Marathon Weekly 24-1003 by Keys Weekly Newspapers

CROWNING VICTORY

MHS Homecoming shines through pouring rain | P.22

A BRAWL IN THE R.E.C. Facebook ﬁght gets ugly | P.14

IF YOU BUILD IT Developments head to council decision | P.4

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Se habla español THE MARATHON WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES.

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News Deadline

Tuesday Noon

Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.

Hurricane Helene’s destruction through the Southeast resulted in the deaths of 166 people as of Oct. 2, per a report by The Associated Press. Helene, a Category 4 storm, made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region before heading through Georgia and the Carolinas.

MARATHON CITY COUNCIL SET TO CONSIDER MULTIPLE NEW DEVELOPMENTS

Planning commission raises concern with new construction, affordable housing ordinance changes

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

Following a contentious pass through the city’s planning commission on Sept. 16, the Marathon City Council is set to consider multiple new developments and ordinance changes with implications for affordable housing at its Oct. 8 session.

Discussion of a conditional use permit for a proposed 20-home development with a tiki bar, entertainment stage, food trucks and nature walk at the site of the former Yard Arm Motel between 61st and 62nd Street Gulf dominated the planning commission’s Sept. 16 session. Proposed by Huff and Rauner Gulfside Estates, an LLC partially owned by current Marathon City Council candidate Dustin Huff, the project was recommended for approval in a 4-1 vote, with commissioner Matt Sexton voting against following an extended discussion of traffic, noise and infrastructure concerns.

Marathon High crowned its new royalty last Friday night, bestowing the title of Homecoming King and Queen on Mikail ‘Jay’ Marshall, right, and Elena Eubank. See page 22. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

Members of

“What we’re trying to do is create a mini area for tourists and residents to congregate in the center of town, for families to get together and for people to have a variety of outlets,” said applicant Boaz Rosenblat, a 61st Street resident who plans to purchase and develop the property. “We’re really trying to find a win-win situation to allow people here to thrive and flourish

alongside us (with the food trucks).”

Several commissioners and public commenters took issue with the single entrance to the development’s residential section on an already-narrow 61st Street, saying they would prefer a widening of 61st Street or an entrance to pass through to the development’s residential area from an entrance on U.S. 1. Commissioner Mark Senmartin, another current council candidate, said he was concerned with the potential for amplified sound from the stage to disturb area residents, while commissioner Andrew George said he would prefer to see vegetation replanted onsite to compensate for native species

Preliminary plans for a development between 61st and 62nd Street Gulf include 20 homes, a nature walk, an entertainment stage and tiki bar with food trucks. CONTRIBUTED

removed during land clearing. Commissioner Matt Sexton prompted a discussion on the development’s infrastructure impacts if its homes were to become vacation rentals, along with regulations for the tiki bar and food trucks as compared to resorts and site-built restaurants.

“I have a 30-unit hotel with 56 beds, and I get held to a completely different standard than 20 residential homes with 80 bedrooms,” he said, asking for an on-site grease trap and closer oversight of the development’s food and beverage operations.

continued on page 11

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GREATER MARATHON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

AFTER HOURS

Who: Fairfield Inn & Suites

When: Wednesday, October 9th

Where: 13201 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

What: Great networking, food & beverages; come promote your business and meet Marathon business owners, executives, and leaders!

MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON

When: Tuesday, October 15th 12:pm to 1pm

Where: Porky's Bayside BBQ 1400 Overseas Hwy

Speaker: Theresa Axford, Monroe County School District Superintendent

Topic: Referendums & Other Updates about your school district

ELECT

On Thursday, October 17, 2024, join Keys FCU in celebrating 76 years of International Credit Union Day® with treats and give aways in our branches.

Credit Unions bring people together to grow financial inclusion and make local communities stronger, even in our divided times.

*Restrictions may apply. Subject to credit approval. See us for details. NCUA Insured. Membership is open to everyone who lives or works in the Florida Keys.

Sheriff Rick Ramsay (R) Supervisor of Elections (D) Joyce Grifﬁn

“I think Ron could do a great job and deﬁnitely ensure the integrity of our elections.”

“I believe Ron Saunders has the integrity, qualiﬁcations, and experience needed for the position.”

County Commissioner (R) Craig Cates

“I have worked with Ron Saunders on many occasions and he has always been there for his community!”

VOTE RON SAUNDERS. LEADERSHIP YOU CAN TRUST!

“I have worked with Ron Saunders on many occasions and he has always been there for his community!” PLEASE VOTE RON SAUNDERS. LEADERSHIP YOU CAN

and approved by Ron Saunders, Democrat, for Supervisor of Elections

and approved by Ron Saunders, Democratic, for Supervisor of Elections

•

LEADERSHIP MATTERS

•

• Key West City Manager 2007-2012 and 2014-2019

• Appointed Monroe County Commissioner District 3 in 2022

•

MARATHON CITY COUNCIL SET TO CONSIDER MULTIPLE NEW DEVELOPMENTS

“We’re taking a mixed-use property and judging it based on residential terms,” he said. “We’re kind of stuck to approve it, because it’s within the legality of our system, but if we’re going to make any sort of stipulations, (I would) hold this to the same accountability that a commercial project with 80 bedrooms would be.”

The commission’s final 4-1 vote recommended approval of the project, with added conditions of an on-site grease trap, a prohibition on electric music and a directive to pursue potential widening of 61st Street.

Commission split on affordable housing ordinances

A pair of draft ordinances that would allow Marathon to accept early-evacuation affordable housing units from other Keys municipalities via modification of the city’s comprehensive plan and land development regulations met mixed reviews from the commission.

Language in the draft ordinances would remove a 300-unit cap from the city’s pool of early-evacuation affordable housing units. The change would enable a transfer of units originally sent to other Keys municipalities as part of a 1,300-unit award to the island chain by then-Gov. Rick Scott in 2018, along with a mechanism to accept “any additional allocations which may be authorized by the Florida Administration Commission, Florida Statute or transferred to Marathon that are not accepted by other Florida Keys municipalities or Monroe County.”

“All affordable housing does in the Florida Keys is make developers a lot of money,” said commissioner Mike Cinque. “I think you’re crazy if you think you’re going to put 1,300 more units in this town.”

Planning Director Brian Shea clarified that the 1,300-unit number referenced in the ordinances refers to the already-bestowed 2018 units that could be transferred from other jurisdictions choosing not to award them – not additional units, as Marathon has already allocated its 300-unit portion of the larger pool.

Commissioner Andrew George asked if additional accepted units could be restricted to construct only single-family homes, to which Shea replied that the early-evacuation units were legally restricted to multi-family rental units when they were awarded

by the state.

“We all know that there are other municipalities very close to us that are never going to build affordable housing,” Senmartin said. “If we have the ability to accept those units from them, then I think we should absolutely do that. Whether contractors or builders or developers get rich building affordable housing, I don’t really care. As long as we’re the ones getting the affordable housing, I think that’s what counts.”

While Senmartin and commission chair Mary Ann Royse voted to recommend approval of the comprehensive plan change, Sexton, George and Cinque voted against, with Sexton adding that he could not approve the change without reworked income limits and rental rates for Marathon’s affordable housing. However, Sexton joined Royse and Senmartin in a 3-2 vote to recommend approval of the land development regulation change.

In Other News:

• The commission unanimously recommended approval of four additional residential units at 59740 Overseas Highway on Grassy Key, built in lieu of the previously-approved on-site fuel sales and construction of a marina and convenience store.

• The commission unanimously recommended approval of replatting property at 4800 Overseas Highway, located behind the newly-constructed Crystal Cove apartments, for future development as nine single-family lots. Future construction will include eight single-family homes, as the site’s one existing home will remain.

• The commission unanimously recommended approval for a boat storage facility at a now-vacant lot at 2 Coco Plum Drive.

• Following discussion of an additional vegetation buffer or façade along U.S. 1 to hide the 28-foot-tall metal building, the commission unanimously recommended approval for an eight-bay 13,200-square-foot commercial warehouse with elevated office space at 420 69th Street Ocean.

At press time, the city council is set to consider all of the referenced developments and ordinances at its monthly meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 8 at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall.

THEIR VISION, IN THEIR WORDS

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

Each week, in an effort to provide greater familiarity and communication between the five Marathon City Council candidates and our readers, the Marathon Weekly will print candidates’ answers to a series of questions in editions leading up to the Nov. 5 election. With councilman Luis Gonzalez terming out and councilman Kennmy Matlock’s term expiring, the council will see at least one new face, as Matlock is seeking re-election.

Have suggestions for questions to ask the candidates? Email alex@keysweekly.com for consideration.

Marathon City Council candidates introduce their priorities

KENNY MATLOCK

I will continue to fight for a more transparent and honest local government. I think any future development should be single family homes and not housing compounds that locals don’t want to live in and don’t want in their neighborhood. I would like to see a staﬀ and council that no longer finds loopholes for developers but instead preserves community character to keep Marathon a small family-oriented town. We need to start making Marathon a place our children want to live in when they grow up.

This week: If elected, what is your vision for Marathon over the next three years

DUSTIN HUFF

It’s 2027, Marathon has undergone significant changes over the last three years. Residents are beginning to trust the city and its processes. Interactions with city employees have become pleasant, and residents are treated with dignity. The city is now treating all business owners and residents equally. Tax dollars are being allocated towards resident wellbeing and youth programs. The remaining BPAS are trickling out for owner occupied situations and out of town developers are taking a backseat. Aﬀordable housing rights are being carefully considered, positioning local business owners to accommodate their workers, and some are being allocated to deed-restricted situations.

CANDIDATE FORUM SET

Be sure to tune in to the local candidate forum presented by the Keys Weekly and the Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce on Monday, Oct. 7 at 6 p.m. in the Monroe County BOCC chambers at the Marathon Government Center. The forum will feature candidates for County Commission District 3, Supervisor of Elections and Marathon City Council. Attend the forum in person or watch live on Monroe County TV, with re-runs set at 5:30 pm. On Oct. 14, 21 and 28 and Nov. 4. To watch live, scan the QR code:

MARK SENMARTIN

My vision is simple: work hard! Work hard to improve our city. Work hard to support local businesses, to provide aﬀordable housing initiatives that genuinely work for everyone, to prioritize the changes we CAN make to vacation rentals instead of constantly focusing on what we CAN’T do, and, as always, work hard focusing on practical solutions instead of complaining. I worked with several councils and we did some great work. I know what can be done by working hard, and I see us taking on the diﬃcult tasks on day one!

LYNNY THOMPSON

My vision for the community is for it to be a happy and healthy place to live for both our citizens and our visitors both economically and environmentally. I will commit myself to working hard with the other city council members and the city staﬀ and our citizens to accomplish all the goals that we need to make this a great community now and for our children. I believe working together and respecting each other we will have a great future!

RAY WOOD

I would work on revitalizing the building permit portal and permit department, more user friendly, easier. Second, using now owned city property like Seven Mile Marina and the Quay to be more productive including additional boat ramps, we like to ask tourists to come to Marathon let’s make it easier. Tourism will remain strong, enforcement of Vacation rentals is a priority, and to insure a strong workforce, Make workforce housing, aﬀordable housing a priority as well and fast track where possible, insure a strong infrastructure. I am in favor of responsible growth that benefits our community.

FLORIDA VOTERS WILL ANSWER ABORTION QUESTION

Proposed amendment expected to increase voter turnout

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

Florida voters will decide in the coming weeks whether to end the state’s six-week abortion ban, which prohibits the procedure if six or more weeks have passed since conception, before most women know they’re pregnant.

Amendment 4, titled “Amendment to Limit Government Interference with Abortion,” would change the state constitution to read, “No law shall prohibit, penalize, delay, or restrict abortion before viability or when necessary to protect the patient’s health, as determined by the patient’s healthcare provider. This amendment does not change the Legislature’s constitutional authority to require notification to a parent or guardian before a minor has an abortion.”

Viability is defined in Florida law as “the stage of fetal development when the life of a fetus is sustainable outside the womb through standard medical measures.” It generally occurs around 23 or 24 weeks of pregnancy.

The amendment is expected to result in increased voter turnout throughout the state, and requires 60% approval to pass.

If it passes on Nov. 5, according to Florida law, “It shall be effective as an amendment to or revision of the constitution of the state on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in January following the election, or on such other date as may be specified in the amendment or revision.”

The current six-week ban was enacted by the Florida Legislature, and went into effect May 1.

The proposed initiative to allow abortions until viability was initiated by a group of citizens known as Floridians Protecting Freedom. The campaign to protect women’s access to abortion spent a year gathering the required number of signatures to put the proposed constitutional amendment on the 2024 ballot.. The group collected 996,512 signatures — more than 100,000 above the 891,523 that were needed by Feb. 1 to place the question on the ballot.

Financial Impact controversy

Additional language that will appear on the ballot — a required financial impact statement that estimates costs of any proposed amendment — has prompted controversy and legal action.

Floridians Protecting Freedom contends that the statement drafted by the state is biased, politicized and misleading to voters.

“The state of Florida weaponized this process to add deceptive and confusing language to the ballot,” the group’s website states.

“The Financial Impact Estimating Conference … must complete an analysis … of the estimated increase or decrease in any revenues or costs to state or local governments… . The analysis cannot be speculative, must be neutral, and should only include direct costs. However, the state of Florida weaponized a neutral democratic process and is using taxpayer dollars to deceive voters…,” the group’s website states.

The contested Financial Impact Statement that will be included on the ballot states, in part, that there is “uncertainty about whether the amendment will require the state to subsidize abortions with public funds. Litigation to resolve those and other uncertainties will result in additional costs to the state government and state courts that will negatively impact the state budget. An increase in abortions may negatively affect the growth of state and local revenues over time. Because the fiscal impact of increased abortions on state and local revenues and costs cannot be estimated with precision, the total impact of the proposed amendment is indeterminate.”

The Florida ACLU also opposed the financial impact statement and criticized the Florida Supreme Court that allowed it to appear on the ballot.

For more information about support of and opposition to Amendment 4, visit floridiansprotectingfreedom.com and the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops at flaccb.org/abortion-amendment.

The ReStore is a fundraising arm of Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys. They are a donation center that resells new and gently used appliances, building material, furniture and more. The ReStore is currently accepting drop-off donations by appointment only and offers limited donation pickup appointments for large items. They partner with local residents and businesses to generate the necessary funds to support our local community by building affordable homeownership. General Manager Lily Williamson encourages you to stop by and check out the new treasure you can find every week. When asked the key to their success she enthusiastically replied "our amazing island community!!"

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

REPUBLICAN DIVIDE DEEPENS AFTER CONTENTIOUS MEETING

GOP chair ejects elected official

Along-simmering feud within the local Republican Executive Committee boiled over at a recent meeting, then found its way to Facebook, revealing a divide over the party’s leadership and direction that reflects the similar rift in the national GOP between ardent supporters of Donald Trump’s MAGA movement and more moderate Republicans.

Friction has been mounting for months within the Monroe County Republican Executive Committee. Rhonda Rebman Lopez, a MAGA Republican, chairs the committee with similarly aligned board members. Committee members represent both groups.

The infighting has intensified since May, when the REC board held a vote to endorse its treasurer Sherri Hodies for supervisor of elections without mentioning the option of endorsing the other Republican candidate in the primary, Margaret Romero, who was not then an REC member. Several members objected, saying the vote to endorse fell short of the 60% or two-thirds approval required by the bylaws. Additionally, several members opposed the committee’s unprecedented endorsement of a candidate in a primary that included another Republican.

Complaints sent to the Republican Party of Florida (RPOF) prompted Lopez to ask the state party’s leadership for clarification. The state party acknowledged that primary endorsements were permitted.

When the Keys Weekly asked Lopez this week what the RPOF had said about the 60% vote requirement, she said, “The vote tallies were taken to the highest levels of the RPOF, by me, and they told me, as chairman, to make the call.”

Hodies’ endorsement stood. It came with a $20,000 campaign donation from the REC and she defeated Romero in the Aug. 20 primary. Hodies faces Democrat Ron Saunders in the November general election.

Some REC members have drawn the ire of Lopez and others because they personally and publicly endorsed Romero over Hodies in the primary. Some have also quietly signaled their support for Saunders over the Republican Hodies in the November election. Dissent continued within the committee

over the summer when Lopez reportedly canceled scheduled meetings, or closed them at the last minute to anyone except active members.

Committee meetings are closed to the public, the bylaws state, but allow “guests who are vouched for and accompanied by an REC member; elected Republican officials whose district encompasses Monroe County; registered candidates for an office in a district encompassing Monroe County;” invited speakers; members of local Republican clubs; members of RECs outside Monroe County and state party officers.

Contentious meeting

Jill Cranney-Black is one such Republican elected official whose district includes Monroe County. She has been a mosquito control commissioner for 12 years and made plans to attend the Sept. 21 REC meeting in Islamorada, along with two other local Republicans, non-committee members, who were guests of and sponsored by an REC member. Things did not go smoothly.

Cranney-Black told the Keys Weekly after the meeting:

“Saturday, I attended the REC meeting … to witness reported division between the leadership and the members ....I’d been told the current chair closes meetings last minute, which suppresses membership for Republicans who want to assist in the mission of getting qualified Republicans into office. I’d also been told she was not following rules that are set in place for a reason. I found her to be rude, dismissive, unprofessional and frivolous when speaking with her. I was essentially thrown out of the meeting by the chair for asking a simple question and having an opinion that didn’t align with hers. … My concerns were unfortunately confirmed.

“Current REC members and my fellow elected officials have done everything in their power to keep the discontent of the local REC leadership issues in house and a private matter. In these times, more than ever, we need to be united as a party. Under the current local leadership of the REC, the exact opposite seems to be happening and division seems to be occurring.”

Cranney-Black posted a similar summary of her experience at the meeting on Facebook, prompting a war of words that continued for several days. Here’s a selection of comments following her Facebook post:

“I witnessed the events firsthand. What Jill stated was an accurate account of what took place. There is more to come where a member was verbally accosted and had her personal space violated. The temperament and actions of the chair and some particular board members were an embarrassment, not just to a political party, but as human beings. This little piece of power that is currently retained will be short lived. Time to take the executive committee back and put it in the hands of reasonable and sane people. Jill, we appreciate your moral courage and honesty. We got your back and the backs of those members who seek change.”

— Jonathan Crane

“As a member of the REC, I witnessed Rhonda Lopez’ attack on Jill and it was horrible. There was an Agenda item which called for Elected Officials to talk but, without any authority, Rhonda confronted and evicted Jill (who is an elected official). Rhonda acted crazed and after her 20+ minute attack on Jill, she came into the meeting room, still yelling and slamming her shoe on the table. She insulted Commissioner Jim Scholl and Commissioner Lincoln. Jill handled herself like the professional she is. But Rhonda Lopez lacks maturity, integrity and professionalism; she has become an embarrassment to the organization.

When I voted against the endorsement and campaign contribution for Sherri Hodies, I explained that my reasoning was because it violated the RPOF Rule 8. That caused Rhonda to alienate me and Stephen Hammond and tap candidates Bethany Bartlett and Michael Washam to run against us for State Commit-

tee. We will find a way to restore the Monroe County REC to the wonderful organization it once was. Rhonda dug her hole and now the walls are caving in.” — Kathy White Ovide

“So the local republican party has adopted the policies of the national party. Very sad. I am so proud to have left the Republican party after being a republican for 40 plus years.” — Robert Cintron

“Throwing Republicans out of Republican meetings is becoming a regular occurrence at the REC meetings. Betty Chaplin & KW Jess told me I was not welcome and tried to throw me and 10 other republicans out of a meeting this past June. … The REC is not all bad, I would estimate it’s less than 50% and most are on the board. I attended my first meeting at the request of several members that want new leadership. Based on my personal experience, I totally agree that it is desperately needed. The current leadership has caused a major rift in the party.” — Kevin Talbott

“When you are part of the ‘fake Republicans’ that actually endorse and support Democratic candidates, maybe you shouldn’t be speaking on corruption in our Republican Executive Committee. … This is the catalyst for ALL the drama in our Republican executive committee. You have taken no interest in our REC, but showed up Saturday because you were most likely sought by those ‘Republicans in name only’ to bring more drama to the Republican executive committee and then acted like a victim when our Chair said ‘hell no’.

The true corruption in our local party are those poisoning the well, to get a democrat elected… Just an observation but playing the victim is not a very conservative value. It’s a tell-tale leftist play. There are wolves in sheeps clothing infiltrating our Monroe county Republican Party.”

— Stand With Bethany

“There is nothing wrong with voting your conscience if you believe the far better candidate happens to be a Democrat. Blind allegiance to a party if foolish. It certainly does not warrant the unprofessional, nasty behavior we are seeing. … Why was Sherrie endorsed over Romero against party rules? Why wasn’t she ethical enough to return the $10,000? Why is she hosting a fundraiser for a known election denier who has no proof of any fraud?”

— Steve Tepper, replying to Stand with Bethany

“When an election denier runs for the office overseeing elections, people will see the truth and vote with their conscience, not along party lines. Personally, I don’t think this job should be partisan as election integrity is important to us all. I’m not sure how long you’ve lived in the Keys, or know the history Ron Saunders has here, but you may need to look into that a bit. He’s the person for the job, no matter his party affiliation. The fact that you continue to push party-line voting only is shameful, and a real problem with our current political climate. Your attempts to belittle Jill and demean Ron are showing your own lack of integrity.”

— Julie Brown, replying to Stand with Bethany

“As an American, many of us see parties as groups of like minded people supporting a political goal. They have a structure to serve their members. The board serves the members.

This party changed massively into conspiracy and pretend victimization in my humble opinion. If this is what the present leadership calls real Republicans, many of us part ways with the party.

The support of one primary Republican over another was not we the people. It was a power trip. Listening to the rants on cherry picked and twisted truths is not for many.

I respect that we differ, as I have supported Americans who are not the sad tabloid folk. My candidates are both republicans and democrats this election season. I support those elected to represent us who stand up for those they serve, not this mess I see.”

— Jack Norris, replying to Stand with Bethany

“(Joyce Griffin) endorsed you because she is a Democrat and wants to pass the torch to another Democrat. If Sherri gets in there and does some digging she may find some unfavorable ‘standards.’ With her dedication to transparency that ‘experience’ may be under attack. Of course unless you get in there…” — Stand with Bethany, replying Ron Saunders

When asked by the Keys Weekly about the Sept. 21 meeting, Lopez said, “Only statewide legislative officials are allowed into closed meetings, along with inducted REC members. My son graduated from Yale Law. I know my stuff.”

The bylaws, under the heading, “Guests and Invitees,” do not make any distinction between a closed meeting and a regular meeting.

“It was a closed meeting because we had things to discuss — some financial matters and confidential strategies,” Lopez told the Keys Weekly on Sept. 24.

Lopez also sent a text message to REC members after the Sept. 21 meeting, writing: “Mosquito Board Jill with her high school education was a disgrace interrupting our closed meeting yesterday. I can’t believe my tax dollars pay her & many of the other public officials, but here we are. She would have had an argument to stay if she hadn’t come in insulting the Chair by saying I wasn’t an elected official & she was & that I tried to be. That insult was met w/my response that I own a multi-million dollar company and that I don’t need the taxpayer money to pay my insurance or salaries like she & many of the others do. She also screamed at Sherri (Hodies) telling her she was going to lose. RPOF knows ALL of this and more.

And for those texting during the meeting slandering Sherri & myself — someone was over your shoulder reading & committing to memory each & every text. I know so much more & seen the proof in texts that I’m just like WoW! And, there’s a recording that blew my mind. Unbeknownst, there was a mole in the group.”

(Note: Cranney-Black has a master’s degree in business administration and has worked for the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office as executive director of finance for 11 years.)

Investigators say GoPro footage taken from victim Israel Boza’s friend shows defendant Palmer Long Jr. observing and acknowledging divers in the water as he passes close by at high speeds. FWC/ Contributed

BOAT DRIVER ARRESTED AFTER FATAL JULY STRIKE ON SPEAR FISHERMAN

Palmer Long Jr. faces vessel homicide charges

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

Nearly three months after a boat strike off Bahia Honda State Park over the Fourth of July weekend proved fatal for a spear fisherman, authorities with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) have apprehended the man they say is responsible, arresting 72-year-old Placida, Florida resident Palmer Reid Long Jr. and charging him with vessel homicide on Sept. 23.

According to Long’s FWC arrest warrant, eyewitnesses aboard the victim’s boat, as well as bystanders on another boat who discovered 56-year-old victim Israel Boza’s body floating in the water, say Long’s 32-foot Contender vessel was the only boat traveling at a high rate of speed through the area when Boza was killed, likely dying within minutes from injuries to his head, abdomen, thigh and leg consistent with a high-speed propeller strike.

In July, a screenshot taken from GoPro footage recorded by Boza’s fellow snorkeler in the water and posted to social media quickly identified Long’s vessel at his residence in Key Colony Beach. Other stills from the same footage show Long’s vessel passing through the area where Boza was swimming and within roughly 30 feet of the camera operator in the water, FWC investigator Glen Wray wrote in the warrant.

Other images, Wray said, show Long appearing to face directly towards the other occupants of Boza’s boat and the camera operator in the water, acknowledging the latter as he made hand signals to warn Long, but continuing without slowing down or changing course.

Though Long’s boat was the only vessel of the three mentioned in the arrest warrant to not have active tracks

engaged in its GPS at the time of Boza’s death, Wray wrote that based on a waypoint created in Long’s boat’s GPS in the minutes before the strike, as well as a second waypoint created in Long’s passenger’s phone 12 minutes later and 9.8 miles away, “it can be deduced that (Long’s boat) was traveling at approximately 49 miles per hour on its return trip to Mr. Long’s residence.”

A projected direct track from Long’s boat’s last location to the entrance of Key Colony Beach’s canals “showed he transited directly through the dive area,” Wray wrote.

Early reports following the incident called into question the display of a dive flag aboard Boza’s boat, an element addressed in Long’s warrant. GoPro stills confirm, and the report admits, that while an appropriately-sized flag was displayed, it lacked a required stiffening rod and was displayed from the rod holders behind the operator’s seat, not from the legally-required highest point of the vessel.

However, the warrant states, the flag should have been clearly visible as Long’s boat approached Boza’s from the stern, and wind conditions on the day of the strike kept the flag unfurled naturally.

“Mr. Long failed to use ordinary, reasonable and due care toward Mr. Boza and eventually caused his death,” Wray concluded. “Mr. Long consciously and intentionally operated (his boat) without a proper lookout and at an unsafe speed with known hazards in the area and should have reasonably known that operating … through a dive area with multiple swimmers in the water would likely cause death or bodily injury to others in the water.”

According to Florida statute, vessel homicide is a second-degree felony, elevated to a first-degree felony if the perpetrator knew, or should have known, that an accident occurred and failed to render aid to the victim.

The Keys Weekly contacted Long’s attorney Hal Schuhmacher by phone for comment on the arrest, but did not receive a statement before press time.

COUNTY TERMINATES INDICTED TRAUMA STAR DIVISION CHIEF

Andrea Thompson’s attorney says decision ignores ‘actual evidence’

Monroe County Administrator Christine Hurley last Friday elected to terminate the employment of indicted Monroe County Fire Rescue Division Chief Andrea Thompson, county spokeswoman Kristen Livengood told the Weekly on Sept. 27.

The decision to terminate Thompson follows the recommendation in an August grand jury report that indicted Thompson, former County Administrator Roman Gastesi and former Trauma Star medical director Dr. Sandra Schwemmer for their alleged roles in the 2022 theft and loss of more than 600 vials of controlled substances from Monroe County Fire Rescue, which oversees the county’s Trauma Star air ambulance service.

The grand jury recommended the county “immediately terminate” Thompson and forbid her from returning or holding any position with MCFR. She was suspended without pay after a 11-count indictment, including charges of official misconduct, providing false information to law enforcement, tampering with physical evidence and tampering with witnesses.

Backed by more than two dozen others wearing custom “I Stand with Andrea Thompson” shirts, Thompson attended the Monroe County BOCC’s meeting on Sept. 11 in Key Largo. County Attorney Bob Shillinger and human resources director Bryan Cook outlined the process for Thompson’s first pre-determination hearing, used by the county in disciplinary cases to investigate an employee’s charges and determine whether the individual can return to work as charges are pending.

Speaking to the commission, Thompson’s attorney Kendall Coffey

told the board he hoped the predetermination hearing would be less “one-sided” than a grand jury report, which he called “an instrumentality of investigation for prosecution.”

“There are other processes, ultimately including a jury trial, which are conceived to hear both sides and bring out the truth,” he said.

“The hearing officer made the recommendation after conducting a pre-determination hearing as well as reviewing pertinent documents pursuant to the county’s personnel policies and procedures manual,” Livengood wrote in Friday’s statement. “The hearing officer determined that Thompson violated county policy, which constituted a breach of the public trust, particularly given her leadership role.”

“Monroe County remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and accountability,” said Hurley. “We want to ensure public trust and safety throughout Monroe County Fire Rescue and all county departments.”

In an emailed statement, Thompson’s attorney Sean Parys told the Weekly that Friday’s decision “was made solely based on her arrest and indictment, without consideration of the actual evidence in the case.”

“As she has throughout her career, Thompson acted with professionalism and integrity during this incident, and all decisions were made by or with her colleagues and superiors,” he said. “When the actual evidence is tested in court, it will show Andrea Thompson is innocent.”

According to Monroe County court records, the next hearing in Thompson’s case is set for Wednesday, Oct. 30 at 10 a.m. in Key West before Judge Mark Jones.

Supporters accompany former MCFR Division Chief Andrea Thompson to a county commission meeting on Sept. 11 before her pre-determination hearing. CONTRIBUTED

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

75 YEARS OF SERVICE

Keys Mosquito Control District continues the battle with new technology

KELLIE BUTLER FARRELL www.keysweekly.com

1-2. A low-flying DC 3 sprays for mosquitoes over the Florida Keys. The old planes were retired in the 1990s and replaced by a fleet of helicopters. CONTRIBUTED. 3. The Florida Keys Mosquito Control District now operates a fleet of five helicopters. This photograph was in the summer of 2020 during the Dengue outbreak. 4. John Carson, seen on the job, is the longest-tenured FKMCD employee. He’s been with the agency for more than 30 years and is a Lower Keys field inspector. 5. The mosquito control district once used a Bell 47 helicopter for treatment.

In 1949, the Florida state legislature passed a bill paving the way for the creation of what is now known as the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District (FKMCD). A few years later, in 1951, the fledgling operation consisted of one full-time employee who served as the executive director and entomologist, overseeing 14 part-time employees tasked with covering the entire 120-mile long island chain.

Today, FKMCD has a 2024-2025 budget of approximately 20 million dollars and employs roughly 71 full-time workers, half of whom are field inspectors. Mosquito control has three boats used to target mosquitoes on the offshore islands, and it now has an arsenal of five sophisticated helicopters to keep the blood-sucking insects at bay.

“We’ve come an awful long way,” acknowledged Dr. Larry Hribar, who serves as the mosquito district’s director of research. Hribar has been with mosquito control for 26 years and is credited with establishing its surveillance program, which utilizes around 70 trapping sites to identify the types of mosquitoes found throughout the Florida Keys.

“When I got here there were 45 mosquito species that had been reported in the Florida Keys, we’re up over 50 now,” said Hribar.

Executive Director Andrea Leal has been with the district for more than 20 years. Over her tenure with the agency, the focus has shifted from eradicating nuisance mosquitoes to fighting a public health battle.

“We didn’t really see a lot of diseases until about 15 years ago, when we saw Dengue fever introduced into the Florida Keys for the first time since the 1930s,” said Leal. “And that really changed our perspective on the importance of what we’re doing around here.”

The way the agency fights mosquitoes has evolved as well. Today the focus is on larviciding, targeting the immature mosquitoes living in water before they become biting adults.

“That’s been a general trend of ours for the last 15 or 20 years and we’re really proud of that,” said Leal.

“The more larviciding we’ve been doing, the less adulticiding we needed to do,” she explained. Adulticiding targets the flying, blood-sucking mosquitoes.

“We really push whatever we can do to be as environmentally sensitive as we can,” added Leal.

John Carson is a field inspector in the Lower Keys and is the longest serving FKMCD employee. He’s been with the agency for over 30 years and remembers when mosquito control had only one helicopter and two thundering World War II-era DC 3s. The low flying planes were real attention-getters.

“A lot of questions, is that plane crashing or something?” recalled John of inquiries he would field from Keys residents and visitors. “I think we’re doing

a lot better now, that’s for sure,” he added. FKMCD stopped flying the old DC 3s in the late 1990s and slowly transitioned to an all helicopter fleet used for granular and liquid missions.

Back in the day, Carson logged a few thousand hours as a passenger in the helicopters with the pilots, showing them where to go to make their drops.

Now, the pilots fly the mosquito missions solo due to advances in technology.

“Computer models are on board that will show pilots exactly where the droplet cloud will come down,” said Hribar, who recalled his hair-raising early days of flying in the helicopters without the doors on.

“I said to the pilot, what’s going on? He said we can carry more product if we take the doors off,” recalled Hribar with a laugh.

When asked what living in the Florida Keys would be like without mosquito control, Hribar quickly responded, “ It would be miserable.”

Despite the advances in technology and efficiencies, field inspectors still utilize good old-fashioned footwork to help them locate areas of concern and educate residents.

“We knock on a lot of doors,” said Carson. “We walk around and dump out water and also educate them about the diseases that can come about if they’re around in the area,” he added.

The busy mosquito season coincides with hurricane season when heavy rains can lead to optimal mosquito breeding grounds.

Over the last 75 years, the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District has learned a lot about fighting the tiny disease-carrying creatures and now employees are eager to share what they’ve learned with the public they serve.

That’s why FKMCD will host its first ever open house on Tuesday, Oct. 8. There will be various educational stations showing what inspectors do daily and ways to prevent or reduce mosquitoes on your own property. Laboratory personnel will display all the different life stages of mosquitoes under microscopes. There will be arts and crafts for the kids. There will also be a naming contest for mosquito control’s new mascot. On top of that, all of the mosquito-fighting equipment will be on display, including the agency’s trucks and helicopters. Then, around 5:30 p.m. there will be an aerial demonstration.

“You’ll be able to see the helicopter just spraying water so you can get a good visual of exactly what it is that we do when we’re out there,” said Leal. “After that we’ll do a cake cutting and it should be a really great time,” she added.

The Florida Keys Mosquito Control District’s open house is free to the public and will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 8 from 4 to 7 p.m. at 503 107th St. Gulf in Marathon.

MIAMI MAN FOUND GUILTY IN MASSIVE COUNTY MARINE THEFT CASE

The Monroe County State’s Attorney’s Office successfully prosecuted a member of a theft ring responsible for a string of vessel burglaries in Monroe County from late 2022 to mid-2023 targeting GPS systems.

Denzel Varona, the driver for the group on one of the Upper Keys theft sprees, was sentenced recently following an open plea before the Honorable Judge James Morgan.

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office uncovered a group of thieves traveling from Miami to target boatyards, marinas and waterfront homes. The group specifically sought to steal Garmin GPS units from vessels, which were later sold in Miami. Multiple individuals were arrested as a result of this investigation in a joint operation with Miami Dade law enforcement.

Denzel Varona, 19, a key participant, was adjudicated guilty on the following charges: racketeering, organized dealing in stolen property, unlawful use of a twoway communication device, four counts of burglary of a conveyance and five counts of grand theft.

Varona, who was the getaway driver and assisted in the loading of stolen property during the Upper Keys raids, was sentenced as a youthful offender to three years in Florida state prison. His sentence includes a subsequent three years of supervision with electronic monitoring, which will be split into 18 months of community control followed by 18 months of probation. Additionally, Varona is required to complete 200 hours of community service and attend an anti-theft course. Three other cases remain pending against other members of the theft ring.

MCSO/Contributed

This case highlights the diligent work of local law enforcement and their commitment to protecting the Florida Keys from organized crime. Monroe County State’s Attorney Dennis Ward commended the efforts of both Monroe and Miami-Dade law enforcement agencies.

“This is a clear message that coordinated criminal activity crossing county lines will not be tolerated,” Ward said. “We remain vigilant in protecting our communities and holding offenders accountable. Assistant State Attorney Trey Evans continues to work with law enforcement to prosecute additional members of this theft ring, ensuring that all responsible parties face justice”.

Chief Assistant State Attorney Joseph Mansfield added, “The investigation is far from over. We are continuing to follow leads and work closely with law enforcement to ensure that every individual involved in this theft ring is brought to justice. This is about more than stolen property — it’s about protecting our community from those who seek to exploit it.”

— Contributed

MARINE

HONORS VOLUNTEER STEPHEN PATTEN

Patten serves as docent at Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

Stephen Patten is two-timing us—in a good way. The 68-year-old retiree, whose first name is pronounced Stef-an, has been named Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Volunteer of the Year for a second time, reprising the honor he first earned in 2019. “I guess I’m on a roll every five years,” Patten quipped, “so I have 2029 to look forward to.” By that time, Patten will have multiplied the 1,000 volunteer hours he’s logged as a docent at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, not to mention his time serving as a member of the Sanctuary Advisory Council.

“Stephen is an authority on the environmental history and communities of the Keys,” said EcoDiscovery Center manager Kristina Agard, “and does a wonderful job introducing visitors to not only the Eco-Discovery Center, but to the environment around it as well. Stephen ensures everyone walks away with a deeper understanding of our delicate ecosystems and how we can all help to preserve them.”

You could say that Patten labored for half a century to get here. In the early 1970s, he enrolled at

Oregon State University to pursue a career as a park ranger, but a dearth of jobs at the time forced him into the military. He became an Army medic on the way to a nursing career that made him a leader in the liver transplant movement as president of the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists. “All of us are born with responsibility before we get privileges,” Patten said, “and it’s a responsibility of every individual to find where they can make a difference in society and do it. It’s one of the reasons I was a nurse for 40 years, and the reason I’m volunteering and trying to give back to the environment I love so much.”

Patten is in his third term on the Sanctuary Advisory Council, serving as the primary Lower Keys Citizen at Large. A scuba diver since 1972, you can also find him in the water on occasion, enjoying the coral reefs and generating first-hand knowledge for his tours at the Eco-Discovery Center. “As volunteer coordinator, I love when I can match a volunteer with the right opportunity for them to feel like they are making a difference— giving back to their community, and having fun at the same time,” said the sanctuary’s Liz Trueblood. “Our volunteers allow us to reach more people with the important message of protecting the unique ecosystems in the Keys.”

Kristina Agard, Superintndent Sarah Fangman and Liz Trueblood honor Stephen Patten with his second Volunteer of the Year plaque. CONTRIBUTED

Denzel Varona.

RAIN

Though Hurricane Helene and a Friday night downpour did their best to delay and dampen Marathon’s Homecoming celebration after a week of Disney-themed school spirit days, students and faculty persevered with a full day of festivities on Sept. 27, from a pep rally and the traditional parade to a blowout win on the gridiron under the lights.

The Class of 2026’s Finding Nemothemed float earned top honors from the parade’s judges, and even after hours of rain-drenched football, alumni Benfriday Makwarawanda and Kayesha Christian returned to the field where they earned their 2023 crowns to celebrate Mikail “Jay” Marshall and Elena Eubank as the 2024 Homecoming King and Queen.

1. Marathon football players load up the flatbed for their Homecoming parade.

2,9. The MHS volleyball teams make their way onto U.S. 1.

3. A screaming truckload of seniors present their Toy Story-themed float.

4. Representatives from the Z Club toss candy.

5. Madison Sweeney, left, and Alejandro Gonzalez-Gamez represent the senior class.

6. Elena Eubank, left, and Mason Thornton parade down U.S. 1 with the homecoming court.

7. The junior class’ Finding Nemo float rolls its way to a first-place finish on the judges’ score cards.

8. Marathon’s distance runners catch a lift for the parade.

10. The MHS band and color guard add some tunes to the proceedings.

11, 18. The Golfin’ Dolphins are armed with handfuls of lollipops for spectators.

12. David Ornelas, left, and Serena Steele greet their fans.

13. The Stars of the Florida Keys show their spirit.

14. Kaya Hughes-Struyf, left, and Kye Daughtry represent the freshman class.

15. Savannah Garcia, left, and Jayden Rosete represent the junior class.

16. Ella Dunn, left, and Adrien Holdinga give it their best shot with a Charlie’s Angels pose.

17. Members of the MHS Class of 2004 stick it out through the rain for part of their 20-year class reunion. From left: Mallory Pinto, Josh Luddeni, Bette Bott.

19. Marathon High crowns its new King and Queen. From left: MHS principal Christine Paul, 2023 Homecoming Queen Kayesha Christian, 2024 Homecoming Queen Elena Eubank, 2024 Homecoming King Mikail ‘Jay’ Marshall, 2023 Homecoming King Benfriday Makwarawanda.

Photos by Barry Gaukel and Alex Rickert. For more parade and homecoming photos, see keysweekly.com.

City Council Items

* A. Approval of Minutes

City of Marathon City Council Agenda

9805 Overseas Hwy., Marathon

Tuesday, October 8, 2024 5:30 P.M.

(*Denotes Item Is Passed By Consent Upon Approval of Agenda)

Public Comments taken on all times and at 6:30pm time certain for items not on the agenda or as soon as possible thereafter of after the last agenda item; whichever comes first.

B. Request from the Florida Keys Celtic Festival Event on January 11th and 12th to allow beer and wine to be sold at the event at the Community Park.

City Manager Report

* A. MCSO Marathon Substation Report

* B. Grants Update

* C. Public Works Report

* D. Park and Recreation Report

* E. Marathon Fire Rescue Report

* F. Marina Report

* G. Code Report

* H. Wastewater Utilities Report

* I. Building Report

J. City of Marathon Vehicle Policy

Quasi-Judicial Public Hearings

A. Resolution 2024-94 Consideration Of A Request By Huff and Rauner Gulfside Estates LLC For A Conditional Use Permit, Pursuant To Chapter 102, Article 13 Of The City Of Marathon Land Development Regulations (“The Code”) Entitled “Conditional Use Permits”, Authorizing The Development Of A Tiki Bar, Food Trucks, Entertainment Stage, Nature Walk And Twenty (20) Single Family Residential Units Consisting Of Twenty (20) Parcels Located At 6200 Overseas Hwy; Which Is Legally Described As Lots 3 Through 6 And The West Half Of Lot 7 Of Casa Manana Shores Subdivision As Recorded In Plat Book 2 Page 50, A Subdivision Of Part Of Government Lot 1 Section 11 & Vacas, Vacas Out Lot 1 & Filled Area; Section 11 Township 66 Range 32 Key Vaccas Part Lot 1 & Part Old State Road 4 A, Marathon Heights As Recorded In Plat Book 2 Page 83 Key Vaca Part Lot 1 (Old State Road 4-A) And Vacant Land 61st Street; Block 2 Lots 1 Through 12 Of Marathon Heights Subdivision As Recorded In Plat Book 2 Page 83, A Re-Subdivision Of Lots 1 & 2 Of Casa Manana Shores As Recorded In Plat Book 2 Page 50; Monroe County, Florida, Having Real Estate Numbers As Stated In the Resolution. Nearest Mile Marker 50.

B. Resolution 2024-95, Consideration Of A Request By LPS Utilities Inc. For A Conditional Use Permit, Pursuant To Chapter 102, Article 13 Of The City Of Marathon Land Development Regulations (“The Code”) Entitled “Conditional Use Permits”, Authorizing The Development Of Four (4) Residential Units Located At 59740 Overseas Hwy; Section 20 Township 65 Range 34 Grassy Key Part Lot 5, Monroe County, Florida, Having Real Estate Number 00100130-000000. Nearest Mile Marker 60.

C. Resolution 2024-96, Consideration Of A Request For A Conditional Use Permit And Preliminary Plat Approval Pursuant To Chapter 102 Article 10 And Article 13 Of The City Of Marathon Land Development Regulation (LDRS) Entitled “Subdivision Of Land/Plats And Re-Plats,” And “Conditional Use Permits” Respectively, For A Preliminary Plat Approval As Submitted By Key Vaca LLC And John And Phyliss Strittar For A Portion Of Land Which Is Described As Section 10, Township 66, Range 32, Key Vacas Bay Bottom & Fill Bay Bottom Adjacent To Part Of Lot 2 & All Of Lot 3 Of Thomoson Subdivision (A/K/A Parcel E & Bay Bottom Parcel B), And Thompson Subdivision & Adams Subdivision

PB2-24, Key Vaca Part Of Lot 2 & Adjacent Bay Bottom And Thompson Subdivision & Adams PB2-24 Key Vaca Part Lots 2 & 3 (Parcel B & F) & Filled Bay Bottom & Canal Bay Bottom And Thompson Subdivision & Adams Subdivision PB2-24, Key Vaca Part Of Lot 3, Having Real Estate Numbers As Stated In the Resolution. Nearest Mile Marker 50.

D. Resolution 2024-97, Consideration Of A Request By Coco Plum LLC For A Conditional Use Permit, Pursuant To Chapter 102, Article 13 Of The City Of Marathon Land Development Regulations (“The Code”) Entitled “Conditional Use Permits”, Authorizing The Development Of A Boat Storage Facility Located At 2 Coco Plum Dr; Which Is Legally Described As Block 1 Lot 2 Coco Plum Beach PB4-166 Fat Deer Key, Monroe County, Florida, Having Real Estate Number 00362810-000000. Nearest Mile Marker 54.

E. Resolution 2024-98, Consideration Of A Request By Gunnar Holdings LLC For A Conditional Use Permit, Pursuant To Chapter 102, Article 13 Of The City Of Marathon Land Development Regulations (“The Code”) Entitled “Conditional Use Permits”, Authorizing The Development Of A Commercial Warehouse with Eight (8) Rental Bays Including Elevated Loft Office Space And Bathroom Located at 420 69th Street Ocean; Block 2 Lots 1 & 2 First Addition To Seacrest Key Vaca, Monroe County, Florida, Having Real Estate Number 00339230-000000. Nearest Mile Marker 51.

Ordinance For First Public Hearing

A. Ordinance 2024-10, Amending the City’s Land Development Regulations Relating to Chapter 107, Article 5, “Setbacks and Height”, Section 107.36 “Exception To Setback”; Providing For The Repeal Of All Ordinances Or Parts Thereof Found To Be In Conflict; Providing For Severability; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To Florida Commerce After Final Adoption By The City Council; Providing For Inclusion In The Code Of Ordinances And Providing For An Effective Date.

B. Ordinance 2024-11, Amending The City’s Comprehensive Plan, Amending Objective 1-4.1 “Provide Workforce-Affordable Housing Building Permit Allocations”; Providing For Severability; Providing For The Repeal Of Conflicting Provisions; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To Florida Commerce; And Providing For An Effective Date Upon The Approval Of This Ordinance By Florida Commerce.

C. Ordinance 2024-12, Amending Chapter 107, Article 1 “Building Permit Allocation System” By Amending Section 107.04 “Establishment Of Allocation Pools” To Remove The Cumulative Limit; Providing For The Repeal Of All Ordinances Or Parts Thereof Found To Be In Conflict; Providing For Severability; Providing For The Transmittal Of This Ordinance To Florida Commerce After Final Adoption By The City Council; Providing For Inclusion In The Code Of Ordinances And Providing For An Effective Date.

Resolutions for Adoption

A. Resolution 2024-99, Approving Subject To Conditions, A Request To The City Council Of The City Of Marathon By Jack Carlson To Abandon The

Public Right Of Way Located At 11491 1st Avenue Ocean, Known As Smokes Court Aka 1st Avenue Ocean, Described As Being Adjacent To And Between Lots 161-162 And Lot 3, Little Venice Number 2 Subdivision, Key Vaca, Having Real Estate Numbers

*B. Resolution 2024-100, Approving And Accepting A Warranty Deed For The Conveyance Of Land From Olgierd Muszynski And Carol Muszynski Recipients Of A Residential Dwelling Unit Allocation Award; Authorizing Its Recording In The Public Records Of Monroe County, Florida; And Providing An Effective Date.

*C. Resolution 2024-101, Approving And Accepting A Warranty Deed For The Conveyance Of Land From Raymond Larsen And Tammy Larsen Recipients Of A Residential Dwelling Unit Allocation Award; Authorizing Its Recording In The Public Records Of Monroe County, Florida; And Providing An Effective Date.

*D. Resolution 2024-102 Authorizing The City To Extend The Agreement With Ronald L. Book, P.A. For Professional Consulting And Lobbying Services Before The Legislature Of The State Of Florida; Authorizing The City Manager To Expend Budgeted Funds, And Execute The Extension Agreement; And Providing An Effective Date

*E. Resolution 2024-103 Accepting The Ranking And Recommendation Of The City’s Evaluation Team In Response To An RFQ For Qualified Professional Transportation Engineering Firms, Teams, Or Individuals To Develop The City Of Marathon Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; Authorizing The City Manager And Staff To Negotiate A Contract With The Top Ranked Firm Of Stantec Consulting Services, Inc: And Providing For An Effective Date.

*F. Resolution 2024-104, Approving The Submittal Of A Grant Application To The State Of Florida Department Of Transportation (FDOT), Highway Beautification Grant Program To Provide For The Landscaping Along US 1 Right Of Ways; Authorizing The City Manager To Execute Documents On Behalf Of The City, And Providing For Conflicts, Severability, And An Effective Date.

*G. Resolution 2024-105, Awarding the contract for the Area 3 Mudwell Pumping System Upgrades to Reynolds Construction, LLC In An Amount Not To Exceed $215,800.22; Authorizing The City Manager To Enter Into Agreements In Connection Therewith, Appropriating And Expending Budgeted Funds; And Providing For An Effective Date

*H. Resolution 2024-106, Authorizing A “Piggy-Back” Purchase Pursuant To The City’s Purchasing Policies And Procedures And Approving The Purchase Of John Deer Precision Cut Turf Mower Under The State of Florida Department of Management Contract No. 25101900-21STC(PG F2 CG 22) From Everglades Equipment Group In An Amount Not To Exceed $47,215.63; Authorizing The City Manager To Enter Into Agreements In Connection Therewith, Appropriating And Expending Funds; And Providing For An Effective Date

Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes, if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the City Council with respect to any matter considered at such hearing or meeting, one will need a record of the proceedings and for such purpose that person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made; such record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. ADA Assistance: Anyone needing special assistance at the City Council hearing due to disability should contact the City of Marathon City Attorney at (305) 289-4130 at least five days prior thereto. Please contact the City Clerk at clavierd@ci.marathon.fl.us if you would like to receive any of the items on the agenda by email.

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Dozens of acts in ‘One Weekend Only: Just for Fun’ run the gamut from comedy skits to dances, parodies, Broadway throwbacks and re-creations from the silver screen. Photos by ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

HERE ONE WEEKEND, GONE THE NEXT

Marathon Community Theatre hosts annual two-show fundraiser

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

The stage at Marathon Community Theatre is set to host its most diverse collection of talents on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 4 and 5, as the playhouse hosts its annual fundraiser with One Weekend Only: Just for Fun. Directed by Donna Nussenblatt and hosted by crowd favorites Jaimie Roberts and Dion Watson, the show blends comedy with opera, dance, skits and musical performances for an evening of diverse entertainment. Tickets to the show are $45 and include a complimentary post-show buffet and champagne toast, along with a weekend-long silent auction. The curtain rises at 8 p.m. on both nights, with the silent auction and cocktail hour starting at 7 p.m. For more information and tickets, visit marathontheater.org.

PASTA NIGHT IN DOLPHIN COUNTRY

Under the guidance of MHS kitchen mastermind Chef Flavor, students in Marathon High School’s culinary program will host their first dinner of the 2024-25 school year with a pasta night on Friday, Oct. 11 from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Dolphin Bistro at the high school. The evening will feature a pasta bar with a variety of sauces – pomodoro (tomato and sweet basil), a classic creamy Alfredo, a spicy marinara and nut-free kale pesto. Dinners are served with grilled Focaccia, a Caesar salad and tiramisu. Dinner tickets are $20. CONTRIBUTED

•

• Grilled Ribeye Sandwiches

• Grilled Bratwurst

• BBQ Bacon Wrapped Shrimp & Scallops

• BBQ Bacon Wrapped Lobster • Chili Cheese Dogs DRINK SPECIALS

• $3 Coors Light

• $5 Mango Painkillers

• $2 Jello Shots

Northbound Travel Lane on SR 5/US 1/Overseas Highway Nighttime Closure. Detour to Card Sound Road: October 10 and October 14 through October 17

Nightly road closures and detours will be implemented on SR 5/US 1/Overseas Highway from Jewﬁsh Creek Bridge MM 108.4 to the Miami-Dade County Line Mile Marker (MM) 112.8. The northbound travel lane will be closed in Key Largo from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Thursday, October 10 and again on Monday, October 14 through Thursday, October 17. During these road closures, northbound traffic will be detoured to Card Sound Road and tolls will be suspended. Truck drivers are reminded that Monroe County has posted new weight restrictions on Card Sound Road on the approach to Mosquito Creek and Tubby’s Creek Bridges. Please plan ahead.

Cierre Nocturno en Carril de Circulación en Dirección Rumbo Norte Sobre la Ruta SR 5/US 1/Overseas Highway. Desvío a Card Sound Road: 10 de octubre y del 14 al 17 de octubre

Se implementarán cierres de carreteras y desvíos nocturnos sobre la ruta SR 5/US 1/Overseas Highway desde el puente Jewfish Creek marcador de milla (MM) 108.4 hasta la línea MM 112.8 la línea del condado de Miami-Dade. El carril de circulación en dirección norte estará cerrado en Key Largo a partir de las 8 p.m. a 6 a.m. el jueves 10 de octubre y nuevamente del lunes 14 de octubre al jueves 17 de octubre. Durante estos cierres de carreteras, el tráfico en dirección norte se desviará a Card Sound Road y se suspenderán los peajes. Se recuerda a los conductores de camiones que el condado de Monroe ha publicado nuevas restricciones de peso en Card Sound Road en el acceso a los puentes Mosquito Creek y Tubby's Creek. Por favor planifique con anticipación.

Liy vwayaj nan direksyon Nò sou SR 5/US 1/Otowout Otowout Fèmti lannwit. Detou nan Card Sound Road: 10 oktòb ak 14 oktòb jiska 17 oktòb Fèmti wout ak detou chak swa yo pral aplike sou SR 5/US 1/Overseas Highway soti nan Jewﬁsh Creek Bridge makè mil (MM) 108.4 rive nan Liy Konte Miami-Dade MM 112.8. Liy vwayaj nan direksyon nò a pral fèmen nan vil Key Largo apati 8 p.m. jiska 6 a.m. nan Jedi 10 Oktòb epi ankò lendi 14 Oktòb jiska Jedi 17 Oktòb. Pandan wout fèmen sa yo, traﬁk

TRINITY WITHOUT BORDERS AREA RESOURCE CENTER AND RE-STORE

HAS ONCE AGAIN OPENED IN BIG PINE KEY

The Trinity Without Borders Area Resource Center and Re-Store has proudly reopened on Big Pine Key, ready to serve the community with renewed vigor. A ribbon-cutting event was held the evening of Sept. 16 to commemorate the milestone, and executive director Vallerie Claar was ecstatic about the event turnout.

“The community showed up and showed out,” said Claar. “We had offers to help with upgrades of the inside mechanical systems, offers to help in our outside Serenity Garden and the local church reached out in regard to our emergency relief program. We are also assembling an art team to create a mural on the side of the donation station bus. I felt the threads of a safety net winding through the people that will bring us closer together.”

As a non-profit 501(c)(3) Community Organization Active in Disasters (COAD) in Florida, Trinity Without Borders was established in 2006 to provide vital emergency relief: food, housing, donations and essential resources. The organization has a rich history in Big Pine Key, having previously operated from 2007 to 2012 at the Seahorse RV Park near the Avenues and then later at the local Big Pine Key Flea Market. With its reopening, Trinity Without Borders is excited to once again be a beacon of hope and assistance for the local community.

A treasure trove of new and gently used goods, all at incredibly affordable prices, line

the shelves of the resource center. Moreover, the organization distributes certain donations free of charge to those in dire need. Trinity Without Borders is continually seeking to expand its offerings and welcomes volunteers with open arms.

“We are always looking for volunteers to help us out,” said Claar. “We need people to help with disaster relief sign ups, donation sorting, staging and pricing of donated items that will be sold and distributed, help in the Serenity Garden, help with the bus mural – and just those that can make good coffee.”

Trinity Without Borders is actively involved in a diverse range of initiatives, from providing critical emergency and disaster relief to offering educational and health-related programs, such as CPR and first aid classes. The organization also hosts recreational workshops focused on hobbies and crafts, supports small business startups and much more. A wealth of donations and distributions awaits, including new and used goods like furniture, toiletries, artwork, marine supplies and essential household items.

“We assist the community by having a large umbrella of services and resources, but also by caring that people are safe and okay,” said Claar. “Sometimes people need help and they are too shy to ask for it. Maybe a person they love has cancer and is out of work and needs rental or utility assistance. If we don’t have the funds in hand, we connect them with those who do. We had a local person bring an elderly woman here who was in the early stages of dementia (and) would forget what happened yesterday. She had substantial income, yet was afraid of where she was living and very vulnerable. We were able to bring the Adult Protective Services here and she willingly went into a safe, caring living situation. It’s all about helping one person or family at a time.”

Trinity Without Borders Inc. is committed to providing indispensable support and services to those in need. The Area Resource Center, affectionately known as The ARC, is a corner-

stone facility of the organization. Nestled at 1668 Bogie Road, off Watson Blvd. in Big Pine Key, the ARC has always been dedicated to promoting homeownership and eradicating food insecurity. Their mission is to assist neighbors and Keys residents in achieving sustainability, whatever their specific needs may be. For more information, call 786-627-1915.

1. From left, Marney Brown, Charlotte Palmer, Valerie Claar, Colleen Fuller, Tina Bass and Fran Martini cut the ribbon to commemorate the reopening of Trinity Without Borders’ Area Resource Center. DANI ECHOLS/Contributed

2. Trinity Without Borders volunteers welcome guests to the grand reopening of the Area Resource Center. JEN ALEXANDER/Contributed

3, 4, 5. The Area Resource Center in Big Pine Key is stocked with household essentials along with furniture, decorations and other supplies. JEN ALEXANDER/Contributed

JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com

SCHOOL BOARD CHAIR OPPOSES AMENDMENT 1 FOR PARTISAN SCHOOL ELECTIONS

Florida school board campaigns have recently become overtly political and, in some cases, downright nasty. Do Floridians want local school board races to become even MORE partisan and divisive?

That is what Florida’s lawmakers proposed when they placed Amendment 1: Partisan School Board Elections on the November ballot. They claim the change will simply provide more transparency, but opponents are concerned about the impact of increasing partisan politics on local school board decision-making in this already politically divided time. Opponents also worry about disenfranchising nearly 4 million Florida voters who are registered as NPA (No Party Affiliation). Passage of this amendment means they would be unable to participate in closed partisan primaries to determine school board candidates.

The ability to close school board primaries may be Amendment 1’s greatest impact on school board elections. Currently, local school board races are nonpartisan, meaning all eligible voters, regardless of party affiliation, can vote in the nonpartisan primaries. If Amendment 1 passes with 60% of the vote, partisan politics and partisan primaries WILL change the way Floridians elect their local school boards. Partisan school board elections would become part of Florida’s closed primary system, where only voters registered with a political party can vote for candidates in their primary, excluding the 30% of Florida’s voters registered as NPAs or with minor parties. If only one political party has candidates, a “Universal Primary” would be open to all voters but political parties have frequently used “loopholes,” such as ghost candidates and write-in candidates, to close such primaries, leaving elections decided by only those members of the party holding the primary and disenfranchising the rest.

Lee County Representative Spencer Roach, who sponsored Amendment 1, claimed he was simply advocating for a return to Florida’s “historical method of electing these school board

members,” and called the move to nonpartisan races in 1998 “an aberration and an anomaly.” Nonpartisan school board races are NOT an anomaly. They are the norm.

Nationwide, the vast majority of school districts — estimated at around 90% — hold nonpartisan elections, in which candidates run without a party affiliation affixed to their name on the ballot. If Amendment 1 passed, Florida would become just the fifth state to require partisan school board elections.

Prior to 1998, following a law passed in 1976, local communities could decide whether their school board elections were partisan or not, and seven Florida counties were holding nonpartisan school-board elections. In 1989, the Florida Supreme Court ruled that school board election rules must be consistent statewide. This decision ultimately led to the 1998 Constitution Revision Commission’s proposal for a nonpartisan school board election amendment. The amendment was part of a larger election reform package that also established the Universal Primary system. The amendment passed with overwhelming support.

Unfortunately, political parties quickly figured out loopholes to avoid Universal Primaries and from 1998-2022 over 8 million voters have been excluded from voting in primaries closed by such shenanigans. Amendment 1 would allow similar shenanigans to impact school boards races.

Public schools serve ALL children. Shouldn’t ALL voters be able to vote for their school board representatives? A NO vote on Amendment 1 will allow all voters to continue participating in local school board races and encourage the election of school board members based on their qualifications and not just their political affiliation.

To prevent political party shenanigans from disrupting your local school board elections, vote NO on Amendment 1.

—

Sue Woltanski, Tavernier Woltanski is a public education advocate and chair of the Monroe County school board. Her views here are her own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Monroe County school board.

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clickers used to count the

MARK HEDDEN

... is a photographer, writer, and semi-professional birdwatcher. He has lived in Key West for more than 25 years and may no longer be employable in the real world. He is also executive director of the Florida Keys Audubon Society.

APeregrine falcon is not an off-the-shelf bird. There are very few places in the world where you can decide you want to see a Peregrine falcon, and then go out and see one. They are just too mobile and elusive. The very word “peregrine” means one who wanders.

There are two main workarounds for this. During the nesting season, peregrines are behaviorally tied to the area of their nest. Both parents share in the raising of their chicks, and they have to make multiple sorties each day for food. So one way to game the system and lay eyes on them is to figure out where there’s a nest. Usually it’s on a rocky cliffside, though in recent years quite a few have shown up on towering buildings in urbanized areas, such as atop the 286-foot 4 ¼-inch tall library at UMass Amherst, or in the gray 548-foot-high tower of Philadelphia’s City Hall, not too far below Willie Penn’s boots. And then just wait for them to fly in and out.

Seeing them this way tends to leave you in a state of simultaneous wonder and loneliness, as most people won’t be as thrilled as you are, no matter how much you try to exhort them to. (In my experience, public exhortation in urbanized areas is generally taken as a sign of mental instability.)

The other way to be almost guaranteed to see a peregrine is to be in the Florida Keys during the next month and paying attention. I say this simultaneously too often and not often enough, but every fall the Florida Keys become the Peregrine falcon capital of the world – the world! – as more of them pass through here than any other spot on the planet.

There are multiple ways to approach seeing them here. The easiest is to make a trip to Curry Hammock State Park on Little Crawl Key, home of the Florida Keys Hawkwatch. There, even if you find one yourself, one of the hawkwatchers will no doubt let you know when they see one.

You can also make your way to one of the tall radio towers in the Keys. Peregrines like to perch on them – the highest things in the landscape – late in the day. So if you scan them up and down with a pair of binoculars, you’ve got a good chance of seeing them. Look for the things that break up the rhythms of the structures, the odd shapes that don’t look manmade. A perched peregrine looks something like a skinny football with a head and a fleshtearing bill. I counted 19 of them in the same tower near Truman Waterfront once. Keep in mind these are birds that do not enjoy the company of other birds, outside of their mate and offspring for three months every year. They just don’t have many options to perch. (The rooftop

of The Studios of Key West can be a good place to see them in flight, usually in the late morning. Check TSKW’s schedule to see when they’re open.)

I was up in the northeast for most of the last month. I visited five different hawkwatches between New Hampshire and Virginia while there, and I saw a lot of raptors – northern harriers, merlins, red-tailed hawks, red-shouldered hawks, American kestrels and others. But the species I hadn’t seen this fall somehow was, of course, the Peregrine falcon.

While the Florida Keys Hawkwatch has the best numbers, peregrines do get seen in smaller numbers in other places. Just not, apparently, by me this fall.

I suppose I could have taken my own Key West-based suggestions and gone to the roof of the Studios, or gone to the trusty tower at Truman Waterfront. But I was heading to Miami to see the avant garde, post-prog rock, postpunk, kind-of-hard-to-describe-it’s-better-tojust-listen-to-them band, Sigur Ros, play with a 40-plus piece orchestra, and I had a little time. So I decided to stop by the hawkwatch.

When I got there, the three hawk counters – Gianna Arcuri, Chris Payne and Adrianna Nelson – were all standing in a line, as if posing, bent with their eyes to their spotting scopes, staring at something in the distance.

I always think of that Bruce Springsteen line, “one step up and two steps back,” at the beginning of every hawk-watching season. Springsteen was singing about a disintegrating marriage, but I’m thinking more in terms of the attrition of skills, and the proper ratio for me is probably two steps up and one step back. But I just forget so much, and lose so much acuity, between seasons. Birds I could identify quickly, with an amazingly minuscule amount of information, 10 months before, require a good amount of thought, and sometimes still sometimes stump me.

I figured out where their scopes were pointing, and saw what they were looking at. It was apparently a broad-winged hawk, but it was just a speck to me, getting lighter and

2 STEPS UP AND 1 STEP BACK

darker as it got closer and farther from the wispy cloud in the background. (The beginning of hawk season is also when I get reacquainted with my eye floaters every year.)

The flight line was way off, somewhere beyond the highway. In the next 20 minutes there were other birds, notably a northern harrier, an American kestrel, a merlin and finally a peregrine falcon. But I was taking their word for it. I wanted that click in my brain, that dopamine hit that comes with seeing a challenging bird and knowing what it is.

I was beating myself up a bit, but in my defense, Gianna, Chris and Adrianna all had young eyes and had been working together at Curry Hammock for close to two months, which was a pretty solid route to clarity and sharpness. They knew where, and apparently when, to look.

They have actually counted a record 5,100 swallow-tailed kites since the start of the season, though swallow-tails migrate earlier than most of the other raptors that come through the Keys, and their numbers are petering out. A few other peregrines were called out during a conversation about how they wanted 7 or 38 more swallow-tails, because if they saw exactly 5,100 swallow-tails in a season, it might look a little dubious.

Finally, as the discussion of what the most authentic looking number would be for their very authentic data, I caught sight of a bird relatively low on the horizon. It moved quick and straight, and I was worried it was going to be another question mark for me, but then, almost as if it were throwing its ID to me underhanded, it banked, and there were the telltale pointed wingtips, and that damp flash went off in my hypothalamus. Peregrine!

My brain was back. Or on the road to being back. Probably. Why define it? It just felt good. I got so giddy that they let me push the button on the clicker to record it.

It was their 12th peregrine that hour, on what would turn out to be a 147-peregrine day.

They’d count 160 the next, and probably more the day after that.

The

raptors at the Florida Keys Hawkwatch at Curry Hammock State Park in Marathon. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS

What color is your fat?

...is a Marathonbased ACSMcertified personal trainer and precision nutrition coach who owns and operates Highly Motivated Functionally Caffeinated LLC.

When most people think about fat, they tend to imagine it as a single, homogeneous substance. Most people also envision their body fat to be yellow blobs. I know I did for a long time when I saw a video of a personal trainer throw a bumpy yellow rubber mold (made to look like fat, I guess) on a table while yelling to a woman: “IS THIS WHAT YOU WANT?

HUH, HUH? YOU WANT THIS FOR YOUR LIFE?”

The clearly intimidated and humiliated woman picked up the yellow rubbery “fat” and started crying, violently shaking her head no. I remember thinking two things: “Wow, this guy’s tactic is horrifying,” and two, “Why would he choose yellow? What a putz.”

So, by now you might be thinking, “Well, what color is fat, Jen?” The truth: Fat isn’t just one color or one type. In fact, there are two distinct types of fat tissue in the human body: brown fat and white fat. These two types of fat serve different functions, have different appearances and affect your health in diverse ways. The question is, what color is your fat, and how does it influence your body?

White fat: the energy reserve

White fat, also known as white adipose tissue (WAT), is what most people traditionally think of as body fat. This type of fat stores energy in the form of large, oily droplets that expand or shrink depending on your diet and activity levels. White fat also plays a role in cushioning vital organs, providing insulation to maintain body temperature and producing hormones like leptin, which regulate hunger and metabolism. However, too much white fat, particularly around the abdomen,

is linked to various health issues. Excessive white fat can increase the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders. While white fat is essential for survival, its accumulation can become problematic if not kept in check through diet and exercise.

Brown fat: the calorie burner

Brown fat, or brown adipose tissue (BAT), is a completely different type of fat. Instead of storing energy, it burns calories to generate heat – a process known as thermogenesis. Brown fat contains a high number of mitochondria, the energy-producing components of cells, which give it its characteristic brown color. The primary function of brown fat is to help regulate body temperature, especially in newborns and animals that hibernate.

Unlike white fat, brown fat is metabolically active and can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of obesity. While adults have significantly less brown fat than newborns, researchers have found that we still retain some brown fat stores, typically around the neck, shoulders and spine. The good news is that it’s possible to increase your brown fat levels, which could have a beneficial impact on your overall metabolism.

How brown fat and white fat differ

One of the key differences between brown and white fat is their function. Brown fat is an active player in calorie burning, whereas white fat is more passive.

Another significant difference is where these fats are located. White fat is commonly found throughout the body, particularly in the abdomen, thighs and buttocks. Brown fat is typically located in smaller, concentrated areas like the upper back, neck and shoulders.

In terms of health, having more white fat — especially visceral fat, which surrounds organs — can increase the risk of various diseases. Brown fat, in contrast, has been linked to improved metabolic health and may help protect against condi-

tions like obesity and diabetes.

Converting white fat to brown fat: Is it possible?

Recent studies suggest that it is possible to convert white fat into brown-like fat, often referred to as “beige” fat. This beige fat behaves more like brown fat, meaning it burns calories rather than storing them. So, how can you encourage this transformation?

1. Cold exposure: One of the most well-known ways to activate brown fat and encourage the conversion of white fat into brown fat is through cold exposure. When you’re cold, your body burns more energy to generate heat, which increases brown fat activity. Taking cold showers, using cold plunges (more on this in an upcoming article) or spending time in cold environments can help stimulate this process. Studies have shown that people who are regularly exposed to colder temperatures tend to have more active brown fat.

2. Exercise: Physical activity is another way to promote the browning of white fat. Exercise releases a hormone called irisin, which is thought to trigger the conversion of white fat cells into brown-like fat. Regular exercise also increases overall energy expenditure, which helps reduce white fat stores.

3. Certain foods: Some studies have found that certain foods and nutrients can also help activate brown fat. Capsaicin, the compound that gives chili peppers their heat, has been shown to stimulate brown

fat activity. Green tea, rich in catechins, and resveratrol, a compound found in red wine and berries, may also enhance the browning of white fat. Now, don’t go down the red wine hole and think drinking multiple glasses throughout the day is going to be your new “diet plan.” First, not all red wines are created equal, and as much as I love what resveratrol can do, the alcohol content often offsets the benefits if you don’t keep it to one glass two or three times per week. Berries are a MUCH better option.

4. Quality sleep: Sleep affects various hormones that regulate fat metabolism. Poor sleep disrupts the balance of these hormones, potentially leading to increased white fat accumulation. On the other hand, good quality sleep helps maintain a healthy metabolism, which can support the activation of brown fat.

So, what color is your fat? There are several high-tech ways to measure how much WAT vs BAT a person has. A PET-CT scan is the gold standard, but there are other tests including a DXA scan, thermal imaging, biomarkers found in blood work as well as hormone levels, and biopsies. I encourage you to talk to your primary care provider to see what is available to you. The good news is that you can throw that rubber yellow “fat” back in that jerk’s face, say “I’d like to start converting white fat into brown,” and walk out the door with your head held high, because you are in control and you can make big changes.

Cold plunges are a known method to activate brown fat and promote the conversion of white fat to ‘beige’ fat. CONTRIBUTED

JENNIFER BOLTZ HARVEY

CHRIS M cNULTY

is an astrologer, wanderer, bartender and advocate for queer justice. He is a loquacious Gemini with a cozy Cancer rising. Find him at hearthandheraldastrology.com

The final eclipse of this year occurred Oct. 2, so you can let your guard down a bit and start to integrate the radical changes that have taken place over the past few weeks. Yesterday’s solar eclipse in Libra heralds a new beginning through letting go. An old skin is being shed and a cumbersome weight is being dropped, all so that we might experience the world with a new gait or a new choreography. The fact that this eclipse took place in Libra alludes to a social ballast that we are releasing. This eclipse welcomes a realization of how we might have been putting others before ourselves, losing ourselves to keep the peace, forgetting we are part of something bigger than ourselves, or realizing our words and actions may not have been in alignment. Let this metamorphosis move through you as we all begin to regain our footing after the tectonic shifts that have taken place. Soon enough you’ll have the distance from eclipse season to look back and say, “Oh THAT’S why I was all over the place!”

Here are your horoscopes for the Solar Eclipse in Libra. Read for your rising and sun signs.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 - Oct. 23

You naturally find yourself in your relationships to other people, Libra, but this eclipse has you wondering where your intrinsic sense of self arises in that social soup. Where is the me in the we? Something has been released in this regard, and you have a chance to step into the world with a new skin. No more living to respond. Your voice is more than an echo.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 - Nov. 21

We don’t even need to be around others to be affected by our own notions of social expectation, and that is particularly true for you, Scorpio. Have you been realizing that your own subconscious cage of social norms is holding you back? We build our own cages, and you have the key to yours. Your own expectations for yourself are what matter most, so fly out that door.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 - Dec. 21

You are naturally the life of the party AND the one who makes sure everyone is having a good time. No one is left behind in your social circle. This eclipse asks you if that is necessarily your responsibility. When you focus on the needs of others, do you gain more for yourself than they get in return? Certainly not always, but perhaps there is a “mind ya business” energy that could benefit your own integration.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 - Jan. 19

Taylor Swift, born with Mercury in Capricorn, said that we only know the version of someone that they have chosen to show us. This eclipse season had you grappling with reputation, and yesterday’s eclipse had you shedding a reputation for others in order to build a reputation for yourself. Maybe your work and your image should not be crafted by the perception of others, but for the reception of others.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 - Feb. 18

You are an incredibly independent innovator, Aquarius. Learning new things and chasing the horizon come with the territory of Aquarian ingenuity. Novelty for novelty’s sake, however, can be a never-ending escape. Do you run towards new territory and new people to avoid the responsibility of being authentic in familiar surroundings? Escape has its own weight. Stop running.

PISCES

Feb. 19 - March 20

Investing in other people is a way for you to throw out lifelines. It’s easy for you to get swept into dreamy, metaphysical wanderings, and developing responsibilities and obligations to others can keep you tethered in a grounded place. Do those tethers always reflect your values, though? This eclipse offers you a chance to let some obligations go and to make new ones that represent you better.

ARIES

March 21 - April 19

Partnership does not have a singular definition. There are many ways to be in partnership with another person, and this eclipse season had you growing into a new pattern of self and other. Perhaps it is time for some new partners, or perhaps it is time to renegotiate your partnership terms. Letting go of old patterns is the primary focus right now, and there are myriad ways to do so.

TAURUS

April 20 - May 20

Doing things with other people is a motivating factor for you to get active, Taurus. Your hands and your labor are made for peacekeeping, and it is precisely this aspect of your life that is going through major change. What is the peace that you are working for? Are there greater purposes that your powerful hands can contribute to?

GEMINI

May 21 - June 20

Your creative bliss is a social project, Gemini. Your innovative self-expression is inherently about connecting with others and creating balance in the world. How you do that can take many forms, however. Bending over backwards to make sure everyone gets what they want out of you is inherently unsustainable. How can you renegotiate your creative projects to make sure your own voice doesn’t get lost?

CANCER

SHEDDING CONVENTIONS

June 21 - July 22

Family ain’t what it used to be. We tend to think that our past is set in stone, and yet new information or a new perspective can entirely change the material nature of our history. How has your experience of family become new, and what do you need to let go of to move forward with healthy integrity? Sometimes, it’s what we carry that prevents us from finding our footing.

LEO

July 23 - Aug. 22

It’s your local environment where you are the caretaker, and big adventures where you find your sense of self. However, it is your familiar world where you spend most of your time, so it is important to have an integrated sense of self in your community. Something is shifting in this regard. How can you be a person for others on your home turf and infuse that quality with independence?

VIRGO

Aug. 23 - Sept. 22

Our finances are more than just money in the bank. How we make money and how we spend money reflect our values (or lack thereof). Your money flow tends to be about keeping balance in the social sphere, but this eclipse has you making changes. Your financial health is as much about yourself as it is about others, and there are ways to ensure that you can have income while also being a giver.

DODGING STORMS

We got lucky with this one

Hurricane Helene slammed into Florida’s Big Bend as a Category 4 monster storm — the most powerful hurricane on record to hit this area. More than 100 were killed, some in random and extremely unlucky ways (like the driver on I-4 in Tampa who was killed by a wind-borne road sign). The devastation was widespread, even in areas along Florida’s Gulf Coast that weren’t near the eye — and as far away as the mountains of North Carolina.

Drone footage from storm chasers revealed the seemingly unlimited devastation to homes, businesses, communities. Entire neighborhoods, once home to many Floridians, are now gone. Large shopping centers were devastated, their parking lots turned into lakes. Quaint Florida seaside shops and restaurants sit damaged beyond repair. Wrecked boats sit high and dry far away from the water where they once lived. Debris from people’s homes and lives sit in piles where the surge took them. It’s something that long-term Keys residents are all too familiar with.

This time, however, it wasn’t only Florida. Georgia and the Carolinas were hit hard. Downtown Asheville, NC was flooded, as were many other communities along the French Broad river — which set a new record of cresting that last happened in 1895. Highways and bridges were washed out. Rainfalls of more than 30 inches washed away homes and businesses. The towns of Swannanoa and Black Mountain were devastated. Mount Mitchell near Asheville saw a gust of 106 mph.

It’s a horrible feeling to virtually witness this wanton destruction of people’s towns, their businesses, their homes. It’s also heartbreaking to realize and understand what these folks face in the aftermath — the immediate cleanup and years of rebuilding and restoring their communities.

The damage estimates will likely be in the billions before too long. Compare that, though, with the cost of all the lives that could have been lost without effective emergency management. The National Hurricane Center works with local National Weather Service offices and local emergency managers to prepare and inform storm-vulnerable areas. These weather professionals and local on-the-scene officials and first responders are some of the heroes of any disaster.

JOHN BARTUS

John Bartus is a singer/songwriter, city administrator for Key Colony Beach and the former mayor of Marathon.

I’d hate to think of what might have been if we didn’t have our modern warning systems and technology.

The deadliest hurricane on record happened back in 1900, long before we had the technology and science we depend on today.

The Great Galveston Hurricane took 8,000 lives and devastated that coastal Gulf city. They didn’t have things like satellite tracking and forecast models — all they had to inform them of pending disaster were falling barometers, darkening skies and ship’s radio transmissions. At my deadline, 47 people were killed in North Carolina, 30 in South Carolina, 25 in Georgia, four in Tennessee, two in Virginia. There were 11 deaths in Florida, 10 of which were in Pinellas County, home of St. Petersburg and far away from Helene’s landfall.

A week ago this past Monday, Monroe County cut the ribbon and officially opened its brand new, stateof-the-art, storm-hardened Emergency Operations Center. It’s unbelievable that Monroe County was the last county in Florida without a dedicated EOC. The very next day after the grand opening, our EOC was activated to help us prepare for Helene’s passage past our islands.

As someone who has worked firsthand with our emergency managers on a local government level, I appreciate all that goes into keeping our local communities safe and prepared. I really feel for the storm’s victims so far away from coastal communities that are somewhat better prepared for hurricanes… and I hope one day governments and insurance folks will come together and create better solutions for catastrophe victims nationwide.

— John Bartus is a singer/songwriter, city administrator for Key Colony Beach and the former mayor of Marathon. Catch John live Thursdays at Sparky’s Landing, this Friday with Adrienne Z at Lorelei, and Sunday afternoons at Skipjack Tiki. Find his music anywhere you download or stream your music. www.johnbartus. com • johnbartus.hearnow.com

Monroe County Solid Waste announces yard waste changes

Monroe County residents will see a change to their residential yard waste collection that began Oct. 1. The weekly yard waste collection will be limited to 10 32-gallon cans. The receptacles can weigh no more than 50 pounds, and vegetation must not extend more than 12 inches above the rim of the receptacle. Bundled yard waste will no longer be allowed for weekly residential collection. The change affects unincorporated Monroe County and the cities of Marathon, Key Colony Beach and Layton. If you have more yard waste or vegetation than 10 32-gallon receptacles can hold, there are a couple of options. Additional yard waste/vegetation can be taken to the nearest transfer station for a paid disposal rate, or you may contact your local hauler, Waste Management at 305-296-8297 (Lower Keys), Marathon Garbage Service at 305-743-5165 (Middle Keys), or Keys Sanitary Service at 305-451-2025 (Upper Keys) to arrange for paid collection/disposal service.

Chamber of Commerce, BPW announce $2,500 grant award

The Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce and Marathon BPW were honored to recently receive a $2,500 grant from the Wireless Zone Gives via the local Verizon Wireless Zone store in Marathon.

“Wireless Zone gives grant money to help make the communities stronger. We like to give back to local organizations and nonprofits who make a difference within the community,” said store owner and CEO Char Wills. “We do our own backpack drive every July, and we believe that giving back is a core component and staple to our business. If the community and employees are stronger, then we are stronger. JH Cellular/ Wireless Zone is lucky to represent Verizon in the Keys. I am from a small town in Ohio, and I first hand understand the impact of a small and tight community and the difference we can make if we all work together.”

“The Marathon Chamber of Commerce is proud to have members like our Wireless Zone,” said Daniel Samess, CEO of the Marathon Chamber. “They truly exemplify what it means to give back to our community, as well as providing crucial and much-needed services via the products and services they offer.”

Marathon BPW President Kristin Carlson was also thrilled to receive part of this grant to help with the many local scholarships the organization awards every year for graduating seniors at Marathon High School. Both the Marathon Chamber and BPW will use these funds towards their annual MHS scholarships.

Taoist Tai Chi Society hosts introductory sessions

The Taoist Tai Chi Society will host introductory sessions at St. Columba Episcopal Church parish hall (451 52nd Street Gulf in Marathon) on Monday, Oct. 14 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. and Thursday, Oct. 17 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Come discover the many benefits of Taoist Tai Chi, a gentle exercise that increases flexibility, strength and balance and can improve cardiovascular health. To learn more, visit www.taoisttaichi.org.

Two 20th Street men arrested for illegal dumping of garbage

Two Marathon men were arrested Sept. 25 for allegedly leaving more than 15 pounds of garbage and debris at a makeshift camping area. Joseph Allen Morgan Steward, 59, and Luis Ancieto Herrada, 65, were both charged with illegal dumping/littering more than 15 pounds. The sheriff’s office was on patrol on 20th Street around 11:15 a.m. and observed both men near a tent with trash — food debris, water bottles, clothes, a mattress, and other garbage — spilling onto the street. Both men were taken to jail.

Reported new scam involves impersonating sheriff’s deputies

The sheriff’s office was notified of a scam recently in which a criminal was apparently trolling the sheriff’s office mugshot webpage and contacted a recently-arrested person while falsely identifying himself as a deputy to scam her out of money. Thieves falsely identifying themselves as law enforcement officers is not new, but in this case, the thief attempted to use the potential victim’s recent arrest as leverage while lying to her about the status of her criminal case in an effort to extort money. If someone contacts you asking for money, purporting to be from a law enforcement agency, any government organization or utility company, a bank, a credit card company and so forth — contact the organization yourself. A sure sign of a scam is anyone asking for payment for anything via gift cards or Bitcoin. If possible, save the text, email, or any other information and contact the sheriff’s office directly via www. keysso.net/locations. If you receive a distressing text from a family member/ friend needing money immediately, always contact that person.

DRAMA ON NO NAME KEY

Heated neighbor disputes lead to a shooting

Poet Robert Frost used the line “good fences make good neighbors” in his 1914 poem “Mending Fences.” While he was not the first to speak to the idea, it was certainly not the case with No Name Key’s Carlton Craig and Mosby Matcovich.

For a little backstory, the first version of the Overseas Highway was officially called State Road 4A. Significantly different than it appears today, the road had a 40mile gap requiring passage aboard an automobile ferry. Two ferry terminals, one at Lower Matecumbe Key and one at No Name Key, were operable when the road opened to traffic in 1927. The ferries remained in use until the new and improved Overseas Highway opened in 1938 eliminated the need for the ferry system. The No Name Key ferry landing was subsequently abandoned.

Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.

During the road’s construction, a work camp was established next to the ferry landing. Carlton Craig bought the property circa 1933, expanded it and developed the No Name Key Fishing Lodge. Craig had a brother named Roland, who also moved to the Keys and developed his own fisherman’s paradise. His property was on a stretch of railroad fill between Lower Matecumbe and Fiesta Keys, now known as Craig Key.

Unlike Roland, Carlton Craig had a difficult neighbor named Mosby Matcovich whose father, Nicholas Matcovich, was once known as the Hermit of No Name Key. Nicholas farmed his homestead until he passed in 1919. Mosby, born circa 1872, moved to the family homestead and, like his father, worked as a farmer. The border

between the properties of Craig and Matcovich was State Road 4A as it led to the ferry terminal.

According to a story in The Key West Citizen dated Feb. 25, 1936, Mosby Matcovich appeared before Justice of the Peace Rogelio Gomez over complaints levied by Carlton Craig. He alleged that Matcovich interfered with his work at the No Name Fishing Lodge and made threats against him. Matcovich was ordered to “deposit a peace bond of $200 or spend 10 days in county jail.” Failing to pay the bond, he was placed in custody and taken to the county jail.

It was not his last time in court. The Key West Citizen reported that Mosby Matcovich was again in front of a judge in the June 21, 1938, edition of the paper. This time, it was more serious. Matcovich stood before County Judge Raymond R. Lord for an incident with Captain Jimmie Saunders, who charted fishing trips from Craig’s fish camp. On the evening of June 16, it was alleged that Saunders trespassed onto Matcovich’s property and threatened him with bodily harm.

According to Matcovich, feeling threatened, he leveled a single-barrel shotgun at Saunders and shot him in self-defense. The victim was brought to Key West and delivered to the Marine Hospital by the Lopez Funeral Home ambulance. Dr. Ralph Braund operated on Saunders and removed the slug that broke his pelvis. On June 17, 1938, The Key West Citizen reported that Saunders was “evidently not shot by buckshot for when the trousers were removed from Saunders there was only one hole in his trousers indicating where the charge entered. The wound is just above the buttocks.”

The “badly mashed” slug was not buckshot from a shotgun but from a .32 caliber revolver. Not only had Matcovich not used a shotgun, but also shot Saunders when his back was turned. Charged with attempted murder, Matcovich was initially sentenced to five years in the state prison, but his sentence was later reduced to one year in county jail and a $500 fine. If he could not pay the fine, Judge William Albury said he would tack on

Aerial of No Name Key showing No Name Key Fishing Lodge by Ferry landing circa 1936. MONROE COUNTY LIBRARY COLLECTION

one more year to his sentence.

Life on No Name Key continued to be uncomfortable between the two neighbors. According to a story in the June 10, 1943, edition of The Miami Herald, the abandoned roadway and ferry terminal were being used in unauthorized ways. A Miami shark fishing operation had been using the docks at the ferry landing. Craig erected both a chicken coup and a chicken run or pen on the old road bordering his No Name Key Fishing Lodge. Matcovich erected fence polls. County Attorney Julius Stone ordered the obstructions be removed within 30 days. Matcovich told county commissioners he had only constructed the fence to keep Craig off his property.

Craig sold off parcels of his No Name Key property from 1945-1947. In April 1945, Vilma Walden purchased 95 feet of waterfront property for $1,500. In May 1945, John D. Dillon bought a 123-by-1,320 foot tract for $1,200. In February 1946, a 220-by-1,320 foot waterfront lot was sold to Thomas R. Mullen, Jr., Richard Leslie Mullen and Ruth E. Mullen for $1,300. In September 1947, Mr. and Mrs. Lyman purchased Craig’s No Name Key Fishing Lodge for $12,000.

After selling his No Name Key properties, Craig moved to Miami. He passed away in 1975. Mosby Matcovich’s No Name Key property appeared for sale over several years. In 1947, 20 acres of the Matcovich homestead advertised as being “at the old Ferry landing” was listed for sale in The Key West Citizen for $6,000. On Feb. 15, 1950, there was a newspaper advertising “property at old Ferry landing, southside shore and road frontage, deep water and use of 1,000-foot pier –Mosby Matcovich, Key West.” No price was listed.

According to a September 27, 1944, advertisement, he was living in Key West. “Acreage for sale on No Name Key at the old ferry landing, on right-hand side going out. M. Matcovich, 1405 Division St. Key West, Fla.”

Division Street has since been renamed Truman Avenue. Mosby Matcovich passed away in June 1964.

FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI

Having Fun in the Middle Keys

281

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The City of Marathon vacation rental law requires a vacation rental property license for every dwelling unit that rents between 7 and 28 nights, and the unit cannot be rented for less than seven (7) nights. The renting of any private residence for a period of less than seven (7) nights is prohibited The City of Marathon researches and investigates vacation rental poperties to find and fine scofflaws. Violations of vacation rental law can be as high as $500 per day, per offense and can be up to $5,000 per occurrence.

The City also requires that each vacation rental unit be managed by a licensed agent or the owner. To learn more about Marathon’s vacation rental laws visit Marathon’s website at https://www.ci.marathon.ﬂ.us, and you can take the City’s free vacation rental training course.. The training is free and the management license cost is free for owner-managed properties and $500 for agent-managed properties.

For other questions regarding vacation rental licensing please contact the City at 305-743-5266.

TRY ’N’ FIND

Words that remind us of Sacagawea are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:

BABY, CLARK, COIN, EXPEDITION, GUIDE, HIDATSA, INTERPRETER, JEFFERSON, LEWIS, LOUISIANA, MEDICINE, NATIVE, PEACE, SACAGAWEA, SHOSHONE, TERRITORY, TRADE, WEST.

Founded by Betty Debnam

Native Guide

was born in

More than 200 years ago, a young American Indian woman, Sacagawea (sah-KAH-guh-WEE-uh), helped a team of explorers make their way across the American West.

Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, with about 50 men, began their journey near St. Louis and passed through what is now Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Idaho, Oregon and Washington. The 8,000-mile trip took more than 2 1/2 years. They returned to St. Louis on Sept. 23, 1806.

This week, The Mini Page learns more about this historic trip and the woman who helped make it a success.

A YOUNG GUIDE

Sacagawea was a member of the Lemhi Shoshone (LEM-high show-SHOW-knee) tribe that lived in an area that is now western Montana. When she was about 11, Sacagawea was captured by another tribe, the Hidatsa (hi-DAHTzah). She was carried more than 600 miles east to what is now North Dakota. She learned the Hidatsa language in addition to the Shoshone language she already spoke.

When Lewis and Clark arrived at the Hidatsa villages, Sacagawea, age 16, was married to a French Canadian fur trader named Toussaint Charbonneau (shar-bone- OWE). Lewis and Clark hired the couple as intrepreters. Sacagawea was pregnant and gave birth to her son, Jean Baptiste, soon after she joined the group.

THE EXPLORATION

You might call Sacagawea our first woman ambassador. On the trail, she represented the Lewis and Clark group as a symbol of peace. Without her along, suspicious Indians might have attacked this band of unfamiliar white men. When they saw Sacagawea and her baby, they knew the group was peaceful.

She was a great help finding plants to eat or use as medicines, and she helped Lewis and Clark make trades for things they needed, such as horses.

HER OWN COIN

There are no pictures of Sacagawea drawn from life. In 2001, the United States issued a gold dollar coin with her image. The art was based on a modern Shoshone woman.

Historians believe Sacagawea died in 1812 at about 25 years old. Her son and a daughter, Lizette, were adopted by William Clark.

Some plants that are illuminated all night by streetlights can develop leaves so tough that they cannot be eaten by insects, according to a study by the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Researcher Shuang Zhang found that the more illumination there was, the tougher the leaves. In the brightest areas, the leaves were extremely tough and showed no sign of insects munching on them. Zhang says that insects eating vegetation is a normal process that sustains other creatures in the ecosystem.

A PRESIDENTIAL PROJECT

At the time of the expedition, our country was made up of an area east of the Mississippi River. There were 17 states and several territories that would later become states.

In 1798, the port of New Orleans was closed to American shipping, but shipping goods down the Mississippi and through the port of New Orleans was important to Americans.

President Thomas Jefferson wanted to buy the port of New Orleans from the French. The French wanted to sell not only New Or1eans, but also all of the Louisiana Territory for $15 million, or about 3 cents an acre. The Louisiana Purchase almost doubled the size of our country.

Jefferson wanted to find out more about the lands, plants and animals in the Louisiana Territory and beyond. He wanted to establish peaceful relations with the American Indian tribes, and he hoped to find a good way to reach the Pacific Ocean. He selected Lewis to lead the expedition, and Lewis asked Clark to join him.

RESOURCES

On the Web:

• nps.gov/lecl/learn/historyculture/ sacagawea.htm

At the library:

• “Sacagawea for Kids: A Trailblazer’s Biography” by Sarah Michaels

Mini Fact: Sacagawea’s son

February 1805. She carried him on her back most of the time. photo by Jasperdo

Part of a painting by Edgar Samuel Paxson, “Lewis and Clark at Three Forks.” The painting is on display at the Montana House of Representatives.

BATTLE OF THE KEYS

Inside the 55th annual clash | P.10

THE SCOREBOARD

Team

Coral Shores Volleyball Silver Palms 9/23 W, 3-2

Marathon Volleyball Posnack 9/23 L, 3-1

Basilica Volleyball Spanish River 9/27 L, 2-0

Coral

THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

OCT. 3

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

She did a tremendous job spreading the ball around and ultimately getting it to the right spot for kills.”

– Hurricanes coach Jarrrod Mandozzi

In Coral Shores’ victory against Somerset Silver Palms, junior setter Shelby Lynn was integral in the team’s win. Lynn’s precision and game savvy gave the ‘Canes the edge last week, as she distributed the ball exactly where it needed to be for a match that gave Coral Shores their ninth straight victory.

“It was a pretty special match for her,” said head coach Jarrod Mandozzi, who praised Lynn’s ingenious play. “In one of the tight sets that we won by two, I think she had three or four straight sets to Niveah Howard and Celene (Walker) to really get us going. Then everyone thought she was going back to Niveah for her third straight kill and she dumped the ball over.”

That point gave the ‘Canes the lead in the set and ultimately led to a team victory. Lynn had 8 digs and an incredible 19 assists in the match. For her athleticism, unselfish play and quick thinking on the court, Shelby Lynn is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week

THIS WEEK Shelby

Junior, Coral Shores Volleyball

Photo by DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

This Friday, the Marathon Dolphins will make the trip north to take on the Coral Shores Hurricanes in the 55th annual Battle of the Keys. See page 10. Clockwise from top: Marathon’s Eddie Garcia, Coral Shores’ Yemcel Moreno and AJ Putetti, Marathon’s Shamar Wright.

Photos by Barry Gaukel and Doug Finger.

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

sean mcdonald

grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.

Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.

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All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials. 9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050

Oﬃce: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

STORM CREATES MINOR HAVOC FOR SPORTS Hurricane Helene impacts athletics despite

missing island chain

Fall sports in Florida are particularly vulnerable to the elements, beginning with late summer practices sanctioned by heat guidelines and culminating with hurricane season. It was the latter which impacted sports county-wide last week. Hurricane Helene’s outer bands whipped across the Keys, forcing a one-day school closure and numerous events to be postponed or canceled entirely.

Key West and Coral Shores will need to wait an extra week and a half to find out who the county volleyball champs will be this year; their Sept. 26 match was canceled with the school closure. Practices were a no-go for Keys teams, and a rainy week prior forced some creative solutions from coaches.

Golfers took the week off from competition and found little time to practice on swampy courses. Marathon’s Florida Keys Country Club was closed for the better part of the week, and at press time, a Sept. 30 match was in jeopardy if the course could not shed its unintended water hazards.

Cross country teams were set to toe the line for the Conch Crawl 5K at the Key West Country Club on Sept. 28, but the course conditions forced the event to be pushed back one week. And with streets flooded in areas and grassy patches looking more like rice paddies, runners had to change their routes and still finished training runs with soaking feet.

Marathon’s home football game Sept. 27 was less than ideal for players, spectators and homecoming candidates alike. A downpour began in the second quarter and let up just after the final whistle blew, soaking all in attendance. Key West was forced to play on Saturday, Sept. 28 rather than the 26th. The Conchs were set to travel to Miami for their game against St. Brendan School the day the storm impacted the area the worst.

With districts fast approaching, the storm could not have come at a worse time for coaches and athletes hoping to make the most of the postseason, yet anyone who has been a resident of Monroe County for a direct hit cannot help but feel relief. After all, a few schedule changes and missed games is very little in comparison to what the victims of Helene’s full wrath are experiencing.

tracy mcdonald

Though Hurricane Helene largely spared the Keys, effects of the storm forced a quiet week for school and sporting events. WIKIPEDIA/Contributed

JIM McCARTHY

KEY LARGO FOOTBALL ENTERS YEAR 2

Middle school fought hard against Miami opponents

The Key Largo Tornados middle school football program entered season two with a pair of home games against skilled Miami opponents. On Sept. 12, the Tornados welcomed the Westminster Warriors at the Coral Shores High School field. Led by sixth-grader Mako Savage at quarterback, the Tornados battled tough in a loss. The Tornados returned to the field against Florida Christian on Sept. 25 at the Coral Shores field. The teams exchanged leads with big plays from both sides, including a touchdown run and a fumble recovery and return by Charles Royal, as well as kickoff return for a touchdown by Dylan Perez Brenes. The game went into overtime with the Patriots edging out the victory in rainy conditions. The Tornados entered week three play against True North on Oct. 2 before visiting Marathon on Friday, Oct. 11. The Tornados, which include players from the various Upper Keys schools, are coached by Raymond Turner, Sean Savage and Ryan Raschein.

1. The Key Largo Tornados take the field.

2. Tornados quarterback Mako Savage throws a pass during the opening game against Westminster Christian.

3. Running back Charles Royal attempts a stiff arm on defenders.

4. Tornados defenders try to bring down the Warriors’ quarterback.

5. Center Chase Groh.

6. Wide receiver Brayden Turner (1) goes up for the catch.

7. Dylan Perez Brenes (26) disrupts a pass play.

Photos by DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly.

Visit keysweekly. com for a full gallery.

LADY ‘CANES’ PERFECT SEASON INTACT

Hurricane Helene cancels Key West/Coral Shores showdown

The weather was not cooperative last week, with many athletic events postponed or canceled state-wide. A much-anticipated volleyball match between Coral Shores and Key West fell victim to the storm, and rescheduling does not look good as the start of playoffs looms just over a week out.

The Hurricanes made the most of their single match last week, when they hosted district rival Somerset Silver Palms on Sept. 23. It took the ‘Canes five sets to defeat the Stallions for their ninth win of the season, maintaining their unblemished record and giving Coral Shores some breathing room in the district seedings. Later this month, the 3A District 16 ‘Canes will make their postseason debut. The higher their ranking, the longer they will delay the inevitable matches against perennial powerhouses Gulliver and Ransom, and the better their odds at an at-large bid to regionals should they fail to pull off a dark horse-style upset in the district. But that’s getting ahead of things.

A more pressing concern was the win over the Stallions, which coach Jarrod Mandozzi and his Hurricanes accomplished despite not playing their best ball this season.

“I told the girls that good teams find ways to win these games. We weren’t at our best with execution tonight, and a lesser team would not have found a way to win this one, which is a real testament to the heart of this team. I’m just really proud of our resiliency,” he said.

It was clear from the start that the Lady ‘Canes had their work cut out for them, as the two teams battled back and forth, with the Stallions coming from behind to take the first set, 25-23. The Lady ‘Canes came back strong in the second set, taking it 25-20 to even things up in another back-and-forth contest. After the two teams swapped leads a number of times early, the Hurricanes found themselves down 16-11 in the third set before pulling it closer, ultimately winning 28-26 in a battle of wills. Set four belonged to the Stallions, putting it all on the line in set five. Coral Shores gave Somerset no hope in that one, easily defeating the Stallions 15-4 to seal the win and remain undefeated.

Part of the success of this year’s Hurricane squad has been their tenacity. “We had a couple of great hustle plays there that stood out,” said Mandozzi. “Celene Walker dove to keep a ball alive, and after a little rally with a lot of hustle, Ivy Tiedemann caught them off guard with a beautiful dump kill right over their blockers.” Walker finished the night with 14 kills, 20 digs and 3 blocks. Tiedemann had a dozen assists and 7 digs and served up sorrow to the Stallions with 3 aces and a 2.5 service rating.

Abbie Bergeron matched Tiedemann at the baseline and Lily Hitchcock added a pair of aces for a 2.32 service rating. The Hurricanes’ ability to serve with both force and accuracy has made them a tough team to beat, and their explosiveness at the hitter position has made them unstoppable. In addition to Walker’s kills, Hitchcock and Niveah Howard added 9 each.

Just three matches remain in the regular season for Coral Shores, and they have a shot at keeping their record impeccable. They faced Marathon Oct. 2, then Somerset South Homestead the following night, both of which the ‘Canes have beaten earlier this season. Their final regular season match is Oct. 7 at Key West, when their possible undefeated season is on the line along with their Queens of the Keys status. Both the Conchs and ‘Canes have beaten all their remaining Keys opponents this season, and with their earlier match spoiled by the weather, it all comes down to this one.

Marathon played David Posnack Jewish Day School on Sept. 23, hosting the Rams for their second matchup of the season. Marathon lost, but kept it close the entire match, winning set three and losing sets two and four by just 2 points. The Lady Fins will be busy playing five matches in 11 days before their regular season closes out. They will then travel to Moore Haven Oct. 18 for their district tournament. This season is the first in which the Fins are part of the FHSAA Region 4 District 8 Rural classification.

Basilica School traveled a few counties north for the Palm Beach Classic Varsity Tournament Sept. 27 and 28. The Mariners lost to Spanish River on Sept. 27. The following day, they picked up win number six of the season against Berean Christian, then lost to Oxbridge Academy. Basilica School will play their final home game of their inaugural season against Key West Oct. 4 and close out their season Oct. 10 at Marathon.

Key West got in four matches despite the rough weather last week; they traveled to Florida Christian for a tournament against some of the best competition in South Florida. The Lady Conchs lost two on Sept. 27 when they played Sagemont and Miami Palmetto. They picked up some steam the following day, winning a set against Reagan but losing the match, then winning against TERRA Environmental School. Coach Kim Butler found a lot to be encouraged by at the tourney, particularly with her team’s serving. Molly McKnight’s accuracy over the course of the four matches was 92%. Gabby Garcia dialed it in at 93.8% and Reese Haggard seemingly could not miss, with 98.1% of her serves hitting their mark. McKnight was credited with 25 assists and Audrey Smith stacked up 21 kills and 5 blocks for the weekend. Key West plays their final home match of the season Oct. 7 against Coral Shores, then they complete their regular season in Boca Raton.

“We weren’t at our best with execution tonight, and a lesser team would not have found a way to win this one, which is a real testament to the heart of this team.”

— Jarrod Mandozzi, Hurricanes volleyball coach

From left: Coral Shores’ Lily Hitchcock, Abbie Bergeron and Celene Walker. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

Key West traveled to Miami for their first district game of the season, taking on St. Brendan School on Sept. 28. Their Sept. 26 game was rescheduled due to inclement weather, and a referee shortage due to numerous games being rescheduled forced the Conchs to play in the hottest part of the day, with kickoff at 3:30 p.m.

“According to the sensors, we were playing in 120 degree heat,” said head coach Johnny Hughes, whose Conchs bested the Sabres 35-14. “When (Jaden) Fox goes down with cramps, you know it’s hot.”

Fox battled through the extreme temperatures to rack up 197 yards and 3 touchdowns. Walson Morin had a short TD run and freshman Chase Gardner caught a pass for his first varsity touchdown. “We wore them down,” said Hughes, whose Conchs were not the only ones feeling the afternoon heat.

KEYS TEAMS 2 FOR 3 IN WEEK 6

Putetti reaches 1,000 yards in ’Canes’ first loss

The Sabres’ only scores of the game came off a kickoff return and in the final minutes of play when Key West’s starters were on the bench after another impressive defensive showing. The Conchs’ defense has played particularly well this season and will need to continue doing so if they want to make it past round one of districts. FHSAA’s 3A District 16 is home to Miami Northwestern and Jackson, two historically tough South Florida teams.

The win gives the Fighting Conchs a 4-2 record as they head into a Week 7 home matchup against the Cougars of Killian, a team Key West has not played since 2021. The following week the Conchs will have perhaps their greatest test of the season when they play Northwestern at Tommy Roberts Memorial Stadium for a battle for the top seed in the district.

Marathon’s homecoming theme this year was Disney, and the Fins enjoyed a bit of Disney magic on Sept. 27, capturing their third straight victory. Marathon got out to a quick lead against Somerset South Homestead, dominating on both sides of the ball for a 21-7 first quarter lead. A purple sunset radiating across the sky added yet another touch of magic, but dark gray quickly blotted out the vibrancy as the barometer dropped. Then the rains came, and they did not let up until the Hurricanes were on their way back to Homestead nursing a 42-20 loss.

Carlos Lezcano led the scoring for the Dolphins, making his way into the endzone three times. Lezcano scored twice on offense and took a kick return to the house in a dazzling 80-yard show of athleticism. Fabbianho Louis Jeune scored twice for the Fins and added 6 extra points, and Shamar Wright reached the end zone on a run. Marathon ran for a total of 433 yards distributed across six athletes, leading to a true team victory.

Defensively, Israel Gonzalez was credited with 6 solo tackles and another 5 assists. Two were for a loss. Braulio Garcia had 3 tackles for a loss with 5 solos and 4 assists. Garcia also had one carry offensively, barreling 36 yards and setting up one of Lezcano’s TDs.

Up next for Marathon is the 55th Battle of the Keys, in which they will need another team effort if they hope to take down the Hurricanes of Coral Shores in Week 7.

The Hurricanes will not enter the Battle of the Keys

undefeated; Coral Shores fell to the Patriots of Florida Christian on Sept. 27, dropping their first contest of the season, 21-7.

“We played hard, we played well, we just came up a little short,” said head coach Ed Holly on the loss to the Patriots.

It wasn’t all doom and gloom for the ‘Canes, though. Running back A.J. Putetti hit the 1,000-yard milestone for his senior season in the game, and the team did not let up until the final buzzer.

“Yemcel played an unbelievable game at quarterback,” said Holly, “and the O-line did everything we asked them to do. They are great competitors.”

Holly praised the play of Xico Reynoso, Dennis Hernandez, Jarmoris Davis, Eddie Holly and Micah Carr, whose “lights out” play on defense helped keep the ‘Canes in the game against a team that typically puts up 40-plus points on their competitors.

The Hurricanes will have the home field advantage Oct. 4 when they face longtime rival Marathon in their 55th meeting since 1970. Kickoff is 7 p.m. at Barley Field in Tavernier. For full coverage of this storied rivalry, see page 10.

Top: The referee signals that Fab Louis Jeune has crossed the goal line in Marathon’s homecoming victory on Sept. 27.

Bottom, from left: Fab Louis Jeune (2) patiently follows his blocker Tanner Ross (5) on a first-down run.

Carlos Lezcano races toward the end zone for Marathon’s first TD of the night.

Key West linebacker Jaden Fox. Aiden Gilday brings down the Somerset South Homestead ball carrier for a loss of yardage.

by Barry Gaukel and Maicey Malgrat.

See more game photos at keysweekly.com.

Photos

CWHO WILL WIN 55?

’Canes,

Fins meet in Tavernier for longest-running rivalry in Keys sports

oral Shores and Marathon have faced one another across the line of scrimmage 55 times since their first meeting in 1970. Since then, the teams have played one another every year, sometimes more than once, with the exception of 2005 and 2014. The first hiatus was due to Hurricane Wilma, according to Marathon athletic director Lance Martin, who was the head coach that year. Wilma, plus a series of smaller storms, wreaked havoc on sports schedules, and the Battle of the Keys could not be played as teams had to make up district games first. In 2014, there was a torrential downpour, lightning and otherwise unplayable conditions.

For over 50 years, the teams have enjoyed a healthy rivalry, prompting both the ‘Canes and the Fins to focus their efforts for a win that means more than any other in regularseason play. Coach Ed Holly’s Hurricanes hold the slight advantage over Sean McDonald’s Dolphins; Coral Shores has won 29 of the matchups and is on a five-game winning streak in the series.

Both teams have looked forward to this game all season.

“It’s going to be a heck of a ballgame,” said Holly. “It’s always a packed house and it’s always chippy – respectful, but chippy.”

He recalled his first Battle of the Keys, when he was fresh off a bowl game with Mississippi Community College. “From the minute I got there, everyone kept asking if we were going to beat Marathon this year. I was thinking that it was just one game in a 10-game schedule. I started to understand when a guy told me his kid was 6 years old and we hadn’t beaten Marathon in his entire life.”

That was 2011, and Coral Shores won that game, breaking an eight-year dry spell to begin the ‘Canes’ own four-year, three-game streak.

McDonald’s favorite Battle of the Keys memory came six years later, when Marathon faced what seemed to be insurmountable adversity. McDonald was an assistant coach under Paul Davis at the time, and his son, Jackson, was a junior.

“It was right after Irma hit the Keys. We didn’t know if we would even have a season. Some of our guys lost their homes. A few guys never came back after they evacuated and just moved somewhere else. Marathon lost its field,” he said. “We had about three weeks of uncertainty but we prac-

Clockwise from top: Marathon’s Eddie Garcia and Tanner Ross, Coral Shores’ Eddie Holly and Yemcel Moreno.

Photos by Barry Gaukel and Doug Finger.

ticed anyway at the park. There was a little grass, but it was brown and really mostly dirt and ant piles. Our first game back was at Coral Shores. Winning was such a boost for the community. We had lost so much so that win meant a lot.”

So how will this year’s Battle of the Keys play out? This season, the ‘Canes are 5-1 while the Fins are 4-2. Against common opponents, both teams pulled off wins against Palm Glades Prep and South Homestead. Likewise, Florida Christian bested both teams. When it comes to those common opponents, the ‘Canes have put up 65 points and allowed 49. The Fins scored 102 and allowed 107, nearly half of which came from Florida Christian in their week two loss. But everybody knows that records don’t mean much when it comes to rivalry games, and neither team seems to have a clear advantage.

Coach Holly’s Hurricanes have been formidable on defense this season, allowing just over 10 points per game on average. The Hurricanes will need to be extra stingy if they hope to stop Marathon's brutal single wing offense, which has been prolific this season, scoring an average of 36 points per game.

But the Fins’ defense has struggled at times, allowing an average of 35 points per game against predominantly spread-style offenses. Holly’s Wing T offense is yet-untested against the Fins this season.

As far as Keys matchups go, the last season all three teams played to create a true King of the Keys scenario was 2010. That year, Marathon earned one of its 25 victories over Coral Shores, but Key West dominated both teams in a pair of shutout wins. This season, Marathon and Key West are not scheduled to play one another, but Coral Shores will make the 90-mile trek to the Southernmost City to play the Conchs on Nov. 1 in their final game of the season. In the Battle of the Bookends, Key West holds an 11-1 advantage over Coral Shores, with the ‘Canes’ only win coming in a 47-45 thriller in 2002. That year, then-coach Jeff Meyers managed to win against Key West and Marathon in a 7-3 season for the Hurricanes.

As far as the Conchsversus-Fins record goes, Key West is ahead 7-2 in wins against their closest neighbor. Marathon’s only wins came in ‘07 and ‘08. In their first-ever win against the Conchs, Dolphin standout Sergio Howard took the

opening kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown to set the tone of the game, which was played in Marathon that year.

McDonald was at that game. “The stands were packed,” he said. “I was on Key West’s sidelines with Jackson, who was only six at the time. It was the only place there was any space and it was intense.” McDonald, who was coaching in the Key West Junior Football League at the time, added, “I was secretly rooting for Marathon to win.”

Martin, the coach for Marathon that year, concurred. “The sidelines were 10 people deep. The balconies were full of fans,” he said, adding that the estimated attendance was over 2,000. The following season, there was plenty of talking from both teams for weeks leading up to the rematch, which was played in Key West. Fins running back AJ Freeman tore up 225 yards that night to silence the trash-talkers. The celebration following the 21-14 victory was, as coach Martin put it, one of the “wildest scenes ever” as anyone fortunate enough to have attended the contest can attest.

Rivalry season on the gridiron will kick off this Friday, Oct. 4 at 7 p.m. at Coral Shores.

CONCRETE MADE TO LAST

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844

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

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

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

CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF CODE AMENDMENT

HEARING

“SECOND/FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 2024-492” NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances. DATE/TIME: Thursday, October 17th, 2024, 9:35 AM or after the Public Hearing

LOCATION: City of Key Colony Beach, Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach. The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2024-492], entitled: “AN ORDINANCE BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH AMENDING CHAPTER SIX OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, AMENDMENTS TO THE FLORIDA BUILDING CODE; THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH CODE OF ORDINANCES TO MODIFY CHAPTER 6 – BUILDINGS AMENDMENTS TO THE FLORIDA BUILDING CODE; AND PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; REPEALING ANY INCONSISTENT PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www. keycolonybeach.net and at City Hall at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing on Thursday, October 17th, 2024, but wish to comment, please direct correspondence to the City Clerk, P.O. Box 510141, Key Colony Beach, FL 33051, or cityclerk@keycolonybeach. net and your comments will be entered into the record. To be published: On or before October 7th, 2024 City Clerk City of Key Colony Beach, Florida Publish: October 3, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH NOTICE OF CODE AMENDMENT HEARING

“SECOND/FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 2024-493” NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances.

DATE/TIME: Thursday, October 17th, 2024, 9:35 AM or after the Public Hearing LOCATION: City of Key Colony Beach, Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach. The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2024-493], entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH FLORIDA, AMENDING THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, ARTICLE III – DISTRICT REGULATIONS, AMENDING FREEBOARD REQUIREMENTS; AND PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; REPEALING ANY INCONSISTENT PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE..” The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www. keycolonybeach.net

September 26, October 3, 10 & 17, 2024. The Weekly Newspapers.

at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach.

If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

To be published: On or before October 7th, 2024 City Clerk City of Key Colony Beach, Florida Publish: October 3, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH

NOTICE OF CODE AMENDMENT

HEARING

“SECOND/FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 2024-494” NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Commission of the City of Key Colony Beach, Florida, will hold the following Public Hearing to hear amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances.

DATE/TIME: Thursday, October 17th, 2024, 9:35 AM or after the Public Hearing

LOCATION: City of Key Colony Beach, Marble Hall, 600 W. Ocean Dr., Key Colony Beach. The proposed Ordinance to be heard by the City Commission is [ORDINANCE NO. 2024-494], entitled: “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE VII, SECTIONS 2-86 AND 2-88 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH RELATED TO MEETINGS OF THE CITY COMMISSION; PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS THEREOF FOUND TO BE IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY, REPEAL, AND CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION IN THE CODE OF ORDINANCES AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.”

The Business Impact Statement is available for review on the City of Key Colony Beach’s website at www. keycolonybeach.net and at City Hall at 600 W. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. Interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the proposed ordinance. Copies of the proposed Ordinance are available for inspection at the City Hall of Key Colony Beach. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the Key Colony Beach City Commission with respect to any matter considered at the Code Amendment Hearing, that person will need a record of the proceeding and for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

To be published: On or before October 7th, 2024 City Clerk City of Key Colony Beach, Florida Publish: October 3, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Jacobs Aquatic Center Filtration System Upgrade Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request. Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Emailed/mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/ responses WILL NOT be accepted.

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https:// monroecounty-fl.bonfirehub. com, no later than 3:00P.M. on Thursday, October 24, 2024. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. In the event of a discrepancy between the bid amount on the Proposal Form and the bid amount entered in Bonfire, the bid amount listed in the “Proposal Form” provided by Monroe County in the RFP is the amount that will be utilized by the County when considering the bid proposal. The County reserves the right to waive any proposal/bid irregularity.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Thursday, October 24, 2024. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156

One tap mobile:

+16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York)

+16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location:

+1 646 518 9805 US (New York)

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Publish: October 3, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2023-CA-268-M NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 22ND day of October, 2024 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Property Address: 329 63rd Court Gulf, Marathon,

Florida 33050; and 57468 and 57478 Overseas Highway, Grassy Key, Florida 33050. Pursuant to ORDER GRANTING PLAINTIFF’S THIRD MOTION TO CANCEL AND RESCHEDULE 9/20/24 FORECLOSURE SALE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 19th day of September 2024 Style of which is: RED MANGROVE HOLDINGS, LLC, A FLORIDA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Plaintiff, VS. MARATHON DEVELOPMENT

PARTNERS, LLC, A FLORIDA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, CEDAR OAK REI, INC., AN IDAHO FOR-PROFIT CORPORATION, MARK RAY GERENGER, PERSONAL GUARANTOR, ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER, AND AGAINST THE HEREIN NAMED INDIVIDUAL DEFENDANT(S)WHO ARE NOT KNOWN TO BE DEAD OR ALIVE, WHETHER SAID UNKNOWN PARTIES MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, OR OTHER CLAIMANTS, AND ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN OCCUPANT(S) OR TENANT(S) OF 329 63RD COURT GULF, MARATHON, FLORIDA 33050 AND 57468 AND 57478 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, GRASSY KEY, FLORIDA 33050,

Defendant

And the Docket Number of which is Number 2023-CA268-M

WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 23RD day of September 2024 KEVIN MADOK, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court

By: Shonta McLeod

As Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within sixty (60) days after the sale.

Publish: October 3 & 10, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-452-M DIVISION: MARATHON IN RE: ESTATE OF DAVID MICHAEL RILE Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of David Michael Rile, deceased, whose date of death was October 19, 2023, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 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: October 3, 2024.

Personal Representative: Beatrice Rile 97 Coco Plum Drive Slip B28

Marathon, Florida 33050

Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert K. Miller, Esq.

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173

Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938

Marathon, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-9428

Fax: (305) 743-8800

E-Mail: service@floridakeyslaw. com

Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com

Publish:

October 3 & 10, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

CASE NO.: 24-CP-000364-P

IN RE: ESTATE OF KAREN LEE BECKER

A/K/A KAREN L. BECKER, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of KAREN LEE BECKER AKA KAREN L. BECKER, (“Decedent”) deceased, whose date of death was December 9, 2023, and whose Social Security Number is XXX-XX-8954, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the Petitioner and the Petitioner’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 WITHIN 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 SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. 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 FLORIDA STATUTE 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 October 3, 2024.

Petitioner: STACY RUTER

A/K/A STACY B. RUTER

566 Decker Road

Wallkill, NY 12589

Attorney for Petitioner:

ALFRED V. NICOLETTI, ESQ.

Florida Bar No.: 125446

LAW OFFICES OF AL NICOLETTI

7512 Dr. Phillips Blvd. Suite 50-647

Orlando, Florida 32819

Publish: October 3 & 10, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR

MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA DIVISION: PROBATE FILE NO.: 2024-CP-446-K IN RE: ESTATE OF JOHN WILSON, JR. Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of John Wilson, Jr., deceased, whose date of death was June 30, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME 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 October 3, 2024. The date of the second publication of this notice is October 10, 2024.

Personal Representative: Donna L. Wilson 27382 Anguila Road Ramrod Key, FL 33042 Attorney for Personal Representative: Anthony J. Barrows Attorney for Personal Representative Florida Bar Number: 662569 WRIGHT BARROWS PLLC 9711 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-8118

Fax: (305) 489-0307

E-mail: Tony@keysclosings.com

Publish: October 3 & 10, 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.

Sale Time: 10:00am

Dated this 5th day of August 2024

KEVIN MADOK

CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk Publish: September 12, 19 & 26 and October 3, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED

2024-11

Notice is hereby given that BEAMIF A LLC holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/1635 Alt Key No: 1632813 Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00513510-000000

Description of Property: BK 3 LT 2 PARADISE POINT PB3-16 KEY LARGO OR75-278 OR3033-1875 Name in which assessed:

MAESTRE LUZ ELENA

All of said property being in the County of Monroe, State of Florida. Unless such certificate or certificates shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate or certificates will be sold to the highest bidder at the Old Courthouse Steps: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL

Sale Date: October 30th, 2024 Sale Time: 10:00am Dated this 5th day of August 2024

KEVIN MADOK CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

By: Aneta Jodkowska, Deputy Clerk

Publish:

September 12, 19 & 26 and October 3, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2024-12

Notice is hereby given that MATTHEW A WASILESKK holder of the following Certificate(s) has filed said Tax Certificate(s) for a Tax Deed to be issued thereon. The Certificate Number and year of issuance, the description of property, and Name in which it is assessed are as follows: Certificate Number: 2021/685 Alt Key No: 1216569

Date of Issuance: June 1, 2021 RE: 00167570-000000

Description of Property: LT 49 SUGARLOAF TOWNSITE PB3-180 SUGARLOAF KEY OR518-498 OR827-654 OR975-338 OR1073-996 OR1115-2188C OR1115-2189C OR1810-1163 OR3072-1298

Name in which assessed: GLADSTONE STEVEN D LIVING TRUST 08/06/2013 KLASFELD ILENE C/O NEIL GORDON CO TRUSTEE

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

AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483

Place your CLASSIFIED AD HERE! $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today.

COMMERCIAL SPACE

Commercial office/ medical/retail space for rent/lease available in Marathon. High highway visibility, 2100-3500 sq. ft. Call for more information 305-481-3198 or email drice519@aol.com

Place your CLASSIFIED AD HERE! $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today.

EMPLOYMENT

Hiring: Lead Gutter

Installer - EXPERIENCE REQUIRED – valid Driver’s License - must be comfortable with heights - located in Tavernier. To apply, please call or text Jay 305-587-1581.

SERVERS WANTED: Apply in person between 5 pm & 7 pm every night at Plaza Grill Steak & Seafood, 5101 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

The S.S. Wreck and Galley Grill mile marker 59 is looking for Line Cooks, full or part time. Self-motivated, quick learner, and team player. Salary commensurate with experience and includes 401k match up to 6%. Please call Nicole at 305-433-0515

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring part-time servers and bartenders. Private club, friendly atmosphere, guaranteed gratuities. Flexible lunch/dinner shifts available Tuesday – Sunday. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Call 305743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com.

Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

Place your CLASSIFIED AD HERE! $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today.

Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Engineering Department:

MAINTENANCE PERSON

Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualiﬁcations and experience: $31.22/hr. - $34.96/hr. For more information, including job duties and required qualiﬁcations, and to apply for the job, please visit our website at www.KeysEnergy.com. KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being ﬁlled.

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Administrative Asst. to Executive Director, Resident Care Supervisor with min. 3 yrs. experience of an LPN, Housing Choice Voucher Asst., Maintenance Mechanic (Maintenance Worker. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: martinezm@kwha.org or 305-296-5621. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www. kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.

Place your CLASSIFIED AD HERE! $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today.

HOBBIES/COLLECT

PRIVATE COLLECTOR

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

The Harry Truman Little White House Museum is looking for OLD FISHING GEAR to be used as a display in the museum. Fishing gear MUST be donated. Please contact Dean at 305294-8346 or email: Dean. Taylor@HistoricTours.com

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

Downstairs apartment of a duplex to rent to 1 person (no pets). Large living room/bedroom and separate kitchen. Large screened porch with its own washer/dryer and driveway. Utilities include wifi/tv. 150 ft to the ocean. MM96 Key Largo. $1850/ month. F/L/S 305-853-3779

ISLAMORADA:

Very Large 2 BR apt. for rent. Furnished or unfurnished. Utilities & cable included. $2,200/month. First/ Security. Available Sept. 1st. Yearly lease. 305-5222702 Leave message. RENTED!!

RV SITES FOR RENT

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

Place your CLASSIFIED AD HERE! $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today.

WE ARE HIRING!

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

Place your CLASSIFIED AD HERE! $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today.

YARD SALES

Place your CLASSIFIED AD HERE! $25.00/week for up to 5 lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today.

CLIENT MEDICAL SERVICES ASSISTANT CNA

Full-time assisting our clients with dental, medical and transportation appointments. Act as liaison between clients, families and support staff. Requires some on-call responsibility. Minimum requirement Florida certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

Also required for this position: 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

NOW HIRING IN ISLAMORADA

MARINA CASHIERS

Must have customer service experience working in a retail environment and using a point of sale system. Additional duties include restocking, completing purchase orders, daily ordering of basic items in the store, and maintaining a clean appearance in the store. This is an hourly position and compensation is based on experience. Work hours are ﬂexible and we try to maintain a set weekly schedule.

DOCKHANDS

Duties include customer service, helping customers with bait and ice and helping cashiers with restocking. Morning & a ernoon hours available.

Please respond by email (Ma at islamarinama @gmail.com) with any relevant previous experience and at least two references.

KEY LARGO FIRE RESCUE & EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES DISTRICT IS SEEKING AN EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT/CLERK

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

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.

FRONT DESK

OPENINGS AVAILABLE

PHYSICIAN PRACTICE

OPENINGS

- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN/PA-C), Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus

KEY

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)

RN/Licensed Practical Nurse (FT/PT)

Peer Support Specialist/BHT

*Behavioral Health Technicians – 3 shifts (FT/PT)

*Support Worker (Assisted Living, FT)

*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.

Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP

PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!!

Apply at guidancecarecenter.org

Search Employment/Portal/Location/zip

- 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

- Physician Assistant 1-Surgical, Ortho, Tavernier, $5k Bonus

- Supervisor Physician Practice, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus

- Nurse Navigator, Concierge Key West, $20k Bonus

TAVERNIER MARINERS

HOSPITAL

- Cook, Dietary

- Exercise Physiologist 1, Mariners Wellness Center

- Group Exercise Instructor, Mariners Wellness Center

- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (General & Vascular Sonography) Ultrasound, $50k Bonus

- Mechanic 3, Facility Operations

- Nuclear Medicine Tech 2, Imaging

- Radiology Technologist 1, Imaging-MRI, $40k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- ED Team Coordinator 1, Emergency Department

- Experience Advisor, Patient Experience

- 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.

AND LEARN