Friday, November 2, 2012

KEY WEST

Man found injured in Old Town

A 44-year-old man found seriously injured In the 700 block of Caroline Street early Monday morning remained at Ryder Trauma Center in Miami, officials said.

Police say Thomas Edward Houck, who reportedly split his time between Jupiter and Key West, was found at 710 Caroline St. at 12:25 a.m. with a head wound, according to a police report. Witness Earl Weeks of Naples told The Citizen Wednesday that Houck appeared to have been hit by a car, possibly fell or was having a seizure. Houck didn't appear to be mugged or jumped as he still had his wallet and didn't appear to have any injuries to his face, according to the police report and Weeks.

Detectives were still investigating the case as of Wednesday, said police spokeswoman Alyson Crean.

Houck was taken to Lower Keys Medical Center and then Ryder Trauma Center in Miami.

LOWER KEYS

Fishing bridge closed for repairs

The popular fishing bridge over South Pine Channel at Mile Marker 29 on Little Torch Key will be closed until crews can make repairs to structural deficiencies on the bridge. A fence will be built at both bridge entrances and will remain in place until the repairs are made. The bridge is part of the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Recreation and Parks made the decision based on public safety concerns.

The next closest fishing bridges include Spanish Harbor bridge at approximately Mile Marker 33 and Kemp Channel bridge at approximately Mile Marker 23.

"Public safety is our top priority and we want to make sure our visitors can enjoy the natural resources in a safe manner," states a press release from the Florida DEP.

The release does not state how long the repairs will take, when the work will begin or how much the repair project will cost and calls to the agency were not immediately returned late Thursday.

STOCK ISLAND

Hurricane Hole reopens today

Hurricane Hole Fresh Seafood Grill is under new ownership and will host a grand re-opening at 5 p.m. today.

Business partners Matthew McKnight and Matthew Moline acquired the dockside bar and restaurant

located on U.S. 1 across from the golf course on July 16. Over the past three months, the pair have been diligently working on improvements aimed at providing exceptional customer service combined with the highest possible food quality.

Hurricane Hole Fresh Seafood Grill buys local seafood direct from the commercial fishermen based out of Hurricane Hole Marina.

Tonight's re-opening will include food, drink specials, door prizes and treats for kids, who are welcome to enjoy the Pirate Ship playground on the property.

McKnight and Moline also own The Conch Shack, in the 100 block of Duval Street, which opened in 2009.