Passing the baton

56 Pages·2012·19.7 MB·English

Press
KEY LARGO: FEATURE Missed opportunities
F
FLORIDA KEYS Page 43
R
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Local nurse helps in
her native Cambodia Wednesday, September 19, 2012 ◆ Volume 25, Number 44 ◆ 56 pages FREE
Page 20
District
MARATHON: CLUB Passing the baton
to make
stragglers
connect
Group helps people
find their voice
BY JOSH GORE
Page 21 Free Press Staff
KEY LARGO: BUSINESS KEY LARGO — The Key Largo
Wastewater Treatment District
is preparing to send 143 resi-
dents to county code compli-
ance for failing to connect to
its sewer system, according to
a clerk’s report at the Sept. 11
board meeting.
See COMPLIANCE, page 7
New bike shop
offers sales, repairs
Slight tax hike
Page 38
for Marathon
INSIDE THIS WEEK
Business & Real Estate ..........38-39
Crossword ..................................22
BY JOSH GORE
Faces & Places ...........................31
Football Contest .........................36 Free Press Staff
Horoscope ..................................25
Keys Cruisin’ ..........................21-36
Mystery Photo ............................24 MARATHON — No public
Opinion ......................................40 ROBERT SILK/Free Press comment was made last week
Sports & Recreation ..............43-46 Michael Reckwerdt, right, who had held the largely honorary position of Islamorada mayor since the
at the city of Marathon’s first
Tides ..........................................46 spring of 2010, relinquished the gavel last week, handing it over to former Vice Mayor Ken Philipson,
TV Guide ...............................32-33 of two public budget hear-
left. The surprise move, which received unanimous support from the Village Council, came less than
ings.
two months before the November election. See story on page 10.
See TAX, page 16
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(cid:129) UP FRONT
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mb BY ROBERT SILK remains concerned that we much territory.
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pt Free Press Staff are so far below critical staff- The sanctuary funded a
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ing levels that our current similar number of officers
MONROE COUNTY — resources are incapable of in 1999 as well, according to
The Florida Keys National providing a sufficient enforce- spokeswoman Karrie Carnes.
Marine Sanctuary, a division ment presence.” In 2003, however, the num-
of the National Oceanic and Wiley submitted his com- ber reached as high as 19, Wiley
Atmospheric Administration, ments in late June as part of wrote in separate letter to
has come under sharp criti- the public scoping for the NOAA Deputy Administrator
cism from Florida’s lead on- ongoing sanctuary review of Eric Schwaab.
the-water law enforcement its regulatory and marine zon- Over the winter, sanctu-
agency. ing plan. ary managers released the
FWC/Contributed
“Despite numerous com- Under an agreement “Condition Report 2011 for
Officials from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission,
mitments from NOAA for between the two agencies, the Florida Keys National Marine
which provides enforcement services in the Florida Keys National
the staffing of sufficient law FWC provides enforcement Marine Sanctuary, say resources are below ‘minimally acceptable’ Sanctuary,” the first such
enforcement services, en- in the 2,900-square-nautical- levels. report since the sanctuary
forcement levels have fallen mile Florida Keys National was established 22 years ago.
well below what can be con- Marine Sanctuary, which was said. The funds pay for five enforcing the federal sanctu- It outlines the health of the
sidered ‘minimally accept- established in 1990. This year on-the-water patrollers, a ary rules. coral reef ecosystem and the
able,’” Florida Fish and Wildlife the sanctuary is spending lieutenant, a dispatcher and The number of FWC officers fisheries in sanctuary waters
Conservation Commission $1.5 million, or 30 percent of a third of the salary of local the sanctuary is funding now and cites a reduced number
Executive Director Nick Wiley its $5 million budget, toward FWC Capt. Pat Langley. is similar to the seven that of corals, queen conch, long-
wrote in a recent missive to that enforcement, sanctuary The funds also cover the NOAA was funding in 1990, spined sea urchins, groupers,
the sanctuary. “... The FWC Superintendent Sean Morton cost of patrol boats for those when only 100-square-nauti- sea turtles and other keystone
officers, as well as fuel, repairs cal-miles off of Key Largo and species. The report will guide
HYPNOTEC INC. 364137 anIdn oaffdicdei tsiopnac, et.h e FWC has 5o.f3 L-soqouea rKee-yn awuetircea pl amrti loesf tohfef tmhaer siannec ztounairnyg’s r reevgiuewla tporroyc aenssd,
CHANGE YOU WILL BELIEVE IN! 29 other officers who work National Marine Sanctuary Morton has said.
SSTTOOPP SSMMOOKKIINNGG,, LLOOSSEE WWEEIIGGHHTT,, PPHHOOBBIIAASS,, SSTTRREESSSS && SSEELLFF HHYYPPNNOOSSIISS.. the Florida Keys, but they’re program. The Florida Keys In an interview last week,
.. .. chiefly charged with enforc- National Marine Sanctuary
WWWWWW HHYYPPNNOOTTEECC NNEETT 778866--335511--11003311
See SANCTUARY, page 3
ing state laws rather than covers nearly 30 times that
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UP FRONT (cid:129) F
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Childcare struck with funding double whammy s
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BY JOSH GORE the grant program. When she which took effect July 1, have “The kids have somewhere to sized childcare funding for- , 2
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Free Press Staff receives comments from the given more money to counties be.” mula. 1
2
grant reviewers, it should shed that had a budget surplus of tax Boza has scheduled a meet- “Should you send a 9-year-
FLORIDA KEYS — A loss of some light, she said. dollars last year and no wait- ing with the Boys and Girls old home alone?” Boza said.
funding for afterschool pro- But Romain said she told ing list for families, while leav- Club to figure out if it can “I say no.”
grams is leaving working par- principals there was a possi- ing Miami-Dade and Monroe provide some relief to parents [email protected]
ents with few options for their bility the money would not counties with deep cuts. who need a safe place for their Staff writer Gwen Filosa con-
elementary-aged children. come through. According to numbers pro- children to stay. tributed to this report.
For the past five years, Key “There’s no guarantee,” she vided by the Early Learning Of his 388 students, 78
Largo School has used funds said. “You take your chances.” Coalition of Miami-Dade/ received afterschool supervi-
from the 21st Century Grant, Hoar has begun meeting Monroe Counties, funding to sion under the 21st Century NEWS TIP?
which is federal money direct- with YMCA officials to put cover 46 children will imme- Grant.
CALL 853-7277
ed through a state application together an afterschool pro- diately be cut from Monroe Boza, too, is worried about
process, in order to provide gram. She said the Upper Keys County, and money for 359 the ramifications of the sub-
afterschool programs for stu- group seemed receptive. But will be eliminated over a six-
RRRRRRR EEEEEEE MMMMMMMMM EEEEEEE DDDDDD YYYYYYYYY ’ SSSSS
dents. The grant expired at she said she doesn’t expect the year period. “Celebrating
the end of last school year, YMCA to match what the grant “The time to get involved 40 years of serving the
and administrators were told terms and doesn’t know how is now,” said Evelio Torres, Keys Health”
last week that it will not be many of her teachers might president of the Miami Dade/ Vitamins, Herbs, Tinctures, NUTRITION
Essential Oils, and More!
renewed. participate. Monroe division of ELC. At an “WE ARE THE MANUFACTURER.”
Key Largo School Principal On top of losing the fed- information meeting last week
Vitamin C (Buffer C) 1000 mg - 50 count
Julia Hoar said 300 of her 900 eral grant, a new state fund- in Key Largo, Torres urged resi-
BUY ONE GET ONE FREE
students last year took advan- ing formula for subsidizing dents to ask state leaders to
tage of the free afterschool childcare centers is expected change the formula. Offer ends 10/1/12. While supplies last!
atecaacdheemrsi ca npdro gpraarmap. roSfhees sisoanid- tCoo ucuntt y$’s2 p06re,0v0io0u fsr otamke M, poonterone- for“ Tuhse rteo’ s noat nl osoep apnoyr tumnoirtey 369107 10080300 5O-3v9e6rs-e7a0s2 H8 iwghwwwa.rye, mKeeyd yLsanrugtor,i tFiolonr.icdoam 33037
als were paid under the grant tially further complicating money,” he said. *bagged supplements only
money. afterschool care. Meanwhile, Henry Boza,
Venetian Shores
“It was first opened to stu- The state Office of Early principal of Glynn Archer
dents who needed help aca- Learning altered its formula School in Key West, is facing Live on Snake Creek!
demically,” she said. in response to a state Auditor the same grant problem as
Nancy Romain, a grant writer General’s report last December KLS.
for the Monroe County School that determined the existing “We’re in the process of fig-
District, said she doesn’t know formula was unfair. The results uring if we can do some after-
why the county was left out of of the new funding system, school program,” Boza said.
BoatingDream.com
Call Margo & Brett Today! Margo 305-393-3980
Sanctuary to do is work with the money far-flung Tortugas Ecological Islamorada Luxury Home Specialists Brett 305-393-1770
we’ve got,” Morton said. Reserve. Schmitt TheNewmanTeam.com
Continued from page 2 Despite the limited num- But, like Morton, he also Real Estate 369068
ber of officers charged with made mention of the lim-
Morton said the sanctuary resource protection, NOAA ited resources within NOAA
would like to beef up the has had some recent success in at large and the Florida Keys
number of officers working on enforcing rules relating to ves- National Marine Sanctuary in
resource protection. But he sel groundings, illegal anchor- particular.
emphasized that the $5 mil- ing and poaching, Carnes said. Striking a conciliatory tone,
lion budget also goes toward Since 2010, the sanctuary has Schwaab recommended that
other crucial initiatives, collected $29,700 in penalties the agencies meet to discuss
including education outreach from violators of such provi- not only law enforcement
and scientific research, along sions, as well as for the viola- resources but also an effective
with administration. tion of a provision designed enforcement strategy.
In addition, he added, NOAA to keep large shipping vessels “I believe a collective dis-
pays for two federal agents in out of sanctuary shallows. cussion on how best to iden-
the sanctuary out of its Office In an Aug. 27 response tify the enforcement needs for
of Law Enforcement budget to Wiley, NOAA’s Schwaab NOAA regulations would help
rather than from the Florida emphasized that the agency provide a clearer pathway for
Keys sanctuary budget. is very much committed to decision-makers,” Schwaab
res“oTuhrecrees , asroe wnhoat t uwnel’ivme itgeodt psarnoctetuctairnyg atnhde eFslpoercidiaal lyK ethyes wrrostielk. @keysnews.com 377791
4
(cid:129) UP FRONT
s
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Pr
ee Colleagues now opponents in state attorney’s race
Fr
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mb BY ADAM LINHARDT conceded that disassociating was the secretary of the latter ment with Kohl’s office. Then-
e
pt Free Press Staff themselves from each other is and in line to be tapped presi- prosecutor Jeff Overby stated
e
S
a challenge. dent when he was defeated by there was no proof as to how
MONROE COUNTY — The “It’s extraordinarily diffi- Ward, he said. much money Suarez stole, and
bitter tone that defined the cult,” Kohl said. “There’s a “These boards and commit- therefore he lacked evidence
Democratic primary race for reason that Catherine was my tees provided me with con- that would have called for a
Monroe County state attorney chief assistant for so many tacts statewide while working prison sentence.
has largely fallen by the way- Kohl Vogel years. We think alike, have for Monroe County,” Kohl said. Kohl also cited investigations
side as the two remaining can- similar experiences and simi- “If you’ve got the connections, into Key West police brutality
didates and former office col- in August. Now Vogel, a former lar beliefs in how the office you get better results, and that charges, as well as starting an
leagues now work to distance Monroe County chief assistant should be run.” helps when you’re trying to investigation of former County
themselves from each other state attorney, will face her convince legislators to send Mayor Jack London, who died
heading into the November former boss, Mark Kohl, the money to Monroe County in 2006 at the age of 68.
general election. Republican that Ward ousted Running on his record instead of Miami-Dade.” Then-County Attorney Jim
Democrat Catherine Vogel in 2008. Kohl spent much of the pri- Hendrick was convicted of
beat incumbent Dennis Ward Vogel left the office shortly mary season recovering from advising London to leave for
after Ward was elected in 2008 The differences between throat cancer. He said he was Ireland to avoid questioning in
Interesting and has been in private prac- the two are experience and given a clean bill of health last a federal bribery and tax eva-
tice, as has Kohl. political connections, Kohl week and is coming out of the sion investigation, and encour-
Facts
During the primary, Ward said. He named the myriad doctor’s office swinging, par- aging London and political
was vocal in his accusation committees and boards on ticularly at Ward’s charge that consultant Randy Hilliard
that Kohl and Vogel were in which he has served, such as his office did little to stymie to lie to federal investigators
Brought To You
Every Week cahoots and operating as one the Florida Medical Examiners public corruption in the Keys. about taking $82,500 from
campaign to bring about his Commission, Criminal and “Dennis created this false Marathon developer Marvin
defeat, an accusation denied Juvenile Justice Information narrative that I never tack- Rappaport in exchange for
By Derek Martin-Vegue, by both candidates. Systems and the Prosecuting led this issue,” Kohl said. “My County Commission approval
President Nonetheless, Kohl and Vogel Attorneys Association. Kohl office did, but I didn’t go out of building permits to rede-
Keys Insurance Services
and jump up and down about velop Halls Resort in 1996.
A German woman lost her cat 16
years ago. Turns out, the animal Island Wellness it and run to the newspapers.” That case, however, was
was living in the woods near her Kohl cited Sunshine Law handled by federal prosecu-
house the entire time. A hiker (formerly Total Wellness Center) investigations involving for- tors.
found the cat and reunited the
mer County Commissioners And Kohl took Ward to task
two. (305) 289-WELL (9355)
(cid:129) (cid:129) (cid:129) Sonny McCoy, Dixie Spehar for saying he did not fully inves-
Offering...
If you’re walking around Las and Mario Di Gennaro. The tigate former Mosquito Control
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Vegas with a wicked hangover, Chinese Herbals Qigong Gift cases were handled by Kohl’s District Superintendent Mike
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mobile medical unit that cruises Massage Cellular Foot Cleanse Certifi cates office, which ruled there was Spoto, who gave company
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the streets providing treatments insufficient evidence of viola- cellphones to his wife, daugh-
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provided intravenously on the 12701 O/S Hwy (cid:129) Marathon, FL 33050 Kohl also cited the investiga- When the issue came to light
spot. www.marathonacupuncture.com 364965 tion into former Public Works in 2007, the district ordered
(cid:129) (cid:129) (cid:129) Superintendent Gilbert Suarez, Spoto to pay $5,000 in phone
After receiving a $400 traffi c who was sentenced on May bills and handed down a two-
ticket, a UC San Diego physicist UPPER KEYS
15, 2005, to five years’ proba- week suspension.
submitted a four-page report
of graphs and equations in his VETERINARY HOSPITAL tion for grand theft for stealing Kohl took his investigation
defense, “The Proof of Innocence,” change from parking meters,
arguing that the police offi cer was See COLLEAGUES, page 5
after accepting a plea agree-
fooled by an optical illusion. The DDrr.. RRoobbeerrtt FFoolleeyy
judge ruled in his favor.
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UP FRONT (cid:129) F
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Colleagues ‘Newer, fresher ideas’ “Anybody would have pros- ss (cid:129) S
ecuted Monique in that situa- ep
DDRR.. JJOOHHNN HH.. DDEEAAGGLLEE,, DD..OO te
Continued from page 4 “I think I’m more of a people- tion,” Vogel said. m
b
e
person and more outgoing,” Vogel wants to work on AAnndd r 19
to the Florida Keys Mosquito Vogel said, comparing herself improving morale in the State , 2
0
Control District board. to Kohl. “We do have similar Attorney’s Office and broaden 1
JJooaannnnee MMaattttyy--GGaattttoorrnnoo,, RR..NN.. 2
“They wanted to handle it experience, and though Mark work with underage offenders
internally, and we took that has tried more cases over the by being more active with the
into consideration,” Kohl years, I think my experience in 16th Judicial Circuit Juvenile N!
O
said. “The board said they Miami-Dade County gave me Justice Board, a committee on SO John H. Deagle, D.O., will be offering
didn’t want him prosecuted. I broader exposure to different which she has served. NG “Facial Aesthetic Rejuvination”
MI
believe the victim [the board] cases.” “We need to refrain from O
C
should have huge influence Vogel, too, was quick to say treating juveniles as adults with Joanne Matty-Gattorno, R.N.
on case direction. That’s that she can’t be negative. wherever we can,” Vogel said. Botox, Restylane, Juviderm

important to people, the vic- “I don’t have anything bad “That is going to take going
tims, and I think it should to say about Mark,” Vogel said. to schools and working with are a few procedures offered.
continue to be.” “I still think I’m better suited them as well as partnering
In 2010, State Attorney to the position and that I’ve with whomever wins the sher- (cid:129) Accepting New Patients*
Ward charged Spoto with fel- proven myself as a great pros- iff’s race, Mr. [Tom] Peteck or
(cid:129) Now BCBS Provider
ony theft. In June 2011, Spoto ecutor.” Mr. [Rick] Ramsay.
pleaded guilty to the theft On the issue of public cor- Relationships with the (cid:129) Minor Emergency Offi ce
charge and a judge withheld ruption, Vogel said Ward didn’t school system and Sheriff’s
(cid:129) Drug Testing Available
adjudication, but sentenced “do anything anyone else in his Office can be improved in an
him to 90 days in jail and 2 -1⁄ position wouldn’t have done.” effort to keep juveniles out of (cid:129) Physicals Captains/CDL/School
2
years’ probation. She too said that the mosquito the system in the first place, *excludes chronic pain patients
Ward maintained in his board decided to handle the Vogel said.
90290 Overseas Hwy. Suite 103 Tavernier, FL 33070
prosecution of Spoto that Spoto internally. “I’m going to bring fresher
330055--885522--88220088
taxpayers, not the mosquito “I think it’s debatable wheth- ideas and a newer perspective
board, were the victims in the er Mark should have handled to the office,” she said.
Monday-Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
case. the Spoto matter differently, The general election is Nov. 369125
The voters will have to but that’s only one situation,” 6.
determine if Kohl’s experi- Vogel said. [email protected]
ence outweighs Vogel’s in the Vogel declined to comment
election, and Kohl sees that on her representation of for- 369126
SSnnaappppeerr’’ss wweellccoommeess
as the defining aspect of the mer Schools Superintendent
election. Randy Acevedo, whom a jury
CChheeff AAnnddrreeww TTssaanngg
“You can’t get me to say a found guilty of official mis-
bad thing about Catherine,” conduct for trying to shield
ttoo oouurr tteeaamm..
Kohl said. “What would that his school administrator wife
say about me as the person from arrest.
who hired her and kept her on The infamous local scan-
so many years?” dal included the prosecution Come and try his
Kohl said he wanted “vot- of Monique Acevedo, who is
award-winning
ers to remember the job I did currently serving eight years
while in office. I think it’s going in prison for stealing $413,000 cuisine.
to be a close election.” from the public till.
brief
south on U.S.1 at mile marker
111. He was clocked doing 124
mph in a 55 mph zone. The
troopers let deputies know to
No easy rider
be on the lookout for a 2009
Andrew can assist you
green Kawasaki motorcycle.
with any upcoming holiday
BIG PINE KEY — A 27-year- Cabrera allegedly continued
old Miami man was arrested driving at excessive speeds, parties and catered events!
Saturday afternoon for reck- refusing to stop for numerous
less driving on a motorcycle, deputies before finally pulling
according to the Monroe over on Big Pine Key. Just give us a call.
County Sheriff’s Office. He was arrested for fleeing
Ovidio Cabrera was first and eluding, reckless driving
spotted by the Florida Highway and driving with his license
snapperskeylargo.com
Patrol at 1:40 p.m. heading suspended.
k e y l a r g o n e w s
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Ex-skinhead speaks
BY JOSH GORE Some of the debate was turnover in his department were interested in joining the
about tolerance Free Press Staff over a proposed $10,000 because many firefighters department, and only two of
increase in regular pay and only stay long enough to gain them were serious. If a future
KEY LARGO — Angela King KEY LARGO — The Key another $7,000 in volunteer certification before leaving to program is adopted, he said it
will present “Experiences Largo Fire-EMS District board pay from this year. take full-time paying jobs in would take at least one paid
of a Skinhead: The Road to was at odds with the fire chief “You have to allow us to Miami or elsewhere. staff member to manage the
Recovery and the Dangers of last week over line items in his manage our department,” “We’re screwing our guys,” teenagers.
Prejudice and Hate Groups” budget that would increase Garcia said. “At some point, Garcia said. “My biggest asset Garcia told the board it
at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 21, at compensation for volunteers. you have to have confi- is my volunteers.” should be more proud of his
the Key Largo Library, mile Key Largo Volunteer Fire- dence.” But board member Jennifer department.
marker 101.4, oceanside. Rescue Chief Sergio Garcia The board tentatively Miller said quick turnover “We should be patted on
The free did not want to budge. approved the budget at a was not something new. She the back for what we’ve done,”
presentation “You keep inching this into property tax rate of $92.50 for told Garcia he should come Garcia said.
is sponsored a fully paid staff,” said board every $100,000 in non-home- to expect that to happen in “[The voters] aren’t going
by Be The member Tom Tharp. stead exempted property Key Largo. to pat us on the back when
Change and Garcia did not take a liking value. The 2011-12 tax rate is Miller said the department’s we raise their taxes,” Miller
Keys to Peace to the board’s positions and $78.90 for every $100,000 in volunteers receive state certi- said.
in honor of the defended his desire to reim- value. The operating budget fications at no cost. That is an In a last-ditch effort to allow
International burse his staff. for next year is currently set invaluable benefit, she said. more spending, Tharp pro-
King Day of Peace. “As the fire chief, I know at just over $4 million. Board members asked posed cutting $200,000 from
A for- they are underpaid,” Garcia Board members urged Garcia why he doesn’t have money earmarked for a fire
mer skinhead, King grew said. Garcia to present ideas to a youth program to attract truck and putting it into the
up in Florida and was once Garcia is asking the district help cut down on expenses. younger volunteers. In pre- district’s operating budget.
entrenched in a racist under- to approve his $1.59 million “We’re looking for ways to vious years, the board said Staff was directed to draft a
ground and criminal lifestyle. budget as it stands, which is get the people what you need the fire department has had a report on that possibility.
After a prison sentence, slightly down from last year’s without spending what you’re much larger youth presence. The final public budget
King’s life took a dramatic $1.88 million budget, though asking for,” board member Garcia said he has visited hearing is scheduled for
shift and she earned a master’s that one included a rescue Bill Andersen said. Coral Shores High School and Monday, Sept. 24.
degree from the University pumper. Garcia complained of found only four students who [email protected]
of Central Florida in interdis-
ciplinary studies focused on
Wastewater board increases pay for attorney
inequality in social systems.
She has been interviewed
by the Southern Poverty Law
Center and National Public
“We just need some-
Radio as well as featured in BY JOSH GORE in Florida. “Guilty as charged,” Giglio
films, books and magazines Free Press Staff “I am not interjected. one to say whether
for her support of prejudice willing to In Giglio’s short time with
reduction and Holocaust edu- KEY LARGO — Feeling work at a cut the district, he has built a something’s legally
cation. overworked and underap- rate,” Giglio reputation of thoroughness
sufficient.”
The presentation is open to preciated, the attorney for told the board rather than speed.
the public. the Key Largo Wastewater in a 10-min- Neither Brooks nor the
For more information, call Treatment District asked for Giglio ute presenta- rest of the board would allow — Charlie Brooks
Key Largo Wastewater Board member
852-1664. more money at a board meet- tion. Giglio to speak while they put
ing last week — and he got it. Board member Charlie together an initial motion that
Ray Giglio was hired for Brooks was noticeably irri- only slightly increased his pay. months.
Road projects update $60,000 per year as a part- tated by the subject and Once the vote began, Giglio’s Giglio came prepared in his
time employee without bene- was the lone dissenter in a wife, Marilyn, stood up at the plea, and offered the district
fits. Though he was expected 3-1 vote to increase Giglio’s meeting and said that deal salary numbers for recent law
KEY LARGO — The Florida to work 10 to 20 hours per pay. The board increased his wasn’t good enough. school graduates. According
Department of Transportation week, timesheets he submits monthly pay to $7,500, up “I want him home,” she to the numbers he provided,
will host an informal meeting to the district often show from $5,000. told the board. Giglio is making less than
from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, up to 35 hours of work. He “Ray’s need for detail is the Moments later the board most paralegals in Florida.
described himself as one of culprit in this case,” Brooks agreed on a $2,500 per month
See ROAD, page 8 See ATTORNEY, page 7
the most underpaid attorneys said of the increased hours. increase over the next six
7
KEY LARGO (cid:129) F
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Compliance homeowners feel if they if they nected. possibility of loaning home- agenda for the district meeting ss (cid:129) S
don’t sign for the certified let- If a lot is vacant, the proper- owners money from the dis- Tuesday, Sept. 18. Results from ep
te
Continued from page 1 ter from the district directing ty owner should notify the dis- trct’s reserve fund, but decided that meeting were not avail- m
b
e
them to connect, they can trict. In many instances, that is to take no action for possible able by press time. r 1
9
District Clerk Carol Walker plead ignorance. the case, Walker said. legal risks. They tabled the On Aug. 8, Susan Hammaker , 2
0
said if the property owners But that’s not the case, she But for a larger group, con- issue until the available grant resigned from the board. 1
2
call the district or show some says. necting to the sewer is too money dries up. According the board’s govern-
sign of progress in the coming “I have met my legal obliga- costly to a family’s budget. In other district business, ing charter, her vacant seat
weeks, she will not send the tion,” she said. Property owners have to pay Walker said that none of the needs to be filled within 45
report to the county. Walker keeps a file on each out-of-pocket to run lateral board members had asked that days, making the deadline
“Once I send them to code property that includes a copy lines from their homes to the the issue of filling the empty Saturday, Sept. 22.
compliance, it’s out of my of all communication from the street, which can run from board seat be placed on the [email protected]
hands,” she said. district. After two years and $2,000 up, depending on the
The 143 homes are located in no response, Walker turns the length of pipe required.
north of the Marvin D. Adams file over to the county’s code Walker said grant money to PADDLEBOARDS
Waterway, commonly known compliance office. help offset that cost is avail- SKATEBOARDS
as “the cut.” These homeown- Walker said a special mag- able through the district. The
KAYAKS
ers have taken no action since istrate will review each case seven-page application can 94401 Overseas Hwy.
being notified two years ago to independently to determine be picked up at the district’s Key Largo (cid:129) 305-434-5930 369122
tie in to the system, she said. why no action has been taken. office or found online at www.
Of the 764 homes in that The magistrate will likely give klwtd.com. MM AA RR TT II NN II SS
area, 500 are connected to the violators another deadline to “People shouldn’t be too
sewer and another 90 have told be connected to the sewer. If proud to take this money,”
FFiinnee WWiinnee && SSppiirriittss
the district they are making an they fail to meet that deadline, Walker said.
effort to get connected. they can be assessed a penalty During last week’s meeting,
SALE
Walker explained some for every day they are not con- board members discussed the
BEST LOCALS
19.
$ 99 DISCOUNT
Attorney
do the amount of work Giglio hiring Giglio as a full-time in-
in Monroe County!
does. house counsel but took no
175’s
Continued from page 6 “We just need someone action. 2200%% TTUUEESSDDAAYYSS
to say whether something’s Chairman Robbie Majeska
($15.00 Minimum order)
“I believe it would be in the legally sufficient,” Brooks suggested that Giglio should Sale Items Excluded
best interest of the district to said. consider not attending all of
raise my pay,” he said. On the other side of the the district meetings, only mm 81.6 Bayside •Islamorada
Some board members asked room, board member Norm ones of some concern. [phone]
Giglio to find a way cut his Higgins offered an opposite Over the next six months, 369118
hours down significantly. point of view. the district plans to evaluate
“I don’t think the district’s “He’s given us our dollar’s whether they need Giglio full-
work can be done in 17 hours worth,” Higgins said. “I’ve got time. They will take the issue
a week,” Giglio countered. nothing bad to say about the up again when his contract
Brooks said the board work. I’m with him.” expires.
doesn’t need an attorney to The board also considered [email protected]
369127
Stunning Black Tahitian Pearls
HAVE A
STORY
IDEA?
Florida Keys Jewelry
CALL 853-7277
Your Diamond Destination.
305.453.0177 (cid:129) fl [email protected]
101427 Overseas Hwy. Key Largo (cid:129) Tradewinds Shopping Ctr.
364088
8
(cid:129) KEY LARGO
s
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Pr
ee Chef fatally stabs himself in neck in front of co-workers
Fr
2 (cid:129)
1
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2
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mb BY JOSH GORE knife. In a letter to Stolze, his father that a memorial at the res- the knife in a plastic bag, not
e
pt Free Press Staff Chef Stephan Stolze, 46, of wrote there were fewer jobs in taurant was scheduled for knowing what is going on. I
e
S
Steamers Restaurant at mile Germany and he needed to Tuesday. Sept. 18, so friends called the manager and 911.”
KEY LARGO — Employees marker 107.6, was depressed stay where he was, the report could share stories about the Veronica Dunn, a bartender,
are still in shock after the chef after his father in Germany says. chef and look at photos of his told deputies she saw Stolze
of a Key Largo restaurant stood declined to send Stolze money “We’re all in shock,” said time in the Florida Keys. run up to his apartment,
in front of his co-workers to return to live in Germany, Robin Schaupp, manager of Schaupp said he planned which is above the restaurant,
Tuesday, Sept. 11, and fatally according to a report from the restaurant. “This will take on giving the photographs to after he stabbed himself in the
stabbed himself in the neck the Monroe County Sheriff’s some getting use to.” Stolze’s family. neck. When Schaupp arrived
with a largo white-handled Office. Schaupp told the Free Press After the incident, Schaupp at the apartment, Stolze was
immediately closed the res- not responsive.
NN CC EE AA YY EE AA RR NN OO HHAAGGGGLLEE LLIIQQUUIIDDAATTIIOONN SSAALL tdeamouwpranlon tyth,e eew fsoh tliilcmohwe ir nteomg rdaeaicnyo,e vtdoe r os.hffuert hpaaBdraa bnretooeindn ratecoctleidnn gdt ldeype opuvrteeires hss eiSsd tr oaelnlzade-
OO EE!!
According to the police tionship with his girlfriend. He
report, deputies arrived at the said Stolze had nonchalantly
DEMO BOATS:
scene at 7:05 p.m. and Stolze made comments about dying
SOUTH WIND 201 HYBRID FULL WARRANTY $29,988 was immediately pronounced but nothing overtly about sui-
SEA DOO CHALLENGER 180 SAVE $10,000 OFF NEW $26,988
dead. cide, according to reports.
SOUTH WIND 200 SPORT DECK FULL WARRANTY $35,488
“At 6:49 p.m., Stephan picked Despite the tragedy, the
SAILFISH 2080 CENTER CONSOLE FULL WARRANTY $32,688
SAILFISH 2100 BAY BOAT FULL WARRANTY $34,688 up a knife from the kitchen restaurant plans to move
SEACHASER 2100 CENTER CONSOLE FULL WARRANTY $35,488 and walked out with knife to ahead with its grand opening
PRE-OWNED BOATS: throat (right side),” restau- Saturday, Sept. 22. Schaupp
rant cook Don Barton said in credits Stolze’s diligent work
2004 11’ BOSTON WHALER TENDER 15HP MERC $4,988
a statement to police. “I then as a reason they can have the
2001 JJUUSSTT IINN 22’ GRADY WHITE CTR CONSOLE FIXER UPPER $7,488
exited the kitchen and turned opening.
1993 24’ CHRIS CRAFT CUDDY CABIN GREAT FIRST BOAT $8,788
2012 17’ CAROLINA SKIFF CTR CONSOLE NEEDS MOTOR $13,888 the corner to find blood on “We have to look forward,”
2004 19’ COBIA CTR CONSOLE YAMAHA POWERED $15,988 the floor and wooden table. he said. “We have a really good
2011 15’ SEA DOO SPEEDSTER 15’ ROCKET! $15,988 To avoid a customer seeing team.”
1989 29’ FORMULA CLASSIC SPORT BOAT TWIN 454’S SOLD
the blood I mopped and put [email protected]
2004 26’ SEA RAY CUDDY CABIN GREAT WEEKENDER $41,988
2008 32’ CARRERA CUSTOM GO FAST SANDBAR OR FISH $67,988
2006 JJUUSSTT IINN 32’ BOSTON WHALER CUDDY CRUISE OR FISH $129,388
Road
Islamorada will also partici-
NNEEWW BBOOAATTSS FFIINNAANNCCEE SSPPEECCIIAALLSS
pate in the meeting to discuss
Continued from page 6 their plans for a wastewater
pipeline to the Key Largo
Sept. 19, about its design plans Wastewater Treatment District
for two road projects along plant that is being planned
U.S. 1 between mile markers concurrently with the FDOT
Starting at Starting at Starting at Starting at 99.6 and 106.3 project.
$150 mo.* $175 mo.* $420 mo.* $979 mo.* The meeting will take place The meeting will also pro-
in the Key Largo Library com- vide on update on FDOT’s
178 DLV - 17’ Unsinkable 160FS – 16’ of Affordable 270 CC – 27’ 320 CC – 32’
munity room, mile marker plans for road work between
Modifi ed V Classic Flats Fishing With Room To Spare! Stepped Deep V Hull
Center Console In 7” of Water (2013 model) (2013 model) 101.4, oceanside. mile markers 90 and 97.
The road agency plans to For more information, con-
repave and restripe the road, tact Brian Rick at (305) 470-
install new traffic signs, pro- 5349 or at brian.rick@dot.
* OAC w/20% down certain restrictions apply. See dealer for details. Taxes, fees title, & registration extra. vide a five-foot paved shoul- state.fl.us.
THE KEY’S LARGEST SELECTION OF NEW & PRE-OWNED BOATS! der along the northbound
and southbound lanes,
upgrade drainage structures League meeting
and repave the Florida Keys
Overseas Heritage Trail/bicy- KEY LARGO — The new
Factory Authorized Yamaha
cle path. Upper Keys League of Women
Come Experience The Professional Difference At RIVA Today Warranty Service Center
Construction is to begin in Voters will meet 5:30 p.m.
www.rivamotorsports.com
April and last seven months. Thursday, Sept. 20, at the
102550 Overseas Hwy. 11995 Southwest 222nd St.
Total construction cost is esti- Holiday Inn in Key Largo,
Key Largo, FL 33037 Miami, FL 33170
mated at $10 million. 99701 Overseas Highway. The
Tel. [phone] Tel. [phone]
369206 Representatives from public is invited.
9
MONROE COUNTY (cid:129) F
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County cuts taxes, 11 new firefighter positions s
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BY TIMOTHY O’HARA owners $403 per $100,000 of The state Supreme Court the money they have already reoccurring expenses, County , 2
0
Free Press Staff taxable value and generate still must rule on the issue paid in returned to them. The Administrator Roman Gastesi 1
2
nearly $77 million for the gen- and determine whether the reserve money will be used assured.
MARATHON — The Monroe eral operating fund. Property employees are entitled to have for one-time expenses, not [email protected]
County Comm ission cut 11 owners paid $418 per $100,000
new firefighter positions from of taxable value this fiscal year,
its budget last Thursday, as which ends Sept. 30.
commissioners questioned The tentative budget does
the need for them and noted it not include raises for the Fire
would increase property taxes Department, county admin-
in Layton and Sugarloaf Key by istrative staff, or the County
at least 16 percent. Clerk, Supervisor of Elections,
The County Commission Property Appraiser and Tax
and Fire Chief Jim Callahan Collector’s offices. The Sheriff’s
debated hiring seven new fire- Office doled out roughly 5
fighters for Sugarloaf and four percent raises to its sergeants
new firefighters for Layton. and deputies that will cost the
Sugarloaf residents also ques- county $1.2 million, according
tioned the need for the new to Sheriff Bob Peryam.
positions. Wigington proposed not
Commissioner Kim Wiging- granting the sheriff’s raises,
ton asked why the county was but no other commissioner
beefing up service in those supported her request.
areas and whether it was fair The county will draw $5.8
to other communities that million from its reserve
don’t have stations so close. funds for the 2012-13 fiscal
Bill Hunter, who repre- year, which will leave enough
sented the Sugarloaf Keys money in reserves to cover five
Homeowners Association, months’ operating expenses.
also questioned the immedi- County policy requires the
ate need for the new positions, county to keep enough in
but argued there may be a reserves to cover four to six
need in the future. The station months.
is now staffed by volunteers. The reserve money will
“No one knew there was a mainly be used to pay a one-
problem with response time,” time bill to the state of $1.6
Hunter said. “We realize they million for Medicaid expenses
have had a tough time recruit- dating back to 2001, and to
ing volunteers.” cover $1.9 million in possible
In the future, the county expenses if the county has to
may have to hire paid firefight- pay retirement benefits.
ers for Sugarloaf, Hunter said. The governor had mandated
The county commission- county and state employees
ers set an aggregate tentative pay toward those benefits, but
property tax rate for the entire a state court has ruled against
county that will cost property it.
brief
includes a 5K, 10K and half
marathon.
The course crosses the 65-
foot-high, 1.25-mile-long
Bridge run soon
Jewfish Creek Bridge and por-
tions of the 18-Mile Stretch.
KEY LARGO — The fourth Race entry fees are $35 for
annual Key Largo Bridge Run the 5K, $50 for the 10K and $70
is set for Nov. 10. for the half marathon through
Nearly 900 runners are Nov. 4. For more details, visit
expected for the event that www.keylargobridgerun.com. 369111
i s l a m o r a d a n e w s
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1
(cid:129)
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1
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er FIRE ENGULFS HOME Reckwerdt passes
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gavel to Philipson
“I’m not going to prison.
BY ROBERT SILK
Free Press Staff I’m not going to be
ISLAMORADA — Michael arrested. The UFO has not
Reckwerdt, who had held the largely
scheduled an abduction.”
honorary position of village mayor
since the spring of 2010, gave up the
— Michael Reckwerdt
gavel last week, handing it over to
Islamorada councilman and mayor emeritus
former Vice Mayor Ken Philipson.
The move, which received unani-
mous support from the five-mem- Philipson’s lead, voting 5-0 to name
ber Village Council, came less than Reckwerdt mayor emeritus. Ted
two months before the November Blackburn was unanimously selected
elections, when Reckwerdt will be to replace Philipson as vice mayor.
termed off the council after more Last week’s scene of mutual admi-
BOB ROYALL/Contributed
A house at 106 Madeira Court caught fire and burned last Wednesday on Lower than 8 ½ years and Philipson will ration was in stark contrast to last
Matecumbe Key. The owner, 71-year-old Sergio Felipe, was not injured. Felipe told attempt to fight off a challenge for November, when the council reap-
authorities he thinks the fire started in a generator on the south side of the building. his seat from harsh Reckwerdt and pointed Reckwerdt for an unprec-
Deputies and firefighters responded to reports of a fire at 4:30 p.m. The blaze, which village critic Paul Bates, who has edented third straight term as
fully engulfed the house, was extinguished by 6:30 p.m. Deputies offered to contact the
lost in three previous runs for the mayor just weeks after the IRS and
American Red Cross to obtain assistance for Felipe, but he refused, saying he had family
council. other federal agencies had raided
and friends on the way to assist.
Speaking in the closing moments his home and marina businesses on
of the Sept. 12 Village Council meet- Stock Island and Lower Matecumbe
ing, Reckwerdt emphasized that he Key as part of a probe into his finan-
ROAD WORK UNDER WAY
wasn’t trying to set the course for cial dealings.
the council that will be seated in The reappointment was made
November, which will have to decide even though Philipson, as vice
anew who will hold the mayor’s gavel. mayor, had made his interest in the
Rather, he said, he felt Philipson had post clear.
earned the job through hard work The vote was 5-0, but Blackburn
and outstanding service. and Philipson went along with
“We are not trying to put a hold the selection only after they saw
on the future,” Reckwerdt said. “Ken that Reckwerdt had the support of
deserves to have this sitting council councilmen Dave Purdo and Don
vote for him as mayor.” Achenberg, making the issue a fait
Philipson responded to accompli.
Reckwerdt’s gesture with laudatory In the aftermath of the vote,
comments of his own. Philipson retained legal counsel in
“The last 2 ½ years I’ve had an case he needed to protect his inter-
excellent mentor sitting in the cen- ests against the rest of the council.
ter seat,” he said, before nominating “Just for my protection,” he told
Reckwerdt for the honorary title of the Free Press at the time.
mayor emeritus, which had previ- Reckwerdt, meanwhile, acknowl-
ROBERT SILK/Free Press
The Florida Department of Transportation has begun roadway construction between mile ously been bestowed upon just two edged that his decision to stand for
markers 90.02 and 90.75 on Plantation Key. The $660,000 project includes milling and people; three-time mayor Chris a third term was in part driven by his
resurfacing, updating signage and striping work. During construction, one of two lanes Sante and Ron Levy, a former mayor aggravation with Philipson for con-
in each direction will be closed at times for worker safety. Closures will occur during who was also the driving force ducting talks on a possible settle-
non-peak hours. Lanes will not be closed on Saturdays, holidays, Fridays preceding a
behind Islamorada’s incorporation ment agreement with Cheeca Lodge
Saturday holiday or Mondays following a Sunday holiday. The project should be completed
nearly 15 years ago.
in December. See GAVEL, page 12
Council members quickly took