Upper Keys Weekly 24-0215

“No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he gave.” – Calvin Coolidge

February 15, 2024

TOURISM AGENCY UNDER MORE SCRUTINY

Clerk details ‘fiscal arrogance’ in latest audit | P. 4 ISLAMORADA MOVES AHEAD WITH A MANAGER Council makes selection despite some opposition | P. 5 ROMAN GASTESI RETIRING County administrator could return | P. 5

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

KEYS

123.4M

NEWSPAPERS

89240 Overseas Hwy. Suite 2 Tavernier, FL 33070 Office: 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com Editor / Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Digital Editor / Gwen Filosa gwen@keysweekly.com Director of Sales Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com Business Development Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com Account Executive Oliver Allison oliver@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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The Channel 5 Bridge as the sun rises over the Florida Keys.

DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly

Last Sunday’s Super Bowl between the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers drew 123.4 million views, making it the mostwatched TV program of all time, according to the Wall Street Journal.

STATE ATTORNEY INVESTIGATING AS LATEST AUDIT RIPS NEWMANPR AND TDC TDC will hold a special meeting about the audit on Feb. 20 GWEN FILOSA

I

gwen@keysweekly.com

n 2023, Monroe County’s public relations agency of record, NewmanPR, collected more than $1.9 million from the county. That total comes from an annual fee of $733,688, plus more than $1.1 million in expenses.

But a review of Newman PR invoices and its billing practices revealed questionable costs, documentation and reimbursement requests, noncompliance with county policies, invoicing before work was completed and a lack of a procurement process that amount to “fiscal arrogance,” according to an audit released by the Monroe County Clerk of Court Kevin Madok’s office.

And the TDC’s problems don’t stop with NewmanPR, the audit report states.

The county clerk’s in-house auditors said these issues with NewmanPR stem from the TDC marketing director, Stacey Mitchell, who is mentioned by title, not name, in the audit, “not effectively managing the TDC’s public relations agency of record,” auditors said.

Mitchell was suspended with pay in November 2023, and the county hired an outside firm to conduct a full forensic audit of the multimillion-dollar tourism agency, and come up with an action plan for improvements.

On top of a lack of oversight by the TDC is “NewmanPR’s apparent willingness to take advantage of the lack of management oversight,” auditors said.

The TDC board has scheduled a special meeting for 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 20 in Marathon at the Faro Blanco Resort and Yacht Club to review and discuss the NewmanPR audit.

The Seven Mile Bridge. DAN EIDSMOE/contributed

State Attorney’s Office investigating Discussions by county commissioners last November to hire an outside auditing firm to investigate the Florida’ Keys tourism marketing agency and partner agencies, like NewmanPR, led Monroe County State Attorney Dennis Ward to begin an investigation of his own.

Ward said he decided following the meeting that he needed a forensic audit and hired the Miami-based Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors (BPB).

County Clerk Madok’s office had conducted a preliminary in-house audit — the agency’s first in 20 years — that revealed inconsistencies and questionable billing practices.

The auditing firm of BPB’s interdisciplinary practice includes certified public accountants, fraud examiners, financial forensic specialists and computer forensic professionals.

The team’s range of services include business valuations and accounting investigations for expert testimony in commercial disputes and corporate and fraud investigations.

A forensic audit by BPB and Richard Fechter, associate director of

forensic and advisory services, will take three to four months. Fechter has led many financial fraud investigations, including a probe of a $1.3 billion Ponzi scheme.

While Ward said he couldn’t say exactly which kind of charges could come as a result of the forensic audit, he told Keys Weekly that he believes there “will be things to bring forward.”

“I’m not sure if it’s strictly criminal or civil or a combination of the two,” Ward said. “I won’t know until we get it (the audit) back.”

Newman: county’s report ‘biased’ Andy Newman, president of NewmanPR, told Keys Weekly the clerk’s audit seems biased.

“My team and I were stunned and saddened by the improper attacks on our company and the Monroe County Tourist Development Council,” Newman said. “They seemingly reflect a hostile bias which is evident in many of the clerk’s office recommendations.”

Newman hired lawyers after the October 2023 audit of the TDC. CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

MONROE COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR TO LEAVE TOP POST FEB. 23 GWEN FILOSA gwen@keysweekly.com

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oman Gastesi, the Monroe County administrator for 15 years, announced on Feb. 8 that he will retire at 5 p.m. Feb. 23, earlier than county officials had expected.

Gastesi has been in the state’s Deferred Retirement Option Program, or “the DROP,” since 2019, so county leaders knew he would be leaving sooner rather than later.

But Gastesi’s retirement decision comes at a time when the Board of County Commissioners is grappling with how to respond to Florida state leaders about the Keys’ hurricane evacuation plan – a decision tied to the number of building permits that could be made available.

“We’re on the precipice of a major move,” County Mayor Holly Raschein told Keys Weekly on Thursday. “He’s on the administrative side of things, which is a critical component.”

At the same time, Keys residents are increasingly concerned about environmental, workforce housing and quality of life issues.

Gastesi, though, has left the door open to return to county work, even as a volunteer first.

It’s all about timing and state retirement rules, he told Keys Weekly.

State law prohibits Gastesi from being employed with Monroe County during the first six months after his retirement date.

But he said he’s interested in volunteering during that period and could be rehired later. The BOCC will discuss his options at their Feb. 21 meeting in Key West.

The county administrator carries out the day-to-day operations of the BOCC and oversees 26 county departments.

At its Feb. 21 meeting in Key West, the BOCC will consider a

County Administrator Roman Gastesi. CONTRIBUTED

resolution appointing another Keys government veteran, Assistant County Administrator Kevin Wilson, to serve as the acting county administrator.

Wilson has been with Monroe County since July 2006.

Gastesi, who lives in Islamorada, has no plans to leave the community, county spokeswoman Kristen Livengood said in a statement. He does plan to travel this summer, including a trip to Brazil to run a marathon.

“I have nothing but respect and friendship for Roman,” Raschein said. “He puts our community first and his passion and commitment to the Keys is second to none.”

Gastesi, known as affable and accessible in his role as county administrator, started working for the county in May 2008.

“Through Gastesi’s leadership, the county has abolished FEMA’s downstairs insurance inspection program, purchased Rowell’s Waterfront Park in Key Largo, rehabilitated the portion of the Old 7 Mile Bridge connecting Marathon to Pigeon Key, and created the centralized sewer system,” Livengood said.

Gastesi also helped establish a canal restoration program, started a sea-level rise adaptation program and implemented a legislative affairs program that has brought in hundreds of millions of dollars to the Keys.

He worked to finance major capital projects without tapping local tax money, such as the Key West International Airport expansion and the new emergency operations center in Marathon.

ISLAMORADA PICKS ROB COLE AS MANAGER

I

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

slamorada council members rebounded from their inability to select a permanent village manager at a meeting last month. On Feb. 13, the council successfully revived a failed motion and approved former Scarsdale, New York manager Rob Cole as the next village manager during a Feb. 13 meeting at Founders Park Community Center.

A motion to reconsider selecting Cole was brought forward by Councilman Mark Gregg. He was among the “no” votes, alongside Mayor Buddy Pinder and Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney, to hire Cole at a Jan. 22 meeting despite acknowledging interest in him.

In his comments last month, Gregg said he believed a 5-0 vote was needed to show full confidence in whoever was going to be selected to the seat, which has been filled by several interim managers per an agreement with Monroe County. Kimberly Matthews, the county’s senior director of strategic planning and libraries, is in the seat per a 60-day agreement.

Gregg said he received many phone calls from village residents who believed the Jan. 22 meeting was an embarrassment due to the council’s inability to select a manager following a roughly six-month search.

“The summary of comments I got were, ‘You made a mistake, we need to move forward with a manager,’” Gregg said. “The last full-time manager was more than six months ago. We agreed to a process, it’s the end of the process and it’s time to make a decision.

“It’s not about me and what I want, but it’s about people who put us in these chairs to do our job and lead the community forward. Sometimes you

Rob Cole speaks to the village council during a Jan. 17 meet-and-greet at Founders Park Community Center.

CONTRIBUTED

have to make decisions when people are unhappy,” Gregg continued.

Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney said she liked Cole, but thought he’d be better suited in an assistant manager position and work under Matthews.

Mahoney said Cole told each council member he’d be willing to serve in an assistant role.

Mayor Buddy Pinder wasn’t in favor of reconsidering a motion for Cole as manager. He, too, sided with Mahoney on bringing Cole in as an assistant manager.

“I wouldn’t mind doing that, especially while we have Kimberly,” Pinder said. “If Mr. Cole is everything and he’s over the top and works well with staff, I don’t have a problem. We can bring it back and vote on it at that time.”

A motion to reconsider a resolution at the Jan. 22 for Cole for manager was approved via 4-1 vote. Pinder was the lone “no.” With the resolution back on the table, the council proceeded to vote 5-0 to approve Cole as manager.

— Visit keysweekly.com for the full story.

MAN WANTED IN KIDNAPPING NABBED IN THE KEYS

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35-year-old Mukwonago, Wisconsin man wanted by federal authorities for kidnapping a 13-year-old girl in South Carolina was arrested by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office in a Key Largo parking lot on Feb. 13.

The sheriff’s office received information that Tyler Michael Berlick may be en route to Monroe County, Florida.

He and the juvenile were located in a Dodge Ram pickup truck at the Pink Plaza shopping center parking lot at approximately 3:24 a.m.

The Florida Department of Children and Families was notified. The FBI is the primary investigative agency in this case.

— Contributed

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

BRIEFLY

WINTER FESTIVAL Thank you to Our Generous Sponsors!

Shell World CBT Construction Coldwell Banker Schmitt RE Co Island Air Control Regan Roth Insurance Agency Tolley and Hill, CPAs Siobhan Levinson Bayside Plumbing Berry's Paint and Hardware Capt. Richard Stanczyk Charter Pest Control Dr Lu Elaine Johnson Everyone Loves a Gentle Dentist Florida Keys Pediatric & Adolescent Center GTB Boat Sales Jeannine Cook, Realtor Key Largo Group Exercise Keys Weekly Leeward Plumbing Lindholm Roofing Patti Stanley Rex Air Saxe Veterinary Services South State Bank Tropical Home Construction Truck Max

A Big Thank You to: CBT Construction Rotary Club of the Upper Keys FKEC Founders Park Burton Memorial United Methodist Normand Gonsalves Electric And All Our Volunteers!

Musicians: The Key Largo Wood Rats Tim Dressing Bill Falvey John Possis Jorge “Chief” Trevino Pam Feeser Carlos Valdes and Band The Sunshine Band Ukulele Joy Band

AUCTION DONORS African Queen Al's Carpet Amy's Creations of the FL Keys Anonymous AquaBlue Adventures Bay and Reef Co Betty's Health Food Big Chill Bitton Bistro Café Bluewater Adventure of the Keys Boilini, Dr. James Bud n' Mary's Marina Buzzard's Roost Café Largo/Bayside Grill Caribbean Club Caribee Boat Sales Ciao Bella Salon Cindy's Hair Place Davis, Sue DePaula Jewelry Dixie Aluminum Doc's Diner Dolphin Research Center Dolphins Plus-Bayside Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden Fish House Floral Fantasy Florida Bay Outfitters Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters Florida Keys Brewing Co Florida Keys Dentists Florida Keys Electric Coop Florida Keys Gift Company Florida Keys Jewelry Flying Fisherman Garrett Chiropractic Green Turtle/Kaiyo

Habanos Harbor Café Harmony Healing Havens, Tammy Hawk's Cay Hemingway House Hideout Restaurant High Tide Restaurant Hobo's Hudson, Terry Islamorada Art Gallery Islamorada Brewery & Distillery Islamorada Carpet Cleaners Islamorada Wine Co J Kindred Salon Jolene's Hidden Treasures JSK Watersports Juice House Just Hair Key Largo Art Gallery Key Largo Conch House Key Largo Fisheries Key Largo Massage-Kristi Mitchell Key Largo Yoga Key Lime Pie Factory Keys Bite Keys Kritters KLI True Value Home Center Largo Cargo Lazy Days Restaurant Lazy Lobster Restaurant Lime Tree Bay Resort Nagel, Janice Lorelei

Mangrove Mike's Mariners Wellness Center Martini's Fine Wine & Spirits Miami Marlins Midway Café Napa Key Largo-Keys Auto Supply Num Thai Oceanside Home Old Road Gallery Pilates in Paradise Pilot House Restaurant Pirates Cove Watersports Quiescence Royal Furniture RR Island Boutique Seaside Glassworks Shear Paradise Starbucks T&T Nails T&T Nails Tackle Center of Islamorada Tavernier Ace Hardware The Catch Restaurant The Room Nail Bar Theater of the Sea Tower of Pizza-Key Largo Up Your Hair Salon & Blowout Bar Upper Crust Pizza Vic's Auto Tech Wheaton's Service Center Wojciechowski, Lisa Zoo Miami

AAA: Gas prices dropped last week Florida gas prices declined 9 cents last week. The state average fell from $3.23 per gallon last Sunday to $3.14 per gallon on Feb. 11. In the Florida Keys, however, gas prices rose above the state average as of Feb. 13.

Florida’s average gas price is now on a 10-day streak of declines, falling a total of 13 cents per gallon since Feb. 1.

“Florida gas prices have recently followed a cycle where they decline for about two weeks, then shoot back up again,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA - The Auto Club Group. “That trend, plus a recent uptick in futures prices, will likely lead to a jump at the pump, possibly as early as Monday afternoon.”

Pops in the Park returns to Founders The Florida Keys Community Concert Band’s Pops in the Park returns Saturday, Feb. 17 for a concert titled “Where the Wild Things Are.” Pups, kittens, birds and farm animals are invited to prance their cuteness across the stage at the amphitheater at Founders Park in Islamorada. Any animal that is well-behaved around people is welcome.

This free concert features familiar animal-themed music and play-along instruments for the audience. The event is brought to you by professional and amateur band members of all ages who love to make music. Special guests from the Humane Animal Care Coalition will be there to offer education and have some adoptable fur babies.

Homeowner Associations meeting Feb. 19 The Island of Key Largo Federation of Homeowner Associations will be holding its annual membership meeting Monday, Feb. 19 at the Key Largo Civic Club, 209 Ocean Bay Dr., at 6 p.m. The meeting can be attended in person or via Zoom. The speaker will be Julie Cheon, Monroe County special projects administrator for environmental resources. Her topic will explore the value of tropical hardwood hammocks. The meeting is open to the public.

Scan the QR code for the Zoom link.

Sanctuary council to meet Feb. 20 Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council will meet on Tuesday, Feb. 20, at 9 a.m. at city council chambers in Marathon.

The council will hear updates from the Mission: Iconic Reefs program, including a briefing on the winter follow-up survey cruise. Other topics include incident reporting, sponge restoration, and NOAA’s Ocean Guardian Schools Program. A public comment opportunity will be offered at approximately noon.

An agenda and supporting materials will be posted at floridakeys. noaa.gov/sac. For questions or information prior to the meeting, please contact Liz Trueblood (elizabeth. trueblood@noaa.gov).

Sheriff: Woman arrested for alleged fraud A 59-year-old Tavernier woman was charged after she allegedly stole nearly $34,000 from a Key Largo homeowners association. Peggy Anne West was charged with multiple counts of forgery as well as fraud and larceny among other financialrelated crimes.

A sheriff’s office investigation revealed that West, a former bookkeeper for the organization, overpaid herself and misused the organization’s credit cards beginning in 2021 for a litany of purchases such as clothes, hotels, and other personal items totaling approximately $33,939.

Warrants were obtained for her arrest and she was arrested on Feb. 5 in Orange County, Florida.

Sheriff: Traffic stop brings drug charges A 60-year-old Homestead resident was arrested on Feb. 8 following a traffic stop on U.S. 1 in Key Largo.

Roberto Montenegro Rosales was charged with DUI, possession of cocaine and possession of pills without a prescription.

The sheriff’s office received reports of a southbound Ford SUV that was unable to maintain its lane on the 18-Mile Stretch. The sheriff’s office observed the SUV driving similarly and conducted a traffic stop near MM 106.

Deputies say they discovered a small amount of cocaine and a bottle of prescription pills not prescribed to Montenegro Rosales.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

BUILDING HEALTHY FAMILIES

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

Attendees at last year’s Black Tie benefit take to the dance floor. MARK FUNKHOUSER/Contributed

Black Tie fundraiser set for March 1

W

ork by Wesley House Family Services may not be as visible as that of other nonprofits in the Florida Keys. But through its programs, Wesley House is helping communities up and down the island chain one family at a time.

“When a family is reunited with their kids and is getting the help they need to be stronger and self-sufficient, I think it trickles down as a whole in the community,” said Grace Epperly, development coordinator with Wesley House.

In times when children are determined by the court to be at risk of abuse, neglect or abandonment, the team at Wesley House steps into the situation. Not only do case workers ensure the safety of children by finding them a comfortable, stable environment, but they also help the biological family address the issues that drew attention from the Florida Department of Children and Families.

Wesley House deals with all aspects of the child welfare system throughout Monroe County, including foster care, supervised visitation, child abuse prevention services, foster parent licensing and adoptions of children in foster care who cannot be reunited with their families.

“A lot of what we do is confidential and behind closed doors,” Epperly said. “Unless you’re in law enforcement or in the school system, you wouldn’t really know that kids are in foster care and this is happening to them. But it is happening.”

Epperly said Wesley House continues to recruit foster parents. Right now, the county only has seven foster homes. Wesley House is in the process of hosting foster parent training classes throughout the Keys.

“We want to have a variety of

foster parents throughout the Keys,” Epperly said. “That way, when a child is removed in the Upper Keys, that child can stay in the Upper Keys rather than be relocated to Marathon or Key West.”

Wesley House provides intervention programs for families at risk of having their children removed from the home, as well as 16-week parenting classes which are typically courtordered in order for a parent to be reunited with their children. They also have a free, voluntary Healthy Families program for expecting parents and those with babies.

Since 2005, Wesley House has provided support to more than 300 children in Monroe County each year. The team’s had a presence in the Upper Keys, but now Wesley House is preparing for a move to its new location at the former Lions Club in Key Largo. Epperly said renovations at the facility are expected to be finished in 2024, and proceeds from the upcoming Black Tie Benefit on March 1 at Playa Largo Resort & Spa will support Wesley House’s expansion efforts. Epperly said they’re seeking to construct a new playground for supervised visits between parents and their children.

“Supervised visits are a big component of what Wesley House does for children in foster care so they can maintain relationships with their families,” Epperly said. “It’s an important step in the supervised visitation process. They (the parents) have to graduate to take their children outside for a visit. They have to prove they can have productive visits in a safe location. It may not be a big deal to the regular person, but it is when you’re working to be reunited with your kids.”

Tickets are $300 and include an open bar throughout the evening, hors d’oeuvres beginning at 6 p.m., and dinner beginning at 7:30. After the program, dance the night away to DJ Card. Tickets are available at www. wesleyhouse.org/keylargoblacktie.

TDC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 In a 14-page response to the NewmanPR audit, his attorney says the clerk’s audit is a collection of opinions about the contract and rejects an earlier finding by the county attorney.

“The clerk’s opinion is a manifesto revealing the clerk’s disdain for the contract with NewmanPR and the overall operation of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council/ Visit Florida Keys,” wrote Newman’s attorney Russell A. Yagel.

For starters, Yagel said the county’s contract with NewmanPR doesn’t require Newman to follow Monroe County purchasing policies for hiring subcontractors. As for double-billing accusations, Yagel said the county’s top lawyer, Bob Shillinger, had already settled that question.

At the Nov. 8 meeting of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners, County Attorney Bob Shillinger said he found no evidence of double billing by NewmanPR. Newman’s photography services, which are the crux of the clerk’s double-billing argument, aren’t included within the scope of the monthly fee Newman gets, Shillinger said.

“The clerk is free to have a different view,” Shillinger told the commissioners.

The clerk’s audit’s double-billing argument cites Newman’s reimbursement for a hotel room in Key West to cover Hemingway Days. Newman put the room down as public relations work, and then put in for the photography work he did during the event separately.

That’s how the contract works, Yagel said, adding it would have cost the county more had Newman hired a photographer to cover the event.

A 43-year relationship Originally started by Stuart Newman, NewmanPR has been the Tourist Development Council’s top marketing firm for 43 years and known in legal papers as the TDC’s public relations agency of record.

The first contract between Monroe County’s TDC and NewmanPR in the early 1980s called for a total of $500,000 in compensation for advertising promotion, public relations and marketing services. Of the half-million paid, $44,000 was allotted for PR. By 1986, services provided by NewmanPR no longer included advertising but rather focused exclusively on public relations, publicity and press relations with compensation of $100,000, plus reimbursable expenses. Today, NewmanPR is defined in its contract as a “full-service public relations agency for the Monroe County

TDC and county,” Madok’s auditors said.

Newman’s work promotes the Florida Keys as a tourist destination, with a goal of keeping the islands in national news cycles. A professional photographer himself, Newman is known for delivering aerial shots of the island chain and write-ups of Keys events, bolstered by a team of professionals, to news outlets across the world.

A four-decade tenure with a contractor like NewmanPR has benefits, the county’s auditors said, but that length of a business relationship “also runs the risk of creating a sense of complacency between those executing oversight over a contractor and the contractor themselves.”

“We recommend that the BOCC work with the TDC to consider all available options on how best to proceed to fully restore the public’s trust and confidence in the TDC’s business operations,” the audit states.

One solution, the auditors said, is for the BOCC to consider ending the county’s current TDC administrative contract with the nonprofit Visit Florida Keys and set up the TDC’s structure as a county department overseen by the county administrator.

A company that doesn’t exist Newman’s firm has made requests to be paid for work done by a company he calls Graphics 71.

But the firm doesn’t legally exist, which Newman’s firm admitted to the clerk’s office. Newman has said the work would have been subcontracted out anyway.

“NewmanPR admitted that any checks that NewmanPR made payable to Graphics 71 were ultimately destroyed because no bank would cash the checks made out to a nonexistent company,” auditors reported.

“In other words, NewmanPR used a nonexistent company as a conduit to claim they made payments eligible for reimbursement when, in fact, no payments were made for there to be valid reimbursable expenses.”

This is a “minor, frequent oversight by small businesses and easily rectifiable,” Newman’s attorney, Russell A. Yagel, said.

Auditors, however, said the fictional company set-up “suggests NewmanPR regularly demonstrated a general disregard for the expenditure of public monies. NewmanPR requested, received, and retained funds for a nonexistent expense.”

Upper Keys Editor Jim McCarthy contributed reporting for this story.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

THANK YOU! More than 250 guests attended

BOUGAINVILLEA GOLD SPONSORS

A Bougainvillea Evening of

Gratitude benefiting Baptist Health Mariners Hospital, which was held

on January 27, 2024 at the Cheeca Lodge & Spa in Islamorada,

Florida. The event raised over $260,000 as the Foundation

Kathy White DAF Charitable Fund BIRD OF PARADISE SILVER SPONSORS

Jeannie Bolesky

celebrated its Giving Society

members and other donors to

Baptist Health Mariners Hospital

in Tavernier. All proceeds from the evening will support the hospital’s most critical needs. Thank you

ORCHID BRONZE SPONSORS

committee and attendees for

Barb & Mike Benninger and Family

to the sponsors, donors, event

making this event a huge success.

We are truly grateful for your continuous support of your community resource, Mariners Hospital.

Elaine & William Gilbert Jr. KeysBank.com

Barbara Pugh & Brian DeVries

Rich Family Foundation

13

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Baptist Health Foundation VP, Barbara James; Baptist Health President & CEO, Bo Boulenger; Liz Boulenger; Mariners Hospital Board Chair, Bette Brown; Baptist Health Foundation Mariners Hospital Council Chair, Patti Stanley; Mariners Hospital & Fishermen’s Community Hospital CEO, Drew Grossman; Event Chair & Monroe County Mayor, Holly Raschein; Emily Carter; Christina Steele; Claudia Stober; Maggie Diaz; and Baptist Health EVP & Chief Administrative Officer, Joe Natoli

Conrad & Missy Muhly

Carla Bahn, Don Horton, Rosemary & Greg Dully

Audra & Bobby Wallace

Jason Koler & Rob Stober

Charlotte Porter, Barbara Pugh & Brian DeVries

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Giving@BaptistHealth.net BaptistHealth.net/Giving

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

SLAMS AT THE SWAMP

Captain duo catches 13 bonefish in tournament win

C RAISE THE REEF GALA 2023 bleaching brings coral restoration urgency

C

oral Restoration Foundation is gearing up for its 10th annual fundraising gala at Ocean Reef Club on Saturday, March 2. This gala plays a pivotal role in the ongoing efforts to save and restore imperiled coral reefs in Florida and beyond.

In the aftermath of the devastating 2023 mass bleaching event, CRF is more committed than ever to coral restoration efforts in Florida. With the future of these vital ecosystems hanging in the balance, never has the financial support generated at Raise the Reef 2024 been more crucial. The funds raised during this event will not only aid in local restoration endeavors but will also contribute to the development of cutting-edge tools that will drive reef restoration work on a global scale, and to sustaining the foundation’s world-class education and public outreach program.

Guests attending the gala will be treated to an evening filled with cocktails, dinner and auctions. This year, the silent auction is open to everyone, not just attendees, offering a fantastic opportunity for all to contribute to CRF’s mission.

A highlight of the evening will be a keynote speech delivered by marine scientist and renowned underwater filmmaker Shireen Rahimi. Rahimi’s work is a powerful fusion of science and art, where she employs her academic expertise to narrate environmental stories. Through her lens, she

Top: A painting of Carysfort Reef off Key Largo is unveiled during last year’s Raise the Reef auction at Ocean Reef Club. CONTRIBUTED. Bottom: Guests are treated to an evening filled with cocktails, dinner and auctions at last year’s gala.

crafts tales that are rooted in scientific research, enriched with emotional depth and driven by relatable characters.

Rahimi’s specialty lies in using underwater cinematography and photography to shed light on the profound impacts of climate change and human activities on tropical coral reef ecosystems. Her work also emphasizes the connection between these ecosystems and the communities that depend on them for their livelihoods.

For people who want to participate, but can’t make the gala, CRF is offering sponsorship and underwriting opportunities.

The silent auction kicks off on Saturday, Feb. 24 and runs through Saturday, March 2 at 7 p.m. Local pickup is available for all winning bids.

Text CRF to 56651 to register for the silent auction. (If you have purchased a ticket to the gala, then you are already registered for the silent auction).

Tickets and more information on sponsorship opportunities are at https://www.coralrestoration.org/raisethe-reef-2024.

— Contributed

aptains Pauly Ross of Tavernier, and KC Spaulding of Islamorada captured grand champion team honors during the Swamp Guides Ball tournament on Feb. 3.

The all-release backcountry fishing challenge targets bonefish, redfish and snook; rules mandate that guides can fish alongside anglers. Catching each of the three targeted species to achieve a “slam” is no easy feat, but this year’s field of elite anglers brought in a total of 13 team and 11 individual slams.

The grand champion duo of Ross and Spaulding tallied 13 bonefish, one redfish and six snook to take the top prize.

In addition, Spaulding won the most bonefish award with seven of the gray ghosts. Other individual species catch awards went to Capt.

Brian Helms of Homestead, who took the most snook award with 11; and Captain Jared Raskob, of Tavernier, for most redfish with four.

Close behind the grand champions in second place was the runnerup team of Capt. Richard Black and Caleb Bokor, both of Islamorada.

Their 19-fish total included nine

bonefish, four redfish and six snook.

Bokor, age 14, was also named junior grand champion for his 12-fish total of five bonefish, three redfish and four snook.

Islamorada’s Capt. Tommy Locke was named fly champion for his four bonefish, caught while fishing with teammate Capt. Brandon Cyr of Key West.

Female grand champion angler Kim Clement, of Tavernier, released six fish in her slam of three bonefish, two redfish and one snook. Clement fished with Tavernier teammate Poppy Brownlee and the duo was guided

by Islamorada’s Capt. Jack Given.

A total of 58 boats with 114 anglers caught and released 198 fish — 14 on fly and 184 on spin — with species totals of 54 bonefish, 39 redfish and 105 snook.

The annual tournament benefits the Florida Keys Fishing Guides Foundation and the Guides Trust Foundation, organizations that assist fishing guides who can’t work because of serious injury or illness.

The next Swamp Guides Ball is set for Feb. 7-8, 2025, according to tournament organizers.

— Contributed

TROPHY HUNTING Capt. Cone leads team to sailfish tournament win

Team Trophy Hunter poses with their first-place hardware at the Jan. 17 Islamorada Fishing Club Captain’s Sailfish Tournament. TIM RAHN PHOTOGRAPHY/Contributed

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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Sikkel’s talk will cover parasitism, the most common lifestyle in the marine environment. He will focus on some ways that certain parasites affect their hosts and the dynamics of host-parasite interaction in coral reef ecosystems. Additionally, he will discuss ways that parasites can influence invasive species.

The presentation will be at the Visitor Center and Aquarium building at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. The park is located at MM 102.5, oceanside; there is no cost to enter the park for the lecture series. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the lecture begins at 7:30. Seating is limited, so it is recommended that visitors arrive on time to be assured of a seat in the auditorium, which is wheelchair accessible. Bring your own cushion for added seating comfort. Temperatures in the auditorium vary and a sweater or light jacket may be desired. Please help accommodate those who are chemically sensitive by not wearing fragrances and other scented products.

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Paul Sikkel is research professor in marine biology and ecology at the University of Miami. CONTRIBUTED

Parasites and their influence on the coral reef is the subject at a Feb. 21 lecture at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

tori, park services specialist, at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, 305-676-3786. For more information on Florida’s state parks, visit www. floridastateparks.org.

— Contributed

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

CHILDREN’S SHELTER VISIT FOXES SALTY

Salty is a friendly 1- to 2-year-old rottweiler mix. He’s gentle and good with other dogs.

If you’re ready to open your heart and home to Salty, please apply at www.mprescues.org.

Two-day Health Fest this weekend in Key Largo

H

i friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” Pawsitive Beginnings in Key Largo is undergoing some major renovations, which have left some of us foxes having to live outside like wild animals. Our mom, founder Nicole Navarro, has completely redone the back room of the house to make it way easier for her to clean and less easy for us to destroy.

There is now epoxy on the floor and a reinforced wall since we may or may not have started tunneling through the wall to get to her bedroom. Oops. It should all be finished by the upcoming weekend, so I am just excited to be back inside the house where I belong. I am far too fragile for this outdoor living.

We had some amazing young visitors from the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter (FKCS) visit last week as part of our ongoing animal-assisted therapy partnership. These three young individuals had a good time visiting us. I was my typical, charming self and Coral was hogging all the good scratches.

They were very interested in learning more about the fur trade and where we came from and how they could help stop fur farming. It was very sweet. They even were excited to pose with one of mom’s protest signs.

Then, I got word that they went back to FKCS and wanted to Google how to become an animal activist. If they are the future of the anti-fur movement, we foxes are in good hands.

This weekend, local residents are invited to Ocean Dreams Healing Center’s Health Fest at Key Largo Community Park. Grab the family and

your friends and experience this festival that’s all in the name of life. Enjoy live music, various local businesses and health professionals, community service providers REEF THE FOX and nonprofits collaborating together to promote fun, Reef is a red fox food, music and that was saved from a fur farm. health. The free He now lives in event starts SaturKey Largo with day, Feb. 17 at 10 his human, Nicole a.m. and ends at 7 Navarro. p.m. The festivities continue on Sunday, Feb. 18 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This is something I’ve never done before, but since this is a place that is near and dear to my mom’s heart, I’m going to go ahead and give advance notice for the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Animal Farm open house on Sunday, Feb. 25 from 1 to 3 p.m.

It is completely free, but donations are welcome and appreciated. Some of you may not be aware that the sheriff’s animal farm is where mom first fell in love with foxes back in 2018, and well, the rest, as they say, is history. I hear my mom will actually be at the open house that day with some very special guests that are visiting from the West Coast.

That’s all for this week. Stay up to date with all things fox by visiting our website at pawsitivebeginnings.org.

Until next time, Reef, over and out!

SAVE THE DATE Thursday, Feb. 15 • Morada Way Art Walk from 6 to 9 p.m. at Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, MM 81.6, Islamorada. Visit moradaway.org to learn more.

Friday, Feb. 16 • Screening of “We Are Friends of Old Seven” documentary produced by Marathon resident Cliff Rydell, at 4:30 p.m. at Key Largo library.

• Beats on the Bay Music Series welcomes Kendell Marvel, acclaimed solo artist known for blending Southern twang and vocals, at 6:30 p.m. at Founders Park amphitheater, Islamorada.

Saturday, Feb. 17 • Annual 5K Run/ Walk with Deer at 8 a.m. at Big Pine Community Park, 21009 Atlantis Blvd., Big Pine Key. Scan QR code to sign up.

• Ocean Dreams Healing Center’s Health Fest from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Key Largo Community Park.

• The Garden Club of the Upper Keys’ Garden Walk from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit gardenwalkupperkeys.org to learn more.

• Florida Keys Community Concert Band’s Pops in the Park at 4 p.m. at Founders Park amphitheater.

Sunday, Feb. 18 • Ocean Dreams Healing Center’s Health Fest from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Key Largo Community Park.

• Florida Keys Brewing Co’s 9th anniversary party and iguana races from noon to 10 p.m. The event is free.

Monday, Feb. 19 • Island of Key Largo Federation of Homeowner Associations meeting at 6 p.m.

Guest speaker is Julie Cheon, county special projects administrator of environmental resources. Meeting is in person and on Zoom. Scan the QR code for a Zoom link to the meeting.

Tuesday, Feb. 20 • Florida Keys Concert Association welcomes Trio Con Brio Copenhagen, a piano trio from Denmark, at 7:30 p.m. at Coral Shores Performing Arts Center.

Wednesday, Feb. 21 • JOY classes from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church, MM 87.5, bayside, Islamorada.

Visit justolderyouthinc.org to view the full schedule of activities.

• Historian Corey Malcom presents “Monroe 200,” an overview of the forces and events that have shaped Monroe County from its inception to today, at 1 p.m. at Key Largo library.

• History of Diving Museum Immerse Yourself lecture series welcomes David Saint-Pierre, author of “Empress of Ireland” at 7 p.m. Visit divingmuseum.org to learn more.

21

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

BESTSELLERS • CHILDREN'S SECTION LOCAL AUTHORS • GIFTS & GIFT CARDS

The Florida-friendly landscaping plan promotes ecologically resilient outdoor spaces while deepening their connection to nature. UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA IFAS/Contributed

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The FFL program is particularly crucial in Monroe County, given its fragile ecosystems susceptible to coastal erosion, habitat fragmentation, invasive species, climate change vulnerabilities, limited freshwater resources and the intricate balance of diverse habitats.

The FFL program promotes principles emphasizing water conservation, soil health, biodiversity, and integrated pest management, forming the foundation for landscapes that enhance beauty and contribute to the health of local ecosystems.

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Water efficiently: Implementing irrigation systems and watering practices that minimize water waste and

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Fertilize appropriately: Apply fertilizers in the correct amounts at the right times and use slow-release or organic fertilizers to minimize nutrient runoff and pollution of water bodies.

Mulch: Adding a layer of organic material such as wood chips or compost to the soil surface to retain moisture, suppress weed growth, and improve soil health by enhancing nutrient content and microbial activity.

Attract wildlife: Incorporating native plants and habitats that attract beneficial insects, birds and other wildlife to the landscape, promoting biodiversity and ecological balance.

Manage yard pests responsibly: Employing integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that prioritize non-chemical pest control methods such as biological controls, habitat modification, and mechanical removal, minimizing the use of pesticides and their impact on the environment.

Recycle yard waste: Composting yard trimmings, leaves, and other organic waste materials to produce nutrient-rich compost for use in the garden, reducing waste sent to landfills and promoting sustainable gardening practices.

Reduce stormwater runoff: Implementing measures such as rain gardens, permeable paving and vegetative buffers to slow down and filter stormwater runoff, reducing soil erosion and pollution of water bodies.

Protect the waterfront: Establishing vegetative buffers and erosion control measures along water bodies to prevent soil erosion, filter pollutants and maintain water quality in rivers, lakes and coastal areas.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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23

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

‘ALMOST SEXY’ ART SHOW TAKES TO KONA KAI GALLERY

ARTIST’S CORNER

Kaminstein takes ceramics & clay to next level

P

alms and other fauna situated along a pathway led visitors to the site of an opening art show at Kona Kai Gallery. Inside was a collection of new art titled “Almost Sexy” by Islamorada abstract artist Beth Kaminstein.

Kaminstein’s father was an WILLIAM inventor who loved to paint. He DEPAULA was self-taught while serving in the Army. He would continue to is an artist, paint his entire life. As a young designer and girl, Kaminstein would always be gemologist who believes in the drawing. Her mother encourpower of art. aged her creativity by having a local potter friend teach ceramics when Kaminstein was 16.

Kaminstein graduated from Bennington College in Vermont majoring in ceramics, drawing and dance. Even though many locals know her as a longtime staple in the Keys – she moved to Islamorada in 1989 – Kaminstein has lived in renowned art cities like Florence and New York City. In the Upper Keys, she has accomplished many things for the benefit of our community. This includes helping create the municipality known as Islamorada with her late husband and Keys icon, Ron Levy. She helped create a playground in the park behind the Helen Wadley library in Islamorada. She built and ran Montessori Island charter school.

Kaminstein’s art career can be summarized with the following mantra: “Expect nothing, work hard, celebrate” — a saying by Kaminsein’s friend and fellow artist, Jules Olitski. In simple terms, figurative art chooses to represent something, so we are focusing outward on what we see in the subject and how it is depicted in the art. Abstract art is more about looking inward, the emotions and the feelings that you get when you look at the art.

Kaminstein’s work takes ceramics, clay and drawing to a new level. She creates a new vision with her use of glazes as much as not using the glazes; her work has movement that only a dancer could create. Her abstract forms often give hints of nature and an appreciation of the natural world. It is rare to see abstract works Kaminstein that would fit so easily into a garden, another reason the gardens of Kona Kai are a perfect location to appreciate her new collection.

If you ever get the pleasure of meeting Kaminstein, you will find yourself face-to-face with a person with so much knowledge of the arts. She knows and understands the arts like a mother knows her children.

“I love the early Renaissance painters such as Masaccio, Giotto and Fra Angelico; then comes Donatello and Bernini,” Kaminstein said. “After them, El Greco and Delacroix, Manet, Monet, Bonnard, Matisse, Miro and Picasso; also, Ryder, Dove, O’Keefe, Frankenthaler and Pollack.”

Kaminstein draws often and sometimes all of that drawing helps her visualize abstract ideas.

When crafting her art, she starts working directly with the clay rather than from a sketch of what she is going to make. Kaminstein creates in a studio at home, and she can be found working and exploring new ideas and hopes they will get realized into something.

Kaminstein’s newest works can be seen at Kona Kai Resort and Gallery in Key Largo, MM 97.8, oceanside, 97802 Overseas Highway. Visit bethkaminstein.com to view her work.

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24

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

February 15, 2024

SULTANS OF SWING

Looking back on Key West’s biggest bats | P.8

3

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

FEB. 15

THE SCOREBOARD

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Team

Sport

Opponent

Date

Result

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Everglades Prep

2/5

W, 60-43

Marathon

Girls Basketball

Westminster Christian

2/5

L, 48-31

Key West

Girls Basketball

Gulliver

2/5

L, 55-35

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

Keys Gate

2/5

W, 48-11

Coral Shores

Boys Basketball

Silver Palms

2/6

L, 66-47

Key West

Boys Basketball

Miami Sunset

2/6

W, 58-38

Marathon

Boys Basketball

Riviera Prep

2/6

L, 101-26

Coral Shores

Boys Tennis

LaSalle

2/6

L, 7-0

Coral Shores

Girls Tennis

LaSalle

2/6

L, 7-0

Coral Shores

Girls Basketball

Somerset South Homestead

2/7

L, 55-19

Key West

Boys Basketball

Gulliver

2/8

L, 72-55

Coral Shores

Boys Tennis

LaSalle

2/8

W, 7-0

Coral Shores

Girls Tennis

LaSalle

2/8

W, 7-0

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

FEB. 15

Date

School

Sport

Opponent

Start Time

2/15

Key West & Coral Shores

Wrestling

Districts @ Coral Shores

3:30 p.m.

2/15

Coral Shores

Baseball

Preseason Tourney @ Hialeah

TBD

2/15

Key West

Tennis

Coral Shores

2 p.m.

2/15

Key West

Boys Lacrosse

Miami Country Day 6 p.m.

2/16

Key West

Baseball

Taravella

7:30 p.m.

2/16

Marathon

Baseball

Berean Christian (preseason)

5:30 p.m.

2/16

Key West

Girls Lacrosse

Palmetto

5 p.m.

2/16

Coral Shores

Boys Lacrosse

John Carroll

5 p.m.

2/17

Key West

Baseball

Taravella

7:30 p.m.

2/17

Key West

Boys Lacrosse

John Carroll

2 p.m.

2/17

Key West

Girls Lacrosse

Calvary Christian

4 p.m.

2/20

Marathon

Tennis

Coral Shores

2 p.m.

2/20

Coral Shores

Baseball

ABF Homestead

6:30 p.m.

2/20

Marathon

Softball

@ Colonial Christian

4 p.m.

2/20

Marathon

Baseball

Everglades Prep

4 p.m.

2/21

Coral Shores

Girls Lacrosse

@ Coral Reef High School

4 p.m.

2/21

Key West

Boys Lacrosse

Coral Shores

6 p.m.

2/21

Coral Shores

Boys Weightlifting

Marathon

4:30 p.m.

ON THE COVER Ahead of the Conchs’ 2024 baseball season, Sean McDonald takes a look back through the record books to review the 10 highest single-season batting averages in Key West’s distinguished history on the diamond. See page 8. Photos CONTRIBUTED.

THIS WEEK

AJ

JOHNSON

Senior, Coral Shores Basketball/Weightlifting

AJ always puts his team in front of his own agenda.”

– Andy Thiery, Coral Shores assistant basketball coach

219 11 lb. weight class winner

points

Coral Shores’ AJ Johnson played his final career prep basketball game on Feb. 6, using his athleticism and determination to tie for the team high of 11 points. After returning from the ’Canes’ quarterfinal playoff loss in Miami, the multitalented senior traveled to Marathon the following day and won his weight class in his next sport, weightlifting, where he is a team captain.

Johnson, described by ’Canes basketball coach Andy Thiery as hard-working and never one to complain, was given challenging roles all season and excelled in all of them.

“Throughout the season, he was always asked to guard the other team’s big guy,” Thiery explained. “He never complained, never backed down and was always able to compete because of his strength and determination, no matter how much taller the other guy was.” It is not often that an athlete dominates in two entirely different sports from separate seasons in the same calendar week, let alone on two consecutive days. For this and his teamover-self attitude, Coral Shores’ AJ Johnson is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

219-lb. winner AJ Johnson of Coral Shores in a weightlifting meet against Marathon. TRACY McDONALD/Keys Weekly

4

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / FEBRUARY 15, 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

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Managing Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Director of Sales

Manuela Carrillo Mobley manuela@keysweekly.com

Business Development

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

Production Manager

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Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Graphic Design

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

MARKET EDITORS

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

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Pitchers like senior Nevaeh Arnold will be key cogs for Key West softball as the Lady Conchs march toward another deep postseason run. ELLA HALL/Keys Weekly

THE KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP PODCAST Key West softball coach Jason Garcia & fascinating stats with Judd Wise

T

his week on the Keys Weekly Sports Wrap Podcast, Sean and Tracy will delve deeper into the sports covered in this week’s print edition. You can also look forward to some early week game results as well as some fun and fascinating statistics from the rich archives of Key West coach and archivist Judd Wise.

Softball fans can look forward to special guest Jason Garcia, head coach of the Lady Conchs, who will begin their march toward a third consecutive regional berth this season. Garcia and his team start their season off with a double-header against Westminster Christian on Friday, Feb. 23. The Lady Conchs are ranked fifth in 4A and 39th overall in the state this season coming off back-to-back Final Four appearances.

EP 41 Listen to the Sports Wrap podcast

5

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

1

2

FINS OUTLIFT ’CANES IN HOME MEET

3

4

5

Boys weightlifting teams compete in Marathon as ladies prep for states

C

oral Shores made the short trip to Marathon on Feb. 7 for an early-season weightlifting meet. Marathon won both events 4029 in the teams’ second meetup of the season. Boys weightlifting is scored similarly to the girls teams in that there are two events at each meet. Athletes all participate in the clean and jerk competition, and that score is combined with the bench press for the traditional event and snatch for the Olympic event. All winners last week won both events.

Double winners for Coral Shores were Kristers Vutans in the 139-lb. class and AJ Johnson at 219 lbs. For Marathon, Chase Leird (119), Zachary Antonelli (129), Damian Staciewicz (154), Vitalii Konyk (169), Max Childress (183), Tanner Ross (199) and Alex Cruz (238) all won their weight classes in both the traditional and Olympic events.

Both schools will compete again on Valentine’s Day in a tri-meet to be held at Gulliver Prep. Their season culminates with districts, beginning at the end of March.

All three Keys high schools are sending multiple athletes to the FHSAA Girls Weightlifting State Championships this weekend in Lakeland. If the gentlemen prove to be as talented as the ladies, their state championships will be held at the same location in mid-April.

7

8

1. Marathon’s Aiden Richard finishes in third place in the 154-lb. class.

2. 199-lb. runner-up AJ Delgado competes for Coral Shores at a Feb. 7 meet held in Marathon.

3. Marathon’s Damian Stasiewicz, the meet’s winner at 145 lbs., warms up on bench.

4. Kristers Vutnans was one of Coral Shores’ double winners last week. Vutnans competes in the 139-lb. class.

5. Dolphins’ strongman Max Childress won both events in the 183-lb. category.

6. 169-lb. lifter Sebastian Diaz of Coral Shores was second in his weight class.

7. Vitalii Konyk won the 169-lb. division in both categories on Feb. 7.

8. Hurricane athlete Xavier Johnson was second at 183 lbs.

Photos by TRACY McDONALD/Keys Weekly

6

6

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

LOCAL SOCCER PLAYERS TO REPRESENT USA IN UPCOMING YOUTH WORLD CUP Rear, from left, Kayla Serota, Farrah Valverde, Aubrey Kilmurray; front, Nevyn Walsh. Kilmurray recently joined the PSG Academy in Miami. Serota, Valverde and Walsh have been with PSG since last year and will represent team USA at the upcoming youth World Cup in Paris, France this May. MARC SEROTA/Contributed

T

hree local soccer players will don the red, white and blue in the upcoming Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) Academy’s youth World Cup in Paris, France later this spring.

Last year, the Upper Keys’ Kayla Serota, Farrah Valverde and Nevyn Walsh were picked to join the PSG Academy, one of the largest youth soccer networks that develops high-potential players. They’ve played in the Florida Keys Soccer Club for several years. All three were recently selected to represent the U.S., playing against some of the best competition from Europe, Asia, Africa and South America from May 11-15. Serota, Valverde and Walsh are among 22 female athletes playing for the U.S. Not only will these girls get the soccer experience with their families by first attending a PSG game at the Parc des Princes stadium, but they’ll also receive international exposure while playing for their country on the soccer field. There will be 60 teams and over 500 players from 20 countries that will enjoy opening ceremonies, as well as a four-day experience that includes a tour of Paris.

Another local player joins PSG The Upper Keys’ Aubrey Kilmurray is the fourth local soccer player to join the PSG Academy. She attends Treasure Village Montessori and joins Serota, Valverde and Walsh. ­— Contributed

7

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

Top: The Key West Conchs boys wrestling team finished its regular season with a second-place finish at the Falcon Invitational.

CONTRIBUTED Right: With a runner-up finish

by Sheyla Figueira, third-place finishes by Emily Nolasco and Natalie Arguello, and a fourthplace finish by Sunisa Kuhn at districts, four Lady Conchs will wrestle for a regional championship. CONTRIBUTED

FOUR LADY CONCHS HEADED TO REGIONALS Three Conchs, one Hurricane notch wins at Falcon Invitational

I

n just the second season of girls wrestling at Key West High School, the Conchs proved they are a force to be reckoned with across South Florida. Four Lady Conchs hit the mats at Miami Coral Park Senior High School for the FHSAA District 16 Championships, and all four earned medals and a bid to regionals next weekend at Bayside High. Sheyla Figueira won silver in the 100-lb. class, making her the top wrestler for Key West on Feb. 10. Emily Nolasco (105) and Natalie Arguello (135) both won bronze, and Sunisa Kuhn (155) brought home the fourth-place medal from the event.

The undersized team came in seventh out of 18 teams with just four athletes competing.

While the Lady Conchs were dominating at districts, Key West and Coral Shores sent their boys to the Falcon Invitational at Jensen Beach.

Coral Shores’ Steven DeRobertis was the top grappler for the ’Canes, winning the 106-lb. class and bringing home a first-place medal for his efforts. Sebastian McCoy (113), Sterling Keefe (132) and Devin Smith (138)

each won the runner-up spot in their weight classes. Jacob Ferguson (113) and Kevin Perez (165) won bronze, and Jeremiah Ortiz (132) and Tristan Court (150) took fourth. Andrew Guevara won fifth place in the 150-lb. bracket. Coral Shores scored enough points to place fourth overall at the meet.

Key West had a trio of winners last weekend in James Searcy (138), Alfredo Corrales (157) and Ralph Riche (285). Elvis Garcia and Prometheus Delacerda took second and third in the 120-lb. class, respectively.

Dostmukhammad Bakhtiyorov (144) and Tristan Yoloyama (215) were the runners-up in their classes. Abram Canet was fourth at 126 and Corey Johnson was fifth at 285. The Conchs’ victories were enough to claim second place overall at the meet, just in time for districts. The Conchs and ’Canes will both vie for the championship Feb. 15 at Coral Shores High School in both teams’ march toward states, held in Kissimmee at the end of the month and running into early March.

8

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

LEGENDS OF THE

BAT

Sean McDonald breaks down top batting averages in storied history of Conch baseball

I

n a town like Key West, baseball isn’t just a game; it’s a way of life. At Key West High School, the diamond is where dreams are made and legends are born. Just to appear on the varsity roster for the Conchs can be a challenging goal, but to stand out on a team of standouts with a storied history of some of the greatest ball players anywhere, it takes a combination of hard work, dedication and athleticism with a healthy dose of luck and a touch of magic. This week, just before the first pitch of the regular season is tossed, we look back at the top hitters whose prowess with the bat made them local legends. Hitters are ranked by batting average during their best season at KWHS.

All photos CONTRIBUTED

KHALIL GREENE (.500): At the top of the list stands Khalil Greene, a natural athlete with a swing so smooth it seemed almost effortless.

In the spring of 1998, Greene stepped up to the plate and delivered a season for the ages, boasting an unbelievable batting average of .500 – made more impressive given the top competition Key West faces each season.

Greene went on to play for Clemson University, where he was named Collegiate Baseball Player of the Year his senior season. He was then drafted by the San Diego Padres and enjoyed a remarkable career which still brings pride to the Southernmost City.

BEN HARRISON AND PRESTON HERCE (.494): Right beside Greene in the record books is teammate Ben Harrison (above), a powerhouse hitter whose bat matched none but Greene’s. In the same season Khalil broke the legendary Conchs hitting record, Harrison and Greene went stride-for-stride in a march toward the state championships, which Key West secured, no doubt in part due to their pair of deadly hitters. At the end of the season, when the red clay dust settled and Key West was basking in the glory of yet another state title, Harrison’s .494 average earned him the number two spot on the Conchs’ all-time hitters list. He then enjoyed a stellar four-year career as a Gator at the University of Florida and was drafted by the Texas Rangers.

The Key West dynasty is not exclusive to the distant past. During the 2022 season, Preston Herce matched Harrison’s numbers, hitting an impressive .494 for Key West. Herce is currently playing collegiate baseball at Pensacola State College, where he is not finished writing his own history just yet.

9

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

JOHN “BOOG” POWELL (.489): The next name on the list does hail from an earlier era. John “Boog” Powell’s .489 average in 1959 gave pitchers across Florida a run for their money. Powell did not just hit often – he hit hard and he hit far, but that’s for another top 10.

Often considered the greatest ballplayer to come out of Key West, Powell had a long and successful career in MLB, playing for the Orioles, Indians and Dodgers. He is a two-time World Series champ, four-time All Star and was named the American League MVP in 1970.

RALPHIE HENRIQUEZ (.478): Ralphie Henriquez had an amazing 2005 season with the Conchs, then had a long professional baseball career after being drafted in the second round by the Houston Astros. When he hung up his MLB bat, Henriquez returned home to coach for his alma mater and develop the future hitters who just may surpass his .478 mark one day.

RICHIE PAZO AND DARREN MILLS (.479): These legends of the ’70s and ’90s, respectively, each hit .479 in dominant seasons at bat for the Conchs. Pazo (above) played baseball at University of Miami while Mills started his baseball career at Indian River Community College, finishing at Florida Atlantic.

DEXTER BUTLER (.473): The Conchs’ current head basketball coach and son of a Key West hardwood legend, Dexter Butler was one of the hardest, most consistent hitters Key West ever saw.

Butler had a very successful college baseball career as a starter at University of South Florida, also playing one season at Nova Southeastern.

He hit .473 in 2004 for Key West, earning the No. 6 spot on the list of historical Conch batters.

JEFF HOLMES (.466): In spot No. 7 is Jeff Holmes, who hit .466 in the 1973 season.

FRANKIE RATCLIFF JR. (.465): Just behind Holmes is Frankie Ratcliff Jr. with a .465 average in 2008.

ONERI DAVID FLEITA, CRAIG LARIZ, AND STEVEN WELLS JR. (.458): Sharing the No. 9 position is a trio of heavy hitters, all batting a substantial .458 for one season each. Oneri David Fleita did it in 1983, Craig Lariz matched him in 1996, and then Steven Wells Jr. (above right) did it in 2014, giving each a place in Key West’s history.

MIGUEL MENENDEZ (.457): In 1994, Miguel Menendez hit .457 to secure the final spot on the list of all-time greats. As a Conch, Menendez helped lead Key West to a state title in 1995. He then went on to the University of Tampa and won an NCAA Division II national title in 1998.

He returned to Key West, spending time at the helm as the head baseball coach at Key West High School. He is now the head coach at Tampa Jesuit, where he led his team to a state championship in 2019 and the runner-up spot in 2017.

Only time will tell if Menendez is bumped from the top 10, but it is a certainty that a roster of young men will be doing their best to make it into the annals of Conch history this spring.

10

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

OUT OF THE RUNNING

Key West loss to Gulliver Prep ends hoops season for all Monroe County teams

K

ey West’s boys played their quarterfinal district game against the Knights of Miami Sunset on Feb. 6, winning 58-38. DeMarcus Deroche scored the game-high 20 points, with James Osborne adding 19. Kameron Roberts was good for 10 and David Aviles added 9 more to the Conchs’ score. The win last Tuesday gave the Conchs a chance to continue and pitted them against top seed Gulliver Prep on Feb. 8. Key West lost 72-55 in that game, ending its season with a solid 11-12 record on the backs of a young, but now seasoned, team.

Key West’s roster did not include a single senior this year, with sophomores a majority of their bench, making for an exciting future for the Conchs.

The Lady Conchs lost their district opener against Gulliver 55-35, closing out their season with a record of 0-16.

The young team lists just two seniors on the roster, giving them the off season to continue to grow and develop in the coming months.

Marathon’s district seed forced a play-in game on Feb. 5 to see who would earn a spot in the quarterfinals. The Fins upended Everglades Prep 60-43 to earn a shot at a playoff run the following night. Junior Carlos Lezcano led the charge for Marathon with 17 points. Adrian Cruz followed up with 15 and Jack Chapman added 8 in the win.

In the quarterfinals, Marathon faced top-ranked Riviera Prep, a school ranked No. 1 in 3A and fourth overall in the state across all divisions. The Bulldogs proved they did not receive their rankings without merit, clobbering the Fins 10126. Marathon finished its season 7-19, and though half the bench will graduate in 2024, many key contributors will be on the roster next season, including several underclassmen and a pair of eighth graders, ensuring a solid program for years to come.

The Lady Fins faced Westminster Christian on Feb. 5 in their quarterfinal game. Marathon lost the game 48-31, effectively ending their season with an even 10-10 record. The Dolphins graduate just one senior in Kayesha Christian this year, setting them up for a successful campaign next year.

Top: Though the Lady ’Canes will lose seniors Brooke Mandozzi (3) and Makayla Hahn (1) to graduation, they’ll return a healthy group of sophomores and juniors, including Abby Vogt (24), Jazmyn Blassio (5), and Leah Castellanos (2) in 2024-25.

DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly Facing page: 1. Daysi Williams, right, lines up for the tipoff of Marathon’s quarterfinal game.

2. Williams (32) is on perimeter defense duty.

3. Payton Junker, left, looks for an open teammate.

4. Marathon senior Kayesha Christian (11) locks down a Westminster player on defense.

5. Marathon’s cheerleaders perform at halftime for the Feb. 5 girls quarterfinal game against Westminster Christian.

11

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

3 4

1 The Coral Shores boys basketball team had a familiar foe in its quarterfinal district playoff game Feb. 6. The Hurricanes faced the Stallions of Somerset Silver Palms, an opponent they played a week prior. The ’Canes lost to the Stallions 66-47, but managed to narrow the deficit from their prior matchup by nine points. A trio of Hurricanes scored 11 points each, including Donovan Thiery, Ayden Lane and AJ Johnson. Isaac Rivera added 6 points in the ’Canes’ final game of the season. Coral Shores finished with a 7-13 record, and though the Hurricanes were a senior-heavy team, Thiery and Lane both return to the hardwood next season as well as Noah Myers, who began to shine in the late season, and AJ Putetti, who missed a majority of this season with an injury.

The Lady ’Canes were dominant this season, but a 55-19 loss at the hands of Somerset South Homestead ended their hopes for an extended run into the playoffs. Coral Shores won their quarterfinal game against Keys Gate on Feb. 5, 48-11, but their semifinal opponent on Feb. 7 proved too talented to overcome. The ’Canes earned a 13-6 record, and despite losing seniors Makayla Hahn and 1,000-point club member Brooke Mandozzi, they will return a deep bench full of talented juniors for the 2024-25 season.

2 5

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KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE MONROE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE Notice of Sale of Surplus Vehicles The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office will be auctioning off a multiple surplus vehicles via sealed bids. All bids must be received by 10:00am on Wednesday February 28th, 2024. The bids will be opened publicly on Wednesday at 10:30am on February 28th, 2024.

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Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is: February 15, 2024.

Personal Representative: Beverly Crespi 165 Mountain Brook Drive Cheshire, CT 06410 Attorney for Personal Representative: Tom Woods, Esq. Florida Bar No.: 0525197 116 Porto Salvo Drive Islamorada, Florida 33036 Phone: 305.664.2200 Fax 2205 Email: tom@tomwoodslaw. com Publish: February 15 & 22, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a Special Meeting on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., at the Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club, 1996 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 to discuss the audit of the Tourist Development Council’s Public Relations Agency.

All Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to

INVITATION TO BID (ITB) CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH ITB 2024-01 CLEAN AND CAMERA APPROXIMATELY 38,000 FEET OF 8-INCH SEWER GRAVITY MAIN LINE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida (“City”) hereby requests sealed bids for the following: 1. Clean and camera sewer gravity main line within the City of Key Colony Beach, consisting of one hundred twenty (120) manholes and approximately 38,000 feet of eight (8”) inch width pipe of the City’s main wastewater gravity conveyance line.

2. Debris must be removed, and area cleaned to pre-construction conditions.

3. All bids must be submitted electronically through DemandStar.

4. Successful vendors must provide proper insurance, and each contractor is to submit their bid as indicated in the specifications.

5. Award of Contract: The City Commission will make the final award of the bid or contract. The City reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any informality in bidding.

6. Any questions from any bidders should be directed to City Clerk Silvia Gransee by email to cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net.

Answers to questions will be posted electronically by the City on DemandStar.

DATE

TIME

ACTION

02-5-2024

3:00PM

Release Solicitation

03-5-2024

4:00PM

Last Day for submission of written questions to the City

03-13-2024 4:00PM

Last day for the City to post answers to questions

03-27-2024 4:00PM

Bid Due

04-08-2024 10:00AM

Bid Opening (Open to Public – 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051)

04-24-2024 4:00PM

Recommendation to Award *Can be posted on or before posted date

05-16-2024 9:30AM

City Commission Meeting (Open to the Public – 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051)

City of Key Colony Beach PO Box 510141, 600 W Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, FL, 33051 Contact Silvia Gransee, City Clerk Phone: 305-289-1212 Ext. 2

Mailing Address PO Box 510141 Key Colony Beach, FL 33051

Publish: February 15, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers.

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICEThe District I Advisory Committee (DAC I) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at 3:00 p.m., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/85318076405 Meeting ID: 853 1807 6405 One tap mobile +13052241968,, 85318076405# US +13017158592,, 85318076405# US (Washington DC) All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

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

Publish: February 15, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District II Advisory Committee (DAC II) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/84416881055 Meeting ID: 844 1688 1055 One tap mobile +13052241968,, 84416881055# US +13017158592,, 84416881055# US (Washington DC) All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District III Advisory Committee (DAC III) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/83077826833 Meeting ID: 830 7782 6833 One tap mobile +13052241968,, 83077826833# US +13126266799,, 83077826833# US (Chicago) All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

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

Publish: February 15, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District IV Advisory Committee (DAC IV) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/87323741685 Meeting ID: 873 2374 1685 One tap mobile +13052241968,, 87323741685# US +13017158592,, 87323741685# US (Washington DC) All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator’s Office, by phoning 305-292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.,

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE The District V Advisory Committee (DAC V) of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., via Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform.

The access points to view the meeting or for members of the public to provide public comment will be: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/86023953822 Meeting ID: 860 2395 3822 One tap mobile +13052241968,, 86023953822# US +16469313860,, 86023953822# US All District Advisory Committee Meetings of the Tourist Development Council are open to the public and one or more TDC Members and/or County Commissioners may be in attendance.

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

Publish: February 15, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers PUBLIC NOTICE OF HEALTHCARE FACILITY CLOSURE On March 5, 2024, DispatchHealth Florida, Inc. will cease operations at 1200 NW Avenue, Suite 101, Doral, FL 33126, affecting certain zip codes in Monroe County. Patients can access their medical records through the patient portal at www.dispatchhealth. com/patientportal, app. chartrequest.com, or by contacting Jodra Lambert at 5223 Northwest 33rd Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309-6302, or calling (786) 900-1979. For current DispatchHealth services in FL, visit www.dispatchhealth. com/locations.

Publish: February 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NUMBER: 24-CP-66-P IN RE: ESTATE OF JEFFREY SCHOCKET, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of JEFFREY SCHOCKET, deceased, whose date of death was 10 January 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key,

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA CASE NO.: 4:23-cv-10009-DPG IN ADMIRALTY IN THE MATTER OF THE: Petition Of TWO CONCHS CHARTERS, INC., as Owner of the 2011 Mako 28-foot Center Console Vessel bearing Hull Identification No. BUJ61192F111, Petitioner, ______________________/ NOTICE TO CLAIMANTS OF COMPLAINT FOR EXONERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY Notice is hereby given that Petitioner Two Conchs Charters, Inc., as Owner of the 2011 Mako 28-foot Center Console Vessel bearing Hull Identification No. BUJ61192F111 (“Vessel”) has filed a Petition pursuant to Title 46 U.S.C. §§ 30501 et seq., as amended, for exoneration from or limitation of liability of all claims for any injuries, loss, destruction, or damage arising out of an alleged incident that occurred in Monroe County, Florida, on or about August 8, 2022, as more fully described in the Petition.

All persons having such claims must file their respective claims, as provided in Rule F of the Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Claims of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, with

13

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

AUTOS WANTED

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

RV LOT FOR RENT

the Clerk for the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, Key West Division, Wilkie D. Ferguson, Jr. U.S. Courthouse, 400 North Miami Avenue, Miami, Florida 33128, and serve a copy on counsel of record for Petitioner, Victor J. Pelaez, Esq., Fowler White Burnett, PA, 1395 Brickell Ave., 14th Floor, Miami, Florida 33131, on or before March 15, 2024, or be defaulted.

If any Claimant desires to contest either the right to exoneration from or the right to limitation of liability, he or she shall file and serve on counsel for Petitioner an answer to the Petition on or before the aforesaid date, unless his or her claim has included an answer so designated, or else be defaulted.

DONE AND ORDERED in Chambers at Miami, Florida, this 17th day of January, 2024.

DARRIN P. GAYLES UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE Publish: February 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the addresses on record at the clerk’s office.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information.

Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: this 23RD day of January, 2024.

Jody Phillips CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT By: Margaret Martin Deputy Clerk Publish: February 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

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

Runs or Not. $CASH 305-332-0483

The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is now hiring for the following positions: Server, $10/hr + tips, 9:30am-7pm, Beach Shop Attendant, $18/ hr, 9:30am-5pm, and Part-time Office Clerk, $18/hr, Thu/Fri/Sat, 9:30am-7pm.

Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: PT Receptionist, Assistant to Director of Housing, Housing Assistant-Key West, Protective Service Aide, Housing Manager-Middle Keys, HVAC Maintenance Mechanic, and M a i n t e n a n c e M e c h a n i c (Maintenance Worker). 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.

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 RV Waterfront Lot with Dockage for rent in Marathon.

Full hook up. $1950/ month plus utilities.

F/L/S 305-731-5042

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FOURTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR DUVAL COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 16-2023-DR-6415 DIVISION: FM-B IN RE: ADOPTION OF HAYDEN MARIE GOLD, Adoptee.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS AND STEPPARENT ADOPTION TO: Brandon T. Saye 978 Gibraltar Road Key Largo, Florida 33037 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that a Joint Petition to Terminate Parental Rights and Adoption

by Stepparent has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Stephanie GarciaBaker, of Owenby Law, P.A., Petitioner’s attorney whose address is 2301 Park Avenue, Suite 404, Orange Park, Florida 32073, on or before MARCH 8, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 501 W. Adams Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32202 before service on Petitioner’s Attorney or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

The minor child(ren) is identified as follows: Date of Birth: November 26, 2019 Place of Birth: Fernandina Beach, Florida Physical Description of Respondent: Age: 38 Race: Caucasian Hair Color: brown hair Eye Color: hazel Approximate Height: 5’10 Approximate Weight: Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address, (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 20-DR-722-K DIVISION: FAMILY PAULINA ANDREA JARA GALLEGUILLOS Petitioner, and, MAYKEL RAMOS GARCIA Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR MODIFICATION OF PARENTLY PLAN TO: MAYKEL RAMOS GARCIA RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 6639 PENINSULAR AVENUE, KEY WEST, FL 33040 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for modification of parently plan has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Paulina Andrea Jara Galleguillos, whose address is 616 Peary Court, Apt. B, Key West, FL 33040 on or before March 1, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 530 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter.

If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: N/A Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.

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

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information.

Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: January 25, 2024 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Jaquelyn Fonseca Deputy Clerk Publish: February 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

BOATS FOR SALE

18' Mako 2003 center console T-top with 2020 Suzuki 140 hp only 30 hrs. 2021 Rocket Trailer Located in Marathon. $27,500 call Mark 305.731.5588 Fly N Fish Sailboat, 1981, 36' diesel, low mileage, one owner. Located in Marathon. $18,000 OBO. 305-709-7234 BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

Dockage for rent in Marathon behind residence.

Call for particulars.

305-619-5282 Place your BOAT SLIP FOR RENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!

CAMPING SITE

Camping site at marina available in Marathon. $30/day + misc. Free use of dingy & fishing on dock.

305-610-8002 EMPLOYMENT

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.

Immediate job opening for parttime Housekeeper in Key Colony Beach.

Mostly weekends.

Will offer top pay for right person. Call Continental Inn Beachside: Michelle 952-208-2850; Cheryl 305-505-8747

Pigeon Key in Marathon is seeking a Customer Service Rep/ Ramp Attendant. to join our island team.

Position includes greeting customers, giving information and taking admissions.

Outgoing professionals can contact pigeonkey@aol.com for additional details.

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 Insurance CSR needed: Fullers Insurance in Key West is looking for a customer service rep. or agent.

Hours are 8-5 Mon-Fri. Paid holidays, vacation, and health insurance.

Apply in person at 1432 Kennedy Drive, Key West, FL or email resumé to norman@ fullersinsurance.com.

Place your EMPLOYMENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844.

Place your EMPLOYMENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844.

HOUSING FOR RENT

ANNUAL RENTAL Key Largo - 2BR/2BA Spacious Doublewide, 1400 sq ft modular on canal w/40’ dock, direct ocean access. Very nice community. $3,500/ month 786-258-3127 Large One Bedroom Suite, Conch House, carpet, tile, appliances, available for rent in Marathon. $2,000/ month furnished, $1600/ month unfurnished includes electric, water, sewer, cable & internet. No Pets.

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

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

RV LOT FOR RENT

Large RV Lot for Rent in Marathon.

Full hook up. $1600/ month plus utilities.

F/L/S 305-731-5042 Place your RV Lot For Rent ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844.

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 $214/night.

Sweet Caroline Seaport.com YARD SALES

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

FULL-TIME POSITION

POLICE OFFICER The City of Key Colony Beach is accepting applications for a FULL-TIME Police Officer.

Applicants must posses a current Florida Certification as a police officer. Applicants will undergo a thorough background investigation, including drug screening, medical, polygraph and a psychological exam.

Salary: $60,000.

Full Health & Dental Insurance, 457 (b) Participation.

Email resume to: Chief of Police at: chief@keycolonybeach.net Or call for additional information: 305-289-1212 ext. 1 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

14

YACHT CAPTAIN WANTED

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP / FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon

Join our team! Full and part-time Educational Program Guides/ Gift Shop Sales. Public speaking & retail sales experience helpful. $18/hour to start. Send resume to: turtlehospital@turtlehospital.org

Part or Full Time 54 ft. yacht located in Key Largo Text response to 404-444-0363 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 transapplicants. Requires a High School, Diploma or GED and valid Florida Driver’s License. Salary: $50,376.48. Excellent benefits and opportunities for advancement.

EEO, VPE, ADA, DFW

SUNSET GRILLE IS HIRING

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

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.

WE ARE HIRING!

IS HIRING

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

FULL TIME PROJECT MANAGER

The organization is looking for an experienced, dynamic nonprofit professional to serve as its next Executive Director. The Executive Director is responsible for the overall administration of MARC including programs, facilities, and business operations. The position reports to the Board of Directors, provides direct supervision of the Management Team and is the visible leader of the organization with staff, volunteers, participants, families, other agencies and the community.

IN THE UPPER KEYS

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

MARC is in Monroe County Florida, the Florida Keys and is a locally operated 501(c) 3 organization providing services to adults with intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, severe autism, spina bifida, Prader-Willi syndrome, Down syndrome, and Phelan-Mc Dermid syndrome.

The Executive Director is guided by the mission of MARC and is responsible for planning, program and fund development and advocacy activities on behalf of persons with developmental disabilities. Excellent business and financial management skills are essential for the position.

COME JOIN OUR FAMILY! Apply online at www.marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org Phone: 305-294-9526 *32, Fax 305-292-0078 - EOE

NOW HIRING FULL/ PART-TIME HANDYMAN/LANDSCAPING MAINTENANCE POSITION Pay based on experience and work ethic.

Call 305-407-3262 or email info@floridakeysaquariumencounters.com 11710 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON

WE ARE HIRING! Client Medical Services Manager 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

Looking for an LPN/RN with solid experience, to work with our clients and staff to meet medical needs. Assist the clients in areas of dental, medical, transportation, liaison between clients, families and support staff. Florida LPN or RN certification. Level II background screening required. Fluent in English, valid Florida drivers’ license w/good driving record, references. Pre-hire on-line training required.

Some on call responsibilities. Strong computer skills.

Come join our family! EOE Apply at the MARC office, 1401 Seminary St., Key West. Or online at www.marchouse.org.

For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org. Phone: 305-294-9526 *32

The Moorings Village is seeking friendly, self motivated, team players for the position:

MULTI-TASKED OFFICE POSITION Competitive salary and great benefits.

Weekends are a must.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time Please email your resume to Lindsey@MooringsVillage.com or call the reception office at 305.664.4708

15

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 / KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP

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

Work with the BEST!

• Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance • Tuition Reimbursement

PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS - Medical Assistant, Marathon, Orthopedics, Part Time - Ortho Support Tech, Tavernier, Orthopedics, Part Time

• Paid Holidays, Vacation & Sick Time • 401K Employer Match • Quarterly Cash Profit Sharing

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- MC Multi-Modality Imag Tech, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Medical Technologist, Part Time - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Pool Group Exercise Instructor, Per Diem - Pool Physical Therapist, Per Diem - Pool Yoga Instructor, Per Diem - Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, $25k Sign-on Bonus* - Registered Nurse, Intensive Care Unit, $15k Sign-on Bonus*

Voted Best Bank 2014 - 2023

• Fun, Fast-Paced Environment • Great Hours

Key West Customer Service Representative/ Online Banking Information Technology Technician II

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- ED Team Coordinator - First Cook, $5k Sign-on Bonus* - MC Multi-Modality Imag Tech, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Medical Technologist, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, $20k Sign-on Bonus* - Patient Care/Nursing House Supervisor, $15k Sign-on Bonus* - Patient Experience Advocate - Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care Center, $25k 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

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING!

GCC offers excellent benefits for full-time employment, but we realize some would prefer part-time to enjoy the Florida Keys lifestyle more.

All positions can be considered for full or part-time unless notated.

Apply at westcare.com and enter your availability.

KEY LARGO

Behavioral Health Counselor (Child)

KEY WEST

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

MARATHON

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

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

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers CDL Drivers

Upper Keys Full Time Floating Teller Islamorada Full Time Teller Apply Online at KeysBank.com/Careers

Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

Member FDIC

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

IS HIRING! Volunteer Resources Administrative Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

Facilities Maintenance Apprentice (Full-Time, Permanent)

Education Program Host (Full-Time, Permanent)

Staff Photographer

(Full-Time, Part-Time, Seasonal)

Media & Marketing Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

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

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

*No experience required for this position. Will train.

A caring heart & helpful hands required.

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

Background and drug screen req.

COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!

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

Teaching... Learning... Caring

58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL

EOE-M/F/V/D

Equal Housing Lender

$$$ OFFICE ASSISTANT $$$

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

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER HAS A FT/PERMANENT OPENING FOR A FACILITIES MAINTENANCE APPRENTICE Must work well with animals, in order to support Medical & Animal Care & Training departments & participate on Manatee Rescue Team. Must be physically fit, able to lift 75 lbs., possess general “handy-man” skills, have a clean driving record & be diver certified or willing to become certified – knowledge of dive equipment maintenance is a plus. Successful candidate will be responsible, organized, & motivated with excellent team player skills.

Benefits include medical insurance, 401(k), vacation & paid holidays.

Job description available at www.dolphins.org. Email resume & DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE 58901 O/S HWY - GRASSY KEY, FL TEACHING... LEARNING... CARING

.6875”

Debit 2.125” .3125”

1026

1940 GOOD THRU

0000

0000

10/22

BECOME A MEMBER

3.375”

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