Marathon Weekly 24-0418

JUST A BIT BREEZY

Scenes from the 7 Mile Bridge Run | P.26

THE FUTURE FOR ARTIFICIAL REEFS

Sanctuary Advisory Council mixes optimism & concern | P.4

IT’S A PARTY AT THE LAGOON

Celebrate Earth Day this weekend | P.17

April 18, 2024

Executive Administrator

Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Graphic Design

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com

Diana Striker

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

40

Sawfish mortalities in the Florida Keys reached 40 as of April 17. The rising death count was discussed at a recent Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council meeting. The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission is partnering with NOAA and other marine organizations to recover and analyze an already endangered species.

Though they later battled 20mph headwinds the whole time, racers at the start line for the 7 Mile Bridge Run were treated to an Instagram-worthy sunrise. See page 26. STEVE

HURLEY/ Contributed

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

WHAT IS THE FUTURE FOR ARTIFICIAL REEFS?

Sanctuary Advisory Council members blend optimism with caution

An outline of the future for Monroe County’s artificial reef program was met with a mixture of anticipation, caution and debate at the April 16 meeting of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council (SAC).

Advisory council members gathered in Marathon listened to the highly-anticipated presentation from newly-hired artificial reefs director Hanna Koch, who began her new post this month after six years with Mote Marine Lab as a staff scientist and coral reproduction research program manager. The program she’s tasked with directing was made possible with an August 2023 award of $10 million from the state explicitly for the purpose of establishing artificial reefs. An additional award of $5 million, awaiting Gov. Ron DeSantis’ signature, will extend the program from its initial 2028 time frame to 2029 if signed.

Koch aims to provide artificial support structures to help combat habitat deficits for fish and invertebrate species throughout the Keys, acknowledging that grant language directly states an intent to provide additional recreational fishing and diving locations, reducing conflicts among user groups and alleviating pressures on natural reefs.

“I realize that there will probably be a variety of projects and structures with different intentions,” she said. “We need to consider sustainability on all levels, whether it’s the materials we’re using or how our work and our structures impact fisheries and resources and how we manage them.

“I’m well aware that this is a conversation that’s been going on well before I arrived on the scene, and I want to assure everyone that my arrival is not a reset button,” she concluded.

A robust comment period from council members followed, praising Koch’s hire and adding appreciable debate on balancing the program’s environmental benefits with clear recreational and economic implications.

ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

“My concern is that we use this system to enhance the environment, and not to increase extraction,” said council member Mimi Stafford. “My training and my view is that we aren’t really going to increase biomass, we’re just going to concentrate it and make it easier to harvest. … There is a place for this, because we’re losing our reefs – I’ve seen them collapsing, and that’s a great concern because of increased wave action.”

“I’m really happy that finally this tool is completing our toolbox,” said charter captain Will Benson. “Speaking as a fisherman, when you look back to the world records … we had an entire fishery that was created by structure that is no longer there. It’s my belief, and the belief of a lot of other captains, that over the years as we’ve watched that structure decline, we’ve seen a corresponding decline in our fish.”

“Anything we can do to give these divers an option other than to go to a different reef … I think that would just pull so many more people off our reefs and (decrease) the pressure,” said Gary Jennings, from the American Sportfishing Association. “Our reef tract down here, we’re just loving it to death unfortunately, and I don’t know how much more it can sustain.”

continued on page 11

Monroe County artificial reefs director Hanna Koch outlines a ‘holistic, science-based approach’ to creating artificial reef structures for fish at various life stages.

Welcome to Even More Convenient Care.

The Fishermen’s Community Hospital campus has expanded.

Our new 10,000-square-foot Medical Arts Building will bring multiple services under one roof:

• Primary care

• Physical, occupational and speech therapy

• Oncology infusion for Baptist Health Cancer Care patients

• Physician offices for orthopedics, general surgery and gastroenterology

At Baptist Health, we’ve got the Middle Keys covered — from emergency care and surgery, to wellness appointments and cancer care. Welcome to expert, compassionate care, all on one campus.

EARTH DAY MURAL FEST

Celebrate Earth Day at The Lagoon on Grassy Key!

This year’s fest will feature an incredible lineup of art, music, activities, culinary delights, and cocktail flavor explorations. Don’t miss out on Grassy Key’s biggest party of the year! Fun for the whole family!

S A T UR DA Y A P R I L 2 0

- Mangrove Cleanup 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

- Live Music 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

- Local Vendors

- Live Mural Painting from some of Miami’s most renowned Muralists

- Local Art

- Tropical Fruit Sales

- Food and Cocktails

S UNDA Y A P R I L 2 1

- Native Plant Giveaway

- Live Music 10:00 A M - 4:00 P M

- Live Painting

- Food Vendors

- Brunch Specials

- Saloon Surf Shoppe Grand Reopening!

STRETCH RESURFACING

FDOT to begin work on 4-mile section this summer

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Resurfacing work will begin later this summer on a rough stretch of highway between Jewfish Creek Bridge in Key Largo and the MiamiDade County line.

Between the growing number of potholes and patch jobs, daily work commuters and frequent travelers to and from the mainland are all too familiar with some bumpy sections on the 18-Mile Stretch near the Keys. It’s one of two arteries into the Florida Keys, the other being Card Sound Road.

While the Florida Department of Transportation isn’t scheduled to resurface the entire 18-Mile Stretch this year, work will begin later this summer on a 4.4-mile section from the Jewfish Creek Bridge at MM 108.4 to the Miami-Dade County line at MM 112.8. Paulette Summers, community outreach specialist for FDOT, told Keys Weekly a milling and resurfacing on both sides of the highway will begin the week of June 3.

“This project will cost an estimated $19 million and will take approximately 15 months to complete,” Summers said.

In addition, FDOT is planning to replace guardrail, improve pavement markings and signs, add riprap for shoreline protection and provide a service patrol area for

NOAA CONFIRMS FOURTH GLOBAL CORAL BLEACHING EVENT

This three-panel

Heat stresses extend across all major ocean basins

emergency response. Plans are also in place to install new northbound and southbound bicycle lanes.

“It’s one of the worst sections on the Stretch,” said State Rep. Jim Mooney, who has been in touch with FDOT District 6 director Stacy Miller about the deteriorating section of the highway. “It isn’t a safe section and I made a point of that.”

Temporary lane closures are expected during non-peak hours, and detours could affect traffic. Access to businesses and neighborhoods will be maintained.

FDOT is also developing a design for a $1.2 million landscape project between MM 108 and MM 112, which includes a portion of the stretch near what’s known as Bikini Beach. In February 2022, Sheriff Rick Ramsay went before the county commission to discuss his request for FDOT to install fencing or foliage near MM 109 on the stretch. It’s an area where vehicles tend to slow down and cause more than a mile of traffic congestion, especially on weekends, to view boats, jet skis and swimmers at the small sandbar.

A fabric screen was installed along the existing fence at MM 109 with mixed reviews from locals. Battering winds whipped the screen to the point where it no longer exists.

Last September, FDOT provided two illustrations predicting what the landscape barrier would look like either way. Discussion by county commissioners revolved around which entity, Monroe County or FDOT, would maintain the landscaping.

The world is experiencing a global coral bleaching event, according to NOAA scientists. This is the fourth global event on record and the second in the last 10 years.

Bleaching-level heat stress, as remotely monitored and predicted by NOAA’s Coral Reef Watch (CRW), has been — and continues to be — extensive across the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Ocean basins. CRW’s heat-stress monitoring is based on sea surface temperature data, from 1985 to the present, from a blend of NOAA and partner satellites.

“From February 2023 to April 2024, significant coral bleaching has been documented in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres of each major ocean basin,” said Derek Manzello, NOAA CRW coordinator.

Since early 2023, mass bleaching of coral reefs has been confirmed throughout the tropics, including in Florida in the U.S.; the Caribbean; Brazil; the eastern Tropical Pacific (including Mexico, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Panama and Colombia); Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and beyond.

“As the world’s oceans continue to warm, coral bleaching is becoming more frequent and severe,” Manzello said.

Coral bleaching, especially on a widespread scale, affects economies, livelihoods, food security and more, but it does not necessarily mean corals will die. If the stress driving the bleaching diminishes, corals can recover and reefs can continue to provide the ecosystem services we all rely on.

“Climate model predictions for coral reefs have been suggesting for years that bleaching impacts would increase in frequency and magnitude as the ocean warms,” said Jennifer Koss,

2023. NOAA/Contributed director of NOAA’s Coral Reef Conservation Program (CRCP).

Because of this, the CRCP incorporated resilience-based management practices and increased the emphasis on coral restoration in its 2018 strategic plan, and funded a National Academies of Sciences study, which led to the publication of the 2019 Interventions to Increase the Resilience of Coral Reefs.

Koss said, “We are on the front lines of coral reef research, management and restoration, and are actively and aggressively implementing the recommendations of the 2019 interventions report.”

The 2023 heatwave in Florida was unprecedented. It started earlier, lasted longer and was more severe than any previous event in that region.

During the bleaching event, NOAA learned a great deal while engaging in interventions to mitigate harm to corals. Through its Mission: Iconic Reefs program, NOAA made significant strides to offset some of the negative effects of global climate change and local stressors on Florida’s corals, including moving coral nurseries to deeper, cooler waters and deploying sunshades to protect corals in other areas.

The International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI), which NOAA co-chairs, and its international members are sharing and already applying actions and lessons from the 2023 marine heatwaves in Florida and the Caribbean. ICRI and its members are helping to advance coral interventions and restoration in the face of climate change by funding scientific research on best management practices and implementing its Plan of Action. NOAA’s Coral Reef Conservation Program is a partnership across multiple NOAA offices and programs, for a multidisciplinary approach to understanding and conserving coral reef ecosystems.

The 18-Mile Stretch in Key Largo near Bikini Beach. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly

image shows a boulder star coral in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, as it shifted from healthy (May 2023), to bleached (Oct. 2023), to recovered (March 2024), following extreme marine heat stress throughout the Caribbean basin in

LK Financial Services having served the middle keys for the last seventeen years is pleased to announce that we’re now LK & Associates with a new partnership and additional accounting staff to meet all of your accounting needs. ■

April 13, 2024, the efforts of hundreds of people culminated in the success of the 43rd Annual 7-Mile Bridge Run.

The Marathon Runners Club wishes to say THANKS to all of those people who participated in the planning and execution of the run, as well as the dedicated law enforcement officials who so efficiently carried out their traffic control and safety responsibilities.

Mayor Holly Merrill Raschein

Mayor Pro Tem Jim Scholl

Commissioner David Rice

Commissioner Craig Cates

Commissioner Michelle Lincoln

Marathon City Council

Mayor Robyn Still

Vice Mayor Lynn Landry Councilmember Luis Gonzalez Councilmember Kenny Matlock Councilmember Jeff Smith Florida Department of Transportation, Monroe County School Board & Monroe County Parks Dept., Monroe County Public Works Dept. Webber

Thanks to all the captains and their teams!

Aid Station #1 - Cindy Perry

Aid Station #2 - Riet Steinmetz, Boy Scouts

Aid Station #3- Gerald Clairmont

Aid Station #4 - KFCU and “Over The Hump” Gang

Aid Station #5 - Isla Bella Crew

Tina Beloמּi - Start Line

Denise Pankow- Finish Line

Starting Water Line Station - MHS "I Promise" crew

Dave Daniels - Safety Team and T-shirts

The Sayer Family

Bobbie & Chuck Bayles & Family

Luis Gonzalez Family

Don Scoמּen Family

Kevin Freeman - Mile Markers

Pete Worthington - Communication Team

Numbers Aﬞernoon Crew

MHS & MMS Coaches & Teams

Best Packet Pickup and Stuffing Team

Entire Faro Blanco & Lighthouse Grill Hospitality Staff

Diane’s Nurses Team

Friday Packet Pickup Team

Chad Neller/Reefside Construction

Bruce Schofield

Tony/Driﬞwood Pizza

April Rasmussen

Marathon Bob’s Truck Rentals

We wish to acknowledge contributions made by:

Rafael Medina

Mike Puto

Sue Corbin

Zoltan Polgar & Agency 44

Renee and Team

Marathon Electric Sign & Light

Pat Kersey

Don & Son Fence Co.

Split Second Timing

Florida Keys Electric Co-op

Denise & Chris Pankow

Southernmost Runners Club

Bill Becker/Jim Dorl

Key West Visitor Center

Sunshine Key RV Resort & Marina

King’s Concrete Repair

Big Pine Motel

Big Pine Key Fishing Lodge

Bank of America

Crane Point Hammock

Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce

Marathon Lumber

Wright Barrow Office Crew

CM & Dennis Bishop

Sunbelt Rentals

Jahaira Montalegre

UPS Store Sharon & Paמּy

First Horizon & Trich

Dean Richardson

John Bartus

Tiffany & Cathy

from page 4

ARTIFICIAL REEFS

FWC’s CJ Sweetman delivers an update to the Sanctuary Advisory Council on continuing efforts to explain unusual fish behavior and sawfish mortalities throughout the Florida Keys. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

“I think my biggest concern is that I’m not sure how throwing some stuff out there improves an ecology that’s going downhill now,” said SAC chair George Garrett. “It’s the milieu that this is all sitting in that is somehow, I’m going to say, a bit sick right now. That needs to be changed, and that’s a much bigger playing field.”

Tuesday’s discussion did not include any specific projects, though one of the program’s first moves is expected to involve a series of decommissioned power poles acquired by the county last summer from the Florida Keys Electric Co-op. Koch said that while other specific projects are in early stages of development, preliminary discussions have supported networks of habitat structures to support fish at various life stages, with some locations of reef installations possibly remaining undisclosed.

“We’re already thinking about doing this in a sustainable way – not just putting things out there where everyone can go and everyone can take,” she said.

Algal toxins leading culprits for spinning fish

Tuesday’s session closed with updates from partner organizations working to diagnose and combat the root causes of unusual “spinning fish” behavior and a mortality event that has claimed the lives of at least 40 critically endangered smalltooth sawfish to date since late 2023.

FWC’s CJ Sweetman confirmed that working groups continue to evaluate the role of toxins produced by benthic microalgae, multiple of which have been identified in collected water samples and symptomatic fish. Species in the Gambierdiscus algae family, mentioned for weeks as a prime suspect in producing the harmful toxins, continue to test at elevated levels in areas with affected fish.

Sweetman said more than 430 abnormal behavior reports have documented impacts to more than 50 species of fish. Oxygen levels, salinity, pH and water temperatures have yet to show cause for concern, and necropsy data has not yielded signs of communicable pathogens or bacterial infections. Affected fish appear to be targeted through their gills, he said, an idea supported by investigators’ findings that quicklyafflicted animals can recover nearly as fast when placed in clean water.

“Preliminary fish bioassays show swimming abnormalities within 20 minutes of exposure to this waterborne microalgae extract, and then recovery of that fish within 28 minutes when placed in clean water,” he said.

“Basically, we have tested for every human-made chemical pollutant that we can,” added DEP sanctuary liaison Nicholas Parr. “It doesn’t appear that what is affecting the fish directly is of human origin … but we’re going to continue to look at anything we can to make sure we’re not missing something.”

“It’s possible, but we’re not certain, that the abnormal fish behavior and the sawfish mortality are related based on fish necropsy data and what we’re seeing from the sawfish,” Sweetman concluded, acknowledging that the end of the unprecedented mortality event’s timeline, or a deadline to identify the cause, are still both unknown.

“I assure you that we’re working around the clock tirelessly on this,” he said. “If you don’t know what you’re looking for, it’s a little challenging to get to the bottom of this. … So many people are dropping everything to focus on this and try and get some answers.”

Reports of unusual fish behavior, complete with detailed locations, are still critical for agencies’ understanding of this unprecedented event. To report sightings of healthy, sick, injured or dead sawfish, contact FWC’s Sawfish Hotline at 844-472-9347 or sawfish@ myfwc.com. Report sightings of other abnormal fish behavior or fish kills to the Fish Kill Hotline at 800-636-0511.

KEYS DEPUTY SERIOUSLY INJURED BY DRUNK DRIVER

Woman reportedly had a blood-alcohol level of .310 the night of the crash

A 26-year-old

GWEN FILOSA gwen@keysweekly.com

AMonroe County Sheriff’s Office deputy was seriously injured April 9 while he was handling a traffic stop on U.S. 1, after a drunk driver struck his patrol cruiser as he was walking between his car and the one he had pulled over, the sheriff’s office said.

The crash left the 26-year-old deputy Julian Garcia pinned between both vehicles.

Deputies freed the deputy from the two cars that were on the side of the road near MM 87, and he was airlifted to Jackson Memorial Hospital with injuries to his lower body. He was in stable condition the day after, according to MCSO spokesman Adam Linhardt. Garcia underwent a series of surgeries and remains in the hospital.

The driver who struck the deputy’s patrol car was identified as Alexandra Marlene Baraga, 26, of Shoreview, Minnesota, who is currently living in the Keys. She had a blood alcohol level of .310 — nearly four times the legal limit — while behind the wheel of a 2014 Toyota Prius, Linhardt said, and was not injured.

The Florida Highway Patrol took Baraga to the county jail and charged her with multiple DUI-related crimes.

Baraga, whose occupation is listed as animal care, was released from the jail on Stock Island on April 10 after

CONTRIBUTED

posting a $95,000 bond, according to MCSO online jail records.

Her arraignment is set for 9 a.m. Tuesday, April 23 before Judge Luis Garcia at the Plantation Key Government Center in Tavernier.

Baraga couldn’t be reached for comment on April 11 and it wasn’t immediately clear whether she has legal representation.

The driver the deputy had stopped, Andrew James Gibson, 20, of Homestead, was taken to Mariners Hospital in Tavernier with non-lifethreatening injuries. Gibson was later taken to jail on a warrant for failure to appear in court.

Sheriff Rick Ramsay said it was a difficult time for everyone at the sheriff’s office.

“One of our brave deputies has been seriously injured in the line of duty because of the thoughtless actions of a drunk driver,” Ramsay said in a statement. “For the cost of a taxi or ride share, she jeopardized the lives of everyone on the road.”

The injured deputy has been with the sheriff’s office since February 2022. The sheriff’s office is supporting Garcia as he continues to face a challenging medical situation, which has included multiple surgeries and an extended hospitalization ahead.

Those wishing to support Garcia can donate via Venmo (search Maugarcia), Cashapp (search Mauricioga) or Zelle to Mauricio Garcia at 786-6023280.

Monroe County Sheriff’s deputy was seriously injured April 9 after a drunk Minnesota woman slammed her Toyota Prius into the deputy’s patrol vehicle as he was handling a traffic stop on U.S. 1, MCSO reports state.

FIRST RESCUED SAWFISH RECEIVING CRITICAL CARE AT MOTE

Endangered ray recovering with 24/7 care

On April 5, Mote Marine Laboratory and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission responded to a distressed smalltooth sawfish after a member of the public called the sawfish hotline and reported the animal swimming in circles in Cudjoe Bay in the Lower Keys. During the effort, a joint FWC-Mote team of skilled and trained scientists and veterinary staff completed a quick field assessment that included taking samples, measurements and tagging.

The 11.15-foot male sawfish was loaded onto a vessel and provided respiratory assistance during the short boat ride to a temporary holding tank at a Mote facility in the Lower Keys, where it was under around-the-clock observation by qualified personnel, as requested by and under the guidance of FWC and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries.

The interim holding tank at Mote’s Lower Keys facility gave the team an area where they could stabilize the animal, though it remained in critical condition. After several days of treatment and monitoring, the team decided that the animal appeared capable of withstanding the seven-hour drive to another Mote quarantine facility designed to provide more extensive rehabilitation treatment for sawfish.

On April 11, biologists carefully loaded the sawfish into a transport trailer operated by Ripley’s Aquariums. Ripley’s Aquariums conservation team monitored the sawfish and water quality conditions throughout the transport to Mote’s facility.

Now at Mote’s more extensive quarantine facility, the sawfish will continue to be monitored 24 hours a day and treated in hopes of fully rehabilitating its health before releasing it.

“The Mote, NOAA, FWC, and Ripley’s staff exhibited tremendous dedication, compassion, partnership, and skill in providing vital care to this animal in need, and are to be commended for their efforts,” said Michael P. Crosby, president & CEO of Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. “Without hesitation

Rescue

ing at a Mote Marine Lab quarantine facility on the mainland. FWC/Contributed

or any identified source of funding support, Mote remains committed to providing FWC and NOAA with significant ongoing assistance and support of our expert scientists across diverse disciplines, veterinary and animal husbandry staff, along with our significant specialized marine species quarantine facilities for the rescue and rehabilitation of distressed smalltooth sawfish.”

“Led by NOAA, our biologists and partners have taken an unprecedented step to rescue an adult smalltooth sawfish in the Keys. This has not been attempted before, but this unusual mortality event made this necessary,” said Gil McRae, director of FWC’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. “We are hopeful this rescue and rehabilitation of an adult smalltooth sawfish will bring us one step closer to understanding the cause of this event.”

Over the past few months, sightings of “spinning” fish across multiple species have been reported in the Florida Keys. Along with this abnormal behavior, there have also been reports of fish deaths, including 40 smalltooth sawfish to date.

SHELF HELP

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

What: “We Loved It All: A Memory of Life” by Lydia Millet

There have also been reports of small-scale fish kills.

Scientists do not yet know what is causing the erratic behavior. NOAA Fisheries has initiated an emergency response effort with FWC, Mote Marine Laboratory and other partners including Havenworth Coastal Conservation, Dynasty Marine Associates Inc., and Ripley’s Aquariums, to possibly rescue, rehabilitate and release smalltooth sawfish affected by this event. Investigations into the abnormal behavior and mortalities by FWC are ongoing.

How can the public assist?

Continue reporting all sawfish observations (healthy, sick, injured or dead) to 844-472-9347 or sawfish@myfwc.com. Report abnormal fish behavior and fish kills to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Fish Kill Hotline at 800-636-0511 or MyFWC.com/ReportFishKill. To support the Sawfish Rescue Initiative, visit www.mote. org/sawfish.

— Contributed

Why: Lydia Millet’s new memoir is a meditation on nature and the things we’ve lost, or are about to lose. There’s a lot of intriguing information about animals entwined with Millet’s own memories. Her elegant prose and sly humor sustain the reader as she unabashedly considers the future of her own children in a collapsing world.

Millet’s fiction has been widely acclaimed over the years, including 2020’s “A Children’s Bible,” which was shortlisted for the National Book Award, and her 2009 story collection, “Love in Infant Monkeys,” a Pulitzer Prize finalist. Millet will be in Key West discussing the memoir later this month at Books & Books at the Studios of Key West.

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

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

Recommended by: Michael Nelson, assistant director of public services

See previous recommendations at keyslibraries.org/shelf-help.

team members and veterinary professionals perform an initial health assessment on a distressed 11-foot sawfish on April 5. The endangered ray is now recover-

TRUSTS • WILLS POWERS OF ATTORNEY LADYBIRD DEEDS

Whether you are a resident or a snowbird, it is important to have your assets properly titled in a way that will avoid those assets going through probate.

KATHLEEN HENDRICKSON ATTORNEY AT LAW MASTERS OF LAW, ESTATE PLANNING 5701 Overseas Hwy • 305 393 2598

A DAY IN ‘THE ARMY’

One helper’s boots-on-the-ground look at the Conch Republic Marine Army

Sun-drenched perfection graced the Florida Keys on the Saturday morning that I decided to help clean up the ocean. As a follow-up to a previous article I wrote about the partnership between Isla Bella Beach Resort and the Conch Republic Marine Army (CRMA) – scan the QR code to learn more about it – I wanted to get my feet wet and my hands dirty and really experience their motto of “making dirty friends in trashy places.” I definitely met some amazing friends that day.

I arrived at the Isla Bella marina around 9:30 a.m. Upon my arrival I was greeted by captain Bill Keogh, who shook my hand and thanked me for coming to help with the cleanup efforts. He escorted me to a dock box which housed an assortment of thick-soled water booties. I proceeded to pick out my lovely sloshing-around boots and squeezed my feet into them. He then introduced me to the fellow trash-diggers with whom I’d be working that day. As we made our way aboard the 33-foot K3 Henrikson skiff, each of us grabbed a pair of gloves, medical shears and large green collection bags. I briefly chatted with everyone aboard and sparked up a fun conversation with the captain.

“So, Captain Bill,” I asked, “What was the craziest thing you guys have ever collected on a trip?”

“That’s a question we get a lot,” he said. “On trips that I’ve been on personally, we found a giant dock box with 32 life jackets inside. We tried to find the owner, but didn’t have any luck. CRMA has actually found a kilo of cocaine on a trip – that was pretty exciting. And on another trip I was on, we found a weather instrument from NOAA. We ended up getting it back to its owner, so that was cool.”

Our leisurely northbound journey along the mangroves initially revealed a mostly pristine coastline, thanks to past cleanup efforts. However, nearing the final section, the evidence of the revitalization – or lack thereof, in this area – became undeniable. The president of CRMA, Brian Vest, often refers to the Keys’ coastlines by saying, “54 miles done, only 900 more to go,” and having witnessed the transformation from a trashed shoreline to a clean one, it's no surprise he feels that way.

Our first mission was to collect a heap of trash that was acquired by the previous group. We exited the boat and formed a human assembly line from the shore, helping each other and handing over the items until each item was gathered into the boat. We were immediately engulfed by a swarm of mosquitoes, and of course I forgot my bug spray, so I ended up with about 20 welts as souvenirs. Among the debris collected, there were pieces of plywood, a plastic chair, hundreds of yards of rope, pieces of broken-up plastic and even a tire. There was also a surprisingly large amount of washed-up horseshoe crab molts, so I took one home as both a souvenir and a teaching object for my classroom (I’m a middle school science teacher).

After collecting the clump of garbage, we headed up the shoreline again and stopped the boat when we saw where the previous group’s collection efforts ended. We all exited the boat with our medical shears and green storage bags to start cutting the entangled rope that was hanging from the

The day’s cleanup crew included, clockwise from left: Mike and Mindy Patton, Phil and Carol Vachow, Isis Layton, Ashley Moyer and Brian Walters. JEN ALEXANDER/Keys Weekly

is a teacher and volleyball coach at Sugarloaf School. She is a lover of travel, adventure, action, home improvement and family. A self-proclaimed ‘master of none,’ she is a doer of all and partaker of anything fun and exciting.

surrounding trees. I personally found a broken-down crab trap, lots of fishing line and various types of rope. We were able to work as a team and even grabbed an intact trap to be washed and reused. The largest find of the day: an enormous ball of rope that took four people to carry.

Low tides forced a slow trip back, so we enjoyed the surroundings, observing many nurse sharks and even a few rays swim by. The water was a gorgeous blue-green and the wind was blowing ever so slightly. When we arrived back at the marina we formed yet another assembly line and lined up the collected trash along the sea wall. In total we collected 160 pounds that day – 90 pounds of rope and 70 pounds of trash.

Black rope was sent to No Name Key, where a company gives it new life by selling it for conversion into plastic pellets used to create various new products. Unfortunately, other types of rope couldn't be recycled and will make their way to landfills. The day unfolded beautifully, making the experience truly rewarding. I eagerly await contributing to future expeditions. It’s so amazing to see organizations coming together for the betterment of the community and our planet.

By focusing on sustainability and preserving the Keys' natural beauty, the partnership between CRMA and Isla Bella sets a great example through action. This commitment goes even further with the resort’s recent donation; an $85,000 contribution from Isla Bella helped CRMA acquire the brand new K3 skiff. The Middle Keys workhorse is a crucial addition to the fleet for ongoing conservation efforts.

The best part about all of this? When space allows, the community can get involved in cleanup efforts for free, just as I did. For more information about the cleanups, visit conchrepublicmarinearmy.org and islabellabeachresort.com.

JEN ALEXANDER

Captain Bill Keogh, left, and Ashley Moyer clean an intact trap to be reused at a later date.

MAY 2-5 KEYS-WIDE

THURSDAY, May 2, 6:15-7:30 p.m., Bud N' Mary's Marina Mandatory Team Leader meeting (in-person and virtual), gear pick-up and Mote coral nursery tour. Free beer from Florida Keys Brewing Co.

FRIDAY, May 3 and SATURDAY, May 4, Sunrise to Sunset Debris clean-up Key Largo through Key West.

SUNDAY, May 5, 12 noon-6 p.m. I.CARE Trash Derby Festival & Awards Ceremony at Founders Park Islamorada.

Food, Vendors, Raffle, Silent Auction and Awards. Performances by the well-known singer songwriter Leah Sutter and Southern Stampede, a touring rock band with amazing vocals and incredible guitar work.

www.icareaboutcoral.org

www.icaretrashderby.com

WHAT ARE YOU DOING FOR EARTH DAY?

Give Mother Nature a hand with these events throughout the islands

The Florida Keys are putting Earth Day in the spotlight with a wide range of activities throughout the island chain on and around April 22, 2024.

While Earth Day highlights in the Keys are listed here, more can be found at fla-keys. com/calendar/.

MARATHON

Earth Day Mural Fest at the Lagoon on Grassy Key, April 20-21

After a two-year hiatus, the Lagoon on Grassy Key is excited to announce the return of its two-day Earth Day Mural Festival on Saturday and Sunday, April 20 and 21. This year's festival will feature a lineup of art, music, activities, culinary delights and cocktail flavor explorations. Artists will be overhauling every paintable space around the Lagoon with live painting, bringing their murals to life with an environmentally-focused Earth-Daycentric curation. Saturday festivities include a mangrove cleanup from 8 to 10 a.m., a wakeboard exhibition from 4 to 5 p.m., and live music from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday will feature a native plant giveaway, live music from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and a grand opening of the Lagoon’s Saloon Surf Shoppe. Both days will include food and cocktail specials, local art and vendors, and live painting. Don't miss out on Grassy Key’s biggest party of the year with fun for the whole family.

Some of South Florida’s finest muralists will once again reimagine every paintable space at the Lagoon on Grassy Key for a two-day Earth Day

Fest.

The Key Dives team hauled in over 400 pounds during Day 1 of the I.CARE Trash Derby last year. MORRIS DIVING AND PHOTOGRAPHY/Contributed

UPPER KEYS

I.CARE Coral Restoration Dives, April 20-21

Coral transplant dives with Islamorada Coral and Restoration Education (I.CARE) are offered every Saturday and the third Sunday of each month, including April 20 and 21 just before Earth Day. Join citizen-science efforts while exploring Keys reefs with other conservation-minded divers who enjoy giving back to the underwater realm that provides so much enjoyment. Visit icareaboutcoral.org/schedule to sign up.

I.CARE Trash Derby

I.CARE will hold the second annual Trash Derby and Festival the week after Earth Day. Set for Thursday through Sunday, May 2-5, the debris collection will see competitors descending underwater, sifting through the mangroves and searching on land. Marine debris collection dives are free for certified divers from participating dive shops from Key Largo to Key West, thanks to support from the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Participants can form their own teams or join an existing team for land and shoreline cleanups. A festival is scheduled May 5 at Founders Park, 87000 Overseas Highway in Islamorada. Visit icaretrashderby.com to learn more.

LOWER KEYS & KEY WEST

Mote Marine Laboratory’s Ocean Fest, April 20

This community celebration of the Florida Keys’ marine environment takes place Saturday, April 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Truman Waterfront Park in Key West. All ages are invited to enjoy crafts, games, music, food, local brews and shopping as Mote and other environmental organizations provide exhibits. Visit mote.org/oceanfest.

Earth Day 5k Run/Walk, April 20

The Key West Southernmost Runners’ 26th annual Earth Day 5k Run/Walk is set for Saturday, April 20, at Truman Waterfront Park in Key West. Proceeds from the race benefit the Conch Republic Marine Army, a local nonprofit grassroots organization dedicated to cleaning and restoring the shallow mangrove habitats of the Florida Keys. Registration is $25 per person. Visit runsignup.com/Race/FL/KeyWest/ ED5K.

Bahia Honda State Park Earth Day Celebration, April 20

Bahia Honda State Park, 36850 Overseas Highway in the Lower Keys, will stage its 27th annual Earth Day celebration Saturday, April 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn about earthfriendly practices from conservationminded vendors and enjoy live music and crafts.

Plant Mangroves with Plant a Million Corals and Coastlove, April 20

Plant a Million Corals and Coastlove have partnered for an Earth Day weekend event at Summerland Farms, 23801 Overseas Hwy., from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 20, with tours of the coral and mangrove nurseries and the chance to plant baby mangroves along the shoreline, along with educational activities, live music and refreshments.

Full Moon Kayak Excursion, April 23

Captain Bill Keogh’s Big Pine Kayak Adventures hosts a full moon paddle Tuesday, April 23, the day after Earth Day. Paddlers on the excursion from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. can explore the mangrove estuary, view the full moon and learn about the area’s delicate ecosystem. Cost is a $30 donation that supports the Florida Keys Wildlife Society. Visit floridakeyswildlifesociety.org/ full-moon-kayak-excursions.

APRIL 20 11A-1P

361 CARIBBEAN DRIVE EAST

SUMMERLAND KEY | $1,499,000

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MARATHON | $1,200,000

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22957 DRAKE LANE

CUDJOE KEY | $949,000

Superb boating access and great water views from this Summerland Key Cove gem! With a spacious 60’ wide flow-through canal and 4’ of control depth there is ample space for larger vessels and just a quick jaunt to world-class fishing and diving. This 3-story masterpiece features a generous 1880 sq. ft. layout with multiple open and covered patios. Tons of storage and parking for RV or trailer, and big garage to keep your tools and toys dry.

Fantastic investment opportunity with excellent boating in the heart of Marathon! Boasting a spacious wood dock, protected boat basin, and no-bridge access to the ocean! Outside, a rooftop sundeck, hot tub, generous front patio with dining space and built-in outdoor kitchen. Inside, a spacious open floor plan and an expansive screened lanai with serene canal views. This ideal location o ers peace and relaxation in Marathon!

Excellent boating at this gorgeous Cudjoe Key retreat with no-bridge access to Cudjoe Bay for frequent boating and fishing adventures! A generous back porch shows o peek-a-boo open water views and overlooks immaculately manicured yard. Deep-water canal with concrete

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1082

31471 AVENUE A BIG PINE KEY | $575,000

Peaceful Big Pine Key hideaway boasts plenty of room for family and guests. The spacious split floor plan is perfect for entertaining with 4 generous bedrooms and sprawling living area, as well as two patios to lounge outdoors. Downstairs, you will find a sizeable enclosure that o ers plenty of space to keep all your tools and toys out of the elements, a fenced-in lot with 30-amp RV hookup and ample storage.

THE

lisaferringo@gmail.com

LisaFerringo.com

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BAY DRIVE

SUMMERLAND KEY | $2,099,500

Bright and spacious retreat on a peaceful corner lot, with endless turquoise water views! This prime location is ideal for boating, with approx 189' of water frontage and enviable ocean access! Entertain guests on the spacious open back porch, overlooking the well-maintained yard and canal below. Nestled within a tranquil, established neighborhood, while just minutes to shops and restaurants in town!

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1507 B SOMBRERO BOULEVARD MARATHON | $3,850,000

Brand New 2024 CBS Construction with gorgeous Boot Key Harbor views and excellent boating! Every detail has been considered in this turnkey pool home! Open-concept great room is bright and spacious and a wall of impact-resistant glass doors leading out to a full-length covered veranda boasting stunning open water views! An opulent primary suite o ers sweeping views of Boot Key Harbor and overlooks sparkling pool and generous T-dock.

MIKKEL ROSS EARNS ACADEMIC ALL-STATE HONOR

Standout runner, weightlifter tabbed for prestigious FHSAA award

Marathon High School is home to yet another Academic All-State athlete in senior multisport phenom Mikkel Ross.

On April 10, the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) announced the 30th annual Florida Dairy Farmers Academic All-State Team, a recognition program that honors 24 graduating student-athletes who excel in both athletics and academics. As one of the most important special recognition programs sponsored by the FHSAA, 12 girls and 12 boys from around the state will be awarded a total of $50,000 in scholarships.

The award marks the fifth time a Marathon student has been selected to the Academic All-State team in the last four years. In the 29-year history of the award, MHS has had seven athletes make the cut.

“The hard-working men and women of Florida’s dairy industry are honored to recognize the significant accomplishments of these amazing student-athletes,” said Florida Dairy Farmers CEO Michele Cooper. “We’re excited to support a program that has a great tradition of encouraging excellence on the field and in the classroom, and we’re proud to support students that have the special mix of work ethic and determination required to succeed at both.”

Graduating seniors with a minimum 3.5 unweighted grade point average who have earned a minimum of two varsity letters in at least two different sports during their junior and senior years are eligible for the award. The 2024 Florida Dairy Farmers Academic All-State Team selection committee evaluated scholarship nominees based on their athletic participation, academic record, extracurricular activities, community service and an essay.

The winners will be recognized at a banquet on Monday, June 3 where they will receive a $1,700 scholarship and a commemorative medallion. Out of the 24 students, one male and one female will be named the Ronald N. Davis Scholar-Athletes of the Year, the FHSAA’s most prestigious honor bestowed on any active studentathlete. The winners of this award will earn a commemorative trophy and an additional $4,600 in scholarship funds –$6,300 in total. — Contributed

Marathon senior Mikkel Ross is one of just 24 students to earn the Academic All-State designation in Florida this year.

BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

TOBY

3-year-old male Siberian husky.

Looking for: Long walks, playtime, pools and cuddles.

Turnoffs: Being away from my wife, Tricia.

SWIPE RIGHT

Adorable furry faces are waiting for families at the Florida Keys SPCA

Keys Weekly is thrilled each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for their perfect adoption “match” at the Florida Keys SPCA’s Marathon campus – complete with their best qualities, preferences and turnoffs to ensure the best fit.

From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you at one of the SPCA’s two campuses, in Key West and Marathon. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people. The SPCA’s Golden Paw program also provides special assistance with vet bills and medications for special-needs and older animals that require a little extra TLC.

See all the animals waiting for a home at fkspca.org. To contact the Marathon campus, call 305-743-4800 or visit 10550 Aviation Blvd.

TRICIA

7-year-old female Siberian husky.

Looking for: I love being outdoors and prefer cooler weather.

Turnoffs: My husband Toby is so clingy.

3.5-year-old male pit bull mix.

Looking for: I’d love to be your one and only. Turnoffs: Cats. Booooooo, cats.

GREGG

THURSDAY, APR

FRIDAY, APR 19

DAN SULLIVAN 3PM

TONY MANFREDI BAND 8PM

SATURDAY, APR 20

GLENN HARMAN BAND 8PM

SUNDAY, APR 21

TONY MANFREDI 3PM

DOCKSIDE SUNDAY JAM 7PM

MONDAY, APR 22

ON THE FLY BAND 6:30PM

TUESDAY, APR 23

TACO

WEDNESDAY, APR 24

BATTLING THE BLOW

7 Mile Bridge Run finishers power through high winds

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

Last Friday night, 1,500 runners headed to bed praying for a northern shift in the winds forecast for the following morning.

Instead, harriers in the 43rd annual 7 Mile Bridge Run put forth a grueling effort as they battled 20-plusmph headwinds to “Beat the Bus” in one of the most challenging races in recent memory.

Leading the pack were familiar faces, as 28-year-old Pennsylvania native Collin Wainwright broke the tape in 40 minutes, 33 seconds to claim his third bridge run win in four years. Marathon High distance phenom Vance Bursa, the only runner to best Wainwright on the bridge since 2019, crossed the line a mere four seconds later. Twenty-nine-year-old Christian Vazquez rounded out the overall medal podium, crossing in 41:13.

Dallas native Joanna Stevens was first across the line for the ladies in 43 minutes, 13 seconds, but Keys locals formed the rest of the top three, with Tavernier’s Anne Denotter finishing in 43:52 and Key Largo’s Holly Smith finishing third in 44:43.

“That wind was pretty intense. It’s probably the strongest wind that I’ve ever ran into,” Wainwright told the Weekly. “In the first half mile, the lead group had already whittled down to about five of us, and it was pretty much me and Vance for the last three miles.”

The race’s top finisher had nothing but praise for his competition, saying he keeps in touch sporadically with

other top-ranking runners who return to the bridge each year. Currently in training for an Ironman, he said a powerlifting regimen incorporated into his routine was advantageous in the face of the high winds, although finishing times across the board were slower than in 2023.

“I think overall the conditions benefited me, because typically by mile four or five I’m starting to believe I might have a heat stroke,” he laughed. “This year, not once can I say I even felt hot, so the main focus was just running through the wind.”

1. Spectators line the Old Seven Mile Bridge to watch the finish line of the 7 Mile Bridge Run on Saturday. ANDY NEWMAN/ Florida Keys News Bureau

2. Hundreds of runners battle a constant headwind north of 20 mph as they complete the 6.8-mile race. ANDY NEWMAN/ Florida Keys News Bureau

3. In a growing tradition, firefighters including William Wright (1767) complete the daunting race in full gear. ANDY NEWMAN/Florida Keys News Bureau

4. Overall winner Collin Wainwright breaks the tape in 40 minutes, 33 seconds. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

5. Top female finishers include Joanna Stevens (first, right), Anne Denotter (second, middle) and Holly Smith. BARRY GAUKEL/ Keys Weekly

6. Kelly Hausler, 57, finishes as the top Grand Master female in 56 minutes, 4 seconds. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

See more winners’ ceremony photos at keysweekly.com and shadypalmphotography.com.

LOCALS FINISH IN STYLE

Along with an army of volunteers and local law enforcement partners that make the bridge run a reality every year, finishers will tell you that one of the best parts of the race is the camaraderie of local runners celebrating the annual accomplishment together. This year, the Keys Weekly is proud to spotlight Keys residents who finished the race, from the front of the pack to the back.

1.11-year-old Dominick Whiteman from Marathon wins the boys 9-12 age division.

2. Marathon’s Hugh Chandler crosses the line.

3. Marathon’s Jena Anderson, right, and Mark Vander Lee hit the finish.

4. 11-year-olds Joseph Guaron, left, and Max Pluciennik represent Key West.

5. Marathon’s Erica Wisniewski, left, and Danny Price complete their 6.8 miles.

6. MHS teacher Rob Driscoll finishes his battle with the wind.

7. Key West’s Jessica Blass, left, and Melanie Youschak are in it together.

8. Melissa Cartan of Marathon finishes strong.

9. Monroe County firefighter Jordan Dewhirst finishes a grueling run in full gear.

10. Big Pine Key’s Alfred Sciabarassi, left, opts for a backwards finish.

11. Lisa Ziels beats the bus.

12. There’s no rule saying you have to cross the finish line upright. Kristen Livengood takes full advantage.

AUTISM SOCIETY OF THE KEYS

Helping an increasing number of families

Autism is on the rise. Once a condition that affected only one in 10,000 children, autism today affects an estimated one in 36 children. One in 45 adults have autism. According to the Mayo Clinic, autism is a serious developmental disorder that impairs the ability to communicate and interact. The range and severity of symptoms can vary widely. Common symptoms include difficulty with communication, difficulty with social interactions, obsessive interests and repetitive behaviors. A diagnosis of autism often used to mean a life sentence of seriously reduced functionality and likely institutionalization.

Jill Campbell knows this all too well. Jill’s story goes like this: “Our son, Craig, was diagnosed with autism at two and a half years old. We knew nothing about autism, except for ‘Rain Man.’ Little did we know that it would soon consume every day of our lives. The diagnosis was devastating and the prognosis was no better. We were told that Craig would never speak (even though he had developed 20-30 words by the age of about 20 months and then lost all speech), and that he would never play with other children or be pottytrained. The doctor continued to say that we should try not to medicate him for as long as we could, and to be prepared for institutionalization. When the shock wore off, we prayed and prayed and we went online and started researching.”

Jill’s research led her to a group of families who all faced the same issue. Knowing that her family wasn’t alone helped her deal with the struggles that were to come. As Jill stated, “This has been the greatest resource we’ve found — you have an instant bond and connection with these people because they understand what you’re going through.” Jill founded the Autism Society of the Keys (ASK) to be a resource for her and the many other local families impacted by this condition.

Doing the research needed to help Craig, Jill discovered so much about autism. According to the Autism Science Foundation, “Autism is highly heritable (and) there are many genetic and environmental factors involved with autism. These include both rare and common variants. About 15% of cases of autism can be linked to a specific gene mutation.” The insidious nature of autism can seemingly turn a normal child into one who suddenly develops symp-

JOHN BARTUS

John Bartus is a singer-songwriter and the former mayor of Marathon.

toms like nonresponsiveness, avoiding eye contact, repetitive movements or other unusual behavior.

There is hope. Early intervention and treatment can do wonders and work miracles.

Early recognition, as well as behavioral, educational and family therapies may reduce symptoms and support development and learning. Jill’s son, Craig, overcame those early predictions and is now a college student with a job and a girlfriend. He speaks with a large vocabulary and has a relatively normal functional life. Most of the credit for that goes to Craig’s parents and their unceasing efforts to find help and not lose hope.

That’s why Jill created the Autism Society of the Keys. Parents of autistic children face a daunting challenge — no two cases are alike and no two treatments are the same. But ASK can help steer parents in the right direction and help them not to lose hope.

As Jill puts it, “Too many parents feel like there’s nowhere to turn. You’ve been devastated by the news that ‘your child has autism, we don’t know how they get it, and there’s no cure or proven treatment for it.’ We are here to tell you that these things are just not true!” Her optimism is inspiring as she continues, “There are thousands of children out there that are living proof. They are recovering, getting into mainstream schools, and losing the diagnosis of autism altogether!”

As April is Autism Awareness Month, it’s fitting to celebrate Jill Campbell and her efforts to help other families facing the same situation. To find out more, or to even donate to the cause, visit www.autismsocietyofthekeys.com. As autism continues to rise in our children, a resource like ASK really can make miracles possible.

- Catch John live Thursdays at Sparky’s Landing, Friday at Isla Bella, this Saturday at Havana Jack’s, and Sundays at Skipjack Tiki Bar. Find his music anywhere you download or stream your music. www.johnbartus.com • johnbartus.hearnow.com

LOOK, DON’T TOUCH

Protect Key deer offspring during fawning season

While late April and early May have typically been the times when Key deer start giving birth to fawns, staff with the National Key Deer Refuge have already seen their first fawn of the season. Newborn Key deer fawns are very small – two to four pounds – and can be easily recognized by their spotted coat patterns.

Fawning season will continue to peak into the summer, with some fawns born as late as October and November. For those lucky enough to see one, please do not approach a fawn. Give mothers (does) and fawns plenty of distance, and avoid interacting with them during this important period of maternal bonding and care.

Mothers will also commonly leave their fawns alone for long periods of time after birth, sometimes up to 12 hours. This does not mean the fawn has been abandoned or orphaned. This is a strategy to protect the young from predators at a time when they are not able to keep up with their mother.

The period after birth is critical to the survival of a young fawn. During this time, fawns are still bonding and imprinting with their mothers. Movement of the fawn can disrupt this important process.

Please resist the urge to touch, pet, or feed the deer. If a fawn is found alone, it is best to walk away to allow the mother time to locate the baby.

Key deer are protected under the Endangered Species Act, and it is against the law for a person to intervene in these situations. Please also be on the lookout for Key deer and their fawns as you drive on Lower Keys roads. Fawns, especially newborns, are unpredictable and will run in any direction when scared. Please follow posted speed limits and pay attention while driving.

Finally, please keep dogs leashed in Key deer habitat to help keep fawns safe during this vulnerable time.

As a reminder, it is illegal to touch, feed or transport Key deer. If you spot an injured, distressed or dead Key deer, make your first call to FWC Dispatch at 888-404-3922, Ext. 1.

For more information, contact Chris Eggleston at 305-780-7509 or Greg Boling at 305-780-7526. Follow refuge updates online at www. fws.gov/refuge/key-west or on Facebook at facebook.com/floridakeysrefuges.

LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly

COME ON DOWN: ‘THE PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE’ RETURNS TO KEY WEST

CONTESTANTS TO BE CHOSEN FROM THE AUDIENCE ON APRIL 28

and I want to make this memory with you.”

In its 23rd year of touring North America, “The Price is Right Live” returns to the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Key West on Sunday, April 28 at 8 p.m.

The iconic game show’s tour host is Todd Newton, whose mentor was the show’s OG host, Bob Barker.

Originally from St. Louis, Newton, 53, is a seasoned TV host who has worked in the industry for 30 years. Newton has maintained a strong connection to Key West since he was a kid.

“I took my first steps as a baby on the beaches of Key West,” Newton told Keys Weekly. “I went there throughout my entire childhood. In my 20s, I started going alone and having the kind of fun a young man in his 20s can have in Key West. It’s gonna be a homecoming for me.”

Newton had an apartment in Old Town in his 30s and spent most of the pandemic lockdown in the Keys.

“Once the Keys enter your soul, it never leaves,” Newton said. “It’s something I take with me no matter where we are in the United States. It’s a spirit.”

At the show, ticket holders who have registered in advance will be randomly selected as contestants. They’ll be called by name and asked to “Come on down,” as the show’s legendary announcement goes.

VIP ticket packages, which include official “The Price is Right” merchandise, access to fast check-in and a chance to spin the famous Big Wheel, are also available.

“These games are not designed to trick you or to trip you up in any way,” Newton said. “I mean, we want to see you win. I’m not buying these cars or paying for these trips out of my own pocket. I want you to walk away happy

“The Price is Right” is a family tradition for generations of TV viewers.

“We meet people at the shows whose mother or grandmother or grandfather had been on ‘The Price is Right’ with Bob Barker 25 years ago,” Newton said. “I grew up watching it with my grandmother and I watched it in college, and watched it with my children when they were younger. I say ‘The Price is Right’ is right up there with apple pie and baseball.”

Anyone who’s ever shopped for groceries has the skills to win, he said. His tips for winning big: watch the show and learn how the games work.

“It’s several different games in one,” Newton said. “It’s Plinko, the Big Wheel, the Showcase and the Golden Road – all of these games that we all practice for unknowingly. Just going grocery shopping, you’re practicing.”

Barker taught Newton to always play the game through the eyes of the contestants.

“I get to spin the wheel every night,” he said. “But for the contestant, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. It’s kind of like when you have kids – all of a sudden, Christmas is really cool and fun again. Birthdays are exciting again, when you see it through their eyes. So that’s how I host the show.”

‘The Price is Right Live’ host Todd Newton joins the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to discuss the game show’s April 28 return to Key West. Scan the QR code to hear his interview with Gwen Filosa.

GWEN FILOSA gwen@keysweekly.com

• 6-week courses (May 14-June 25)

On-campus, online, and hybrid courses

• 12-week courses (May 14 - Aug. 6)

Earn credits quickly and enjoy the flexibility of virtual learning.

• Summer Kickstart program (June 3- Aug. 8)

Eight-week term for new students:

- English Composition I

- Preparing for Student Success. On-campus, online, and hybrid courses Questions? Contact Marissa Owens at recruiter@cfk.edu.

www.cfk.edu/futurestudents

1. Go to tinyurl.com/wbs24

2. Take approximately 10 minutes to complete the survey.

3. Share the survey with your family and friends!

What's Happening at St. Columba Episcopal Church in May

St. Columba Bingo Night

May 3rd 6:00

Celebrate Cinco De Mayo with Mateo Guitar Concert

May 5th - Potluck at 5:00, Concert at 6:00

All are Welcome

New Summer Hours Starting May 5th Sunday, 10am

May the peace of the Lord be always with you

St. Columba Episcopal Church

451 West 52nd St, Marathon Fl

LARGE WATERFRONT HOME

1,920 sq ft, 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, 160' of dockage on the ocean side of Marathon.

$1,187,000 MLS# 606254

MARINA & STORAGE

One plus acres with two plus acres of Bay bottom. Currently used for storage, lease expires in August 2024. Owner has plans for 300 boat storage on Racks and approx. 50 in wet storage using the bay bottom. There is a 150 foot dock on the property now. The sewage connection is to the property and paid for. $3,900,000 MLS#607041

FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS CORTISOL: THE BIG BAD … IGUANA?

You know, I really like wolves. In truth, they are one of my favorite animals, so to compare something so awful to something so beautiful and highly intelligent isn’t fair. So, I am officially flipping the script. No more big bad wolf. To all you iguana lovers out there: sorry, not sorry…

In the intricate symphony of hormones that regulate our bodies, cortisol plays a lead role, often cast as the villain. Aptly nicknamed "the stress hormone," cortisol's effects on our bodies can be likened to the presence of a looming shadow, triggering a cascade of responses that can be both beneficial and detrimental. Understanding this hormone is crucial for maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Emergency response

Cortisol belongs to the class of hormones known as glucocorticoids, which are produced by the adrenal glands, situated atop our kidneys. These glands are our body's emergency responders, releasing cortisol in response to stress. Whether it's a looming deadline, a near-miss accident, an upcoming presidential election or an encounter with a wild animal, cortisol gears our body for action, heightening alertness and readiness for a potential threat.

The intricate process of cortisol production begins in the brain's hypothalamus, which secretes corticotropinreleasing hormone (CRH) in response to stress signals. CRH then stimulates the pituitary gland to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which in turn prompts the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. This intricate feedback loop ensures that cortisol levels are appropriately regulated in response to stressors.

Cortisol's primary function is to mobilize energy reserves, ensuring that our bodies are adequately prepared to cope with stress. It achieves this by increasing glucose levels in the bloodstream, boosting the availability of energy to fuel the body's response. Additionally, cortisol suppresses non-essential functions such as digestion and reproduction temporarily, redirecting resources to more critical processes.

However, prolonged exposure to elevated cortisol levels can have detrimental effects on our health. Chronic stress, characterized by persistently high cortisol levels, has been linked to a myriad of health issues, including anxiety, depression, weight gain, impaired cognitive function and a weakened immune system. Furthermore, cortisol's role in promoting the accumulation of visceral fat around

organs has earned it a notorious reputation in the realm of weight management.

...is a Marathonbased ACSMcertified personal trainer and precision nutrition coach who owns and operates Highly Motivated Functionally Caffeinated LLC. Hello@highlymotivatedfc.com

Elevated cortisol levels can linger for hours or even days, depending on the intensity and duration of the stress. This prolonged exposure can perpetuate the cycle of stress and exacerbate its detrimental effects on both physical and mental health.

Combating cortisol

Given the profound impact of cortisol on our well-being, it becomes imperative to adopt strategies to mitigate its effects and restore balance to our hormonal milieu (that’s a $10 word for “environment”). Here are the top three evidence-based approaches to lower cortisol levels:

• Mindfulness and meditation: Engaging in mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises and yoga can significantly reduce cortisol levels. These techniques promote relaxation and activate the body's parasympathetic nervous system, counteracting the stress response triggered by cortisol.

• Regular exercise: Physical activity serves as a potent antidote to stress. Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, the body's natural mood elevators, while simultaneously reducing cortisol levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week to reap these stress-reducing benefits.

• Prioritize sleep: Adequate sleep is paramount for maintaining optimal cortisol levels. Chronic sleep deprivation disrupts the body's natural cortisol rhythm, leading to heightened stress levels and increased susceptibility to stress-related health problems. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep per night to support cortisol regulation and promote resilience to stress.

So, while cortisol may wield considerable influence over our physiological responses to stress, it need not reign as an unchecked tyrant. By adopting lifestyle strategies that promote relaxation, physical activity and restful sleep, we can effectively tame the "big bad iguana" within and cultivate a harmonious balance within our bodies and minds.

JENNIFER BOLTZ HARVEY

FRIDAY, MAY 3rd 5:30-9:30pm (snacks +refreshments provided)

SATURDAY, MAY 4th 9:30-4:30pm

*doors open at nine o’clock (lunch +refreshments provided)

KIRK OF THE KEYS

8877 Overseas Highway Marathon

SIMULCAST SPEAKERS

JENNIE ALLEN

CHRISTINE CAINE

JADA EDWARDS

SADIE ROBERTSON HUFF

BIANCA OLTHOFF

ANN VOSKAMP + MORE!

MARK HEDDEN

... is a photographer, writer, and semi-professional birdwatcher. He has lived in Key West for more than 25 years and may no longer be employable in the real world. He is also executive director of the Florida Keys Audubon Society.

Iguess I’ve seen flycatchers that you could call swashbuckling. The gray kingbirds that will be returning over the next few weeks to stake out their territories and perch on utility wires for the summer have shown themselves to be fearless adventurers on innumerable occasions, chasing off anything they think might be a threat. Among the many recipients of their aggression are hawks, kestrels, mockingbirds and cats. They have also been known to throw themselves at the occasional dog on a leash trotting next to a newspaper wildlife columnist riding a bicycle, nipping said dog on the butt and sending the dog, trailed by the leashattached newspaper wildlife columnist, rushing in a full speed panic toward a busy intersection while the attached newspaper wildlife columnist frantically tried to use the badly-in-need-oftightening hand brake to stop them. (They all survived.)

The similarly swashbuckling, closely related eastern kingbird has been known to have a go at a similar list of encroachers, as well as such offending interlopers as bald men with especially shiny pates and small airplanes flying too low for their liking.

I’d never had a chance to see a kingbird with piratic tendencies in North America, though, until this weekend, when I saw a piratic flycatcher at the Key West Botanical Garden.

The piratic flycatcher is an inhabitant of Central America and northern South America, though there are just short of a dozen records of it north of the Mexico line, making it a Category 4 on the American Birding Associations rarity code. This one was found by a visiting birder named Juli DeGrummond.

Oddly enough, a different piratic kingbird was reported at the same time higher up the Florida peninsula at Fort De Soto Park on the Gulf coast. Which perhaps isn’t odd. As noted Florida ornithologist Andy Kratter pointed out, “In Florida we like our vagrants in bunches,” with multiple far-flung, near-simultaneous sightings in recent years of rare species like red-legged honeycreeper, large-billed tern, American flamingo, Cuban pewee, black-faced grassquit, and red-legged thrush.

For some of these rarities – the American flamingos and the red-legged honeycreepers – their arrival can be tied to storms and other weather patterns with a high degree of confidence. But in most cases, it is usually more ambiguous.

Whenever a rare bird shows up, birders generally ask the same questions, the first one being: is it an escaped pet? If the species is sold in pet shops or popular in the illegal bird trade, a state records committee might not accept a sighting. For instance, sightings of two red-

WAYWARD PIRATES FROM FOREIGN LANDS

legged honeycreepers seen in Key West and at the Dry Tortugas in 2003 were rejected because it was possible to buy a red-legged honeycreeper in a pet store. It didn’t matter that the nearest pet store that sold them was on the mainland, over 150 miles away, and that they could be found in their natural habitat in Cuba only 90 miles away. (Interestingly, after multiple red-legged honeycreepers came into multiple spots in Florida, Louisiana and Texas in 2022, the 2003 records were retroactively accepted.)

Nobody really worried about the piratic being a caged bird. Like the gray kingbird and the eastern kingbird it is a member of the tyrant kingbird family, and would most likely be too aggressive to do well, or even survive, in a cage. Also, though the species has a distinctive thick black eyestripe across its mostly white face, it’s not a particularly beautiful or exotic looking bird, not the kind of bird that people look at and think, Ooh, I need to keep that one in my living room.

It’s a little bit of a letdown that the piratic flycatcher’s name does not derive from any physical attribute. There is, sadly, no eye patch or red bandana. And its call sounds nothing like “arrgggh” or “matey,” or anything remotely nautical. The name comes from the fact that they don’t build their own nests, but instead abuse and harass other birds into leaving theirs, and then move in, tossing out any eggs the previous tenants may have left behind.

The other main question birders ask when a rarity from across a large body of water appears is, was it ship-aided? Did it ride rather than fly? It’s almost a purely academic question, largely because there is no real way to know, and even if it was known, the ABA considers a ship-aided bird to be a countable bird on the checklists of those who keep score.

When I made it to the Botanical Garden on Sunday it was almost, at first, a repeat of the scene with the pearly-eyed thrasher two weeks before. I once again ran into Mark Whiteside in the parking lot, and inside the gates, we once again ran into Matthew Jolley, who told us he’d just seen the bird in the gumbo limbo tree on

a branch over the pond. But then he left. Mark and I walked around for a bit before we realized there were at least three gumbo limbos with branches out over the pond. I didn’t have Matthew’s number, so I sent a message through a mutual friend asking which gumbo limbo it might be. Five minutes later Matthew showed up and showed us exactly which tree he meant. Which was very nice of him.

The piratic wasn’t in the tree, though. Instead we watched a half-dozen gray catbirds come in and out, some of them softly singing songs they would belt out in full voice in a few weeks once they made it back to their breeding territories. There was also a trio of indigo buntings and a warbler or two.

A trio of broad-winged hawks drifted overhead. Then a trio of short-tailed hawks.

We kept vigil on the gumbo limbo, but then noticed some movement in the tree next door. And boom, there it was, perched as inauspiciously as any tyrant flycatcher I have ever seen.

It gave us a nice long look until Ellen Westbrook texted she was on the way, then it disappeared again. Ellen had missed the pearlyeyed thrasher, so I was slightly worried about a jinx. Amy Grimm arrived from Big Pine and saw it, and a birder from, I think, Texas also saw it while we waited for Ellen.

When Ellen did arrive we all stood there for a while, staring into the gumbo limbo and the neighboring tree, trying to will the flycatcher into appearing. After it didn’t, we spread out, searching through other adjacent bits of foliage without much luck.

I walked up to the front to get a drink from the water fountain and the woman working the desk mentioned they’d be closing in half an hour, so now there was deadline pressure, too.

Occasionally one of us would spot it, but by the time Ellen got there it moved. This happened three or four times. But then I heard Ellen’s voice from the next path over say she got it, and felt a sizable relief.

The micro-jinx was broken. High fives all around. Another rare bird seen in the Florida Keys.

A rare piratic flycatcher seen this week at the Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden.

TREASURE TALES

Coin discoveries send Keys into a frenzy

Stumbling upon an old story of buried treasure is always a thrill. Stumbling upon a real buried treasure would be super cool, but that requires a different kind of hunting and digging than I do.

The heaviest tool I operate, at least daily, is a keyboard. Still, when I dig up some historical nugget I have seen for the first time, it feels like gold and always makes my breath catch for one second, sometimes two.

One of my favorite stories occurred on Plantation Key in the 1970s when the island still had a sandy ridge built up over hundreds of years on the Atlantic side. This treasure story involved a bulldozer working to clear away a 75-foot section of the ridge. After the bulldozer’s operator cleared about 10 inches off the top, he stepped off the machine to inspect his work.

While walking over the area, he noticed several blackened pieces of metal and bent over to pick one up. It was about the size of a quarter. He rolled it over in his hand and scratched its surface with a finger. It was a coin, an old Spanish coin. According to a story published in 1975 and written by Art McKee, who inspected the coin, “Then they saw what proved to be the mint mark, O/M, and the assayer’s ‘F’ mark, as well as the Spanish coat-of-arms consisting of lions and castles and a cross. The pieces were eight-reale Spanish silver coins – actual pieces of eight!”

According to McKee, the bulldozer operator and a work associate picked up 74 coins over a 10-by-15-foot area. While most coins were undated, some were marked 1732 and 1733. How did the treasure end up on Plantation Key? McKee’s theory was that the coins were contraband smuggled aboard one of the 1733 treasure fleet shipwrecks. The sailor tried to swim for shore but drowned in the process, and after his body washed ashore, it became covered over time.

FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI

Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.

McKee added credence to the story by saying, “A small portion of a human skull was found on the beach.” The story does not explain what happened to the rest of the body.

The Plantation Key story was documented, and Art McKee, who is considered the father of modern treasure hunting, adds additional authenticity. McKee, too, had his Museum of Sunken Treasure on the same island. However, other stories just make you want to scratch your head. For instance, there is a story about buried treasure uncovered on Key Largo that is nothing short of unbelievable.

The story was printed in as many as 200 newspapers nationwide, including the Omaha Daily News on Dec. 19, 1925. The headline read: “25-Year Hunt Yields Buried Treasure – Weatherbeaten Mariner Unearths Cache of Doublooms and Pieces of Eight Near Key Largo, Florida.” The story, written by Ben Hecht, was fascinating. Hecht wrote that “Captain Bill Lofton came whooping into Key Largo this evening aboard a fivver loaded to the gunnels with doblooms [sic] and pieces of eight.” A fivver is an old junker car. “The old captain conveyed the treasure, pail by pail, into the kitchen of the strange looking house which he has built out of ships gone down off Key Largo.”

According to the story, Lofton discovered the treasure on the bank of Angelfish Creek.

The Spanish coins, estimated to be worth $250,000, were buried 6 feet down in 25 “huge earthen jars.”

Hecht wrote that when Lofton came barreling into town that day, he spoke to the crowd who gathered around his vehicle to see the treasures: “You all been calling me ‘Crazy Bill Lofton,’ he declared, on account of my spending all my life hunting for pirate treasure. Well, I just found it right where I knew it was, and right where the chart said it was. I want you folks to remember that I’m the deputy sheriff of Monroe County, and that I ain’t going to stand for no disorders on account of this treasure lying in my kitchen now.”

Allegedly, the discovery of buried Spanish treasure on Key Largo had a curious, if not reasonable, effect on the area. Hecht, who crafted the article, said, “Captain Lofton’s story has thrown Key Largo into an excitement reminiscent of the Klondike gold rush. According to telephone calls and telegrams received here, numerous craft are pulling out of the cities along the coast, fitted with shovels, diving suits and ‘treasure experts.’”

There was a follow-up to the story published in the Jan. 8, 1926 edition of the Kansas City Star — among other papers. The headline read: “Cap’n Bill Seeks a Guide.” According to the story, Lofton had traveled to New York City and sought someone to guide him around and show him a good time. “Captain Bill arrived here from Key Largo today prepared to interview his ‘guides.’ He was all dressed up in a silk hat and swallow tail coat.”

When asked what he was going to do in the city, “the ancient mariner replied he was going to scatter his pirate dublooms [sic] up and down New York City’s gay white way by the bucketful.”

Next week, we will dig deeper into the Captain Lofton story, Hecht, and how the pirate treasure came to be discovered. Hecht, by the way, was an Oscar-winning Hollywood screenwriter and author. Stay tuned for the rest of this one-of-a-kind buried treasure tale.

Art McKee’s original Museum of Sunken Treasure at Treasure Harbor, Plantation Key. FLORIDA MEMORY PROJECT/Contributed

GUITAR STUDIO

Established in 1995 and located in Marathon, the Guitar Studio offers classical guitar lessons for all ages and levels. Guitarists will learn how to play the classical guitar, read music and even compose their own music. Mateo's relaxation technique will guarantee your improvement. Lessons are one on one with Mateo and are available for half hour and one hour sessions. Home lessons are also available with group workshops on Wednesday evenings. The Guitar Studio presents the Sunday Concert Series featuring Mateo and friends at St. Columba Episcopal Church. For more information please contact the Guitar Studio at (305)304-1437.

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CHRIS M cNULTY

is an astrologer, wanderer, bartender and advocate for queer justice. He is a loquacious Gemini with a cozy Cancer rising. Find him at hearthandheraldastrology.com

We are in the last few days of Aries season, and the sun is about to waltz right into the verdant and peaceful garden of Taurus. When the sun is in the sign of Taurus we are offered the time and space to simply appreciate the world for what it is. Taurus season compels us to take a step back, to lounge in a chaise, and to breathe in the sensuous beauty that we tend to background in our usual hustle and bustle. On Friday, retrograde Mercury forms an exact conjunction with Venus, asking us to revisit, reconsider and rethink some of our relationships. Is there a discussion that needs to be had with a significant other? Are there different ways of communicating that need to be tried? Use this time to try having THAT conversation again. Also, this Saturday, arguably the most potent planetary aspect of 2024 is going to be perfect. Jupiter the Joyful is meeting up with Uranus the Unexpected to bring forth gigantic surprises, big leaps forward, abundant freedom and expansive shockwaves. Whenever there is a transit featuring Uranus, the one thing we know is to expect the unexpected. Jupiter makes everything bigger. So practice being open to what will be sparked this weekend without trying to control the outcome.

Here are your horoscopes for the Mercury-Venus conjunction and the Jupiter-Uranus conjunction. Read for your rising and sun signs.

ARIES

March 21 - April 19

There’s an important conversation with yourself that you are able to revisit. In order to communicate clearly with the people in your life, you need to start by having open and honest discussions with your-

self. Now is the time to sit down and have that chat. Expect some big financial surprises coming your way, either a big unexpected purchase or a big ol’ deposit.

TAURUS

April 20 - May 20

If something has been holding you back, get ready for that to release in a major way this weekend. You are being offered an opportunity to explode onto the scene as a free bird. Whether it is a release of chains or a ticket to ride, it’s yours to feel the lightness of being you deserve. Rethink relationships in solitude right now. Your meditations will get you farther than any interpersonal conversations.

GEMINI

May 21 - June 21

You are being given a chance to revisit the love that friends and supportive networks bring to your life. Look back and remember how you have been held by those that want you to succeed. Then take it one step further and let them know. A big secret surprise is coming your way, and it appears to be meant for you and for you alone. Hold your unexpected joy close to your heart.

CANCER

June 22 - July 22

Your hopes and dreams are about to get a big boost from an unexpected network of support. Keep your eyes on your prize, but accept the help that comes from left field and let it sky-rocket you to your goals. In the workspace, use a critical eye to analyze your methods of communication with your colleagues and coworkers. Perhaps there are other ways.

LEO

July 23 - Aug. 22

Your public reputation is about to explode in ways that you simply cannot foresee. Don’t go looking for paparazzi, but do not be surprised when you receive acknowledgement for something you might

have forgotten about or didn’t even realize you did. Also, do not be surprised if someone you met out on a great trip or big vacation reaches out to you.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 - Sept. 22

You have an opportunity to mend a relationship that has been wounded, particularly a relationship that was burned by shared resources or financial matters. Try a different tack at communicating during this go-around and see how that offers new solutions. Big surprises are around the corner that will open new vistas for exploration – you won the showcase showdown!

LIBRA

Sept. 23 - Oct. 23

Time to revisit a conversation with a significant other. Attempt new ways of addressing a past issue and see if you can come to an understanding, even if moving forward isn’t in the cards right now. That step will probably happen in June anyway. A big, unexpected return on investment seems imminent as well, especially if it’s something you forgot about.

SCORPIO

Oct. 24 - Nov. 21

An important relationship in your life has a major breakthrough on the horizon. Perhaps you will find an unexpected solution to your problems or you will find an unforeseen partner who will bring abundance to your life. You are also being granted a chance to revisit and rethink your creative habits such as rehearsing in a different way or altering your artistic routine.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 - Dec. 21

Contemplate the relationships in your life that bring you bliss, Sag. Perhaps it’s time to reconsider who you spend your time with or it’s high time that you sat in quiet gratitude for your creative compadres. You are on the verge of surprising yourself when it comes to your

THE BIG SURPRISE

methods of getting things done. Get excited about switching up your routines, and listen to advice from unusual places.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 - Jan. 19

You are being offered the opportunity to rethink the relationships you have with your family, particularly your parents. How do you communicate with parental figures and how do you understand your boundaries? Consider your words. Expect an unexpected opportunity to share your creative self-expression in a big way. Trust the process.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 - Feb. 18

Perhaps you’ve been a bit wistful lately, and you would be right on time if so. Let your mind ruminate on friends and lovers from the past, and get real reflective about it. What we learned about relationships years ago still permeates who we are now, so go ahead and study up. A gigantic shift is taking place in the world where you plant your roots. Dig deep and hold on tight.

PISCES

Feb. 19 - March 20

It appears to be time to reconsider your relationship to some of the material items in your life. Perhaps a purge of the house is due or a redetermination about how you spend your money is needed. Take some time to reflect on how your values are made material. Some really unexpected news is coming your way, and it is highly likely to be favorable. Keep your ears open.

BRIEFLY

Story Slam is back at Marathon Community Theatre

Marathon Community Theatre is bringing back Story Slam starting Saturday, April 20 at 6 p.m. The theme will be "Best of Times/Worst of Times.” Participants and the audience will select the winner and second-place stories, both of whom will receive a cash prize. Admission is $10 cash at the door. Come join the theater community and consider telling a story. Plan for stories to be no more than 5 to 7 minutes to keep fellow participants engaged. Remember, the audience will be looking for a sense of personal truth, and the best stories are usually personal and heartfelt, whether they’re funny, sentimental or heartbreaking. For tips on how to engage fellow storytellers, visit themoth.org/share-your-story/ storytelling-tips-tricks. All are welcome to attend, whether or not they tell a story. See you at the theater!

Marathon High School bands to host spring concert

On Thursday, April 25, students in the Marathon High School band program will present their annual spring concert. The concert will include the school’s beginning band, advanced band and high school jazz band. It begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Marathon High School Performing Arts Center. The suggested donation for attendees is $5.

Blood drive scheduled at Dolphin Research Center

Give the gift of life by donating blood when One Blood holds a blood drive on Friday, April 26 at Dolphin Research Center on Grassy Key. The Big Red Bus will be stationed in DRC's parking lot from noon to 4:30 p.m. Anyone who donates blood during the day will receive free admission to Dolphin Research Center, an insulated tote bag and a $20 e-gift card that can be used at Target, Walmart, Amazon and other retailers. Donors also receive a free wellness checkup, including blood pressure, pulse, temperature, iron count and cholesterol screening. Appointments are encouraged. Please visit oneblood. org/donate-now and use sponsor code 1828. All blood types are needed for emergencies and for people who have cancer, sickle cell anemia, blood disorders and other illnesses. Identification is required.

Delray Beach man arrested for damaging restaurant

An 18-year-old Delray Beach, Florida man was arrested April 14 for allegedly causing a disturbance at a Marathon restaurant and damaging

property. Dominic Steven Davis was charged with criminal mischief. Davis was part of a group at the Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House around 7:45 p.m. on April 13, the sheriff’s office said. The manager reported the group was throwing bread as well as butter on their newly painted walls and ceiling. There was approximately $500 in damage. The manager wished to press charges. A traffic stop was later conducted early Sunday morning and the primary suspect, Davis, was taken into custody.

Michigan man arrested for exposing himself

A 59-year-old Harrison Township, Michigan man was arrested April 11 for allegedly exposing himself at a Marathon beach. Edward Robert Dooge was charged with indecent exposure. Dooge allegedly exposed himself and was touching himself at Coco Plum Beach around noon on Saturday. He was also in possession of sex-related toys in plain view, the sheriff’s office said. According to an MCSO press release, Dooge stated he thought it was a nude beach. He was taken to jail.

Marathon man arrested for battery with 2x4

A 64-year-old Marathon man was arrested April 11 for allegedly striking and injuring a 78-year-old man with a 2x4. Luis Ancieto Herrada was charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and elderly abuse. The sheriff’s office was called to 20th Street in Marathon around 7 p.m. Multiple witnesses stated Herrada struck the man with the 2x4 multiple times for unknown reasons, an MCSO press release stated. The victim was taken to Fishermen’s Hospital in Marathon, where he was treated and released.

Cleanup scheduled for Tom’s Harbor Bridge

Make a difference for the marine environment and help clean up the Florida Keys by joining Dolphin Research Center in a volunteer effort to collect discarded trash and other debris at the bridge over Tom’s Harbor Channel, mile marker 60.6, on Thursday, April 25 from 4 to 6 p.m. All participants should wear clothes, hats and closed-toed shoes that can get wet or dirty. Be sure to bring bug spray, sunscreen and a reusable water bottle. DRC will supply trash bags, gloves and a water cooler. Participants will meet DRC staff and volunteers at the parking area on the south end of the bridge on the ocean side.

Summer semester opportunities at College of the Florida Keys

The College of the Florida Keys is accepting applications for its summer semester with three summer term options. A six-week accelerated summer term from May 14 to June 25 will include on-campus, online and hybrid courses, which combine both on-campus and online coursework. A 12-week summer term from May 14 to August 6 is completely online. A summer kickstart program from June 3 to August 8 offers two classes for new students: English Composition I and Preparing for Student Success. Students can participate in these hybrid-flexible courses at the Key West campus or virtually. New students must apply by May 1 for all summer terms. Financial aid and payment plans are available. For more information about the opportunities at CFK, visit the College’s website at cfk.edu/futurestudents. New students who need assistance should contact Marissa Owens at recruiter@cfk.edu or 305-809-3207.

Monroe County to host ‘tire amnesty’ days

Monroe County Solid Waste, partnering with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, will be hosting three free Earth Day “tire amnesty” events for Monroe County residents with proof of residency. Residents may turn in up to six non-commercial tires with no rims for three days on April 20, April 27 and May 4 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Monroe County transfer stations: Cudjoe Transfer Station, MM 21.5, Blimp Road; Long Key Transfer Station, MM 68, Overseas Highway; and Key Largo Transfer Station, 11180 County Road 905. Residents must be able to load the tires into a container at the transfer stations, but assistance can be requested by calling Melody Tuschel at 305-509-0325.

Keys Watercolor Society offers two scholarships

The Florida Keys Watercolor Society, now in its 44th year, is set to award two $500 scholarships to graduating seniors, whether enrolled in public schools or home schooled. Scholarship recipients must be pursuing a career in the visual arts. For more information and an application, email thefkwcs@ gmail.com or call 786-309-4595. Applications are due by April 30.

MLKAR car show to benefit United Way Feed the Keys

On Saturday, April 20 at 9 a.m., the Heart of the Keys Young Professionals Network, run by the Marathon and Lower Keys Association of Realtors, will host a car show benefit at Town

Square Mall (11400 Overseas Highway), with proceeds dedicated to fund United Way’s Feed the Keys summer initiative for local families. A $15 car entry includes a hot dog, chips and a drink as well as a chance to win a trophy. Coca-Cola and Centennial Bank will provide food and beverages for purchase. Admission to the show is $5 or a donation of three non-perishable food items. Pre-registration for cars is at givebutter.com/carshowbenefit.

Free flights for youths on Young Eagles Day

On Saturday, April 20 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Middle Keys EAA will host a Young Eagle Rally at the Experimental Aircraft Association Museum at the Marathon airport. During the event, youngsters ages 8 to 17 can take a free flight in an airplane, provided by EAA member pilots in order to inspire kids through an introduction to the world of aviation. Parents or guardians can go to youngeaglesday.org to register and get more information.

Leadership Monroe festival to celebrate 2024 grads

Leadership Monroe County (LMC) will celebrate its Class XXXI graduation with “Leadership Spring GradFest,” a community festival and alumni reunion to be held Saturday, April 27 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Marathon Community Park. The family-friendly event will feature food trucks, games, a bounce house, artist booths, members of the Key West Police Department mounted patrol unit, music, vendors, Monroe County non-profit booths and a Class XXXI raffle and graduation ceremony. Admission is $10; children aged 12 and under are admitted free. LMC is an educational, nonpartisan, nonprofit community organization that brings together existing and emerging leaders to build constructive alliances in the Florida Keys. More information is at leadershipmonroecounty.org or 305-394-3804.

Come take a class at the Marathon library

The Marathon library has a wide variety of class offerings, ranging from photography to book clubs, robots, virtual reality and more. Scan the QR code here to see the schedule and get involved.

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HOLDING COURT

Tennis stars pick up wins before districts | P.8

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THE SCOREBOARD

APRIL 18

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

APRIL 18

THIS WEEK

She helped us set the pace of the games, coming up huge on the draw. She was instrumental in moving the offense and defense to create opportunities for either herself or others to go to goal.”

— Marisa Giacopuzzi, Lady Conchs lacrosse coach

6

10 goals draw controls

When the Lady Conchs started the season, they knew they would have to dig deep to overcome their young and somewhat inexperienced roster. It would take athletes stepping up and leading the charge, and junior Kaitlyn Piloto answered that call. The hard-working athlete has shone when the Conchs most needed a star – most recently in their district quarterfinal game, in which she netted 5 goals to help lead her team into the next round of playoffs.

In total last week, Piloto scored 6 goals, was credited with a pair of assists, and won 10 draw controls. Her play helped the Conchs win against Coral Shores and stay in the game against Westminster Christian, and though the outcome was not what Piloto and her team had hoped for, her strong showing will help set the stage for a deeper run in her senior campaign. For giving her all when her team needed her most, Key West’s Kaitlyn Piloto is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

ON THE COVER

With district matches taking place this week, several Keys tennis stars closed their regular seasons on a high note.

From top: Coral Shores’ Johann Smith, Marathon’s Rain Banks, Key West’s Michael Grodzinski and Marathon’s Matthew Delgado. See page 8. Photos by Doug Finger, Barry Gaukel and Mark Hedden.

Kaitlyn

Junior, Key West Lacrosse

Photo by: MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

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.

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.

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.

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305.743.0844

With more than 60 strikeouts to his name in 2024 – and counting – Key West senior hurler Anthony Lariz is entrenched at the top of his district leaderboards. KEYS

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP PODCAST

In this week’s Keys Weekly Sports Wrap Podcast, Sean and Tracy give an early rundown of Monroe County tennis teams’ district performances and spotlight standout baseball and softball athletes who lead their district in various stats. As always, listen in for scores and upcoming games this week as the podcast provides the most comprehensive prep sports coverage in Monroe County. EP 50

Listen to the Sports Wrap podcast

KEY WEST WALK-OFF THRILLER HIGHLIGHTS

NHSI INVITE

Marathon thrashes Mater Bay on Senior Night

Key West baseball spent the end of last week in Cary, North Carolina at the USA Baseball National High School Invitational tournament, playing against the top talent in the country. The Conchs got off to a slow start, losing the first two games of the tournament, but ended strong to head back to the Southernmost City on a two-game win streak.

In game one of the tourney on April 10, Key West played Harvard-Westlake, the third-ranked team in California. The Conchs lost 10-2 despite 2 hits from Steel Mientkiewicz and 1 each from Caden Pichardo, Sam Holland and Roman Garcia. The Conchs gave up an unusual 13 hits and made 3 errors, putting a win against the high-caliber Wolverines out of reach.

The next night, the Conchs faced the No. 1-ranked team in North Carolina, Wesleyan Christian Academy, losing 9-2. The Trojans picked up 3 runs in the first inning and maintained the lead for the duration. Key West played its usual error-free defense, but stagnant bats prevented a win against Wesleyan. Nelson Ong prevented the no-hitter, connecting for a pair of Key West hits and one RBI.

In game three, Key West’s bats woke up with 6 hits against Apex Friendship, including 2 from Pichardo and 1 each from Garcia, Ong, Holland, Mientkiewicz and Anthony Lariz. Jacob Burnham pitched a full game, striking out 7, walking 2 and giving up just 4 hits. The win over the Patriots was punctuated by a thrilling walk-off from Mientkiewicz at the bottom of the seventh inning to give the Conchs the 4-3 victory.

Game four pitted Key West against the Firebirds of Chaparral High, a top-tier team from Scottsdale, Arizona, winning 9-5. Key West was good for 8 hits, 2 each from Garcia, Mientkiewicz and Ong and 1 apiece from Lariz and Auggy Davila. Christian Koppal got the start and Kasey Kasper finished out the final 2-1/3 innings to combine for a total of 5 strikeouts, giving up just 3 hits. Key West will finish its regular season in Florida with four home games, beginning with Westminster Christian on Thursday, April 18.

On April 11, the Fins found their stride against the Bulldogs of Riviera Prep. Gabe Leal and Aidan Gonzalez registered hits for Marathon, but 2 would be enough when added to 5 walks and 2 batters reaching base on Bulldog errors. Ziels pitched an entire game, striking out 9, walking 1 and giving up 3 hits in the 4-0 win.

The following night, Marathon earned a mercyrule win over Mater Bay Academy on the team’s senior night, defeating the Rays 12-2. The Fins took an early lead, scoring 4 in inning one, and never let up. Gabe Leal had 3 hits and 3 RBIs to lead the offensive onslaught. Ziels and Jack Chapman had 2 hits apiece with Thornton, Gonzalez, Tommy Norris and Michael Merryman contributing 1 each. Leal did the heavy lifting on the mound for Marathon, facing 23 of the Rays’ 26 batters. Piscetello took on the final 3 to close out the game.

Marathon started the week off at home against Palmer on April 9. The Fins’ bats were unusually stagnant, amassing just 3 hits, 1 each from Dylan Williams, Dylan Ziels and Roco Piscetello. Ziels had an RBI and Piscetello stole a base, but the Falcons managed to squeak out 4 runs to Marathon’s 1. Mason Thornton lasted 6 innings on the mound, fanning 4 and allowing just 3 hits with no walks. Ziels turned out the lights in the final frame with three up and three down, but 5 errors cost the Fins in the loss.

The Coral Shores Hurricanes traveled to Miami on April 8 to face Brito High School. The ’Canes managed 8 hits, but a 9-run rally from Brito in inning two put the game out of reach early. Campbell Lavoie and AJ Putetti had a pair of hits each, with Putetti adding a stolen base to his stats. Donovan Thiery, Maykol Bonito-Rodriguez, Zeke Myers and Mason Clark accounted for the rest of Coral Shores’ hits. Thiery, Grayden Ross and Riley O’Berry teamed up on the mound to strike out seven batters in 4-½ innings of play before the mercy rule was applied in the 14-3 loss.

A walk-off hit from the Conchs’ Steel Mientkiewicz in the bottom of the seventh inning iced a 4-3 win over Apex Friendship at the National High School Invitational tournament. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

CONCHS DOMINATE AT MARATHON

in Fins field events

Atotal of seven South Florida teams descended on Marathon for the Middle Keys Invitational on April 8. Among those teams were all the Monroe County high schools for a Keys-wide showdown in track and field.

Key West took first place in the boys events, scoring 196 total points. Marathon was fourth with 86 points and Coral Shores was fifth with 59.5. The Lady Conchs captured second place, scoring 172 points. Marathon and Coral Shores were fourth and fifth, respectively, earning 94 and 25 points for their teams.

Key West had a slew of top finishers. Shane Lavallee was first in javelin and second in the 200. Lavallee’s 154’11” javelin toss was not only a personal record for him, but second all-time for Key West. Clerf Alexandre was first in triple jump and second in the 100. Jean Louis was first in shot put, beating out a field of 18 athletes. Jeef Dejean took third in the 100 and triple jump and second in the long jump. Anthony Jenner placed third in both the 110 hurdles and discus events. Coming in second were Malachi Telisma in high jump and Ian

Newton in pole vault. Brondson Etienne and Jeremiah Harvey were third in high jump and javelin, respectively.

Marathon’s boys had two first-place finishes in their home meet, both from Jay Marshall. Marshall won the 100and 200-meter races to maintain his status as the fastest in the Keys.

Coral Shores’ boys team had four athletes crack the top three. Xavier Johnson was second in the 110 high hurdles. William Davila and Ethan Marguet took third in the 400-meter and 800-meter runs, respectively, while Ambrose Sanchez captured third in the 400 hurdles.

The Lady Conchs had strong performances across the board. Audrey Smith won the javelin event, while Alyssandra Camargo took first in the 400. Key West’s final first-place finisher was Caylaa Makimaa, who won the two-mile event, then took third in the mile. Dazmine Jenkins used her speed to claim a pair of second places in the 100- and 200-meter races. Anabel Portuondo was second in pole vault, Claire Boysen was second in shot put, and Colleen Barter was third in the high jump event. Kaylee Matas Cabuzuelo was third in

discus and Grace Andrew won a pair of thirds, one in the 100 high hurdles and the other in the 400 hurdles.

Coral Shores sophomore Mira Jones was the only Lady ’Cane to break into the top three. Jones finished the 400-meter race in third place.

Marathon’s Lady Fins had five top-three finishers. Daysi Williams won the high jump, breaking her own school record by clearing 5’1.75”. Williams was also third in the 200-meter race. Justice Lee claimed her third school record, throwing the shot put 33’8.5”. The sophomore sensation won that event as well as the discus. Lee also placed third in javelin. Senior Kayesha Christian capped off the final home meet of her career with style, finishing first in the long jump. Ava Merryman was third in pole vault and Mikkel Ross was third in the 3200-meter race.

Districts for Key West and Coral Shores, both 2A teams, will occur on Wednesday, April 24 at Tropical Park in Miami. Marathon, which competes in the smaller 1A division, will participate in district championships on Wednesday, May 1 at Palmer Trinity School.

8. Marathon sophomore Daysi Williams broke her own high jump record last week. Williams placed fourth at the state meet in ’23 and has improved her mark this season.

9. Hand-painted awards for the Middle Keys meet included team trophies by Finders Keepers Coconuts and individual seashell medals from Marathon head coach Darby Sheehan. CONTRIBUTED

Photos by: Mark Hedden and Rick Mackenzie

’CANES BOYS PERFECT AT SOUTH DADE

Fins earn another win on the courts of Key West

In their final matches prior to districts, Coral Shores traveled to South Dade High School on April 11 to take on the Buccaneers. The boys swept the Bucs 7-0, with wins from Makani Burga, Aidan Althouse, Johann Smith, Erik Moerner and Corden Dean in singles. In doubles action, Althouse and Smith paired up for a win in the first match and Moerner and Dean picked up another win in doubles match number two. South Dade gave the Lady ’Canes a bit more resistance. Kai Redruello won the No. 4 singles match and Macy Cakans won No. 5. Redruello teamed up with Kai Guth to win the second doubles match, but the Buccaneers pulled off four wins to Coral Shores’ three.

Key West and Marathon also played their final regular-season matches on April 11. Marathon’s boys doubled their wins for the season, defeating the Conchs 5-2. Adrien Holdinga, Tanner Snowden and Matt Delgado won their singles matches and Holdinga and Snowden plus Delgado and Carlos Lezcano picked up a pair of doubles wins for the Fins. Key West won a point from Michael Grodzinski in the singles No. 3 match plus a forfeit at the No. 5 spot.

The Lady Conchs were dominant against the Fins, with wins from Amalia Strunk, Juliana Strunk and Violet Jangraw in singles as well as sweeping the doubles matches. Eva Drozdetskaia and Gabriela Aguero won the first doubles match, then the Strunk sisters won the second. Marathon’s lone win came from No. 2 singles player Rain Banks.

Marathon and Coral Shores, both classified in the smaller 1A division, will compete at their district matches on the campus of Miami Dade Community College. 2A Key West will be at Tropical Park in hopes of sending their athletes to the next round of competition. Districts for both divisions were held April 15 and 16 (results not available at press time).

Clockwise from top: Coral Shores’ Aidan Althouse, Key West’s Gabriela Aguero and Marathon’s Adrien Holdinga. Photos by Doug Finger, Mark Hedden and Barry Gaukel.

FINS BEAT CARROLLTON IN ONLY WIN FOR KEYS TEAMS

Key West’s Niles slams sixth home run

Dolphins softball secured the only win among Keys teams last week as postseason approaches for at least two squads.

The Fins’ Elena Eubank registered 3 hits and 3 RBIs in a 7-2 win over the Carrollton Cyclones on April 10. Sara Robinson had 2 hits while Madelyn Thornton, Maeve Merryman, Shynell McGuire, Eli Roque and Daniela Gonzalez each had a hit. Allison Garcia pitched 7 innings, striking out 6, walking 3 and giving up 4 hits. Eubank had the only hit in a 10-0 loss to the Miami Country Day Spartans on April 9.

Conch softball was tested against tough competition during the Orange Bowl Florida Fastpitch Invitational at Palmetto Bay Park. The Lady Conchs started off with an 11-3 loss to the Westminster Academy Lions on April 12. Key West had 11 hits from eight players, but the Lions racked up 14 to outscore the Conchs. Scarlet Niles, Tavyn Gage and Nina Manresa each had a pair of hits. Niles and Manresa hit doubles. Julene Vega, Alexandra Rodriguez, Shylo Sanchez, Lilee Gage and Alexa Condella accounted for the rest.

Later that day, the St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders defeated the Conchs 14-1. Sanchez and Vera Rodger singled for Key West, which had 2 hits against the Raiders.

The next day, Key West played the Riverdale Raiders out of Fort Myers. Down by 4 runs in the fifth inning, the Conchs rallied to come within one of the win, but the Raiders held on for the 5-4 win. Riverdale started the scoring but Key West’s Niles homered to tie the game in the first inning.

In inning 6, Alexandra Rodriguez walked, stole second and scored on a Tavyn Gage line drive to center field. With Gage on base and 2 outs, Julene Vega doubled to score Gage. An error by the Raiders and an intentional walk on Niles loaded the bases. Vega scored on a wild pitch, adding a third run in the inning and sparking hopes for a Key West comeback. The rally, however, ended there with a heartbreaking loss.

Key West faced the Davie Western Wildcats in their final game of the tournament. Ranked third in 7A — a division with Florida’s largest schools — the Wildcats had early trouble getting on the board. Solid pitching by the Conchs’ Chloe Gilday helped keep the game scoreless until the bottom of the third inning, when 3 errors and a double put the Western Wildcats ahead 4-0. Key West accounted for 5 errors in the game, proving to be as unfortunate as it was unusual for the team. Four more Wildcats hits in the fourth inning added 3 runs to the lead, putting the game out of reach for the Conchs. Breanna Breener teamed up with Gilday

6 Scarlet Niles

Key West’s Scarlet Niles homered to tie the game in the first inning against the Riverdale Raiders on April 13.

for 4 strikeouts in the loss. Niles, Rodriguez, Manresa and Monica Bueno each singled for Key West. Coral Shores’ final home game of the season came on April 12 against the Everglades City Gators. The Lady ’Canes came out of the gates with a win in mind, leading 11-8 through the fourth inning. The Gators regrouped, found their stride and gained the forward momentum. By the final inning, Coral Shores was on the losing end of a 26-11 score, but not before enjoying their best offensive showing of the season.

The ’Canes did a fine job getting on base with some solid hitting and careful watching. Chloie Stanley connected for an impressive triple that landed over the center fielder’s head, just shy of the fence, driving in two batters in the process. The Lady ’Canes’ Jenna Mandozzi scored 3 runs. Venessa Cawley, Alex Burson, Chloie Stanley and Grace Maples scored 2 each and Mira Jones crossed the plate one time.

The starting pitcher, Jones, had an impressive showing for the ’Canes. The loss likely ended the season for the Hurricanes, who do not participate in a district. The team, whose roster does not include an upperclassman, gained valuable experience which will continue to pay off in upcoming seasons.

District games will begin for Key West and Marathon later this month. Brackets will be determined after the final rankings report later this week.

Marathon’s Elena Eubank had 3 hits and 3 RBIs in a 7-2 win over the Carrollton Cyclones on April 10.

The Hurricanes’ Mira Jones delivers a pitch.

Photos by Barry Gaukel, Maicey Malgrat and Doug Finger.

KEYS LACROSSE TEAMS FALL OUT OF PLAYOFFS

Lady Conchs best Lady ’Canes in first round

In postseason lacrosse action, Key West’s boys’ winning record and strength of schedule earned a coveted bye.

Coral Shores played Westminster Christian in the FHSAA 1A District Quarterfinals on April 11.

Key West, ranked third in the district, was scheduled to play second-ranked Ransom Everglades on April 12. The Conchs beat the Raiders on March 9, giving Key West every reason to believe a trip to the district finals was possible. But it would be Ransom which went on to play perennial powerhouse Gulliver in the championship game. Key West lost 10-4, ending their season earlier than they had hoped, but far stronger than the previous year. Noah Collins scored half of the Conchs’ goals. Carter Sessoms and Eddie Moline scored the remainder.

The Hurricanes and Warriors faced off just over one week prior, so coach Chris Carrow and his team knew what to expect. The quarterfinals would be the end of the road for the ’Canes, losing 9-3 to the higher-ranked Warriors -- a deficit three goals smaller than their previous matchup. Lucas Carballo scored 2 goals for the Hurricanes and Yandel

Chaguaseda scored 1. Lucas Hajec was credited with 2 assists and Zane Martinez added 1 assist to his stats.

When the rankings came out and the rosters were populated, Monroe County’s two girls lacrosse teams were pitted against one another, ensuring that at least one team would move on into the semifinals but also ensuring that one team would be eliminated early. The Lady Hurricanes’ season ended April 11 in Key West’s backyard, as the Conchs won 8-4 in a hard-fought battle for a spot in the semis. The game was closer

than the final score indicates. Key West was ahead 2-1 at the end of the first quarter. By halftime, the Conchs kept the advantage with a 3-2 score, and at the end of quarter three, it was 5-4. Key West pulled away in the final quarter and gave themselves some breathing room. Kaitlyn Piloto led the scoring for the Conchs with 5 goals. Ella Bishop netted 2 and Deanna Mercier scored 1.

Ava Brock, Eisley Whitehead and Mercier were each credited with an assist. Goalkeeper Courtney Grabus had 5 saves, a ground ball and 1 caused turnover in the win. Piloto won 7 draw controls and picked up a ground ball and Bishop had one draw control and 4 ground balls. Conchs head coach Marisa Giacopuzzi was pleased with her team’s performance, especially in the fourth quarter in which the Conchs prevented any ’Canes’ scoring.

“We also had some huge turnovers,” she said, also praising individual players for their efforts. “Celeste Loy and Ava Brock fought for the ball back on a ’Canes transition. Deanna Mercier, our center, came up with 3 caused turnovers; Colbie Turner caused turnovers; even goalie Courtney Grabus had an interception. Kaitlyn Piloto was unstoppable all over the field, from dominating the draw to going to goal; she had an incredible game tallying 5 goals.”

Coral Shores did not go down without a fight, though. The Lady ’Canes kept the game within reach until the final quarter. Iona Holmquist scored 2 goals

while Nicole Gray and Shay Stober netted 1 each. Holmquist was credited with picking up an incredible 10 ground balls, while Stober scooped 5. Makayla Hann had 1 interception in the game.

The following night, Key West traveled to Westminster Christian without an opportunity to rest or regroup. They were hoping for a redemption of a loss earlier this season, but that was not in the cards for the Conchs. Turnovers would be the team’s undoing against the Warriors, who beat the Conchs 13-9. There were 15, too many to overcome. Despite the turnovers, Key West managed to find the net nine times in just 11 shots on goal. Brock scored 2 and assisted on another. Mercier netted 3 goals, Maeve O’Hearn scored 2 and Turner had 1. Piloto scored 1 and assisted 2 others.

“Courtney Grabus had an insane game with 22 saves and three ground balls,” Giacopuzzi said. “She saw a lot of action, made some huge patient plays to help keep the ball in our sticks and ran the clock at the end of some quarters. When the ball is in our sticks, we're in control. Problem was, we couldn't keep it in our sticks long enough.”

Despite losing in the semifinals, Giacopuzzi said it wasn't all bad.

“At the end of the day, we had a lot to celebrate, so many individual victories, so many team wins, so much thrown at us this season, and we persevered,” she said.

The Conchs’ girls lacrosse team beat Coral Shores, 8-4, in a postseason district match on April 11. GRACE ANDREW/Keys Weekly

CITY OF MARATHON CITY COUNCIL NOTICE OF ATTORNEYCLIENT SESSION

IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 286.0118, FLORIDA STATUTES

Notice is hereby given that the City Council consisting of Councilmembers Luis Gonzalez, Lynn Landry, Kenny Matlock, Jeff Smith and Robyn Still, City Manager George Garett, and City Attorney Steve Williams, and Special Legal Counsel (FOLKS) Gary Perko and David Childs will meet at 4:30 pm or as soon as possible thereafter on May 14, 2024 at the Marathon City Hall, 9805 Overseas Highway in an Attorney-Client Session, pursuant to Section 286.011(8), Florida Statutes, to discuss litigation in regard to the following case: Folks-Friends of the Lower Keys, LLC. v. City of Marathon, Florida, Defendant; pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, Case No.: 4:22-cv-100002. The session is estimated to last thirty minutes.

Publish: April 18, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of KEYS MYOFASCIAL RELEASE & WELLNESS, located at 306 Sombrero Beach Road, Apt. 2, Monroe County in the City of Marathon, Florida 33050, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated at Marathon, Florida this 9th day of April, 2024.

By: Deborah D. McGrath

Publish:

April 18, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:

Old Marathon Tax Collector Building Seawall Construction Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at bonfirehub.comhttps://monroecounty-fl. OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request. Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids.

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

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com, no later than 3:00P.M. on May 14, 2024. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/ proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. You may call in by phone or internet using the following:

Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156

Meeting ID: 4509326156

One tap mobile: +16465189805,, 4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,, 4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

Publish: April 18, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that

on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:

Engineering Design and Permitting Services for the Winston Waterways Road Elevation and Stormwater Project Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request.

Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Emailed/mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/ responses WILL NOT be accepted.

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com, no later than 3:00P.M. on June 4, 2024. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each

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

If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Tuesday, June 4, 2024. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156

Meeting ID: 4509326156

One tap mobile: +16465189805,, 4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,, 4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: April 18, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

Effective April 1, 2024, Karisa Falden, D.O., is no longer practicing with Baptist Health Primary Care at the following location: 5701 Overseas Highway, Suite 17, Marathon, FL 33050.

Patients who wish to receive copies of their medical records may log into our patient portal at myBaptistHealth.net, call 305-434-1400 or fax 305-743-0962 to request a records release. Publish: April 4, 11, 18 & 25, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

LEGO Construction Company and Department of Management Services cordially invite interested subcontractors to complete and submit sealed bids by 31st May 2024 no later than 3:00 pm for the following project/bid packages: Monroe RSC – Design Fire System and Replace Fire Panel 2796 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 (MSFM-02102080)

SELECT TRADE BID PACKAGES (see below)

This invitation to bid (ITB) includes the following trades. All contractors certified as SBE, MBE & M/WBE are encouraged to participate in any of these trades.

• Drywall

• Acoustical Ceiling

• Painting

• Fire Alarm

• Fire Protection

• Electrical

• Final Cleaning

• Site Restoration

The bid manual, bid requirements, bid forms, specifications, drawings, and other construction documents will be available by reaching out to Susmitha Kadam at sk@legocc.com or at 305-381-8421 Ext 105.

There will be a non-mandatory Pre-bid conference and site visit on 10th May 2024 at 11:00 am.

All bids must be received no later than 31st May 2024 @ 3:00 pm at LEGO Construction Co office located at 1011 Sunnybrook Road Suite 905, Miami Florida 33136. Bids must be delivered in a sealed envelope clearly marked “Sealed Bid for Monroe RSC – Design Fire System and Replace Fire Panel” along with the name of your firm and the trades covered in your bid.

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

April 18 & 25 and May 2 & 9, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

CASE NO.: 24-CP-147-K

IN RE: THE ESTATE OF CHRIS RICHARD WAGNER, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of CHRIS RICHARD WAGNER, deceased, whose date of death was July 16, 2023, Case: 24-CP-147-K, is pending in the Circuit Court, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is: April 18, 2024.

Personal Representative: MELISSA BAILEY WAGNER c/o Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq. Law Offices

The administration of the estate of Barbara J. Fehsenfeld, deceased, whose date of death was March 4, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court 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: April 18, 2024. Personal Representative: Charles Webber 12033 State Route 164 Lisbon, OH 44432 Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134

743-6022 Fax: (305) 743-6216 E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com Publish: April 18 & 25, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Tavernier, 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: April 18, 2024.

Personal Representative:

Michael E. Haring 1955 N.W. 108th Lane Coral Springs, Florida 33071

Attorney for Personal Representative:

Richard E. Warner

Attorney

Florida Bar Number: 283134

RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-6022

Fax: (305) 743-6216

E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com

Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com

Publish: April 18 & 25, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 24-CP-000138-M

IN RE: ESTATE OF CHARLES T. ESTRELLA

Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: April 18, 2024. Personal Representative: DOROTHY J. ESTRELLA Address: 507 Sherman Street Fall River, MA 02723

The administration of the estate of Philip R. Haring, Jr., deceased, whose date of death was January 15, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County,

SUDOKU SOLUTION

The administration of the estate of CHARLES T. ESTRELLA, deceased, whose date of death was December 22nd, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Marathon Courthouse, 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2)

is 88770 Overseas Highway, Ste.2, Plantation Key, 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.

The administration of the estate of Ilia T. Ocasio, deceased, whose date of death was February 19, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Tavernier, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representatives’ 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: April 18, 2024. Personal Representatives:

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 April 11, 2024. Personal Representative: Elizabeth Mcsherry 89 Pine Street South Paris, Maine 04281

Tel: (603) 986-1531

Attorney for Personal Representative: Anwar E. Hadeed, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 1018036

The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm

Samah T. Abukhodeir, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 108015 2600 S. Douglas Rd., Suite 502 Coral Gables, FL 33134

Office Line: (305) 677-5119

Facsimile: (305) 735-6468

Email: Anwar@flpfl.com

eservice@flpfl.com Publish: April 11 & 18, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 24-CP-107-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF RICHARD H. MCCAUSLAND, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of RICHARD H. MCCAUSLAND deceased, whose date of death was January 30, 2024, Case: 24-CP-107-K, is pending in the Circuit Court, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF

The date of first publication of

Personal Assitant needed for Key Colony Beach couple. Two times/week - driving to doctor appts, handyman projects, gardening, light housekeeping, must be capable of lifting large male if needed and be good with animals. Must have references. Call Christina 954-483-5426

Joseph Molinaro CPA, LLC in Tavernier is looking for an Office Manager. Duties include answering phones, client screening, accounts payable and purchasing, accounts receivables, file management and other office duties. Must know Quickbooks desktop and Microsoft suite. Monday –Friday 10-5. Email resume Joe@jmolinaro.cpa

Hiring: Lead Gutter Installer - EXPERIENCE REQUIRED – valid Driver’s License - must be comfortable with heights - located in Tavernier. To apply, please call or text Jay 305-587-1581.

City of Marathon Current Job Openings: Part-time Custodian/ Maintenance. Full Benefits for full-time positions. EOE Please see City website for details www.ci.marathon.fl.us

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring part-time servers and bartenders. Private club, friendly atmosphere, guaranteed gratuities. Flexible lunch/ dinner shifts available Tuesday – Sunday. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Call 305-7436739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com.

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a full-time line cook. Private club, friendly atmosphere, afternoon/evening hours Tuesday – Sunday. Must provide checking account for direct deposit, photo ID, and social security card or passport. Call 305743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com.

Coast to Coast Pizza Company is looking for full and/or part-time pizza makers and cashiers to join our team. We offer 401K, tip-sharing, and competitive pay. Please call Nicole at 305-4330515 or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com

The S.S. Wreck and Galley Grill is looking for bartenders, servers, and line cooks. Will train, but should be self-motivated, quick learner, and team player. Salary commensurate with experience and includes 401k. Please call Nicole at 305-4330515, or email nicole@ themoongroupfl.com

Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/ Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. 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: Housing Choice Voucher Asst., PT Receptionist, Housing ManagerMiddle Keys, HVAC Maintenance Mechanic, and Maintenance Mechanic (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.

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

PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS

Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578

HOUSING FOR RENT

ANNUAL RENTALKey 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

Venetian Shores home for rent long term. 3BR/2BA on canal. Available now. $4,000/mo. utilities included. 315-405-5202

Long-term rental on Lower Matecumbe. 2BR/1BA Tile floors, W/D, 2nd floor w/wrap around balcony on canal. Private beach access. $3,000/ mo incl. internet & cable. Call Phil 305-898-2077

3 BR/2 BA home for rent in Key Colony Beach. 75' premium dock. $3,800/month + utilities. F/L/S 786-229-0228

2BR/2BA Single Family Waterfront Home for rent in Marathon. Fully furnished. 70' dock. $5,000/month includes all utilities, internet & TV. Available for 3 months - Jan, Feb & March. 727-278-1105

1BR/1BA Apt. for rent in Key West. Unfurn. W/D avail. on property. Parking for one vehicle. $2,500/mo incl. water & sewer. F/L/S Text only 305-294-2561

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!

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER IS HIRING

Membership & Development Coordinator (Full-Time, Permanent)

DRC has a full-time opening for a Membership & Development Coordinator. This newly created position’s primary focus will be to assist the Director of Membership & Development in helping the department (and position) grow in multiple ways. 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

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.

NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA

MARINA CASHIERS Must have customer service experience working in a retail environment and using a point of sale system. Additional duties include restocking, completing purchase orders, daily ordering of basic items in the store, and maintaining a clean appearance in the store. This is an hourly position and compensation is based on experience. Work hours are flexible and we try to maintain a set weekly schedule.

DOCKHANDS Duties include customer service, helping customers with bait and ice and helping cashiers with restocking. Morning & a ernoon hours available.

Please respond by email (Ma at islamarinama @gmail.com) with any relevant previous experience and at least two references.

ADMINISTRATION/OFFICE HELP

Fast paced, busy resort in need of Of ce Help. Must be able to multi-task, stay calm under pressure and have great communication skills. Be dependable, able to work weekends, 3 to 4 days a week, hours til 7pm.

If you want to be part of a great team, please apply! Send resume to captpips@aol.com or come into the of ce at 1480 Overseas Highway, Marathon to ll out an application.

CAPTAIN PIP’S IS AN AWESOME PLACE TO WORK, WE TREAT OUR EMPLOYEES GREAT. COME JOIN OUR TEAM.

The Monroe County Homeless Services Continuum of Care (MC-CoC) is seeking an EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.

The position of Executive Director is a full time exempt salaried supervisory position. This position requires a bachelor's degree in public administration, non-profit management, social services or related field - a graduate degree is preferred - and five (5) years of experience in management and supervision. The executive director will work with the Board of Directors to meet the goals and objectives of the agency. Please send resume or contact Steve Torrence by email: eywsteve@icloud.com

FLORIDA BAY FOREVER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR is the key management leader and is responsible for overseeing the administration, educational programs and fundraising for the organization. Other key duties include marketing, community outreach and volunteer management. The position reports directly to the Board of Directors. For more information email info@floridabayforever.org. Learn more about our work at www.floridabayforever.org.

REAL ESTATE CLOSING POSITION

Busy law office on Big Pine Key seeking a highly organized, detail and customer serviceoriented individual, who is computer savvy and can handle a fast-paced environment.

Duties include managing closing files, coordination with Realtors, sellers, buyers and lenders, regularly updating all involved parties. Prior experience a plus. Salary, health insurance, bonuses, overtime pay and 401k.

Email resume to: greg@oropezastonescardenas.com

e 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

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

Preference in the selection of vacant positions will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of veterans. The Key Colony Beach Police Department is an EEO employer, drug-free and nicotine-free workplace.

Workshop Manager (Key West)

FT administrative, salaried position. The Workshop manager will be responsible for all phases of the operation of the Adult Day Training Program in accordance with The Agency for Persons with Disabilities and Medicaid Waiver minimum standards. This includes the worksites and contracts, personnel, and training programs. The Workshop Manager will maintain a close liaison with the Group Home Managers and Medical Staff in order to maintain program consistency. Bachelor’s degree required and 2 years’ experience in field required. Computer skills: moderate to advanced. FL driver’s license with clean driving record. Pre-employment training online and in person. Ability to pass a Level II background screening and references.

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

Interior Designer

Apply knowledge & creative skills to projects at our high-end design center. Must possess history of achievement in quality projects and a strong sales background.

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

WE ARE HIRING!

day program. This position requires the minimum of high school completion or GED. English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. FL Driver’s license w/clean driving record, pre-employment training online and in person. Ability to pass a Level II background screening and references.

Plant Store/Nursery Associate (PT/FT)

Position requires a min. of high school completion and 1 yr. exp. Must be knowledgeable in tropical plants and have good social/business skills, above average computer skills (knowledge of POS a plus). Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds. English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. FL driver’s license w/clean driving record, references and background screening required.

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 Advocate DUI Program is hiring for part time positions. DUI instructors and evaluators - 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse eld required. Bilingual preferred, not required. Of ce located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

•

OPENINGS AVAILABLE

PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS

- Medical Assistant, Orthopedics, PT

- Patient Access Associate, Orthopedics, $1,000 Bonus, FT

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Cook, Per Diem

- Exercise Physiologist, Per Diem

- Manager Wellness Center, FT

- Multi-Modality Imag Tech, $20,000 Bonus, FT & PT

- Nuclear Medicine Tech, Per Diem

- Pool Group Exercise Instructor

- Pool Yoga Instructor

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, $25,000 Bonus, FT

- Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care Center, $25,000 Bonus, FT

- Registered Nurse, Surgery, $15,000 Bonus, FT

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S

COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- ED Team Coordinator, Emergency Room, Part Time

- ED/Acute Care Tech, Emergency, Room, FT & PT

- Environmental Tech, $5,000 Bonus, FT

- First Cook, $5,000 Bonus, FT

- Multi-Modality Imag Tech, Radiology, $20,000 Bonus, FT

- Mechanic, Facility Operations, FT

- Medical Technologist, Laboratory, $15,000 Bonus, FT, PT and Per Diem

- Patient Experience Advocate, FT

- Radiology Technologist, $15,000 Bonus, FT

- Security Of cer, Security/Safety, FT & Per Diem

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. 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 WEST

Peer Support Specialist

Advocate (PT)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult)

Behavioral Health Counselor (Child)

Case Manager (Adult, Forensic)

Substance Abuse Counselor

MARATHON

Prevention Specialist (any location) Care Coordinator (PT)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child)

RNs/LPNs - 3 shifts (PT/Per Diem)

Peer Support Specialist

*Support Worker – Assisted Living (PT)

*Behavioral Health Technicians

3 shifts (also Per Diem)

*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands required.

Background and drug screen req. COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!

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

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER IS HIRING

Volunteer Resources

Administrative Assistant (Full-Time, Permanent)

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)

Visual Communications Coordinator (Full-Time, Permanent)

Membership & Development Coordinator (Full-Time, Permanent)

Medical Technician (Full-Time, Permanent)

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

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

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

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL

Teaching... Learning... Caring

Customer Service Representative Administrative Assistant