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9709 Overseas Hwy.

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Florida’s Little League team out of Lake Mary topped Taiwan, 2-1, to win the Little League World Series on Aug. 25. The win by the team, based in an Orlando suburb, is the first in nine trips to the LLWS final by Florida teams.

On Aug. 24, 20 fighters from the Keys and Miami converged on the Marathon Elks Lodge for 10 hardfought bouts of charity boxing in Spar Wars: Marathon vs. Miami, the Battle for Florida. See page 20. KEVIN KLEEBLATT/Contributed

GRAND JURY REPORT OFFERS SCATHING REVIEW IN COUNTY INDICTMENTS

Document outlines ‘caustic and cronyistic’ environment, persistent cover-ups

By Alex Rickert and Mandy Miles

The following is a summary of statements taken directly from the report of a 15-member grand jury that recently indicted former County Administrator Roman Gastesi, former division chief of Trauma Star and Monroe County Fire Rescue Andrea Thompson, and former Trauma Star medical director Dr. Sandra Schwemmer in connection with the 2022 theft and loss of more than 600 vials of fentanyl, Dilaudid, ketamine and other controlled substances from MCFR, which also oversees the county’s Trauma Star air ambulance service.

The grand jury report was filed with the Monroe County Clerk of Court on Aug. 19. The Weekly strongly encourages our readers to view this report in its entirety, along with prior Keys Weekly coverage of the ongoing case, by scanning the QR codes provided. The Keys Weekly emphasizes that all individuals named are innocent until proven guilty, and though Gastesi, Thompson and Schwemmer have been indicted, they have not been convicted of any crimes.

gation and actions by MCFR and other public servants. It should be noted that Roman Gastesi was afforded an invitation on two separate dates to appear in person or via Zoom, but did not appear.”

“(Integrity and accountability) are seriously lacking in current (and former) MCFR high-ranking administrators and county employees and allowed for a caustic and cronyistic environment to exist for many years within the agency. This culture seriously affects the morale of its employees and the delivery of services affecting the life and safety of Monroe County citizens and visitors and must come to a stop. This culture has been one of long duration where certain employees have received preferential treatment to the detriment of other employees, often leading to the termination or resignation of employees who have refused to allow such dysfunctional behavior to exist.”

“Unfortunately, this environment … can be documented back to 2010.”

On Dr. Sandra Schwemmer’s alleged role

“The Grand Jury received a significant amount of information indicating that Dr. Schwemmer was not complying with the terms of her contract with the BOCC.”

On Andrea Thompson’s alleged role

“Mrs. Thompson has been directly involved in several of the incidents and instead of being terminated or disciplined … she has consistently been promoted throughout the years. … Information provided to the Grand Jury has shown that both Roman Gastesi and Fire Chief James Callahan have consistently intervened on behalf of Mrs. Thompson … to prevent disciplinary action being taken.”

“She placed her friendship with the Chief Flight Nurse Rusinowski ahead of public safety, improperly inserted herself in the investigation into the narcotics theft by Rusinowski and thwarted law enforcement’s attempts to discover all the facts and evidence surrounding the crime committed by her friend.”

“Aside from the above, Andrea Thompson was a main architect of the toxic workplace that existed at MCFR, actively participating in intimidation, threats and coercion to keep those she managed under her control.”

On Roman Gastesi’s alleged role

“What is certain, through the testimony of the various witnesses, is that Mr. Gastesi has used what appears to be boundless power and authority in manners not consistent with the best interests of Monroe County as a whole, but rather for select individuals that align themselves with him.”

Grand jury’s ‘facts & our assessment’

“The incident in July 2022, in which (former Trauma Star chief flight nurse) Lynda Rusinowski was initially charged … was merely the tip of the iceberg. Multiple incidents involving controlled substances and drugs utilized by the Trauma Star/EMS program have occurred since at least 2010. Many of these incidents have involved the same employees of Monroe County, Roman Gastesi, James Callahan, Andrea Thompson and Sandra Schwemmer.”

“On Aug. 2, 8 and 15, 2024, the Grand Jury heard testimony from 20 witnesses involved in or having knowledge of the 2022 Trauma Star investi-

“Testimony and information presented to the Grand Jury indicated that … controlled substances such as morphine, fentanyl, Dilaudid, ketamine and Versed regularly went missing without remedial action being taken. However, she did not institute any real changes to the inventory processes during her tenure.”

“Given the multiple incidents involving controlled substances during Dr. Schwemmer’s tenure, the Grand Jury is deeply concerned about the willingness of the BOCC to continually renew Dr. Schwemmer’s contracts that regularly increased the amount of compensation she received without any oversight that the terms of the contracts were being complied with.”

“Most recently, Roman Gastesi intervened and stopped HR and Employee Services from conducting an internal investigation by an outside third-party independent firm of the July 2022 incident and more specifically Andrea Thompson.”

On former MCFR Fire Chief Steven Hudson

“Information … indicates that Chief Hudson was harassed and received multiple threats of retaliation resulting in his decision to retire instead of being terminated when Chief Hudson attempted to implement changes and impose discipline for the July 2022 Rusinowski incident. To Chief Hudson’s credit, he requested that the Monroe County Clerk of Court conduct a full and complete audit of the EMS and Trauma

Prior indictments

Grand jury report

DUCK KEY BRIDGE CONTRACTOR APPROACHES DEFAULT DATE

After years of delays, island residents want answers

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

It was January 2021 when Monroe County began the first of three necessary multimillion-dollar bridge replacements on Duck Key. Four summers later, while one of the three projects awaits minor finishing touches, the headaches of plywood bridge surfaces, detours and temporary one-way traffic patterns are still a way of life for the island’s residents. And starting next week, those headaches have official dollar signs attached.

Contracts for the Bimini Drive, Seaview Drive and Harbour Drive bridges, originally valued at $3.18 million, $5.26 million and $5.78 million, respectively, were awarded to American Empire Builders (AEB) in December 2020, with notice to proceed given in January 2021 for the Bimini Drive bridge. Change orders for the Seaview Drive and Bimini Drive bridges have since added roughly $940,000 to those price tags, including about $500,000 for temporary strengthening on a crumbling Bimini Drive bridge.

According to intermittent updates posted on a dedicated page of Monroe County’s website, the Bimini Drive bridge, the most visible and heavilytrafficked of the three projects, is currently pending minor finishing touches. The same updates list the targeted date for substantial completion of the Seaview Drive bridge as Thursday,

Sept. 4 – 597 days after the project’s commencement date on Jan. 16, 2023. The Harbour Drive bridge’s date target is currently listed as March 18, 2025 – 540 days after the project’s commencement date.

But the most recent construction schedule available for the Seaview Drive project, relayed via an email obtained by the Weekly, lists a substantial completion estimate in late January 2025. Though the bridge was roughly 25% complete at press time, Monroe County director of engineering services Judith Clarke told the Weekly by phone that “the contractor has to submit an updated schedule to us, and we believe that (January 2025) is going to push out at this point.”

As delays for the Seaview project grew, county spokeswoman Kristen Livengood confirmed in a Jan. 26, 2024 email that the county began diverting payments for the Seaview bridge to AEB’s surety bond company, responsible for footing the bill beyond the original bid amount for the bridge’s completion through AEB or another contractor if AEB fails to deliver.

According to the county site’s Aug. 23 update, county officials notified AEB on Aug. 16 that the county will begin assessing damages when the Seaview project’s contract expires on Sept. 4: $500 per day for the first 15 days, $1,000 per day for the next 15 days, and $3,500 per day for each additional day.

If AEB were to meet its January 2025 target, liquidated damages would still total well over $400,000 per the existing contract – and that number would only grow with additional delays.

Extensive email correspondence reviewed by the Weekly between Duck

clude in 2022 and 2023.

Key residents and county officials, largely relayed through Duck Key Property Owners’ Association (DKPOA) president Ron Oestreicher, have for months challenged construction updates and targeted completion dates posed by AEB.

“The residents of Duck Key after four years of this bridge nightmare deserve the truth,” Oestreicher wrote on Aug. 26 in an email to county officials requesting a “realistic project projection” for the remaining bridges and a public meeting with Duck Key residents. “AEB has never been held accountable to their contractual obligations, and time will tell if the county will enforce the damage clause. Clearly what gets shared with the public is whatever AEB presents to the county, without any regard if it is realistic.”

“Every time I go by the Seaview Bridge during the weekdays, I do not see anyone from AEB there,” wrote Seaview Drive resident Sylvia Hernandez in an Aug. 25 email. “Once about two weeks ago, I saw one person, sitting on his truck talking on the phone. At this pace, our bridges may take several more years for completion. In the meanwhile, our neighborhood is filled with barricades, detours, temporary traffic lights, construction equipment and plywood bridges.”

Other American Empire projects facing extensive delays have made headlines around the state over the past year – many of which had similar estimated start and completion dates to Duck Key’s saga. In January, citing “absolute agreement” with “unacceptable” performance by AEB, Pinellas County commissioners voted to terminate contracts with the builder on three long-delayed bridge projects totaling $7.7 million, scheduled to con-

That same month, officials with the city of Saint Petersburg issued a notice of default to American Empire for another $3.6 million bridge replacement in its Shore Acres neighborhood. In April 2021, AEB was awarded a $6 million contract to replace the city’s 9th Street South bridge. That project is also still ongoing, with FDOT posting that officials are “aware of the delays and actively working with the contractor and their surety company on a recovery plan to complete the project in a timely manner.”

“I have no hope that (assessing liquidated damages) will incentivize AEB to finish the work,” Hernandez wrote in her Aug. 25 email.

In an email to DKPOA members on June 24, 2024, DKPOA bridge committee chair John Wolfe said there are “no good options” to address the current situation.

“The obvious option is to again declare AEB in default and terminate the contract,” the email stated. “While this would be satisfying, it really is not an option. As we know, AEB was the only bidder the first time around. I can’t imagine any contractor bidding on a partially completed, small, complicated bridge project as they would certainly have liability concerns. The delay would be extensive.”

Asked whether AEB’s recent history with other projects, extensive delays and contractual faults could prompt the county to look elsewhere for completion of the Seaview or Harbour Drive bridges, Clarke said the county would evaluate “all of our options under what’s available to us in the contract.”

“After the projects were awarded, the contractor ran into financial difficulty, and that slowed the project down,” she said. “When the surety bond became involved with the payments, I coordinated with our county attorney and outside counsel, and (continuing with AEB) will be evaluated. The county’s goal is to get the bridges complete, and we’ll be looking at all alternatives.”

American Empire Builders did not return a call and voicemail request for comment from the Keys Weekly.

Photographed on the morning of Aug. 28, the Seaview Drive bridge on Duck Key is nowhere near completion as its contract expiration date of Sept. 4 approaches. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

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INVESTIGATION WILL PROBE COUNTY DRUG SCANDAL

Commissioners to hire outside firm to delve deeper

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

Elected officials in the Florida Keys last week decided to delve deeper into the actions and inaction, both careless and criminal, that allowed more than 600 vials of fentanyl, Dilaudid, ketamine and other narcotics to be lost or stolen in 2022 from the Monroe County Fire Rescue department, which also oversees the Trauma Star air ambulance service.

At an Aug. 21 county commission meeting, commissioner Crag Cates proposed, and his colleagues agreed to hire an outside firm to conduct an independent, in-depth investigation into MCFR and other county departments.

‘Our leadership has failed’ “Supposedly, we’ve made improvements so this can never happen again,” Cates said at the Aug. 21 county commission meeting. “But we’re also trying to restore the public’s trust, and having an independent investigation that answers only to us as the board of county commissioners, I believe, is necessary to start restoring that trust.”

An internal audit last year by the county clerk’s office revealed an alarming lack of oversight for MCFR’s controlled substance protocols.

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The decision closely mirrors one of 14 recommendations that a grand jury included in its report detailing the evidence that led to the indictments earlier this month of three county officials.

County attorney Bob Shillinger at next month’s meeting will recommend a firm and proposed contract for the investigation.

The grand jury that handed down the indictments charged former top county administrator Roman Gastesi with felony official misconduct.

The scandal started two years ago when Trauma Star’s former chief flight nurse, Lynda Rusinowski, was investigated and later arrested for stealing narcotics to feed her own addiction. But the county clerk’s audit soon found the problems went much deeper than a single addicted nurse.

“This is not about the work of our first responders; it’s about leadership, and our leadership has failed,” commissioner Michelle Lincoln said at the meeting. She suggested the outside investigation cover not just the MCFR, but other county departments and contracts, which is also recommended in the grand jury report.

Commissioners David Rice, Jim Scholl and Holly Raschein agreed, with Raschein emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability, and of the commission “owning this.”

“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,” states a press release from the Monroe County State Attorney’s Office following his indictment.

In addition, Andrea Thompson, former division chief of Trauma Star/ EMS, faces at least 11 felony charges, including official misconduct, evidence tampering, making false statements to law enforcement, and falsifying patient records. Dr. Sandra Schwemmer, former medical director of Trauma Star and MCFR, faces one count each of official misconduct, providing false information to law enforcement and altering patient records.

The official grand jury report, which was to be made public Thursday, Aug. 29 at 8:30 a.m. at the Clerk of Court’s website at monroe-clerk.com, details a culture of corruption, intimidation and favoritism at the county level, involving Gastesi and Thompson.

During the public comment period, Key West resident and political candidate Chris Massicotte, who is challenging commissioner Jim Scholl, commended the additional investigation, adding, “I’m sure we all know someone who has been affected by addiction, and it breaks my heart to think about how many vials of those drugs got into our community.”

County firefighter Oliver Hodek, president of the firefighters union in Monroe County, commended the county’s firefighters who continue to be on the front lines every day despite the burden of this scandal.

“If trust needs to be restored, it must begin with our own leadership,” he said. “Like any chain, we’re only as strong as our weakest link, and when that was tested, our weakest links faltered and failed. But you know which link didn’t break or falter? Your firefighters.”

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Marathon BPW forum celebrates women’s suffrage

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

As local races turned the page from primaries to November’s general election, candidates and voters met over cocktails in a celebration of women’s right to vote, presented by the Marathon Business and Professional Women at Skipjack Resort on Aug. 23.

While the evening focused on informal face time with contenders for each office, candidates were all given a platform to speak, under one condition: speak only on their own views and positions, not against others’.

“This time of year, we reflect on the women who have come before us and fought so hard to ensure our most important rights,” said forum organizer Sarah Bartus. “This event was the first of its kind for our Marathon BPW. Thanks to Skipjack Resort and Blu Bistro, who sponsored the event, food and drink. And thank you to all the candidates who attended. We realize the work, time and personal sacrifice you put in to serve our community."

1. The Marathon BPW welcomes community members, dignitaries and nine candidates from five local races to Skipjack Resort.

2. Supervisor of Elections candidate Sherri Hodies.

3. Blu Bistro owner and Skipjack general manager Lydia Westdickenberg.

4. Monroe County Commission candidate Chris Massicotte.

5. BPW members Kiki Mcintire, left, and Erika Goodman.

6. Marathon City Council candidate Mark Senmartin.

7. BPW vice president Sarah Bartus, right, and president Kristin Carlson.

8. KCB City Administrator John Bartus, left, with U.S. Senate candidate Phil Ehr and Marathon City Council candidate Ray Wood.

9. BPW members Stephanie Zajac, left, Mallory Pinto and Kara Pascucci.

10. State Rep. Jim Mooney, left, with Marathon Mayor Robyn Still and Supervisor of Elections candidate Ron Saunders.

11. Marathon City Council candidate Jody ‘Lynny’ Del Gaizo, left, with BPW vice president Sarah Bartus.

12. Monroe County Commissioner Jim Scholl with Monroe County School Board member John Dick.

SCHOOL BUDGET DECISIONS

Property owner’s tax bill could see an increase despite a proposed rate drop

FRANK DERFLER

www.keysweekly.com

At its Aug. 20 meeting, the Monroe County school board held a budget workshop where they described reducing the tax rate from last year, but they also expect to collect more property tax dollars.

That happens because the assessed valuations of properties have gone up across the Keys. A property owner’s bill from the county for schools is proposed to go up 2.37%, or $32.66, if their home is valued at $500,000 last year and receives the homestead exemption. Those with a similar residence but without a homestead exemption will see their bill rise 9%, or $132.70.

Decisions on funding for the county’s schools take place from September through November, and taxpayers are invited to participate.

The Monroe County School District is one of 14 Keys taxing authorities. Six of those, like mosquito control and the judicial system, are countywide. A person’s property bill also has taxes, including another school tax levied by the state and by taxing authorities like the Water Management District. The state money for schools spreads to all counties to level differences in funds available in a county to pay for schools.

Only a small percentage of the state school tax money comes back to Monroe County. If you are 65 or older and have the $50,000 exemption on your real estate assessed value, that exemption doesn’t apply for these two school taxes. The $25,000 homestead exemption does apply.

Taken together, the “school” line can become the largest dollar item on a property owner’s real estate tax bill. Decisions about how most of that money is gathered and spent are made by the members of the Monroe County school board.

The Monroe County property appraiser’s office has mailed the Truth in Millage (TRIM) notice. The TRIM notice is not a bill; it is a forecast and the property appraiser uses it to invite the public to participate and

speak in the process of determining local taxes. A public hearing on the final Monroe County School District budget will be held at Marathon High School on Sept. 10.

During a prior meeting, school board member John Dick pointed out that very little of the funds in the school operating budget are discretionary.

“You have to run the buses, pay the staff and provide benefits,” he said.

At the same meeting, Charlene White, the district’s executive director of finance and performance, discussed a recently received $4.2 million invoice from the Florida Blue Health Plan that was several times the anticipated amount.

The school tax should generate $128.54 million in 2024-25. The district also receives some funds from the items, labeled school state law, on the real estate tax bill. Those state funds come according to a formula designed to reduce the differences in assessed property wealth between counties.

Monroe County Schools have two other sources of funds that depend on voters. The November ballot will contain an item known as the “half-mill.” This referendum would allow the district to move funds from the capital fund to the operating fund. It doesn’t create any new cost to taxpayers.

“Renewing the half-mill is crucial for our ability to retain high quality teachers and staff, provide school nurses and school resource officers at every school and maintain the high quality educational opportunities our students deserve,” said Sue Woltanski, school board chairwoman.

The other referendum item in November, known as the “half-cent,” is a sales tax that pays for buildings, upgrades and maintenance.

Voters have approved both of these ballot items for 20 years in a row.

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GRAND JURY REPORT OFFERS SCATHING REVIEW IN COUNTY INDICTMENTS

Star program. Not surprisingly, Chief Hudson received much pushback from the County Administrator Gastesi and certain BOCC commissioners.”

On MCFR and Trauma Star employees and testifying witnesses

“There are many highly trained, dedicated, ethical and committed individuals within those programs who take pride in serving Monroe County. The long standing underlying problem has been the various individuals placed in leadership roles who have abused the power given to them and created an unhealthy almost tyrannical environment.”

“The currently employed firefighter/ paramedics who testified exposed themselves to potential retribution and ostracism (and) were especially courageous despite being at risk of severe personal and professional consequences.”

“The Grand Jury was in full consensus that the MCFR EMS and Trauma Star program provides outstanding critical patient care and services. … We commend their efforts and encourage public trust and confidence in these services.”

Recommendations to the county commission

“Mr. Gastesi must never hold any position with Monroe County.”

“Andrea Thompson (should) be immediately terminated from her position with MCFR and not be allowed to return or hold any position with MCFR or hold any position of trust within Monroe County.”

“Chief Callahan (should) be asked to resign as Fire Chief before the end of 2024.”

“Monroe County Employee Services to implement random drug testing for all county employees in special-risk positions.”

“Monroe County’s Human Resources/Employee Services department (should) develop a new and uniform policy and procedures for the handling of any complaint received by a Monroe County employee. … (and) review and update its whistleblower/anonymous reporting process. … There also needs to be a written report or response documented internally indicating what was done to investigate the report as well as a response being provided to the individual who made the report.”

“The BOCC (should) immediately hire an independent third-party firm to conduct a review of all contracts of services and determine compliance with the required contract terms before any contract is renewed.”

“The BOCC (should) implement more checks and balances as it pertains to the County Administrator position. There should be written monthly re-

ports detailing a thorough review by the County Administrator of the County’s departments’ work environment, work product and efficiency along with any pending complaints or incidents related to public trust or accountability.”

County officials react

Monroe County spokeswoman Kristen Livengood told the Keys Weekly on Aug. 28 that the county commission will be reviewing all recommendations and discussing them at length at the Sept. 11 meeting in Key Largo.

“The number one priority now is to regain the trust of our community. We will continue to be accountable and transparent while implementing the appropriate recommendations in the Grand Jury’s report and will have staff present regular updates at BOCC meetings into the foreseeable future.”

– Monroe County Mayor Holly Merrill Raschein

“The grand jury report is why we requested not only an internal audit investigation on Fire Rescue, but an independent agency to comprehensively review our entire organization with the goal of identifying opportunities for improvement, accountability, transparency and fairness across all operations. True leadership demands accountability and a willingness to self-assess, and I acknowledge that there are areas where we can do better. I continue to uphold the commitment of serving our community with the highest standards of governance and service. This isn’t about the service provided by our fire rescue. This is about leadership and organizational effectiveness.” – commissioner Michelle Lincoln

"I received the grand jury recommendations and am in the process of digesting the information that was presented. I look forward to our discussion at the next BOCC meeting regarding the findings." – commissioner David Rice

“We will take this matter seriously and are committed to transparency and accountability. Our priority is to thoroughly review the findings and recommendations made by the grand jury to ensure that our operations align with best practices to better serve the public's interest.” – commissioner Craig Cates

“We’ll discuss this fully as a commission once we have the opportunity to discuss it at a public meeting, when we’re permitted to discuss such matters.” — commissioner Jim Scholl

“We are doing a thorough review of how our culture operates. We want to make sure we do not repeat any of the mistakes of the past and make sure that our controls are robust enough to not be circumvented moving forward.” – acting County Administrator Kevin Wilson

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FOURTH ROGO/ BPAS SURVEY TACKLES LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS

Input open through Sept. 13

Over the next year, county and municipal leaders will be tasked with arriving at a final number of building allocations to request from the state in 2025. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is seeking public participation regarding the state-mandated hurricane evacuation modeling discussions that will continue through January 2025.

Survey #4 on the topic is currently available, designed to gauge public opinions and ideas concerning some of the legal considerations of the future of growth in the Florida Keys. The survey will remain open until Friday, Sept. 13 at 5 p.m.

Monroe County community members are invited to take this survey by scanning the QR code or visiting https://www. surveymonkey.com/r/MCROGOSurvey4. The survey should take five to six minutes to complete.

Additional surveys will be available in September and October to help gauge what the community wants to see moving forward, including the community’s thoughts on planning for the future.

SHERIFF FIRES DEPUTY WHO ALLEGEDLY TIPPED OFF SUSPECTED DRUG DEALERS

AMonroe County Sheriff’s deputy was fired on Aug. 21 at 5 p.m. after an investigation found she allegedly used her computer to forward confidential information to suspected drug dealers.

The sheriff’s office said 40-yearold Jennifer Ketcham was officially terminated following her July 31 arrest. She faces 19 felony counts of misuse of law enforcement computers, computer networks, and electronic devices.

However, the arrest report references a Ryan Hernandez with a birth date of 1990, matching the only individual of the same name with seven arrests in the Keys for drug-related offenses over the past 14 years.

In an interview with sheriff’s office investigators, Ketcham reportedly stated that she did not have any “concrete” evidence that Ryan Hernandez is involved in any criminal activity, but that it had been brought to her attention during a previous investigation. She stated that she searched the databases for Hernandez’s name because he believed his license had been suspended.

Past surveys will help officials learn more about community members’ basic knowledge of ROGO/ BPAS, how locals live and commute, and when residents evacuate during a hurricane. (The first five questions of each survey are the same.)

Monroe County gives a monthly update during regularly scheduled BOCC meetings and is meeting with nonprofit and civic groups throughout the Keys regarding the Department of Commerce’s hurricane evacuation modeling to gauge public opinions on everything that affects evacuation timing and the number of additional ROGO/BPAS allocations, if any, the county and municipalities should request from the state. The hurricane evacuation modeling is based on a Florida Statute requiring that Monroe County residents be able to evacuate within 24 hours before a storm. Any allocations awarded could be issued over the next 10 to 30 years or at a rate that does not lead to unbalanced growth or additional takings liability. More information is at www. monroecounty-fl.gov/rogo2024.

— Contributed

According to the sheriff’s office, Ketcham used law enforcement databases to look up information for personal reasons beyond the legal scope of her employment as a deputy and forwarded that confidential information to suspected drug dealers.

“Transparency in this agency is one of my highest priorities,” said Sheriff Rick Ramsay. “I am committed to keeping this community informed of all significant events that occur at the sheriff’s office and holding employees accountable.”

An incident report obtained by the Keys Weekly details the investigation of Ketcham and more than a dozen instances of her using her law enforcement credentials to access the Florida Criminal Information Center and National Criminal Information Center (F/NCIC) and Drivers and Vehicle Information Databases (DAVID) to look up information about her boyfriend, Ryan Hernandez, and send database search results to Hernandez regarding other vehicle plates and individuals.

In text messages between Ketcham and another sheriff’s office employee, Ketcham reportedly stated that “(Hernandez) is dealing dope, and I can’t be tied into that.”

The employee alleged that Hernandez was only 17 years old when the pair began their relationship, eventually living together as a couple.

The report goes on to allege that, in addition to conducting numerous database searches to obtain information about drivers’ licenses and license plates, Ketcham advised Hernandez of areas to avoid on Stock Island in 2023 while she was an acting supervisor, who dictated the zones to which to which patrol deputies were assigned.

More than 11,000 pages of text messages allegedly sent between Ketcham and Hernandez, obtained via a search warrant for Hernandez’s phone, show that a contact named “J” warned Hernandez to “stay out of Big Coppitt Key, letting him know that ‘narcs’ are getting ready for a raid” on Sept. 6, 2023. Two days later, text messages from the same contact allegedly warned that a “narc is on Stock Island for a couple of hours.”

In her interview with investigators, Ketcham reportedly stated she had warned deputies to stay away from areas of Stock Island, but “only in a joking manner.”

Ketcham was hired on June 2, 2021 after graduating from the police academy that is held at the College of the Florida Keys. Her bond was set at $1.9 million — $100,000 per felony charge — but was later reduced to $610,000 in an Aug. 5 order from Judge Albert Kelley.

A hearing is scheduled for Oct. 15 before Kelley at the Key West Courthouse. A trial date is set for Oct. 28. — Keys Weekly staff report

Jennifer Ketcham

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

SPAR WARS

Keys fighters throw down with Miami foes in charity boxing exhibition

Visitors to the Marathon Elks Lodge on Saturday night were treated to a first-of-its-kind spectacle in the Middle Keys as Marathon Boxing Studio hosted a charity boxing exhibition in collaboration with Spar Wars Entertainment.

Dubbed “Spar Wars: Marathon vs. Miami, the Battle for Florida,” the evening pitted 20 fighters from the island chain and Miami against one another for 10 grueling fights, with proceeds funding annual Pay It Forward scholarships for Marathon High School

seniors distributed by Wendy Bonilla.

“I’m a mental health crisis responder here in the Keys, and I noticed for coping skills there’s not really much here,” said Marathon Boxing Studio founder Dwayne Ellis on his gym’s growth over the last two years, culminating in the hundreds filling the Elks Lodge to watch the bouts. “This program was built for that purpose –to help these kids, adults and young adults. It’s been a really great outlet for them, and we’re trying to push this thing to let the people here in Mara-

Fighters trade blows at Spar Wars: Marathon vs. Miami, the Battle for Florida at the Marathon Elks Lodge on Aug. 24. Photos by KEVIN KLEEBLATT/ Contributed. See keysweekly.com for more photos.

thon know that this is needed.”

Ellis admitted the novel event was “a little scary at first,” but lauded the backing from the Elks Lodge and Marathon locals in packing the house for one of his biggest shows ever.

“This had never been done before, but at the end of the day, I have a lot of gratitude towards the Elks Lodge, and it was a great turnout at the end of the night,” Ellis said. “We had key sponsorships and a really great support system.”

OPEN HOUSE

28565 ANNE BONNY ROAD

LITTLE TORCH KEY | $1,399,000

Spacious canal front home in desirable Jolly Roger Estates. No details were spared in the recent renovation transformation, resulting in impeccable design and comfort. Kitchen updates include stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. Split floor plan allows for tranquil privacy in both lower bedrooms. 80' dock ensures plenty of room for your boat and there are no bridges to open water!

22727 JOLLY ROGER DRIVE

CUDJOE KEY | $899,000

Idyllic Canal-Front retreat on a generous fenced-in lot! This spacious home boasts an open concept living space and 3 generous bedrooms. The living room flows seam lessly into a well-appointed dining room and kitchen, and a sprawling screened-in veranda o ers serene Canal

17165 WAHOO

LANE

30988 WITTERS LANE

BIG PINE KEY | $895,000

Beautiful extra large lot with open water view and full

SUGARLOAF KEY | $1,250,000

Bright and spacious retreat boasting over a quarter acre of land on a pristine canal! This spectacular home o ers an open concept great room, expansive dining room and large kitchen. Entertaining space extends out onto a screened-in veranda complete with serene canal views! Downstairs, this well-manicured lot spans 100' of waterfront and includes a composite dock and 15K boat lift for excellent boating access!

499 SAWYER DRIVE

CUDJOE KEY | $1,599,000

Stunning Open Water Views from this sturdy CBS estate! Enveloped in lush tropical landscaping, this slice of paradise sits on a well-maintained lot that feels abundantly private. The spacious interior o ers soaring ceilings, while stunning Ocean Views remain the focal point of the space. An expansive screened-in back veranda overlooks a scenic walkway through lush mangroves, leading to an open water dock.

1082 BAY DRIVE

SUMMERLAND KEY | $1,899,900

Bright and spacious retreat on a peaceful corner lot, with endless turquoise Water Views! This prime location is ideal for boating, with approx 189' of water frontage and enviable ocean access! Entertain guests on the spacious open back porch, overlooking the well-maintained yard and canal below. Nestled within a tranquil, established neighborhood, while just minutes to shops and restaurants in town!

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

HERE ONE MOMENT

By Liane Moriarty

The flight from Hobart to Sidney wasn’t meant to be anything special, but when an older petite woman begins to walk the aisles foretelling fates, the passengers collectively don’t know whether to laugh or cry. “The Death Lady,” as she becomes known, relays to each passenger the age and cause of their death. Some people laugh with aplomb – old age, 103! – while others who will perish at any moment in a tragic accident become extremely distraught. Finding comfort in numbers, a handful of these people reconnect after the flight to determine who this fortune teller was and why she would randomly set out these predictions. Shortly after, when a few deaths become reality, a social media page is created, and the race is on to find this woman called Cherry and change fate before they are added to her growing list. In her breezy Australian style, Liane Moriarty gives the reader a peek into each of their lives and Cherry’s mysterious past. Although most believe “what will be, will be,” small changes can affect outcomes. This fascinating saga is filled with statistical consequences and the mystery of life.

ANYONE BUT HER

By Cynthia Swanson

In 1979, life was relatively simple for Suzanne Parry, even though her parents' marriage was troubled. Young Chris adored her, and their artsy mom Alex owned the coolest shop in Denver, Zoe’s Records. One evening while Alex was working late, the store was robbed and she was tragically murdered – everything was about to change. Suzanne’s job was to look after Chris and ward off Peggy, the evil woman jockeying to take her mother’s place. Suzanne, always slightly clairvoyant, begins to see ghosts and sense their spirits. Finally, her mother comes to her. As she begins to lead Suzanne down a path of discovery, Suzanne cannot ignore the terrifying truth. In 2004, Suzanne returns to Denver with her husband Brett and their children. Her rebellious teenage daughter is resentful of the move, while her son Austin struggles with behavioral issues. As Brett begins a new job, Suzanne recreates Zoe’s as an eclectic art emporium, reawakening childhood memories. And the ghosts will not be ignored. The family mysteries must be resolved, and Suzanne will do whatever it takes to protect her children from the past. Musical nostalgia, ghosts and family drama – this new release has it all.

THE SEQUEL

By Jean Hanff Korelitz

Distinguished author Jacob Finch Bonner is dead and Anna Williams-Bonner finds herself on a literary tour of her own, signing hundreds of books and answering questions about Jake’s suicide. She never desired fame and would have happily remained the financially secure, grieving widow. But there must be a touch of ambition hidden in us all. When Anna is offered the opportunity to attend a writers’ retreat, she cannot resist. In a cabin deep in the woods, a novel pours out of her fingers, and the publishers are thrilled to throw Anna on their gravy train. An advantageous plan, until Anna begins to receive a series of excerpts from a novel she thought was destroyed, with a story that could ruin them all. With her brother and husband long gone, Anna believed her past was effectively obliterated. As the correspondence becomes threatening, Anna must discover who is behind this torment. Aptly titled, this sequel to “The Plot” is masterfully crafted – a book within a book within a book, brimming with thrilling twists as a mysterious woman peels back the many layers of deception. It’s a strange and wild journey that leaves you unexpectedly rooting for the villain.

#WorthWatching: “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder.” A captivating new British television series, inspired by a bestselling novel, features Pip Fitz-Amobi, a sharp and determined schoolgirl. Unsatisfied with the lackluster investigation into a local girl’s murder, Pip takes matters into her own hands. Available on Netflix.

KAREN NEWFIELD

COLLEGE GETS $2M BOOST FOR NEW STUDENT HOUSING

Grant comes from Edward B. and Joan T. Knight Foundation

The late Joan and Edward Knight founded the Edward B. and Joan T. Knight Foundation, which recently provided $2 million to College of the Florida Keys for its new residential complex to offer students affordable housing. CONTRIBUTED

The College of the Florida Keys is $2 million closer to developing its new residential complex for students and the workforce on the Key West campus, thanks to a pledge from the Edward B. and Joan T. Knight Foundation. The gift is the largest contribution to the CFK Foundation in its history.

The college’s new residential complex could include as many as 240 student beds and up to 50 units for CFK employees, educators, first responders and health care workers. Dining and recreational facilities may be incorporated in the design to enrich the living experience. When fully operational, this facility will add to the current 100-bed residence hall, Lagoon Landing, on the waterfront “Point” area on the northwest part of campus.

“We are grateful to the Edward B. and Joan T. Knight Foundation for recognizing the college’s residential complex as a worthy investment in educational opportunities and workforce housing in the Keys,” said college President Jonathan Gueverra.

“With approximately 90% of our current residential students holding

jobs that support the Keys’ economy, an increase in the number of beds will result in an increase in the labor market. These student workers will support CFK’s enrollment growth and fuel the Keys economy with a steady supply of workers without additional pressure on the housing market.”

Students have demanded on-campus housing for decades, but state colleges are not typically allowed to have it. CFK had to get legislative authority and external funding to build Lagoon Landing, which opened in 2011. After several years of operating at capacity, and with a wait list, the college again sought and secured legislative approval to expand the number of student beds and to add workforce housing units.

The college is working with industry leaders, philanthropists and government officials to procure support and seeks another $20 million to begin the project.

More information is available from Lana Gaspari at 305-809-3214 or foundation@cfk.edu. Gifts to the CFK foundation are tax-deductible. — Contributed

REBUILD FLORIDA PROGRAM MIRED IN FRAUD ALLEGATIONS

Summer is on its way out, but hurricane season is about to peak — and Rebuild Florida (a grant-funded partnership between HUD and Florida Commerce) is in deep water.

This program is mired in fraud allegations, and as a taxpayer, we all have skin in the game.

Did you know that $480 million was earmarked to rescue citizens living in storm-ravaged homes? Seven years after Hurricane Irma, approved cases are still pending. Others are marked as complete when they are anything but. The “lucky ones” who received “help” now feel more vulnerable during storms, thanks to shoddy workmanship and inferior materials. And don’t even dream about hurricaneresistant glass — storm-hardening falls into the luxury category.

Residents from Key West to Jacksonville, from coast to coast in the Sunshine State, have endured abusive practices even as subsequent storms exacerbated their misery. Where is the outrage? The oversight? Key lime may be the flavor of choice, but this low-lying island chain has missed out on its slice of the pie.

Fifty million dollars were designated specifically for the Florida Keys. And now, it’s time for some answers. This program was founded on good intentions. Uninsured homeowners who met the stringent criteria would have their homes repaired or rebuilt with the grant funding. It sounds simple, but the process is grueling and soul crushing. So are the endless delays. I am a recipient who was hoodwinked by the lies and have been sidelined since 2019.

The owner of my land lease mobile home park refused to participate, citing the program’s infamous reputation. (Rebuild Florida allegedly hires unskilled labor, damages properties and lacks clear timelines.) As an alternative, they offered to buy me a new mobile home in the community. I toured models and found the perfect floor

plan at the right price. Just before closing, HUD blocked the deal because it violated program rules. You see, Rebuild Florida learns to pilot the plane at maximum capacity. Exhausted, I depleted my 401(k) and settled for a distant rural lot, incurring H.O.A. fees and taxes. Now it sits vacant.

You know fraud is afoot when online support groups emerge, and victims share a common thread — gaslighting, lost documentation and forgotten promises. Management suggests applicants “withdraw if the process becomes too burdensome.”

The physical, financial and emotional fallout of this program is far from over. If I am drafted to serve in this war on corruption, I will proudly be its poster child. Why are we ignoring the decomposing elephant in the room? The stench rides on hurricane force winds and then drifts down from the mainland to the Florida Keys.

How does Alex Kelly, secretary of Florida Commerce, justify the outrageous cost of stuffing families into hotels for up to five years while construction creeps to a halt? He does it by blame-shifting. In 2021, they contracted IEM to administer the Rebuild Florida Irma program. I have one question: Where did our tax dollars really go? Some call it “charity gone wrong.” I call it a CRIME. Our elected officials must steady this ship because it is sinking fast.

Rebuild Florida invokes the “inactive” status to inflate fulfillment reports on project completion — it takes the heat off, temporarily. This protracted abuse is far worse than anything Hurricane Irma inflicted. Meanwhile, FEMA (which announced it has run out of money mid-hurricane season) has embraced the business of sponsoring art exhibitions.

Hey, Florida, examine priorities much?

Sincerely, Wendy Miller-Aguiar South Florida resident

SPIKE

3-year-old male American bulldog.

Looking for: My first real bed, inside a house.

Turnoffs: I’m the new guy, so check back later

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 you need; all

KATRA

1-year-old female domestic shorthair.

Looking for: I’d love a quiet home with other cats.

Turnoffs: I’m no lap cat.

Adoption Update. Dipper, formerly known as Jay, was recently adopted at the FKSPCA Marathon campus. His new family says, “He is the most loving dog I’ve ever had and doesn’t have a mean bone in his body. He is now a regular at the dog park and loves being chased and playing with the other dogs. He loves peanut butter and he loves his little sister Sissy. He is amazing and I am so happy I found him at the SPCA.” Congratulations to Dipper and his new family!

REEL RECS

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

WHAT: “Lynch/Oz” (2022)

WHY: “The Wizard of Oz” is currently celebrating its 85th anniversary, and it’s served as a source of inspiration for people from all walks of life. This documentary examines how the iconic film influenced the work of someone surprising on the surface yet obvious when examined closer: director David Lynch. Structured as a series of video essays, various filmmakers such as John Waters (“Hairspray”), Karyn Kusama (“Jennifer’s Body”), and David Lowery (“The Green Knight”) examine Lynch’s unique filmography, comparing elements of each with the legendary musical. Not only that, but the documentary branches off to show (via engaging split-screen comparisons) how Oz made its stamp on other elements of cinema, as well. It’s a thoughtful and well-edited exploration of what makes the man behind the curtain tick.

WHERE: This film is available on Kanopy, the library’s streaming app.

KATHLEEN GILBERT 1948-2024

Kathleen Gilbert, born on Aug. 12, 1948, in Oak Park, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Aug. 3, 2024. Kathleen was a loving partner to John Paryse and a devoted mother to William Robatzek and the late Mark Stoll.

Kathleen was the proud owner of the Anchor Inn for 16 years. From 1985 to 1995, she was also the owner of Kathleen’s in Roselle, Illinois.

Kathleen was the cherished daughter of Lucille (Miles) Gilbert and Murray “Bud” Gilbert. She is remembered for her warmth, kindness and dedication to her family.

A service to celebrate Kathleen’s life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in her honor may be made to the Girl Scouts of the USA. Internment will be at the Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside, Illinois.

Kathleen will be deeply missed by all who knew her and will be remembered for her love and compassion.

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/becomea-foster-volunteer/ or call 305-7434800.

HOW: You can browse and request DVDs online by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. To view our collection of streaming movies and TV, go to kanopy.com/ keyslibraries and set up an account with your library card. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? info@keyslibraries.org.

Recommended by: Kelvin Cedeño, library assistant, Islamorada library.

See previous Reel Recs at keyslibraries.org/reel-recs.

WHEN YOU SEE A BUTTON, IT’S A MUTTON CAPTAIN JOEL’S FISHIN’ HOLES

Found in deeper waters during the warm months, mutton snappers put up a hard fight with the reward of excellent table

fare. JOEL BRANDENBURG/Contributed

With the exception of a lane snapper, “when you see a button, it’s a mutton.”

Mutton snapper is one of the most sought-after game fish in the ocean. As the water temperature cools down, the mutton snapper move in closer to the reefs, to intercept the bait fish. Ballyhoo, pilchards, speedos, goggle eyes, pinfish and several other bait fish migrate to the reefs and shallower waters as the water temperature cools. So, it all has to do with the food chain.

We've caught mutton snapper on live shrimp and dead shrimp, live mullet and dead mullet. We’ve even caught mutton snapper on mullet gizzards while fishing for yellowtail snapper. Most avid mutton snapper anglers agree on two things. One is that the best way to get a mutton bite is by using a long leader from the sinker to the hook. The other is that mutton snapper prefer to feed on the sand bottom.

Regarding the length and size of the leader – some swear by a leader no longer than 20 feet and no heavier than 40-pound test, while some swear by a leader 50 feet long or longer and 50-pound test mono or heavier. Some anglers say the important thing is to use a heavy enough sinker that it holds the bottom, and some anglers say just the opposite: You should use the smallest sinker that will get the bait to the bottom but still allow it to bounce along in the current.

When mutton fishermen fish a wreck, they typically don't fish directly on the wreck for the mutton. They fish around the wreck in the sandy spots bored out from the current surrounding the wreck. If they fish a reef or a ledge, they won't drop down on the rocky parts of the reef or ledge – they'll drop down on the pockets of sand

CAPT. JOEL BRANDENBURG

…is a fifth-generation Floridian and second-generation fishing captain who owns and operates Ana Banana Fishing Company in Marathon. His passions include fishing, hunting and spending time with his family.

between the reefy spots.

Mutton snapper are very finicky eaters. We found during warmer months that a butterflied ballyhoo or a chunk of fresh bait works the best. We believe the reason is that during the warmer months, the mutton snapper are more lethargic in the warm water and less likely to chase a bait. Vertical jigging can work well during the warmer months too.

During the cooler months when the mutton snapper are less lethargic and more apt to actively chase live bait, we like to drop down live pinfish, mullet, ballyhoo, pilchards, goggle eyes, speedos, and any and all other bait that they feed on naturally to "match the hatch.”

When using a dead bait, we like to use a bigger hook buried or hidden in the dead or cut bait. When using live bait, we like to use a smaller hook so the live bait can swim more naturally and won't be hindered by the hook. During the warmer months, mutton snapper are prevalent outside 150 feet deep, but during the cooler months, they come inside of this depth. The bag limit on mutton snapper is five per person with an aggregate of 10 per day, and each fish must measure 18 inches from the tip of the bottom lip to the tip of the pinched tail down the lateral line of the fish. In my opinion, a mutton snapper tastes very similar to the meat of a mangrove snapper, whereas a yellowtail snapper tastes more like a queen snapper. Mutton meat is white, firm and flaky, and some of the best table fare in the world. Go out and give mutton snapper a try. They fight hard, they are a challenge to get and they're great to eat.

To book a charter with Ana Banana, call or text Capt. Joel at 813-267-4401 or Capt. Jojo at 305-879-0564, or visit anabananafishing.com.

Capt. Joel would appreciate your vote as best fishing guide in the Best of Marathon awards. Visit Keysweekly.com to vote.

Florida Keys Electric Co-op Notice:

Unclaimed Capital Credits

As a not-for-profit, member-owned utility, Florida Keys Electric Cooperative members receive member capital credits—your piece of the co-op pie. Member capital credits are our annual margins (total revenue minus operating costs) allocated to each member who received power from us for that year on a per-use basis.

FKEC retains these allocated margins for a number of years to invest in improvements, maintain the electric system and offset the amount of money the co-op has to borrow from banks, which in turn keeps your electric rates lower. Eventually, these allocated margins are returned to members and are called capital credits.

FKEC attempts to locate members and former members who have not yet claimed

their capital credit refunds for a period of five years. A final notification attempt is made in the fifth year by publishing a list of members with unclaimed funds.

To see if you or someone you know has unclaimed funds, check our database at www.FKEC.com/access-your-account/ capital-credits/.

A Florida Keys Electric Cooperative member or former member on the list must claim payments within 60 days of Aug. 26, 2024. Failure to make such a claim results in an irrevocable assignment or gift by such member or former member of such capital credit refund to the co-op pursuant to Article VII, Section 3 of the cooperative’s bylaws.

Raymond Rodriguez, MD Medical Director, Mount Sinai Cardiology of the Keys

Take precautions during peak king tides

Monroe County will experience unusually high tides, known as king tides, through December that can cause coastal tidal flooding, especially in lowlying areas. Residents and visitors are encouraged to prepare for king tides, be aware of their surroundings and avoid driving on flooded streets.

The highest peak king tides in the Florida Keys are expected to occur Aug. 18-21, Sept. 15-24, Oct. 4-6, Oct. 13-23 and Nov. 13-20. Peak king tides mean predicted levels are about 0.4 feet above Mean Higher High Water.

Avoid walking or driving through flooded areas, as they are likely filled with saltwater that can damage vehicles. If you drive through tidal floods, wash the undercarriage of your car to remove any saltwater accumulation. Follow posted road closure and detour signs. If driving through flooded areas, please note that creating waves can cause additional damage to surrounding landscaping and property. Avoid parking your vehicle in low-lying areas. If you are a boater, be aware that these high tides cause lower clearances under fixed bridges.

If done safely, residents can provide photos of property or neighborhoods experiencing tidal flooding to greenkeys@monroecounty-fl.gov with the address, date and time the photos were taken. Photos can help in future planning and will become the property of Monroe County. To find tides in your area, scan the QR code. (Put in a zip code, or city and state, and it will display today's tides as well as measured water levels.) More information is at www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ kingtides.

Islamorada man charged with child neglect

A 39-year-old Islamorada man was arrested Aug. 24 for allegedly leaving a toddler unattended. There were no injuries reported. Bradley Andrew Mullis was charged with child neglect. The sheriff’s office observed the child in pajamas on the side of U.S. 1 near MM 81 just before midnight on Saturday. Two good Samaritans were present who prevented the child from running into the street, officials said. The child was uninjured. The toddler was identified as the child of Mullis, who lived nearby. A check of the home revealed he was not present and the front door was open. Mullis arrived shortly thereafter. His story reportedly changed concerning why he was not present. Mullis was taken to jail.

Four teens arrested in Big Pine burglary

Four Lower Keys teens were arrested this week for alleged burglary and theft. David Yasmany Santana, of Key West, 18, was charged with burglary, grand theft and contributing to the delinquency of minors. Two 15-year-olds and a 14-year-old were charged with a mixture of burglary, grand theft and criminal mischief charges.

A sheriff’s office investigation revealed the four allegedly went to a home on Big Pine Key on Aug. 18 to retrieve a stolen bicycle. Santana drove the three juvenile suspects. The juvenile suspects did not find the bicycle, so they stole a dirt bike and burglarized a nearby truck. They dumped the dirt bike down the street and covered it with spray paint. The group then went to another residence and stole a second dirt bike at that location, rode and damaged that dirt bike, and dumped it next to the first bike. MCSO obtained warrants and the suspects were arrested by the Key West Police Department.

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 pre-sale ticket – $50 at the door – covers 7 games with six strips each. More information is available from 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.

St. Columba church presents classical guitar concert

St. Columba Episcopal Church at 451 W 52nd St. in Marathon will present their 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.

KATHLEEN HENDRICKSON

Having Fun in the Middle Keys

TRY ’N’ FIND

Words that remind us of Mississippi are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: BRIDGES, CIVIL WAR, EDUCATION, ELVIS, EVERS, GULF, HURRICANE, INFRASTRUCTURE, LOWLANDS, MAGNOLIA, MEXICO, MISSISSIPPI, NATCHEZ, PETRIFIED, RIVER, SECEDE, UNION, WELLS.

Founded by Betty Debnam

Mini Fact: The Mississippi River borders or flows through 10 states.

Don't Miss Mississippi

Mississippi became our 20th state when it entered the Union in 1817. The state in the Deep South was the second to secede, or separate, from the Union before the Civil War.

EARLY HISTORY

Several American Indian tribes lived in the area before Europeans arrived, including the Choctaw, Chickasaw and Natchez. The Natchez Indians were almost completely wiped out by the French and never recovered.

Today, most Natchez people are found in Oklahoma.

Hernando de Soto was the first European to explore the area, in 1540, claiming it for Spain. More than 100 years later, the French claimed the region.

After the French and Indian War in the mid1700s, the British gained control of the area.

MISSISSIPPI TODAY

About 3 million people live in the Magnolia State. The largest city and capital is Jackson, with a metro area of about 600,000 people.

Although cotton was a huge crop for Mississippi before the Civil War, the state fell behind afterward because its leaders would not invest in infrastructure (like roads and railroads), public education and development of industries.

As a result, the state still ranks last in income and 49th in education.

Today, automobile plants in Mississippi make Toyota and Nissan cars. Other products made there include processed meats, grain and dairy

products and beverages. People also work in furniture-making.

LIVING IN MISSISSIPPI

Mississippi is thought to be the birthplace of the blues, a type of music that sprang from the songs of slaves as they worked in the fields. Elvis Presley, known as the king of rock ‘n’ roll, was born in Tupelo; his music was inspired by the blues. Mississipians are no strangers to hurricanes. Not only does the state border the Gulf of Mexico, but almost all of its territory is considered lowlands, on average only 90 meters above sea level. The most recent damaging hurricane was Katrina in 2005, with wind gusts of 134 mph.

WORKING FOR CHANGE

Many historical figures in the civil rights movement got their start in Mississippi. They include:

• Ida B. Wells was born into slavery in Holly Springs in 1862. She was one of the founders of the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People); she was also a journalist and teacher. Wells fought for women's rights, including the right to vote. She died in Chicago in 1931.

• Medgar Evers was the NAACP’s first field secretary in Mississippi. He was born in Decatur in 1925. Evers worked to integrate the University of Mississippi Law School. He was assassinated, or killed, at his home in Jackson in 1963.

• Ruby Bridges was born in Tylertown in 1954. You may have seen pictures of her as a 6-year-old as she integrated an elementary school in New Orleans. Today, Bridges is the chair of the Ruby Bridges Foundation, which promotes "the values of tolerance, respect and appreciation of all differences."

Mississippi’s Petrified Forest in Flora is thought to have formed 36 million years ago when a flooding river snatched trees out of the ground. The sections of trunk were buried in debris from the flood. Over time, they decayed and then petrified into stone logs.

ECO NOTE

Israeli scientists say a marine pandemic that has violently wiped out the Red Sea’s sea urchin population in just a matter of months is now spreading rapidly. The deaths were first noticed in the Gulf of Aqaba and have quickly spread southward into the Indian Ocean and eastward toward Southeast Asia. The same parasite responsible for the deaths also killed 95% of the urchins in the Caribbean two years ago. The urchins are known as the “gardeners” of the sea because they trim algae off coral reefs that otherwise block sunlight, allowing the coral to thrive.

RESOURCES

The Mini Page® © 2024 Andrews McMeel Syndication

Mississippi River” by Colleen Sexton

photo by Christopher Barnette

Elvis Presley

Ida B. Wells

Ruby Bridges

Medgar Evers

THE SCOREBOARD

AUG. 29

Basilica Volleyball Marathon 8/19 W, 3-1

Marathon Volleyball Mater Bay 8/21 W, 3-0

Coral Shores Volleyball Silver Palms 8/21 W, 3-1

Key West Volleyball Marathon 8/22 W, 3-0

Coral Shores Volleyball Westwood 8/22 W, 3-1

Marathon Football Pompano Beach 8/23 W, 39-30

Coral Shores Football South Homestead 8/23 W, 29-0

Key West Football Clewiston 8/23 W, 35-6

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Key West Volleyball Eustis 8/24 L, 3-2 THIS WEEK

GARCIA

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

AUG. 29

8/29 All Keys Teams Golf @ Ocean Reef 1 p.m.

8/29 Coral Shores Volleyball Keys Gate 5:30 p.m.

8/30 Marathon Volleyball @ Florida Christian 5:30 p.m.

8/30

8/30 Coral Shores Football Palmer Trinity School 7 p.m.

8/30 Key West Volleyball Boca Raton 7 p.m.

8/30 Key West Football IMG Academy White 7 p.m.

8/30 Basilica Volleyball @ Shelton 4 p.m.

8/30 Basilica & Coral Shores Cross Country @ Race of the Thoroughbreds 3 p.m.

9/3 Coral Shores Volleyball Basilica 4:30 p.m.

9/3

9/4

9/5 Marathon Volleyball Key West 5:30 p.m.

9/5 All Keys Teams Golf @ Ocean Reef 1 p.m.

9/5 Coral Shores Cross Country @ Larry & Penny Thompson Park 3 p.m.

9/5 Coral Shores Volleyball @ South Homestead 5:30 p.m.

Braulio has the heart of a lion. He is an emotional player and lays it all on the line. He does so much that probably goes unnoticed by most, but I notice. He is willing to do whatever it takes to win.”

—

Sean McDonald, Fins football coach

36.7 total yards yards-per-carry average

ON THE COVER

In last week’s game against Pompano Beach, senior Braulio Garcia ran for 110 yards, including a 64-yard explosion good for a TD. He earned those yards in just three carries, and his 36.7 yards-per-carry average was good enough for the team high. Not bad for a lineman who played guard for the first quarter. Marathon had run through the entire depth chart of blocking backs in a matter of days, but coach Sean McDonald knew where he could find a talented, dependable one.

Garcia made the switch from blocking back to lineman this fall, selflessly giving up the glory of a back for the unglamorous, though crucial, role as lineman for the Fins.

“Braulio never complained once. He always puts the team above self and that is a big part of why we are having success,” explained McDonald.

As a senior, Garcia has shouldered the responsibility of leadership and lifts others up with a lighthearted attitude, but when it comes to football, he is all business. For his willingness to put his team first and rock solid leadership, Braulio Garcia is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

Braulio

Senior, Marathon Football

For the first time in years, all three Keys gridiron squads vanquished their opponents on the same night to start the regular season. See page 8. Top left: Key West’s Josue Thanus. Top right: Coral Shores’ Yemcel Moreno. Bottom, from left: Marathon’s Fab Louis Jeune, Eduardo Garcia, Tanner Ross, Carlos Lezcano & Shamar Wright. Photos by Maicey Malgrat, Doug Finger and Barry Gaukel.

Photo by BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

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

sean mcdonald

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.

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LIFE IN THE FAST LANE

Conchs,

’Canes prepare

to showcase speed and talent this season

If you’ve never been to a Key West home swim meet, you are most definitely missing out. The longest-serving coach in the Florida Keys, Lori Bosco, started one of several unique traditions many years ago, and still today you will find her team standing beneath the American flag at each home meet. The team collaboratively sings the “The Star-Spangled Banner” before the beginning of each race. Bosco also initiated a post-race congratulatory lineup for both teams in a sport she says is full of sportsmanship and goodwill.

Bosco’s Conchs are playing catch-up a bit this season after their home pool underwent resurfacing, sending them scrambling for practices, but her team now seems ready to represent in the beautifully-redone pool at College of the Florida Keys.

The pool is not the only thing looking great these days. “We lost a lot of seniors last year, but right now we have 10 returners for 21 total on the boys team and eight returners with 14 total on the girls,” Bosco said. “The boys’ numbers are pretty good,” she added, explaining that though the girls’ numbers were a little low, their talent makes up for it.

Returning this season are Aly Camargo, a sophomore who qualified for regionals last season in four events. Camargo is a sprint specialist, qualifying for postseason starts in the 50 and 100 free as well as a pair of relays.

Seniors Reeghan Davis and Lindsey Smith will serve as team captains this season. Both are experienced swimmers, praised by Bosco for their leadership and maturity. Also returning for the Lady Conchs are Colbie Turner, Hadley Bardoni and Mary Searcy, three veterans who should make an immediate positive impact for Key West.

New to the girls high school team, but not the sport, are Ashlyn Pico and Karis Dryer. Both athletes have club experience which they will bring to the Lady Conchs varsity squad this fall.

For the boys, Eli Morris returns for his senior season as a captain. Morris used his specialty, backstroke, to help carry two Conch relays to regionals last season. Joining Morris in leadership roles this season are Matthew Robertson and Jason Frankel.

The boys team will also benefit from the return of Santiago Gonzalez, a 100 and 200 freestyle specialist; Hugo Blinckmann at breaststroke and freestyle; and Jacob Perez, who holds down the distance races for Key West.

tracy mcdonald

Bosco plans to allow the seniors to choose their events in an intrasquad meet for some fun competition and to honor the outgoing athletes in their final competition at CFK. Key West took the plunge for their first competition on Aug. 24 against Port Charlotte High School (results not available at press time).

Coral Shores returns a host of veterans this season. “We have a fantastic group of juniors and seniors who are ready to take the lead and inspire our rookies this year,” said coach Kelly Owens. She named Abbie Sargent, Layne Smith, Allegra Fucaraccio, Sofia Figueredo and Larkin Dunn on the ladies’ side and Evan Osipov, Mason Osipov and Anthony Jeffrey on the boys’. Sargent, Smith and Fucarracio all made the cut last season, qualifying for the state meet, and with three-fourths of their relay teams intact, they have a very good chance of repeating the feat.

Owens and co-head coach Jon Olsen have their eyes set on the big show. They are hoping to repeat last year’s postseason successes, and the coaches as well as the athletes in Coral Shores’ swim program put in the work all year long. Olsen works year-round with some of the athletes, and their work should pay dividends this season. Several athletes partake in open-water long-distance swims to stay competitive in the offseason.

Coral Shores will again feature a group of competitive divers. Last season the ’Canes added a pair of divers to their roster after being without any for several seasons. This year, Owens says more have joined, and she hopes they too will meet the requirements to qualify for the postseason.

The ’Canes are heavy on the leadership this season, with a group of dedicated seniors willing to sacrifice and lead by example in their last year representing Coral Shores. Seniors Sargent, Jeffrey, Evan Osipov, Calista Wittke, Leticia Lima and Rachel Rusch are a special group this season; all six have plenty of experience, strong work ethic and a willingness to set the tempo for the underclassmen.

Johnny Pico, a junior who swam for Key West’s club team long ago, is on the roster, as well as Camargo’s older brother Sebastian, who is taking up competitive swimming for the first time as a junior.

Bosco’s squad includes nine freshmen and 11 first-year swimmers, a bit of an anomaly for Key West. Bosco stressed that her team will focus on PRs for themselves and work on coming together as a team. “You have to work together to win,” she said. “Swimming is both an individual and a team sport.”

With eight home meets and one of their three away meets at Founders Park in Islamorada, Conch fans have plenty of opportunities to see the Southernmost swimmers in competition. Although Bosco has been coaching for nearly three decades, she keeps things fresh with creative solutions each season. This year the crafty coach has added an event to her busy schedule to benefit athletes and parents alike.

“Usually our last home meet is senior day. This year it is on a Thursday at 1 p.m. and a lot of parents can’t be there,” she explained. “We also have a week between the last meet and Districts, so to keep them swimming that week, we are having a Saturday senior show day.”

always show up with a positive attitude,” Owens added. “I year.”

Owens described her seniors as “truly some of the best leaders and a great group of role models for our up-andcoming swimmers. Regardless of their level in the pool, they always show up with a positive attitude,” Owens added. “I am looking forward to seeing their influence on our team dynamic this year.”

Although

Although the Lady ’Canes return a majority of their roster, including multiple state qualifiers, they did lose a key sprinter last season to graduation and will need to find a fourth swimmer to fill in on their highly-successful relay teams. Owens is not too worried, though.

teams. Owens is not too worried, though.

“I believe we have the depth to make a seamless transition,” she said.

“I tion,” she said.

As

As of press time, Coral Shores’ schedule had not been finalized, but the Hurricanes are doing everything they can to take South Florida by storm this season and bring home more hardware to the Keys.

schedule hardware

Clockwise from top left: Jason Frankel, Abbie Sargent, Allegra Fucaraccio and Reeghan Davis. Photos by Mark Hedden and Doug Finger

BASILICA SCHOOL OPENS NEW CHAPTER WITH A ‘W’

Hurricanes win two, but lose coach

For the first time in decades, Basilica School, formerly Mary Immaculate, participated in varsity athletics last week. The Mariners began their new chapter with a win against Marathon, defeating the Lady Fins 3-1 on Aug. 19.

The former high school, which closed in 1986, has a rich history in athletics on the island. While its doors were once shuttered due to declining enrollment, the school now boasts a waiting list which school president and varsity volleyball coach Robert Wright attributes to its reputation and parents and students seeking faith-based instruction.

“Starting the season with a 'W' is always a good thing, especially after taking 38 years off from varsity competition,” Wright said. “Although we won, we were not satisfied with our play overall. We have to bring down our errors."

In their inaugural match, a genuine team effort led to the victory. Uma Vogan registered a dozen kills, a solo block and assisted on another while hustling for 24 digs. Gloria Slavik killed 8, assisted 18 and earned 21 digs. Olivia Revoredo and Mackenzie Morris each scored a pair of aces and Kayden Davis was perfect at the baseline, landing all 22 of her serves offensively, then adding 11 digs for the Mariners’ defense.

The Mariners defeated Marathon in Key West, but the Fins didn’t go down without a fight. Basilica School got off to an early lead, winning the first set 25-12, but Marathon dug deep in set two, tying it up with a 27-25 win of their own. Sets three and four belonged to the Mariners, who won 25-19 then 25-23 to win their first varsity contest at home, 3-1.

"I was exceptionally proud of our team leaders, juniors Gloria Slavik and Mackenzie Morris,” said Wright. “I was also blown away by the offensive production of two of our middle school starters."

The Mariners have a handful of juniors on their roster, which is also peppered with middle school students. Despite missing a pair of key athletes until mid-September, Wright feels confident in his team. He said the girls are gaining momentum and getting better every day, making them an interesting addition to Keys volleyball schedules not only this season, but for many to come.

Coral Shores stormed the courts this season, earning a quick 2-0 record with wins over Somerset Silver Palms and Westwood Christian last week. Jarrod Mandozzi, named head coach a few hours before the first regular season match after the resignation of previous head coach Sam Ovalle, was an assistant coach last season with the Hurricanes’ program. Mandozzi had hung up his whistle and was set to enjoy his role as the Lady ’Canes’ number one fan.

“I can tell you I certainly never expected to be here this season,” he said. “I helped Sam last season so I know all of the girls and I’ve had some of them in basketball in the past.” Ovalle stepped down to attend to personal matters early last week.

“He is an amazing coach and a great friend, so while I didn’t expect to be here and have the time, I made the time for him and the girls when Sam, Rich (Russell) and Ed (Holly) shared the situation,” Mandozzi said.

Though Mandozzi felt a bit shaky about his abrupt takeover, the Lady ’Canes seemed steady on their feet, taking a quick lead over district rival Somerset Silver Palms in their season opener on the road on Aug. 22. But the Stallions battled back and won the first set, 26-24. Coral Shores quickly regrouped and swept the final three sets to win the match 3-1. Mandozzi expressed great pride in his team’s ability to shake off the week’s disappointments and the first set to come back to start their season off in the win column.

The team added to their win count the following night in their home opener against Westwood Christian School in another 3-1 victory. Over the course of both games, Grace Leffler had 20 kills for the ’Canes. Shelby Lynn served up 6 aces and Abby Bergeron added 4 more. Ivy Tiedemann was credited with 33 assists and Lynn assisted 27 times. Niveah Howard led in blocks, denying 13 times with some of them described by Mandozzi as “emphatic.” Sofia Jans chalked up 33 digs in the pair of matches. The next test for the Hurricanes will be an exciting one; they play Basilica School in Tavernier on Sept. 3.

Just across the island from Basilica, Key West enjoyed a season home opener win against Marathon on Aug. 22. The Lady Conchs, led by head coach Kim Butler, won it in three sets, led by Gabby Garcia with a dozen kills against the Fins. Audrey Smith had 8 kills with a .462 attacking efficiency. Reese Haggard earned 19 assists and Garcia and Kuhn were praised for their passing in a game Butler said she was happy to win, but felt it could have been played cleaner.

Hot off their sweep of Marathon, the Conchs hosted Eustis High on Aug. 24. Smith was a standout again with 12 kills and a .333 hitting percentage, 5 blocks and 3 aces. Tess Wright had 4 kills and a .375 efficiency and added a block at the net. Garcia killed 16 Panther shots while Haggard added another 24 assists to her stats. Molly McKnight assisted 12 times and earned 2 aces serving. The gameplay was furious, with both teams showing brilliant hitting and accuracy at the baseline. It would take all five sets to determine a winner, but in the end, Eustis came away with the victory. Key West hosted neighboring Basilica School on Aug. 28 for a newly-rekindled in-town rivalry match (results not available at presstime). The Lady Conchs have another home match scheduled against Boca Raton on Friday, Aug. 30, then have a break in their schedule lasting until a quick trip to Marathon toward the end of September.

Monroe County competition gave Marathon some trouble last week, with losses to Basilica School and Key West High, but the Fins looked great against Mater Bay on Aug. 21. Marathon beat the Rays in three sets, not allowing Mater to score more than 11 in any one game.

Coach Kelley Cruz was happy to get her athletes some experience in the match. “We were able to get everyone some playing time,” she said. Cruz was still trying to figure out her best lineup, but the past week has allowed for Marathon to get the right fit at each spot.

“I think we identified roughly who our starting six are,” Cruz said. “Elena (Eubank) showed some impressive skill at the net. She was able to showcase her skill of placement. Allison Helms, Tiana Palma and Mia Olivia all shared digs in the back row. Shynell McGuire was a utility player getting kills. Daysi Williams, Sara Strama, Addison Collins and Mackenzie Nielson also shared kills at the net. Mackenzie Budi is always a force in the back row hitting and digging hard hits.”

Up next for the Fins will be a match at Florida Christian on Aug. 30; then they will have a break until Sept. 12, when they travel to Fort Lauderdale to take on the Sharks of NSU University School.

FAIRWAY TO HEAVEN

Keys golfers conquer one of the top-ranked courses in Florida

Athletes representing Key West, Marathon and Coral Shores enjoyed a rare occurrence last week: Members of their high school varsity golf teams played nine holes at Ocean Reef’s Dolphin Course. On a course described as exclusive, remote and dazzling, the golfers and their coaches could not agree more, as each head coach expressed excitement about the opportunity for their athletes.

Key West registered the lowest scores on the manicured course, with the Conchs winning the top four spots in the boys division and the only five in the girls. Claudia Steling beat a field of four teammates, shooting a 53 on the day. Steling, a junior, brings experience and leadership to her team and is playing very well for the start of the season. Behind Steling was a pair of sophomores. Lexi Finigan was just two strokes behind, while Charlize Lopez shot a 64. The seniors shored up the top five spots, with Monica Bueno shooting a 69 and Breanna Santanna penciling in a 71.

While Key West’s girls were competing against one another, the boys had a bit more competition. Key West won the match with a combined score of 176 to Marathon’s 196. Coral Shores was close behind in third at 201. Helping to secure Key West’s win were seniors Jackson Barroso and Peyton Zubieta, who tied at 43. Geo Twyman, a sophomore, and senior Andrew Bassett tied at 45 apiece to take the next two spots.

Next was Marathon’s Leo Mendez in fifth place with a 46. One stroke behind was fellow senior Dolphin Mason Thornton in a three-way tie for sixth place alongside Coral Shores’ senior Preston Carroll and junior Brock Bynum. Hurricane senior Tanel Irons and Dolphin sophomore Roco Piscetello rounded out the top 10 with 49 strokes each.

The teams will be seeing a lot of one another in the next few weeks, playing up and down the Keys all season long. The teams have matches at Key West, Marathon and more action at the prestigious Ocean Reef course on the schedule. The Lady ’Canes and Lady Fins will join the Lady Conchs beginning this week for some friendly competition and Basilica School could make an appearance in the coming weeks as well.

Lexi Finigan. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

Keys

teams perfect in season openers

TRIFECTA

Monroe County has not seen wins from all three of its football teams on the same night since 2018, but last Friday, Key West, Marathon and Coral Shores each won at home in their regularseason openers. For Marathon and Key West, the wins avenged losses last season; for Coral Shores, it was affirmation that the ’Canes are exactly where they want to be this fall.

Coach Ed Holly was delighted with his defense against South Homestead, a team he warned should not be taken lightly by future opponents despite the Hurricanes’ 29-0 shutout. “They are very athletic with a lot of speed,” he said. “They did not have the benefit of a preseason game and were still working some things out. I’m glad we played them in Week 1 because they’re going to get better and better.” But it was going to take more than speed to get past the Coral Shores secondary, which wreaked havoc all night long.

A large part of the Hurricane wrecking crew was Eddie Holly, who racked up 8 solo tackles, 4 assisted tackles, 1 tackle for loss, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. Connor Dixon had 4 solo and 4 assisted tackles plus a forced fumble. Holly, Dixon and the rest of the defense gave South Homestead little to work with, especially after the first drive of the game, which broke the hearts and resolve of the visiting Somerset team.

“We came out on our first drive and AJ Putetti finished it with a 1-yard touchdown run,” Holly said. “Then they (South Homestead) drove it down all the way to the goal line. Our defense was successful in a goal-line stance.” After holding the line, the Coral Shores defense handed the ball back to the offense, which promptly resulted in a Putetti 80-yard touchdown and 2-point conversion which gave Coral Shores a 15-point lead early in the matchup.

Holly has been very careful reinstating his quarterback, Yemcel Moreno, to full duties. Moreno, who is coming off a season-ending knee injury last year exacerbated by a reinjury in the spring game, was given the green light in quarter three. As soon as Holly unleashed Moreno, South Homestead was left scrambling to defend the additional layer of offensive capabilities. Moreno scored twice in the second half, resulting in a 29-0 win for Coral Shores.

“The guys played well in our first home game. It was a great night for football,” said Holly, whose team hosts another familiar foe next week. “We had a lot of support from everyone, the cheerleaders, a big crowd, everything.”

The Hurricanes will face the Falcons of Palmer Trinity on Aug. 30 in Tavernier. The Falcons struggled to beat SmartEn Academy, a team that has yet to win a ballgame since their inception, in their season opener, giving Holly’s Hurricanes a lot of hope to stack some serious stats in Week 2.

Forty miles away, the Dolphins enjoyed a season-opener win of their own. Last year, the Golden Tornadoes of Pompano Beach bested the Fins by one point. Last Friday, the Dolphins channeled assistant coach Carl “Chef” Stanton’s Big Dolphin Energy to come out with an early 24-point lead.

The Dolphins’ offense ran for 515 yards on Aug. 23, scoring 5 touchdowns from four different athletes. Carlos Lezcano had the game high of 153 yards and added 2 TDs to his stats. The senior captain also recovered a

1.

2.

3. The Conchs student section takes up a ‘No Longer Under Construction’ theme on Friday night.

4. Fab Louis Jeune carries the ball early in the Fins’ opener.

5. Carlos Lezcano (1) and Jesus Gonzalez (4) celebrate the first of two Marathon onside-kick recoveries in their season opener on Aug. 23.

6. Dolphin junior Shamar Wright breaks to the outside on his first touchdown run of the season.

7. Aiden Gilday (66) protects kicker Fab Louis Jeune (2) in a point-after-touchdown attempt.

8-10. The Coral Shores Hurricanes put a 29-0 beatdown on South Homestead to open their season on Aug. 23.

more game photos at keysweekly.com.

Jayden Gist hauls in an interception in the Tigers’ end zone.

Molly Catena and her stunt group (Molly Kirkpatrick, Madi Wiggins, Britney Salter and Nataly Rios) throw a basket.

Photos by Tracy McDonald, Doug Finger and Maicey Malgrat. See

fumble on defense. Tanner Ross, Fab Louis Jeune, Shamar Wright and Braulio Garcia had the rest of the yards, with Louis Jeune, Wright and Garcia all crossing the goal line for the Fins.

Garcia, who played guard for the better part of the game, had not taken a single snap at the back position all season prior to Friday night. The Fins were three deep at blocking back in their preseason game, but were left scrambling after a series of injuries. Garcia was trusted with 3 carries and broke one for a 64-yard touchdown run.

Despite giving up 30 points, head coach Sean McDonald said his defense did well. “We made some mistakes,” he said, “but the defense did what they were supposed to do and are really starting to get it.” Much of Marathon’s defense is young but full of talent. Sophomore Sean Westerband stepped up big for the Fins, picking off an interception and amassing 4 solo tackles, 3 assists and a fumble recovery. Fellow sophomore Jesus Gonzalez batted down a pass and was credited with a pair of solo tackles and 3 assists.

Special teams were also crucial in the win. The Fins recovered a pair of onside kicks to keep the ball in the hands of their offense. And while many joke about McDonald never kicking the ball deep, he gives the go-ahead occasionally.

“Fab can boot it into the end zone from a lot further out than we’ve been able to do in a long time, so when it looks like that’s the case, we have that option now,” he said.

Marathon was grateful for the win, but will need a few more this season to make a run past October. “Since moving to the rural division, every win counts. If we want to make the playoffs, we need wins and strength of schedule, and this one was meaningful,” said McDonald. This season the Dolphins joined the 1A Rural division of the FHSAA, and will not face another division opponent unless they make it to the playoffs via a ranking algorithm.

If the Fins hope to add a second win to their playoff equation, they’ll need to beat Florida Christian on the road. Marathon defeated the Patriots last season, but a new head coach and amped-up system could make that win more difficult this year.

Key West was scheduled to host the Tigers of Clewiston in the newly-remodeled Tommy Roberts Memorial Stadium last Friday, but in true cat fashion, the Tigers had no intention of playing in the water. An afternoon downpour had swamped the stadium, and though it was potentially playable, the Conchs acquiesced to the Tigers’ demands and played in The Backyard on the turf. The surface didn’t make one bit of difference for Clewiston, whose Tigers were sent home reeling from a 35-6 Key West thumping, avenging a 1-touchdown loss last season.

The biggest difference between last season’s outcome versus last week’s was in turnovers. In 2023, the Conchs turned the ball over seven times; last Friday, Key West brought that down to just one, resulting in a big home victory over the Tigers. Jaden Fox, described by Hughes as the Conchs’ workhorse, struck first against Clewiston on a short trap for the first 6 points of the game. Walson Morin, Hughes’ “home run guy,” added 3 touchdowns to the score, with one coming off an electrifying 85-yard kick return.

The Conchs had a piece of their offensive puzzle back with Jeff DeJean’s return. DeJean’s speed and athleticism adds another page to Key West’s playbook.

“We need to keep him healthy, because he gives us some explosive potential,” Hughes said. DeJean scored on a 70-yard sweep, breaking free and showing off his velocity to a delighted Key West crowd.

The offense was not the only part of the game Hughes felt played fantastic last week. “The defense had good coverage, good pass rush and showed major improvement in the secondary,” he explained. “Jayden Gist had a nice interception and that gave us a boost.”

Key West will face a daunting opponent this week when Bradenton’s IMG Academy White team rolls into the Southernmost City. The Conchs are 1-1 against the Ascenders, playing them twice in the past seven years. IMG claims a star-studded roster 77 players deep, accepting only the top-rated talent across the country. But the Ascenders are not used to the gritty hardnosed running style the Conchs can deliver, making for an exciting matchup on Friday, Aug. 30.

RUNNING

STRONG

Conchs enjoy early season success at Conquistador Kickoff

The Conchs were the first Keys team to toe the line at a cross country meet this season, and head coach Keara McGraw could not be happier with her teams’ performances. Both the boys and girls teams traveled to Larry and Penny Thompson Park in Miami to participate in the FNU Conquistador Kickoff on Aug. 23. Four boys made the trip, and though they did not have enough runners to place as a team, newbies Alejanro Caridad and Sawyer Hill ran outstanding races for first-meet freshman racers. Hill was first for the Conchs, placing 19th overall with a time of 20:04.

“Both placed incredibly well and were just about where I predicted they’d be at this point of our very early season, and I’m looking forward to seeing their potential growth in the coming weeks,” McGraw said. McGraw also praised Will Forster and Prometheus Delacerda for their leadership as well as strong performances at the event.

The girls brought five runners, enough for a team, and placed third overall. Naima Thomas led the pack, proving that an intense summer training program was worth it. Thomas destroyed her previous PR by 40 seconds, running a respectable 21:03 to take second place overall in the meet.

Right at her heels was Caylaa Makimaa, typically the Lady Conchs’ top finisher and an individual state qualifier in 2023. McGraw said Makimaa was under the weather, but felt good enough to use the race as a training run. “Caylaa has been sick and coming off being injured,” McGraw said, “so I gave her a workout to do in the race to try to balance the comeback.” Her 21:30 “workout” bodes well for her upcoming season.

Sophomore Violet Jangraw cracked the top 20 in the race, and Laira Anaya and Deanna Mercer, both seniors, rounded out the third-place finishing Lady Conchs. “Friday's race was a great rust buster and starting place for many of our team,” McGraw said, concluding that the Conquistador Kickoff was a “great start to our season.”

Prometheus Delacerda, left, and Naima Thomas.

MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

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U-HAUL COMPANY OF MIAMI

Notice is here by given that on September 9th, 2024, Leonard Richford Jr. Storage

com. Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@ fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address below:

Department DAC

Monroe County Tourist Development Council

1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040

Department DAC

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

DISTRICT I ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC I) (Encompasses the city limits of Key West) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

has an opening for a LODGING INDUSTRY REPRESENTATIVE – shall be owners or operating/general managers of motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks, or other tourist accommodations which are subject to bed tax in the tax collection district for which they are applying. Any person wishing to participate on the District I Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys.

Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040

application at the above address is 5:00 p.m. on Friday September 27, 2024. A resume may be attached to the application. Publish: August 29, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

Deadline for receipt of application at the above address is 5:00 p.m. on Friday October 4, 2024. A resume may be attached to the

The deadline for receipt of application at the above address is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, September 27, 2024. A resume may be attached to the application.

Publish:

August 29, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

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.

August 29, 2024

DISTRICT IV ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC IV)

The Weekly Newspapers

DISTRICT III ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC III) (From the West End of the Seven Mile Bridge to the Long

MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

has an opening for an “At Large” representativeAny resident who is not directly involved in a tourism business and who shall represent the general public and shall live or work within the tax collection district for which they are applying (The operative word within this description is directly. This word means someone who is not in business, nor whose business or economic activity are dependent upon tourists).

(Between the Long Key Bridge and mile marker 90.939) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL has a vacancy for an “At Large” representative - Any resident who is not directly involved in a tourism business and who shall represent the general public and shall live or work within the tax collection district for which they are applying (The operative word within this description is directly. This word means someone who is not in business, nor whose business or economic activity are dependent upon tourists).

Any person wishing to participate on the District IV Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys. com. Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@ fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address below:

DISTRICT IV ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC IV) (Between the Long Key Bridge and mile marker 90.939) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL has 2 openings for a LODGING INDUSTRY REPRESENTATIVE – shall be owners or operating/general managers of motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks, or other tourist accommodations which are subject to bed tax in the tax collection district for which they are applying. Any person wishing to participate on the District IV Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys. com. Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@ fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address below:

Department DAC Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040 Deadline for receipt of application at the above address is 5:00 p.m. on Friday October 4, 2024. A resume may be attached to the application.

Any person wishing to participate on the District III Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys. com. Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@ fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address

below:

Department DAC Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040 Deadline for receipt of

MEETING NOTICE MONROE COUNTY LAND AUTHORITY

Publish: August 29, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE QUARTERLY MEETING NOTICE: LOCAL COORDINATING BOARD FOR THE TRANSPORTATION DISADVANTAGED

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. 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. 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.

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 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

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

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.

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.

Notice is hereby given that the Governing Board of the Monroe County Land Authority will hold virtual/hybrid public hearings on the adoption of a budget for fiscal year 2025. The hearings will be held using Communications Media Technology (CMT) in the form of a Zoom Webinar platform on September 4, 2024 at 5:05 p.m. and on September 11, 2024 at 5:05 p.m. Members of the public may participate in the September 4 hearing online by typing https://mcbocc.zoom.us/j/89204098700; or via telephone by dialing 1-646-518-9805 and entering Webinar ID 892 0409 8700; or in person at the Harvey Government Center located at 1200 Truman Avenue, Key West, FL and the September 11 hearing by typing https://mcbocc.zoom.us/j/89204098700; or via telephone by dialing 1-646-518-9805 and entering Webinar ID 892 0409 8700; or in person at the Nelson Government Center located at 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL. The meeting agenda, the proposed budget, and additional details about accessing the hearings are available at www.monroecounty-fl.gov. For additional information or to submit written or other physical evidence for consideration at the meeting, contact John Beyers via phone at (305) 295-5180; via email at beyers-john@monroecounty-fl.gov; or via mail to Monroe County Land Authority, 1200 Truman Avenue, Suite 207, Key West, FL 33040.

ADA ASSISTANCE If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in these proceedings, 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".

The Monroe County Local Coordinating Board (LCB) will be holding its regularly scheduled quarterly meeting on Friday, September 6, 2024 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am at the Marathon Government Center, 1st Floor Media Room, 2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The primary purpose of the Coordinating Board is to provide information and advice to the Community Transportation Coordinator on the coordination of services provided to the transportation disadvantaged population of Monroe County, pursuant to Chapter 427.0157, Florida Statutes. Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), any person requiring special accommodations at this meeting due to a disability or physical impairment, and any related questions or inquiries concerning this meeting should be directed to Anjana Morris at the Health Council of South Florida, Inc. at (305) 592-1452 ext. 101 at least 72 hours prior to the date of the meeting.

Publish: August 29, 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

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,

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.

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,

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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION/ SALE FOR NON-JUDICIAL TIMESHARE FORECLOSURE RE: THE CALOOSA COVE RESORT OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC MONROE County, Florida Non-Judicial Timeshare foreclosure process NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION/ SALE FOR NON-JUDICIAL TIMESHARE FORECLOSURE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, pursuant to an action for non-judicial foreclosure of timeshare units on the Assessment Claim of Lien, which is dated August 4, 2023 and was recorded August 4, 2023, in the Official Records of Monroe County, Florida in Official Records Book 32379, Page 1984 as Instrument Number 2427575, and that Assessment Claim of Lien which is dated August 16, 2023 and was recorded August 24, 2023, in the Official Records of Monroe County, Florida in Official Records Book 3239, Page 1847 as Instrument Number 2429502, I will sell, to the highest and best bidder for cash, at CALOOSA COVE RESORT Manager’s Office, 73801 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036 on the 4th day of SEPTEMBER, 2024, at 11:30 a.m., the following described real property

located in MONROE County, Florida, to-wit:

Those certain Unit Numbers and Weeks as set forth herein in CALOOSA COVE

RESORT, a Condominium, according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof, recorded in Official Records Book 827, Page 2050, of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida and all amendments and exhibits thereto, together with an undivided share in the common elements appurtenant thereto.

Unit Number:/Week #

115/48

118/30

122/37

124/50

126/35, 36

127/44

204/42, 46

208/17, 45, 48

210/18

215/42, 50

220/24

222/32

224/09, 10, 18, 30

227/07, 08, 25

TO:

Unit Owner(s) Last Known Address

Unit/Week(s):

Amount due:

Anneli De Carvalho

356 NE 102nd Street

Miami Shores, FL 33138

122/37

$2,562.11 with a per diem

amount of $1.27 from August

2, 2023

Baron Fry

2595 Edenville Path

The Villages, FL 32162

204/42

$4,450.88 with a per diem

amount of $2.20 from August 2, 2023

Bryan Marcinko

1390 Scott Road

Kehly, NC 27542

208/48

$2,562.11 with a per diem

amount of $1.27 from August 2, 2023

Brenda Bashaw 3089 Newburgh Street

Port Charlotte, FL 33952

126/35

$2,562.11 with a per diem

amount of $1.27 from August

2, 2023

126/36

$2,562.11 with a per diem amount of $1.27 from August 2, 2023

Charles McClure

5087 Raintree Drive

Pittsburgh, PA 15236

215/42

$3,537.26 with a per diem

amount of $1.75 from August

2, 2023

Edward Lutz and Mary Lutz

The Estate of Edward Lutz

All heirs and devisees of the Estate of Edward Lutz

The Estate of Mary Lutz

All heirs and devisees of the Estate of Mary Lutz

615 Mazur Avenue

Paramis, NJ 07652

227/07

$3,160.11 with a per diem

amount of $1.56 from August

2, 2023

224/10

$3,160.11 with a per diem

amount of $1.56 from August

2, 2023

227/08

$3,160.11 with a per diem

amount of $1.56 from August

2, 2023

220/24

$3,160.11 with a per diem

amount of $1.56 from August

2, 2023

224/09

$3,160.11 with a per diem

amount of $1.56 from August

2, 2023

Forrest McGinley

204 East Cypress Avenue

Howey In The Hills, FL 34737

222/32

$4,311.36 with a per diem

amount of $2.13 from August

2, 2023

Gary Iverson

334 French Road Onalaska, WI 54650

204/46

$3,537.26 with a per diem amount of $1.75 from August

1105 Carraway Street Tallahassee, FL 32508

227/25

$4,139.64 with a per diem amount of $2.05 from August 2, 2023

Jack Chinn 1189 Augusta Court Shawnee, OK 74801

127/44

$3,537.26 with a per diem amount of $1.75 from August 2, 2023

Judith Hagopian

7420 Cedar Avenue Tacoma Park, MD 20912

124/50

$2,562.11 with a per diem amount of $1.27 from August 2, 2023

Kirsten Schaefer 41 Oak Court Lincoln Park, NJ 07035

115/48

$1,062.11 with a per diem amount of $0.53 from August 2, 2023

Loretta Fregien 2763 Pepperridge Cout San Jose, CA 95148

118/30

$1,500.00 with a per diem amount of $0.74 from August 2, 2023

224/30

$1,500.00 with a per diem amount of $0.74 from August 2, 2023

Linda Asta 2 Loon Lane Placida, FL 33946

210/18

$3,161.11 with a per diem amount of $1.56 from August 2, 2023

M Turner

3078 Lake Ranch Drive Gainesville, GA 30506

208/17

$5,050.74 with a per diem amount of $2.49 from August 2, 2023

Steven Sebby

201 Leisure Street Yorkville, IL 60560

215/50

$2,562.11 with a per diem amount of $1.26 from August 2, 2023

Tommy Driggers P.O. Box 667 Mount Pleasant, TX 75455

208/45

$2,562.11 with a per diem amount of $1.26 from August 2, 2023

William Distaso 553 Tennant Road Manalapan, NJ 07726

224/18

$3,160.11 with a per diem amount of $1.56 from August 2, 2023

The assessment lien created by the Claims of Lien was properly created and authorized pursuant to the timeshare instrument and applicable law, and the amounts secured by said lien are as set above.

You may cure the default at any time prior to the public auction by paying the amount due, as set forth in this notice, to the undersigned Trustee at the address set forth below. THIS NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION/SALE is dated this 4th day of AUGUST, 2024. THOMAS L AVRUTIS ____________________/ THOMAS L. AVRUTIS, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CALOOSA COVE RESORT OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC

201 Fletcher Avenue, 2nd Floor Sarasota, FL 34237

Telephone (941) 955-7300

Facsimile (941) 953-7625

Email: john@timesharenjf.com

Publish: August 29 & September 5, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

AMENDED NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION/SALE FOR NON-JUDICIAL TIMESHARE FORECLOSURE RE: MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB II ASSOCIATION, INC. MONROE County, Florida Non-Judicial Timeshare foreclosure process

NON-JUDICIAL TIMESHARE FORECLOSURE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, pursuant to an action for non-judicial foreclosure of timeshare units on the Claim of Lien, which was dated February 15, 2024 and was recorded March 11, 2024, in the Official Records of Monroe County, Florida in Official Records Book 3266, Page 237 as Instrument Number 2453967, Florida, I will sell, to the highest and best bidder for cash, at MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB CONDOMINIUM II RESORT Manager’s Office, 4560 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 on the 4th day of SEPTEMBER, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., the following described real property located in MONROE County, Florida, to-wit: Annual Timeshare Periods as set forth below in MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB CONDOMINIUM II, according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof, recorded in Official Records Book 859, at Page 786, as amended in Official Records Book 874, at Page 2169, all of the Public Records of Monroe County, Florida and all subsequent amendments and exhibits thereto.

Unit Number/Use Period

A 101/43, 46, 47

A 102/01, 02, 39, 40, 41, 47

A 202/36, 47

B 102/46, 47

B 201/42

B 202/40

C 201/44

C 202/49, 50

D 202/49

E 101/41, 48

E 102/36, 48, 50

E 201/40, 41

E 202/39, 41, 47, 48

TO:

Unit Owner(s)

Last Known Address

Annual Timeshare Use

Period(s):

Amount due:

Terry K Barbour and Faith D Barbour

P.O. Box 605

Atlantic Beach, NC 28512

A 102/39

$4,524.79 with a per diem amount of $2.24 from January 2, 2024

Robert A Bradley and Stefane

B Bradley

1303 Chestnut Street Murray, KY 42071

E 202/48

$6,703.35 with a per diem amount of $3.31 from January 2, 2024

Marion Canty and Remelda Canty 26521 SW 124 Avenue Naranja, FL 33032

E 102/50

$4,601.12 with a per diem amount of $2.27 from January 2, 2024

Richard Chosid and Cherie Chosid 3110 NE 48th Street

Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

A 102/01

$2,219.69 with a per diem amount of $1.10 from January 2, 2024 A 102/02

$2,219.69 with a per diem amount of $1.10 from January 2, 2024

Cure My Mommy’s Breast Cancer

C/O Ellen Schreiber

9 Endo Blvd, # FL 1 Garden City, NY 11530-6748

D 102/36

$3,571.14 with a per diem amount of $1.77 from January 2, 2024

Edward Daniel and Mary Daniel

P.O. Box 351853 Miami, FL 33135

E 102/36

$4,580.62 with a per diem amount of $2.24 from January 2, 2024

Brandon M Duhon

P.O. Box 608 Lake Charles, LA 70602

$2,219.69 with a per diem amount of $1.10 from January 2, 2024

Jennifer Edwards f/k/a

Jennifer Leanna and DZachary

Edwards 2688 Whispering Drive Largo, FL 33771

E 202/39

$6,702.41 with a per diem amount of $3.31 from January 2, 2024

B 202/47

$6,702.41 with a per diem amount of $3.31 from January 2, 2024

Maria George 3215 N 65th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85033-5216

D 102/50

$3,585.74 with a per diem amount of $1.77 from January 2, 2024

Lowell Higgins and Janine Sanders-Higgins 64 Kilworth PK Drive

RR #5 Komoka, ON N0L 1R0

Canada

A 102/47

$6,705.00 with a per diem amount of $2.24 from January 2, 2024

Dewane L Hose

Greystone House Lockton, N Yorkshire YO187QB

United Kingdom

D 102/42

$3,585.74 with a per diem amount of $1.77 from January 2, 2024

Charles Khoury 7343 Brisbane Hills Street

Las Vegas, NV 89166

B 102/46

$7,22.00 with a per diem amount of $3.57 from January 2, 2024

B 102/47

$7,225.00 with a per diem amount of $3.57 from January 2, 2024

Gehard Jacob, Anneliese Bentjerodt & Arquiyecto

Eusebio

Celi 5150 Comuna Vitacura

Santiago, Chile

C 201/44

$3,585.74 with a per diem amount of $1.77 from January 2, 2024

Moses Madison and Makeka

Montgomery P.O. Box 277812 Miramar, FL 33027

A 202/47

$7,351.73 with a per diem amount of $3.632.24 from January 2, 2024

Moses Madison and Dorothy A Madison 995 Bear Lake Drive Rockledge, FL 32955

D 101/36

$4,590.87 with a per diem amount of $2.27 from January 2, 2024

E 101/47

$4,590.87 with a per diem amount of $2.27 from January 2, 2024

Mary E McHenry, Michael B McHenry & Tina M McHenry 46 Hodgson Avenue Pittsburg, PA 15205

A 102/40

$4,601.12 with a per diem amount of $2.27 from January 2, 2024

A102/41

$4,601.12 with a per diem amount of $2.27 from January 2, 2024

George H Pirpiris and Marina Pirpiris 710 E Seminary Towson, MD 21286-1439

C 202/49

$6,544.40 with a per diem amount of $3.23 from January 2, 2024

C 202/50

$6,544.40 with a per diem amount of $3.23 from January 2, 2024

Lee M Purcifull

18406 Turning Point Drive

Lutz, FL 33549

A 202/36

$6,675.25 with a per diem amount of $3.30 from January

2, 2024

Shaki Rehman

11711 SW 130 Avenue

Miami, FL 33186

B 201/42

New York, NY 10021

E 101/48

$5,497.15 with a per diem amount of $2.76 from January 2, 2024 E 102/48

$5,497.15 with a per diem amount of $2.76 from January 2, 2024

Vincent T Salvato and Angela Salvato 4700 Casswell Drive New Port Richey, FL 34652 A101/43

$3,585.74 with a per diem amount of $1.77 from January 2, 2024

Frank Schultz, Trustee of the Frank Schultz Living Trust Agreement Dated March 24, 2000 1751 Beach Road, Apt 202 Englewood, FL 34223

D 202/49

$3,585.74 with a per diem amount of $1.77 from January 2, 2024

Frank Stewart and Jeanne C Stewart 3101 82nd Way North St Petersburg, FL 33710 B 202/40

$7,698.79 with a per diem amount of $3.80 from January 2, 2024

Chelsa Aran Taggart 1841 E 9th Street, Apt 2 Duluth, MN 55812

D 102/21

$5,619.22 with a per diem amount of $2.77 from January 2, 2024

Penny Weiss and Lynne Arnault 105 Kensington Road Syracuse, NY 13210 E 202/41

$5,597.15 with a per diem amount of $2.76 from January 2, 2024

Susan Geary Williams 235 S Lake Avenue Lake Butler, FL 32054 E 101/41

$5,597.15 with a per diem amount of $2.76 from January 2, 2024

Henry Zima, Halina Zima & Joanna D Ricci 2388 Carlanne Place Mississauga, ON L5E 2M2 Canada B 101/46

$3,585.74 with a per diem amount of $2.24 from January 2, 2024 B 101/47

$3,585.74 with a per diem amount of $2.24 from January 2, 2024

The assessment lien created by the Claim of Lien was properly created and authorized pursuant to the timeshare instrument and applicable law, and the amounts secured by said lien are as set above.

You may cure the default at any time prior to the public auction by paying the amount due, as set forth in this notice, to the undersigned Trustee at the address set forth below. THIS NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION/SALE is dated this 4th day of AUGUST, 2024. THOMAS L AVRUTIS __________________/ THOMAS L. AVRUTIS, AS TRUSTEE FOR MARATHON KEY BEACH CLUB II ASSOCIATION, INC 201 Fletcher Avenue, 2nd Floor Sarasota, FL 34237

Telephone (941) 955-7300

Facsimile (941) 953-7625

Email: john@timesharenjf.com

Publish: August 29 & September 5, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

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-CA000144-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.

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

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of CS Pressure Clean & Seal located at 161 Plantation Shores Drive, Tavernier, FL 33070 intends to register the said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, FL, USA. BY: Cameron Sabin August 29, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

MEETING NOTICE

2, 2023

Jerald Torano

AMENDED NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION/SALE FOR

E 201/40

$2,219.69 with a per diem amount of $1.10 from January 2, 2024 E 201/41

$6,701.46 with a per diem amount of $3.31 from January

2, 2024

Jane Rosenthal 444 E 75th Street, Apt #3-B

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

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

Monroe County Land Authority Notice is hereby given that the Governing Board of the Monroe County Land Authority will hold virtual/ hybrid public hearings on the adoption of a budget for fiscal year 2025. The hearings will be held using Communications Media Technology (CMT) in the form of a Zoom Webinar platform on September 4, 2024 at 5:05 PM and on September 11, 2024 at 5:05 PM. Members of the public may participate in the September 4 hearing online by typing https://mcbocc. zoom.us/j/89204098700; or via telephone by dialing 1-646-518-9805  and entering Webinar ID 892 0409 8700; or in person at the Harvey Government Center located at 1200 Truman Avenue, Key West, FL and the September 11 hearing by typing https://mcbocc. zoom.us/j/89204098700; or via telephone by dialing 1-646-518-9805 and entering Webinar ID 892 0409 8700; or in person at the Nelson Government Center located at 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL. The meeting agenda, the proposed budget, and additional details about accessing the hearings are available at www.monroecounty-fl.gov. For additional information or to submit written or other physical evidence for consideration at the meeting, contact John Beyers via phone at (305) 295-5180; via email at beyers-john@monroecountyfl.gov; or via mail to Monroe County Land Authority, 1200 Truman Avenue, Suite 207, Key West, FL 33040. ADA ASSISTANCE If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in these proceedings, 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". August 29, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

Trucks.

or Not.-

AUTOS FOR SALE

2005 Chevy Truck for sale in Marathon.

$500.00 Call Nicole 305-433-0515 SOLD IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!

Place your AUTO FOR SALE ad here.

$25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305743-0844

BOATS FOR SALE

Key Largo 21' Deep V Center Console w/trailer. New 150hp motor & electronics. Ready to sh. 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 305743-0844

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 & shing 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 305743-0844

COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT

Professional business o ces 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.

Commercial o ce/ medical/retail space for rent/lease available in Marathon. High highway visibility, 21003500 sq. ft. Call for more information 305-4813198 or email drice519@ aol.com

Place your COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305743-0844 today!

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 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview or email o ce@ 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 sta . 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 Manager-Middle Keys, Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker, and HVAC Maintenance Mechanic $64.480-$72,800/ yr. plus bene ts. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha.org or 305-296-5621. Applications are available at the

Administrative O ce located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www. kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.

Place your

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

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

PRIVATE

COLLECTOR

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

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

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 wi / tv. 150 ft to the ocean. $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. 727278-1105

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. 305610-8002

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. 305610-8002

Place your HOUSING FOR RENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305743-0844

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 305743-0844

2010 27' Wildcat RV FOR SALE. 5th wheel, 1 slide-out. 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/CAMPING

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

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

STORAGE AVAILABLE

Gated storage & parking available in Marathon for boats, trailers & RV's - across from boat ramp - MM 54. $8-$10/foot. 305610-8002

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

VACATION RENTAL

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

SARA’S ESTATE SALE:

Part 2 of a massive Middle Keys sale!! Friday, Aug 30 and Saturday, Aug 31, 9a to 1p both days, 43 Kyle Way South, Knights Key near Seven Mile Bridge. Worldwide traveler collected all over the globe: *Jewelry, precious & semiprecious. *Antique venetian etched mirror, Chinese “money” keys, & fossils. *Bustamante paper Mache birds & armadillo, carved turquoise bear, tin turtle, etc. *Auction worthy items: Steuben & Loetz glass, art by top Native American artists Beatien Yazz, Virginia Stroud, Harrison Begay; plus Cincinnati artist Robert Fabe & authentic Disney animation cels. *Huge assortment of men’s clothing and shoes, many NWT. *Sought after lamps & chandeliers: Murano, Moorcraft, Rookwood, Fenton. *Fine china, vintage and modern tableware. *All size rugs & tall vintage lacquer & precious stone inlay oriental screen. *3 bedroom sets, electronics and lots more J 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.

for up to ve lines of copy. Call 305-7430844 today to place your classi ed ad.

Please send email for request for proposal outline to rod@schoonerappledore.com

Assisting our clients with dental, medical and transportation appts. Act as liaison between clients, families and support staff. Requires some on-call responsibility. Min. requirement Florida certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant. * *ALSO REQUIRED FOR ALL POSITIONS: Fluent in English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Level 2 background screening and valid Florida driver’s

IS HIRING

IN THE UPPER KEYS

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

MARINA CASHIERS

NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA

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

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

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.

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

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.

KEY LARGO

Case Manager (PT)

KEY WEST

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 COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!

Apply at guidancecarecenter.org

Search Employment/Portal/Location/zip

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

We are now hiring for the following positions:

CDL Drivers

Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

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

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

*Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience. APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507

THEME: FOOTBALL

ACROSS

1. Command to Fido

6. Sheep not yet sheared

9. Cap and gown accessory

13. Blood line

14. Ancient Chinese dynasty

15. Ringworm

16. Driver’s license notation 17. Not outs

18. Like Cheerios

19. *Piece of football equipment required since 1943

21. *Peyton or Eli 23. Napkin spot

24. Eminem’s 2002 hit “____ Yourself”

25. Embargo

28. Feed storage cylinder

30. Like house from a kit

35. Greek god of love

37. Smokes

39. *Super Bowl I M.V.P. Bart ____

40. Taj Mahal locale

41. *Career rushing yards record holder

43. Equals s squared

44. Regretting

46. *Highest college football level: ____ Division I

47. Extend credit

48. *Seventeen games in NFL

50. Somewhat (2 words)

52. “Whatever Will Be, Will Be” singer

53. Mare’s baby

55. Not a friend

57. *55 of them

61. *Home of the NFL Hall of Fame

64. Hole-borer

65. For every

67. Color red on coat of arms

69. Birds of ill omen

70. Outrage

71. ____ ____ shopping cart

72. Party barrels

73. Sound from one of #69

Across

74. Homes for #69 Across

DOWN

1. Down in the dumps

2. Cry of contempt

3. Marine eagle

4. Wake Island, e.g.

5. Kizmet, pl. 6. Foolish one

7. Even, poetic

8. Useful contraption

9. Lamborghini model

10. Unfavorable prefix

11. “As ____ on TV”

12. Suspend

15. Astrigents

20. “The Iliad” and “The Odyssey,” e.g.

22. Venomous Egyptian snake

24. Deducible

25. *One of 2 NFL founding teams still in league

26. Lock horns

27. Waterwheel

29. Outline

31. Et alii, abbr.

32. Got along

33. *Like indoor eight-men football

34. *Career NFL passing yards record holder

36. Without

38. Wild guess

42. Israelian port

45. Errand-runners

49. Neither’s partner

51. Nuku’alofa language

54. Meat jelly dish

56. Musician’s exercise

57. “*Go ____ Go!”

58. Fishing decoy

59. Awestruck

60. Archery wood

61. “Ship, Captain, ____”

62. Cutlass or Delta 88, for short 63. Remaining after deductions 66. ____ of Good Feelings 68. Lusitania’s last call