Prime investment opportunity.
This waterfront multi-family tri-plex is located in the coveted boating enclave of Port Largo. This property presents a prime occasion for astute investors seeking to capitalize on its versatile building rights or to leverage its existing rental income potential with long-term tenants. The allure of this investment lies in its potential for future rental income optimization. With two, two-bedroom, one-bathroom units and one three-bedroom, two-bathroom unit, there exists ample room for income diversification. Each unit features an inviting open floor plan, complemented by screened-in porches that afford picturesque vistas of the water. 75 feet of deep-water concrete dockage further enhances its appeal to both investors and tenants alike. Whether one chooses to reside in one unit while leasing out the others or to capitalize on the rental market, the possibilities for maximizing returns are truly limitless in this prime investment offering. An exceptional investment opportunity awaits discerning investors.
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Tavernier, FL 33070
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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 — the worst attack against the homeland in the nation’s history. Throughout the Florida Keys, and the U.S., many took a moment to remember those who perished in New York City, Arlington, Virginia, and Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
Swimmers escorted by kayakers circle Alligator Reef Lighthouse during the Swim for Alligator Lighthouse open-water challenge on Sept. 7. BOB CARE/Florida Keys News Bureau
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 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,
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
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.
FEDS BUST FLORIDA KEYS RESIDENTS IN SUSPECTED COCAINE RING
Defendants face decades behind bars if convicted
By Jim McCarthy and Alex Rickert
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 MiamiDade, 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 codefendants 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 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, MiamiDade 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.
TAVERNIER MAN ARRESTED ON CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE CHARGE
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office’s Major Crimes detectives arrested a 65-year-old Tavernier 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 execution of 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. More charges are expected and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the sheriff’s office at 305-289-2410.
Eddins is being held on $200,000 bond.
— Keys Weekly staff report
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
Richard Hayward Eddins.
Seanna has a unique perspective of the Florida Keys. As a second-generation Conch with such deep roots in the community, she has a deep knowledge and appreciation of our unique islands. With experience in sales, vacation rentals, long term rentals and property management, Seanna’s knowledge of each aspect of the business make her the perfect choice to help you with any type of real estate transaction, no matter how big or small.
Seanna’s ambition and passion for the business is what drove her, at age 22, to get her broker’s license and join her mom in starting their own real estate company, Sea Haven Realty, in December 2020. With her family’s entrepreneurial background and growing up with dedicated hardworking parents, Seanna felt starting her own business was something she was meant to do.
As a “Keys Kid," Seanna enjoys being on the water; boating, waterskiing, and fishing. Off the water she contributes to the community attending local fundraising events, and loves spending time with her two dogs, Tank and Potcake (her adopted Bahamian pup). Her unwavering love of the ocean and the islands she’s called home all her life give her the enthusiasm and a desire to make her home, your home.
FWC PILOT PREVENTS TRAGEDY AS BOAT NEARED ALLIGATOR LIGHTHOUSE SWIMMERS
ISLAMORADA COUNCIL SETS TENTATIVE BUDGET
Funds included for land acquisition & 5% employee pay raises
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
IKayakers escort swimmers during the Swim for Alligator Lighthouse on Sept. 7. Thanks to the work of a FWC helicopter pilot, a vessel heading toward the swimmers was intercepted. BOB CARE/Florida Keys News Bureau. Inset: 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.
Some 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).
— Keys Weekly staff report
slamorada council members voted 3-2 on a tentative tax rate and spending plan for the upcoming fiscal year during a Sept. 5 budget hearing. There were differences on funding levels for a new land acquisition fund, while others believed budget cuts were still needed before final approval.
Dollar amounts could change as council members convene Sept. 17 for a final budget hearing to set the final property tax rate and budget for 2024-25.
Three workshops held last month ended with council members verbally agreeing to levy $16.7 million in property taxes for village government operations. A $1.3 million median home in the village would see a $194.86 decrease in their property tax bills.
With funds needed for land acquisition, a pool renovation at Founders Park and a facility recreation attendant, Mayor Buddy Pinder, councilman Mark Gregg and councilwoman Elizabeth Jolin supported a tentative property tax levy of $18.2 million during the Sept. 5 hearing. A property tax bill for the median village home would show an increase of $1.05.
Councilman Henry Rosenthal and Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney voted against the measure, as they backed a lesser figure. Rosenthal specifically took issue with dollars budgeted for overtime, equating to a little more than $280,000, in the tentative spending plan.
“I always said if you put it in the budget they’re going to use it. To me it’s backwards,” Rosenthal said.
Mahoney said the overtime, as well as $105,200 in the budget for holiday lights, could be slashed to budget for a new planner and a deputy chief of training for the fire department.
A total of $1 million in the tentative budget would fund land acquisitions in the village in a bid to relieve possible takings cases. Gregg wanted to see $3 million budgeted for the cause.
The tentative spending plan also
includes pay bumps of 5% for all employees to account for increasing living costs. The village continues to negotiate with its only collective bargaining unit, the International Association of Firefighters Local 4347.
Council members also agreed to budget nearly $70,000 for local charitable causes despite some concerns from the public and the dais regarding the use of taxpayer funds to support a number of nonprofits. First Baptist Church Islamorada’s Community Ministry, Good Health Clinic and the coral restoration group, I.CARE, are expected to receive the most, $10,000 each. Council members also elected to give AHEC, which provides medical and dental services to Keys children, a total of $5,000.
Some council members said the next council should consider whether to continue doling out village funds to local nonprofits.
“I believe that the taxpayer should have a right to give the money to the (nonprofit) that they choose themselves instead of us giving the money away for them,” Pinder said.
Funds were excluded for a village hall remodel of the first-floor bathroom and second floor and a design for a new public works facility.
Between property tax collections and other sources of income, the village would gather $26.5 million in revenue in order to pay the roughly $26.2 million in expenditures for day-to-day operations for the 2024-25 fiscal year. Public safety accounts for $11.4 million of the budget, followed by $7 million for general government, which includes planning, finance, village manager, village clerk, IT and code compliance departments.
Council members have the ability to adjust the property tax rate and overall spending plan at a final budget hearing on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at 5:01 p.m. at the Founders Park Community Center.
KEYS MARINE SANCTUARY NAMES ACTING SUPERINTENDENT
NOAA veteran who coined ‘Restoration Blueprint’ phrase steps in
BRIEFLY
AAA: Gas prices fall as crude market plunges Florida gas prices are falling fast after a big drop in the crude oil market. Last week, the U.S. price for a barrel of oil fell to the lowest level since June 2023. The crude price plunge has reportedly been driven by concerns about both the U.S. and international economies, and the belief that global oil supplies could outpace demand by the end of the year.
“Declining oil prices lower the cost of producing gasoline,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA — The Auto Club Group. “Unless oil prices reverse course, gas prices should move even lower. Currently about 23% of Florida retailers have prices below $3 a gallon. That number is likely to grow this week.”
On Sept. 8, Florida gas prices averaged $3.16 per gallon. That’s the lowest daily average price since Feb. 12, 2024. The state average on Sept. 8 is 15 cents less than last week, 24 cents less than last month, and 47 cents less than this time last year.
County vulnerability open house set
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
Monroe County is hosting a series of open houses to discuss the county’s vulnerability assessment project. The purpose of the open houses is to provide a more interactive setting for people to see posters about the project and review specific maps about the various types of assets and flood risks the County is planning for in the future.
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.
• 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 under Section 380.093, Florida Statutes. 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.
Homeowner Associations
meeting brings parks director
The Island of Key Largo Federation of Homeowner Associations will hold its general membership meeting on Monday, Sept. 16 at the Key Largo library community room, 101485 Overseas Highway) starting at 6 p.m. The meeting can be attended in person or via Zoom.
The guest speaker will be John Allen, Monroe County director of parks & beaches. He will give an overview with updates on the county park system. The meeting is open to the public. Scan the QR code here for the meeting’s Zoom link.
Locals’ month on Morada Way
September is locals’ month at the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District in Islamorada. On Sunday, Sept. 22, a small business sidewalk sale will go from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Brick-and-mortar shops and art galleries will open early to give locals the chance to shop, including Purple Pineapple Boutique; Jessica Ann Art Gallery; Lisa Lee Gyotaku Art Gallery; Taylor Hale Art Gallery (in the Florida Keys Brewing Co. Beer Garden); Sway; Foraged; Florida Keys Brewing Co.; Cousins Maine Lobster; Otherside Boardsports (as a popup); Linking the Keys; Prana Morada; and Hair Wraps by Natacha. Other pop-up vendors will also be on hand for the event, as well as food trucks. Those attending the sidewalk sale can enter for a chance to win a basket full of local handmade items and gifts.
Book sale ongoing at Key Largo library
Love a good stack of books? Friends of the Key Largo Library is stacking them up to raise funds for programming for the Key Largo library at the Tradewinds Shopping Center. All month long they will offer a book sale that is not really a book ”sale.” Choose what you fancy and make a donation to the Friends – that is all there is to it. Every Wednesday, new books are added.
The sale is available any time the library is open Monday through Saturday. Buyers simply put their money in the donation box by the door. Those who donate at least $10 get to put their books in a Friends tote bag. Paperbacks and children’s books are always available for free.
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
20TH CENTURY SALVAGE DIVING
Museum’s Julia Sokow set to speak during ‘Immerse Yourself’ lecture
SEEKING TO GET YOUR TEEN A DRIVER’S LICENSE?
The History of Diving Museum will hold a lecture at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 18 for the “Immerse Yourself!” Salvage Diving in the 20th Century, with Julia Sokolow, community relations specialist at the museum.
Sokolow has been involved with the museum’s educational outreach since joining the HDM team in April 2022. She has developed and facilitated “Museum in Motion” programs and is a docent for guided tours. In addition, Sokolow helps to research and assemble featured exhibits, while also using her artistic talents to create take-home activity guides and marketing material.
Sokolow is a graduate of the University of Michigan, with a degree in ecology and evolutionary biology. She has previously worked at the Dictionary Project and South Carolina Aquarium, always with the aim of promoting education and conservation.
During her time at the museum, Sokolow has used the same style Mark V diving equipment that will be discussed in this lecture. She will take lecture attendees through the evolution of salvage diving in the 20th century, including how divers first learned to reach the depths safely, how an underwater rescue was performed at 240 feet, how the CIA went as deep as 16,500 feet to retrieve a Soviet submarine in secret, and much more.
Those interested in attending the “Immerse Yourself” lecture in person can reserve a seat by calling the museum at 305-664-9737 or via email at programs@divingmuseum.org. For those unable to attend in person, there is a Zoom link at divingmuseum.org. This session will also be recorded and posted to the HDM YouTube channel. The History of Diving Museum would like to thank this month’s Immerse Yourself sponsor: the Draves family. — Contributed
Tax collector holds special Saturday hours
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, Sept. 21 – Marathon branch — 305-289-6034
• Saturday, Oct.19 – Key West Driver License Office (Searstown) 305-293-6338
• 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
PIXABAY
Julia Sokolow, community relations specialist for the History of Diving Museum, wears the Mark V suit. HDM/Contributed
Salvage pontoons on the surface, off Honolulu in August 1915, after the final lifting of the sunken submarine in preparation for towing her into Honolulu harbor. CONTRIBUTED
U.S. Navy diver Frank Crilley suits up for a salvage dive.
REWINDING THE BEST OF UPPER KEYS
Upper Keys Rotarians with the Best Event plaque, which went to the Gigantic Nautical Market. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
First two events yielded winners, big donations & a great time
IJIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
f the past two years are any indication, the third Best of Upper Keys will see numerous nominations, thousands of votes and an unforgettable awards ceremony with 83 plaques presented to the winners.
In 2022, the team at the Keys Weekly Newspapers launched the premier people’s choice awards. With help from people and businesses within the community, the process and the highlyanticipated awards night went off without a hitch. Nominations from the public flowed in as many sought support on various platforms, leading to the finalist stage where many vied for bragging rights, a plaque and many other benefits associated with becoming a Best of Upper Keys winner. Not only that, tens of thousands of dollars were raised the first year for the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter.
Year two saw even more momentum as the 2023 Best of Upper Keys returned with more categories and more plaques up for grabs. And even more funds were raised last year for the shelter.
Both awards ceremonies saw a packed crowd at Whale Harbor Restaurants & Marina in Islamorada. This year, the awards ceremony will be held at Playa Largo Resort.
As the nominations continue daily through Sunday, Sept. 22, here are some of the highlights from the previous two Best of Upper Keys.
2022 SNAPSHOT
121,483
total votes cast.
6,931
total people casting nominations and finalist votes.
7,056
miles between Japan, where a vote was cast, and Islamorada.
185
Guests who attended the inaugural Best of Upper Keys awards ceremony at Whale Harbor on Nov. 5, 2022.
$19,060
Funds raised from the inaugural Best of Upper Keys for the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter.
3 Square Grouper Islamorada won three awards, including Michael Roe for Best Bartender, Best Lunch and Best Overall Restaurant.
2023 SNAPSHOT
217,170
total votes cast.
7,562
total people casting nominations and finalist votes.
4,417
Distance between England, where a vote was cast, and Key Largo.
195
Guests who attended the second Best of Upper Keys awards ceremony at Whale Harbor on Nov. 11, 2023.
$26,350
Funds raised from the second annual Best of Upper Keys for the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter.
3 Square Grouper Islamorada and Dillon’s Pub & Grill came away with the most awards.
Winners show off their plaques following the inaugural Best of Upper Keys awards in 2022.
Henry Menendez, of HNO productions, and wife Julie Johnson, laugh at the skits during the inaugural Best of Upper Keys awards in 2022.
Square Grouper Islamorada came away with three awards during the inaugural Best of Upper Keys in 2022.
people who visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park every year. KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL/Keys Weekly
JOHN’S GENERAL STORE AIMS TO IMPROVE COMMUNITY
New store located at site of former sex shop opens for business
KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL www.keysweekly.com
Motorists driving south along the Overseas Highway would be hard-pressed to miss the vintage-looking billboard perched high above Adam’s Cut in Key Largo. The large sign advertising candy, gifts, T-shirts and beer also features a sketch of the new general store’s colorful owner, longtime Keys resident and businessman John Cioffi.
“I didn’t do it; they did it and I let it happen,” joked Cioffi of his staff’s decision to make his face the face of their latest business venture. Cioffi says John’s General Store is actually named after John Pennekamp. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park sits directly across the street at MM 102.5.
Cioffi and his business partner, Shawn Tolley, are no strangers to the retail business; they own more than a dozen Sandal Factory stores, from Key West all the way up to North Carolina.
But John’s General Store is different.
Nothing to do with Sandal Factory … zero,” said Cioffi.
For this interview, Cioffi invited me into his “office,” which consisted of two Yeti camping chairs in the corner of the 6,000-square-foot building. The Islamorada resident and successful businessman hardly ever gives interviews, but he made an exception this time.
This was an opportunity to highlight a business move he believes will make the community a better place.
“This is something that I think the community needed and appreciates, in that it’s across from Pennekamp Park. It didn’t need a sex shop here,” explained Cioffi.
For as long as most people can remember, this was the site of the Lover’s Boutique Sex Shop. Rarely was there ever a car in the parking lot; the Internet likely killed that business.
“I tried to lease it 32 years ago and every year since then I tried to lease it or buy it,” recalled Cioffi.
Recently, the landlord approached Cioffi and his business partner about taking over the lease. That’s when the idea for a general store was hatched.
“We thought that it might make money, but I’m not so sure that it will, but that’s not really important. It changed the community for the better, I think,” said Cioffi.
Cioffi says the general store caters to the roughly two thousand visitors a day to Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. It’s one-stop shopping for supplies and more.
You can get camping gear, snorkels, fishing gear, you can get all kinds of hot pockets and homemade Key lime pies, fudge, premade sandwiches, we will have beer and wine,” said Cioffi. The store also has some nostalgic, old-fashioned products of a bygone era, like Moon Pies, RC Cola and old-fashioned root
beer. There’s even an old chuck wagon in front of the store, an interesting backdrop for tourists seeking that perfect picture.
“It’s amazing; it’s different, “ said Miami tourist Gabriella Carrillo. “Inside there are different things. It’s very nice,” she added as she and her family posed for a picture in front of the wagon.
Some of the products inside John’s General Store are as unique as the store’s entertaining owner.
Cioffi is the definition of an entrepreneur. He is hands-on, taking the time to ask customers about their shopping experiences, right down to the beverage vending machines. One customer told Cioffi the machine spat out the wrong drink. Cioffi instantly offered a refund and promised to fix the problem.
The 79-year-old knows all of his employees by name and his self-deprecating humor is refreshing. He attributes his success to the people around him.
“That’s the only reason I’m successful – the people around me are smarter. I’m not that bright, I’m really not,” said Cioffi with a laugh.
Forty years ago, diving and fishing brought Cioffi to the Florida Keys. At the time, he owned laundry bars up north. The main Sudsy Malone’s was located in Cioffi’s hometown of Cincinnati. The venue combined laundry, drinks and live music seven nights a week.
Cioffi ran Sudsy Malone’s remotely from his home in the Keys for nine years.
Eventually he moved on to different opportunities. He met someone in the sunglass business and started selling sunglasses, later branching out to T-shirts and then sandals. He bought the Reef Rider sandal company and the Sandal Factory was born.
At John’s General Store, Cioffi talked up the smash burgers from Dani and Mike’s 102 food truck stationed in the parking lot. The truck is owned by the same person who owns Mike’s BBQ at the entrance to Dolphins Plus.
“Without a doubt, the best burger I’ve ever had and I’ve had a lot of burgers in my life,” said Cioffi. (Writer’s note: he was right, the smash burger was delicious.)
With almost eight decades under his belt, Cioffi says he still enjoys the everyday hustle of running his businesses and has no plans to retire, ever.
“That’s when you retire, when you’re dead,” he said.
Experience has awarded Cioffi wisdom.
This is his simple philosophy for living a fulfilling and productive life:
“Expect nothing, need little and want everything. It’s what you want that’s important and I want everything. I don’t have to have it, but I want it.”
John’s General Store is open seven days a week and is located at 102700 Overseas Highway in Key Largo on the bayside.
Miami tourist Gabriella Carrillo, seen wearing white, poses for a picture with her family in front of John’s General Store.
A billboard advertising John’s General Store features a drawing of owner John Cioffi.
John Cioffi gives a tour of his latest business venture, John’s General Store. The Sandal Factory owner says this store will cater to the thousands of
John Cioffi orders a smash burger from Dani and Mike’s 102 food truck located in the parking lot of John’s General Store.
300-PLUS SWIMMERS COMPETE IN LIGHTHOUSE FUNDRAISER
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
1. Swimmers and kayakers circle Alligator Reef Lighthouse in open-water challenge on Sept. 7 in Islamorada. BOB CARE/Florida Keys News Bureau. 2. Kayakers escort swimmers as they begin the Swim for Alligator Lighthouse on Sept. 7 in Islamorada. ANDY NEWMAN/Florida Keys News Bureau. 3. Kayakers escort swimmers during the Swim for Alligator Lighthouse on Sept. 7 in Islamorada. BOB CARE/Florida Keys News Bureau
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.
PUBLIC NOTICE
ISLAMORADA, VILLAGE OF ISLANDS, FLORIDA
VILLAGE COUNCIL BUDGET HEARING #2 FOR FISCAL YEAR 202 4-2025
TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 17, 2024
5:01 P.M.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Florida Statutes, Section 286 0105, all interested persons are advised that the Village Council will meet for the Second Budget Hearing for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at 5 01 p.m. at the Founders Park Community Center 87000 Overseas Highway Islamorada Florida The public is encouraged to attend or participate remotely via the Zoom video conferencing applicat on Details for participating via Zoom, are as follows:
If phoning in dial 305-224-1968 and enter the webinar ID: 911 0656 4166 followed by # When the Mayor opens public comment pertaining to the agenda item you are interested in dial *9 to be recognized by the Zoom meeting monitor.
If watching online via Zoom: Scan the QR code and follow the prompts to join the webinar. When the Mayor opens public comment use the “raise your hand” feature to be recognized by the Village Clerk.
Contact: Marne McGrath Village Clerk
Clerk@islamorada fl.us 305-664-6412
www.islamorada.fl.us Two
Marne McGrath Village Clerk
JAMES ROBERT LAWSON III
1935-2024
Our beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather, James Robert Lawson III, passed away Monday, Sept. 2, 2024, in Miami. James just celebrated his 90th birthday. He was born on Aug. 13, 1935, at home in the Allapattah neighborhood of Miami, to James Robert Lawson and Elva Dorothy Wilson.
James (Jim, Jimmy, Dad, Papa) is survived by daughter Karen Hoefert (James Hoefert) of Key Largo and their children Lauren Dunn (John Dunn) and Heather Hoefert (Robert Regan), also of Key Largo; daughter Kathy Janco (Joel Janco) of Key Largo and their children Melissa Sorensen of Key Largo, Eric Sorensen (Allie Sorensen) of Miami, Andrew Janco (Olga Livshin) of Pennsylvania; great-grandchildren Merrick Dunn, Colin Dunn, Lillian Sorensen, Sienna Sorensen and Nathan Janco; sisters Diane Ludeman of Washington State and Marilyn Gerow of Georgia. He was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Patricia Eldredge Lawson, who died in April 2024.
James grew up in the Pinecrest area of Miami. His parents encouraged his love for horses by building a stable on their vast property. Jim then had free rein in the rural area (at that time) to ride his horse, Mike, and explore as his heart desired. He was a very outdoorsy young man who loved adventure and animals, his horse, dog and pet raccoons. He loved digging forts deep into the property’s soil and spending his days outdoors, and he loved cars as he got older.
Jim fell in love and married his high school sweetheart. They had their first date during the Christmas holidays of 1951 and quickly realized they were each other’s other half. They were married three years later.
James attended Coral Gables Senior High School, graduating in 1954. He then attended the University of Miami.
Jim and Pat happened upon a business opportunity and moved their young family from Miami to Key Largo in 1964. The Keys had a different vibe than Miami, but they quickly embraced the island’s way of life and enjoyed everything it and its locals had to offer.
James, Patricia, and Jim’s parents purchased the original Key Largo Shopper Supermarket in 1964. Jim’s parents retired in 1976, and Jim and Pat continued working and managing the market until their retirement in 1991. The “Shopper”/ “Lawsons” was more than just a supermarket; it was an anchor in the community, which they loved very much.
James was honored in 1976 to begin serving on the board of directors of TIB Bank of the Keys for more than 20 years; he also served as vice chairman and chairman of the board. Jim was a Key Largo Chamber of Commerce board member and a member of the Key Largo Rotary. Jim enjoyed golf and snow skiing.
Jim and Pat were founding members of the Upper Keys Sailing Club, reflecting their passion for sailing and their commitment to fostering this passion in others. Jim and Pat loved sailing their 33-foot locally built sailboat (Glander Boats), where they sailed and raced locally. They loved cruising the Bahamas and the Virgin Islands. After retirement, Jim and Pat spent many years traveling the West in their motorhome. Jim loved to drive. They gave each grandchild individually or in pairs the opportunity to fly to a destination they felt that grandchild would find exciting or that they had shown interest in. It was an excellent opportunity, and they all fondly remember their time traveling with Papa and Mimi. We were all so blessed and will never forget all the small and large things they did for us. Our parents left our family with a loving and compassionate legacy we all intend to continue and carry forward.
The family will celebrate James’s life in Key Largo. It will be a time to honor his extraordinary legacy, talent and uncanny ability to make or fix anything.
LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISE WITH LOCAL FACES
Established in the 1990s, Vital Signs Key Largo is a full service design, print, and sign company. They o er design services along with printing and installation from Ocean Reef to Key West. Some of their most popular services are marine graphics, logos, dock signs, building signs, menus and apparel.
Daniel Elmore, who worked for the previous owners, bought Vital Signs Key Largo in 2021, bringing more than ten years of sign experience to the table. He and partner Cari Sanders have more than 20 years of combined customer service.
"Our key to success has been staying involved in our community and o ering fair prices for quality products," said Daniel.
Overseas Hwy, Ste.103, in the Pink Plaza, Key Largo signs@vitalsignskeylargo.net vitalsignskeylargo.net
EXCITING UPCOMING EVENTS
Nominate your favorites for Best of Upper Keys
Reef the fox smiles big in this week’s Reef’s Report. CONTRIBUTED
REEF THE FOX
Reef is a red fox that was saved from a fur farm. He now lives in Key Largo with his human, Nicole Navarro.
Hi friends! Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.”
Best of Upper Keys nominations are in full swing.
I truly appreciate every single person who has posted their support for yours truly, and Pawsitive Beginnings. I even used my own credit card to place banner ads on the website – don’t tell my mother. Everyone has until Sunday, Sept. 22 to nominate their favorites in the categories of community, business and food/drink.
We had our first sanctuary tour last Saturday with a very nice local couple. I, of course, was absolutely charming and entertaining. Jasper fox even woke up to get some snacks from my new friends. Mom was able to talk about us foxes, where we came from, the cruelty of the fur trade here in the United States and the exotic pet trade. It was really cool to meet new people and I can’t wait to have more new friends with these tours. We still have availability left for September, and the October calendar will open up next week, so head to pawsitivebeginnings.org if you
GROWLER
This is Growler, a healthy 3-month-old male bully mix weighing in at 16 pounds. This large-breed love bug needs an active family with a fenced yard to play and grow. He loves to give kisses and learn new things. Growler needs a new foster family as soon as possible until he finds a furever home. Please apply today www.MPRescues.org or call 305-453-1315.
want to come meet me in person. I mean, who wouldn’t?
This Sunday, Sept. 15, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Key Largo Civic Club will be hosting a children’s fair there. Come spend the afternoon with us. This free event will have great activities planned for the kids including Miss Chris’ Story Hour, Lady J and the Puppetones Show, a bounce house, face painting, a Key Largo fire truck, photo booth, and arts/crafts. Kids who participate in the passport Scavenger Hunt will be entered into a drawing to win a dolphin swim for two courtesy of Dolphins Plus, along with other raffle prizes. There will be food trucks onsite offering a variety of foods and drinks as well as a number of artisan vendor booths to round out your day.
A really fun yet meaningful event coming up on Saturday, Sept. 21 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Caribbean Club is the Purple Party for a Purpose. This event raises money and awareness for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s Florida Keys. There will be music by the incredible DJ Tony, the King of Bling Bob Bunz and the Key Largo Jam Band. Make sure to dress in a creative and crazy purple outfit. There will be prizes, raffles, a winner of the best decorated golf cart and more. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s Florida Keys will take place Dec. 14 at Founders Park in Islamorada. Anywho, that’s all for this week. Until next time, Reef, over and out!
CORAL SHORES REMEMBERS 9/11
Coral Shores High School students, local firefighters and sheriff’s deputies gather at the courtyard, facing a waving American flag and a sign that reads “Never Forget: Remember Sept. 11, 2001.” Led by teacher Joe Szymanski, a 9/11 remembrance ceremony saw a moment of silence for the nearly 3,000 lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001. It was followed by the pledge of allegiance led by first responders. Szymanski’s leadership classes, with roughly 100 students, also wrote the names of those who perished on a 9/11 remembrance sign that hangs on the school wall. “We wanted to do something in remembrance of 9/11,” Szymanski said.
“Ms. Wilmarie Lopez and I got together and we thought it would be cool to make a sign and have kids hand-write the names of the victims on it.”
JIM
McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
THE KEYS’ NATIVES
Captured Spaniard shares Calusa’s story
FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI
Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.
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
showing the inside of the hut of a Calusa chief in the Southwest Florida Hall, Florida Museum of Natural History, Powell Hall. WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
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 16th-century 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.
SAVE THE DATE
Thursday, Sept. 12
• Islamorada Village Council meeting at 4:30 p.m. at Founders Park Community Center.
Sept. 13-14
• Residential hazardous household substance collection (for Islamorada residents) from 9 a.m. to noon at Founders Park (south entrance) near the administrative building.
Sunday, Sept. 15
• Children’s Fair from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Key Largo Civic Club, 209 Ocean Bay Dr., Key Largo.
Sept. 17-18
• JOY classes from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. at Plantation Key Community Center, Islamorada. Visit justolderyouthinc.org for a full list of activities.
Thursday, Sept. 19
• Morada Way Art Walk from 6 to 9 p.m. at Morada Way Arts & Cultural District. A sidewalk sale will go from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at brick-and-mortar shops and art galleries.
Saturday, Sept. 21
Pickleball tournament benefiting Wesley House from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the new courts at Key Largo Park. Visit WesleyHouse.org/Pickleball to learn more.
TDC WINS MARKETING HONORS
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.
Diorama
1,527 COLLECTEDLIONFISHDURING DERBY
Fourteen teams of scuba divers took to the water and collected 1,527 invasive lionfish during the 2024 Florida Keys Lionfish Derby & Festival, hosted by Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF).
Teams fished from sunrise to sunset Aug. 16 and Aug 17. On the evening of the 17th, derby participants and the public gathered at Florida Keys Brewing Co. for “Invaders on Tap,” a lionfish awareness celebration and social event with live music, educational activities, games and lionfish tastings. The derby weekend concluded on Aug. 18 at the REEF Campus in Key Largo, with a celebration featuring weigh-in and scoring, cooking and dissection demos and an awards ceremony for the winners.
More than $6,000 in cash and prizes were awarded to teams who brought in the most, largest and smallest lionfish. The “Most Lionfish” category included the competitive Apex Predators division and the Reef Defenders division for casual lionfish hunters.
Forever Young led the Apex Predators with 321 lionfish. Volitans finished second with 274 and Team Trash placed third with 138. Fourth, fifth and sixth places went to ZooKeeper Eradicators with 85 lionfish, ZooKeeper Destroyers with 65, and the Hunters with 36. In the Reef Defenders division, the Stooges won first place with 212 lionfish. Jellyfish Daydreams brought in 159 for second place, Men of Science won third place with 142, and Headshot Jesus placed fourth with 63.
Competition was close in the largest and smallest lionfish categories. Team Trash won first place in the “Largest Lionfish” category with a
415-millimeter fish, just over 16 inches long. Forever Young’s second-place fish measured 410 millimeters, and Volitans won third place with a 402-millimeter fish. Men of Science had the smallest fish of the derby, which measured 85 millimeters. Headshot Jesus won second place with a 96-millimeter fish, and the Stooges brought in a 98-millimeter fish for third place.
Native to the Indo-Pacific, lionfish are an invasive species in the tropical western Atlantic, and are harming native marine life, including important fisheries like grouper and snapper. REEF lionfish derbies educate the public about invasive species, gather data about lionfish populations and promote a consumer market for lionfish. Regular removal events have been found to significantly reduce lionfish populations on a local scale. REEF has been hosting lionfish derbies in the Florida Keys since 2010, during which more than 70,000 invasive lionfish have been removed from Florida waters.
“Lionfish derbies are more than just a conservation effort,” said Alli Candelmo, REEF director of conservation science. “They’re a powerful way to unite the community through excitement, education and environmental stewardship. We are very thankful to all of the derby participants, event volunteers and our supporters.”
The 2024 event was made possible thanks to Ocean Reef Conservation Association and Florida Keys Brewing Co. Activities occurred within NOAA Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary under permit.
More information is at www.REEF. org/lionfish-derbies.
— Contributed
Noa Parks of REEF measures a lionfish during the 2024 Florida Keys Lionfish Derby & Festival. REEF/Contributed
Team Forever Young takes first place in the Apex Predators division, bringing in 321 lionfish.
REEF volunteer Jane Bixby serves fresh lionfish ceviche during the 2024 Florida Keys Lionfish Derby & Festival.
Presented by
Adam
In The Bleachers
Brevity
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
FOR THE LOVE OF LEMONS
Key West’s Lemon and Lily brings freshly-squeezed dreams
is a Keys native who has a passion for all things food. She runs the local food blog, “Florida Keys Eats.” SAMANTHA DELLILO
During my recent trip to Key West, I had the absolute delight of discovering Lemon and Lily on Caroline Street.
As I was browsing online for some food spots, a post about this charming little stand in the historic seaport district caught my eye. With fresh flowers blooming atop a vintage cart and lemons hanging in the back, I was instantly drawn in.
When I walked up, it did not disappoint. A tricycle with a wicker basket added to the glow of this wooden shack, nestled under the shade of palm trees. The woman squeezing lemons fit the entire Keys lemonade stand aesthetic to the T, dressed in cotton overalls, with sun-kissed skin and caramel-colored hair that added to the enchantment of the scene. I later discovered she was Krystal Sanchez, one of the two owners of Lemon and Lily. Sanchez spoke with such passion about each of their products, as well as her business partner, Holly Tremaine. Both of them share a deep love for what they’ve built.
This picturesque little hut is the result of a shared dream between two locals, both determined to bring
something beautiful and unique to the island. I was thinking, “The place looks amazing and the owners seem great, but how’s the lemonade?” The menu had all sorts of flavors like lavender, coconut, blueberry and strawberry, plus the classic lemon. Since I’m a big fan of lavender, I went for their lavender lemonade in their cool 32-ounce reusable cup. She commented that this lemonade was far from the overly sugary kind you’d find at a state fair.
They use crisp spring water, premium lemons that are carefully washed, and a lot less sugar than most places. I was a bit nervous because, as anyone who’s made lemonade knows, it’s all about finding the right balance of lemon, sugar and water. Too much of any one ingredient can make it overly tart or too sweet. The drink was beautifully presented with edible flowers floating inside. I took a sip, and I was completely taken aback. I actually had to step away from everyone to savor a few more sips in private before I could even process what I was experiencing.
Then I declared, without hesitation, this was 100%, hands down the absolute best lemonade I’ve ever had … anywhere, ever. I couldn’t believe how incredible it was. I always thought lemonade had a maximum level of goodness, that it was just lemonade after all, but this was something entirely different. It tasted like it was crafted to perfection, as if this was the way lemonade was always meant to be, nutritious, incredibly refreshing and downright divine.
1. Vibrant lavender lemonade with edible flowers from Lemon and Lily. SAMANTHA DELLILO/Keys Weekly. 2. Lemon and Lily is nested on Caroline Street in Key West.
LOCAL CHAMBER BRINGS TASTE THE KEYS FOOD TOUR
The Key Largo Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center announces the inaugural Taste the Keys food tour, which promises to tantalize your taste buds and showcase the vibrant culinary scene of the Florida Keys.
If I lived within 30 minutes of Lemon and Lily, I’d be there every single day, no questions asked. I’d take this lavender lemonade over any coffee or other daily drink, by far. Noticing my excitement, she offered me a small-batch Italian ice pop. Made with local ingredients and hand-poured, the banana flavor was a standout. I loved it; it tasted like pureed bananas with a little touch of something extra. I could easily eat this ice pop for breakfast!
The “lily” in Lemon and Lily is represented by Holly, who has a background in floristry, while Krystal brings the vision. The two complement one another so well and it shows. They take pride in their fresh flowers, which are restocked weekly from trusted farms. You can choose from pre-made bouquets or create your own. As I admired the flowers, somehow thriving in the 97-degree heat, and sipped my lemonade and watched a few butterflies flutter by, I thought, this little slice of heaven, Lemon and Lily, is brimming with life, health and positivity. It’s a perfect spot for a bit of self-care and a treat. Even though it was my first visit, it already felt strangely nostalgic.
Be sure to check out their Instagram @LemonAndLilyKeyWest or stop by whenever you can, as they have a lot more coming soon. They’ll be offering dirty sodas, gourmet pantry items, fruit lattes and artisanal goods, among other things. Believe me, I’ll be visiting Lemon and Lily every chance I get — I’ve never had anything better. It’s a tiny spot that was a delightful escape; you walk away already planning your next visit.
This new event replaces the annual cookoff, adding a fresh twist with a curated tour of the area’s finest dining spots.
On Oct. 17, the culinary journey will take you to five distinct locations throughout Key Largo, where you’ll enjoy a diverse range of sample-sized dishes paired with a drink at each stop. From mouth-watering appetizers to indulgent desserts, every bite is included in one flat fee.
Taste the Keys food tour stops Include:
• Key Largo Fisheries
• Playa Largo Resort
• The Catch Restaurant
• Italian Food Company
• Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen II
The tour kicks off at Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen II, where guests will gather to board the trolley for the evening. The event will adhere to a strict schedule. The trolley departs at 5 p.m. Address details for the meeting point will be provided upon ticket purchase.
Tickets are $100 per person for Key Largo Chamber members and $125 per person for nonchamber members. Spaces are limited.
More information is available at 305-451-1414 or via email to events@keylargochamber.org. — Contributed
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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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’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.
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Publish: September 12, 2024
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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
E-mail Addresses: Thomas.mcguire@saul.com shar-ann.callahan@saul.com
Florida Bar No. 32729 SAUL EWING LLP
161 North Clark Street, Suite 4200
Chicago, Illinois 60601
Telephone: (312) 87607195
Publish: September 5 & 12, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION CASE NUMBER: 24-CP-404-K IN RE: ESTATE OF PATRICK DANIEL NOWICKI Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the Estate of PATRICK DANIEL NOWICKI, deceased, whose date of death was April 7, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is: September 5, 2024.
Personal Representative: CHRISTOPHER NOWICKI 8704 Hahn Road Fredonia, New York, 14063
Attorney for Personal Representative: PAUNECE SCULL, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 729477 paunece@scullpa.com
SCULL & SCULL, P.A. 302 Southard Street, Ste. 105 Key West, Florida 33040
TEL: (305) 407-6897
Publish: September 5 & 12, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24-DR-466-K WEBENS LAUTURE, Petitioner, and ANDREA URBANOVA, Respondent. NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT)
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-
372-381 OR2348-1974/75 OR2380-335D/C OR2380-337 OR2389-84 OR2543-1198
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
Description of Property: LT 49 SUGARLOAF TOWNSITE PB3-180 SUGARLOAF KEY OR518-498 OR827-654 OR975-338 OR1073-996 OR1115-2188C OR1115-2189C OR1810-1163 OR3072-1298
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
- Security Officer
THEME: AT THE SUPERMARKET
ACROSS
1. Marriott hotel chain
6. Lockheed Martin Corporation
@NYSE
9. Desert in central Asia
13. Tinder user?
14. Distinctive period in history
15. Munchausen’s title
16. Likewise
17. Campfire leftover
18. Jason Bateman/Laura Linney TV drama
19. *Traditionally clipped
21. *OS in POS at the supermarket
23. Bro’s sibling
24. “____ there, done that”
25. T in Greek
28. FBI’s cold one
30. Windshield ____, pl.
35. “The ____ for Red October”
37. Coach of Dallas Mavericks
39. Bow’s partner
40. Black and white killer
41. Be in accord
43. First word in fairy tale
44. Formerly known as Pleasant Island
46. Long-lasting Steelers coach
47. TV’s “man named Brady”
48. *GO in BOGO
50. French “place”
52. 6th sense
53. Adored one
55. What cruelty and crush have in common
57. *Dairy aisle package
60. *S&H Green ____
63. Non motorized vessel
64. I have
*Sign-on
66. Nev.’s neighbor
68. Offspring, collectively
69. Rank above maj.
70. Visual
71. QBR in football, e.g.
72. Will Ferrell’s Christmas classic
73. Like a gymnast
DOWN
1. *What registers do
2. Nonclerical
3. Football legend Graham
4. Unborn vertebrate
5. ____ of Cancer
6. *Like freezer aisle “Cuisine”
7. “____ Robinson” by Simon & Garfunkel
8. California/Nevada lake
9. Mediterranean Strip
10. Not written
11. Dull one
12. Pen juice
15. Home to Sarajevo
20. Port city in Japan
22. Like marines in slogan
24. Cowboy’s bedding
25. Flip-flop
26. Plural of aura
27. Adam Sandler’s “____ Gems”
29. Manual communication gesture
31. High school ball
32. Bert’s TV buddy
33. Ice in a cocktail
34. *TV’s “Supermarket ____”
36. Tropical tuber
38. *Sliced items section
42. Choose a president
45. “____ we stand, divided we fall”
49. Tokyo, once
51. Adenine’s partner in RNA
54. Chilled (2 words)
56. Savory taste sensation
57. *Rolling supermarket carrier
58. Dwarf buffalo
59. Type of canal, in dentistry
60. Ego’s main concern
61. Surveyor’s map
62. Accompanies relief
63. “Big Three” TV network
65. Radio knob, abbr.
ATM extra
