for a time in California where her dad was serving during World War II. She graduated in 1950 from Hempstead High School. She attended secretarial school and worked for the U.S. Air Force for a while.

She married Francis K. Wright on Feb. 14, 1953, and to this union four children were born. As a U.S. Air Force spouse, she lived in Syracuse, New York; Dover, Delaware; Springfield, Massachusetts; Zweibruecken, Germany; Islip, New York and Rock Tavern, New York.

She raised her four children while also working full-time for several years as an office manager.

After separation from Francis, she resided in Cornwall, New York with her partner Jim Cox for

more than 20 years. In 1996, she and Jim retired and moved to the Florida Keys after vacationing there for many years. She was a cancer survivor.

Joan made friends quickly and easily with her thoughtful and caring nature. She was always ready to help others, and always remembered birthdays with calls, cards and by baking multitudes of cupcakes and bringing them to the Lorelei in Islamorada for each celebration. She would also transport friends or neighbors to doctor, hospital or chemotherapy appointments out of the goodness of her heart. She was always doing kind things for other people.

She and Jim were frequent and gracious hosts to family, friends and neighbors, welcoming them for visits, dinner parties and tours of the Keys. She was a loving sister, mother, aunt, grandmother and great-grandmother, serving as the matriarch of the family and making sure that family news was shared through her networking and dedication. She chose to have a joyful life and spread joy to others.

Per her wishes, Joan was cremated and her ashes will be spread in the Atlantic Ocean where her partner Jim’s ashes were spread after his death in 2018. There will be no viewing or funeral services. A celebration of life will be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association in her name.

The family would like to express their sincerest gratitude to the Islamorada Fire Rescue, Baptist Health South Florida’s Mariners Hospital, Keys Companion Homemaker Services in Tavernier, and Vitas Hospice of Miami for their service.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

Matt Pitcher says he was blowing through about $25,000 a week while posing as a wealthy businessman. “I was happy to spend the FBI's money,” he jokes. He spent every day including holidays and Christmas with the man to the far right, known as “Sam” in the “Politically Incorrect” podcast. Sam was connected to the Greek mob who controlled all the bars and nightclubs in Charlotte and he had to be paid off before anyone could open a new establishment. The girls hung around in exchange for free drugs, drinks and small amounts of cash. CONTRIBUTED

'NO MAN … I AM NOT A COP' Former MCSO detective opens up about undercover work JASON KOLER jason@keysweekly.com

att Pitcher made countless deals for small amounts of cocaine in places like Jack-in-the-Box and Burger King, so he was eager to have dinner with a friendly stripper at an upscale restaurant to learn how he could access larger, more profitable amounts of drugs.

He preferred the “dinner and drinks” method of scoring narcotics to other practices like following a heroin dealer on a goose chase around Charlotte or the nerve-wracking street exchanges for crack.

And he now professes that while prowling concert parking lots for vans full of psychedelic mushrooms or large quantities of LSD was just as much fun as checking the clubs for ecstasy, he was partial to the low-key exchanges where the chances of getting robbed, “made,” or killed were slim.

“I have bought nearly every single drug you can buy,” he chuckled matter-of-factly from his home in Marathon. A former youth minister, college football player and failed actor, Pitcher spent a decade working street crimes, narcotics and vice for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD). His affable nature and thespian training would later take him deep undercover on two major cases that are now the subject of a popular podcast and will soon be featured on an upcoming episode of A&E’s “Undercover: Caught on Tape.”

“Politically Incorrect” is Pitcher’s first installment on the “Small Town Dicks” podcast and covers a year-long undercover operation that follows him posing as a wealthy businessman looking to enter the drug trade – only to be led directly to the mayor’s office.

The show was so popular the producers brought Pitcher back to discuss his infiltration of an eco-terrorist group determined to blow up the 2012 Democratic National Convention.

A third pod was released just a couple months ago and delves into Pitcher’s investigation of a gruesome 2018 rape and murder of a Marathon prostitute whose body was found near Vaca Cut – the perpetrator of which received the death penalty earlier this year.

Pitcher admits he was hesitant when producers for “Small Town Dicks” reached out and asked him to share a story of how a drug deal evolved into a high-level political corruption case complete with organized crime syndicates, celebrities and a six-figure expense account funded by the FBI. “For years I didn’t share those stories with anyone except my wife,” he said. Today he credits a medically-forced retirement and the podcasts for helping him deal with the PTSD resulting from his time in law enforcement.

Most of the time his laughs are easy and his jokes are relentless, but

his face can lose color quickly and his words are chosen more carefully when describing some of the horrific scenes from his career with the CMPD and eventually the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

He’s dealt with it all, from rapes, murders, beatings, shoot-outs and executions to outright torture and human trafficking.

Pitcher relocated to Marathon from Charlotte in 2015. “I left because if I stayed in Charlotte I would be in danger,” he said. “They did not want me there.”

“They” included members of international crime organizations and high-ranking members of the CMPD who were “on the take” with any number of the criminal factions operating in Charlotte.

Pitcher knew it was time to leave.

The years of working street crimes undercover had taken a toll on not only his wife and young son, but on his psyche.

Assigned to one of the most crimeridden districts in the Charlotte-metro area, his first few years of police work revolved around chasing street-level drug dealers by car, bike or foot and he found himself scuffling with perpetrators on a daily basis.

“I was literally fighting crime with my bare hands,” he said. “Basically every single night you were in foot chases and regularly in fights. Tons of murders there all the time. Shootings all the time – more times than I care to know.”

A standout defensive back in high school who earned a spot on Wingate University’s football roster, he employed his speed and tackling tactics in his police work, and his foot chase success rate earned him the nickname “The Running Man.”

Mugshot of Matt “Pence,” who spent a year with extremists plotting to blowup the Democratic National convention in Charlotte. His main contact “Billy,” became his mentor and showed him how to make bombs, handle a firearm and professed an extreme hatred of police.

According to Matt, “Billy is doing great.”

13

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

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Matt “Pence” pictured with the eco-terrorist group about an hour before his planned arrest for burglarizing the Bank of America headquarters in Charlotte. The extremists were well-funded, but preferred to live in squalor. Pitcher says he didn’t wash for an entire month while working the case. His cover was blown after the case, but he doesn’t fear retaliation from the group.

But his most valuable skill set, and one that saved his life on more than one occasion, was his ability to gain a Listen to Matt’s cases person’s trust.

Small Town Dicks (wherever you get your podThe street-level drug-dealerscasts) turned-informants would share tons of info – same for the honest old ladies “Politically Incorrect” on the stoops of the ghetto. He could 05/31/2022 make a serial-killing rapist apologize “Deep Cover” for wasting his time and could get 12/16/2022 anyone from politicians, drug dealers, “Charlie Bear” strippers, terrorists and mob bosses 11/10/2023 and various other unhinged individuals to develop a quick affinity for his Have a question for Matt? company.

He will be featured on a Growing up in Pennsylvania, special edition of the Keys Pitcher’s childhood helped mold him Weekly podcast coming this into a genuinely relatable person.

February.

Send your questions to jason@ Battling a learning disability and keysweekly.com and put “Unbullies in elementary school and dercover” in the subject line. working as a youth minister on summer breaks from college gave Pitcher a unique perspective. He developed a real bond with the community he served – specifically “David 3,” or the ghetto to which he was assigned.

On any given day or night, Pitcher could be involved in a gang shootout or shoot the breeze with the old ladies who hung out on the stoops of the projects.

“I really miss the projects,” he said. “Those ladies told the truth and had the best stories. It was generally just a great time and I enjoyed it.”

In regard to the street-level dealers, “they are trying to make a buck, whether it’s legal or not,” he added. “You have to look at it from their side. It was never personal. I have a job to do and I am going to do mine. You have yours. As long as you don’t try to kill me or anything like that, no harm, no foul.”

And even though he spent the better part of 15 years working heinous crimes, chasing some depraved criminals in the most deplorable settings, Pitcher never once used his service pistol.

“I am actually very thankful I never had to use my weapon,” he said.

While his hands are visibly broken from the fights and certain songs take him immediately back to the clubs or streets, Pitcher is now enjoying the later part of his life where he can celebrate his teenage son’s accomplishments and be home every night to enjoy dinner with Reeta, his wife of nearly 20 years.

“During that time, we had completely different lives,” he said of his years undercover. “We had very little communication and she learned to live without me. She was a rockstar who kept the family together.”

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

ART ON DISPLAY

FISHING FOR HOLLY

Guild’s annual event showcases local creations

T

he Art Guild of the Purple Isles (AGPI) will open its 58th annual Members’ Judged Art Show on Saturday, Jan. 13 at the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center in Islamorada.

According to the show chairs, Christine and David O’Neill, the show will feature numerous pieces of original art by member artists of the Art Guild. The art will comprise nine different medium categories.

‘Zoe at the Birdbath’ is an oil by Carol UbSome will be available for purchase ben. The piece took a first-place prize at by the public. last year’s show. CONTRIBUTED David Bader, president of the Art Guild, said he expects this year’s show to be one of the best in many years.

“We are excited and pleased to be working with the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center, which provides a wonderful venue for our annual show,” Bader said.

A reception and awards ceremony for AGPI members and the public will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 13. A cash bar will be provided and there is no admission ‘Celebration’ by Christine O’Neill won Best charge. The Keys History & Discov- in Show. ery Center is located at MM 82.1, oceanside. The art show will be open to the public weekly, Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closes March 14.

More information is at agpi.us.

— Contributed

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CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF LOCAL MEDIA

The back of a ‘Holly’ shirt worn by Coleman Jones during a weigh-in at Whale Harbor Marina on Jan. 5, 2019, for the Fish for Holly Sailfish Tournament. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

Tournament brings awareness to domestic violence

S

cheduled each year during the winter Florida Keys sailfish season, the sixth annual Fish For Holly Sailfish Tournament is set for Friday and Saturday, Jan. 5-6 in Islamorada.

The family-friendly catchand-release angling challenge is named in honor of Holly Given, a young Upper Keys woman who was tragically killed in a domestic violence incident. The event is intended to raise awareness about domestic violence and provide financial support for South Florida domestic abuse shelters, along with scholarships for career training and education for young adults.

Events kick off Friday, Jan. 5, with small bites, a silent auction and rules meeting at the tournament’s host site, the Islander Resort at MM 82. Prizes await the

top three boats; top overall angler; top three male, female and junior anglers; and those who tally the heaviest fun fish catches of mahi-mahi, kingfish, wahoo and tuna.

Adult and junior anglers ages 16 and under will fish Saturday, Jan. 6, from lines-in at 8 a.m. to lines-out at 3 p.m. Fun fish must be weighed from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. An awards event that includes dinner, a silent auction and raffle takes place at 6 p.m.

Saturday at the Islander Resort for all tournament participants.

Non anglers are encouraged to attend for $65 per person.

Walk-up registration, priced at $300 for adult and junior anglers, is available until 9 p.m.

Jan. 5 at the Islander. Anglers can register online at fishforholly. com.

— Contributed

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

RINGING IN 2024

Rescued foxes at Pawsitive Beginnings in Key Largo. CONTRIBUTED

Previewing an upcoming Humane Society fundraiser

H

i friends!

Reef the fox here with your first “Reef’s Report” of 2024.

I hope everyone had a safe and happy New Year.

REEF My mom, THE FOX Nicole Navarro, went to Key West Reef is a red fox and she said she that was saved watched a hufrom a fur farm. man fall out of the He now lives in sky in a ruby red Key Largo with his human, Nicole slipper. I thought Navarro. maybe my mom was up way past her bedtime and started hallucinating from exhaustion, but then I took a look at the Keys Weekly social media pages and saw that, in fact, a human did drop out of the sky in a ruby red slipper. All I can say is, I love the Florida Keys.

Renowned female impersonator Christopher Peterson sat in a supersized red high heel shoe suspended above the crowds while singing during his descent down the facade of the Bourbon St. Pub/New Orleans House

complex, 724 Duval St. The event marked Peterson’s first time in the shoe after being chosen to take over for Key West drag queen Sushi, who “hung up the heel” following her 25th year as a New Year’s Eve icon.

The foxes and I had a chill evening.

Loud noises and fireworks don’t really bother us. Even though we are tamed wild beasts, we still have enough wildness in us to not really care about random loud booms and bangs.

Among the events and happenings to kick off 2024 is Upper Keys Humane Society’s annual “Boots for the Fur” on Jan. 26 at Coconut Cove Resort.

Beginning at 6 p.m., the event will have music by Koty James and the Keybillies, dinner by Chef Clark, auctions, raffles, a wine pull and more. Tickets are $125 and include dinner and two drink tickets. VIP tickets are also available for $200 and those include unlimited cocktails, VIP cocktail waitress, VIP seating area and first food service. There are sponsorship opportunities available.

For more information on that, call 305522-0260.

Anywho, that’s all for this week.

Stay up to date with all things fox at pawsitivebeginnings.org and until next time, Reef, over and out!

SHERIFF’S OFFICE DONATES VEHICLES TO NONPROFIT

T

he Monroe County Sheriff’s Office recently donated two cars to the Florida Keys Area Health Education Center (AHEC). ‘I know our friends at AHEC will put these vehicles to good use,’ Sheriff Rick Ramsay said.

‘I’m happy to support a great partner who shares our commitment to this community.’ MCSO/Contributed

SAVE THE DATE Thursday, Jan. 4 • Yappy Hour from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Nest, MM 81, oceanside, Islamorada.

• Acrylic painting with Jacqueline Campa from 1 to 3 p.m. at Key Largo library. Class for a maximum of 12 students.

Jan. 5-6 • Florida Keys Wounded Warrior Project Soldier Ride, beginning at VFW Post 10211 in Key Largo on Friday at 8:30 a.m. and ending at Bayview Park in Key West on Saturday at 2 p.m.

• Sixth annual Fish for Holly Sailfish Tournament in Islamorada. Visit fishforholly.com to learn more.

Tuesday, Jan. 9 • Florida Keys Council of the Arts’ 2024 Connections Project grand opening from 4 to 6 p.m. at Kona Kai Resort, Key Largo. More information is at keysarts.com/artist_connections/Mosaic/ Mosaic3.html.

• Islamorada Village Council meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Founders Park Community Center.

Jan. 6-7 • Florida Keys Celtic Festival at Marathon Community Park. Visit floridakeyscelticfestival.com to learn more.

Monday, Jan. 8 • Alzheimer’s Association hosts a care support group at 11 a.m. at Key Largo library. More information is available at 800-272-3900.

Wednesday, Jan. 10 • JOY classes from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. at St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church, MM 87.5, bayside, Islamorada. Visit justolderyouthinc.org to view the full schedule.

• Nature Explorers Coral Reef Part 3 at 2 and 4:30 p.m. at Key Largo library. For kids ages 8-11 to make friends and enjoy activities and crafts.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

RESUSCITATION RESOLUTION

Brynn Morey, center, UF/IFAS Extension Monroe County coordinator, poses with her newly trained CPR class. CONTRIBUTED

Learn the life-saving CPR technique in 2024

F

or many people the re-launch of the HBO series “Sex and the City” titled “And Just Like That” was greatly anticipated. Fans, like me, waited years for this. However, I have never been able to get the first episode of the series out of my mind.

BRYNN Stay with me for those MOREY of you who never watched the show. You see, the is the University of beloved couple, Carrie and Florida, IFAS Monroe Mr. Big, whom millions had County Extension followed for many years, experienced a great tragedy. coordinator After a ride on his Peloton bike, Mr. Big, AKA John, Carrie’s soulmate, experiences cardiac arrest.

When Carrie arrives home, she runs to hold him while he struggles and takes his last breath.

This is the part that sticks in my mind: why didn’t she give him CPR? Did she not know CPR? As a CPR instructor for more than seven years, it got me thinking how many people don’t know this life-saving skill.

CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is a life-saving technique used in emergencies when someone’s heartbeat or breathing has stopped.

The primary goal of CPR is to maintain blood circulation and oxygenation to vital organs until professional medical help arrives. Often, someone experiencing a cardiac emergency requires assistance immediately, as death can result quickly.

While some people may experience warning signs such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness before a cardiac emergency, others may not show any noticeable symptoms and appear quite healthy. Cardiac emergencies can happen to anyone, regardless of age or health.

A trainee participates in a CPR class.

Cardiac arrest is caused when the heart’s electrical system malfunctions. The heart stops beating properly. Cardiac arrest may be reversed if CPR is performed, and a defibrillator shocks the heart and restores a normal heart rhythm within a few minutes. Prompt and effective CPR can be a critical factor in the survival of the individual. Timing is the key. The average emergency medical services response time from the moment a 911 call is placed to arrival to the victim is 8 to 9 minutes. This is why learning CPR can be so critical.

Performing CPR, which continues to circulate oxygen in the blood throughout the victim’s body, can greatly increase their survival chances while waiting for EMS to arrive. Think of it as if you are on the front lines of an emergency.

The person experiencing the emergency could be a family member, a neighbor, a friend or a stranger in the grocery store; you are their best chance for their survival, which is a very powerful thing.

With the new year upon us, many of us are thinking about the future. Should we focus on our health, career or relationships? Some of us are making resolutions or deciding not to make resolutions simply because we don’t want to break them. Regardless of what is on your mind for 2024, I encourage you to consider becoming certified in CPR. There is no way of knowing if or when someone may need your help someday. I cannot think of a better skill to add to your back pocket than the skill of possibly being able to save someone’s son, daughter, mother, friend, family member or stranger’s life.

Research organizations in your community that offer CPR classes, they are often very affordable, and it only takes about half a day to learn this skill. Monroe County Extension Services offers CPR courses to the public throughout the Keys. A simple phone call to our office is all it takes: 305-292-4501.

20

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

MORE HISTORY TO EXPLORE IN 2024 Introducing a new book, podcast and museum

“Florida Keys Spectacular” podcast debuts Thursday, Jan. 4. CONTRIBUTED

R

eading this, you didn’t see the small smile that turned up the corners of my mouth as I wrote it. Mostly, FLORIDA I’m smiling because of what I KEYS see materialHISTORY izing just down WITH the road. 2024 BRAD BERTELLI has spectacular things in store; An author, hard work pays speaker, Florida Keys historian and off; I love what I Honorary Conch. do.

The new year His latest book, “Florida Keys will see Volume History with Brad 3 of the “Florida Bertelli, Volume Keys History 1,” shares fasciwith Brad Bernating glimpses into the rich and telli” book series sometimes surventure out from prising histories of my computer the Florida Keys. screen and onto a bookshelf near you. One of the stories, “A Conch Tale,” is a particular favorite. Only in the Florida Keys can you tell a story about fritters, a culture and the creation of a brand new micro-nation, if not an alternative state of mind, and relate it to Strombus gigas, the elegantly housed queen conch.

The new year will also reveal two new and exciting platforms showcasing local history. One will be an increased presence at Robbie’s of Is-

lamorada. Over the last two months, I have been spending every Thursday sitting between two 18th-century cannons and chatting about history with whoever stops by to join me.

In the not-too-distant future, those hours will expand.

I stare at a small, empty, halfbuilt structure at Robbie’s every time I tend the bar out at the property’s little beach. I pitched an idea about how to use the structure, and now, before too long, it will have some finishing work done to it. When it does, and I have had a little time to play curator with the space, I will create one of the smallest museums in Florida — and certainly the smallest museum in the Keys.

Though the space occupies a modest footprint, big stories will be shared — and it won’t be just one story told over and over, but a series of rotating exhibits exploring a vast array of local history to keep the space fresh for everyone (including me).

More immediately, I am now cohosting a new podcast dedicated to the Florida Keys and its tremendous history. It launches Thursday, Jan. 4.

My partner on this venture is Cathy Salustri, an author, speaker, owner of the Gulfport newspaper The Gabber, and host of the podcast “The Florida Spectacular” — which happens to be the title of her forthcoming book from the University Press of Florida.

We met years ago when I was still curating the Keys History & Discovery Center in Islamorada. While

I rarely leave the island chain, Cathy and her husband, Barry, travel down with their small pack of dogs twice a year — hopefully. When they visited over Thanksgiving, Barry and she did a little backwater fishing (where she caught her first bonefish) with Capt.

Rich Hastings.

Hastings operates out of the marina at Robbie’s, and after the morning’s fishing, Cathy sat down with me during my office hours, which are held about 30 feet from Rich’s boat slip every Thursday between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. A nice group had gathered when she walked up, and I added another plastic bar stool to the circle. It was Thanksgiving Day. We sipped our drinks and shared stories, and my only regret is not sharing the story about how Pigeon Key was once said to have been used as a natural corral on which to raise turkeys.

Over the years, we have developed a solid friendship, and when she asked if I’d be interested in doing a podcast, I didn’t even take a breath before answering. We both love history, the quirky and over-the-top stories the Sunshine State has to tell — and we both love the Keys.

When I dig into the history of Florida and all the bodies of water lapping at its shores, I come from a Keys perspective. When Cathy approaches a Keys’ subject, her viewpoint is often generated from a mainland point-of-view. The two perspectives can create interesting points (and counterpoints) and make

for a lively conversation. At some point, the topic of pirates and piracy in the Keys will be discussed, and it will be a particularly spicy episode — and it should be a ton of fun to record.

At one point in our conversation, Cathy brought up the podcast idea.

“Yes,” I said without hesitation. “The Florida Keys Spectacular” is an offshoot of Cathy’s amazing “The Florida Spectacular” podcast — where I have been a guest on several episodes.

“The Florida Keys Spectacular” is one of the reasons the smile I talked about in sentences one and two formed in the first place. We will offer 30- to 40-minute episodes of excellent island histories and stories twice a month. To find “The Florida Keys Spectacular,” just search for “The Florida Spectacular,” where you can “take a weekly trip across Florida with authors Cathy Salustri and Rick Kilby and discover a side of Florida you never knew existed. From the scallops in Panhandle bays to the Hemingway cats in Key West, every week’s a Florida adventure. Twice each month, Florida Keys historian Brad Bertelli joins Cathy for premium episodes available to subscribers focused exclusively on the Keys.”

“The Florida Keys Spectacular” will require a modest subscription fee. For about the price of a cup of coffee, you can enjoy two great podcasts every month (and support local history). To listen to the podcast and subscribe, follow the link to floridaspectacular.buzzsprout.com.

21

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

STATE PARK TO HOST NATIVE PLANT DAY Islamorada Village of Islands Meeting Schedule January 2024

Unless otherwise noted, meetings are held at the Founders Park Community Center, 87000 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada

N

SHELF HELP

ative plant nursery volunteers review and select plants for the upcoming Native Plant Day at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park on Saturday, Jan. 27 from 9 a.m. to noon. Selected native plants grown by the nursery volunteer crew will be given away to Upper Keys residents that day. CONTRIBUTED

S

taff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collec-

tion.

What: “Assistant to the Villain”

by Hannah Nicole Maehrer

Why: It wasn’t until I finished the book that I thought to check the release date for the sequel. There was no time; I was drawn into the story swiftly and completely. It’s a medieval-lite, magical world, featuring office culture, very slow burn romance, excellent banter, and hilarious turns of phrase. And it pairs a not-completely-evil villain with an assistant not to be underestimated.

On the scale of moral grayness, he’s a charcoal and she’s a new dime, with a shiny personality to match.

Now for the terrible news: the next book will not be available until September 2024. Join me in suffering while we wait!

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

How: You can request books online by logging in to your account keyslibraries.org and get eBooks and eAudiobooks 24/7 at 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: Faith Price, Big Pine Key Library branch manager See previous recommendations at keyslibraries.org/shelf-help.

Monday, Jan. 8, 5:30 p.m.

Local Planning Agency Tuesday, Jan. 9 & Thursday, Jan. 11 Regular Village Council Meetings Monday, Jan. 22, 5 p.m.

Workforce/Affordable Housing Citizens Advisory Committee

Islamorada Administrative Center and Public Safety Headquarters, 86800 Overseas Highway, Third Floor Conference Room Two or more members from the Village Council and members from various Village Committees may be present at meetings. These meetings are open to the public. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, all persons who are disabled and who need special accommodations to participate in this meeting because of that disability should contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA@Islamorada.fl.us or by phone at 305-664-6448 at least 48 hours before the scheduled meeting.

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

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23

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

ARTIST’S CORNER

1

CAPTURING THE UNDERWATER WORLD Photographer documents the beauty below

I

t’s hard not to call a balloonfish adorable. If you really look at the balloonfish, it feels like a made-up fish, something an artistic child would imagine.

They are real and sometimes if you get the right angle they look like they have a WILLIAM friendly smile. You don’t have to DEPAULA go diving to see this cute little fella; all you have to do is look is an artist, at the 50th anniversary stamp designer and celebrating the Florida Keys gemologist who National Marine Sanctuary. The believes in the person who made that lovely power of art. shot is local photographer Daryl Duda.

Duda’s photography introduces us to an underwater world without ever having to go in the water.

It may also inspire you to want to strap on your dive gear and go looking for these little sea creatures.

Duda has had quite the journey. A photograph is taken in an instant, but it is the lifetime of experience and the preparation and knowledge that make it a work of art. He started out with a degree in earth science and a major in meteorology. After college, he was a musician and taught himself audio engineering. His musical skills would be showcased in Ron Howard’s first film, “Night Shift,” for which he and a friend co-wrote a country song. Yes, the Ron Howard.

He worked with an arts group, Horses Inc. “We made independent films and did some interesting performance art on the streets of Chicago

back in the day,” Duda said.

He got a job at a small TV station, where he was taught how to work every position. This led him to editing and film crew screening in Chicago, during a time when many now-classic motion pictures were made in Chicago, including “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” “Home Alone,” “The Untouchables” and “Color of Money.” Duda learned about image composition, which would help him later in his photography career from projecting dailies for the likes of Martin Scorsese and Brian DePalma. After 20 years, Duda retired from being a videotape operator on “The Oprah Winfrey Show.”

He would move from Chicago and look to mark a new beginning.

“I searched all over the Caribbean for years and found that the Florida Keys would be the best island destination for me with so many organizations like Reef.org surveying fish and coral restoration groups to volunteer with and the History of Diving Museum and still be relatively close to the mainland, family and old friends,” he said.

Duda has always been fascinated with creating interesting images. This fascination was further fueled by the underwater world. While scuba diving, he realized he wanted to share this world and document it through photography.

“There is an endless amount of subject matter to work with and every dive is different; you never know what you might encounter. It is absolutely exhilarating,” he said.

Duda prefers reef and wall diving in the Keys and the Caribbean. Lately, he’s been traveling out

2

3

to the South Pacific, venturing to Fiji and French Polynesia. His next trip will include Tonga and Cook Islands.

It was on a bright and sunny day at Molasses Reef where Duda took his favorite photo.

“I saw these two beautiful Atlantic spadefish at about 20 feet in the water column at Molasses Reef on a bright sunny day and the way the light reflected off their silvery bodies with the blue background just knocked my socks off,” he said.

He advises anyone getting into photography to just start taking pictures. Do this with your phone or a camera. “Put pictures next to each other and see how they look together,” he said. “Try to find a theme that maybe you want to try for a while. I just met a young photographer who loves to look for ‘faces’ in clouds, in the forest, in nature and she also likes to shoot cars because they are always interesting with a distinct character and each one has a sort of face. Take a photo class or join a photo club.”

Duda’s whole life was working with images and now photography. He uses what he learned during his time in the movies and television to help create his unique images. This distinct vision helped him get that balloonfish on a U.S. stamp. That was only one stop in his adventure.

“Well, I just want to keep wet and find yet another amazing image in the sea. You never know what you’re gonna find,” he said.

Duda’s photography can be found at Our Place In Paradise Gallery, 88711 Overseas Highway on Plantation Key and online at daryl-duda.pixels.com.

1. This balloonfish photo by Duda made it onto a U.S. postage stamp. DARYL DUDA/Contributed. 2. Atlantic spadefish. 3. Before photography, Daryl Duda spent time in broadcasting and film screening in Chicago. CONTRIBUTED

24

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JANUARY 4, 2024

January 4, 2024

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3

JANUARY 4, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

JAN. 4

THE SCOREBOARD

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Team

Sport

Opponent

Date

Result

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Archimedean

12/20

W, 57-50

Coral Shores

Boys Soccer

Silver Palms

12/20

T, 2-2

Coral Shores

Girls Soccer

LaSalle

12/20

L, 6-0

Key West

Boys Soccer

Westland Hialeah

12/21

W, 5-2

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

Key West

12/21

W, 35-31

Key West

Boys Basketball

Coral Shores

12/21

W, 60-53

Key West

Boys Basketball

Keys Gate

12/22

W, 49-44

Coral Shores

Boys Basketball

Ransom Everglades

12/22

L, 63-54

Key West

Boys Basketball

Whitman-Hanson, MA

12/28

L, 63-35

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Whitman-Hanson, MA

12/29

L, 71-50

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

THIS WEEK

Xavier

GRANT

Senior, Marathon Basketball

JAN. 4

Date

School

Sport

Opponent

Start Time

1/4

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Key West

8 p.m.

1/5

Coral Shores

Boys Wrestling

@ John Raich Tourney

TBD

1/5

Marathon & Key West

Boys Basketball

@ Key West Tournament

TBD

1/5

Key West

Wrestling

Somerset 1A Scuffle

3 p.m.

1/6

Key West

Wrestling

Somerset 1A Scuffle

9:30 a.m.

1/6

Coral Shores

Boys Wrestling

@ John Raich Tourney

TBD

1/6

Marathon & Key West

Boys Basketball

@ Key West Tournament

TBD

1/8

Coral Shores

Boys Basketball

@ Keys Gate

7:30 p.m.

1/9

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Palmer

5:30 p.m.

1/9

Key West

Boys Soccer

@ St. Thomas Aquinas

3 p.m.

1/9

Coral Shores

Boys Soccer

@ South Homestead

3:30 p.m.

1/9

Marathon

Boys & Girls Soccer

@ Florida Christian 4 & 6 p.m.

1/10

Key West

Boys Basketball

Somerset Academy

7:30 p.m.

1/10

All Keys Teams

Girls Weightlifting

@ Marathon

4 p.m.

1/10

Marathon

Girls & Boys Basketball

@ Keys Gate

4 & 7:30 p.m.

1/10

Coral Shores

Girl Soccer

@ Gulliver

3:30 p.m.

1/10

Coral Shores

Boys Soccer

Ransom Everglades

4 p.m.

ON THE COVER In the first Keys Weekly Sports Wrap of 2024, we celebrate the athletes up and down the island chain who closed out 2023 on a strong note. Congratulations to our 2023 All-Keys Volleyball and Cross Country Teams, including MVPs Vance Bursa, top, Caylaa Makimaa, left, and Brooke Mandozzi.

Photos by Barry Gaukel, Mark Hedden and Doug Finger.

Xavier is a strong point guard who gets our offense clicking. His numbers are two and three times what he had all last season and we still have two-thirds of the season to go.”

— Jim Murphy, Fins head coach

133 44 points

rebounds

Marathon’s basketball team is quickly becoming the little engine that could. Almost always the underdogs, the Fins have been willing themselves into contention with grit and scrappy play. Helping to lead the way is senior point guard Xavier Grant. Grant helps put a spark into the Dolphins’ offense and plays relentless defense as well.

“Xavier excels at attacking the basket and confusing defenses. He is a strong senior leader for our team,” said coach Jim Murphy.

So far this season, Grant has scored 133 points, earned 26 assists and pulled down 44 rebounds, and he is just getting started.

For his determination, strong leadership and fierce style of play, Marathon’s Xavier Grant is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Photo by: BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

4

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 4, 2024 SPORTS WRITER

The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locallyowned 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

jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers 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 Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Graphic Design

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

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

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MVP

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6

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3

Brooke Mandozzi

SENIOR CORAL SHORES

Brooke Mandozzi led Coral Shores in multiple areas of the game including hit percentage (.254) kills (153), digs (254), serve receipt rating (1.71), serve rating (2.63) and blocks (20). She was first for the ’Canes in every statistical area with the exception of total serve receives (228) and serving aces (52), in which she was second. Mandozzi was consistent in her gameplay and relentless in her willingness to do whatever it took for her team to win. She is described as highly coachable and has the uncanny ability to always come alive in key moments for the ’Canes. Mandozzi has worked hard to polish her skills, and when the intangibles, including her positive energy and infectious enthusiasm, are added in, she becomes the sort of player a team leans on for support and looks to for leadership.

Sofia Jans

JUNIOR CORAL SHORES

Sofia Jans led Coral Shores in serve receives with 273 and was second for the ’Canes in digs (185). Jans was also the top-ranked ’Canes player other than setters in assists with 26. Her coaches rank her work ethic and willingness to be coached as the qualities which help set her apart from other athletes.

12

Grace Leffler

JUNIOR CORAL SHORES

Grace Leffler’s off-season work paid off for the Hurricanes this fall. The junior was second for her team in hit percentage (.189), kills (85) and blocks (19). Like Jans, her coaches noted Leffler’s work ethic and coachability as her greatest assets.

5

JANUARY 4, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

THE 2023 KEYS WEEKLY ALL-KEYS VOLLEYBALL TEAM 8

Ivy Tiedemann

SOPHOMORE CORAL SHORES

Ivy Tiedemann amassed 231 assists and 53 aces, which ranked number 1 for Coral Shores this season.

The sophomore setter also earned a serve rating of 2.43, a hit percentage of .113 and racked up 113 digs for the ’Canes. Tiedemann is described as a fierce competitor, helping to lead in all aspects of the Coral Shores defense.

2

Iona Holmquist

SENIOR CORAL SHORES

Iona Holmquist was a jack of all trades for Coral Shores.

The senior amassed solid stats including 52 kills, 66 serve receives, 74 digs, 7 blocks and a 0.94 hit percentage which ranked third for the ’Canes. Her coaches were grateful for her willingness to change positions, including trying several she had never played, when injuries plagued the team midseason.

Hurricanes’ winning record, Key West’s stiff competition highlight 2023

C

oral Shores proved to be a force to be reckoned with in 3A District 16 volleyball action this past fall. The ’Canes earned a winning 15-10 record, including a perfect regular-season record of 6-0 in district matches. Ranked third in the district brackets, Coral Shores knocked out Marathon, then the second-seeded team to earn a spot at the championship match. The Lady ’Canes brought home the runner-up trophy this season, and despite graduating several key players, the underclassmen earned plenty of playing time to season them for a strong campaign again in 2024.

Key West went 8-18 on the season, often playing larger schools in a series of tournaments to help elevate their level of play.

The tactic helped the Lady Conchs knock out Killian in the first round of district playoffs but they were eliminated themselves by Gulliver, the eventual state champions. The team’s off-season dedication to improving via club play may just give the Conchs the extra boost they need to topple the giant next season and claim their own title.

Marathon struggled on the court this season, but still managed to win a pair of games. Their 2-16 record did not truly reflect numerous close matches and some fantastic individual performances.

Photos by Barry Gaukel, Doug Finger, Bert Budde (@bertbudde) & contributed images.

4

Jordan MacDonald JUNIOR MARATHON

Jordan MacDonald stepped in for the Fins as setter and instantly upped the level of play for Marathon. The junior used her agility and speed to keep her team in the game for multiple matches this season. Her coach is excited to see what MacDonald has in store for her senior season.

15

Elena Eubank

JUNIOR MARATHON

Elena Eubank is one of Marathon’s top athletes and it was apparent in her play for the Fins. The hard-hitting junior was willing to sacrifice herself for plays, amassing big digs and kills for Marathon all season long. Her jump serve is difficult to return and she is unwilling to give up, regardless of the odds or score.

7

Jasmine Keomaniboth

SOPHOMORE MARATHON

Jasmine Keomaniboth used her speed and flexibility to benefit her team. The outside hitter was relatively new to the sport but was quick to learn and is described as coachable with a lot of athletic intelligence. Sadly, Keomaniboth moved out of state and will not return to the Fins, but her hard play and willingness to put in extra hours of practice helped set a precedent of excellence for players to follow.

15

Annie Scepkova

SENIOR KEY WEST

Key West’s deadliest middle hitter amassed 112 kills and 56 blocks at the net this season for the Conchs. Of those blocks, 31 were solo.

With a hit percentage of .269, Scepkova was beyond effective defensively. She also earned 32 aces at the line this season, making her a threat offensively as well.

6

20

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 4, 2024

Elsie Warwick SENIOR KEY WEST

The Conchs’ libero served as captain this season and added a spark of energy with her dynamic play style.

Warwick hustled for 194 digs and earned 48 kills on the court this year, making her a strong asset for Key West’s defense.

3

Reese Haggard JUNIOR KEY WEST

Conch setter Reese Haggard can be described as a true playmaker on the court. She is unrelenting, often going after balls which have no business remaining in play.

Haggard was credited with 182 assists and 69 digs this season.

2

Vicky Pavlik

HURRICANES’ MANDOZZI CONTINUES VOLLEYBALL CAREER

SENIOR KEY WEST

Pavlik’s selfless style of play led to 199 assists this season for the Conchs. The senior setter scrambled for 72 digs to keep the play alive for Key West. Offensively, Pavlik earned 19 aces with her strong serving.

1

Bridgette Sweeney SENIOR KEY WEST

Sweeney amassed impressive stats for any player, let alone one who has been battling an injury which resulted in less playing time. The outside hitter has impeccable form, which she combined with her strength to rack up 83 kills, 12 blocks and 18 aces this season.

Top: Coral Shores volleyball standout Brooke Mandozzi celebrates her decision to continue her career at North Carolina Wesleyan with family, coaches and staff.

CONTRIBUTED Right: Mandozzi led the Hurricanes with a .254 hit percentage, 153 kills and 254 digs last season. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

7

JANUARY 4, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

FKAA EMERGENCY WATER PLAN STORE WATER

FILL BATHTUB AND LARGE CONTAINERS WITH WATER FOR WASHING AND FLUSHING ONLY.

Standout chooses North Carolina Wesleyan

B

rooke Mandozzi, a four-year standout in volleyball, basketball and track at Coral Shores, will continue her volleyball career at the collegiate level. Joined by family and coaches, Mandozzi recently signed her letter of intent to play at North Carolina Wesleyan in Rocky Mount.

Mandozzi helped lead the ’Canes volleyball program to an unprecedented three consecutive district championship games and a district title in 2021. She earned backto-back team MVP awards. She selected the Battling Bishops from a long list of collegiate suitors vying for her in both volleyball and basketball.

She led the Lady ’Canes in almost every statistical category with a .254 hit percentage, 153 kills, 254 digs, 20 blocks, 52 aces and a 2.63 serve rating last season. She is also a three-time all-county selection in basketball and was team MVP her junior season, averaging 19.1 points, 8.3 rebounds and 3.5 steals per game. She currently leads the Hurricanes in all three categories.

As to her decision to continue her volleyball career, Mandozzi said she knew North Carolina Wesleyan was the right place for her studies and advancement in the sport.

“Coach Vicky (Gentile — NCW head volleyball coach), the school provost, the players and all the people I met were so welcoming. I have always loved North Carolina,” Mandozzi said. "I want to thank all of my coaches while I was at Coral Shores and all of my teammates, especially Crystal Guttierez, who I played with the longest at Coral Shores.”

Hurricanes head volleyball coach Sam Ovalle said North Carolina Wesleyan is getting a great player, person and competitor.

“I told her that I am really going to miss having her here, but that I can't wait to make a trip to North Carolina to watch her play in college,” he said.

Jarrod Mandozzi, Brooke’s dad and Hurricanes girls basketball head coach, said she took a lot of thought in figuring out the best fit.

“I'm really excited for Brooke and I'm really proud of her decision,” he said.

— Contributed

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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 4, 2024

1 2

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JANUARY 4, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

5

CONCHS, FINS FALL VICTIM TO NOR’EASTER Whitman-Hanson Regional makes trip from Cape Cod to pick up two road wins

6 7 3 4

A

fter a weeklong break for the holidays, Key West and Marathon got back into hoops action, playing the Panthers of Whitman-Hanson Regional High School out of Massachusetts.

Key West hosted the Panthers on Dec. 28, falling 63-35 to the long-distance travelers. James Osborne had the team high with 15 points, 5 rebounds, 4 steals and a block. Josue Thanus added a dozen points, 6 rebounds, a steal and a block and Kameron Roberts scored 5 with 5 rebounds and a pair of steals.

The loss evened the Conchs’ record to 4-4 heading into the second half of regular season play. Up next for Key West is Marathon on Thursday, Jan. 4 at 8 p.m. for the beginning of a home tournament which spans Jan. 4-6.

After picking up a win against Key West, the Whitman-Hanson Panthers played at Marathon, defeating the Fins 71-50. Marathon’s Adrian Cruz had the hot hand for the Fins with 20 points. Daeshawn Holmes earned a double-double with 10 points and a dozen rebounds. Xavier Grant put in 11 with 3 rebounds. The Fins stand at 3-8 as they head into the Key West tournament beginning Jan. 4.

Coral Shores starts its regular-season second half on Jan. 8 at district opponent Keys Gate. The ’Canes’ current record is an even 6-6.

1. Adrian Cruz sinks a shot late in the second half of the Whitman-Hanson Regional game on Dec. 29.

2. Adrian Cruz (2) and Yaniel Garcia (12) look on as Marathon center Josh Koler (23) defends Marathon’s hoop.

3. Daeshawn Holmes (3) goes up for a shot under heavy pressure.

4. Xavier Grant defends against a Panther player.

5. Adrian Cruz (2) takes it to the hoop while Carlos Lezcano (10) sets a screen.

6. Carlos Lezcano (10) puts one back, picking up the and-one off a Panther foul.

7. Xavier Grant (11) focuses on his next route.

Photos by TRACY McDONALD/Keys Weekly

10

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 4, 2024

Naima Thomas

Laira Anaya

Kai Guth

Thomas hit a PR when her team needed it the most this season, running a 21:44 at districts to help the Lady Conchs make their goal of qualifying for regionals as a team. Her hard work and dedication not only improved her times this year, but helped shave off time from her teammates as she proved to be a steady and hard-working training partner for Makimaa and the rest of the Conchs. With one more season to go, Thomas has everything it takes to be the next Key West state qualifier.

Key West’s Laira Anaya trained hard this season, and her times fell as the season wore on. Anaya peaked at precisely the right moment when she clocked a 22:26 at regionals. The speedy junior is described as hard-working and positive, two traits necessary for success in a long-distance runner, and those traits should prove fruitful in 2024 as Key West unloads a talented trio of seniors onto the course.

Hurricane harrier Kai Guth shouldered the responsibility of helping to lead a very young team this season. The talented junior qualified as an individual for the regional meet – the only Coral Shores athlete to do so. Her 24:49 finish at districts was fast enough to earn a solo bid to regionals, where she dropped over half a minute to finish in 24:17. Her team contributions do not end on the course, however; Guth’s leadership and willingness to help her team in all facets, including developing the younger runners and securing sponsorships for the team, were just a few of the qualities her coaches said make her an outstanding asset to the ’Canes.

JUNIOR KEY WEST MVP

Caylaa Makimaa JUNIOR KEY WEST

Key West junior Caylaa Makimaa had two goals this season: to qualify for states and to break the 20-minute barrier. Makimaa did both at regionals, finishing 12th overall in a blazing 19:53, which earned her a solo bid to the state championships in Tallahassee. Makimaa made those goals clear to her coach, Keara McGraw, who said, “I knew both were possible for her, and told her states was going to require a sub-20 so those goals go hand in hand.”

The speedy junior dedicated herself to this season, and her efforts proved worthwhile when she became just the second Conch to break 20 minutes and the third to earn a bib for the state meet. Her undaunted work ethic, exuberant personality and positive attitude have made her a strong leader for her team and have paved the way for a stellar senior season in 2024.

JUNIOR KEY WEST

Mikkel Ross

SENIOR MARATHON Marathon senior Mikkel Ross refuses to be outworked by anyone, a personality trait which has elevated her in every sport. The five-time state qualifier in cross country ran a season-best 22:05 early in the season and kept her pace fairly steady all season long. She led the Fins for much of 2023 and used many years of varsity experience to help take the team to states for the fifth consecutive season.

JUNIOR CORAL SHORES

11

JANUARY 4, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

Ella Dunn

Jakub Bursa

JUNIOR MARATHON Junior Ella Dunn is, perhaps, the most easily-identified runner in race photos – she is the one smiling and waving. Dunn helped lead her team with her positivity and tireless energy, going the extra mile when it counted the most. Dunn gradually dropped her times to become the Fins’ top runner, earning a 22:12 seasonbest at regionals to help Marathon earn their fifth consecutive trip to states.

Dunn clocked in at 22:46 on the challenging Tallahassee course and still has one more season to go.

Rain Banks

SENIOR MARATHON MVP

Vance Bursa

JUNIOR MARATHON

Vance Bursa has been Marathon’s top runner the past two seasons, giving the Fins the advantage of a sub-17 athlete and making it possible to earn a spot at the start line of the state championships this fall.

Bursa’s top time this season came at regionals, where he finished in 16:20, which was fast enough for third place overall. He was second in the district and won numerous races outright all season long. Bursa is the sort of runner who has a chance to win every single race he starts, regardless of the odds, and those around him describe him as one of the most kind-hearted people they’ve ever met, despite being such a fierce competitor. With a strong senior campaign, Bursa has the potential to break the school record and medal at the state championships in 2024.

SENIOR MARATHON

Banks has been a fixture on Marathon’s cross country team since the sixth grade, qualifying for states first in the eighth grade and repeating that feat four more times since. Banks cracked 23 minutes this season at the Fast Times Meet in October and ran 24:00 at states. Her long legacy of leadership will be sorely missed next season.

Photos by Barry Gaukel, Mark Hedden and contributed images.

The oldest of Marathon’s Bursa brothers, senior Jakub’s speed and maturity have helped the Fins thrive the past three seasons. His regional 18:04 performance set a PR for him this season, and he carried a heavy load for the team, placing second most of the season. Bursa’s consistency and positive attitude have helped lead his team to their ninth consecutive state appearance.

Antonin Bursa

8TH GRADE MARATHON When all is said and done the youngest Bursa brother may just outrun them all.

After chasing his older brothers since he could walk, Tony Bursa has come into his own. Bursa finished in fifth place at the FHSAA 1A race and has not even begun high school. He set a new PR at regionals this season, blazing to the finish line in just 17:21. Coach Jim Murphy believes he has what it takes to break Marathon’s 5K record, and with three state appearances under his belt already, Bursa has the unique opportunity to toe the line in Tally an unprecedented seven times for the Fins.

THE KEYS WEEKLY 2023 ALL-KEYS CROSS COUNTRY TEAM Fast times and young teams make Keys distance running a mainstay

K

ey West’s boys and girls had great success this season, sending runners into the postseason medal hunt from both teams. The girls team qualified for regionals as a team, while two boys made the cut as individuals. One runner made the state championships, which has not happened for Key West since 2019. Both teams return numerous talented runners, and the Lady Conchs are stocked with competitive juniors, giving way to early excitement for next season.

Marathon’s boys and girls made their prowess as the Keys’ distance powerhouse undeniable this fall. The girls made their fifth appearance at the state championships and the gentlemen made it their ninth. Though both teams lose several of their top athletes, Marathon’s roster runs deep and a young, talented squad of runners are already working to extend the school’s state-qualifying streaks.

Coral Shores had very young teams in both boys and girls cross country this year. The boys return all but two athletes next year while the girls team returns every single runner, including their lone regional qualifier, giving a lot of hope for the future of ’Canes cross country.

12

Mason Buxton

SENIOR MARATHON Fins senior Mason Buxton has been a team fixture since middle school. After clocking an 18:21 PR at the regional meet this season, Buxton made it to his fifth state championship race, the only male Marathon runner to do so. He shouldered his role as Marathon’s fourth or fifth man with maturity and a strong work ethic, making him a solid training partner for his teammates. A talented runner on a team of talented runners, his times would often beat out the rest of the Keys pack.

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 4, 2024

Colbin Hill

SENIOR KEY WEST Key West senior Colbin Hill had a stellar final season, improving his times over the course of the year. Hill was the Conchs’ top runner the past two seasons, with his prep career culminating in a 17:26 PR at the FHSAA Region 4 2A championships, for which he individually qualified. He brought maturity, leadership, and a relentless training schedule to his team.

Jerven Louis

Nathaniel Shugarman

JUNIOR KEY WEST

SOPHOMORE CORAL SHORES

Conchs junior Jerven Louis showed a steady improvement throughout the season, peaking at precisely the right moment. Louis didn’t just PR at districts; he crushed his previous best by nearly a minute, breaking the 20-minute mark for the first time and finishing in 19:37. The following week at regionals, which he qualified for individually, he did it again, completing the course in 19:13. The hard-working junior is quickly making a name for himself on courses across South Florida.

Just a sophomore, Coral Shores’ Nathaniel Shugarman improved by nearly one-and-a-half minutes this season. Shugarman became the ’Canes’ top male runner, finishing in 20:48 at districts and narrowly missing an individual spot at regionals. The speedy sophomore should continue to shave off time and could make a deep run into the postseason in 2024.

13

JANUARY 4, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

EMPLOYMENT

HOUSING FOR RENT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI Notice is here by given that on January 8th, 2024, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold. The names of whose units will be sold are as follows: 103530 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 Yanet Pere – 1678 $529.85 Sean Ciccarone – 1569 $505.90 Oscar Lopez – 1752 $809.48 Wayne Mosley – 1110 $719.85 Publish: December 28, 2023 and January 4, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

February 2, 2024. A resume may be attached to the application.

Publish: January 4, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”.

NOTICE: It shall be the responsibility of each Respondent or other person addressing the Board to have an interpreter if the party is not able to understand or speak the English language.

Rick Griffin, Building Official/ Board Secretary Maria Partington, Senior Coordinator – CEB Board Monroe County Building Department Publish: January 4, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: December 28, 2023.

Personal Representative: Rebecca Ford Hayden 85261 Old Highway Islamorada, Florida 33036 Attorney for Personal Representatives: URBAN J. W. PATTERSON, ESQ. Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@yahoo.com Florida Bar No. 382035 Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A. P.O. Box 783 Islamorada, Florida 33036 Telephone: 305-664-5065 Publish: December 28, 2023 and January 4, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

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

pay at a private club, opportunities to advance.

Flexible mor ning/af ter noon/ evening hours Tuesday–Sunday.

Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ m a rat h o nya c htc l u b. c o m

LONG TERM Key Largo 2BR/2BA Spacious Doublewide, 1400 sq ft modular on canal w/40’ dock, direct ocean access.

Very nice community. $ 3 7 5 0 / m o n t h 786-258-3127

DISTRICT II ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC II) (From the City Limits of Key West to the West End of the Seven Mile Bridge) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL has an opening for an “At Large” representative - Any resident who is not directly involved in a tourism business and who shall represent the general public and shall live or work within the tax collection district for which they are applying. (The operative word within this description is directly. This word means someone who is not in business, nor whose business or economic activity are dependent upon tourists.)

Any person wishing to participate on the District II Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys. com. Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address below: Department DAC Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040 The deadline for receipt of application at the above address is 5:00 p.m. on Friday

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING: MONROE COUNTY CONTRACTORS EXAMINING BOARD MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Notice is Hereby Given To Whom it may concern, that on Tuesday, January 16, 2024 the Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (CEB) will hold a scheduled meeting at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Second Floor, BOCC Room, Marathon, Florida scheduled to commence at 9:30 A.M. This meeting is to hear the following: any person(s) to come before the board; any reports from Monroe County Assistant Attorney; any reports from Monroe County Building Official; any reports from Staff.

The Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (“CEB”) will review Certificate of Competency Trade applications and the Industry Input Section. All public participation in this meeting may be conducted via Communication Media Technology (“CMT”) using Zoom Webinar platform, during the scheduled meeting.

Meeting Agenda and Zoom Webinar information is available 7 days prior to meeting date on the Monroe County Web Calendar and the Contractors Examining Board webpage: www. monroecounty-fl.gov PURSUANT TO FLORIDA STATUTE SECTION 286.0105, be advised that, if a person decides to appeal the decision made by the Contractors’ Examining Board with respect to any matter considered at today’s hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he or she 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 recommendations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator's Office, by

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2023-CP-122-P IN RE: ESTATE OF STANLEY SAMUEL HAYDEN, JR. Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of STANLEY SAMUEL HAYDEN, JR., deceased, whose date of death was August 26, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

AUTOS WANTED

Place your BOAT SLIP FOR RENT ad here for $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today COMMERCIAL

SPACE FOR RENT New warehouses for rent in the Upper Keys.

4 units avail., 600 sq ft each, 20 ft. high ceilings, ½ bath in each unit. $2,500.00/month. 3059 2 4 - 0 5 9 3 EMPLOYMENT

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

Runs or Not. $CASH 305-332-0483

BAHAMAS BEACH Family Retreat Needs Retired Caretaker Couple. Call or text 3054 3 9 - 9 9 9 1

AUTOS FOR SALE

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.

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

954-445-6647 2009 Toyota Rav4 166k miles - excellent running condition.

Located in Marathon. $5,500 305-393-3230 SOLD IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK! 2008 Acura TL. Recent rebuilt A/C. Brand new battery.

Runs wells $2,995.

Located in Key Largo.

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

SOLD IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK! Place your AUTO FOR SALE ad here for $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

SUDOKU SOLUTION

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

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time bartender for event nights. $12/hr plus guaranteed gratuity, employee meal provided, private club environment.

Variety of afternoon/ evening hours available Tuesday – Sunday.

Call 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ m a rat h o nya c htc l u b. c o m .

Looking for happy personality with good customer service skills to complete staff in fun Keys Gift Shop in Marathon. Part time to start. Call 305 731 6947 for appointment.

City of Marathon Current Job Openings: Administrative Asst. Fire Department and Right of Way Technician. Full Benefits. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us Marathon 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 Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time line cook. Responsible for food and kitchen prep.

Competitive

The Housing Authority Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: PT Receptionist, Assistant Director of Housing-Key West, Occupancy & Admissions AssistantKey West, Protective Service Aide, Housing Manager-Middle Keys, 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.

Habitat ReStore in Marathon is seeking a Retail Manager. Send resume to admin@ habitatmiddlekeys. org. Retail experience necessary.

EOE & Drug Free Workplace.

Starting Salary $50,000.

No benefits currently.

HIRED IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!

Place your Help Wanted ad here for $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305743-0844 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

Large One Bedroom Suite, Conch House, carpet, tile, appliances, fully furnished in Marathon.

Available now. $2,000/month includes electric, water, sewer, cable, internet.

No Pets. 305-610-8002 2 Bedroom 1 Bath house in Marathon.

Tile & carpet floors, new appliances, gated property. 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.

HOUSING WANTED

M a t u r e professional female seeks empty or furnished living space in Key West.

Need Washer/Dryer, Private Bath & Kitchen.

202-531-9878 RV LOT FOR RENT

Large RV Waterfront Lot with Dockage for rent in Marathon.

Full hook up. $1950/ month plus utilities.

F/L/S 305-731-5042 Large RV Lot for Rent in Marathon.

Full hook up. $1600/ month plus utilities.

F/L/S 305-731-5042 VACATION RENTAL

Key West House For Rent 28 day minimum.

Recently renovated. 2 Units: 3BR/3BA or 2BR/2.5BA. 1 block to Schooner Wharf @ Historic Seaport.

Starting $ 2 1 4 / n i g h t .

SweetCarolineSeaport. c o m 3BR/2.5BA for rent in Key Largo - on the water with dockage available.

Jan/Feb/ March 954-445-6647 YARD SALES

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

14

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / JANUARY 4, 2024

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844 HAPPY NEW YEAR!

HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM THE KEYS W E E K L Y NE WSPAPERS! WISHING YOU GOOD HEALTH AND MUCH HAPPINESS THROUGHOUT THE COMING YEAR!

PAPA JOE’S WATERFRONT in Islamorada is in final stages of construction and looking forward to an end-of-January opening!!

SUNSET GRILLE IS HIRING

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

Monday-Friday with some overtime available.

• 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

WE ARE HIRING! Plant Store/Nursery Associate (PT) Sat–Tues 9AM–5 PM Position requires a min. of high school completion and 1 yr. exp. Must be knowledgeable in tropical plants and have good social/business skills, above average computer skills (knowledge of POS a plus). Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds. English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. FL driver’s license w/good driving record, references and background screening required.

Direct Care Staff /Driver at Adult Day Training Program KW (FT&PT) Mon-Fri Position is available at our Adult Day program. This position provided direct care service and support to our clients in the day program. This position requires the minimum of high school completion or GED. FL Driver’s license w/clean driving record, English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Pre-employment training online and in person required.

Direct Care Staff – Group Homes (PT) Mon-Wed 3PM-11PM Position requires a min. of high school completion and 1 yr. exp or 1 yr. college. FL DL w/clean driving record required. English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must.

References and background screening required.

MARC | 1401 Seminary St, Key West | www.marchouse.org

Come join our family! EOE

Now accepting applications via email for the following positions: Admin/Office-Manager Assistant General Manager Restaurant/Floor Manager(s) Beverage/Bar Manager Sous Chef(s) Kitchen Manager/Supervisor(s) We are now beginning to assemble our management team.

If you’re interested in any of these listed employment opportunities, please email your resume to FrankS@PapaJoesWaterfront.com Please be sure to attach your resume, contact info, & position(s) of interest.

Please No calls, No walk-ins at this time.

Thank you.

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.

DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATORS LOCATION: MARATHON

The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority is looking for Distribution System Operators to perform semi-skilled work, involving the repair and maintenance of FKAA water distribution and transmission systems. We provide on the job training for qualified applicants. Requires a High School, Diploma or GED and valid Florida Driver’s License. Salary: $48,909.19. Excellent benefits and opportunities for advancement.

Apply online at www.fkaa.com/212/opportunities EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

$$$ OFFICE ASSISTANT $$$

DYNASTY MARINE ASSOCIATES, 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.

Competitive compensation plus benefits.

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

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

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

Monday-Friday with some overtime available.

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

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

15

JANUARY 4, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC && LEGAL NOTICES • • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 OPENINGS AVAILABLE TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL - Customer Service Coordinator - Medical Technologist, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Medical Technologist, Laboratory - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Radiology, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Ultrasound, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - MH Multiplace Hyperbaric Tech - Pool Group Exercise Instructor - Pool Physical Therapist - Registered Nurse, $25k Sign-on Bonus*

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL - Cook, Dietary, $5k Sign-on Bonus* - Emergency Department Team Coordinator - Environmental Tech, $5k Sign-on Bonus* - Manager Food Service - Medical Technologist, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Radiology, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Patient Care Manager, Emergency Department, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Patient Experience Advocate - Pharmacy Tech, $4k Sign-on Bonus* - Phlebotomist, Laboratory - Pool Physical Therapist - Registered Nurse, Oncology-Outpatient, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Registered Nurse, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Security Officer All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. *Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience.

APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

IS HIRING!

D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals.

Overtime and benefits are available.

For full details & additional openings, please visit DAsignSource.com/careers

Network Administrator

Ensure the stable operation of the computer networks. This includes planning, developing, installing, configuring, maintaining, supporting, and optimizing all network hardware, software, and communication links.

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

Construction Foreman

Coordination and participation in the day-to-day on site construction process, to the highest quality standards.

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING!

Volunteer Resources Administrative Assistant

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.

Facilities Maintenance Apprentice

KEY LARGO

(Full-Time, Permanent) (Full-Time, Permanent)

Education Program Host (Full-Time, Permanent)

Staff Photographer

(Full-Time, Part-Time, Seasonal)

Media & Marketing Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

Advocate (PT) Behavioral Health Counselor (Child)

KEY WEST

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

MARATHON

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

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

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

*No experience required for this position. Will train.

A caring heart & helpful hands required.

Teaching... Learning... Caring

Background and drug screen req.

COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!

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

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

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

58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL