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On Friday, Nov. 15, pending weather conditions, Monroe County will see its first new artificial reef since the sinking of the Vandenberg wreck in 2009. Under the direction of new Artificial Reefs Director Hanna Koch, crews will deploy 45 decommissioned concrete power poles roughly 16 nautical miles offshore in 40 feet of water.
TJ (Steve Miller, center) has some regrets – and maximum ‘shrinkage’ – after jumping in an ice-cold lake in Marathon Community Theatre’s ‘Beer for Breakfast,’ opening this weekend. It’s an all-out battle of the sexes also starring Lee Lawson, left, John Schaefer and Mary Stella. See page 10. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
MARATHON DELAYS BUILDING RIGHTS REQUEST, INSTALLS NEW COUNCIL
Council urges resident participation at Dec. 3 workshop
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
Anew-look Marathon City Council stopped short of a final request for building allocations at its Nov. 12 session, delaying the decision to December to allow for more resident input in a citysponsored workshop.
New council installed
Tuesday evening opened with a salute to departing councilman Luis Gonzalez, who stepped off the dais after two three-year terms.
“You've been a true model of service to this community, not just in your tenure here on the council, but for as long as I've known you,” said councilman Jeff Smith. “This community has been well served by you and your family … and I know, without even having to ask, that you will continue to be involved.”
In his final address as a councilman, Gonzalez thanked his family and city staff members before reflecting on six years of challenges faced during his tenure, from Marathon’s financial recovery following Hurricane Irma and weathering the COVID-19 pandemic to increasing code compliance in a town booming with vacation rentals, preserving city-owned waterfront properties, and installing affordable housing developments.
“Six years ago in November 2018 you trusted me to serve this incredible community, and it's been the honor of my lifetime,” he said. “I may no longer
be on the council, but I will always be here for Marathon, ready to serve in whatever way I possibly can.”
Re-elected councilman Kenny Matlock and newcomer Jody “Lynny” Del Gaizo were sworn in, and a unanimous vote confirmed Lynn Landry and Smith as Marathon’s new mayor and vice mayor, respectively.
Building rights request delayed
A special city workshop on Tuesday, Dec. 3 at 5:30 p.m. will inform the council’s final request at its Dec. 10 session for additional building rights in Marathon, as the group unanimously elected to table Resolution 2024-121.
Facing liability from takings cases if property owners of otherwise buildable lots are denied the ability to construct a home, Monroe County is already set to request an additional 220 building rights from the state to replenish a nearly-expired stock of allocations throughout the island chain. A request for rights beyond this number would likely require modifications to state statutes governing the Florida Keys as an Area of Critical State Concern with a mandatory hurricane clearance time of 24 hours for permanent residents.
A county commission meeting is set for Thursday, Dec. 19 to weigh input from municipalities and decide on a final number of building allocations, if any, beyond 220 to request and work toward during the 2025 Florida state legislative session. Input from jurisdictions like Marathon will be incorporated into a final singular request from
Monroe County to state leaders.
“Unless you radically change how the statute reads today, you really have to do this collectively, because the 24-hour evacuation time applies to all of us without distinguishing each of us individually,” City Manager George Garrett reminded the council.
Marathon currently has roughly 575 vacant lots, about 123 of which are likely unbuildable due to sensitive habitat conditions, according to Planning Director Brian Shea. However, considering lots with density and zoning to accommodate more than one unit creates a gray area in settling on a number of units that should block takings cases completely. Traffic, infrastructure, environmental and quality-of-life concerns, frequently brought forward by the public in previous county-sponsored workshops and surveys, will also heavily factor into the decision – even as county governments continually seek to acquire land to stave off future construction.
“In the event the city has no more permits to give out, you’re in a situation where you’re going to give someone a unit or you’re going to give them a check,” said City Attorney Steve Williams. He estimated Marathon’s legal exposure in takings cases could reach a “lowball estimate” of “hundreds of millions of dollars” if development stopped entirely.
County workshops have floated the idea of allowing non-residential uses of buildable lots to ward off takings cases, an idea Williams said he thought may lessen, but likely not eliminate, liability on those lots.
Marathon resident Bob Williams, a vocal critic of land clearing for development purposes within the city, asked the council for greater consideration
continued on page 6
Newly-elected councilwoman Jody ‘Lynny’ Del Gaizo, right, is sworn in by City Clerk Diane Clavier. Photos by ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
Former councilman Luis Gonzalez leaves the dais to a standing ovation at the Marathon City Council’s Nov. 12 session.
Re-elected councilman Kenny Matlock, right, is sworn in by his wife Kimmie.
DON’T PAY THOSE
Error sends 35,000 false tax bills from
mainland to Monroe County
A programming error at a third-party printing company sent more than 35,000 tax bills for Charlotte County, Florida properties to Keys addresses last week. The bills are inaccurate duplicates and should be discarded. CONTRIBUTED
ALEX RICKERT
alex@keysweekly.com
More than 35,000 Monroe County taxpayers received an unwelcome surprise in their mailboxes last week, as a programming error resulted in duplicate tax bills from Charlotte County, Florida being sent to Keys property addresses.
Residents began reporting the erroneous tax bills from Charlotte County Tax Collector Vickie L. Potts on Nov. 6 – sent to Monroe County mailing addresses, but detailing tax assessments from real properties in the mainland county.
The inaccurate billing originated with a programming error at printing services provider TC Delivers, a thirdparty firm used by both counties to mail tax bills, Monroe County Tax Collector Sam Steele told the Weekly.
According to an email sent by TC Delivers national account manager Laura Ferreira to Steele’s office, the company correctly mailed a complete set of tax bills for both Charlotte and Monroe County before the programming error caused “an additional 35,469 tax bills mailed with Monroe County addresses, printed on Charlotte tax bill paper with their envelopes.”
“It’s a huge error, they should have caught it when they were QC’ing the counts from the last time we mailed Charlotte’s tax bills, but
of environmental concerns as they weighed their final request.
“It seems rather arbitrary that the principal thing we look at in determining whether our city benefits … (is) with only consideration to evacuation time, or only consideration to takings costs,” he said. “A lot of us live here for … the second-largest marine sanctuary, and we aren't doing anything to discuss or consider all the data available from the federal, state and local sanctuary management concerning the loss of water quality in this area around Marathon. I would suggest that if takings are a concern, getting responsible with our wastewater and our runoff is going to be very expensive as well.”
Smith said that while the cost of “writing the check” for takings cases could be nearly impossible to determine, he viewed limited residential development as a small concern compared to skyrocketing tourism.
“We’re looking at an 8% growth (in residential units) over 30 years,” he said, stressing that the city should seek the necessary units and instead focus on its rate of distribution.
The money, proposed to be split among the county’s five District Advisory Committees (DACs) in rough proportion to each DAC’s tourism revenue, could potentially send roughly $6 million to $7 million to Marathon, Garrett said.
The funds could be used to buy and renovate existing residences as deed-restricted workforce housing, buy vacant land and develop workforce housing, or partner with upcoming housing projects already approved by the city as a requirement for larger resort developments, according to Tuesday’s resolution. However, as Garrett told the council, having shovelready projects is crucial in securing TDC approval, as unwanted or unused funds could be transferred to other DACs.
Still, Landry and Smith spoke in favor of what Still called a “one-time chance to get this money coming from tourists, and use that money to pay back and get some of our residents in homes.”
they didn’t,” Ferreira wrote. “I can never explain how truly sorry we are for causing this issue.”
Steele said he expected a formal statement from TC Delivers to be printed on Steele’s letterhead and mailed to Monroe County taxpayers – on TC Delivers’ dime – taking responsibility for the error. In the meantime, he added, Keys residents receiving the additional bill from Charlotte County should securely destroy the paper, as they are not responsible for the bill.
Correct Monroe County tax bills were sent Oct. 31, Steele said, and most residents should have received their correct bills within the past week. Those bills still need to be paid.
“Some taxpayers were concerned that there was a data breach – there was no data breach,” Steele told the Weekly. “It was a sloppy mistake that was small, but very significant. I have addressed this oversight with the print vendor to ensure it does not happen again.
“As your tax collector, I want to reassure all Monroe County taxpayers that no data breach has occurred, and that payments made through our website are encrypted, safe, and secure. My office is fully committed to safeguarding public funds and confidential information by adhering to rigorous security protocols designed to protect your data.”
“(Those new units) are not what our problem is for our infrastructure or environment; let’s call it the truth. I have 3.6 million trips coming through here, and it’s the visitors that are really causing the issue.”
Matlock said he would favor asking for one unit per vacant lot within the city, but spread distribution of these rights over 40 or more years. He asked Williams whether distributing one right per year would be enough to prevent takings cases, to which Williams replied that one would likely not suffice.
“It’s arguable,” Williams said. “Three or four? Sure.”
Councilwoman Robyn Still urged resident input at December’s workshop.
“If you care about it, if your friends, your family, your neighbors care, you need to talk to them, because they need to make time to come here and come talk to us,” she said. “We're going to make the decision, but we want to make the decision hearing from our residents.”
In a 3-2 decision, with Matlock and Del Gaizo voting against, Resolution 2024-123 approved a request to the Monroe County Tourist Development Council (TDC) for the city to receive a portion of $35 million in available affordable housing funds.
Made possible by a TDC surplus after booming Keys tourism from 2020 to 2022, the $35 million was approved by the Florida Legislature to be used to build affordable housing for workers in tourism-related industries.
Matlock said he was wary of giving funding to already-required projects to be installed by corporate resort developers, and renewed his push against large-scale multifamily housing.
“At what point do we have too many units? At what point do we just stop building in the name of affordable housing?” he said. “All these projects are in the works that we don't know the impacts of. … I think we need to really, really be sensitive of what we're approving, as far as over-development.”
Smith said he agreed funds shouldn’t be given to already-required projects, but that otherwise, the move was “a resounding, ‘Absolutely, I'll take that money.’”
“And if Islamorada doesn’t want theirs, I’ll take it. I’ll take $10 million, because I can do a lot of things,” he added. “Everything in our code incentivizes a conversion of our housing stock to a vacation rental. … Let's use this money, (even) if we have to get off and move well beyond the speed of government to get something together and say, ‘Hey, let's acquire property.’ … I think we should want to be able to acquire and preserve property in our community to service those tourismrelated industries.”
In other news:
• After reported concerns of speeding in neighborhoods behind the Marathon Airport, the city will look to install permanent speed-limit signs, along with a mobile electronic sign to address this and other areas of concern identified in a future workshop meeting.
FREE, BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
Marathon’s patriotic celebrations for Veterans Day began with the city’s youngsters on Nov. 8, as Stanley Switlik Elementary presented its Red, White and Blue Day. Hosted by fifth-graders Ryan Bryk and Daniel Gomez, music teacher Allison Sayer led each of Switlik’s classes through a program of classic USA tunes and an address by Coast Guard Master Chief Cory Palmer. As has become tradition, the morning closed with a sea of little ones waving Old Glory as trop rocker John Bartus sang “God Bless the USA.” Monday belonged to the vets themselves, as Marathon’s American Legion Post 154 put on its annual procession down U.S. 1 to celebrate those who protect our freedoms in the armed forces.
1. The U.S. Coast Guard color guard posts the colors at Red, White and Blue Day.
2. Switlik first-graders sing ‘There Are Many Flags.’
3. USCG Master Chief Cory Palmer’s speech highlights the valiance of the Coast Guard with a personal story of harrowing rescue at sea.
4. Third-grader Olivia Banks delivers a quote by Martin Luther King Jr.
5. Fifth-graders Ryan Bryk, left, and Daniel Gomez emcee Red, White and Blue Day.
6-9. Trailers, golf carts and decked-out cars make their way down U.S. 1 for the American Legion Post 154’s Veterans Day parade.
Photos by ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
BEER ME
Marathon
Community
Theatre’s newest comedy is a night-long bender over gender
ALEX RICKERT
alex@keysweekly.com
Nothing good happens after midnight – unless it’s on-stage absurdity in Sean Grennan’s “Beer for Breakfast,” opening this weekend at Marathon Community Theatre.
When middle-aged buddies reunite for the first time in more than a decade for a guys’ weekend, the prototypical testosterone-packed mission is simple: eat chili, drink beer and talk about sports, sex and more sports –NOT “feelings.”
Though TJ (Steve Miller), Mark (Lee Lawson) and Richard (John Schaefer) are battling their own demons of divorce, unemployment and a stroke, the crew is determined to push forward with a night of throwback degeneracy – at least, until Jessie (Mary Stella), the wife of their missing buddy Adrian, shows up.
From then until the break of dawn, it’s an all-out battle of the sexes to see if the lady or gentlemen will reign supreme – and if the guys will retain the right to the dude-fest they had planned all along.
With six shows at Key West’s Waterfront Playhouse on his resume, familiar radio personality Miller joins a trio of main-stage MCT performers with multiple shows under their belts. It’s a level of experience that, by her own estimation, made the job easy for director Diane Dashevsky.
“The defining trait for this cast was their willingness to help each other through the rehearsal process,” she said. “They all know the drill; I didn’t have to give them a lot of notes, and when I did, it was all small stuff.”
The four cast members said they were able to strike a delicate balance of providing constructive criticism to one another, while still under the overall guidance of Dashevsky. But where time in other shows could be used to bring newer actors up to speed, the experience level allowed them to emphasize the more serious undercurrents of a story that would otherwise be “near farce.”
“There's a switch that gives you the
layers to it, and you find the layers to all the characters,” said Stella.
“Like a funny onion,” added Miller.
Though saying he’s no stranger to MCT’s stage is an understatement, Schaefer said the challenge in this particular role was unlike any he’d been saddled with before. While Richard is mentally sharp as ever, audiences will notice the character’s severe speech impediment and motor impairment – symptoms of his recent stroke – as soon as he walks through the door, and he’ll play the “cripple card” with his friends more than once.
“It was a good challenge, and also a fear of mine,” said Schaefer. “I certainly don’t want to offend anybody or anything like that.”
“When this play first premiered, there were a number of stroke victims in the audience,” Dashevsky said. “They approached the playwright afterwards
From top: When Jessie (Mary Stella, right) crashes a guys’ weekend for TJ (Steve Miller, left), Richard (John Schaefer) and Mark (Lee Lawson), an all-out battle of the sexes ensues in ‘Beer for Breakfast’ at Marathon Community Theatre.
The cast of ‘Beer for Breakfast.’ Clockwise from top left: John Schaefer as Richard, Lee Lawson as Mark, Mary Stella as Jessie and Steve Miller as TJ.
and said, ‘Thank you so much for writing this play, because this shows people that stroke patients aren't invalids. Their lives aren’t over, and you allowed that character to do everything the other guys did.’”
Asked for the most iconic moment in the show for audiences to look forward to, Miller wasted no breath: “I like the part where we talk about my penis.”
“It’s a ‘short’ discussion,” said Lawson.
“Beer for Breakfast” opens on Thursday, Nov. 14 and runs on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. through Dec. 7, with a 3 p.m. matinee on Sunday, Dec. 1. Tickets are $33 including fees and are available at marathontheater.org or by calling 305-7430994. The show is rated “PG-13” for some adult language and situations.
Photos by ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
CAMPAIGN DONATIONS BROUGHT LARGE WAR CHESTS
More than $1 million spent in Keys election campaigns
Individuals, businesses and political action committees contributed more than $1 million to candidates vying for positions and seats in the Florida Keys this election season.
Large war chests brought plenty of spending on direct mailers, and text messages to voters’ phones, among other advertisements. Ads running across television screens attacked one candidate for supervisor of elections.
Florida Keys residents and businesses weren’t the only ones contributing to campaigns. There were also political committees from Tallahassee and Washington, D.C pumping money into candidates’ war chests.
With the election over, candidates who didn’t spend all their campaign funds can donate to a charity of their choosing.
State representative
Newly re-elected state Rep. Jim Mooney received $138,825 in campaign contributions from individuals, political committees and businesses. Contributions to the Republican’s re-election campaign date back to December 2022, when he received $1,000 from Florida Good Wholesalers Good Government Committee out of Tallahassee. During the October 2023 to December 2023 reporting period, Mooney’s campaign brought in $33,025 — a majority of those coming from political committees. A total of $84,866 was spent on Mooney’s re-election campaign. Mooney won re-election with 63.09% from voters in the Florida Keys and south Miami-Dade County.
Democratic challenger Michael Travis received a total of $5,895 in campaign contributions from individuals and businesses. The Monroe County Democratic Committee donated $2,000 to his campaign. Travis didn’t receive any funds from political committees and loaned himself $1,325. Travis’s campaign spent $6,118 in his attempt to unseat Mooney.
Monroe County Supervisor of Elections
More than $160,000 was spent in one of the more heated races in the Keys. Republican Sherri Hodies secured $94,135 in campaign contributions from residents and businesses. Hodies also received $30,000 from the Republican Party of Monroe County. Hodies received $20,000 from the REC in April ahead of a primary against challenger Margaret Romero.
The Monroe County Republican Executive Committee voted April 20 to endorse its treasurer, Hodies, for supervisor of elections in the Aug. 20 primary over fellow Republican Romero, of Key West. Members of the executive committee, as well as other Republicans Keyswide, questioned the procedure and noted it was done without the necessary 60% majority needed for the vote. REC chairwoman Rhonda Rebman Lopez has said it was voted upon by a majority of all members present, and it was subsequently approved by the Republican Party of Florida.
In September, the Monroe County REC gave Hodies another $10,000. The Dade County PBA was the only political action committee donating $1,000 to Hodies’ campaign. Overall, Hodies’ campaign spent $92,019. She won the election with 52.07% of the vote.
Democrat Ron Saunders garnered $76,538 in campaign contributions from individuals, Keys businesses and political committees. He received $2,000 from the Monroe County Democratic Committee and several $1,000 donations from the Ocean Reef Political Action Committee, Coalition for Better Care Political Committee out of Tallahassee and $1,000 from Communications Workers of America Committee on Political Education. Saunders spent $73,746 throughout his campaign.
The race for supervisor of elections saw several attack mailers targeting Saunders. They were produced by the Conservative Family Alliance, a political committee that spent $244,109 between July 1 and Oct. 11 on a number of races, including a Republican primary for Monroe County commissioner. The group provided $11,141,78 on mailers, text messages and radio advertisements supporting incumbent Holly Raschein’s primary opponent, Melissa Ptomey.
As for Saunders, the Conservative Family Alliance allocated $41,784 for television advertising, $8,211 on radio ads and $19,614 in direct mailers opposing him as supervisor of elections.
Board of County Commissioners
Democrat Chris Massicotte’s campaign gathered $155,226 in contributions, while Republican incumbent Jim Scholl took in $96,060. Scholl won the election with 62.10% of the vote.
Massicotte received $250 from Floridians For Equality Political Committee, $2,000 from the LGBQT Victory Fund Political Committee out of Washington, D.C, and $1,000 from the Monroe County Democratic Executive Committee. Massicotte spent a total of $137,844 on his campaign.
Scholl received $30,000 from the Republican Party of Monroe County and $1,000 donations from the Ocean Reef PAC, By The People, For the People PAC out of Doral, Dade County PBA PAC, and Friends of Randy Fine PAC out of Jensen Beach. A total of $74,489 was spent on Scholl’s campaign.
More than $136,000 in contributions were made to the campaigns of Raschein, Ptomey and Paul Wunderlich ahead of the August primary. Raschein received $105,250 in contributions, while Ptomey received $23,683. Wunderlich’s campaign generated $7,350.
Raschein received $1,000 donations from the Ocean Reef PAC, Southern Group of Florida Political Committee, People for the People Political Committee, Dade County PBA Political Committee, Friends of Randy Fine, AT&T South Florida PAC and Realtors PAC out of Orlando.
Ptomey and Wunderlich received no contributions from political committees.
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Key West City Commission
In the race for District 6, newly-elected commissioner Aaron Castillo raised the most money, $101,424. His opponent, Marci Rose, raised $40,798. Castillo spent $94,630, while Rose spent $35,050. In the race for District 1, Monica Haskell received $45,551 in campaign contributions. She was elected to the seat during an August primary after she beat Ben Hennington, who raised $8,200 in campaign contributions. Haskell spent $34,535 while Hennington spent $8,200.
Key West Utility Board
Timothy Root’s campaign raised the most money, $35,470, followed by Rachel Oropeza, $18,535. Oropeza, who defeated incumbent Root in the race for Seat C on the elected board that governs Keys Energy Services, spent $18,033. Root spent $31,354.
Marathon City Council
In Marathon, a total of $70,614 in campaign contributions flowed to city council candidates. Thirdplace finisher Mark Senmartin ended his campaign as the top active fundraiser, with $17,200 in contributions and $11,720.08 in expenses. New councilwoman Jody “Lynny” Del Gaizo’s $15,473 in contributions were second-highest among active candidates, and she finished as the campaign’s top spender with $13,727.90. Re-elected councilman Kenny Matlock raised $11,650 and spent $9,489.20.
Fourth-place finisher Ray Wood raised $7,491.10 to go with $7,071.58 in expenses.
Former candidate Dustin Huff’s fundraising total of $18,350 stood as the highest total of the Marathon City Council race, though he withdrew in early October citing health issues within his family. Huff told the Weekly that he plans to return unused contributions to his donors.
Islamorada Village Council
Individuals and businesses donated a total of $173,543 to the eight candidates seeking a seat on the village council during election season.
Capt. Steve Friedman’s campaign raked in the most, $38,765, followed by the campaign for Don Horton, $35,741. Friedman, who spent $27,378, and Horton, who spent $29,160, beat their opponents Anna Richards and Tom Raffanello for seats 2 and 4.
In total, Richards’ campaign took in $29,935 in contributions while Raffanello received $15,001. Richards spent $26,027 and Raffanello spent $11,549.
The winner of seat 3, Deb Gillis received $31,300 for her campaign. Gillis, who spent $19,484, beat Mary Barley, who gathered $7,961 in contributions and spent $6,099.
Buddy Pinder’s campaign received $8,400 in contributions, while his opponent Van Cadenhead received $6,440. The winner of seat 1, Pinder spent $6,142. Cadenhead spent $3,342.
Visit keyselections.org and dos.fl.gov/elections for the full list of contributors to each candidate’s campaign.
CAPTAIN JOEL’S FISHIN’ HOLES
PANFISH OF THE FLORIDA KEYS
Iguess the definition of panfish is any fish that can fit in a standard-size frying pan. Being a fat southern guy, my favorite way to cook fish is to deep-fry them with panko crumbs. I like to dip my filets in scrambled eggs and then dip them in the panko bread crumbs and fry them. My second favorite way to cook fish is in an old iron skillet with garlic, butter and Key lime. Below are the panfish of the Florida Keys that I prefer to eat.
• Hogfish: A lot of people call them hog snapper, but they're not even a member of the snapper family. Only recently have we figured out how to consistently catch hogfish on a hook and line; in the past, hogfish were mainly harvested by spear.
• Mangrove snapper: Also called gray snapper. We catch them a lot in shallow water using live shrimp or cut ballyhoo on a jig head. They’re open year-round.
• Yellowtail snapper: Very plentiful year-round at the reef. About 95% of the time we catch yellowtail using the flat line method of letting the line out and making your bait resemble a piece of chum floating out of your chum bag and into the chum line.
• Blackbelly rosefish: When we bring these fish up from over 1,000 feet deep with our electric reels, people automatically wonder why we call these fish blackbelly rosies. They are as red as red snapper on the outside. It's only when we go to clean them and people see their jet-black interior bellies that they realize how the fish got its name.
• Queen snapper: A deep-water fish caught in around 1,000 feet of water on electric reels. The smaller keeper size would be considered a panfish. We have caught several that were too big to be considered panfish.
• Blueline tilefish: We catch them with electric reels at around 650 feet. We typically bring up three or four at a time.
Though this fish would be too small to keep, hogfish are a prized catch for their delicate white filets. JOEL BRANDENBURG/ Contributed
• Porgy: Very prevalent around bridges and ledges. The owner of Castaway Restaurant, John Mirabella, told me he would rather eat a porgy than any other panfish available.
…is a fifth-generation Floridian and second-generation fishing captain who owns and operates Ana Banana Fishing Company in Marathon. His passions include fishing, hunting and spending time with his family.
• Sheepshead: I'm hesitant to even call this fish a Florida Keys species because we catch so few of them in our crystal-clear water. However, when we do catch them, they always make it to the dinner table. Not to be mistaken for a freshwater “trash fish” up in northern waters called a sheephead.
• Flounder: Rare to catch in the Keys, but we do occasionally catch them. Normally, when we do catch one down here, it's a fat doormat.
• Schoolmaster snapper: We catch these on concrete bridges, pylons and concrete dock pylons. There’s something about concrete that these fish are attracted to.
The limits and seasons vary on all the fish mentioned here, but other than being awesome-tasting fish, they have something else in common: When hooked, they are a great fight, and fish most clients can't catch every day anywhere. Here in the Keys we are blessed with a large quantity and large variety of tasty fish. It may be the number one quality that keeps anglers from all around the world flocking to us year-round.
To book a charter with Ana Banana, call or text Capt. Joel at 813-267-4401 or Capt. Jojo at 305-879-0564, or visit anabananafishing.com.
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 any meeting or workshop noted herein, he or she will need a record of the proceedings and for such purposes he or she 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. The City of Marathon complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you are a disabled person requiring special accommodations or assistance, please notify the City ADA Coordinator at (305) 289-5022 of such need at least 72 hours (3 days) in advance.
2 DIE IN SEPARATE BOAT ACCIDENTS
Apair of boat crashes off the Florida Keys resulted in multiple people being thrown into the water, and left two people dead.
A 28-year-old Hialeah woman died after she was thrown from a boat not far from Key West. The incident occurred around 4 p.m. on Nov. 7, when a 39-foot Deep Impact vessel with eight people on board was headed to the Southernmost City from Miami. According to the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, the boat operated by Miami Beach resident Reinaldo Aquit was navigating in Calda Channel north of Key West and made a hard right, sending six of the eight passengers into the water.
Good Samaritans on nearby vessels assisted the victims who were thrown from the boat. Injured victims were taken to local hospitals for treatment. FWC said Stephanie Rodriguez died of her injuries. FWC said an investigation is ongoing.
On Nov. 9, a 21-year-old man died after he was thrown from a boat near north Key Largo. Eytan M. Genoune, of Boynton Beach, was on a 34-foot Nor-Tech vessel with two other people. The boat was heading south and experienced a sudden turn, throwing all three into the water near Pumpkin Key. Air and dive rescues ensued, by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue. Two occupants who weren’t identified were rescued and taken to the hospital for their injuries. FWC said Genoune was found dead in the water.
— Keys Weekly staff report
A HERO’S WELCOME
Lifters Chavala, Augustin strike gold
ALEX RICKERT
alex@keysweekly.com
Escorted by the lights and sirens of Marathon Fire Rescue and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Marathon High School’s newest gold medalists in Special Olympics weightlifting entered the school’s courtyard to thunderous applause on Tuesday morning, fresh off hardwarewinning performances at Special Olympics Florida’s state meet that outdid their regional lifts.
Lifters Alex Chavala and Cindy Augustin competed at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando in weight classes nearly double their own body weights. Adding 35 pounds to his combined bench press and deadlift from his lifts at regionals for a new total of 275 pounds, Chavala clinched his weight class win outright. Packing on 10 pounds to her regional lifts for a combined total of 220, Augustin’s performance relative to her body weight moved her from third to first place after adjustment with the crucial Sinclair algorithm.
“The Sinclair Total is an adjusted measure of an athlete’s performance, considering their body weight, and it provides a way to assess how an athlete’s performance would theoretically compare to others if they were all in the same weight class,” said coach Cathy Warner. “It helps identify the most outstanding lifters regardless of body weight.”
“I learned so much about their strength, determination and commitment to never give up,” she added. “(Alex and Cindy’s) journey has been tremendous, making huge gains throughout the season. … The smiles say it all. I am beyond happy for my athletes.”
Both Chavala and Augustin will be considered for competition in the June 2026 Special Olympics national meet at the University of Minnesota as representatives for Florida.
1. Gold medalists Alex Chavala, left, and Cindy Augustin, right, returned from their state meet with coach Cathy Warner after turning in personal-best performances.
2. Alex Chavala makes his way down a line of high-fives as he enters the MHS courtyard.
3. Emcee Sean McDonald, center, and
MHS principal Christine Paul, right, lead a welcome ceremony for state gold medalist Alex Chavala, left, and Cindy Augustin.
4. State champs Cindy Augustin, left, and Alex Chavala, right, show off their new hardware with Kay Gradick Athletic Trust administrator Mike Puto.
Photos by ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
PINTO
11am - 2:30pm Regular menu available and BRUNCH items including chorizo breakfast burrito, guava French toast, crab benedict and BOGO mimosas & glasses of sparkling wine
3-year-old male American bulldog.
Looking for: I can be your anything guy. I love people and other dogs.
Turnoffs: They say I’m “drooly.” I just love giving kisses.
SWIPE RIGHT
Adorable furry faces are waiting for families at the Florida Keys SPCA
Keys Weekly is thrilled each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for their perfect adoption “match” at the Florida Keys SPCA’s Marathon campus – complete with their best qualities, preferences and turnoffs to ensure the best fit.
From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you at one of the SPCA’s two campuses, in Key West and Marathon. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.
See all the animals waiting for a home at fkspca.org. To contact the Marathon campus, call 305-743-4800 or visit 10550 Aviation Blvd.
RAVEN
1-year-old female pit bull mix.
Looking for: Someone to match my young, enthusiastic energy.
Turnoffs: When I don’t get enough playtime. It’s so boring at the shelter.
WOLFE
7-year-old male domestic shorthair.
Looking for: A home with people and kids, maybe even other cats.
Turnoffs: After I got adopted in 2018, they found me again as a stray.
BADFISH STAYS TRUE TO THE MUSIC & MAGIC OF SUBLIME
Tribute band’s founder joins Florida Keys Weekly Podcast before Nov. 20 show
Badfish, the Sublime tribute band, returns to Key West Theater on Wednesday, Nov. 20. Founder Scott Begin, center, joins Britt Myers on the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to discuss their new generation of fans and his favorite memories from the road. CONTRIBUTED
How does Badfish, the Sublime tribute band, continue to capture the music of a timeless moment, while maintaining sold-out shows and growing popularity for over a quarter-century? For founder Scott Begin it’s simple — have a blast while staying true to the music of Sublime.
On Wednesday, Nov. 20, one of the Southernmost City’s most popular bands returns to the Key West Theater. Britt Myers catches up with Scott Begin on the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast to discuss how
a new generation of fans is embracing the unique ska-reggae music of Sublime, some of his favorite memories from the road and why he loves stopping in Key West to perform for fans.
Limited tickets remain at thekeywesttheater.com.
— Keys Weekly staff report
Scan the QR code to hear the podcast episode at keysweekly.com.
SPIKE
CANCER TREATMENT RETURNS TO KEY WEST
Baptist Health to open chemo & radiation center this summer
REEL RECS
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “Meet John Doe” (1941)
Baptist Health has expanded its cancer care services in the Florida Keys with a new standalone facility in Key West. Part of Baptist Health Cancer Care, the new center will be led by a team of physicians, and offer a variety of infusion services, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapies for patients. Located on the site of the former Genesis Cancer Center, the facility is expected to open next summer, making it easier for Key West and Lower Keys residents to receive care.
“We are thrilled to be able to provide additional Baptist Health Cancer Care services for patients in the Florida Keys with our new cancer location,” said Dr. Michael Zinner, CEO and executive medical director of Miami Cancer Institute and Baptist Health Cancer Care. “This facility will offer convenient care for our patients who live in or near Key West, and we’re pleased to be able to meet their needs closer to home.”
The two-story building spans 4,300 square feet and, upon completion, will offer advanced cancer care for patients. The new facility will feature physician offices, an infusion center, a new linear accelerator to deliver radiation therapy, and an on-site CT simulator to plan radiation.
“This building represents an important milestone for both
SHELF HELP
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
Baptist Health and the Keys community,” said Jay Hershoff, Baptist Health board of trustees chair. “The area is growing at a rapid pace, and with that growth comes the need for additional health services. Baptist Health continues to be at the forefront of medical care, providing residents and visitors with the clinical support they need by the experts that they trust.”
The announcement is in line with Baptist Health’s commitment to better serving the health and wellness needs of the Keys community. Earlier this year, Baptist Health Fishermen’s Community Hospital opened the new Walsh Family Medical Arts Building, expanding access to infusion services and primary care in the Middle Keys.
More information is at baptisthealth.net/services/cancer-care.
Baptist Health is the largest health care organization in the region, with 12 hospitals, more than 28,000 employees, 4,000 physicians and 200 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has institutes specializing in cancer care, brain and spine care, heart and vascular care and orthopedic care.
— Contributed
Why: Director Frank Capra is best known for the holiday season TV staple “It’s A Wonderful Life” and the political fable “Mr. Smith Goes To Washington.” “Meet John Doe” is a darker tale that really displays Capra’s signature theme of the ordinary guy standing up to nefarious powers. It stars Gary Cooper as a baseball player with a bum arm who agrees to play the role of John Doe, a fictional angry everyman created by a desperate newspaper columnist (a radiant Barbara Stanwyck). His screeds against the establishment, written by the columnist, inspire a populist movement, but that doesn’t lead where he, or their writer, think it will. As a bonus, Walter Brennan, who plays the drunken mate in “To Have and Have Not,” is featured as Cooper’s buddy –and conscience.
Where: This film is available on Kanopy, the library’s streaming app.
How: You can browse and request DVDs online by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. To view our collection of streaming movies and TV, go to kanopy.com/keyslibraries and set up an account with your library card. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? info@keyslibraries.org.
Recommended by: Nancy Klingener, community affairs manager.
See previous Reel Recs at keyslibraries.org/reel-recs.
What: “Intermezzo” by Sally Rooney
Why: Sally Rooney’s newest book “Intermezzo” definitely lives up to the hype. Rooney has a special way of making mundane daily life interesting to read. She treats her characters’ complex familial and romantic relationships with tender care. In “Intermezzo,” our own reality is reflected in the characters of the book, just as in Rooney’s other titles. Anyone can find at least one character to relate to. I was surprised that the two main characters were male; however, Rooney gives the women in this book a voice through the use of an omniscient narrator. I often get confused by this narration style, but Rooney pulls it off seamlessly. Fans of Rooney or anyone who enjoys a truly human story should check out “Intermezzo.”
Where: You can borrow this in regular or large print, as an e-book or e-audiobook from the Monroe County Public Library. How: You can request books, including e-books and e-audiobooks, by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? info@keyslibraries.org
Recommended by: Carly Neilson, library assistant, Key West library
See previous recommendations at keyslibraries.org/shelfhelp.
Baptist Health will renovate and reopen its cancer treatment center at the site of the former Genesis Cancer Center, 3426 N. Roosevelt Blvd., which has been closed for several months. The new Baptist Health facility is expected to open in summer 2025. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly
JOIN US FOR THANKSGIVING
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28TH OPEN 3PM - 11PM CALL FOR RESERVATIONS 305.743.4849
November's Cocktail Special | $12
Cranberry Apply Mule
Thanksgiving Menu | $30
Choose one option
Oven Roasted Turkey
Glazed Ham
Combination 1/2 Turkey 1/2 Ham
Di er Includes Mashed potatoes | Sweet Potatoes | Carrots Green Beans | Cornbread Stu ng or Traditional
Stu ng | Cranberry Sauce | Turkey Gravy
De ert Pumpkin Pie or Cran-Apple Pie
Live Entertainment 6:00pm - 9:30pm Glenn and the Beach Bandits
In today’s busy world, staying active is a challenge for many, especially with long work hours and packed schedules. But a new trend, known as "exercise snacks," is quickly becoming popular. Snacks are no longer synonymous with, yep, you guessed it, snacks.
This approach to fitness promotes shorter, easily-manageable bursts of exercise throughout the day rather than committing to longer gym sessions. And unlike a gym visit, no change of clothes or special equipment is needed — just a few minutes here and there. Let’s dive into what exercise snacks are, why they work, and some easy ways to start incorporating them into daily life.
“Exercise snacks” are quick, intense bursts of physical activity that people can fit into even the busiest schedules. These short workouts typically last anywhere from one to 10 minutes, with the goal of accumulating 15 to 30 minutes of activity by the end of the day. The intensity of each snack should be moderate to high, enough to raise the heart rate and engage the muscles without requiring a lot of recovery time.
The flexibility of exercise snacks is one of the main appeals. They can be done almost anywhere, any time. A five-minute stair climb between meetings or a series of squats while waiting for the kettle to boil are excellent examples of an exercise snack. And research shows these small, quick efforts add up over time, providing cardiovascular, muscular and metabolic benefits.
Studies have shown that even brief bouts of physical activity can improve fitness, energy levels and overall health. When done consistently, these small activities can help cardiorespiratory fitness, blood pressure and blood sugar regulation.
The underlying principle is known as high-intensity interval training (HIIT), where short bursts of intense exercise are followed by periods of rest or low activity. HIIT-style workouts have been shown to improve cardiovascular health and boost metabolism more effectively than long, steady-state cardio sessions. Exercise snacks harness a similar concept but are even easier to incorporate since they don’t require a dedicated workout period or a gym.
For an activity to “count” as an exercise snack, it should be of moderate to high intensity, raising your heart rate and potentially making you break a sweat. Examples include brisk walking, stair climbing, squats or jumping jacks. The goal is to make the most of a short time, so choosing moves that involve multiple muscle groups, like lunges or push-ups, can be beneficial.
Each snack should ideally be between one to five minutes, and a few times a day. In total, aiming for 20 to 30 minutes of exercise snacks each day can yield significant benefits similar to those from a longer, continuous workout.
EASY EXERCISE SNACKS
• Stair climbing (3-5 minutes): A few minutes of going up and down stairs at a brisk pace can get your heart pumping. Stair climbing strengthens the legs, glutes and core, and is particularly effective at building cardiovascular health.
...is a Marathonbased ACSMcertified personal trainer and precision nutrition coach who owns and operates Highly Motivated Functionally Caffeinated LLC. Hello@highlymotivatedfc.com
• Desk squats (1-2 minutes): Try doing a set of 15 to 20 squats in front of your desk, focusing on good form. Squats engage the lower body and core, and doing just a couple of sets throughout the day is a fantastic way to work your leg muscles without needing any equipment. If you need a target, do them from your chair; these are known as sit to stands. Just make sure your chair doesn’t have wheels on it.
• Jumping jacks (1-3 minutes): A quick set of jumping jacks will get your heart rate up and engage multiple muscle groups. Doing 1-3 minutes of jumping jacks, especially during a quick break, is an easy way to sneak in cardio and boost your energy.
• Wall push-ups (2-3 minutes): If traditional push-ups are difficult, wall push-ups are an excellent alternative. Doing a set of wall push-ups targets the upper body, working the chest, shoulders and triceps. They can be done anywhere with a wall and require no extra equipment.
• Brisk walking (5-10 minutes): If you’re on the phone or have a small window between meetings, use the time to walk briskly. Just a few minutes of fast-paced walking gets the blood flowing and can add up over the day.
Exercise snacks are a game-changer for people with packed schedules or those intimidated by traditional workouts. By making fitness accessible in small, manageable doses, people can boost their health without overhauling their routines or investing in a gym membership.The exercise snack trend is democratizing fitness.
As a fitness expert, I highly support exercise snacks. The cumulative effect of these small efforts can make a big difference, enhancing heart health, strength and overall well-being. The best part? Exercise snacks don’t require a lot of time, money, or equipment – just a willingness to move a little more each day.
JENNIFER BOLTZ HARVEY
SEXUAL PREDATOR SENTENCED TO 25 YEARS
Michael Clayton Woodruff convicted of molesting 9-year-old girl
The Monroe County State’s Attorney’s Office recently announced that Michael Clayton Woodruff, 47, has been sentenced to 25 years in state prison after being found guilty of lewd and lascivious molestation of a child under 12. Judge Mark Jones imposed the sentence, requiring that Woodruff serve the full 25 years without any chance of early release. After completing his prison term, Woodruff will be placed on lifetime probation with electronic monitoring and is required to pay $6,032 in court costs.
Michael Clayton Woodruff is classified a sexual predator.
The case stems from incidents in Monroe County during the summer of 2008, when Woodruff, then 31, committed the offense for which he was ultimately convicted against a 9-year-old girl who was staying at the home of Woodruff and his wife, according to court records.
Woodruff formerly lived on Aztec Street, within 2,500 feet of Sugarloaf School, according to sex offender records by county.
This case came to light in 2012 after the victim, residing in Pennsylvania, disclosed the abuse during a counseling session. Law enforcement from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with Pennsylvania State Police, conducted an investigation. Years of appeals followed in which Woodruff was ultimately denied a new trial.
“This conviction and sentence brings a painful chapter to a close for the survivor and her family, who have shown immense courage and resilience throughout this process,” said Chief Assistant State Attorney Joseph Mansfield. “The case was complex, and the victim’s strength in sharing her story allowed us to ensure accountability and safety for others in our community.”
“No child should endure such trauma,” said State Attorney Dennis Ward, “and we will continue our mission to hold offenders accountable and protect our communities.”
“The Monroe County State Attorney’s Office would like to thank all law enforcement and support services who contributed to this case, as well as the victim and her family, who exhibited bravery in the pursuit of justice.”
Water from a mid-September king tide inundated North Blackwater Lane and Sexton Way, located in the Stillwright Point neighborhood in Key Largo. EMILIE CALDWELL STEWART/Contributed
RETURN OF THE KING
Final significant tide occurs at the next full moon
is the University of Florida, IFAS Monroe County Extension Florida Sea Grant Agent. Shelly is a marine biologist and provides sciencebased education about coastal environments.
King tide is a colloquial term that has become very familiar to us in the Florida Keys, especially later in the autumn, when the twice-daily high tides are the highest of the calendar year. These extreme tides can cause “sunny day flooding” where roads and parking lots may flood from saltwater intrusion underneath, not from rainfall. If it does rain during king tide events, we can get even more flooding. The peak king tide this year was during the super full moon on Oct. 17, which was also the closest the moon came to Earth in 2024. The final king tides of the year will be associated with the full moon on Friday, Nov. 15 and occur from Nov. 13-20.
The rise in sea level means that coastal flooding has become more frequent. From 1913 to 2023, Key West tidal gauge data shows that the relative sea level has risen by 10.32 inches. The Earth’s tides are caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun. The new moon occurs when the moon is between the Earth and the sun, and the gravitational pull from both amplifies tidal heights because both celestial bodies pull the water toward them.
The same is true during full moons, when the Earth is between the moon and the sun. These are called spring tides. The tide is less extreme outside of new and full moons because the sun and moon compete
gravitationally, which are called neap tides. The tide is one giant wave that circumnavigates the globe westward with a crest and a trough of rising and falling water. A solar day is 24 hours; this is the time it takes for the Earth to rotate on its axis. A lunar day is how long it takes the moon to rotate around the Earth, which is 50 minutes longer than a solar day. This is why high and low tides are not at the same time every day — if you look at a tide chart, you will see the rising or falling of the tides is around 50 minutes later each successive day.
King tides bring the highest high tides of the year and the lowest low tides. Boaters must be vigilant and check tide tables; they may need more clearance under bridges or traversing seagrass and sandbars that may be very shallow. In the Florida Keys, we have twice-daily high and low tides that average almost 1.5 feet, and king tides are usually 0.4 feet higher. However, tide tables show predicted tides, and the observed high tides could be 2.5 feet or higher, especially when sustained winds push more water ashore.
Knowing when king tides are occurring is essential because this saltwater is very damaging to bikes and vehicles. There are many free smartphone apps for tide times to avoid flood areas and adjust your driving schedule accordingly. If you drive through tidal floods, wash the undercarriage of your car to remove any saltwater accumulation. If you drive through flooded areas, please note that creating waves can cause additional damage to surrounding landscaping and property. Avoid parking your vehicle in low-lying areas prone to flooding to prevent saltwater damage to your car.
For more information reach out to the Monroe County Extension Office.
SHELLY KRUEGER
BIG GIRL GOES FREE
A1,550-pound female manatee is swimming free again in Upper Keys waters after a successful release on Nov. 5 at Harry Harris Park in Tavernier. Rescued three weeks ago by experts from Dolphin Research Center, FWC and Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters, ‘Prudence’ was originally found beached on a shallow flat and suffering from exhaustion. After a short stay at SeaWorld Orlando for rest and examination, she was deemed healthy enough for release with no ailments found and was successfully released by staff from DRC, FWC and SeaWorld at the park. CONTRIBUTED
WATERFRONT WINTER WONDERLAND RETURNS DEC. 13
‘Ice’ skating, Ferris wheel, flying swings & more transform amphitheater
The Coffee Butler Amphitheater at the Truman Waterfront will be transformed into a land of holiday magic, fun and excitement with the return of the Waterfront Winter Wonderland extravaganza, hosted in partnership by Rams Head Presents and We’ve Got the Keys.
The warm-weather winter festivities will take place Dec. 13-23 and Dec. 26-28 from 4 to 10 p.m.
Adults and children can enjoy sparkling holiday lights, traditional and contemporary music, and enchanting activities, such as skating on an “ice”-skating rink, journeying into charmed realms on a children’s Christmas train, riding a life-sized steed on a carousel, sliding down a giant slide, twirling on carousel swings, and reaching new heights on a Ferris wheel so large that “riders will actually be able to view the twinkling lighted boats passing by in the harbor from the top,” said Nadene Grossman Orr, president/ CEO of We’ve Got the Keys.
Other activities include one-onone visits with Santa Claus, special live music events, a craft tent for kids, larger-than-life inflatable snow globes, daily “snow” flurries, food and artisan vendors and holiday markets.
“We are delighted to co-present the Waterfront Winter Wonderland event in partnership with We’ve Got the Keys for the second year in a row,” said Kyle Muehlhauser, owner of Rams Head Group. “There are few places as magical as Key
The Waterfront Winter Wonderland returns to Key West Dec. 13-23 and 2628 at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater at the Truman Waterfront. NICK DOLL/ Nick Doll Photography
West during the holidays, and the amphitheater grounds provide a wonderful space where children can explore a world that’s been designed especially for them.”
General admission is $10 and is free for children age 5 and under. Individual ride tickets or unlimited ride wristbands can be purchased on-site.
Waterfront Winter Wonderland also is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council.
More information is at waterfrontwinterwonderland.com. To book private holiday parties for groups of 20 or more, contact liz@ wevegotthekeys.com.
Tis’ the season to save for the festivities with a personal loan for the holidays! Borrow up to $50,000.* Our local lending team will work quickly to create an affordable financial situation for your needs.
Law:
YOU NEED A LICENSE!
The City of Marathon requires that homes used as vacation rentals be licensed. License fees are based on the number of bedrooms: New licenses start at $1,100 and annual renewals start at $750. Vacation rental licenses are not transferable. If a property is sold, and the new owner wishes to rent the home, he or she must apply for a new vacation rental license. Licenses are valid for one year, and homeowners or agents must renew the license within 30 days of its expiration or it will be considered a new license and the new license fees will apply. A home without a license, or an expired license, cannot be advertised or rented. Violations of vacation rental law can be as high as $500 per day, per offense and can be up to $5,000 per occurrence.
Visit this link to search any address to confirm if a property has a vacation rental license, or to obtain local contact and/or owner information:
For other questions regarding vacation rental licensing please contact the City at 305-743-5266.
CITY COSTUMES NET $1,257 FOR MCT
On Nov. 8, city of Marathon leaders and staff presented local nonprofit Marathon Community Theatre with a $1,257 donation from the city’s annual employee Halloween costume contest. Votes cast throughout the day, with a minimum of $1 per vote, will help the nonprofit theater with ongoing repairs to an aging building. The city selects a different local charity each year as its costume contest donation recipient. From
left: Marathon Planning Director Brian Shea, MCT president Linda Diaz, deputy utilities director Libby Frazier-Soldano, planner and costume contest winner Erin Dafoe, councilman Luis Gonzalez and Building Official Gerard Roussin. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
SAMMY’S LAST SHIFT
Gary Leo, known to his devoted patrons and friends as Sammy, poured his final drink as a Brass Monkey bartender in the early morning hours of Nov. 3. Pictured with fellow local legends Dirk Thomas, left, and Rodney Aultman, right, he’ll trade his bar key for a badge after 23 years as he pursues a career in law enforcement. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
SHOWTIMES: FRI, SAT, SUN & TUE 7PM MATINEE SUN 2PM
COMMERCE CORNER
Established in 1970, Grassy Key Marina and Market offers a wide array of services including dry and wet boat storage, and a well maintained boat ramp. Grassy Key Marina and Market is a one stop shop that includes boat rentals, a well stocked grocery store, live/frozen bait, and all of your tackle needs. The marina is recently under new ownership and an emphasis has been placed on providing the customer service and setting that allows consumers to enjoy the beautiful Florida Keys. Jeff Vastola, owner, says the keys to their success is the upbeat atmosphere and helpful employees. "We are constantly striving to make improvements in our operations and aesthetically so that the marina is a place that suits the needs of all and provides a memorable experience" said Vastola. Grassy Key Marina and Market will never stop pushing to make its service and atmosphere better in hopes of continuing to meet all needs of Keys Residents and visitors alike.
Whether you are a resident or a snowbird, it is important to have your assets properly titled in a way that will avoid those assets going through probate.
LOCATION: Big Pine Key Preserve Trails, Big Pine Key, FL
BREED: Australian Shepherd
ACTION NEEDED: If you see Jasper anywhere in your neighbourhood, please take a photo and call us immediately at 647-308-2712. He is friendly but anxious and might be scared.
REWARD: We are o ering a $1000 reward for the safe return of our dear Jasper. We are heartbroken and desperately want our crazy, much loved friend back home.
Lower Keys Chamber to host Island Art Festival
Visitors can welcome the festive season and celebrate the creative arts at the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce’s annual Island Art Festival, held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 30, on the grounds of the chamber’s visitor center on Big Pine Key. The family-friendly outdoor festival typically includes some 75 booths, featuring handcrafted holiday items and creations by artists and artisans from the Keys and other Florida locales. Visitors also can enjoy live music by local entertainers, relax in the shaded picnic area and buy food and beverages from on-site vendors. Admission and parking for the festival are free, but attendees are asked not to bring picnic baskets or coolers. More information is at lowerkeyschamber. com/chamber-events/ or by calling 305-872-2411.
Concert association schedules music appreciation sessions
The Florida Keys Concert Association has announced a program aimed at welcoming new listeners to classical music. Starting on Monday, Nov. 18 and continuing weekly through Jan. 6, the Elks Club at 8329 Overseas Hwy. in Marathon will host a series of free music appreciation sessions designed specifically for those who are not already fans of classical music. These gatherings, running from 5 to 6:30 p.m., will feature short explanations to help attendees understand and appreciate some of the greatest classical compositions. After these brief introductions, participants will experience these masterpieces together, with a focus on how repeated exposure can foster a new love for the music. The program kicks off with a social hour. Those interested are asked to sign up by Nov. 16 by calling 800-324-6982 or visiting www.floridakeysconcerts.com and clicking the “Music Appreciation Meetings” button.
Salvation Army seeks holiday bell ringers
The Salvation Army Red Kettle annual fundraiser is looking for volunteers to “ring the bell” during this holiday season. If you would like to help your own community, this is your chance. Volunteers are needed for locations in Marathon and Key West. Shifts are two hours beginning Thanksgiving weekend through Christmas Eve. Sign up for
one shift only or for multiple shifts. All funds collected stay in our local community and help to provide food, shelter, disaster relief and more to individuals and families in crisis. To sign up, log on to RegistertoRing.com. More information is available from Loretta at 813-8923342.
TJ Maxx to open in Key Largo
Retailer TJ Maxx will open a new location at Tradewinds Shopping Center in Key Largo on Sunday, Nov. 17. That day, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., local shoppers can celebrate the newest location. Regular store hours for the 23,000-square-foot store are 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Sunday. In celebration of its new Key Largo location, TJ Maxx will contribute to the local community by donating $10,000 to Florida Keys Children’s Shelter. The new store will also join all other stores nationwide in sponsoring Save the Children’s U.S. programs through TJ Maxx's annual in-store fundraising campaign.
Marathon Garden Club presents Holiday Bazaar
On Saturday, Nov. 30 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Marathon Garden Club at 5270 Overseas Hwy. in Marathon will hold its annual Holiday Bazaar. The event features gently-used holiday wear, decor and ornaments. There will also be raffle items, fresh holiday baked goods, a plant sale from the club nursery and numerous vendors offering orchids and unique holiday gifts.
Classical guitarist Mateo will continue his monthly concert series on Sunday, Dec. 1 at 6 p.m. at St. Columba Episcopal Church. Mateo will play three of his original sonatas, along with two songs performed by the Guitar Group. The concert is one hour and there is a potluck dinner at 5 p.m. Admission is free and donations at the door are appreciated.
FWC accepting boats for Vessel Turn-In Program
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is accepting applications for its Vessel Turn-In Program (VTIP), a key component of Florida’s derelict vessel prevention program. VTIP is a voluntary program designed to
help owners dispose of their unwanted at-risk vessels before they become derelict. Upon approval, VTIP will take a surrendered vessel and dispose of it at no cost to the boat owner, preventing legal ramifications and protecting Florida’s valuable seagrasses, marine life and human safety and property. A derelict vessel in state waters is a criminal offense and can carry serious penalties, fines or possible jail time. To qualify, a vessel must be floating in Florida state waters and cannot already be determined derelict by law enforcement. The owner must have at least one written at-risk warning or citation and possess a clear title to the vessel. For more information, visit MyFWC. com/VTIP or call 850-488-5600.
Angler cited for illegal fish
A 21-year-old Miami man was given a mandatory citation to appear in court on Nov. 7 for allegedly illegally harvesting fish. Middle Keys Marine Deputy Luis Guiardinu was patrolling the Long Key Bridge around 4 p.m. when he found Nathanael Seth Farelo with an undersized mutton snapper, yellowtail snapper and schoolmaster snapper.
Marathon street race leads to two arrests
Two Marathon men were arrested Nov. 8 for street racing on U.S. 1, with a juvenile in one of the vehicles, sheriff’s office deputies said. There were no reported injuries. Yunielkis Junior De Leon, 19, was charged with street racing on a roadway. Michael Alvin Joseph Taute, 38, was charged with street racing on a roadway and child neglect. He was also cited for not having the child in a car seat. Sheriff’s deputies saw a Nissan sedan and a Chevrolet sedan racing north near 89th Street around 7 p.m. It was estimated the vehicles reached 80 mph. Both vehicles were stopped. There was an uninjured 5-year-old juvenile in the vehicle Taute was driving. The child was turned over to the care of a family member. Both suspects were taken to jail. The vehicles were towed.
Sheriff’s office honors quarterly award winners
On Nov. 8, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office held its quarterly member awards ceremony in Marathon. Members of the third quarter of 2024 were recognized for exemplary service to the agency
and to the citizens of Monroe County. Members were also recognized for their years of service to the agency. Pictured, from left: Bureau of Corrections Deputy of the Quarter Catrena Belle, Col. Lou Caputo and Deputy of the Quarter Amie Szymanski. (Not pictured: Support Member of the Quarter Madison Jaynes).
Big Pine man arrested for flashing gun
A 23-year-old Big Pine Key man was arrested for allegedly illegally displaying a handgun during a road rage incident. Jorge Emmanuel De Jesus Castro was charged with improper exhibition of a firearm. The incident occurred Nov. 6 on No Name Key, where two bicyclists said the suspect in a Nissan pickup truck — later identified as Castro — “flashed” a black handgun at them. The bicyclists said Castro was driving too fast on Watson Boulevard and there was an altercation, which led to Castro displaying a 9mm Glock handgun. A warrant was obtained for Castro’s arrest and he was booked into jail Saturday.
Celebration of life set for Katherine ‘Betty’ Walker
On Monday, Nov. 25 at 11 a.m., St. Columba Episcopal Church will host a celebration of life for Katherine “Betty” Walker, a longtime visitor and resident of Marathon since the 1950s who passed away earlier this year. Reverend Debra Maconaughey will officiate, and a small reception in the church hall will follow the service.
Come take a class at the Marathon library
The Marathon library has a wide variety of class offerings, ranging from photography to book clubs, robots, virtual reality and more. Scan the QR code here to see the schedule and get involved.
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
On Friday, Nov. 15, Saturn, the arbiter of hard lessons and mature boundaries, will appear to stop and turn around in the sky. Saturn has been retrograde in Pisces since June 29, offering the chance to review and reassess how we say “no” to things that do not serve us, how we set and uphold our own personal limits, and how we create the world we desire by trimming the fat. In particular, Saturn’s backpedal through Pisces had us editing our dreams and spiritual longings into manageable and realistic goals. Now we have the chance to integrate what we’ve learned as we move forward. On the same day, we have a Taurus full moon, one of the most beneficial full moons of the year because the moon is exalted in Taurus – much like an honored guest. It is a time when we are able to become viscerally aware of the parts of life that serve our needs and ground us. However, there is a wild card here, because this full moon takes place right next to Uranus, the planet of unexpected surprises and flashes of insight. While we have the chance to ground into our certainty, there is high potential for a bit of bewilderment.
Here are your horoscopes for Saturn turning direct and the Taurus full moon. Read for your rising and sun signs.
SCORPIO
Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
Since the end of June, it looks like you have been getting serious and reassessing the weight of your creative endeavors and happy outlets. Perhaps you’ve decided that there are more mature ways to express yourself. Now is the time to start putting those lessons into practice. During this full moon, let your partner surprise you in a way that gives you comfort.
SAGITTARIUS
Nov. 22 - Dec. 21
You’ve been resetting boundaries with your family and reorienting yourself to your sense of home. Now is the time to start putting your determinations into practice and making material changes. Under the light of this full moon, you might just find an unexpected new routine or practice that helps you to ground your overall health and wellness.
CAPRICORN
Dec. 22 - Jan. 19
How we communicate on a regular basis usually doesn’t take a lot of thought or analysis. However, my guess is that you’ve been taking a hard look at how you get your point across to the people in your day-to-day these past few months. It is high time to start turning your assessment into action. This full moon, you just might be liberated by a new art form.
AQUARIUS
Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
Whether personal finances are a struggle or a breeze, you’ve been digging deep and developing mature financial strategies these past few months. Plans are no good just as plans, however, and it is now time to put your plan to work. Make sure your financial strategies align with your personal values, though. This full moon, find something unusual to love about your home.
PISCES
Feb. 19 - March 20
This full moon is particularly special for you, Pisces, as I imagine you may have a “discovering the wardrobe to Narnia” moment. Some out-of-the-blue moment that invites you into your magic is being offered to you. Will you take it? At the same time, you are being invited to mature into your confidence by setting boundaries with others. Find your flow and build your walls.
ARIES
March 21 - April 19
You may have been isolating yourself in some way since June, taking more time to yourself than usual to parse out some difficult decisions that need to be made. Trust your gut here, because you’ve been uniquely supported in making hard choices that will also be the right choices. You’re not going to break anything. This full moon, make that unexpected purchase.
TAURUS
April 20 - May 20
This full moon is taking place in your sign, and it is bestowing a special dose of liberation onto you. You have the opportunity to blossom into a freer and lighter version of yourself. Do the thing that’s different. Feel your oats. As Saturn turns direct, it’s time to start setting some hard boundaries with friends who do not serve your higher purpose. No need to cut out, just know where they stand.
GEMINI
May 21 - June 20
Since June, work may have been feeling like it’s been closing in on you. Fear not, however, because you’ve just been going through a redesign of how you will show up as an authority in your career and in the public arena. Now is the time to start taking charge using what you’ve learned. This full moon, you can face your fears in a completely unexpected way. Banish those demons.
CANCER
June 21 - July 22
Under the beams of this full moon, your friends are going to show up for you in big, unexpected ways. You’ve been laying the groundwork, and your support network will take the reins. Trust in your friends. It seems like you’ve enforced some austerity measures when it comes to having new experiences these past few months.
HOW DO YOU SAY NO?
That restraint can start paying off, and you can plan some new adventures with confidence.
LEO
July 23 - Aug. 22
Since June, it looks like you may have been withdrawing from some of your investments, whether monetary or energetic. Perhaps you’ve pulled back from some volunteer obligations or group projects. It was a perfect time to reassess how you engage your energy. Now, you can start to reinvest your energy from a mature standpoint. This full moon, enjoy a big surprise at work.
VIRGO
Aug. 23 - Sept. 22
It looks like you’ve been setting some strong boundaries and reassessing your terrain in partnerships since the end of June. Now, you can start moving forward with a new sense of certainty when it comes to how you partner and who you partner with. This full moon, a surprising new adventure or overall belief system will present itself. Will you accept the invitation?
LIBRA
Sept. 23 - Oct. 23
This full moon, you will be offered an unexpected investment opportunity. Maybe it’s a financial investment, maybe it’s a time commitment, maybe it’s a new project with like-minded folks. Should you take it, your own liberation would be the return on investment. If you’ve been reflecting on how you use your daily routine or structured schedule, now is the time to put your analysis into practice.
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KEY WEST CAMPUS
November
WET & WILD RACE WEEKEND
Powerboats push through rough waters
High winds and rough water due to tropical weather cost powerboat competitors one day of racing for the Key West Offshore World Championship races, but there was no shortage of excitement.
Races took place Nov. 8 and 10, with more than 60 boats competing in 14 categories. The top winners in each category were:
• Pro Class 1: Defalco Racing
• Super Cat: Dirty Money Racing
• Extreme: Yardarm Marine Products
• Super Stock: Team Allen Lawn Care & Landscaping
• Stock 450: Gladiator - Canados
• Super V: Farnsworth Motorsports | Hancock Claims
• Modified V: Statement Marine/XINSURANCE
• Bracket Class 2: OC Racing
• Bracket Class 4: Framed Offshore Racing
• Bracket Class 5: Rum Runners
• Bracket Class 6: Velocity Powerboats
• Bracket Class 7: Bad Decisions / XINSURANCE
• UIM 3C: TFR / XINSURANCE (NE)
• UIM 3X: Scratch N Sniff (NE)
Race World Offshore once again brought the Key West World Championship powerboat races to Key West Harbor, with races on Nov. 8 and 10. LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
Having Fun in the Middle Keys
STOCK ISLAND’S NAMING ORIGINS
News clippings describe wandering livestock
FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI
Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.
Some say Stock Island was named after the livestock that had once been kept on the island. Others say it was named after someone named Stock. While no one seems to know why the name came to be, the island’s use as a corral became entrenched within local lore. What can be said is that the name dates back to at least 1850. As far back as 1829, livestock wandering around Key West was becoming a problem. Prior to 1829, turtle, fish and other local seafood were on the menu, but domesticated meat for consumption was the exception and not the rule on the island. Published in the March 5, 1829, Key West Register & Commercial Advertiser, the island’s new (and first) newspaper: “Two years ago fresh beef or mutton was almost unknown on the Island, and now a family would think it was faring hard indeed, if they sat down to dinner without roasting a piece of beef steak or mutton chops.”
The newspaper also made clear that livestock was roaming around the island. In a notice written by P.C. Greene dated August 27, 1829: “All person or persons having Stock of any kind running at large on this island is hereby notified that they are requested to take up the same, and confine them in a lot, or remove them from off the island within the space of thirty days.”
It could be assumed that perhaps the cows, hogs and goats were rounded up and shipped off to a little island nearby where they
Cows on Stock Island circa 1930. HISTORICAL
could be managed and confined. It could have been Stock Island. There is another contender for a nearby island serving as a natural corral, the perhaps not-so-curiously named Cow Key. Maybe both islands served the same purpose. Like Stock Island, records for how this key came about its name are scarce. However, the following was printed in the Miami Herald on Jan. 25, 1926: “Cow Key, the name of which it is intended to change, because it has been more than half a century since it was used for the purpose from which it derived its name, was at one time a part of this island (Key West) and cattle were driven there for grazing across a neck of land that connected the two keys.”
While that story makes sense, it is not to say that there has never been livestock on Stock Island, too. Whether or not the island was used to pen livestock in the 1800s, there is evidence of cows roaming around the island in the 1920s. At least some of those cows belonged to a Conch named Eugene Fabal. The Miami Herald edition of July 21, 1921, announced: “A new dairy started on Stock Island by Eugene Fabal has 13 head of cattle. His herd is of the finest stock that can be found, having made a trip through the state to collect them.”
Eugene was the son of Miguel Fabal, who was born in Spain circa 1848 and came to Key West circa 1865. Miguel Fabal worked as a lighthouse keeper for years: Alligator Reef Lighthouse (second assistant 1882-1885, first assistant 1885-1888, head keeper 1888-1890), Sombrero Key Lighthouse (second assistant 1892-1893, first assistant 1893-1903, head keeper 1913-1919), Carysfort Reef Lighthouse (head keeper 1903-1912).
Born in Key West on Aug. 8, 1884, Eugene was one of three children. According to the Key West City Directory, Eugene was primarily a cigar maker. Apparently, he also dabbled in the dairy business. Beyond the 1921 newspaper story announcing his new dairy, there is only
the hint of a mention of livestock on the island.
However, cows wandering around continued to be a problem, if not on Stock Island, then on Key West. In the Miami Herald, June 8, 1923: “Cows roaming along the county road and vicinity, destroying flowers, bushes and trees, will be stopped by the police. Mayor Ladd has started out to see this to the finish.”
On Oct. 3, 1925, the Miami Herald printed: “Dreamland café and the bungalows near it, both of which are now owned by Martin Key, are now on the market according to signs on the former building. Those structures, with the exception of a small one used years ago in connection with a stock farm, were the first to be erected on Stock Island.”
Was that structure part of Fabal’s former dairy farm or some forgotten building from years past that served a different farm? It is clear that while cows may or may not have been the reason Stock Island came about its name, the island has some history with livestock. The island living in the shadows of Key West does have other stories to tell, too.
Stock Island became a playground for those living in Key West and the Lower Keys. About the same time that Fabal was operating his dairy farm on the island, plans were being made to develop Stock Island into a recreational haven. A story printed in the Miami Herald on Feb. 9, 1923, addressed the idea of creating a golf course: “It is known that many visitors, who stated that they would have stayed here the remainder of the season could they have played golf, have gone up to Miami or across the gulf to Havana to participate in the sport.”
While the golf course has been a primary focus on the island for just over a century, Stock Island was once home to stock car races, dog races and a drive-in theater. Those stories will continue next week.
Editor’s note: This is the first in a two-part series on Stock Island.
TRY ’N’ FIND
Words that remind us of visiting manners are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find: CLEAN, COOKS, DINNER, EXCUSED, FOOD, GUEST, HELP, HOLIDAY, HOST, MANNERS, POLITE, PORTIONS, PREPARATION, SEASON, SETTING, TABLE, UTENSILS, VISITING.
Founded by Betty Debnam
Being a Good Guest
The holiday season is here! Grandmothers and grandfathers, aunts and uncles, relatives and friends are welcoming “the kids.” What sort of guest are you? Will they want you back anytime soon?
Take The Mini Page’s guest checkup test to find out. Draw faces like these in the circles while you think about these questions.
• I use my best table manners. Even if I am served something I don’t like, I try a bite. I don’t say “Yuck” or “I don’t like that.”
• I am pleasant. I especially try hard to get along with brothers, sisters, cousins and other kids.
• I do not ask for snacks. I stick to mealtimes or to snacks offered by my host. I don’t want to spoil the holiday dinner.
• I say “thank you” and compliment the cooks for the delicious food.
• I ask if I can help with any of the food preparation.
• I ask how I can help with setting the table, loading the dishwasher, and washing and drying pots and pans.
• I arrive at the dinner table with a clean face and hands and neat clothing.
• I take small first portions. Later, after everyone has been served, I may ask for seconds.
• I stay in my seat until I’ve been excused from the table. (Pro tip: Some of the best family stories are told around holiday dinner tables!)
• I am polite to other guests. I say “Nice to meet you!” and look them in the eyes. I use “yes” and “no” rather than “uh-huh.”
The United Nations’ weather agency reports that the planet’s protective ozone layer is on a “path to long-term recovery,” despite a temporary setback from the massive volcanic eruption near Tonga in early 2023. The eruption shot water vapor into the stratosphere, briefly accelerating ozone depletion over Antarctica. However, a new World Meteorological Organization report concludes that the ozone layer is gradually thickening after decades of depletion caused by human-made chemicals, which are now being phased out.
SETTING THE TABLE
Are you helping set the table? It’s sometimes hard to remember which pieces go where. Use this guide; you may not have as many utensils as are seen here.
If you’re confused about which item to use first, always start at the outside and work your way in. For example, the salad fork is on the far left.
HOUSE GUEST MANNERS
• I hang up my wet towel after taking a shower or bath. I keep my dirty clothes piled together, out of the way of others.
• I pick up toys, books and games after I’m done playing with them. I move them out of walking paths.
RESOURCES
On the Web:
• bit.ly/MPtablemanners
At the library:
• “Emily Post’s Table Manners for Kids” by Cindy P. Senning and Peggy Post
• “Dude, That’s Rude!” by Pamela Espeland and Elizabeth Verdick
Mini Fact: The first rule of good table manners: Put your napkin in your lap.
photo by Nicole Mays
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THE SCOREBOARD
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
THOMAS
11/15 Key West Girls Soccer @ Coral Springs Charter 4 p.m.
11/15 Key West Boys Soccer Coral Shores 4:30 p.m.
11/16 Coral Shores Swimming @ States 9 a.m.
11/18 Coral Shores Boys Basketball @ Dade Christian 6 p.m. 11/18 Key West Girls Basketball @ Pace 5 p.m.
11/18 Coral Shores Boys Soccer Palmer Trinity 6 p.m.
11/18 Marathon Boys Soccer @ Mater Academy Charter 3:30 p.m.
11/21 Key West Boys Soccer Westland Hialeah 3:30 p.m.
THIS WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS ON THE COVER
Led by a pair of goals from Sofia Jans, the Coral Shores Lady ’Canes defeated their southernmost rivals on Nov. 7 for the first time in seven years. See page 10. RACHEL RUSCH/Contributed
Naima has shown what consistency, hard work and dedication look like this season; she had her eyes on a state championship spot and did what it takes to make it a reality.”
– Conchs coach Keara McGraw
West
20:17 11TH
place at regionals
Naima Thomas has been quietly closing the gap between good and great the past three seasons with the Conchs. The past month has proven that hard work makes the difference – and it doesn’t hurt to be a savvy competitor, as well.
“Naima is one of the smartest racers I’ve ever seen,” said Conchs coach Keara McGraw. “She just sits back and listens and waits and then makes her move (in the third mile).”
Thomas’ patience and commitment have helped her improve an already-respectable time to one that is possibly going to break the 20-minute threshold at the FHSAA State Championships this week in Tallahassee.
For her dedication to improvement and willingness to give everything she’s got to achieve a lofty goal, Key West’s Naima Thomas is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.
THIS WEEK Naima
Senior, Key West Cross Country
Key
harrier
Photo by: MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly
Abbie Sargent. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
fled to the Keys from the frozen mountains of Pennsylvania hours after graduating from college and never looked back. She is a second-generation coach and educator, and has taught in the public school system for over 25 years. She and her husband met at a beginning teacher meeting in 1997 and have three children born and raised in Monroe County. In her free time, McDonald loves flea markets, historical fiction and long runs in the heat.
sean mcdonald
grew up in Miami and moved to the Keys in 1997. He has spent the last 25 years teaching physical education and coaching virtually every sport for Florida Keys kids ages 4 to 18. If you are reading this and live or lived in the Florida Keys, he has probably taught, coached, or coached against someone you know.
Marathon - Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com
Upper Keys - Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com
Key West - Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com
The Keys Weekly Sports Wrap is proud to be the only locally-owned publication providing prep sports coverage from Key Largo to Key West. Together with our writers and photographers, we are committed to providing a comprehensive overview of the world of Keys sports with photography that allows our readers to immerse themselves in game action.
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Office: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com
ON THEIR WAY
Five ’Canes head to swim and dive state championships this week
After their impressive district performances, Keys athletes took the plunge at the FHSAA Region 4 Championships last week to see who would earn a lane at the state championships. Key West, whose 2A swimmers competed at Gulliver Aquatic Center on Nov. 9, did not have any state qualifiers this season, but the Conchs saw continued improvement from both the boys and girls teams. In fact, every single Conch swimmer had a personal best time at the regional meet.
Coral Shores had better luck at the 1A competition at NSU University Aquatics Center on Nov. 8. The ’Canes will send five athletes to compete in various events with solid prospects at medaling.
The solo male athlete will be Aaron Lykins, the District 12 champ in the 1-meter diving competition who finished sixth at regionals. Lykins is ranked 12th in the state and will represent the Hurricanes at the next level after taking up the sport in early September.
The girls team will send four athletes, all of whom will feel right at home competing at the state’s highest level, as they each made the trip last season, too.
Layne Smith and Abbie Sargent earned hardware at regionals by medaling in individual events. Both will be busy, swimming four events each at states. Sargent qualified in the individual 200 IM and 100 breaststroke events, where she finished fourth and third at regionals, respectively. Smith won a pair of bronze medals at regionals in the 500 and 200 freestyle events and will compete in both at states. Both swimmers will join Allegra Fucaraccio and Sofia Figueredo on Coral Shores’ 200 free and 200 medley relay teams.
The Hurricanes will face the rest of the 1A competition beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 16 at Ocala’s Florida Aquatics Swimming & Training (FAST) Center.
tracy mcdonald
COMING HOME
Conchs secure playoff game in Key West
Football season is not quite over in the Keys. With a win over Coral Shores on Nov. 1, Key West knew their chances of a playoff game were good, but there were no guarantees for the 7-3 Conchs. Miami Northwestern, a top team in 3A, is in their district, and only district champs move on automatically.
Last week, the Conchs waited for the rest of 3A to finish their schedules to see where they fell in the rankings. Key West’s strength of schedule and solid record combined in the FHSAA’s nebulous algorithm to give them a shot at a state title.
The Conchs’ latest ranking placed them second in the region, behind only Northwestern and ensuring not just a playoff game, but a home playoff game. The advantages of the home field, home referees and home fans give Key West the upper hand, and their competitor, Estero, will face a nearly five-hour drive to the Southernmost City.
Key West lost to a senior-laden Estero last season, but in Friday night’s matchup, the 6-4 Eagles are ranked seventh, and the Conchs are playing exceptionally well this season. The winner of the Nov. 15 regional quarterfinal will play either the Panthers of Somerset Academy or Panthers of Cypress Lake Nov. 22 in the semis. Should that winner be the Conchs, it would mean another home playoff game, as the top-seeded team is awarded the home field location.
Kickoff is 7:30 p.m. at Tommy Roberts Memorial Stadium.
-1 0 -2 0 -3 0 -4 0 4 03 02 01 05 0
Anthony Jenner and the Conchs will do battle at home against Estero on Nov. 15. MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys Weekly
FINS DOMINATE PALM GLADES
Marathon sent Palm Glades Prep home early in an 8-0 mercy rule win on Nov. 5. The Fins spread the wealth, with eight different players scoring goals in the district win.
“I am incredibly proud of the effort and success we saw on the field,” said head coach Shannon Wiley of his team’s season opener. “Captains Jayden Rosete and Estuardo Godoy led the team in sharing the ball, successful passing and control, and good sportsmanship on the field and off.”
Key West split a pair of games last week, losing the season opener 4-3 at home against Somerset Silver Palms on Nov. 4. Albie Bowden, Sonny Bowden and Sebastian Camargo each scored once in the loss. Kieran Smith and Bryden Parsons were credited with assists.
1. Niko Sulak races to the ball.
2. Sebastian Camargo, right, pats Loubins Fleuridor on the back.
3. Owen Lindley goes in for a kick.
4. Captain Jayden Rosete and the Marathon Dolphins opened their season in dominant fashion, shutting out Palm Glades Prep in an 8-0 mercy rule win.
5. Loubins Fleuridor tries for a steal.
6. The Marathon Dolphins celebrate an 8-0 blanking of Palm Glades Prep.
Photos by Maicey Malgrat and Barry Gaukel.
The Conchs had better luck against Palmer Trinity on Nov. 8. Camargo and Loubins Fleuridor each netted a pair of goals in the 6-2 win. Niko Sulak and Owen Lindley accounted for the other two goals. Bowden, Parsons, Sulak and Camargo each assisted in the decisive victory. Fausto Paz was in goal for both matches.
Coral Shores started its season off with a pair of road losses. The ’Canes were shorthanded when they traveled to SLAM Academy in Miami on Nov. 4, losing to the Titans 6-1. The lone Hurricane goal came off an Arando Picado penalty kick. On Nov. 8, Coral Shores lost to Coral Reef 6-0. Some key players for the ’Canes were still participating in their fall sports last week, but the team should fare better this week in their match against Key West on Friday, Nov. 15 now that they are back to a full roster.
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SEE YOU IN TALLY
Pair of Conchs join Dolphin teams for FHSAA State Championships
Members from all three Keys schools traveled to Boca Raton on Nov. 8 for the FHSAA Region
4 cross country championships. Key West’s girls plus Sawyer Hill and Coral Shores’ boys plus Ali Wheatley qualified to compete in the 2A division while 1A Marathon’s full boys and girls teams both made the cut. On the line was a shot at making the state championship meet at Apalachee Regional Park on Nov. 16.
The Dolphins’ boys speedsters will make a 10th consecutive appearance in Tallahassee. Their fourth-place performance at regionals was within one second of third. The team’s 18:04 average pace was boosted by the performance of senior standout Vance Bursa. Bursa PRed with a 16:09 second-place overall finish, and though this year’s crop of runners is one of the most talented ever, Bursa’s propensity for pulling off huge upsets is well-documented. Within reach is not only a state medal but Marathon’s school record, a blazing 15:59 time set at the 2018 state meet by Jonathan Pitchford.
Behind Vance Bursa was his brother, freshman Tony Bursa, who finished the race in 20th place in 17:49. Eighth-grader Lucian Burns was next in 18:20, followed by junior Caleb Shelar (18:56) and freshman Allan
Taylor (19:04). Joining the top five at states will be sixthgrader Anthony Vargas and senior Adrien Holdinga.
The Lady Fins finished
led by their youngest com-
her cousin, eighth-grader
time is used as a tiebreaker
The Lady Fins finished seventh as a team, qualifying the entire crew for the big show. This marks the sixth consecutive team appearance in Tallahassee for Marathon’s girls. The Fins were led by their youngest competitor, sixth-grader Molly Joly, who finished in 23:03. Next was the oldest, senior Ella Dunn, in 23:33. Sophomore Maeve Merryman was next in 24:45 followed by her cousin, eighth-grader Rebecca Merryman in 25:29. Sophomores Sara Robinson and Madelyn Thornton finished in 25:37 and 26:08 to round out the top five. Also completing the 5K and qualifying for states as the sixth-place runner, whose time is used as a tiebreaker should one be needed, was sophomore Mylana Loza.
In the girls’ 2A race, Key
In the girls’ 2A race, Key West senior Naima Thomas reached a goal she set in August by qualifying for the state meet with a 20:17 11thplace finish. The top eight teams plus the next four
state meet with a 20:17 11thTHE DOLPHINS’ BOYS SPEEDSTERS WILL MAKE A 10TH CONSECUTIVE APPEARANCE IN TALLAHASSEE.
fastest runners earn a spot at the state championships, and Thomas secured the third at-large bid. Just three seconds behind Thomas was teammate Caylaa Makimaa, who claimed the fourth and final at-large spot by outkicking Coral Shores freshman Ali Wheatley.
race in 19:12 to close out a fantastic first season with the Conchs.
“This season has been a learning curve and he’s got incredible potential for fast running in his future,” said McGraw.
Wheatley, whose inaugural season with the ’Canes was nothing short of spectacular, missed the mark by one spot, but her top-20 finish at regionals and 20:25 time ensure she will have another shot at the big show next year.
Conchs coach Keara McGraw was delighted with her seniors’ performances at regionals, calling it a “celebratory but emotional day, as most of the team ran their final race at South County Regional Park.” And though Makimaa and Wheatley were competing for the same spot, McGraw couldn’t help but scream for Wheatley as well, a testament to the high level of sportsmanship and camaraderie in the sport.
Next to finish in the 2A boys race was the entirety of Coral Shores’ boys team. Tristan Rios was the team’s first in 19:38. Nathaniel Shugarmann also broke 20, finishing in 19:41, and Jamie Cary was next in 20:16. The ’Canes’ top three are all juniors. Sophomore Tristan Sanchez crossed in 21:56 and freshman Garret Gomila finished in 23:02 to round out the top five, whose times are used in the team race calculation. Juniors Alaric Rodriguez and Adrik Gadea also finished for the Hurricanes after qualifying for regionals. Though the ’Canes did not qualify for states, their improvement this season was remarkable, making for an exciting return next year as the team has no graduating seniors.
Thomas and Makimaa, who have been training partners for years, will make the trip all the way to Tallahassee to run a final race together. Never before in school history have two Lady Conchs qualified for states individually. In fact, Thomas joins a short list of three individual qualifiers. Makimaa made that list last season as a junior to join Nicole Matysik as the only at-large qualifiers in school history.
In the boys’ 2A race, Key West freshman Sawyer HIll was the first Monroe County runner to cross the finish line. Hill completed the
as a junior to join Nicole finish line. Hill completed the
The blue wave of Dolphins plus Makimaa and Thomas will take their mark Nov. 16 at Apalachee Regional Park in Tallahassee. The course, a grassy, treelined meander, is typically fast-paced despite some large hills Keys athletes find perplexing. Course temperatures will be the chilliest, perhaps as low as the mid-50s, for the Lady Fins, whose start time is set at 9 a.m. The Lady Conchs start at 9:25 and Marathon’s boys toe the line at 9:50.
RICK MACKENZIE/Contributed
ing Coral Shores freshman
1. Senior Vance Bursa enters the finish chute at regionals, where he placed second. 2. From left, Naima Thomas of Key West, Ali Wheatley of Coral Shores and Key West’s Caylaa Makimaa medal at the FHSAA 2A Region 4 Championships last week. 3. Coral Shores’ Tristan Rios barrels toward the finish line at regionals. 4. Marathon sixth-grader Molly Joly proves she can hang with the older crowd at regionals. Joly led her team to a sixth consecutive state appearance. 5. Naima Thomas (front left) and Caylaa Makimaa (441) of Key West kick down the stretch at regionals. Coral Shores’ Ali Wheatley is seen right behind them. 6. Conchs freshman Sawyer Hill looks strong in the early stages of his regional race. 7. Coral Shores’ boys team runs in a pack at regionals last week. Photos by
Hurricanes topple Conchs in home opener
Coral Shores and Key West opened their soccer seasons by playing one another in Tavernier on Nov.
7. The Lady Canes stormed the pitch and did what no Coral Shores team has done since 2017; they beat Key West in a decisive 5-0 victory.
“The win against Key West on Thursday night was a perfect way for the Lady ’Canes to open the season,” said Coral Shores coach Zach Owens. “It was a great team effort and win.”
Leading the charge for the Hurricanes was Sofia Jans, who netted a pair of goals in the match. Bayley Catarineau, Kai Redruello and Lela Goodrich also each scored one in the win.
“We were able to play our game the way we wanted to and have practiced in the preseason,” Owens said. “Our seniors Sofia Jans and Ali Beth Wilson were elated walking off the field to finally have won against Key West.”
Key West hosted Palmer Trinity School Nov. 8 for their second game of the season. The Lady Conchs also lost that one 5-0.
Marathon has not played a match yet, but all three teams are scheduled to play a home-andhome series with one another this season.
1. Conchs and ’Canes battle for the ball.
2. Maddie Kilduff, left, Molly McKnight and Jazzy Dieguez block the goal.
3. Kaitlyn Franco goes in for a kick.
4. Alondra Matilla, left, passes the ball to Maicee Gage.
5. Maddie Kilduff races to the ball.
6. Mary Searcy kicks the ball.
7. Jenna Mandozzi possesses the ball.
8. Key West defender Lillia Mook boots the ball.
9. Kai Redruello dribbles the ball upfield.
10. Key West’s Lillia Mook (6) and Coral Shores midfielder Ali Beth Wilson (11) seek the ball.
Photos by Maicey Malgrat and Rachel Rusch.
ALMANAC | Nov. 14
On this day: In 1889, New York World reporter Ne ie Bly, inspired by the Jules Verne novel, set out to travel around the world in fewer than 80 days. It t k her 72 days.
In The Bleachers
We a know that Amazon has EVERYTHING, which a arently now includes ready-to-a emble homes, the Mi or reported on Nov. 5. Content creator Nathan Graham ordered the compact home, which showed up in the signature smiley-a ow box. He spent about $39,000, which included a bathr m, kitchen, windows and furniture. The metal home just n ded to be unfolded and sna ed into place to be livable. “This thing is so easy to build,” Graham said. But another customer was le impre ed -- at only 5-f t-8, he said he could touch the ceilings. “I’m actua y going to Airbnb it,” he said. Just to short people?
TODAY’S SPORTS
In 1970, a plane carrying 37 Marshall University football players, as well as the team’s head coach, several assistant coaches, doctors and staff members, Marshall’s athletic director and 25 team boosters, crashed outside an airport near Huntington, West Virginia, killing all on board.
Brevity
News of the Weird
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
Please take notice that in accordance with Florida Statute 328.17, Silent Hunter Boat Yard, LLC dba-Marathon Boat Yard claims a possessory lien on the following described vessel:
Owned by Liam Paul Wilson for unpaid storage fees: a 1984 Ocean Alexander 40 Sedan, “Longevity”, Florida Registration # DO948876 and HIN #OCN40441H484.
Sealed bids will be accepted on November 29, 2024 at Marathon Boat Yard, 2055 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. Silent Hunter Boat Yard, LLC dba Marathon Boat Yard, reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
Publish: November 14 & 21, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
DISTRICT II ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC II)
(from the city limits of Key West to the west end of the Seven Mile Bridge) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL
has an opening for a LODGING INDUSTRY REPRESENTATIVE – shall be owners or operating/general managers of motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks, or other tourist accommodations which are subject to bed tax in the tax collection district for which they are applying.
Any person wishing to participate on the District II Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application by emailing sydney@fla-keys. com. Completed applications should be emailed to sydney@fla-keys.com or may be sent via U.S. mail to the address below: Department DAC Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040 Deadline for receipt of application at the above address is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, December 27, 2024. A resume may be attached to the application.
Publish: November 14, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
LEGAL NOTICE Cemetery Plot Ownership Transfer Intent
The Alex Vega Key West Firehouse Museum seeks to take ownership of cemetery lots #45 and #46 within the Key West Cemetery. Key West’s volunteer firemen originally purchased these lots, but the volunteer organization no longer exists. The Museum intends to improve, maintain, and utilize these lots as part of our mission to honor the legacy of Key West’s firefighters.
As part of this process, we are notifying the public and any potential next of kin for the following individuals buried in these lots.
Pembroke W. Bethel, buried March 6, 1933
Herman Fillmore Roberts, buried April 3, 1961
Clarence M. Roberts, died 1968, burial date unknown
John W. Roberts, buried December 4, 1932, Thomas Alexander Johnson, buried June 16, 1939
If you are a next of kin and have any inquiries or objections to this transfer, please contact the Cemetery Sexton and the Alex Vega Key West Firehouse Museum within the next two weeks from the date of this notice. After this period, if no objections are raised, ownership of the plots will be transferred to the Alex Vega Key West Firehouse Museum. Inquiries may be directed to:
Rosa Diaz, Cemetery Sexton rdiaz@cityofkeywest-fl.gov
Alex Vega Key West Firehouse Museum 1024 Grinnell Street, Key West, FL 33040 keywestfirehouse@gmail.com
Publish:
November 7 & 14, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on November 19, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the Harvey Government Center, 1200 Truman Avenue, Key West, FL 33040, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, will hold a public hearing to consider approval of the following County Resolution: A RESOLUTION OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA ELECTING TO USE THE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS LEVIED WITHIN THE COUNTY FOR THE PROVISION OF ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS, FLOOD MITIGATION PROJECTS AND ADDRESSING SEA LEVEL RISE IMPACTS FOR TWIN LAKES; STATING A NEED FOR SUCH LEVY; PROVIDING FOR THE MAILING OF THIS RESOLUTION; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The public hearing is being held for the purpose of receiving public comment on the proposed assessments and collection of the assessment on the ad valorem tax bills. All affected property owners have the right to appear and provide input at the hearing, and may file written objections with the County Administrator at any time prior to the public meeting or within twenty (20) days following publication of this notice, whichever is greater. The assessments will be collected on the ad valorem tax bill, commencing with the tax bill to be mailed in November 2024, as authorized by Section 197.3632, Florida Statutes. Failure to pay the assessments will cause a tax certificate to be issued against the real property which may result in a loss of title. If you have any questions, please contact Rhonda Haag at (305) 453-8774 Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
The public can participate in the November 19, 20024 meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida by attending in person or via Zoom. The zoom link can be found in the agenda at: http://monroecountyfl.iqm2. com/citizens.default.aspx. Pursuant to Section 286.0105, F.S., if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at the hearing, such person will need a record of the proceedings
and may need to ensure that a verbatim record is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be made.
ADA Assistance: In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person needing a special accommodation or an interpreter to participate in this proceeding should contact the Administrator'sCountyoffice at (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) days prior to the date of the hearing. If you are hearing or voice impaired, call ‘711.’
Dated at Key West this 19th day of October, 2024.
KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court an ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: October 24 & 31 and November 7 & 14, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-552-P IN RE: ESTATE OF JEAN FRANCES REISINGER, Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of JEAN FRANCES REISINGER, deceased, whose date of death was September 30, 2024, File Number 24-CP-552-P is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Plantation Key Government Center, 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice has been served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE TIME 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.
The date of first publication of this notice is: November 14, 2024.
Personal Representative:
SUDOKU SOLUTION
EDWARD JOHN KLOSKI
6 Atlantic Drive
Key Largo, FL 33037
Attorney for Personal Representative:
JOE A. CATARINEAU
Florida Bar Number: 0517291
91750 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070
Telephone: (305) 852-4833
Publish:
November 14 & 21, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION
FILE NO.: 24-CP-515-M
DIVISION: MARATHON
IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBYN ELIZABETH BURROWS
Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of Robyn Elizabeth Burrows, deceased, whose date of death was July 21, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.
All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, 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: November 14, 2024.
Personal Representative: Kendall Witten 11024 Ashburn Road Richmond, Virginia 23235
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: November 14 & 21, 2024
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION CASE NUMBER: 24-CP000057-M DIVISION: MARATHON FLORIDA BAR #980810 IN RE: THE ESTATE OF NOEL FAUSTINO CORDOVA Deceased.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the estate of NOEL FAUSTINO CORDOVA, deceased, whose date of death was January 6, 2022, 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 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
Keys Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Executive Department:
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $102,164$105,024/annually
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their 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.
Attorney for Persons Giving Notice: Christopher B. Waldera, P.A. Christopher B. Waldera, Esq.
Florida Bar No: 980810
Attorney for Personal Representative 5800 Overseas Highway, Suite 7
Marathon, Florida 33050
Telephone: (305) 289-2223
Facsimile: (305) 289-2249
email: chris@cbwpa.com
Publish:
November 7 & 14, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 24-DR-189-P
DIVISION: FAMILY TERESITA PEREZ, Petitioner, and ANAIS LORENZO, WILLIAM GONZALEZ, Respondents.
NOTICE OF ACTION FOR MOTION FOR MODIFICATION OF LEGAL GUARDIAN TO: WILLIAM GONZALEZ RESPONDENT’S LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: 416 E 27TH STREET, HIALEAH, FL 33013 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Custody Case has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Teresita Perez, whose address is 142 Dickie Way, Apt. 1, Tavernier, FL 33070 on or before December 2, 2024, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 88770 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, FL 33070, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition. The action is asking the court to decide how the following real or personal property should be divided: NONE Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request. You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.
WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain
automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.
Dated: October 25, 2024
Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Jennifer Havengar Deputy Clerk Publish: October 31 and November 7, 14 & 21, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers
AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483
BOATS FOR SALE
2021 Zodiac Inflatable 12' w/25hp Yamaha, only 100 hrs. Excellent condition. Located in Islamorada. $6,000 Call John 305-216-2747
14' Aluminum boat, 9.9 Mercury Outboard, Elec. start, Trolling motor in bow, NEW gas tank, battery, GPS, Depth Finder & trailer tires. Located in Marathon. $3500 305-395-1015
FOR SALE: 2019 Walker Bay fiberglass RIB mod. 325ST LOA 11’ with 9.9 HP Yamaha. Located in Marathon. $3,850 970-901-1138
Place your BOAT FOR SALE ad here for $25/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!
Commercial office/ medical/retail space for rent/lease available in Marathon. High highway visibility, 2100-3500 sq. ft. Call for more information 305-481-3198 or email drice519@aol.com
Place your COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT ad here for $25/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!
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.
Reception/Girl Friday needed in the Upper Keys, MM 80. Good pay. Call Patti 305-393-4433
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.
Lead mechanic needed ASAP. Come in person to apply at 2525 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL. Pay based upon experience. 305-289-9884
Marathon Yacht Club is hiring a part-time line cook. Private club, friendly atmosphere.
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.
Marathon Yacht Club is hiring part-time servers and bartenders. Private club, friendly atmosphere, guaranteed gratuities. Flexible lunch/dinner shifts available Tuesday – Sunday. Must provide photo ID, social security card or passport, and checking account. Call 305743-6739 to schedule an interview or email office@ marathonyachtclub.com.
Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Administrative Asst. to Executive Director, Resident Care Supervisor with min. 3 yrs. experience of an LPN, Med Tech, 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 EMPLOYMENT ad here for $25/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!
PRIVATE COLLECTOR
WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
HOUSING FOR RENT
2 BR/2BA unfurn. apt. for rent in Key Largo. W/D $1,600/monthall utilities included. F/L/S 305-504-1757
2BR/1BA Condo Unit for rent in Marathon. Canal view. Walk to Sombrero Beach. No Pets. 305-431-0577
Conch House - Studio for rent, newly furnished in Marathon. $960/month + utilities. Dockage avail. for additional $. No Pets. 305-610-8002
1 upstairs bedroom for rent in Grassy Key (East Marathon). Unfurnished. Mostly private bathroom with shared W/D. Other upstairs occupants are the homeowners: A probation officer, his wife, and their very small dog. $1200/ month F/S 305-393-5049 RENTED!
1BR/1BA Unfurnished Apt. for Rent in Grassy Key (East Marathon). Lovely neighborhood. W/D available. Brand new countertop, sink, cabinets, and carpet. Beautiful glass sliding doors and windows with pretty views of tropical plants. $2000/ month F/S 305-393-5049. RENTED!
Place your HOUSING FOR RENT ad here for $25/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today
HOUSING
WANTED
39 yr old male seeking room for rent in the Upper Keys. Reliable handyman. Call 305-394-3747
MISC. FOR SALE
Heavy duty, hard wood Futon Bed for sale in Marathon. Excellent condition. Couch turns into double bed. $250.00 305-849-0975
Place your MISC. FOR SALE ad here for $25/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!
PERSONALS
BEACH HOUSE VACATION! Caretaker couple needed for Bahamas Beach House for 3-4 months. Call or text 305-439-9991
RV FOR SALE
2018 40’ Phaeton X5H, Factory ordered, 450hp Cummins, Diesel Pusher 10kw w/Onan Generator, 39k miles, 4 Slides, 4 TVs. Loaded with extras. Can be seen by appointment in Marathon, FL. Asking $225,000. Call or text Jerry at 305-664-1286 Email: LC1082@comcast.net
RV SITE FOR RENT
RV site / Camping available at marina in Marathon. Monthly/Daily rates. Free use of dingy & fishing on dock. Dockage available for additional $. No Pets. 305-610-8002
Place your RV SITE FOR RENT ad here for $25/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!
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
YARD SALES
Place your YARD SALE ad here for $25/week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today!
- Environmental Health & Safety Specialist, Emergency Preparedness
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (Mammo & X Ray), Radiology, $50k Bonus
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (X Ray & CT), Radiology, $50k Bonus
D’Asign Source is seeking the following professionals. Overtime and benefits are available. For full details, please visit: DAsignSource.com/careers
Competitive Salary Opportunity for Growth
Landscape Designer/Sales
Seeking a talented Landscape Designer/Sales professional. Bring your creativity and passion for outdoor spaces to our company! Ideal candidates will have design experience, hardscaping and soft scaping and strong sales skills.
Technical Marketing Assistant
Support Coastal Source’s marketing & R&D teams by crafting technical content, graphics, and presentations. Manage project data, assets, and communication, ensuring efficient documentation.
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, Radiology, $25k Bonus
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. APPLY AND LEARN MORE careers.baptisthealth.net or call 786-243-8507
*ALSO REQUIRED FOR ALL POSTIONS: Fluent in English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Level 2 background screening and valid Florida driver’s license. EOE
