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105.5
Los Angeles Angels’ rookie pitcher Ben Joyce can bring the heat. During a game on Sept. 3 against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Joyce struck out a Dodgers batter with a 105.5 mph pitch. The MLB said it’s the third-fastest pitch since pitch tracking began in 2008.
Nominations for the third annual Best of Upper Keys open at noon on Thursday, Sept. 5. Visit keysweekly.com/buk24. ADOBESTOCK
PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDS 86 EARLY EVACUATION UNITS FOR TAVERNIER PROJECT
County commissioners will make decision Sept. 11
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Monroe County’s Planning Commission is recommending county commissioners approve a request to award permits for early evacuation units to developers who are seeking to build workforce housing behind a Publix supermarket at MM 92.5, oceanside, in Tavernier.
County commissioners have the final say, since the request would alter and add language to the comprehensive plan. The request would ultimately give developers 86 of the 300 permits for early evacuation units without them needing to hand over an equal number of affordable unit allocations for the county’s administrative relief pool. The 300 early evacuation units were awarded to Monroe County by then-Gov. Rick Scott following Hurricane Irma in 2017.
County staff states approval of the request would result in the loss of 86 allocations banked to mitigate takings cases. On July 15, 2020, commissioners directed staff to draft language that would allow use of the 300 permits for workforce housing early evacuation units in exchange for existing affordable allocations at multifamily developments. The affordable housing allocations returned to the county would be set aside and banked for takings cases.
By April 21, commissioners approved an ordinance for the “1-1 exchange program” where affordable allocations are exchanged for early evacuation units.
The developers’ request said the county should provide the early evacuation units to address “the inadequate availability of workforce housing in the Upper Keys.”
“The need for affordable housing
hasn’t disappeared. It’s only increased since COVID,” said Bart Smith, attorney on behalf of the developers from Blackstone-Tavenier 925 LLC.
Despite recommending denial, staff said it would approve the developer’s request with a series of proposed edits to address the required evacuation of tenants in those units 48 hours before a storm. Staff also added all early evacuation units would be restricted to rental occupancy for those who make 70% of their income in Monroe County.
Smith told planning commissioners he believes the workforce units developed by the Jacksonville-based firm Vestcor will provide for the service industry.
“We believe there will be a lot of people at Baptist Health occupying units in this building,” Smith said.
No members from the public commented on the request during the Aug. 28 planning commission meeting in Marathon. A letter sent to county officials by Last Stand, however, objected to the proposal to award 86 permits for early evacuation units. A nonprofit established in 1987, Last Stand seeks to preserve the Florida Keys.
“At a time when you are consider-
ing whether to request more market rate ROGOs from the State in order to avoid potentially substantial takings liabilities, how can you jettison 86 of the County’s administrative relief ROGOs?” the letter reads. “County staff has estimated the County’s takings liability to be more than $1 billion for the 2,220 buildable lots that were identified in March. That amounts to more than $450,000 of takings cost per lot. This means you are being asked under this proposal to give away administrative relief ROGOs with an estimated value of more than $38.7 million.”
County commissioners will consider the request at a Sept. 11 meeting at the Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo.
In February, county commissioners voted 4-1 on a county ordinance to allow developers the ability to build a nonresidential structure beyond the 10,000-square-foot limit for a roughly 49,000-square-foot Publix supermarket and grocery store. FloridaCommerce originally shot down the ordinance but later approved it. The Tavernier Community Association has since filed an appeal to FloridaCommerce’s reversal to approve the county ordinance.
A rendering shows workforce housing behind the planned Publix supermarket and liquor store in Tavernier. VESTCOR/Contributed
NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR BEST OF UPPER KEYS
Pick your favorites now through Sept. 22
Two years ago, the Upper Keys’ premier people’s choice awards made its debut. This year, the Best of Upper Keys is back with even more categories for readers and the public to nominate and ultimately vote for the winners.
Not only does the Best of Upper Keys bring bragging rights during an unforgettable awards night, but it also raises funds for a worthy cause.
The time has come to crown the best there is to offer in the upper island chain. The third annual Best of Upper Keys lets the people choose the nominees and the winners in the food and drink, community and business divisions. A total of 83 awards are up for grabs, with several new ones added this year, including Best Vegan/Vegetarian, Best Smoked Fish Dip, Best Salon/ Spa and Best Place to Swim, among several others.
The Best of Upper Keys is similar to the Key West People’s Choice Awards in the Bubbas, which began in 2014, and the Best of Marathon, which started in 2008. Voters will have the chance to vote for all their favorite people, places, foods and things that encapsulate the
HOW THE VOTING WORKS
Nominate your favorites: Sept. 5-22
Upper Keys. Whether it’s local celebrities, favorite neighborhoods or musicians, the people will name the very best in this year’s Best of Upper Keys.
The show cannot go one without the many sponsors who help make the Best of Upper Keys production possible. This year’s sponsors include Baptist Health Mariners Hospital, Going Aire, Dr. Michelle, audiologist, HNO Productions, First Horizon Bank, Playa Largo Resort and Hotwire Communications. Proceeds from the event will support the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter.
“We are truly humbled and honored to bring this event back to our friends and neighbors in the Upper Keys for the third year in a row,” said Keys Weekly Publisher Jason Koler. “This is about bringing everyone together to celebrate those who have dedicated themselves to their professions and service.
“The voting is subjective and we want everyone to have fun with the nominations while putting a spotlight on those who exemplify excellence in business and dedication to the community.”
Log in to Keysweekly.com starting on Thursday, Sept. 5 at noon until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 22 to nominate your favorites in each category. Voters can vote once per day for all categories, and must fill out 75% of each ballot to cast a valid submission. So visit often, or daily, throughout the nomination process to propose your favorite finalists.
The top three nominees in each category are placed on the finalists’ ballot. Contrary to the annual rumor, we do not create the top three. You, the voters, decide the top three finalists from among your nominees, each and every year. Nominations will end at 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 22, so make sure your voice is heard before then.
Vote for the finalists: Oct. 3-20
The top three nominees in each category make the final ballot. The highest vote-getter among the three finalists in each category receives the highly-coveted Best of Upper Keys plaque.
Voting for the finalists in each category begins at noon on Oct. 3 at keysweekly.com and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 20. During this stage, voters can submit one ballot per day and must fill out 75% of the categories to cast a valid ballot. So visit keysweekly.com often throughout the process and submit one ballot a day.
The awards: Friday, Nov. 1
The third annual Best of Upper Keys awards celebration this year is on Friday, Nov. 1 at Playa Largo Resort. Tickets are not generally made available to the public due to demand. Winners, nominees and dignitaries are invited to attend and additional attendees are selected from a firstcome, first-served waiting list. To be placed on this list, please email jill@ keysweekly.com.
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Koty James and family show off the Best Musician Award, which went to Koty James and the Keybillies last year. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
Winners from the 2023 Best of Upper Keys show off their hardware.
REMEMBERING THE LABOR DAY HURRICANE OF 1935
Islamorada community gathers to remember the lives lost
JIM McCARTHY
jim@keysweekly.com
Almost 90 years later, the Islamorada community continues to remember the lives lost to a destructive hurricane.
Sept. 2 marked the 89th anniversary of the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935. More than 400 lives were taken by the powerful storm, and a majority of those who died were World War I veterans working in the Keys.
The eye of the storm crossed Lower Matecumbe Key to the north and Long Key to the south and battered the Keys with sustained winds in excess of 185 mph and a storm surge of 18 to 20 feet. Barometric readings reached a record-breaking low of 26.35 inches
At the Hurricane Monument in Islamorada, local community members, dignitaries, first responders and Scouts gathered for a service
to remember the lives taken by the Category 5 storm. Organized by the Matecumbe Historical Trust, the service included an invocation by Pastor Tony Hammon, presentation of colors by the Scouts and the national anthem by the Two Brothers band of Dante and Vinnie Jiovenetta.
Guest speakers included Mayor Buddy Pinder and Councilman Henry Rosenthal. Barbara Edgar provided a brief history of the storm, and Pastor Bob Pavey gave the benediction. A wreath sponsored by Centennial Bank was laid by Cinnamon Edgar and Mary Beth Harris, and flowers were laid by the Pigeon Key Foundation.
Following the ceremony, attendees walked behind the Hurricane Monument for a special unveiling of a 1935 Labor Day Hurricane map. Edgar and Pinder uncovered the large plaque, which displays the names of those taken in the storm and where they were buried or cremated in the Keys.
Sheriff: Man arrested for fish violations
A 46-year-old Homestead man was arrested at about 2:30 p.m. on Sept. 2 for possessing three undersized schoolmaster snapper while fishing near MM 78.
Islamorada Marine Deputy Nelson Sanchez saw Maikel Hernandez catch a small schoolmaster snapper and hang it from a stringer. Sanchez found and measured three undersized schoolmaster snapper. Hernandez was also cited for not having a fishing license and was taken to jail for the undersized snapper. For wildlife regulations go to www.myfwc.com.
Two arrested in nitrous oxide case
Two people were arrested following a traffic stop on U.S. 1 on Aug. 29 in which a large tank of nitrous oxide as well as marijuana were found.
Yelson Eduardo Corrales Flores, 19, of Key Largo was charged with unlawful distribution of nitrous oxide, possession of marijuana and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
Allison Dawn Mansen, 21, of Miami, was charged with unlawful distribution of nitrous oxide and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
The sheriff’s office stopped an Acura sedan at 10:28 p.m. near MM 26 for having no lights. There was a strong odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle. A large tank of nitrous oxide and 25.9 grams of marijuana belonging to Flores were found in the subsequent search. Mansen stated she bought the nitrous oxide in Homestead and used Flores’ money to do so. A 17-year-old male also in the vehicle was not charged.
1. Local Scouts present the colors. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly. 2. Councilman Henry Rosenthal speaks in front of the Hurricane Monument. 3. Cinnamon Edgar, left, and Mary Beth Harris lay a wreath sponsored by Centennial Bank. 4. Barbara Edgar and Mayor Buddy Pinder unveil a large plaque showing the burial and cremation sites of World War I veterans and civilians who perished in the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935.
Marine Deputy Nelson Sanchez. MCSO/Contributed
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.
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.
“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 made public 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.
‘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.
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.”
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.”
PAVING THE WAY
Montillo ‘Scott’ Desqoutte recognized for 25 years of service
On Aug. 21, the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners recognized Montillo “Scott” Desquotte for 25 years of service.
Desquotte was hired by the Roads and Bridges Department as a maintenance worker in 1999. In less than a year, he was promoted to an assistant specialist trustee coordinator and several more promotions followed in short order — to heavy equipment operator in 2001, and to his current position of foreman in 2005. He works for the roads department in the Upper Keys.
Like his promotions, thanks for jobs well done began soon after he was hired and have continued throughout his time at the county. His file is full of many letters of praise from residents as well as other county departments for work completed quickly and well. In addition, in 2014, he was voted employee of the third quarter and employee of the year for his quick response to cries for help while he was working, which resulted in him saving the life of an infant girl.
“His construction skills, his expertise as a heavy equipment operator, and his commitment to safety is exactly who we look for at Monroe County,” said Judy Clarke, director of engineering and roads. “We thank him for his service to the citizens of Monroe County.”
— Contributed
County officials recognize Montillo ‘Scott’ Desquotte for 25 years of service in the county Roads and Bridges Department during an Aug. 21 county commissioners’ meeting in Key West. KRISTEN LIVENGOOD/Monroe County. Bottom: Montillo ‘Scott’ Desquotte is pinned by Judy Clarke, county director of engineering and roads.
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SEWER LINE BURSTS AGAIN IN TAVERNIER
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Awastewater line burst yet again near MM 92 in Tavernier on Sept. 1 as many people were exiting the Keys following the Labor Day weekend.
An alert by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office came in around 5 p.m. regarding the sewer line break. Traffic in the north and south lanes was halted for a time before vehicles were diverted to allow crews the ability to begin repairs. Cars lined the two northbound lanes some 2 miles.
Repairs and road resurfacing took several hours before all highway lanes were reopened by deputies.
It’s the second sewer line burst to occur in Tavernier this year. On May 13, crews descended on a break at MM 92, where smelly, dark water covered the highway’s surface. Repairs began shortly after 5 p.m. and concluded the next morning around 4 a.m.
There was also a break in June 2023 a little further north at MM 92.5.
The recent beaks have occurred on the village of Islamorada’s force main, which sends wastewater to the Key Largo wastewater treatment plant at MM 100.3. Village Manager Rob Cole told Keys Weekly on Sept. 1 that the village has a project that should help with the “hammering” issues at this location. Hammering occurs when there’s a sudden change in pressure.
“The spike in pressure occurs with pumps turning on and off. The proposed project would eliminate pressure spikes by maintaining constant pressure,” Cole told Keys Weekly.
FORMER TOURISM DIRECTOR SUES COUNTY
Claims audit & firing were retaliation for bicentennial funding denial
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
In Monroe County, the hits keep coming.
The board of county commissioners — still contending with the alleged cover-up of a drug scandal and resulting criminal indictments of three former employees — now faces a whistleblower lawsuit from its former tourism director.
Stacey Mitchell was fired in March, four months after the county clerk’s office released a critical audit of the Tourist Development Council, where Mitchell had been marketing director since 2017. The audit revealed “repeated noncompliance with Monroe County’s purchasing policy,” and “a lack of controls and management oversight,” among other findings.
Mitchell initially was suspended with pay in the fall of 2023, then terminated in March.
County officials have pointed to the audit as the basis for her termination, although at a November 2023 meeting of the TDC board, then-Key West Mayor Teri Johnston, who sat on the TDC board, said, “Let’s remember, this entire board was in place when all of this was allegedly occurring. Fingers are pointing to Stacey (Mitchell), but what about everyone else, since at least 2008 — people in the clerk’s office approving payments, the TDC’s own board treasurer reviewing financial statements. There was more than one hand in this. … Maybe the clerk’s office needs to be addressed. Maybe the county needs to be audited as well. There was apparently a lack of oversight long before Stacey Mitchell was appointed TDC director in 2017.”
The vote to fire Mitchell occurred in March 2024 following an independent review of the TDC’s financial operations, although no charges were filed against her.
In the lawsuit filed on Sept. 3, Mitchell’s attorney Zachary Zermay claims her firing, and the TDC audit that prompted it — the agency’s first in 20 years — were retaliation for Mitchell’s refusal to approve $150,000 of tourism funding for a county bicentennial event that had missed the application deadline for such funds.
The lawsuit details an informal meeting in early May 2022, when Mitchell and the TDC’s PR agent, Andy Newman, met with county commissioner Michelle Lincoln, thenCounty Administrator Roman Gastesi and county spokeswoman Kristen Livengoood.
At the meeting, the suit states, Mitchell emphasized the process to apply for event funding and the strict application deadline of early June.
“Despite (Mitchell) providing all necessary TDC administrative contact information to assist Ms. Livengood, the applications were not submitted in time. As a result, the (county’s bicentennial) events … were excluded from grant consideration. … (Mitchell) returned from a business trip on June 13, 2022, and was informed by the office manager that Ms. Livengood had sought lastminute assistance on the application process, but failed to meet the deadline,” the lawsuit states.
The 12-page legal complaint then describes a July 2022 county budget meeting, where commissioner Craig Cates reportedly told Mitchell a drone show and concert would take place for the county’s bicentennial, and asked her for TDC funding for the event.
“(Mitchell) reminded Commissioner Cates that the deadline to apply for funding was missed by Ms. Livengood, yet Commissioner Cates insisted on finding a way to support the event,” the lawsuit states. “Consequently, and despite previous directives to avoid funding highseason weekend events, the TDC hastily organized a ‘second round of event funding’ to accommodate the request because of backroom dealings, meetings, and other informal communications hidden from the public.”
In the second round, the Key West District Advisory Committee members, who evaluate event funding applications and make recommendations for amounts “were perplexed by this sudden shift in directives,” and denied the $150,000 funding request,” the lawsuit states.
County organizers of the bicentennial event then appealed the
DAC’s denial to the full TDC board, which debated the issue, but tabled the matter indefinitely.
“The issue was highly publicized, leading to community uproar, particularly among local nonprofits and event planners who adhered to the original application deadlines. Subsequently, following backroom dealings, meetings and other informal communications hidden from the public, the Board of County Commissioners redirected $150,000 from DAC resources to fund the concert, circumventing the standard approval processes. In violation of Defendants’ own guidelines, rules, and regulations, over $150,000 was withdrawn from the TDC’s budget by way of an internal budget transfer … without the correct transparency processes and public meetings.”
“Defendants willfully ignored (Mitchell’s) concerns and misused public funds to finance a $150,000 concert and drone show, in the middle of high season in Key West, after blowing mandatory deadlines. After the disclosures were made, the drone show occurred, and the checks had been cashed, a campaign of retaliation began against (Mitchell) in the form of audits to serve as a pretextual reason to terminate (her),” the lawsuit alleges
The lawsuit seeks a jury trial, financial compensation for lost pay, compensatory damages, reinstatement to her prior position, or commensurate pay as well as attorney’s fees.
Cates told the Keys Weekly that the lawsuit was not unexpected, but he declined to comment on the pending litigation until he had spoken with the county attorney.
Stacey Mitchell. CONTRIBUTED
Meteorologist Jon Rizzo set to speak Sept. 9
On Monday, Sept. 9, the Historical Preservation Society of the Upper Keys will host Jon Rizzo, warning coordination meteorologist for the National Weather Service Key West. Rizzo will speak on the 2024 hurricane season and discuss the microburst on Plantation Key in late July. The presentation will begin at 7 p.m. at Coral Isles Church on Plantation Key.
This year’s hurricane preparedness presentation will consist of an analysis and discussion of the National Hurricane Center advancements in the subjects of storm surge, the meteorological phenomenon of rapid intensification and the importance of effectively communicating hurricane preparedness to vulnerable populations.
As primary deployment-ready meteorologist serving Monroe County Emergency Management during tropical storm and hurricane events, Rizzo’s 25-year span of service with the NWS Key West has led to his designation as the key point of contact at the federal, state and local levels during severe tropical weather emergency operations and communications.
Suicide prevention training at Key Largo library
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Miami-Dade will give free suicide prevention training on Monday, Sept. 9 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Key Largo library. This session will teach how to identify warning signs that someone may be considering suicide, how to intervene and persuade them to get help and refer them to appropriate resources.
The event will feature Lisa LaSueur, certified “Question, Persuade and Refer” trainer. Attendees will receive a certification upon completion. More information on this training is at 305-665-2540 or scan the QR code to register.
Get hands-on with orchids
The Florida Keys Orchid Society will host Juanita’s Orchids on Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 6 p.m. at the Key Largo Civic Club. She will get her hands dirty showing how to make the most of your orchids, and answer questions. Everyone is welcome to enjoy raffles, refreshments, plant sales and friendly, orchidloving people.
Homeowner Associations meeting brings parks director
The Island of Key Largo Federation of Homeowner Associations will hold its general membership meeting on Monday, Sept.16 at the Key Largo library community room, 101485 Overseas Highway) starting at 6 p.m. The meeting can be attended in person or via Zoom by scanning the QR code.
The guest speaker will be John Allen, Monroe County director of parks & beaches. He will give an overview with updates on the county park system.The meeting is open to the public.
Unique book sale at library
Love a good stack of books? Friends of the Key Largo Library is stacking them up to raise funds for programming for the Key Largo Branch Library at the Tradewinds Shopping Center. All month long they will offer a book sale that is not really a book ”sale.” Choose what you fancy and make a donation to the Friends – that is all there is to it. Every Wednesday, new books are added.
The sale is available any time the library is open Monday-Saturday. Buyers simply put their money in the donation box by the door. Those who donate at least $10 get to put their books in a Friends tote bag. Paperbacks and children’s books are always available for free.
CLOSE TO COMPLETION
Surfacing in Islamorada begins Sept. 8
The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority’s (FKAA) first transmission main replacement project is nearing completion.
Final paving for FKAA’s first water line replacement project on Upper Matecumbe Key and a portion of the Fills (MM 79.5 to MM 84) will take place in September 2024 with restoration and landscaping to follow.
“With the final phases of this project in motion, it’s an exciting time for the FKAA as we continue our work to replace the most vulnerable sections of our 130-mile transmission main,” said Greg Veliz, executive director of the FKAA. “We are already ahead of schedule on replacing the 1.5-mile stretch of main in Windley Key and work to replace the transmission main in Plantation Key is scheduled to begin in fall 2024.”
The paving operation in Islamorada (MM 79.5 to MM 84) is expected to begin on Sunday, Sept. 8 and last three to five days. Work will take place at night, from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., and a rolling lane closure will be in effect while the crew is paving. After paving is complete, the crew will need to wait two weeks until they can stripe the road. Following the paving work, FKAA will complete final restoration and landscaping in the project area.
The Islamorada Transmission Main Replacement Project is on track to be completed six months ahead of schedule. The project cost is about $42 million, with $20 million funded by grants and the balance funded through lowinterest loans.
For more information on the water main replacement project in Islamorada, visit https://bit.ly/ islamoradaproject or follow the FKAA on Facebook and Twitter. FKAA customer service is at 833588-5865 or community@fkaa. com. After-hours support is available at 305-296-2454.
— Contributed
Installation of new transmission main began in April 2023 on Upper Matecumbe Key and a portion of Tea Table Relief. FKAA/Contributed
Crews pave a section dug up to install new water transmission main in Islamorada.
1. A friend puts a flower in Mary Mendez’s hair as she gets ready to watch a spectacular Florida Bay sunset. CONTRIBUTED. 2. Mary Mendez takes in a sunset at Bay Harbor Resort along with her husband, children and grandson. 3. Mary Mendez and best friend Sylvie Turner share a special moment while watching the sunset at Bay Harbor Resort. 4. Mary Mendez’s three children carry her over the rocks to the waterfront to watch the sunset. 5. Melissa Woods, owner of Green House Salon in Key Largo, gives Mary Mendez a haircut during her special weekend at Bay Harbor Lodge & Coconut Bay Resort.
THE HEALING POWER OF A SUNSET
For the last year, Sylvie Turner has watched helplessly as her best friend of 40 years seemingly slipped away, losing all hope, including the will to live.
“She’s been in her bed and not wanting to do anything, not wanting to try,” said Turner of 74-year-old Mary Mendez.
“For the longest time, she just wanted to die; she didn’t want to be bothered with anything.”
Mary Mendez wasn’t always this way – far from it. The Key Largo woman was known for her adventurous spirit and zest for life. She had an unwavering love of the mesmerizing Florida Keys sunsets.
Mary’s love affair with sunsets started out in the 1970s when she moved to the Keys from Rhode Island and lived in a tent at America Outdoors Campground, then located at MM 97 on the bayside. (The campground closed years ago and the property is now the site of Playa Largo Resort and Spa.)
Along the way, Mary cultivated long-lasting friendships, many forged over conversations and laughter while watching the sun sink into the bay.
After the campground closed, Mary’s snowbird friends kept returning to Key Largo year after year and would stay at Bay Harbor Lodge & Coconut Bay Resort. During those visits, the good friends would catch up while watching the magnificent sunsets on Florida Bay.
Mary raised three children along the way and worked at the Key Largo Post Office for 25 years. She was very involved in the community and lived up to her nickname “Mangrove
Mary” for her dedication to ridding a mangrove swamp near her home of garbage and debris.
But in 2020, Mary started down a slow road of decline. She was diagnosed with temporal arteritis; two years later came the devastating news that she had Parkinson’s disease, a progressive disorder that affects the nervous system.
“She has Parkinson’s, which takes away your desire to want to do anything,” said Mary’s daughter, Melanie Valle, a local occupational therapist.
Valle said things took a turn for the worse when her mother fell a year ago and broke her hip, rendering the once vivacious Key Largo resident wheelchair-bound and feeling hopeless.
Mary is now under the care of Chapters Hospice. Valle said recently hospice staff informed her they had a wish foundation that could grant her mother a wish.
“Hospice was a catalyst in telling us they had this wish money,” explained Valle.
Valle knew exactly what needed to be done; she needed to get her mother out to see the sunset.
She reached out to Bay Harbor Lodge, the owners were more than happy to provide a discounted handicap-accessible room to give her mother a weekend full of friends, family and of course, sunsets. Valle said Bay Harbor Lodge manager, Jonathon Laron, with whom she went to school, rolled out the red carpet for her mother. A huge bouquet of flowers was waiting in the room for Mary, along with a handwritten letter welcoming her back to the resort. The fridge was stocked with Mary’s favorite fruit and the morning scone flavors were named in Mary’s honor, Mary Berry Mango and
Mary’s Mixed Berries.
“It really touched her heart. She kept telling people who visited that it’s paid for, it’s free,” recalled Valle of her mother’s special weekend and the people who made it happen.
Valle said Chapters Hospice paid for the stay at Bay Harbor Lodge and the community also stepped up to help out in extremely moving ways.
Mary received a complimentary facial and haircut from Melissa Woods, the owner of Green House Salon in Key Largo. Doc’s Diner provided Mary’s favorite soups and a total stranger, who learned of the weekend plans, offered to drive Mary to the resort in her handicap-accessible van.
“We like helping people, we’re in the Keys and we’re supposed to help each other,” said Luz Levine, who offered to drive Mary to the resort in the van she uses to transport her disabled husband.
Over the two days spent at Bay Harbor Resort, Mary reconnected with family and friends.
“We took my mom down to the water both nights for sunset. We carried her like queen style,” said Valle.
Best friend Sylvie Turner brought a chocolate cake for Mary and said she loved every bit of it.
Turner says the weekend was transformative for her friend.
“I feel like her appetite for life is coming back,” said Turner. “It was just amazing to see Mary out of the house and in front of a sunset, which she hasn’t seen in over a year,” she added.
When asked about her weekend, surrounded by family and friends and magical sunsets, Mary Mendez responded in a very soft, sweet voice.
“It was fabulous. It couldn’t be better.”
LEADERSHIP MONROE COUNTY ANNOUNCES CLASS XXXII
Thirty-second class to continue legacy of forging community partnerships
Leadership Monroe County, the premier educational non-profit community leadership organization, announces its 32nd year of programs with the selection of Class XXXII.
The LMC program is aimed at residents who are active in leadership roles within the private sector, government or community organizations. Through a series of singleand multi-day sessions over eight months, participants examine the fundamental public and private segments throughout the county. The program also provides participants the opportunity for mutual awareness and discussion of issues affecting the Keys. These experiences help participants grow as residents and leaders as well as provide invaluable connections among other leaders across the county.
Sessions will begin Sept. 13 in Key West with subsequent classes throughout the Keys, culminating with graduation in May 2025. Sessions are led by experts and leaders in the fields covered in each session. The nine sessions include focusing on the challenges and opportunities that confront the dynamic tourism industry and the Keys economy, vital environmental issues from the Everglades to Florida Bay and the coral reefs, the Monroe County education system, the levels of government, the judiciary and law enforcement system, the historical and current military significance in the Keys, emergency management and emerging best practices, Keys health care and human services, the increasing impact of the arts and creative industries, the nonprofit sectors and the media platforms that inform the citizenry and affect and influence public policy.
Established in 1992 to address the changing needs and concerns of the county, develop a group of welleducated leaders, help guide the community in a positive direction and foster county-wide effective and non-partisan alliances, Leadership Monroe County is an independent nonprofit, governed by a
countywide alumni member board. Officers are president George Garrett, vice president Cheryl Sullivan, secretary Kathy McKinney and treasurer Bruce Halle, with program coordinator Michael Shields.
• Jason Castillo - Administrative Bureau Captain, Key West Police Department
• Kelly Dugan - Assistant Monroe County Attorney, BOCC
• Alex Flores - AVP, First State Bank of the Florida Keys, Treasury Management
• Christina Gardner - Naval Facilities Command, Community Planning Liaison Officer
• Matthew Hutchinson - Attorney, Hershoff, Lupino & Yagel
• Greg Lewis - Vice Mayor, City of Layton
• Chris Massicotte - Co-Founder, Duval Street Media
• Brad Milsap - President, Ocean Reef Club Sotheby’s Realty
• Jenna Moeller - Detective Sergeant, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office
• Nick Parr - NOAA Environmental Manager, National Marine Sanctuary
• Michelle Pope - Co-Owner, Pilates in Paradise
• Afton Ridge - Outreach Coordinator, Metropolitan Community Church
• Heather Roberts - Vice President, Mortgage Executive, First Horizon Bank
• Suzi Rubio - Senior Project Manager, Monroe County BOCC
Robert Salter - Detention Lt., Monroe County Sheriff’s Office
• Cory Schwisow - Deputy Director, Monroe County Emergency Management
• Eric Silvoy - U.S. Coast Guard, Command Master Chief
— Contributed
FORGING POWERFUL CONNECTIONS
JOY celebrates National Senior Center Month
Yoga is one of the many programs offered through Just Older Youth Center. JOY/Contributed
E.G. MERKEL www.keysweekly.com
This September, people in the Upper Keys and across the nation will be celebrating National Senior Center Month. The focus of the celebration is building and maintaining powerful connections.
All of us know that social connection is one of the basic needs of life, along with food, water and shelter. Here in the Upper Keys the Just Older Youth (JOY) Center provides a place for seniors to gather for social, intellectual and physical growth. There, fun and fellowship fill Tuesdays and Wednesdays of each week.
On Tuesdays, classes include stretch, strength and balance; gentle flow yoga; joyful dancing, cardio drumming; crocheting; and book club. Wednesday classes include tech savvy seniors, gentle flow yoga, line dancing, mah jongg, ukulele, Five Crowns and conversational Spanish. Both days provide space to mingle in the Original Chat Room with Chit-Chat Roulette on Tuesdays. The schedule often includes pop-up events like a movie.
This environment would not be possible without the strong partnerships the JOY Center has forged within the community. Donations from participants along with support and funding from Islamorada Village Council, Community Foundation of the Florida Keys and Ocean
Reef Community Foundation keep the center moving forward. A new partnership with Baptist Health South Florida will help expand support of our senior community.
In collaboration with Monroe County Parks and Beaches, the two days of classes have become a reality at the Upper Keys at the Plantation Key Community Center. Working with John Allen, director, JOY Center plans to continue to grow through a shared vision to create opportunities to energize everyone’s health, wellbeing and community connection. David Bowie once said, “Aging is an extraordinary process where you become the person you always should have been.” What better place to age well and strengthen mind, body, spirit and community connections than at the Just Older Youth Center.
In celebration of National Senior Center Month on Tuesday, Sept. 17, there will be Bunco and Bagels, thanks to Marathon Bagel Company, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sept. 24-25 focuses on expanding connections through Bring a Pal to JOY. On Sept. 25, a lunch celebration with ukulele entertainment is planned. More events and details will be shared closer to the celebration.
Help is always welcome with event support. Reach out to justolderyouthinc@gmail.com if you would like to assist. And, come join the celebrations this month.
More information is at https:// justolderyouthinc.org/.
Islamorada Village of Islands
Meeting Schedule September 2024
Unless otherwise noted, meetings are held at the Founders Park Community Center, 87000 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada
PUBLIC NOTICE
If watching online via Zoom: Scan the QR code and follow the prompts to join the webinar. When the Mayor opens public comment use
hand” feature to be recognized by the
fl.us 305-664-6412 www.islamorada.fl.us
Marne McGrath Village Clerk
INSPIRE IMAGINATION
Islamorada library hosts ‘Imaginarium’ exhibit by artist Marcia Brito
The Islamorada library will hold an opening reception for a new conceptual art solo exhibit titled “Imaginarium” by local artist Marcia Brito, on Tuesday, Sept. 10, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. At 6 p.m., there will be an interactive artist presentation. Light refreshments will be provided. The public is invited.
“Imaginarium” will be on display through Saturday, Nov. 29 at the Islamorada branch of the Monroe County Public Library, located at 81830 Overseas Highway, during library hours.
A pre-Morada Way Art Walk event is scheduled on Thursday, Sept. 19 from 5 to 6 p.m. There will be a meet-and-greet and an exhibit tour with the artist at 5:30 p.m. Patrons are welcome to leave their cars parked at the library lot and walk over to the Morada Way Art Walk.
“Imaginarium” is a series of conceptual artworks that aim to inspire imagination and fun visual play. This exhibit is curated by the artist.
“I am curating my own solo show for the first time,” Brito said.
“The opportunity to install my own narrative is exciting, as usually art exhibits have predetermined curators. I have let my imagination run wild and I am sharing visual worlds that appeal to the subconscious; scenes and objects that catch my eyes as stimulating and I transform them further through various processes, with the intention of adding beauty and joy to everyday life.”
Brito is a visual artist and fulltime Upper Keys resident. A native of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Brito’s career includes a variety of visual and performing arts in the areas of photography, sculpture, painting, ballet and movie and television acting. Brito earned a master of fine arts degree in visual arts from Jacksonville University, and has lived in the Keys since 2021. Her work has been exhibited in Art Basel Miami/ Scope Art Miami Beach, the Museum of Science and History (MOSH) in Jacksonville, in Times Square at the Conde Nast building and at the Louvre in Paris. More informationis at www. britoart.com.
— Contributed
A1A RENAMED JIMMY BUFFETT MEMORIAL HIGHWAY
Key West Mayor Dee Dee Henriquez and local businessman Paul Menta present a proclamation declaring Aug. 30 Jimmy Buffett Day in Key West. The event took place at Shrimp Boat Sound, Buffett’s longtime recording studio alongside Key West Harbor. ANDY NEWMAN/Florida Keys News Bureau
A Florida highway sign designating State Road A1A as the ‘A1A Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway’ is unveiled Aug. 30 at the highway’s beginning in Key West. Marking the event, from left, were Florida State Reps. Chuck Clemons and Jim Mooney, Florida Sen. Lauren Book, Jimmy Buffett’s sister Lucy Buffett, his longtime business partner Sunshine Smith and Jeff Sharkey of Margaritaville.
Singer’s sister joins the unveiling
The unveiling of a Florida highway sign designating historic State Road A1A as the “A1A Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway,” and a ceremony declaring Aug. 30 “Jimmy Buffett Day,” kicked off a weekend of Key West festivities paying tribute to the island’s late “favorite son.”
The highway sign bearing the internationally acclaimed singer/ songwriter’s name was unveiled by his sister, Lucy Buffett, at the beginning of State Road A1A on Key West’s Atlantic Ocean shoreline.
“When Jimmy landed in Key West, he found the inspiration that formed the niche of his creative output that catapulted him into the mainstream,” said Lucy Buffett. “Key West, and the lifestyle that he figured out he could live and con-
tribute to society positively, he took with him for the rest of his life.”
Jimmy Buffett, who passed away Sept. 1, 2023, called Key West home during some of his most productive years. The island’s influence is widely credited with inspiring many of his most enduring songs, including the classic hit “Margaritaville” and he called a pivotal early album “A1A.”
Following the passage of a bill in the Florida House of Representatives and Senate, and its signing by Gov. Ron DeSantis, all segments of A1A from Key West to the Florida-Georgia line are now named the “A1A Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway.”
The Florida Department of Transportation will install the new A1A signs at a future date.
The bill’s sponsors Sen. Lauren Book, Rep. Chuck Clemons and Rep. Jim Mooney spoke at Friday’s ceremony alongside Lucy Buffett. — Contributed
Artist Marcia Brito’s ‘Imaginarium’ exhibit will be on display through Nov. 29 at the Islamorada library. CONTRIBUTED
OPEN FOR TOURS
foxes rescued from a Minnesota fur farm and living at the Pawsitive Beginnings fox sanctuary in Key Largo. WEEKLY FILE PHOTO
But don’t expect a petting zoo
REEF THE FOX
Reef is a red fox that was saved from a fur farm. He now lives in Key Largo with his human, Nicole Navarro.
Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly Reef’s Report. We had an exciting day last week as we celebrated the grand opening of the Human-Animal Alliance Healing Den at Pawsitive Beginnings. Many of our amazing friends and supporters showed up to witness this milestone. Monroe County Mayor Holly Merrill Raschein proclaimed Aug. 27 as Pawsitive Beginnings Day in the Florida Keys. So that’s a guaranteed party every year now on Aug. 27, I think.
I have some other really exciting news to share. After a long anticipated wait, we are now officially open to the general public for tours. Each month my mother, founder Nicole Navarro, will open up select days and times for these tours. The September calendar is up and active for booking. The only way to book a tour is through our website at pawsitivebeginnings.org under the “book a tour” tab.
We are offering private tours, for groups of one to four people only, for one hour. The price is $150 for one
RIZZO
This playful, energetic pup is always ready for an adventure, whether it’s chasing his favorite toys or learning new tricks. His sweet nature and loving eyes make him the perfect companion, bringing endless joy and love to everyone around him. Apply at www.mprescues.org or call 305-453-1315.
hour and that money goes directly to the nonprofit. So needless to say, I am excited to make new friends with these tours. Everyone needs to keep in mind there is no guaranteed contact with any of the foxes, including me. We are individuals with individual personalities and some days, we just prefer to relax and not be outgoing.
My mother will never force an interaction just because someone has booked a tour. This is not a petting zoo or a roadside circus. This is a sanctuary and will remain as such. So, if you decide to book a tour, please make sure to read the guidelines carefully before you purchase.
We are also gearing up for Best of the Upper Keys nominations this month. I sincerely hope you will consider yours truly for the Best Local Celebrity title, for the third year in a row, and I am going to be pushing hard for a first time win in the Best Nonprofit category for Pawsitive Beginnings. I have already been making campaign videos and photos for when nominations start, so as soon as it is time, I will let you know.
Anywho, that’s all for this week. Be sure to keep up with all things fox by heading to our website where you can find the links to all of our social media pages. Thank you again to our entire Florida Keys community for showing up and showing out last week for our ribbon cutting.
Until next time, Reef, over and out!
Thursday, Sept. 5
• Foreign Policy Association’s Great Decisions: Understanding Indonesia at 2 p.m. at Key Largo library.
• MarrVelous Pet Rescues’ “Yappy Hour” from 6 to 8 p.m. at Baker’s Cay Resort, Key Largo. Dogs must be vaccinated, leashed and well-socialized.
Saturday, Sept. 7
• Annual Swim for Alligator Lighthouse at 7:45 a.m. at Amara Cay Resort, Islamorada.
• Free tire recycling (Monroe County residents only) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Key Largo, Long Key and Cudjoe Key transfer stations. Recycle up to six tires.
Sunday, Sept. 8
• MarineLab hosts Locals Family Day from 1 to 5 p.m. at 51 Shoreland Dr., Key Largo. Visit marinelab.org/ family-day to sign up.
Monday, Sept. 9
• Free evidence-based Suicide Prevention Training from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Key .Largo Branch Library. Presented by NAMI Miami-Dade; register at Bit.ly/NAMIQPR99. Call 305-665-2540 for more information.
• The Protect Center’s “Land to Sea, Large to Wee” lecture series at 5:30 p.m. at 82748 Overseas Highway, Islamorada. Guest speaker is Art Cooper, founder of Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder.
Sept. 10-11
• JOY classes from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. at Plantation Key Community Center., 53 High Point Road, Islamorada. Visit justolderyouthinc.org for a full list of activities.
Tuesday, Sept, 10
• Islamorada Village Council meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Founders Park Community Center.
• Opening reception for artist Marcia Brito’s ‘Imaginarium’ exhibit from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Islamorada library.
Wednesday, Sept. 11
• Free legal help for low-income residents of Monroe County from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Key Largo library. Call 866-686-2760 or preregister online at legalservicesmiami. org.
Sept. 13-14
• Residential hazardous household collection (for Islamorada residents) from 9 a.m. to noon at Founders Park (south entrance) near the administrative building.
Sunday, Sept. 15
• Children’s Fair from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Key Largo Civic Club, 209 Ocean Bay Dr., Key Largo.
SAVE THE DATE
Reef, pictured bottom, and Jasper. They’re among the
PROHIBITION SAW RAIDS & ARRESTS IN KEY WEST
Local sheriff and federal agents spar over prisoner handling
FLORIDA
KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI
Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.
During Prohibition, there was no shortage of places to acquire alcohol in the Florida Keys. Occasionally, federal Prohibition agents visited those places, often referred to as speakeasies, tea rooms and blind pigs.
Local law enforcement agencies visited them, too, mostly on business but sometimes for pleasure.
As can be imagined, a place to pick up a bottle of booze during the Prohibition years in the Florida Keys would be a poorly kept secret, and secrets are hard things to keep on islands. One of the advantages of the island chain, especially during the Prohibition years, was that access to the islands was limited. Prohibition lasted from 1920 to 1933. It was only in 1927 that State Road 4A, the first version of the Overseas Highway, provided a link between the mainland and Key West.
Before the road opened to traffic, people could reach Key West via boat or the Key West Extension of the Florida East Coast Railway. When federal agents boarded the train on the mainland en route to Key West, it was not unusual for that information to be relayed to train stations from Jewfish Creek to Key West via telegraph or telephone.
One event involving federal officers arriving in Key West aboard Henry Flagler’s train sparked quite a spirited back and forth among the agents, the community and local law enforcement. It started on Feb. 16, 1926, when agents boarded the train in Miami and traveled to Key West. The agents were described as “eight big men” carrying “eight big guns” who possessed a big stack of search warrants.
Several newspaper accounts describe the event that followed as the first “sweeping raids against liquor traffic in Key West.” During the agents’ brief stay, they raided 25 businesses. Nearly half of the establishments stood within two blocks of police headquarters. The evidence the agents collected ranged from a single one-quart bottle to 10 cases of alcohol. The agents arrested 15 people, including Mr. and Mrs. Paul Lowe from Stock Island. Two of the individuals who were arrested were allegedly knocked in the head with bottles and dragged to jail bleeding from their scalps. They received no medical attention.
Federal gents recovering alcohol in Miami during Prohibition. FLORIDA MEMORY PROJECT/Contributed
According to accounts quoted in local newspapers and alleged by Sheriff Roland Curry, the agents did not act in a lawful manner. Witnesses observed that when contraband was not discovered, the agents destroyed property, smashed glasses and cracked bottles of ginger ale.
Additionally, after locking their prisoners in the Monroe County Jail, the agents failed to fill out the proper paperwork before heading to the train station to return to Miami.
In response, Justice of the Peace Rogelio Gomez signed warrants for the arrest of two agents, W.A. Dickinson and W.M. Thomas, for assaulting prisoner Avona Morales and for grand larceny. At about 7:45 p.m., Curry arrived at the Key West train station and attempted to serve the warrants.
When Curry approached the agents, they refused to identify the two officers named in the warrants. Curry told the agents that unless the proper paperwork was filled out and placed in his hands by 9 p.m., he would set the prisoners free as he had no authority to hold them without it.
The Prohibition agents ignored Curry and took any “evidence” that they had collected back to Miami. After the train departed Key West, Curry called ahead to Miami to have the two men arrested, but his message was seemingly ignored — at least at first. Back at the Monroe County Jail, Curry released the 15 people who had been taken into custody.
Curry’s charge of grand larceny involved the theft of a handbag from one of the café owners across the street from the La Concha Hotel. The handbag, purchased on a trip to Egypt, contained a $450 diamond ring, a pearl necklace and $30 in cash. As for the of-
ficers named in the warrants for assault and grand larceny, as of February 17, only Dickinson had been served a warrant, arrested and posted a $500 bond.
In the days that followed, Curry received a telegram from the U.S. Marshal’s office to hold nine of the prisoners apprehended during the raid until warrants could be delivered to Key West. Because the telegram was received 60 hours after the arrests, Curry had no authority to hold those named, even if he knew where they were since they had been released.
It was not the end of the story. In subsequent newspaper articles, acting State Prohibition Administrator P. F. Hambsch accused Key West officers of framing the agents. Curry’s response was printed in the March 1, 1926, edition of the Miami Tribune.
“Hambsch no doubt bases his statements on information given him by the agents. He has not heard the testimony of the score or more of witnesses who have signed affidavits that the agents assaulted their prisoners and also featured in the alleged thefts.”
According to the same March 1 story, U.S. Judge William Gover would defend the agents. A spokesman for the Federal Prohibition Office issued the statement: “We are not worried about charges against local agents who figured in the Key West liquor raid. If authorities down there wish, they can make the charge murder.”
Details regarding the outcome of the case against the Prohibition agents appear murky. In June, Curry died in a boating accident while in the Bahamas. Cases against the agents seem to have been turned over to the U.S. Court.
AMERICAN DEBT AND DELINQUENCY ARE RISING
Take control with these tips
is the University of Florida, IFAS Monroe County Extension Director and Community Development Agent
n increasing number of Americans are reaching the limits on their credit cards. According to the Federal Reserve, credit card delinquency rates have hit a nearly 12-year high.
In the first quarter of 2024, nearly one-fifth of credit card borrowers used at least 90% of their available credit. The New York Fed highlighted the “maxed-out borrowers” issue in a recent report.
Since late 2021, credit card balances and delinquencies have steadily risen, starkly contrasting the historic lows seen during the pandemic’s peak. According to the Fed, delinquencies have now surpassed pre-pandemic levels.
Cardholders who are maxed out are significantly more likely to miss payments. Those who became delinquent in early 2024 had a median utilization rate of 90%, indicating they were nearly at their credit limits.
So, what can you do if you are in debt? Here are some tips to get that debt under control.
Key takeaways
• Develop a plan: To address credit card debt effectively, create a plan and adhere to it.
• Prioritize payments: Focus on paying off cards with the highest interest rates first or those with the smallest balances.
• Pay more than the minimum: Paying more than the minimum amount each month reduces the overall interest paid.
Target one debt at a time
• Multiple balances: If you have balances on multiple credit cards, always pay at least the minimum on each. Then, concentrate on paying down the total balance on one card at a time.
• High-interest debt: Check your statements for interest rates and
prioritize paying off the highest-rate debt first.
Snowball method: Pay off the card with the smallest balance first. Once fully paid, use the money previously allocated to that card to pay down the next smallest balance.
Pay more than the minimum
• Long-term savings: Paying only the minimum takes much longer to clear your balance and incurs higher interest costs. Paying more than the minimum saves on interest.
• Statement guidance: Credit card statements typically show how much you can save by paying more than the minimum.
Quick tip – extra payments
• Paying even a little extra each month directly reduces your balance, thus lowering the interest you pay.
Consolidate debt
• Combine balances: Consolidating debt merges higher-interest balances into one lower-rate balance, enabling faster debt reduction without increasing payments.
• Balance transfers: Use low balance transfer rates to move debt from high-interest cards, considering any transfer fees versus potential savings.
• Home equity: If you have home equity, a line of credit might offer a lower rate to pay down card debt, though closing costs may apply.
• Spending control: Post-consolidation, it’s crucial to manage spending to prevent accumulating new debt.
Track your spending
• Categorize expenses: Use your credit card statement to categorize monthly spending (e.g., groceries, housing). Identify areas to cut back and apply saved money to debt repayment.
ALICIA BETANCOURT
PIXABAY
TRY ’N’ FIND
Words that remind us of money are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
Do you receive an allowance or payment for chores done around the house? Maybe you get gifts of money at birthday time.
This week, The Mini Page learns about money and good money habits.
THE THREE $’S
The things we must have to survive, such as food, shelter and clothing, are called needs.
Extra things that would be nice to have, but that we could do without, are called wants.
Most people try to budget, or plan, what to do with the money they make or receive.
That way they can be sure there is enough forspending, saving and sharing.
You can make a plan for money you receive as gifts or for doing chores. These three categories will help you decide how you want to use your money.
$PENDING
Spending is using money to buy goods and services. These can be needs or wants.
You may hear your parents talk about “paying the bills.” Each month, most households get notices about how much money they owe for different products and services, such as:
• trash collection • internet • electriciaty • cellphones • doctor visits
• lawn services
• natural gas or oil for heating the house • pet care
$AVING
People save money for different reasons. They may save for shortterm and long-term goals. You might save money to buy a video game. That would be a short-term goal. You might also save to go to college. That would be a long-term goal.
Experts suggest that younger kids save money at home, for instance in a piggy bank. Older kids may want to open a savings account at a bank.
You might try to save at least 10%, or onetenth, of the money you get. For instance, if you get $5 for allowance, you would save 50 cents. But even if you don’t save quite that much, putting some money into savings is a great habit to start now.
PROTECTING MONEY
Because money is valuable, we need to eep it safe. We can do this by:
• putting it in a bank or credit union where deposits are insured, or protected, by the government.
• never giving out credit card numbers to people who ask for them by phone or on the internet.
ECO NOTE
British animal experts say they have discovered that hippos can trot so fast that they actually “glide through the air,” however briefly, when at full speed. A report by the Royal Veterinary College says the massive mammals, weighing up to 2 tons, can propel themselves with all four feet off the ground for up to 0.3 seconds at a time. The researchers also found that hippos are more athletic than elephants but less than rhinos. Hippos are dangerous animals and are usually active at night, which makes them difficult to study.
For many people, sharing with others who have less has become an important part of their budget. We call this charitable giving. If you have ever dropped coins into a red kettle during the holidays or placed money in a collection plate at church, you have shared your money. If you plan to share your money regularly, you need to budget for that.
My Budget
1/3 for savings
-$10 (30 divided by 3)
1/3 for sharing -$10
Money left to spend $10
A KID’S BUDGET
Some kids do it this way: Whenever they get money, they spend one-third of it, save one-third of it and share one-third of it. You may already have an idea of a group or cause that you want to help with your money. If not, your family can help you decide how to use your sharing money.
MONEY NICKNAMES
Some funny nicknames for money are: • bacon • cheddar • greenbacks
moola
clams
bucks
RESOURCES
Founded by Betty Debnam
Mini Fact: Ancient Egyptians used a counting device called an abacus (AB-uh-kuhss)to add large numbers quickly.
‘JUST A FEW FRIENDS’ TRIBUTE DRAWS THOUSANDS
Jimmy Buffett celebrations launch new Labor Day tradition
“And I have been drunk now for over two weeks; I passed out and I rallied and I sprung a few leaks. But I gotta stop wishin’, gotta go fishin’ Down to rock bottom again Just a few friends, just a few friends”
— JImmy Buffett’s ‘A Pirate Looks at Forty’
MANDY MILES
mandy@keysweekly.com
The weekend-long tribute to Jimmy Buffett was called Just a Few Friends, but ended up drawing thousands to the island city for the long Labor Day weekend.
The weekend included appearances by members of the Buffett family for the renaming of A1A as the Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway, a Hawaiian surfing tradition called a “paddle out” in honor of the singer/songwriter and a festive Second Line march through Old Town that culminated at Truman Waterfront Park for a free concert and Party in the Park.
Buffett died on Sept. 1, 2023 after a four-year battle with a form of skin cancer called Merkel-cell carcinoma. His death prompted a spontaneous outpouring of music, memories and margaritas last year in Key West.
This year, with more time to prepare, Paul Menta, owner of Key West’s First Legal Rum Distillery, worked with several people, performers and organizations to put together the Just a Few Friends celebration that quickly cemented itself on the Key West events calendar.
Key West Mayor DeeDee Henriquez, above, is one of thousands to take part in the Just a Few Friends events over Labor Day weekend to celebrate the songs and stories of Jimmy Buffett. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
WHAT: “Ronin” (1998)
WHY: If you like heist films that also have a bit of espionage, an understated but affecting love story and nonstop action, it’s hard to do better than “Ronin.” One of the last movies by legendary director John Frankenheimer, the cast includes Robert DeNiro, Jean Reno, Natascha McElhone, Stellan Skarsgård, Sean Bean and Jonathan Pryce. It even has a cameo from Katarina Witt playing a Russian skater! It has multiple car chases in multiple scenic locations in France. And it has a hell of a MacGuffin. I’ve seen this movie at least 20 times and I still sort of forget the ending – because honestly, it’s not the point. I never get tired of watching these characters as they try to out-maneuver each other and “the Russians” who are also after the mysterious MacGuffin, whether it’s with mind games, shoot-outs or barreling the wrong way down a Parisian highway – way before Jason Bourne pulled the same stunt.
WHERE: This film is available on Kanopy, the library’s streaming video app.
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: Nancy Klingener, community affairs manager.
See previous Reel
Presented by
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Place to Take a Date
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Elected O cial
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Nominations
Thursday, Sept. 5 at noon to Sunday, Sept. 22 at 11:59 p.m.
Final Voting
Starts Thursday, Oct. 3 at noon
Sunday, Oct. 20 at 11:59 p.m.
*New categories in red.
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Friday, Nov. 1, 6-9 p.m.
9/5
9/5
THE SCOREBOARD
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
WHEATLEY
If you looked up ‘what makes a good teammate,’ Ali would check every box.”
– Lyndie Meyers, ‘Canes head coach
“ALI HAS A LOVE FOR RUNNING, WHICH DRIVES HER TO HAVE A STRONG DESIRE TO COMPETE AND WIN.”
It usually takes a few seasons to forge a successful cross country athlete, but Coral Shores freshman Ali Wheatley exploded out of the gates in her first varsity endeavor, claiming a fifth-place medal at the recent Race of the Thoroughbreds and the top time for her team. Coach Lyndie Meyers marveled at Wheatley’s times both at the race and throughout practice.
“I find myself triple-checking my stopwatch on her run times. This girl is incredibly fast and she makes it look so easy,” Meyers said. “Ali has a love for running, which drives her to have a strong desire to compete and win.”
In Wheatley’s varsity debut, she ran faster than any Coral Shores girl has run in years, giving not just Meyers a level of excitement, but any Hurricane fans. For her dedication to her sport and team, Coral Shores’ Ali Wheatley is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
THIS WEEK Ali
Freshman, Coral Shores Cross country
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.
Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com
Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com
Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com
The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.
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CONCHS OVERWHELM MARINERS
Key West High School beats Basilica School in Bone Island Battle on the volleyball court
On Aug. 28, Basilica School made the short trip across town to face the Lady Conchs of Key West High School. Last season, the junior varsity teams matched up and the Mariners came out on top. This season, the Lady Conchs were unstoppable, winning in three sets, 25-11, 25-15 and 25-15.
Despite the score, Key West head coach Kim Butler had some concerns about her team’s overall play style. “It wasn’t very pretty,” she said. “We didn’t play our best. We let them dictate the tempo.”
Butler was happy to come away with a win and was pleased with the performance of a trio of juniors. Audrey Smith remained steady and helped lead the team to a win with 10 kills and no errors, racking up 5 aces against the Mariners. Cat Van Staden had 3 kills with a .429 hitting efficiency, and Molly McKnight was credited with 13 assists and 5 aces.
That would be Basilica School’s only match last week, but the Conchs played again on Aug. 30 against the 7A regional runner-up Bobcats of Boca Raton. Key West found themselves across the net from a much larger team, with a right side hitter standing 6’3” tall. The LSU-commit Bobcat was merciless against Key West, but Butler found positivity in the team’s 3-0 loss, saying it was “good for us to see that caliber of play and strive to be better.”
The Lady Fins fell to 1-3 after a loss to Florida Christian on Aug. 30. Marathon lost in three sets to the Patriots in Miami. The Fins will take on Westwood at home on Thursday, Sept. 5 in a game that was moved from later in the season, then University School on Sept. 12.
tracy mcdonald
AND THEY’RE OFF!
Coral Shores, Basilica School open season with Race of the Thoroughbreds Classic
The Lady ’Canes traveled to Larry & Penny Thompson Park to participate in their first race of the season on Aug. 30, and it was a very different team than it was one year prior. The Hurricanes are reaping the benefits of their work last season, when a very young team paid their dues and built speed and stamina, but struggled to catch up to teams who had been at it for longer.
In race number one, Coral Shores already had a topfive finisher in Ali Wheatley, a freshman who clocked in at a respectable 22:39. Tess Hill, Kate King, Kai Guth and Hayden Teal all managed to complete the course quickly enough to take fourth place overall, setting the tempo for the rest of the season.
“I can’t wait to watch their next race,” said second-year head coach Lyndie Meyers, whose enthusiasm for running and her team are contagious. “We are in a much better position than we were at the beginning of last season.” The Lady ’Canes run again Thursday, Sept. 5 at the FNU Invitational, also held at Larry & Penny Thompson Park. This time they will be joined by the boys team, running their first race of the season.
While the Hurricanes were tearing up the varsity race, Basilica School’s new cross country team opted to toe the line in the junior varsity division of the Race of the Thoroughbreds. Sophomore Noah Wright crossed the line first for the Mariners, finishing in 23:26. Sebastian Davis (eighth grade), Caden King (eighth), Joseph Gauron (seventh), Owen Wright (ninth), Killian Donnelly (11th), Gregory White (eighth) and Max Pluccinek (seventh) rounded out the young crew of Mariners last week.
The inexperience of the team stands to benefit them in the coming weeks, as the newer the runner is, the more their times tend to drop in a single season. The Mariners’ youngest runner took the top spot for the girls team. Campbell Cooper, a sixth-grader, finished the 3.1 miles in 31:41. Junior Gloria Slavik, seventh-grader Alise Lumen and sophomore Zofia Zeledon also competed in the JV race.
The Mariners weren’t the only team with sixth-grade success. The perennial powerhouse Lady Fins ran strong in their opening race at Palmer Trinity School on Aug. 28. The runners slogged through high grass, puddles and thick mud, which slowed down the pace, but not the Fins’ resolve.
Molly Joly finished first for the girls. The sixth-grader edged out senior Ella Dunn, a multi-year state qualifier, by seven seconds, finishing in 25:33. Sophomores Maeve Merryman and Sara Robinson were next, followed by eighth-grader Rebecca Merryman, sophomores Madelyn Thornton and Mylana Loza, then another sixth-grader in Adrianna Dworniczak. Sophomore Lizbeth Garcia rounded out the Lady Fins’ participants last week.
The top finisher for the boys was no surprise; senior Vance Bursa completed the course in 17:29, good enough for third overall and well in front of younger brother Tony, who finished next for Marathon. Allan Taylor took the team’s third spot, and junior Caleb Shelar was fourth for the Fins. The top four Fins were all in the top 20 overall, but before the rest of the pack could finish, the race was called due to nearby lightning strikes.
Despite the unpleasant conditions, head coach Jim Murphy found a silver lining. “We got to open up where districts will be held this year,” he said. “The course was soaked, which made it much more challenging. The kids got to prove to themselves that they can still perform when the conditions are not ideal, which is a great thing to learn at a first race and to remember later on.”
Marathon was on the road again on Sept. 4 for the Miami Country Day Invitational before hosting a meet on Wednesday, Sept. 11. The races start at 3 p.m. with middleschool girls, with staggered start times until 4:45 when the varsity boys take off.
Cross country fans, running enthusiasts and anyone hoping to catch all of the Keys teams in action in one place should be at Sombrero Beach, where the races begin and finish. Marathon, Basilica School, Key West, Key Largo School, Sugarloaf School, Coral Shores and Florida Christian are all scheduled to compete.
Above: Marathon freshman Allan Taylor finished third for the Fins in their opening race of the season. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly
Top: The Lady ’Canes’ cross country team took fourth place as a team at the Race of the Thoroughbreds on Aug. 30. From left: Kai Guth, Ali Wheatley, Tess Hill, Hayden Teal and Kate King. CONTRIBUTED
A (SPORTS) PAGE FROM HISTORY
Many of the people who remember the Keys in the ‘70s are gone now, but those who remain and those who enjoy reading the Weekly online from Ocala – or wherever the newest mecca is for Keys folks trying to escape the economic insanity – can attest that it was a far different place 50 years ago.
In 1974, the Navy base all but shut down, collapsing much of the local economy in Key West, and while the Keys were always a tourist destination, it took a few years for a full-on rebranding to occur, giving the locals, including highschool athletes, a more close-knit community where everyone knew each other and their business.
In 1974, Key West was rife with changes. The closing of most of the Naval operations affected the Southernmost City the most, and the loss of revenue from the government and the families who lived on base was felt across the island. Compounding this was the expense the football team endured in traveling to the mainland to play their games.
This helped drive the decision to exit the GMAC conference and join one which allowed the Conchs more leeway in choosing opponents for more favorable locations and more favorable results; many believed the GMAC was becoming stacked as Miami exploded in population. The Conchs joined FHSAA’s 4A classification, where they remain today. In their first year with the new district, the Conchs went 5-5 under the tutelage of coach Dave Matheson, who laid the groundwork for Key West’s first district championship the following season. Star wide receiver Richard “Bo” Howard was also a big part of the Conchs’ successful equation, and he earned third team All-State honors in 1974.
A look back at fall prep sports in the Keys 50 years ago
‘Canes, and though his team couldn’t pull off the win over Marathon in ‘74, Russell made a name for himself by launching an 88-yard punt that season. The punt set a Florida high school record and likely didn’t hurt Russell’s scouting prospects; he later played at University of Miami before returning to Coral Shores to teach, coach, serve as athletic director and mentor hundreds of students, athletes and teachers.
Across the island, Mary Immaculate, now Basilica School, added volleyball back into their varsity offerings. The first mention of a girls volleyball team was 30 years prior to that, but what happened between the ‘44 and ‘74 seasons, including when and why the team dissipated, remains unclear. Fifty years later, the Mariners repeated the feat in 2024, giving Key West fans two local volleyball teams to cheer for.
1974 was a big year for the Dolphins. Marathon’s Jim Sikora led the Fins to their first-ever Battle of the Keys Win, defeating Coral Shores 22-0. Sikora served as Marathon’s first coach when the school added varsity football to their schedules in 1970.
One athletic stronghold from the Upper Keys of half a century ago remains. In 1974 and in 2024, there is likely not a single Coral Shores student or staff member with whom Rich Russell is unfamiliar. Russell has a storied history with the
FUN FACTS:
• A ride on the Conch Train in 1974 set you back a buck-fifty.
• A night camping at John Pennekamp State Park was $3.50.
• Anyone rightfully terrified to travel across the old Seven Mile Bridge, which was crumbling and narrow by the mid-1970s, could catch multiple flights each day between Key West and Marathon via Sunshine Air.
Coral Shores graduate Rich Russell played football at the University of Miami. He played tight end but later moved to defensive end. CONTRIBUTED
ANYTHING BUT ROUGH
Keys golfers refining skills with frequent matches and friendly yet strong competition
Local prep golfers have been getting in plenty of practice despite seasonal storms doing their best to dampen the rounds. On Aug. 26, Marathon hosted Key West and Coral Shores for boys and girls play. Key West junior Claudia Steling shot a 42, beating her closest competitor by 10 strokes. Steling birdied on holes one and seven on the winning round. Lexi Finigan and Monica Bueno made it a Conch sweep of the top three spots.
Coral Shores senior Amber Ender was fourth and Charlize Lopez of Key West was fifth. Marathon’s Justice Lee Isom traded in pumping iron for a different sort and claimed sixth place with teammate Makenna Haines in seventh. Sasha Mayer of Coral Shores finished eighth.
The following day, Coral Shores and Marathon headed to Redland Golf Course, home of the Palmer Trinity Falcons, for a quad meet also featuring Riviera Prep. Lady ’Canes senior Gabby Thomas shot a 49 to lead the Keys, with Lee Isom, Haines, Mayer and Ender close behind. Thomas added another round on Aug. 29 at her home course, Ocean Reef. The talented senior shot a 50, placing her in what would have been a five-way tie for fourth place among the boys competition.
Though the girls teams often do not have enough athletes participating in a match to qualify for team scoring, there seems to be no shortage of gentlemen roaming the fairways. At Florida Keys Country Club in Marathon on Aug. 26, the home team narrowly beat out their Keys competitors. The Fins won with the low team score of 177, with Key West close behind at 195 and Coral Shores in third with 213.
Sophomore Roco Piscetello birdied on hole four and ended the day with the low score of 41. Teammates Leo Mendez and Emmett Merryman rounded out the top three golfers of the day. Key West’s Andrew Bassett and Geo Twyman were tied with Merryman for third and Preston Carroll of Coral Shores was sixth. Cullen Coleman-Sayer and Mason Thornton of Marathon tied for seventh, with Peyton Zubieta (Key West), Donovan Thiery (Coral Shores) and Luca Picariello (Marathon) rounding out the top 10.
On Aug. 29, Marathon and Coral Shores met up at Ocean Reef for nine holes of friendly competition. Carroll and Thornton tied at 46 with Coral Shores’ Derek Ramos one stroke behind. Tanel Irons and Brock Bynum of Coral Shores shared fourth place with Marathon’s Piscetello and Max Childress. Mendez, Aidan Althouse of Coral Shores and ColemanSayer placed in the top 10 at the renowned course. Coral Shores won their home match 193-202.
More matches are scheduled this week for all three squads, on Thursday, Sept. 5 at Ocean Reef; Monday, Sept. 9 at Marathon; then back to Ocean Reef on Thursday, Sept. 12.
Coral Shores is the only Keys football team to remain undefeated after clobbering Palmer Trinity last week, winning 22-7 against the Falcons. The game’s outcome was a bit iffy on the opening drive, when Palmer marched down the field and scored to pull ahead 7-0. The ’Canes regrouped, keeping their composure until AJ Putetti scored on a 2-yard touchdown run in the second quarter.
Putetti struck again in the third with a 7-yard run. On the extra-point attempt, the snap was flubbed, but a quick-thinking Yemcel Moreno picked the ball up off the ground and tossed it to Putetti for an extra 2. Putetti struck for a third TD, a 47-yard run, to seal the win for the Hurricanes.
“We are truly blessed to have him,” coach Ed Holly said of his relentless running back. Putetti ended the game with 26 carries for 247 all-purpose yards, 3 touchdowns and a 2-point conversion.
Also playing well for Coral Shores was the defense, which secured the shutout with aggressive play and a bevy of sacks on the Palmer QB. At one point, Palmer was within range of a field goal, but Eddie Holly stepped in and put an end to any hopes the Falcons had of scoring. In addition to the blocked field goal, Holly had 7 solo tackles, 3 for a loss, an interception and a forced fumble.
Jarmoris Davis had 4 sacks, 4 pressures, an assisted tackle and a fumble recovery. Connor Dixon had 3 solo and 1 assisted tackle, a tackle for a loss and a forced fumble and Micah Carr had 3 sacks, a tackle for a loss, 3 pressures and an assisted tackle.
Whether the ’Canes can keep their perfect record is in the hands of Palm Glades Prep, in a game that will now be played in Tavernier. Palm Glades was scheduled to have a home game, but a lack of referees in Miami forced the game to the Keys. However, with a finite number of officials able to work Keys games and a crew already scheduled to work Marathon’s home game, the ’Canes are not entirely certain if their game will be Thursday or Friday night, Sept. 5 or 6. The official determination will occur after presstime.
Marathon fell to 1-1 after a lopsided loss to Florida Chirstian. The Patriots struck first offensively before the Fins answered back with a Fab Louis Jeune 6-yard run, but his extra-point attempt went wide left, and Marathon wouldn’t find the end zone again.
“We just failed to match their intensity, at the end of the day,” said coach Sean McDonald, who was understandably disappointed with the loss. The 49-6 score left the Fins reeling as they head into their week 3 opponent: Aubrey Rogers will travel from Naples to play the Dolphins in Marathon Friday, Sept. 6.
“Back to the drawing board,” McDonald said, adding, “We did have a bright spot with Shamar (Wright). He ran hard and he is really coming into his own. We need to get him the ball more.”
Fins fans will be able to catch Marathon in action at home for the next month as they enjoy a schedule nearly devoid of travel. They do not hit the road again until Oct. 4, when they take the short trip to Tavernier for the Battle of the Keys, played at Coral Shores this year.
The Conchs faced one of the most powerful teams in the country last week, taking on IMG Academy’s White team in Key West. The Conchs lost 28-0, but not because they could not match up with the Ascenders; Key West turned the ball over a record eight times in the game, handing the ball as well as the victory to IMG.
“I thought the defense played phenomenally, honestly,” said head coach Johnny Hughes. “I liked the effort they gave and that they didn’t hang their heads and give up.”
Despite facing a nose guard Hughes described as “an animal,” the Conchs defense held their own against the Syracuse commit as well as a full lineup of big, physical athletes who played only one side of the game. Key West did not have the luxury of resting their athletes, and as the season wears on, the injuries pile up, making for creative management of the depth chart.
Defensively, Jayden Gist had a strong night, reeling in two interceptions while Noah Mercer and Josh Johnson were able to give some good pressure for the rest of the defense, but the turnovers ultimately cost Key West the game. Also lost in the first half was the talent of Jaden Fox, who did not play after the second quarter. His return this week is questionable as he rehabs a sprained shoulder.
Fox and the rest of the Conchs’ offense were able to move the ball against IMG, with two of the turnovers occurring within 10 yards of a Conchs TD and a third around the 25-yard line.
“It was just one of those nights,” Hughes said, adding that he is relieved to move on to the next opponent. That will be Somerset Academy Canyons; the Conchs will travel to Boynton Beach to play on Thursday, Sept. 5 at 7 p.m. The Conchs will not play at home again until Sept. 20, when North Port pays them a visit.
Left page: The Hurricanes celebrate a touchdown run by running back A.J Putetti.
Above from left: Christopher Barter preps for the snap. Daniel Oviedo heads for the pile. Conch defenders Josh Johnson and Joseph DaleyWailey converge on the ball.
Photos by Maicey Malgrat and Doug Finger. See more photos at Keysweekly.com
Adam
Brevity
Nancy
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
WHEATON’S SERVICE
CENTER gives notice that on
09/27/2024 at 10:00 AM, the following vehicle(s) may be sold by public sale at 101500
OVERSEAS HWY, KEY LARGO, FL 33037 to satisfy the lien for the amount owed on each vehicle for any recovery, towing, or storage services charges and administrative fees allowed pursuant to Florida statute 713.78.
Wheaton’s Service Center reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.
1FMCU03Z48KA09789 2008
FORD
Publish:
September 5 & 12, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE
Florida Keys Council of the Arts
Notice of Upcoming Meetings
The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform. The access points to view the Zoom meetings or for members of the public to provide public input will be: JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@keysarts.com
The City of Key Colony Beach cordially invites interested contractors to complete and submit sealed quotes by October 25th, 2024, no later than 9:30 am, for the following project.
DRY FLOOD PROOF ENGINEERING FOR CITY MAINTENANCE BUILDING RFQ 2024-001
THE PROJECT CONSISTS OF: The City is requesting qualifications from Florida registered, licensed professional engineering firms or teams to provide an engineering proposal for dry-floodproofing the City of Key Colony Beach Maintenance Building located at Parcel ID: 8843062 480 8th Street, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051. Firms interested in providing Engineering Services should have proven experience in floodproofing buildings by FEMA requirements. All bids must be submitted in a sealed envelope to City Administrator John Bartus at 600 W. Ocean, Key Colony Beach, Florida 33051 (mailing address PO Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051), no later than October 25th, 2024, at 9:30 am clearly marked ‘Sealed Bid for the City of Key Colony Beach RFQ No. 2024-001’ along with the name of your firm. Each bid must have one original and three copies.
The bid manual, requirements, and specifications are available on DemandStar at www.Demandstar.com.
All questions regarding the bid process should be directed to City Administrator John Bartus at cityadministrator@keycolonybeach.net
DATE: TIME (ET): Action:
09-13-2024 9:30 am Release Solicitation (via DemandStar)
09-27-2024 9:30 am Pre-Submittal Meeting and Non-mandatory Site Visit (Open to Public – 480 8th Street, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051-0141)
10-04-2024 4:00 pm Last day for submission of written questions to the City (to cityadministrator@keycolonybeach.net)
10-11-2024 4:00 pm Last day for the City to post answers to questions (on DemandStar)
10-25-2024 9:30 am Bid Due & Opening (Open to Public:City Hall 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach, FL 33051-0141)
11-08-2024 9:30 am Review Committee Meeting
Recommendation to Award to the Commission Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051-0141
*Can be posted on or before date
11-21-2024 9:30 am City Commission Meeting – Final Award (Open to Public – Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach, FL 33051-0141)
City of Key Colony Beach
600 W Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051
Contact Mailing Address
John Bartus, City Administrator PO Box 510141 cityadministrator@keycolonybeach.net Key Colony Beach, FL 33051
CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF CODE AMENDMENT HEARING SECOND/FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 2024-491 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances.
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 19th, 2024, 9:30
AM
LOCATION: City of Key Colony Beach, Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach. The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2024-491], entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FLORIDA; AMENDING CHAPTER FOURTEEN OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, ENTITLED SEWERS AND SEWAGE DISPOSAL, SECTION 14-6 MONTHLY RATES AND CHARGES, AND PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; REPEALING ANY INCONSISTENT PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.”
The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www.keycolonybeach.net and at City Hall at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.
If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing on Thursday, September 19th, 2024, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to: City Commission, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, and your comments will be entered into the record.
To be published: On or before September 9th, 2024
City Clerk City of Key Colony Beach, Florida Publish: September 5, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-398-P DIVISION: PLANTATION KEY IN RE: ESTATE OF MARK GREGORY BAGAN Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Mark Gregory Bagan, deceased, whose date of death was April 16, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION
OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
The personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is: September 5, 2024.
Personal Representative: Anne Elizabeth Bagan 251 S Ocean Shores Drive Key Largo, Florida 33037 Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert K. Miller, Esq.
Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173 Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938 Marathon, FL 33050
Telephone: (305) 743-9428
Fax: (305) 743-8800
E-Mail: rmiller@floridakeyslaw. com
Secondary E-Mail: service@ floridakeyslaw.com
Publish: September 5 & 12, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-375-M DIVISION: MARATHON IN RE: ESTATE OF GREGORY ALLEN COLDIRON Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Gregory Allen Coldiron, deceased, whose date of death was July 2, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
The personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section
732.2211.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is: September 5, 2024.
Personal Representative: Mallory Morton Pinto 1342 74th Street Ocean Marathon, Florida 33050
Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert K. Miller, Esq.
Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173 Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938 Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-9428 Fax: (305) 743-8800 E-Mail: service@ floridakeyslaw.com
Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com
Publish: September 5 & 12, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 2024-CP-407-K IN RE: ESTATE OF SUSAN PELL HOWARTH, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Susan Pell Howarth, deceased, whose date of death was April 11, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, 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 on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is: September 5, 2024. Signed on August 26, 2024.
Personal Representative: Walter Howarth
30858 Palm Drive
Big Pine Key, FL 33043
Attorney for Personal Representative: James J. Dorl, Esq.
Florida Bar No. 618403
JAMES J. DORL, P.A.
First Professional Centre
5701 Overseas Highway, Suite 12
Marathon, FL 33050
Telephone: (305) 743-6565
Email: jjdorl@yahoo.com
Publish: September 5 & 12, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-000411-P DIVISION: GARCIA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF DON J. HINDMAN, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of DON J. HINDMAN, deceased, whose date of death was July 6, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is September 5, 2024.
Personal Representative: LESLIE S. HINDMAN 123 Australian Avenue Palm Beach, Florida 33480
Attorney for Personal Representative: THOMAS F. McGUIRE E-mail Addresses: Thomas.mcguire@saul.com shar-ann.callahan@saul.com Florida Bar No. 32729 SAUL EWING LLP 161 North Clark Street, Suite 4200 Chicago, Illinois 60601 Telephone: (312) 87607195
Publish:
September 5 & 12, 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-404-K IN RE: ESTATE OF PATRICK DANIEL NOWICKI Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Estate of PATRICK DANIEL NOWICKI, deceased, whose date of death was April 7, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •
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: September 5, 2024. Personal Representative: CHRISTOPHER NOWICKI 8704 Hahn Road Fredonia, New York, 14063 Attorney for Personal Representative: 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: September 5 & 12, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24-DR-466-K WEBENS LAUTURE, Petitioner, and ANDREA URBANOVA, Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: ANDREA URBANOVA RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 61 SEASIDE NORTH CT, KEY WEST, FL 33040 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 Webens Lauture, whose address is 1641 Morgan CT, Apt. 4, Key West, FL 33040 on or before October 3, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 530 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 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: N/A 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 22, 2024 Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Jaquelyn Fonseca Deputy Clerk
Publish:
September 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2023-CA-268-M NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 20th day of September, 2024 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit:
Property Address: 329 63rd Court Gulf, Marathon, Florida 33050; and 57468 and 57478 Overseas Highway, Grassy Key, Florida 33050.
Pursuant to ORDER GRANTING PLAINTIFF’S SECOND MOTION TO CANCEL AND RESCHEDULE 8/20/24 FORECLOSURE SALE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 19th day of August 2024 Style of which is: RED MANGROVE HOLDINGS, LLC, A FLORIDA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Plaintiff, VS. MARATHON DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS, LLC, A FLORIDA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, CEDAR OAK REI, INC., AN IDAHO FOR-PROFIT CORPORATION, MARK RAY GERENGER, PERSONAL GUARANTOR, ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER, AND AGAINST THE HEREIN NAMED INDIVIDUAL DEFENDANT(S)WHO ARE NOT KNOWN TO BE DEAD OR ALIVE, WHETHER SAID UNKNOWN PARTIES MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, OR OTHER CLAIMANTS, AND ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN OCCUPANT(S) OR TENANT(S) OF 329 63RD COURT GULF, MARATHON, FLORIDA 33050 AND 57468 AND 57478 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, GRASSY KEY, FLORIDA 33050, Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2023-CA268-M WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 28TH day of August 2024
KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court By: Shonta McLeod As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim
within sixty (60) days after the sale. Publish: September 5 & 12, 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
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 2, 2023
Jerald Torano 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
LEGAL NOTICES
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 AMENDED 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 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
$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 E 201/40
$2,219.69 with a per diem amount of $1.10 from January 2, 2024 E 201/41
$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
$6,701.46 with a per diem amount of $3.31 from January 2, 2024
Jane Rosenthal 444 E 75th Street, Apt #3-B 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
Manalapan, NJ 07726
224/18
5087 Raintree Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15236
$3,160.11 with a per diem amount of $1.56 from August
Robert A Bradley and Stefane B Bradley 1303 Chestnut Street Murray, KY 42071
E 202/48
amount of $3.632.24 from January 2, 2024
Moses Madison and Dorothy A Madison
995 Bear Lake Drive
Rockledge, FL 32955
$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
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
Gated storage & parking available in Marathon for boats, trailers & RV's - across from boat ramp - MM 54. $8-$10/ foot. 305-610-8002
Place your STORAGE ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today.
CAMPING/RV SITE
Camping site/RV site at marina available in Marathon. Monthly/ Daily rates. Free use of dingy & fishing on dock. No Pets. 305-610-8002
Place your CAMPING SITE FOR RENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844
COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT
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 office@ marathonyachtclub. com.
PRIVATE COLLECTOR
WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
HOUSING FOR RENT
Large One Bedroom Suite, Conch House, carpet, tile, appliances, available for rent in Marathon. $2,000/ month furnished, $1,600/month unfurnished,. All utilities included. F/L/S Section 8 accepted. Dockage available. No Pets. 305-610-8002
Stock IslandSeeking 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!
Gated storage & parking available in Marathon for boats, trailers & RV's - across from boat ramp - MM 54. $8-$10/ foot. 305-610-8002
1989 CHEVY S-10 Cameo Edition, 4.3 V-6 engine, 197k miles, very minor surface rust, original paint, nice interior, garage kept, no accidents, runs excellent. Located in Key Largo. $4,900 Contact George at 305-776-1802 for more information.
2005 Chevy Truck for sale in Marathon. $500.00 Call Nicole 305-433-0515 SOLD IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!
Place your AUTO/ TRUCK FOR SALE ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844
BOATS FOR SALE
14' Aluminum boat, 9.9 Mercury Outboard, Elec. start, Trolling motor in bow, NEW gas tank, battery, GPS, Depth Finder & trailer tires. Located in Marathon. $3500 305-395-1015
FREE!! - 2 PONTOON BOATS 24' AND 18' Located in Marathon. Call 305-610-8002
Place your BOAT FOR SALE ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844
STORAGEBOAT/TRAILER FOR RENT
Professional business offices for rent in beautiful building in Islamorada. U.S. 1 frontage and signage for your business. Call 305-780-7265 or email srussolaw@ outlook.com for details.
Commercial office/ medical/retail space for rent/lease available in Marathon. High highway visibility, 2100-3500 sq. ft. Call for more information 305-481-3198 or email drice519@aol.com
Place your COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 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.
Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/ Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Med Tech PT/Nights, Housing Choice Voucher Asst., Housing Manager-Middle Keys, Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker, and HVAC Maintenance Mechanic $64.480-$72,800/ yr. plus benefits. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha.org or 305-296-5621. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www. kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.
Place your EMPLOYMENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 HOBBIES/COLLECT.
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 wifi/ 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
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 House -
Studio for rent in duplex in Marathon. $960/month + utilities. Newly furnished. Dockage available. No Pets. 305-610-8002
Family Waterfront Home for rent in Marathon. Fully furnished. 70' dock. $4,500/month includes all utilities, internet & TV. Available for 3 months - Jan, Feb & March. 727-278-1105 RENTED IN LESS THAN 3 WEEKS!
Place your HOUSING FOR RENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844
MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE
Heavy duty, hard wood Futon Bed for sale in Marathon. Excellent condition. Couch turns into double bed. $250.00 305-849-0975
Place your Miscellaneous For Sale ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today.
ROOMMATE WANTED
Place your ROOMMATE WANTED ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844
RV FOR SALE
2010 27' Wildcat RV FOR SALE. 5th wheel, 1 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 & fishing 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
The Moorings Village is seeking friendly, self motivated, team players for the position: FRONT DESK
Competitive salary and great bene ts. Previous hospitality experience required. Weekends are a must.
Job Types: Full-time
Please email your resume to Sara@MooringsVillage.com or call the reception o ce at 305.664.4708
MONROE ASSOC. FOR REMARCABLE CITIZENS IS HIRING!
UPPER KEYS - PROGRAM
COORDINATOR / DIRECT CARE (F/T) (TAVERNIER OFFICE)
Responsible for facilitating all development and implementation of vocational and life skills training programs in the Upper Keys. Supervisory and decision-making position, while functioning as part of the UK Training Team to deliver hands-on vocational and/or life skills training in support of individual client support plans.
Min Requirements: Computer skills: moderate to advanced. BS or BA degree in relevant discipline or experience working with developmentally disabled adults. One year of supervisory experience and excellent written and verbal communication skills.
IS HIRING
Send resume to admin@cbtconstruction.com Or call 305-852-3002
SUNSET GRILLE IS HIRING
• Hosts
• Waitstaff
• Bartenders
• Bussers
• Line Cooks
• Dishwashers
• Bar Backs
Apply in person at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, 7 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon
Call 305-407-3262 or email info@floridakeysaquariumencounters.com 11710 OVERSEAS HWY, MARATHON
DIRECT CARE STAFF AT ADULT DAY TRAINING PROGRAM (FT)
This position is available at our Adult Day program. This position provided direct care service and support to our clients in the day program. This position requires the minimum of high school completion or GED. *
Come join our family! EOE
DIRECT CARE STAFF – GROUP HOMES 24/7 (FT/PT)
These positions are available at our Group Homes, evening shift. This position provides direct care services and support to our clients in their home. This position requires a minimum of high school completion or GED and 1 year of experience with care giving or 30 hours or college coursework. *
CLIENT MEDICAL SERVICES ASSISTANT (CNA)
Full-time assisting our clients with dental, medical and transportation appts. Act as liaison between clients, families and support sta . Requires some on-call responsibility. Min. requirement Florida certi cation as a Certi ed Nursing Assistant. *
*ALSO REQUIRED FOR ALL POSITIONS: Fluent in English language, speaking and writing, pro ciency is a must. Level 2 background screening and valid Florida driver’s license. - EOE. Apply at 1401 Seminary St., Key West, FL or online at www.marchouse.org.
For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org Phone: (305) 294-9526 *32 FAX 305-292-0078
Apply at the MARC o ce, 1401 Seminary St., Key West. Or online at www.marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org Phone: 305-294-9526 *32
NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA
MARINA CASHIERS
Must have customer service experience working in a retail environment and using a point of sale system. Additional duties include restocking, completing purchase orders, daily ordering of basic items in the store, and maintaining a clean appearance in the store. This is an hourly position and compensation is based on experience. Work hours are flexible and we try to maintain a set weekly schedule.
DOCKHANDS
Duties include customer service, helping customers with bait and ice and helping cashiers with restocking. Morning & a ernoon hours available.
Please respond by email (Ma at islamarinama @gmail.com) with any relevant previous experience and at least two references.
Join our Visual Communications Department if you enjoy working outdoors around the water, interacting with people, and watching dolphins at play. Photograph program participants to provide lasting memories of their experiences. Some of the responsibilites include: taking candid digital still photos of guests & dolphins during public programs, all phases of video recording & editing, types of projects include promotional, educational, documentary, narrative, & visual music montages. Benefits include medical insurance, 401(k), vacation & paid holidays. Job description available at www.dolphins.org. Email resume and DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE
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 NONPROFIT 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.
