Situated on the ocean side of Marathon, this parcel presents immense opportunity. Zoned Residential Low, construct 1 home on 4.5 acres to enjoy your very own estate-like property. Rest assured that the necessary market rate building right conveys with the land. Imagine entering through a private gate and venturing down a long, winding driveway that leads through a gorgeous, natural canopy of vegetation to arrive at your estate. Residential low zoning allows for a home of up to six bedrooms, and the immense lot size has room for amenities galore. Construct multiple garages to house luxury vehicles, a pickleball and/or tennis court, putting green, gym, attached guest home, and infinity pool, plus lush gardens and landscaping. Enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding or relax among the serene Atlantic views from the future home and observation platform dock. Partner with the owners to build, or select your own construction team. The possibilities are endless. With Marathon's private airport only 3 minutes away, fly in and out easily. Enjoy a day trip to Key West, Islamorada or take a scenic 2.5 hour drive up to South Florida. If constructing an estate-style home on 4.5 acres is something you've been dreaming of, this is your prime opportunity. Discover your 1 of 1.
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News Deadline
Tuesday Noon
Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.
U.S. Sens. Rick Scott and Marco Rubio have introduced legislation that would increase the maximum reward amount from $15 million to $100 million for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro, who was indicted by the U.S. Department of Justice in 2020 on drug-trafficking charges.
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
MARATHON SOLIDIFIES BUDGET, STAFF RAISES
City council confirms: no tax increases
Marathon reaffirmed its commitment not to raise property taxes for 2024-25 at its final budget hearing on Sept. 24 – but not without another short round of sparring over staff raises for the coming year.
Unanimously approved on Tuesday night, the 2024-25 operating budget was set at $136,353,198, supported by a millage rate of 2.2235 mills – equal to $222.35 paid by homeowners per $100,000 of taxable assessed value.
In addition to cost of living and merit-based raises for staff, changes for the new year include adjustments to staff salaries based on a recentlycompleted study comparing city salaries to those of comparable positions in nearby jurisdictions.
As outlined by Finance Director Jennifer Johnson, staff additions include a deputy city manager position, three battalion chiefs for Marathon Fire Rescue along with the removal of a deputy chief, three full-time and two part-time positions for the Parks and Recreation department, two full-time positions for the Public Works department, and three new full-time positions for street maintenance as the city assumes landscaping duties from FDOT along the U.S. 1 corridor.
The budget includes $400,000 to help fund the city’s first-time home buyers’ program, along with $8.5 million allocated to begin Marathon’s required deep wastewater injection well project. Other appropriations include $265,000 for City Hall improvements, $400,000 for new fire hydrants, $2.2 million for construction at the Seven Mile Marina, $100,000 for design of a multi-use facility on 33rd Street, $470,000 for Oceanfront Park improvements, $350,000 for Seven Mile Park improvements, $400,000 for new bathroom facilities at the Quay, $616,000 for Marathon Community Park improvements and $2.3 million for road and bridge improvements.
Johnson said Tuesday night’s original budget proposal would consume roughly $348,000 of the city’s general fund reserves, leaving the city still with 1 year and 35 days of operational expenses in reserve.
Dubier and Alicia Rojas exemplify the spirit of the Best of Marathon Awards as they claim the Best Pool Service title for their company, Spotless Pool Cleaning. For full awards coverage, see page 24. PHOTO DESIGN BY NATALIE/Contributed
Though the council agreed at its Sept. 17 session to a 3% cost of living increase and 2% of employee salaries to be distributed as merit-based raises for high performers by department heads, Mayor Robyn Still immediately reopened the discussion, saying she was in favor of higher increases.
Councilman Jeff Smith, a strong advocate for data-based cost of living adjustment (COLA) increases in prior sessions, recommended the council establish an accepted standard for future adjustments to avoid an annual debate. He suggested that staff COLA raises should mirror those of the city’s lone contractually-obligated annual increase, given to accounting firm Bishop Rosasco & Co. for financial services, based on regional South Florida COLA statistics published in June.
Though Smith’s proposal initially found full agreement with a COLA number of 3.5%, Still and Luis Gonzalez later pushed for a 4% cost of living adjustment and 2.5% merit raise, with Still comparing the local cost of grocery staples to their mainland equivalents.
Smith and councilman Kenny Matlock said that while they were in favor of rewarding top performers, they were hesitant to create compounding increases with permanent raises as opposed to one-time bonuses. Smith and Vice Mayor Lynn Landry added that under the current proposal, top employees could still earn more than the prescribed 2% through department heads’ discretionary distribution of available funds, with poor-performing employees awarded less than the average number.
All five members eventually approved staff raises totaling 6%, with 4% set for cost of living adjustments for all employees and 2% of salaries to be distributed by department heads as merit increases.
The Weekly contacted Johnson by phone on the morning of Sept. 25 for clarification on the budget impacts of the altered staff raises, but did not receive a response before press time.
BEST FINE DINING BEST OVERALL RESTAURANT just got Better in Date night Marathon!!!
A complimentary bottle of our house wine will be presented to our guests when ordering two entrées from our Special Menu. Our house sake will accompany our Sushi Specials. This o er will continue throughout October.
Here we are, celebrating another successful year in our thriving town community. Thank you Marathon Weekly for putting on this much anticipated annual event. Congratulations to the winners in all of the traditional categories as well as the new, interesting and fun additions.
We are grateful and honored for our locals who keep us in business and have become our dear friends over the years. Thank you is an understatement.
Lastly, I would like to thank the lobster house family who somehow, every day, pull it o to bring our guests a happy experience from the kitchen to the table.
Many Thanks, Maria Ely
71 Dorsett Dr., Grassy Key
3 bed / 2 bath, 1,230 SF, Spacious Open Living Areas, Impact Windows, Metal Roof, Covered Parking, RV/Boat Parking, Tons of Storage, Owners enjoy Private Boat Ramp Privileges
Offered at $820,000
211 S. Anglers Dr., Marathon
4 bed / 3 bath, 2,464 SF, Built in 2020, 100’ Composite Dock, Large Balconies, Open Floor Plan, Walk-in Closets, Impact Windows, Garage, Pool, Active Rental, A Short Walk to Sombrero Beach
Offered at $2,595,000
22532 Jolly Roger Dr., Cudjoe
3 bed / 2 bath, 1,288 SF, Spacious Open Living Areas, Built in 2019, Metal Roof, Impact Windows, Pool & Spa, Large Covered Entertainment Area, Composite Dock w/ Lift, Ocean Front
Offered at $1,775,000
11295 3rd Ave. Gulf, Marathon
3 bed / 2 bath, 1,926 SF, Big Open Floor Living Areas, 75’ Dockage w/ Lift, Heated & Chilled Pool, Garage, Waterside Tiki, Active Rental, Laundry, Screened Lanai
Offered at $1,650,000
P.A.
PL AZA GRILL
COUNTY OPENS EMERGENCY OPS CENTER
Storm coordination call follows ribbon cutting in Marathon
Monroe County’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) officially opened on Sept. 23 at the west end of the Marathon airport. Later the same day, the $37 million facility hosted its first storm coordinating call to hear from experts at the National Weather Service Key West (NWS-KW) about the path of Potential Tropical Cyclone 9 (PTC 9) and its possible effects on the Florida Keys. A tropical storm watch was issued for Monroe County as of 5 p.m. on Sept. 23.
As of Wednesday morning, a tropical storm warning was issued for the entire Florida Keys and most of the Sunshine State. Coastal flooding of 1-3 feet is expected from Wednesday evening through Thursday evening in the Keys. Frequent squalls could bring wind gusts of 55-65 mph across the Keys, according to the National Weather Service – Key West. Rains could bring 2-4 inches, and as much as 6 inches in some locations, through Friday. Helene officially became a hurricane late Wednesday morning as it is expected to approach northwest Florida late Thursday or early Friday.
EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER STATS:
• 28,321 square feet.
• Built to withstand 220 mph winds.
• Meets criteria for a Hurricane Shelter Safe Room, which are intended to provide near-absolute protection against wind forces and the impact of wind-borne debris, according to FEMA.
• First floor flood elevation: 20.2 ft. (17 ft. above ground).
• Can sustain and protect up to 150 people for up to 96 hours, including food, drinking water, redundant generators for electric power and wastewater storage.
• Emergency communications via redundant fiber optic network services, plus satellite phone/internet service
As is the case for all storms, residents and visitors are encouraged to follow storm updates and take protective actions, such as securing outdoor items and ensuring boats are secure with properly working bilge pumps. There is a potential for downed trees and sporadic power outages. New EOC put to immediate use
“With facilities like the new Monroe County Emergency Operations Center, we can better lead our communities through disasters and build a more resilient Florida,” Kevin Guthrie, executive director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, said from Tallahassee while prepping for PTC 9.
Monroe County was the last of Florida’s 67 counties to build a dedicated EOC. State and federal grant money funded its construction.
The facility will house:
• Monroe County Emergency Management
• Monroe County Sheriff’s Office
911 communications
• Monroe County Fire Rescue administration
“This is a major safety enhancement for our community that has been a long time in the making that will allow for continuity of services before, during and after a disaster,” Monroe County Mayor Holly Merrill Raschein said. “There was a great deal of thought put into this project, and I would like to express a special appreciation to the staff and all of those involved.”
— Contributed
warning coordination meteorologist Jon Rizzo walks guests through a forecast screen in the new EOC. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
Florida State Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez, Monroe County Mayor Holly Merrill Raschein and Monroe County Director of Emergency Management Shannon Weiner join commissioners, staff and emergency management partners for the opening of the new Emergency Operations Center in Marathon. The facility will be the incident command center in the event of hurricanes or other disasters. KRISTEN LIVENGOOD/Monroe County
From left, MCSO Lt. Charlene Sprinkle, Sheriff Rick Ramsay, Monroe County’s Shannon Weiner and Kimberly Matthews and MCSO Maj. Don Hiller show off the new EOC’s 911 dispatch center. JASON KOLER/Keys Weekly
LEADERSHIP MATTERS
• Former Commanding Of cer of Naval Air Station Key West and F-14 Naval Flight Of cer (Retired)
• Key West City Manager 2007-2012 and 2014-2019
• Appointed Monroe County Commissioner District 3 in 2022
• 2024 Graduate of the Florida Association of Counties (certi ed) County Commissioner Program
• Florida Defense Support Commission Member
• Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council Member
• Former Sigsbee Charter School Board Member (11 years) and President (5 years)
• Military Affairs Committee Member
• Florida Federal Executive Board Member (3 years)
• Key West Sunrise Rotary Club member and past President
• Navy League of the United States Key West Council Member
• International Propeller Club of the U.S. Port of Key West Member
• Life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
COUNTY COMMISSION APPROVES SPENDING PLAN & TAX RATE
Monroe County commissioners approved a $715.7 million spending plan for the 2025 fiscal year — a $48.7 million increase from the previous year — during a recent budget hearing in Key Largo.
With the finalized budget and countywide average property values, a homesteaded residential property owner with an average appraised taxable value of $500,777.90 will see a $2.54 monthly increase for countywide services in their property tax for the upcoming fiscal year. Of the total taxable value in Monroe County, 20% is from homesteaded properties.
Non-homesteaded residential properties, with an average taxable value of $922,891.20, make up 59% of the taxable value. Non-homesteaded properties would see a $17 per month increase. Commercial property and vacant land represent 17% and 4% of taxable value, respectively.
Property values continue to increase in Monroe County, with a total taxable value of $46.2 billion, another historic high. Property values have doubled in the past eight years, and rose 10.6% percent compared to last year.
Of the total budget, $156 million is ad valorem (or from property taxes); 70.8 percent of the ad valorem tax funds public safety (like law enforcement, fire rescue, detention centers, medical examiner, and the health department), and 22.2 percent funds the constitutional
officers’ operating costs.
Some notable increases reflect rises in prices for vendor contracts, fuel, supplies, personnel costs and property insurance.
“The total ad valorem tax levy funds everything it takes to run this county from personnel, police, fire rescue, electric in county buildings, parks and beach improvements, children, senior and Veterans services, trash collection, and more,” said Assistant County Administrator Kevin Wilson. “The rest of the budget is funded by sales tax, state shared revenues, license and permit fees, fines and forfeitures, and service charges.”
Per county officials, 12 full-time vacant staff positions were eliminated from the budget, a savings of $1.3 million. The approved spending plan also includes more than $2.2 million for 30 communitybased nonprofit organizations.
County officials say the budget also reflects continued investment in roads and bridges, resilience adaptation, facilities and public safety, including funding for the three new Trauma Star helicopters (spread out over several years). Funds were also included for operational costs of the new Emergency Operations Center, 24 firefighters who have been paid through a Safer Grant for the past three years. The budget also will fund a new Sugarloaf Fire Station, a replacement fire truck, ambulance and the addition of two new fire rescue boats.
COMMERCE CORNER
Established in 2013, Florida Keys Therapy & Wellness LLC (formerly In Home Therapy of Monroe County) provides Occupational Therapy rehabilitation services including generalized strengthening, balance training and fall prevention. Florida Keys Therapy & Wellness also offers wellness and fitness through therapeutic yoga, and client centered exercise sessions, including programs for Parkinson's and post-Covid weakness.
Owner, Christy Minor specifically specializes in the rehabilitation of the upper extremity shoulder, arm, elbow, wrist and hand and is the only Certified Hand Therapist in the middle or upper Keys. She is also the only ASTYM certified therapist in the area and is certified in Therapeutic Dry Needling. She has recently added Kaasen Cryo-therapy to the list of services.
"When I interviewed for graduate school over 25 years ago, I was asked why I wanted to be an occupational therapist and my answer was that I wanted to help people regain their function and independence after injury or illness and that desire has never changed," said Minor.
L. Minor (Owner)
Florida Keys Therapy & Wellness, LLC
PIXABAY
2-year-old Weimaraner mix.
Looking for: My one and only, and to be your one and only.
Turnoffs: Most things that aren’t ME. I’m the star.
SWIPE RIGHT
Adorable furry faces are waiting for families at the Florida Keys SPCA
Keys Weekly is thrilled each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for their perfect adoption “match” at the Florida Keys SPCA’s Marathon campus – complete with their best qualities, preferences and turnoffs to ensure the best fit.
From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you at one of the SPCA’s two campuses, in Key West and Marathon. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.
See all the animals waiting for a home at fkspca.org. To contact the Marathon campus, call 305-743-4800 or visit 10550 Aviation Blvd.
Hurricane fosters needed. With hurricane season upon us, the SPCA needs volunteers and fosters in case of a storm. Over 100 animals would need to be evacuated, so it is crucial they all have homes in place before an impending storm. The SPCA provides everything you need; all
ITCHY
1-year-old male domestic shorthair.
Looking for: Someone who wants two cats, so my brother can come, too.
Turnoffs: Nothing. I am one friendly, happy, cool dude.
ADOPTION UPDATE:
Marathon’s very own cancerfighting rock star Mallory recently joined the foster failure club. She said, “After trying to find the perfect home for this unique girl (now named Mavis), she realized before I did that she was already home.”
you do is give an animal a safe haven during the storm and return them to the shelter once it’s safe – that is, if you don’t fall in love. For more information on becoming a hurricane foster, visit https://fkspca.org/volunteer/becomea-foster-volunteer/ or call 305-7434800.
HOW MUCH HOUSING CAN $35M CREATE?
Tourism board starts talks about how to spend its surplus
MANDY MILES
mandy@keysweekly.com
The Florida Keys got one-time approval from the state to spend $35 million of surplus tourism revenue on affordable housing. But that may have been the easy part.
Now an assortment of government officials, elected politicians, property owners, developers, tourism experts and hospitality professionals have to agree on how and where to spend the money to benefit the most working residents and get the most for their money.
“We don’t want this to become a food fight,” county Mayor Holly Raschein, who sits on the Tourist Development Council (TDC) board, said at the Sept. 17 TDC meeting. That agency collects tourism tax revenue from visitors, known as bed tax. That money is typically spent to advertise the Keys and special events and for capital improvements to tourism-based properties.
But last year, the Florida Legislature authorized the TDC to spend a $35 million surplus — collected largely during the COVID pandemic — on affordable housing for workers in tourism industries.
The Sept. 17 TDC meeting marked the beginning of discussions on how best to spend the money.
“The county commission had discussed putting together a committee that includes all the stakeholders in this, including the lodging association, the restaurant association, the chambers of commerce and others to figure out how to use these funds,” Raschein said. “Everyone this is supposed to help should be involved in these discussions. If we put the housing where it’s needed and
charge what we need to charge to keep it affordable, then I think we can spend this money wisely.”
The rest of the board agreed with involving all the groups she mentioned, along with the Key West and Monroe County housing authorities, as well as Habitat for Humanity and AH Monroe, which have experience building and operating affordable housing.
The lion’s share of the tourism revenue comes from the Key West area, known as District Advisory Committee 1 (DAC1), “But we’ll need to identify available land and may consider working with the private sector to build and manage this,” Raschein said. “Key West may not have a lot of space where housing can be built, but maybe we can put some housing right outside Key West, where that workforce lives.”
Tentative discussion was had about divvying up the $35 million among the five districts of the Keys, according to the percentage of tourism revenue each collects, but again, discussions are just beginning.
Jodi Weinhoder, president of the Lodging Association of the Florida Keys & Key West, reminded the TDC board that “we need this housing yesterday, and our workers need this housing yesterday.”
Weinhofer suggested that the committee consider using some of the money to buy existing multi-unit properties that can be converted into small apartments based on the need rather than having to find and acquire land, then design the buildings and construct them. Her suggestion was well received by the board.
The county commissioners are expected to revisit the discussion at their October meeting.
BLIPPI
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
2 bedroom, 2 bath mobile home centrally located in mid Marathon. Large screened porch. 50 X 97lot. Reduced $325,000 MLS# 610518
LARGE SOMBRERO WATERFRONT DUPLEX
2 Bedrooms, 2 baths each side in this 2,752 sq ft duplex located on a 10,000 sq ft lot.. Great deep water access to the ocean or Gulf. Listed at appraised value. $1,800,000
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! Mon - Fri 11am to Close Sat & Sun 10am to Close
HAPPY HOUR 1-4PM $7 Menu
• Chicken wings, chicken livers and More!
• 32 beers on tap 1/2 off 2pm - 3pm
* $2 Pints of Yuengling and Bud Light!
BREAKFAST SERVED UNTIL 2PM
• Unique & interesting menu
• $3 Mimosas • $5 Breakfast Shots
LUNCH & DINNER
• Lobster Enchiladas
• Diver Speared Local Fish
• Prime Rib • Local Lobster
• Cook Your Own Catch
• Great Seafood Selections
SUSHI
• Toro • Lionfish • Poke • Hamachi collar
• Fresh Uni arrives on Thursday
ELECTION COMPLAINT FILED AGAINST 2 REPUBLICAN LEADERS
Governor assigns investigation to neutral state attorney
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
Elections always elicit accusations, aspersions and innuendo — but those attacks typically come from opposing political parties.
Such is not the case these days in the Florida Keys, where a Republican voter filed a formal complaint against two leaders of the county’s Republican Executive Committee, alleging “election fraud and unlawful disbursement of funds” by treasurer Sherri Hodies and chairwoman Rhonda Rebman Lopez. Hodies is currently the Republican candidate for the county’s supervisor of elections, running against Democrat Ron Saunders.
Key West resident Phyllis May, a registered Republican, filed the complaint on July 26 with Monroe County State Attorney Dennis Ward, who is also a Republican and a member of the REC. (May is not a member of the executive committee.)
May opposed the Republican Executive Committee’s endorsement of its treasurer, Hodies, for the office of supervisor of elections. The endorsement, which came with a $20,000 campaign donation to Hodies, was done without the necessary number of votes, according to the committee’s bylaws, May wrote to Dennis Ward.
Endorsements require approval of at least 60% of the executive committee members present and voting, May wrote.
“At the time of the vote there were 63 members of the REC. A majority of the full committee would have been 32 members voting to endorse. The vote was 20 to endorse; 18 not to endorse. The vote fell short by 12 to endorse,” the complaint states.
When asked by the Keys Weekly about the votes not meeting the required threshold, and some REC members’ complaints about the endorsement, Rebman Lopez said, “The vote tallies and total were taken to the highest levels of the Republican Party of Florida by me and they told me that as chair, to make the call, and I did.”
May’s July complaint further states, “There was no mention that there was also another qualified Republican candidate in the race. It was not a vote to decide which candidate to endorse. The vote was to endorse Ms. Hodies or not.”
Given Ward’s membership in the REC — and his subsequent personal support for Hodies’ Republican primary opponent, Margaret Romero — Ward recused himself from investigating May’s complaint, to avoid a conflict of interest. As is protocol, Ward notified the governor’s office of the complaint and requested that it be reassigned to another state attorney in Florida to investigate.
That reassignment occurred this week when Gov. Ron DeSantis on Sept. 20 signed Executive Order 24-203, sending the matter to “the Honorable Amira D. Fox, state attorney for the Twentieth Judicial Circuit of Florida, who agreed to accept an executive assignment in this matter.”
“All residents of the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit (Monroe County) are requested, and all public officials are directed, to cooperate and render whatever assistance is necessary to the Assigned State Attorney, so that justice may be served,” the executive order states.
In response to the complaint that was filed, and to Ward’s request that the governor reassign it for investigation, Rebman Lopez told the Keys Weekly on Sept. 24: “Dennis Ward is doing exactly what the Democrats are doing to Trump — trying to use the courts to interfere with an election. Ward’s complaint is that the Republican Party is trying to help a Republican get elected. This is how desperately the Democrats want to control the elections department in Monroe County, that they stoop to these desperate and frivolous complaints.”
When the Keys Weekly reminded Lopez that Ward is a Republican and a member of the REC, she said, “He’s a RINO,” (meaning Republican in Name Only).
“The Democrats are trying to take Sherri Hodies off the ballot the same way they tried to take Trump off the ballot, and we cannot allow the corrupt Democrats to take control of our elections,” Lopez said. “Sherri Hodies, the real Republican candidate for supervisor of elections, won the primary by more than 20%. The Republican voters of Monroe County have clearly spoken. The frivolous allegations of election fraud center around the local party’s endorsement process, which was voted upon by a majority of all members present and subsequently approved by the Republican Party of Florida. This complaint is meritless and will be dismissed in due time,” Lopez said.
Hodies was asked for a comment about the complaint, and said she would make a statement, but had not gotten back to the Keys Weekly as of press time on Sept. 25.
BEACHY CLEAN
Coco Plum Beach gets some help on Landry Sayer Clean the Curb Day
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
Coco Plum Beach got an earlymorning makeover on Sept. 21 when a cleaning crew hit the sands for Marathon’s annual Landry Sayer Clean the Curb Day.
Now in its fourth year, the event began when then-6-year-old Landry Sayer petitioned the city council to “Stop Trashing Marathon” with a video of herself cleaning roadside litter on her daily walks.
On Saturday morning, volunteers swept the beach and mangroves en route to collecting dozens of bags of trash, all loaded into city vehicles for proper disposal.
“Thank you to the city of Marathon, Luis Gonzalez and Mayor Still for making this happen for another year,” the youngest Sayer said. “When I see people litter, it just makes me want to clean up even more.”
1. The Sayer family welcomes volunteers to the fourth Clean the Curb Day. 2. Crews head back to the parking lot with full bags after a successful cleanup. 3. Crews divide and conquer to give Coco Plum Beach a spa day. 4. As they do every year, deputies from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office add their support to the cleanup efforts. 5. William Chapman, left, Lilly Hutchinson and Landry Sayer fill their bags. 6. Freida Landry clears a mess of discarded fishing line. ROSS SMITH/IslandExposureCo
WELCOMING NEW PATIENTS
Dr. Christopher Forsee, DMD is seamlessly taking the reins from the iconic “Barefoot Dentist,” Dr. Troxel, where the laid-back vibe extends even to the choice of footwear.
Dr. Forsee delivers personalized comprehensive dental care tailored to your needs. Whether it's routine maintenance or advanced procedures, trust Dr. Forsee to rejuvenate your smile with meticulous precision and compassionate care.
GIVE IT A SHOT: AUDITIONS ARE THIS WEEKEND AT MARATHON COMMUNITY THEATRE
Marathon Community Theatre will host open auditions for three of its main-stage productions – “Always a Bridesmaid,” “Nunsense” and “The Siegel” – on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 28 and 29. Auditions will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. on both days for line reading in all three shows, with an additional morning session for singing and dancing from 10 a.m. to noon both days. Anyone auditioning for the musical “Nunsense” must attend at least one line reading session and one vocal/dance session. Previous theater experience is always welcome, but is not required. For those who are interested in the theater but prefer to stay out of the spotlight, there are many additional volunteer opportunities available. More information is at www.marathontheater.org/ open-auditions. Photo by ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
THANK YOU!
WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL THOSE WHO SUPPORTED OUR EVENT
Sponsored by:
Bar Sponsors
Marathon Liquor & Deli
Wright Barrows PLLC
Coca Cola
Flower Sponsors
The Tackle Box
Flowers by J & J
Dessert Sponsor
Sweet Savannah's
Photographers
Photo Design by Natalie
Ross Smith
Thank you to all who participated in the making of Marathon Undercover Boss video.
Special Thank you to our
Guest Announcers:
John Bartus
Maggie Sayer
Sam Williams
Michelle Lincoln
Sean McDonald
Kelly Williams
Special Thanks to our Volunteers: Lyne e Remund
Erin Arne
Mike Card
Brandi Card
Kelly Judd
Bo Rosenblat
Brian Capo
Annie Wilson
Blair Shiver
Beth Ramsay Vickrey
Amanda Matyi
Garre Hale
Brian Tewes
George Garre
Kristina Helms
Mike Puto
Very Special Thank you to the amazing staff at Hawks Cay Resort!
I have knocked on more than 12,250 doors in Monroe County to meet and listen to the voters I am running to represent. Here’s what I heard:
“It’s time for a fresh perspective!”
“I’m concerned about corruption in the county.”
We don’t need someone from the establishment in that office.” “Where is the accountability?”
I agree! My entire campaign has been centered on Transparency and Integrity - Promised! My focus as your next Supervisor of Elections will be on running honest, efficient elections with the same commitment I’ve brought to every job I’ve held.
As vote-by-mail ballots are arriving, and early in-person voting begins soon, I humbly ask for the endorsement that matters most - YOURS! Please vote Sherri Hodies for Monroe County Supervisor of Elections.
Paid by Sherri Hodies, Republican, for Supervisor of Elections
FL Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez
Congressman Carlos Giménez
Four Critical Questions To Ask When Making a Succession Plan for Your Business
By First Horizon Bank
Marlon has spent years building his business.
Focusing on the hot niche of on-demand food delivery, he helps restaurants set up “ghost kitchens” with no dining rooms to fulfill more orders faster. His expertise in choosing ideal locations and setting up streamlined kitchens ensures that his company continually experiences growth.
But what would happen to the business if something happened to Marlon?
Although Marlon is fictional, this is one of the critical questions that Jennifer Schuchart, First Horizon Bank Market President, and Paul Lankau, a Financial Advisor at First Horizon Advisors Inc., ask business owners when they sit down to make or update a succession plan.
“Like all of us, business owners don’t know what they don’t know,” Schuchart explains. “Most successful entrepreneurs started out with a great business plan, but may not have revisited it while the business continued to grow.”
Making a succession plan is like making a business plan – but perhaps even more important.
“Business owners spend their days working to build and keep their business running. There’s not much time to think about what happens if they die early – or when they’re ready to retire,” Schuchart says.
Indeed, 72% of business owners haven’t made a succession plan, according to Securian Financial Group. “Those who have, may not have kept it current,” Schuchart says.
Here are the critical questions Schuchart asks business owners planning for the future:
Q1
Would your business be able to continue operating without you?
If Marlon were to unexpectedly become disabled or die, could his business provide for his family?
The firm is valuable – but without the specialized knowledge he brings, who would buy it? Many businesses become devalued if the founder is unexpectedly unable to continue their role.
“We’ve seen companies go out of business when an owner passes away or becomes disabled without a good succession plan,” Schuchart says.
Considerations: Identify a successor and help them build their knowledge. If that includes an ownership stake, the plan can include a buy/sell agreement or a purchase over time.
Marlon chose his two children as his successors and trained them to do what he does. “This allows his successors to fulfill every existing contract,” Schuchart says.
Others may choose an associate or a partner as their successor.
Q2
What would happen if your partner unexpectedly exited the business?
Whether it’s through a sudden death, divorce or other circumstances, sometimes a business partner can no longer fill their role. Without a plan, this can lead to undesirable situations. “Imagine being in business with your partner’s spouse?” Schuchart asks. Having someone else you have no working relationship with inherit your partner’s share could bring uncertainty to your business’s future.
One solution is a buy/sell agreement that allows the company or remaining partner to purchase the former’s share.
But what if neither the company nor the remaining partner has the funds to purchase the share?
Considerations: “Plan for an unexpected buyout using life insurance. To fund a buy/sell agreement, the company can hold insurance on partners. If one passes away, the company can purchase their stake,” Lankau says.
Q3
What if some of your kids are involved in the business but the others are not?
Marlon knows that his two children want to take over the business one day. But what if Marlon had a third child who wanted nothing to do with commercial kitchens?
He wants to leave something to his third child, but most of his net worth is tied up in his business. To avoid conflict, he wouldn’t want to leave them a share of a business controlled by their siblings.
Considerations: There are many solutions. “Life insurance could play a role,” says Lankau. Marlon could purchase a policy and name the child not inheriting the business as sole beneficiary.
A buy/sell agreement can work if it’s written in a way the third child can sell their stake back to the company.
Q4 How will you retire?
Most business owners plan to use wealth they hold in their business to fund their retirement. However, since most don’t have a succession plan, they may not know how to get the money they’ll need to do so.
“They may know where they are now, and where they want to be when they transition out, but have zero idea of how to get from here to there,” Schuchart says.
Considerations: Business owners who plan for retirement early on are better equipped to transition smoothly, whether they retain an ownership stake with dividends or diversify their savings by funding retirement accounts while still working. Others may plan to sell the business and use the proceeds for retirement.
Addressing these questions helps business owners feel confident about their exit plan.
“The way I describe it to clients is, the plan to take off and fly a plane doesn’t mean much if you can’t land it. The same goes for the best business plans,” Schuchart says. “A lifetime of hard work can be undone without a succession plan.”
For a successful transition, It’s wise for owners to partner with an expert team for the most tax-efficient, safe and effective methods to reach their goals.
Explore First Horizon’s resources or connect with market president Dwight Hill at 305-808-2223 or dwight.hill@firsthorizon.com.
BEST OF MARATHON BRINGS COMMUNITY TOGETHER
An
evening of laughter, celebration and philanthropy
More than 300 business owners, civic leaders and elected officials gathered in the Dolphin Ballroom at Hawks Cay this past Saturday as the Keys Weekly Newspapers and Rotary Club of Marathon unveiled the 2024 Best of Marathon winners.
1. County commissioner Michelle Lincoln is accompanied to the award show by Terry Burroughs, a county commissioner in Okeechobee County. Lincoln was nominated as Best Elected Official and was also tasked with presenting awards to local businesses.
2. Tackle Box co-owner Capt. Chris Still, left, and Marathon Mayor Robyn Still, right, mingle with Rotary Club president Brian Tewes and Lorna Sanchez prior to the show starting.
3. Realtor Mallory Pinto excitedly greets Marathon Planning Director Brian Shea and his wife, Kelly.
4. Sheriff Rick Ramsay repeats as Best Elected Official. Pictured with MCSO Capt. Lissette Quntero, who oversees the Islamorada substation.
5. Wolfe Stevens Law Firm associate Dale Coburn, left, pauses for a photo with businessman Todd Childress. Wolfe Stevens was voted Best Law Firm while Childress’ company, Ernest E. Rhodes Plumbing, was voted Best Specialty Contractor.
6. Weekly publisher Jason Koler congratulates Tyrone Leatherwood for winning the inaugural Best Car Detailing award.
7. Ocean Sotheby’s, nominated for Best Real Estate Office, sends a contingent including, from left, Mallory Pinto, Jo Ann Cook and Ally Kelley, who was nominated for Best Realtor. Kelley and Cook are both past recipients of the award.
8. Marathon City Attorney Steve Williams, center, was involved in many of the event’s jokes.
9. Rotary resident Brian Tewes and county commissioner Jim Scholl crack up over one of the bits. The event invariably involves a mini-roast of the current elected officials and local topics.
10. Realtors Josh Mothner and Sam Williams share a laugh during the event.
11. Betsy and Andy Sharf were unaware that Andy would be recognized for his efforts to fundraise for locals.
12. Monroe County firefighter/EMT Jordan Dewhirst celebrates his friend Cheddar’s win as Best Bartender.
13. Marathon High School art teacher Shannon Wiley wins the award for Best Local Celebrity. He has painted with Wyland and dressed up numerous walls across town with murals featuring marine life.
14. Bartender Rodney Aultman accepts the Brass Monkey’s plaque for Best Late Night Spot.
15. County Mayor Holly Raschein and former state legislator/current supervisor of elections candidate Ron Saunders share their appreciation for the jokes.
Kelly Williams interviewed numerous local dignitaries prior to the start of the show.
Photos by PHOTO DESIGN BY NATALIE/Contributed. See full event and award galleries at keysweekly.com.
Known for throwing legendary fundraisers with his family and coworkers at Overseas Pub and Grill whenever a member of the Marathon community could use a helping hand, Andy Sharf was honored as the Stanley Switlik Philanthropist of the Year on Saturday night.
‘MARATHON, IT’S FINALLY THAT TIME’
Andy Sharf is your Philanthropist of
the Year
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
Typically, at each Best of Marathon ceremony, the Rotary Club and Keys Weekly partner to present special awards to certain individuals and businesses for their contributions to our island over the last year.
This year, the individual we wanted to recognize is so special, we decided to give out just one.
Everyone knows our town comes together in the best of times, but it’s also amazing the way it comes together in the most challenging of times. Presented on Saturday night, this award is all about somebody who does that with the best of them. Because every time someone in town is going through something unimaginable, we all know the five words we’re about to see on Facebook: “Marathon, it’s that time again!”
For quite some time, I’ve been an admirer from afar of this gentleman’s work. But over the last few years working with him to promote his legendary events – and especially this past year when he threw his biggest fundraiser ever to benefit a good friend of mine – I got to see how much he and his family truly make it their life’s mission to spend a few months raising every penny possible for someone who could use a helping hand.
Everyone who’s ever been in a group chat with him for one of these events knows what I’m talking about –to the point where this year, I opened up my phone to a text asking if he was picking the right model, because he was up in Miami about to use stacks of cash to buy a jet ski to raffle off.
On behalf of the Weekly and the Rotary Club, it was my deepest honor to present this year’s Stanley Switlik Philanthropist of the Year award to Andy Sharf.
Photos by Ross Smith and Natalie Danko.
Here at the Keys Weekly, we take the responsibility of serving our community as Marathon’s top locally-owned news source very seriously. In most years, when we write our awards show for the Best of Marathon, we spend hours, days and even weeks doing copious amounts of research to deliver the best possible product on show night. In other years … the jokes pretty much write themselves. After a wild year of headlines, here are our…
SIGNS YOU MIGHT BE FROM MARATHON
You might be from Marathon if…
10. Your family will be featured prominently in “Cocaine Cowboys 3.”
9. Those migrant chugs are the preferred Uber for your company’s staff.
8. The FBI considers your Facebook page a “resource.”
7. You voted Bongos AquaPark as “Best Place to Get a Staph Infection.”
6. Your hot fall “look” includes a “Columbia” fishing shirt, Xtratuf boots and an ankle bracelet.
5. You get your cafe con leche, building permits and black market lottery tickets at the “old Subway.”
4. Your family’s Ancestry.com profile features exorbitant use of the terms “resource violations,” “racketeering” and “melanoma.”
3. You take a jon boat to the grocery store during the rainy season.
2. When you hear the whirl of Trauma Star, you know your fentanyl is about to be delivered.
1. You voted 20th Street as “Best Neighborhood.”
BONUS: You don’t associate with anyone who was not involved in the Trauma Star scandal, Jan. 6 insurrection or cocaine distribution ring.
BY THE NUMBERS
Best of Marathon brings in more than 250,000 votes
Years ago, way back in 2008, the Keys Weekly Newspapers conducted the first few people’s choice awards by producing ballots in the newspaper. Voters would fill in the blanks by hand and then the staff of the Weekly and Marathon Jaycees would spend hours, sometimes counting all through the night, to tabulate the winners. Today Keys Weekly uses a third-party platform for the nomination and voting process.
Nominations
Began at 08/01/2024 at 11:59 a.m.
Ended at 08/18/2024 at 11:59 p.m.
54,845
nominations from 1,806 people
Finalist voting
Began 08/22/2024 at 11:59 a.m.
Closed 09/08/2024 at 11:59 p.m.
263,836
votes from 3,296 people
Votes cast from as far away as Sweden, South Africa and Australia.
78% of the voting came from the 33050 zip code in Marathon
2.5% of the votes came from the Lower Keys
1% came from Key West
WATERFRONT RESTAURANT
Enjoy our daily specials like Homemade Soup or Chowder, Fresh Fish Sandwich or One of our Daily Specials while overlooking Florida Bay! Open for Lunch & Dinner Every Day!
RETAIL STORE
Fish, Soups and Chowders & Key Lime Pie!
THE FIELD EXPANDS
The category list for the Best of Marathon awards is an ever-evolving work in progress, one that we revisit every year in order to come up with the most well-rounded representation of our businesses and community — and ensure plenty of friendly competition. The 2024 awards saw eight new and revamped categories, starting off with La Niña Restaurant’s win in the Best Cuban Sandwich category. With several new places popping up over the past few years, we also added a Best Dessert Spot category – and a perennial favorite in Sweet Savannah’s took home the win.
Have a new category idea for 2025? Email alex@keysweekly.com before you forget!
In our expanded Best Health and Wellness Service category, designed to include all services outside of a primary care provider, Keys Strength trainer Cara O’Neill claimed her prize. And even with added competition, Solé Watersports came out on top in the Best Water Sports/Best Leisure Cruise category.
We had plenty of requests to recognize the people who keep our cars, boats and pools in tip top shape, so we honored Tyrone’s Mobile Car Wash as the Best Car Wash, Cool Runnings Marine Spa as the Best Marine Detailing and Spotless Pool Cleaning as the Best Pool Service – props to Spotless for being the only award winner to show up with a gold-plated prop at the ceremony.
Finally,
Catherine Dunn is the definitive Best Hugger in Marathon.
Best Dessert Spot Sweet Savannah’s
Best Water Sports/Best Leisure Cruise Solé Watersports
Best Hugs Catherine Dunn
Best Health and Wellness Service Cara O’Neill
Best Marine Detailing Cool Runnings Marine Spa
Best Car Wash/Detailing Tyrone’s Mobile Car Wash
Best Pool Service Spotless Pool Cleaning
(Not Pictured) Best Cuban Sandwich - La Niña Restaurant
Photos by ROSS SMITH/IslandExposureCo
Roger Steinfeld,
Joan E. Homan, MD Cardiology
FUTURE STUDENT
Signs in violation of Marathon’s temporary sign law will be removed and collected at City Hall for candidate pickup. CITY OF MARATHON/Contributed
MARATHON ENFORCING TEMPORARY-SIGN LAW
The city of Marathon is diligently enforcing its temporarysign law, which affects campaign signs for those seeking elected office in Monroe County.
Marathon’s law (107.622) unequivocally states that no temporary signs may be placed in the right of way – the space between a road and the boundary of private property.
Also, Marathon limits the amount of signs that can be placed on residential and non-residential private property.
On residential property, up to four signs are allowed, but the cumulative square footage cannot exceed 6 square feet. The sign’s message must be static (no moving electronic lettering, for example) and no lights are allowed on the signs. The signs cannot be taller than 3 feet high. Temporary signs, including campaign signs, cannot be used for more than 60 days per year.
The rules are different for property zoned non-residential, which includes parcels that are zoned commercial or mixed use. City law allows for no more than three temporary signs per parcel. Again, the square footage is cumulative if there is more than one sign and cannot exceed 12 square feet. The signs cannot be taller than 6 feet high. Temporary signs cannot be used for more than 60 days per year.
If the temporary signs of a single candidate, or more than one candidate, violate the rules, all the signs located on that particular parcel will be removed.
Also, the candidate or his or her representative must have the express permission from the property owner or tenant to place campaign signs on private property, whether it is zoned residential or non-residential.
The city is removing signs that violate its law. The candidates or his or her representatives may collect the signs at City Hall.
— Contributed
BLOODY BLOOD …
and those
that suck
Blood. The online reference site Wikipedia defines blood as “a specialized bodily fluid that delivers necessary substances to the body’s cells (in animals) – such as nutrients and oxygen – and transports waste products away from those same cells.” Our circulatory system is the pipeline for delivering that lifesustaining fluid all throughout our body. Without it, we just dry up and die. I know — it’s a real pleasant beginning to this week’s column — which, by the way, isn’t just about blood.
It’s about those ravenous thirsty bloodsuckers.
Now, don’t assume that I’m referring to characters in the Twilight series of movies or any particular member of the U.S. House of Representatives. No. I refer to the bane of our existence here in the Keys, those unwelcome bloodthirsty predators known as mosquitoes.
(Strike horror music chord.)
The mosquito (derived from the Spanish word for “little fly”) is a small yet annoying flying vampire. At least the female mosquitoes are. The male mosquito survives by simply sucking nectar from plants. The females also get nourishment from plant nectar. The problem comes about when the female mosquito gets the urge to reproduce, lay eggs, and create the next generation of little bloodthirsty monsters. The only way a female mosquito can accomplish her task of breeding is to have … A BLOOD MEAL! (Horror music chord.)
That’s where we come into the picture. Now, I’ve lived in the Florida Keys since 1984. I spent a good chunk of the 1960s (Florida’s frontier days) growing up near Cape Canaveral. I lived probably a year of my life in the Tampa/St. Pete area as well. I’ve been around what some have called the Florida State Bird most of my life. I know mosquitoes. And with rare exceptions, I am not nearly bothered by them as much as many other folks. I’ve seen lots of people, many of them visitors, who seem to attract the little buggers and have copious amounts of those little mosquito bite lumps on their arms and legs.
If you’re scratching your head in disbelief (while the other hand is scratching the mosquito bites), there aren’t many good explanations. An online search shows that scientists cite different factors — blood type, uric or lactic
John Bartus is a singer/songwriter, city administrator for Key Colony Beach and the former mayor of Marathon.
acid in sweat, carbon dioxide production, skin bacteria — as to why mosquitoes prefer some humans over others. Most of these online sources go on to state that none of these reasons are conclusive. While this discussion doesn’t comfort me much, I am consoled by the fact that our lives here are basically made possible by Florida Keys Mosquito Control. After the Florida Legislature passed enabling legislation in 1949, Monroe County voters overwhelmingly voted on Nov. 7, 1950 to approve the creation of the Monroe County Anti-Mosquito District.
While methods of reducing mosquito numbers have varied throughout the years, I am exceedingly grateful that these men and women of Mosquito Control do their jobs on a daily basis. Whether it’s larvicide, adulticide, community education or just eliminating the standing water sources that let mosquitoes breed, we have them to thank for the lack of sheer bloodsucking annoyance — as well as mosquito-borne disease prevention.
As I mentioned earlier, I’ve been here since 1984. In those days, Mosquito Control sprayed their insecticide from the engine cowlings of old DC-3 aircraft, mixed with diesel smoke. I had a lot of fun with out-of-town visitors who wondered why the plane was flying so low and then telling them, “Oh no — the engine just exploded!”
Finally, allow me to rebuke the theory that suggests that if a person’s blood alcohol level is high enough, adult female mosquitoes will perish because of alcohol poisoning. As much as we may want to believe it, it’s just not true. It might, however, make getting bitten just a little more tolerable.
— Catch John live Thursdays at Sparky’s Landing, this Friday at Isla Bella, and Sunday afternoons at Skipjack Tiki. Find his music anywhere you download or stream your music. www. johnbartus.com • johnbartus.hearnow. com
JOHN BARTUS
MARATHON CINEMA WILD ROBOT
SILENCED PAGES
The Chilling Reality of Book Banning. #ReadThinkVote
First and foremost a reader, she has reviewed hundreds of books on her blog www. readingandeating. com. And, more recently, this new Keys resident has also begun writing.
THAT LIBRARIAN
By Amanda Jones
Amanda Jones is a small-town librarian in Louisiana. In 2022, Amanda decided to attend a public hearing where “book content” was on the agenda. She was aware from the media that this was a key phrase for certain groups aiming to restrict book availability to the public. Amanda prepared a short statement on the value of a diverse collection and the processes in place when material is challenged. There were some unfamiliar faces at that meeting. She later learned this group, who were strategically seated and vocal, were not members of their community, nor did their children attend the local schools or libraries. It was only after Amanda’s personal Facebook page blew up with derogatory lies and slander that she realized this group was political. With alarming speed and accuracy, Amanda became the victim of a vicious movement aimed at banning books. Avoiding the standard measures, this group put terrifying pressure on the system by placing a target on the librarian’s back. These women and men, most of whom have a master’s degree in library science, have been quieted. Part memoir and manifesto, Amanda stands strong, exposing the current sociopolitical climate regarding books in America.
By Markus Zusak
A powerful story narrated by Death, offering a unique and haunting perspective on life in 1939 Nazi Germany. At first, Death as the narrator may seem unsettling, but as the reader follows young Liesel's journey, this unconventional viewpoint becomes natural. Liesel is taken in by a foster family after losing her own. In a time of extreme suppression and control, books become Liesel’s refuge, and her foster father teaches her to read despite their hardships. The novel’s portrayal of Nazi Germany is deeply connected to the theme of book banning. Liesel steals books from Nazi bonfires, where literature deemed dangerous by the regime is destroyed. Her love for books symbolizes resistance against oppression. The story reflects the power of words, showing how books can be a source of strength and hope in the face of tyranny. Liesel’s bond with the Jewish man her family hides, and her friendship with Rudy, offer deep emotional connections, but all of it is shadowed by the cruelty of a society that bans ideas and burns knowledge. A reminder of the dangers of censorship and the importance of preserving our freedom to read. (The incredible movie adaptation can be seen on Prime Video.)
By Azar Nafisi Azar Nafisi
recounts her return to Iran after studying in England and the U.S., only to witness the rise of the Iranian Revolution. Under the new totalitarian regime, reading and intellectual curiosity are viewed as threats. Nafisi’s memoir reflects on the oppressive nature of censorship and control — an uninformed population is far easier to control. For 18 years, Nafisi navigates life as a woman, wife, mother and educator in a society that stifles learning and culture. Her deep love for teaching English literature at the university becomes suffocating in the restrictive environment of 1980s Iran. After leaving her post, she creates a small reading group in her home, meeting with a few of her brightest, most passionate students every Thursday to discuss authors like Austen, James and Fitzgerald. This secret literary escape allows the women to question their identities and explore possibilities beyond the limitations of Tehran. Nafisi’s memoir is a powerful reflection on the vital importance of literature and intellectual freedom. It highlights how censorship suffocates not only creativity but also the ability to think and dream. The freedom to choose what we read and to have opinions about it is truly priceless.
#WORTHWATCHING: “Fahrenheit 451.” Set in the future after a civil war, reading in the U.S. is confined to a restricted internet called “The 9,” and most books are banned. In this terrifying dystopia, the job of a “fireman” is to burn all books. Based on the 1953 Ray Bradbury classic, this action-packed modern remake is on HBO MAX.
THE BOOK THIEF
READING LOLITA IN TEHRAN
KAREN NEWFIELD
HIGH-FLYING LADIES
Million Air hosts Girls in Aviation Day
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
The next generation of female pilots, technicians and more had the chance to meet their role models on Sept. 21 as Million Air Florida Keys hosted a Girls in Aviation Day celebration at the Marathon International Airport. Opening up the hangars to display a host of aircraft, from privately-owned vintage planes to mission-critical aircraft like Trauma Star and Florida Keys Mosquito Control District helicopters, ladies already working in all areas of aviation met with little admirers and their families to inspire a continued interest in the field. Photos by ROSS SMITH/ IslandExposureCo. See more photos at keysweekly.com.
best of marathon
Food
Best Key Lime Pie: S.S. Wreck & Galley Grill
Best Cuban Sandwich: La Niña Restaurant
Best Fish Sandwich: Keys Fisheries
Best Fine Dining: Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House
Best International Food: Frank's Grill
Best Breakfast: The Stuffed Pig
Best Lunch: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar
Best BBQ: Pop's Smoke Shed
Best Cup of Coffee: Curly's Coffee and Marina
Best Bar: Sparky's Landing – Fish n Cocktails
Best Bartender: Cheddar
Best Server: Brennan Bye
Best Happy Hour: Sparky's Landing – Fish n Cocktails
Best Waterfront Dining: Island Fish Company
Best Live Music Venue: Dockside Boot Key Harbor
Best Pizza: Driftwood Pizza, Pasta, & Subs
Best Bloody Mary: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar
Best Margarita: Sparky's Landing – Fish n Cocktails
Best Late Night Spot: Brass Monkey
Best Dessert Spot: Sweet Savannah's of the Florida Keys
Best Beer Selection: Marathon Grill and Ale House
Best Catering: Chef Heather
Best Taco: La Isla Taco Grill
Best Food Truck: Irie Island Eats
Best Steak: Plaza Grill Restaurant
Best Seafood: Keys Fisheries
Best Sushi: Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar
Best Conch Fritters: Cracked Conch Cafe
Best Wings: Sparky's Landing – Fish n Cocktails
Best Burger: Burdines Waterfront
Best Cook your own Catch: Lazy Days South
Best Overall Restaurant: Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House
Best Place to Take the Kids: Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters
Best Local Event/Festival: Marathon Seafood Festival
Best Bathroom: Marathon Library
Best Sunset: Old Seven Mile Bridge
Best Place to Have a Wedding: Hawks Cay Resort
Best Elected Official: Sheriff Rick Ramsay
Best Tourist Attraction: Turtle Hospital
Best Local Celebrity: Shannon Wiley
Best Volunteer: Megan Hughes
Best Non-Profit Organization: FKSPCA
Best Place to Take a Date: Hideaway Cafe
Best Band/Musician: 79th Street Band
Best Place to Take a Selfie: Old Seven Mile Bridge
Best Summer Camp: Pigeon Key
Best Sport Coach: Jessie Schubert
Best Educator: Mary Coleman
Best Thespian/Performing Artist: Dion Watson
Best Hugs: Catherine Dunn
Best Resort/Hotel: Grassy Flats Resort & Beach Club
Best Law Firm: Wolfe Stevens PLLC
Best Gift Shop: Marooned In Marathon
Best Fishing Guide: Nick Borraccino
Best Fishing Charter: Seasquared Charters
Best Dive Shop: Captain Hooks Marina and Dive Center
Best Bait & Tackle Shop: The Tackle Box
Best Customer Service: Food For Thought
Best Medical Professional: Shelly Bish, APRN
Best Health and Wellness Services: Cara O'Neill
Best Landscape Company: Alex Landscaping and Lawn Services Inc.
Best Auto Repair: Island Tire
Best Car Wash/Detailing: Tyrone’s Mobile Car Wash
Best Photographer: Yeni Matie
Best Marina: Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club
Best Marine Repair: Small Town Marine
Best Marine Detailing: Cool Runnings
Best Water Sports/Leisure Cruise: Solé Watersports
Best Veterinarian: Dr. Mike Dunn
Best Pet Service: Paws in Paradise LLC
Best Realtor: Sam Williams
Best Real Estate Office: Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate Co.
Best Bank: Keys Federal Credit Union
Best Vacation Rental Company: Florida Keys Vacation Rentals
Best General Contractor: Keys All Area Roofing and Construction
Best Specialty Contractor: Ernest E. Rhodes Plumbing
Best Pool Service: Spotless Pool Cleaning
Best Hair Salon: Salon Blanco Spa
Best Nail Salon: Marathon Nail Spa
Best Clothing Store: Bayshore Clothing
Best Family Owned Business: Food For Thought
Best New Business: LJ’s Cafe
Best Business: Conch Custard
Presented by
:
TRY ’N’ FIND
Words that remind us of Illinois are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
Our 21st state is Illinois (ill-uh-NOY), a Midwestern state that joined the Union in 1818. With almost 13 million people, Illinois is ranked sixth in population.
ILLINOIS HISTORY
Some of the earliest known Native American settlements in North America were in the area. French explorers Louis Jolliet and Jacques Marquette first claimed the land for the French in 1673. The British and the state of Virginia also claimed it at times.Illinois is named for the Illinois Indians, a group of Algonquin tribes. They called their group Illiniwek, or “superior men.” The French changed the pronunciation to Illinois.
CHICAGO
AROUND ILLINOIS
Springfield is the capital. Abraham Lincoln and his wife, Mary, lived there with their children before moving to Washington, D.C.
Chicago, a city in the northeast that lies on the shores of Lake Michigan, is the third-largest city in the United States, with about 2.7 million people.
The city is a center for culture, finance, industry and transportation. For example, the Field Museum is known for its dinosaur exhibits, including Sue, the largest T-rex fossil ever found.
FAMOUS ILLINOISANS
• Ronald Reagan served as president of the United States from 1981 to 1989. He was born in Tampico, Illinois. He went to high school in Dixon and to college in Eureka
After graduation, he became a radio sports announcer in Iowa. He then became a movie actor. He appeared in more than 50 films. In 1966, Reagan was elected governor of California. He served two terms.
In 1980, he was elected to his first term as president. His presidency was known for his economic policies and for his contribution to ending the Cold War with the Soviet Union.
Corn, soybeans, hogs, cattle, dairy products and wheat are the top farm products in Illinois. Food companies such as Quaker Oats and McDonald’s are there. Manufacturers also make machinery, transportation equipment and computer and electronic equipment.
The Lincoln-Douglas Debate Museum in Charleston, Illinois, highlights the famous 1858 debates between two Senate candidates, Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas. Lincoln lost that election, but two years later he became president.
The Art Institute of Chicago is not only a museum but also a school. Chicago is one of the country’s main railroad hubs.
Architect Frank Lloyd Wright lived in and designed many of his famous buildings in Oak Park, Illinois. More of his buildings are there than anywhere else in the world.
SPORTS
Illinois has two MLB teams, the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox. Fans cheer for the Chicago Bears (NFL) and the Chicago Bulls (NBA), along with the Chicago Blackhawks (NHL) and Chicago Fire FC (MLS).
• Ulysses S. Grant led the Union armies to victory in the Civil War. He was elected president in 1868.
Grant grew up in Georgetown, Ohio, and later moved to Galena, Illinois. When the Civil War began, he led troops from Illinois.
• Walt Disney, who created Mickey Mouse and went on to build Disneyland and Disney World, was born in Chicago in 1901. At McKinely High School, he was the school newspaper’s cartoonist.
RESOURCES
by Kelly Anne White
Built This City: Chicago” by Tamra B. Orr
Women’s teams include the Chicago Red Stars (soccer) and Chicago Sky (WNBA).
Staff at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute are proposing that a genetic backup of endangered life on Earth be placed in a permanently dark location on the moon, where no power would be needed to store it for millions of years. The scheme could allow scientists to restore the organisms should they die out for whatever reason. The sub-zero Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway’s Arctic was designed as a similar backup, but melting permafrost due to global heating is threatening its long-term security.
Mini Fact: The Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois, was the only home he owned during his life. photo by artistmac
photo by
C.V. Vick
Wright’s Robie House in Chicago.
Ronald Reagan
Walt Disney
Ulysses S. Grant
2030 AVENUE H
MARATHON | $4,890,000
Endless sunset views over an extra wide canal, with enviable no-bridge access to the Atlantic Ocean! Nestled on nearly half an acre, this updated retreat o ers 2 boat lifts, boat ramp, and composite dock with fillet station, just steps away from a resort-style pool, spa and tiki hut. Inside, the bright and spacious interior features soaring cathedral ceilings and access to the full-length screened-in veranda.
24 FLORAL AVENUE
KEY HAVEN | $4,999,999
304 PISCES LANE
GEIGER
KEY
| $648,000
58734 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY
MARATHON | $999,000
Nestled on a lushly landscaped lot this exquisite open water estate seamlessly blends modern elegance with Caribbean charm. With 4,500 Sq. Ft. of living space, this newly renovated 5BR/5BA gem boasts a resort-style pool, concrete dock with boat lift, and stunning indoor/outdoor integration that invites you to savor the idyllic surroundings. Breathtaking views of the turquoise water can be observed from almost every room!
FEATURED LISTINGS
Tranquil, waterfront home boasting a spacious 1620 Sq. Ft. floor plan with open water views! Ideal for entertaining, the interior features an open concept main living space and large kitchen. Retire to a generous primary suite complete with en suite bathroom and two walkin closets. A full-length screened-in porch featuring canal and partial open water views! 60' concrete seawall provides shallow-draft ocean and bay access!
231 EAST SHORE DRIVE
101 EAST OCEAN DRIVE C304
Customize your island dream home on this massive 20,000 Sq. Ft. lot with stunning ocean views! The existing home needs redevelopment and o ers a unique advantage as the present building right allows for re-build without fighting the BPAS/ROGO process. Oceanside of Grassy Key with 60’+ of waterfront, this sought-after location is packed with potential for creating the ultimate oceanfront getaway in the Florida Keys!
SUMMERLAND KEY | $3,899,000
Oceanfront, new construction home with 5 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms, and sparkling infinity pool! Located in the exclusive Residences at Summerland Key community, where nightly rentals are allowed! Private boat basin with assigned dock space to convey with home purchase. Enjoy resort-style amenities within a quiet, gated community but just minutes from shops and restaurants in town!
MARATHON | $1,695,000
Panoramic open water views and resort-style amenities at this well-equipped Oceanfront condo in exclusive Key Colony Beach! Inside, a bright and spacious floor plan caters to entertaining. A wall of sliding glass doors lead out to an expansive balcony overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and private boat slip. Amenities include a resort-style pool, oceanside hot tub, and wellequipped gym.
POOL DUELS
Conchs, ’Canes square off in quad meet | P.8
Coral
Marathon Volleyball Posnack 9/17 L, 3-1
Basilica Volleyball Somerset South Homestead 9/17 L, 3-0
Key West Boys Swimming Coral Shores 9/18 W, 132-61
Coral Shoes Girls Swimming Key West 918 W, 129-116
Coral Shores Volleyball Keys Gate 9/19 W, 3-0
Marathon Football Palm Glades Prep 9/19 W, 48-38
Key West Football North Port 9/20 W, 33-21
Marathon Volleyball Westwood Christian 9/20 L, 3-1
Basilica Volleyball Calusa Prep 9/20 W, 3-0
Coral Shores Football SmartEn Academy 9/20 W, 35-6
Key West Girls Swimming South Dade 9/21 W, 113-48
Key West Boys Swimming South Dade 9/21 W, 123-27
WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS
9/26
all-purpose yards touchdowns SEPT. 26
On Sept. 18, the Coral Shores Hurricanes hosted Key West, Varela and Braddock for a quad meet in the pool at Islamorada’s Founders Park. See page 8. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
THIS WEEK
LOUIS JEUNE
Marathon Football
started playing
“Fab doesn’t shy away from the hard work it takes to be good. He has a natural vision for football. You would never suspect he started playing so late.”
– Sean McDonald, Fins head coach
Marathon’s Fabbianho Louis Jeune ran for 2 touchdowns and passed for a third in the Dolphins’ latest victory. He tacked on 6 extra points as the Fins’ kicker and racked up 238 all-purpose yards in the win. Louis Jeune currently leads the rural division in rushing yards this season and is in the top 10 for nearly every offensive category aside from passing. Not bad for an athlete who never touched a football until his freshman year. Beyond his skills on the gridiron, Louis Jeune, or just Fab for anyone who knows him, is positive, kind-hearted and humble. For his superior game play as well as his willingness to do whatever it takes to help his team win, Fabbianho Louis Jeune is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
Fabbianho
Senior,
Photo by BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly
fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.
sean mcdonald
grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.
Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com
Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com
Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com
The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.
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All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.
SmartEn Academy fixed some clerical errors in their schedule and made good on their trip to Coral Shores last week. The Goats’ visit was Senior Night for the Hurricanes, and head coach Ed Holly stressed to his team that they needed to play their best football. That level is apparently quite high, as the ’Canes charged out to a 35-0 lead in the first half.
Coral Shores QB Yemcel Moreno connected with A.J. Putetti on the first drive of the game for a quick 7-0 lead. Xico Reynoso started the first defensive series off with flair, making 2 tackles for a loss and adding a sack before blocking the Goats’ punt, giving the ’Canes some fabulous field position. Jhonathan Mesa quickly scored on a six-yard run, giving the Hurricanes a 14-0 lead in the first moments of play.
Coral Shores continued to bring woe to the Goats’ offense when Andres Alvarado intercepted a pass, giving the ‘Canes good field position again. Moreno connected with Putetti for another score, then Alvarado ran one in for six more points. Moreno and Putetti connected a third time before the half ended.
6. Fab Louis Jeune carries the ball toward Marathon’s end zone.
Photos by Tracy McDonald and Maicey Malgrat. See more photos at keysweekly.com
The 35-0 lead allowed Holly to clear his bench, testing his depth chart and giving the underclassmen game experience. SmartEn did manage one touchdown in the third quarter after a quick regroup and switch in their quarterback position.
“I was happy we were able to come out and play well on senior night,” said Holly. And though the win makes it 5-0 for the Hurricanes this season, a true test of the team’s pluck comes this week. Coral Shores faces Florida Christian, a team Holly knows will be a challenge.
“We’re facing a good team,” he said. “They’re well coached and they’re good athletes.” Holly’s former defensive coordinator is the head coach at Florida Christian, and the two coached together at Westminster as well. The friends will face off at Florida Christian on Sept. 27. The following week, the ’Canes host the Dolphins of Marathon for the 55th Battle of the Keys, and their schedule only gets tougher from there. The remainder of their schedule includes a very strong Archbishop Carroll, the undefeated Neuman High from Naples, and a season finale game against Key West. The Hurricanes are playing their best ball of the season, just in time for the challenging half of their schedule.
Key West coach Johnny Hughes did not know what he
was facing last Friday when the Bobcats of North Port came to town. The teams did not have any similar opponents, and film on North Port was limited, but Hughes and his Conchs figured it out on the fly, coming away with a 33-21 win.
The Conchs’ workhorse, Jaden Fox, did not disappoint a lively Key West crowd, crossing the goal line three times. Walson Morin ran one in for six points and Teak Guyet connected with Cole Jackson for the first passing TD of the season for the Conchs. Hughes took advantage of the Bobcats’ defense, which continually blitzed everyone.
“When the free safety came flying up on the fake, I knew it was there,” Hughes said. The game was not a blowout, though, and by the final quarter, the score was tied.
“I liked the way the team fought through adversity in a close fourth-quarter situation,” Hughes said, adding, “There was no head-hanging. They rallied themselves.” The Bobcats’ response was somewhat different from that of the Conchs. Frustrated with their inability to stop the Conchs’ run game, North Port’s play became chippy, and a series of late hits and unnecessary comments resulted in multiple penalties, giving Key West an advantage they had patiently awaited.
The win puts the Conchs at 3-2 on the season heading into perhaps their most important match thus far. On Thursday, Sept. 26, Key West travels to Miami to take on St. Brendan in their first district game of the season.
“We are keeping the must-win mantra,” Hughes said. “We need to go out and get a win every week. Winning our district will be a challenge, so we want to have the strength of schedule.” At-large bids to the playoffs are earned from a largely-unknown algorithm, but what is clear is that a team’s wins factor into the equation, as well as their scheduled opponents. Wins against opponents with strong records move a team ahead more in the rankings. The Conchs share a district with St. Brendan as well as Miami Jackson and Northwestern.
Fifty miles up U.S. 1, Marathon managed to pick up its third win of the season against Palm Glades Prep. The game was originally scheduled to be played in Miami, but the field was unavailable and Marathon was happy to host the Panthers on Sept. 19 instead.
Marathon racked up 539 all-purpose yards in what would culminate in a 48-38 win. Starting things off for the Fins was Tanner Ross, who tore a hole through the Panthers’ line and dragged a few along with him as he barreled in for a short touchdown run. Ross scored again on a similar play later in the game, and his punishing style earned him 118 yards on the night. Shamar Wright, on the other hand, found the end zone using his speed and evasiveness. “Shamar’s got another gear,” said coach Sean McDonald, in reference to Wright’s explosiveness.
The Fins’ other three touchdowns came from senior Fabbianho Louis Jeune, who rushed for two scores and found Mathew Machado in the open field for a third. Louis Jeune also kicked 6 extra points, making him an all-purpose weapon for Marathon. By the end of the game, Louis Jeune had 181 rushing yards, 31 passing and another 25 receiving for 238 all-purpose yards.
Defensively, Carlos Lezcano earned 3 solo tackles and another 2 assists, and Jesus Gonzalez picked off a pass. “Our defense is starting to figure things out and have really come alive at important moments lately,” said McDonald.
Defense will be key for Marathon in the second half of the season. Scoring 104 points in their past two games is proof that the Fins’ offense can take care of business, so Marathon’s fate is in the hands of the defense. The next test will be Friday, Sept. 27 against Somerset South Homestead for Marathon’s homecoming game.
’CANES FACE CONCHS IN QUEST FOR WIN NUMBER 10
Volleyball squads fight for seeding in district brackets with two weeks in regular season
The Lady ’Canes picked up a pair of wins last week on the volleyball court, lifting them to 9-0 on the season, starting on Sept. 16 on the road. Their first obstacle in the crusade to remain unbeaten was Marathon, always a feisty competitor regardless of win-loss records, especially in their own house.
“We knew Marathon was going to be ready to play and their fans would be fired up for the game,” said head coach Jarrod Mandozzi, who described the Fins as “full of heart.” “Every year they seem to improve so much from the start of the season. They just don’t give up easy points and they really make you work to beat them.”
The Lady ’Canes came out swinging, setting the tempo of the match. “We came out and got right into our offense to take a quick 5-1 lead with Lily Hitchcock starting us off with a pretty emphatic kill,” said Mandozzi. Marathon managed to rattle the ’Canes at times, with big hits and blocks from Daysi Williams and Elena Eubank and all-out hustle from the defense, but the Hurricanes kept it together to sweep all three sets and come away with the win.
“It was a really great team effort with everyone pitching in,” Mandozzi said.
Leading the way for Coral Shores were Violet Matthews, Sabina Naranjo, Celene Walker and Niveah Howard, who combined for 30 kills. Naranjo added 10 digs, Walker added 11, and Sofia Jans and Ivy Tiedemann, who were credited with 16 and 12 digs, respectively, were defensively divine.
On Sept. 19, Coral Shores played district rival Keys Gate for the first second time in a little over a week. The ’Canes wasted no time in dispatching the Knights in a 3-0 sweep to advance to 8-0 on the season. In their second road match of the week, the Hurricanes were stellar at the baseline.
“We had seven girls with a serve rating over 2.5, which is really impressive,” said Mandozzi. “Our JV callup led the way with a 3.67.”
That JV call up was part of the ’Canes’ strategy for the upcoming postseason, which often means numerous
matches in a short period of time when illnesses begin to sweep the Keys. Mandozzi hopes to be prepared for anything, whether it is an ankle sprain or the flu.
Part of that preparefor-all plan included moving players around to give them reps in new positions. “Eliyana McLeod does a great job setting for our JV and she stepped right in tonight and got some good experience for a set,” Mandozzi said. “She had 5 assists and 2 aces. We’ll go right back to our regular formations tomorrow, but we felt like this was a great game to try some different things for down the road.”
Now facing the final stretch of the season, the ’Canes have their work cut out for them. They will meet their toughest matches beginning and ending with Key West on Sept. 26 and again on Oct. 7. The Conchs bested the unbeaten Hurricanes in the preseason and both squads are playing their best volleyball now, making for an exciting pair of matches in the coming weeks. Regardless of the outcome of those matches, Coral Shores looks
strong heading into districts, where they are ranked No. 1 in FHSAA 3A District 16 play. Marathon fell to 2-11 last week with a trio of losses. After losing to Coral Shores, the Lady Fins lost 3-1 against both Posnack on Sept. 17 and Westwood on Sept. 20. Marathon’s record does not reflect its district chances. The Fins qualified for the rural division and will compete with similar schools upstate for their championships. The FHSAA created
the division for smaller high schools, almost entirely public, in areas with lower population density. That’s an effort to create equity in a time when new tiny private schools pop up by the day, often focusing on athletics and making the regular 1-3A divisions full of temporary powerhouses. Marathon’s Rural Region 4 District 8 competitors – Glades Day, Moore Haven and Ft. Meade – are similar to Marathon in every way except proximity. The Fins will have to travel over 200 miles for their district tournament this season. Currently, only Moore Haven has more wins than the Fins, giving them a good shot at some hardware this October.
Key West, now 6-3, did not play last week. They resume action Thursday, Sept. 26 at Coral Shores. Across the island, Basilica split a pair of matches last week, bringing their record to 5-7. The Mariners lost to Somerset South Homestead, then finished the week by defeating Calusa Prep. The Mariners are not part of the FHSAA and therefore are ineligible for playoffs.
Daysi Williams (9) catches air prior to hitting the ball.
Marathon’s Addison Collins (14) works to get the ball over the net while Coral Shores’ Grace Leffler (12) and Violet Matthews (3) make a wall. CAPS/Keys Weekly
STELING’S WINNING WAYS CONTINUE
Boys golf heats up with just eight strokes between 1st and 10th
Keys golfers met in the Southernmost City on Sept. 18 to play nine holes at the beautiful Key West Golf Club. Lady Conch Claudia Steling outshot her nearest competitor by eight strokes, finishing at 52 on the day. Teammates Monica Bueno, Lexi Finigan and Charlize Lopez claimed second through fourth places and Marathon’s Makenna Haines was fifth, breaking up a Key West sweep. Only the Conchs turned in enough scorecards to count toward team play, with five of seven athletes wearing red, making them the clear winners on their home course.
In the boys’ competition, Key West won by one stroke, edging Marathon 184-185. The Fins did claim the top golfer of the day with Mason Thornton’s consistent performance. Thornton birdied on hole 3 and shot a 42, winning by two strokes over Key West’s Andrew Bassett and Ty Hill, who tied for second place.
Leo Mendez and Roco Piscetello, both of Marathon, shared fourth place, scoring 45. In sixth place was Peyton Zubieta (47), then Key West’s Ryder Suter and Jackson Barroso tied with Marathon’s Russell Clark at 49 to share seventh place. Tanel Irons made the leaderboard in 10th place, shooting a 50 for Coral Shores.
Golfers have until the end of October to polish their games prior to districts. Last season, all three teams’ seasons ended there, but this season, each team has multiple athletes who have come through with fantastic rounds, making it very possible for several athletes to make the regional cut.
of
TESTING THE WATERS
Coral Shores and Key West meet in Upper Keys pool
Key West, Varela and Braddock High Schools traveled to Founders Park on Sept. 18 for a quad meet with the Coral Shores Hurricanes.
The event was scored using the dual meet style, meaning each team was compared to each of the other teams individually. Braddock’s boys and girls outswam the rest of the competition at the meet. Key West’s boys placed second and Coral Shores’ boys came in third. Coral Shores’ girls came out ahead of Key West and Varela.
Individually, Coral Shores’ Layne Smith won the 500 free. Smith touched the wall a minute and a half before the next finisher, then narrowly missed another first place in the 200 free. Smith came in second, five one-hundredths of a second behind a Braddock swimmer. Abbie Sargent won the 100 breast event and was a close second in the 200 IM race. The Lady ’Canes’ 200 medley and 200 freestyle relay teams took second. Smith, Sargent and Allegra Fucaraccio swam legs on both teams. Sofia Figueredo participated on the medley team and Larkin Dunn did the same on the freestyle team.
The Hurricane divers put on a show, winning the top three spots in the girls division and top two in boys. Rachel Rusch was first, with Mae Turner and Julia Rusch in second and third, respectively. Aaron Lykins won for the boys with Merrick Dunn in second.
The Lady Conchs’ Hadley Bardoni and Reeghan Davis each claimed a runner-up spot. Bardoni was second in the 500 free and Davis in the 100 free. For the gentlemen, Hugo Blinckmann claimed third-place finishes in the 50 free and 100 breast events.
Key West’s 400 freestyle relay teams both claimed second places. The boys team was composed of Max Blinckmann, Santiago Gonzalez, Jacob Perez and Sebastian Camargo. The girls’ team included Bardoni, Davis, Mary Searcy and Tessa Hughes.
Key West wasted no time before the next competition, diving in two days later at their home pool. The Bucs of South Dade effectively walked the plank when they faced the Conchs on Sept. 21 at the College of the Florida Keys pool. The girls outscored the Bucs 113-48 and the Conch boys won 123-27.
Many Key West athletes won multiple races, with Key West sweeping the top three places in several events. The Conchs won every single relay on Sept. 21, showing their depth as well as their speed. Hugo Blinckmann, Mary Searcy, Santiago Gonzalez, Eli Morris, Hadley Bardoni and Perez won all four events they entered.
Individual race winners for the Lady Conchs included Searcy (200 free and 100 back), Bardoni (200 IM and 500 free), Colbie Turner (100 fly), Aly Camargo (100 free) and Ca-
mila Linares (100 breast).
Searcy, Linares, Bardoni and Camargo teamed up to win the 200 medley relay. Tessa Hughes, Molly Martinez, Reeghan Davis and Camargo won the 200 freestyle relay and Bardoni, Searcy, Hughes and Davis won the 400 freestyle relay.
Boys individual winners were Gonzalez (100 and 200 free), Morris (200 IM and 100 back), Hugo Blinckmann (50 free and 100 breast), Thomas Horvath (100 fly) and Perez (500 free).
For the relays, Kieran Smith combined forces with Hugo Blinckmann, Perez and Morris to win the 200 medley while Perez, Blinckmann, Gonzalez and Johnny Picco cruised to a first place in the 200 freestyle relay. In the final race of the afternoon, Perez, Morris, Gonzalez and Jason Frankel finished the 400 freestyle relay more than 30 seconds ahead of the next team.
Key West is headed to Ocala for the Florida Swimming Pool Association (FSPA) Invitational Sept. 27-28, an event head coach Lori Bosco and her teams look forward to every year. This year’s race could be helpful should any Conchs qualify for the state meet; the FSPA is being held in the same facility where states will occur mid-November.
and Coral
Braddock girls. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
Key West
Shores compete during a Sept. 18 swim meet at Founders Park pool. The Conch boys finished second behind Miami’s Braddock High School. The Coral Shores girls placed second behind the
Week five is the official halfway point in the season for FHSAA football. Most fans know their team’s record and who seems to carry the load on offense, defense and special teams, but many do not know where their favorite players stand statewide. Several Keys athletes have made the leaderboard for their divisions, proving that despite being small and geographically isolated, Monroe County has some of the best athletes in Florida.
FIVE LOCAL ATHLETES MAKE FHSAA LEADERBOARD
Conchs and Fins represent Keys football in mid-season ranking report touchdowns
Marathon’s Fabbianho Louis Jeune is currently number one in the rural division in rushing with 740 yards so far this season. Anyone who thinks an asterisk should be made due to Louis Jeune being in the state’s smallest division might have a change of heart when it is also noted that his total stands at seventh in the state among all divisions in rushing. And Louis Jeune’s leaderboard boasts do not stop there. He is third in scoring with 55 points, and this statistic does not include his extra points, which he kicks when he’s not busy playing both offense and defense. Fab is third in PATs and has kicked the longest field goal in the rural division this season. His 35-yard field goal earlier this season is not even close to his best, a 51-yard bomb he made last season. Louis Jeune is third in total yards (847) and seventh in touchdowns with seven.
Teammate Shamar Wright also made the rural division leaderboard for Marathon. Wright stands in sixth place in rushing with 457 yards.
Key West is in the 3A division and has a trio of leaders representing the Southernmost City. Jaden Fox is currently fifth in rushing with 504 yards. Fox accomplished this in just three games, having sat out two with an injury, making his number-five spot even more remarkable.
Walson Morin leads in three separate categories, making him quite an asset to the Conchs. He is in 10th place in scoring with 36 points. Morin is ninth in touchdowns with six and fifth in kickoff returns, averaging 53.5 yards per rip.
Often, nobody notices a kicker until he misses, which might be why Joshua Johnson hasn’t appeared too often in the Sports Wrap. Johnson simply does not miss. He has been perfect for the Conchs this season, making all 11 extra point kicks. Johnson is fifth in 3A in that statistic.
simply
Top from left: Shamar Wright, Joshua Johnson, Walson Morin
Bottom from left: Fabbianho Louis Jeune, Jaden Fox
Photos by Barry Gaukel and Maicey Malgrat.
CONCHS, FINS RUN STRONG AT SPANISH RIVER
Hurricanes blow past Westwood Christian at home
Key West and Marathon hit the road for a race both teams look forward to each season. The 42nd annual Spanish River Cross Country Invitational, held in Boca Raton, entices teams from across Florida to enter, giving athletes a look at fresh competition. The course, at South County Regional Park, offers trails and lots of greenery for shade as well as open stretches for speed.
finishing in 20:26. The top five Fins’ combined times were good enough for seventh place out of 21 teams in their division.
The Fins and Conchs ran separate races on Sept. 20, with Marathon, competing in the smaller 1A division, going first. Marathon’s girls were right in the middle, finishing eighth out of 15 teams. Senior Ella Dunn was first for the Fins, claiming 42nd place overall in 23:42. Sophomore Maeve Merryman was next, followed by a pair of middle schoolers, Molly Joly and Rebecca Merryman. Sara Robinson, a sophomore, was fifth for the Fins.
In the 1A boys race, Vance Bursa was first for Marathon, finishing in eighth place overall in 16:30. Bursa has lowered his time at each race this season, improving nearly a minute in less than one month. He will need to keep that trend going if he hopes to repeat his state-medalist performance from 2022 when he finished in 10th place in Tallahassee as a sophomore. He has been plagued with minor injuries the past two seasons, but Bursa is unwilling to put aside his pursuit of gold, electing to run through the aches and pains. Despite the nagging injuries, Bursa was only about 12 seconds from his personal record at Spanish River.
Second for Marathon in 18:56 was Tony Bursa, Vance’s younger brother who is only a freshman but has state competition experience, making the cut in middle school for the Fins. The time placed him second in the Keys among current varsity runners, but is more than half a minute from what he was able to do last season, when he was able to crack the 17s four times in competition.
Marathon had two more runners break 20 minutes last week. Freshman Allan Taylor and eighthgrader Lucian Burns both PRed, Burns by more than a minute, to take the fourth and fifth spots for the Dolphins. Taylor crossed in 19:23.12 and Burns in 19:23.73. Junior Caleb Shelar was fifth for the Fins,
Key West’s girls raced next in the 2A division, and it was no surprise that Caylaa Makimaa was first for the Lady Conchs, completing the 5k in 20:29. The senior speedster is competing well above what she did at this time last season, which culminated in an individual invite to the state meet, fueled by a sub-20 regional finish. Makimaa’s times are trending in the right direction and she looks good for another trip to Tally, but if coach Keara McGraw’s master plan comes to fruition, Makimaa won’t be traveling alone this season. The Lady Conchs are pushing their limits in hopes of a team appearance at the state meet this November.
Violet Jangraw did her part at Spanish River, finishing second for Key West with a PR. Laira Anaya, Mia Steer and Ava Gonzalez claimed spots three through five for the Conchs, who finished 14th of 21 teams in the 2A race.
Coral Shores opted to run closer to home last week, hosting Westwood Christian School for a race at Pennekamp Park on Sept. 19. The ’Canes swept the top three spots in the girls race, and Westwood did not see a Warrior cross the line until the 10th place in the boys race.
Freshman phenom Ali Wheatley was first place overall in the race, finishing in 21:34, a solid four minutes in front of the next female competitor. Senior Kai Guth was second overall and freshman Tess Hill was third. In fourth place for the ’Canes and fifth overall was sophomore Hayden Teal, and Julieanna Oddo, also a sophomore, was fifth for Coral Shores, taking eighth place overall. Hill and Teal PRed in the competition.
In the boys race, Coral Shores’ Alaric Rodriguez crossed first in 19:01, a PR for the junior. Teammates Tristan Rios and Nathaniel Shugarman were close behind in second and third, respectively. Both broke the 20-minute mark, with Rios finishing in 19:46 and Rios in 19:50. Jamie Cary and Garret Gomila rounded out the top five places in the race.
The clock to districts is quickly ticking down, especially for 2A Coral Shores and Key West, who begin their postseason Oct. 20. 1A Marathon will toe the line on Oct. 29.
Tristan Rios finished in second place at Coral Shores’ Sept. 19 home showdown with Westwood Christian. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly
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NOTICE OF ELECTION
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2024, IN MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT AN ELECTION HAS BEEN CALLED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA AT THE REQUEST OF THE SCHOOL BOARD OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA FROM 7:00 A.M. UNTIL 7:00 P.M. ON TUESDAY, THE FIFTH DAY NOVEMBER, 2024, AT WHICH TIME THERE SHALL BE SUBMITTED TO THE DULY QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA THE FOLLOWING QUESTION:
RENEWAL OF OPERATIONAL FUNDING FOR MONROE COUNTY SCHOOLS:
The School District seeks to continue its current funding for operational expenses including teacher salaries and safe-school officers. Such funds will be shared with local charter schools proportionally based on their full-time student enrollment.
Shall the District continue to enact a yearly ad valorem tax of no more than 0.5625 mill, for four (4) years beginning January 1, 2027, to fund safe-school officers and operational expenses of Monroe County Schools? ______ YES ______ NO
September 26, October 3, 10 & 17, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers.
AVISO DE PLEBISCITO
MARTES, 5 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2024, EN EL CONDADO DE MONROE, FLORIDA
POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA QUE LA JUNTA DE COMISIONADOS DEL CONDADO DE MONROE, FLORIDA, HA CONVOCADO A UN PLEBISCITO A SOLICITUD DE LA JUNTA ESCOLAR DEL CONDADO DE MONROE, FLORIDA, EL CUAL SE CELEBRARÁ DESDE LAS 7:00 A. M. HASTA LAS 7:00 P. M. DEL MARTES 5 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2024, EN CUYO MOMENTO SE PRESENTARÁ A LOS ELECTORES DEBIDAMENTE CALIFICADOS DEL CONDADO DE MONROE, FLORIDA, LA SIGUIENTE PREGUNTA:
REFINANCIAMIENTO OPERATIVO PARA LAS ESCUELAS DEL CONDADO DE MONROE:
El distrito escolar busca continuar con el financiamiento actual para los gastos operativos, incluidos los salarios de los docentes y de los funcionarios de seguridad escolar. Los fondos se compartirán con las escuelas subsidiadas locales proporcionalmente en función del número de estudiantes matriculados a tiempo completo.
¿Deberá el distrito continuar promulgando un impuesto anual ad valorem de no más de 0.5625 mill, por cuatro (4) años a partir del 1 de enero de 2027, para financiar a los funcionarios de seguridad escolar y los gastos operativos de las escuelas del condado de Monroe?
NOTICE OF ELECTION
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2024, IN MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT AN ELECTION HAS BEEN CALLED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA AT THE REQUEST OF THE SCHOOL BOARD OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA FROM 7:00 A.M. UNTIL 7:00 P.M. ON TUESDAY, THE FIFTH DAY NOVEMBER, 2024, AT WHICH TIME THERE SHALL BE SUBMITTED TO THE DULY
QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA THE FOLLOWING QUESTION:
FACILITATING SCHOOL DISTRICT CAPITAL PROJECTS THROUGH SALES TAX LEVY RATHER THAN RAISING LOCAL PROPERTY TAXES:
Renewed funding is required for the School District's capital improvement plan such as new construction, renovations, additions, security needs, technology implementation, school buses, and permitted capital improvements. The revenues collected must be shared with eligible charter schools based on their proportionate share of the total school district enrollment.
Shall the School Board of Monroe County, Florida continue to levy a one-half cent sales surtax for a period of ten (10) years beginning January 1, 2026?
______ FOR THE ONE-HALF CENT TAX
______ AGAINST THE ONE-HALF CENT TAX
September 26, October 3, 10 & 17, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers.
AVISO DE PLEBISCITO
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2024, IN MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA QUE LA JUNTA DE COMISIONADOS DEL CONDADO DE MONROE, FLORIDA, HA CONVOCADO A UN PLEBISCITO A SOLICITUD DE LA JUNTA ESCOLAR DEL CONDADO DE MONROE, FLORIDA, EL CUAL SE CELEBRARÁ DESDE LAS 7:00 A. M. HASTA LAS 7:00 P. M. DEL MARTES 5 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2024, EN CUYO MOMENTO SE PRESENTARÁ A LOS ELECTORES DEBIDAMENTE CALIFICADOS DEL CONDADO DE MONROE, FLORIDA, LA SIGUIENTE PREGUNTA: FACILITAR LOS PROYECTOS DE CAPITAL DE LOS DISTRITOS ESCOLARES MEDIANTE LA RECAUDACIÓN DE IMPUESTOS A LAS VENTAS EN LUGAR DE AUMENTAR LOS IMPUESTOS LOCALES DE DERECHO INMOBILIARIO:
Se requiere refinanciamiento para el plan de mejoras de capital en el distrito escolar, el cual abarca construcciones, renovaciones, ampliaciones, seguridad, tecnología, autobuses escolares y mejoras permitidas de capital. Los ingresos recaudados deberán compartirse con las escuelas subsidiadas que califiquen en función de su participación proporcional de la matrícula total del distrito escolar.
¿Debe la Junta Escolar del condado de Monroe, Florida, continuar recaudando un impuesto a las ventas de medio céntimo por un período de diez (10) años, contados a partir del 1 de enero de 2026? ______ A FAVOR DEL IMPUESTO DE MEDIO CÉNTIMO ______ EN CONTRA DEL IMPUESTO DE MEDIO CÉNTIMO
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NUMBER: 24-CP-453-P
IN RE: ESTATE OF MICHELE BRINDLE Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of MICHELE BRINDLE, deceased, whose date of death was 17 July 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, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT 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 19, 2024
Personal Representative: Richard Brindle 219 S. Bay Harbor Drive Key Largo, FL 33037 Attorney for Personal Representative: Tom Woods, Esq. Florida Bar No.: 0525197 116 Porto Salvo Drive Islamorada, Florida 33036 Phone: 305.664.2200 Fax 2205
Primary Email: tom@ tomwoodslaw.com
Secondary Email: eserve@ tomwoodslaw.com Publish:
September 19 & 26, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 24-CP-000327-M IN RE: ESTATE OF LESLIE TEMPLES Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of LESLIE TEMPLES, deceased, whose date of death was March 28, 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 name and address of the personal representative is 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
September 26, October 3, 10 & 17, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers.
September 26, October 3, 10 & 17, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers.
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 19, 2024.
Executer of decedent’s will/ personal representative: Alan Jenkins 2950 Yellowtail Ave. Marathon, FL 33050 aj@jenkinsatlaw.com
Publish: September 19 & 26, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NO.: 24-CP-000377-3
IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JAMES NEALIS
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of James Nealis, deceased, whose date of death was June 8, 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 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.
A personal representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211.
The date of first publication of this notice is September 19, 2024.
Personal Representative: Mary Nealis 107 Vista Lane Duck Key, FL 33050
Attorney for Personal Representative: Rayndel Valle Attorney for Personal Representative Florida Bar Number: 1034181
FILE NO.: 2024-CP-426-M IN RE: ESTATE OF LAWRENCE STANLEY MURRAY, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Lawrence Stanley Murray, 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 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.
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 19, 2024. Signed on 9-12-24.
Personal Representative: Margo Murray 822 97th Street Marathon, FL 33050 Attorney for Personal Representative: James J. Dorl, Esq. Florida Bar No. 618403
JAMES J. DORL, P.A. 5701 Overseas Highway, Suite 12 Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6565
Email: jjdorl@yahoo.com
Publish: September 19 & 26, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO. 24-CP-000300-K IN RE: ESTATE OF WALTER MORTON BECKER AKA WALTER M. BECKER, DECEASED. NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Walter Morton Becker aka Walter M. Becker, deceased, whose date of death was September 11, 2023, 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 representatives and the personal representatives’ attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in sections 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under section 732.2211, Florida Statutes.
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 19, 2024.
Personal Representatives: Merritt Becker
1845 R. St. NW Washington, District of Columbia 20009 and, Kurt Becker 1708 Catherine St. Key West, FL 33040
Attorney for Personal Representatives: Andrew Ponnock
Attorney Florida Bar Number: 195420 10100 West Sample Road, 3rd floor Coral Springs, FL 33065
Telephone: (954) 340-4051 Fax: (954) 340-3411
E-Mail: andy@ponnocklaw. com
Publish: September 19 & 26, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24-DR-466-K WEBENS LAUTURE, Petitioner, and ANDREA URBANOVA, Respondent.
NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: ANDREA URBANOVA RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 61 SEASIDE NORTH CT, KEY WEST, FL 33040
YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Dissolution of Marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Webens Lauture, whose address is 1641 Morgan CT, Apt. 4, Key West, FL 33040 on or before October 3, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 530 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.
The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property
should be divided: N/A Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office. WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.
Dated: August 22, 2024
Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Jaquelyn Fonseca
Deputy Clerk Publish:
September 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL ACTION
Case # 22-CA-000144-M
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Plaintiff, vs. Cynthia L. Andrews a/k/a Cynthia Andrews; Kenneth Andrews; Sharon Lee Havens a/k/a Sharon Havens; City of Marathon, Florida; United States of America; Unknown Parties in Possession #1, if living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) who are not known to be dead or alive, whether said Unknown Parties may claim an interest as Spouse, Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, or Other Claimants; Unknown Parties in Possession #2, if living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) who are not known to be dead or alive, whether said Unknown Parties may claim an interest as Spouse, Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, or Other Claimants Defendants.
NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to order rescheduling foreclosure sale or Final Judgment, entered in Civil Case No. 22-CA000144-M of the Circuit Court of the 16th Judicial Circuit in and for Monroe County, Florida, wherein Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Plaintiff and Cynthia L. Andrews a/k/a Cynthia Andrews are defendant(s), I, Clerk of Court, Kevin Madok, CPA, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash AT THE MONROE COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040, AT 11:00 A.M. on December 3, 2024, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to-wit: LOT 13, BLOCK 23, CRAINS SUBDIVISION OF GRASSY KEY, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN NAT BOOK 1, PAGE 51, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA. ANY PERSON CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THE SURPLUS FROM THE SALE, IF ANY, OTHER THAN THE PROPERTY OWNER AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MUST FILE A CLAIM NO LATER THAN THE DATE THAT THE CLERK REPORTS THE FUNDS AS UNCLAIMED. Florida Rules of Judicial Administration Rule 2.540
Notices to Persons With Disabilities
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Cheryl Alfonso, ADA Coordinator, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.
SPANISH: Si usted es una persona discapacitada que necesita alguna adaptación para poder participar de este procedimiento o evento; usted tiene derecho, sin costo alguno a que se le provea cierta ayuda. Favor de comunicarse con Cheryl Alfonso, Coordinadora de A.D.A Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 por lo menos 7 días antes de que tenga que comparecer en corte o inmediatamente después de haber recibido ésta notificación si es que falta menos de 7 días para su comparecencia. Si tiene una discapacidad auditiva ó de habla, llame al 711.
KREYOL: Si ou se yon moun ki kokobé ki bezwen asistans ou aparêy pou ou ka patisipé nan prosedu sa-a, ou gen dwa san ou pa bezwen péyé anyen pou ou jwen on seri de èd. Tanpri kontakté Cheryl Alfonso, Co-ordinator ADA, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652O'mwen 7 jou avan ke ou gen pou-ou parèt nan tribunal, ou imediatman ke ou resevwa avis sa-a ou si lè ke ou gen pou-ou alé nan tribunal-la mwens ke 7 jou; Si ou pa ka tandé ou palé byen, rélé 711. Kevin Madok,CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Monroe County, Florida Shonta McLeod DEPUTY CLERK OF COURT Publish: September 19 & 26, 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 OR783372-381 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
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
marker 59 is looking for Line Cooks, full or part time. Self-motivated, quick learner, and team player. Salary commensurate with experience and includes 401k match up to 6%. Please call Nicole at 305-433-0515
SERVERS WANTED: Apply in person between 5
photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Call 305-743-6739 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
WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
ANNUAL RENTAL - Key Largo2BR/2BA Spacious Doublewide, 1400 sq ft modular on canal w/40’ dock, direct ocean access. Very nice community. $3,500/month 786-258-3127
Downstairs apartment of a duplex to rent to 1 person (no pets). Large living room/ bedroom and separate kitchen. Large screened porch with its own washer/dryer and driveway. Utilities include wifi/tv. 150 ft to the ocean. MM96 Key Largo. $1850/ month. F/L/S 305-853-3779
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.
ISLAMORADA: Very Large 2 BR apt. for rent. Furnished or unfurnished. Utilities & cable included. $2,200/month. First/Security. Available Sept. 1st. Yearly lease. 305522-2702 Leave message. RENTED!!!
Apartment for rent in Marathon. 1BR/1BA (large bedroom), kitchen, two parking spots. 305.417.0346 / 305.224.2195
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.
MISC. FOR SALE
RIKON Band Saw, $150.00. Located in Key West (Old Town). 305-849-1080
Heavy duty, hard wood Futon Bed for sale in Marathon. Excellent condition. Couch turns into double bed. $250.00 305-849-0975
PERSONALS
BEACH HOUSE VACATION! Caretaker couple needed for Bahamas Beach House for 3-4 months. Call or text 305-439-9991
RV SITES FOR RENT
Large RV Lots for Rent in Marathon. Full hook up. $1500/month plus utilities. F/L/S 3065-731-5042
RV site / Camping available at marina in Marathon. Monthly/Daily rates. Free use of dingy & fishing on dock. No Pets. 305-610-8002
VACATION RENTAL
Key West House For Rent - 28 day minimum. Recently renovated. 2 Units: 3BR/3BA or 2BR/2.5BA. 1 block to Schooner Wharf @ Historic Seaport. Starting $214/night. Sweet CarolineSeaport.com
SARA’S ESTATE SALE: 148 Riviera Drive, Tavernier Friday, Sept. 27 & Saturday, Sept. 28 – CONTENTS from 3-STORY WATERFRONT HOME IN TAVERNIER. Priced to move fast, get there early! Five sets of outdoor furniture: teak (seats 4) and wicker (seats 6) dining sets, wicker curved couch, teak pub table & barstools, & custom chaise lounges. Plus potted plants, small tools, tool chest, linens, towels, cloth napkins, dishware & small appliances for sale. Thomasville king bedroom set with new mattress, plus two queen bedroom sets. Baer’s custom sectional couch, accent chairs, Tommy Bahama entertainment center and sideboard & round dining table & chairs (seats 6) & 4 barstools. Unique pieces: antique Queen Anne chest, wooden plant stand, clawfoot stool & coral slab lamp. Sale near Coral Shores High School at MM 89. Follow signs, park with consideration. More photos: estatesales.net.
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.
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.
For a detailed description of the position, please visit klfirerescueems.com
All interested individuals kindly submit your resume with a cover letter to clerk@klfrems.org
life, dental and visions plans, including enrollment, dependent coverage, terminations, and retirement. Monroe County offers an excellent benefits package and is a member of the Florida Retirement System (FRS). Onsite position in Key West, 40 HPW. Annual salary range: $56,483.70 - $87,549.75, based on experience.
To view job descriptions and apply, visit: www.monroecounty-fl.gov/jobs For questions, contact Human Resources at: Careers@MonroeCounty-FL.gov or 305-292-4554.
OPENINGS AVAILABLE
PHYSICIAN PRACTICE
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.
EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!
Apply at guidancecarecenter.org
Search Employment/Portal/Location/zip
OPENINGS
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN/PA-C), Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant 1, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant 1, Upper Keys Internal Medicine, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant 2, General Surgery Tavernier, $3k Bonus
- Medical Assistant 2, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Lead Medical Technologist, Laboratory, $50k Bonus
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray) Radiology, $50k Bonus
- Medical Technologist 2, Laboratory, $50k Bonus
- Patient Scheduler 3, Radiology-Diagnostic
- Radiology Technologist 1, Radiology, $40k Bonus
- Registered Nurse, Multispecialty Acute Care Center
- Registered Nurse, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, $15k Bonus
- Security Officer 1, Security/Safety
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
*Sign-on bonuses are available only for select full-time positions based on candidate experience.
Full-time 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. *
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.*
*ALSO REQUIRED FOR ALL POSITIONS: Fluent in English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Level 2 background screening and valid Florida driver’s license. EOE
Come join our family! Apply at the MARC office, 1401 Seminary St., Key West. Or online at www.marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org Phone: 305-294-9526 *32
@gmail.com) with any relevant previous experience and at least two references.
