Marathon Weekly 24-0516

9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050

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

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Members of

2.5M MARATHON CITY COUNCIL REVISITS AVIATION BOULEVARD PARKING

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

With an unbeaten record of 7-0-2, the Keys Weekly’s team ended their spring season with a majors division championship in the Marathon Youth Club baseball league. See page 22. CONTRIBUTED

The Marathon City Council returned to action on May 14, revisiting parking concerns on the east end of Aviation Boulevard and tackling minor right-of-way abandonments in its brief session.

Representatives from Captain Brian’s Pool and Landscape Service, located at the east end of Aviation Boulevard, opened Tuesday’s session with a request to reinstate parallel parking spaces next to the boulevard’s eastbound lane approaching 107th Street, recently re-confirmed as a no-parking zone in October 2023 with the council’s passage of ordinance 2023-20.

The area has previously drawn concerns from residents, council members and city officials due to its proximity to the Aviation Boulevard bike path, currently running between the parking spaces in question and the road itself. Public commenters spoke in favor of moving the bike path to run along the southern edge of the existing right-ofway while parking cars between the path and the road, an idea councilman Jeff Smith said had been ruled out by city staff in previous discussions.

“If we can put the bike path against the fence … I’m all for that,” Smith said. “But if it’s a constant choice between parking for a business and the safety of a pedestrian or bicyclist, I’m going with the bicyclist all day long.”

“I’m not saying it’s impossible, but I think you need to consider the fact that (Public Works Director) Carlos (Solis) is technically right,” said City Manager George Garrett. “There’s a reason for those sorts of dimensions, and they’re all safety-related.”

“In my recollection, I haven’t ever witnessed a time where we allowed parking on that street,” added Vice

Mayor Lynn Landry. “107th Street is probably the most dangerous street to ride around. … I’m not trying to be a detriment to the business community, but at the same time, protecting our citizens and the people who use that all the time is paramount to me.”

At the request of the council, Garrett agreed to work again with Solis on an attempt to incorporate parking spaces with an altered bike path, but reiterated that such a shift would be “dimensionally difficult.”

In other news:

• Mayor Robyn Still opened Tuesday’s session with a request to reconstitute a Parks and Recreation board to serve as a liaison between the city and community recreation programs, including Marathon Youth Club baseball and soccer. Following concerns from council members and staff regarding past issues of member participation on the board, the council and staff agreed to add a parks and recreation discussion as a standing quarterly topic at Marathon City Council workshop meetings, with additional updates delivered during the Parks and Recreation report of monthly council sessions.

• Finance Director Jennifer Johnson presented a schedule of meetings to review and approve the city’s fiscal 2024-25 budget. Budget discussions will open on Tuesday, July 23 at 5:30

p.m. at a special call meeting to adopt a proposed property tax rate and review the city’s general fund budget. Regular city council meetings will follow on Tuesday, Aug. 27 and Tuesday, Sept. 10. The budget’s first and final public hearings will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 17 and Tuesday, Sept. 24, both beginning at 5:05 p.m.

• Resolutions 2024-39 and 202440, both unanimously approved at Tuesday’s session, confirmed two minor right-of-way abandonments by the city at the south ends of 27th Street Ocean and 109th Street Ocean. Though all waterfront access at the end of 27th Street Ocean is privately owned, the council confirmed that the small area requested for abandonment at the end of 109th Street will not prevent waterfront access for the public on city-owned land on the street’s south end.

• Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Col. Chad Scibilia presented the council with a refund check for $70,938, representing unspent funds from the sheriff’s office in its previous year’s budget.

• After ongoing discussions with the Florida Keys Contractors Association, Marathon will incorporate an open discussion with contractors and the public for permitting issues into its workshop meeting on Tuesday, May 28 at 5:30 p.m.

“107th Street is probably the most dangerous street to ride around. … I’m not trying to be a detriment to the business community, but at the same time, protecting our citizens and the people who use that all the time is paramount to me.”

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

— Vice Mayor Lynn Landry

The Marathon City Council, City Manager George Garrett and Marina and Ports Director Sean Cannon recognize city marina technician Antoinette Smith for her five years of service to Marathon on May 14. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

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

FIRED TDC MARKETING DIRECTOR WILL SUE FOR WRONGFUL TERMINATION, ATTORNEY SAYS

Lawyer

claims ‘retaliation’ for denying Cates’ funding request

GWEN FILOSA gwen@keysweekly.

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

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

funds to pay for a drone show at the county’s 2023 bicentennial celebration because the county had missed the application deadline that applies to everyone requesting event funding.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The county clerk’s title includes “comptroller.”

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

Zermay said the audits only came after county commissioner Craig Cates, of Key West, was initially denied TDC

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

Cates said his motion wasn’t personal.

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

Audits of TDC practices, though, did blame Mitchell.

The county commission hired its own forensic auditors, Cherry Bekaert, to review Visit Florida Keys’ financials. Their audit, released April 30, found that under Mitchell’s supervision and direction, the nonprofit “caused improper and excessive expenditures to be paid and failed to adhere to established policies and procedures.”

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

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

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

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

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

Only the Two Oceans Digital audit report remains forthcoming.

ARE YOU PREPARED?

National Hurricane Center director leads storm preparedness workshop

The director of the National Hurricane Center (NHC) will kick off an annual storm conference for the Keys tourism industry that focuses on the importance of paying close attention to storm watches and warnings, no matter whether they are for a tropical storm, a hurricane or storm surge.

The Monroe County Tourist Development Council, in partnership with the Lodging Association of the Florida Keys and Key West, is organizing the free three-hour Zoom virtual event on Thursday, May 30, at 1 p.m.

Director Mike Brennan is scheduled to be the keynote presenter. His remarks will delve into several new programs that the NHC is introducing this year, and heighten public awareness of potential storm impacts, especially storm surge, that can affect areas outside the track forecast cone.

Brennan and others will also emphasize the importance of basing individual and business protective actions on official information from the NHC, National Weather Service forecasters and local emergency management officials.

Presenters will also include Cory Schwisow, Monroe County deputy emergency management director, who will discuss local plans and procedures and preview the county’s new emergency operations center, which should be operating in June.

Chip Kasper, the meteorologist in charge of the Florida Keys National Weather Service Office, will explain how the local office works with the NHC and supports decisions related to storm preparation, response and recovery.

Also on the agenda is Elaine Cooke of Two Oceans Digital, the TDC’s website contractor, who will focus on an emergency accommodations module that will be enacted during a storm emergency to provide lodging for recovery workers and displaced residents. Andy Newman, the TDC’s media relations director, will discuss how the TDC works with emergency management and the weather service to protect visitors’ safety as well as the Keys' tourism-based economy.

The conference will conclude with a panel discussion about storm watches and warnings and the importance of making preparations even when there is no hurricane warning. The panel will feature Brennan; Shannon Weiner, Monroe County emergency management director; and Jon Rizzo, the Keys weather office’s warning coordination meteorologist.

“We’re trying to help people understand that impacts can and do occur outside the cone, and just because we may not be under a hurricane warning does not mean that you can let your guard down,” Kasper said. “In fact, even just a storm surge watch indicates a level of risk for flooding, which should be a call to action for many.”

Weiner said her office is concerned because the last serious hurricane that affected the Keys was Irma in 2017, and there has been a sizable shift in population since then.

“Many people who were affected by Irma have left the Keys and many more have come with little or no experience in dealing with a hurricane,” Weiner said. “We are not here to scare residents and business owners, but we do want to make sure they understand the need to take the threat of tropical cyclones seriously and to be prepared to enact a hurricane plan.”

Register for the conference by scanning the QR code.

The Atlantic-basin hurricane season formally begins June 1 and continues through Nov. 30.

SWITLIK STRENGTH

Marathon fifth-graders flex their muscle at annual track meet

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

The northernmost competing team made their presence known in the Southernmost City as athletes from Stanley Switlik Elementary visited Key West High School for an annual fifth-grade track meet hosted by Key West’s Masonic Lodge No. 64. Twenty athletes from the Middle Keys elementary school toed the line against competitors from Big Pine Academy, Sugarloaf School, Poinciana Elementary, Gerald Adams Elementary, Horace O’Bryant School and the Basilica School. In a literal show of strength for Marathon, both Switlik’s girls and boys tug-ofwar teams secured first-place finishes, along with a third-place individual medal in the long jump event from Orlando Roache Jr.

ALLEN MERTSOCK

Owner, Doc’s Tattooz

How did you end up in the Keys? I arrived here by boat, a sailboat, in 2001.

If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be and what would you eat? Jimmy Buffett, and a cheeseburger.

TRINITY JACOX

trinityjacox@gmail.com

N1. Switlik’s girls tug of war team bests all challengers for a first-place finish on the podium. Team members included Hailey Diaz-Borrega, Samantha Lawrence, Ailani Banks, Daquila Alexander, Hannah Joly and Emily Samess.

2. Switlik’s boys tug of war team takes first place among seven competing schools. Team members included Lucas Valenzuela, Camden Kiskaden, Chris Calvo, Danny Diaz, Logan Nehmadi and Jonathan Lopez.

3. Orlando Roache Jr., right, earns a podium finish with a third-place showing in the long jump.

o matter how many individuals appear in the pages of each edition of Keys Weekly, there are always so many more of our community members who deserve to be recognized. In an effort to shine a spotlight on more of the incredible individuals who live and work in these islands, Keys Weekly is proud to spotlight our Neighbor of the Week feature, dedicated to celebrating a community member with each issue. This week’s neighbor has been leaving his mark on our community, literally and figuratively, for over 20 years. Allen Mertsock arrived in the Florida Keys in 2001, bringing his passion for art and tattooing. “I live and breathe tattooing,” he told the Weekly. Allen’s artistic journey led him to become the owner of Doc’s Tattooz in 2006, which is approaching its 25th year in operation.

What’s the best and worst part of the Keys? The heat and the hurricanes.

What piece of advice would you give to new tattoo artists? Stay calm, don’t stress.

What’s your best “hot take”? I have a hot take on people complaining about the way things used to be. Live in the now. Progression always prevails.

What music do you listen to when you tattoo? Everything, all good music.

What would you do if you won the lottery? I would buy a little house in every city. Just a little place to live in every city.

What’s your favorite tattoo that you have on yourself? My wife’s name.

Justfor Funcamp

MARINA & STORAGE

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

Nichols delivers her

A POWERFUL LITTLE VOICE

Nine-year-old Journey Nichols champions water fountain access for kids

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

Universal rounds of applause are a rare feat in government meetings. But when 9-year-old Journey Nichols took matters into her own hands to address the Marathon City Council and advocate for the children of her community, that’s exactly what she got.

By far the most popular public commenter at the council’s May 14 session, Nichols stepped to the podium to respectfully voice her concern: the height of the water fountain at Children’s Rotary Park.

“The water fountain at Rotary Park is too high for little kids, and there also isn’t a refillable water station to refill our water bottles after playing,” she told the council. “I have a picture of my brothers trying to get water, and they simply can’t reach, and they are 7 years old.

“All kids deserve to stay hydrated. It would be appreciated if the city would lower the fountain, and put in a refillable water station.”

“No problem,” Parks and Recreation Director Paul Davis told Nichols. “We will get a refillable water fountain, and we’ll make sure it’s at the proper height – 36 inches, so you can have access to water. We’ll take care of that as soon as we can.”

Journey

speech to the Marathon City Council on May 14. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

WHEN LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISE THEY WORK WITH LOCAL FACES

COMMERCE CORNER

Established in 2023, the Owl Library and Bookstore is a haven for book lovers young and old. The bookstore includes new books, gently used books and a "borrow, one bring one" section that includes fiction, non-fiction and local books. The Owl Library also provides information to join Dolly Parton's Imagination Library and has a special kids corner. Customers are welcome to take a peek at some of the rare books from owner Alexia's Mann collection and she has plans to create a scholarship through the bookstore to benefit local young adults who are looking to start their own dream business.

Contact: Alexia Mann

Location: 11400 Overseas Hwy, Ste 103 in Town Square Mall

Phone: 404.988.2259

Theowllibrary1@gmail.com

HAPPY HOUR 1-4PM $7 Menu

• Chicken wings, chicken livers and More!

• 32 beers on tap 1/2 off 2pm - 3pm

* $2 Pints of Yuengling and Bud Light!

BREAKFAST SERVED UNTIL 2PM

• Unique & interesting menu

• $3 Mimosas • $5 Breakfast Shots

LUNCH & DINNER

• Lobster Enchiladas

• Diver Speared Local Fish

• Prime Rib • Local Lobster

• Cook Your Own Catch

• Great Seafood Selections

SUSHI

• Toro • Lionfish • Poke • Hamachi collar

• Fresh Uni arrives on Thursday

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! Mon - Fri 11am to Close Sat & Sun 10am to Close 32

1. The Marathon unified soccer team will take their talents to the state level for the first time. CONTRIBUTED

2. The unified Keys cheer team, under head coach Jacqueline Caballero, includes members from Poinciana Elementary, Key West High School, Sugarloaf School, Somerset Island Prep and the MARC program.

3. Horace O’Bryant School will send both junior and pee wee teams to Orlando.

4. Brett Schnitzlein, left, and Zander Keen, both from Key West High School, secure their trip in doubles bocce.

5. The Coral Shores unified soccer team celebrates a gold-medal finish at IMG Academy. The Hurricanes will opt out of state competition this year due to conflicts with the school’s prom.

6. With a strong showing at IMG Academy, five unified soccer teams from the Keys have earned seats on the bus to Orlando.

7. The Florida Keys cycle team will include three athletes competing in Orlando. Pictured, from left: Matt Dalton (1K and 2K events), Heyden Fenney, Dustin Eamalio, Michael Neri (2K and 10K) and Ray Moreno (1K and 2K).

The

8.

Key Largo School Tornadoes unified soccer team celebrates a win in Bradenton in April.

TRAVELING AS ONE

Marathon unified soccer team heads to Special Olympics state contest

JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com

As this paper hits the stands, the Marathon unified soccer team is on their way for a groundbreaking trip.

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

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

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

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

Founded by MHS teachers David Justin Hare and Cathy Warner, the squad is composed of 10 athletes ranging from 11 to 15 years old. They'll be competing at the junior high level, designated for athletes from 12 to 15 years old, after winning an at-large bid at the regional tournament held at IMG Academy in Bradenton in April. Unified soccer combines special needs athletes with partner athletes, promoting teamwork and inclusion on the field.

“This really increases inclusivity at the school and brings a great positive culture to the school," Hare told the Weekly. “We’ve had a huge outpouring of support from the community, including support donations for the regional and state trips from the city

council and from the city of Marathon. We had some private supporters who funded dinners, game nights, bowling and an awards banquet for when we are at Disney – Greg Darby and Little General Stores, Butch and Dawn Mitchell, Bernd and Jenny Koerner, Mike and Lynn Redenbaugh, Best Bet Sportfishing, Kyle Franz and Emily Speer to name a few.”

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

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

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

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

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

DAILY SPECIALS

THE RICH GET RICHER

While local musicians keep plugging for relative peanuts

Bruce Springsteen recently sold his songs and recordings for $500 million. Bob Dylan sold his publishing rights and recordings for a combined $500 million. Katy Perry sold her catalog for $225 million. Justin Bieber sold his for $200 million. (Bieber?!?) Sting sold his for $300 million. David Bowie’s estate sold his for $225 million. Neil Young sold his for $150 million.

And the musical juggernaut known as Taylor Swift has become a billionaire from her songs and concerts, with an estimated net worth of somewhere between $1.1 billion and $1.8 billion. And she still owns most of her rights and recordings.

It’s worth noting that none of these artists were hurting for cash at the time they made their deals. I will concede that artists, musicians and songwriters who create mega-popular songs or timeless classics certainly deserve to profit from their work. All this goes to show how much additional money the record labels, streaming services and rights peddlers make on selling music, large amounts of money that don’t go to the artists. For these industry types, music is a cash cow.

Meanwhile, in our island communities, as well as cities and towns throughout the world, the artists who are most responsible for bringing live music directly to the people often struggle just to make ends meet. While artists like the more famous ones listed here charge hundreds of thousands or millions to book for one show, local musicians earn significantly less. Solo musicians usually earn a little more than band players, and it’s really difficult for a musician to earn a living on the wages of a four- or five-piece band. Virtually nobody is buying CDs anymore, so an income stream that musicians used to have is gone. Don’t get me started on how much streaming doesn’t pay.

On the other side of the local music scene, it’s often hard for restaurant and club owners to pay all their bills and still pay for live music. It gets even harder when performing rights organizations like BMI, ASCAP and SESAC hit establishments with music licensing fees on top of the cost of the musicians. As someone who does make a living playing music, I truly appreciate the establishments that make live music possible.

While live music is prevalent down here in the islands (thanks in part to our tourism economy), a lot of people

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

take it for granted. Music has been devalued to the point where way too many folks think that it all should be free. Why pay for music when it’s all out there, free of charge, on the internet?

Most everyone who plays music does so out of the sheer love of music. Musicians devote an incredible amount of time and effort learning an instrument, working on their vocals, creating new songs and new recordings — they do it even though the financial rewards may be less than that of other professions. There is a saying that goes, “If you can imagine doing anything other than music for a living, do that.” Most musicians do it because they have to, and would do it regardless of how much it pays.

That’s evident even in those who are financially secure beyond their wildest dreams. People like Springsteen, McCartney and Dylan don’t have to hit the road and play live to earn a buck. Most of these so-called “legacy acts” go out and play because that’s what they do.

If you are someone who values live music, someone who appreciates the talent of local musicians who put themselves out there every day, it’s very easy to show your support by buying a CD if they have one, leaving a tip, or simply listening and showing appreciation at the end of a song.

* * * * * * *

I’ll be playing at a great event this Saturday at the Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden. It’s the Rum Infused Adult Scavenger Hunt, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Garden on Stock Island. It’s one of their big fundraisers, and 100% of the funds will go to providing free bus transportation for Monroe County students to visit the Garden. Hope to see you at this fun and festive event!

— Catch John live Thursdays at Sparky’s Landing, Saturday at the Key West Botanical Garden, Sundays at Skipjack Tiki Bar, and Monday at Boardwalk on Big Pine. Find his music anywhere you download or stream your music. www.johnbartus.com • johnbartus.hearnow.com

SPECIAL EVENT? YOU NEED A PERMIT FOR THAT

Having a special event? Any production, sale or event in the city of Marathon that is expected to attract more than 250 people needs a temporary use permit. Event organizers must submit an application 30 days before the event or risk rejection.

The following additional items are required with applications for temporary uses:

1. Statement of use and activities: A general statement of use including purpose of event, types of proposed activities, duration of use, hours of operation, anticipated attendance, security, and other information that may be required. A general site plan for the temporary use, including property boundaries, access to the site, location of tents or other temporary structures, location of proposed activities, parking, signs, temporary lighting, utilities, generators and other mechanical equipment, and setbacks of all structures, equipment, and activities from adjacent properties.

2. Hold harmless agreement: An executed hold harmless agreement, in a form approved by the city attorney and running in favor of the city of Marathon.

3. Sanitation and public health: Plans for sanitation and public health protection including temporary bathroom facilities, inspection of food facilities, drainage, and garbage and litter control, when applicable.

4. Public safety and emergency services: Plans for public safety and emergency services including security, traffic management, fire protection and EMS approved by the City of Marathon Fire Marshall.

5. Additional Information: Additional information and documentation as may be required, when applicable.

A temporary use permit will not be approved without a complete application.

To apply online, please visit the city of Marathon’s permitting portal and click on the “planning and zoning” tab, then scroll down to “special event permit” and choose select.

— Contributed

DECODING THE SWEET STORY

Sugar, in its various forms, has long held a prominent place in our diets and culture. From the sweetness of a ripe peach to the granules stirred into our morning coffee, sugar comes in many guises, each with their own effects on the body. Understanding these different types of sugar and how they are processed can empower us to make informed choices about our diet and health.

Sucrose:

Let's start with the basics. Sugar, in its simplest form, is a type of carbohydrate that the body uses for energy. The most common type of sugar is sucrose, which is found naturally in foods like fruits and vegetables and is also the primary component of table sugar. However, there are several other types of sugar, each with their own chemical structures and metabolic impacts.

Glucose:

Glucose is perhaps the most crucial sugar for our bodies, as it is the primary source of energy for cells. When we consume carbohydrates, such as bread or pasta, they are broken down into glucose during digestion and absorbed into the bloodstream, where they can be used for energy or stored for later use.

Fructose:

Fructose, on the other hand, is a type of sugar found naturally in fruits, honey and some vegetables. Unlike glucose, which is metabolized by all cells in the body, fructose is primarily metabolized by the liver. Excessive consumption of fructose, particularly in the form of high-fructose corn syrup found in many processed foods and beverages, has been linked to various health issues, including obesity, type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease.

So what's the deal with fruit, then?

When it comes to sugar from fruit, the story is a bit different. While fruits contain natural sugars like glucose and fructose, they also provide essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins and antioxidants. The fiber found in fruit helps slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, preventing spikes in blood sugar levels and providing a steady source of energy. Additionally, the vitamins and antioxidants in fruit have been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.

Sugar alcohols:

Another type of sugar gaining attention in recent years is sugar alcohols. Sugar alcohols, such as erythritol, xylitol and sorbitol, are commonly used as low-calorie sweeteners in sugar-free and diet products. Unlike other sugars, sugar alcohols are only partially absorbed by the body and can pass through the digestive system largely intact. This means they have fewer calories and a smaller impact on blood sugar levels. However, consuming large amounts of sugar alcohols can cause digestive discomfort, including bloating and diarrhea, in some individuals. Also, sugar alcohols can still elicit an insulin response in the body, albeit to a lesser extent than glucose. If you want to know why that’s important, email me for more info at hello@ highlymotivatedfc.com.

Added sugars:

This one in particular really gets me riled up. Why, you ask? Well, for starters, nutrition companies get away with murder here. Or should I say, they get away with obesity, diabetes and cancer.

JENNIFER BOLTZ HARVEY

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

How many products do you have in your kitchen right now that say “No Added Sugar?” You probably bought it thinking “YES, no sugar.” No, no, no, my friend, there can in fact still be sugar in that product you just bought. I’m not lying. Milk, for example, has sugar in it, but on many of the new cartons it will proudly display “no added sugar.” How do they get away with this?

Great question. The natural process of creating milk comes with a breakdown of carbohydrates, and as you learned earlier, they break down into sugar. So, milk has “naturally occurring sugar” but no other sugar was added to it. That does not mean sugar-free. There is sugar in that food, because the raw product itself has sugar. Make sense? If not, you know how to reach me. I could go on forever here. And don’t get me started on ketchup.

These added sugars contribute empty calories to our diet, providing little to no nutritional value while increasing the risk of weight gain, obesity and chronic diseases. Common sources of added sugar include sugary drinks, baked goods, candies and processed foods like cereals and sauces.

To identify added sugars in food products, it's essential to read nutrition labels carefully. Look for ingredients like cane sugar, high-fructose corn syrup and honey, which indicate the presence of added sugars, but not all are easily known. In fact, there are more than 61 different names for sugar, and not all are recognizable. It gets really tricky, folks.

The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugar intake to no more than 6 teaspoons (25 grams) per day for women and 9 teaspoons (38 grams) per day for men. I aim to keep all my nutrition clients limited to 25 grams regardless of gender.

So, there you have it in a proverbial nutshell. I could go on in greater detail, but this is a great place to start. And by understanding the different types of sugar and their effects on health, we can make informed choices to support our well-being and vitality.

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

What: “Funny Story” by Emily Henry

Why: I am a massive fan of Emily Henry’s work, and her latest installment continues to live up to the hype. Henry has a unique ability to transform what could easily be a one-dimensional romantic trope into a heartwrenching story with depth, wry humor and longing. Daphne, a sweet small-town librarian, is blissfully engaged to Peter and counting the days to their nuptials. That is until Peter’s best friend, Petra, confesses her love at his bachelor party and they run off into the sunset together. With nowhere to go once Peter unceremoniously drops her, Daphne moves in with Petra’s spurned ex-boyfriend, Miles. Hijinks, hilarity and hot summer dates ensue.

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

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

Recommended by: Riona Campbell, library associate, Key West library

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

ALEX RICKERT

CHAMPS CROWNED

Marathon Youth Sports closes out spring on the diamond

The Marathon Youth Club brought another successful spring season of youth baseball, softball and tee ball on the fields of Marathon Community Park to a close last weekend, honoring teams, coaches and volunteers in two end-of-season awards ceremonies on May 10 and 11.

To the victors went the spoils of championship rings, as Campbell Engineering earned a 17-9 win over Keys Car Wash to earn the minors division title and a 4-4-2 final season record. In the majors division, Keys Weekly’s own squad iced a division championship with a 9-2 win to cap off an unbeaten season at 7-0-2.

In addition to the victors and finalists, team sponsors for the 2024 season included Marathon Lumber, Small Town Marine, LJ’s Cafe, Reefside Construction, Marathon Seawalls and Docks, American Coastal Vacation Rentals, Marathon Garbage Service and Keys Computer Specialists.

“None of this would have been possible without the generous contributions from our local business sponsors and community members who share our passion for enriching youth sports,” wrote MYC board member Kerri Worthington in a social media release. “Their generosity not only funded this unforgettable season, but also demonstrated a shared belief in the power of youth sports to shape young lives positively.”

1. Keys Weekly’s majors team celebrates a 7-0-2 season record capped off by a division championship win.

2. Campbell Engineering’s minors squad shows off their bling after a 17-9 win in the division championship.

3-7. MYC baseball teams collect their end-of-year trophies at the league awards ceremony on May 11.

8-10. MYC softball teams commemorate a successful year on the diamond on May 11.

11-16. Co-ed teams of youngsters commemorate a successful introduction to the sport of tee ball with their coaches.

Photos contributed by Marathon Youth Club

RECYCLE CANS AND CANNOTS

Tips for properly disposing of pizza boxes & other items

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

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

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

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

The second frequently asked question is, “Can I recycle my pizza boxes?” The answer is not as straightforward. For instance, the greasy bottom of a pizza box has residual oils that cannot be recycled. However, if you remove the top half of the box and it’s grease-free, you could recycle it.

Contamination is a significant issue, accounting for about 38% of the materials received in the recycling facility. When materials are contaminated, they are sent to the landfill. This happens when the wrong materials are placed in the recycling tote or when the materials have residual foods or are in a plastic bag. If contamination is discovered before curbside collection, the contaminated materials must be emptied into a trash truck. If not, it could compromise all the recycling in that truck. Let’s focus on what we can recycle in Monroe County.

Yard waste in Monroe County is not wasted. It’s composted. It must be placed in a can, separate from trash, and not in a plastic bag. For extra-large loads, call your waste hauler to schedule a bulk pick-up. The yard waste is then processed and composted, a natural process turning organic waste into a valuable soil amendment. The compost is then returned to the community, fostering sustainable gardening and landscaping practices. The compost give-back is the first Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., while supplies last at each Monroe County transfer station.

Are you getting a new appliance or piece of furniture? Contact your waste hauler for residential bulk waste pickup information. The haulers’ contact information is listed. Once a pickup is scheduled, place the bulk waste neatly at the curbside. Do not place it under power lines or obstruct traffic.

MELODY TUSCHEL

is

the Monroe County recycling coordinator and outreach liaison.

These items CAN be placed in your recycling tote:

• Rinsed metal and aluminum cans (Labels are fine)

• Clean aluminum foil

• Clean aluminum foil containers

• Metal jar lids

• Rinsed glass bottles and jars (Labels are acceptable)

• Paper products

• Newspapers and inserts

• Cardboard boxes (flatten please)

• Paperboard boxes (cereal/crackers/ cookie boxes)

• Junk mail (including the cellophane window)

• Phone books/paperback books/magazines

• Rinsed foil-lined milk, juice and soup boxes

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

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

These items CANNOT be recycled:

For questions about your curbside service or information about a bulk pick, please call your waste hauler. Key West: Waste Management —305-296-8297

Stock Island to South End of 7 Mile Bridge: Waste Management —305296-8297

North End of 7 Mile Bridge to MM 72: Marathon Garbage Service — 305743-5165 Islamorada: Island Disposal — 305393-3300

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

Ocean Reef Club Solid Waste: 305367-5992

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

• Styrofoam (return to Publix)

• Yard waste

• Ceramics or blue glass

• Textiles

• Garbage

• Food waste

• Batteries

• Electronics

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

PIXABAY

CHRIS M cNULTY

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

Words hold power, though that may be difficult to remember when we look at the frivolous way people communicate in comment sections nowadays. Despite the willy-nilly word tossing, the ideas they communicate are still sacred and deserve reverence. The cosmic wordsmith, Mercury, is squaring off with the primal power of Pluto right now. Expect battles of words and obsessive thoughts, but remember you can choose whether to humor such intrusive events in your life. Words can be tools for growth and understanding rather than weapons of control. A higher vibration of a Mercury-Pluto square can emerge as powerful dialogue, a metamorphosis of ideas, deep thinking and cognitive transformation. Let your mind be open to the truths that exist beneath the surface of everyday reality, and fend off the inevitable power struggles. So, take your words and thoughts seriously, but not too seriously. That’s the cosmic wink. Think back to themes in your life from early February for a hint of how this transit might affect you. Here are your horoscopes for the Mercury-Pluto square. Read for your rising and sun signs.

TAURUS

April 20 - May 20

While you are being empowered at work and starting a new journey with your public reputation, the way you think about yourself might be challenged by this new workflow. How do you integrate the personal “you” with the work “you”? Try to avoid conflicts by thinking through how you can perform professionally and still be yourself. Performance can enhance rather than hide.

GEMINI

May 21 - June 21

There is a vast new terrain opening up for you in the years to come, and you can probably feel what it looks like, even if you can’t quite see it yet. While you know there are new skills to learn and people and places that need to be left behind, you can do it. That inner voice telling you you can’t is not healthy. Ask that voice to help as a critical eye rather than hinder as an inner critic.

CANCER

June 22 - July 22

You’ve been formulating a powerful plan to collaborate and invest in a shared mission with other people. You will need others to throw in their money, energy and resources for this project to be successful. You may be hearing some friends challenging your plans. Don’t take these critiques as a stop sign; rather, let them help you reformulate. Fine-tune and keep moving.

LEO

July 23 - Aug. 22

Have you been thinking through a powerful new conception of love and relationship? Perhaps you’ve been diving into some deep conversations with a partner since February. Your intimate relationship and public reputation may feel as if they are at odds right now, and you’re thinking about how to maintain your public persona. Find a way to communicate honestly while also protecting privacy.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 - Sept. 22

Our minds need to be maintained just like our bodies. You’ve entered into a new, powerful mental exercise regimen, like reading every day, playing a mind-games app, or learning a new language. You are probably coming across a new idea that would take time away from your new routine. Do you have capacity for both? Prioritize your routine, but flirt with new thoughts.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 - Oct. 23

What’s stirring in your creative center? A new project has entered into the deep recesses of your mind, and you are well on your way to bringing that project into the world. Right now, you are probably having a little struggle thinking about obligations and investments you have with other people. Give your creative spirit its due. Your responsibilities aren’t going anywhere.

SCORPIO

Oct. 24 - Nov. 21

Deep reflections on home and family are most likely taking place in your psyche. What is home? How do we define and enact family? It appears a relationship with an important partner is bringing these thoughts up in a particular way, and this might feel like a challenge. Challenges bring growth, however, so address this conversation headon.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 - Dec. 21

You have power in your community, and you have a voice that people respond to. How are you using the impact of your communication to lead with intention? It might feel as if you’re caught in a cycle of saying the same things over and over again, diluting your impact. However, repetition sometimes brings new understandings, so stay the course.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 - Jan. 19

Financial and material security are not pipe dreams. All it takes to achieve them is a powerful idea. I imagine you are working out one of those ideas right now, but it looks as if your mind is being drawn into creative projects that are more inspiring than practical. There is a way to combine these two impulses. Be patient and let the solution come to you.

CHOOSE WORDS WISELY

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 - Feb. 18

You are a powerful and impactful being, Aquarius. While you might feel like you are on the outside looking in, you make waves. You only have so much control over the effect of your ripples, but you can influence their creation. Own your power. While your mind might be turning to themes of home and family in a way that may be destabilizing, stand on your own two feet.

PISCES

Feb. 19 - March 20

You are on a deep psychological or spiritual exploration. Something was sparked back in February, and you are bringing light into parts of your subconscious that have been hidden. There is no end to what lies beneath, but continue your research and get to know yourself better. Your mind might seek respite in more familiar themes right now. Take a breath and dive back in.

ARIES

March 21 - April 19

Being social and spending time with people who support you can either be a distraction from what’s important or it could be exactly what you need. Right now, it looks like the latter. Your mind may be questioning whether or not you should be spending more time making money and solidifying your material needs, but don’t let your friends take a back seat.

WATERFRONT RESTAURANT

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Fish, Soups and Chowders & Key Lime Pie!

WHERE THE BIRDS ARE AND ARE NOT

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

y wife generally doesn’t go out birdwatching with me unless there’s a rarity involved, preferably a species that has been seen fewer than five times in North America, and is reported within five miles of our house. I don’t know why, but standing around, slapping mosquitos and sweating beneath a blazing sun while staring into a bush, waiting for something to happen, is not her idea of fun. But for some reason she has become a big fan of BirdCast.info.

Maybe it’s the fact that she can skip the sweating and mosquito-slapping part. Maybe she likes succinct summations of complicated subjects. Maybe it’s because the website has three core partners: the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Colorado State University and the University of Massachusetts, her alma mater, and the place where both her parents worked. But she definitely looks at the website more often than I do.

It’s been known for several decades that it was possible to watch birds migrating on weather surveillance radar systems. And it’s pretty amazing. Most songbirds migrate at night. On the radar, after the sun sets, you can watch clouds of birds rise up out of Cuba and fly across the Florida Straits. If they hit bad weather they will land here, and when a lot of them land it’s known as fallout. But the 90 miles from Cuba to the Keys isn’t really that long in bird migration terms, so if the weather is good, most will keep going north. They tend to be in a hurry in the fall, with the biological imperative to return to their breeding territories and find a mate.

A birder named Noel Wamer ran a website in the early 2000s called Bad Birdz. It posted images of the radar and analyzed what they meant. When Wamer died, Angel and Mariel Abreu from Miami took it up for a number of years on the Bad Birdz Reloaded blog.

The technology involved in pulling together the information that BirdCast conveys is generations ahead of what was available back then. There are two main thrusts to the site – recording and predicting. The prediction map is based on weather data and computer modeling from 23 years of bird movements recorded on radar.

The recording part essentially takes the information from the 160 NEXRAD high-resolution S-band weather radar stations – one of which is on White Street in Key West – tunes it into birds and shows a map of how they move across the country. But you can also put in your location – use Monroe County, not Key West – and the site will give you an estimate of how many individual birds flew over your location the night before, but also how high they were and what direction they were moving, as well as several other amazing chunks of data. (Interestingly, I could not find a page that compares predictions with results.)

All of this is a long way of leading up to the fact that while I was halfway through my first cup of coffee the other morning, thinking vague thoughts about heading over to Fort Zachary Taylor to see if any migrants were around, my wife looked up from her phone and said, “A hundred-and-twenty-three-thousand birds flew over us last night,” which lit a bit of a fire under me.

After such a crazy-heavy tourist season this year, the park was blissfully uncrowded when I got there. There were people there, but not so you would notice. I stepped expectantly into the hammock near the first parking lot, walking slowly, eyes akimbo. And I immediately saw, well, nothing. So I kept walking, up the hill, along the berm path, down the hill, along the moat, across the field, through the far hammock, back across the field, and into the pines. All I really saw were gulls, grackles, doves and mockingbirds. No migrants to speak of.

If that many birds passed over us the night before, how could none of them have stopped? I was beginning to feel dubious. But dubious of what? Science? Technology? Birds? If it wasn’t 123,000 birds flying over us, what was it, 123,000 forks?

I sat down on one of the park benches and stared out over the ocean, which was full of whitecaps. Waves were breaking loudly on the beach. My hat blew off my head and rolled 20 yards away. And I thought, duh. As the poets would say, it was blowing snot, and it was blowing snot from the south.

The birds had had a rocket ride from Cuba. According to BirdCast they were moving, on average, at 35 miles per hour. They would have only flown two and half hours to get here. There was no bad weather, and there were still so many hours of the night in which they could fly. Why would they have stopped?

As I walked back through the hammock I had a little bit of a consolation prize – two female American redstarts hopping and spinning through the bushes, the two yellow spots on their tails flashing bright as they worked their way deeper into shadow, chasing down as many tiny bugs as possible to fuel up for the rest of their trip north. I had the privilege of seeing .00163 percent of the birds that were migrating through.

When I got to my car I could see a small group of birders on a tour, all staring at the same thing for quite a long while. I was thinking they had found the one really good bird in the park. Turns out they were being led by Angel Abreu, one of the people who ran the Bad Birds Reloaded blog. I hadn’t seen him in years, and we caught up a bit.

Turns out we hadn’t missed any birds. They were looking for butterflies.

As I type this, BirdCast is telling me there are currently 152.4 million birds in flight across the U.S. — and the sun still hasn’t set across half the country.

A female American redstart migrates through Key West. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

MARK HEDDEN

NAVIGATING ‘OLD BUMPY’

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

FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

On Key Largo, the path of State Road 4A is more clearly defined and is used by everyone driving in the Overseas Highway’s northbound lanes. The modern highway has four lanes: two traveling north and two traveling south. The southbound lanes travel along what was originally the path of Flagler’s train. The northbound lanes use the original path of State Road 4A – at least until MM 106.

At 106, the modern highway turns and crosses Jewfish Creek. The original road traveled up what is today County Road 905. Between North Carysfort Circle and the three-way stop, the original path edged east and traveled closer to the shoreline before turning back and coming to where the threeway stop stands. For those who have stopped there and wondered why the fourth option is barricaded off: It no longer goes anywhere.

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

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

5701 Overseas Hwy • 305 393 2598

$3.50

$4

$3

$2

2-month-old male domestic shorthair.

Looking For: A home for me and my good pal Lefty.

Turnoffs: Nothing! I’m the easiest, happiest kitten in these parts.

SWIPE RIGHT

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

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

9-year-old female mixed breed.

Looking for: All of it. Games, playtime, scent work and snuggles.

Turnoffs: Some other dogs give me anxiety.

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

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

CALYPSO

3-year-old female ball python.

Looking for: Someone who doesn’t think I’m “creepy.”

Turnoffs: I’m just a snake, a slithery little snake.

MERLE HAGGARD

MS. TERI

Having Fun in the Middle Keys

ANTHONY J. ANTETOMASO 1939-2024

Anthony J. Antetomaso, born in Worcester, Massachusetts on Nov. 17, 1939 and affectionately known as Tony the Tile Man, passed away on April 18, 2024 in South Miami Hospital.

Anthony and his wife Janice moved to Marathon in 1980, where she still resides. Anthony owned and operated Monroe Tile Company for 25 years.

He loved boating, fishing and building boats in his spare time. He leaves behind his loving wife, Janice; his twin sister, Polly Alchin; his brother-in-law, James Kolofsky (Janie); and his three children, Bruce Antetomaso (Joanne), Anthony Antetomaso Jr. (Heather) and Gina Rice (Steve), all of Massachusetts. He also leaves behind six grandchildren, a niece and two nephews, all of whom will feel his absence along with a wide circle of friends and colleagues.

Services to honor Anthony's life will be held in October 2024, and will be announced at a later time.

Monroe County COAD seeking members

In preparation for the upcoming hurricane season, the Monroe County Community Organizations Active in Disaster (MCCOAD) is looking for members of the community to join its efforts to keep the community prepared and informed in the event of a disaster. The COAD is a nonprofit organization that works closely with local county and municipal emergency management and state and federal organizations to prepare our community for disasters and to activate immediately following a disaster to provide resources to survivors. They are seeking additional nonprofit members as well as for-profit businesses. There are no membership fees. Anyone interested in joining this Keyswide organization is encouraged to attend the upcoming membership meeting on Tuesday, May 21 at 2 p.m. at the Marathon Library.

St. Columba Episcopal Church to host a guitar duo

The Sunday concert series at St. Columba will present a guitar duo featuring classical guitarist Mateo and electric guitarist R.B. Tolar on Sunday, June 2 at 6 p.m. They will play a program of their original works, which will include bossa nova, ballads, Spanish, blues, classical and more. A potluck dinner will occur before the concert at 5 p.m. Donations are appreciated at the door. For more information, call 305-743-6412.

Keys Democrats host monthly public meeting

The public is invited to attend the monthly meeting of the Keys Democrats on Thursday, May 23 at 5:30 p.m. at the Marathon Library. The meeting will be a hybrid Zoom and inperson meeting. For more information, contact Mid-keys@keysdems.com.

Man arrested for theft at Home Depot

A Little Torch Key man was arrested on May 10 for allegedly attempting to steal nearly $1,200 worth of power tools from the Home Depot in Marathon. Jesus Araujo, 61, was charged with grand theft. Araujo walked out of the store with numerous power tools around 11:50 a.m. and failed to pay, the sheriff’s office said. A description of the suspect, later identi-

fied as Araujo, and his vehicle were given to investigators. The vehicle was spotted and stopped on U.S. 1 near MM 34. Araujo was taken into custody, and tools were recovered.

Two arrested for drugs following traffic stop

Two people were arrested May 10 for multiple drug violations following a traffic stop on U.S. 1 in Marathon. Kylan Akeem Piper, 34, of West Palm Beach, and Jaleesa Sinead DeSousa, 33, of Plantation, were both arrested after they were stopped in a Ford pickup truck with only one working headlight at around 11:50 p.m. Authorities found 17.8 grams of cocaine, 25 pills of ecstasy, 53 pills of Alprazolam without a prescription, 12 THC pills, 10 THC gummy candies, and assorted unmarked pills and drug paraphernalia, the sheriff’s office said.

Coast Guard Auxiliary announces Safe Boating Week classes, events

In conjunction with National Safe Boating Week, the Marathon and Key West U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary flotillas will conduct a one-day boater safety class Saturday, May 18 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Coast Guard Station Marathon. The cost of materials is $35, payable at the door, but advance reservations are required by emailing carewbob@gmail.com. Students who complete the course will receive a Coast Guard Auxiliary completion certificate and boating safety card as well as a Florida boater education identification card. Also in support of National Safe Boating Week, the Marathon Coast Guard Auxiliary will be handing out paddleboard “IF FOUND” ID stickers, boating regulations, coloring books and more from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at West Marine on Saturday, May 18, Home Depot on Sunday, May 19 and at Publix Thursday, May 23.

Come take a class at the Marathon library

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

22957 DRAKE LANE

CUDJOE KEY | $949,000

Excellent boating at this gorgeous Cudjoe Key retreat with no-bridge access to Cudjoe Bay for frequent boating and fishing adventures! A generous back porch shows o peek-a-boo open water views and overlooks immaculately manicured yard. Deep-water canal with concrete dockage, fillet station, and swim ladder perfect for the avid boater. This exceptional property is tailor-made for enjoying the coveted Florida Keys lifestyle!

58618 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY

MARATHON | $2,999,000

Welcome to Casa de la Playa! Nestled on over a half an acre lot, this spectacular property encompasses an elevated island lifestyle, boasting a large pool, private sandy beach and endless open water views! Inside, the sprawling interior is bright and welcoming and features 4 generous bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. An expansive veranda on the second level o ers spectacular views of the sparkling pool, private beach, and turquoise water beyond!

80 SOUTH POINT DRIVE

SUGARLOAF KEY | $699,000

FEATURED PROPERTIES

74 PELICAN LANE

BIG PINE KEY | $599,000

Picturesque retreat on a swimming canal, down a quiet street, but just minutes to town! This well-appointed home o ers an open-concept living space ideal for entertaining, with soaring ceilings and loads of natural light. Dade County Pine wood flooring throughout the great room and main bedrooms, adds warmth and Old Florida charm. Fenced yard with tasteful landscaping and plenty of storage and parking.

Build your dream home prestigious Sugarloaf Shores, just 20 minutes outside of Key West! Oversized 17,625 Sq Ft on a crystal-clear canal with approximately 578 Sq Ft dock in place o ering excellent boating. Active Building Permit through December 2025 for an 1,800 Sq Ft 3BR 2BA home with a 312 Sq. Ft. Porch and a 284 Sq Ft storage enclosure. Permit, water and sewer fees have been paid for!

6621 MALONEY AVENUE #19

STOCK ISLAND | $199,000

Peaceful, a ordable tropical retreat, this is your opportunity to own your own slice of Key West! Recently updated, this Stock Island oasis o ers all the comforts of home in a quaint community, just steps to open water! The home features vinyl flooring, an open-concept living space, and an outdoor laundry room for convenience. The existing land lease is reasonably priced and there are no further HOA fees nor property taxes.

6099 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY #107W

MARATHON | $399,000

Idyllic Island Retreat with open water views! Enjoy frequent boating and fishing; this angler's paradise is nestled on a clean, flow-through canal with bubbler, and boasts immediate access to the Atlantic Ocean! Inside, this charming Keys getaway o ers recent upgrades such as LVP throughout, and new A/C and water heater. Generous neighborhood amenity and with great proximity to the excitement of Marathon!

Track & field stars head to states | P.5

fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.

sean

grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

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

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

All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

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

THE

KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP PODCAST

A SNEAK PEEK AT SPRING FOOTBALL

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

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

tracy mcdonald

mcdonald

IN CONTENTION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photos by RICK MACKENZIE/Contributed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

mark.

CHIEFS KNOCK CONCHS OUT OF CONTENTION

Cardinal Gibbons edges Key West in semifinals

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Clockwise from top left:

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

Pitcher Anthony Lariz gets the start for Key West.

Catcher Noah Burnham is ready behind the plate.

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

Ralph Riche

SENIOR |KWHS 285 POUNDS

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

RULERS OF THE MAT

All-Keys wrestlers claimed individual and team titles

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

SENIOR | KWHS 150 POUNDS WRESTLER OF

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

Flynn

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

SENIOR | KWHS 215 POUNDS

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

SENIOR | KWHS 157 POUNDS

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

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

Tristan Yokoyama

Alfredo Corrales Jason

Natalie Arguello

SENIOR | KWHS 135 POUNDS

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

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

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

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

Sebastian McCoy

SOPHOMORE | CSHS 113 POUNDS

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

Steven DeRobertis

SOPHOMORE | CSHS 106 POUNDS

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

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

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

James Searcy

Prometheus Delacerda

Dostmukhammad Bakhtiyorov

Abram Canet

ROAD ENDS IN REGIONAL QUARTERFINALS FOR FINS, CONCHS

Keys softball teams out of the hunt for state titles

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

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

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

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

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

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

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

By: Gregory Dully LLC Publish: May 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

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

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

By: Pedicles, LLC

Publish: May 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

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

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

Publish: May 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

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

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

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

Publish: May 16 & 23, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

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

Equipment Sale-2024 (#2)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl.bonfirehub.com, no later than 3:00 P.M. on June 13, 2024. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Thursday, June 13, 2024. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: JOIN ZOOM MEETING

https://mcbocc.zoom.us/j/4509326156

Meeting ID: 4509326156

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

+16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York)

+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

Publish: May 16, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

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

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

Art in Public Places

Committee Meeting

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

Passcode: 017838

Publish: May16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

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

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

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

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com, no later than 3:00P.M. on June 12, 2024. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/ proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Wednesday, June 12, 2024. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile:

+16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York)

+16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location:

+1 646 518 9805 US (New York)

+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

Publish: May 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 24-CP-207-M

DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS

IN RE: ESTATE OF SANDRA A. MORRIS Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Sandra A. Morris, deceased, whose date of death was April 4, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

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

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: May 16, 2024. Personal Representative: Lisa Anne Morris Begley 125 Old Saugatuck Rd. Norwalk, Connecticut 06855

Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-6022

Fax: (305) 743-6216

E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com

Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com

Publish: May 16 & 23, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

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

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Robert A. Hill, deceased, whose date of death was May 1, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead St., Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having

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

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

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

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

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

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

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

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

Secondary E-Mail: krose@ harrisonllp.com

Publish: May 16 & 23, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the Estate of George Ralph Murray, deceased, whose date of death was November 27, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

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

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

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

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

Attorney for Personal Representative: Sophia Dean, Esq.

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 92295

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

Telephone: (407) 830-6331

Fax: (407) 878-2178

E-Mail: sdean@ff-attorneys. com

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

Theresa Ann Martinsen 307 Stone Street Wrens, Georgia 30833

Publish:

May 9 & 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of MARY ELLEN SHERIFF, deceased, whose date of death was January 15, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representatives and the personal representatives’ attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: May 9, 2024. Personal Representatives: JOSEPH A. SHERIFF 310 2nd Terrace Key Largo, FL 33037 JEFFREY S. SHERIFF 335 Sound Dr. Key Largo, FL 33037 Attorney for Personal Representatives: VICTORIA MIRANDA, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 1015363 HERSHOFF, LUPINO & YAGEL, LLP 88539 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 E-Mail: VMiranda@HLYlaw. com Publish: May 9 & 16, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

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

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES

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

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

E-Mail: VMiranda@HLYlaw. com

Publish: May 9 & 16, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

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

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

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

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN

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

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

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

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

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

The Weekly Newspapers

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

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

Dated on 10th of May, 2024

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

By: Daniella Lafontant

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

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2024-01

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

Certificate Number: 2021/1262

Alt Key No: 1484121

Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021

RE: 00394487-003800

Description of Property: LT 81 PORT ANTIGUA PLAT NO

2 LOWER MATECUMBE KEY

PB6-18 OR675-810

OR761-1868 OR1084-2348

OR1553-357 OR1913-2433/34

OR2590-2450 OR2609-1077 OR2640-128

Name in which assessed:

PLAZA DEL LAGO LLC

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

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

Sale Date: 5/29/2024

Sale Time: 10:00am

Dated this 15th day of March

2024

KEVIN MADOK

CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy

Clerk

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

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2024-02

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

Alt Key No: 1467928

Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021

RE: 00384240-000000

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

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

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

Sale Time: 10:00am

Dated this 15th day of March 2024

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

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

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2024-03

Notice is hereby given that GLENN BREDA

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

Certificate Number: 2018/1235

Alt Key No: 1457477

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

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

Name in which assessed:

JOHNSON FREDERICK K

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

Sale Date: 5/29/2024

Sale Time: 10:00am

Dated this 15th day of March

2024

KEVIN MADOK

CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy

Clerk

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

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2024-04

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

Certificate Number: 2018/1234

Alt Key No: 1457469

Date of Issuance: June 1, 2018

RE: 00374390-000000

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

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

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

Sale Date: 5/29/2024

Sale Time: 10:00am

Dated this 15th day of March 2024

KEVIN MADOK

CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy

Clerk

Publish:

April 25 and May 2, 9 & 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2024-05

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

Certificate Number: 2018/934

Alt Key No: 1406180

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

LEGAL NOTICES

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

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

Name in which assessed: SEA-AIR ESTATES INC

C/O GOSS RICHARD

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

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

Sale Date: 5/29/2024

Sale Time: 10:00am

Dated this 15th day of March 2024

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

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish:

April 25 and May 2, 9 & 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2024-06

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

Certificate Number: 2019/862

Alt Key No: 1386065

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

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

Name in which assessed: SPERLING CHASE

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

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

Sale Date: 5/29/2024

Sale Time: 10:00am

Dated this 15th day of March 2024

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

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish:

April 25 and May 2, 9 & 16, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2024-08

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

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

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

Name in which assessed: SOUTHERNMOST CABANA TOWNHOMES OWNERS

ASSOCATION INC

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

Sale Date: 5/29/2024

Sale Time: 10:00am

Dated this 15th day of March 2024

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

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

AUTOS WANTED

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

Place

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

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

CAMPING SITE

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

EMPLOYMENT

Looking for Alarm

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Med Tech, FT Receptionist, PT Housing Assistant, Housing Choice Voucher Asst., PT Receptionist, Housing ManagerMiddle Keys, HVAC Maintenance Mechanic, and Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker). To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha.org or 305-296-5621 Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www. kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.

Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/ Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

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

PRIVATE COLLECTOR

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

ANNUAL RENTAL -

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

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

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

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

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

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

RV SITE FOR RENT

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

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

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

VACATION RENTAL

TAVERNIER VACATION

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

Key West House For Rent - 28 day minimum. Recently renovated. 2 Units: 3BR/3BA or 2BR/2.5BA. 1 block to Schooner Wharf @ Historic Seaport. Starting $214/night. Sweet Caroline Seaport.com

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

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

FULL-TIME POSITION POLICE OFFICER

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

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

Salary: $60,000.

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

Email resume to:

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

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

NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA

MARINA CASHIERS

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

DOCKHANDS

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

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

ADMINISTRATION/OFFICE HELP

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

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

NOW HIRING

MARINE MECHANIC

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

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

Marine Mechanic Responsibilities

Traveling to marina or dock where the vessel is located.

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

Conducting plumbing and intake repairs.

Troubleshooting engine and electrical problems.

Replacing broken or worn-out engine parts.

Repairing faulty hydraulic and steering systems.

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

Marine Mechanic Requirements

High school diploma or GED.

Degree in mechanical engineering preferable.

Proven work experience as a marine mechanic.

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

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

Ability to work at sea.

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

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

WE ARE HIRING!

SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT COACH (FT) – Key West

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

Apply at the MARC office, 1401 Seminary St., Key West. Or online at www.marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org. Phone: 305-294-9526 *32

Come join our family! EOE

IN HOME SUPPORT (FT/PT) – Key West

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

Apply at the MARC office, 1401 Seminary St., Key West. Or online at www.marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org. Phone: 305-294-9526 *32

Come join our family! EOE

DUI EVALUATOR/ INSTRUCTOR

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

PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS

- Medical Assistant, Orthopedics, PT

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

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Cook, Per Diem

- Exercise Physiologist, Per Diem

- Manager Wellness Center, FT

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

- Nuclear Medicine Tech, Per Diem

- Pool Group Exercise Instructor

- Pool Yoga Instructor

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

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

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

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- ED Team Coordinator, Emergency Room, Part Time

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

- Environmental Tech, $5,000 Bonus, FT

- First Cook, $5,000 Bonus, FT

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

- Mechanic, Facility Operations, FT

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

- Patient Experience Advocate, FT

- Radiology Technologist, $15,000 Bonus, FT

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

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

*Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience.

APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507

GCC offers excellent benefits for full-time employment, but we realize some would prefer part-time to enjoy the Florida Keys lifestyle more. All positions can be considered for full or part-time unless notated. Apply at westcare.com and enter your availability.

KEY WEST

Peer Support Specialist Advocate (PT)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult)

Behavioral Health Counselor (Child)

Case Manager (Adult, Forensic) Substance Abuse Counselor MARATHON

Prevention Specialist (any location) Care Coordinator (PT)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child)

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

Peer Support Specialist

*Support Worker – Assisted Living (PT)

*Behavioral Health Technicians 3 shifts (also Per Diem)

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

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

Cabinetry Designer

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

Interior Designer

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

Office Administrator

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

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

We

THEME: NATIONAL PARKS

ACROSS

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

5. Refrigerator sound

8. Action word

12. Left, in Russia

13. Departed

14. Locomotive hair

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

16. French cordial flavoring

17. Type of lily, pl.

18. *Voyageurs National Park location

20. Like Andersen’s duckling

21. Poacher’s ware

22. Unit of pressure

23. *Volcanoes National Park location

26. Dionysus’ female followers

30. U.N. labor agency

31. Camels’ relatives

34. Pelvic bones

35. Smears

37. “____ of the land”

38. Gertrude Stein’s reception room

39. Sicilian rumbler

40. Strong influence

42. To sum

43. Blushes

45. *Utah national park

47. What blanket and landing have in common

48. State before birth

50. Eastern European

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

56. Cockamamie

57. Effect of pain?

58. First weekly news magazine in U.S.

59. South African currency, pl.

60. Tolstoy’s Karenina

61. The 15th of March

62. King Kong and Koko, e.g.

63. Hot one in a bun

64. Copper coin

DOWN

1. Type of shot

2. Strauss of jeans fame

3. Often found under a range

4. Herzegovina’s partner

5. Kind of roll, in school

6. Togetherness

7. *____ Verde National Park

8. *Shenandoah National Park location

9. Twelfth month of Jewish civil year

10. Frost-covered

11. Like certain relief

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

14. “____ for alarm”

19. See nor hear this? pl.

22. Faux ____

23. Opposite of seeker

24. Winged

25. One of Florence Nightingale’s concerns

26. American Indians of Yucatan

27. Islam’s Supreme Being

28. D in LED

29. *White ____ National Park in New Mexico

32. Financial help

33. *Need one to navigate a National Park?

36. *The Lakota called it “Mako Sica”

38. Razor sharpener

40. *Old Faithful ____, lodging spot in Yellowstone

41. Poolside hut

44. Roof overhang

46. Rotten Tomatoes contributor

48. Latin American plain

49. Getting an A

50. Finger-produced sound

51. Muffin Man’s Drury ____

52. “Goodness gracious!”

53. Ocean motion

54. Word of agreement

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

56. One of the Gershwins