25-0612 UK

“All you need in the world is love and laughter. That’s all anybody needs. To have love in one hand and laughter in the other.” — August Wilson

June 12, 2025

FROM DAD’S EYES

LOCAL FATHERS SHARE THE SPECIAL MOMENTS | P. 16

CENTER FOR OCEAN EXPLORATION OPENS REEF’S NEW FACILITY BOOSTS EDUCATION, MARINE CONSERVATION | P. 6 VOTER FAIRNESS NEW ELECTIONS SUPERVISOR HIGHLIGHTS WORK IN UPPER KEYS VISIT | P. 8

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

NEW LISTING 8 SOUTH DR., KEY LARGO

NEW LISTING 464 LIME DR., KEY LARGO

NEW LISTING 104500 OVERSEAS HWY, C-301, KEY LARGO

3 BR/2 BA - 2,060 SQ. FT. - $2,795,000 MM 105.5/BAYSIDE

5 BR/5 BA - 3,785 SQ. FT. - $1,324,000 MM 102.5/OCEANSIDE

3 BR/2 BA - 1,577 SQ. FT. - $799,900 MM 104.5/BAYSIDE

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EMILY STRAIN 305.394.4681 HEATHER PABOTOY 305.879.2379

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NEW LISTING 973 GIBRALTAR RD., KEY LARGO

NEW LISTING 577 BOYD DR., KEY LARGO

3 BR/2 BA - 1,221 SQ. FT. - $785,000 MM 102/OCEANSIDE

3 BR/3 BA - 1,608 SQ. FT. - $695,000 MM 103/BAYSIDE

SALLY STRIBLING 305.283.2002

DIANA FIDDES 305.393.0721

NEW LISTING 144 SUNSET LANE, TAVERNIER

3 BR/2 BA - 1,584 SQ. FT. - $490,000 MM 93/BAYSIDE

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REDUCED PRICE 17 CORAL WAY, KEY LARGO

NEW LISTING 118 GARDEN ST., KEY LARGO

NEW LISTING 40 PIRATES DR., KEY LARGO

1 BR/1 BA - 561 SQ. FT. - $580,000 MM 98/BAYSIDE

EMILY STRAIN 305.394.4681 HEATHER PABOTOY 305.879.2379

NEW LISTING 200 CUBA RD., KEY LARGO

2 BR/2 BA - 600 SQ. FT. - $459,000 MM 92/OCEANSIDE

3 BR/2 BA - 1,553 SQ. FT. - $399,900 MM 93/OCEANSIDE

MARYANN WARREN 305.394.1427

EMILY STRAIN 305.394.4681 HEATHER PABOTOY 305.879.2379

REDUCED PRICE 128 E. RIDGE RD., PLANTATION KEY

REDUCED PRICE 112 FIRST ST., KEY LARGO

3 BR/4 BA - 1,848 SQ. FT. - $1,999,000 MM 105/BAYSIDE

3 BR/2 BR- 1,320 SQ. FT. - $799,995 MM 87/OCEANSIDE

2 BR/2 BA - 1,154 SQ. FT. - $659,000 MM 104/OCEANSIDE

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

5 million

The total number of copies of Life magazine sold in two days, when the magazine published an excerpt from Ernest Hemingway’s “The Old Man and the Sea” on Sept. 1, 1952. Widely considered Hemingway’s finest work, the novel was awarded the Pulitzer Prize on this day in 1953.

KEYS

NEWSPAPERS

89240 Overseas Hwy. Suite 2 Tavernier, FL 33070 Office: 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com Editor / Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Business Development Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com Staff Writers Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com Design / Pre-Press Diana Striker www.keysweekly.com Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844 Se habla español THE UPPER KEYS WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR

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.

Postmaster SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO THE KEYS WEEKLY, 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050 News Deadline Monday Noon Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m. @KeysWeekly @theWeekly Members of

Ahead of Father’s Day on June 15, Upper Keys dads took a moment to share some of the special moments they’ve had in their lives. PIXABAY

COMPLAINT PROCEDURE AGAINST ISLAMORADA ELECTED OFFICIALS, CHARTER OFFICERS GETS COUNCIL’S APPROVAL JIM McCARTHY

I

jim@keysweekly.com

slamorada lacked procedure when it came to complaints lodged against village council members or charter officers, as witnessed earlier in the year with a former manager’s exit.

A recent update to the personnel policy manual, however, added language to incorporate a clear process in times of a substantiated complaint.

During a June 10 meeting, council members unanimously approved six pages of new procedure regarding complaints filed against the village manager, village attorney and council members. The addition came after councilman Steve Friedman during a March meeting requested the council to direct the village attorney to come back with proposed personnel policies and procedures to address and resolve any future staff complaints against the manager, attorney or member of council.

Previously, the employee handbook contained employee complaint procedures but nothing was outlined related to complaints by staff against the village manager, attorney or council.

Friedman said the goal is to avoid the previous process involving thenmanager Rob Cole, which resulted in complaints presented to the village council for action without any investigation or recommendation made to council members regarding such complaints. On Jan. 7, the council voted 4-1 on a severance-for-resignation agreement with Cole.

Specifically, information pertaining to a complaint against an elected official, village attorney or manager, as well as processing and resolving the issue, will be kept confidential by those involved in the complaint process in order to protect the integrity of an investigation.

As it relates to a complaint against the attorney or manager, a complaining party must submit a complaint to the human resources director, currently Jaime Terry, via email or regular mail. The complaint can also be verbal; in this case, the human resources director must put the complaint in writing and obtain a signature from the person attesting to the accuracy of the information within the complaint.

“This is necessary to make sure that the facts underlying the complaint are investigated and that the complainant stands by the factual allegations as the investigation proceeds,” reads the new procedure.

As for complaints against an elected official, the party must submit the complaint to the human resources director or village attorney via the same methods as outlined for charter officers. Once received, the village manager, village attorney or a thirdparty investigator who’s unaffiliated with the village attorney will analyze the complaint to determine if the factual allegations are true and could constitute an actionable offense or an internal investigation is warranted for the alleged matters.

If an investigation ensues against a charter officer or elected official, a report must be completed within 45 days. The person filing the complaint and the subject of the complaint will have the right to be informed of the factual allegations and present information and documentation in support of their respective positions.

For any investigations exceeding 45 days, regular updates concerning the progress of the investigation will be given to the complainant and subject. After the investigation of a complaint concludes, the investigator will prepare a written report with findings. The report will be provided to the village attorney or human

resources director, whoever initially received the complaint, who is then responsible for providing the report to village council members for any action they deem appropriate.

The investigative report would be placed on the agenda of a council meeting for final action. The report would be available for the public to see after final action by the village council in an open public meeting.

If a complaint is filed against an elected official, the named person cannot participate in discussion or vote related to the complaint. However, that named council member may defend and respond to allegations in the complaint during the investigative process, and may otherwise fully participate in any investigation of the complaint.

By majority vote, the council may vote to dismiss the complaint if the report finds the allegations are unsubstantiated.

If the allegations are substantiated as it relates to a charter officer, the council by majority vote can terminate the individual or impose a lesser sanction. If the council finds allegations against a council member are substantiated, they can impose an oral or written reprimand, public censure, a referral to the governor or state ethics commission for action or any lawful penalty deemed to be appropriate by the council.

Village Attorney John Quick said the procedure solves some of the issues the village had previously regarding complaints against charter officers or elected officials. Mayor Sharon Mahoney said she likes the fact that the village attorney or human resources director will make the initial decision on how to proceed.

“I think it’s something we should have done years ago,” Mahoney said.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

Protect Your

HEALTH

Early Cancer Screening Saves Lives The Florida Department of Health in Monroe County encourages all residents to get screened early. Talk to your primary care doctor and ask what preventive cancer screenings are recommended for you.

SCREENING RECOMMENDATIONS Breast Cancer

Skin Cancer

Annual mammograms start at age 40.

Monthly self-exams start in your 20s.

Consider earlier screening if you have a family history of breast cancer.

Begin annual full-body exams by age 35, or earlier if you are high-risk.

Colon Cancer Begin annual stool-based screening at age 45.

Ask about colonoscopy or stool-based tests.

Cervical Cancer Annual Pap tests start at age 21.

Start co-testing (Pap and HPV) every five years from ages 30–65.

Prostate Cancer Talk to your doctor at age 50, or 45 if you’re Black or have a family history of prostate cancer.

Visit FLCancerConnect.com for cancer screening information and resources for assistance.

Visit Monroe.FloridaHealth.gov for more information.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

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REEF co-executive directors Christy Pattengill-Semmens, left, and Martha Klitzkie cut the ribbon to celebrate the Ocean Reef Exploration Center’s opening on June 7.

NEW OCEAN EXPLORATION CENTER OPENS IN KEY LARGO JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

REEF facility brings immersive exhibits, education and more

Christy Pattengill-Semmens discusses the Grouper Moon project during a sneak peek of the center on June 5.

3D-printed Nassau grouper hangs from the wall as visitors reach the second floor.

orld Ocean Day was a bit more meaningful in Key Largo on June 7, as Reef Environment Education Foundation unveiled a state-of-theart Ocean Exploration Center to the public.

Located next to REEF headquarters at MM 98.3, the ribbon-cutting of a new 4,000-square-foot, two-story facility among staff, local dignitaries and ocean aficionados marked a new era of marine science, conservation and education in the Florida Keys.

Before the grand opening, a small group got a sneak peek of the new center on June 5. Jill Kuehnert, REEF campus director, said the Ocean Exploration Center is a “wonderful addition.”

“Whether we’re newcomers to the community or you’ve been here for a while, we know how multifaceted this place is to us,” she said. “Yes, it’s the ocean and it’s the fish, but it’s also culture, history and art. We want this center to give everyone who’s either a resident or a visitor coming up and down U.S. 1 to have a taste of what it means to be a part of this community.”

When entering, visitors are met with three large displays of a healthy, living Florida coral reef containing various species of 3D-printed fish. Explorers of all ages can gravitate to interactive displays featuring REEF’s volunteer fish survey project — a cornerstone to what founders Paul Humann and Ned DeLoach set out to achieve.

Visitors can also learn about the efforts to combat the invasive lionfish and protect the goliath grouper. A section also pays homage to volunteer citizen scientists who assist in REEF’s mission to conserve marine environments.

On the second floor, visitors are met with stunning sculptures of the Nassau grouper. Since 2002, REEF and the Cayman Islands have partnered to monitor and study Nassau grouper spawning aggregations. Dubbed Grouper Moon project, visitors can observe and read efforts undertaken

Visitors walking into the new Ocean Exploration Center view a large display depicting a living Florida coral reef.

Photos by JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly and MANUELA C. MOBLEY/Contributed

to study one of the last remaining and largest currently known spawning aggregations for the endangered Nassau grouper.

During the visit, explorers young and old can attempt to locate 100 different fish species scattered throughout the center. Another interactive activity tests one’s ability to line up the fish species from juvenile to adult.

There’s also room on the second floor to take a seat and enjoy the space and the colorful art on the walls.

Martha Klitzke, co-executive director who oversees strategy and operations, said a lot of work went into preparing the center for visitors.

“If you walked in here a few days ago, it looked like a construction site, though we’re still that scrappy nonprofit that we always have been,” she said. “We’re excited at the way that this will work for tourism … but for also being a resource where people can gather and where students can get together and explore the ocean with more access. You don’t have to be able to swim, you don’t need access to a boat.”

Christy Pattengill-Semmens, REEF co-executive director overseeing science and engagement, agreed with Klitzke regarding the center’s completion.

“It was fast and furious right to the end,” she said. “We wanted to build a place that felt welcoming to anyone. I feel like we’ve definitely achieved that.”

Along with the interactive displays and exhibits, the Ocean Exploration Center features a classroom for visiting school groups to conduct activities.

Pattengill-Semmens said REEF hosts hundreds of visitor groups each year, and the new facility will help increase capacity.

The center also features various art pieces as part of the “Ocean Inspires: Bridge Art Science and Humanity” platform for artists, poets, authors and creative minds who draw upon the ocean and other aspects of nature for inspiration and reflection. The exhibit encourages visitors to explore their personal connection to nature, reflect on the effects of climate change and shifting seas and consider how the ocean and open spaces have shaped human experience.

Admission to the Ocean Exploration Center is free, courtesy of REEF’s “Oceans for All” initiative ensuring everyone can connect and join in protecting the ocean. More information is at reef.org/oec.

Thanks to donors, REEF has raised 93% of the $6 million needed to bring the Ocean Exploration Center to life.

Now, a $100,000 challenge grant from REEF members Byron and Sheila Bishop will match new donations and pledges made before June 30.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

SCHOOL BOARD APPROVES SUPERVISOR OF NEW SUPERINTENDENT’S ELECTIONS VISITS CONTRACT UPPER KEYS Classroom technology contracts, Trumbo House RFP get support FRANK DERFLER www.keysweekly.com

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onroe County school board members approved a three-year contract for incoming superintendent Ed Tierney during a June 10 Monroe County school board meeting in Key West.

Tierney, the former deputy superintendent at Palm Beach schools will receive an annual salary of $199,500 with yearly increases at the same percentage as the rest of staff. He also receives $5,000 annually for civic organizations and activities, an $850 monthly vehicle allowance and county medical and retirement plans.

In May, the school board’s fivemonth search for its next superintendent ended with the selection of Tierney. The board voted to hire him over two local finalists — Amber Archer Acevedo, the deputy superintendent, and Laura Lietaert, the principal of Coral Shores High School.

In other matters, a consent agenda containing 32 items addressed the school district’s operating budget and two contracts, capped at $4 million each, for computers and software purchased as needed from United Data Technologies and CDW-Government.

Classrooms throughout the district feature large touch-panel displays that replaced chalkboards and erasers along with movie screens and projectors. Every staff member has schoolprovided technology that often includes simultaneous translation devices for dealing with students and parents who do not speak English. Students have Chromebooks with specialized features for both safety and learning.

The contracts for software and equipment as needed don’t include the educational software used by students and teachers. There are various contracts for math tutoring programs, English learning programs and other supplemental programs amounting to over $2 million..

During the meeting, board member Sue Woltanski noted, “We never get feedback on whether these educational programs give us results.”

Board member John Dick commented, “You only hear about it when a parent has a problem with the program.” Theresa Axford, the outgoing superintendent, responded that she would provide a report at the next school board meeting.

The district’s operating budget includes just under $128 million in revenue from property taxes. During an address to the Upper Keys Rotary Club earlier in the day, state Rep. Jim Mooney stated he is on a special committee to examine property taxes as part of an upcoming state referendum, but that he saw no changes coming for the school district or special taxing districts like mosquito control.

Mooney also said that the school district would receive $3.5 million in state funds to refurbish historic Bruce Hall in Key West to serve as the new administrative offices for the district.

This is part of a larger initiative to relocate 52 district employees from the current administration building on Trumbo Road, which would be demolished and used to create approximately 150 housing units specifically for teachers and staff. This is a public and private initiative and planners hope to have it complete by 2027. The board approved negotiating with TVC Development to write the request for proposal for the Trumbo Road project.

The board also renewed the contracts for school resource officers from both the Key West Police Department and Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

At a prior meeting, board member Dick said, “the state mandates what the statute calls ‘Safe School Officers’ and the state provides some funds to support the program.”

Dick said the cost of the SROs provided by MCSO and the KWPD totals $2,753,547. The state provided $1,048,089. The remaining $1.7 million comes from property taxes.

School board chair Mindy Cohn expressed concern about one aspect of these contracts. She said, “the sheriff regularly gives money back to the county from his budget. But the school district doesn’t get anything back.”

The new contract with the Monroe County Sheriff for school resource officers is for $1,866,887.

Axford told the board that because of new legislation, the district would need specific written policies on cell phone use by students in schools. Students in elementary grades would be completely restricted and high school students would have significant restrictions. The exceptions to the restrictions have to be carefully spelled out.

Hodies highlights promotions, purchases and voter issues

Supervisor of Elections Sherri Hodies, fifth from left, made one of her first public appearances in the Upper Keys during a League of Women Voters gathering on June 9.

ZACK WOLTANSKI/Contributed

ZACK WOLTANSKI www.keysweekly.com

M

aking her first appearance to the League of Women Voters, Monroe County Supervisor of Elections Sherri Hodies spoke on her role in ensuring electoral fairness at a public forum in Tavernier on June 9.

In her speech, Hodies addressed the policy changes since she began her tenure in early 2025. Notable changes included the promotion of a deputy supervisor of elections as well as three staff members to newly created local manager positions in Key Largo, Marathon and Key West to ensure more open and efficient communication between the three offices and the community.

Hodies emphasized the importance of community input in ensuring fair and secure electoral protocols.

New purchases have been planned for improved electronic scanning systems that ensure greater efficiency and security of voter check-ins, which should be ready for the 2025 municipal elections. In response to concerns, Hodies emphasized the need to train clerks in signature reading, a process which becomes necessary when the voter’s signature does not match what they’d registered.

Hodies also touched on her responsibility, as the county supervisor of elections, to undertake extensive training in cybersecurity and voter

Monroe County Supervisor of Elections Sherri Hodies, left, with Upper Keys League of Women Voters president Barbara Overton. CONTRIBUTED

registration protocols.

“I’ve really gone to school in the last four or five months,” said Hodies, whose first year of tenure, which is also her first year of elected office, has provided many unforeseen challenges.

For instance, within the last few months alone she reviewed a list of more than 300 voters registered at outdated or suspected fraudulent addresses. In one notable instance, she reviewed the status of 17 voters registered at a seemingly uninhabitable address.

Hodies expressed gratitude for the help and support of her staff members, who have more than 105 years of combined experience, for helping her to adapt to her new role and for their devotion to election safeguarding.

“They don’t care who’s sitting in that chair,” said Hodies. “Their loyalty is to our voters.”

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

POWERING A NEW WORK SCHEDULE Electric utility one of the first to shift to 32-hour weeks JIM McCARTHY

LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISE WITH LOCAL FACES

Key West Weekly STEPHANIE MITCHELL 305.304.5778

Marathon Weekly PATTI CHILDRESS 305.731.9628

jim@keysweekly.com

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new contract between the Florida Keys Electric Cooperative and the International Brotherhood of Electric Workers Local 349 provided a modest wage increase and a switch to a four-day work week.

On June 2, the new 32-hour, Monday-through-Thursday work schedule went into effect for employees who work at the memberowned, nonprofit electric utility serving the Upper and Middle Keys.

The work schedule shift went into effect not only for union members, who are hourly employees, but other FKEC employees both salaried and hourly who are not part of IBEW. Scott Newberry, FKEC CEO, told Keys Weekly in an interview that it made sense to apply the new schedule — with Friday being an off day — to all employees.

“We all work for the same cooperative basically,” he said.

The four-day work week arose during negotiations between FKEC management and IBEW Local 349.

Talks began last year as the union proposed wage increases of 30% over three years, with 20% of the bump in the first year and the remaining 10% over the final two years. FKEC’s initial wage proposal, however, stood at 4% for each of the three years. A previous five-year contract, which expired last February, between the two sides included annual raises ranging from 2.5% to 3%.

With requests for additional pay came a petition signed by all union members supporting the idea of converting the workweek into four 10hour days. FKEC management didn’t believe such a move was feasible, citing concerns of manpower if half the workforce was out Monday and the other half took off on Fridays. Management countered with the idea for a four-day, 32-hour workweek.

“If we were to go to a straight four-day workweek of 10 hours per day, we wouldn’t gain any efficiency since we couldn’t start working in neighborhoods until around 8 a.m., and with daily excessive heat alerts during the summer, we would have to limit afternoon construction activities,” Newberry said. “While they

would be at work a couple extra hours per day, they really wouldn’t be productive during those two (extra) hours.”

In April, FKEC’s nine-member board of directors agreed to ratify a contract with IBEW Local 349 which detailed a four-day, 32-hour work week and a 4% bump in wages for the first year. No wage increases are included in years two and three.

Four-day workweeks have been instituted within a few local governments across the U.S. The city of Golden, Colorado adopted a fourday week in August 2024 for its police to address staffing. Three departments within the town of Plainville in Connecticut converted to four-day workweeks in April 2024 as a way to recruit and retain employees while maintaining quality of service.

And while some Florida companies have implemented four-day workweeks, FKEC is one of the first — if not the first — public utility in the Sunshine State to move to a four-day, 32-hour work schedule.

Newberry anticipates the move will yield less turnover, increase efficiency and morale while making it easier to recruit should FKEC need to fill vacant positions.

As to what the new work schedule means for customers, FKEC says emergency operators remain available 24/7. Newberry said those operators work for many other electric cooperatives across the country. Line crews will also be on call and ready around the clock in times of a power outage or other emergency.

Newberry said FKEC should save around $1.8 million in labor costs with no wage increases in years two and three of the labor contract.

An uptick in overtime is possible when linemen need to respond to emergencies on Fridays. Newberry acknowledged the dollar figure associated with overtime is not going to be anywhere near the wage savings.

FKEC maintains a 138,000-volt transmission line, which brings power from the mainland to the Florida Keys. FKEC purchases nearly 100% of its energy needs from Florida Power & Light. Generators in Marathon and FKEC’s two solar arrays also contribute to our power supply.

CELEBRATING 21 YEARS OF LOCAL MEDIA

Upper Keys Weekly JILL MIRANDA BAKER 305.304.0052

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Services include lift stations, grease trap cleaning, excavation, trenching, sewer installation, water heaters, storm drains, water control panels and more.

With emergency services available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, you can depend on Nationwide Plumbing to meet your needs. As the team likes to say, "If Water Runs Through It, We Can Do It!" 305-853-1848 Nationwide-plumbing-service.com info@nwpflkeys.com Certified Plumbing Contractor License Number CFC057546

LEGENDARY KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & FLORIDA KEYS VISITOR CENTER 305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088 events@keylargochamber.org 106000 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037

WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

REWARD! For Return of Stolen Art CALL TODAY No questions asked.

407-466-5859

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

OBITUARY

CAPTAIN ROBERT T. (BOB) ROYALL 1942-2025

Have you heard?

THE KEY LARGO HEALTH CENTER

IS NOW OPEN 228 Atlantic Blvd. Key Largo, FL 33037

Comprehensive care for every member of your family, offering both Primary Care and Pediatrics in a state of the art health center.

C

aptain Robert T. (Bob) Royall, DAL retired, flew west on his final flight two weeks after his 83rd birthday celebration.

He leaves behind his wife and companion of 50-plus years, Cheryl Culberson; his daughter, Kristy Royall Rennie (Michael) of San Diego; her sister, Debbi Royall of Boston; his beloved cats and a host of friends and fishing buddies. He was the son of Capt. Thad J. Royall, (EAL) and Wyolyn T. Royall, both of whom preceded him in death.

He was a true child of Miami, having been raised on the south side of the Miami River just below 22nd Avenue from 1942 until 1965. His love of aviation, fishing, sailing and all outdoor activities was fostered by his father, who flew for ATC in World War II and Eastern Airlines pre- and post-war, and his uncle LJ (Skeeter) Royall, who flew for National Airlines.

He and his childhood friends (who dubbed themselves the Bayrats) were up and down the river and all over Biscayne Bay and surrounding lakes, fishing, camping and enjoying everything outdoors.

He attended Citrus Grove Elementary and Junior High schools, then Miami High, from which he graduated in 1960. He attended the University of Miami, where he majored in aviation management, was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha and graduated in 1965.

His father was his flight instruc-

tor and he soloed at 16 to begin his career as a pilot. That career took off when he was hired by Delta Airlines in 1965 and began his 38-year commercial aviation journey, retiring in 2002 a senior B-777 captain. In that time he flew the DC-6, Convair 440, DC-8, DC-9, B-727, DC-10, L-1011 and B-777. He flew as the captain the last 30 years.

While aviation was his career and a passion, he also pursued many hobbies and sports including flying radio-controlled airplanes; trap shooting (Florida Grand Champion 1959, Grand National Champion 1959 and 1960); and sailing and racing IOR, SORC and MORC as a member of the Coral Reef Yacht Club. He fished as a member of the Miami Beach Rod and Reel Club, where he was master Angler #51, caught multiple world record fish and fished all over the world. He was also a lifetime member of the Islamorada Fishing Club, where he and his wife Cheryl continued to fish and enjoy their life in the Keys.

In retirement he continued to fly and to pursue his love of photography. He later included drones for his photography of the Keys, the Everglades and many fishing areas.

Bob was a kind, funny and generous man who was always ready with a joke to make you laugh. He now joins his parents and his beloved cats Mouseripper, Princess and Batman, as well as all his friends who went before him.

He will be missed.

•

Checkups and sick visits

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Help with long-term health needs

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Shots and physicals for school or sports

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Evening and weekend hours

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Most insurances accepted

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Sliding fee scale for the uninsured

Care That Matters Proudly serving the Keys with locations in Key West, Marathon, and Key Largo.

Schedule your appointment—call now!

(305) 743-0383 chisouthfl.org

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

CELEBRATE YOUR FAVORITE DAD WITH US! HAPPY HOUR 4-6 P.M. | MARIACHI BAND

The Upper Keys Baseball Development Foundation

SUNDAY, JUNE 15 VOTED BEST MARGARITA TWO YEARS RUNNING!

is proud to present

STEADY BATS a not for profit organization, dedicated to enhancing the ability of today's youth baseball player. We focus on the fundamentals of baseball to improve the skill level of players ages 10-18.

Practices will be held from the middle of July to the middle of December.

BASEBALL DEVELOPMENT Founders Park

Scan for more details and registration.

Upper Keys Baseball Development Foundation 88511 Overseas Hwy Tavernier steadybats@gmail.com

86701 OVERSEAS HWY., ISLAMORADA 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays | closed on Mondays

305-451-4083

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13

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

SHARK STABBING LEADS TO CHARTER CAPTAIN’S ARREST Zane Garrett, 26, faces animal cruelty charges

A

Monroe County charter captain allegedly seen stabbing a shark multiple times in a viral video was arrested by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officers on June 5. Zane P. Garrett, 26, of Stock Island was charged with one felony count of animal cruelty.

On May 23, officers received tips through FWC’s Wildlife Alert Program of a man repeatedly stabbing a shark on a fishing line before cutting the line and releasing the animal. In the widely-circulated video, uploaded to social media, blood clouds the water behind the caption “bud u broke my rod.”

Through investigation and using video evidence provided by witnesses, FWC officers were able to locate the vessel in Key West and identify Garrett as the charter captain on the day of the incident. FWC investigators spoke with Garrett, who reportedly admitted to the act.

He was arrested and taken to jail before being released on a $10,000 bond.

Zane P. Garrett stands accused of animal cruelty after a video surfaced showing him reportedly stabbing a hooked shark at the side of a boat. MCSO/Contributed

“The careless cruelty displayed in this video is unacceptable,” said FWC Major Alberto Maza, South Bravo Regional Commander, in a press release. “I’m proud of the public for reporting this senseless act and our officers’ work in identifying the subject and holding him accountable.”

The FWC takes wildlife violations very seriously and encourages the public to report them by downloading the FWC Wildlife Alert app, calling the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (888-4043922) or submitting a tip at myfwc. com/wildlifealert.

– Keys Weekly staff report

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

PROTECTING PUBLIC BEACH ACCESS IN KEY LARGO To the Editor, A long-standing public shoreline access point in Key Largo is at risk of being lost. The public right-ofway at the end of North Bay Harbor Drive, which has been peacefully used for decades by residents to access Florida Bay, is now the subject of a legal dispute.

This matter is scheduled to be heard in Monroe County Circuit Court in Key West on Tuesday, June 17. The outcome of this case could determine whether this public access point remains available to the community — or is effectively privatized.

This parcel of public land is one of the few remaining access points to Florida Bay in the area. It offers locals and visitors a place to enjoy the natural beauty of the Keys, watch sunsets and connect with the water. These spaces are more than scenic — they are vital to our identity, our economy, and our rights as citizens. Under Florida law, public access to coastal areas is part of our shared heritage. Attempts to eliminate it reflect a troubling trend of shrinking shoreline access throughout the state.

This case isn’t just about one

street — it’s about the growing pattern of efforts to restrict public access to our coasts. The Florida Keys are unique, not just for their ecology, but for a culture deeply tied to the water. If we allow this access point to be taken away, we risk losing part of what makes our island home so special.

The Florida Keys Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation believes it is important for residents to be aware that the future of this location — and the precedent it may set for other shoreline access points across the island chain — is now in the hands of the court. We are committed to monitoring the case closely and continuing to advocate for public access throughout the Keys.

We would also like to thank the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners for their continued support in defending this important public beach access point.

Public access to the water is a right rooted in our history and identity. Let’s ensure it remains part of our future.

Katie Cleek Chair, Surfrider Foundation Florida Keys Chapter

TRAFFIC STOP IN KEY LARGO LEADS TO GUN AND DRUG CHARGES

F

File Photo

our men were arrested following a June 7 traffic stop on U.S. 1 in which two handguns — one of them reported stolen — and drugs were found.

According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, deputies stopped a Nissan sedan at about 7:15 p.m. near MM 103 in Key Largo. Deputies said there was a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. A search by deputies led to the discovery of two loaded 9mm handguns — one of them reportedly stolen from a vehicle parked at a Florida Panthers hockey game, according to the Sunrise Police Department — two loaded extended

magazines and about 22.5 grams of marijuana.

Deputies say Demerion Altwon Fields, 21, of Greenacres, was driving.

He was charged with driving without a valid driver’s license, grand theft of a firearm, possession of a firearm or ammunition being the subject of a risk protection order, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

One of the occupants, Isaiah Dimitris McCrary, 20, of West Palm Beach, has a previous conviction of robbery with a deadly weapon in Palm Beach County. Deputies said Fields was not allowed to possess firearms due to a

previous protection order against him in which he was deemed an extreme risk. He was charged with grand theft of a firearm, possession of a firearm by a Florida delinquent, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Jimmy Cliff Leger, 21, of Palm Springs was charged with possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Todd Bradley Presendieu, 20, of Lake Worth was charged with possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

All four were taken to jail.

— Keys Weekly staff report

14

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

The Most Trusted Name in Florida Keys Real Estate Since 1955.

The Most Trusted Name in Florida Keys Real Estate Since 1955.

THE NEWMAN TEAM’S LUXURY ISLAND LISTING JUST SOLD FOR $2,150,000

THE NEWMAN TEAM SOLD THIS LUXURY ISLAND PROPERTY FOR $5,600,000

BUYING OR SELLING? PUT OUR EXPERIENCE TO WORK FOR YOU!

BUYING OR SELLING? PUT OUR EXPERIENCE TO WORK FOR YOU!

105 BUENA VISTA COURT, ISLAMORADA

BRETT NEWMAN 305.393.1770 THE NEWMAN TEAM HALF A BILLION+ SOLD SINCE 2000 #1 COLDWELL BANKER AGENTS IN THE UPPER KEYS 2024 FLORIDAKEYSLUXURYHOMES.COM 85990 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. All rights reserved. ®,TM and SM are registered trademarks licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. An equal opportunity company. Equal housing opportunity. Each office is independently owned and operated, except offices owned and operated by NRT Incorporated.

The Most Trusted Name in Florida Keys Real Estate Since 1955.

400 PALM DR., ISLAMORADA

BRETT NEWMAN 305.393.1770 THE NEWMAN TEAM HALF A BILLION+ SOLD SINCE 2000 #1 COLDWELL BANKER AGENTS IN THE UPPER KEYS 2024 FLORIDAKEYSLUXURYHOMES.COM 85990 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. All rights reserved. ®,TM and SM are registered trademarks licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. An equal opportunity company. Equal housing opportunity. Each office is independently owned and operated, except offices owned and operated by NRT Incorporated.

The Most Trusted Name in Florida Keys Real Estate Since 1955.

ASHLEY LINDMAR & CHRISTY HUGHES SOLD THIS COMMERCIAL PROPERTY FOR $5,875,000 82705 OVERSEAS HWY., ISLAMORADA

PAUL TEJERA SOLD THIS LUXURY HOME FOR $3,200,000

THINKING ABOUT BUYING OR SELLING? CALL US TODAY!

THINKING ABOUT BUYING OR SELLING? CALL OR TEXT ME TODAY!

ASHLEY LINDMAR 305-394-2815 ashleylindmar@bellsouth.net CHRISTY HUGHES 305-393-6190 clc.hughes@gmail.com 85990 Overseas Highway, Islamorada ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. All rights reserved. ®,TM and SM are registered trademarks licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. An equal opportunity company. Equal housing opportunity. Each office is independently owned and operated, except offices owned and operated by NRT Incorporated.

3610 BATTERSEA RD., MIAMI

PAUL TEJERA 305-393-2156

paultejera@cbschmitt.com ptejera.realestateflorisakeys.com 85990 Overseas Highway, Islamorada ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. All rights reserved. ®,TM and SM are registered trademarks licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. An equal opportunity company. Equal housing opportunity. Each office is independently owned and operated, except offices owned and operated by NRT Incorporated.

15

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

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16

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

FROM DAD’S EYES

Local fathers share what makes it special

F

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

or dads, kicking back in that favorite recliner, enjoying an ice-cold brew and watching some sports are among the activities enjoyed on Father’s Day. It’s a little different in the Florida Keys, as dads jump on the boat, go fishing or hang out at the sandbar and enjoy dinner along the waterfront. With Father’s Day Sunday, June 15, the Upper Keys Weekly took a moment to hear from local dads on what makes fatherhood special.

JASON RICHARDS The best part of being a dad is witnessing their first steps, cheering them on in sports, dance recitals and cheerleading competitions.

It’s in those moments I saw their potential, their dreams beginning to take shape.

And now, seeing them as grown-up adults, forging their own paths and building lives of their own, fills my heart with pride and gratitude. It’s a crazy journey — from tiny steps to big dreams — and I’m forever grateful to have been part of every step along the way.

JAMES HAGER The best part about being a father to Ava, 9, and Isla, 7, is watching them grow into their own unique selves — full of love, laughter and so much heart. They’re not only amazing dancers who light up any room with their energy, but they’re also kind, caring and hilariously funny.

Their personalities are blossoming more each day, and it’s a privilege to witness that journey.

Whether we’re out dancing in the living room or spending time together on the boat, it’s in those simple, joyful moments that I realize just how lucky I am to be their dad.

MATT TURK I think the best part is watching your children grow up and start utilizing the tools you gave them when they were young. My children are older now and don’t need much from me other than a hug and maybe some money here and there. It gives me great joy to see their smile and spend what time I get to spend with them in our busy hectic lives.

JOSE PEIXOTO After 34 years of marriage with the very important help of my wife, it’s very rewarding being able to see you three kids and two granddaughters all following your guidance … Christians, hard working, loved by friends, teachers, coworkers and family-oriented.

STEVE FRIEDMAN The best part about being a dad is also the toughest: watching your kids grow up! We are so proud of our son Ben, (pictured) as he enters his second year of college, and our daughter Sidney, a rising senior at Coral Shores. Watching them both grow into amazing young adults is a tremendous source of pride … but it is still tough realizing the nest is quickly emptying!

BEN KEMMER Being a father means everything to me. Each day brings a new adventure, and with four kids, it’s a wild, beautiful journey. It keeps me on my toes — and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

RAFAEL GARCIA To me, creating lasting memories with my two daughters, Gabriela and Madelyn, and teaching life lessons are some of the best parts of being a dad. More than anything, I feel immense pride in what my daughters have accomplished in their young lives.

17

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

SCOTT GOSS Seeing my kids grow in their personal faith in God brings no bigger joy. There are also obvious moments of pride when my kids accomplish milestones and/or do things for the first time in life.

However, I think my favorite part of being a dad comes in the unsuspecting moments such as car rides across the Stretch sharing meaningful conversations with them. I love sitting at the dining room table and having a simple family dinner of chicken fingers and mac & cheese while hearing about their day and listening to them cut up and laugh while I try to use their generational slang words.

It’s these organic moments that no amount of money or external factors can control or replicate – getting on their level and simply spending time with them is the biggest blessing of being a dad.

SPENSER BRYAN The best part of being a dad is coming home after a stressful day at work and having kids excited to see you. It takes all the stress away!

BOBBY DUBE One of the fulfilling and gratifying parts of being a father is watching your children grow up and become amazing adults. Being a father is not just about the big moments, it’s about the little things you do every day that make a huge difference in your child’s life.

“My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person, he believed in me.”

—Jim Valvano

18

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

Get Hooked On

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SEAFOOD • SANDWICHES • FULL BAR VOTED BEST FISH SANDWICH 2022 | 2023 | 2024

90154 OVERSEAS HWY • ISLAMORADA 305-852-9424 • CAPTCRAIGS.COM

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NEW OFFICE LOCATION RICHARD PRAGER, MD, FCCP, FCCM ANDREW PASTEWSKI, MD, FCCP

SPECIALIZING IN PULMONARY & SLEEP MEDICINE

DIVING THROUGH DISASTER

Retired military officer talks rescue and salvage operations during lecture

T

he History of Diving Museum will host retired U.S. military officer Michael Carr for an “Immerse Yourself” presentation on diving and salvage operations on Wednesday, June 18 at 7 p.m.

Carr is a U.S. Navy-trained ship salvage diving officer. He served as officer in charge of the Coast Guard’s National Strike Force Dive Team in the 1980s, participating in numerous diving, salvage and rescue operations.

After service in the Coast Guard, he served as a Marine warrant officer in the Army watercraft community, deploying to combat operations in Iraq as part of Operation New Dawn.

Carr will discuss diving and salvage operations in response to the Air Florida FLT 90 crash in the Potomac River, as well as the sinking of the SS Marine Electric off the coast of Virginia. This presentation will focus on the disasters, as well as the physical and emotional challenges faced by salvage divers.

The museum will have extended hours that evening, with the exhibits open until 6:45 p.m. The “Celebrating 20 Years” featured exhibit explores what it took to create the world’s largest collection of diving equipment on public display, as well as how div-

Trained ship salvage diving officer Michael Carr will discuss various operations while serving in the Coast Guard and Army during a June 20 ‘Immerse Yourself’ lecture at Islamorada’s History of Diving Museum.

CONTRIBUTED

ing has evolved since the museum’s opening.

Registration for attendance, either in person or via Zoom, is at divingmuseum.org. This session will be recorded and posted to the museum’s YouTube channel. This month’s “Immerse Yourself” sponsors are Kurt Tidd, retired Navy Admiral and Iron Mike member, and Horizon Divers.

— Contributed

ELKS LODGE AWARDS ‘EXCEPTIONAL’ STUDENTS

WE ARE GROWING TO SERVE MARATHON & NEIGHBORING COMMUNITIES!

*by appointment only

5701 OVERSEAS HWY #4, MARATHON, FL 33050 305.990.8505 Marathon | 305.234.9180 Miami

E

lks Lodge 1872 in Tavernier recently presented eight students with scholarships for having exceptional leadership abilities. A dinner and ceremony were held in their honor. Doug Hitchcock from Thunder Country 100.3 was master of ceremonies. Pictured from left are Coral Shores High School students Jamie Cary, Chloe Cummings, Shay Stober and Harley Beeler; Plantation Key School students Isaac Woods and Serenity Scalisi; and Key Largo School students Cole Hajec and Emily Morales-Sanchez. ELKS LODGE 1872/Contributed

19

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025 SUSAN ASHMORE’S LISTING JUST SOLD FOR $1,500,000

1009 DOVE RD., KEY LARGO

THINKING OF BUYING OR SELLING? CALL ME TODAY! SUSAN ASHMORE 305-393-0214

saashmore123@gmail.com / SAshmore.RealEstateFloridaKeys.com 85990 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada

THIS KELLER/PORTER TEAM’S LISTING JUST SOLD FOR $1,175,000 137 VENETIAN WAY, ISLAMORADA

JAMIE ENGEL & THE FKHT JUST SOLD THIS DOCK FOR $225,000

100 MORRIS LANE, B-5, KEY LARGO

MATCHING BUYERS & SELLERS WITH THEIR PIECE OF PARADISE FOR 20 YEARS!

www.BuyInTheKeys.com JAMIE ENGEL | 305.394.2500 | JamieInTheKeys@gmail.com TAYLOR ENGEL | 305.393.1232 | TaylorInTheKeys@gmail.com 85990 Overseas Highway, Islamorada

JAMIE ENGEL & THE FKHT JUST SOLD THIS PROPERTY FOR $740,000

59753 PARADISE PLACE, MARATHON

THINKING ABOUT BUYING OR SELLING YOUR PROPERTY? DON’T DELAY! GIVE US A CALL TODAY! MAKING SERVICE OUR TOP PRIORITY!

MATCHING BUYERS & SELLERS WITH THEIR PIECE OF PARADISE FOR 20 YEARS!

CHARLOTTE 305-393-2749 / JAN 305-664-7069 CPRE@BELLSOUTH.NET / JANKELLER1MSN.COM WWW.KELLERPORTERTEAM.COM

www.BuyInTheKeys.com JAMIE ENGEL | 305.394.2500 | JamieInTheKeys@gmail.com TAYLOR ENGEL | 305.393.1232 | TaylorInTheKeys@gmail.com

85990 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada

85990 Overseas Highway, Islamorada

JAMIE ENGEL & THE FKHT JUST SOLD THIS DOCK FOR $225,000

100 MORRIS LANE, B-6, KEY LARGO

MATCHING BUYERS & SELLERS WITH THEIR PIECE OF PARADISE FOR 20 YEARS!

www.BuyInTheKeys.com JAMIE ENGEL | 305.394.2500 | JamieInTheKeys@gmail.com TAYLOR ENGEL | 305.393.1232 | TaylorInTheKeys@gmail.com 85990 Overseas Highway, Islamorada

ASHLEY LINDMAR’S LISTING JUST SOLD FOR $630,000

18 JANET PLACE, KEY LARGO

TOP PRODUCER

Christy Hughes ISLAMORADA OFFICE FOR

MAY 2025 You Deserve a Diligent, Experienced, Full-Service Agent Call or Text Me Today!

THINKING ABOUT BUYING OR SELLING YOUR PROPERTY? CALL OR TEXT ME TODAY!

ASHLEY LINDMAR 305.394.2815 ashleylindmar@bellsouth.net | TheFloridaKeysRealEstateTeam.com 85990 Overseas Highway, Islamorada

Christy Hughes

Call or text 305.393.6190 clc.hughes@gmail.com upperkeysrealtor.com

For all your real estate needs, stop by our office at 85990 Overseas Highway, Islamorada

20

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

COURT VISIT

Pawsitive Beginnings’s newest addition pays visit to local judges

Left: County Court Judge Sharon Hamilton, left, with Pawsitive Beginnings founder Nicole Navarro and Isla. CONTRIBUTED. Right: Isla with Circuit Judge James Morgan.

H

i friends!

Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” I come to you today not with fluff, though I have plenty to spare, REEF THE FOX but with concern.

Deep, dramatic concern.

Reef is a red fox that was saved You see, it from a fur farm. has come to my He now lives in attention that last Key Largo with his human, Nicole week, Baby Isla (yes, that Isla) was Navarro. invited to make an official visit to the Plantation Key Courthouse. There, she visited with new Circuit Court Judge James Morgan and County Court Judge Sharon Hamilton. That’s right, she waltzed in like she owned the judicial system, all wide eyes and fluffy tail and proceeded to charm the very robes of our esteemed judges.

The audacity.

Now, let me make one thing perfectly clear: I am not jealous. I am bewildered. Baffled. Because while Isla was out there collecting admiration and courtroom cuddles, I, Reef the fox, three-time winner of Best Local Celebrity in the Best of the Upper Keys, sat uninvited in my climatecontrolled sanctuary, forced to watch the proceedings through secondhand Instagram stories.

I have questions. I have thoughts.

And most importantly, I have a résumé that demands recognition.

Let’s not forget who built this empire. I paved the way. I was the first fox in this community to go viral, the original face of fur-free advocacy in Monroe County. I have kissed babies (figuratively), posed with deputies, delighted tourists, all from the comfort of my very exclusive residence. I may not leave the house, but that’s beside the point. The point is: I deserve the option to decline invitations to prestigious venues.

Now, don’t get me wrong. Isla is precious. She’s got that new-fox energy and the unbridled enthusiasm of someone who hasn’t yet been inconvenienced by a mat stuck to her tail.

But while she’s busy stealing hearts and rubbing noses with court staff, I’m over here holding down the den, inspecting enrichment items, maintaining my public image, and ensuring every guest leaves with a photo and a smile.

So to the esteemed powers that be in Monroe County: I demand justice. I demand recognition. And most importantly, I demand a ceremonial invitation to the courthouse — not to attend, heavens no — but to dramatically decline it.

Because at the end of the day, I am not just a fox. I am the fox.

Until next time, Reef, over and out!

TEDDY

T

eddy is a 2-year-old supermutt who loves the water and the dog park.

He is friendly with other dogs and loves human interaction. He would be happy being an only dog or part of a pack. Call MarrVelous Pet Rescues at 305-453-1315.

SAVE THE DATE Thursday, June 12 • Music, Movement and Learning with Patty Shukla at 2 p.m. at Key Largo library.

June 13-14 • Household hazardous-waste collection from 9 a.m. to noon at the south entrance to Founders Park, Islamorada. The collection is for Islamorada residents.

Learn more at caribeeboats.com/ event/2025-fishing-seminars/.

June 17-18 • JOY Center activities from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Monroe County Plantation Key Community Center, 53 High Point Road, Islamorada.

Sunday, June 15 • Florida Keys BleachWatch training at noon at the Reefhouse Resort conference center, 1038000 Overseas Highway, Key Largo. Register at mote.org/bleachwatch.

Wednesday, June 18 • “Immerse Yourself” lecture welcomes Michael Carr, retired military officer, for a talk on dive and salvaging operations at 7 p.m. at History of Diving Museum, Islamorada.

Sign up at divingmuseum.org.

• The Small Business Development Center at FIU offers no-cost consulting from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Key Largo Library. Email bbarnes@ fiu.edu to make a reservation.

• First Responder Appreciation Day at 1:30 p.m. at Key Largo library.

Monday, June 16 • Hooked on fishing seminar series at 6 p.m. at Florida Keys History & Discovery Center, Islamorada.

Thursday, June 19 • Art Walk from 6 to 9 p.m. at Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, Islamorada.

Friday, June 13 • Birds, beer and bingo at 6 p.m. at Florida Keys Brewing Co. beer garden. Proceeds benefit Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center.

21

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025 The Most Trusted Name in Florida Keys Real Estate Since 1955.

SILVESTRI TEAM LISTING JUST SOLD 97501 OVERSEAS HWY, #811, KEY LARGO FOR $955,000

PHILIP HAS DONE IT AGAIN!

JUST SOLD 131 COCO PLUM RD., KEY LARGO FOR $2,300,000 TO SELL YOUR HOME, CALL JEANETTE TODAY!

JEANETTE SILVESTRI 305-619-0112 100430 Overseas Highway, Key Largo

STRAIN-PABOTOY TEAM JUST SOLD THIS PROPERTY FOR $365,000

2 CINDY PLACE, KEY LARGO

TO SELL YOUR PROPERTY OR IF LOOKING TO BUY, CALL PHILIP TODAY!

PHILIP KRAVITZ 305-783-7983

100430 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo

TO SELL YOUR PROPERTY, CALL EMILY OR HEATHER TODAY! EMILY STRAIN 305.394.4681 | HEATHER PABOTOY 305.879.2379

©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. All rights reserved. ®,TM and SM are registered trademarks licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. An equal opportunity company. Equal housing opportunity. Each office is independently owned and operated, except offices owned and operated by NRT Incorporated.

strainpabotoyteam@gmail.com 100430 Overseas Highway, Key Largo

The Most Trusted Name in Florida Keys Real Estate Since 1955.

Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Co. Proudly Announces

SALLY HAS DONE IT AGAIN!

JUST SOLD 909 NARRAGANSETT LANE, KEY LARGO, FOR $2,150,000

SALLY STRIBLING Broker - Associate

TOP PRODUCER Key Largo Office for MAY 2025

WONDERING WHAT YOUR PROPERTY IS WORTH? Call SALLY Today!

SALLY STRIBLING

Call or text 305.283.2002 SallyStribling@gmail.com

#1 Agent at the #1 Office in the Florida Keys!

For all your real estate needs, stop by our office at 100430 Overseas Highway, Key Largo

WONDERING WHAT YOUR PROPERTY IS WORTH? CALL SALLY TODAY! SALLY STRIBLING BROKER ASSOCIATE 305-283-2002 SallyStribling@gmail.com 100430 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. All rights reserved. ®,TM and SM are registered trademarks licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation. An equal opportunity company. Equal housing opportunity. Each office is independently owned and operated, except offices owned and operated by NRT Incorporated.

22

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

1

ART EXHIBITS CONNECTION

Islamorada gallery owner’s works open a new ‘Channel’ MELINDA VAN FLEET www.keysweekly.com

O

ften when we have profound breakthroughs, we may not know how it happened. Art can be a conduit for those breakthroughs.

Energetically, if the artist is also along for the journey, it can be even more profound and transformational, as was the case for Taylor Hale, local artist and owner of the Hale Gallery in Islamorada. On April 10, Hale opened his first show, “Channel.” It’ll close Friday, June 20.

It’s been two years since Taylor and his wife, Kelly Hale, purchased the gallery located in the Ocean Sotheby’s building at MM 81.8, bayside. This is Taylor’s first solo show at the gallery under their ownership. The show features seven new paintings, which took about eight months to complete.

“Oil lends itself to a lot more time, and what’s nice with print reproduction sales (giclée) is that it allows me to spend more time on ideas and projects,” Taylor said.

“Taylor paints with a method called alla prima, which means at first attempt and a lot of ‘wet on wet brush strokes,’” Kelly said. “He also uses indirect glazing, which adds luminous color. As light travels through the transparent layer and bounces off the ground, it travels back to your eye, making a different color.”

“The show started with this piece, ‘Serenity,’” Taylor said. “I wanted to create a world that’s right on the edge of reality — dreamlike and gives you that feeling of connection with the spirit world or something higher. Before, I was trying to paint a scene. Now, I am trying to paint a feeling — with color and atmosphere.”

Other favorite pieces from the show include “Moon Baby,” in which the details of the crescent moon leave one awe-struck, and “I am a Mountain.” “‘I am a Mountain’ resembles a buddha when you blur your eyes — the clouds in the sky,” Kelly said. “We came up with the name because it’s a Coldplay song. He (Taylor) listened to a lot of Coldplay while he was making this show.”

Taylor also had fun dancing to Coldplay with his two young daughters while painting.

Hale was finishing the painting “Serenity” during an Islamorada Morada Way Art Walk when a client went to this piece and started crying. Hale said he didn’t think much of it because it was the art walk.

A couple of weeks later, she came back and went right to the piece again.

“I watched it happen again, and it made me realize that thinking about painting and how they connect to music as a visual artist, you don’t get to see this a lot — the piece being its own energy and being its own thing,” Taylor said. “To see it come through in this way is incredible. At the opening, the same thing happened with a different person.”

Hale’s early career as an artist was more focused on portraits, primarily because of art school training. As he was grateful for the opportunities, he also grew tired of painting something so specific. As life goes, a client request propelled him to make a change.

Hale ended up moving back to the Keys and was searching for the right thing to paint. During that journey, he found himself looking at the clouds while waiting tables at Morada Bay. “Every night (there were) amazing sunsets, and I started painting clouds,” Taylor said. “Clouds are always received, and it’s something that’s become my muse. (There’s) no end to the inspiration for it, always able to go further fine-tuning and always able to explore a different color palette.

“Clouds lend themself to endless exploration and something I loved growing up down here,” Taylor continued. “A big part of painting is endless. I could spend my whole life on it.”

Further evidence of the theme “Channel,” an idea intuitively came to Taylor to use his unique crystal and mineral collection around the gallery as decor.

“I’ve been collecting since I was a kid. Most are from my great-grandmother (Rebecca Lindon Smith).

She was an artist and very into crystals,” Taylor said.

“Every Christmas, we would get a box filled with beautiful crystals. I’ve always cherished them, but they’ve mostly lived in boxes.”

Hale’s work will take centerstage as the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce will host an after-hours event at the gallery on Tuesday, June 17 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

More information is at thehalegallery.com.

Taylor said he had a date for the show and a lot he wanted to accomplish, but he was intuitively choosing the art pieces he felt were right at the time.

2

3

4 1: Taylor Hale opened his first show, ‘Channel’ on April 10. JAVIER EXPOSITO/Contributed. 2: From left, Kelly, Florence and Taylor holding Julia next to the artwork ‘Day’s End.’ Seven oil paintings by Taylor Hale are on display at the Hale Gallery through Friday, June 20. 3: Taylor Hale holds crystals from his great-grandma next to his artwork inside the gallery. 4: Taylor Hale’s ‘Hope Cloud.’ CONTRIBUTED

“It was beautiful and wonderful to put them all together in a wonderful space with room to breathe and walk around. Everything went seamlessly,” Hale said.

The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Hale Gallery can be found on Instagram and Facebook, via @thehalegallery.

23

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

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24

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

WILDLIFE LANDSCAPE

Shelter, food and habitat help wildlife, insects

F

S

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

What: “His Girl Friday” (1940) Why: Screwball comedies are in short supply nowadays, and that’s a shame. Movies like this one, where the situation gets more and more absurd while everyone is rapidly talking over each other, are pure gold.

The story is also relevant 85 years later in an era when news outlets thrive on sensationalism.

The chemistry between Rosalind Russell and Cary Grant is whitehot as both stand toe-to-toe in trying to outsmart each other.

Even though this is based on a play and takes place in only a few locations, it never feels stagnant, instead barreling along to its hilarious conclusion.

Where: This film is available on Kanopy, the library’s streaming app.

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? keyslibraries.org/ contact-us.

Recommended by: Kelvin Cedeño, library assistant, Islamorada library branch.

See previous Reel Recs at keyslibraries.org/post/reel-recs.

lorida’s population is expanding by an estimated 600 people daily, feeding an ever-increasing demand for deLIAH CONTINENTINO velopment.

Development is the University drives one of the of Florida, IFAS greatest threats County Extension environmental to Florida’s horticulture agent wildlife: habitat and master garloss. According to dener volunteer the U.S. Fish and coordinator.

Wildlife Service, Florida is home to 70 endangered species, the second-highest number in the nation.

Many more species are threatened or imperiled.

As a homeowner, you can make a difference by creating habitats in your yard, providing the crucial resources our local wildlife needs to survive. Attracting wildlife is one of the nine core principles of the Florida Friendly Landscaping program. When landscaping for wildlife, keep the following key objectives in mind: Provide shelter/habitat Limit the use of turf or pea rock as these provide few resources.

Instead, opt for native ground covers such as frog fruit or powderpuff mimosa if you desire low-growing vegetation. Diversify your plantings by including various growth patterns, heights and flowering times to create layers of shelter and attract a greater variety of wildlife. The more habitat variety you have, the more niches you will create for different species.

When considering built shelters like birdhouses, bat boxes and bee hotels, remember that many are species-specific. For advice on which structures are right for you, contact the Monroe County Extension office.

One of the easiest ways to provide habitat is to embrace a bit of untidiness. Cleaning your yard often removes habitat. Fallen leaves, dry stems, brush piles, and dead trees are excellent shelters for wildlife.

Consider leaving some areas a little “messier”; the critters will love it.

Provide food Food is essential for wildlife.

A bee approaches a flower. Inset: A bee house attached to a wooden pole. FLORIDA FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING/Contributed

Your goal should be to provide as much food as possible through natural sources. Ideally, these are available year-round. These can include flowers, berries, seeds, foliage and more. You can also offer supplemental food sources such as bird feeders.

Think of feeders as fast food and wild seeds and berries as a wellbalanced meal. Feeders are good in moderation, but what you really want is the healthy stuff. When selecting a feeder, pick the style best suited for your environment, and if in doubt, contact the county extension office.

Providing water Water is a critical resource in your wildlife garden. You can provide water through puddling stations, fountains and bird baths.

Puddling stations consist of sand, soil, stones and water, mimicking a puddle and providing water and essential minerals to pollinators. They are easy to make at home and an excellent activity for kids. For information on building a puddling station, contact the county extension office.

Bird baths should be shallow with a textured surface to prevent slipping. Change water regularly to prevent mosquito breeding and algal growth. The sound of running water alone can attract wildlife; consider including a small fountain in your yard to entice wildlife.

Reduce threats to wildlife Removing invasive species is a great way to support native species;

A bat box posted to a tree.

for information on invasive species identification, contact the county extension office.

Outdoor cats pose another major threat to wildlife. Cats play a significant role in bird decline, killing hundreds of millions of birds annually. Consider keeping your cats indoors or limiting their outdoor time to a supervised schedule.

Wildlife landscaping means embracing wildlife, even those lessdesirable species. Insects are vital to our ecosystems; while they may not be your favorite, practice tolerance by limiting pesticide use and allowing insects to roam free. Likewise, many weeds are beneficial to our native ecosystems. Consider letting some weeds grow; your local wildlife will thank you.

For specific plant recommendations or horticultural questions, contact the Monroe County Extension Office at monroe@ifas.ufl.edu or 305-292-4501.

25

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

STRUCTURES ON FORMER PINDER PROPERTY BRING SEARCH FOR ANSWERS Signs lead to possible business being conducted on the land

C

ornelius Pinder was a Key Largo farmer born in the Bahamas circa 1862. At age 12, on June 18, 1874, he became a U.S. citizen.

FLORIDA When the 1880 KEYS census was taken, HISTORY Cornelius was WITH identified as a cigar BRAD maker living in Key BERTELLI West. If he hadn’t started farming by Brad is a local 1880, it was coming historian, author, speaker and soon.

Honorary Conch The June 11, who loves sharing 1884, edition of the the history of the Deland Florida Ag- Florida Keys. riculturalist noted: “Mr. Cornelius Pinder brought into market this week 134 pines averaging 9.5 pounds apiece. He succeeded in realizing 39,000 pines from his first cutting and has about the same number left in his field – Key West Democrat.”

Not quite a year later, he was granted a 160-acre homestead on the land where he had been busy farming pineapples. After the turn of the century, the pineapple farms began to disappear due to a series of events that included hurricanes, blight and an influx of competing Cuban pineapples. Many farmers replanted their former pineapple fields with Key lime trees, which were referred to in those days as lime trees.

I’m writing about Mr. Pinder and his homestead because I’ve been trying to solve a little property mystery that has me stumped (when I’m usually pretty good at this), and I’m feeling a bit like a dog with a bone. While I’ve not traced every subsequent property transaction after Pinder began selling his parcels, I’ve been trying to track down the history of Lots 15 and 16 of Township 61S, Range 39E, Section 1. The location might be better recognized as MM 105.

I’ve pieced together bits of the story, and at least some of the Pinder homestead was owned by a fellow Bahamian transplant named T. Jenkins Curry. In the 1920s and 1930s, he appears to have bought and sold a substantial amount of property, including significant holdings on Key Largo. A resident of Key West until his divorce, after moving to Key Largo, he served as a county commissioner and ran for sheriff. He also did a little farming.

The Miami Herald, dated Sept. 22, 1923, noted that Curry was planting tomatoes in Key Largo. The Sept. 6, 1936, edition of the Bradenton Herald quoted Curry. “T. Jenkins Curry, grower of Key Largo, said the lime crop was big this year but still is bringing good prices. Buyers visit the groves, he said, and pay $4 to $7 a crate as fast as the limes are picked.”

Referencing what might be the former Pinder homestead, the following advertisement appeared in the Miami Herald on Jan. 22, 1938: “On Key Largo, 125 acres. Half mile oceanfront, half double highway. Laborers house. Packing house. Two extra large cisterns. Every car going to Key West passes through this property. Sell all or parts at almost raw land price. See T. Jenkins Curry, Key Largo, Fla. Dealers Protected.”

What I know for sure is that in 1940, T. Jenkins Curry sold a two-acre parcel to Lewis and Rosalind Albury, located in the area of MM 105, across from the Family Dollar, which was once part of the Cornelius Pinder homestead. The home where the Alburys lived was built circa 1950 and is still there.

There are other structures on the property that indicate it wasn’t just a residence and that some other business was being conducted, including corrugated walls that once belonged to a shed or something, concrete steps that lead nowhere, a large metal tank that could have held oil, gas or water next to a concrete base with a curved feature that might have once held the tank, and a metal pole

about 20 to 25 feet tall that looks as if it could have held an advertising banner.

Figuring out what all those old structures were used for has become a personal goal. Research has uncovered a lot of clues, and I’ve learned about Pinder, Curry and Lewis Benjamin Albury. He was the son of Oliver (1881-1952) and Romalda (1884-1960) Albury, both Bahamians. Oliver was a farmer living in Key West when Lewis was born on Nov. 28, 1904.

The Alburys left Key West circa 1920 and moved to the Key Largo community of Rock Harbor. According to his military registration, Lewis Albury was 5’10”, 150 pounds, with blue eyes and brown hair. The 1930 census says he was employed in road construction. In the 1940 census, his occupation is listed as a service station manager: Bernice Station Manager.

I cannot find a record for a Bernice Station, and it is likely misspelled in the record. The 1945 state census identified Lewis Albury as a water tender. That fits as the first freshwater pipeline in the Florida Keys opened in 1942, and Albury spent the rest of his career working for the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority.

In 1928, he married Rosalind Sawyer. They had two boys, Gerald Lewis (born Feb. 20, 1930) and Royce Lyn (born Dec. 18, 1931). Lewis Benjamin Albury died in July 1967. He was 62.

The Albury family owned the property for more than 50 years and sold it in 2001.

Mystery relics found at the Albury property at MM 105. KEVIN MESA/Contributed

This is where the story initially becomes interesting and then frustrating. I reached out to family members from both sons, and I thought I was on the cusp of discovering why those relics were there. One of the son’s daughters responded and said that, although she was too young to remember, her oldest brother did and that he would be happy to talk to me.

I was so close. I reached out through the requested channels and have heard crickets ever since. The answer is out there, apparently, but I haven’t been able to access it yet.

If the story, the people or the relics spark a memory, please reach out to me at 305-395-9889, via text, or email to keyshistorian@gmail.com.

I’m hoping that nothing stays buried forever.

26

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

SIMON IS TDC CHIEF SALES OFFICER Tourism expert to focus on groups & events

KEY WEST WEATHER EXPERTS OFFER REASSURANCE Despite federal staffing cuts, Keys forecast office is ready for storm season MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

W

Ed Simon. CONTRIBUTED

E

d Simon has been selected as the executive vice president and chief sales officer for the Monroe County Tourist Development Council, formally named Visit Florida Keys & Key West. Simon has more than three decades of expertise in travel and tourism and a network of industry relationships.

Simon will drive the strategic direction of sales and business development efforts, with a focus on leisure sales, group meetings, events and long-term partnerships — all to benefit the Florida Keys community.

His background includes roles as executive vice president for Visit Lauderdale (the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau) where he led the sales, sports business development and destination services divisions. His efforts played a pivotal role in growing the nationwide sales team, preparing for the expansion of the Broward County Convention Center. He was named the 2019 South Florida Hospitality Sales & Marketing Professional of the Year by the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International.

Simon also served as vice president of sales for Destination Hotels, and regional vice

president of sales & marketing with Remington Hotels. He began his career with Associated Luxury Hotels, where he spent 17 years. In 2016, Simon launched the Association Meeting Buyer’s Collective, a cooperative marketplace serving associations and their hotel partners.

“Ed’s strategic vision, innovative mindset and deep industry expertise will be instrumental as we amplify our sales initiatives and broaden our reach in key global markets,” said Kara Franker, president and CEO for Visit Florida Keys.

“His track record of driving growth and leading high-performing teams speaks for itself, and we feel extremely fortunate to welcome him.”

Simon earned a bachelor’s degree in hotel, restaurant & institutional management from Penn State University, and began his hospitality journey in food and beverage with Hyatt Hotels. He has been a member and leader in several industry associations, including American Society of Association Executives, the Professional Convention Management Association, Meeting Planners International, and the Association Management Company Institute.

— Contributed

ith the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season in its first week, national news headlines have drawn attention to staffing cuts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which oversees the National Weather Service (NWS), an essential agency for hurricane forecasting and warning coordination.

The weather service lost nearly 600 positions following funding cuts ordered by the Trump administration and the Department of Government Efficiency, which until this week was initiated and led by the world’s richest man, Elon Musk.

The NWS reported on June 3 that it was taking steps to rehire or newly hire 100 positions to stabilize the agency.

But that didn’t stop TV meteorologist John Morales from interrupting his on-air forecast on June 2 to issue a dire warning about how the staffing and funding cuts could affect his agency’s efforts during hurricane season.

“As you’ve grown accustomed to my presentations over my 34 years in South Florida, I went on TV and told you, confidently, ‘(The storm) is going to turn. You don’t need to worry,’” he told his NBC viewers in Miami. “I’m here to tell you I’m not sure I can do that this year. Because of the cuts — the gutting, the sledgehammer attack on science in general.“ While Morales spoke, the screen behind him flashed statistics, showing that the Central and South Florida National Weather Service is 19%-39% understaffed.

He added that the cuts have also led to a 17% reduction in weather balloon launches across the United States.

What does all this mean for the Florida Keys, an island chain that’s particularly vulnerable to hurricanes, and where residents, government officials and business owners have come to know and rely heavily on local meteorologists

Despite federal staffing and funding cuts, the National Weather Service’s Key West forecast office on White Street is prepared and ready for the 2025 hurricane season, meteorologist-in-charge Chip Kasper told the Keys Weekly this week. CONTRIBUTED

and forecasters Chip Kasper and Jon Rizzo?

Kasper, the meteorologistin-charge at the Key West office, offered reassurances to the Keys Weekly on June 3, saying the NWS Key West forecast office is open, operational and fully prepared for the 2025 hurricane season. Kasper added that the Keys community will not notice any changes in the way the agency handles storm forecasting, predictions, warnings or emergency responses.

He declined to comment on the specific staffing levels or say whether the Key West office has been subject to any staff reductions, referring such questions to federal officials.

But, Kasper emphasized, the National Weather Service has maintained an observation and forecast office in Key West since the federal agency was established in 1870 — and that won’t change.

He also said that despite some reductions in weather balloon launches in other parts of the country, the Key West office continues to launch two weather balloons per day to record and track key weather data points.

28

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025 VANESSA J CHAMIZO LISTED & SOLD THIS PROPERTY FOR $1,550,000

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THINKING OF BUYING OR SELLING YOUR PROPERTY? CALL OR TEXT ME TODAY!

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MEGAN JONES SOLD THIS LISTING FOR $1,250,000 570 LA FITTE RD., LITTLE TORCH KEY

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CAROLINE HENDRIX SOLD THIS LISTING FOR $875,000 177 IROQUOIS ST., PLANTATION KEY

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29

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

Why your lower body might be the key to aging well

W

e often hear that laughter is the best medicine, but what if I told you the real medicine is in the lunge? Every client of mine just rolled their eyes and squished their faces up because they know how much I love lunges and I know how much they … do too *wink, wink.* In all seriousness, the real secret to aging well lies not just in the lunges or steps we take, but in the strength of the legs that carry us.

Recent research suggests that leg strength isn't just about mobility — it's a powerful predictor of how well we age, influencing everything from our independence to our lifespan.

A comprehensive meta-analysis published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation examined data from over 1.9 million participants. The findings were compelling: Individuals with greater lower-body strength, particularly in the legs, had a 14% lower risk of all-cause mortality compared to those with weaker leg muscles. For those who can’t do that math in their head (me either) that’s roughly 266,000 people in the study who lived longer simply by having more leg strength.

For American men, with an average life expectancy of about 75.8 years, a 14% reduction in mortality risk could translate to about 10.6 additional years of life.

For American women, whose average life expectancy is around 81.1 years, that same 14% reduction could mean roughly 11.3 more years to enjoy life.

Ten or 11 extra years to travel, move freely, play with grandkids, or simply enjoy the everyday things we often take for granted.

If that wasn’t enough, the benefits of strong legs extend beyond longevity. A study in Gerontology followed older female twins over a decade and discovered that those with higher leg power experienced significantly less cognitive decline. Even among genetically identical pairs, the twin with stronger legs maintained better brain health.

You might think it's too late to start building strength in your later years, but research says otherwise. The Live Active Successful Aging (LISA) study, conducted by the University of Copenhagen, involved 451 participants around retirement age. Those who engaged in heavy resistance training three times a week maintained their leg strength over a four-year period, while those in moderate or no exercise groups saw declines. This suggests that

incorporating strength training into your routine can have lasting benefits.

Curious about your own leg strength? Here are three straightforward tests you can try at home: Balance test: Stand on one leg for as long as you can. Difficulty maintaining balance may indicate lower JENNIFER leg strength and a higher risk of falls.

BOLTZ HARVEY Five-second walking test: Time how long it takes you to walk six me...is a Marathonters at your usual pace. Taking longer based ACSMthan eight seconds could suggest certified permobility issues. sonal trainer and precision nutrition 30-second chair stand test: Sit in coach who owns a chair and stand up and sit down as and operates many times as possible in 30 seconds Highly Motivated without using your arms. Fewer repFunctionally etitions may point to decreased leg Caffeinated LLC. Hello@highlymoti- strength. vatedfc.com.

Improving leg strength doesn't require a gym membership or heavy weights. Here are some accessible exercises to incorporate into your routine: Bodyweight squats: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and lower your body as if sitting back into a chair, then rise back up.

Lunges: Step forward with one leg and lower your hips until both knees are bent at about a 90-degree angle, then return to standing and switch legs.

Step-ups: Use a sturdy bench or step to step up with one foot, then the other, and step back down.

Resistance band exercises: Incorporate bands for added resistance in movements like leg presses or side steps.

Aim for two to three sessions per week, focusing on proper form and gradually increasing repetitions as you build strength.

Leg strength is more than just a measure of fitness — it's a cornerstone of healthy aging. By prioritizing lowerbody strength through simple exercises and regular activity, you can enhance your mobility, protect your cognitive health and potentially extend your lifespan.

So, next time you're contemplating your health goals, remember: Strong legs support a strong life. Now let's lunge!

UNSPLASH

FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS

30

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

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32

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / JUNE 12, 2025

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FOURTH OF JULY PARADE, PICNIC & FIREWORKS Morning Parade Starts at 10 a.m.

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1

KEYS WEEKLY COMICS, LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JUNE 12, 2025

In The Bleachers

Brevity

Adam Dailies

NEWS OF THE WEIRD Residents of Fort Myers Shores, Florida, who own pets are taking extra precautions about letting them out at night, Gulf Coast News Now reported on May 27. That’s because cane toads are spreading through the community, especially near parks, canals and gardens. The invasive toad secretes a toxin from glands on its back that “can kill very quickly,” said Jordan Donini, a biology professor at Florida Southwestern State College. “They can lay anywhere from 8,000 to 32,000 eggs in a single clutch,” he said, noting that female toads “are a priority for removal.” Donini said the toads have to be removed humanely and encouraged contacting local wildlife control services for help.

2

KEYS WEEKLY COMICS, LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JUNE 12, 2025

Nancy Dailies

TODAY’S HISTORY

In 1964, anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela was sentenced to life in prison for sabotage in South Africa.

TODAY’S FACT

Assassinated civil rights leader Medgar Evers’ brother, Charles Evers, was the first African American since Reconstruction to be elected a mayor in Mississippi, in 1969.

TODAY’S QUOTE Brevity

“Never, if possible, lie down at night without being able to say: I have made one human being at least a little wiser, or a little happier, or at least a little better this day.”

— Charles Kingsley

SPECIAL OFFER

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3

KEYS WEEKLY COMICS, LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JUNE 12, 2025

Founded by Betty Debnam

Wave Your Flag!

49. Alaska Jan. 3, 1959

50. Hawaii Aug. 21, 1959

P

eople in the United States celebrate Flag Day on June 14. It was on that date in 1777 that the Continental Congress adopted the Stars and Stripes as our country’s flag.

The Mini Page celebrates Flag Day with our state flags and the date each state joined the Union.

1. Delaware Dec. 7, 1787

4. Georgia Jan. 2, 1788

7. Maryland April 28, 1788

10. Virginia June 25, 1788

2. Pennsylvania Dec. 12, 1787

5. Connecticut Jan. 9, 1788

8. South Carolina May 23, 1788

11. New York July 26, 1788

3. New Jersey Dec. 18, 1787

6. Massachusetts Feb. 6, 1788

9. New Hampshire June 21, 1788

12. North Carolina Nov. 21, 1789

13. Rhode Island May 29, 1790

16. Tennessee June 1, 1796

19. Indiana Dec. 11, 1816

22. Alabama Dec. 14, 1819

25. Arkansas June 15, 1836

14. Vermont March 4, 1791

17. Ohio March 1, 1803

20. Mississippi Dec. 10, 1817

23. Maine March 15, 1820

26. Michigan Jan. 26, 1837

15. Kentucky June 1, 1792

18. Louisiana April 30, 1812

28. Texas Dec. 29, 1845

29. Iowa Dec. 28, 1846

30. Wisconsin May 29, 1848

31. California Sept. 9, 1850

32. Minnesota May 11, 1858

33. Oregon Feb. 14, 1859

34. Kansas Jan. 29, 1861

35. West Virginia June 20, 1863

36. Nevada Oct. 31, 1864

37. Nebraska March 1, 1867

38. Colorado Aug. 1, 1876

39. North Dakota Nov. 2, 1889

40. South Dakota Nov. 2, 1889

41. Montana Nov. 8, 1889

42. Washington Nov. 11, 1889

43. Idaho July 3, 1890

44. Wyoming July 10, 1890

45. Utah Jan. 4, 1896

46. Oklahoma Nov. 16, 1907

47. New Mexico Jan. 6, 1912

48. Arizona Feb. 14, 1912

21. Illinois Dec. 3, 1818

24. Missouri Aug. 10, 1821

27. Florida March 3, 1845

Which flags are your favorites? If you’re going on a road trip this summer, check off the states you travel through.

The Mini Page® © 2025 Andrews McMeel Syndication

Words that remind us of state flags are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:

ANCHOR, BEAR, BEEHIVE, BUFFALO, CELEBRATE, CONGRESS, CONTINENTAL, DAY, DIPPER, EAGLE, FLAG, MAGNOLIA, MOON, PALM, PELICAN, SUN, UNION, WASHINGTON.

H A I L O N G A M O B H A M X C O N T I N E N T A L E O S E O O V P E L I C A N U O A B A N R F L A G G Y S U N I N R G G R E P P I D B U F F A L O L R G M J G O I V Y A D F U H E E N L Q J C E L E B R A T E K S U A N C H O R E N M L G H N S T P M L W A S H I N G T O N W B E V I H E E B R U N I O N

ECO NOTE Once nearly extinct due to wetland loss, the great raft spider is making a major comeback across Europe. Thanks to a breeding and reintroduction program led by England’s Chester Zoo and supported by wetland restoration, more than 10,000 breeding females have been recorded in the U.K. The giant, semiaquatic spider plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy wetland ecosystems by controlling insect populations.

Conservationists see this as a model for similar recovery efforts, with successes also seen in species like beavers and European bison.

4

KEYS WEEKLY COMICS, LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JUNE 12, 2025

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Chemical Water Treatment and Testing Services 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 3:00 P.M. on Thursday, July 10, 2025. 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. In the event of a discrepancy between the bid amount on the Proposal Form and the bid amount entered in Bonfire, the bid amount listed in the “Proposal Form” provided by Monroe County in the RFP is the amount that will be utilized by the County when considering the bid proposal.

The County reserves the right to waive any proposal/bid irregularity.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Thursday, July 10, 2025. 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: June 12, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

CONSERVATION COMMISSION Sandy Sprunt Day Use Aea and Dove Creek Quarry Fishing Dock BID NO: FWC 24/25-99C TITLE: Sandy Sprunt Day Use Area and Dove Creek Quarry Fishing Dock The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is seeking competitive pricing for the construction of five Crushed Rock Parking spaces and one ADA Compliant parking space. A Day Use Pavilion, Information Kiosk, Asphalt Driveway connection, and concrete sidewalk at Sandy Sprunt Day use area and a fishing pier, a pavilion and a covered bench at Dove Creek Quarry in accordance with the contract documents and Chapter 255 of the Florida Statutes.

To review the bid details: Visit https://vendor. myfloridamarketplace.com/

Select Search Advertisements.

Enter FWC 24/25-99C into the Agency Advertisement Number box Click the Search button Select the solicitation to view the advertisement details Download files made available in the advertisement details page NOTE: The MyFloridaMarketPlace Vendor Information Portal (link provided above) is the posting location for all new and changing information regarding this solicitation.

Interested bidders should continue to monitor this site for the entirety of the solicitation process.

Direct all questions to the Procurement Manager: Joshua Stringer Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission 1875 ORANGE AVENUE EAST, Tallahassee, FL 32311–6160

Joshua.Stringer@MyFWC.com (850) 617-9617 Publish: June 12, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS FISH AND WILDLIFE

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS Request For Proposals San Carlos Institute 516 Duval Street Key West, Florida 33040 The San Carlos Institute (Owner) seeks sealed bids from qualified and licensed general contractors (bidders) for the following: Project: Engineering and Architectural Restoration of the Historic San Carlos Institute Project Location: 516 Duval Street, Key West, Fl 33040 Scope of Work: 1. Concrete structural restoration.

2. Replacement and restoration of doors and windows.

3. Installation of new roofing – TPO membrane and metal roof.

4. Replacement of HVAC mechanical equipment and ductwork.

5. Repair and/or replacement of electrical panels.

6. Painting the exterior of buildings and waterproofing.

Bids are due and must be received by 2:00pm on Thursday July 24, 2025.

Submit original Bid Submission Package via email to: Rafael Penalver, rafaelpenalver@aol.com Roberto Hernandez, rhernandez@ rhengineeringggroup.com The San Carlos Institute will host a mandatory pre-bid conference at the project location on Friday June 20, 2025, at 10:00am. A guided tour of the building will be given at this meeting, at which time the project site will be made available for inspection.

To obtain a complete copy of the RFP documents including construction documents, please email your request along with your full contact and company information to: Roberto Hernandez, rhernandez@ rhengineeringgroup.com List in the email subject – San Carlos Institute RFP Document Request Publish: June 12, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA KEY WEST DIVISION IN ADMIRALTY CASE NO.: 4:25-cv-10041-DPG IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPLAINT OF REINALDO AQUIT AS OWNER OF A 2022 DEEP IMPACT, REGISTRATION NO. 4O1327056, 39' HIN DIC39928K122, AND OTHER APPURTENANCES, Petitioner, NOTICE TO CLAIMANTS OF PETITION FOR EXONERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY Notice is given that the above named Petitioner, Reinaldo Aquit ("Limitation Petitioner") has filed a Petition/Complaint for Exoneration from or Limitation of Liability, pursuant to 46 U.S.C. § 30501 et seq., ("Limitation Petition") for all claims for any damages or injuries, arising out of, or occurring as a result of an incident on the navigable waters of the United States on or about November 7, 2024, allegedly involving a 2022 Deep Impact, Registration No. DO1327056, 39' HIN DIC39928K122, and Other Appurtenances, as more fully described in the Limitation Petition.

All persons having such claims must file their respective

5

KEYS WEEKLY COMICS, LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JUNE 12, 2025

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

claims, as provided by Supplemental Rule F of the Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Claims of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, with the Clerk of Court in writing and must serve a copy thereof on attorneys for Limitation Petitioner on or before July 14, 2025 or be defaulted. Personal attendance is not required.

Any claimant who desires to contest either the right to exoneration from or the right to limitation of liability shall file and serve on attorneys for Limitation Petitioner an answer to the Complaint, on or before the aforesaid date, unless the claim includes an answer, so designated, or be defaulted.

DONE AND ORDERED this 12th day of May, 2025.

DARRIN P. GAYLES UNITED STATE DISTRICT JUDGE Publish: June 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

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 served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is: June 5, 2025.

Personal Representative: Simon Lee Sherrill 100 Ocean Shores Dr. Key Largo, FL 33037 Attorney for Personal Representative: Urban J. W. Patterson, Esq. Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@yahoo.com Florida Bar No. 382035 Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A. P. O. Box 783 Islamorada, Florida 33036 Telephone: 3056645065 Publish: June 5 & 12, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 25-CP-200-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF ELSIE P. ROGERS a/k/a ELSIE LEE ROGERS, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of ELSIE P. ROGERS a/k/a ELSIE LEE ROGERS, deceased, whose date of death was January 31, 2025, Case: 25-CP-200-K, is pending in the Circuit Court, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is: June 5, 2025.

Personal Representative: SHERYL R. SMOAK c/o Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq. Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A. 3130 Northside Drive Key West, Florida 33040 Attorney for Personal Representative: Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0144304 Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A. 3130 Northside Drive Key West, Florida 33040 Email designation for service: Service.Probate@ samkaufmanlaw.com Telephone: (305) 292-3926 Fax: (305) 295-7947 Publish: June 5 & 12, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) V enter in a case pending in said Court, the 26TH day of April 2025 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.

ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST DIANE CHRISTINE FAY, DECEASED, ET AL Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CA61-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 29TH day of April 2025.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: June 12 & 19, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

N AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CA-75-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 25TH day of June 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit A14, Week 41, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AFTER DEFAULT entered in a case pending in said Court, the 28TH day of March 2025 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.

NEWTON GRIFFITH, et.al Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC75-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 3RD day of April 2025.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court

Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: June 12 & 19, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2025-CP-220-P IN RE: THE ESTATE OF EDITH WINIFRED SHERRILL, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of EDITH WINIFRED SHERRILL, deceased, whose date of death was April 25, 2025, 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

Effective May 31, 2025, Joseph Sunny, M.D., is no longer practicing with Baptist Health Gastroenterology at the following location: 91550 Overseas Highway, Suite 205, Tavernier, FL 33070.

Patients who wish to receive copies of their medical records may log into our patient portal at myBaptistHealth.net, call 305-434-3400 or fax 786-260-0513 to request a records release.

Publish: June 12, 19, 26 & July 3, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CA-61-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 25TH day of June 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Property: Unit B33, Week 27, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

Stanley Zuba, M.D. Florida Keys Pediatric & Adolescent Center 91550 Overseas Highway, #209 Tavernier, Florida 33070 Dr. Stanley Zuba will be retiring and will no longer be practicing at Florida Keys Pediatric & Adolescent Center effective June 3, 2025.

Patients’ medical records will remain at Florida Keys Pediatric & Adolescent Center, 91550 Overseas Highway, #209, Tavernier, Florida 33070 under the custodianship of Dr. Manuel Joaquin Gomez and his staff. Patients wishing to pick up their records may do so starting June 3, 2025.

Publish: June 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CA-61-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 25TH day of June 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit E33, Week 3, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) XIII, UNIT E33, WEEK 3 entered in a case pending in said Court, the 5TH day of June 2025 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.

ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST DIANE CHRISTINE FAY, DECEASED, ET.AL Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC61-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 8TH day of May 2025.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: June 12 & 19, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CA-61-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 25TH day of June 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of

6

KEYS WEEKLY COMICS, LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JUNE 12, 2025

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

BOAT SLIP FOR RENT

EMPLOYMENT

Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit E33, Week 4, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) XII, UNIT E33, WEEK 4 entered in a case pending in said Court, the 5TH day of June 2025 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.

ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST DIANE CHRISTINE FAY, DECEASED, ET.AL Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC61-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 8TH day of May 2025.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: June 12 & 19, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5123, Week 49, Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).

Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) I entered in a case pending in said Court, the 28TH day of March 2025 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs.

ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST WAYNE NIES ROOT, DECEASED, et.al Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2023-CC75-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 3RD day of April 2025 KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale.

Publish: June 12 & 19, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

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

S e r v e / B a r t e n d 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.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2023-CC-75-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 25TH day of June 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale

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

Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483

AUTOS FOR SALE 2003 Ford Explorer.

174k miles, runs great, A/C works. $3,500 OBO. Located in Middle Keys.

3 0 5 - 4 1 7 - 0 1 6 9

SUDOKU SOLUTION

19’x40’ slip in Marathon, could handle somewhat larger boat with approval from dockmaster. Desirable location in marina, easy in, easy out. Available 1 June 25 thru Oct 25, possibly long term lease. $1,400/ mo. Please contact Vern Rozier, 904 626 5279, or 904 626 8224 and leave call back info. Or email vrrozier@yahoo.com.

EMPLOYMENT ALL KEYS GUTTER HIRING INSTALLERS $25/$35hr - Holidays Off -BenefitsTavernier. Apply: call or text Jay 305-587-1581 Night Monitor – FREE Private Room in exchange for overnight availability at our Assisted Living Facility. 5 nights on, 5 nights off 10pm-8am plus weekly stipend, Drug & background screen required. www.westcare. com/join-our-team/ Boat rental company in Marathon needs workers – Boat drivers, Truck drivers, Boat cleaners & Boat detailing. Call 305-481-7006 Fantastic part-time Housekeeper position available in Key Colony Beach!

Immediate start date. Primarily on weekends, with excellent pay for the right candidate.

Reach out to Continental Inn Beachside at Vivian 952-208-2850 or Cheryl 305-505-8747 The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring for the following positions: Resident Care Supervisor with min. 3 yrs. experience of an LPN, Housing M anager-FT-M arathon, Carpenter-FT, Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: wrightk@kwha.org or 305-296-5621 ext. 224.

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.

HOBBIES/COLLECT. P R I V A T E C O L L E C T O R WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches.

Old Model Military Clocks & Watches.

Call 305-743-4578

HOUSING FOR RENT 2/2 on the water w/ dockage in Pirates Cove, Key Largo. Fenced & fully furnished. Short and long term available.

From $3500/month. Credit check required. 28 day minimum.

Call 305-588-6723 Studio House with Queen size bed available in Marathon. Furnished, kitchen, dining, newly renovated.

No pets. $1,299 + utilities F/L/S 305-610-8002 3BR/3BA fully furnished home for rent in Marathon.

Avail July 1. $4,500/mo.

6 1 8 - 5 5 9 - 9 1 4 3

VACATION RENTAL Key West House For Rent - 28 day minimum.

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

Starting $214/night. Sweet CarolineSeaport.com Key Colony Beach 7 night min., 2BR/1BA, max.

3 guests per rental agreement. Starting $175/ night + cleaning fees & t a x e s .

7 8 6 - 2 8 5 - 9 4 7 6 fjvillegascpa@gmail.com

YARD SALES PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy!

Pease call 305-4170871 or email Anneke@ KeysWeekly.com

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

305.743.0844

FULL-TIME POSITION

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT REPORTS TO: CITY CLERK

The City of Key Colony Beach is accepting applications for the Administrative Assistant position. The Administrative Assistant will respond to and resolve administrative inquiries, issue boat trailer parking permits, review and issue annual Business Tax License applications while keeping those records updated, issue Property Management Certificates of Completion, and accurately maintain those records. Additionally, this role involves conducting educational classes and fostering strong relationships with managers, owners, and the city, assisting the Front Desk and other departments, and performing any other necessary tasks.

Qualifications: High school graduate with two years of experience in customer service and administrative support. Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite. Applicants must have strong communication skills, both written and verbal.

Salary: $61,000.00+ Competitive salary based on experience. Exceptional benefits, including participation in the Florida Retirement Fund, are available.

Contact City Hall for an application at 305289-1212, opt. 2. Applications are also available at www.keycolonybeach.net; see “City Government” then “Forms”. Open until filled. Equal Opportunity Employer Submit resume and application by mail or in-person to: City of Key Colony Beach City Hall Attn: City Clerk 600 West Ocean Drive PO Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051 Or email cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net

WE ARE HIRING! CLIENT MEDICAL SERVICES ASSISTANT, CNA (FT) Assisting our clients with dental, medical and transportation appts. Act as liaison between clients, families and support staff. Requires some on-call responsibility. Min. requirement - Florida certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant.* CLIENT MEDICAL SERVICES MANAGER, RN/LPN (FT) Responsible for medical administration of prescriptions and over the counter drugs. This nurse will serve as a liaison between the medical services staff, group homes, supported living and ADT staff and the physicians and pharmacy as needed. Coordinate needs and services, supervise the medical services staff by overseeing the implementation of all medical & therapeutic interventions.

Coordinate w/other medical staff for on-call duties as required. Must have a current Florida license as an RN or LPN.* DIRECT CARE STAFF – NIGHTS/WEEKENDS – GROUP HOMES 24/7 (FT) These positions are available at our Windsor and Von Phister Group Homes.

Providing direct-care services and support to our clients in their home. Must be willing to work flexible shifts including overnights. This position requires a minimum of high school completion or GED and 1 year of experience with care giving or 30 hours of college coursework.* DIRECT CARE STAFF/DRIVER AT ADULT DAY-TRAINING PROGRAM (FT/PT) This position is available at our Adult Day program. Providing direct care service and support for our clients in the day program. Requires the minimum of high school completion or GED. Prefer experience with caregiving or working with adults with disabilities* *ALSO REQUIRED FOR ALL POSITIONS: Fluent in English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Level 2 background screening and valid Florida driver’s license. EOE Apply at the MARC office, 1401 Seminary St., Key West.

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

Come join our family!

7

KEYS WEEKLY COMICS, LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JUNE 12, 2025

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

Work with the BEST!

• Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance • Tuition Reimbursement • Paid Holidays, Vacation & Sick Time • 401K Employer Match • Quarterly Cash Profit Sharing • Fun, Fast-Paced Environment • Great Hours

Voted Best Bank 2014 - 2024

SUNSET GRILLE NOW HIRING BARTENDERS WAIT STAFF - HOST/HOSTESS BUS PERSONS Apply in person at

Key West

SUNSET GRILLE & RAW BAR 7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon

Customer Service Representative Branch Manager Controller

Key Largo

IS HIRING ACCOUNTING PERSON

Apply Online at KeysBank.com/Careers

EOE-M/F/V/D

Equal Housing Lender

OPERATOR/MAINTAINER Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $40.15/hr - $44.97/hr For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Engineering Department:

IN THE UPPER KEYS

Full Time Teller

Member FDIC

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Generation Department:

Must have experience with Excel. We are willing to train the right candidate.

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

NOW HIRING

GENERAL OFFICE HELP

Captain Pip’s & their sister properties are looking to hire for general office help.

Send resume to captpips@aol.com or come in the office to fill out application.

1480 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 CAPTAIN PIP’S IS AN AWESOME PLACE TO WORK, WE TREAT OUR EMPLOYEES GREAT. COME JOIN OUR TEAM!

NOW HIRING! The Turtle Hospital in Marathon wants you to join their team!

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM GUIDES/GIFT SHOP SALES Full and part-time. Public speaking and & retail sales experience helpful. $19/hour to start.

Send resume to: turtlehospital@turtlehospital.org

ELECTRICAL PROJECT ENGINEER

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $136,979/annually $140,815/annually For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.

KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.

LIVE IN PARADISE AND SEE DOLPHINS PLAY EVERYDAY! DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER is a fun, environmentally friendly non-profit 501(c)(3) Corporation specializing in education, research, and rescue of marine mammals.

We have the following opening available.

Scan the QR code to visit the careers page on our website.

FACILITIES MAINTENANCE APPRENTICE (Full-Time, Permanent) DRC seeks to provide for the well-being of its employees by offering a competitive total package. DRC currently offers a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays, vacation, sick and an employee assistance program. DRC also provides life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee.

COME JOIN THE FAMILY!

Email your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE

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

8

KEYS WEEKLY COMICS, LEGALS & CLASSIFIEDS / JUNE 12, 2025

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC && LEGAL NOTICES • • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of “Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

IS HIRING!

JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 52 YEARS! We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.

KEY LARGO

Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)

KEY WEST

Case Manager (Children Forensic, Adult) (FT,PT) Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult, PT) Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) Prevention Specialist Advocate

MARATHON

Care Coordinator (PT) Driver (CDL not required) (PT) RN/Licensed Practical Nurse (FT,PT) Maintenance Specialist *Behavioral Health Technicians – 3 shifts (FT,PT) *Support Worker (Assisted Living) (FT,PT) *Night Monitor (Assisted Living - Free Housing) *No experience required for this position. Will train.

A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.

Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!

Apply at guidancecarecenter.org Search Employment/Portal/Location/zip

DUI FRONT DESK CLERK & EVALUATOR/INSTRUCTOR The Advocate Program DUI school is hiring for part time positions.

Front desk: 3 days a week, high school diploma and computer data entry skills required.

DUI instructors and evaluators: 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse field required.

Office located in Marathon.

Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

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

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

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

OPENINGS AVAILABLE PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS

- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN-PA-C)Surgical, Ortho, Tavernier - Medical Assistant, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus - Medical Assistant, Upper Keys-Gastro, $5k Bonus

MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST - Radiation Therapist, $12k Bonus - Medical Assistant, Medical Oncology, $5k Bonus - Dosimetrist, FT

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Cook, Dietary - Radiology Technologist 1, Imaging-MRI, $40k Bonus - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (Mammo & X Ray), Radiology, $50k Bonus - Registered Nurse, Emergency Department - ED Team Coordinator 1, Emergency Department - MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, Ultrasound/Vascular with Echo, $50k Bonus - AC Mechanic-Licensed - Registered Nurse, ICU, Per Diem, $15k Bonus - Cook, Per Diem - Environmental Tech, $5k Bonus - Manager Imaging Services - Pool Medical Technologist - Pool Registered Nurse, Cardiac Rehab - Patient Access Associate, $1k Bonus - Patient Scheduler 2, Radiology, PT - Supply Chain Inventory Control Admin, FT

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray), Radiology, $50k Bonus - Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (Mammo & X Ray) Radiology, $50k Bonus - Social Work Case Manager, Case Management, $10k Bonus - Pool Pharmacy Tech 2 - Pool Occupational Therapist - Read Registered Respiratory Therapist, PT, $12,500 Bonus - Sr. Phlebotomist - Security Officer, FT - Supervisor Patient Access Operations - Patient Financial Associate, $1k Bonus 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

THEME: ON BROADWAY ACROSS 1. Benatar and Morita 5. Certain tray contents 8. In custody 12. *Main character in “Shrek the Musical,” based on 2001 flick 13. Soreness 14. Wore (2 words) 15. Street in Anytown, USA 16. Burn to a crisp 17. Opposite of alpha 18. *Musical with most Tony Awards, with The 20. Grape holder 21. Entertain 22. ___ Aviv 23. Unrhymed Japanese poem, pl.

26. Snakebirds 30. Opposite of hence 31. Shooting star 34. Milk’s favorite cookie 35. Zoroaster follower 37. A Beatle bride 38. Mix-up 39. Type of cotton 40. *____ Lloyd Webber 42. Dog command 43. Inference of similarity 45. 4th letter of Hebrew alphabet 47. “But I heard him exclaim, ____ he drove out of sight...”

48. Pool table fabric 50. Altar location 52. *Last year’s Tony Award winner for Best Musical, with The 56. Santa Anna’s target 57. To, archaic 58. Small cave 59. Cocaine-producing plant, pl.

60. Diagnostic test 61. Biblical Isaac’s firstborn 62. Not quite an adult 63. Craggy peak 64. Tear

DOWN 1. Circumstance’s partner 2. Lab gel 3. Domingo, Pavarotti and Carreras, e.g.

4. “Where the Wild Things Are” author 5. Plural of #13 Across 6. Social media button 7. Not his 8. *Musical with most Tony nominations 9. Barbara of “I Dream of Jeannie” 10. *Private box 11. Double helix-shaped structure 13. Emile Zola’s “J’____...!”

14. What helicopter parents do 19. Savory taste sensation 22. Black gunk 23. Tapa, alt. sp.

24. “Encore!”

25. _____ Jean, a.k.a. Marilyn Monroe 26. Don’t let this hit you on the way out 27. Use the other end of a pencil 28. Re-equip 29. *Rodgers’ and Hammerstein’s “____ Pacific” 32. *Award nickname, short for Antoinette 33. Finish line 36. *Arthur Miller’s “Death of a ____” 38. Swaziland native 40. *”____ of Aquarius,” song from “Hair” 41. a.k.a. the Wizard of Menlo Park 44. Plural of #34 Across 46. Late actor Heath 48. Social dice game 49. Rose oil 50. Medicinal house plant 51. Tempo 52. Give a boot 53. Gaelic 54. Multicolored horse 55. Wall support 56. *Part of a play