Marathon Weekly 24-0704

Open the door to what’s next

Welcome to Faro Blanco, one of the Middle Keys' most iconic locations. This gorgeous three-bedroom, two-bathroom condo has recently been completely gutted and fully remodeled with the necessary permits ready for you to move in.

With its open floor plan, you'll find plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy this home's views. The kitchen has been tastefully designed with Cambria Montgomery Quartz countertops, custom white cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. As you enter the primary bedroom, you'll be able to enjoy open views of the Gulf of Mexico and its own private entrance onto the screened-in patio. The airy, coastal-style Armstrong tile installed over soundproof underlayment throughout the home will bring a piece of the Keys right into your living space. With a Carrier AC unit and ducts, a Tempra Trend tankless hot water heater, and all impact-resistant windows, you won't have to worry about repairs - this home is truly move-in ready. Plus, you'll have access to three luxurious pools and a discount at the nearby Faro Blanco resort restaurant. With magnificent views of the Gulf and the remarkable Faro Blanco lighthouse right within reach, this beautiful condo is not an opportunity to be missed.

9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050

Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

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Hurricane Beryl made landfall as a Category 4 on Grenada’s Carriacou Island on July 1, then strenghtened to a Category 5 later that day, with sustained winds reaching 157 mph. It’s the strongest hurricane to pass through the Grenadines according to NOAA data going back to 1851.

As the upcoming Florida Keys Resort on Sombrero Boulevard begins to take shape, a vision for a new recreational amenity has become entangled in resident concerns, changing plans and interest from both local and state regulatory groups. See page 6. IMAGES CONTRIBUTED

SEARCH FOR TDC PRESIDENT NARROWS TO 6

Selection committee will choose on July 11

GWEN FILOSA gwen@keysweekly.com

The search for a new president/ CEO to take the wheel of the multimillion-dollar Florida Keys tourism agency is down to six finalists, chosen from an original pool of 24 applicants.

None is a Keys resident, although one owns a home in Key West. On June 28, the county-appointed search committee made this short list of candidates:

• Joseph Boschulte, commissioner of the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism.

• Laura Chmielewski, vice president, marketing and communications at Team San Jose/Visit San Jose.

• Kara Franker, CEO in Estes Park, Colorado.

• Nerissa Okiye, director of tourism for Martin County, Florida.

• Darien Schaefer, president and CEO of Visit Pensacola.

• Jim Werner, a self-employed strategic consultant, who lives half of the year in Key West, and the rest Philadelphia, where he formerly was the chief tourism officer for the city.

Interviews with the committee are scheduled to start at noon July 10 over a public meeting on Zoom, with the panel’s final vote to take place July 11, at the Marathon Government Center.

But applications for the position, Monroe County Tourist Development Council president/CEO, with a salary range of $210,000 to $250,000, are being accepted until July 10.

“We want to make sure we have the best possible person. We’re much more interested in finding the right candidate than meeting a deadline,” said committee member Jodi Weinhofer, president of the Lodging Association of the Florida Keys & Key West, during the June 28 search committee meeting in Marathon.

The job search comes three months after the TDC board unanimously fired veteran Keys marketing leader Stacey Mitchell, after a series of audits from the county clerk ripped the agency, which is funded by bed taxes paid by overnight guests at hotels, rentals and RV parks,

for failing to maintain financial protocols.

Ted Yates, the former Islamorada village manager, was among the original 24 applicants, but the recruiting firm hired by the county to conduct the search didn’t put him on the short list for the committee’s review.

One Keys-based applicant the committee did consider for a finalist spot is Alan Beaubien, of Key West, director of sales and marketing for Key West Marriott Beachside.

Beaubien, a 36-year resident of Key West – 16 years spent at Beachside, which he helped open – oversees a $7 million budget at the resort.

The discussion over his job experience showed the committee’s goal of hiring someone who is already a CEO with destination tourism marketing experience. Even strong candidates like Beaubien, they said, weren’t the right fit.

“I like Alan,” said committee member Roman Gastesi, the longtime county administrator who is on pause before returning to the job full-time in September.

“I like Alan, too, but my comment would be he doesn’t have CEO experience,” said Weinhofer.

“Let’s be honest, he’s already retired once,” said Weinhofer, “Do you want someone who’s only going to be here for a couple of years?”

The stack of applications disappointed Gastesi.

“There’s no public sector people here,” he told representatives from the recruitment firm SearchWide Global.

“There was a consensus about having tourism industry experience,” replied Kellie Henderson of SearchWide Global.

Henderson said the firm is keeping track of all applicants and if someone applies who is qualified and looks like a good fit for the role, “We’ll absolutely inform the committee.”

The committee wants “DMO,” destination marketing organization, experience. Many applicants impressed the recruiters, but the committee tossed them without going further once they saw they hadn’t run a DMO, such as a tourist development council or conven-

tion and visitors center.

Teri Johnston, the outgoing mayor of Key West, made the short list of applicants for the newly revised Monroe County Tourist Development Council president/CEO position.

Johnston, a construction contractor, business owner, former city commissioner and current mayor, said she has the skills and experience.

“I don’t know who else could do it better than me,” Johnston told Keys Weekly on June 28, before the countyappointed selection committee narrowed the field to finalists. “I have my finger on the pulse of the citizens of Key West. I have the skill set.”

But the committee passed on Johnston’s application, without discussion, citing her lack of DMO experience.

Johnston noted she has been managing businesses for 45 years, including at her current contractor business in Key West, and that earlier in her career, she worked in marketing, which included traveling internationally.

In addition to a list of responsibilities, the 8-page job description, put together by the SearchWide Global recruiting firm, lists a number of personal characteristics wanted in a candidate.

The committee members were candid in their discussions.

“Experience is obviously important, but we had probably the most DMOexperienced director that just got fired, right?” Gastesi said. “Let’s face it. Stacey has been around a long time, and she was a DMO-experienced person, but the skill set she didn’t have is a skill set we need.”

The TDC needs at least a CEO and a chief financial officer, which the agency has never had before, Gastesi has said.

“Let’s not make the same mistake again,” Gastesi said, as other members agreed.

“We promoted somebody who was your marketing director right to a position of CEO, which could work,” Weinhofer said. “We took something that was $11 or $15 million, grew it to $60 million, and didn’t increase the staff, and didn’t give them what they needed to make it work.”

STOP-AND-GO

Golf course resort owner offers his vision as project wades through violations

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

The upcoming Florida Keys Resort, due to supplant the existing Florida Keys Country Club and a golf course left half-vacant for nearly seven years, has a vision of amenities that co-owner Peter Rosasco says could be a premier attraction in the Middle Keys. But in recent weeks, the development has answered a growing list of city and state sanctions, placing it under an even closer microscope for locals.

Heavily scrutinized as the center of a debated hotel/motel redevelopment ordinance in March, and again in June as it faced resident ire over flooding on the neighboring Sombrero Boulevard, the resort’s current plans feature a 95-key hotel along with 15 three-bedroom villas. Set for construction on the existing property’s eastern end are an Olympic-size swimming pool, tennis and pickleball courts, two miniature golf courses including a “PopStroke” version designed by Tiger Woods, a clubhouse/restaurant and an aquatic driving range allowing targeted hits into the property’s on-site lagoon. Renovation of the remaining space will once again provide an 18-hole golf course on the property.

“Everything we’re talking about here is going to be open to the public,” Rosasco told the Weekly in an extensive sit-down on July 1. “This will be a place where people can go, even in the evening. We’re building a total recreational amenity here that’s golf-centered, but also with a pool.”

Access to the resort’s amenities for nonguests, Rosasco said, will likely take place through a tiered membership system. He added that he isn’t “trying to build something that’s exclusive to

Plans for the upcoming Florida Keys Resort sent to the Weekly by city of Marathon officials, left, and resort co-owner Peter Rosasco contain significant differences in areas allotted for a golf course, on-site entertainment amenities and a central lagoon. CONTRIBUTED

the point where it’s not available and open to the community.”

In March, Marathon councilman Kenny Matlock and residents skeptical of the development challenged the resort’s promise to maintain a full 18-hole golf course. They called the property “a gift to the community,” referring back to the original course’s low-priced sale from Stanley Switlik to the former Sombrero Country Club Inc. before its eventual acquisition by Rosasco and development company Index Investment Group.

Critics called for guarantees that the golf course would be finished alongside the lodging and other amenities, with some implying that land for the golf course would be eventually sold off in favor of a sole focus on the resort’s other features. At that time, City Attorney Steve Williams said the city could ensure the course’s construction by withholding Certificates of Occupancy for the resort’s hotel and villas until all elements were completed.

“Most people don’t seem to even care if I build the hotel or villas – they just want the golf, so the golf is going in,” said Rosasco when asked Monday if he remained committed to completing the course. “I don’t want to build a luxury upscale resort and then have a big construction project going on over there on the golf course.”

Current and accurate development plans for the property remain unclear, as each rendering of the site provided to the Weekly by Rosasco, city officials and concerned residents has contained significant discrepancies.

Rosasco confirmed that he had previously discussed selling the site’s golf operations, including design and oversight of the remodeled course, with local businessman and current

Marathon City Council candidate Mike Leonard. But both Rosasco and Leonard told the Weekly that those talks were no longer “in active conversation.”

“(Selling the property) doesn’t work for me,” Rosasco said. “I would consider leasing the golf operations, but I would still own it.”

Plans currently on file with the city of Marathon include only six holes of golf in the area formerly known as the course’s “front nine,” which Rosasco said would be addressed by adding three holes to the existing course’s western “back nine.”

Acknowledging that fitting a full 18-hole course into the available area may require shorter holes or the use of multiple tee boxes, Rosasco said he felt the addition of other amenities would make up for any loss of golf space.

“I realize there are a handful of avid golfers who think this is the end of the world if it doesn’t get built to their specifications,” he said. “But I will also tell you that if most people showed up and I showed them all these nice recreational amenities, an upscale restaurant, a spa and things like that, they would say ‘Oh yeah, I’d use that.’”

Discussions in March’s city council workshop and further questions to city officials by the Weekly still point to a playable golf course as a condition for the resort to open. How exactly that restriction would be upheld, however, remains unclear, particularly if the six new holes and resort amenities finish construction before renovation of the “back nine” to include three new holes.

In an interview on July 2, the Weekly directly asked City Manager George Garrett if the resort would be allowed to open without a completed golf course.

Indulge yourself this summer

Marathon Vacation Rental Law:

7 NIGHTS!

The City of Marathon vacation rental law requires a vacation rental property license for every dwelling unit that rents between 7 and 28 nights, and the unit cannot be rented for less than seven (7) nights. The renting of any private residence for a period of less than seven (7) nights is prohibited The City of Marathon researches and investigates vacation rental poperties to find and fine scofflaws. Violations of vacation rental law can be as high as $500 per day, per offense and can be up to $5,000 per occurrence.

The City also requires that each vacation rental unit be managed by a licensed agent or the owner. To learn more about Marathon’s vacation rental laws visit Marathon’s website at https://www.ci.marathon.fl.us, and you can take the City’s free vacation rental training course.. The training is free and the management license cost is free for owner-managed properties and $500 for agent-managed properties.

For other questions regarding vacation rental licensing please contact the City at 305-743-5266.

KEYS FORUM SEES ONE CANDIDATE GOING ON OFFENSE

School board hopefuls outline priorities

www.keysweekly.com

Apacked turnout greeted county commissioner and school board hopefuls during the Island of Key Largo Federation of Homeowner Associations’ Candidate Forum on July 1 at the Key Largo library.

Through a series of general and individual-specific questions posed to the candidates, the public was provided valuable insight into the policies and character of five people running in the August primary.

BOCC District 5

The event began by focusing on the three Republican candidates for Monroe County Commission’s District 5 seat, which encompasses North Key Largo to Tavernier. Melissa Ptomey introduced herself as a candidate synonymous with integrity. In her opening statement, Ptomey called out incumbent Mayor Holly Raschein for her community “betrayal” in approving the development of a Publix and workforce housing project at MM 92.5, which had faced stringent opposition from the county’s Planning Commission and the Planning Department, as well as many other local interests and individuals.

Ptomey was struck by Raschein’s supposed dismissal of what Ptomey saw as a decision lacking widespread support from the community at large, and had provoked concerns over increased traffic, environmental impacts, safety issues and corporate interests.

“Holly is such an out-of-touch politician she thought that tonight, five days after she betrayed us, in a deal that benefited her client, the developer, would be a good night to sweet-talk her way out of controversy,” said Ptomey.

Raschein in her opening remarks listed several key issues she’d try to address during her next term, including a lack of workforce housing, high costs of living, and the poor status of local reefs, along with emphasizing her qualifications and track record. “Relying on someone with my background is critical,” she said. “I’ve served the Keys in one capacity or another over the past 20 years because I love this place.”

Key Largo resident Paul Wunderlich focused on his concerns of overdevelopment and its corresponding environmental impacts, which he had a “firsthand view” of as a longtime employee in the Florida Keys, in his opening remarks. Wunderlich

recently retired from the county engineering department.

A general question was given to the candidates regarding the most pressing issues facing the Keys. Ptomey, an environmental biologist, voiced concern of overdevelopment, and promised to fight for the working class during her tenure. Raschein spoke on the high costs of residency, the need for affordable housing and a need to support middle-class workers like teachers and first responders. Wunderlich again spoke of his concerns on overdevelopment and the potential need for raised roads due to sea level rise.

Individual questions were then given to each candidate in turn. Ptomey raised concerns over the rising county budget and proposed the hiring of an external audit to help find cuts of up to 20%. Asked what the county could do to counteract the decline of its coral reefs, she suggested more sustainable land development and stressed the importance of hammocks, mangroves and seagrass in protecting the reefs.

Raschein was asked about the appropriateness of the current 24-hour hurricane evacuation window, which Raschein voiced support for while cautioning for a more thorough review of infrastructure and housing and stressing the need for public input. Asked about the adverse effects of tourism and the need to find a balance between environmental and economic support, Raschein highlighted her qualifications as a board member of the Tourist Development Council and the crucial importance of environmental stewardship.

In his responses, Wunderlich emphasized the need of state and local communication in addressing the Keys’ traffic problem and expounded upon the need to combat flooding through the raising of roads or building of walls, and the potential positive environmental impacts of such projects. To the question of how he would measure his success as commissioner, Wunderlich replied that his idea of success was giving the community a voice.

In addition to her closing remarks, which emphasized her many years of experience and community dedication, Raschein issued a response to Ptomey’s earlier jab.

“The allegations that Ms. Ptomey shared with you all are undeniably false, unequivocally untrue, and the fact that she would think that I would ever betray our community is beyond belief,” Raschein said.

Ptomey continued to target Raschein in her own closing statements. “We can either keep getting betrayed, or appoint a real fighter that represents the voice of the Keys,” said Ptomey.

“I’m going to take the moral high ground and not respond to that again,” said Raschein.

School board candidates

Prospective school board members Zach Bentley and Yvette Mira-Talbott, seeking to secure a seat in District 2 held by the outgoing Andy Griffith, gave their opinions in the latter half of the program.

Bentley introduced himself as a commercial fisherman and proud parent.

“I’m running for a couple of reasons. Number one is empathy. If you have children, you know that is your most precious asset,” said Bentley. “Number two is that it doesn’t seem to me that our schools are in as great a shape as when I went there.”

Mira-Talbott introduced herself as a mother of daughters who’d been in the school system and who had dedicated more than 30 years, through coaching, fundraising and as a Take Stock mentor, to serving children in education.

They both spoke similarly on the need for teacher support and retainment.

“The best thing we can do to retain teachers is offering them not only a place where they can feel welcomed but appreciated,” said Mira-Talbott.

“Teachers demand to be treated well,” echoed Bentley.

Both Key West-based candidates spoke about their connections in the Upper Keys and their dedication to serving their neighboring towns.

The candidates were finally asked how they’d measure success in schools.

“Measuring success is about having happy, satisfied students,” said Bentley. “A child that finds what they were destined to be in this life is the ultimate gift. ... It’s the goal of school to bring this out.”

“Success will be measured by outcomes, high graduation rates, how well we help our children succeed. … That’s the only way to measure it,” said Mira-Talbott.

After their closing remarks, the event concluded, allowing time for community members to voice their thoughts and concerns to candidates. Voters throughout the county, regardless of party affiliation, can vote in the BOCC and school board races on Aug. 20.

ZACK WOLTANSKI

BOCC DISTRICT 5 RACE

Holly Raschein

SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 2 RACE

Paul Wunderlich

Zach Bentley

Yvette Mira-Talbott

Melissa Ptomey

TWO TICKETS TO PARADISE

We live on an archipelago chain of 182 islands connected to the mainland by 47 bridges. These islands situated between the beautiful blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Florida Bay, have seen boom and bust, a parade of colorful characters and luminaries, are home to the only living coral reef system in the continental U.S., and the Harry S. Truman Little White House in Key West — Florida’s only presidential site.

Monroe County, which contains all the islands of the Florida Keys, is the only county in Florida fully designated as an area of critical state concern.

To say that we are unique is an understatement, and, for these reasons and more, Monroe County is a highly desirable destination for visitors.

As a worldwide destination welcoming some 5 million visitors a year, Monroe collected $384 million in sales tax for the state of Florida in 2023. Despite this abundance, our communities have significant unmet needs that threaten the ability for many of us to remain in the Keys.

The number one challenge for our workforce is the ability to find affordable housing. The shortage of housing for our teachers, law enforcement, service industry, healthcare and childcare workers — the engines of our communities — stems from a lack of buildable land and the ever-increasing costs of construction and property insurance. While folks can afford the mortgage or rent payment today, there is no guarantee that they will be able to do so in the future.

Concurrently, homeowners face challenges in making our existing housing stock more resilient.

Monroe County is working in earnest to submit applications to FEMA’s Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant Program for elevation and rebuild. But we’re on FEMA’s timeline for those approvals, and our contractors in the county, as well as outside home elevation contractors, are up against a shortage of workers due to the lack of affordable housing. There

is some relief from the state’s My Safe Florida Home to provide grant funding for wind mitigation, but every year since its reenactment, the program runs out of funding before all the requests have been processed.

And our challenges reach beyond individual housing concerns to flooding in low-lying areas on roads and in neighborhoods and business districts. While the county is making some progress in elevating roads, the urgency is increasing.

We are beyond the point of coming up with long-term solutions to our transportation and traffic issues. The number of vehicles in the Keys during high season is unsustainable and it’s dangerous.

When we look at the totality of these items, the county cannot and should not tax our residents to shoulder these costs. The solution is to find a large pool of money that is not dependent on taxes that will negatively affect our residents.

I believe that this can only be resolved by a toll at the two entrances to the Keys and a resort tax on all people flying into our airport. In the history of our county, we have had tolls whether at Card Sound, Lower Matecumbe or Big Pine Key.

According to the annual average daily traffic (Florida Department of Transportation), we have about 29,500 vehicles coming into Monroe County daily. If we reduce that amount by 25% for county residents coming and going, that means that we have approximately 22,125 vehicles coming in daily. If we charge each of these vehicles a $20 toll (one way) that would equal approximately $161 million in revenue annually. In my opinion, that should be enough to take care of the road as well as our folks.

We need to engage our representatives and senators in Washington to ask them to initiate legislation to turn over control of the Overseas Highway to Monroe County. This also means responsibility for the road, but we can generate more than enough money to take care of the road as well as, more importantly, take care of our community.

— Mel E. Montagne, Key Largo

RACING AGAINST THE HEAT NOAA

takes emergency steps to protect nursery corals

NOAA has issued an emergency rule establishing three temporary special-use areas in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary where coral restoration partners can quickly relocate nursery corals to cooler, deeper water. These temporary special-use areas and associated access restrictions will expire on Aug. 26, unless they are extended an additional 60 days.

The three sites, about 0.07 square miles and within federal waters of the sanctuary, are located in the Upper, Middle and Lower Keys. The locations were chosen for their proximity to existing nursery sites, which will limit coral exposure during transit. While active, the areas carry special-use area regulations, including the prohibition of entry except for restoration activity with a valid sanctuary permit.

“The proposed action would prevent any delay in getting them to deeper water, and the special-use protections would limit physical impact from anchoring, unintentional fouling of fishing gear and bottom tending fishing gear, including traps,” said Sarah Fangman, sanctuary superintendent.

Last summer, when the oceans reached teapot levels in the Florida Keys, restoration practitioners rescued thousands of baby corals growing on tethered ropes in the water column and relocated them to temperaturecontrolled tanks on land. Meanwhile, Reef Renewal USA, a partner of NOAA’s Mission: Iconic Reefs restoration program, had a different idea: move the ropes to a deeper location in federal waters off Tavernier.

“By the time we were able to move corals, the tank space was taken,” said Reef Renewal’s Ken Nedimyer, whose baby corals showed signs of paling.

NOAA's designated special-use areas: maps of the Middle, Upper and Lower Keys showing protection zones within federal waters permitted last year. NOAA/ Contributed

In the end, twice as many corals survived at Nedimyer’s temporary deep water site as at inshore, shallow sites.

The Tavernier site is among the three locations proposed by NOAA, along with two others in the Middle Keys (Marathon special-use area) and Lower Keys (Looe Key special-use area).

While NOAA had to use its emergency rulemaking authority again this summer, it is also now collecting public comment on a more permanent solution. To submit comments, scan the QR code.

—Contributed

STOP-AND-GO

“Once a building is done, it’s going to get a C.O. … but that doesn’t mean you can open for business.” Garrett said. “We will hold them to getting the golf course done before they open for business.”

An environmental microscope

Resident concerns brought to the Weekly about the resort in the last two months have included allegations of mangrove clearing, over-digging of the lagoon on the property’s eastern end and runoff from newly-placed fill on the eastern “front nine” discoloring water in neighboring canals.

An April 12 notice of noncompliance addressed to Rosasco from the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), along with a second notice sent two months later, noted excessive trimming and debris collecting in areas of mangroves along the property’s waterfront, additionally requiring “replanting mangroves that have been destroyed.”

In his July 1 interview, Rosasco acknowledged there are “a couple of things that I need to take care of, which we’re doing right now.”

He said he previously intended to enlarge the on-site lagoon while using removed material to fill other areas of the property, but had since submitted updated plans to the city without the larger lagoon – even after a June 27 email from the SFWMD confirmed that the lagoon’s size could increase without a modified permit.

He attributed the canal discharge to historic recent rainfall in Marathon.

“For whatever reason, a few people here say they want me to do what I’m doing, but (the same people) would prefer to try and stop me. And the way they decided to try and stop me is to create all these rumors and go to every regulatory agency in the state of Florida,” Rosasco said.

Utility line dispute prompts red tag

On June 18, the project was issued a Stop Work Order, later confirmed by both Garrett and Rosasco to stem from the disputed proper placement of a utility line. A subsequent June 27 Notice of Violation noted “several ‘new’ piles of fill that had been placed on the property” on June 25 and 26, indicating continued work on the site after the posting of the Stop Work Order.

Rosasco acknowledged that the Stop Work Order was in response to delays in submitting required engineering drawings to the city, but denied responsibility for the added fill after the red tag.

“I’ve had a continuous problem over the years with people dumping on the site,” he said.

“After we shut the project down, a couple of guys came out there with a couple truckloads of asphalt and other stuff. … I’m trying to find out who actually did it, because it’s illegal dumping.”

Cease-and-desist request filed

Heavily criticized in Marathon’s June 25 city council workshop for its role in escalating flooding issues on Sombrero Boulevard, the development was also named in a request for a cease-and-desist authored by local developer Michael Aranda Jr. and submitted to Williams, Garrett and Planning Director Brian Shea.

Originally filed on June 14 and resubmitted on June 20 to add the signatures of 50 area residents, the request includes allegations of prolonged flooding, destruction of roads and parking lots, negative effects on property values in nearby neighborhoods, and violations of National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) regulations, all of which it said can be traced back to site work for the upcoming resort.

“This project must immediately be red-tagged, issued a ceaseand-desist order, and subjected to daily fines until the City inspects the project and determines it is following the applicable permit requirements,” the letter concludes. “This problem exists and will not solve itself – ignoring it is not a viable option. None of the affected communities did anything to deserve this.”

Speaking with the Weekly on July 3, Aranda said the only substantial response he had received from the city was a June 18 email request from third-party claim administration firm PGCS Claims Services requesting a Theory of Liability and Notice of Injury.

“I would like to know the city’s next step, and I would like to see a real solution to a very real problem,” Aranda said by phone. “This project has yet to be held accountable.”

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SWIPE RIGHT

Adorable furry faces

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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.

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.

JOHN EVANS

2-year-old terrier mix.

Looking for: Someone just as clingy and needy as I am.

Turnoffs: Being left alone.

FISH

2.5-month-old female domestic shorthair. Looking for: Fun, playtime, naps and more playtime! Turnoffs: Dogs. Ewww.

Spotlighting the amazing individuals who live and work in the Middle Keys

TRINITY JACOX trinityjacox@gmail.com

No 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 is a beloved teacher at Marathon High School. Jan Dorl’s passion for education is evident to all who have had the privilege of being her student. As one of her former sixth-grade students, I can personally attest to Mrs. Dorl’s unwavering commitment and love for teaching.

“Having taught for 31 years, I could not imagine having done anything else with my life,” she said. It takes a special person to be a teacher, and she is exactly that. She is the kind of teacher who leaves a lasting impression on her students, making a difference in their lives long after they have left her classroom.

JAN DORL

History teacher, Marathon High School

How did you end up in the Keys? It was an accident! I was living in Europe, and my now-husband was irritated because I had been gone for six months. So, he said he would just take a job in the Keys and dive and fish for a couple of years. I flew into the Marathon airport in 1986 with my backpack; we’ve been here ever since.

What can people find you doing when you aren’t working? Usually swimming laps in my pool or hanging out with my cats and dogs.

What is something most people don’t know about you? Most people don’t know I’m an accidental teacher. My degree was in marketing and advertising from USF.

What is the best piece of advice someone has given you? Be patient with yourself.

What is your favorite event or tradition at Marathon High School? Pep rallies. I get to wear my blue boa.

What is the funniest thing a student has ever done in your class? A student borrowed another student’s phone, took it into the bathroom and fell asleep on the floor playing games.

If your life had a theme song, what would it be? “Respect” by Aretha Franklin.

What is something that is on your bucket list? I want to take the Canadian train ride across the country when I retire.

What is the weirdest fact you know? I could personally list everything that is in the seven articles of the Constitution and explain them to anyone.

NEW OWNERS OF ICONIC BABY’S COFFEE ARE COMMITTED TO ITS LEGACY

Plans afoot to add Duval Street location

CAROLINE SMITH www.keysweekly.com

Baby’s Coffee, branded as the “Southernmost Coffee Roasters in America” and located at MM 15, is a historical landmark and community coffee hub that was launched in 1991 by Gary and Olga Teplistky.

In February, Joe and Carnella Bracciale bought the business that’s open 353 days a year. As soon as they learned it was for sale, they knew they wanted to own it.

“It’s really important for us to preserve the legacy and quality that Gary and Olga created, not just with their coffee, but also in their sense of community,” Joe said. “Baby’s Coffee is a pillar of the Keys thanks to their hard work, friendly vibes and Gary’s dedication to the art of roasting and coffee curation. Baby’s is a very good business with a great customer base, and we are very cognizant of the reputation and quality we need to maintain. We know we have big shoes to fill.”

Baby’s values its customers and offers anyone in uniform a free beverage. The customer base is what keeps the place alive. While it has a somewhat niche location, it thrives off its customers from the local Key West Conch community, as well as commuters who make the daily trip into Key West from Marathon or the Lower Keys, along with thousands of tourists who make sure they pick up enough coffee to last until their next trip to the Florida Keys.

The new owners have absolutely no plans of selling, they said. With expansions planned for the future, the Bracciales are committed to not changing too much and keeping Baby’s “eclectic feel.”

They have already increased their food and merchandise selections and continue to use their social media accounts to keep customers “in the know.” They plan to begin using their food truck and online business more in the near future.

The biggest and most exciting improvement includes plans to bring Baby’s back to Duval Street, where it started more than 30 years ago. Within the next few years, the new location would be toward the

south end of Duval, the Bracciales said.

The major difference between Baby’s Coffee and most other local coffee shops is Baby’s roasts and bags its own coffee daily. High quality Arabica coffee beans give customers the freshest coffee with over 20 roasts to choose from. The roasting room is connected to the main building, so the coffee is as fresh as possible.

Tripadvisor reviewers often tout Baby’s as “the best coffee in the Keys.”

Baby’s Coffee supports other local businesses. Croissants de France supplies its daily pastries. Ramona’s Conch Creations designs its T-shirts and merchandise, and Bugs Ceramics makes its custom coffee mugs. Products from local vendors such as salt scrubs, seasonings and pickles are available in the store.

Customer Emily Bracher said she started going to Baby’s with her parents when she herself was just a baby. Bracher has lived in the Keys her whole life, and now attends Louisiana State University. She said she always makes sure to stop at the coffee shop when she is home for breaks.

“The store brings back memories from when I was younger, selling Girl Scout cookies outside the building,” Bracher said. “Now, I order an iced coffee with their Cuban bagel.”

More information and daily updates are at babyscoffee.com or their Instagram @babyscoffee.

Baby’s Coffee co-owner Carnella Bracciale next to one of the company’s giant roasters. CAROLINE SMITH/Keys Weekly

‘WE DID IT’

Overseas cancer fundraiser sets skyhigh standard with $127K raised

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

When bar manager Andy Sharf announced that the next in Overseas Pub and Grill’s line of locally-famous charitable fundraisers would be their “biggest one ever,” he meant it.

On June 29, “Fight Like Mallory Day” delivered. And that’s putting it lightly.

From the moment the bar’s doors opened until the early hours of the morning, the team at Overseas put forth an all-hands-on-deck effort to rack up a serious chunk of change for local dolphin trainer Mallory Martin, diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer just weeks after her 30th birthday.

From big-ticket raffle items and coozie sales to a massive silent auction, donated pork dinners, and the now-customary donation of all bartender tips to the cause, proceeds at the end of the evening obliterated Sharf’s previous fundraiser record of $65,000, netting a massive $126,440 to go toward Martin’s ongoing treatment expenses. And in the time it took to print a “check” for this article’s photo op, that number had already ballooned to more than $127,000.

“A lot of times in my life when my friends have had bad things happen to them, I’ve always said ‘If you need anything, give me a call,’ but that’s been too easy. For this one, I realized I had to show up,” said Sharf. “And that’s what we did. I’m proud of what we did here, what the community did and what my family did.”

“The outpouring of love and support this community has shown has been nothing short of overwhelming,” Martin told the Weekly. “You all are truly incredible people and I cannot thank you all enough.”

1. With more than $127,000 raised, Overseas’ June 29 ‘Fight Like Mallory Day’ nearly doubled its previous record for a single fundraiser. From left: Brian ‘Cheddar’ Geitz, Mallory Martin, Peyton Sharf, Andy Sharf, Betsy Sharf.

2. Peyton Sharf, left, presents Mallory Martin with a $5,500 check, raised through her own sales of homemade bracelets.

3. Country singer-songwriter Josh Kiser takes the mic for an acoustic set.

4. Overseas bar manager Andy Sharf, right, reunites with beneficiaries of his past fundraisers. From left: Chase Grimes, Jordan Klein, Brian ‘Cheddar’ Geitz, Charlene Sprinkle Belile, ‘Little Mark’ Belile.’

5. Key West rappers Mike Stack and D-Lew kick off the late-night scene with ‘I’m From Key West.

6. Mallory Martin’s friends and family join the party. From left: mom Jan Martin, dad Jim Martin, sister Amanda Martin, aunt Doreen Martin, cousin Maureen Martin, family friend Dee Meier, brother Jimmy Martin.

7. Brian ‘Cheddar’ Geitz, left, and Andy Sharf take a rare pause during the dinner rush.

8. Peyton Sharf has a fat stack of cash to drop in the collection jar from sales of her homemade bracelets.

Photos by Alex Rickert and Kristen Livengood.

TAKING THE REINS

Lietaert named CFFK chair; Still, Wright join board

The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys announced significant changes to its board of governors, marking a milestone in its 27-year history. Laura Lietaert, principal of Coral Shores High School, on July 1 became the organization’s first board chair from north of the Seven Mile Bridge. Additionally, business owners Robyn Still of Marathon and Isis Wright of Key Largo have been elected to threeyear terms on the board.

“Laura Lietaert has an in-depth understanding of the needs of our residents, having graduated from Coral Shores, raised her own family here and worked for the school system for three decades,” said Community Foundation board president and CEO Jennifer McComb. “With the addition of Robyn Still and Isis Wright, our board now better represents the geographic diversity of the Keys. This aligns perfectly with our strategic goal of becoming a truly countywide organization.”

“I’m honored to lead the Community Foundation into its next phase of growth,” said Lietaert, a Key Largo resident. “Our goal is to continue expanding our impact across all of the Florida Keys, addressing the unique needs of each community.”

The board is responsible for the organization’s efforts countywide, including managing 226 charitable funds totaling over $30 million and making grants exceeding $1.5 million annually to support Florida Keys nonprofits.

Lietaert was named Monroe County School District “Principal of the Year” in 2023 after receiving the same award at Key Largo School in 2018. She chairs Monroe County’s Human Services Advisory Board, which annually grants over $2 million to local nonprofits. She served two terms as president of the Rotary Club of Key Largo and is active in the Upper Keys Business and Professional Women, Key Largo Chamber of Commerce and the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce. Lietaert was the Community Foundation’s first board member from Key Largo when she joined

in 2020 and served as chair of the foundation’s Upper Keys Advisory Council for two years.

Still serves on the Community Foundation’s Middle Keys Advisory Council. She and her husband, Chris, own the Tackle Box, a bait and tackle store in Marathon. Currently the mayor of Marathon, Still has lived in the Keys since 2016, moving from north Georgia after a 20-year career in law enforcement. She holds several community leadership positions, including past chair of the Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce, board member of the Rotary Club of Marathon, advisory board member for the Domestic Abuse Shelter and member of Zonta. She is a graduate of Leadership Monroe County and a mentor for Take Stock in Children.

Wright has been an inaugural member of the Community Foundation’s Upper Keys Advisory Council since 2021, serving as council chair since 2022. With over 20 years of professional experience in business development and marketing, Wright recently launched two Keysbased brands: B. Ready, a travel and leisure wellness online marketplace, and Italian Food Company, an authentic Neapolitan pizzeria. She is a board member of the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce and has served with the Rotary Club of Key Largo, Rotary Interact and Junior Achievement. Wright holds an MBA from the University of Miami and is a graduate of Leadership Miami.

Other Community Foundation board members are Andrea Spottswood (treasurer and finance chair), Jodi Weinhofer (secretary), Marian Buccafurni (investment and grants chair), Bobby Highsmith (governance chair), Warren Leamard (development chair), Larry Nolt and Ken Silverman. Will Langley and Ron Burd will transition to advisory roles after completing their nine-year terms of service.

Several members of the Monroe Association of Governing Students presented at a school board meeting. From left: Monaya Carey, Jordan Greene, Jake Ferguson, Daniella Barroso, Deanna Gumarova Mercier. MONROE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT/Contributed

STUDENT VOICES RISING

Monroe County School District introduces leadership program

In a move to enhance student voice and leadership, schools

Superintendent Theresa Axford has launched the Monroe Association of Governing Students (MAGS) initiative. Introduced in the current school year, this initiative aims to amplify student opinions and provide a platform for leadership among high school students in Monroe County.

MAGS comprises elected representatives from each of the three high schools in the county, with four members elected from each school by their peers. These student leaders have been actively engaged in discussions and initiatives to improve the educational experience for all students throughout the district.

One of the key achievements of MAGS has been the development of content for educational videos addressing critical issues such as anti-vaping. Recognizing the importance of promoting healthy behaviors, the student representatives have also raised concerns regarding the effec-

tiveness of the district’s current healthy living videos, leading to constructive dialogues and potential revisions.

In a recent presentation to the school board, MAGS members articulated their perspectives and concerns about aspects of the school environment, demonstrating understanding of the challenges and opportunities. Additionally, they have undergone leadership training facilitated by the Covey Institute.

Christian McPherson, executive director of student support, serves as the district sponsor for MAGS, providing guidance and support to the student leaders.

“I have high expectations that MAGS will evolve into a group whose influence on education in Monroe County will be advantageous for all students,” Axford said. “Their leadership will pave the way for addressing student needs in a meaningful and effective manner.”

— Contributed

Laura Lietaert

Robyn Still

Isis Wright

BIRDS AND PICTURES

... 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.

It is hard to think about composition when taking a picture of a bird. So many elements are out of your control – foremost being the bird.

A lot of wildlife photography comes down to lining up the focus points in the camera with the critter moving in front of you. It can be harder than you think and it makes me wish I’d played more Atari as a kid, not because it would have been fun, but because I’d have better hand-eye coordination and miss fewer shots.

I’ve been thinking and fretting a lot about bird photography in recent weeks, largely because I have a show of bird photographs coming up at Jag Gallery. (The opening is Thursday, July 11 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The show is called Sea & Sky and will be a joint show with Erika Heffernen. Come for the art. Stay for the red wine and small talk.)

Some birds are easier to photograph than others. It comes down to size, speed, energy, wariness, feeding strategies, habitat, access to habitat and several other factors that aren’t coming to mind at the moment.

Warblers, for instance, can drive you to the brink. They are tiny and constantly on the move, usually behind a few layers of branches that send your autofocus in the wrong direction. My new camera body actually has a bird mode setting, where it will search for the shape of a bird and focus on that. (I like to whisper “bird mode” to myself whenever I turn it on.) But even technology that recognizes birds isn’t enough to keep up with them.

Great blue herons are at the other end of the spectrum. They are relatively habituated to humans (or are at least less flighty than many other birds) so you can get within a decent range with a long lens and usually get a decent shot. Like some genetically gifted people, they almost always look good for the camera.

Sometimes, after being defeated by warblers for a few hours, I’ll go find a great blue heron and take a picture just to rebuild my confidence and cheer myself up.

I’ve had a few solo photography shows before – usually focused on a specific subject, like nightscapes, the liveaboard boat community or Fantasy Fest. I’ve only really put together one show that has included any of my bird photography. Which is funny, because the reason I bought my first real, modern-era camera, and my first real long lens, was to take pictures of birds.

A little over a decade ago I used to co-own a bird tour company. Digital photography wasn’t new at the time, but it was getting more affordable. On tours there was often a tension between the people who were on the trip for photography reasons, and people who were there to see a lot of birds. (Photographers want good light and a good scene, and therefore move more slowly.)

I bought a camera to learn how wildlife photographers experienced things so I could design some new itineraries focused on bird photography, though we ended up selling the company before we could schedule any such tours.

I was pretty into photography when I was younger, and had a darkroom in the basement of my parents’ house. But I couldn’t afford that kind of space when I moved to Key West. And any time I dropped my film off for processing, I was alway depressed by the results. Nothing looked as I had envisioned.

I remember at one point deciding I no longer would take photos when I traveled, as it was easier, cheaper and better to buy postcards.

But then digital photography came along and I felt I had regained a great deal of control over the process and results. The new camera rekindled my interest in the much broader world of picture-taking.

As a birder, I have terabytes of bird photos, but I generally think of them as more illustrative than (gulp) art. (See also: that first complaint I made about composition.)

As a result I developed this bifurcated relationship to the camera and what can be done with it. There’s the wildlife school of photography, which generally has to skew toward the idyllic and technically perfect to be considered successful. And then there’s the work that really speaks to and drives me, created by more

individualist and idiosyncratic photographers, people like Josef Koudelka, Sally Man, Ragnar Axelsson, and Zanele Muholi. Work that is less about technical brilliance and the perfect capture than it is about emotion, experience and giving insight into the divine chaos of the world.

For a long time I didn’t think it possible to unify those two photographic poles. Then I saw the work of Stephen Gill a few years ago. A Brit living in Sweden, he produced a project, and later a book, called “The Pillar,” which was an amazingly simple concept – he mounted a motion-triggered camera next to a fence post on a farm. There’s a strong argument to be made that an automated camera trap does not create art – but the art was in the concept, the selection and the production of the photos. Beautiful black-and-whites of birds, sometimes in the center of the frame, but more often only partially in frame, in all sorts of flight contortions. It’s amazingly moody and evocative work that just broke the mold – at least for me – in how one can approach wildlife photography.

There aren’t a lot of fence poles in the Keys, so setting up a camera trap is out. But I’ve been looking through the digital heaps of bird images I have, approaching them with a different set of criteria, trying to find the ones that might hit a little differently than I thought they did the first time around.

Anyhow, this is my first attempt at something like that. We’ll see how it goes.

Jag Gallery, 1075 Duval St., will present a joint art show, ‘Sea & Sky,’ featuring bird photography by Mark Hedden and works by Erika Heffernan. An opening reception will take place Thursday, July 11 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Magnificent frigatebirds at Hemingway Light off the Northwest Channel. MARK HEDDEN/Keys

MARK HEDDEN

THREADS OF BRAVERY

GIRLS IN DISGUISE, BETSY ROSS AND ARMY LIFE: ENJOY THESE FASCINATING READS TO CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY

A GIRL CALLED SAMSON

By Amy Harmon

During the American Revolution, women were rarely seen and never heard. They couldn’t attend school, own land or dream of being soldiers. When Deborah’s father abandoned her family, her mother had no choice but to send the children out as indentured servants. In a way, she was lucky; Deborah was taught to read and write. She was also bestowed upon the kind Thomas family with 10 little boys who taught her to be fearless and competitive. As war descended upon Massachusetts, the boys headed off one by one. Deborah was tall, athletic and smart. It did not take long for her to change her appearance enough to pass as “Rob,” who followed the brothers to war. Half the battle was keeping her secret; the other half was filled with all the things at which she excelled. Behaviors that could bring unwanted attention were masked by bravery, loyalty and gumption. She was offered the coveted position of aide-de-camp to a powerful general and, with a surprising twist, fell in love. Deborah Sampson was barely mentioned in our history books, and this fictionalized account of her life is simply mesmerizing.

First and foremost a reader, she has reviewed hundreds of books on her blog www.readingandeating.com. And, more recently, this new Keys resident has also begun writing. KAREN

THE WIVES

By Simone Gorrindo

Leaving New York City was not easy. Simone had a fulfilling job and a great group of friends. But after she married Andrew, he joined an elite Army unit, and the couple moved to Columbus, Georgia, a town with an army base and little else. As most newlyweds struggle with change, they had a hard time managing their dreams while supporting each other. Feeling the loneliness and financial instability of army life, Simone’s big test arrived when Andrew was deployed. Paralyzed by fear, she learned that it takes a village – or rather, “The Wives” – to make the transition to an army wife. Curious and a lifelong pacifist, Simone relentlessly questioned Andrew and their peers. She needed to understand the source of Andrew’s unflinching drive to risk his life and fight for his country. She slowly learned how the army worked and the lingo they used to pacify worried wives while their husbands were away. The more experienced wives helped her through the difficult early days, and Simone learned the meaning of true friendship. While she and Andrew meandered through the complicated maze of military life, her well-written memoir shines as a testament to faith, hope and family.

THE TREASON OF

By Wendy Long Stanley

As a teen, Betsy Griscom followed her sister to the sewing shop where she worked. Without many options and quite a talented seamstress herself, Betsy applied for a position beside her. While the younger siblings kept their Quaker parents busy, they barely noticed when Betsy brought home John Ross, a handsome young man from the shop. At first, Betsy only admitted to friendship but failed to reveal John’s non-Quaker rebelliousness and family ties to the Sons of Liberty. As violence in 1770 Philadelphia exploded, Betsy could not ignore the dangers of political unrest and what it meant to be married to a militiaman. She could not abide by the Quaker vow of nonviolence when their lives and that of their future children were at stake. Secretly helping John in any way she could, Betsy was drawn closer and closer to the upheaval of this new American society and the promise of an independent America. These turbulent times had many unsung heroes. Reflecting on what it meant to be a patriot, the well-known Betsy Ross was a brave feminist ahead of her time.

#WORTHWATCHING

Michael Douglas is Benjamin Franklin in a dramatic series detailing the eight years Franklin spent in France trying to persuade King Louis XVI to support the American Revolutionary War. Douglas is outstanding as Franklin comes to life on the screen. Check it out on Apple TV.

BETSY ROSS

THURSDAY, JULY 4

CANDICE 6:30PM

FRIDAY, JULY 5 ON THE FLY BAND 3PM BOBBY HOWARD 6:30PM

SATURDAY, JULY 6 MAASAI 8PM

SUNDAY, JULY 7

TONY MANFREDI 3PM

GREATER MARATHON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

305.743.5417

DOCKSIDE SUNDAY JAM 7PM

MONDAY, JULY 8

TREVER 6:30PM

TUESDAY, JULY 9

TACO TUESDAY ALL DAY COUNTRY NIGHT WITH JIBSEA COWBOY 7:30PM

WEDNESDAY, JULY 10 LUKE SOMMERS 6:30PM

BUSINESS

AFTER HOURS

Who: Key Colony Inn

When: Wednesday, July 10th 5:30 - 7:30pm

Where: 700 W Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach

What: Great networking, food & beverages; come promote your business and meet Marathon business owners, executives, and leaders!

MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON

July 16th 12pm - 1pm

When: Tuesday, July 16th 12pm - 1pm

Where: King Seafood Market & Restaurant 10925 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

Speaker: State Representative Jim Mooney Topic: 2024 Legislative Wrap-Up

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED – SPACE IS LIMITED E-mail RSVP to: Erika@floridakeysmarathon.com or

CHRIS

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

M cNULTY As Saturn slowed down and turned retrograde last week, you may have noticed events taking place in the world that encouraged us to reconsider our political structures. (ahem, Key West City Commission meeting, ahem, presidential debate). Saturn represents the structures and authority figures that exist in society, so let these events continue to turn over in your mind for the next five months as you consider what structures we need for a healthy social contract. This week, we see Mercury forming a 180-degree opposition to Pluto followed by a new moon in Cancer. When the intelligence of Mercury opposes the shadow of Pluto, we seek a tense balance between the analytical mind and unconscious impulses. We think about our instincts; we talk about our traumas; we move into spaces where the natural world can embrace us. There is potential for intense arguments and gaining clarity about our compulsions. Our thoughts may turn dark, which can also help us to think critically about the light. The Cancer new moon on July 5 is particularly cozy because the moon rules the sign of Cancer, so she is at home. We are all experiencing a fresh start in our emotional worlds, particularly with our nearest and dearest. So set some intentions for your hearts.

Here are your horoscopes for Mercury opposite Pluto and the Cancer new moon. Read for your rising and sun signs.

CANCER

June 21 - July 22

This is your new moon, crabbycakes! If you find that anything is holding you back from who you want to be, this is the perfect time to get clear on your self-develop-

ment and how people perceive you. Set intentions now and see what emerges in two weeks. How are your financial decisions serving or not serving a purpose greater than yourself? Is there another way to think about money and motives?

LEO

July 23 - Aug. 22

Sit with the feelings that emerge in the quiet, meditative spaces. This new moon is for making sure that you know how to be fully supported even when there is no one around and nothing to do. What would that look like? A powerful conversation with a significant other in your life is an opportunity to understand yourself better. Try to think of yourself objectively. It’s impossible, but it’s a worthwhile venture.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 - Sept. 22

Are you feeling an almost obsessive drive to work or to keep busy? Remember that your mind needs respite, so try to find quiet time for your thoughts to settle. Hard work can support a peaceful mind. If you find a new group of friends or possibly even a new support network, suspend any suspicion and see how they help you in two weeks.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 - Oct. 23

A fresh start at work is being offered to you under this new moon. A new project? A new promotion?

A new career entirely? If you feel it now, invest your energy and see what emerges in two weeks. You seem to have some powerful creative inspiration coming through. Think about the people in your life who nourish versus the people who drain your creativity. Make some choices.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 - Nov. 21

With work on your mind, you may notice something really powerful taking place at home. This is not a

time to avoid, rather a time to use how you think about work to help you manage the issue at the homestead. Let this new moon crystallize a new adventure for you. Plan for a vacation, sign up for a new course of study, join a new faith community. It’s time for a perspective shift.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 - Dec. 21

This new moon is a great time to invest in something you care about. You can give your time, your energy, your skills, your money –and you should receive a relatively quick return. There is some intense, almost obsessive, energy in your local neighborhood, and you may be thinking about getting out of Dodge for a bit. That would be worthwhile, but the issue will be there when you return.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 - Jan. 19

Is there a possible new relationship in your life? Did you meet someone and are you wondering where it might go? Enjoy the moment and reassess in two weeks under the full moon. You’ve begun a powerful new entanglement with money and possessions in recent months, but think about how you might make them work for other people, too. Hoarding stops the flow.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 - Feb. 18

If you have been wanting to start a new daily routine or build some new habits into your life, this new moon is the perfect time to get started. Whether you start a new morning routine, a new exercise regimen, or a new workflow, it will be supported. Even though you are embarking on a powerful, personal metamorphosis, you can still think about partnership.

PISCES

Feb. 19 - March 20

Think about your physical health and how it relates to your men-

THOUGHTS IN THE DARK

tal health. You have a powerful transformation taking place in your unconscious, and focusing your mind on how you take care of your body will help to anchor you. You have a creative, joyful endeavor being planted under this new moon, so follow your bliss.

ARIES

March 21 - April 19

When intensity starts to show up in your friend network, it is helpful to turn your mind to your own means of self-expression. How do you show up, and how do you avoid getting caught up in the dramatics? Think of what actually brings you joy. Set some intentions for your home and family under the new moon. How would you like to see your personal world progress?

TAURUS

April 20 - May 20

Do you need to try to communicate something in a different way? This new moon affords you an altogether different way of getting your point across. So try it, and see the results under the full moon in two weeks. Power struggles at work have you thinking about home more; let that help provide solutions for the intensity in the office.

GEMINI

May 21 - June 20

A new financial opportunity is opening up. Apply for that job, take that gig, open that savings account. You will see results in two weeks, so get going. With some serious new things coming into your life, your mind needs time to remember what is familiar. Let nostalgia kick in for a time and see how far you’ve come.

Your fastest growing digital provider owned and operated in Monroe County.

City Council

Robyn Still, Mayor

Lynn Landry, Vice Mayor

Luis Gonzalez, Councilmember

Jeff Smith, Councilmember

Kenny Matlock, Councilmember

Planning Commission Meeting

7/15/24 5:30pm Council Chambers, 9805 Overseas Hwy.

Code Compliance Hearing

7/18/24 2:00pm Council Chambers, 9805 Overseas Hwy.

City Council Special Call Meeting & FY 24/25 General Fund Budget Meeting

7/23/24 5:30pm Council Chambers, 9805 Overseas Hwy.

305.906.0272 omg@overseasmediagroup.com overseasmediagroup.com

Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Council with respect to any matter considered at any meeting or workshop noted herein, he or she will need a record of the proceedings and for such purposes he or she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made; which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. The City of Marathon complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you are a disabled person requiring special accommodations or assistance, please notify the City ADA Coordinator at (305) 289-5022 of such need at least 72 hours (3 days) in advance. City

$3.50

$4

$3

$2

KEY WEST LAWS OF 1829

Unleashed dogs, bathing in public & prostitution came with monetary fines

In 1829, Monroe County lines stretched from Key West, the county seat, north to Lake Okeechobee and west to Port Charlotte (Charlotte Harbor between Fort Myers and Saint Petersburg).

North to south and east to west, the county was sparsely populated. With a population of about 500, Key West was the largest community in the county (the 1830 census counted 517 people).

The Florida Keys’ first newspaper, the Key West Register & Commercial Advertiser, arrived in 1829. Among other stories and advertisements, the paper printed ordinances issued by the Town Council and Edgar Macon, president of the Key West Town Council. Included in the new town laws were ordinances governing dogs, bathing, prostitution and guns.

“Dogs: Be it ordained by the Town Council of Key West that from and after the passage of this Ordinance each and every Dog in the Town of Key West (Terriers excepted) shall be subjected to a tax of two dollars a year to be paid by the owner of said dog.”

The town’s sheriff collected the tax. Each dog, with the exception of terriers, was required to wear a collar with the initials of the owner stamped on the collar. Any dog found running around Key West at large and without a collar, or any dog that had not had its tax paid, “shall be shot or otherwise killed by any

hundred dollars, with one or more sufficient securities, with a condition that the person so convicted, shall for the space of twelve months will and properly demean herself and not offend against this ordinance; and every person failing to give such bond shall be committed to the jail of the Corporation, there to remain until they give bond as herein required.” (Passed June 30, 1829)

citizen.” The marshal, too, could be contacted and directed to shoot the animal.

Bathing: an ordinance to prevent persons bathing in front of the Town.

“Sec.1 Be it ordained by the Town Council of Key West, That it shall not be lawful for any person or persons to bathe in public in front of the town of Key West, that is to say, two hundred yards south of the house of William Bunee Esq. to one hundred yards north-east of the canal leading to the pond in rear of the town.

“Sec. 2 Be it ordained, That any white person offending against the provisions of this ordinance shall, upon conviction, before the President of the Town Council, be fined a sum not exceeding five dollars.

“Sec. 3 Any person of colour offending against the provisions of this ordinance shall, upon conviction before the President of the Town Council, be punished with stripes not exceeding twelve.”

Prostitution: an ordinance to punish lewd persons.

“Be it ordained by the Town Council of Key West, that any female of evil fame (known to be such) supporting and maintaining herself by the unlawful profits of prostitution, or who shall live in a state of open adultery, within the limits of the corporation of the Town of Key West, shall upon conviction before the President of the Town Council, be fined for each offence, a sum not exceeding twenty-five dollars, at the discretion of the President.

“Sec. 2 It shall be lawful for the President of the Town Council upon the conviction of any person offending against the provisions of this ordinance, to exact and require of the person convicted, a bond with a penalty of five

The July 16, 1829, Volume 1 No. 27 edition subsequently published the following opinion piece.

“We refer the attention of our town readers to an Ordinance of the Town Council published in this week’s Register, ‘to punish lewd persons.’ We are proud to find independence enough in the Council to adopt such an ordinance: and we hope it may be rigidly executed, until those wretches, who have been such a disgrace to our society, may either become good citizens, or be entirely banished from the island.”

Guns: an ordinance more effectively to prevent firing and shooting within the corporation.

“Be it ordained, That when any person or persons shall allow, suffer, or permit any person whatever to shoot off, discharge, or fire any gun, or other fire arms, from any house or dwelling, whereof he, she, or they may be an occupant or occupants, and that give up or furnish the name or names of the person so firing or discharging, when required to do so by the town marshal, shall be guilty of an offense, and, on conviction before the President of the Council, be fined five dollars.”

The paper also shared the changing rules about having cattle in the town. “Two years ago fresh beef or mutton was almost unknown on the Island, and now a family would think it was faring hard indeed, if they sat down to dinner without roasting a piece of beef steak or mutton chops (March 5, 1829, Volume 1 No. 9).”

In a notice written by P.C. Greene dated Aug. 27, 1829, “All person or persons having Stock of any kind running at large on this island is hereby notified that they are requested to take up the same, and confine them in a lot, or remove them from off the island within the space of thirty days.”

An Army drawing of Key West in 1850. FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY CENTER/ Monroe County Library collection.

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

FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI

508 AVENIDA PRIMICERIA

MARATHON | $1,499,000

OPEN HOUSES

Brand new CBS Construction home in the coveted Waloriss subdivision, mere steps from the white sand and crystal clear water of Sombrero Beach! This 1,835 sq. ft. masterpiece o ers privacy and tranquility from the tastefully landscaped fenced in yard, and a masterfully designed pool and surrounding pool deck, perfect for entertaining or peacefully lounging! Florida Keys living at its finest in this gem!

NEW LISTING

17277 DOLPHIN STREET EAST

SUGARLOAF KEY | $1,199,000

146 SUGARLOAF DRIVE

SUGARLOAF KEY | $1,299,900

Spacious Sugarloaf Shores retreat, nestled on a massive 10,000 sq. ft. lot, on a crystal-clear canal, just minutes from Sugarloaf Sound! Inside boasts a 1,405 sq. ft. floor plan boasts with ideal split bedroom configuration. Comes complete a screened-in back balcony overlooking a full-length dock, canal, and partial open water views! Enjoy frequent boating from your 100' dock,

Iconic Key West Character at this sprawling 1,859 sq. ft. canal front home in desirable Sugarloaf Shores! Generous 55' dock with 10K boat lift provides for excellent boating. An open and airy interior with soaring cathedral ceilings and wood-burning fireplace gives way to five sets of pocket sliding doors opening onto an expansive veranda. An additional, sizable downstairs storage room and a generous serene lawn and mature tropical flora.

FEATURED LISTING FEATURED LISTING

31028 AVENUE H

BIG PINE KEY | $699,000

Turnkey Big Pine Key getaway, nestled on a quiet street but just minutes to town! Bright and welcoming living space evokes feelings of relaxation, with modern finishes and tasteful design. Large living room, separate dining area, well-equipped chef's kitchen and tranquil screened-in porch. Partially fenced lot provides ample privacy for enjoying time around the firepit, and an atypically high clearance ideal to accommodate an RV.

27725 SEA WHIP STREET

LITTLE TORCH KEY | $1,100,000

Open water views abound at this Little Torch Key retreat with proximity to community boat ramp and just one minute to open water! Open concept living area is bright and inviting, with stunning water views and loads of natural light. Spacious screened-in porch boasts stunning views of famous Keys sunsets and the pristine canal below. Concrete dock accommodates multiple vessels and open water is only minutes away!

24833 PARK DRIVE

SUMMERLAND KEY | $959,000

Renovated, angler's paradise on an oversized, gated private lot! Situated on a deep-draft canal with no-bridge access to the Atlantic, this home comes fully-outfitted for enjoying world famous fishing and boating with 90' concrete dock, cut-in, swim ladder, fillet station, outdoor shower and two boat lifts! Inside, this turn-key island retreat is newly renovated with tasteful updates, and a ords spectacular views!

Having Fun in the Middle Keys

BRIEFLY

Marathon SPCA needs hurricane fosters

Hurricane fosters are needed at the Marathon campus. With hurricane season quickly approaching, the SPCA needs volunteers and fosters in case of a storm. Over 100 animals would need to be evacuated, so it is crucial they all have homes in place before an impending storm. The SPCA provides everything you need; all you do is give an animal a safe haven during the storm and return them to the shelter once it's safe – that is, if you don't fall in love. For more information on becoming a hurricane foster, scan the QR code or call 305-743-4800.

Marathon Elks Lodge invites public to luau, membership drive Marathon Elks Lodge 2139 is hosting a luau and membership drive on Saturday, July 27. The event begins at 4 p.m. with the bar opening, followed by lobster races at 5 p.m. and dinner at 6:30 p.m. Dinner will be served buffet style with options including fish, pork, or chicken with sides and dessert for $12 per person. Each dinner ticket includes a raffle entry for a luau-themed basket. Enjoy lobster races and a 50/50 drawing, with race proceeds supporting the Marathon Elks Lodge scholarship fund.

Funders Alliance hosts

Florida Keys Nonprofit Day Professionals from countywide charitable organizations will gather for the third annual Florida Keys Nonprofit Day on Wednesday, Sept. 11, at Marathon City Hall from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Presented by the Florida Keys Funders Alliance, the event offers free tickets for nonprofit staff, volunteers, students and community members interested in nonprofit service. Pre-registration at cffk.org/nonprofitday is required due to limited seating. The afternoon will feature sessions on presentations, branding and finance, followed by a reception sponsored by First State Bank of the Florida Keys.

Marathon man arrested for drugs

A 34-year-old Marathon man was arrested July 2 for possessing 0.2 grams of cocaine, 0.9 grams of marijuana, drug paraphernalia and unlawfully possessing another person’s credit card, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office said. Deputies were called to the 5500 block of U.S.1 around 4:20 a.m. after a construction worker found an uninvited man and woman inside a business property. The man, identified as Terrance Joseph McCray, was alleg-

edly found to be in possession of the drugs and credit card. He was taken to jail. The woman was not arrested.

Additional charges filed in fishing gear theft case

Ryan Alexander Oliu, a 20-year-old from Homestead, originally arrested in connection with an investigation into fishing rod thefts in Monroe County, now may face additional charges, the sheriff’s office said. These include multiple counts of grand theft and burglary related to boat burglaries since September 2023, along with new charges for molesting private bait traps on Duck Key. Daniel Aleman, 18, of Miami, was also previously arrested in the case. Both men were arrested following the search of a Honda sedan that was stopped in relation to this investigation – and in which stolen fishing rods and reels were allegedly found – around midnight on June 22 along U.S. 1. The investigation is ongoing. Additional charges and arrests may be pending.

Monroe County libraries offer summer reading programs

Every summer, the Monroe County Public Library offers programs to keep kids and their families reading. The community tradition promotes reading for fun and lifelong enrichment. The libraries create an encouraging framework for learning for all ages during the summer. Reading together as a family helps prevent summer learning loss and encourages strong communication and bonding. Summer reading isn’t just for kids, but for teens as well. Families can pick up reading logs, find books (including e-books), attend programs and more at every branch of the Monroe County Public Library – in Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key and Key West. This year’s theme is “Adventure Begins At Your Library.” More information is at keyslibraries. org/summer-reading-2024/, at the library branches and via email to info@ keyslibraries.org.

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.

THINGS REMEMBERED

How

‘modern life’ was different not that long ago

So many things we take for granted today didn’t even exist in the not-so-distant past. Smartphones weren’t always smart — there were no onboard cameras or productivity apps, texting was a nightmare if available at all and there was no way to access the internet to check out the (mis-) information of the day.

Even before mobile phones existed, landlines were accessed by phones rented from the phone company. One had to have a directory or memorize often-called phone numbers.

Touch-tone phones cost extra, long distances cost a lot extra and good luck to a young person today who is trying to figure out a rotary dial phone.

Telephones were everywhere as well. Public phones were a huge business. If you had to call someone on the road, the pay phone was often your only option. If you needed to talk long distance, you had better have a pocketful of coins.

When the internet finally showed up, it was accessed by a modem hooked up to that telephone landline. You couldn’t talk on the phone and be online at the same time (unless you had two or more phone lines). Dial-up service for providers like America

Online offered speeds of 14-56 kbps (kilobit per second), while today’s providers offer speeds in excess of 1 gbps (gigabit per second). To expand, 1 gbps is equal to 1,000 mbps (megabit per second). And 1 mbps is equal to 1,000 kbps. It’s easy to see how much faster access to the online world has become.

Those speeds have allowed many of us to ditch cable TV and just stream what we want to see when we want to see it. Before all that, TV was limited to three or four broadcast channels, and programs were only on at certain times. If you missed your favorite show, you missed it. Maybe you could catch it in reruns.

GPS satellites hadn’t been launched into orbit and couldn’t connect with the map app on your nonexistent smartphone. When driving in unfamiliar territory, you had to get directions from someone at a gas sta-

tion or just break down and buy a paper road map.

Good luck trying to fold that map back into its original shape.

thon. JOHN BARTUS

John Bartus is a singer-songwriter and the former mayor of Mara-

Smoking was allowed in most places. Some facilities had no-smoking sections, but smoky restaurants and bars were the norm. The ashtray industry took a huge hit when smoking was prohibited in most public places. The cigarette vending machine took a big hit as well. They were pretty much everywhere and would sell a pack of smokes to anyone with no ID necessary.

Airports seemed friendlier in the old days. You used to be able to take someone to the airport, accompany them to the boarding area and watch them get on the plane. And once onboard, smoking was often allowed. Aircraft used to have ashtrays in the seat armrests, and God help you if you were on a long flight next to a chain smoker.

There were a few convenient delivery services in those ancient preAmazon years.

There used to be this guy called the milkman who dropped off fresh milk and cream at your doorstep in the morning.

Charles Chips, a very tasty potato chip, were delivered in large cans from an instantly recognizable Charles Chips truck. You can still order Charles Chips online, and they’ll deliver them in the same old-fashioned tins.

People often bought vacuum cleaners from traveling salesmen. And who else remembers the Fuller Brush man? He was another traveling salesman who would keep your family stocked up with hairbrushes. This company still sells brushes and other cleaning products online as well.

Now that I’ve looked back, I’m going to order some Charles Chips online and use this awesome modern technology to see the latest internet posts from people who believe that the Earth is flat and the moon landing was a hoax.

On this day: In 1960, the modern version of the American flag (with 50 stars) debuted at a ceremony in

As part of the a ual Italian Market Fes val in Philadelphia, one contest involves compe ors climbing a greased pole to claim bags of meat and ch se ed at the top, United Pre Interna onal reported. This year, however, the dangling delectables were le hanging, and nearly a month later, they’re s there. Fes val organizers are trying to a ange for a crane to gather the le overs, which visitors claim aren’t s nky -yet. With the oncoming heat dome acro the United States, that might change.

Adam

In The Bleachers

Brevity

News of the Weird

Nancy

In 1826, founding fathers John Adams and Thomas Je erson both died on the 50th a iversary of the signing of the Declara on of Independence.

In 2012, the discovery of Hi s boson-like par cles through experiments at the Large Hadron Co ider was a ounced at the European Organiza on for Nuclear Research (CERN).

TODAY’S BIRTHDAYS

George Everest (1790-1866), surveyor/geographer; Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804-1864), writer; Stephen Foster (1826-1864), songwriter; Calvin C lidge (18721933), 30th U.S. president; Eva Marie Saint (1924- ), actre ; Neil Simon (1927-2018), playwright; George Steinbre er (1930-2010), New York Yank s owner; Bi Withers (1938-2020), singersongwriter; Koko (1971-2018), gori a; Post Malone (1995- ), singer-songwriter.

Adam

Nancy

Founded by Betty Debnam

The Bayou State

Louisiana, our 31st-largest state, is bordered by Arkansas, Texas, Mississippi and the Gulf of Mexico. It is known for the Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans, the Mississippi River, its wetlands and seafood. More than 4.6 million people live in the state.

Robert de LaSalle, a French explorer, claimed the land drained by the Mississippi River for France in 1682, naming it “Louisiane” after King Louis XIV.

The state was a part of the Louisiana Purchase, western territory the U.S. bought from France in 1803 for $15 million.

French history is still strong there today, and French is the main language spoken in some regions of the state. More than 4.5% of the population speaks French.

Baton Rouge is Louisiana’s capital. Its name means “red stick” in French. The capitol building is 450 feet high, the tallest capitol in the nation.

Working in Louisiana

Louisiana is a top producer in the U.S. of salt, natural gas and petroleum. It is also a leader in crawfish, shrimp and oyster production. The top crop is soybeans.

Sugar is an important crop. The Domino Sugar refinery near New Orleans is the largest in the country.

Tourism is important to the economy of Louisiana, bringing in about $16.8 billion annually to the state.

Living in Louisiana

The Bayou State has vibrant cities, prairies, woodlands and rivers. (“Bayou” comes from a Choctaw word meaning “river.”) The Mississippi River, which continues to the Gulf of Mexico, was a major path of transportation until modern times. Today, the river is still used for moving manufactured and agricultural goods north and south.

New Orleans is the state’s largest city and one of the busiest ports in the world. Its nicknames include “The Big Easy” and the “Cradle of Jazz.”

Mardi Gras is French for “Fat Tuesday.” It is a celebration filled with parades and balls. It attracts many visitors. Mardi Gras begins each year on the day before Ash Wednesday.

Sports

The New Orleans Saints of the National Football League and the New Orleans Pelicans of the National Basketball Association draw many fans. The city has hosted the Super Bowl 10 times. It is scheduled to be played there again in 2025.

Argentina’s typically abundant corn crop is being ravaged by an invasion of leafhopper bugs, which are infesting fields that were once too cool for them to thrive. With climate change bringing less winter frost to curb their numbers and regular summertime heat waves for them to feed in, leafhopper populations in Argentina are now at 10 times the average level, according to agriculture experts. The hungry bugs are currently being found about 1,000 miles south of their traditional habitats.

Famous Louisianans

• Actor and filmmaker Tyler Perry was born in New Orleans. He is famous for the films he has written about the character Madea, an older Black woman. He’s also written books and plays.

• Louis Armstrong was a famous jazz cornet and trumpet player, singer and entertainer. Armstrong was born in New Orleans on Aug. 4, 1901. He died in 1971.

Armstrong moved to Chicago in 1922 and recorded his first solo in 1923. In 1926, he popularized a form of rhythmic singing without words called “scat singing.” That was when he switched from playing the cornet to the trumpet.

• Former professional football quarterbacks Peyton and Eli Manning were born in New Orleans. Peyton played for the Indianapolis Colts and the Denver Broncos. Eli played for the New York Giants.

Along with their dad and brother Cooper, the Mannings run a five-day camp every summer to help offensive players improve their skills.

RESOURCES

On the Web:

• bit.ly/MPLouisiana

At the library:

• “Hello, My Name Is Louisiana Purchase

O’Leary” by Jonathan Hickman

• “Boudreaux the Louisiana Mosquiteaux” by Stacy Bearden

Mini Page® © 2024 Andrews McMeel Syndication

Mini Fact: The French Quarter in New Orleans is full of historic buildings, restaurants and jazz clubs.

photo by Pedro Szekely

photo courtesy Natural Earth and Portland State University

Louis Armstrong

The Louisiana Purchase is shown in white.

TRY ’N’ FIND

Words that remind us of Louisiana are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters

ARMSTRONG, BATON ROUGE, BAYOU, FRENCH, GULF, JAZZ, LOUISIANA, MANNING, NEW ORLEANS, PERRY, PORT, PURCHASE, QUARTER, RIVER, SEAFOOD, SUPER BOWL, TOURISM, WETLANDS.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Please take notice that in accordance with Florida Statute 328.17, MilesHawk Marine, LLC dba-Shelter Bay Marine claims a possessory lien on the following described vessels.

1st, owned by Frank Calabrese for unpaid storage fees: a 1998, Mako 17, Florida Registration # FL 4388KK and HIN #MRK0421LA898.

2nd, owned by Mike Olszewski for unpaid storage fees and repair charges: a 2005, Boston Whaler 220 Dauntless, Florida Registration #FL 1626MU and HIN# USBWCE0899L405.

These vessels to be sold or disposed of on or after 8:00AM, July 12th, 2024, at Shelter Bay Marine, 77 Coco Plum Dr., Marathon, FL 33050. MilesHawk Marine, LLC dbaShelter Bay Marine, reserves the right to reject any and all/ bids.

Publish: June 27 & July 4, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice of Seizure that in accordance with Florida Statutes 83.805/83.506, Upper Keys Commerce Center, 97300 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 will sell or otherwise dispose of the personal contents of the following unit to satisfy the delinquent storage lien. All contents in: Unit 82 – Tonya Skillman Sale of all goods will be 7/26/24 at 10:00 am at 97300 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo Florida 33037. Upper Keys Commerce Center reserves the right to accept or reject any and all bids.

Publish: July 4 & 11, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The Monroe County Tourist Development Council will hold their regularly scheduled meeting at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 30, 2024. This will be a hybrid meeting of in person at the Murray Nelson Government Center (102050 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037) and Communications Media Technology using a Zoom webinar platform: Monroe County Tourist Development Council Meeting Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/83300176016 Or iPhone one-tap: US: +16465189805,, 83300176016# or +16699006833,, 83300176016# Or Telephone: Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 646 518 9805  or +1 669 900 6833 Webinar ID: 833 0017 6016 International numbers available: zoom.us/u/kdfeTtPHLBhttps://mcbocc.

The Visit Florida Keys Corporation will also convene during this meeting. All Tourist Development Council Meetings are open to the public, and one or more County Commissioners may be in attendance. If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the board with respect to any matter considered at such meeting or hearing, they will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, they may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the Monroe County Administrator’s Office, by phoning 305-292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting. If you

are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”.

Publish:

July 4, 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, with the exception of the August 1st Board Meeting which will be hybrid. 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

Membership Committee

Meeting

Thursday, July11, 2024 at 3:30 PM

Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 834 8759 6648 Passcode: 327349

Membership Committee

Meeting

Thursday, July 18, 2024 at 10:30 AM

Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 869 3771 9326 Passcode: 226532

Grant Review Panel

Thursday, July 18, 2024 at 3:00 PM

Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 822 8162 3275 Passcode: 331284

Grant Review Panel # 2

Friday, July 19, 2024 at 11:00 AM Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 820 5644 3087 Passcode: 378891

Membership Committee

Meeting

Thursday, July 25, 2024 at 3:30 PM

Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 832 5502 4789 Passcode: 106774

Board of Directors Meeting & Retreat – hybrid mtg

Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 10:00 AM

Marathon Library Community room and Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 824 2079 3431 Passcode: 387593

Publish: July 4, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 23-CA-000268-M RED MANGROVE HOLDINGS, LLC, a Florida Limited Liability Company, Plaintiff, v. MARATHON DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS, LLC, a Florida limited liability company, CEDAR OAK REI, INC., an Idaho for-profit corporation, MARK RAY GERENGER, personal guarantor, ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER, AND AGAINST THE HEREIN NAMED INDIVIDUAL DEFENDANT(S)WHO ARE NOT KNOWN TO BE DEAD OR ALIVE, WHETHER SAID UNKNOWN PARTIES MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, OR OTHER CLAIMANTS, and ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN OCCUPANT(S) or TENANT(S) of 329 63RD COURT GULF, MARATHON, FLORIDA 33050 AND 57468 AND 57478 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, GRASSY KEY, FLORIDA 33050, Defendants. NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 23rd day of July, 2024 at 11:00 a.m., on the front courthouse steps at 500 Whitehead Street,

Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Property Address: 329 63RD COURT GULF, MARATHON, FLORIDA 33050; AND 57468 AND 57478 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, GRASSY KEY, FLORIDA 33050. Pursuant to FINAL JUDGMENT of FORECLOSURE SALE SCHEDULED FOR JULY 23, 2024, AND SALE DATE entered in a case pending in said Court, of JULY 23, 2024, the Style of which is: RED MANGROVE HOLDINGS, LLC, a Florida limited liability company, Plaintiff, vs. MARATHON DEVELOPMENT

PARTNERS, LLC, a Florida limited liability company, et.al., Defendants, and the Docket Number of which is 23-CA-000268-M. WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 24TH day of June 2024.

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

Publish: July 4 & 11, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

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

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NUMBER: 24-CP-333-P IN RE: ESTATE OF DONNA ARNOLD Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of DONNA ARNOLD, deceased, whose date of death was 8 June 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, Florida 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT 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: July 4, 2024

Personal Representative: Robert Arnold 126 Mohawk St. Tavernier, FL 33070

Attorney for Personal Representative: Tom Woods, Esq.

Florida Bar No.: 0525197 116 Porto Salvo Drive Islamorada, Florida 33036

Phone: 305.664.2200 Fax 2205

Primary Email: tom@ tomwoodslaw.com

Secondary Email: eserve@ tomwoodslaw.com

Publish: July 4 & 11, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 2024-CP-000321-M IN RE: ESTATE OF GARY W. BURATTI, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of GARY W. BURATTI, deceased, whose date of death was January 17, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, FL, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 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 the 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: July 4, 2024.

Personal Representative: Christine M. Watt 66 Coco Plum Drive Marathon, FL 33050

Attorney for Personal Representative: Michael A. Siefert, Esquire Florida Bar No. 042315

Michael A. Siefert, P.A. 121 NW 3rd Street Ocala, FL 34475

Telephone: (352) 732-0141

E-mail: msiefert@aol.com

Publish:

July 4 & 11, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-329-M

DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS

IN RE: ESTATE OF DALE DENNING

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of DALE DENNING, deceased, whose date of death was June 11, 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 personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211.

The date of first publication of this notice is: July 4, 2024.

Personal Representative: Vesta Medernach Denning 1509 Sombrero Blvd. Marathon, Florida 33050

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:

July 4 & 11, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 24-CP-000328-PK IN RE: ESTATE OF WILLIAM T. SCHEALL

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of WILLIAM T. SCHEALL, deceased, whose date of death was May 15, 2024; is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; File Number 24-CP-000328-PK, 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, and who have been served a copy of this notice, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY (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 the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE

OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED 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: JULY 4, 2024.

Personal Representative: JOHN SCHEALL, JR. 1304 Perry St. Lakeland, FL 33801

Attorney for Personal Representative: JOHN MICHAEL LYNN, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 0147273

Turner & Lynn, P.A. 7 Barracuda Lane Key Largo, Florida 33037 Telephone: (305) 367-0911 turnerlynnpa@gmail.com

Publish: July 4 & 11, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2024-CP-306-P IN RE: ESTATE OF GLORYANNE SANDREY Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of GLORYANNE SANDREY, deceased, whose date of death was January 24, 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 SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: July 4, 2024.

Personal Representatives: Christopher Sandrey 1870 Ocean Way Vero Beach, FL 32963 Ilona Joy Sandrey 1870 Ocean Way Vero Beach, FL 32963

Attorney for Personal Representatives: URBAN J. W. PATTERSON, ESQ.

Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com

Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@yahoo.com

Florida Bar No. 382035

Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A. P.O. Box 783 Islamorada, Florida 33036

Telephone: 305-664-5065

Publish: July 4 & 11, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO. 24-CP-000270-P IN RE: ESTATE OF EWA W. TARASIEWICZ Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the Estate of Ewa W. Tarasiewicz, deceased, whose date of death was December 26, 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 personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211. The date of first publication of this notice is: June 27, 2024. Personal Representative: Ewa Matuszek-Soja c/o Sloto & Diamond, PLLC 9100 S. Dadeland Boulevard, Suite 1607 Miami, Florida 33156 Attorney for Personal Representative: James R. Sloto, Esquire Florida Bar Number: 223867 Sloto & Diamond, PLLC 9100 S. Dadeland Boulevard, Suite 1607 Miami, Florida 33156 Telephone: (305) 379-1792

Fax: (305) 379-2328

E-Mail: eservice@slotolaw.com

Publish:

June 27 & July 4, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-000292-P IN RE: ESTATE OF GEORGE BRAINARD LUCAS, JR. Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of George Brainard Lucas, Jr., deceased, whose date of death was November 4, 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, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representatives are Ralf Sellig, 60 Johnson Street, Bay Head, NJ 08742; Patricia W. Lucas, 10 Bay Ridge Road, Key Largo,

FL 33037; Russell Lucas, 904 Barnegat Lane, Mantoloking NJ 08738; Nancy Mignon, 61 Johnson Street, Bay Head, NJ 08742 ; and the name and address of the personal representatives’ attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the 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 THREE 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 THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN § 733.702, FLORIDA STATUTES, WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: June 27, 2024.

Personal Representative: Ralf Sellig 60 Johnson Street Bay Head, NJ 08742

Attorney for Personal Representative: Bruce A. McDonald Florida Bar No. 263311 Suite B, PMB # 137 707 E. Cervantes St. Pensacola, FL 32501-3286 Ph. 850-346-7926 bamcdonald@pensacolalaw.

com

Publish: June 27 & July 4, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

AUTOS WANTED

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

AUTOS FOR SALE

1964 Ford Galaxy, 427 Big Block, 5-speed, located in Key Largo. $50,000 954-445-6647

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

BOATS FOR SALE

Key Largo 21' Deep V Center Console w/trailer. New 150hp motor & electronics. Ready to fish. $32,500 cash. Located in Marathon. 201-696-8906

Rampage 25X10 Diesel Center Console. Charter fish rigged. 20 Rods & Reels + equip. Located in Marathon. 305-619-5282

FREE - 2 PONTOON BOATS 24' AND 18' Located in Marathon. Call 305-610-8002

Place your BOAT FOR SALE 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

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

EMPLOYMENT

Frank’s Grill - NOW HIRING: PM SERVER4p-Closing. Apply in person at 11400 Overseas Highway, Marathon 305-289-7772

Marathon: Looking for 2 College Students interested in 2-3 hours of work for 1 day restoring a Trawler Boat. May lead to additional hours. Cleaning, sanding, staining, scraping and painting outside of Boat $25.00 an hour. Contact a Friend and apply together. Call (508) 566-3538

SKILLED PLUMBERS Full Service & Construction. Immediate Openings in Upper Keys. Full-time & Part-time. Motivated - Great Mechanical & Problem Solving Skills – Read & Speak EnglishClean driving record. Pay Rate based on experience, ownership of working tools, and transportation. E-mail: PlumbersinParadise@ outlook.com for application.

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.

Saturday front desk office person needed to answer phones and greet walk in customers at Big Pine Real Estate Office. Call Frank 561-2839969 or DD 305-289-6486

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 305743-6739 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.

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.

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Housekeeper at Poinciana Gardens, Server at Poinciana Gardens, Med Tech PT/Nights, PT Housing Assistant, Housing Choice Voucher Asst., PT Receptionist, Housing Manager-Middle Keys, Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker, and HVAC Maintenance Mechanic $64.480-$72,800/yr. plus benefits. 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.

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

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

PRIVATE

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

ANNUAL RENTALKey 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

Available for 1 person. 2 1/2 rooms + 8' X 22' screened porch. All utilities incl. wifi, satellite TV, washer/dryer. 2nd house from ocean. Off-street parking. Private & quiet. MM 96 Key Largo. $1,950/ month F/L/S 305-853-3779

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

Conch House - Studio for Rent in Marathon. $960/month furnished + utilities. Dockage available. No Pets. 305-610-8002

Large One Bedroom Suite, Conch House, carpet, tile, appliances, available for rent in Marathon. $2,000/month furnished all included. Weekly payments possible. Dockage available. No Pets. 305-610-8002

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

HOUSING WANTED

Female teacher seeks living space in Key West. Need Washer/Dryer, Bathroom & Kitchen. Available to pet sit for you. 202-531-9878

RV SITE FOR RENT

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

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

SALES

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

MARINE MECHANIC

Experienced to inspect, service & repair marine engines, boat steering & hydraulic systems. Ability

ADMIN/OFFICE HELP

Must

and

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS COORDINATOR

Join a workforce where innovation and teamwork provide support to the employees, retirees, community and citizens of Monroe County! The Employee Benefits Coordinator handles the eligibility of all participants in the MC BOCC’s health, pharmaceutical, life, dental and visions plans, including enrollment, dependent coverage, terminations, and retirement. Monroe County offers an excellent benefits package and is a member of the Florida Retirement System (FRS). Onsite position in Key West, 40 HPW. Annual salary range: $54,626.40 - $69,648.67, based on experience.

To view job descriptions and apply, visit: www.monroecounty-fl.gov/jobs. For questions, contact Human Resources at: Careers@MonroeCounty-FL.gov or 305-292-4554. Deadline – Open until filled. Veteran’s preference available; E.O.E.

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.

We are seeking a full time dedicated in-home caregiver to provide care to our loved one in a comfortable home environment in Marathon.

Responsibilities:

• Provide personal care including bathing, dressing, and grooming

• Administer medications as prescribed

• Prepare nutritious meals and assist with feeding

• Monitor and report changes in health or behavior

Requirements:

• Previous experience in caregiving or a related field

• Certification in CPR and First Aid

• Ability to lift and assist with mobility

• Reliable transportation

to multi-task,

communication

resume to captpips@aol.com or come in the of ce to ll out application. 1480 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 CAPTAIN

• Certification such as CNA, HHA preferred but not required.

Please send your resume to dale@marathonlumber.com or contact 305.743.3688 ask for Dale or Tricia for more information.

PART-TIME POSITION CITY ADMINISTRATOR

The City of Key Colony Beach, Florida is seeking a part-time CITY ADMINISTRATOR, via independent contract. The position is compensated based upon experience and will not provide any benefits.

IS HIRING

FULL TIME PROJECT MANAGER ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE ACCOUNTS PAYABLE IN THE UPPER KEYS

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

Call 305-407-3262 or email info@floridakeysaquariumencounters.com 11710 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON EXPERIENCED ELECTRICIANS AND HELPERS NEEDED

Experience is required. Must have a valid driver’s license. We offer 401K, medical insurance, paid holidays and paid vacation. Positions available in Key West and Marathon. 305-292-3369

Turtle Hospital in Marathon Join our team! Full and part-time Educational Program Guides/ Gift Shop Sales. Public speaking & retail sales experience helpful. $18/hour to start. Send resume to: turtlehospital@turtlehospital.org

Duties will include all referenced in Section 5-5 of the City’s Code of Ordinances. Duties include, but not limited to, following the leadership of the City Commission and assist in implementing Commission programs and priorities, attend City Commission and other appropriate meetings, and represent the City in dealing with other governmental entities, outside agencies and residents as appropriate and necessary.

All interested individuals should contact cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net for an application, and submit the application with a resume and cover letter to cityclerk@keycolonybeach.net.

The City of Key Colony Beach is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, political affiliation, disability, or any other characteristic or basis protected under federal or state law.

WE ARE HIRING!

PLANT STORE MANAGER FT  KEY WEST

MARC is looking for a 40-hr/wk. manager. Good social/business skills, above average computer skills required (knowledge of POS a plus). Knowledge of tropical plants is helpful. Requires a lot of manual labor and must be able to lift at least 50 pounds. Must be able to work weekends and evenings as the season requires.*

IN HOME SUPPORT

KEY WEST

MARC 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. This is a rewarding position for the right person. *

CLIENT MEDICAL SERVICES ASSISTANT

Full-time assisting our clients with dental, medical and transportation appts. Act as liaison between clients, families and support staff. Requires some on-call responsibility. Min. requirement Florida certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant. *

*ALSO REQUIRED FOR ALL POSITIONS:

Fluent in English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Level 2 background screening and valid Florida driver’s license.

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

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.

SUNSET GRILLE IS HIRING

Moorings Village is seeking friendly, self motivated, team players for the

LIVE IN PARADISE AND SEE DOLPHINS PLAY EVERYDAY!

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER is a fun, environmentally friendly non-profit 501(c)(3) Corporation specializing in education, research, and rescue of marine mammals.

We have openings in multiple departments. Please scan the QR code to visit the careers page on our website.

DRC seeks to provide for the well-being of its employees by offering a competitive total package.

DRC currently offers a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays, vacation, sick and an employee assistance program.

DRC also provides life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee.

COME JOIN THE FAMILY!

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

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

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

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.

OPENINGS AVAILABLE

PHYSICIAN PRACTICE

OPENINGS

- Nurse Practitioner, Primary Care Marathon, FT

- Physician Assistant, Surgical Ortho, Tavernier, FT

TAVERNIER MARINERS

HOSPITAL

- Cook, Dietary, $5,000 Bonus, FT

- Exercise Physiologist, Per Diem

- Group Exercise Instructor, Per Diem-Pool

- Lead First Cook, Dietary, $5,000 Bonus, FT

- Multi-Modality Imag Tech, Radiology, $10,000 Bonus, PT

- Nuclear Medicine Tech, Per Diem

- Phlebotomist, Laboratory, Per Diem

- Radiology Technologist, Imaging-MRI, $15,000 Bonus, FT

- Registered Nurse, ICU, $25,000 Bonus, FT

- Registered Nurse, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, FT

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S

COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- ED Team Coordinator, Emergency Department, FT

- Experience Advisor, FT

- First Cook, Dietary, $5,000 Bonus, FT

- Lead Med Technologist, Laboratory, $15,000 Bonus, FT

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

- Medical Technologist, Laboratory, $15,000 Bonus, FT

- Radiology Technologist, Radiology, $15,000 Bonus, FT

- Security Of cer, Security/Safety, 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

Peer Support Specialist

Advocate (PT)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult) Case Manager (Adult, Child) Substance Abuse Counselor Prevention Specialist

MARATHON 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.

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

Drivers Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon