Marathon Weekly 24-0822 by Keys Weekly Newspapers

Your Business, Your Legacy:

Planning

for the

By First Horizon Bank

Future of Your Company and Your Family

For business owners, estate planning and succession planning are inextricably linked. After all, building a business, like raising a family, is a labor of love.

Whether we are thinking about the next generation or the next leaders of our company, planning is really about continuing the love that we poured into the people and endeavors most important to us.

That’s why Jennifer Schuchart, First Horizon Bank Market President; Paul Lankau, Financial Advisor at First Horizon Advisors, Inc.; and Wendy Martin, Senior Trust Officer at First Horizon Bank, work together to help entrepreneurs map their transition into retirement and beyond.

Here’s an excerpt of a recent conversation with Jennifer, Paul and Wendy about how they help business owners plan their legacy on both a personal and business level.

How does succession planning overlap with estate planning?

Wendy: Both involve wealth transfer, with business succession planning occurring during life, and estate planning occurring during life and also afterward. The overlap occurs often, especially if there are multiple heirs, or some heirs who do not work in the business.

As an example, passing things down to multiple heirs can be even more complex, and good estate planning can assist in fair distributions when a business is involved. Let’s say my younger child works in my business and the older one does not. When I pass away, I’d naturally want to leave the business to the child who works in it. I also want to leave something to my child who is not involved in the business, but it doesn’t make sense to leave a stake in the business to them. In fact, it could cause a lot of conflict. I would want to consider the other facets of my estate planning in that decision.

In cases like that, it’s critically important for a business owner to think about estate planning beyond just the business.

Do other financial planning aspects overlap with business succession planning?

Jennifer: Retirement. Business owners may understand that they need to plan for death or disability, but they may not think about the fact that most of them are also counting on their business to fund their retirement. Transitioning out of the business is really not an if, but a when.

Succession planning helps with the unexpected, but it’s also part of planning for the expected events such as retirement. In both cases – just like with estate planning – the main goal is to eliminate as much uncertainty as possible about the future.

What if the person you picture running the business next isn’t the person you want to leave your estate to?

Wendy: Sometimes the person you identify as the ideal next person to own the business is a key employee or partner. That doesn’t mean you have to give the company to them. We can help you plan for that transition and take care of your family as well. What you could do in this case is craft a plan for the employee or partner to buy the business when you are ready to step away, or if you die early or become disabled.

One solution might be a buy/sell agreement.* That simply creates a pathway for one partner to buy out the other’s stake in the business. Equally as important as drafting the agreement is funding it. If your heirs aren’t inheriting your business outright, but you want them to receive the value of the business, clearly someone is going to have to pay them for it.

We think of our banker for things such as loans and deposits. How do you help with other more wide-reaching issues?

Paul: Our financial planners will take time to ask questions to kick off the process. Once business owners decide to make or update a business

succession plan or an estate plan, we can pull in attorneys, CPAs and other experts to get everything in place.

How do you put clients at ease when the stakes are so high?

Jennifer: We start with a question like, “Where do you see the future of your business when you’re no longer involved?” Even if they haven’t put anything on paper, most business owners know the answer to that question. That usually starts us off in a conversation both about succession planning and estate planning, because they’re going to have both professional and personal goals.

Q6 What’s the consistent approach you’ve taken to make sure your guidance is tailor-made for each client?

Wendy: From there, we enlist the help of experts, like financial planners, accountants, attorneys and trust officers to forge an action plan. Then we help implement that plan. Finally, we conduct periodic reviews to make sure the plan is accomplishing what we set out to do. This allows us to identify early if we’re getting off track and make course corrections to put us back on the straight and narrow.

Throughout this process, we’re building a long-term relationship with the client. One way First Horizon brings value to that relationship is the teamwork we practice. For instance, when Jennifer and a banker are meeting with a client, they consider whether this person could benefit from meeting with me as well. We arrange for the client to sit down with experts within our bank and in our network, to help them eliminate uncertainty about the future and plan that eventual transition.

To learn more about how we can help with your estate planning, contact First Horizon banker Dwight Hill at 305-808-2223 or dwight.hill@firsthorizon.com.

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Members of

27.9%

Between vote by mail, early voting and ballots cast during the Aug. 20 primary, the Monroe County supervisor of elections reported a 27.9% voter turnout. Of the 50,459 eligible voters in the county, a total of 14,078 cast ballots for the various races in the Keys.

By Mandy Miles, Jim McCarthy and Alex Rickert

By the end of the night on Aug. 20, some candidates for critical county oﬃces waved victory ﬂags, while others celebrated their first hurdles on the way to November showdowns. For full primary election coverage, see page 6. PEXELS

ROMAN GASTESI INDICTED FOR ATTEMPTED COVER-UP IN COUNTY DRUG THEFT SCANDAL

Grand jury reports expected to shed light on 4 indictments prompted by ﬁre rescue case

Agrand jury has indicted retired county administrator Roman Gastesi, who was slated to return to the top county job next month, for official misconduct in connection with the ongoing investigation into the theft, loss and attempted cover-up of more than 600 missing vials of fentanyl, morphine and other narcotics from the county’s Trauma Star medical helicopter service.

The misconduct charge “stems from alleged actions that took place between Aug. 11 and Nov. 17, 2022, during which Mr. Gastesi is accused of knowingly and intentionally obstructing, delaying, or preventing the communication of information relating to the commission of a felony that directly affected the government entity he served,” stated an Aug. 16 report from the Monroe County State Attorney’s Office (SAO).

“This charge is classified as a thirddegree felony under Florida Statute 838.022(1)(c). If convicted, Mr. Gastesi could face up to five years in prison, five years of probation, and a fine of up to $5,000.”

“Mr. Gastesi’s alleged actions reflect a pattern of misconduct that affects our community’s trust in government, and we are fully committed to ensuring justice is served,” State Attorney Dennis Ward said.

Judge Mark Wilson has signed a document for Mr. Gastesi’s arrest and set bond at $25,000, the state attorney’s office said in its press release. He was book, processed and

released from the Plantation Key Detention Center on Aug. 16

“We literally just found out as we were on our way up here to Key Largo (for the groundbreaking of the Twin Lakes flood mitigation project),” Monroe County Mayor Holly Raschein told the Keys Weekly the morning of Aug. 16. “We need to be proactive and work to restore accountability and transparency and the people’s faith in our county.”

In a press release that same day, county spokeswoman Kristen Livengood said that Gastesi’s position as a voluntary adviser, held since his retirement in February, had been terminated.

“County operations will continue as they have for the past six months. These are serious criminal charges, and we are taking these allegations very seriously,” said acting county administrator Kevin Wilson, who will continue to serve in the post. “We will follow due process while we await formal court proceedings. Our first priority is to ensure that the county’s services continue for

our residents and visitors without interruptions.”

“It’s important to remember that the theft of the drugs occurred two years ago, but the ongoing efforts by Monroe County Fire Rescue from medics to managers, all the way up to the top levels of county government, to conceal and cover up the large-scale theft of pharmaceutical narcotics is deeply troubling,” Sheriff Rick Ramsay told the Keys Weekly on Aug. 16. “Trauma Star continues to operate safely and efficiently today. Residents can have confidence in the sheriff, the sheriff’s office and Trauma Star. What’s at issue is people’s trust in county government and Monroe County Fire Rescue.”

Clerk’s Trauma Star audit fueled indictments

Gastesi’s is the fourth indictment connected to the investigation into Monroe County Fire Rescue, which oversees the daily operations continued on page 10

Capt. Andrea Thompson, left, and Dr. Sandra Schwemmer, both of Monroe County Fire Rescue and Trauma Star face felony charges.

Retired county administrator Roman Gastesi.

RACES DECIDED & PARTY NOMINATIONS SECURED DURING PRIMARY ELECTION

An Aug. 20 primary in the Florida Keys saw several candidates handily winning their races and taking their seats. Others successfully secured the Republican or Democratic nomination as they head to the November general election for a chance to represent Florida Keys residents. Here is a roundup of the results and candidate reactions as the vote tallies came in through the night. Many candidates attended a forum at the Harvey Government Center in Key West as the results came in.

14,078 50,459 27.9% ballots counted registered voters voter turnout

U.S. SENATE (Republican)

Rick Scott - 1,272,256 (84.39%)

Keith Gross - 140,959 (9.35%)

John S. Columbus - 94,356 (6.26%)

“Thank you, Florida. Looking forward to a big win in November.” — Rick Scott

U.S SENATE (Democrat)

Debbie Mucarsel-Powell - 735,214 (68.53%)

Stanley Campbell - 209,555 (19.53%)

Brian Rush - 72,158 (6.73%)

Rod Joseph - 55,899 (5.21%)

“Thank you, Florida. Now let’s win November!”

MONROE COUNTY SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS (Republican)

Sherri Hodies - 3,891 (60.83%)

Margaret Romero - 2,506 (39.17%)

“I had this huge sincerity that I wanted to put myself out there as not a politician but as a person as like any one of us sitting in this room or out there voting.” — Sherri Hodies

MONROE COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 5 (Republican)

Holly Raschein - 7,223 (55.10%)

Melissa Ptomey - 4,802 (36.63%)

Paul Wunderlich - 1,085 (8.28%)

“Negative campaigns don’t work down here in this amazing community. When you personally attack people, I think it diminishes from your reasons for running for office. Recognizing what the people need right now is critical to restoring faith in our communities.” — Holly Raschein

MONROE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 2

Yvette Mira-Talbott - 7,667 (58.38%)

Zach Bentley - 5,465 (41.62%)

“I’ve always been a supporter of education and children. I think it was clear from the beginning that was my goal.” — Yvette Mira-Talbott

STATE COMMITTEEMAN (Republican)

Stephen Hammond - 2,620 (45.70%)

Michael Washam - 1,665 (29.04%)

Casey Scheu - 1,448 (25.26%)

— Debbie Mucarsel-Powell

STATE COMMITTEEWOMAN (Republican)

Bethany Bartlett - 2,236 (38.80%)

Kathy Ovide - 1,932 (33.52%)

Jill Davis - 1,595 (27.68%)

A FINE NEW FIN

Marathon High dedicates beautiful new seascape

ALEX RICKERT

alex@keysweekly.com

Atowering new dolphin will watch over Marathon High School students for years to come, thanks to one of the school’s teachers.

On Aug. 16, students, faculty and dignitaries filled the MHS parking lot to officially commemorate the signing and dedication of the school’s freshly-painted mahi mural, completed by artist Shannon Paul Wiley.

“When I look at the new mural, I see a strong, beautiful dolphin,” said MHS principal Christine Paul. “I feel it truly promotes our school spirit and school pride, and unifies us as the Dolphins family.”

“The community at large has been so supportive of it,” said Wiley, who made the

move from Stanley Switlik Elementary to the high school in January 2024 in hopes of expanding MHS’ art program.

He thanked the contributions of Sherwin Williams, Home Depot and Sunbelt Rentals for supplies and equipment, as well as steadfast support from Paul for the project.

“It’s something I thought was necessary after the old mural was tarnished. Christine has been amazing,” he said. “I worked with her at Switlik and she’s the reason I’m at Marathon High.”

While the Class of 2025 offered funding to complete the mural as their senior gift, Wiley chose to donate his time, instead directing the funds as a contribu-

1-2. From vision to reality: A pencil sketch becomes a towering mural welcoming students at Marathon High School. 3. Marathon High School SGA president Leo Mendez cuts the ribbon held by classmates Gaby Gutierrez and Marisol Diaz to dedicate the new mural. From left, Gutierrez, MHS principal Christine Paul, Superintendent Theresa Axford, Mendez, Diaz and Marathon Chamber of Commerce CEO Daniel Samess. 4. Shannon Wiley saves his final strokes for last, signing his name to the freshly-dedicated mural.

Photos by Alex Rickert and Shannon Wiley.

tion to the WileyArt Kids Foundation to provide scholarships to budding artists.

Wiley said the blessing of local muralist Yoslan O’Farrill, the creator of the school’s previous mural in the refreshed space, was critical before beginning his work.

“I reached out to Yoslan and checked, asked if he wanted to do the mural with me,” Wiley said. “He said he had nothing but love for the Marathon community, but said ‘I just want you to make it the way you want to make it. I don’t need to be involved, I just want the best for the students and the community.’”

One item onlookers may not have noticed: an “angel cloud” in the corner of the mural, dedicated to local teen Ben Segard, who passed away in a spearfishing accident in August 2023.

“He was a beacon of positivity, a young athlete who made a difference in my life serving as his soccer coach, a boy who inspired me, his teammates, friends, likely everyone he met,” Wiley wrote in a Facebook post. “(The cloud), was my tribute to him and to his family, individuals I shall forever cherish.”

ROMAN GASTESI INDICTED FOR ATTEMPTED COVER-UP IN COUNTY DRUG THEFT SCANDAL

of Trauma Star, and its controlled substance protocols, or lack thereof.

All investigations stemmed from a 2023 audit by the county clerk’s office of Monroe County Fire Rescue’s controlled substances protocols. The audit report noted no wrongdoing on the part of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, but offered a scathing review of MCFR’s controlled substances protocols and was highly critical of senior county administration.

The nearly 80-page audit report details massive discrepancies in controlled substance inventory records due to theft, stating that “controlled substances were being diverted by MCFR staff along with a widespread lack of management oversight.”

The audit details a total of 623 vials of controlled substances missing from inventory logs during the audit period — June 2021 through July 2022 — including 242 vials of Dilaudid and 219 of fentanyl. Though it acknowledges that some discrepancies could be due to sloppiness in record-keeping, which are extensively criticized throughout the report, it estimates that 246 missing vials – including 91 of fentanyl and 84 of Dilaudid – were likely stolen via the intentional falsification of records.

Former chief flight nurse Lynda Rusinowski, who admitted last year to the theft of narcotics due to an addiction, was the first to be indicted. Rusinowski’s indictment was quickly followed by those of former MCFR and Trauma Star medical director Dr. Sandra L. Schwemmer and Trauma Star division chief Andrea Thompson.

As announced in multiple SAO press releases, Thompson stands to face 11 total charges – a combination of official misconduct, falsifying patient records and providing false information to law enforcement. Schwemmer faces a total of three charges – one count of official misconduct, one of providing false information to law enforcement and one of altering patient records.

In an Aug. 9 press release, the county announced that it would terminate its contract with Schwemmer’s company for medical director services immediately, and suspended Thompson without pay.

The sheriff’s office initially reported Rusinowski’s arrest in connection with 16 missing prefilled morphine syringes, adding

that officials with MCFR received an anonymous tip in late July 2022 about Rusinowski altering controlled substance inventory logs in an effort to pilfer the drugs. As chief flight nurse, she was an employee of Monroe County Fire Rescue, not the sheriff’s office.

The 2023 audit cites a lack of attention by Schwemmer as a “primary reason that the chief flight nurse’s alleged drug diversion activities went undetected for so long.” Schwemmer was counseled three times by then-Chief Steve Hudson about proper procedures and oversight, according to the audit report.

On Aug. 14, Monroe County hired Antonio Gandia as its medical director for ground and air ambulance services.

Thompson was investigated for allegedly removing syringes, tourniquets and other medical equipment from Rusinowski’s vehicle that could have been used as evidence in the criminal case. Thompson also allegedly drove Rusinowski to a South Florida rehab facility before she could be arrested.

County commission reacts, weighs second investigation

Upon learning of Gastesi’s indictment, county commissioner Craig Cates told the Keys Weekly he was very concerned for the county.

“He’s still innocent until proven guilty, but for public trust we have to show citizens we are taking this very seriously and will do what’s necessary to move forward,” he said. “I have faith in our current acting administrator Kevin Wilson to continue doing a great job now as we work through these issues. We can all promise we’ll come out of this better, with better policies so this never happens again.”

Cates told the Weekly he would propose hiring an independent third-party firm to follow up on the 2023 clerk’s audit during the BOCC’s Aug. 21 meeting in Key West. The meeting was in progress at presstime. Cates’ proposed agenda item reads, “Discussion regarding the Monroe County Grand Jury’s ongoing investigation into Monroe County Fire Rescue and the Trauma Star program and direction on whether the Board should retain an outside firm to conduct an independent investigation of this matter.”

“I’m not blaming anyone at all, but I hope

my fellow commissioners will agree we need to look closer at this,” he said. “This is life and death we’re dealing with and I think there are some aspects that weren’t thoroughly investigated or followed up on.”

County commissioner Michelle Lincoln told Keys Weekly that she welcomes an audit and investigation to “make sure we’re doing everything in the way we’re supposed to be doing to keep our county running the way it should run.”

“We’ll be in standby mode to see what this investigation and indictment leads to,” Lincoln said.

Grand jury reports expected

Additional details are expected when the county clerk releases the grand jury report with potentially damning details that prompted the recent MCFR and Monroe County indictments. At presstime, the reports were pending redaction by officials for individuals named in the investigation, but not yet indicted or charged with crimes.

“I don’t expect the report to include any wrongdoing at all by the sheriff’s office, but I do expect it to be highly critical of the management and administration of MCFR and the county,” Ramsay told the Weekly on Aug. 19. “And if it also includes recommendations for improvements and solutions, I’ll be glad to assist in any way I can.”

Schwemmer, Gastesi respond

In an Aug. 16 email to media members, Schwemmer’s attorney Kader Schull listed her career accomplishments, calling the allegations against the former medical director “totally inconsistent with someone who has dedicated most of her career to improving life-saving medical services in Monroe County and throughout South Florida.”

“She has fully cooperated with investigating missing medications from the air rescue hangar and will continue to do so,” he said. “She steadfastly maintains that she has not done any wrongdoing in this matter and looks forward to clearing her name in court.”

Gastesi declined to comment on the ongoing case on Aug. 20.

In Trauma Star operations, Monroe County Fire Rescue is in charge of the flight nurses, Trauma Star’s medical supplies, patient records and oversight of all three. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is in charge of the pilots and the Trauma Star helicopters that annually transport 1,200 to 1,300 patients, often with life-threatening conditions, to mainland hospitals.

By Mandy Miles, Jim McCarthy and Alex Rickert

City Council

Robyn Still, Mayor Lynn Landry, Vice Mayor

Luis Gonzalez, Councilmember

Jeff Smith, Councilmember

Kenny Matlock, Councilmember

RATE NOTICE TO FKAA WITH ADA 2024-REMOVE CAP

City Manager

George Garrett

City Attorney

Steve Williams

City Clerk

Diane Clavier, CMC

The Marathon City Council will hold a public hearing to consider a proposed rate and/or increase in the monthly wastewater utility bill charged to each property owner. The change proposed is the removal of the 12,000 gallon per cap on usage charges. The meeting will be held on August 27th at 5:30 PM at the Marathon Council Chambers located at 9805 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida. ADA Assistance: Anyone needing special assistance at the City Council hearing due to disability should contact the City of Marathon at (305) 743-0033 at least two days prior thereto.

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.

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

HAPPY HOUR 1-4PM $7 Menu

• Chicken wings, chicken livers and More!

• 32 beers on tap 1/2 off 2pm - 3pm

* $2 Pints of Yuengling and Bud Light!

BREAKFAST SERVED UNTIL 2PM

• Unique & interesting menu

• $3 Mimosas • $5 Breakfast Shots

LUNCH & DINNER

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

2 bedroom, 2 bath mobile home centrally located in mid Marathon. Large screened porch. 50 X 97lot. Reduced $325,000 MLS# 610518

LARGE SOMBRERO WATERFRONT DUPLEX

2 Bedrooms, 2 baths each side in this 2,752 sq ft duplex located on a 10,000 sq ft lot.. Great deep water access to the ocean or Gulf. Listed at appraised value. $1,800,000

• Lobster Enchiladas

• Diver Speared Local Fish

• Prime Rib • Local Lobster

• Cook Your Own Catch

• Great Seafood Selections

SUSHI

• Toro • Lionfish • Poke • Hamachi collar

• Fresh Uni arrives on Thursday

We would appreciate your Vote for Best Sushi, Best Burger & Best Bloody Mary!

Karen Bill

THE FINALISTS ARE HERE

Final voting opens for 2024 Best of Marathon

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

BEST SPECIALTY CONTRACTOR!

The primaries are over, but the most crucial voting in Marathon is just beginning. At noon on the day this paper hits newsstands throughout the Middle Keys, voting will go live for the finals in the 2024 Best of Marathon Awards.

Vote early and vote often for the businesses, people and places that make the Marathon community the treasured heart of the Florida Keys. And be sure to check out our new categories in addition to all your old favorites. Does Marianne Benvenuti, Catherine Dunn or Sandra Bradshaw give the best hugs on the island? Is Sweet Savannah’s, Conch Custard or The Wreck the best place to satisfy your sweet tooth? How about a favorite spot to grab a Cuban sandwich for lunch – is it La Niña, Steak and Lobster House or LJ’s Cafe?

In case you forgot, here’s a quick primer:

• Finalist voting opens at noon on Thursday, Aug. 22 and ends at midnight on Sunday, Sept. 8. See page 33 of this paper for a full list of finalists.

• Visit keysweekly.com/bom24 to cast your votes. Each voter may cast one ballot per day.

• In order for your ballot to count, you must make a selection in 75% of the categories. That means no voting just for your one friend –we want to hear your voice about the best businesses all over Marathon.

• It’s plain and simple: the finalist with the most votes in each category wins.

When voting concludes, we’ll throw the best party in town to celebrate our winners and raise money for the Marathon Rotary Club on Saturday, Sept. 21 at Hawks Cay Resort. Tickets are generally offered to winners first and are not generally made available to the public due to demand. Winners, nominees and dignitaries are invited to attend and additional attendees are selected from a first-come, first-served waiting list. To be placed on this list, please email patti@keysweekly.com.

The final chase is on. Go vote!

KEYS SANCTUARY SUPERINTENDENT TO LEAVE IN THE FALL

Fangman will take a West Coast post

NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries has selected Sarah Fangman, superintendent at Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, as West Coast region director. She replaces William Douros, who retired in June.

The West Coast Regional office of the national marine sanctuaries manages 15,333 square miles of marine protected areas around Channel Islands, Cordell Bank, Greater Farallones, Monterey Bay and Olympic Coast.

“Sarah brings to this position more than 25 years of experience managing multimillion-dollar budgets, leading large teams and executing innovative marine policies and programs,” said John Armor, director of the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries. “She excels at building strategic relationships and working collaboratively across multiple stakeholder groups to address complex environmental challenges, and is well known for her ability to set the right tone in difficult situations and as a visionary and a problem solver.”

Fangman has served in many operational and management roles at NOAA. A marine scientist, early in her NOAA career, she served as research coordinator at Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. She was superintendent at Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary in Georgia, before coming to the Keys in 2017, where she was charged with managing a protected area covering 3,800 square miles.

“It has been my great honor and privilege to serve as Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary superintendent,” said Fangman. “I want to express my deep appreciation for the staff of the sanctuary who work tirelessly on behalf of our community

In 2023, the Key West Military Affair Committee president-elect, Juan Llera, thanked sanctuary Superintendent Sarah Fangman for her presentation about heat stress on the coral reef. CONTRIBUTED

and our marine ecosystem, and who will continue this mission. I have been inspired by working with partners who are innovative, determined and committed to protecting and improving the marine resources of the Florida Keys.”

Fangman earned a bachelor’s degree from Middlebury College in Vermont and a master’s degree in marine affairs from the University of Washington. She later obtained a U.S. Coast Guard 100-ton master captain’s license in addition to being certified as a submersible pilot. She was twice a saturation diver at the Aquarius Reef Base, an underwater research laboratory located off Key Largo, and served as diver and divemaster on multiple research missions in the Keys aboard the NOAA ship Nancy Foster.

Fangman will move to the West Coast this fall.

— Contributed

COMMERCE CORNER

Established in 1970, Grassy Key Marina and Market offers a wide array of services including dry and wet boat storage, and a well maintained boat ramp. Grassy Key Marina and Market is a one stop shop that includes boat rentals, a well stocked grocery store, live/frozen bait, and all of your tackle needs. The marina is recently under new ownership and an emphasis has been placed on providing the customer service and setting that allows consumers to enjoy the beautiful Florida Keys. Jeff Vastola, owner, says the keys to their success is the upbeat atmosphere and helpful employees. "We are constantly striving to make improvements in our operations and aesthetically so that the marina is a place that suits the needs of all and provides a memorable experience" said Vastola. Grassy Key Marina and Market will never stop pushing to make its service and atmosphere better in hopes of continuing to meet all needs of Keys Residents and visitors alike.

In lieu of a full City Hall rebuild, the Key Colony Beach City Commission will explore options for an addition to the existing structure, an expansion of its second ﬂoor, or construction of an extra freestanding building. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

KEY COLONY BEACH DEBATES CITY HALL FLOODPLAINEXPANSION, RULE CHANGES

Amendments could make building easier, with insurance impacts

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

After a few dormant months, debate over plans to expand on Key Colony Beach’s existing City Hall building resurfaced at the KCB Commission’s Aug. 15 session.

In December 2023, the commission elected to cancel a previously-approved new City Hall, citing concerns over the building’s cost and the accuracy of bids received by the city. However, as Vice Mayor Freddie Foster reminded the commission, the city is still waiting to use $2.2 million in available Department of Environmental Protection grant funding – funds earmarked for efforts to harden the existing structure as an emergency operations center, or a potential addition to the building.

“Right now, I have a 50-50 match, and I’m thinking the only way we’re going to use that money is structuring a second floor,” Foster said. “I’m trying to get it to 70-30 … but I have to demonstrate a scope of work that identifies the difference between us spending the $12 million that we would have on a new City Hall versus what we’re doing now.”

Building Official Tony Loreno said that two engineers advised city staff that adding a second floor was “probably not a good idea,” instead suggesting an addition to the south or east side of the existing building, or an elevated two-level 5,000-square-foot building to be constructed at the current site of the city’s temporary post office trailer.

Secretary/Treasurer Tom Harding spoke in favor of a separate structure, while commissioner Doug Colonell said he still believed the addition of a second story was the most cost-effective alternative.

“I disagree with (a second building) because you’re doubling the amount of work,” Colonell said. “When somebody says (another

building) is going to cost $2 million, especially an engineer, it’s going to come back $5 million.”

“When we asked these questions (to the engineers) about the second floor, it was immediate from both of them, much to my surprise, that they were just immediately shaking their heads going ‘you don’t want to do that,’” said Mayor Joey Raspe.

“If we have some structural problems in the building now, we should be addressing those in this renovation,” said Colonell. “I agree it’s a lot easier to just design a new building than figure that out, but I think that’s a good space, and it could be captured (for) a lot less money.”

Loreno said city staff would await reports from engineering firms K2M and Campbell Engineering Consultants before preparing a scope of work to obtain accurate estimates for expansion options.

Floodplain regulation changes

Two changes to KCB’s floodplain regulations, both unanimously approved at Thursday’s session, should aid residents in repairing or improving damaged or ground-level homes.

Mirroring a change made in Marathon in 2021, the city will shrink its “substantial improvement” time period from three years to one year, increasing the degree to which residents can repair or improve their homes without a legal requirement to demolish and rebuild. Known as a key stipulation in FEMA’s infamous “50% rule,” homeowners were previously required to demolish and rebuild their homes if the cumulative value of repairs, alterations or improvements over a three-year period exceeded 50% of the home’s market value. Under Thursday’s amendment, the cumulative total will now “reset” every year.

City Administrator John Bartus, who

served as a councilman in favor of Marathon’s change in 2021, confirmed that the switch had “no impact” to Marathon’s class rating in the Community Rating System (CRS), used to secure citywide discounts on flood insurance premiums in exchange for policies that exceed minimum requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

A second change will revert the city’s required height above NFIP base flood elevations for new and redeveloped buildings from three feet above base flood elevation back to one foot above base flood elevation, as required by the Florida Building Code .

“Two years ago, the city chose to add the additional two feet, which of course would increase our CRS discount,” building consultant Ed Borysiewicz told the commission. “But at the same time, it made 85% of our city’s structures non-conforming. … This especially affects improvements (residents) would like to do in their homes.”

Borysiewicz said that in his estimation, the change should result in more than half of Key Colony’s buildings returning to a compliant status, but acknowledged the amendment likely “would and could” result in a hit to Key Colony’s CRS rating.

Planning and Zoning Board chair George Lancaster said his committee’s recommendation for the amendment came with “the stipulation that the commission will diligently find the (CRS) points to make up for the ones that are lost.”

“When a community says to me that they would want to adopt a higher regulatory standard for CRS credit, I get on my soapbox,” floodplain and CRS consultant Lori Lehr told the commission, agreeing that potential CRS impacts could be mitigated with numerous other initiatives. “We say, ‘Look, you have to do what's good for your community. Don't do this for CRS credit, especially when it applies to higher regulatory standards.’”

DELORES PATRICIA DEGOWSKI SCHMITT

Jan. 12, 1925 - Aug. 9, 2024

Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Pat Schmitt endeavored to re-invent herself, replacing a name she didn't like (Delores) for one she did (Patricia). First a switchboard operator in Detroit, she set out on her own to Chicago and exchanged a shy and not-so-confident nature with the positive, affirmative, bold and daring one we all have known. Moving to Chicago not knowing anyone, Pat earned her degree in medical technology and became a lab technician, returning to Detroit and working in the phlebotomy department at Harper Hospital.

Just before World War II, she became engaged to marry her high school sweetheart and exchanged her three-syllable name (Degowski) for a simple single-syllable one (Schmitt). She and her husband Alan went on to raise three sons, Bruce, David and Brian, amid the harsh Detroit winters.

In 1955 her mother's brother, Phil Sadowski, provided the opportunity to settle in Marathon, in the then-wild (but warmer!) Florida Keys. Enlisting her mother Stephanie to help raise her three sons, she embarked on another of her life's adventures and her first enterprise: Pat Schmitt's House of Furniture, which bolstered her husband's real estate business. This partnership became all the more valuable after hurricane Donna, when every real estate company but two went bust, and her foresight ensured her husband's would survive and flourish to this day as Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Company. Despite this busy time, Pat and Alan added a daughter to the family, Alynn, born in Marathon after Hurricane Donna.

After divorcing in 1972, Pat was able to turn to her creative side. She was a great painter, sculptor and maker of stained glass. Pat also loved to travel and was very bold in exploring countries around the world, making friendships that endure to this day. Pat sold real estate in Fort Lauderdale, and later Key Largo, and managed an art gallery in Coral Springs.

In 1981 she moved to Highlands, North Carolina and established the successful "Old Red House" art and gift shop. The shop showed great imagination and was renowned in the area mostly thanks to the "Saga of the Stuffed People,” an advertising tactic consisting of life-sized dolls posed differently each day to relate the soap opera story of the lives of Jasper, Tondelina, Throckmorton and Herculina with supporting players: the French maid, the chef Phillip DeStomach and chic Chic. Tourists, passers-by and townspeople stopped in daily to get "the latest" update on the lives of these characters of her imagination and creation. Even the actor Burt Reynolds had to stop by to get filled in on all the drama.

Pat returned to Marathon in 1998 to 20 Treasure Road near Sombrero Beach, where she spent many happy hours in what she labeled "the best house in Marathon.” She became a volunteer tutor at Stanley Switlik Elementary School for over 10 years and was named "Volunteer of the Year" in 2005.

In 2005, Pat remarried for a second time, to her first husband and only love, Alan Schmitt, both celebrating their bond at age 80. Alan often said their divorce was the biggest mistake of his life.

Pat loved to meet people, loved to tell stories of the older history of Marathon and remained a busy correspondent, decorating envelopes by hand and creating poems for special occasions.

Many lucky people have been the recipients of an original Pat creation waiting for them in their mailbox!

Pat became known as "Booshie" to everyone who knew her (named for her Polish grandmother, "Busha"). She was a positive force, encouraging one and all to not fear change. She liked to advise: "Live it up,” “PUSH,” and "Kick 'em in the pants!" but also to not take life too seriously.

Pat, always in charge of her life, waited for all who surrounded her the last week of her life to leave her room on the evening of Aug. 8 before she left this life peacefully and in her sleep on the 56th anniversary of her own beloved mother's passing.

Pat is survived by her sons, Bruce Schmitt, with son Jonathan Poortman and wife Ginger; David Schmitt; Brian Schmitt and wife D.D.; daughter Alynn Schmitt McManus and her husband Ken; and grandchildren Celia, Stephanie and Shaun.

A memorial mass at San Pablo Catholic Church in Marathon will be held on Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025 at 10 a.m. on what would be her 100th birthday, with a celebration in the parish hall immediately following.

Please join us in celebrating our beloved mother and grandmother, Booshie Pat.

Memorial donations may be made in Pat's name to the Coldwell Banker Schmitt Charitable Foundation: https://www. gooddeedsinthekeys.org/donate-now.html

Thank you,

The Schmitt and McManus families

MALLORY PINTO

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.

An Olympic high FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS

JENNIFER BOLTZ HARVEY

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

Ican’t tell if I’m depressed that the 2024 Olympics are over or that Snoop Dogg isn’t going to be on TV every day. Sigh, what a ride. While watching this year’s Paris Olympics I kept thinking, “How did we get here?” I vaguely remember some talk in middle school about the Greeks starting the tradition of the Olympics, but I think what I was really asking myself is “how did exercising in general even really start?”

Contrary to popular belief it’s not a topic most personal training credentialing programs touch on. So, I did a deep dive and this is what I found out.

Exercise, a term synonymous with fitness and well-being, has an ancient and diverse history. From the dawn of civilization to today’s highly-specialized fitness routines, the concept of exercise has evolved dramatically. The journey is not just about the pursuit of physical health; it’s a fascinating story of survival, cultural practices and scientific advancement.

In prehistoric times, physical activity was not a choice, but a necessity. Early humans engaged in rigorous physical exertion as a part of daily survival. Hunting, gathering and defending against predators required endurance, strength and agility. These activities were the earliest forms of exercise, though they were driven by the instinct to survive rather than the desire to stay fit. Mr. Caveman wasn’t running away from or to a bear thinking, “I am going to have the best quads in the cave.” He wasn’t probably thinking much at all, except “I need food, or I become food.”

As societies began to form, physical prowess became associated with status and power. Ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans placed a high value on physical fitness. The Greeks, in particular, are renowned for their contributions to exercise culture. The Olympic Games, which began in 776 B.C., were a celebration of physical excellence, featuring events like running, wrestling and discus throwing. These games were deeply rooted in Greek culture, symbolizing the ideal of a sound mind in a sound body.

The Middle Ages saw a decline in the emphasis on physical fitness. With the fall of the Roman Empire and the rise of feudal societies, exercise became less of a priority. The focus shifted to survival through farming and craftsmanship, activities that required less intense physical exertion compared to the athleticism celebrated in earlier eras. However, knights and soldiers still engaged in rigorous training to prepare for battle, keeping the tradition of physical conditioning alive in certain segments of society.

The Renaissance period marked a revival of interest in physical fitness, driven by the rediscovery of ancient Greek and Roman texts. Educators and philosophers of the time, such as the Swiss teacher Johann Bernhard Basedow, began to advocate for physical education as part of a wellrounded education. The Enlightenment furthered this trend, with the belief that physical exercise was crucial for mental and moral development.

One of the lesser-known pioneers of modern exercise was Pehr Henrik Ling, a Swedish fencing master who in the early 19th century developed a system of gymnastics that emphasized both physical and mental well-being. Ling’s methods laid the groundwork for what would become known as Swedish gymnastics, a precursor to modern physical therapy.

The 20th century witnessed a significant transformation in how exercise was perceived and practiced. The industrial revolution brought about a more sedentary lifestyle, which in turn led to a growing awareness of the need for regular physical activity. During the 1920s, the physical culture movement gained popularity, promoting body-building, calisthenics and organized sports.

In the post-World War II era, the concept of fitness exploded into the mainstream. Dr. Kenneth Cooper, often referred to as the “father of aerobics,” published his groundbreaking book “Aerobics” in 1968, which popularized cardiovascular exercise and laid the foundation for the modern fitness industry. This period also saw the rise of fitness icons like Jack LaLanne, who brought exercise into American homes through television.

Today, exercise is a global phenomenon, with a vast array of options ranging from highintensity interval training (HIIT) to mindfulnessbased practices like yoga and Pilates. The fitness industry continues to innovate, incorporating technology with wearable fitness trackers and virtual workout classes.

As we look back on the history of exercise, it’s clear that our relationship with physical activity has evolved from a survival necessity to a cornerstone of modern wellness. Whether it’s for health, competition or simply enjoyment, the ways we exercise today are deeply rooted in the practices of our ancestors. Who else is counting down to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics?

Fun facts and tidbits

• The first treadmill: Originally designed in 1818 by Sir William Cubitt, the treadmill was not a fitness device but a form of punishment for prisoners. It wasn’t until the late 20th century that the treadmill became a popular exercise machine. P.S.: It looked NOTHING like a treadmill. Think more like Jacob’s ladder, but far less sturdy.

• Yoga’s ancient roots: While yoga is often associated with modern wellness, its origins date back over 5,000 years to ancient India. Originally a spiritual practice, yoga’s physical postures were developed to prepare the body for long periods of meditation.

• The Presidential Fitness Test: Introduced in 1966 by President Lyndon B. Johnson, this test was designed to encourage physical fitness among American children. It included exercises like push-ups, sit-ups and a one-mile run. I still remember doing this in elementary and middle

UNSPLASH

1-year-old male rat terrier mix.

Looking for: I’m a family guy, looking to settle down, maybe with some kids.

Turnoﬀs: When people don’t vote in the Best of Marathon.

SWIPE RIGHT

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

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

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.

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.

Hurricane fosters needed

With hurricane season upon us, 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

8-month-old male mixed breed.

Looking for: My dream home would have another dog, or two, or three or more.

Turnoﬀs: I’m a ladies’ man and would prefer to be your only man.

ROCKY

1-year-old male domestic shorthair.

Looking for: A home with another cat to be my friend.

Turnoﬀs: Laps. Ewww. I prefer a nice shelf.

SUPERINTENDENT ANNOUNCES NEW DISTRICTWIDE ROLES

Coordinators named for reading, English learners & college prep programs

Superintendent Theresa Axford recently announced new selections for district-level roles.

Heidi Roberts — coordinator of English, language arts and reading Roberts is the former assistant principal at Poinciana Elementary and served several years as the literacy coach at Gerald Adams Elementary.

“This opportunity excites me as it aligns perfectly with my passion for fostering literacy and educational excellence,” she said. “I am deeply committed to supporting our teachers and inspiring students, working together to enhance proficiency and drive growth for all learners. My goal is to create a collaborative environment where innovative teaching practices and individualized support empower every student to achieve their full potential. I look forward to contributing to our shared mission inspiring excellence in every student every day.”

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, visit https://fkspca.org/ volunteer/become-a-foster-volunteer/ or call 305-743-4800.

Leidy Monteagudo –academic coach for English for speakers of other languages

Monteagudo was a teacher and ESOL interventionist at Key Largo School before taking on the districtwide support role.

“This position has offered me the opportunity to support and empower teachers while contributing to the growth and success of our English Language Learners,” said Monteagudo.

“Understanding the needs of our learners allows me to develop resources, and implement effective strategies and for one of our most vulnerable populations. I

am committed to continuing to support our teachers so they may foster a learning environment where every student feels valued and motivated. This role is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of our students.”

Maureen “Mo” Cattieu — Lower Keys ESOL academic coach

Cattieu has a strong background in ESOL support and compliance and will be working with the Lower Keys schools to support teachers and students. Her recent work was as an ESOL Interventionist at Gerald Adams Elementary.

“I am committed to inspiring our teachers, staff, and students on a daily basis, ensuring that our ELLs receive the support they need to succeed,” said Cattieu.

Sarah Adams – director of instructional resources and AVID

Adams has served as an assistant principal at Stanley Switlik Elementary and as curriculum coordinator of English, language arts and reading along with classroom experience. She has experience with the AVID program as both a teacher and administrator and will work with schools to strengthen the program. Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is an academic support program that aims to prepare students for college eligibility and success.

“Together, we will advance our district’s goals with AVID and enhance our use of instructional resources/materials,” she said.

— Contributed

CLIFFORD

REMMY

HELP AFTER A HURRICANE

Volunteers aid in recovery & building back stronger

When we think about preparing for a disaster, we focus on protecting ourselves, our personal property and pets. However, it is important to remember that the place we love so much may need our help during difficult times.

We came together during Hurricane Irma, and I challenge you to be proactive with disaster preparedness. Sign up to volunteer or attend training that will help your community in a disaster. If we help to build a community that is trained and ready to react during a disaster, we will be better prepared for whatever mother nature has to offer.

The Monroe County emergency management team has created a fantastic county volunteer site with beneficial information for when a disaster strikes. It also provides a direct link to sign up and become a volunteer. (Please review the information provided by scanning the QR code.)

Community members are needed in all types of situations – shelters, information hotlines, elder care, mental health care, interpreters, donation centers, pet shelters, general labor and much more. When you follow the Monroe County volunteer link, it will take you to a comprehensive questionnaire to determine your volunteer interests, spoken languages, certifications, training, licenses, program affiliations and more. Any skills you may have, even if it is just the ability to answer a telephone, can be useful during a disaster. Think about if you are a volunteer who has the capability to speak a unique language: the opportunity to help and comfort someone with a language barrier who is frightened and has just lost everything can be compelling.

Did you know? Florida has a

is the University of Florida, IFAS Monroe County Extension coordinator

state agricultural response team (S.A.R.T.). It is a planning, training and response support group with the aid of the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agriculture Sciences, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The S.A.R.T. website, flsart.org, is another that I encourage you to visit. It provides a helpful disaster preparedness guide offering information on sheltering in place with pets/animals and evacuation checklists for animals. It also offers free online self-paced training on pet-friendly sheltering, mental health, FEMA and more. Free online training only takes a little time but can make a tremendous difference.

Every time a storm heads our way the dedicated workers at the Florida Keys SPCA work tirelessly to evacuate as many shelter animals as possible. This is a very daunting task. The Marathon SPCA campus is unsafe to shelter animals during a storm, which only leaves the option of our Key West facility and volunteer fosters to keep our adoptable pets safe. I have quite a large crew of my own pets that I have to evacuate with; however, during Irma, my family fostered a cat. The shelter provided me with a carrier and food. We kept the cat safe until the storm had passed and the shelter was ready for her return.

There are many other volunteer opportunities available in this community. I encourage you to ask around, review community organization websites, sign up for training and become a volunteer. Peak hurricane season is right around the corner; find one thing you could do to help make our community stronger if a disaster occurs.

BRIEFLY

Five people charged with human smuggling

Five mainland Florida people were arrested Aug. 19 on state human smuggling charges after they were detained by federal law enforcement authorities. Humberto Tamayo, 48, of Miami; Omar Livan Ripoll Perez, 28, of Miami; Dianelys Perez Escourido, 44, of Miami; Joel Gil Egued 48, of Cape Coral; and Victor Victor Febales Gualpa, 38, of West Palm Beach were all charged with 20 felony counts of human smuggling.

Border Patrol and Customs and Border Protection agents stopped and detained the suspects in Florida City following their investigation in which 20 foreign nationals — 10 Ecuadorian men, three Ecuadorian women, five Chinese women and two Chinese men — landed via boat off County Road 905 in Key Largo, Florida on Aug. 18. “The (Monroe County) Sheriff’s Office was notified that the U.S. Attorney’s Office was not filing charges, so we consulted with the state attorney’s office and elected to proceed with state charges related to human smuggling,” said Sheriff Rick Ramsay. The Florida City Police Department also assisted in the case.

Zonta Club presents Roaring ’20s Bingo

The Zonta Club of Marathon will present a Roaring ’20s Bingo Night and raffle on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 5 p.m. at the Marathon Elks Lodge, 8239 Overseas Hwy. in Marathon. A $40 presale ticket – $50 at the door – covers 7 games with six strips each. For more information, call Cara at 305-731-7887. The Zonta Club of Marathon is an organization of business and professional women dedicated to improving the circumstances of women at all stages of life, locally and globally.

ROGO/BPAS presentation set for Aug. 27 in Marathon

The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has scheduled three public presentations regarding the state-mandated hurricane evacuation modeling discussions, which will continue through January 2025. The public presentations will be: Tuesday, Aug. 27, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Marathon Government Center; Thursday, Aug. 29, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Murray Nelson Government Center, Key Largo; and Wednesday, Sept. 4, directly following the 5:05 p.m. budget hearing at Harvey Government Center, Key West. The county is in the process of meeting with nonprofit and civic groups throughout the Florida Keys regarding the Department of Commerce’s hurricane evacuation modeling to gauge public opinions on every-

thing that affects evacuation timing and the number of additional ROGO/ BPAS allocations, if any, the County and municipalities should request from the State. More information is at www.monroecounty-fl.gov/rogo2024.

Marathon seeks input on flooding hot spots

Marathon is hosting a discussion on vulnerability and resiliency at two upcoming meetings: a digital public meeting on Thursday, Aug. 22 at 5:30 p.m., and during the city council meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 27 at 5:30 p.m. To join Thursday’s Zoom meeting, scan the QR code and use passcode 123456.

Marathon has been engaged in a planning process over the last year to create a Vulnerability Assessment. The city is completing the modeling and analysis for the project. In a two-part meeting series to gain public input, the city will present information about its planning process, the state’s requirements, the modeling and analysis completed and the state of the city’s vulnerability to flood risk from sea level rise, tidal flooding, rainfall and combined flooding events.

The city will also have maps available for the public to request certain areas for review and a deep dive into specific flood risk scenarios.

In the second meeting, the city will focus on information about its critical assets and infrastructure and other regional assets located in the city to determine how to prioritize the city’s adaptation response. There will be discussion to identify “hot spots” where there are city assets at risk and, again, solicit public input regarding priorities.

St. Columba church presents guitar concert

St. Columba Episcopal Church at 451 W 52nd St. in Marathon will present its monthly concert series Sunday, Sept. 1 at 6 p.m. featuring classical guitarist Mateo. He will perform three suites from his work "Melodic Journey." Refreshments are available before the concert. Donations at the door are appreciated. More information is at 305743-6412 or stcolumbamarathon.org.

Damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017. CONTRIBUTED

BRYNN MOREY

TRUSTS • WILLS POWERS OF ATTORNEY LADYBIRD DEEDS

Whether you are a resident or a snowbird, it is important to have your assets properly titled in a way that will avoid those assets going through probate.

KATHLEEN HENDRICKSON

ATTORNEY AT LAW

MASTERS OF LAW, ESTATE PLANNING 5701 Overseas Hwy • 305 393 2598

City of Marathon City Council Agenda

9805 Overseas Hwy., Marathon

Tuesday, August 27, 2024 5:30 P.M.

(*Denotes Item Is Passed By Consent Upon Approval of Agenda)

Public Comments taken on all times and at 6:30pm time certain for items not on the agenda or as soon as possible thereafter of after the last agenda item; whichever comes first.

City Council Items

*A. Approval of Minutes

B. Revisit Resolution 2023-84, Interlocal with Key Colony Beach for the Provision of Emergency Medical and Fire Rescue Services

Discussion

C. Vulnerability Assessment Presentation

City Manager Report

*A. MCSO Marathon Substation Report

*B. Grants Update

C. Public Works Report

1. Cost Estimate and Timeframe for Kayak Ramp Installation at 109th or 110th Street.

*D. Park and Recreation Report

E. Marathon Fire Rescue Report

1. Emergency Management Procedures for Declared Storms Presentation (Chief Muro)

*F. Marina Report

*G. Code Report

*H. Wastewater Utilities Report

*I. Building Report

J. Not To Exceed Amount for FOLKS, Requesting $600K (Was $500K)

Quasi-Judicial Public Hearings

A. Resolution 2024-62, Amending An Existing Development Agreement Documented And Recorded In City Of Marathon Resolution 2013-02, And Previously Extended Under Resolution 2015-128, For Wharf Marina Inc., Previously Bonefish Properties, LLC, Pursuant To Chapter 102, Article 8 Of The City Of Marathon Land Development Regulations (LDRs) Entitled “Development Agreement” In Order To Amend And Rectify The Scriveners Errors Between The Agreement And Conditional Use Resolution 2013-01; For Property Which Is Legally Described As Lot 2 And Easterly 5 Ft Of Part Of Lots 1-2 Fat Deer Key, Having Real Estate Number 00100350-000000. Nearest Mile Marker 54.

Ordinance For First Public Hearing

A. Ordinance 2024-09, Modifying Sections 32-31 And 32-34 Of The City Code Of Ordinances, “Prohibition Or Restrictions On Stopping Or Parking Vehicles; Signs To Be Erected; Penalties” And “Tow Away Zones” In Order To Increase The Penalty For No Parking To $500.00 For The Sombrero Beach Right Of Way Area And Remove The Sombrero Beach Road Tow Away Zone From The Code Of Ordinances; Providing For Removal Of Any Sections Of The Code Found In Conflict With This Change In The Ordinance; Providing For Severability; Providing For Incorporation Into The Code Of Ordinances; And Providing For An Effective Date.

Resolutions for Adoption

C. Resolution 2024-65, Modifying the City’s Wastewater Rates; Authorizing The City Manager To Administer Wastewater Rate Implementation; And Providing An Effective Date.

*D. Resolution 2024-66, Approving Grant Agreement ID# 3256 Between The City And The Monroe County Tourist Development Council For Construction of an Information and Security Station at Sombrero Beach; Appropriating Funds; And Providing For An Effective Date.

*E. Resolution 2024-67, Approving Grant Agreement ID# 3252 Between The City And The Monroe County Tourist Development Council For Construction of Finger Docks and an Electronic Sign at 7-Mile Marina; Appropriating Funds; And Providing For An Effective Date.

*F. Resolution 2024-68, Approving Tourist Development Council Inter-Local Grant Agreement No. 3253 (Tennis Court Resurfacing/Restriping At Community Park) Authorizing The City Manager To Execute The Agreement, And Providing For Conflicts, Severability, And An Effective Date.

*G. Resolution 2024-69, Restricting Parking On Certain Rights-Of-Way On Sombrero Beach Road Pursuant To City Code Section 32-31(A); And Providing An Effective Date.

H. Resolution 2024-70, Impose And Provide For Collection Of Wastewater Special Assessments For Service Areas 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 And 7 (Including The Supplemental Assessment Program) For Fiscal Year Commencing October 1, 2024; Approving The Assessment Roll; Providing For Collection Of The Assessments; And Providing For An Effective Date.

I. Resolution 2024-71, Imposing The Annual Stormwater Utility Special Assessments For Fiscal Year Commencing October 1, 2024; Approving The Assessment Roll; Providing For Collection Of The Assessments; And Providing For An Effective Date.

*J. Resolution 2024-72, Approving The Submittal Of A Grant Application To The State Of Florida Department Of Transportation (FDOT), Highway Beautification Grant Program To Provide For The Landscaping Along Us 1 Right Of Ways; Authorizing The City Manager To Execute Documents On Behalf Of The City, And Providing For Conflicts, Severability, And An Effective Date.

*A. Resolution 2024-63, Accepting The Responsible Bid And Approving A Contract Between The City And Pedro Falcon Contractors.; In An Amount Not To Exceed $394,967.00 For The Quay Property Restroom; Authorizing The City Manager To Execute The Contract And Appropriate Funds On Behalf Of The City; And Providing For An Effective Date.

*B. Resolution 2024-64, Approving And Ratifying The First Extension To The Professional Services Agreement Between The City Of Marathon And Professional Practice Support, Inc., Third Party Healthcare Billing Agreement; Authorizing The City Manager To Execute The Extension And Expend Budgeted Funds; And Providing For An Effective Date.

*K. Resolution 2024-73, Approval Of The Rankings Of The Proposers To Provide Design, Bidding, And CEI Services For The Class I Deep Well Project; Authorizing The City Manager To Execute The Contract And Expend Budgeted Funds On Behalf Of The City With The Highest Ranked Firm And The Second Ranked Firm Should The City Not Reach Agreement With The Highest Ranked Firm; And Providing For An Effective Date.

*L. Resolution 2024-74, Retroactively Approving And Accepting Deeds In Lieu Of Foreclosure For Two Parcels; Having Real Estate Numbers 00339310-000000 & 00348300-000000; Designating Their Use As Public Purpose; And Providing An Effective Date.

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 such hearing or meeting, one will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose that person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made; such record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. ADA Assistance: Anyone needing special assistance at the City Council hearing due to disability should contact the City of Marathon City Attorney at (305) 289-4130 at least five days prior thereto. Please contact the City Clerk at clavierd@ci.marathon.fl.us if you would like to receive any of the items on the agenda by email.

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We are thrilled to congratulate the

After four years of working closely together, it has been our privilege to help you ﬁnd the perfect home for your family. Your trust in us throughout this journey means the world, and we are honored to have been part of this signiﬁcant milestone in your lives.

www.SearchFloridaKeysHome LET’S WORK TOGETHER TO MAKE SURE NOBODY MISSES OUT ON THE INCREDIBLE BENEFITS OF LIVING IN THE FLORIDA KEYS!

If you are looking for a team that provides high-end, personalized service and dedication in ﬁnding your dream property, please don't hesitate to contact us. We are here to make your real estate experience seamless and rewarding. THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN FOR CHOOSING US!

Key Lime Pie: Sweet Savannah’s, SS Wreck & Galley Grill, Burdines Waterfront Fish Sandwich: Fish Tales Market and Eatery, Brutus Restaurant & Seafood Market, Key Fisheries Fine Dining: Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House, Hideaway Cafe, Butterﬂy Cafe

International Food: La Chapina Restaurant, Frank’s Grill, El Molcajete Mexican Restaurant Cup of Co ee: Curly’s Coﬀee, Georgies, LJ's Cafe Breakfast: The Stuﬀed Pig, Marathon Bagel Co, Island Fish Company

Lunch: Irie Island Eats, Burdines Waterfront, Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar BBQ: Irie Island Eats, Pop's Smoke Shed, Porky's Bayside Restaurant and Marina Bar: Overseas Pub and Grill, Sparky's Landing, Dockside Boot Key Harbor Bartender: Ashley Kelshaw, Morgan at Castaway, Cheddar Server: Brennan Bye, Brook Travis, Jess Wood & Castaway Happy Hour: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant, Sparky’s Landing, Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House Waterfront Dining: Island Fish Co., The Rhum House, Castaway Waterfront & Sushi Bar, Sparky's Landing Live Music Venue: Bongo's Botanical Beer Garden & Cafe, Dockside Boot Key Harbor, Sparky's Landing

Best Pizza: Driftwood Pizza, Pasta, & Subs, Leopoldo La Verace, Coast To Coast Pizza Company

Bloody Mary: Sparky's Landing, Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar, Island Fish Company

Margarita: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar, Island Fish Company, Sparky's Landing

Late Night Spot: Brass Monkey, Overseas Pub & Grill, JJ's DogHouse

Beer Selection: Herbie's Bar & Chowder House, Marathon Grill and Ale House, Bongo's Botanical Beer Garden & Cafe

Catering: Irie Island Eats, Clouds in my Coﬀee Catering/Private Chef/The Table, Chef Heather

Taco: La Isla Taco Grill, Takeria La Palapa, El Molcajete Mexican Restaurant

Food Truck: Irie Island Eats, Leopoldo La Verace, Fresh Oﬀ The Hook

Seafood: Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House, Keys Fisheries, Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Steak: The Rhum House, Plaza Grill Restaurant, Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House

Sushi: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar, Publix, Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House

Burger: Sparky's Landing, Burdines Waterfront, Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Wings: Sparky's Landing, Marathon Grill & Ale House, Driftwood Pizza, Pasta & Subs

Conch Fritters: Island Fish Company, Cracked Conch Cafe, Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Cook your own catch: Lazy Days South, Keys Fisheries, Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Cuban Sandwich: La Nina Restaurant, Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House, LJ's Cafe Dessert Spot: Sweet Savannah’s, SS Wreck & Galley Grill, Conch Custard

Overall Restaurant: Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House, Fishtails, Castaway Waterfront Restaurant

Resort/Hotel: Hawks Cay Resort, Isla Bella Beach Resort , Grassy Flats Resort & Beach Club

Law Firm: Wolfe Stevens PLLC, Law Oﬃces of Campbell and Malafy, W J Heﬀernan, Jr.

Gift Shop: Uniques, Shady Palm Art Gallery & Frame Shop, Marooned In Marathon

Fishing Guide: Joel Brandenburg, Chris Still, Nick Borraccino

Fishing Charter: Two Conchs Fishing Charters, Seasquared Charters, L Fish Charters

Dive Shop: Tilden’s Scuba Center, A Deep Blue Dive Center, Captain Hooks Marina and Dive Center

Bait & Tackle Shop: The Tackle Box, Oﬀ The Hook Bait, Tackle & Apparel, Marathon Bait & Tackle

Customer Service: Food For Thought, Conch Custard, Coco Plum Vacation Rentals

New Business: Nailed by Matt, La Chapina, LJ's Cafe

Medical Professional: Greg Keifer, Shelly Bish, John O’Connor

Health & Wellness Services: Cara O'Neill, Alex Belke, Florida Keys Therapy & Wellness, LLC

Landscape Company: Dot Palm Landscaping Inc, Supreme Landscaping, Alex Landscaping and Lawn Services Inc.

Auto Repair: Andy & Dave’s Garage, Island Auto Repair, Island Tire

Marine Repair: Seamark Electronics, Shelter Bay Marine, Small Town Marine

Photographer: Yeni Matie, Sandra Lee Photography Studio, LLC, Maggie Sayer

Marina: Safe Harbor Marathon, Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club, Captain Hooks Marina & Dive Center

Water Sports/Leisure Cruise: Sole Watersports, Marathon Mermaid, SS Pops @ Two Conchs

Veterinarian: Dr. Mike Dunn, Dr. Shavonne Corbet, Marathon Veterinary Hospital

Pet Service: Payton's Promise, Paws in Paradise LLC, Sailor’s Dog Spa

Realtor: Sam Williams, Ally Kelley, Derrick Johnson

Real Estate O ce: Coco Plum Florida Keys Real Estate, Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Co., Ocean Sotheby's International

Bank: First State Bank of the Florida Keys, Keys Federal Credit Union, Centennial Bank

Vacation Rental Company: Florida Keys Vacation Rentals, American Coastal Vacation Rentals, Coco Plum Vacation Rentals

General Contractor: Keys All Area Rooﬁng Inc, GA Contractors Inc, Keys Contracting Services Inc

Specialty Contractor: Marathon Seawalls & Docks, Paver Dave, Ernest E Rhodes Plumbing

Hair Salon: Sea Level Spa & Salon, Salon Blanco Spa, Skin Institute

Nail Salon: Sea Level Spa & Salon, Marathon Nail Spa, Skin Institute

Clothing Store: DK's Beach Boutique, Bayshore Clothing, Anthony's

Family Owned Business: Food For Thought, Conch Custard, Coco Plum Vacation Rentals

Business: Conch Custard, Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Co, The Tackle Box

Car Wash/Detailing: Tyrone, Keys Car Wash, PD's Detailing

Marine Detailing: Aquanuts LLC, Cool Runnings, Superior Shine

Pool Service: Spotless Pool Cleaning, Captain Brian, T & T Pool Service

Place to Take the Kids: Sombrero Beach, Dolphin Research Center, Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters

Local Event/Festival: Celtic Festival, Marathon Seafood Festival, Best of Marathon

Bathroom: Marathon Library, Island Fish Company, Lighthouse Grill

Sunset: Old Seven Mile Bridge, Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, Keys Fisheries

Place to Have a Wedding: Sunset Park, Isla Bella Beach Resort, Hawks Cay Resort

Elected O cial: Michelle Lincoln, Robyn Still, Rick Ramsay

Tourist Attraction: Dolphin Research Center, Turtle Hospital, Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters

Local Celebrity: Chef Heather, Andy Sharf, Shannon Wiley

Volunteer: Kristina Helms, Megan Hughes, Justice Lee Isom

Non-Pro t Organization: FKSPCA, Coldwell Banker Schmitt Charitable Foundation, Dolphin Research Center

Place to Take a Date: Hideaway Cafe, The Rhum House, Marathon Community Theatre, Inc.

Band/Musician: Abstract Radio, 79th Street Band, John Bartus

Place to Take a Sel e: Sombrero Beach, Pigeon Key, Old Seven Mile Bridge

Summer Camp: Crane Point Hammock, Pigeon Key, City of Marathon Community Park

Sports Coach: Joey Gonzalez, Sean McDonald, Jessie Schubert

Educator: Melody Randolph Bartnik, Krista Dennington, Mary Coleman

Thespian/Performing Artist: John Schaefer, Dion Watson, JJ Mills

Hugs: Marianne Benvenuti, Catherine Dunn, Sandra Bradshaw

TRY ’N’ FIND

Words that remind us of homework help are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: ASSIGN, BINDER, BREAK, DIFFICULT, DISTRACTION, FOCUS, HELP, HOMEWORK, LIGHTING, PLANNER, REINFORCE, REVIEW, SCHOOL, SKILLS, SNACK, STUDENT, STUDY, SUPPLIES, TEACHER.

Founded by Betty Debnam

Homework Heroes

Fact: Study buddies can help if you get stuck on a homework problem.

Most students head back to school in August or September. During the summer vacation, your study skills may have become a bit rusty.

This week, The Mini Page offers some tips to help you with your homework.

Why is there homework?

Teachers assign homework in order to:

• reinforce what you are taught in school so that the knowledge stays in your mind.

• exercise the brain.

• teach responsibility.

• review things you have already learned so that your skills stay fresh.

Making homework easier

Here are some tips to make doing your homework as rewarding as possible.

• Take a short break after school. Get a snack and relax a bit. But do not let yourself get so interested in doing other activities that it is hard to begin your homework.

• Set up a study pattern that works for you, then stick to it.

• Gather everything you need before you

start. Have all your paper, pencils, books and other supplies together at the start.

• Find a comfortable place to study. Some students like to work in the same place each day. Be sure you are not too hot or too cold, and find a place with good lighting. Choose a comfortable place to sit, or lie on the floor or on your bed.

• Turn off the TV. For most kids, television is a big distraction. Don’t watch it until your homework is finished.

• If you have a cellphone, put it away. It can distract you while you’re trying to study. Texts, emails and social media pull your attention away from your work and make it hard to focus.

Before you begin studying, silence your phone and leave it in another room. When your work is done, you can reward yourself by checking your phone!

Orbiting objects, especially those in the vast and growing constellation of Starlink satellites, could damage Earth’s protective ozone layer when they disintegrate upon reentry. A new study finds the spacecraft spew large amounts of ozonekilling aluminum oxide when they burn up in the atmosphere, which could deplete the ozone layer. Even small satellites produce about 65 pounds of the alumina when they burn up. It is estimated that nearly 19 tons of the chemical compound were created by falling human-made objects during 2022 alone.

Get organized

Learning to be organized will help you have the tools you need to do your homework well and on time.

• Use a planner. This can be a special book that your teacher gives you or just a spiral notebook. For each subject, write down the details of your homework for the day, including:

1. Textbook page numbers and problem numbers that are assigned;

2. Tools you’ll need at home, such as art or math tools or textbooks;

3. When the assignment is due;

4. Special details, such as if the assignment is to be typed or put in a folder.

• Do the most difficult homework first.If math is your hardest subject, tackle thehomework while your mind is fresh. Then move on to your easier subjects.

• Pack your backpack in the evening, after homework. Don’t leave this task until morning, when you may be in a rush.

• Keep your school subjects organized in folders or sections of a binder.

RESOURCES

On the Web:

• bit.ly/MPhomework2

At the library:

• “Learning to Learn: Strengthening Study Skills and Brain Power” by Gloria Frender

Mini

photo by © Berniephillips | Dreamstime.com

Homework is usually related to what you’ve been learning in school. For example, if you learned fractions in math class, then your homework will probably be to practice problems with fractions.

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FINE TUNING

Volleyball gears up for regular season | P.8

THE SCOREBOARD

*All games last week were preseason scrimmages and will not count toward or against team records.

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

AUG. 22

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Noah plays with intensity and passion. He’s a great leader and a great teammate; we expect big things from him this season.”

– Conchs head coach Johnny Hughes

“He has played with incredible energy since his freshman year,”

In their preseason classic last week, Conchs offensive lineman and defensive end Noah Mercer played with a ferocity coach Johnny Hughes wishes he could bottle.

“He has played with incredible energy since his freshman year,” Hughes said. He went on to describe Mercer’s unmatched work ethic, natural athleticism and selflessness on the field. The junior is one of the fastest athletes on the gridiron, an uncommon gift in a lineman.

Hughes credits Mercer with more than just his athletic talent. Mercer is the type of teammate to never miss a workout and give rides to underclassmen so they make it to the weight room or practice. Additionally, Mercer is a strong student who challenges himself with the highest level of coursework and excels in the classroom and on the field.

For his leadership, talent and willingness to do whatever it takes to give his team an edge, Key West’s Noah Mercer is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Junior, Key West Football

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

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

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

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

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Managing Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Business Development

Patti Childress patti@keysweekly.com

Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com

Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com

Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Graphic Design Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Comptroller Sarah Simcic sarah@keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

Se habla español

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

and graphics are copyrighted materials.

tracy mcdonald

sean mcdonald

’CANES’ ROSTER RIFE WITH EXPERIENCE

Coral Shores begins quest for conference hardware Aug. 23 at home

The Vipers of Varela were no match for coach Ed Holly’s Hurricanes in their preseason classic on Aug. 16. The 3:30 game, scheduled early due to lack of lighting at Varela, ended in just three quarters due to a lightning delay and both schools’ agreement that the additional quarter wasn’t likely to change the decision on the scoreboard. That decision, a 12-0 win for Coral Shores, is a great indicator for the upcoming ’Canes football season.

Heading into the game, Holly knew it would not be a cakewalk. “They were 7-3 last year, so we knew it was going to be a battle,” he said. Despite the shutout score, Holly contends it was a fairly close game. “It was back and forth,” he said. “We got some breaks and our kids played hard.”

One of the hardest workers on the Hurricane roster is senior AJ Putetti. Known for his hustle and will, Putetti ran 16 times for 129 yards and 1 touchdown last week, and has put in work in the offseason in hopes of making his senior season something special.

Jhonathan Mesa is another of Holly’s workhorses. Mesa ran for the other ’Canes TD last week, and found his stride as a junior at the running back position.

Returning for his third season as the Hurricanes’ playcaller is senior Yemcel Moreno. Moreno shouldered an early leadership role as a sophomore, taking the snaps like a longseasoned veteran. He continued to shine as a junior before succumbing to a season-ending knee injury. He willed himself healthy in time for the spring game only to reinjure the knee, making for a questionable return so soon this season.

Not only has Moreno returned, but he looks strong at QB. “We’re taking it easy bringing him back to full speed,” Holly said of his quarterback, but it is unlikely the characteristically relentless Moreno plans on taking anything easy.

Coral Shores’ defense came up big in the preseason, shutting out the Vipers and racking up a slew of tackles. Jarmoris Davis had 6 solo tackles and an assist to start his senior season with style. Fellow senior Eddie Holly’s commitment to teamwork was apparent with 8 assists and a solo tackle. Rounding out the senior defensive standouts was Connor Dixon, who wrecked the Vipers’ offense with 4 solo tackles, 3 assists, 2 tackles for loss and a pass breakup to his credit.

Coach Holly feels that leadership is a strength for his team this year. With a strong core who have played for three years together, his seniors know what to do and have earned the respect of not only their coach, but also the rest of the team.

Putetti, left, and Jhonathan Mesa.

Weekly

DOUG FINGER/Keys

As the current seniors did the past few seasons, the underclassmen are stepping up their game and earning playing time and experience for Coral Shores. Holly named juniors Austin Vogt, Luis Ramirez and Glade Harrelson as players to keep an eye on. Vogt will use his speed at wide receiver while Harrelson plays tackle and defensive end. Ramirez is a resourceful linebacker and has good hands, making him a threat at wide receiver as well. Sophomore Sterling Keefe gives the ’Canes a backup at quarterback and is stepping up as a free safety, while classmate Andrew Connolly is quickly becoming dependable on the line.

Holly will need all hands on deck – perhaps – this week against Somerset South Homestead. Last season, Coral Shores won the matchup 45-14, but smaller charter schools tend to unload and reload rosters yearly, especially when a new head coach takes the helm, which is the case with South Homestead this fall.

“We’re playing a team who had no kickoff classic and no spring game, so we don’t entirely know what to expect,” Holly said. “We’re just going to put our base defense and offense in and make adjustments. We will just do what we do and hopefully figure them out in the first quarter.”

Holly’s Hurricanes participate in the Florida Independent Football Conference, playing for a conference championship rather than a state title. This season, the conference shook things up a bit. “Whoever wins the regular season wins the conference championship this year,” Holly said, making every game all the more important for Coral Shores. ’Canes fans can come check out this year’s team Friday, Aug. 23 at 7 p.m. in Tavernier.

DOUBLE DUTY THE NORM FOR DOLPHINS

Mater Academy pulled into Marathon two buses strong on Aug. 16, unloading twice the roster at nearly twice the size. Yet the Fins gave the Lions a run for their money, proving they are unwilling to back down and know what it will take to win in the regular season. The Dolphins got out to a slow start and were down by 7 early, stunned by the Lions’ speed and size. But they soon regrouped and found it well within their ability to hang with larger teams.

The Dolphins tied it up in the first quarter, grinding out a drive with a markedly different style than their opponent. Marathon earned their yardage one yard at a time while the Lions leaned on speed for breakaways. The second Mater touchdown came from a kick returned to the house, and though Shamar Wright hawked down the Lions’ runner, showcasing his impressive speed, the tackle came a heartbeat too late.

In all, the Fins scored a pair of TDs, kicked 2 extra points and showcased their grit and refusal to quit in the 28-14 loss. A long delay due to weather and further delay from the Lions, whose buses pulled in after the advertised start time, put the game late into the evening, and abbreviated eightminute quarters were dealt to the Dolphins in the second half.

Marathon, whose sideline looked sparse in comparison with Mater’s, was able to keep up the level of play across all four quarters.

“Our conditioning is definitely paying off,” said head coach Sean McDonald. “We are a small school, but we can’t use that as an excuse. When Dre (assistant coach and Marathon standout Andra Garvey) played, his team found success with a team of 13. They had to be in shape and I realized we need that now, too.” Most of the Dolphins play both ways, and many are tasked with special teams, too.

One of those players who rarely sees the sideline is Fabbianho Louis Jeune. Known to most as just “Fab,” Louis Jeune broke the Marathon record last season with a 52-yard field goal, a testament to over a decade of playing soccer. The talented senior had a dozen carries for 55 yards, kicked 2 extra points, and had 2 catches for 44 yards. He also broke up multiple Mater plays, batting down a pass and breaking up run plays with a natural ability to read the Lions’ offense.

Another player who rarely leaves the field for Marathon is Carlos Lezcano, who had 15 carries for 88 yards and a touchdown. Lezcano connected with Fab on his 2 receptions and was credited with maturity and composure when the team needed him most. The senior’s leadership has been an asset to the Fins in training camp and preseason.

Tanner Ross’ lead-by-example approach has driven his team to be better. Ross, a four-year starter for the Fins, was a lineman as a freshman, then prior to his sophomore year, took it upon himself to run, condition and lift his way to be a featured ball carrier and linebacker for Marathon. The Fins’ workhorse earned every single one of the 44 yards to his credit last Friday the hard way, often dragging defenders with him. Ross accomplished those yards over 6 carries, one of which broke into the end zone.

Wright, now a junior, returned to the active roster after sitting out much of the 2023 season with an injury. He carried eight times for 48 yards and gives Marathon a layer of

Short-staffed Marathon relies on stamina, tenacity, unity

speed and agility. Wright has the potential to break away with big plays offensively, and his pass coverage is some of the best Marathon has seen in a few seasons.

New to the roster this season is Trey Neurath, a senior transfer student who had 7 carries for 68 yards against Mater. Neurath grew up in the Keys practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu on Big Pine, then moved to South Carolina, where he transferred those skills first to wrestling and then to the gridiron.

Marathon’s roster also boasts the Garcia brothers, senior Braulio and junior Eduardo. This season, Braulio is shifting from running back to lineman, a move McDonald called “unselfish and in the best interest of the team.”

“Braulio is willing to sacrifice everything for his team. He has so much heart,” McDonald said. Also a lineman this season, the younger Garcia is lifting some impressive numbers in the weight room after an offseason of work.

“Ed puts everything he has into everything he does,” said McDonald. “If everyone loved the game and the team like the Garcia brothers, we couldn’t lose.”

Another set of brothers, sophomore twins Jesus and Israel Gonzalez, are already making big plays. Jesus caused a turnover against the Lions and Israel focuses on the little things, which, coupled with natural athleticism, make for great players.

Above: Fabbianho Louis Jeune celebrates a Marathon

Photos by BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly. See more photos at keysweekly.com.

Rounding out Marathon’s notable performers are juniors Aiden Gilday and Christopher Paul and seniors Steven Stotts and Olivier Mondesir. Gilday is new to the game, but McDonald credited him as a quick study and tough player. Stotts has played on the Fins’ line before and is a reliable center, while Paul has shown promise at tight end. Mondesir is relatively new, too, but has shown already that he can be a playmaker.

Despite the abbreviated roster, Marathon has all the parts in place. They will just need to keep everyone healthy this season, which is, perhaps, the greatest challenge for any team.

“We treated this game like a true scrimmage, moving players around and making sure everyone got into the game,” McDonald said. “A lot of underclassmen stepped it up and the entire team showed heart. I am very proud of them and I think we know what we need to do this week to prepare for week one.”

The Fins will find out if their conditioning will pay off when it counts Friday, Aug. 23 at home against Pompano Beach. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.

Top: Jesus Gonzalez (4), Olivier Mondesir (24) and Fab Louis Jeune (2) bring down a Lion during their preseason kickoﬀ classic last week.

touchdown

Aug. 16 against Mater Academy.

CONCHS HEAVY ON LEADERSHIP, SPEED

KEY WEST LOOKING FOR REVENGE AGAINST TIGERS

Key West sent the Coyotes of Cypress Creek home howling last Friday night, beating them 45-21 on Aug. 16 in front of a huge home crowd.

The preseason game, rebranded just in time for the reopening of their home stadium, is now called the Ran Carthon Kickoff Classic. Carthon, a 1999 graduate of Key West High School, played at Florida and for a host of NFL teams, moving his way through managerial roles to his current spot as the general manager for the Tennessee Titans. The community came out to see not just their favorite gridiron gang, but to reacclimate themselves with the refurbished Tommy Roberts Memorial Stadium, which has been closed so long that no player on the Conchs’ active roster had ever played a down in it.

“It was a great atmosphere,” head coach Johnny Hughes said. “These kids had never played there, so it was an exciting moment for them. Jaden Fox was really excited about it. He is a true leader for us and he set the tempo as far as excitement.”

Fox, a senior to whom the rest of the team looks for leadership and inspiration, tore it up last week, earning more than 250 total yards with 1 touchdown to his credit.

“He had a monumental night,” Hughes said, saying most of Fox’s runs

came from small clips, with one carry breaking for a longer run. Fox runs the ball hard, often running through defenders foolish enough to try blocking him.

Where Fox relies on the tough run, others use speed to evade the opposition, and this year’s Conchs have speed to spare. Returning for Key West is Walson Morin, a junior who managed to turn on the jets and run for 4 touchdowns.

Perhaps the fastest player on the field this season is Shane Lavallee, a senior track star with the ability to shift gears in incredible time. Lavallee has the speed to get to the outside, a complement to the inside run the Conchs have leaned on in the past few seasons. “We need to get him the ball,” Hughes said of Lavallee.

Junior Leandro Batista and seniors Cole Jackson and Jaden Gist are also tearing it up this season, pushing one another in the speed department. Batista had 1 touchdown against the Coyotes. Junior Jeff DeJean is a talented athlete with explosive speed as well. DeJean sat out the kickoff classic due to a minor injury but is expected to be back for week one.

Taking the snaps for Key West this season is senior Teak Guyet. Guyet last completed a season his freshman year

before trying his hand at baseball as a sophomore, then suffering a season-ending collarbone injury as a junior.

“He throws the ball pretty well,” Hughes said of his senior play-caller. “He brings a lot to the table.”

Overall, Hughes was pleased with the way the Conchs played in their preseason outing. He credited his seniors with much of his success. “When you have that sort of leadership, it makes your job easier,” he said.

Hughes’ offensive unit has enjoyed a great deal of success the past several seasons. Even when the team has lost, they racked up plenty of yardage and touchdowns. Hughes was willing to share the recipe to his success: “Having the right personnel and the buy-in,” he said. “I like what I have right now. They get to that second level pretty quick and the defense doesn’t know what to do.” Hughes’ confidence is infectious, and his players are ready, willing and able to deliver this season, which is enough to give Conch fans a lot to hope for in 2024.

Also going well for Key West was their defense. The Conchs were stingy last week, giving up just 1 defensive touchdown while younger players were getting some reps. The other Coyote score came from a kick return.

“The front seven did a fantastic job early on,” explained Hughes, “and we got good coverage on the quarterback and made great open-field tackles.”

The defense is going to have to be strong if the Conchs hope to avenge their heartbreaking loss to Clewiston last year. The Conchs looked good against the Tigers, but a total of 7 turnovers cost the Conchs the game in 2023, and Key West hopes to lose the bitter taste left behind on Aug. 23 when they get their chance at redemption. Hughes anticipates that the Tigers will run a spread offense. “They’re athletic and might try to throw it 30-40 times a game,” he said. If Key West puts up the same fight as they did in their preseason matchup, the Tigers should be no match for the Conchs in week one. Beyond that, Hughes faces the same concern as his Monroe County neighbors Marathon and Coral Shores: depth.

“We should be successful if we can stay healthy,” he explained.

Teak Guyet

Shane Lavallee

Photos by MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

THE KEYS WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP PODCAST BACK UNDER FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS

The Sports Wrap is back, and that means our readers – and listeners – can look forward to the return of comprehensive prep sports coverage in the Keys Weekly Sports Wrap Podcast. This week, Sean and Tracy are back to talk about the fall outlook for Monroe County’s football squads, including the preseason outcomes for all three teams and a look forward to the start of the regular season with this weekend’s opponents. You will hear all of the most up-to-date information on teams, games and schedules. They go beyond the scores and behind the scenes to tell you all sorts of things you won’t hear anywhere else.

Dolphins coach Andra Garvey gives some pointers to Carlos Lezcano during Marathon’s preseason matchup against Mater Academy last Friday. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

FRESH START

Keys volleyball

teams iron out wrinkles in preseason tournament

Coral Shores hosted a preseason volleyball tournament on Aug. 15, allowing three of Monroe County’s four teams to work out their rotations and prepare for the upcoming season. All three teams took advantage of the opportunity to get in some good work before the scores count toward their official records.

Key West coach Kim Butler found success for her Lady Conchs with wins against Coral Shores, Marathon and South Homestead. In their first test, Key West found themselves on the wrong side of the scoreboard, but quickly rectified their initial mistakes to come out on top. “We came out shaky,” Butler said. “It was 19-7 before we evened out and shook off the nerves and were able to build momentum into the next two sets.”

Once she got rolling, nothing was going to stop Reese Haggard. The senior setter served up 6 aces against South Homestead, earned 4 assists against Marathon, then added 13 against Coral Shores. Conch hitters Audrey Smith and Gabby Garcia were killing it on the court, quite literally. Smith registered 20 over the course of the tournament, hitting as high as .429 against Marathon. Garcia killed 20 and hit .571 against Coral Shores. Adriana Heinrichs killed 4 against Marathon, proving Key West’s hitters have strength and depth, a crucial piece of the puzzle for any team with hopes of making a run into the postseason.

Butler also praised Molly McKnight, who shared time at setter, finishing with 7 assists in the tournament. Sunisa Kuhn was fantastic on both sides of the game. The Conchs’ libero, a position typically played by a defensive specialist, served 100% in the Coral Shores match.

“Overall, I was very happy with their resiliency, and our serving was at 92% and team hitting efficiency was not bad at .230,” Butler said. Key West opens its regular season with a pair of games against Marathon at home on Aug. 22 at 5 p.m.

Marathon stood their ground against fierce competition, leaving a positive season outlook despite landing in the losing column for their preseason matches. The Fins won a set against Coral Shores and came close against Somerset South Homestead, losing 25-22 and 25-23.

Coach Kelley Cruz was feeling positive about her upcoming season,

saying, “I feel very confident in our team’s capability. We had a very good showing on the court. We played well in all the different rotation variations that we tried. We have a few things we still need to iron out as expected, but overall, I have a good feeling.”

It’s no surprise that Daysi Williams was a standout at the net for the Fins. As a freshman, the now-junior was a state medalist in high jump, and coupled with her height, Williams has everything it takes to be a wall for Marathon. Cruz praised her all-around athleticism, saying, “she performed well under the pressure of playing with more seasoned players. She had blocks against all teams, had kills on all teams and aces on all teams. She even had digs while she was playing in the back row during serving.”

Also strong for the Fins was Mackenzie Budi, who gained the utmost respect from Somerset’s head coach, who described her relentless performance as “nasty” – a compliment, Cruz specified, adding, “She was all over the court, recovering hard hits and covering blocks on our side.”

Cruz felt her team is headed in the right direction. “The biggest takeaway from the tournament is that their hard work is paying off,” she said. “Their offseason work in open gym and attending camps over the summer showed.”

See more tournament photos at keysweekly.com.

Cruz and the Lady Fins didn’t need to wait long to find out whether their glimmers of greatness will shine bright in the regular season; they opened against the yet-untested Mariners of Basilica School on Aug. 19 in Key West. (Results unavailable by presstime.)

Coral Shores head coach Sam Ovalle was busy both coaching his team and running the tournament, two jobs that can be challenging by themselves. Together, the tasks presented a time-consuming start to the ’Canes’ season. Ovalle was happy with his team’s performance last week, especially given that his senior-heavy crew from 2023 left some big shoes to fill.

He was particularly pleased with a trio of hard hitters in sophomore Celene Walker and seniors Lily Goodrich and Grace Leffler.

“The girls did really good,” he said, adding that the preseason nature of the tournament allowed for a lot of substitution and position shifts to help determine who fit best where. “We love the preseason. Everyone plays and we can make some adjustments as they are needed.”

Two players who were already solid in their positions are juniors Ivy Tiedemann and Shelby Lynn, who were steady at the setter position. “I appreciate the setters,” Ovalle said. “Without good play from them, nothing will happen.” Tiedemann and Lynn were also praised for their serving in the tournament, along with senior Abigail Bergeron. The three make a force from behind the baseline, as the team’s most accurate servers. “All three had aces,” Ovalle said.

The Hurricanes bested Marathon in their match and showed some grit against Somerset and Key West, winning crucial points in both matches and one set against Somerset. And though the team is undergoing a slight rebuild, Ovalle was forward-thinking enough to spread out playing time last season in preparation for the loss of his seniors, making it a bit more like a reloading season.

The final piece for the Lady ’Canes will be for the team to begin to gel as a unit, something Ovalle saw begin to happen this summer with many of his athletes playing travel ball together and now playing for Coral Shores. Their unity and skills were put to the test on Aug. 21 in Miami against the Stallions of Somerset Silver Palms. Their first home match of the regular season is the following day against Westwood Christian at 5:30 p.m. (Results unavailable by presstime.)

1,2. Coral Shores High School hosts a non-district volleyball tournament with Marathon, Key West and Somerset Academy South Homestead at the high school gym on Aug. 15.

Photos by DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly.

Left: The Fins’ Daysi Williams has shown strength at the net this season. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

PREP VOLLEYBALL FOR DUMMIES

Here in the Keys, we love our local sports teams. But just because you’re a fan of the Conchs, Fins, ’Canes or Mariners, it doesn’t mean you know the nuts and bolts of the game. If you find yourself a follower of the teams but not yet a follower of the game itself, this may just clear things up for you.

High school volleyball is played with six athletes on the court at a time for each team. Unlike the volleyball of my youth – and I realize I am really aging myself here – Florida high school volleyball uses rally scoring, meaning either team, regardless of which one is serving, can win the point. Volleyball matches are best three of five, meaning that in a regular varsity situation, one team must win three sets to win the match.

All too often, the words “game,” “set” and “match” are used interchangeably to really muddy the understanding for casual fans. So, two teams play up to five games/sets. When one team reaches three set wins, that team wins the match. Easy, right?

In the best-three-of-five match, each of the first four sets is played to 25 points and the fifth, if needed, is played to 15. But sometimes a score is reported to be more than 25; this is because teams must win by a 2-point margin (a game will never end with a score of 25-24). The game continues in a mini-overtime sort of situation until one team wins by 2. In tournament play, the match is best of three sets, so teams play until one wins two of the three games.

Win or lose, both teams keep statistics. Some stats are fairly obvious, while others may need some clarification for casual fans.

An ace is a serve that lands untouched inbounds or is not successfully returned and scores a point. Servers who amass a lot of aces tend to have deadly aim and serve the ball with a lot of force.

A kill measures a successful attack (hit) that results in a point. It shows a player’s efficiency and effectiveness as an attacker.

Blocks are defensive plays at the net in which a player deflects or otherwise blocks an opponent’s attack. Athletes who make blocks tend to be tall, and shorter players who earn blocks have great vertical jumps and timing.

Another defensive statistic is the dig. When a player keeps an opponent’s attack from hitting the floor, it is considered a dig. Digs are only awarded for staving off an attack and not when the other team is just trying to get the ball over the net to keep the point alive.

Passes, sometimes called serve receives, are awarded when the non-serving team successfully receives a serve and keeps the ball in play. Serve receive efficiency measures a

Just what is a libero, anyway?

player’s percentage of successful serve receptions.

A set, not to be confused with a scoring set, is typically the second contact a player makes with the ball defensively after a pass or dig. It sets up an attack scenario for another player, hence the term “set.” Players who rack up a lot of sets show they are great at distributing the ball.

Assists are awarded to athletes who make successful sets which lead to a kill by a teammate. Assists show a player is effective in creating scoring opportunities for their teams.

Hit percentage is a statistic calculated by subtracting a player’s errors from her kills, then dividing by the total attempts. Thus, a player who took a dozen kill shots, six of which landed untouched or were otherwise flubbed by the opposing team, would have a hit percentage of .500. Anything above .200 is generally considered to be good.

Variations in wording hold true for position, too, but with a bit of understanding, you can usually figure out what that player’s role is.

The outside hitter, sometimes called a left side hitter, is the primary attacker on the team. She is responsible for hitting from the left side of the court and needs to be quick, accurate and have the athleticism to jump high enough to create a strong downward force on the ball over the net.

The right side hitter, sometimes called opposite hitter, plays from the right side of the court and focuses on attacking from the right side and blocking. In prep volleyball, she will need to be a decent setter as well.

A middle hitter, sometimes labeled middle blocker, focuses on blocking the ball front and center at the net. She can block and deliver a quick hit and should have impeccable timing to be effective.

A team’s setter does just that; she sets the ball for her teammates, setting up plays and offensive opportunities for others. Setters are known for their intelligence, as good decision-making is crucial to this position.

Which brings us to the libero. This position started to appear across high-school gymnasiums in the mid-2000s. So if the last time you paid attention to volleyball was in middleschool gym class, you may only recognize a libero because she is wearing a different-colored jersey. This athlete did not forget her uniform at home – the libero is a special position and requires a uniform that stands out to the opposing team and officials.

Her role is that of a defensive specialist. She makes big digs and tends to scramble all over the court, saving the ball from the floor. The libero has some freedom in substitution rules but cannot attack the ball above the net and must stay behind the 10-foot line on attacks. Occasionally, a libero sets the ball when the setter cannot reach the second ball, but there are even more rules governing her in that scenario. Overall athleticism and coordination are far more important in the libero position than height or vertical leap.

And there you have it: everything you need to know in order to sound like you know what you’re talking about when it comes to high school volleyball.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO ADOPT FY 2025 COMMERCIAL RATES FOR

DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING IN MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

Notice is hereby given that the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, will conduct a Public Hearing to adopt the FY 2025 Commercial Rates for collection, disposal, and recycling in Monroe County, Florida.

The Public Hearing will be held at 9:00 A.M. on September 11, 2024, at the Meeting of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners, at the Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Florida 33037. The public can attend the Public Hearing in person, or via Zoom, for the purpose of contributing or receiving public comments on the proposed assessments. The Zoom link for the 09/11/2024 BOCC Meeting is at the following address: https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/89204098700

All affected property owners and commercial customers have a right to appear, virtually, or in person, at the hearing, and to file written objections with the County Commission within twenty (20) calendar days of the first publication of this Notice. Pursuant to section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, notice is given that if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the County Commission with respect to any matter considered at the hearing, such person will need a record of the proceedings,

and may need to ensure that a verbatim record is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be made. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons needing a special accommodation or an interpreter to participate in this proceeding should contact the County Administrator’s Office at (305) 292-4441, at least 48 hours prior to the date of the Public Hearing. If hearing or voice-impaired, contact the Florida Relay Service Number, by dialing 711 for assistance.

If you have any questions, please contact the County’s Solid Waste Department at 305-295-4323 or 305292-4536, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 A.M. and 5:00 P.M.

A person may submit written or other physical evidence on a particular agenda item for consideration at the September 11, 2024, Board of County Commissioners Meeting to: Krystal Gomez, via email at: Gomez-Krystal@monroecounty-fl.gov, or by mail to: Monroe County Administrator’s Office, 1100 Simonton Street, Suite 205, Key West FL 33040. The documents must be received by 3:00 P.M., on September 6, 2024, and must include the submitter’s name, address, phone number, email address, and the agenda item number to which the documents refer.

The following schedules reflect the proposed monthly rates for Commercial Waste Generators for:

b) CONTAINERIZED PICKUP RATE SCHEDULE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI

Notice is here by given that on September 9th, 2024, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage Auctioneer, Executive Administrator for U-Haul Company of Miami, Will be offering for sale under the Judicial Lien Process, By Public Auction, the following storage units. The Terms of the sale will be cash only. U-Haul Company does reserve the right to refuse any bids. The sales will Begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue day by day until all units are sold. The names of whose units will be sold are as follows:

Location: 103530 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037

Nidia Gonzalez – 1761

$514.60 Yanet Pere – 1419 $493.90 Michael Gamble - 1349

$739.50 Publish:

August 22 & 29, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING: MONROE COUNTY CONTRACTORS EXAMINING BOARD

MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

Notice is Hereby Given To Whom it may concern, that on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 the Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (CEB) will hold a scheduled meeting at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Second Floor, BOCC Room, Marathon, Florida scheduled to commence at 9:30 A.M.

This meeting is to hear the following: any person(s) to come before the board; any reports from Monroe County Assistant Attorney; any reports from Monroe County Building Official; any reports from Staff.

The Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (“CEB”) will review Certificate of Competency Trade applications and the Industry Input Section. All public participation in this meeting may be conducted via Communication Media Technology (“CMT”) using Zoom Webinar platform, during the scheduled meeting. Meeting Agenda and Zoom Webinar information is available 7 days prior to meeting date on the Monroe County Web Calendar and the Contractors Examining Board webpage: www. monroecounty-fl.gov

PURSUANT TO FLORIDA

STATUTE SECTION 286.0105, be advised that, if a person decides to appeal the decision made by the Contractors’ Examining Board with respect to any matter considered at today’s hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, 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.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special recommendations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the 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”.

NOTICE: It shall be the responsibility of each Respondent or other person addressing the Board to have an interpreter if the party is not able to understand or speak the English language.

Rick Griffin, Building Official/ Board Secretary Jamie Gross, Senior

Contractor Licensing Coordinator – CEB Board Monroe County Building Department

Publish: August 22, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

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

PROBATE DIVISION CASE NUMBER: 24-CP-403-K IN RE: ESTATE OF WAYNE LAMAR KLINE Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the Estate of WAYNE LAMAR KLINE, deceased, whose date of death was November 18, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

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, Florida Statutes. 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: August 22, 2024. Petitioner: DUSTIN KLINE 555 W. Main Street Centreville, Michigan 49032

Attorney for Petitioner: PAUNECE SCULL, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 729477 paunece@scullpa.com SCULL & SCULL, P.A.

302 Southard Street, Ste. 105 Key West, Florida 33040

TEL: (305) 407-6897

Publish: August 22 & 29, 2024

The Weekly Newspaper

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 24-CP-343-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JEFFREY W. WILLIAMS, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of JEFFREY W. WILLIAMS, deceased, whose date of death was May 10, 2024, Case: 24-CP-343-K, is

pending in the Circuit Court, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

The date of first publication of this Notice is: August 22, 2024.

Personal Representative: KATHERINE M. WILLIAMS

c/o Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq.

Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A.

3130 Northside Drive

Key West, Florida 33040

Attorney for Personal Representative: Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0144304

Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A. 3130 Northside Drive

Key West, Florida 33040

Email designation for service: Service.Probate@ samkaufmanlaw.com

Telephone: (305) 292-3926

Fax: (305) 295-7947

Publish: August 22 & 29, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-385-M DIVISION: MIDDLE KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF TERRELL W. SMITH Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Terrell W. Smith, deceased, whose date of death was May 2, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH

IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: August 15, 2024.

Personal Representative: Juana M. Smith 1290 92nd Court Ocean 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:

August 15 & 22, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 24-CP-000380-P IN RE: ESTATE OF STEPHEN C. BROWN, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Stephen C. Brown, deceased, whose date of death was July 9, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Tavernier, 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 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: August 15, 2024.

Personal Representative: Brooks R. Brown c/o Goodwin Procter LLP 100 Northern Avenue Boston, MA 02210

Attorney for Personal Representative: DUNWODY WHITE & LANDON, P.A. Denise B. Cazobon, Esq.

Florida Bar Number: 71616

4001 Tamiami Trail North, Suite 200 Naples, FL 34103

Telephone: (239) 263-5885

Fax: (239) 262-1442

Publish: August 15 & 22, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICES

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-000298-P IN RE: ESTATE OF BRADLEY RALPH SHANK, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Bradley Ralph Schank, deceased, whose date of death was March 23, 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 representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons who have 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 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 SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEAR OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is August 15, 2024. Personal Representative: Susan Elizabeth Bazin 326 Lance Lane Key Largo, 33037 Monroe County, Florida Attorney for Personal Representative: David Hutchison, Esq. Florida Bar No. 997420 Hutchison & Tubiana, PLLC P.O. Box 1262 Key Largo, Florida 33037 Publish: August 15 & 22, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24-DR-385-P DIVISION: FAMILY SA RO MILE, Petitioner, and NANT MARY YIN AYE, Respondent. CORRECTED NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT)

TO: NANT MARY YIN AYE RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: NO KNOWN ADDRESS

YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Jack Bridges, Counsel for Petitioner, whose address is P.O. Box 1714, Tavernier, FL 33070 on or before September 5, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 88770 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, FL 33070, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the

petition.

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: August 1, 2024 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Jaquelyn Fonseca Deputy Clerk Publish: August 8, 15, 22 & 29, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24-DR-106-P DIVISION: FAMILY WAYNE THOMAS LEAHY Petitioner, and TAMIE LEIGH LEAHY, Respondent. CORRECTED NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: TAMIE LEIGH LEAHY RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 1508 Delaware Avenue, Apt. 1B, Wilmington, DE 19806

The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: None Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: August 1, 2024 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Jaquelyn Fonseca Deputy Clerk

Publish: August 8, 15, 22 & 29, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL ACTION Case # 22-CA-000144-M Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Plaintiff, vs. Cynthia L. Andrews a/k/a Cynthia Andrews; Kenneth Andrews; Sharon Lee Havens a/k/a Sharon Havens; City of Marathon, Florida; United States of America; Unknown Parties in Possession #1, if living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) who are not known to be dead or alive, whether said Unknown Parties may claim an interest as Spouse, Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, or Other Claimants; Unknown Parties in Possession #2, if living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) who are not known to be dead or alive, whether said Unknown Parties may claim an interest as Spouse, Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, or Other Claimants Defendants. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to order rescheduling foreclosure sale or Final Judgment, entered in Civil Case No. 22-CA-000144-M of the Circuit Court of the 16th Judicial Circuit in and for Monroe County, Florida, wherein Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Plaintiff and Cynthia L. Andrews a/k/a Cynthia Andrews are defendant(s), I, Clerk of Court, Kevin Madok, CPA, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash AT THE MONROE COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040, AT 11:00 A.M. on September 24, 2024, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to-wit: LOT 13, BLOCK 23, CRAINS SUBDIVISION OF GRASSY KEY, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN NAT BOOK 1, PAGE 51, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA. 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 NO LATER THAN THE DATE THAT THE CLERK REPORTS THE FUNDS AS UNCLAIMED. Florida Rules of Judicial Administration Rule 2.540 Notices to Persons With Disabilities

If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Cheryl Alfonso, ADA Coordinator, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.

SPANISH: Si usted es una persona discapacitada que necesita alguna adaptación para poder participar de este procedimiento o evento; usted tiene derecho, sin costo alguno a que se le provea cierta ayuda. Favor de comunicarse con Cheryl Alfonso, Coordinadora de A.D.A Court Operations

Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 por lo menos

7 días antes de que tenga que comparecer en corte o inmediatamente después de haber recibido ésta notificación si es que falta menos de 7 días para su comparecencia. Si tiene una discapacidad auditiva ó de habla, llame al 711.

KREYOL: Si ou se yon moun ki kokobé ki bezwen asistans ou aparêy pou ou ka patisipé nan prosedu sa-a, ou gen dwa san ou pa bezwen péyé anyen pou ou jwen on seri de èd. Tanpri kontakté Cheryl Alfonso, Co-ordinator ADA, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652O'mwen 7 jou avan ke ou gen pou-ou parèt nan tribunal, ou imediatman ke ou resevwa avis sa-a ou si lè ke ou gen pou-ou alé nan tribunal-la mwens ke 7 jou; Si ou pa ka tandé ou palé byen, rélé 711.

Kevin Madok,CPA

CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Monroe County, Florida Shonta McLeod

DEPUTY CLERK OF COURT

Publish:

August 22 & 29, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

SUMMONS SUPERIOR COURT OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS DIVISION OF ST. THOMAS & ST.

JOHN CASE NO.: ST-2023-CV-00219

CLAIM FOR DAMAGES

JURY TRIAL DEMANDED GUARDIAN INSURANCE COMPANY, Plaintiff, v. NICKOLAS EBENBECK CARIBBEAN LEASING & ECO TRANSPORT

d/b/a BUDGET RENT-A-CAR, BUSINESS BASIC VI, LLC, and INTERNATIONAL RENTAL & LEASING CORP., Defendants.

To: Nikolas Ebenbeck 33701 Clinton Avenue Denham Springs, LA 70706

Within the time limited by law

(see note on the next page) you are hereby required to appear before this Court and to answer to the First Amended Complaint filed against you in this action. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment by default will be taken against you as demanded in the First Amended Complaint for damages. Witness my hand and the seal of this Court on this 10th day of May, 2024.

TAMARA CHARLES

Clerk of the Court

By: Deputy Clerk

BARNES, D’AMOUR & VOGEL

P.O. Box 10829 St. Thomas, VI 00801

Tel: (340) 774-8188 / Fax: 7748189

/s/Kevin F. D’Amour

Kevin F. D’Amour, Esq.: VI Bar No. 288

Kdamour@usvilawfirm.com

Attorneys for Plaintiff, Guardian Insurance Company

NOTE: The Defendant, if served personally is required to file his/ her answer or other defense with the Clerk of the Court, and to serve a copy thereof upon the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after service of this summons excluding the date of service If served by publication or by personal service outside of the jurisdiction, the Defendant is required to file his/her answer or other defense with the Clerk of this Court, and to serve a copy thereof upon the attorney for the Plaintiffs within thirty (30) days after the completion of the period of publication or personal service outside of the jurisdiction.

Publish: August 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers CITATION

Telephone: (702) 852-1552

Facsimile: (702) 221-1961 admin@myvegaslaw.com

Attorney for Petitioners DISTRICT COURT

FAMILY DIVISION CLARK COUNTY, NEVADA CASE NO. G-24-060256-M and G-24-060256-M2

In the Matter of Guardianship of the Person and Estate of:

MAKAYLA ROSE HALE and RYANN MONROE HALE, Proposed Protected Children. CITATION TO APPEAR AND SHOW CAUSE TO:

MAKAYLA ROSE HALE and RYANN MONROE HALE, PROPOSED MINOR PROTECTED PERSONS; ALL KNOWN RELATIVES OF THE MINORS; AND ANY PERSON HAVING THE CARE, CUSTODY, AND CONTROL OF THE MINOR

NICOLE HALE, Mother; DEBRA HEDMAN, Paternal Grandparent; JACQUELYN NESBITT, Maternal Grandparent; and DOUBLAS EDWARD KUTNEYGRANDPA KUTNEY, Maternal Grandparent

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that BRAD JACOB HALE and SHAWNA KIM

HALE have petitioned the court to be appointed the guardians of the proposed protected persons named above.

The proposed protected persons may be determined to be incapacitated or of limited capacity; and a guardian may be appointed for the proposed protected persons.

The rights of the proposed protected persons may be affected as specified in the petition.

The proposed protected persons have the right to appear at the hearing and to oppose the petition.

The proposed protected persons have the right to be represented by an attorney; who may be appointed by the court if the proposed protected persons is unable to retain one.

At any time after the filing for a Petition to Appoint Guardian, the court may appoint: (1) An attorney; (2) A guardian ad litem or an advocate; or (3) an investigator, if found to be appropriate or necessary in the best interest of the proposed protected persons.

DATE AND TIME OF COURT APPEARANCE YOU ARE DIRECTED TO APPEAR AND SHOW CAUSE why a guardian should not be appointed for the proposed protected persons on the: 8th day of August, 2024 at 1:30 p.m., in Courtroom 03A at: The Family Courts and Services Center, 601 N. Pecos Road, Las Vegas, Nevada 89101. DATED this 17th day of April, 2024.

STEVEN D. GRIERSON CLERK OF COURT BY: Shaun Salcedo Deputy Court Clerk NOTE: The proposed guardian(s) and the proposed protected persons (unless excused by a physician) must appear at the scheduled hearing; all other interested parties do not need to appear unless they wish to oppose the guardianship and enter an objection.

Publish: August 1, 8, 15 & 22, 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

2005 Chevy Truck for sale in Marathon. $500.00 Call Nicole 305-433-0515

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. REDUCED PRICE $25,000 cash. Located in Marathon. 201-696-8906

14' Aluminum boat, 9.9 Mercury Outboard, Elec. start, Trolling motor in bow, NEW gas tank, battery, GPS, Depth Finder & trailer tires. Located in Marathon. $3500 305-395-1015

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 SLIP FOR RENT

Dock Space available in Marathon. Up to 32' Electric & water available. 305-619-5282

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

BOAT / TRAILER STORAGE

Gated storage & parking available in Marathon for boats, trailers & RV's - across from boat ramp - MM 54. $8-$10/ foot. 305-610-8002

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

CAMPING/RV SITE

Camping site/RV site at marina available in Marathon. Monthly/ Daily rates. Free use of dingy & fishing on dock. No Pets. 305-610-8002

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

COMMERCIAL

SPACE FOR RENT

Commercial office/ medical/retail space for rent/lease available in Marathon. High highway visibility, 2100-3500 sq. ft. Call for more information 305-481-3198 or email drice519@aol.com

Professional business offices for rent in beautiful building in Islamorada. U.S. 1 frontage and signage for your business. Call 305-780-7265 or email srussolaw@ outlook.com for details

EMPLOYMENT

SERVERS WANTED: Apply in person between 5 pm & 7 pm every night at Plaza Grill Steak & Seafood, 5101 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

The S.S. Wreck and Galley Grill mile marker 59 is looking for Line Cooks, full or part time. Self-motivated, quick learner, and team player. Salary commensurate with experience and includes 401k match up to 6%. Please call Nicole at 305-433-0515.

Hiring: Lead Gutter

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

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

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: Med Tech PT/Nights, Housing Choice Voucher Asst., Housing ManagerMiddle 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.

PlaceyourEMPLOYMENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-7430844 and reach your prospective employees.

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

PRIVATE

COLLECTOR

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

ANNUAL RENTAL -

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

Downstairs apartment of a duplex to rent to 1 person (no pets). Large living room/bedroom and separate kitchen. Large screened porch with its own washer/dryer and driveway. Utilities include wifi/tv. 150 ft to the ocean. MM96 Key Largo $1850/month. F/L/S 305-853-3779

ISLAMORADA: Very Large 2 BR apt. for rent. Furnished or unfurnished. Utilities & cable included. $2,200/month. First/ Security. Available Sept. 1st. Yearly lease. 305-5222702 Leave message

Studio Rental Unit in four-plex available for long-term rent in Marathon. Fully furnished. $2,200/month all in. Call Nicole 305-433-0515

2BR/2BA Single Family Waterfront Home for rent in Marathon. Fully furnished. 70' dock. $4,500/month includes all utilities, internet & TV. Available for 3 months - Jan, Feb & March. 727-278-1105

Marathon: Waterfront 2/1.5 duplex, monthly, furnished, near hospital. 40' of canal, pool, hot tub, pet friendly. Elec. & water paid. $4,950/ mo. F/L/D Call or text James 409-370-0025.

Conch HouseStudio for rent in duplex in Marathon. $960/month + utilities. Newly furnished. 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, $1,600/ month unfurnished,. All utilities included. F/L/S Section 8 accepted. 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

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

Heavy duty, hard wood Futon Bed for sale in Marathon. Excellent condition. Couch turns into double bed. $250.00 305-849-0975

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

ROOMMATE WANTED

Stock Island - Seeking non-smoking professional female/no pets. Fully furnished, W/D + TV. Very nice quiet safe place. Gated. $1250/month. First/ Last Call 305-797-5600 ROOMMATE FOUND IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!

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

RV FOR SALE

2010 27' Wildcat RV FOR SALE. 5th wheel, 1 slideout. Located in Key West. $9,000 618-559-9143 SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!

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

RV SITE FOR RENT

RV site at marina available in Marathon. Monthly/Daily rates.

SARA’S ESTATE SALE:

Get ready for the Zombie Apocalypse!! Friday, Aug 23 and Saturday, Aug 24, 9a to 1p both days, 43 Kyle Way South, Knights Key near Seven Mile Bridge. *Very nice fishing rods & reels including electric deep drops, down riggers, gaffs, so much tackle, etc. *Camping tents, field covering, canteens, survival bags, etc. *18v DeWalt tools & chargers, hand tools, drill press, air compressors, chain saws, lawn tools, ladders, shop radios. *Dock line, fenders, shore power cords, hookah rigs & hoses. *Standing Coke machine, full freezers, shelving, metal detector,

all-in-one washer dryer. *Motorcycle & car & boat parts, accessories, car jacks, tools, etc. *Bulk supplies of paint & brushes, cleaners, oil, additives, red gas cans, blue barrels, plus electrical, plumbing & irrigation parts. *Plus vinyl albums, toys, MREs & African art. Follow the signs and please park with consideration.

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

WE ARE HIRING!

DIRECT CARE STAFF AT ADULT DAY TRAINING PROGRAM FT

YOUR AD SHOULD BE HERE! $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today to place your classified ad.

TREASURE HARBOR MARINA

IN ISLAMORADA IS LOOKING FOR

• Dock Master/General Manager

• Front Desk

• Housekeepers

• Maintenance

• Mechanic

Apply in person at: Treasure Harbor Marina

200 Treasure Harbor Dr., Islamorada Email: info@keysboatrental.com Call for more information: 305-664-9943

DUI EVALUATOR/ INSTRUCTOR

This position is available at our Adult Day program. This position provides direct care service and support to our clients in the day program. This position requires the minimum of high school completion or GED. *

DIRECT CARE STAFF  GROUP HOMES 24/7 FT/PT

These positions are available at our Group Homes, evening shift. This position provides direct care services and support to our clients in their home. This position requires the minimum of high school completion or GED and 1 year of experience with care giving or 30 hours of college coursework. *

*ALSO REQUIRED FOR ALL POSITIONS: Fluent in English language, speaking and writing, proﬁciency is a must. Level 2 background screening and valid Florida driver’s license. EOE

Come join our family!

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

NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA

MARINA CASHIERS

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

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

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

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER IS HIRING

Staff Photographer (Full-Time, Part-Time, Seasonal)

Join our Visual Communications Department if you enjoy working outdoors around the water, interacting with people, and watching dolphins at play. Photograph program participants to provide lasting memories of their experiences. Some of the responsibilites include: taking candid digital still photos of guests & dolphins during public programs, all phases of video recording & editing, types of projects include promotional, educational, documentary, narrative, & visual music montages. Benefits include medical insurance, 401(k), vacation & paid holidays. Job description available at www.dolphins.org. Email resume and DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE

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

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.

EXPERIENCED ELECTRICIANS AND HELPERS NEEDED

Experience is required. Must have a

driver’s

We offer 401K, medical insurance, paid holidays and paid

Positions available in Key West and Marathon. 305-292-3369

JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 52 YEARS!

We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.

Peer Support Specialist Case Manager (Adult, Child)

Substance Abuse Counselor Prevention Specialist (HIV, Child) MARATHON

Care Coordinator (PT)

Driver – PT (CDL not required)

Behavioral Health Therapist (Child)

RNs/LPNs – 3 shifts (PT/Per Diem)

Peer Support Specialist/BHT

*Behavioral Health Technicians – 3 shifts (FT/PT)

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

Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP

Apply at guidancecarecenter.org

Search Employment/Portal/Location/zip

OPENINGS AVAILABLE

PHYSICIAN PRACTICE

OPENINGS

- Medical Assistant, General Surgery, Tavernier, $3k Bonus

- Patient Access Associate, Tavernier

- Physician Assistant, Ortho, Tavernier

- Nurse Practitioner Physician Assistant, Upper Keys Cardiology, $5k Bonus

- Nurse Practitioner Physician Assistant, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus

- Medical Assistant, Concierge Key West, $5k Bonus

- Physician Practice Registered Nurse, Concierge Key West, $15k Bonus

TAVERNIER MARINERS

HOSPITAL

- Cook, $5k Bonus

- Director Nursing Services, ICU

- Exercise Physiologist

- Group Exercise Instructor

- Lead First Cook, $5k Bonus

- Multi-Modality Imag Tech, $20k Bonus

- Nuclear Medicine Tech

- Radiology Technologist, $15k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care Center, $25k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, $15k Bonus

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- ED Team Coordinator, Emergency Department

- Experience Advisor, Patient Experience

- First Cook, $5k Bonus

- Lead Medical Technologist, $15k Bonus

- Lead Phlebotomist

- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, $20k Bonus

- Medical Technologist, $15k Bonus

- Radiology Technologist, $15k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Emergency, $25k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, $15k Bonus

- Registered Respiratory Therapist, $15k Bonus

- Security Of cer