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Se habla español THE UPPER KEYS WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

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News Deadline

Monday Noon

Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.

2.5M

Floridians are forecast to travel in record numbers for this year’s Memorial Day weekend. AAA forecasts more than 2.5 million Floridians will journey 50 miles or more. That’s 126,500 more holiday travelers than the previous high, which was set last year.

Contestants for 2024 Miss Coral Shores in front of Coral Shores High School. This year’s theme was “Welcome to Miss Coral Shores Dream House, Where You Can Be Anything.” DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

BACK TO COMMERCIAL FISHING

Sojourn

property in Islamorada seeks return to original zoning

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Despite decades of commercial fishing activities on property situated across from Sea Oats Beach on Lower Matecumbe Key, the Sojourn property has held a conservation zoning designation. A request now seeks village council approval to revert zoning on the property back to commercial fishing, which the parcel once had before the village’s incorporation.

A zoning change request for the Sojourn property came before the seven-person Local Planning Agency on May 13. The LPA is tasked with hearing, reviewing and recommending to the council proposed amendments to the village’s land development regulations, comprehensive plan and zoning map.

Specifically, Sojourn South LLC submitted applications to the village requesting a future land use map (FLUM) amendment from conservation to mixed-use and a zoning change from conservation to commercial fishing for the vacant site. Historically, lobster storage and docking for commercial fishing vessels has been the main use for the property, located next to Lobster Walk, a commercial fishing property.

A majority of the Sojourn property is under water, with a thin slice used for fish trap storage. The property is devoid of vegetation and isn’t located within the state conservation recreation lands’ boundary or critical habitat area.

Ty Harris, attorney representing Sojourn South, told LPA members his applicant wants the property’s zoning to return to commercial fishing, which it had before the village’s incorporation in 1997. Several decades ago, the property was zoned commercial fishing by Monroe County. Harris said discussions between the owner and the vil-

The Sojourn property on Lower Matecumbe Key in Islamorada has long been used for commercial fishing activities. Traps are situated on the parcel. CONTRIBUTED

lage over a possible purchase for less than $1 million fell through. The village proceeded to rezone the property to conservation.

Harris said the applicant intends to construct a dock while preserving nearby mangroves. A rezoning approval is needed, however, to construct the dock.

“I can put up a cell tower, but I can’t put up a dock,” Harris said in relation to the allowable uses under a conservation zoning designation.

Tony Hammon, LPA member, said lobstermen and traps were a part of the Islamorada’s Lower Matecumbe community long before development of houses and condominiums now seen in the area. Hammon supported a recommendation to the council to proceed with the FLUM and zoning change.

“As a kid, I remember seeing those traps there,” Hammon said.

A petition containing signatures from neighbors, residents and owners of properties near the Sojourn property and sent to the village requested denial of any zoning change. In the letter, the group noted a commercial fishing zone opened the possibilities for other structures on the property.

“Trap storage is one thing, but once the land itself is modified, the conservation aspect that we want to see maintained will be forever marginalized,” the petition read.

Deb Gillis, LPA chairwoman, proposed the LPA recommend the council approve the FLUM from conservation

to mixed-use, but limit the permitted activities to commercial fishing. Those uses include docking, loading and unloading of commercial fishing vessels; maintenance and storage of commercial fishing traps; and uses and structures accessory to commercial fishing. LPA members also agreed on recommendations to add docking facilities as an allowable use on the property and emphasize protections to nearby mangroves.

“No, you can’t build a house. No, you can’t build a restaurant and the other things listed in commercial fishing,” Gillis said. “There’s not enough ground on that lot to build a house and make your setback and all the things you need to do to build a house.”

Changes recommended by the LPA to the village council, which would only allow commercial fishing activities and docking on the Sojourn property, addressed the Bay Harbour Condominium group’s concerns, president Kevin O’Neill said. The LPA will also recommend the council approve the property’s rezoning from conservation to commercial fishing.

“We are particularly happy that the property will not evolve into something completely different from what we see today. In particular, the fact that you are including language that continues to protect the mangroves is heartwarming,” O’Neill wrote to village officials.

Sojourn’s application and the LPA’s recommendation are expected to be heard by the village council in June.

VILLAGE BUYS CHURCH PROPERTY FOR $3.9 MILLION

Council must figure out a use for the building

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

Apiece of historic property in Islamorada will switch hands from a local church group to the village.

Despite concerns about price and questions over the village’s intentions for the property, the Islamorada council voted 3-1 to acquire the Island Community Church parcel at 83250 Overseas Highway for $3.995 million.

Church officials had another offer from a national pharmaceutical company. The village was given first dibs, however, following the council’s interest in exploring a possible purchase. A contract proposal was placed before council members for consideration and approval on May 7, but the decision was pushed two days to a May 9 meeting to give members time to digest the details.

Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney originally brought the idea of purchasing property for a new library, after she was approached by Islamorada residents. Mahoney supported the purchase, given the number of big corporations scooping up property in the Keys and the ICC property being “far and few between” in terms of availability.

“I look at the neighborhood there. … I wouldn’t want a CVS on top of me, and that’s what would have gone on top of that neighborhood,” she said.

Mahoney also noted building a library wasn’t her main reason to support the property purchase. She highlighted needs for a meeting center for local groups, as well as workforce housing.

“There’s all kinds of opportunities,” Mahoney said.

Island Community Church acquired the property, formerly the Cineamorada Theater, in 1974. Fast forward to 2024, and a growing congregation led ICC officials to begin plans to move to property they own in the former Island Christian School building at 83400 Overseas Highway.

Per the contract, ICC would be able to use the property for a year until the new facility is ready.

The Islamorada council voted 3-1 to purchase the Island Community Church property at 83250 Overseas Highway for $3.995 million during a May 9 meeting at Founders Park Community Center. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

Village Manager Rob Cole said the property’s appraised value is $4 million with its current public services zoning. The church was proceeding with a rezoning to highway commercial for the pharmacy. Cole said the property value would increase to around $4.4 million if rezoned to highway commercial.

Councilman Henry Rosenthal, who previously attempted to buy the church to create a theater venue, was the lone “no” vote. He said he couldn’t support spending millions of dollars without a plan for use of the property by the village.

“I’ve been very conscious of, ‘How are you going to spend the money?’ The need is the important thing and I can’t justify the need,” he said.

Mayor Buddy Pinder and Councilman Mark Gregg supported the property purchase. Councilwoman Elizabeth Jolin recused herself due to a conflict of interest.

Pinder said the village could always turn around and sell the property with certain conditions if the council can’t come up with a use.

“I’m not for having more box stores in Islamorada,” he said.

The village will fund the purchase with $1.5 million in its unrestricted fund balance and $2.495 million from its capital fund.

Following the property purchase, council directed staff to bring back options to sell or figure a use for the village-owned Machado property at MM 88.6, which was purchased in 2021 for $1.8 million, as well as the former Island Silver & Spice property at MM 81.9, acquired in December 2021 for $2.75 million.

FIRED TDC MARKETING DIRECTOR WILL SUE FOR WRONGFUL TERMINATION

Lawyer

calls it ‘retaliation’ for denying a commissioner’s funding request

GWEN FILOSA gwen@keysweekly.com

The former marketing director of the Florida Keys’ top tourism agency will file a wrongful termination lawsuit sometime this year, her attorney told Keys Weekly.

Stacey Mitchell was fired March 26 in an 11-0 vote by the Monroe County Tourism Development Council’s board, at the behest of county Mayor Holly Raschein, after a series of audits by County Clerk Kevin Madok found the TDC lacking in financial controls.

TDC staff technically works for the nonprofit Visit Florida Keys – not the county – but its funding comes from taxes on tourist lodging.

“My office is currently drafting a complaint under the Whistleblower Act against Visit Florida Keys,” said Zachary Zermay, an attorney in Coral Gables. “We’re interviewing witnesses.”

Mitchell wasn’t the source of any money management problems, Zermay said Tuesday. The TDC has no chief financial officer on staff. Instead, Mitchell, whose background is in sales and marketing, was the top director.

“The record reflects my client has done a phenomenal job as marketing director of the TDC,” Zermay said. “She’s an advertiser, she’s not a comptroller. People forget Mr. Madok is the comptroller of the county. He was the one signing the checks.”

The county clerk’s title includes “comptroller.”

The audits by the clerk’s office generated enough controversy to get Mitchell fired after 25 years at the TDC, the multimillion dollar agency tasked with promoting the Keys as a tourist destination. She was promoted to its top job in 2017.

Zermay said the audits only came

after county commissioner Craig Cates, of Key West, was initially denied TDC funds to pay for a drone show at the county’s 2023 bicentennial celebration because the county had missed the application deadline that applies to everyone requesting event funding.

“All of this stems from my client making Craig Cates go through the proper protocols for a $150,000 drone show,” Zermay said. “There was a campaign of retaliation against Ms. Mitchell in the form of the audits.”

But at first, the TDC board stuck up for Mitchell, voting down a motion that Cates made in person at a February TDC meeting.

Cates said his motion wasn’t personal.

“This is a business decision,” Cates told the board. “We need a better director. We’re not blaming her.”

Audits of TDC practices, though, did blame Mitchell.

The county commission hired its own forensic auditors, Cherry Bekaert, to review Visit Florida Keys’ financials. Their audit, released April 30, found that under Mitchell’s supervision and direction, the nonprofit “caused

Stacey Mitchell, the former marketing director of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council. File photo

VISIT CHI IN THE KEYS YOUR MEDICAL HOME

When you walk through our doors, you’re family. With comprehensive healthcare led by compassionate board-certified physicians, you can rest assured that you’re receiving the highest quality care at our health centers in the Keys.

STORY ENDS

Left: Author S.A. Rodriguez signs copies of her book on June 28, 2022. She launched her debut children’s novel, ‘Treasure Tracks,’ at Sandbar Books. CONTRIBUTED. Right: After a little more than two years of existence, Sandbar Books, the only bookstore in the Upper Keys, is going out of business. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys Weekly

Only bookstore in the Upper Keys goes out of business

KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL www.keysweekly.com

When Becky Washam relocated to the Florida Keys from Texas during the pandemic, the only bookstore in the Upper Keys, the long-standing Hooked on Books, had just closed its doors. Washam immediately saw an opportunity to fill a community void and decided to take a

leap of faith and open a bookstore.

“I was so happy to be able to bring a bookstore back to the Upper Keys because I really felt like it was an asset to the community,” recalled Washam.

In March 2022, Sandbar Books opened in Tavernier Towne, much to the delight of customers and local authors.

Part-time Key Largo resident

and author S.A. Rodriguez decided to launch her debut children’s novel, “Treasure Tracks,” at the newly opened, nautically-themed independent bookstore.

“Independent bookstores are important gathering spots to build community by bringing readers together,” Rodriguez said. “They also play a pivotal role in encouraging literacy in our children.”

After more than a year and a half at Tavernier Towne, Washam decided to take another leap. A storefront had become available in the coveted Morada Way Arts and Cultural District in the heart of Islamorada.

In November 2023, Sandbar Books moved to Island Villa near the Hurricane Monument at MM 81.

But after just six months, the grim reality set in: the bookstore was not economically sustainable.

“I really think it’s just bad timing, honestly,” said Washam of the circumstances leading to her decision to close Sandbar Books.

“It is sad for me because the bookstore has been my baby,” Washam said.

“It’s truly a shame to see this hidden gem close,” added Rodriguez.

Washam’s story highlights the struggles facing small business owners across the board.

“I think it’s the economy, person-

ally. I’ve talked to other shop owners, several of them, and everybody is hurting right now,” explained Washam. “Everything is so much more expensive, people just don’t have as much disposable income and it affects us all. It’s not just retail. It affects everybody here that depends on tourist dollars.”

Currently, everything in Sandbar Books is 65% off. Washam says it’s a great opportunity for book lovers to stock up.

“If they’re smart, they’ll get some early Christmas shopping done,” said Washam of the going-out-of-business deals.

Many books in the store were inspired by life in the Keys and written by local authors, like Brad Bertelli, a Keys historian.

“I could not be more thankful for Becky Kreuger Washam and Sandbar Books for supporting local writers,” Bertelli said. “What an amazing gift she brought to our community. It is sad that the Upper Keys were unable to support a cultural cornerstone like a neighborhood bookstore. Thank you, Becky. The presence of Sandbar Books in our community is already missed.” Washam is planning to be open through the Memorial Day weekend and will also have the store open during Art Walk on Thursday, May 16. Sandbar Books is located at 81681 Old Highway in Islamorada.

Coast Guard offloads

$185 million worth of drugs

The crew of U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk offloaded more than 13,803 pounds of cocaine and 3,736 pounds of marijuana with a combined estimated street value of $185 million in Port Everglades on May 10.

Coast Guard crews, working alongside interagency and international partners, intercepted the illegal drugs in the international waters of the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean during six separate cases.

“Our offload today represents the combined efforts of U.S. and allied military units from a Caribbean coalition of partners working together to deny drug trafficking organizations access to maritime smuggling routes,” said Cmdr. David Ratner, commanding officer of the Mohawk. “I am especially proud of the hard work of the Mohawk crew, and grateful for the opportunity to operate with interagency and NATO partners in support of our national security.”

Island Music School

Spring Concert

Talented performers from Island Music School will take the stage to perform songs from the likes of Bob Marley, Luke Bryan, Adele, Bruno Mars, Taylor Swift and other singers on Monday, May 20 at Coral Shores High School’s Performing Arts Center. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with the beats beginning at 6 p.m. Attendees can participate in a raffle for a $350 gift certificate for Island Music School programs, including five-day camps. Snacks, bakery items and drinks will be available for purchase. Admission is $5. Proceeds support student scholarships. Scan the QR code to purchase a ticket.

Mooney to speak at meeting of federation of homeowners

Synchro Showcase and fundraiser

The Synchro Sirens, a synchronized swimming team, will put on a routine for the community to view on Thursday, May 23 at the Ron Levy Aquatic Center at Founders Park in Islamorada. The Synchro Sirens are a group of novice, intermediate and junior Olympic artist swimmers who practice four days a week and partake in competitions through the years. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Bring your lawn chair for the show. Entry is free. A raffle, pizza and baked goods will be available.

Memorial Day service set in Key Largo

A Memorial Day ceremony is set for Monday, May 27 at 11 a.m. at the Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo. Cathy Crane, Veterans Affairs county director, and Dennis Ward, VFW Post 10211 commander, are sponsoring this year’s ceremony. A U.S. Coast Guard honor guard will start these proceedings with Scouts from the Florida Keys joining the opening ceremony. The Keys Community Concert Band will play patriotic themes, while an Eagle Scout, combat wounded veteran and Gold Star mother will share their perspectives on Memorial Day.

The playing of taps will conclude the ceremony.

Memorial Day Service In Islamorada

STINKY SITUATION

Sewer line breaks in Tavernier

Crews repair a wastewater line break at MM 92 on the evening of May 13, as traffic is diverted off U.S. 1 to the Old Highway. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Another year and another sewer line break has occurred in Tavernier.

An alert by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office went out just after 5 p.m. on May 13 of the wastewater line break at MM 92. Vehicles were seen slowly navigating U.S. 1 north as dark, smelly water began surfacing on the highway.

force main, which sends wastewater to the Key Largo treatment plant. The repairs were completed around 4 a.m. the next day.

In June 2023, a sewer line break occurred just north of the latest break at MM 92.5. Repairs took from June 18 to June 20.

In March 2019, a 20-foot sewer line broke at MM 92.5. Repairs took roughly 12 hours to complete.

With help from deputies, traffic was diverted off U.S. 1 near MM 92 to the Old Highway so crews with the village of Islamorada and Mark Page Excavating could begin repairs. The break happened to Islamorada’s

Islamorada’s collection system, which serves residents and businesses from Plantation Key to Lower Matecumbe Key, is a combination of vacuum and low pressure with sewage conveyed to the Key Largo Wastewater Treatment Facility.

The Island of Key Largo Federation of Homeowner Associations will hold its general membership meeting on Monday, May 20, at 6 p.m. at the Key Largo library community room. State Rep. Jim Mooney will be the guest speaker. The meeting can be attended in person or via Zoom. Scan the QR code here for the meeting link. The meeting is open to the public.

The Matecumbe Historical Trust will hold its annual Memorial Day Service on Monday, May 27 at 9 a.m. at the Islamorada Hurricane Monument, MM 81.8. The program will start with an introduction, followed by the invocation, presentation of colors, pledge of allegiance, the national anthem, guest speakers, the laying of the memorial wreath sponsored by Centennial Bank and a wreath placed by the Daughters of the American Revolution. Taps will follow the wreath-laying. Patriotic songs will be played by the Two Big Brothers, followed by the benediction. Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend in observance of Memorial Day. More information is available from Barbara Edgar at 305-393-0940.

TDC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

improper and excessive expenditures to be paid and failed to adhere to established policies and procedures.”

That drone show eventually happened with TDC funding when the county commission went above the TDC and approved it.

On March 25, 2023, 250 drones lit up the night to cap the bicentennial kickoff party at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater.

Seven months later, the first TDC audit conducted in more than 20 years came out, disparaging Mitchell’s leadership.

“The audits were a way of retaliating against my client,” Zermay said. “Mr. Cates needed a pretext to terminate my client. That was one massive pretext.”

Mitchell, whose annual salary was $205,749, had been on paid leave since Nov. 16, 2023, two weeks after Madok released the first of four planned audits on the TDC and its partner agencies NewmanPR, Tinsley Advertising and Two Oceans Digital. Only the Two Oceans Digital audit report remains forthcoming.

MISS CORAL SHORES CROWNED

Brookelyn Zlockie takes title

Chi Sigma Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi and Coral Shores High School hosted the 71st Miss Coral Shores Scholarship Contest. Ten finalists competed for the title of Miss Coral Shores 2024.

After all the scores were tabulated, Brookelyn Zlockie was crowned 2024 Miss Coral Shores. The first princess was Ali Beth Wilson, while second princess was Caroline Garfield.

Miss Congeniality, a title selected by the contestants, went to Emma Leigh. The Miss Judy Hoke award went to Caroline Garfield, selected by the members of Chi Sigma in memory of a sorority member who gave generously of her time and talents to the Miss Coral Shores Contest for more than 25 years.

Coral Shores juniors Alessandra Ingold-Thompson, Kailey Parrish, Riya Robinson, Rachel Rusch, Kylie Sinclair, Kara Sullivan, Garfield, Leigh, Wilson and Zlockie were first selected for their academic excellence. Their next hurdles were writing a spontaneous essay and sitting for a personal interview with judges Joyce Bennett, Tiffany Williams and

Monroe County Mayor Holly Raschein.

A series of rehearsals led these finalists to showcase their talents and academic achievements for an audience filled with friends, family, students and staff at the Coral Shores Performing Arts Center on April 27.

Dressed in pink, the 10 contestants kicked off the show with a Barbie-themed opening number choreographed by Sara Beeler. Each girl performed a personal showcase with a wide variety of talents from singing, dancing, American sign language, horseback riding, Olympic weightlifting, auto mechanics and sharing a first solo flight. They demonstrated their poise during the evening gown competition. Then the top five were challenged to give an answer to “What advice would you give to a new freshman girl about high school?”

Chi Sigma thanked Coral Shores High School, the supporters, parents and its largest contributor in Shell World of Key Largo for the continued investment in the participants of this tradition.

— Contributed

1. From left, Emma Leigh, Miss Congeniality; Caroline Garfield, second princess; Brookelyn Zlockie, Miss Coral Shores; and Ali Beth Wilson, first princess. CONTRIBUTED. 2. Ten Miss Coral Shores contestants in their evening gowns. 3. Miss Coral Shores contestants perform a Barbie-themed opening number choreographed by Sara Beeler. 4. From top left, Kara Sullivan, Caroline Garfield, Kylie Sinclair, Rachel Rusch, Ali Beth Wilson and Alessandra Ingold-Thompson. From bottom left, Riya Robinson, Emma Leigh, Brookelyn Zlockie and Kailey Parrish.

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CUSTOM-MADE FOR MOM

Blue Marlin announces jewelry design contest winners

Key West junior Vera Rodger with family upon winning the Blue Marlin jewelry contest. Her mom was presented with a ring her daughter designed called ‘The Flow of Family.’ CONTRIBUTED

Jewelry contest winner Mariana Ruiz, third-grade student at Treasure Village Montessori, designed a blue necklace for her mom, Ellie, pictured middle.

Three lucky Keys moms received a surprise ahead of Mother’s Day – custommade jewelry designed by their sons and daughters. More than 300 students, from Key Largo to Key West, entered their jewelry designs during Blue Marlin Jewelry’s ninth annual Saige Raiche Memorial Junior Designer Mother’s Day Contest. The team at Blue Marlin, located at 81549 Old Highway

Seventh-grade Treasure Village Montessori student Parker Hyndman designed a ‘Goddess of Serpentine’ necklace for his mother, Tamara.

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com in Islamorada, reviewed the first round and whittled the finalists to 10. From there, the submissions were sent to a fresh team of judges, non-Blue Marlin employees, to pick winners in grades K-3, 4-7 and 8-12. Winners were Vera Rodger, a Key West junior who designed a ring named “The Flow of Family”; Treasure Village Montessori third-grader Mariana Ruiz, who designed a blue necklace; and Treasure Village Montessori seventh-grader Parker Hyndman, who designed a necklace called “Goddess of Serpentine.”

POWERHOUSE ARTIST IS BACK IN THE KEYS

Art by Krupa on display through June

WILLIAM DEPAULA

is an artist, designer and gemologist who believes in the power of art.

Stacie Krupa has been a professional artist since the age of 12, studying at the most prestigious art schools in America. She possesses a master’s in fine arts, painting, drawing, fibers and printmaking.

“I always simply did fine art and people purchased them since I can remember, so I never thought I could not make it,” Krupa said. “Society tries to put doubt in young minds when a career is not as structured or ‘easy’ as others.

“I never listened to what others’ opinions were,” she continued. “I just did what I loved and I believe that if you follow your talents and heart, the rest falls into place.”

Krupa has formally trained as a master artist in every technique in drawing, painting and fibers. From 1999 to 2018 — 19 years — she had a gallery in Islamorada. Her main gallery is currently in Naples, Florida and she is working on opening again in the Florida Keys.

“The passion for the creative play of materials has always been something that fascinates and fuels my positive and fun outlook on life,” Krupa said. “As an only child, animals and nature were my ‘playmates.’ They comforted and amused me with their unconditional love and natural beauty without pretense.

“I create what I love,” Krupa continued. “I manipulate mixed media, I push, play, experiment with materials to make my fine art originals come alive with personality and character.”

Krupa is a powerhouse of an artist. Listing her credentials would cover much more than this article is allowed. She was the artist featured in the Home & Garden Television (HGTV) dream home. The Upper Keys were lucky to have her gallery here, and when she left, it left a big hole in the arts community.

Luckily, she is returning to the Upper Keys with an exhibition at Our Place in Paradise in Tavernier. The new exhibition features her collection, “2024 Love Wins.” The collection will help benefit the non-profit gallery.

1-2. Krupa’s artworks return to the Keys for a solo exhibit, ‘2024 Love Wins,’ at Our Place in Paradise on May 17. CONTRIBUTED. 3. Artist Stacie Krupa.

“I want the painting to warrant repeated viewings, so they evoke in the viewer feelings of fun, laughter, peace, joy, happiness, playfulness and sexiness,” she said. “All how I feel when I am creating my paintings. My paintings represent my personality.”

Krupa’s art has a unique feel. It has traditional nautical features but in a modern style. Although she is talented in many mediums, her main mediums are drawing and painting. She has painted numerous murals. Some of Krupa’s favorite artists are De Kooning, Gorky, Picasso, Van Gogh, O’Keefe and Marlene Dumas.

A grand opening is set for Krupa’s “Love Wins Collection” solo exhibit on Friday, May 17 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the gallery, located at 88711 Overseas Highway. An open house on Saturday, May 18 will feature a talk with Krupa and a studio demonstration between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided during the grand opening and open house. Krupa’s art show runs through June 3.

See more of Krupa’s artwork at staciekrupa.com.

KEY LIME PIE CROWN

Cockerham’s products are slice of sunshine

Ameringue paired with just tart enough filling.”

RUN FOR PASCAL

Local race supports community & students

Weekly

message I get quite often is, “Where can I find the best Key lime pie in the Keys?” Can I let you in on a little secret? They all taste slightly the same to me.

SAMANTHA DELLILO

is a Keys native who has a passion for all things food. She runs the local food blog, “Florida Keys Eats.”

Yes, some are better than others, but they are all in the same realm. Being born and raised in the Keys, I’ve grown sort of jaded to the whole Key lime pie obsession many seem to have. Few, if any, have wowed me. That is, until now.

After 34 years on this earth, I have finally tasted a real Key lime pie I swear has awakened a love for this dessert I’ve never had before. I stumbled upon the most divine Key lime pie I ever had, crafted by none other than a lifelong local right here in our beloved town. She goes by the name Key Lime Pie Lady; others know her as Barbara Cockerham. She used to own the much-missed Ma’s Fish Camp restaurant with her partner, Mike Burgreen, from 2008 to 2017. She tells me back when the restaurant was open, she couldn’t make the pies fast enough for their customers to enjoy.

She makes every pie size you can imagine, from 10-inch to miniature individual pie bites. You can even order Key lime pies in adorable wedding tins with custom stickers as a party favor. The one I decided to try first was her “old school” meringue-topped Key lime pie. Cockerham explained the reason she keeps this on the menu is because “the Conchs of the Keys enjoy the nostalgia from the tall sweet

So, what makes this slice of heaven so extraordinary? Listen, I don’t know how else to say this but this Key lime pie was an absolute vision. It was the most gorgeous dessert I’ve ever seen. Glorious, I tell you. Tall as the eye can see with little peaks of meringue impeccably toasted to different hues of golden brown. Still my hopes weren’t as high as the meringue since I’m not a huge Key lime pie lover. I cut out a slice and immediately noticed how Cockerham’s meringue didn’t have the normal cooked “eggy” look with air pockets. She attributes her superb meringue to elbow grease and a couple of trade secrets. Whatever it is she does results in a cool, creamy vanilla cloud nesting on top of your slice. I took a bite. Wowzah. I tasted actual Key limes, not limes, not cheap bottles of lime juice, but Key limes. I don’t know where she gets her Key lime juice supply but never change it. Typically, Key lime pies burn the back of my throat with an over-the-top condensed milk taste, but this tasted like Islamorada on a plate. A slice of sunshine, if you will. I pictured the Key Lime Pie lady baking away under the swaying palms and salt-kissed air, giving each pie little compliments before they make their way to the oven. The crust, which she meticulously handcrafts herself for every single pie by the way, was delicate and buttery. It was firm and stout, acting as the foundation of the dessert from plate to fork, but the minute you bite into it, it simply crumbled oh-so-perfectly. The velvety filling was bursting with the tangy essence of actual Key limes. It was quite literally the scientific definition of a harmonious balance of tart and sweet.

What truly sets this Key lime pie apart from the thousands offered down here is the dedication and devotion poured into every step of its creation. The Key Lime Pie Lady infuses each pie with a labor of passion, ensuring every slice is a little love letter from her to the Florida Keys. So, dear locals, if you find yourself yearning for a taste of euphoria, look no further than our own backyard. Head to keylimepielady. com to check out a list of retail stores to get your fix ASAP or text 305-3930278 to put in a custom order for something like that marvelous milehigh-meringue Key lime pie.

Key lime pie isn’t just a dessert down here, it’s a culinary icon deeply ingrained in our island’s history. Thank you, Key Lime Pie Lady, for sparking my love for my hometown’s quintessential sweet treat.

take off from the starting line

CONTRIBUTED

ZACK WOLTANSKI www.keysweekly.com

Dozens of runners and friends of Pascal showed up to Treasure Village Montessori School for the fourth annual Pascal’s Way 5k, a walk and run event honoring his life and achievements on May 11.

Pascal Weisberger, a local teen who passed away in 2020, is remembered for his kindness, intelligence and love for the community. This year’s run seeks to raise money for the Pascal’s Way scholarship and local school science programs.

Many participants were from Treasure Village’s Running Club, including Garrett Gomila, a student who finished first with a time of 23:07. As a member of Barry Wray’s Running Club, Gomila heard much about Pascal, a dedicated runner who’d also been coached by Wray.

“Pascal ran many local races over the years, improving his time every single race he was ever in,” Wray said. “For those who run a lot, that is an amazing feat. When Pascal crossed the finish line, everyone around felt his joy.”

Since the inaugural event in 2021, Pascal’s 5k has raised money for charities, scholarships and programs at the schools Pascal attended. This year, a primary fundraising focus is the Pascal’s Way Scholarship, which is awarded to passionate, curious students dedicated to the cause of community service.

“It being the year that Pascal (would have) turned 18 and would be graduating from high school, we saw this as being a time of particular relevance for honoring Pascal’s memory,” said Pascal’s father Ariel Poholek.

Pascal was known for giving back to the community, and completed thousands of community-service hours throughout his middle school years.

“I think Pascal, as a human being, as a person, had a personality with a core element of empathy, of love for people and animals,” Poholek said. “He didn’t distinguish between his desire to become a better individual and to work towards greater causes in the community. He inherently liked to be of help, in whatever form.”

Money is also being raised for local school science departments and for student STEM fair projects. Pascal was deeply concerned by issues facing the local environment — a concern reflected by his award-winning science projects throughout elementary and middle school.

“We’d like to encourage students to consider careers in science and conservation, and we hope that over the long term, providing support for science education will increase the number of students who see that as an area worth pursuing,” Poholek said.

To accomplish these goals, Pascal’s Way is partnering with the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys (CFFK), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting charitable and not-for-profit local causes through philanthropic giving. The foundation recently established the Pascal’s Way Fund, created to honor Pascal’s legacy by supporting charitable causes that had been close to his heart.

“It is the foundation’s focus on making our world better that aligns with who Pascal was and the future goals of the Pascal’s Way Fund,” said Elizabeth Brown, CFFK’s vice president of philanthropy. “The Pascal’s Way Fund will be used to provide scholarships to students with similar community service interests and provide grants to the causes that were so close to Pascal’s heart — promoting science and environmental education, caring for animals and serving our community. Having the Pascal’s Way Fund established as a fund with the Community Foundation allows donors everywhere to give in Pascal’s honor and to make a difference”

Pascal’s 5k will continue as a virtual event until Friday, May 31. Those interested may still sign up by scanning the QR code.

Barbara Cockerham’s Key lime pie topped with meringue. SAMANTHA DELLILO/Keys

Runners

during the annual Pascal’s Way 5k at Treasure Village Montessori on May 11.

a diligent, experienced, full-service agent that gets outstanding results and always puts your interest first. I’d like to be that person for you. Call or text today!

TRAVELING AS ONE

JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com

Keys unified teams head to Special Olympics games in Orlando

Adelegation of 135 athletes, coaches, partners and volunteers from Monroe County will be making a journey together, traveling on two tour buses with an escort from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Highway Patrol. Up on the mainland, athletes will compete in unified soccer, unified cheerleading, bocce and cycling.

They’re heading to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, to compete in the Special Olympics Florida State Summer Games, the biggest event of the year for the state program, scheduled May 16-19.

This year marks a historic step for Marathon High School and its unified soccer team, which for the first time achieved unified championship school status. This title comes from Special Olympics Florida and recognizes schools that actively promote inclusion by running unified programs.

“Unified programs stem from what we call developmental to competitive,” said Ruth Coleman, Monroe County’s Special Olympics sports training and competition manager. “The Marathon soccer team has moved into the competitive bracket, which has allowed them to travel and compete against teams in other cities.”

Founded by MHS teachers David Justin Hare and Cathy Warner, the squad is composed of 10 athletes ranging from 11 to 15 years old. They’ll be competing at the junior high level, designated for athletes from 12 to 15 years old, after winning an at-large bid at the regional tournament held at

IMG Academy in Bradenton in April. Unified soccer combines special needs athletes with partner athletes, promoting teamwork and inclusion on the field.

The Monroe County division of the Special Olympics is ready to shine at the State Summer Games. They’ll be fielding five unified soccer teams, a full cheer squad of 18 athletes, five bocce players and three cyclists. The state contest marks the climax of their summer season, with athletes qualifying through a demanding 12-week training program and an area game in Fort Myers before April’s regional contests at IMG Academy.

The journey kicks off on Thursday, May 16 with buses departing from Marathon High School. Upon arrival, the athletes will celebrate with a victory dinner before competitions begin on Friday, May 17. An opening ceremony in the evening will feature law enforcement representatives carrying a Flame of Hope into the ESPN Wide World of Sports Arena as the final leg of the famed statewide Torch Run, established to support Special Olympics athletes fulfilling their potential with the respect and support they deserve. The athletes will then compete in final contests on Saturday, May 18, aiming to bring home more gold.

“These people will have the experience of a lifetime at no cost to them,” said Coleman. “We receive generous donations from places like Mangoes Restaurant, which pays for food and lodging. If anyone would like to contribute to our cause, please contact me and I can put your gift towards events such as these.”

Additional support for the Keys’ Special Olympics programs is provided by the Ocean Reef Community Foundation, the Key West International Airport, the Key West Women’s Club, First State Bank and DoubleTree Grand Resort.

For more information about the Special Olympics Florida program, information about coaching or volunteering, or to donate, visit www.specialolympicsflorida.org or contact Ruth Coleman at 305-923-0288.

1. Horace O’Bryant School will send both junior and pee wee teams to compete in Orlando under coach Stephanie Hill. CONTRIBUTED. 2. The unified Keys cheer team, under head coach Jacqueline Caballero, includes 10 team members from Poinciana Elementary, Key West High School, Sugarloaf School, Somerset Island Prep and the MARC program. 3. Brett Schnitzlein, left, and Zander Keen, both from Key West High School, secure their trip to the state competition in doubles bocce at IMG Academy. 4. The Key Largo School Tornadoes unified soccer team celebrates a win in Bradenton in April. 5. The Coral Shores unified soccer team celebrates a gold-medal finish at IMG Academy. The Hurricanes will opt out of state competition this year due to conflicts with the school’s prom.

DEN CONSTRUCTION UNDERWAY AT PAWSITIVE BEGINNINGS

Kai visits students, plus a fox 50/50 fundraiser

Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” In case you missed our big announcement two weeks ago, Pawsitive Beginnings in Key Largo received a huge grant to construct a therapy room at the sanctuary where our friends from Kinder in the Keys and the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter can have private, offsite sessions with their clients.

“The Human-Animal Alliance Healing Den” construction is well underway and is expected to be completed by the end of June. How amazing is that? I am going to be in charge of planning the ribbon-cutting ceremony, I hope. I think I’ll get some help from my friends at the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce since I hear they already have those cool big scissors.

Kai the fox has been quite the busy bee these days. He had the chance to visit students at Ocean Studies Charter School last week and he was a hit. I hear the kids asked so many great questions and were on their best behavior. I know my mom really likes being able to talk to kids about what we do here. It plants a seed for the younger generation to speak out against the fur trade and the exotic pet trade. Remember friends, foxes are not pets. Wild animals belong in the wild. Period.

Kai the fox recently visited students at Key Largo’s Ocean Studies Charter School. CONTRIBUTED

We have a fundraiser happening now; our very first online 50/50 raffle is live. Tickets are $50 and only 100 tickets will be sold. Your chances of winning $2,500 is pretty darn good. You can go to our website, pawsitivebeginnings.org and click on the pop-up link that shows up as soon as you get to the site to get yours today. The raffle will close on Monday, May 27 at 9 a.m and the winner will be announced the following day.

Now for a fun event happening next weekend. Our friends at the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center are hosting a movie night on Saturday, May 15 at 7:15 p.m. Join the bird center at their sanctuary for a sweet, clumsy family film about saving owls. “Hoot” is rated PG-13. All ages are welcome. They will provide drinks and popcorn. Bring camping chairs, blankets and some bug spray. Entry is free but donations are always appreciated. Anywho, that’s all for this week. Until next time, Reef, over and out!

WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS SAY ABOUT YOUR WEBSITE?

Good People Helping Good People. This is the focus of Mitchell Pest Services as it provides residential and commercial pest control services. The team is focused on eliminating unwanted pests with friendly technicians and o ering same day service, striving to treat each home like their own through a commitment to caring for the environment and the customers.

Key Largo resident and business owner Michael Brown said, "We know that when pests show up, you want the problem taken care of quickly and in a way that is safe for your family. We do that through safe, fast and e ective services."

The company is family oriented as well as locally owned and operated. Mitchell Pest Services covers from north Key Largo through Islamorada, with additional coverage in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach. In addition to membership in the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce, it has memberships with the Ocean Reef Chamber of Commerce, Florida Pest Management Association and National Pest Management Association.

Reef is a red fox that was saved from a fur farm. He now lives in Key Largo with his human, Nicole Navarro.

REEF THE FOX

NAVIGATING ‘OLD BUMPY’

Original State Road 4A once rolled passed these iconic Keys spots

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.

The modern path of the Overseas Highway was established in 1944 and generally follows a direct line cleared by the Florida East Coast Railway when they laid tracks for the Over-Sea Railroad.

The first incarnation of the highway, officially identified as State Road 4A, was built in the mid-1920s. It was a dusty, rocky road that was sometimes locally referred to as Old Bumpy. For every mile driven down the road, the automobile (and its passengers) bounced a half-mile up and down.

J. Otto Kirchheiner, chairman of the Monroe County Commission, is credited as the first person to traverse State Road 4A, the inaugural Overseas Highway, when he made the trek between the mainland and Key West on July 18, 1927. The celebrated opening of the road to public use was held on Jan. 25, 1928.

In those days, a car leaving Key West and driving to the mainland would have crossed a wooden trestle bridge over Cow Key Channel to reach Stock Island. From there, State Road 4A roughly paralleled the modern Overseas Highway until it passed Chico’s Cantina (and their yummy tamales) and curved right down the roads now called MacDonald Avenue and Maloney Avenue. A wooden trestle bridge once existed where Maloney Avenue approximately ends and connected Stock Island to Boca Chica Key.

At Boca Chica, the scars of the old road can still be seen where it once skirted the island’s edge and the end of the runway at Naval Air Station Key West. Parts of the road are still used, and it is now identified as both Boca Chica Road and 941. The original path followed Boca Chica Road and crossed the bridge over Geiger Creek. It then traveled to what is now Caribbean Drive. It continued past the Geiger Key Marina (and another of my favorite restaurants) to the end of Geiger Road, where a series of wooden trestle bridges were built to cross Bird Key and Saddlebunch Harbor before reaching the Saddlebunch Keys.

The old road crossed the Saddlebunch Keys along the island’s Atlantic edge, crossed over Sugarloaf Creek, and on to Sugarloaf Key. On Sugarloaf Key, parts of the road, now identified as 939, are still used. In 1928, the road hugged the Atlantic coastline and crossed Sugarloaf Boulevard before turning left and running up the island, where it passed Pirates Cove and continued to the current Overseas Highway. There, it crossed (what would have been the railroad tracks) at what is Mangrove Mama’s, where the road continued through the restaurant’s parking lot before turning right and crossing Bow Channel on a wooden trestle bridge.

At Cudjoe Key, the road continued to generally parallel the current highway, passing behind Broil Restaurant and continuing across the island until it reached Kemp Channel, where a wooden trestle bridge connected the road to Summerland Key. The original route traveled about a block away from the modern highway to what is today Center Street, located behind Tonio’s Seafood Shack.

There, a wooden trestle bridge crossed Niles Channel to Ramrod Key. The road continued across the island, behind the Five Brothers Market and Boondock’s to the Torch Ramrod Channel. A bridge connected Middle Torch, and the road skirted the Torch Channel to Little Torch Key.

At Little Torch, the road turned left and traveled down the island to just after what is now Lobster Tail Trail, where it ended at a wooden trestle bridge that crossed Pine Channel to Big Pine Key. At Big Pine Key, Watson Boulevard travels along the route originally called State Road 4A. The path travels past the No Name Pub to Bogie Channel and continues to No Name Key, where the original road terminated.

The first Overseas Highway was incomplete and required automobile ferries to bridge the 40-mile gap between No Name Key and Lower Matecumbe Key. Two ferries operated in 1928, one at the terminal at No Name Key and one at the terminal at Lower Matecumbe Key. They departed twice daily, at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Upon arrival at Lower Matecumbe Key, the road traveled uninterrupted to the mainland. It paralleled the railroad across Lower Matecumbe Key and rambled through the parking lot of what is today Robbie’s Marina and along the bayside of the railroad fills connecting Lower Matecumbe to Upper Matecumbe Key — it was not until 1938 that bridges were added to this span.

On Upper Matecumbe Key, the road continued on the bayside before crossing over the train tracks to the oceanside where the Pines and Palms Resort is now, and traveled down the island, passing behind Midway Café and the Green Turtle Inn. As it is known today, the Old Road can still be used to travel over Upper Matecumbe Key, Windley Key and Plantation Key – with short interruptions at the Whale Harbor Channel and Snake Creek.

On Key Largo, the path of State Road 4A is more clearly defined and is used by everyone driving in the Overseas Highway’s northbound lanes. The modern highway has four lanes: two traveling north and two traveling south. The southbound lanes travel along what was originally the path of Flagler’s train. The northbound lanes use the original path of State Road 4A – at least until MM 106. At 106, the modern highway turns and crosses Jewfish Creek. The original road traveled up what is today County Road 905. Between North Carysfort Circle and the three-way stop, the original path edged east and traveled closer to the shoreline before turning back and coming to where the threeway stop stands. For those who have stopped there and wondered why the fourth option is barricaded off: It no longer goes anywhere.

From there, the road traveled the same way it does today, but the Card Sound Road route rolled over a wooden trestle Card Sound Bridge to the mainland. Of course, these days, the road goes past Alabama Jack’s and their world-famous conch fritters — always worthy of a stop.

A wooden trestle automobile bridge at Boca Chica circa 1930. FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY CENTER/ Monroe County Library

RECYCLE ‘CANS’

As busy as life is, we often appreciate simplicity. While the instructions for programming a TV may not be straightforward, Monroe County’s single-stream recycling process is designed to be easy to follow.

The common question is, “Does Monroe County recycle?” The answer is a resounding “yes.”

Having worked at the Cudjoe transfer station for 18 months, I’ve seen how every waste type is handled: metals, electronics, tires, hazardous waste, yard waste, household trash and recycling. Each of these materials is collected and stored separately to prevent contamination.

Monroe County’s household recyclables are transported in a dedicated semi-trailer to Reuter’s Recycling Facility in Pembroke Pines. Recycling not only helps reduce landfill waste but also conserves resources and reduces pollution, making it a crucial part of sustainable waste management.

The second frequently asked question is, “Can I recycle my pizza boxes?” The answer is not

recycling tote or when the materials have residual foods or are in a plastic bag. If contamination is discovered before curbside collection, the contaminated materials must be emptied into a trash truck. If not, it could compromise all the recycling in that truck. Let’s focus on what we can recycle in Monroe County.

Yard waste in Monroe County is not wasted. It’s composted. It must be placed in a can, separate from trash, and not in a plastic bag. For extra-large loads, call your waste hauler to schedule a bulk pick-up. The yard waste is then processed and composted, a natural process turning organic waste into a valuable soil amendment. The compost is then returned to the community, fostering sustainable gardening and landscaping practices. The compost give-

These items CAN be placed in your recycling tote:

• Rinsed metal and aluminum cans (Labels are fine)

• Clean aluminum foil

• Clean aluminum foil containers

• Metal jar lids

• Rinsed glass bottles and jars (Labels are acceptable)

• Paper products

• Newspapers and inserts

• Cardboard boxes (flatten please)

• Paperboard boxes (cereal/crackers/cookie boxes)

• Junk mail (including the cellophane window)

• Phone books/paperback books/magazines

• Rinsed foil-lined milk, juice and soup boxes

• Rinsed plastic bottles (water, detergent, shampoo, prescription bottles)

• Rinsed plastic containers (produce, yogurt, sour cream)

These items CANNOT be recycled:

• Plastic bags or trash bags (return to grocery store)

• Styrofoam (return to Publix)

• Yard waste

• Ceramics or blue glass

• Textiles

• Garbage

• Food waste

• Batteries

• Electronics

• Hazardous waste: paints, oils, solvents, light bulbs, chemicals

For questions about your curbside service or information about a bulk pick, please call your waste hauler.

Key West: Waste Management —305-296-8297

Stock Island to South End of 7 Mile Bridge: Waste Management —305-296-8297

North End of 7 Mile Bridge to MM 72: Marathon Garbage Service — 305-743-5165

Islamorada: Island Disposal — 305-393-3300

MM 91 to the county line: Key Sanitary Service — 305-451-2025

Ocean Reef Club Solid Waste: 305-367-5992

PIXABAY

is the Monroe County recycling coordinator and outreach liaison. MELODY TUSCHEL

ACHIEVING THE DREAM

Rojewski holds a strong connection with community

CAROLYN DEPAULA www.keysweekly.com

Many in the public do not realize the myriad duties and effort it takes to accomplish what each person does to serve, produce, persuade, write, repair, advocate for, document, research, fundraise or build.

The second “Mile Makers” is Michael Rojewski, a real estate agent with Century 21 Circle, board member with the local board of Realtors and chairman-elect for the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce. The Keys Weekly spoke with Rojewski to learn more about his roles, responsibilities and desire to serve the community.

How did you get introduced to your career? My family has always been heavily involved with real estate by buying and selling investment properties, building and designing custom homes. My love for working with people led me to earning my degree in psychology, after which I decided to travel the world working in aviation. After moving here, I recognized my love for real estate and since then, I eventually established myself as a trusted luxury real estate specialist in the Florida Keys. My family has a long-standing connection to real estate, starting with my grandfather who owned a custom home business. He built and sold homes, laying the foundation for my interest in real estate. My parents furthered this connection through their real estate investments. Growing up around their ventures, I learned the complexities of the market, the good, bad and ugly things that can happen in the industry. This sparked my passion and led me to pursue a career in real estate.

What are the skills necessary to be a good real estate agent? To excel in real estate, a blend of interpersonal, analytical and marketing skills are crucial. Effective communication and negotiation skills are paramount for building rapport with clients and securing favorable deals. Additionally, a keen eye for detail aids in evaluating property values accurately and crafting compelling listings. Adaptability and problem-solving abilities are indispensable in navigating the dynamic real estate market, while a deep understanding of local regulations and market trends ensures informed decision-making.

How important is the job?

As a real estate agent, I play a pivotal role in facilitating one of life’s most significant transactions — buying or selling a home. Beyond merely closing deals, I strive to fulfill clients’ dreams, whether it’s finding their ideal waterfront property or maximizing the value of their investment.

What piqued your interest in the Florida Keys Board of Realtors and Key Largo Chamber of Commerce? My interest in joining the Florida Keys Board of Real-

tors and the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce comes from a desire to actively contribute to the industry and community that have been a central part of my life. Serving as a director of the Florida Keys Board of Realtors allows me to influence our real estate market’s growth and standards. Becoming chairman-elect of the Chamber of Commerce was inspired by the support and sense of family I found in Key Largo. It is an absolute honor to have been elected into these roles. These roles enable me to support and give back to our community and industry.

What are some of the challenges you face in the Florida Keys? It presents a unique set of challenges, including navigating environmental regulations, addressing concerns related to climate change and natural disasters. Additionally, fluctuations in tourism and economic factors can impact market dynamics, requiring a strategic approach to adapt and thrive amidst changing conditions.

What is your favorite part of the job? Without a doubt, my favorite aspect of being a real estate agent is witnessing the joy and satisfaction on my clients’ faces when they find their dream home or achieve their investment goals. Building meaningful connections, exploring stunning properties, and being an integral part of life-changing moments make every day rewarding and fulfilling.

What is the one aspect about your work/career that you wish people knew? I wish people understood more deeply the level of dedication and expertise required to excel in real estate. It demands meticulous attention to detail, tireless advocacy for clients’ interests, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Behind every successful transaction lies countless hours of hard work, strategic planning and relentless pursuit of perfection.

REEL RECS

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

What: “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.” (1984)

Why: Forty years later, this first sequel to the legendary “Raiders of the Lost Ark” has been reappraised by viewers given the controversial sequels that have come since. The very reason the PG-13 rating was invented, it’s the darkest and most violent entry in the series. But don’t let that scare you away. You’ve got the charmingly funny Ke Huy Quan (now experiencing a resurgence himself) as Short Round keeping Indy in check. Plus, the mine-cart chase is one of the most thrilling setpieces in the franchise. We completely understand, however, the necessity to mute your screen whenever Willie goes into her signature shriek.

Where: This movie is available as a DVD from the Monroe County Public Library system.

How: You can browse and request DVDs online by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. To view our collection of streaming movies and TV, go to kanopy.com/ keyslibraries and set up an account with your library card. 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: Kelvin Cedeño, library assistant, Islamorada library branch

Michael Rojewski

Track & field stars head to states | P.5

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

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.

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Managing Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

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

Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Graphic Design Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

Se habla español THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES.

All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

Coral Shores’ AJ Putetti, seen here in game action during the 2023 season, is one of several key returning stars for the Hurricanes as they begin practices this spring. DOUG FINGER/ Keys Weekly

THE

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP PODCAST

A SNEAK PEEK AT SPRING FOOTBALL

On this week’s Keys Weekly Sports Wrap Podcast, you can hear about all the latest prep sports scores and events, plus get behind-the-scenes information you won’t hear anywhere else. This week, Sean and Tracy will give you a sneak peek of the upcoming spring football games with some key information for each of Monroe County’s teams.

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

tracy mcdonald

mcdonald

IN CONTENTION

Twelve Keys athletes make the cut for the FHSAA Track and Field State Championships

Adozen Keys track and field stars are on their way to Jacksonville to compete in the FHSAA State Championships in track and field this week. The runners, throwers, vaulters and jumpers made the cut for the big show at the regional event held at Calvary Christian High School on May 7.

Both 1A and 2A teams competed from a region spanning 300 miles, encompassing teams from Key West to Vero Beach. The athletes had to overcome the typical obstacles such as nagging end-of-season injuries, long travel in cramped vans and the pressure of qualifying for the ultimate goal.

This year’s competitors had another challenge to navigate, as the inclusion of both the 1A and 2A divisions created a backlog of events and forced the day’s schedule to creep later and later into the evening. The meet’s final event, the boys 4x400 relay, was already slated for a late start, but by the time the other events were complete, the 9:45 p.m. start time had moved into the next day, making it a tough day at school for athletes and coaches who rolled back into school parking lots as late as 4:30 a.m.

Key West’s Niks-Davis Suharevskis was undaunted by the late start times and long day of sitting around waiting for the second-biggest event of the year. Suharevskis cleared the bar at 13’3.5”, winning the FHSAA 2A Region 4 title and besting the runner-up by half a foot. The first-place finish secured an automatic spot at states, and the height he cleared ranks him sixth in the state.

Suharevskis has cleared well over that mark in previous competitions, with his best vault of 14’11” placing him in contention for a medal. Teammate Ian Newton’s 11’9.75” vault was fourth in the region, and though only the top two athletes receive a guaranteed spot at states, Newton qualified for one of 18 at-large places and will make the trip to Jacksonville. Anabel Portuondo, the regional runner-up in pole vault, cleared 8’10.25” to secure a trip to Jacksonville.

Jean Louis placed third in the shot put event, throwing for a personal best 47’7”, good enough to qualify for an at-large bid. Shane Lavallee was third with a 151’5” toss of the javelin. The mark Lavallee set at regionals places him in the middle of the heap at states, but his best throw, 164’11”, puts him in contention for a medal. The same goes for Noah Mercer in discus and Audrey Smith in javelin. Mercer’s fourthplace throw into the wind at regionals traveled 134’5”, about

Dolphin senior Mason Buxton’s javelin throw is good enough to make the state qualifying

Key West’s Ian Newton gets upside down as he earns fourth place at regionals.

Marathon senior Kayesha Christian qualifies for states in the long jump.

Photos by RICK MACKENZIE/Contributed

4 feet shy of his personal best. If he can match or exceed his own top throw, Mercer, too, is in contention for a medal at states. Smith’s 98’10” javelin throw was 25 feet short of her best mark. Smith placed 11th at regionals and despite a strong headwind, Region 4 grabbed half of the 18 at-large spots at states. Smith’s personal best could land her on the podium.

Marathon had five athletes qualify for the state meet. Two earned automatic bids by securing second place in the region. Sophomore Dolphin vaulter Ava Merryman found herself in a dead tie for second place at the end of the pole vault competition. The tie resulted in a jump-off, in which Merryman prevailed to secure her second trip to states in as many years. Her 8’10.25” second-place vault is half a foot off her previous best, which occurred during her seventh-place finish at the state meet last season. Should she match that mark, she could medal again.

Marathon’s best chance for a medal comes from a competitor seasoned in the pressures of state-level performances. Sophomore Justice Lee broke her own personal best and set a new school record throwing the shot put into the wind for a second-place regional medal. Lee is ranked sixth in the state heading into the championships.

Earning an at-large bid was senior Mason Buxton. Buxton qualified with his third-place javelin throw, which landed 11 feet short of his personal best. Like Key West’s throwers, Buxton could medal if he matches his best toss. Fellow senior Kayesha Christian placed seventh at regionals with a 16’5.35” long jump. Christian has jumped 17’2” as recently as April, giving her a shot at a medal to end her senior campaign in style.

Marathon’s final state qualifier is the only Keys athlete to make the cut in two events and the only athlete to earn a lane on the track. Mikail Marshall broke a pair of his own school records, finishing the 100-meter race in 11 seconds flat and the 200 in 22.66. The speedy junior captured seventh and ninth place in the fastest region in Florida, qualifying for both events with at-large bids.

Marathon competed at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville on May 15 (results not available at press time). Key West competes the following day.

Clockwise, from top left: Key West’s Jean Louis qualifies for states in the shot put event.

mark.

CHIEFS KNOCK CONCHS OUT OF CONTENTION

Cardinal Gibbons edges Key West in semifinals

Key West dug deep on May 8 to stay alive in the quest for state championship number 12. The Conchs secured the home-field advantage despite being ranked beneath the Jensen Beach Falcons in FHSAA 4A baseball. Key West played one of the most challenging schedules in the country, priming the team for the postseason.

Coach Ralph Henriquez gave Anthony Lariz the start for Key West. The senior pitcher has performed well under pressure multiple times this season, and May 8 was no different. Lariz struck out the first three batters to set the tone in the top of the first. The Conchs were in good position to get on the board in inning one, during which Caden Pichardo was hit by a pitch and both Lariz and Steel Mientkiewicz singled, but the game remained scoreless until inning three. Jensen Beach held a 1-0 lead until Key West tied it up in the fifth. Nelson Ong was hit by a pitch and took his base, then made his way around via a Mientkiewicz sacrifice bunt and a Jensen Beach error fielding another bunt by Pichardo. Luck, it seemed, was with the Conchs in the regional semifinal contest.

But in inning six, things looked to fall apart for Key West. Lariz handed the ball off to Jacob Burnham following coach Henriquez’s piggyback pitching system. A walk placed a Falcon on base, then a ground out and an intentional walk put him in scoring position. Another hit scored 1, followed by a line-out, giving the Falcons out number two. With two runners on, a Jensen Beach batter sent a fly ball into right field, and before the Conchs could make the final out, 2 more Falcon runs scored, making the game 4-1 in favor of Jensen Beach as the game reached the final stretch.

Key West sent three batters to the plate in inning six and the Jensen Beach defense dispatched them quickly.

Then it was Burnham’s turn to do the dispatching. The senior southpaw struck out the first two batters and his defense took care of the third to give the Conchs one final shot at advancing, and the luck was again with Key West, which was at the top of their batting order. Nelson Ong walked, but was put out on his way to second after a Mientkiewicz single. Roman Garcia, whose bat has been magic all season for Key West, doubled, scoring 1 run. Pichardo and Lariz walked, loading the bases for Sam Holland, whose single scored another. Noah Burnham then grounded out, but not before Pichardo scored to tie the game and make it a nail-biter. In part of their error-free performance, the Conchs’ defense sent three batters back to the dugout, and the game went into extra innings.

Now facing an overtime playoff situation, the Conchs’ offense, seasoned with the toughest schedule in 4A and a history of high expectations, went to work. Nelson Ong doubled on a line drive to center field. Mientkiewicz connected for his third hit of the game, a single that advanced Ong to third. The Falcons then walked Garcia, loading the bases for Pichardo and hoping for an easier out. The gamble, likely made from Pichardo’s batting average and not his on-base percentage, did not pay off for the Falcons. Pichardo’s gift for making it to base and his willingness to not bail on a 90-plusmph fastball sent the Conchs to the regional semifinals.

Pichardo started and ended his night reaching base the hard way.

Mientkiewicz had 3 hits, a sacrifice bunt and was hit by a pitch.

Holland had a pair of hits and an RBI while Garcia and Ong each doubled and Lariz added a single to his stats. The Lariz/Burnham machine struck out 11 batters, walked 4 and gave up just 2 hits in the victory.

The Conchs then faced even greater odds in their next matchup. Top-seeded Cardinal Gibbons stood between Key West and the FHSAA 4A Region 4 championship game, and though a seventh-inning rally brought the Conchs within reach, Key West will need to wait another season for a chance at title number 12.

Gibbons struck first in the bottom of the first; the Conchs tied it up in the second. The teams scored 1 apiece in inning four before Gibbons took the lead in the fifth, then pulled ahead 6-2 in inning six. In what should have been insurmountable odds against the top team in region 4, Key West found a little more magic in their final at-bat.

With one away, Noah Burnham reached base on an error, then advanced when Jose Perdigon walked. Auggy Davila hit a hard line drive to right field, scoring Burnham and advancing Perdigon. Gibbons changed their pitcher, much to the delight of Nelson Ong, who singled to left field to load the bases. Mientkiewicz doubled, scoring 2 runs and advancing Ong to third. Garcia was intentionally walked in what looked like a replay of the quarterfinal game against Jensen Beach. With Pichardo up to bat, the Gibbons pitcher sent in a wild pitch, scoring Ong with the tying run, then elected to intentionally walk Pichardo.

With the bases loaded yet again and still only one out for the Conchs, Lariz put the ball in play. Gibbons turned a double play to end the inning, but not before Mientkiewicz scored, giving Key West the lead with just three outs between them and the regional championship game.

With Key West up 7-6, the collective hopes of all baseball fans from Key Largo to Key West rested on the shoulders of the Conchs. But the storybook ending was not meant to be for the southernmost team, as a pair of uncharacteristic errors, a single, a hit batter and a wild pitch pulled the plug on Key West’s season. Cardinal Gibbons scored a walkoff run to end the game 8-7.

The 15-14 Conchs will begin the arduous process of regrouping and reloading for what will undoubtedly be an equally exciting 2024-25 season. Garcia, Pichardo and Ong each had a pair of hits with Mientkiewicz, Davila and Perdigon adding 1 each to their final stats of the season. In all, four Conchs shared pitching duties, beginning with Burnham, who struck out 3 over four innings, keeping the game close before retiring to the dugout. Felix Ong, Vinnie Moline and Christian Koppal pitched in for the remaining three innings.

Clockwise from top left:

The Key West Conchs celebrate a 5-4 win over the Jensen Beach Falcons on May 8.

Pitcher Anthony Lariz gets the start for Key West.

Catcher Noah Burnham is ready behind the plate.

Photos by GRACE ANDREW/ Keys Weekly.See more game photos at keysweekly.com.

Ralph Riche

SENIOR |KWHS 285 POUNDS

Key West’s Ralph Riche dominated South Florida in two weight classes in as many years. Winning nearly every invitational he entered, Riche secured hardware and bracket cards all season long. When the postseason rolled around, Riche won the FHSAA District 16 1A championship and went on to claim a runner-up medal at regionals. His second-place finish qualified him for his second state championship appearance. Last season, he captured a fifth-place medal at 220 pounds; this year he did the same at 285. Riche amassed an impressive 45-8 record and led his team by example, putting in the work to be one of the best wrestlers in Conch history.

RULERS OF THE MAT

All-Keys wrestlers claimed individual and team titles

Monroe County wrestlers made a strong showing again in the 2023-24 season, claiming a treasure trove of hardware and earning numerous titles across the state.

SENIOR | KWHS 150 POUNDS WRESTLER OF

Coral Shores finished the season in fifth place at the FHSAA 1A District 16 Championships held in their own gym this year. The ’Canes had a pair of wrestlers earn silver medals at the event and continue to have strong performances, especially in the lighter weights. Key West brought home its 15th consecutive district championship in 2024 with eight individual wrestlers striking gold and all 13 athletes qualifying for regionals. Four wrestlers made an appearance at state and one athlete medaled at the event, further solidifying the dynasty Key West wrestling has become.

Flynn

Flynn completed his final season for the Conchs with a record of 18-8. Those wins included a first-place tournament berth at the Key West Invitational as well as a district gold medal to end his senior campaign in style.

SENIOR | KWHS 215 POUNDS

Senior strongman Tristan Yokoyama was a steady force on the mats this season. After placing second at the Key West and Falcon Invitationals, Yokoyama went on to secure a district championship at 215 pounds for the Conchs, helping to earn them another district team championship in the process.

SENIOR | KWHS 157 POUNDS

Completing his junior season with a 56-10 record, Key West’s Alfredo Corrales racked up the wins. He destroyed the brackets and claimed first-place finishes at the Key West Invitational, Somerset Scuffle, Beardown Duals and the Falcon Invitational. He won district gold in the postseason to set the tone for his upcoming senior campaign.

Photos by DOUG FINGER, GRACE ANDREW, MARK HEDDEN and contributed.

Tristan Yokoyama

Alfredo Corrales Jason

Natalie Arguello

SENIOR | KWHS 135 POUNDS

Key West’s Natalie Arguello grappled her way to an 18-11 record this season. Arguello won a bronze medal at districts, qualifying her for the regional event for the second time in as many years. Arguello was the Lady Indian Invitational champion and won first place at the Beardown Duals, going undefeated in her matches.

Key West’s Dost Bakhtiyorov secured a district championship this season, then placed fourth at regionals. The senior’s performance there qualified him for the state championship meet. This season, he amassed a 44-15 record, which included wins in the Key West Invitational, where he was third, and the Beardown Duals, which he won in undefeated fashion.

Key West’s Sheyla Figueira is the only Lady Conch to qualify for the state meet two times. The talented junior won silver at districts, bronze at regionals, and went 19-12 this season. Figueira claimed first place at the Beardown Duals, and second at the Lady Indian Invitational. With another season of eligibility left, Figueira is poised to continue breaking records and blazing trails for future Lady Conch wrestlers.

Wrestling to an impressive 36-14 this year, James Searcy won multiple events, including the Key West Invitational, Falcon Invite and the FHSAA District 16 Championship. With two more seasons of eligibility to develop, Searcy is already a force to be reckoned with.

Sebastian McCoy

SOPHOMORE | CSHS 113 POUNDS

Coral Shores’ Sebastian McCoy wrestled his way to a winning 25-20 record during his sophomore campaign, earning a silver medal at districts and a bid to regionals. With two years of eligibility remaining, McCoy has everything it takes not only to make it to the big show, but also to win a medal in the coming seasons.

Steven DeRobertis

SOPHOMORE | CSHS 106 POUNDS

Hurricane sophomore Steven DeRobertis earned a solid 23-18 record this season, striking silver at the Key West Invitational and fourth at the SFCA King’s Classic. In the postseason, DeRobertis captured the district runnerup medal, paving the way for an exciting future for the ’Canes.

With a 45-24 record this season, Key West’s Abram Canet made a name for himself on mats across the entire state. In the postseason, Canet was district champion, fourth at regionals and qualified for the state meet to cap off a stellar junior season.

Prometheus Delacerda completed his second season with the Conchs collecting hardware and amassing 16 wins. The hardworking sophomore placed second at the Key West Invitational and third at the Falcon Invite. He culminated his season with a bronze medal at districts.

James Searcy

Prometheus Delacerda

Dostmukhammad Bakhtiyorov

Abram Canet

ROAD ENDS IN REGIONAL QUARTERFINALS FOR FINS, CONCHS

Keys softball teams out of the hunt for state titles

The Keys’ softball teams will have to wait until next spring for another shot at state glory.

The Lady Conchs found themselves again facing St. Brendan School on May 9 after an 8-3 loss to the Sabres six days earlier. Key West got on the board first when Alexa Condella singled, allowing Shylo Sanchez, who had reached base on an error, to score. St. Brendan tied it up in their at-bat, then Key West reclaimed the lead off a pair of hits from Tavyn Gage and Skye Sterling.

The Sabres tied it up again in the bottom of the second, then pulled ahead in the third. In the top of the fourth, Gage registered her second hit of the game to start the inning, eventually scoring on a sacrifice fly by Alexandra Rodriguez to tie it up. The score remained 3-3 until the bottom of the seventh, when a walk and a pair of hits scored a Sabre runner, ending the game and the season for the Lady Conchs. Rodriguez and Gage had 2 hits each in the loss. Alexa Condella and Scarlet Niles had 1 apiece to make it 6 hits for Key West. Four errors cost the Conchs in the 4-3 loss. Breanna Breener fanned 6, walking 4 and giving up 4 runs in another solid pitching performance from the freshman. Five Lady Conchs graduate this year, leaving some holes in the roster for Key West, who will attempt to reclaim their district and regional titles again in 2025.

Marathon earned an at-large bid to the FHSAA 2A Region 4 softball tournament, stretching their season by one game. Like Key West, the Fins found themselves facing Miami Christian for the second time in as many games. Marathon was without their starting pitcher against the top-ranked team in the region. Miami Christian went on to officially end Marathon’s season by defeating them 17-0. The 12-6 Dolphins return to action next season with a nearly complete bench, as they will only lose senior Allison Garcia to graduation this year.

Tavyn Gage and the Key West Lady Conchs will look forward to a return to playoff action next season. MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys Weekly

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Island Life Ventures & All Keys Commercial located at PO Box 1404, Monroe County in the City of Islamorada, Florida 33036, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Gregory Dully LLC Publish: May 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Inner Balance Health Care located at 31 S. Carysfort Circle, Key

Largo, FL 33037 intends to register the said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, FL, USA.

By: Pedicles, LLC

Publish: May 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Island Dogs Liquor Store located at 505 Front Street, Key West, FL 33042 intends to register the said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Front Street Hospitality, LLC, a Florida limited liability company

Publish: May 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice is hereby given that the following vessel will be sold at public sale on the date listed below at 10AM for monies owed on vessel storage pursuant to Florida Statutes 713.78.

Sale: Friday, May 31, 2024 at 10:00 AM

Location: LAMA Inc., 13755 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 Vessel: 1981 Fly N Fish, Fiberglass, White Color VIN# TPP60045M82A LAMA Inc. reserves the right to accept or reject any and/ all bids.

Publish: May 16 & 23, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:

Equipment Sale-2024 (#2)

For information or to schedule a viewing of these units & equipment listed above, please contact Joe Zoppy at 305-393-5476

0903/7048 2011 Northstar Generator GCAJT-1317605 $500 Marathon 9337 ENR9337 2018 Nissan Frontier 1N6BD0CT9JN708753 $11,500 Marathon 1485 0903/1485 1997 Pace Trailer 4FPUB1421VG020442 $100 Marathon

For information or to schedule a viewing of these units & equipment listed above, please contact Keith Moriarity at 305-394-5258

County ID Fleet ID Description VIN or Serial # Est. Value Location 2195 R&B2195 1997 Crosley Trailer CTLME4801VS008899 $100 Plantation Key

For information or to schedule a viewing of these units & equipment listed above, please contact Ron Redding at 305-394-5133

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 3:00 P.M. on June 13, 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 Thursday, June 13, 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: May 16, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings & Workshops

The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform. The access points to view the Zoom meetings or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@keysarts.com

Art in Public Places

Committee Meeting

Time: May 23, 2024 10:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88 333146152?pwd=ZFBOdzRoN zNoeHlpSGFJU0lyYU84dz09 Meeting ID: 883 3314 6152

Passcode: 017838

Publish: May16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: MCDC Stock Island Stucco Repairs 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 12, 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 Wednesday, June 12, 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: May 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 24-CP-207-M

DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS

IN RE: ESTATE OF SANDRA A. MORRIS Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Sandra A. Morris, deceased, whose date of death was April 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: May 16, 2024. Personal Representative: Lisa Anne Morris Begley 125 Old Saugatuck Rd. Norwalk, Connecticut 06855

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: May 16 & 23, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2024-CP-000218-K IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBERT A. HILL

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Robert A. Hill, deceased, whose date of death was May 1, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead St., Key West, Florida 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 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 PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: May 16, 2024.

Personal Representative: Thea Flaum 25 East Superior Street, Unit 4901 Chicago, IL 60611

Attorney for Personal Representative: Lorna A. McGeorge, Esq. Florida Bar No. 1012328

Harrison LLP 8625 Tamiami Trail N, Suite 202 Naples, FL 34108

Telephone: (239) 316-1400 E-mail: lmcgeorge@ harrisonllp.com

Secondary E-Mail: krose@ harrisonllp.com

Publish: May 16 & 23, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO. 2024-CP-000154-M IN RE: ESTATE OF GEORGE RALPH MURRAY, DECEASED.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the Estate of George Ralph Murray, deceased, whose date of death was November 27, 2023, 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 May 9, 2024.

Personal Representative: Susan Hopler 17338 Towers Falls Ln. Humble, TX 77346

Attorney for Personal Representative: Sophia Dean, Esq.

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 92295

Friedman Law, P.A. 600 Rinehart Road Suite 3040 Lake Mary, FL 32746

Telephone: (407) 830-6331

Fax: (407) 878-2178

E-Mail: sdean@ff-attorneys. com

Secondary E-Mail: sbennett@ ff-attorneys.com

Theresa Ann Martinsen 307 Stone Street Wrens, Georgia 30833

Publish:

May 9 & 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 24-CP-000181-P IN RE: ESTATE OF MARY ELLEN SHERIFF, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of MARY ELLEN SHERIFF, deceased, whose date of death was January 15, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representatives 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: May 9, 2024. Personal Representatives: JOSEPH A. SHERIFF 310 2nd Terrace Key Largo, FL 33037 JEFFREY S. SHERIFF 335 Sound Dr. Key Largo, FL 33037 Attorney for Personal Representatives: VICTORIA MIRANDA, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 1015363 HERSHOFF, LUPINO & YAGEL, LLP 88539 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 E-Mail: VMiranda@HLYlaw. com Publish: May 9 & 16, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 24-CP-000067-P IN RE: ESTATE OF

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES

the estate of SUSAN O. MATTHEWS, deceased, whose date of death was November 1, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: May 9, 2024. Personal Representative: JENNIFER L. MATTHEWS 2018 Elmwood Rd Annapolis, MD 21409 Attorney for Personal Representative: VICTORIA MIRANDA, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 1015363 HERSHOFF, LUPINO & YAGEL, LLP 88539 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070

E-Mail: VMiranda@HLYlaw. com

Publish: May 9 & 16, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

DIVISION: PROBATE FILE NO.: 24-CP-63-M IN RE: ESTATE OF CARL C. MOORE, II Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Carl C. Moore, II, deceased, whose date of death was November 22, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN

733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is May 9, 2024. The date of the second publication of this notice is May 16, 2024.

Personal Representative: Carl C. Moore, III 1656 Brentlawn Street Deltona, FL 32725

Attorney for Personal Representative: Anthony J. Barrows Attorney for Carl C. Moore, III Florida Bar Number: 662569 WRIGHT BARROWS PLLC 9711 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-8118 Fax: (305) 489-0307

E-mail: Tony@keysclosings. com Publish: May 9 & 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24-DR-223-K DIVISION: FAMILY FATIMA HERRERA

Petitioner, and, MATEO DIAZ MUNOZ Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: MATEO DIAZ MUNOZ LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 278 King Avenue, Key Largo, FL 33037 CURRENT ADDRESS: Unknown YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Sylvia E. Fernandez, P.A., Petitioners’s Attorney, at 1501 Venera Avenue, Suite 230, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, Phone Number (305) 461-6060, on or before June 17, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this court at 88770 Overseas Highway, Ste 2, Plantation Key, Florida 33070 before service on Petitioner’s attorney or immediately thereafter. IF YOU FAIL TO DO SO, A DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU FOR THE RELIEF DEMANDED IN THE PETITION. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Notice of Current Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed to the address on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated on 10th of May, 2024

Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida

By: Daniella Lafontant

Deputy Clerk Publish: May 16, 23 & 30 and June 6, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2024-01

Notice is hereby given that TLGFY, LLC CAPITAL ONE, N.A., AS COLLATERAL ASSIGNEE OF TLGFY, LLC holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:

Certificate Number: 2021/1262

Alt Key No: 1484121

Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021

RE: 00394487-003800

Description of Property: LT 81 PORT ANTIGUA PLAT NO

2 LOWER MATECUMBE KEY

PB6-18 OR675-810

OR761-1868 OR1084-2348

OR1553-357 OR1913-2433/34

OR2590-2450 OR2609-1077 OR2640-128

Name in which assessed:

PLAZA DEL LAGO LLC

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL

Sale Date: 5/29/2024

Sale Time: 10:00am

Dated this 15th day of March

2024

KEVIN MADOK

CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy

Clerk

Publish: April 25 and May 2, 9 & 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2024-02

Notice is hereby given that TLGFY, LLC CAPITAL ONE, N.A., AS COLLATERAL ASSIGNEE OF TLGFY, LLC holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/1214

Alt Key No: 1467928

Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021

RE: 00384240-000000

Description of Property: BK 1 LOT 11 DUCK KEY YACHT CLUB ISLAND SEC 4 TOMS HARBOR PB5-82 OR425-133 OR3063-2266

Name in which assessed: UNITED STATES SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: 5/29/2024

Sale Time: 10:00am

Dated this 15th day of March 2024

KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: April 25 and May 2, 9 & 16, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2024-03

Notice is hereby given that GLENN BREDA

holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:

Certificate Number: 2018/1235

Alt Key No: 1457477

Date of Issuance: June 1, 2018 RE: 00374400-000000

Description of Property: BK 57 LT 1 CRAINS SUBD OF GRASSY KEY PB 1-51 PT SECS24-25-26 TWP 65S R 33E OR569-305 OR786-194 OR9802340Q/C

Name in which assessed:

JOHNSON FREDERICK K

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL

Sale Date: 5/29/2024

Sale Time: 10:00am

Dated this 15th day of March

2024

KEVIN MADOK

CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy

Clerk

Publish: April 25 and May 2, 9 & 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2024-04

Notice is hereby given that GLENN BREDA holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:

Certificate Number: 2018/1234

Alt Key No: 1457469

Date of Issuance: June 1, 2018

RE: 00374390-000000

Description of Property: BK 56 LT 16 CRAINS SUBD OF GRASSY KEY PB 1-51 PT SECS24-25-26 TWP 65S R 33E OR569-305 OR777-161 Name in which assessed: WARD FRANK D

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL

Sale Date: 5/29/2024

Sale Time: 10:00am

Dated this 15th day of March 2024

KEVIN MADOK

CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy

Clerk

Publish:

April 25 and May 2, 9 & 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2024-05

Notice is hereby given that SCOTT V MORTON holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:

Certificate Number: 2018/934

Alt Key No: 1406180

Date of Issuance: June 1, 2018 RE: 00331061-009200

LEGAL NOTICES

Description of Property: BK 4 LT 32 & PT OF SANDY AVE

SEA-AIR ESTATES VACA KEY PB6-91 (AKA BAYBTM) OR847768 RES NO 373-1981

Name in which assessed: SEA-AIR ESTATES INC

C/O GOSS RICHARD

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL

Sale Date: 5/29/2024

Sale Time: 10:00am

Dated this 15th day of March 2024

KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish:

April 25 and May 2, 9 & 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2024-06

Notice is hereby given that BENJIE SPERLING holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:

Certificate Number: 2019/862

Alt Key No: 1386065

Date of Issuance: June 1, 2019 RE: 00312573-004700

Description of Property: LT 46 DOCTOR’S ARM SUBD. 3RD ADD’N. SECTION C BIG PINE KEY PB6-41 OR587-384 OR1026-572 OR1874-1783 OR2805-2311 OR2808-1740

Name in which assessed: SPERLING CHASE

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.

Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL

Sale Date: 5/29/2024

Sale Time: 10:00am

Dated this 15th day of March 2024

KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish:

April 25 and May 2, 9 & 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2024-08

Notice is hereby given that 5T WEALTH PARTNERS LP holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2017/100 Alt Key No: 1027847

Date of Issuance: June 1, 2017 RE: 00027070-000000

Description of Property: COMMON AREA FOR THE SOUTHERNMOST CABANA TOWNHOMES (.5498 AC) (A/K/A KW PT SQR 1 TR 11) OR139-579/80 OR648-837 OR1086-1400/08 OR24131501/03 OR2772-779 OR2791142/44 OR3172-1526

Name in which assessed: SOUTHERNMOST CABANA TOWNHOMES OWNERS

ASSOCATION INC

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL

Sale Date: 5/29/2024

Sale Time: 10:00am

Dated this 15th day of March 2024

KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish: April 25 and May 2, 9 & 16, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

AUTOS WANTED

AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483 AUTOS

Place

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

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

CAMPING SITE

Camping site / RV site at marina available in Marathon. Monthly/ Daily rates. Free use of dingy & fishing on dock. 305-610-8002

EMPLOYMENT

Looking for Alarm

Technicians with current working knowledge of fire alarm systems in Marathon & Key West. Competitive pay. Hours: M-F 8:30a-4:30p. Email deborahg@ barnesalarmsystems. com or call 305-743-7334 for more information.

ATTENTION- Marathon Auto & Marine Services looking for Auto Techs and for Trailer Service Tech.Pay based on experience. Apply in person at 2525 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL. Ask for Steve or Jay.

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

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring 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.

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

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Med Tech, FT Receptionist, PT Housing Assistant, 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.

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.

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 RENTAL -

Key Largo - 2BR/2BA Spacious Doublewide, 1400 sq ft modular on canal w/40’ dock, direct ocean access. Very nice community. $3,500/ month 786-258-3127

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

2/1-Marathon, furn.,duplex, w/d, near Hospital, 30’ on canal.

$2,500/month, 6 mon. minimum , (or) $4,500/ monthly. Pets nego. Call/Text 409-370-0025 RENTED IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!!!

Long-term rental on Lower Matecumbe. 2BR/1BA Tile floors, W/D, 2nd floor w/wrap around balcony on canal. Private beach access. $2,900/ mo incl. internet & cable. Call Phil 305-898-2077 RENTED IN THREE WEEKS!!!

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

RV SITE FOR RENT

30' X 120' LOT FOR RENT in Marathon. Keys By The Sea, MM50. Cement pad, avail. MayNov $1000/mo plus utilities. 262-716-8987 RENTED IN THREE WEEKS!!!

RV site at marina available in Marathon. Monthly/Daily rates. Free use of dingy & fishing on dock. 305-610-8002

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

VACATION RENTAL

TAVERNIER VACATION

RENTAL HOMES - 3 BR/2BA or 2BR/2BA. Monthly rentals, 28 day minimum includes utilities, resort accessibility. Dockage can be made available. Rental rate depends on number of months rented. 954-383-5395

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

Sat. May 25 from 7:30am - ?? 143 Bimini Drive, Duck Key, MM61 - Big YELLOW House. Fishing Gear, Spear Guns, Clothes, Kids Toys, Dog Toys, Some Patio Furniture & Misc. Household Items.

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

FULL-TIME POSITION POLICE OFFICER

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

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

Salary: $60,000.

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

Email resume to:

Chief of Police at: chief@keycolonybeach.net Or call for additional information: 305-289-1212 ext. 1

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.

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.

NOW HIRING

MARINE MECHANIC

We are looking to hire a skilled marine mechanic to inspect, service, and repair marine engines for our clients. As a lead marine mechanic, you will be responsible for traveling to the dock or seaport where the vessel is located, inspecting and servicing engine equipment, troubleshooting, and making minor repairs. You may also be required to address problems with boat steering and hydraulic systems.

To ensure success as a marine mechanic, you should have extensive knowledge of motorboat engines, be able to work on land and at sea, and be able to diagnose problems with electrical systems. Ultimately, a top-level Marine Mechanic can expertly diagnose and fix problems with marine electrical and mechanical systems of any size.

Marine Mechanic Responsibilities

Traveling to marina or dock where the vessel is located.

Testing the performance of marine engines and electrical systems. Carrying out services and repairs on all engines.

Conducting plumbing and intake repairs.

Troubleshooting engine and electrical problems.

Replacing broken or worn-out engine parts.

Repairing faulty hydraulic and steering systems.

Conducting electrical AC system maintenance. Completing service records and repair documents.

Marine Mechanic Requirements

High school diploma or GED.

Degree in mechanical engineering preferable.

Proven work experience as a marine mechanic.

Knowledge of marine engine and electrical auxiliary systems. High-level welding skills.

Knowledge of marine hydraulic systems and related parts. Ability to lift heavy equipment and work in confined spaces.

Ability to work at sea.

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

Send resume to captpips@aol.com or come into the o ce at 1480 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 to fill out an application.

WE ARE HIRING!

SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT COACH (FT) – Key West

Responsible for development, implementation and documentation of supported employment strategies, interaction with co-workers, vocational rehab and supervision and any miscellaneous training and/or counseling that is needed for clients to acquire and maintain employment. Computer skills: moderate to advanced. Florida Driver’s license with clean driving record required. Pre-employment training online and in person required. Background screening and references required.

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

Come join our family! EOE

IN HOME SUPPORT (FT/PT) – Key West

MARC, Inc. is seeking a full-time, split-shift, In-Home Support Coach/ Trainer to provide companionship and assist clients with training/support. HSD/GED & 1 yr. exp in a related field. 1 year of college can substitute for experience. Must be able to use a tablet for documentation purposes. The shift for this job is split shift 7-9 am then 3-9 pm. We can be flexible. English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. FL driver’s license w/good driving record, references and background screening required. This is a rewarding position for the right person.

Apply at 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

Come join our family! EOE

DUI EVALUATOR/ INSTRUCTOR

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

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

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.

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

Cabinetry Designer

Strong background in designing custom manufactured cabinetry, remodeling, and FF&E specifying.

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.

Office Administrator

Ensure smooth operations at the Front Desk and provide essential administrative support. Involves coordination, communication, and document management to facilitate efficient workflow.

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

We

THEME: NATIONAL PARKS

ACROSS

1. Rhymes with, and similar in meaning, to blob

5. Refrigerator sound

8. Action word

12. Left, in Russia

13. Departed

14. Locomotive hair

15. As opposed to St. in a city, pl.

16. French cordial flavoring

17. Type of lily, pl.

18. *Voyageurs National Park location

20. Like Andersen’s duckling

21. Poacher’s ware

22. Unit of pressure

23. *Volcanoes National Park location

26. Dionysus’ female followers

30. U.N. labor agency

31. Camels’ relatives

34. Pelvic bones

35. Smears

37. “____ of the land”

38. Gertrude Stein’s reception room

39. Sicilian rumbler

40. Strong influence

42. To sum

43. Blushes

45. *Utah national park

47. What blanket and landing have in common

48. State before birth

50. Eastern European

52. *Yosemite’s famous monolith (2 words)

56. Cockamamie

57. Effect of pain?

58. First weekly news magazine in U.S.

59. South African currency, pl.

60. Tolstoy’s Karenina

61. The 15th of March

62. King Kong and Koko, e.g.

63. Hot one in a bun

64. Copper coin

DOWN

1. Type of shot

2. Strauss of jeans fame

3. Often found under a range

4. Herzegovina’s partner

5. Kind of roll, in school

6. Togetherness

7. *____ Verde National Park

8. *Shenandoah National Park location

9. Twelfth month of Jewish civil year

10. Frost-covered

11. Like certain relief

13. ____ is a byproduct of ___ (2 3-letter words)

14. “____ for alarm”

19. See nor hear this? pl.

22. Faux ____

23. Opposite of seeker

24. Winged

25. One of Florence Nightingale’s concerns

26. American Indians of Yucatan

27. Islam’s Supreme Being

28. D in LED

29. *White ____ National Park in New Mexico

32. Financial help

33. *Need one to navigate a National Park?

36. *The Lakota called it “Mako Sica”

38. Razor sharpener

40. *Old Faithful ____, lodging spot in Yellowstone

41. Poolside hut

44. Roof overhang

46. Rotten Tomatoes contributor

48. Latin American plain

49. Getting an A

50. Finger-produced sound

51. Muffin Man’s Drury ____

52. “Goodness gracious!”

53. Ocean motion

54. Word of agreement

55. *Bald Eagle’s home in Acadia or Olympic National Parks

56. One of the Gershwins