Welcome to your coastal haven in Key Colony Beach — a paradise for those seeking a beautiful home and a relaxed lifestyle. This gem of a property with eastern exposure is offered fully furnished. It features 2-zone AC, marble pavers, and elegant finishes like granite, quartz, and marble countertops. Boasting 9-foot ceilings, crown molding, a garage, a concrete seawall, and a step-down dock for a 37-foot boat, this residence seamlessly blends luxury with functionality. Enjoy the heated pool and the tropical ambiance in your backyard. Make this Key Colony Beach retreat your haven for a life of tranquility and leisure. The other half of this building (550 9th) can also be bought at the same price as 540 9th.
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Sept. 11 marked the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people and injured more than 6,000 others in the worst attack against the homeland in the nation’s history. Throughout the Florida Keys, and the U.S., many honored their memories of those who perished in New York City, Arlington, Virginia, and Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
Members of
Bobby Wellsby and the American Legion color guard present the flag at a 9/11 remembrance ceremony on Sept. 11 at Marathon Fire Station 14. See page 13. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
CHRISTINE HURLEY GETS UNANIMOUS SUPPORT FOR COUNTY’S TOP JOB
Promotion comes amid turmoil & indictment of former administrator
MANDY MILES
mandy@keysweekly.com
Monroe County Commissioner Craig Cates called the promotion of Christine Hurley to the top job of county administrator an example of making the best of a “bad situation.”
At the end of a budget hearing on Sept. 4, Cates proposed the county attorney negotiate a contract with Hurley for employment as county administrator. The other four commissioners were enthusiastic in their support of Hurley, who has worked for Monroe County for more than 11 years.
Hurley is currently the executive director of the county’s land authority, but previously headed its growth management division, which regulates development, and has served as assistant county administrator under Roman Gastesi.
Gastesi was expected to return to the job this month following a planned six-month retirement that was necessary under the state’s pension and retirement system. But a recent indictment for official misconduct, and a scathing grand jury report, prompted the commissioners to alter course.
Kevin Wilson had been acting county administrator during Gastesi’s planned six-month absence. The commissioners all thanked and commended Wilson for his skills and commitment to the county, and hoped he continues in his prior role as assistant county administrator.
“We ended up here because of a bad situation, but I think this is a great opportunity to move forward with a proven administrator who has done a tremendous job with all we’ve asked of her,” Cates said.
“Most importantly, she knows the Keys, and that’s what we need right now,” county Mayor Holly Raschein said, while commissioner Jim Scholl joked that his only reservation was how the county would replace Hurley in her current position as head of the land authority.
Commissioner Michelle Lincoln echoed those sentiments, adding, “Christine Hurley understands ROGO; she knows FEMA and planning and rules and regulations as well as dotting the Is and crossing the Ts.”
Hurley has indicated she would accept the position, and County Attorney Bob Shillinger will negotiate a contract that was expected to be approved at the commission’s Sept. 11 meeting in Key Largo.
The Monroe County commission unanimously supported the promotion of Christine Hurley to the top job of county administrator at a Sept. 4 meeting in Key West. CONTRIBUTED
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CLARA ANN MAYETTE 1946-2024
Clara Ann Mayette, 78, closed her eyes on Monday afternoon, September 2, 2024 one last time with her devoted husband by her side and peacefully passed into eternity. Lung cancer took her body but her spirit and memory lives on through her family and friends.
Clara was born on June 24, 1946 in Brooklyn, NY, daughter of the late Harold and Anna Puccio. She graduated from South Broward High School in 1964. She met the love of her life, Jerry Mayette, in 1963 on the beach in Ft. Lauderdale. After a four-year courtship that included her love’s two-year term in the army, they were married one month after his return. Clara moved to the Florida Keys in 1967. Her love of water, fishing, friends and community bound her to her new home and identity as Jerry’s wife and better half for over 56 years.
Clara worked for the original Marathon Bank and First Federal Savings and Loan of the Florida Keys until she began her career in real estate. Highly competitive and very successful, she worked at Chaplain Real Estate for 37 years. After Jimmy Chaplain retired and closed the office, she moved over to Exit Real Estate and then moved over to Key Colony Real Estate until she retired in 2022. Although retired, she still helped customers when needed because that was who she was: helpful, kind, devoted, loyal and just plain nice. She always saw the good in people and rarely spoke an unkind word about others.
A devoted Catholic, Clara was a member of the San Pablo Catholic Church. She loved her community and over the 56 years she lived in Marathon, she was a faithful volunteer for the 7 Mile Bridge Run and Seafood Festival. Not one to join many clubs, she was only a member of one with her husband, the KOA Club. She loved to travel the states in their motorhome as well as visit friends and family along the way.
Clara and Jerry also had a home in South Georgia where she relished being outdoors with her husband, walking their property, sitting in a deer stand or looking out their window in the early morning for turkey and deer that would be scattered in their field.
Never having any children, Clara lived her life to the fullest. She worked hard so that she could play hard. True to her Italian roots, she was an extraordinary cook and hostess. With Jerry by her side, she enjoyed traveling, air boating in the Everglades, any type of hunting (turkey was her favorite), fishing, the theater and NASCAR.
She is survived by her husband, Gerald (Jerry) Mayette; younger twin brothers Larry (Lynn) Puccio and John (Michelle) Puccio; ssister-in-law, Carol (Jorge) Betancourt; niece Kim (Stephen) Martin and their six children (Braden, Cayce, Cody, Brianna, Cory and Andrew); nephew Jerry (Alicia) Betancourt and their children (Noah, Olivia and Isabelle); niece Ann Marie Ahearn and her children (Mackenzie, Riley and Grace); nephew Christopher Puccio; niece Antionette (Servi) Bonachea; niece Sebastiana (Ray) Maxwell and their child (Misha); and nephew John Edward (Ashley) Puccio and their children (Mia and Dominic).
Services will be held Thursday, September 12 at the San Pablo Catholic Church at 12:00 p.m. Viewing will begin at 11:00am. Interment will be on Monday, September 16 in Davie Forest Lawn Cemetery following a viewing that will begin at 10:00 a.m. and a service at 12:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society of the Florida Keys or St. Jude's Children Hospital.
By Jim McCarthy and Alex Rickert
FEDS BUST FLORIDA KEYS RESIDENTS IN SUSPECTED COCAINE RING
Defendants face decades behind bars if convicted
FBI agents paid a visit to the Middle and Lower Florida Keys on Sept. 5, arresting more than 20 Keys residents for their alleged roles in a cocaine trafficking ring.
The apprehensions came as the United States unsealed an indictment charging 27 defendants, including Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority employees, commercial charter boat operators and a former city of Marathon employee with federal drug and firearm offenses in and around the Florida Keys and Miami-Dade County. Charges stem from events “beginning at least as early” as the year 2020 through December 2023.
“The FBI, in collaboration with our partners, conducted court-authorized activity at multiple locations in Miami-Dade, Monroe and Palm Beach counties,” said Willie Creech, FBI special agent, adding the investigation is ongoing.
Multiple Marathon locals told the Weekly they woke up to guns drawn in their neighborhoods as federal agents made their rounds through town in a mass sweep for the accused participants in the ring.
The 13-count indictment charges Marathon residents John Robert Strama Jr., 42; Rusty John Stiglitz, 39; Alfred Michael Nunez, 34; Elvis Lazaro Ruiz, 31; Pedro Luis Lugo Jr., 36; Nyran Antonio Ross, 32; and Tyrell Lamar Williams, 36; as well as Key West resident Daniel Fernando Ramirez, 43, with conspiring with each other, co-defendants and others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine in Monroe and Miami-Dade counties.
The indictment also charged Marathon residents Andrew Hamill Hunt, 36; Kevin Andrew Yeider, 46; Jose Enrique Olivo Sanchez, 34; Macarthur Junior Sheppard, 36; Allison Annmarie Thomas, 29; Kizmet Yatz Qualls, 51; and James Dean Chatelain, 34, and Kenyatta Scott Jr., 32, of Key West with conspiring with each other, their co-defendants and others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine in Monroe and Miami-Dade counties.
The indictment further charged Michael Joseph Rodamer, 63, of Key Colony Beach; Robert Roy Taute Jr., 50, of Marathon; Bairon Aceituno Machado, 34, formerly of Marathon; Lazaro Jesus Hernandez, 35, formerly of Marathon; Anthony Velez Llanes, 38, of Little Torch Key; and Tyler Jameson Macmillan, 33, of Big Pine Key with conspiring with each other, their co-defendants, and others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute less than 500 grams of cocaine in Monroe and Miami-Dade counties.
The indictment specifies various real estate properties subject to criminal forfeiture in Marathon and Key West, including a Stirrup Key Boulevard property owned by Strama and currently listed for sale at $2.3 million. Two additional boats, two WaveRunners and a truck are also listed to be seized.
Strama, a convicted felon, faces additional federal charges for cocaine distribution, using a child under the age of 14 to engage in drug trafficking and avoid detection and apprehension and possessing a firearm and ammunition after a previous felony conviction.
Stiglitz, Ramirez, Gonzalez, Nunez, Ross, Sheppard and Chatelain face additional federal charges for cocaine distribution. Ross, Williams, Sheppard and Scott also face federal charges for cocaine distribution within 1,000 feet of playgrounds in Florida City and Marathon.
If convicted, Strama, Stiglitz, Ramirez, Delgado, Gonzalez, Nunez, Ruiz, Lugo, Ross and Williams face up to life imprisonment. Scott and Sheppard face up to 80 years in prison. Arvelo, Hunt, Yeider, Olivo, Ravelo, Thomas, Qualls and Chatelain face up to 40 years in prison. Corbosiero, Rodamer, Taute, Machado, Hernandez, Llanes and MacMillian face up to 20 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI’s Miami Field Office announced the arrests and charges.
The FBI’s Miami Field Office investigated the case with assistance from Homestead Police Department, Miami-Dade Police Department, FBI Detroit Field Office, and U.S. Probation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean T. McLaughlin is prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Annika Maranda is handling asset forfeiture.
According to Florida Southern District Court records, the majority of the defendants made their first appearances before Magistrate Judge Panayotta D. Augustin-Birch on Sept. 6 and were released on bonds of $100,000 or $200,000 with requirements to wear GPS monitors and submit to random urine testing. Strama was released on a $250,000 bond. His arraignment is set for Wednesday, Sept. 18 at 10 a.m. in Miami.
On Sept. 5, FBI agents arrested more than 20 suspects in the Middle and Lower Florida Keys for alleged roles in a cocaine trafficking ring. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
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20TH STREET ENCAMPMENT TAKES THE SPOTLIGHT AGAIN
Church groups ask for council’s aid as city weighs legal ramifications
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
The hot topic at Marathon’s Sept. 10 city council session wasn’t on the agenda. But a growing homeless encampment on 20th Street is nothing new in debate circles around the city.
Multiple public commenters from church groups around the Middle Keys, many of whom said they’ve provided aid with food and other supplies to 20th Street residents, addressed the council to request aid for the area, with some focusing on items like health care and housing while others spoke of financial support or additional facilities on the street.
“I’m not one of the people that are wanting to give someone a free ride,” said Marathon Church of God pastor Nick Vaughn. “(People) should work for what they get, and we should do everything we can to help them. … The churches are collectively trying to do something, but I would like to have some input from the city council.”
Cudjoe Key resident Lorenzo Chiango, who said he volunteers through his church to provide aid to residents, called the area “one of the most dangerous places in the state of Florida.” He praised three recent “major” arrests by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office as effecting an “undeniably magnificent” change on the street, but said he still has significant safety concerns.
“I see guys and teenagers in their Mustangs pulling up there, walking up to a drug dealer’s tent and then leaving,” he said. “We’ve brought this to everyone’s attention at this point, and when a group of high school kids overdose and it’s not one of the statistical numbers that are ‘acceptable’ on 20th Street, it’s going to be a bigger thing.”
City Attorney Steve Williams outlined legal considerations for the area in light of a recent consequential U.S. Supreme Court case and Florida state legislation, saying repeatedly that the 20th Street encampment is not officially “supported,” “dedicated” or “recognized” by the city.
Florida House Bill 1365, signed in March by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and set to take effect Oct. 1, prohibits municipalities from allowing camping and sleeping on public property, along with establishing a litany of conditions for homeless shelter locations or designated camping areas established by municipalities for one-year periods.
Mere months after DeSantis’ signature, a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision in June ruled that penalties in Grants Pass, Oregon for people sleeping on public property did not qualify as cruel and unusual punishment under the Eighth Amendment, reaffirming states’ rights to make their own decisions on camping restrictions.
Further muddying the waters for plans to move forward is the fact that the road and right-of-way in question don’t appear to be owned by Marathon, and instead fall under the jurisdiction of the Florida Department of Transportation and Monroe County, respectively.
“(HB 1365) created potential liabilities for municipalities that didn’t exist before that statute was passed,” Williams said. “We need to be partners in this and work together going forward not to create increased liability for us or the sheriff’s office, but one thing is crystal clear: If the city were to take action, it would increase our liability.
“If we do it, our liability is easily said to be untested at this point, because the statute just became effective this year, and no one is clear about how it should work,” he added. “We’re not sure how many parcels (for a shelter) we have in the entire city limits that would even comply with the governor’s order.”
“It’s not as simple as handing out money and food,” said councilman Kenny Matlock. “It’s a commitment, and there are a lot of unknowns. It’s not that we’re heartless up here, but we’re trying not to make a mistake other towns have made.”
In other news:
• As campaign season ramps up again, planning director Brian Shea reminded the room of rules for temporary signs in the city Residential properties may have no more than four temporary signs not exceeding six square feet, while non-residential properties may have up to three signs of up to 12 square feet.
• Fire Chief James Muro introduced Dr. Antonio Gandia as Marathon Fire Rescue’s new medical director. Gandia has served as the medical director for other fire departments for more than 25 years, and currently serves as the medical director for Key West Fire Rescue and Monroe County Fire Rescue.
• Parking in the former tow-away zone in the right of way at the end of Sombrero Beach Road will officially carry a $500 fine, following the second unanimous approval of ordinance 2024-09. The change was made to address concerns from tow operators who were reluctant to shoulder the liability of moving expensive vehicles for a relatively minor payout under the previous tow zone.
• In a conversation spurred by Vice Mayor Lynn Landry, the council asked staff to explore systems to better track usage, maintenance and damages to city-owned vehicles.
• A proclamation brought forward by Mayor Robyn Still supported the Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition in its efforts to raise awareness during National Diaper Awareness Week. For more on Diaper Awareness Week and FKHSC’s September diaper drive, see page 26 of this paper.
The Marathon City Council presents a proclamation at its Sept. 10 meeting in support of the Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition’s efforts during National Diaper Need Awareness Week. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
COME BY BOAT, BIKE, FOOT OR CAR!
DAILY SPECIALS
FANTASY FEST FLASHBACK
The Masquerade March is a freewheeling street party filled with costumed groups and characters is set this year for Friday, Oct. 25. CONTRIBUTED
Theme this year is ’90s Neon Cosmic Carnival
Costumed revelers will celebrate the 1990s and carnivalesque pageantry during Key West’s Fantasy Fest Oct. 18-27. The renowned costuming and masking festival features masquerade parties, costume competitions, street fairs, performance art, glamorous galas and an over-the-top parade.
The festival is themed “It’s a ’90s Neon Cosmic Carnival,” evoking everything from the era’s goth trend to television’s “Seinfeld” and “Friends,” space exploration, carnival craziness and the Y2K frenzy that dominated the decade’s end.
The theme has plenty of costuming possibilities from favorites like the spellbinding Harry Potter book series and blockbuster “Titanic” film, or the decade’s neon-bright color palette and hip-hop stylings.
Fantasy Fest 2024 features a blend of longtime favorite events and new offerings. Creative costuming is paramount, and the 10-day schedule features multiple competitions with prizes for the most imaginative ensembles.
Organizers encourage people to design their costumes and parade floats around the theme.
The festival’s official kickoff is the two-day Bahama Village Goombay Festival. Held Friday and Saturday, Oct. 18-19, the Caribbean-flavored Goombay is a family-friendly street party in Key West’s historic Bahama Village neighborhood with nonstop musical entertainment, island-style food and arts and crafts.
Also Oct. 18, the Fantasy Fest King and Queen will be crowned at the Fun and Furryous Royal Corona-
tion soiree, capping a multiweek fundraising effort by candidates to benefit the Florida Keys SPCA.
The Pet Masquerade on Wednesday, Oct. 23 is a festival favorite featuring costumed pets and their people.
The following day brings the Key West Business Guild’s 41st annual Headdress Ball, hosted by renowned female impersonator Randy Roberts, where “headliners” compete for prizes in huge and elaborate masks.
The Masquerade March on Friday, Oct. 25 is a freewheeling street party filled with costumed groups and characters.
Marchers are encouraged to bring noisemakers and percussion instruments, and display their best ’90s neon finery to “light up” the cavalcade through part of Key West’s Old Town.
Revelers can also indulge their festive spirit at events including the family-friendly Zombie Bike Ride, two-night Costume Promenade in the festival’s designated Fantasy Zone, “Tutu Tuesday” celebrations, Fantasy Market in the Key West Historic Seaport, disco dance party, musical tributes to iconic entertainers and a “Living Art” competition for painted bodies.
Saturday night, Oct. 26, nearly 70,000 spectators are expected to line Whitehead and Duval streets for the Key West Fantasy Fest Parade. A procession of large-scale floats and costumed marching groups, the parade displays the creativity and spirit that characterize both the festival and the island of Key West.
More information is at fantasyfest.com. There is a Fantasy Fest app at the App Store or Google Play.
Contributed
KEYS MARINE SANCTUARY NAMES ACTING SUPERINTENDENT
NOAA veteran who coined ‘Restoration Blueprint’ phrase steps in
Matt Stout, acting superintendent, at left, along with Sarah Fangman, current superintendent; Office of National Marine Sanctuaries director John Armor; and Matt Brookhart, East Coast regional director, during an announcement last year at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center. CONTRIBUTED
The man who coined the phrase “Restoration Blueprint” will serve as acting superintendent of Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary when Sarah Fangman departs in November for her new role as west coast regional director for the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries (ONMS).
Matt Stout, a 29-year veteran of NOAA, who currently serves as chief of staff for ONMS, will report to the Keys shortly before Fangman departs, and remain on site until her successor is named.
“I’ve worked with Matt for as long as I’ve been in the system,” said Fangman, “and he’s a trusted and experienced colleague. This area is a part of Matt’s heart. He has a personal connection as an owner of property in the Keys where he regularly visits, and we know how important it is to be connected here in that way. In my view it’s great for the Keys to have someone in this role to be very familiar with the day-today activities and challenges we have, so when he goes back, he will carry that with him.”
Stout has been closely involved in the Florida Keys regulatory review and management plan update that he named, and will most likely be in the acting superintendent’s role when Restoration Blueprint is released later this year. He previously served the system office in a communications role, and today is closely aligned with the federal appropriations and legislative processes
“Matt has a lot of experience that will be important for the Keys, especially his life on the Hill,” said Matt Brookhart, East Coast regional director of ONMS. “His familiarity with the budget process and our appropriators is vital. I’m grateful for those connections he will take into the field, as he experiences the life, and work, and the urgency of the things we’re doing in the Keys. This will be good for informing him, and the rest of us, in terms of these issues with our needs.”
Brookhart will be leading the search for Fangman’s successor, details for which will be forthcoming.
— Contributed
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New Marathon Fire Chief James Muro, Father Oscar Perez Dudamel and the American Legion color guard lead a 9/11 remembrance ceremony on Wednesday. Photos by ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weeky
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
On Friday, Sept. 13 during halftime at Marathon High School’s varsity football game, there will be a community 9/11 remembrance ceremony sponsored by Champions for Change with the Key West Coast Guard color guard. First responders, veterans and locals directly affected by 9/11 are welcome on the field for this event. Please contact christina.belotti@keysschools.com with any questions. Kickoff for the game is set for 7 p.m.
MARATHON REMEMBERS 9/11
The morning of Sept. 11 began with a solemn ceremony as Marathon’s first responders, dignitaries and community members gathered at Marathon Fire Station 14 to honor and remember those who lost their lives and performed feats of extraordinary courage to save others during the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
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300-PLUS SWIMMERS COMPETE IN LIGHTHOUSE FUNDRAISER
Fort Lauderdale resident takes first place
Over 300 swimmers from the United States and several other countries competed in an 8-mile open-water challenge on Sept. 7 to raise awareness to fund restoration of an aging lighthouse off the Florida Keys.
Fort Lauderdale resident Maximiliano Paccot, 28, emerged from the Atlantic Ocean on Saturday as the fastest individual swimmer at the Swim for Alligator Lighthouse with a time of 3 hours, 11 minutes and 10 seconds.
Originally from Uruguay, Paccot came to the United States on a World Aquatics sponsorship and has competed in open-water swims around the world.
Kristin Ates, 33, of Gainesville was the top female and fourth overall finisher with a time of 3:54:14.
Athletes swam to Alligator Lighthouse off Islamorada, rounded the decommissioned beacon and came back to the start/finish line at Amara Cay Resort.
Connor Signorin, 32, of Tampa finished on the top 2-person relay team with a time of 3:58:13, partnered with his cousin Maggie Owens, 33, of Clearwater. Veteran participant Signorin was the top overall swimmer in the past three competitions.
Last year’s top female finisher, three-time Olympic gold-medalist Brooke Bennett, 44, of Clearwater,
competed this year on the top 3-person relay team that finished in 3:25:05. Her relay team partners were Clearwater’s Konrad Ciolko, 41, and Brian Hatlelid, 41, of Palm Harbor.
The top four-person relay team, finishing in 4:29:40, included Port Orange residents Natalie Heidrich, 57, and Karen Castaneda, 28; and Ormond Beach residents Ana Angelov, 33, and Lenny Frazer, 68.
Founded by Florida Keys artist "Lighthouse Larry" Herlth, the annual race is staged to raise awareness about the need to preserve the 151-year-old Alligator Lighthouse and five other aging lighthouses off the Florida Keys. The event also raises college scholarship funds for Keys students interested in competitive swimming.
Constructed to warn ships away from the Florida Keys reef tract, the lighthouses are no longer maintained, as their function has been replaced by modern global positioning system navigation.
Established in 1873, the lighthouse was named for the U.S. Navy schooner Alligator that grounded on the reef in 1822. Despite its name, there are no alligators that swim near the lighthouse, as those reptiles live in freshwater habitats and the lighthouse is in the saltwater ocean. — Contributed
Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation and U.S. Coast Guard vessels intercept a center console that was heading toward swimmers in the annual Alligator Lighthouse Swim on Sept. 7. CONTRIBUTED
Quick thinking by a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) helicopter pilot is credited with preventing tragedy in Islamorada.
On Sept. 7, officials with the U.S. Coast Guard, Monroe County Sheriff's Office and FWC observed a center console vessel navigating toward an area where hundreds of swimmers were competing in a charity swim to benefit the Alligator Reef Lighthouse. Despite repeated requests from law enforcement, the vessel operator, Thomas Michael Reichert of Naples, did not change course.
Anticipating that the boat was minutes away from the swimmers, FWC pilot Chris Simons brought his helicopter down to hover about 20 feet in front of Reichert, forcing him to stop.
Once the vessel was stopped, FWC officers conducted a safety and resource inspection. Reichert was found to be boating under the influence and in possession of 12 wrung spiny lobster tails. Separating the tail from the body of a spiny lobster is prohibited in state waters. Reichert was arrested and transported to a local jail where he was charged appropriately.
“All too often, FWC officers respond to incidents where divers and swimmers are struck by vessels,” said Maj. Alberto Maza, FWC South B Regional Commander. “Thankfully, from his unique vantage point in the air, our aviation officer was able to anticipate and prevent a greater tragedy.”
To report dangerous boating activity, the public can submit anonymous tips by texting 847411 (Tip411) with the keyword “FWC” followed by the location and any information about the violation or calling 888404-FWCC (3922).
Kayakers escort swimmers during the Swim for Alligator Lighthouse on Sept. 7 in Islamorada. BOB CARE/Florida Keys News Bureau
SEEKING TO GET YOUR TEEN A DRIVER’S LICENSE?
Three offices will hold special Saturday hours to assist Monroe County teens with obtaining their driver’s licenses.
Monroe County Tax Collector Sam Steele announced his office will host a special back-to-school driver license event for aspiring Monroe County teen drivers. The event will take place on two Saturdays this fall, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., on Sept. 21 at the Marathon branch, and on Oct. 19 at the Key West driver license office (Searstown location) and the Key Largo branch.
“Obtaining a driver’s license is a significant milestone for both teens and their parents,” Steele said. “We understand that it can be difficult for parents to bring their teens to our office during the week. These events are designed to make the process more accessible and convenient for families.
“The positive feedback from last year’s event was remarkable, and we are excited to provide even more opportunities for our community. These Saturday events allow us to serve residents conveniently, without requiring students to miss school or parents and guardians to take time away from their work commitments.”
Monroe County students may attend any of the three events and should call soon to make an appointment as spots are limited.
• Saturday, Oct.19 – Key Largo branch — 305-853-3562
Important requirements
• These events are open to Monroe County residents only.
• Students must be at least 16 years old and have held a valid learner’s permit for at least 12 months with no moving violations.
• If the student is under the age of 18, they must provide a Certification of Driving Experience of a Minor signed by a parent or legal guardian. This form attests to a minimum of 50 hours of driving, of which 10 hours were at night, within the past 12 months.
• The student must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 21.
• The vehicle used for the driving test must have a valid registration, proof of insurance, and pass a basic vehicle inspection that is conducted by the driver license examiner to determine that it is safe for a driving test.
• In the case of inclement weather, the driving skills test will not be available. Students should call ahead to confirm their appointment.
— Contributed
TDC WINS MARKETING HONORS
Tourism team gets several Flagler Awards
The Monroe County Tourist Development Council, the agency responsible for marketing Florida Keys & Key West tourism, won several Flagler Awards at the 2024 Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism at the Tampa Convention Center.
The TDC won a top “Henry” award in the creativity in public relations category. The TDC also won silver honors for print advertising, social media marketing, television advertising and mixed media campaigns; and a bronze award in the sustainable tourism marketing category.
Tinsley Advertising and NewmanPR provide advertising and public relations support, respectively, for the TDC.
The Flagler Awards are organized by Visit Florida, the state’s public/private–sector tourism promotion agency. They are named to honor the “vision, perseverance, imagination and commitment” of the late Florida pioneer Henry Flagler.
A panel of 13 judges examined marketing efforts staged in 2023, evaluating the creativity, innovation, production quality and effectiveness of 262 total entries.
Based on the judges’ cumulative scores, awards were presented to the top three entries in each category: the bronze award for the third highest scoring entry, silver for the second highest scoring entry and for the highest scoring entry, the “Henry.”
— Contributed
FACES ON THE FIELD
Dolphins host Meet the Teams dinner
On Sept. 7, the Marathon Elks Lodge hosted middle and high school Dolphin athletes for a Meet the Teams dinner to mark the start of the fall season. Introductions included the MHS band and color guard, middle school and varsity cheer squads, and middle school and varsity football teams along with their coaches. Photos by JASON KOLER/Keys Weekly
JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com
REAL-WORLD FIGHTERS
At Marathon Boxing Studio, mental fortitude is as important as the power of a punch
As a dedicated mental health crisis responder, Marathon Boxing Studio co-founder Dwayne Ellis recognizes that the Middle Keys need additional active avenues for teens to vent their emotions.
For the past two years, he’s highlighted the necessity of such an outlet not solely for vigorous physical activity, but also for its mental health benefits.
“We (didn’t) have boxing here at all,” said Ellis. “They have it in Key West, but they (didn’t) have anything from Marathon to Key Largo. With what I do for work, I've noticed that it’s a really big help with coping strategies. Getting frustrations out on the bags are so good mentally for people.”
In creating the studio, Ellis and co-founder Rolando Oliva wanted to establish an outlet for kids and adults alike – “people that not just want to box, but could use it for mental health, and help keep kids out of trouble. So (Rolando) 100% told me, ‘You know what, I'm all for it.’ So that’s basically how we got started.”
The program is crafted to enable boxers young and old to cultivate self-assurance and assume command of their mental well-being. The studio believes that boxing serves as an important means to divert troubled youth from the streets, offering them a nurturing and uplifting haven within the Florida Keys.
“The program is designed to help boys and girls, women and men, that want to just better themselves,” Ellis said. “It's mental, physical, just everything. … It's a safe place for people to be, and that's what we want to introduce, and hopefully what we can get the community to support. We need donations, to be able to hopefully get a permanent place, a set location or storefront. That way, these kids can have something to count on.”
Based on Marathon’s response to the studio’s most recent event, that support may already be growing. Less than a month ago, the studio staged a fight night at the
Marathon Elks Lodge, where guests were enthralled by a groundbreaking spectacle in the Middle Keys. The charitable boxing exhibition, in partnership with Spar Wars Entertainment, attracted about 300 attendees and 250 payper-view enthusiasts, who were treated to 10 bouts pitting local Keys fighters against mainland Miami foes.
The studio seeks to offer a diverse array of classes, including classic boxing, contemporary workouts, vigorous strength and conditioning and intense interval training. Marathon Boxing Studio prioritizes inclusivity, Ellis said, an ideal he backs through scholarships for those who struggle to afford the monthly fee.
“I want the community to know that mental health is a real thing here,” he said. “Drug abuse is a real thing here too. I believe this studio teaches these kids discipline. It teaches them friendship, it teaches them to communicate.
“I think boxing with us in a gym with a small group of guys, or sometimes a large group of guys and girls, can help with all aspects of life. It can help with certain skills that they don't get out there in the real world.”
Ellis said the studio is constantly in search of new sponsors and members as it works toward a larger brickand-mortar location. For more information, email marathonboxingstudio@yahoo.com, call 786-933-0096 or look up “Marathon Boxing Studio” on Facebook.
Marathon Boxing Studio cofounder and coach Dwayne Ellis takes one of the studio’s athletes through a workout. CONTRIBUTED
At Marathon Boxing studio, the focus is on inclusion and using boxing as an outlet for mental health. CONTRIBUTED
22727 JOLLY ROGER DRIVE CUDJOE KEY | $899,000
OPEN HOUSES
PRICE REDUCED! 22957 DRAKE LANE
CUDJOE KEY | $899,900
22841 BUCCANEER LANE
CUDJOE KEY | $1,399,000
Idyllic canal-front retreat on a generous fenced-in lot! This spacious home boasts an open concept living space and 3 generous bedrooms. The living room flows seamlessly into a well-appointed dining room and kitchen, and a sprawling screened-in veranda o ers serene canal views. 60’ of concrete dockage allow for exceptional boating. Nestled within a quiet neighborhood but just minutes to dining and shops.
6099 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY #107W MARATHON
| $399,000
Excellent boating at this gorgeous Cudjoe Key retreat with no-bridge access to Cudjoe Bay for frequent boating and fishing adventures! A generous back porch shows o peek-a-boo open water views and overlooks immaculately manicured yard. Deep-water canal with concrete dockage, fillet station, and swim ladder perfect for the avid boater. This exceptional property is tailor-made for enjoying the coveted Florida Keys lifestyle!
FEATURED PROPERTIES
Welcome to “Cayo Casa Cudjoe,” a tropical haven where the island lifestyle seamlessly blends with world-class boating. Nestled on a beautifully landscaped triple lot, this waterfront gem featuring 2 covered boat slips, each equipped with their own lift! Inside, soaring ceilings and warm wood flooring that bring a natural island feel. Below, the “pre-firm” guest quarters provide a comfortable and private retreat for visitors.
PRICE
Idyllic island retreat with open water views! Enjoy frequent boating and fishing; this angler's paradise is nestled on a clean, flow-through canal with bubbler, and boasts immediate access to the Atlantic Ocean! Inside, this charming Keys getaway o ers recent upgrades such as LVP throughout, and new A/C and water heater. Generous neighborhood amenity and with great proximity to the excitement of Marathon!
REDUCED! 3827 DYER ROAD
BIG PINE KEY | $1,294,000
Privacy and tranquility abound at this exceptional pool home on an expansive, fenced-in triple lot boasting over half an acre! Two concrete docks, complete with 10K boat lift, and no-bridge access to world-class boating and fishing within minutes! Inside, the airy open concept floorplan feels bright and spacious, and is flooded with natural light. Large, covered balcony a ords views of the pristine pool and canal below.
281 WEST INDIES DRIVE
RAMROD KEY | $3,080,000
Spectacular oceanfront pool home with panoramic ocean views! Boating, kayaking, and paddle boarding from a concrete dock and endless ocean breezes on your private sandy beach. over 2,900 Sq. Ft. of luxurious living space, ideal for entertainment. Beautifully landscaped ½ acre lot features a circular driveway for ample open parking, and sprawling covered carport for additional covered parking.
KEYS FISHERIES RESTAURANT MARKET & MARINA
WATERFRONT RESTAURANT
Enjoy our daily specials like Homemade Soup or Chowder, Fresh Fish Sandwich or One of our Daily Specials while overlooking Florida Bay! Open for Lunch & Dinner Every Day!
RETAIL STORE
Fish, Soups and Chowders & Key Lime Pie!
If you visit the Stanley Switlik campus in Marathon, you will notice a gentle giant who joined the staff three years ago with a row of children following him everywhere he goes. You will see him high-fiving, laughing, smiling and encouraging students. You cannot miss the energy coming off this man and radiating around him. This giant of a man is Bill Eller.
The administration of Switlik noticed a need for a guidance assistant who would encourage all students, especially those who have not yet found their voice or their personal drive. When Mr. Eller took a Zoom meeting with administration, it was clear they had found their perfect match.
With his background in football as a player and a coach, as well as his many years in the medical field, he had personal relationship skills and public speaking down to an art. With his huge presence and positive energy, he would be what Switlik needed to encourage all the students. Before too long, Mr. Eller began expanding his guidance to an array of clubs for the students. He saw a need to motivate the students outside the classroom walls and to get them out into our gorgeous natural environment. When he sent out his first permission slips, the responses were incredible – the students could not wait for his clubs. They were ready to be inspired, and to say he has done just that would be an understatement.
The students live for club days. Mr. Eller is now our health and wellness coordinator, and what an appropriate title for what he does. He is strengthening the emotional and mental health and wellness of our students and staff. It is hard to imagine Switlik without this man and his exuberant energy. He has certainly changed the dynamics of our school atmosphere for the better.
Mr. Eller offers his fishing club to all grades. Students who did not know how to fish are now skilled at fishing off our beautiful dock. Those who already fish with family members get to harness their talents and improve their skills under his guidance. He appoints fishing captains who are taught every skill needed to run a dock. All Switlik students are taught safety first and know how to handle themselves around rods, reels and equipment. Students who had no interest in grades or school are now doing all they can in the classroom to earn, or keep, their place in fishing club. Needless to say, it certainly helps the teachers.
An incredibly impressive club Mr. Eller offers the students is the chess club. There are very young students who are becoming masters at chess and excelling in tournaments, beating much older students. It is truly amazing to see the students
concentrating so deeply on their moves, strategizing and contemplating. The way he teaches the students seems so easy, and they learn the game so quickly. He teaches the basics and then begins to teach them a strategy every few days and has them try it on their opponents.
Other clubs Mr. Eller offers are kickball, soccer, football, basketball tournaments, track and Explorers Club. The Explorers Club is phenomenal. He has his dock captains hide treasures for the students who participate. When the students show up, they are able to pick digging equipment, along with metal detectors. They search for these hidden treasures, many donated by teachers and parents, and are able to take home what they discover. The smiles on their faces when they dig up buried treasure is a sight to behold!
Mr. Eller is truly devoted to the children of Stanley Switlik. He is perhaps the most popular person on campus. He is positive, dedicated, optimistic, hardworking and honest. He cares for our students, and they know it. He is able to bring positive changes to the toughest child, the most withdrawn child, the most anxious child. I have seen these changes in my own students and I find him imperative to the emotional growth of our students.
If that is not enough, Mr. Eller purchases bikes for students in need. He offers weight loss competitions for the staff with prizes as incentives. He surprised the staff with an adults-only trip to the sandbar on the Marathon Mermaid for our endof-year summer party. He and his equally giving wife, Shelly, are working on a grant for a scholarship for students that will follow the recipients through their educational career. He offers support to classroom teachers, helping them sort through issues with students and offering solutions.
When someone as wonderful, talented and nurturing is part of your staff, it only seems fair that he be given a spotlight for his achievements. Beyond the games and activities he teaches in his clubs, he is also teaching life skills. He is teaching these incredibly lucky students how to think, strategize, overcome difficulty, work for what they want, take care of their peers, and respect everything and everyone around them. Mr. Eller is an asset, not only to Switlik and our students, but to Marathon and our community. He is helping to form a generation of caring citizens for our world.
Sincerely,
Krista Dennington
FRIDAY THE 13TH
Really unlucky? Or just bad press?
Friday the 13th has been considered an unlucky date for many years. This Friday and Friday, Dec. 13 are the 2024 entries in the unlucky category of the calendar. But how did this date become unlucky? How did the number 13 get its unfortunate reputation?
National Geographic offers this: “It’s hard to know exactly when Friday the 13th became thought of as unlucky, but it likely comes from the Christian religion. For example, in the Bible, Judas — a person who is said to have betrayed Jesus — was the 13th guest at the Last Supper. Also in the Bible, many unfortunate things happened on Fridays.” Now, I’m not sure how Judas got the Number 13 ranking among the Apostles, but it’s a theory.
Another story comes from Norse mythology and involves a party being held for 12 gods in Valhalla. Loki wasn’t invited, and he did what Loki does — he arranged for one god to shoot another with a poison-tipped arrow. The killing of Norse gods through cursed archery is a verifiable party foul and absolute buzzkill.
In other theories, King Philip IV of France arrested the Knights Templar on Friday, Oct. 13, 1307. This not-so-nice monarch had the unmitigated gall to convince thenPope Clement V to torture these unfortunate knights and then burn them at the stake. One could certainly call that unlucky.
Wikipedia offers: “According to the Stress Management Center and Phobia Institute in Asheville, North Carolina, an estimated 17-21 million people in the United States are affected by a fear of this day, making it the most feared day and date in history. Some people are so paralyzed by fear that they avoid their normal routines in doing business, taking flights or even getting out of bed. It has been estimated that $800-900 million is lost in business on this day.”
In a Tarot card deck, XIII is the card of Death, with the usual illustration of the apocalyptic Pale Horse with its Grim Reaper rider. Let’s not forget the namesake movie franchise and all the unlucky victims portrayed therein.
Regardless of its association with Friday, the number 13 itself
JOHN BARTUS
John Bartus is a singer/songwriter, city administrator for Key Colony Beach and the former mayor of Marathon.
is often considered extremely unlucky. People with a fear of the number 13 suffer from triskaidekaphobia — an actual recognized phobia. This is responsible for many tall buildings not having a 13th floor. Actually, they do have a 13th floor; they just call it the 14th floor and pretend 13 just doesn’t exist in the building’s architecture.
Sadly, not all 13-related events are truly unlucky. Although Apollo 13 wasn’t able to complete its mission of landing on the moon, it’s extremely lucky that the astronauts on board were actually able to make it safely back to Earth.
Getting 13 doughnuts in a baker’s dozen is perfectly okay. How could an extra doughnut be unlucky?
In the Jewish faith, 13 is the age where a boy is bar mitzvah-ed.
These here United States began as 13 British colonies — nothing unlucky about that. And the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution abolished slavery and indentured servitude.
And finally, legendary Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino wore the number 13 on his jersey for his entire career. His is one of only three numbers the Dolphins have retired, the other two being Bob Griese’s number 12, and Larry Czonka’s number 39.
One could argue that his association with the number 13 is the reason that he retired without a Super Bowl championship, but that would be just triskaidekaphobic.
— Catch John live Thursdays at Sparky’s Landing, this Friday at Isla Bella, and Sunday afternoons at Skipjack Tiki. Find his music anywhere you download or stream your music. www.johnbartus.com • johnbartus. hearnow.com
SEPTEMBER IS FOR KIDS’ SAFETY
Healthy Start Coalition helps with diapers & car seats
The Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition (FKHSC) recognizes the significance of September in raising awareness about two critical national issues affecting families and children: child passenger safety and diaper need awareness.
Nationally, Child Passenger Safety Week is Sept.15-21. The campaign promotes the proper use of car seats, booster seats and seat belts to protect children on the road. Car accidents are a leading cause of death for children, but many fatalities are preventable with the correct use of child restraints. Detailed checks by safety technicians found that 74% of car seats are either misused or not installed correctly, highlighting a critical need for increased awareness and education.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children remain in rear-facing car seats as long as possible, up to their car seat’s height or weight limit. To help parents and caregivers navigate the complexities of child passenger safety, FKHSC offers free car seat checks and installations, as well as a donation-based car seat program led by local certified child passenger safety technicians.
September also hosts National Diaper Need Awareness Week Sept. 23-29 to shine a light on a challenge many families face but
rarely discuss — the inability to afford enough diapers to keep their babies clean, dry and healthy.
According to the National Diaper Bank Network, one in three families in the United States — and in the Keys — struggles with diaper needs, a situation that can lead to serious health risks for babies and stress for parents. Clean diapers are not just a necessity, but a fundamental aspect of a child’s wellbeing, contributing to their overall health and development.
The impact of diaper needs extends beyond health concerns. Without an adequate supply of diapers, parents are often unable to bring their children to day care, which typically requires a daily supply of clean diapers. This barrier prevents parents from attending work, further creating financial hardships and a cycle of instability that is difficult to break. The simple act of providing diapers can empower parents to secure and maintain employment, supporting their families and contributing to the community’s economic wellbeing. You can support Keys babies through a monetary donation or by purchasing items from the FKHSC Amazon wishlist.
More information is at keyshealthystart.org or 305-293-8424.
— Contributed
A safety technician with the Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition helps parents properly install car seats for child safery. CONTRIBUTED
WAFFLES
10-month-old Belgian Malinois.
Looking for: High octane, energy and adventure.
Turnoffs: I’m very scared of a kennel.
SWIPE RIGHT
Adorable furry faces are waiting for families at the Florida Keys SPCA
Keys Weekly is thrilled each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for their perfect adoption “match” at the Florida Keys SPCA’s Marathon campus – complete with their best qualities, preferences and turnoffs to ensure the best fit.
From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you at one of the SPCA’s two campuses, in Key West and Marathon. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.
See all the animals waiting for a home at fkspca.org. To contact the Marathon campus, call 305-743-4800 or visit 10550 Aviation Blvd.
Hurricane fosters needed. With hurricane season upon us, the SPCA needs volunteers and fosters in case of a storm. Over 100 animals would need to be evacuated, so it is crucial they all have homes in place before an impending storm. The SPCA provides everything you need; all
MS. TERI
10-year-old female terrier mix.
Looking for: I love people and want all the attention. Turnoffs: I don’t like being alone.
DORY
1.5-year-old domestic shorthair.
Looking for: I’m a snuggly lap cat, if you can be patient.
Turnoffs: When people don’t give me a chance.
you do is give an animal a safe haven during the storm and return them to the shelter once it’s safe – that is, if you don’t fall in love. For more information on becoming a hurricane foster, visit https://fkspca.org/volunteer/becomea-foster-volunteer/ or call 305-7434800.
FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS
Nutritional timing and exercise: optimizing performance and recovery
When it comes to achieving your fitness goals, whether it's building muscle, enhancing endurance or shedding fat, what you eat and when you eat can play a pivotal role. This concept, known as "nutritional timing," refers to aligning your nutrient intake with your physical activity to maximize performance, recovery and overall results. A strategic approach to eating before and after exercise can have significant effects on how your body uses energy, repairs itself and adapts to the stresses of training.
UNDERSTANDING MACRONUTRIENTS
Before diving into the specifics of nutritional timing, it's important to understand macronutrients — the primary nutrients that your body needs in large amounts to function properly. These macronutrients are carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
Carbohydrates: These are the body's preferred source of energy, especially during highintensity activities like running or lifting weights. Carbs are broken down into glucose, which is used to fuel your muscles during exercise.
Proteins: Proteins are the building blocks of muscle. After exercise, they are essential for repairing and building new muscle tissue. Proteins are broken down into amino acids.
Fats: Although often misunderstood, fats are crucial for long-term energy, hormone production and overall cell function.
THE IMPORTANCE OF PRE-EXERCISE NUTRITION
What you eat before a workout can set the stage for your performance. Eating the right foods can help fuel your exercise session, prevent muscle breakdown and ensure you have the energy to complete your workout effectively.
WHY YOU SHOULD EAT BEFORE EXERCISE
Fueling the muscles: Your muscles rely heavily on carbohydrates for energy during exercise, especially high-intensity workouts. By eating a balanced
pre-workout meal, you provide your muscles with the glucose they need to perform at their best.
WHY YOU SHOULD EAT AFTER EXERCISE
Refueling glycogen stores: After exercise, particularly endurance activities, your body needs to replenish its glycogen stores. Consuming carbohydrates shortly after exercise helps restore this energy reserve.
Repairing muscle tissue: Protein is essential post-workout to help repair and rebuild muscle fibers that may have been damaged during exercise. This is especially important for those focused on strength training and muscle gain.
Optimizing recovery: Without proper nutrition, your recovery process will be slower, leading to muscle soreness, fatigue and even potential injury over time. Eating after exercise helps speed up recovery so that you can continue to train at your best.
WHAT TO EAT AFTER EXERCISE
A post-exercise meal should be consumed within 30-60 minutes after your workout. Aim for a combination of protein and carbohydrates. For example, you might have a grilled chicken sandwich, a protein shake with fruit or a quinoa salad with vegetables and tofu.
If you're unable to eat a full meal, a snack like Greek yogurt with honey or a protein bar can suffice until your next meal.
INDIVIDUALIZED NUTRIENT NEEDS
...is a Marathonbased ACSMcertified personal trainer and precision nutrition coach who owns and operates Highly Motivated Functionally Caffeinated LLC. Hello@highlymotivatedfc.com
Preventing muscle breakdown: During exercise, especially when glycogen (stored carbs) levels are low, your body may begin breaking down muscle protein for energy. Consuming carbs and protein before your workout can help reduce this breakdown, preserving your hard-earned muscle mass.
Sustaining energy levels: Having a meal rich in complex carbs before exercise can help maintain your energy throughout your session, preventing early fatigue.
WHAT TO EAT BEFORE EXERCISE
A pre-exercise meal should be consumed 1-3 hours before your workout and should consist of easily-digestible carbohydrates and lean protein. Examples include oatmeal with fruit, a banana with peanut butter or a smoothie with protein powder and berries.
If you're short on time, a quick snack 30 minutes before exercising, like a piece of fruit or a small protein bar, can provide a quick energy boost.
POST-EXERCISE
NUTRITION:
THE WINDOW OF RECOVERY
After exercise, your body is in a state of repair and recovery. It has depleted some of its glycogen stores, and muscle fibers may have experienced minor damage during resistance training or intense cardio. Eating the right nutrients postworkout helps kickstart the recovery process and supports the body's ability to adapt and grow stronger.
While the principles of nutritional timing are applicable to most, the exact quantities of macronutrients (carbs, proteins, fats) that you need before and after exercise will depend on several factors, including your fitness goals, body composition, activity level, and overall health.
For instance, endurance athletes may require more carbohydrates to fuel their long workouts, while strength athletes need more protein to support muscle repair and growth. People aiming to lose fat might eat fewer carbs (NOT “no carbs”) and more protein to preserve muscle mass while in a calorie deficit. Individuals with specific dietary restrictions or medical conditions may also need to adjust their macronutrient intake accordingly.
SKIPPING MEALS CAN STALL YOUR PROGRESS
Failing to eat before or after exercise can significantly impede your results. If you skip a pre-workout meal, you may experience low energy, reduced endurance and an inability to perform at your best. This can lead to less effective workouts and slower progress.
Not eating after exercise can be even more detrimental. Without the proper nutrients to replenish glycogen and repair muscle tissue, your body may remain in a catabolic state, where it breaks down muscle for energy. Over time, this can lead to muscle loss, increased fatigue and a plateau in your fitness progress.
By understanding your unique macronutrient needs and consuming the right foods before and after exercise, you can fuel your body, optimize recovery,and maximize your results. Want to know what your body needs exactly? Email me at hello@highlymotivatedfc.com with the subject line TIMING and let me know you saw this article in the Keys Weekly, and I will get you started right away.
JENNIFER BOLTZ HARVEY
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
Mere days before the anniversary of Hurricane Irma, an event that began in the storm’s aftermath in 2017 was alive and well at Dolphin Research Center. On Sept. 7, the center welcomed Keys residents for Love Our Locals Day, offering free admission to a day of educational presentations along with raffle tickets for free chances to get up close and personal on the docks and in the water with DRC’s grayfaced residents.
A chance to come face-to-face with dolphins, without spending a dime, gave plenty of reasons to smile at Dolphin Research Center’s Love Our Locals Day. Photos by ROSS SMITH/ IslandExposureCo
JOHN JOSEPH FELLING 1960-2024
John Joseph Felling, 64, of Marathon, Florida passed away at home on July 22 after a long courageous battle with cancer surrounded by his wife and family.
Mr. Felling was born July 21, 1960 in Detroit, Michigan. John was a dedicated property manager who took great pride in caring for homes, ensuring each property was well-maintained while forming many lifelong friendships with homeowners and within the local community.
John is survived by his loving wife, Janet; two daughters, Angie (Aron) of Lowell, Michigan and Addie (Dave) of Cedar Springs, Michigan; two sons, Michael (Sarah) of Hillsboro, Oregon and Austin of Lansing, Michigan; and five grandsons. He is also survived by his father, Jim Felling and Barbara McKee of St. Petersburg, Florida; sisters Terri Felling of Citrus Heights, California and Tina (Larry) Hopkins of Lincoln, California; brothers David Felling of Lowell, Michigan and Doug (Connie) Felling of Marathon; and nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his mother Annie Felling and brother Jimmy Felling of Marathon.
A funeral Mass will be held Saturday, Oct. 5 at San Pablo Catholic Church at 11 a.m.
John’s warm heart and bright smile endeared him to all who knew him. John will live in our hearts forever, as we strive to meet him again in Heaven.
The family wishes to thank all the medical professionals who cared for him. Charitable donations on behalf of John may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Keys Hope Walk hosts September kickoff
The Florida Keys Hope Walk will host a kickoff celebration on Tuesday, Sept. 17 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Dockside Bar and Grill. Formerly known as Making Strides of the Florida Keys, the Hope Walk set for Oct. 12 has the same mission – to end cancer as we know it. Come learn more about the event and listen to live music during country music night. To learn more about the October event and get registered, scan the QR code.
County vulnerability open houses set
Monroe County is hosting a series of open houses to discuss the county’s vulnerability assessment project. The meetings will take place Monday, Sept. 16 from 5 to 6 p.m. at commissioner Michelle Lincoln’s conference room, 243 Key Deer Blvd., Big Pine Key; Tuesday, Sept. 17 from 5 to 6 p.m. at Marathon library, 3490 Overseas Highway. Marathon; and Wednesday, Sept. 18 from 5 to 6 p.m at the Murray Nelson building, commissioner Holly Merrill Raschein’s Conference Room, 102050 Overseas Highway, Suite 2-234, Key Largo.
Monroe County has been planning over the last year to create an updated vulnerability assessment to comply with new state requirements. The county received funding from the state to complete this project.
In these open houses, the county will present information about its planning process, the state’s requirements, the modeling and analysis completed and the state of the county’s vulnerability to flood risk from sea level rise, tidal flooding, rainfall and combined flooding events. The county will also have maps available (through the meeting facilities) for the public to request certain areas for review. The county will also provide information about its critical assets and infrastructure and other regional assets located in the county to prioritize its adaptation response.
Charlotte man cited for spearing angelfish
Zonta Club presents Roaring ’20s Bingo
A 30-year-old Charlotte, North Carolina man was given a mandatory notice to appear in court citation on Sept. 7 for allegedly illegally spearing an angelfish. Middle Keys marine deputy Luis Guiardinu was on patrol near Duck Key around 3 p.m. when he found Ernesto Javier Reina to be in possession of an illegally speared angelfish, the sheriff’s office said. Reina also did not possess a marine life endorsement/special activity license to harvest specific marine species required to be kept alive upon harvest. For information on wildlife regulations, go to www. myfwc.com
Tavernier man arrested on child sexual abuse charge
Sheriff’s office major crimes detectives arrested a 65-year-old Tavernier, Florida man on Sept. 6 on a felony child sexual abuse charge. Richard Hayward Eddins was charged with lewd and lascivious behavior on a child less than 12 years old. Eddins was arrested following a search warrant at a Tavernier residence on Harbor Drive in which several pieces of electronic equipment and storage devices were seized. Eddins is known to have an established presence on the internet and social media platforms, detectives said. More charges are expected and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Sheriff's Office at 305-289-2410.
Marathon man arrested on drug trafficking charges
A 47-year-old Marathon man was arrested on Sept. 3 for allegedly trafficking drugs. Gerome Leatherwood was charged with trafficking 42 grams of crack cocaine that field-tested positive for the presence of fentanyl and possession of marijuana. The sheriff’s office special operations unit arrested Leatherwood for active warrants pursuant to cocaine sales. The 42 grams were found at the time of his arrest, authorities said.
The Zonta Club of Marathon will present a Roaring ’20s Bingo Night and raffle on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 5 p.m. at the Marathon Elks Lodge, 8239 Overseas Hwy. in Marathon. A $40 pre-sale ticket – $50 at the door – covers 7 games with six strips each. More information is available from Cara at 305-731-7887. The Zonta Club of Marathon is an organization of business and professional women dedicated to improving the circumstances of women at all stages of life, locally and globally.
CPR and first aid courses offered throughout Keys
UF/IFAS Extension Monroe County will be offering American Heart Association CPR (adult, child, and infant) & first aid certification courses. There will be several courses offered throughout the Florida Keys. The CPR/ first aid course costs $50. Participants will receive American Heart Association certification after the course. Courses will be offered Sept. 17 at 9 a.m. at 1100 Simonton St. Key West Conference Room; Sept. 19 at 10 a.m. at the Monroe County Public Library Marathon Branch, and Sept 30, 11 a.m. at the Plantation Key School Community Center.
Marathon SPCA needs hurricane fosters
Hurricane fosters are needed at the Marathon SPCA campus. With hurricane season here, the SPCA needs volunteers and fosters in case of a storm. Over 100 animals would need to be evacuated, so it is crucial they all have homes in place before an impending storm. The SPCA provides everything you need; all you do is give an animal a safe haven during the storm and return them to the shelter once it's safe – that is, if you don't fall in love. For more information on becoming a hurricane foster, visit fkspca.org/volunteer/become-a-foster-volunteer or call 305-743-4800.
Come take a class at the Marathon library
The Marathon library has a wide variety of class offerings, ranging from photography to book clubs, robots, virtual reality and more. Scan the QR code here to see the schedule and get involved.
Luis Guiardinu. MCSO/Contributed
Friday, September 13 and Saturday, September 14
7901 Gulfstream Boulevard (Behind the airport) 8am-3pm
Quantity of Ladders, Scaffolding, Tile Saw, Chop Saw, Generator, Yard tools inc. Echo Weedwhacker, hedge trimmer, Lawn Mowers, Qty. of Milwaukee Tools inc. drills, saws, more;
Shelving, Rubbermaid storage containers, dock box; “Davey Lou” Keys Table; 5 Pc Wicker & Wood Bedroom Set: 6 drw Chest w/dbl mirror, Queen HB, 2 nite stands, 2 Door Armoire; 2 Drw. File Cabinet; Medical Equip: New Walker, Shower Chair, Bedside commode, Cane; Instant Pot/Air Fryer; Clothing; Velour Ottoman, Fishing Rods/Reels; Men’s Golf Clubs; Gamo Pellet Gun w/scope; Patio Table w 6 Chairs, high top Table w 2/stools wood w/glass top, more…..
J U S T S O L D
Jody & Lynn Represented the Buyers of: 8403 Gulf of Mexico Blvd #403, Marathon
2 bedroom, 2 bath mobile home centrally located in mid Marathon. Large screened porch. 50 X 97lot. Reduced $325,000 MLS# 610518
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MELTING POT VOICES
Celebrating
Hispanic Heritage Month through powerful narratives
By Andrew Boryga
First and foremost a reader, she has reviewed hundreds of books on her blog www. readingandeating. com. And, more recently, this new Keys resident has also begun writing.
We meet Javier Perez as a young boy in the Bronx. He witnessed his drug dealing father being gunned down in Puerto Rico. Living amid gang activity, his mother pushes him to excel in school. Javi’s counselor encourages him to write an essay for a scholarship at a prestigious university. Is the essay embellished? Well, a little. But Javi knows how to pull those diverse heartstrings. When he arrives at college, Javi is not prepared for the white world he encounters. He befriends a group of students fighting for justice, particularly people of color. Most notably, he crushes on Anais, a privileged student whose father is Puerto Rican. Although Anais hasn’t faced adversity, and never learned Spanish, she leads this struggling menagerie of students. Javi is their mouthpiece with the right skin color and street cred. Javi manipulates his way into the student newspaper and skillfully elaborates the minority struggle on campus. He may fabricate some stories, but justifies his drive as speaking up for those who can’t. This satire brims with provocative characters, each woven into the elaborate charade Javi carefully orchestrates. Original and deeply compelling, “Victim” boldly raises important questions.
INFINITE COUNTRY
By Patricia Engel
When Elena goes to the market, Mauro picks only the best from the enormous fruit pile, a sweet beginning to their love story. Having survived a rough childhood, Mauro yearns for a family of his own. When Elena becomes pregnant, he is determined to give them a better life. They make their way to the United States, where they receive a six-month work visa. It is easy to find manual-labor jobs that no one else wants, but Elena finds herself with number two on the way. Although they are working hard, six months is not enough savings, and with much angst they overstay their visa. Making ends meet while sending money to Colombia, Elena has her third child and Mauro is deported. All the cards come tumbling down. Elena lives in constant fear of a knock at the door. Things in Colombia are worse, with people shot down in the streets during daylight. Caught in a web of their own creation, Elena dreams of a place where her children can grow up safely. Stuck between two unwelcoming worlds, Elena is not sure she will ever find home again.
DOMINICANA
By Angie Cruz
In 1965, life in the Dominican Republic was in turmoil and worsening every day. On the brink of political collapse, the people in the countryside had no money and little hope. Ana’s mother had a plan. If she could convince Juan Ruiz to marry Ana in exchange for a parcel of land, the family could immigrate to the United States. Juan and his brothers were traveling back and forth, investing their earnings as Santo Domingo grew more unstable. Twice her age, Juan was neither handsome nor charming, and Ana dreaded the day her mother sent her away. Beautiful Ana, only 15, did not speak English, nor had she ever traveled. The sweetness Juan initially exudes quickly turns to impatience as he works three jobs and visits his mistress at night. One day Juan announces he must travel for business, leaving Ana in the care of his brother Cesar. As they get acquainted, Ana experiences a different side of New York. Visiting Coney Island, starting her own business and taking English lessons at the church, Ana is transformed. After family struggles and misplaced loyalty, the pages turn quickly with Latin rhythms and delicious foods that perfectly capture the author’s vision of an immigrant’s experience.
#WorthWatching: “The Long Game” is a book-to-screen historical sports drama based on the true story of a high school golf team with five Mexican-American players in 1955 South Texas. Not welcome to compete, these talented caddies prove they are truly champions. A heartwarming family flick to watch on Netflix.
VICTIM
KAREN NEWFIELD
Having Fun in the Middle Keys
CHRIS M cNULTY
is an astrologer, wanderer, bartender and advocate for queer justice. He is a loquacious Gemini with a cozy Cancer rising. Find him at hearthandheraldastrology.com
With all the cosmic activity we’ve been experiencing the past few weeks, I am happy to report a quieter week for us mere mortals. Time marches on and the planets continue to dance, but this week is somewhat of an exhale after the cacophony of energetics we’ve been filtering. There is no such thing as a silent sky, however. The autonomous sun is forming an uncomfortable 90-degree square to expansive Jupiter, and intelligent Mercury is forming a friendly 60-degree sextile to willful Mars. Actor John Barrymore, born with sun square Jupiter in his natal chart, said, “My only regret in the theater is that I could never sit out front and watch me.” Be wary of getting caught up in selfamplifying ego loops this week or confronting others who loom large in their self-assurance. Checking your ego and practicing humility is the best counterpoint to this challenging energy. Under Mercury sextile Mars, we may find ourselves being verbally direct and practicing decisive communication. Harness this energy to say what you need to say and to clear any indirect confusion out of the way. This week has a “David and Goliath” feeling to it, wherein David is choice words and Goliath is a rambunctious arrogance. Choose your champion.
Here are your horoscopes for the sun square Jupiter and Mercury sextile Mars. Read for your rising and sun signs.
VIRGO
Aug. 23 - Sept. 22
The sun is still on you, Virgo, and you are analyzing your own unique presence in the world. How do you show up or how do you shirk your authenticity? An overbearing ego or large presence
at work may be challenging your shine, so be sure to stand strong in your truth. Rely on your friends to aggressively support your better ideas of who you want to be.
LIBRA
Sept. 23 - Oct. 23
While you take time to excavate some of the more difficult aspects of your life, acknowledge the overwhelming impulse to escape, and sit with the discomfort. Flowers grow from the compost. And you have a birthday season to look forward to. Allow all of the activity at work to help you determine which priorities deserve your attention and what can fall to the wayside.
SCORPIO
Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
The fresh energy driving you to do something new will be staying with you until April, and for now let it influence how you think about your friend group. How can this desire to experience and learn new things help you find supportive networks? As you spend time with your friends, however, be wary about getting too invested if you are not finding parity of input.
SAGITTARIUS
Nov. 22 - Dec. 21
Partnership is a major theme of life at the moment, and you may find that your partner is challenging your ability to focus on your work. Be careful about an ego stand-off and take time to focus on practical issues. Putting your energy into intimacy or a collective project may just help you to wrap your head around the work that you need to get done, so give it a try.
CAPRICORN
Dec. 22 - Jan. 19
Getting out of Dodge might be your focus right now as you try to do something new to shake things up. A big trip may be on the horizon. However, your chores and obligations are impending, making it harder to commit to an adven-
ture. Delegation will be your path to getting everything done. Let an important partner in your life help you think clearly about the type of change you need.
AQUARIUS
Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
As you think about your power in collective spaces, consider how you are consistent in your actions and how you are able to complete your obligations. Your investments in other people are a focus right now, yet you may find that you would rather be spending time on your own creative projects and joys. Embrace the challenge and find how your own interests align with your financial goals.
PISCES
Feb. 19 - March 20
Home and family are naturally pulling you to them, but you are also being called to focus on partnership. Yes, this is a challenging pull in two directions, but it is also an opportunity to determine how to meet both important parts of your life in the middle. Throw your energy into the things that bring you joy and spark your creativity to help you think about your partner more clearly.
ARIES
March 21 - April 19
Spending more time and energy at home will help you analyze your regular routines. It seems there is a lot of work to get done on the home front, and planning out your method will enhance your efficiency. Clean the house. Start the renovation. You may have a strong impulse to do things in the same old same old ways, but try to change it up in order to achieve your goals.
TAURUS
April 20 - May 20
It’s the time of year to do the things that fill you with pure joy. Let your creative juices flow, spend time getting flirty, or get out and
BIG EGOS AND CLEAR SPEECH
dance. Whatever it is that brings you bliss, do it. Don’t let the finances stop you. Yes, it is important to be reasonable, but the money will come back while the opportunities may not.
GEMINI
May 21 - June 20
Are you feeling tension between your personal growth and the obligations of home and family? You’re right on time. There is a way to achieve your own needs and to fulfill the requirements of your life’s roots. Actually, getting really active in your finances will help you to think clearly about your family life. Throw some energy into making or spending money.
CANCER
June 21 - July 22
When you are going about your daily life, spending time with your neighbors and friends, you may feel a looming presence from your unconscious. Don’t panic. We all have unconscious impulses and difficult histories, and they can be companions rather than demons. Find the joy in your uniqueness rather than the fear of what’s wrong.
LEO
July 23 - Aug. 22
Are you trying to save money and be responsible when your friends just wanna party and throw caution to the wind? Now that’s a Keys conundrum. But there are ways to achieve both goals, you just have to be a bit wily. In fact, being more active when you are alone, such as at-home workouts or solitary walks, will actually help you to plan your finances better.
THE KEYS’ NATIVES
Captured Spaniard shares Calusa story
FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI
is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.
Ispend hours and hours researching the local history and then writing about it, and I do my best to share some history, tell a story and maybe connect with an audience that enjoys reading the words I work to string together. While writing can be isolating work, it suits me.
Once in a while, someone sends an email or a text or calls me regarding something I’ve written — for better or worse. The other morning, my phone rang (which it rarely does), and I debated for two rings about whether or not to answer it. It appeared to be a local number, so I answered with a bit of trepidation. “Hello?”
“Is this Brad Bertelli?”
“It is.”
The gentleman on the other end of the line said, “I read your column and wanted to give you a call.”
Historically, this particular phrase has given me pause as it can lead in one of two directions. Sometimes, people reach out to inform me of a mistake, which is fine because everyone makes mistakes. The “you made a mistake” contact itself goes either one of two ways. Some seem to relish pointing out the mistake, and some reach out to share their knowledge or experience.
In every case, when opportunities to learn something new present themselves, I like to take them. This phone call I received the other day was something different, something nicer. The call was from a 92-year-old gentleman from Key West who wanted to tell me that my column and the circa 1940 picture that accompanied it sparked memories of visiting Key Largo as a young boy with his father.
Part of the column talked about a North Key Largo roadside motel called Mabel’s Place.
“I remember Mabel’s Place,” he said. “There was a little room in the back where you could drink liquor.”
In those days, the roadside motel was a place to have a drink, play games of chance or hire the company of a lady. The building is long since gone, but the story remains, and the history associated with Mabel’s Place is one of my favorites.
The stories I tell are nothing new. The only reason I am able to share them is that others recorded the details about them first. In the best light, I am a re-reporter who retells stories that are informative and, hopefully, a little entertaining.
One of the most challenging stories to tell is about the first people who called this island chain home. It is surprisingly complicated, which makes sense because there was no one taking notes about what was going on in the Florida Keys 1,000 or 2,000 years ago. Outsiders recorded the earliest documented observations about the indigenous people who lived here and often incorporated their own cultural biases.
One of the early written accounts of the indigenous people who lived in the Keys and South Florida was written by a Spaniard commonly remembered as Fontaneda. His full name was Hernando D’Escalante Fontaneda. What is remarkable about his 16thcentury story is not just that he survived a hurricane, a shipwreck and was captured by the Calusa people, which are all remarkable and noteworthy feats, but that he wrote a memoir that was published in 1575, the year of his death.
Another amazing detail about Fontaneda’s story is that his observations about the land, the people and their lives did not germinate from second-hand sources or someone standing on the outside and looking in. For 17 years, he lived with the Calusa and traveled with them on sojourns through South Florida and the Keys.
One thing learned from his memoir is that he was able to act as a translator between shipwreck survivors and several local cultures. Another thing is that the chieftain or cacique of the Calusa took a shine to him. It might be the only reason he survived 17 years living among them.
One of the stories Fontaneda recorded in his memoir was this exchange with Carlos, the Calusa cacique. For the record, this version of the memoir was translated in 1854 by Buckingham Smith. “Escalante, tell us the truth for you know well that I like you much. When we tell these, your companions, to dance and sing, and do other things, why are they as mean and rebellious that they will not? Or is it they do not fear death, or will not yield to a people unlike them in their religion. Answer me; and if you do not know the reason, ask it of those newly seized, who of their own fault are captives now, a people whom once we held to be gods come down from the sky.”
Fontaneda responded, “My Lord, as I understand it, they are not contrary, nor is it for some evil reason, but it is because they cannot understand you, which they earnestly strive to do.”
I have written and talked about Fontaneda and his fascinating story for years. It is another one of my favorites. What I have always struggled with when talking about this story is how to pronounce the word cacique. Usually, I just spell it out.
And then, an opportunity presented itself. A few Sundays ago, I was working the little beach bar at Robbie’s of Islamorada. It was a rainy day, and a motorcycle club spending their day rolling down the Overseas Highway pulled into Robbie’s to get out of the rain. On the back of their black leather vests was a patch representing the Cacique Riding Club. When one of the members walked by the bar, I said, “Hey, let me ask you something. I write about history and use the name of your club when I’m talking about the indigenous people. I know it means chieftain, but how do you pronounce it?”
He pronounced it “kuh-seek.” Now, the next time I am talking about the indigenous people, I’ll know how to pronounce cacique and I won’t just spell it out like I used to do.
Diorama showing the inside of the hut of a Calusa chief in the Southwest Florida Hall, Florida Museum of Natural History, Powell Hall. WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Brad
Founded by Betty Debnam
Our Constitution
The U.S. Constitution is a set of basic laws organizing, granting and limiting the powers of our government. It is something that all American citizens share.
This week, we celebrate Constitution Week, Sept. 17-23, with an issue about this historic document.
Along with the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights are on display in the rotunda of the National Archives.
CONSTITUTION FACT-A-ROONIES
• It was created in Philadelphia …
• during the summer of 1787 …
• in secret …
• in about 100 days.
• It has 39 signers …
• and is made up of a preamble, seven articles and 27 amendments, which were added later.
• The original Constitution is handwritten on four parchment pages. Each page is about 29 inches high and 24 inches wide.
• Our Constitution is the longest-lasting written national constitution in the world.
Over 237 years, our leaders and citizens have added amendments, which are changes to the existing law. For example, the 19th Amendment gave women the right to vote in 1919.
FATHER OF THE CONSTITUTION
James Madison was a smart student of government and a great statesman. He was a friend of Thomas Jefferson.
Madison was only 36 when the Constitution was written. He influenced what went on at the Constitutional Convention more than any other delegate.
He wrote a plan for the new government, the Virginia Plan. Many of his ideas were adopted. He also took many notes and wrote up detailed reports. His records are our best sources of what went on. These were not published until after his death.
After serving as secretary of state under Thomas Jefferson, he was elected as our fourth president. He lived longer than any other signer. He died at the age of 85 in 1836.
Geologists in northern Minnesota’s Iron Range say a recently discovered reservoir of helium pierced by drilling could be the richest in the world. The discovery could mean a bonanza not only for party balloons, but also for the manufacturing of semiconductors and uses in high-energy particle colliders and nuclear reactors. Helium is scarce, forming in nature only through the radioactive decay of uranium and thorium. There have been regular helium shortages worldwide this century.
BIG IDEAS IN GOVERNMENT
Inside the Constitution are several big ideas:
• Separation of powers: The delegates to the Constitutional Convention feared that giving too much power to any person or group could be dangerous. So they created three branches, or parts, of government: executive, legislative and judicial.
• Checks and balances: This idea limits the power of each government branch. No single branch can overpower the others. Often, each branch needs the help of the others to do its job.
• Enumerated (e-NOOM-er-ated) powers: the listed powers of government.
• Implied powers: the powers that are not listed but suggested.
• Federalism: the idea that our government divides powers between the national government and the state governments.
RESOURCES
On the Web:
• bit.ly/MPConstitutionWeek
At the library:
• “We the People: The United States Constitution Explored and Explained” by Aura Lewis and Evan Sargent
Mini Fact: The first 10 Amendments to the Constitution are called the Bill of Rights.
photo courtesy National Archives
The Constitution is on display at the National Archives building in Washington, D.C. An archives is a place where important documents are preserved.
James Madison
photo courtesy the Supreme Court
The Supreme Court
BLAZING START
Lady ’Canes volleyball opens with 4-0 streak | P.4
THE SCOREBOARD
Team Sport
Coral Shores Volleyball Basilica 9/3 W, 3-0
Key West Volleyball Marathon 9/5 W, 3-0
Coral Shores Volleyball South Homestead 9/5 W, 3-1
Key West Football Somerset Canyons 9/5 L, 20-14
Coral Shores Football Palm Glades Prep 9/5 W, 29-28
Marathon Football Aubrey Rogers 9/6 L, 35-21
Basilica Volleyball Horeb 9/6 W, 3-0
Basilica Volleyball Cushman 9/7 W, 3-0
THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS
9/12
9/13
9/13
9/16
SEPT. 12
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
A.J. is a 4.4 student, leader in the school, great football player and even greater person.”
– ’Canes head coach Ed Holly
9/18
In the past two weeks, Hurricanes running back A.J. Putetti has run for over 400 yards and scored 5 touchdowns, the last of which sealed the win for Coral Shores against Palm Glades Prep last week. Putetti’s leadership and bulllike style of play has been integral in the team’s success. When there is no running room, Putetti makes his own, refusing to be denied a chance to put points on the board for the ’Canes. For his unyielding determination on the field and in the classroom, A.J. Putetti is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
Celene Walker (22), Ivy Tiedemann (8) and the Coral Shores Lady Hurricanes are off to a hot start on the volleyball court, taking down their first four challengers. See page 4. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
Coral Shores Football
Photo by: DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
tracy
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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All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials. 9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050
Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com
’CANES REMAIN UNDEFEATED
4-0 volleyball squad takes down South Homestead in revenge match
The season is still young. But thus far, the Coral Shores Lady ’Canes volleyball team refuses to lose.
After defeating Basilica School 3-0 on Sept. 3, the team headed to Somerset South Homestead two nights later, looking to avenge their preseason loss and maintain their unblemished regular-season record. Coral Shores did just that, taking South Homestead down in four sets, winning 3-1 against a team that has quickly become one of their biggest rivals on the court.
“Many of our girls play club ball with most of their team, and a number play for their coaches in the offseason,” explained head coach Jarrod Mandozzi.
To make the rivalry even more intense, outside hitter Celene Walker played at South Homestead last year, making her first match playing in her former home gym wearing a Coral Shores uniform a memorable one.
“They’ve always got a crazy crowd and the acoustics in the gym make it so loud,” said Mandozzi. Walker was unfazed, however, and her maturity on the court made her coach proud.
“Not surprisingly, she stepped up huge and made an impact all over the court,” he said. “I especially loved to see the way she served the ball, finishing with 5 aces with all of the lights shining on her and the crowd making noise.”
Prior to the match’s start, Mandozzi had told his team that hustle and hard work can be contagious, but laziness can spread just as quickly. Ivy Tiedemann took those words to heart.
“She dove to the floor to keep a ball alive and was nearly in the stands for another one,” he said.
she and lenge ball
“When you have one of your setters making hustle plays like that, it really sets the tone, and she finished the night leading us in digs for the game.”
Walker, Sofia Jans, Abbie Bergeron, Shelby Lynn and Abby Vogt followed suit, and the collective desire of the team to out-hustle South Homestead made the difference between the teams’ preseason meeting and this one. Mandozzi praised them all for their unwillingness to let the ball hit the floor.
“Grace Leffler and Niveah Howard really stepped up to the challenge as they have all season so far and they were fantastic,” he said. “They did a lot more than just slowing the ball down – they had some huge blocks and really went right back at their hitters. Grace finished with a .529 hit percentage with 10 kills and 3 blocks and Niveah had a .364 hit percentage with 6 kills and 5 blocks.”
Coral Shores has a little over one month remaining in regularseason play, with district quarterfinals scheduled for Oct. 15.
Key West improved to 3-2 last week, picking up a win in Marathon on Sept. 5. The Conchs defeated the Dolphins in three sets, winning 25-18, 25-19 and 27-25.
mcdonald
“Our strong point was consistent serving,” said Key West head coach Kim Butler. “Our hitting percentage was down, and that was due to Marathon’s hustle, and we were not moving the ball around. The third set, they had us at 22-20, but we managed to claw our way out of it.”
Other high points for Key West were Reese Haggard’s two dozen assists. Haggard’s serves have been on the money of late, helping propel the Conchs toward a winning record.
Also serving up a storm for the Conchs were Adriana Heinrichs and Sunisa Kunn, who stacked up 5 and 3 aces, respectively. Tess Wright and Audrey Smith combined for 13 kills against the Fins.
Key West will be facing tournament action this week, with a return to regular matches at home in Bobby Menendez Gymnasium on Sept. 26 when they go head to head against Coral Shores to determine the best team in the Keys this season. Both Coral Shores and Key West are thus far undefeated in county play, setting the stage for an epic match.
The Dolphins were no pushover against Key West, and the set scores indicate there is truth in what Marathon head coach Kelley Cruz has said the past few weeks: The Dolphins are getting better and better. Cruz credited the team’s ability to keep the games close to “defense and our smarter plays at the net.”
“The audience helped a lot,” she said. Marathon’s home crowd was electric last week, and they are sure to get a good show at their next home match on Sept. 16 against Coral Shores, a matchup that always proves to be exciting.
After a light week, playing just one match, the Dolphins will be busy this week, playing at NSU University School in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday, Sept. 12 before heading to a tournament in Key West over the weekend.
The 1-4 Fins will be using the following weeks to boost their power rankings, which play into district placements at the end of October. Marathon joined the 1A Rural division this fall, and though they have just one win, they have played against good competition, which factors into the ranking algorithm. The Dolphins currently stand second in their district, and will find out how they rank against their rural division counterparts on Oct. 18 in Moore Haven for the district tournament.
The Mariners of Basilica School struggled with their depth chart the past few weeks. Though the starting six are as strong as it gets, for a small school like Basilica, which already includes athletes still enrolled in middle school, the loss of a single player is challenging. Losing two makes things exponentially more formidable.
Against Key West late last month, the Mariners were without standouts Mackenzie Morris and Julia Jankovic. And though Morris is still on the injury reserve, Jankovic was back in the starting lineup last week, helping the Mariners pull ahead with a winning record.
“We noticed the instant improvement right away with her return to the court,” said coach Robert Wright.
Basilica lost against Coral Shores Sept. 3 when errors plagued their ability to get things going, but Wright righted the team’s miscues and things went better in the next two matches. The Mariners defeated Horeb Christian and Cushman on Sept. 6 and 7, winning both matches 3-0. Wright was pleased with the team’s performance in both matches.
“When you have one of your setters making hustle plays like that, it really sets the tone.”
— Coral Shores coach Jarrod Mandozzi on setter Ivy Tiedemann
“Gloria Slavic continues to be the heart of the team,” he said. Slavic is key to the team’s offensive system, and when the starting lineup is complete and she is not filling in the gaps, Slavic is a playmaker.
Jankovic is one of the team’s middle school starters, and her ability to hit and set gives her a dynamic quality crucial to the Mariners’ strategy. Fellow middle school athletes Olivia Revoredo and Umo Vogan lead the team in kills. Junior Kallisto Sims has been coming alive recently, as well, registering 8 kills against Cushman.
Basilica plays a variety of Miami opponents for the remainder of the month, then will close out their season with Marathon on Oct. 10 and a rematch against Key West in their final game of the season Oct. 12.
Grace Leffler, top, and Niveah Howard.
Photos by DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
BURSA TAKES THIRD AT MCD OPEN
Keys runners pacing for postseason with a variety of events
Two Keys cross country teams dodged finicky September South Florida weather to compete in races last week. Marathon traveled to the Miami Country Day Open, held at Greynolds Park in North Miami Beach, on Sept. 4.
The Lady Fins were led by senior Ella Dunn, who crossed the line in 25:23. Sophomore Maeve Merryman followed 7 seconds later. Sixth-grader Molly Joly was third for the Fins this time, with sophomore Sara Robinson and eighth-grader Rebecca Merryman rounding out the top five for Marathon. The Dolphins have not hit their stride yet this season, finishing sixth out of 10 teams, something atypical for the seasoned stable of runners.
The boys fared a bit better, finishing third overall out of a field of 11 teams. Their final score was boosted by a thirdplace finish from senior Vance Bursa, who completed the course in 17:06. Freshman Tony Bursa was second for the Fins, taking the 10th overall spot in 18:41. Junior Caleb Shelar was next, followed by eighth-grader Lucian Burns. Freshman Allan Taylor was next for Marathon, capping off the top five and contributing to the team score.
Coral Shores ran the following day, racing at the FNU Invitational at Larry & Penny Thompson Park in Miami. The girls were led again by freshman Ali Wheatley’s time of 22:42, good enough for a top-10 overall spot. Sophomore Kate King was second for the Lady ’Canes, with freshman Tess Hill, senior Kai Guth and sophomore Hayden Teal rounding out their top five.
The FNU Invite was the first race of the season for the boys team, which was led by a squad of juniors taking the top four spots for the Hurricanes. Alaric Rodriguez was less than a second from breaking the 20-minute mark, finishing in 20:00 and taking the top spot for Coral Shores. Nathaniel Shugarman finished next in 20:49. Shugarman’s performance, just one second shy of his PR, is a positive omen for the first race of the year. Tristan Rios and Adrik Gadea finished third and fourth for the Hurricanes. Sophomore Tristan Sanchez was number five for Coral Shores, which placed right in the middle of the teams in scoring.
All of the Keys teams met in the middle on Sept. 11 for a race in Marathon (results not available at press time), but will now part ways until late in the season. Coral Shores is scheduled to run in the annual King of the Hill meet at Tropical Park in Miami on Friday, Sept. 13. Marathon and Key West will represent Monroe County at Spanish River in Boca Raton on Friday, Sept. 20 and Basilica School is off until Saturday, Sept. 28, when they are scheduled to compete at the Conch Crawl.
Top: Brothers Vance, left, and Tony Bursa with their medals from the Miami Country Day Open. CONTRIBUTED
Right: Coral Shores’ Alaric Rodriguez. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
PAIR OF BIRDIES SEALS WIN FOR IRONS
DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
Hurricanes finish ahead of Dolphins and Conchs at home course
Key West, Marathon and Coral Shores met at Key Largo’s Ocean Reef course on Sept. 5 to play nine holes, vying for the lowest score in a competition which has become not just friendly but familiar. Keys teams are fortunate to have multiple courses in Monroe County willing to lend some tee time to local youth golf enthusiasts, ensuring the future of the sport.
Coral Shores senior Tanel Irons was at the top of the leaderboard last week, shooting a 39 at his home course. Irons finished just 3 over par with birdies on holes five and nine to win the match by six strokes and stretch the Hurricanes’ lead. Conch senior Peyton Zubieta finished in second place. Zubieta also had a birdie on hole nine, shooting a 45 for the day. Coral Shores’ Preston Carroll and Marathon’s Cullen Coleman-Sayer tied for third at 46. In a four-way tie for fifth place were Coral Shores’ Derek Ramos, Key West’s Geo Twyman, and Marathon’s Roco Piscetello and Leo Mendez with 47 strokes each. Donovan Thiery of Coral Shores and David Rodriguez Jr. of Marathon rounded out the top 10 in the boys competition.
The girls field was a bit smaller on Sept. 5. The Lady Fins did not travel and Coral Shores and Key West did not bring full teams, making it an individual competition for the ladies. Key West took the top three spots, with junior Claudia Steling and sophomore Lexi Finigan tying at 50 strokes each. Senior Monica Bueno was six strokes behind in third. Hurricane senior Gabby Thomas stopped it from becoming a Conch sweep, finishing in a tie for fourth place with sophomore Charlize Lopez of Key West.
The teams will be making a tour of the Keys, starting Sept. 12 at the same spot then in Marathon on the 16th and in Key West on the 18th. Districts will start the final week in October, with all three teams hoping to advance to regionals.
’CANES SURVIVE BARN BURNER TO REMAIN UNDEFEATED
Conchs and Fins face must-win scenarios heading into week four
The Eagles of Palm Glades Prep gave Coral Shores a run for their money on Sept. 5, keeping an undefeated record for the ’Canes in jeopardy until the final second of play.
Coral Shores struck first on a 2-yard run by senior running back A.J. Putetti. Palm Glades answered moments later and added a 2-point conversion to take the lead 8-7. Coral Shores took the lead back when quarterback Yemcel Moreno connected with Andres Alvarado-Garcia for a 15-yard TD. The ’Canes added 2 instead of kicking to make it Coral Shores 15, Palm Glades 8. But Palm Glades found the end zone again and missed a PAT, allowing Coral Shores to cling to a 15-14 lead.
The Hurricanes marched down the field on a drive that looked like it would result in an expansion of their 1-point lead, but Palm Glades capitalized on a fumble, trotting it 75 yards for a touchdown. The Eagles converted on a 2-point conversion to steal back the lead, 22-15. Undaunted, Moreno carried one in for a 6-yard touchdown run and the extra point tied the game up 22-22. In the driving rain, the ’Canes kicked off and instantly regretted their decision to kick it deep; Palm Glades returned it 70 yards to score yet again. They missed their extra point, bringing the score to 28-22 in Palm Glades’ favor.
With just moments to go in the game, Putetti evened things up with a 47-
yard touchdown run, and the extra point gave Coral Shores a one-point lead to the delight of a raucous crowd. But Palm Glades was not finished. The Eagles drove down the field as the clock ticked down. With one second left, on the 11-yard line, Palm Glades took their final snap, but the ’Canes came up with a colossal stop to secure the win and their perfect record in an epic battle during which they never wavered.
Coach Ed Holly could not be prouder of his team’s ability to focus on the task at hand, particularly when things were iffy.
“The breaks didn’t go our way in the beginning. I’m proud of how the team handled it,” he said. “Palm Glades is a very athletic, well-coached team. They came ready to play.”
Coral Shores will defend its unblemished record on Friday, Sept. 13 at home against the Cowboys of ABF Academy Hialeah. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
“Missed opportunities” were the downfall of the Dolphins on Sept. 6, according to head coach Sean McDonald. Marathon faced the Patriots of Aubrey Rogers High School out of Naples. It looked like things were going to go well for the Fins at the start, as Marathon took advantage of the first possession and ate up the clock on a 10-minute march to their first
1. ’Canes defensive lineman Jamoris Davis (8) attempts to bring down an Eagles ball carrier.
2. Hurricanes running back Jhonathan Mesa (22) runs the ball.
3. Junior running back Andres Alvarado-Garcia (10) throws the peace sign as he strides into the endzone.
4. Senior Alex Rodriguez (6) watches a pass.
Photos by DOUG FINGER/ Keys Weekly. See more game photos at keysweekly.com.
touchdown of the game, a 7-yard Fab Louis Jeune run. He tacked on his own extra point, putting Marathon ahead 7-0 with less than two minutes to go in the first quarter.
Marathon scored twice more in the game, once on a Louis Jeune 78-yard run and again when defensive tackle Matthew Delgado stripped the ball from a shocked running back and rumbled 60 yards into the end zone. However, Marathon struggled with defending the Patriots’ passing game, and Aubrey Rogers took full advantage to win the game 35-21.
Marathon will need to take down the Cougars of Canterbury High, a team traveling from Fort Myers, to stay in the hunt for their first bid to the postseason in their new 1A Rural designation. Marathon will be honoring first responders and those who lost their lives in the 9/11 tragedy in their annual “Home of the Brave” halftime dedication. Kickoff on Friday, Sept. 13 is at 7 p.m.
5. Marathon senior Fabbianho Louis Jeune (2) brings in a fingertip catch.
6. Shamar Wright (13) scrambles for some yardage.
7. Carlos Lezcano (1) takes advantage of a Jesus Gonzalez (5) block.
8. Israel Gonzalez (21) brings down an Aubrey Rogers ball carrier.
9. Fins lineman Matthew Delgado (78) returns a fumble for a Dolphin touchdown.
Photos by BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly. See more game photos at keysweekly.com.
Key West’s trip to Boynton Beach to play the Cougars of Somerset Academy Canyons on Sept. 5 did not go according to plan. The Conchs could not find their groove, losing 20-14 in the first of a two-week road streak. Key West was without their workhorse running back, Jaden Fox, and had to rely on their other weapons against the Cougars. Walson Morin stepped up for the Conchs, scoring both touchdowns, one off a 43-yard run and the other a 46-yard interception he took to the house.
But a series of miscues cost the Conchs. The Cougars found a way into the Conchs’ offensive scheme and Key West struggled to change on the fly.
“We can’t beat another team and ourselves,” said head coach Johnny Hughes, who plans to work on the offense’s communication this week before heading to Belen Jesuit on Thursday, Sept. 12. A win for the Conchs would go a long way in keeping their hopes for postseason play in sight.
CIRCLE THE CALENDAR
Thursday, Sept. 26, 5:30 p.m.
If you’re a fan of Monroe County prep sports, you will want to clear your calendar for some of the best intra-Keys competitions of the year. Scanning the schedules in the weeks to come, here are the must-watch matchups with bragging rights and Keys glory on the line.
Keys matchups you won’t want to miss
Key West vs. Coral Shores Volleyball
Coral Shores
Friday, Oct. 4, 7 p.m.
Coral Shores vs. Marathon Football 55th Battle of the Keys
Friday, Nov. 1, 7 p.m. Key West vs. Coral Shores Football
Coral Shores
Key West
The 4A Conchs, rife with senior power hitters, take on unbeaten 3A Coral Shores, a team full of heart and hustle. Both teams have mowed down the rest of the field in Keys competition, leaving just the Conchs and ’Canes to determine who will be crowned this year’s Queens of the Court.
In the previous 54 matchups between the Dolphins and Hurricanes, the ’Canes hold the edge, 29-25. Coach Ed Holly’s Hurricanes have dominated this season, and if Vegas was handing out odds, Marathon would be a long shot. But that’s a bet any Keys sports enthusiast might want to consider, given the ferocity of play both teams bring to the annual Battle of the Keys. Records and odds can be thrown out the window when these two teams meet on the gridiron, and fans of either team or football in general won’t want to miss this one.
Playing one another for just the third time since 2010, the Hurricanes hope to avenge a loss in their last matchup two years ago and sweep the Keys in football. Marathon and Key West are not scheduled to play one another this season, making the Hurricanes the only team to play both their Keys competitors. At presstime, coach Ed Holly and his tenacious ’Canes are riding high on a six-game winning streak extending to last season. At first glance, Johnny Hughes’ Conchs do not have a record to boast about, but given the level of competition they have faced this season, Key West can hold their heads high as they have held their own against some of the best football programs in Florida. The matchup should be exciting.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
BEST LIEN SERVICES:7290 SW 41
ST MIAMI, FL 33155 WILL SELL
AT A RESERVED PUBLIC SALE AT 9:00 AM THE VEHICLES LISTED BELOW AT THE FOLLOWING
LOCATIONS TO SATISFY LIEN
PURSUANT TO SECTION 713.585 OF THE FLORIDA STATUTES. 1996 CHEV VN
THE LIEN CLAIMED BY THE LIENOR IS SUBJECT TO ENFORCEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 713.585, F.S. AND THE VEHICLE MAY BE SOLD TO SATISFY THE LIEN. THE LIEN IS CLAIMED FOR
LABOR, SERVICES PERFORMED, AND STORAGE CHARGES, IF ANY, AND THE AMOUNT DUE IN CASH ON THE DAY OF SALE, IF PAID TO THE LIENOR, WOULD REDEEM THE MOTOR VEHICLE. AT ANY TIME BEFORE THE DATE OF THE SALE OR PROPOSED SALE THE OWNER OR ANY PERSON CLAIMING AN INTEREST OR A LIEN ON THE VEHICLE MAY FILE A DEMAND FOR HEARING WITH THE CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT IN THE COUNTY WHERE THE VEHICLE IS HELD TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN WRONGFULLY TAKEN OR WITHHELD FROM HIM OR HER. AT ANY TIME BEFORE THE DATE OF THE SALE OR PROPOSED SALE A CUSTOMER OR A PERSON OF RECORD CLAIMING A LIEN ON THE VEHICLE MAY POST A CASH OR SURETY BOND IN
THE AMOUNT STATED ON THE INVOICE WITH THE CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT WHERE THE DISPUTED TRANSACTION OCCURRED.
ANY PERSON(S) CLAIMING ANY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE VEHICLES SHOULD CONTACT BEST LIEN SERVICES (1-866-2999391) AT LEAST 1 WEEK PRIOR TO THE LIEN SALE.
Publish: September 12, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
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,
REQUEST FOR QUOTATION
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
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
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NO.: 24-CP-432-P
DIVISION: PLANTATION KEY IN RE: ESTATE OF BRYCELYNNE ANGEL BORDEN Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Brycelynne Angel
Borden, deceased, whose date of death was July 29, 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
INVITATION TO BID
ITB NO. 2024-04 CITY HALL PIN PILE/LEVELING PROJECT
CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH
The City of Key Colony Beach cordially invites interested contractors to complete and submit sealed quotes for the following project by 8:30 a.m. on October 15th, 2024.
CITY HALL PIN PILE/LEVELING PROJECT ITB 2024-04
SCOPE: Supporting the existing slab at the City Hall Building at 600 West Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach, with pin piles and leveling the oor of an approximate area of 2,000 square feet. Engineered plans will be provided.
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 15th, 2024, at 8:30 am clearly marked ‘Sealed Bid for the City of Key Colony Beach ITB No. 2024-04’ along with the name of your rm. Each bid must have one original and four (4) 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
09-20-2024 9:30 am Release Solicitation (via DemandStar)
09-27-2024 9:30 am Non-mandatory Site Visit
(Open to Public – Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., 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)
10-8-2024 4:00 pm Last day for the City to post answers to questions (on DemandStar)"
10-15-2024 8:30 am Bid Due & Opening
(Open to Public: City Hall 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach, FL 33051-0141)
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 12, 2024.
Personal Representative: Angelica Lynne Rosado PO Box 281 Aguada, Puerto Rico 00602 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 12 & 19, 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-449-P IN RE: ESTATE OF GEORGE C. WATT III Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of GEORGE C. WATT III, deceased, whose date of death was February 4, 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. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is: September 12, 2024.
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
10-17-2024 9:30 am
City Commission Meeting – Award
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) Publish: September 12 & 19, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers.
(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
Personal Representative: GEORGE C. WATT IV 18 Arlene Dr. Bristol, CT 06010
Attorney for Personal Representative: URBAN J. W. PATTERSON, ESQ. Email: ujwplaw@gmail.com
Secondary Email: ujwplawfirm@yahoo.com
Florida Bar No. 382035 Urban J. W. Patterson, P.A. P.O. Box 783 Islamorada, Florida 33036 Telephone: 305-664-5065 Publish: September 12 & 19, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •
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
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 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
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)
LEGAL NOTICES
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 APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2024-09
Notice is hereby given that BEAMIF A LLC holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate Number: 2021/1636
Alt Key No: 1632856
Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00513550-000000
Description of Property: BK 3 LT 6 PARADISE POINT PB3-16 KEY LARGO OR7287/288 OR782-1101 OR816748 OR860-1917 OR860-1919 OR3064-1060
Name in which assessed: MAESTRE LUZ ELENA MORENO DE MAESTRE EDYS C All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.
Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL
Sale Date: October 30th, 2024
Sale Time: 10:00am
Dated this 5th day of August 2024
KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: September 12, 19 & 26 and October 3, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED
2024-10
Notice is hereby given that VINMAS HOLDINGS, LLC VINMAS HOLDINGS, LLC holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2020/1973 Alt Key No: 1650439 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2020 RE: 00531240-000000
Description of Property: BK 9 LT 2 HOLIDAY HOMESITES PB2-168 KEY LARGO OR87491 OR782-1315 OR783-
Name in which assessed: GRAVES FRANCIS LECLAIR III
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL
Sale Date: October 30th, 2024 Sale Time: 10:00am
Dated this 5th day of August 2024
KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk
Publish:
September 12, 19 & 26 and October 3, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2024-11
Notice is hereby given that BEAMIF A LLC holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate Number: 2021/1635
Alt Key No: 1632813
Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00513510-000000
Description of Property: BK 3 LT 2 PARADISE POINT PB3-16 KEY LARGO OR75-278 OR3033-1875
Name in which assessed: MAESTRE LUZ ELENA
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida.
Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL Sale Date: October 30th, 2024 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 5th day of August 2024
KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: September 12, 19 & 26 and October 3, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2024-12
Notice is hereby given that MATTHEW A WASILESKK holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows:
Certificate Number: 2021/685
Alt Key No: 1216569
Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00167570-000000
Name in which assessed: GLADSTONE STEVEN D LIVING TRUST 08/06/2013 KLASFELD ILENE C/O NEIL GORDON CO TRUSTEE
All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or
Aneta Jodkowska,
WANTED AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483 AUTO/TRUCK FOR SALE
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. REDUCED $4,800 OBO Contact George at 305-7761802 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
20 ft Proline center console, trailer, 150 Merc 4stroke 250 hr, T top, GPS. Located in Marathon. $19,000 OBO Bob 410-804-6730
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
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/ RV SITE FOR RENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844
COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT
Place your COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!
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
EMPLOYMENT
SERVERS WANTED: Apply in person between 5 pm & 7 pm every night at Plaza Grill Steak & Seafood, 5101 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
Hiring: Lead Gutter Installer - EXPERIENCE REQUIRED – valid Driver’s License - must be comfortable with heights - located in Tavernier. To apply, please call or text Jay 305-587-1581.
Marathon Yacht Club is hiring part-time servers and bartenders. Private club, friendly atmosphere, guaranteed gratuities. Flexible lunch/dinner shifts available Tuesday – Sunday. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Call 305743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com.
Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Med Tech PT/Nights, Housing Choice Voucher Asst., Housing ManagerMiddle Keys, Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker, and HVAC Maintenance Mechanic $64.480-$72,800/yr. plus benefits. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha.org or 305-296-5621. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www. kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.
Place your EMPLOYMENT ad here. $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844
Downstairs apartment of a duplex to rent to 1 person (no pets). Large living room/bedroom and separate kitchen. Large screened porch with its own washer/dryer and driveway. Utilities include wifi/tv. 150 ft to the ocean. MM96 Key Largo. $1850/ month. F/L/S 305-853-3779
ISLAMORADA: Very Large 2 BR apt. for rent. Furnished or unfurnished. Utilities & cable included. $2,200/month. First/ Security. Available Sept. 1st. Yearly lease. 305-5222702 Leave message.
Marathon: Waterfront 2/1.5 duplex, monthly, furnished, near hospital. 40' of canal, pool, hot tub, pet friendly. Elec. & water paid. $4,950/mo. F/L/D Call or text James 409-370-0025.
Conch HouseStudio for rent in duplex in Marathon. $960/month + utilities. Newly furnished. Dockage available. No Pets. 305-610-8002
Large One Bedroom
Suite, Conch House, carpet, tile, appliances, available for rent in Marathon. $2,000/ month furnished, $1,600/ month unfurnished,. All utilities included. F/L/S Section 8 accepted. Dockage available. No Pets. 305-610-8002
D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals. Overtime and benefits are available. For full details, please visit: DAsignSource.com/careers
Residential Lead A/V Tech
Responsible for the integration of Audio & Video, Lighting Control, low-voltage project installation, programming, and crew management to ensure the usability and stable operation of all systems. This includes supporting clients, planning, developing, installing, configuring, maintaining, and optimizing all hardware, software, and communication links.
Working Project Construction Foreman
For coordination and participation in the day-to-day construction process on site; implementing the construction intent of the architect/ owner and Project Manager, to the highest quality standards.
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
RV site / Camping available at marina in Marathon. Monthly/ Daily rates. Free use of dingy & fishing on dock.
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.
WE ARE HIRING!
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: 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.
WORKSHOP OPERATIONS MANAGER
ADULT DAY TRAINING PROGRAM
Administrative, salaried position. The workshop manager will be responsible for all phases of the operation of the Adult Day Training Program in accordance with APD and Medicaid Waiver minimum standards. This includes the worksites and contracts, personnel, and training programs. Maintain a close liaison with the Group Home Managers and Medical Staff to maintain program consistency. Bachelor’s degree required and 2 years’ experience in field required. Bilingual in Haitian Creole highly preferred.
DIRECT CARE STAFF AT ADULT DAY TRAINING PROGRAM FT
This position is available at our Adult Day program. Providing direct care service and support to our clients in the day program. Requires the minimum of high school completion or GED. *
CLIENT MEDICAL SERVICES ASSISTANT CNA
Assisting our clients with dental, medical and transportation appts. Act as liaison between clients, families and support staff. Requires some on-call responsibility. Min. requirement Florida certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant. *
*ALSO REQUIRED FOR ALL POSITIONS: Fluent in English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Level 2 background screening and valid Florida driver’s license. - EOE.
Come join our family!
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
DUI EVALUATOR/ INSTRUCTOR
The Advocate DUI Program is hiring for part time positions. DUI instructors and evaluators - 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse eld required. Bilingual preferred, not required. Of ce located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.
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.
Peer Support Specialist
Case Manager (Adult, Child) Substance Abuse Counselor Prevention Specialist (HIV)
MARATHON
Care Coordinator (PT)
Driver – PT (CDL not required)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Child)
Licensed Practical Nurse (PT)
Peer Support Specialist/BHT
*Behavioral Health Technicians
– 3 shifts (FT/PT)
*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.
Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP
Apply at guidancecarecenter.org
Search Employment/Portal/Location/zip
MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE
We are now hiring for the following positions:
OPENINGS AVAILABLE
PHYSICIAN PRACTICE
OPENINGS
- Medical Assistant, Marathon & Key West, $5k Bonus
- Physician Practice Registered Nurse, Key West, $15k Bonus
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN/PA-C), Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant, Upper Keys Internal Medicine, $5k Bonus
- Patient Access Associate, Tavernier
- Physician Assistant-Surgical, Ortho, Tavernier
- Supervisor Physician Practice, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL
- Cook, $5k Bonus
- Environmental Tech, $5k Bonus
- Exercise Physiologist, Mariners Wellness Center
- Group Exercise Instructor, Mariners Wellness Center
- Multi-Modality Imag Tech, $50k Bonus
- Nuclear Medicine Tech
- Radiology Technologist, $40k Bonus
MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
- ED Team Coordinator, Emergency Department
- Experience Advisor, Patient Experience
- First Cook, $5k Bonus
Applicants must apply in person to be considered. 4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon SUDOKU SOLUTION
- Lead Medical Technologist, Laboratory, $50k Bonus
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, $50k Bonus
- Patient Scheduler
- Radiology Technologist, $40k Bonus
- Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care Center
- Registered Nurse, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, $15k Bonus
