Upper Keys Weekly 24-1226 by Keys Weekly Newspapers

Not Feeling Retirement Ready? Six Painless Ways to Beef Up Your Account.

When asked to share financial regrets, respondents to Bankrate’s 2019 Financial Security Index survey named “not saving early enough for retirement” as their biggest one.

The goal of saving enough money to fund several decades of your life can feel like a daunting (and perhaps impossible) task in the best of circumstances. If you’re among the millions of workers whose income and job security was impacted by the global pandemic, that feat may now seem insurmountable. Though saving for retirement remains a significant long-term financial goal that requires consistency and commitment on your part, rest assured that reaching your retirement savings goal is still feasible – regardless of the number you ultimately need to reach. Here are some ideas you can put into action to beef up your retirement savings, and improve the chances that you’re financially empowered to retire when, how, and where you want.

By First Horizon Bank

account or Roth you’ve established on your own. If you’ve lost income due to the global pandemic, focus on managing your expenses as much as possible, before you assume you cannot afford to put money towards retirement – even if you have to reduce how much you contribute temporarily.

Renowned behavioral economist Richard H. Thaler, author of Misbehaving: The Making of Behavioral Economics, calls automation a “nudge” of sorts. He explains that it can help even the most financially savvy resist their most basic (and irrational) human impulses,

5. Make Retirement Real

Saving for retirement is easy to postpone when it’s decades away; it simply doesn’t feel like part of your reality. Dan Goldstein, principal researcher at Microsoft Research and Honorary Research Fellow at London Business School, tested whether images of a “future self” could make retirement feel more real, and if that may encourage people to contribute more to retirement as a result.

Goldstein and his team asked research participants –who were between the ages of 18 and 35 – how much of their hypothetical income they would contribute to retirement. They then showed the participants age-progressed images of themselves, along with a current image; their current and future head shots were placed on either end of a slidingscale style line.

1. Act Small to Save Big

Your total retirement goal may be a large number, but it can be within reach if you consistently work to contribute to your retirement accounts – even if the amounts seem insignificant.

Suppose you cut out one or two small expenses each week that amount to an additional savings of just $25. That may be accomplished by passing on an impulse buy when browsing online shops, finding a favorite at-home workout instead of maintaining a pricey fitness studio membership, or learning to enjoy cooking at home instead of handing over your hard-earned cash to DoorDash.

None of these little actions will dramatically impact your life now – but eliminating them may free up an extra $100 a month to contribute toward retirement. Keep the habit up every year for 30 years, and you’ll have more than $197,000 saved in your retirement account (assuming you earn 10% in interest each year, compounded annually).

2. Automate Retirement Contributions

If you haven’t already, establish automatic contributions that will dedicate a specific amount of money from each paycheck to go into an employer-sponsored retirement account (if you have one) or an individual retirement

like spending when they should save, or procrastinating when or how much they put into retirement savings.

3. Consider Market Declines an Opportunity

Investing for retirement is a long-term strategy that requires a plan, discipline and the ability to resist getting “spooked” by market ups and downs. While your retirement savings balance may have gone on a roller coaster ride over the last several months, experts at Forbes say retirement savers can consider market downturns as a time to evaluate new investment opportunities that may be “on sale” and available for purchase at a significant discount.

4. Invest Windfalls in Your Future

Have you received an unexpected windfall in the form of a tax refund, government stimulus check or inheritance? Perhaps you’ve finally paid off that student loan or credit card debt and now find yourself with more cash flow.

You’ll resist the phenomenon known as “lifestyle creep,” which is the tendency to spend a little more freely – and budget less carefully – as your income or cash on hand increases. When you don’t see the money, you won’t miss it, but it will be hard at work behind the scenes, bringing you one step closer to your retirement goal.

Participants were then asked to determine what percentage of their current hypothetical salary they’d allocate to retirement. The researchers found that the majority of participants in the study increased their retirement contributions when they had a visual representation of their future “self” staring back at them.

You can replicate the benefits of this study with a low-cost app that provides age-morphing effects. With an image of your retirement-aged self kept top of mind, you may find it harder to procrastinate on investing in your future.

6. Identify the Meaning Behind Your Retirement Goals

The Allianz Global Investors Center for Behavioral Finance recommends that retirement savers identify goals they hope to achieve with their retirement savings. When you give retirement a meaning beyond money, saving for it can feel less like a sacrifice.

Prioritize these goals in order of most to least important, to remind yourself why it’s as important to invest in the future, as it is in your present.

Explore First Horizon’s resources or connect with market president Dwight Hill at 305-808-2223 or dwight.hill@firsthorizon.com.

89240 Overseas Hwy. Suite 2

Tavernier, FL 33070

Office: 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Editor / Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com

Digital Editor / Ashley Hobart ashley@keysweekly.com

Business Development

Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator

Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Comptroller / Sarah Simcic sarah@keysweekly.com

Design / Pre-Press

Diana Striker www.keysweekly.com

Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com

Ashley Hobart ashley@keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classifieds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

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

All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

Postmaster SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO THE KEYS WEEKLY, 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050

News Deadline

Monday Noon

Advertising Deadline

Tuesday 2 p.m.

@KeysWeekly

@theWeekly

Members of

360 million

glasses of sparkling wine are consumed on New Year’s Eve.

Happy New Year from your local news source, the Upper Keys Weekly. FREEPIK/Contributed

MONROE COUNTY COMMISSION GREENLIGHTS BUILDING RIGHT REQUEST, EVACUATION TIME CHANGE

Future

of building in the

ALEX RICKERT

alex@keysweekly.com

The Florida Keys could see up to 3,550 new building allocations added to the island chain over the next 40 years, according to a request approved by the Monroe County Commission on Dec. 19 at a special session in Marathon.

But that request will lie in the hands of state lawmakers during the 2025 Florida state legislative session, and is mired in unclear recent messaging from state leaders.

Thursday’s resolution, approved 4-1 with commissioner Craig Cates dissenting, formally requests a change to the statutes governing the Florida Keys as an Area of Critical State Concern (ACSC) – namely, a provision currently requiring a 24-hour clearance time for permanent residents in the event of a hurricane evacuation, used to cap the number of building rights throughout the islands.

The resolution requests an increase for the hurricane evacuation time of up to 26 hours – a time frame that, according to previously-discussed hurricane evacuation models, could add roughly 3,550 new units to the Keys.

The resolution requires an even distribution of any new building rights over a 40-year period, but allows for units to be “borrowed forward” from future years if they’re used for affordable or workforce housing.

Of any new residential permit allocations within the unincorporated Monroe, 1,350 would be reserved for issuance of only one allocation per vacant buildable lot, regardless whether the lot could accommodate more than one right, the request states.

In addition, 70 percent of those 1,350 allocations will be designated as 99-year deed-restricted workforce market-rate housing, a classification exclusively reserved for those who live and work in Monroe County while skirting the valuation limitations, income requirements and rent calculations of traditional affordable housing. Any allocations above the 1,350 that may be approved by the state for unincorporated Monroe County could be used for affordable, workforce, or market-rate housing.

As the few remaining allocations throughout the island chain’s munici-

Florida Keys in the hands of state Legislature

The Monroe County Commission weighs elements of a request for additional building rights throughout the Florida Keys at a special session on Dec. 19 in Marathon. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

palities have dwindled over the past year, local leaders and staff have conducted extensive analyses and public outreach campaigns through meetings, surveys and workshops to determine a final number of building allocations, if any, to request from the state.

The financial threat of takings cases, triggered if a property owner of an otherwise-buildable lot is denied the right to do so, largely drove the analyses in an attempt to determine how many vacant buildable lots remain in the Keys.

In October, the BOCC elected to move forward with a request for 220 additional building rights from FloridaCommerce – the maximum the island chain could theoretically absorb without a change to state statutes, as it would maintain the legally-required 24hour evacuation, according to current modeling.

At that time, the Dec. 19 session was expected to decide a request, if any, for additional rights beyond those 220 via a legislative change to ACSC statutes, informed by individual requests from the Village of Islamorada, City of Marathon and City of Key West.

In recent weeks, Islamorada has approved a request for 199 units, while Key West asked for a maximum number available. Marathon requested a hurricane evacuation clearance time change to 26 hours, with one unit allocated for each of roughly 575 vacant buildable lots in the city.

Expectations went up in smoke earlier this month, when officials with the Governor’s office and FloridaCommerce reportedly told county leaders they were unlikely to issue even the first 220 units unless and until all remaining allocations countywide had been given out.

State leaders even went as far as to

suggest that unincorporated Monroe, with the greatest number of building rights remaining, should give some to Marathon and Islamorada, both of which have nearly exhausted their supply.

Thursday’s discussion opened with consideration of a moratorium on applications for, and distribution of, existing building allocations by the county, first floated by staff at the commission’s Dec. 11 session following the bombshell from the state.

Supported by Cates, County Administrator Christine Hurley and County Attorney Bob Shillinger told the commission that the moratorium could allow the county to stretch its remaining allocations over more years if the state remained unwilling to budge, and could allow for amendments that would direct those allocations toward newlyclassified workforce market-rate units.

But the remaining commissioners said they couldn’t yet support a moratorium, preferring instead to wait until the results of the state legislative session to put the brakes on building.

“The emphasis that commerce put on was workforce housing,” said Shillinger. “This is showing a sign of good faith – ‘Look, we hear you. We want to spend the limited ones we have on workforce housing, but this is the only way we can do that without running out.’ We don't know when we're going to get any or what we’re going to get.”

“If FloridaCommerce and the governor's office are saying, ‘Why do you need more? You haven't used what you have,’ and our response is a moratorium, then we're not using any of what we have,” said Mayor Pro Tem Michelle Lincoln. “We've been talking with FloridaCommerce and the governor's office now for weeks, trying to explain to

them why we wanted the 220 (units) so that we can rewrite our comprehensive plan, and they're not getting that.”

County and municipal leaders and staff openly voiced frustration with conflicting messaging from FloridaCommerce officials, who last year presented multiple scenarios to the county for hurricane evacuation changes that could have yielded up to 8,000 new units.

They’ll now turn to state Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez and state Rep. Jim Mooney for a push through the Florida Legislature. Mooney, Hurley said, told county and municipal leaders in a Dec. 17 meeting called after last week’s surprises from the state that while his preference was for no additional units to be given, he would sponsor a bill bestowing up to 500 units to the Keys via a hurricane evacuation clearance time change to 24.5 hours.

The first 220 of these 500 units would effectively “fill in” the remaining gap allowed by the current 24-hour evacuation, while the remainder would be distributed to jurisdictions based on their proportion of remaining vacant lots.

Public comment throughout the session mirrored prior meetings, with multiple representatives of environmental organizations and property owners associations urging the commission to request the fewest possible building rights while others touted the multimillion-dollar threat of takings cases.

Multiple commenters stressed the danger of overloaded highways preventing an increased population from evacuating in the case of a future major storm. Commissioner David Rice contested these claims.

“Why do you use a model to attempt to predict something that human eyes can look at in real time?” he asked. “Most of us know that 24 hours before a hurricane, there’s nobody on the road.”

“I’ve been in law enforcement here for 38 years, been here through every storm, and we’ve never had an issue,” Sheriff Rick Ramsay told the Weekly by phone on Dec. 20. “The people who want to leave have always been able to get out quickly and safely, and the roads are empty for hours before high wind events arrive.”

Community rallies to save squirrel hit with a blow dart

A community of animal lovers rallied to rescue and treat a squirrel shot by a blow dart in Islamorada. The incident occurred in early August when Glenda Soler spotted the squirrel near her Islamorada home at MM 81, oceanside. Efforts to secure the squirrel were unsuccessful at first.

A week later on Aug 10, the squirrel was captured thanks to the efforts of Brad Bryan, of Maritime Mobile Welding, and sheriff’s deputy Nelson Sanchez. The squirrel, a female, was transported to Mobile Pet Doctors and veterinarian Michael Claudio and vet tech Tanya Manchester. A procedure to remove the blow dart was successful.

“It was great to see people come together,” Soler said.

FWC pilot prevents tragedy

Quick thinking by a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) helicopter pilot is credited with preventing tragedy in Islamorada.

On Sept. 7, officials with the U.S. Coast Guard, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and FWC saw a center console vessel navigating toward an area where hundreds of swimmers were competing in a charity swim to benefit the Alligator Reef Lighthouse. Despite repeated requests from law enforcement, the vessel operator, Thomas Michael Reichert of Naples, did not change course.

Anticipating that the boat was minutes away from the swimmers, FWC pilot Chris Simons brought his helicopter down to hover about 20 feet in front of Reichert, forcing him to stop.

Once the vessel was stopped, FWC officers conducted a safety and resource inspection. Reichert was reportedly found to be boating under the influence.

“They tried and tried to get the guy to stop,” said Rob Dixon, race organizer who was one of 300-plus participants who were in the water at the time. “The helicopter came down to spray him to stop. It was pretty scary stuff.”

Largest pickleball complex opens

Pickleball players throughout the Upper Keys rejoiced as 10 new courts opened at Key Largo Community Park on Aug. 22. It was a major upgrade for the pickleball community as there was a lack of courts to play. Players in Key Largo used to convert the basketball courts at the park for pickleball. Now, they have their own dedicated space.

“This state-of-the-art complex will provide more community members with the opportunity to engage in pickleball and may pave the way for interleague competitions throughout Monroe County,” said county Parks and Beaches Director John Allen.

In addition to regular play during the early mornings and weekends, the courts have been used for a number of tournaments supporting various causes.

Marketa and Jason Kendall, along with their two daughters, stand in front of their lifted house. Many of the concrete blocks used to frame out the shell of the new addition are already in place. CONTRIBUTED

Key Largo home reaches new heights

Keys Weekly’s Kellie Butler Farrell reported on one of the more interesting projects seen in Monroe County in 2024. Marketa and Jason Kendall’s threebedroom, two-bathroom house located at a Key Largo bayside neighborhood was hydraulically lifted some 23 feet into the air. The reason? The Kendalls said they outgrew the space and needed to expand.

Jason Kendall said they couldn’t build in the back or to the sides, so there was nothing to do but go up and build underneath.

Jason says the cost to lift the house, build the walls and put in the flooring will be about $160,000. When finished, the Kendalls’ home, which was 1,300 square feet, will be 2,600 square feet.

County state

Longtime judge retires

After 24 years on the bench, Circuit Judge Luis Garcia is putting down his gavel. On June 3, 2024, Garcia wrote a letter to Gov. Ron DeSantis, informing him of his intention to retire.

The Chicago native and graduate of Northeastern School of Law in Boston started out as a prosecutor in Miami in 1989 and quickly rose through the ranks, eventually being tapped to become a judge in Monroe County.

“I’ve been basically working for the state of Florida as a prosecutor or a judge since 1989, and it’s a long time,” said Garcia.

Garcia presided over thousands of cases during his more than two decades on the bench in Monroe County and, along the way, changed the lives of those who appeared before him. Garcia’s seat at the Plantation Key Courthouse was unique, presiding over a wide range of cases from family law, to civil cases of all kinds, juvenile cases, criminal felonies, drug court, probate, guardianship, mental health, injunctions; he saw it all.

“They all stick with you,” said Garcia.

From left, vet technician Tanya Manchester, veterinarian Michael Claudio and Bradley Bryan with a female squirrel following a successful surgery on Aug. 10 to remove a blow dart from her body. CONTRIBUTED

FWC helicopter pilot Chris Simons was credited with stopping a vessel from hitting swimmers competing in the annual swim to Alligator Lighthouse on Sept. 7. FWC/Contributed

From left, Joe Mansfield, assistant state attorney, Judge Luis Garcia and Dennis Ward, Monroe

attorney. STATE ATTORNEY’S OFFICE/Via Facebook

Ten new pickleball courts opened at Key Largo Park on Aug. 22. MONROE COUNTY/Contributed

ANOTHER ROLLER-COASTER YEAR IN ISLAMORADA

Ethics violations, a visit from the FBI and infrastructure among the headlines

An Islamorada Council entered 2024 without a permanent manager, but that all changed in February with a new hiring. The village, however, continued to face major issues surrounding infrastructure and development throughout the year. There were also ethics complaints against two councilmen and a visit by FBI agents. A new council seated following Election Night went to work by approving by majority vote an expansion for one resort. They also voted to request more residential building permits for current and future applicants.

Islamorada council chooses Rob Cole as village manager

After initially failing to select a manager at a special Jan. 22 meeting, the Islamorada Village Council rebounded by voting 5-0 to approve Rob Cole at its Feb. 13 meeting at the Founders Park Community Center. A former Scarsdale, New York manager, Cole told council members he had been staying in the Keys since January to get a feel for what it may be like. Upon his selection, Cole said he was ready to address the urgent needs of the community. An employment agreement with Cole, which detailed a $200,000 salary, a $4,000 housing allowance and other benefits, was approved March 12.

Ethics complaint against Pinder dismissed

An ethics complaint that alleged Pinder used public funds during his 2022 re-election campaign was dismissed by the Florida Ethics Commission. Filed in fall 2023 by Cheryl Meads, the complaint alleged Pinder used a contracted village employee at the time to create and post a video to thank voters who supported him. The complaint also alleged Pinder had another on-the-clock village employee partaking in the video. The executive director for the ethics commission determined the allegations from Meads’ complaint were sufficient to conduct a preliminary investigation on whether Pinder violated the Florida Constitution and state statute.

A commission advocate who reviewed the case stated the overt political solicitations on Pinder’s bike would support wrongful intent. However, the 2022 election had already occurred, with Pinder the winner in his race against challenger Sue Miller. As a result, he was no longer running for office. The advocate also stated Pinder’s encounter with a village attendant in the video was nothing more than a friendly gesture. Evidence didn’t exist to show Pinder had wrongful intent with respect to obtaining a disproportionate benefit.

FBI pays a visit to Islamorada

Sharon Mahoney was tending to business inside her Islamorada flower shop on a Saturday afternoon in late January. Around 3 o’clock, her front doorbell rang as a young man and a woman entered her Enchanted Florist shop.

“He said, ‘Sharon Mahoney … Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney who sits on council?’” Mahoney recalled.

To her surprise, both individuals proceeded to flash FBI badges.

The agents told Mahoney the FBI’s Tampa

branch received six or seven calls from individuals who believed she had information related to council members taking bribes from the local building community. No specific names were mentioned during the visit, but the agents believed she possibly had information into the matter. The agents were told by callers to speak with the vice mayor, who was elected to the council in 2022.

Mahoney told the agents she knew nothing about current council members taking bribes. Following a minutes-long conversation which yielded no answer or leads, the agents left.

The FBI’s visit to Mahoney’s business sparked several rumors over what they were seeking. Some rumors suggested the FBI’s visit to Mahoney centered around Ted Yates, former village manager who was let go by the council via a 3-2 vote in July 2023. Mahoney, who voted not to renew a contract for Yates, told Keys Weekly the agents didn’t question her about the former village manager. Yates’ name wasn’t even mentioned in conversations she had with the agents, she said.

Islamorada councilman hit with ethics violation

A state ethics commission levied $2,500 in fines, a public reprimand and censure against Islamorada Councilman Henry Rosenthal following an investigation, which found probable cause he violated the Florida Constitution and state statute by using his position in office to obtain a disproportionate benefit.

Marian Lambeth, investigator for the state ethics commission, conducted a preliminary investigation into the complaint against Rosenthal. In her report, she states Rosenthal tried to manipulate the village zoning process by requesting the planning director poll the council to see if fellow members would be receptive to a rezoning request.

Rosenthal was seeking to purchase the Island Community Church at MM 83.2 in 2023 in hopes of bringing an entertainment venue with live theatrical performances to the property, which was once home to the Cinemorada Theater. Rosenthal also wanted to serve finger foods, rent office or storage space and construct a caretaker’s quarters.

Rosenthal, who was elected to village office in 2020 and again in 2022, told Keys Weekly that the case was “bogus” from start to finish. Rosenthal, who maintains he never asked the planning director to poll the council, also said he was never attempting to change the zoning at the church. Rather, he was seeking to add theater as an allowable use under the church’s public service zoning.

Robert Cole. CONTRIBUTED

Buddy Pinder. CONTRIBUTED

A sign welcoming visitors to Islamorada. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

Councilman Henry Rosenthal. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

KEYS TO SURVIVAL

Artificial reefs, rule changes and a mad dash to restore corals after a devastating blow caught the public’s eye in 2024

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

Wild videos of spinning fish, efforts to restore and supplement a beleaguered reef tract, and a highly-anticipated new set of rules governing one of the country’s most precious marine environments grabbed headlines in 2024. Though this year brought forward some truly unprecedented events, we suspect we haven’t seen the last of these headlines and storylines as we turn the page to 2025.

County artificial reefs director to launch Keyswide program

Out of 54 applicants, the Monroe County BOCC welcomed former Mote staff scientist Hanna Koch as its new artificial reefs director in February. Koch will have the key responsibilities to develop the framework for the future of the artificial reef program, establish goals and objectives, coordinate the needs of the community, handle public inquiries regarding the program, find sites, monitor grant agreements, and oversee the creation, permitting, maintenance and monitoring of the sites and any staffing that may be needed, among many other things. Beginning in August 2023, Monroe County was awarded $15 million from the state to start an artificial reef program in the Keys. The future of the program has seen more than its fair share of debates in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council meetings and among natural resource stakeholder organizations.

Researchers

assess coral health following marine heat wave

Iconic Reefs field team member Cate Gelston retrieves a transect tape after completing an outplant coral health assessment survey. BEN EDMONDS/NOAA

In February, researchers from NOAA’s Mission: Iconic Reefs program and partners from Mote Marine Laboratory and the Coral Restoration Foundation announced the results of a scientific mission to quantify the effect of 2023’s marine heat wave on corals in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. The additional research followed a mission in August 2023 to assess the corals during the height of the heat wave. Across 64 locations, researchers found that less than 22% of 1,500 staghorn corals surveyed remained alive, with only the two most northern reefs retaining any living staghorn coral. Only three sites had living elkhorn coral, and the iconic Looe Key Reef in the Lower Keys did not have any living staghorn or elkhorn corals.

Researchers close in on leads in spinning fish, sawfish deaths

Investigators complete a necropsy on a deceased sawfish. In addition to hundreds of reports of spinning fish, at least 53 endangered smalltooth sawfish died in 2024. FWC/Contributed

The Florida Keys earned national headlines as unprecedented reports of endangered sawfish deaths and “spinning” fish rocked the island chain beginning in late 2023. Social media came alive with reports

of the behavior, documented in more than 35 different species and reported to FWC and partner organizations through online portals and research missions. The first promising lead reported by scientists remains the leading theory at the close of 2024: A buildup of toxic algae in the Gambierdiscus family, possibly triggered by 2023’s heat wave. Reports of the spinning fish eventually subsided, but not until NOAA and FWC greenlit efforts to rescue struggling sawfish and temporarily rehab them at local facilities.

Shakeups in the Sanctuary

Sanctuary Advisory Council member and lionfish huntress Rachel Bowman,

Succeeding former chair George Garrett, Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters and Dynasty Marine Associates owner Ben Daughtry was tabbed to lead the FKNMS Sanctuary Advisory Council in June. Two months later, longtime Sanctuary Superintendent Sarah Fangman stepped away to become NOAA’s West Coast region director in the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries. Fangman turned the reins over to acting superintendent Matt Stout, the man who coined the name “Restoration Blueprint” for the updated set of marine regulations throughout the island chain. At the close of 2024, the Restoration Blueprint entered its final stretch before becoming law, though a continued dust-up between FWC enforcement partners and sanctuary staff remains.

Lobster mini-season expands for Florida residents

Depending on whom you ask, lobster mini-season in the Florida Keys is either a quasi-state holiday or the most dreaded days of the year. So when Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis unexpectedly announced a third day of the traditional two-day sport season, for Florida residents only, at a press conference in Marathon on June 19 – just weeks before the season – locals had a healthy mix of cheers and groans. It remains to be seen whether the third day will continue in 2025 and beyond.

County deploys first artificial reef in new program

Under Koch’s direction, on Nov. 12, the Monroe County Artificial Reefs Department made history by deploying the Keys’ first new artificial reef since the 2009 sinking of the Vandenberg. Ten of 45 available decommissioned power poles were submerged at a new reef area about 16 nautical miles northeast of Key West in federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico. “This deployment is the first in a long line of projects being developed to provide several ecosystem and economic-related services,” said Koch. “This is just the beginning; we plan to create networks of structures from shallow to deep waters on both the Atlantic and Gulf sides that will provide a variety of quality habitat types to various marine species.”

Hanna Koch is Monroe County’s new artificial reefs director. CONTRIBUTED

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announces a third day of lobster mini-season, for Florida residents only, at a press conference in Marathon. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

Pole deployment gets underway at Monroe County’s first artificial reef site in 15 years. HANNA KOCH/Contributed

left, and former FKNMS Superintendent Sarah Fangman. CONTRIBUTED

MONROE COUNTY YEAR IN REVIEW

Indictments & replacements mark

2024

Many of the year’s top news stories in Monroe County were continuations and conclusions of events that began in 2023, as last year’s investigations and audits led to this year’s indictments — and the replacement of top officials. But first, some good news from 2024.

No

hurricanes, but a new Emergency Ops Center

Despite some coastal flooding from tropical storm conditions, the Florida Keys dodged the devastation of a hurricane in 2024.

But the county is now more prepared than ever for a major storm, having opened its new, $37 million Emergency Operations Center at the Marathon airport on Sept. 23. The new facility is 17 feet above ground and built to withstand 220-mph winds. It can sustain and protect up to 150 people for up to 96 hours, including food, drinking water, generators, wastewater storage and satellite communications.

On the same day it opened, the new EOC hosted its first storm coordinating call, watching the path of a storm that would become the deadly Hurricane Helene.

Mosquito

Control turns 75

Without the efforts of the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District, life in the Florida Keys would be unbearable for most of us. Thankfully, the

district has been keeping the blood suckers at bay for 75 years. Mosquito control began in the Keys in 1949, when the state Legislature authorized the creation of the Monroe County Anti-Mosquito District, which was overwhelmingly approved by local voters. The name changed in 1970 to the Monroe County Mosquito Control District and in 2002 to today’s Florida Keys Mosquito Control District.

And now for the not-so-good news of 2024….

2023 drug audit leads to 2024 indictments

In August, a grand jury indicted three senior county employees and a former flight nurse. All stemmed from an investigation into the theft, loss and attempted cover-up of more than 600 missing vials of fentanyl, Dilaudid, morphine and other narcotics from the county’s Trauma Star medical helicopter service, whose medical staff is managed by Monroe County Fire Rescue.

Retired county administrator Roman Gastesi, who was slated to return to the top job the following month, was charged with official misconduct, a third-degree felony.

The grand jury also indicted Dr. Sandra Schwemmer, who was the medical director contracted to oversee MCFR and Trauma Star, and Capt. Andrea Thompson, who was MCFR’s division chief of emergency medical

services (EMS) and Trauma Star.

Schwemmer was charged with official misconduct, providing false information to law enforcement and altering patient records. Thompson was charged with two counts of official misconduct, one count of providing false information to law enforcement, two counts of evidence tampering, three counts of witness tampering with witnesses, and one count of altering patient records.

Christine Hurley gets top job

Following the indictment of Gastesi, the county commission enthusiastically promoted Christine Hurley to the position in September. She had been working as executive director of the county’s land authority, and previously headed its growth management division, which regulates development. Hurley also served as assistant county administrator under Gastesi.

Tourism turmoil

And then there was the turmoil at the Monroe County Tourist Development Council (TDC), which also started in 2023, also with an audit that was critical of the agency’s financial management and oversight.

The unrest continued this year as the county clerk released three additional audits of the TDC’s contracts with its public relations firm, its advertising agency and its website provider.

In March, the TDC board fired marketing director Stacey Mitchell as a result of the 2023 audit and began a search for a new president and CEO.

In August, the board hired Kara Franker to lead the TDC. She started work on Sept. 9.

In September, Mitchell filed a wrongful termination lawsuit against the county.

The three additional audits eventually prompted the TDC to terminate its longstanding contracts with NewmanPR, Tinsley Advertising and Two Oceans Digital.

Franker said she plans to bring much of the PR tasks in-house, while the agency issued Requests for Proposals seeking an ad agency and a website/digital services provider. Responses to those RFPs were due

By Mandy Miles and Alex Rickert

Dec. 19 and selections will be made in

And finally, the row over ROGO

As the few remaining building rights in the Keys dwindle, it’s been a year of debate, analysis and input for Monroe County and the islands’ municipalities, ending in an eventual request to the state for more allocations.

Through dozens of surveys, workshops and community meetings, leaders saw residents and stakeholder organizations clash, pitting environmental, traffic and quality of life concerns against proponents of property rights and the looming threat of millions of dollars in takings cases potentially falling on taxpayers’ shoulders.

Unfortunately for the Keys, communication from state leaders has been a moving target – down to the final weeks of December, when county officials learned that an ask for 220 building rights within the Keys’ 24-hour evacuation model, previously thought of as a done deal, was anything but.

A contentious meeting on Dec. 19 eventually produced a request to the state for a change to the statues governing the Keys as an Area of Critical State Concern, potentially increasing hurricane evacuation times up to 26 hours and adding more than 3,500 building rights to the island chain – but the final answer will need to come from the state Legislature.

Warning coordination meteorologist Jon Rizzo shows off the county Emergency Operations Center’s new state-of-the-art equipment at the building’s grand opening in September. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

Kara Franker, the TDC’s new CEO, took over the tourism agency’s top job in September. NICK GARCIA/Contributed

early 2025.

CONNECTIONS PROJECT SHOWCASES KEYS ART & CULTURE

The Connections Project is the centerpiece of a series of pop-up events to showcase the arts and culture of the Florida Keys starting Jan. 8 through April. Visit keysarts.com for more information. CONTRIBUTED

Event series launches Jan. 8 and runs through April

Visual art and music by top Florida Keys talents take center stage during the Connections Project: a Mosaic of the Keys 2025, a series of popup events for cultural enthusiasts that begins Wednesday, Jan. 8, and continues through April.

Each event will feature a mosaic mural composed of nearly 100 small canvases decorated by Florida Keys artists, paired with performances by local musicians.

Presented annually by the Florida Keys Council of the Arts, the project is designed to connect people with members of the Keys’ arts community.

“The Connections Project 2025 will be a fabulous blend of what we’ve done in past years with some fresh ideas for this season,” said Elizabeth Young, executive director of the Arts Council. “Attendees can expect the usual high quality of creative expression, along with a surprise or two that adds to the fun.”

ARTISTS & SUPPORTERS CONVENE FOR A HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

The series’ Jan. 8 grand opening reception is set for 5:30 p.m. at Berkshire Hathaway in Marathon, 9141 Overseas Hwy., in conjunction with a Marathon Chamber of Commerce gathering. Subsequent pop-up events are planned from Key Largo to Key West at venues including galleries and cultural spaces, open-air art shows and other locations that support local creativity.

A mosaic mural will be unveiled at every event, with each featuring a collection of colorful 6- by 8-inch canvases. The small canvases typically include works in oils, watercolor, photography, collage, mixed media, quilting, beadwork and more, depending on the individual artist’s whim and talent.

A calendar of times and locations is at keysarts.com/artist_connections/Mosaic/Mosaic3.html.

At each event, attendees who donate $100 to the arts council can select and take home a small canvas of their choice. The donations go to the council’s grants for artists living and working in the island chain.

More information is at keysarts. com.

— Contributed

More than 200 artists, art supporters and community leaders came together on Dec. 11 at the historic Watson House on Simonton Street to celebrate the holiday season with the Florida Keys Council of the Arts membership. The annual celebration was hosted by Paige Bethel of Island Home Realty.

Guests were entertained by the Key West Jazz Society featuring Channing Lynn with Skipper Kripitz & Larry Smith and enjoyed festive hors d’oeuvres from Croissants de France. Wine selections from Elemental Wines were provided by the Bogle Family Wine Collection.

“This annual event celebrates and thanks our members, a vital component to the success of the Keys Arts organization,” said Elizabeth Young, executive director. “It is a highlight of our year to come together on a unique island property with members from throughout the Keys, Key Largo to Key West.”

The Florida Keys Council of the Arts connects audiences from around the world to galleries, theaters, museums, festivals, dance, music and more, from Key Largo to

holiday

Key West.

The council makes grants, supports Art in Public Places, and promotes the destination for its rich and diverse history in art and culture.

The arts council provides services to visual and performing artists, arts organizations, students and the public, striving to instill a passion for and participation in the arts. More information is at keysarts.com or 305-296-4369.

— Contributed

Florida Keys Council of the Arts Board Chair Joyce Burd, second from left, with her husband Ron, left, enjoys the annual holiday membership party with arts supporters Susan and Sheldon Davidson.

The annual

membership party of the Florida Keys Council of the Arts was hosted by Paige Bethel, Island Home Realty, at the historic Watson House. Paige is pictured here with her husband Tyler Bethel.

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

2024 CRIME & COURT NEWS

Deputy gets arrested; feds bust cocaine ring

Local law enforcement stayed busy tracking down perpetrators throughout the island chain in 2024. The Florida Keys also had a visit from FBI agents who arrested more than 20 in a cocaine trafficking ring. Meanwhile, the courts were bustling with activity as high-profile cases took center stage.

Threat against KWHS student leads to CSHS student’s arrest

An 18-year-old Upper Keys student was jailed for threatening to kill a Key West teen in a Snapchat post that prompted a March 12 lockdown at Key West High School. Isaac Rodney Holmes, 18, was arrested March 18 on a felony charge of intimidation, which Florida law defines as sending “written or electronic threats to kill, do bodily injury or conduct a mass shooting or an act of terrorism.”

A week before his arrest, Holmes posted a video on his Snapchat account that tagged a Key West teen with the sentence, “w8 for u gon see cheeto.” School officials and police feared Holmes, having threatened to kill the 17-year-old Key West student, was headed to KWHS on a bus with a sports team coming from Coral Shores High School for an event. Deputies obtained an arrest warrant for Holmes on March 14, two days after the KWHS lockdown.

In December, Holmes received 24 months of probation and 100 community service hours.

MCSO deputy warned boyfriend of drug raids

A Monroe County Sheriff’s Office deputy is facing felony charges after allegedly using police computer systems to help her boyfriend’s drugdealing activities, the Keys Weekly

learned from an arrest affidavit in late July.

Jennifer Ketcham, 40, allegedly used law enforcement computers, networks, databases and her position as an acting supervisor to warn her boyfriend, Ryan Hernandez, about impending drug raids and of narcotics officers patrolling certain areas of the Lower Keys. Ketcham advised Hernandez of areas to avoid on Stock Island in 2023 while she was an acting supervisor, who dictated the zones to which patrol deputies are assigned. Ketcham was later fired. A pre-trial conference is set for Jan. 14 before Judge Albert Kelley in Key West.

Feds bust Keys suspects in cocaine trafficking case

FBI agents descended on Marathon on Sept. 5, arresting 22 Keys suspects involved in an alleged cocaine trafficking ring. The suspects, which included Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority employees, commercial charter boat operators and a former City of Marathon employee, faced federal drug and firearm offenses.

John Robert Strama Jr., 42, of Marathon, faced additional charges of cocaine distribution, using a child under the age of 14 to engage in drug trafficking and avoid detection and apprehension, and possessing a firearm and ammunition after a previous felony conviction. Nyran Antonio Ross, 32, of Marathon; Tyrell Lamar Williams, 36, of Marathon; Macarthur Junior Sheppard, 36, of Marathon; and Kenyatta Scott Jr., 32, of Key West also face additional federal charges for cocaine distribu-

tion within 1,000 feet of playgrounds in Florida City and Marathon.

The majority of the defendants made their first appearances before Magistrate Judge Panayotta D. Augustin-Birch on Sept. 6. They were released on bonds of $100,000 or $200,000 with requirements to wear GPS monitors and submit to random urine testing.

Boat driver arrested for fatally striking spearfisherman

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conversation officers arrested a 72-year-old Placida, Florida resident for allegedly striking and killing a spearfisherman off Bahia Honda State Park over the Fourth of July weekend. According to the arrest warrant, Palmer Reid Long Jr.’s 32-foot Contender was the only vessel traveling at high speed through the area where 56-year-old Israel Boza was killed.

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

ONLY IN THE FLORIDA KEYS

The 2024 headlines proved it – you can’t make this stuff up

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

“Florida Man” may be the stereotype, but there are plenty of times each year when “Florida Keys Man” (or woman) steals the spotlight from the bigger moniker. Stories like these are the gifts that keep on giving, and here are a few of the headlines that made us scratch our heads and go “Wait…what?!?”

County road crews repair a section of road damaged by iguanas that tunneled next to an old culvert to lay eggs. MONROE COUNTY/Contributed

Iguana nest creates weird sinkhole in Keys road

Earlier this year, a concerned citizen sent then-Monroe County Mayor Holly Raschein a note of concern regarding a “weird sinkhole” in the road in her Key Largo neighborhood. Monroe County Roads and Bridges staff found quite an interesting culprit — an invasive iguana tunneled underneath the asphalt to create a nesting area.

“After investigating the ‘sinkhole,’ we discovered iguanas have tunneled … (and) were laying their eggs under the road,” said crewmember Ron Havengar, who helped with the excavation. “Only in Florida.”

“We appreciate our residents’ keen eyes and taking the time to send a note of concern,” said Kimberly Kelley, Upper Keys Roads and Bridges administrator. “We love special projects, especially ones with surprise endings.”

Man in tractor rampage intended to kill two people on CFK campus

A 22-year-old Key West man went on a rampage behind the wheel of a tractor at the College of the Florida Keys on May 4 with the intent to kill two people, police said. Ethan Robert Layne, 22, allegedly drove a tractor through the lobby of one of the college’s dorms, then used the bucket attachment to destroy plumbing in the building before ramming a truck in the parking lot and striking another vehicle. No injuries were reported in the rampage, which ended after a police officer fired several shots at Layne while he was in the tractor.

There were no reported injuries when Florida Keys Flight Academy’s Sol Bradman landed with one passenger in the water off Sombrero Boulevard. MCSO/ Contributed

Pilot crash-lands off Sombrero Beach on the Fourth of July – but still makes his band gig

Quick-thinking flight instructor Sol Bradman was able to put his vintage plane down safely in the shallow waters off Sombrero Beach when it lost power on July 4. Neither Bradman nor his single passenger was hurt –and Bradman, a drummer, was even able to make it to his gig with the Lady A band at Marathon’s Fourth of July Celebration at the beach just hours later.

Conspiracy theorist alleges that PVC coral farms control hurricanes

In a series of headlines that would be a lot funnier if they weren’t so crazy, Florida Keys coral biologist Kevin Macaulay in October found himself defending against online allegations that an Alaskan space lab “activated” fixtures in an Upper Keys coral nursery to control the

Contrary to conspiracy theorists’ beliefs, coral trees have everything to do with restoring the reef, and nothing to do with the weather. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

weather.

“This certainly falls into the ever-growing category of things I never thought I’d have to talk about as a marine biologist,” Macaulay told WLRN South Florida in an interview. The video espousing the ludicrous notion has been viewed more than 1.7 million times on X.

Habitual traffic offender flees troopers, jumps off Seven Mile Bridge

A man reportedly fled from the Florida Highway Patrol on U.S. 1 by jumping off the Seven Mile Bridge on Nov. 26. The FHP attempted to stop a motorist, later identified as habitual traffic offender Joshua Lapidus. The suspect jumped from the bridge, only to be picked up by an assisting Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Middle Keys Marine Unit. Lapidus later told officials he “got stoned” and told an officer in a dashcam video that the jump “wasn’t that stupid.”

A sample Charlotte County tax bill, mistakenly sent to a Middle Keys address after a programming error. CONTRIBUTED

Error sends 35,000 false tax bills from the mainland to Monroe County

Thousands of Keys residents had heart palpitations in November when an error from a third-party printing company mistakenly sent more than 35,000 tax bills for Charlotte County, Florida addresses to Keys properties. 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.” Thankfully, as Tax Collector Sam Steele assured residents, there was no data breach, and Keys’ residents personal information remained safe.

Ethan Robert Layne. MCSO/Contributed

SUPERIOR SNAPS

1: Plantation Key School eighth-grade history teacher Michelle Myer goes on an all-out chase to hit a runner with colored powder during the PKS PTA Color Run on Feb. 3 on the Old Highway in Islamorada. 2: Key Largo School principal Darren Pais, the parade marshal, tosses candy during the Fourth of July Parade on U.S. 1 in Key Largo. 3: Participants dressed in inmate costumes arrive by boat to the SD Marine Hole during the annual Conch Scramble in Islamorada on Sept. 28. 4: A refreshed Lorelei mermaid is unveiled on March 9 outside Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana in Islamorada. 5: Former University of Miami head football coach Jimmy Johnson points to his wife Rhonda Johnson, not pictured, while acknowledging her support during a June 20 party before the UM Sports Hall of Fame & Museum’s Fishing Tournament at Islamorada’s Ocean View Inn & Sports Bar. 6: The Hurricanes celebrate a touchdown run by running back A.J. Putetti. 7: Diver Rachel Rusch jumps off a diving board into the water at the Founders Park pool during a meet against Key West and Braddock on Sept. 18. Photos by Doug Finger and Florida Keys News Bureau.

CHECK OUT THAT COVER

Community members grace the front page

Keys Weekly photographers were deployed to events and happenings from Key Largo to Islamorada in 2024, and out of their work came some cover-worthy pictures. Covers can be compared to the facade of a home or business. As publishers Jason Koler and Britt Myers say, we certainly want decent curb appeal for our readers to view our expansive coverage. These are just a few of the best covers gracing the Upper Keys Weekly in 2024. Visit keysweekly.com and click the print editions tab to view all editions and their respective covers throughout the year.

COMING TO YOUR TELEVISION SET

Feature highlights

Pawsitive Beginning’s work in

Monroe County

REEF THE FOX

Reef is a red fox that was saved from a fur farm. He now lives in Key Largo with his human, Nicole Navarro.

Hi friends!

Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” Guess who graced us with her amazing presence again?

The one and only Jacey Birch from Local 10 News. That’s right — Birch made her way back to Pawsitive Beginnings, and let me tell you, her visit was nothing short of magical.

As many of you know, Birch is a fierce advocate for animals and a passionate storyteller. She first visited us last year to learn about our mission, but this time, she dove even deeper into our story, highlighting the incredible work we’re doing right here in Monroe County. From spreading awareness about the heartbreaking realities of the fur trade to shining a light on our unique therapy program, Birch is helping us share our message with an even larger audience.

During her visit, Birch spent time with all of us foxes, hearing our stories and seeing firsthand how we’ve transformed from victims of cruelty to symbols of hope and resilience. She also visited our Human Animal Alliance Healing Den, where she spoke with my mom, founder Nicole Navarro, and Ben Kemmer, CEO of the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter. The Healing Den is where the magic truly happens, as indi-

Reef the fox examines a Local 10 News microphone. Jacey Birch recently stopped by Pawsitive Beginnings in Key Largo to interview Nicole Navarro, founder, about the work underway in Monroe County, including the new healing den. CONTRIBUTED

viduals facing their own battles find strength in our survival stories. Birch was deeply moved by how this space has become a sanctuary not just for us foxes but for humans seeking a second chance at life. But that’s not all. Birch didn’t just capture our stories — she’s turning them into something truly special. Her segment on Pawsitive Beginnings will air Monday, Dec. 30 on Channel 10, and we couldn’t be more excited to share our journey with all of you. From the moment we met her, it was clear Birch’s heart was in this work. Her compassion and dedication are helping amplify our mission to inspire change and bring hope to those who need it most.

As we close out 2024, Birch’s visit feels like the perfect way to wrap up what has been an unforgettable year. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come and how many lives we’ve touched — both human and animal. But the truth is, we couldn’t do any of this without the incredible community that supports us. Your love, encouragement and belief in our mission keep us going, and we are endlessly grateful.

Anywho, don’t forget to tune in to Channel 10 on Monday, Dec. 30 to see the full story. We promise it’s one you won’t want to miss.

Until next time, Reef, over and out!

PETEY

For all you people who loved the Little Rascals, (remember the American bully was considered the family dog) we give you Petey. This 4-month-old is “fur-ever” a charmer.

He’s a great house guest who loves to be with you. He gets along with other dogs and wants to please his people. You can fill out an application at www.mprescues.org/application.

THE SPIRIT OF THE MURRAY NELSON BUILDING

Leo Morin recognized by county officials

Upper Keys Facilities Maintenance’s Leo Morin received his 10-year pin at the Dec. 11 meeting of Monroe County commissioners. Morin, who celebrated the milestone in October, was recognized at his home base at the Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo. ‘Whether we need something in our offices, a school group needs you after hours or something’s going on outside, you are the heart and soul of the Murray Nelson Center,’ said commissioner Holly Raschein. Morin was pinned by commissioner Michelle Lincoln. Morin said he’s looking forward to another 10 years. KRISTEN LIVENGOOD/Monroe County

TIME FLIES

Expect bigger, better stories in upcoming books

FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI

People say that the older you get, the faster time flies. They know exactly what they’re talking about because, just like that, Christmas has passed, and Jan. 1 is nearly upon us. The days are passing like blinks of an eye, and before any more time slips away, I need to finish what I started last week.

While I usually wait until the last column of the year to reflect on reasons I’m grateful, I started a week early. Moving forward, I’ll get the ball rolling with some feelings about the Keys Weekly. To them, I could not be more thankful for the space to tell these stories.

I’m not the first to write about this stuff and not even the only one currently exploring the local history, but I might be having the most fun. It’s hard to believe that my first history column appeared in the canceled Reporter more than a decade ago. I’ll confess that after writing a few hundred of these, figuring out what to write next can be challenging.

Taking that into consideration, I’ve decided to go into 2025 with a plan. It’s not a 52-week plan, but stranger things have happened. Without coaxing the cat out too far, starting Jan. 2, I’ll take a historic (and sometimes not so historic) trek down the Overseas Highway. It won’t be the only thing I’ll be writing about. At some point in the not-too-distant future, I’ll be talking about the release of Volume 3 of my “Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli” series.

The books came to life because three years

ago, in the evening hours of Dec. 23, 2021, I launched my Facebook group Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli. Because of its popularity, I decided to, as chef Emeril Lagasse would say, “kick it up a notch.” I love writing these columns, but only so much can be said in under 1,000 words. With the books, I am able to tell bigger, better stories.

While looking forward to getting Volume 3 out to the public, I’m more excited to start working on Volume 4. The tentative title is “The Indian Key Chronicles.” I don’t know if that is the name that will stick, but it’s the one helping me shape how the stories are told. While the page count has increased with every volume, I won’t be surprised if Indian Key morphs into two volumes. For one, it is my favorite. Also, I have more to say about Indian Key than any other island in the chain. Whatever the case, it is highly unlikely that Volume 4 will come to fruition in 2025.

One of the little things I look forward to every year is the unexpected surprise. There is no way to account for it; instead, it shows up unannounced in a meeting, email or phone call, sending a little chill down my spine. For 2024, it was the invitation to speak at the Ernest Hemingway Seminar and to film for a television show’s pilot/ teaser.

As 2025 unfolds, I’ll do what I love and sit here, tap-tap-tapping on the computer keyboard. Every day, I’ll post a picture and some historical nuggets on my Facebook group, answer questions from the members, and work to keep the spammers away. I’ll write my column and work on Volume 4. Because those efforts have not created a lucrative enterprise, I’ll pick up freelance work when it comes around and mix up mojitos and rumrunners at Robbie’s of Islamorada to help make ends meet.

Speaking of being thankful, I could not be more grateful to be working at Robbie’s. When

it became apparent that I was going to have to dip my toes back into the hospitality pond, there were concerns in the Bertelli household. Way back when, more than a decade ago, when I was working at Lazy Days, I would come home miserable. I’d leave for work miserable, too.

In my miserable state, I could be unpleasant. When I stepped back into the industry, there was a concern that I would step back into a miserable state, too. I chose well with Robbie’s. While it is true that I usually only work a couple of shifts a week, in two-and-a-half years, I have always walked into the house with a smile. I’m happy to be home, but I’ve never felt miserable about having to go there, either.

Robbie’s is an interesting spot as a historical location, a roadside attraction and a little community. The parking lot was once home to prehistoric freshwater wells that were deemed the most reliable in the Florida Keys. It was where the first permanent residents of Lower Matecumbe Key, the Starck family, lived. Also, since the 1970s, it’s been one of the island chain’s great roadside attractions.

One of the best things about driving off down the road to clock in for one of my bar shifts is being on the property. Robbie’s is also an interesting little community, and when I go to work there, I become a part of it. It might just be me, but Robbie’s has a little magic floating around it. Sure, it doesn’t hurt that I can see Indian Key from the bar, but there is more to it than that.

Robbie’s is also home to this fascinating and wonderful group of people who are consistently positive. It feels good to be there. In fact, not only am I not miserable, but I look forward to getting there and soaking up the vibe. Also, the people-watching is exceptional. In the meantime, I’m going to wrap this up, blink, and embark on whatever adventures 2025 has in store.

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

‘Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli’ volumes 1 and 2. CONTRIBUTED

OPEN MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION, INC.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2024 AT 9:00 A.M. FKEC TAVERNIER HEADQUARTERS, BOARD ROOM

Should Committee Meetings be scheduled, they will commence first, followed by the Regular Board Meeting.

Sewer breaks a cause for concern

A force main that transports Islamorada’s wastewater to a Key Largo treatment plant broke twice near MM 92 in Tavernier, once in May and again in September. The section of force main has historically seen issues of breaks. On May 13, vehicles were seen slowly navigating U.S. 1 north as dark, smelly water began surfacing on the highway. It burst again on Sept. 1 as many people were exiting the Keys following Labor Day Weekend.

Islamorada officials continue to speak with the Key Largo Wastewater Treatment District (KLWTD) regarding a path to fix the problem.

“To reach consensus on the path forward and remove the obstacle to our project proceeding without further delay, Islamorada and CHA (our design engineer) have agreed to create a system flow model, which will produce data necessary to inform whether any additional project modifications are needed,” Village Manager Rob Cole said in his weekly manager’s report in late November. “The scope is currently under KLWTD review. Assuming no delays in the review process, the model and report are expected to be completed before the end of December, at which point the results will be discussed and any plan modifications agreed to and completed.”

The Room Nail Bar : Where Beauty Meets Comfort

Established in 2015, The Room Nail Bar is a place where clients can indulge in the ultimate self-care experience. Whether looking for ﬂawless nails or smooth, glowing skin through the full-body waxing services, the sta at The Room is there to pamper from head to toe. With a peaceful atmosphere and dedicated professionals, be ensured that every visit leaves clients feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and ready to take on the world.

Discover the perfect blend of luxury and relaxation at The Room Nail Bar.

"Our key to success lies in our commitment to continuous training and development for every member of our team, which totals 25," said owner Maria Acevedo. "We believe well-trained professionals are the foundation of exceptional service. Paired with the use of top-quality products, this ensures our customers receive the best possible experience every time."

Community holds importance for The Room. "We are deeply commi ed to supporting our local community," said Acevedo. "Through charitable initiatives and ongoing support for local causes, we aim to make a positive impact and give back to the people who support us. At The Room Nail Bar we believe in building a stronger community together."

Crews recently completed the installation of new 36-inch water main on Upper Matecumbe Key in Islamorada. DAVID GROSS/Keys Weekly

First water main replacement is complete

Water being pumped into the Florida Keys is flowing through nearly 5 miles of new, larger pipe in Islamorada.

The first water main project in the Keys cost about $42 million, with $20 million funded by grants and the balance through low-interest loans. The main in Islamorada was one of the most vulnerable sections of pipe. Work to replace the 1.5-mile stretch of main in Windley Key is well underway, and a water transmission project on Plantation Key will begin thereafter.

New council sworn in; Mahoney selected as mayor

An Islamorada village council with two newcomers and three returning members convened for the first time on Nov. 19. At the Founders Park Community Center, a packed audience watched as Monroe County Judge Sharon Hamilton swore in each member.

It’s the first time Steve Friedman and Don Horton have served on the council following their victories on Election Night. Sharon Mahoney, who ran unopposed, and Buddy Pinder, who won his race, both returned from the previous council. Former mayor Deb Gillis, who also won on Election Night, is also back on the council after she termed out in 2020. With each member sworn in, previous mayor Pinder nominated Mahoney as next village mayor. It was met with unanimous support among the council, which proceeded to vote 5-0. Pinder followed up by nominating Horton as vice mayor; that, too, was met with full support from the council. Upon taking her seat as mayor, Mahoney said she’s looking forward to the future with the new council.

Other

notable stories

• Village fireboat program approved by council (May 9 edition).

• Council agrees to expand Freebee ride service (June 20 edition).

• Council approves rezoning for marine mammal ICU (June 27 edition).

• Lifeguard shortage prompts brief pool closure (Aug. 15 edition).

• Breakwater restoration underway at Founders Park (Aug. 22 edition).

• Islamorada council approves spending plan (Sept. 19 edition).

• Council approves firm to lead a new comprehensive plan (Sept. 26 edition).

www.theroomnailbar.com info@theroomnailbar.com

LEGENDARY KEY LARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & FLORIDA KEYS VISITOR CENTER

305-451-1414 • 1-800-822-1088 events@keylargochamber.org 106000 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 WWW.KEYLARGOCHAMBER.ORG

On July 29, Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority announced the activation of its new transmission line along U.S. 1 from MM 79.5 to Whale Harbor Channel at MM 84 in Islamorada. The project was originally slated for completion in February 2025. All 22,152 linear feet of new, 36-inch cathodically protected pipe were installed by crews. The project began in April 2023.

• Firefighter deployed to assist hurricane victims (Oct. 3 edition).

• FDOT proposes turnoff lanes, village shoots it down (Oct. 24 edition).

• Council approves ask for 200 residential building permits (Dec. 12 edition).

• Council votes 3-2 to approve Islander Resort expansion (Dec. 19 edition).

SIMPLY INCREDIBLE

The heartwarming side of the headlines in 2024

In the news business, they say “if it bleeds, it leads.” But the Keys Weekly has always been more about telling the stories of the people, businesses and events that make our island chain flat-out awesome. The resilient, caring people of the Florida Keys do their absolute best to do way more right than we do wrong, and this year was no exception. We dare you to read these headlines without cracking a smile – they’re our favorite feel-good stories from 2024.

A1A renamed Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway

It didn’t take long after the passing of music icon Jimmy Buffett in September 2023 for cries to emerge to rename historic State Road A1A as the “A1A Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway.” In 2024, those wishes were granted. Following the passage of a bill in the Florida House of Representatives and Senate, and its signing by Gov. Ron DeSantis, all segments of A1A from Key West to the FloridaGeorgia line are now named the “A1A Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway.”

100-year-old Dorothy Bitzer aces Key Colony Beach’s 7 Meter Bridge Run

Dorothy Bitzer, who reached triple digits before her passing in late 2024, had been in a submarine, gone parasailing and walked on the bottom of the ocean, she told the Weekly. But she’d never done a road race, and in her final year, she earned her stripes as the elite athlete of honor in the Key Colony Beach Community Association’s 7 Meter Bridge Run, completing the “seven meters of grueling running” with next to no help. “I’ve done just about everything in my life, but I’ve never done one of these,” she said. “It was a good time to start.”

Fred the Tree goes Hollywood in new ‘Road House’ movie

It’s impossible not to root for an iconic tree growing from a concrete bridge in the middle of the ocean, and when he – yes, he – gets his flowers, the community celebrates. Though the Amazon Prime remake of “Road House” was theoretically set in the Keys, most of the film was actually shot in the Dominican Republic – save for a few shots of iconic Keys bridges, and a great one of Fred the Tree.

Keys deputy who lost leg in accident receives purple heart and massive donation

When 26-year-old deputy Julian Garcia lost his leg after a suspected drunk driver smashed into the back of his patrol car in April, a sea of commu-

nity supporters and first responders stepped up to look after one of their own. A Keys-wide blood drive was set for May 9 in Garcia’s honor, and at an Aug. 7 meeting of the Islamorada Village Council, Sheriff Rick Ramsay presented Garcia with a Purple Heart ribbon taken from his own uniform. On the same night, Vice Mayor Sharon Mahoney presented Garcia with a check for $60,619 raised in a June community fundraiser.

Overseas benefit raises $127K for cancer patient Mallory Martin

Overseas Pub and Grill bar manager Andy Sharf’s fundraisers for community members are the stuff of legends in the Middle Keys. So when Mallory Martin, a dear friend and better half of fellow bartender Brian ‘Cheddar’ Geitz, was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer at the age of 30, Sharf pledged to throw his biggest fundraiser ever to give her a helping hand – and he backed it up. “Fight Like Mallory Day” raised more than $127,000 through a combination of donations, raffles, auctions, barbecue dinners and more. And at the Best of Marathon Awards, Sharf earned his overdue award as Marathon’s Philanthropist of the Year.

Conch Republic Marine Army teams up with Isla Bella to clean the Middle Keys

“Making dirty friends in trashy places” is the motto that drives the Conch Republic Marine Army (CRMA), a nonprofit organization aimed at cleanup and restoration of the Florida Keys marine habitats. The mission is simple: Get as many people as possible involved in cleaning up trash from the Keys’ shorelines. As of August, CRMA has removed more than 250 tons of debris and garbage, and the “army” continues to advance, as evidenced by partnerships with local businesses like Marathon’s Isla Bella Beach Resort. Guests and community members can join in on free trips to go on excursions, clean trash and learn about marine life – with a sandbar hangout at the end. In February, CRMA founder and president Brian Vest christened a new 33-foot skiff, made possible by Isla Bella’s donations.

1: Highway signs declaring historic State Road A1A as the ‘A1A Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway’ were unveiled in August in Key West. ANDY NEWMAN/ Florida Keys News Bureau. 2: 100-year-old Dorothy Bitzer, center, explodes off the start with daughter Cindy Casey. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly. 3: Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay, right, hands the Purple Heart ribbon to deputy Julian Garcia during a special recognition ceremony on Aug. 7 inside the Founders Park Community Center. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly. 4: The gang at Overseas Pub and Grill preps for its biggest charitable event yet in support of cancer patient Mallory Martin, center. ‘Fight Like Mallory Day’ went on to raise more than $127,000 to help in her fight against the most hated disease. ALEX RICKERT/ Keys Weekly. 5: Conch Republic Marine Army founder and president Brian Vest leads a cleanup near Isla Bella Beach Resort. MARKY PIERSON/Contributed

Cyclists celebrate their arrival to the Southernmost City following a two-day biking excursion through the Florida Keys in 2024. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

WARRIORS HIT THE HIGHWAY

Soldier Ride returns Jan. 10-11 throughout the Keys

The Wounded Warrior Project Soldier Ride takes place Friday, Jan. 10, and Saturday, Jan. 11, in the Upper, Middle and Lower Keys. Residents and visitors are encouraged to cheer on and support the warriors while they cycle through the Keys or join them for the guided community ride on Saturday in Key West.

“We are proud to celebrate the 20th year of the Wounded Warrior Project Soldier Ride in the Florida Keys. This event empowers veterans and brings us together to honor their strength and commitment,” said Monroe County Veterans Affairs Director Cathy Crane, who is also a coordinator of the event. “Let’s support our heroes, recognize their sacrifices and build awareness as they cycle through our community.”

Motorists should take extra time to get to their destination during the ride times. U.S. 1 will remain open for the Soldier Ride, but motorists should be patient, use caution and note that there may be rolling lane shifts in traffic.

COUNTY CONFIRMS RL COLINA AS ACTING FIRE CHIEF

Callahan to retire in early 2025

FRIDAY, JAN. 10

Key Largo to Islamorada

Start: 8:30 a.m. from VFW Post 10211

Break: 9:30 a.m. Coral Shores High School

End: 10:30 a.m. Post Card Inn

Marathon to Big Pine Key

Start: 1:30 p.m. from Marathon Fire Station across the 7 Mile Bridge End: 2:30 p.m. Veterans Memorial Beach

SATURDAY, JAN. 11

Key West and Boca Chica

Start: 10:30 a.m. from Boca Chica

Naval Base

Welcome Ceremony: Noon at Bayview Park, Key West

Key West

Guided Community Ride: 12:45 to 2 p.m. Start and end at Bayview Park

— Contributed

The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners confirmed Rene Luis “RL” Colina as acting fire chief starting on Dec. 11. Colina had been deputy fire chief. Chief James “Jim” Callahan will continue his service through a transition period until he retires in March 2025.

“We are grateful for Chief Callahan’s hard work and dedication over the past two decades in Monroe County to improve fire services for all our citizens and look forward to Chief Colina’s tenure moving forward,” said Monroe County Administrator Christine Hurley.

“I am honored to take the helm of this dedicated organization and institute the values of respect, integrity, loyalty and empathy into the day-to-day operations,” said Colina. “I look forward to building upon Chief Callahan’s legacy for the betterment of the future of fire rescue in the Florida Keys.”

Colina started working with Monroe County in February 2020 as a battalion chief and fire marshal and became deputy chief in August 2021. Before coming to Monroe County, he worked for the Apopka Fire Department, starting in 1997. He has a bachelor’s degree in fire and emer-

gency medical services from the University of Florida and numerous certifications from the Florida State Fire College and the National Fire Academy.

Callahan has more than 50 years of experience in fire service. Callahan made significant contributions to the Florida Keys community, including adding adequate fire hydrants and other water resources, increasing career service firefighters, advancing emergency communications and upgrading equipment and fire apparatus. He said his greatest accomplishment was working with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office to bring the Trauma Star air ambulance to the Florida Keys.

“Chief Callahan’s knowledge and experience in fire department administration and operations have advanced Monroe County Fire Rescue into the professional fire service organization it is today,” said Hurley. “His institutional knowledge will help Chief Colina seamlessly transition to the lead position.”

Callahan coordinated with the county’s project management team to rebuild the fire stations in Conch Key, Stock Island, Big Pine Key and Cudjoe Key and renovated Tavernier, Layton and Sugarloaf. He created the “Hot Shots” program and advocated for building the fire training facility on Grassy Key. His changes allowed the fire department to receive an improved ISO rating of 3/3X from a 5/9 rating, which helped lower county property insurance rates. Callahan also consolidated airport fire services, giving airport firefighters access to state-mandated training, and he established a Fire Prevention Division to handle building plan reviews, construction inspections, commercial fire inspections, and public education.

Colina’s official pinning will take place on Feb. 19, 2025 at the regularly scheduled board of county commissioners meeting in Key West.

— Contributed

RL Colina moved from deputy fire chief to Monroe County Fire Rescue’s top post on Dec. 11. MONROE COUNTY/Contributed

MOST-READ POSTS OF 2024

Viewers swarmed Keys Weekly’s Facebook, Instagram and website

MOST-READ STORIES ON KEYSWEEKLY.COM

Brian Bahder in his lab at the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center. UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA IFAS/Contributed

Scientists develop tool to combat invasive Burmese pythons.

On Sept. 5, FBI agents arrested more than 20 suspects in the Middle and Lower Florida Keys on suspected cocaine trafficking. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

Feds bust 22 Florida Keys suspects in cocaine trafficking case.

Hundreds gather on March 3 for a candlelight vigil in memory of teacher and coach Dexter Butler. FLOYD JENKINS/contributed

Key West mourns the loss of Key West High School coach.

YEAR AHEAD HOROSCOPES

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

In 2025, you’ll begin to question whom you surround yourself with — your community, friends and support systems. Pluto is starting a long journey that will revolutionize how you connect and communicate, but this year, just observe and be curious. Change will unfold gradually. In June, Jupiter brings blessings to your home and family life, offering you joy and emotional fulfillment.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

Well, fair readers, we have traversed another solar year, hopefully more or less unscathed and ideally a little healthier and wiser. While 2024 was marked by anticipation and suspense, Pluto, the planet of power and transformation, finally made its permanent move from Capricorn into Aquarius on Nov. 19, 2024, after a year of teasing us by crossing the boundary between the two. We’ve been living under Pluto in Capricorn since 2008, where it’s highlighted themes of structure, authority, and material power. Now that Pluto has shifted into Aquarius for the next 20 years, we are moving into a whole new reality. This marks the beginning of deep societal changes centered around technology, collective progress and a redistribution of power from the elite to the people.

The changes ushered in by Pluto in Aquarius won’t happen overnight. 2025 will be a year of settling into this new energy, and the adjustments we’ll need to make will feel profound. We will feel shifts in how we think, communicate and navigate our communities and social systems. In addition, Jupiter, the planet of growth and expansion, will move into Cancer on June 9, 2025. Jupiter thrives in Cancer, where its energy brings joy, protection and emotional fulfillment. The second half of the year will feel lighter, with themes of home, family and personal security coming into focus for all of us.

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

Here are your 2025 horoscopes, focusing on Pluto in Aquarius and Jupiter in Cancer. Read for your rising and sun signs.

Your career and public reputation are in for a powerful shift, and it might feel unsettling at first. This is just the beginning of a long period of transformation in your professional life, so take stock of what feels true to you. You’ll have plenty of time to make changes. In June, Jupiter will help expand your communication skills, offering new ways to connect and a larger audience for your voice.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 21

2025 marks the start of a profound new era for how you approach learning, travel and exploration. Pluto’s transit is nudging you to rethink your worldview and what you consider “new experiences.” The way you learn and grow will evolve over the next 20 years, and it begins now. In June, Jupiter brings an exciting boost to your financial life — whether through new income or a great windfall. Expect abundance.

CANCER

June 22 – July 22

Pluto is asking you to reconsider your approach to shared resources, investments and collective efforts. Over time, you’ll see the power of collaboration, but 2025 is a year to start exploring what that might look like for you. In June, Jupiter enters your sign, blessing you with confidence, growth and self-love. Expect a surge of optimism and a chance to shine in your personal and professional life.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

This year starts a long chapter of deep transformation in your closest relationships. Pluto in Aquarius is pushing you to reimagine what partnership means, whether romantic or otherwise. How you connect with others is about to shift profoundly, but this year, simply let the questions arise. By June, Jupiter will help you find joy and peace in solitude, making space for self-reflection and inner growth.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Your daily routines and wellness habits are up for a major overhaul. Pluto’s long transit through Aquarius will encourage you to rethink how you care for yourself, both mentally and physically. 2025 will reveal where change is needed. In June, Jupiter opens the door to new friendships and social opportunities, bringing a year of expanded community support and deepening bonds.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 23

Creativity and personal expression are becoming long-term themes in your life. Pluto’s energy is pushing you to dive deeper into your artistic side, searching for the inner core of what truly inspires you. 2025 will be the start of this creative adventure. By June, your career will take a turn for the better, as Jupiter brings growth and success in professional endeavors.

SCORPIO

Oct. 24 – Nov. 21

Your sense of home and family will begin to shift in 2025. Pluto is asking you to redefine your roots, the place you come from and the foundations on which you stand. Big changes may be brewing in your domestic life, but take your time navigating them. In June, Jupiter brings opportunities for travel and higher learning, giving you the freedom to explore new horizons.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

2025 marks the beginning of a long journey of transforming how you communicate and share ideas. Pluto’s presence will make you more aware of the power in your words and how they shape your interactions. Take your time getting used to this new awareness. In June, Jupiter blesses your financial partnerships and investments, offering growth through shared resources.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

The way you value yourself and your resources is going through a radical change. Pluto is starting a long-term transformation of your personal finances and value system, and 2025 will give you the first taste of what needs to evolve. Be patient with this process. In June, Jupiter brings expansion and joy to your relationships, whether through new connections or deepening bonds with loved ones.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Pluto in your sign is a powerful force, and it’s asking you to transform how you see yourself. This is a long process, but in 2025, you’ll start to feel the beginnings of a profound inner shift. Your identity is evolving and you’re becoming someone new. By June, Jupiter will bring growth to your wellness routines, helping you find joy in caring for yourself physically and mentally.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

2025 is the start of a long period of deep inner work. Pluto’s energy will bring to light the ways you might undermine yourself, offering you a chance to understand your subconscious patterns. This year, start by noticing where you hold yourself back. In June, Jupiter will help your creativity soar, giving you an outlet to express your dreams and bring joy to others through your artistic talents.

CHRIS McNULTY

Andrew Ibarra presents how scientists can take great leaps in using photos to help illustrate our work to the general public. COURTESY CHANDLER WRIGHT/ Contributed

Phanor Montoya-Maya, CRF’s Reef Restoration Program Manager, sat on a panel on the main stage at Reef Futures. KARLEY FEATHER/Contributed

The first two Reef Futures conferences were hosted at Ocean Reef Club in the Florida Keys; this third iteration was held at Iberostar in Riviera Maya, Mexico. TIFFANY DUONG/Keys Weekly

RESTORING MORE THAN THE REEF

Keys’ ‘Coral nerds’ brought learnings to, lessons from Mexico Coral Conference

TIFFANY DUONG www.keysweekly.com

In summer 2023, the Florida Keys was hit by a devastating heat wave. It bleached and killed much of our coral reef and threatened the survival of many other marine species. The story made national and global headlines, and left many coral restoration practitioners stripped of their most vital resource: hope.

“Over the past few months, I’ve struggled with doubts — witnessing setbacks and seeing fellow restoration practitioners lose hope left me questioning my career and even considering early retirement. But attending Reef Futures changed everything,” wrote Phanor Montoya-Maya, Coral Restoration Foundation’s (CRF) Reef Restoration program manager, in a recap of the event.

In mid-December, reef scientists, ocean advocates and self-professed coral nerds descended on the Riviera Maya, just outside of Cancún, Mexico for Reef Futures 2024. This global symposium focuses solely on the interventions and actions necessary to allow coral reefs to thrive into the next century.

Held approximately every two years, the inaugural two iterations of this conference were hosted at Ocean Reef Club in the Keys. This year, the event went international to allow for more widespread and equal participation. Fittingly, the theme was “restore the reef, restore ourselves.”

Keys Weekly caught up with several Keys leaders in Mexico about what local knowledge and innovations they’re bringing to the global conversa-

The Coral Restoration Foundation’s internship program has kick-started many a coral nerd in their eventual careers. A group of those attending Reef Futures posed for a picture together. CORAL RESTORATION FOUNDATION/Contributed

tion and what they’re bringing back.

JD Reinbott, the Iconic Reef Guardians stewardship coordinator for the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, talked about “how we adapted to overcome the challenges that our corals faced at a time when it felt like all was lost.” Alluding to the 2023 bleaching, he added, “These stories were not shared in silence.” Instead, stories like Reinbott’s, of loss of corals from around the world, were met with empathy, acknowledgement and, more importantly, collaborative brainstorming.

In sharing about loss, Andrew Ibarra, the NOAA Marine stewardship and monitoring specialist for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, urged other scientists to use photos to illustrate their work and help others connect, saying, “communicating our science to the public can be bridged through the storytelling power of photography.” He was one of the first people in the field to share what was happening in 2023 visually; his efforts catalyzed global attention on the Keys.

“We

were able to have conversations about old and new programs in ways that would not otherwise have been possible.”

Dee Dee Vaughan Smause, Plant a Million Corals co-founder

Scientifically iterating upon 2023, Montoya-Maya spoke of the resilience model for coral restoration programs necessary to endure uncontrollable disturbances and on the critical role of gene banking to preserve diversity. The CRF team also debuted CeruleanAI, their new open-access learning ecosystem that is meant to empower broader participation in reef restoration.

Plant a Million Corals’ co-founder and director of communications and development Dee Dee Vaughan

Smause noted how, at the 2022 symposium, the organization was weeks away from the grand opening of their Summerland Farms facility. At this 2024 event, they celebrated hitting a milestone of growing over 40,000 corals and the development of new technology to make coral restoration faster, more affordable and more sustainable.

Finally, Jim Brittsan, the founder/ director of Sustainable Ocean and Reefs Inc. (SOAR), showcased his baby urchins. Since completing his CRF internship, Brittsan has spearheaded the Tropical Western Atlantic’s first in situ invertebrate reef grazer nursery, which he discussed at Reef Futures. His model of reef restoration is more holistic and contemplates restoring the entire ecosystem, starting with urchins. He said, “we wanted this to be shared so that others could implement this work in other parts of the world.”

As for what they’re bringing back from Mexico, answers ranged from the practical to the more motivational. CRF’s Reef Restoration coordinator Sam Burrell said, “Because coral restoration is still relatively new as a field, CRF was able to add to our toolkit through attending workshops and lectures from global restoration groups and experts in the field.”

New partnerships are also on the horizon. Smause added that, by being in person together, “We were able to have conversations about old and new programs in ways that would not otherwise have been possible.”

Brittsan said, “Honestly, the best thing I’m bringing back is the positive drive to not give up and keep moving forward. This event greatly impacted my mental health in the most positive way.”

“Reef Futures restored more than my motivation,” said Montoya-Maya. “It restored my belief that what we’re doing is having an impact. Let’s embrace the complexity, the challenges, and the opportunities — because, in restoring reefs, we might just restore ourselves.”

2 FLORIDA KEYS IMAGES CAPTURE 1ST-PLACE HONORS

Photos showcase marine life & the Milky Way galaxy

Marathon resident Daniel Eidsmoe will sacrifice for his art, even if it means a 3 a.m. hike along Coco Plum Beach — and 70 mosquito bites — to capture the right angle of the Milky Way over the Florida Keys’ backcountry. Eidsmoe’s efforts paid off when his long-exposure image captured first place in the “recreation” category of an annual photo contest sponsored by the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries.

Eidsmoe also won second-place honors in the “at-home” category for a drone photo of his wife flying a kite over a sandbar.

Gabriel Jensen won first-place honors in the “life” category for his extreme close-up photo of an arrow crab posed in front of a sea urchin.

A self-described “magnification maniac” who calls underwater photography the best

hobby on the planet, Jensen scuba dives from land in nearshore waters looking for details most would pass over.

The Fort Lauderdale-based chemist regularly visits the Keys in search of off-the-path locations.

Jensen was practically onshore, swimming along the seawall of an abandoned marina in the Upper Keys the day he nabbed the awardwinning photo. The vertical lines of the crab set against the vertical lines of the urchin created an interesting composition, or so said his wife, who works at the Coral Restoration Foundation.

The Office of National Marine Sanctuaries will feature the images in the next edition of its Earth is Blue social media campaign. For more, visit sanctuaries.noaa.gov. — Contributed

HABITAT HONORS CHRIS TRENTINE FOR 10 YEARS OF SERVICE

Construction owner helps build homes for single families

Chris Trentine is recognized by the Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys for his 10 years of service on the board of directors. Trentine is pictured with Lindsay Fast, executive director for HfHUK. CONTRIBUTED

Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys (HfHUK) recently celebrated a significant milestone: Chris Trentine, a dedicated member of the board of directors, is marking 10 years of service to the organization.

Over the past decade, Trentine has contributed his time, expertise and resources to advance the organization’s mission of building affordable homes for families in need. As the owner of CBT Construction, Trentine has been instrumental in helping to complete numerous home building projects.

HfHUK, with the assistance of CBT Construction, has completed 27 single-family homes, plus 20 multifamily units in the Upper Keys, with another 10 affordable housing units underway. His dedication allows HfHUK to build homes at a cost that would not be possible without his support.

“Chris’s commitment to Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys goes far beyond board participation” said Lindsay Fast, executive director of HfHUK. “His hands-on involvement and generous contributions have been a cornerstone of our success in providing affordable housing.

“Without him, we simply wouldn’t be able to build at the scale and cost we do.”

In addition to his contributions to HfHUK, Trentine is a well-known philanthropist in the Upper Keys, supporting various community initiatives and projects. His unwavering commitment to making the Upper Keys a better place to live exemplifies the spirit of community service and leadership.

— Contributed

Gabriel Jensen’s underwater photo of an arrow crab in front of a sea urchin wins first place in the ‘life’ category of the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries’ photo contest. GABRIEL JENSEN/Contributed

Dan Eidsmoe’s long-exposure image of the Milky Way over the Florida Keys’ backcountry wins first place in the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries’ photo contest. DAN EIDSMOE/Contributed

Dan Eidsmoe’s drone image of his wife flying a kite on a sandbar wins second-place honors in the photo contest. DAN EIDSMOE/Contributed

TRY ’N’ FIND

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

BARBECUE, BLUES, CAVES, GATEWAY, JAZZ, KANSAS CITY, LAKES, MISSISSIPPI, MISSOURI, MUSIC, OSAGE, RIVER, SECEDE, SHOW ME, ST. LOUIS, TRUMAN, TWAIN, WAR, WEST.

Founded by Betty Debnam

Show Me Missouri

Mini Fact: The National World War I Museum in Kansas City includes the Liberty Memorial, which opened in 1926.

The Midwestern state Missouri is a widely varied place, with large cities, mountains, rivers, lakes and forests. It is our 24th state, welcomed into the Union in 1821.

MISSOURI IN HISTORY

More than 1,000 battles took place in Missouri during the war, but most of them involved Missourians fighting each other.

FAMOUS MISSOURIANS

•Harry Truman, who was born in Lamar, Missouri, and grew up in Independence, became president during World War II. He was the vice president when President Franklin Roosevelt died in April 1945. He served until 1953.

Truman ordered U.S. pilots to drop two atomic bombs on Japan in 1945. World War II ended soon after. Truman served in France during World War I. He was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1934 and was elected vice president 10 years later.

Before Europeans arrived, the Osage and Missouria peoples lived in the area, with ancestors going back thousands of years. The French and Spanish controlled the area until 1803, when it became part of the United States as part of the Louisiana Purchase.

The capital is Jefferson City, near the center of the state. Kansas City lies on the western border with Kansas and the Missouri River; it’s the largest city. St. Louis, along the Mississippi River on the eastern edge of the state, is sometimes called the Gateway to the West.

COMPLICATED PAST

LIVING IN MISSOURI

More than 6 million people live and work in Missouri. The nickname “the Show-Me State” comes from a speech given by U.S. Rep. Willard Vandiver, who is said to have declared in an 1899 speech: “I am from Missouri. You have got to show me.”

People in Missouri raise cattle, hogs, soybeans, corn and other products. Manufacturing includes aerospace and transportation products, beer, food products and chemicals.

FUN IN MISSOURI

Missouri was admitted as a slave state, but Missourians were divided over whether to secede, or separate, from the Union during the Civil War. Control of the Mississippi River was important in the war effort, as it was used to transport people and goods.

Kansas City is known for barbecue and as a “cradle of jazz music,” and St. Louis is noted for its blues music.

•Mark Twain, whose real name was Samuel Langhorne Clemens, is most famous for his books “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and ‘’The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.”

He was born in Florida, Missouri, and moved to Hannibal when he was about 4. Much of his writing was based on his experiences in this Mississippi River town.

Twain wrote for several newspapers and traveled throughout the country, often supporting himself by working in print shops.

Kansas City is home to the Super Bowl champion Chiefs, the MLB’s Royals and soccer’s Sporting KC and Kansas City Current. St. Louis cheers on baseball’s Cardinals, hockey’s St. Louis Blues and the St. Louis City SC soccer team.

Missourians enjoy boating and fishing on lakes and rivers. Visitors can explore more than 7,000 caves and see music and theater shows in Branson, near the Lake of the Ozarks.

A species of giant European spider is being saved from extinction in its British habitat through a breeding program established after it nearly disappeared 15 years ago. The great fen raft spider almost vanished after its wetland home was destroyed by development. Baby spiders raised in a project at Chester Zoo had to be bred in individual test tubes to prevent them from eating each other. Once the young were strong enough, they were released by the hundreds into restored habitats. The spiders now number in the thousands.

by Kelly Anne White

Built This City: Chicago” by Tamra B. Orr

photo by Natonal WWI Museum

The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is a monument to western expansion. Visitors can ride to the top and look out small windows over the city.

Kansas Citian Charlie Parker was a jazz saxophonist and composer. His nickname was “Bird.”

photo by

loonyhiker

Harry S. Truman

Mark Twain

ARTWORK BY MAGGIE FOX ON DISPLAY AT LOCAL LIBRARY

Art fans gathered for a reception to see the newest collection from local artist Maggie Fox at the Key Largo library on Dec. 9. Her abstract works are inspired by music and the environment. Her paintings are the answer to what a musical composition could look like. Fox conducts the art to the music, creating interesting mixed media abstract paintings. Those in the area can check out her artwork — take your time and look at the work and imagine how music created it. The works were on display in the community room at the Key Largo library throughout December. WILLIAM DePAULA/Keys Weekly

SOCCER TEAM PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE LATE HOLLY GIVEN

The Coral Shores varsity soccer team donned purple socks during a home game against Monsignor Pace on Dec. 16. The socks pay tribute to the late Holly Given, who tragically passed away in a domestic violence incident in 2017. In her honor, her family and friends established the Holly Given Fund, which raises money through the annual Fish for Holly Sailfish Tournament, to preserve her generous spirit and extend a helping hand to those in need in the community. The tournament is slated for Jan. 3-5, 2025 at the Islander Resort in Islamorada.

CONTRIBUTED

STAR-STUDDED

Athletes showed up & showed out in 2024 | Year in Review

Proudly serving Key West to Islamorada as the ONLY locally owned and operated concrete company in the Florida Keys.

Whether you’re building a large commercial building, FDOT bridge, or a customdesigned home, we have concrete mix designs for every project. Thanks to decades of experience, our team can create custom mixes with high-quality additives for specific project needs. We offer the largest variety of materials and operate the only FDOT-certified ready-mix plants in the Florida Keys. Call us for all ready-mix concrete, block, aggregate, rebar and bagged good needs.

A YEAR OF GREATS

Keys athletes did not disappoint in 2024

It was a big year in Keys sports. Many things happened in the past 365 days, some evoking great joy and some devastating sorrow. Each year brings new and varied talent, and since January, athletes and coaches proved to be adept in a multitude of ways, setting records, earning titles and representing the Keys with pride. Here we look back at the 24 most memorable moments in Keys sports in 2024.

LADIES LIFT THE BAR

Girls weightlifting has been a bright spot in Keys sports since the first Monroe County program opened in Marathon less than a decade ago. In the 2015-2016 season, Fins coach Jessie Schubert took Rachel TorresBrown to states and brought home a silver medal. Each year since, the sport grows in numbers and the athletes stack on the plates, making for one of the most prolific sports in the Keys as far as hardware goes. Now, all three schools have girls weightlifting, and the popularity is on the rise. Last year, in addition to Marathon’s Justice Lee winning dual titles, Jennille Arias of Coral Shores won secondand sixth-place medals, and Ella Dunn and Sierra Earnhardt joined Lee as Dolphin podium members. Dunn won fifth place while Earnhardt won a bronze at states.

Jennille Arias. CONTRIBUTED

LEE BRINGS HOME STATE GOLD

Marathon strongwoman Justice Lee Isom set her goals high last year, then methodically did everything it took to reach them. As a sophomore, she went undefeated in her weight class in girls weightlifting, clinching double gold medals at districts and regionals, then topping her own bests at states to bring home dual gold medals at the FHSAA state championships. Though Coral Shores’ Julian Juvier did it in 2023, Lee is currently the only female Keys athlete to win two gold medals in a single season.

Senior Justice Lee shows oﬀ her hardware in her return to MHS.

ALEX RICKERT/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.

Publisher / Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner / Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Managing Editor / Alex Rickert alex@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor / Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

Business Development

Patti Childress patti@keysweekly.com

Jill Miranda Baker jill@keysweekly.com

Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com

Oliver Allison oliver@keysweekly.com

Production Manager Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Executive Administrator Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Graphic Design Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Comptroller Sarah Simcic sarah@keysweekly.com

Web Master / Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Classiﬁeds / Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

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

All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials. 9709 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050 Oﬃce: 305.743.0844 www.keysweekly.com

CONCHS MAKE IT 15 STRAIGHT

Key West’s wrestling program continued its tradition of success by winning its 15th consecutive district championship. The Conchs crowned eight district champions and sent multiple wrestlers to the state meet. Senior Ralph Riche returned with a fifth-place medal, his second in two years. He will continue his wrestling career at St. Thomas University.

ON THE COVER

For small schools in a 100-mile island chain, Keys athletes made plenty of noise in the state’s upper echelon. Top: AJ Putetti. Second row, from left:

Dylan Ziels, Niks-Davis Suharevskis, Caylaa Makimaa. Third row: Anthony Lariz, Vance Bursa, Layne Smith, Brooke Mandozzi. Fourth row: Ralph Riche, Justice Lee, Ali Wheatley. Photos by Barry Gaukel, Doug Finger, Mark Hedden, Jim McCarthy and contributed images.

KEY WEST LOSES HOMETOWN HERO

One of the greatest losses of 2024 was the tragic death of Key West basketball coach Dexter Butler. Butler left a legacy as a player, teacher, coach and mentor on countless student athletes. His positivity and energy was infectious and he lived his life with the epitome of Conch Pride. Butler’s impact on the entire community was a positive one, and a scholarship was created in his name.

Top: Dexter Butler taught at Horace O’Bryant School and coached KWHS basketball. MONROE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT/Contributed) Bottom: Hundreds gather on March 3, 2024, for a candlelight vigil in memory of teacher and coach Dexter Butler. FLOYD JENKINS/contributed

tracy mcdonald

MARSHALL CROWNED SPEED KING; LEE OWNS THROWS

Marathon’s Mikail “Jay” Marshall broke the 100- and 200-meter school records at Marathon and beat all of his Monroe County competitors on the track in 2024. Teammates Fabbianho Louis Jeune and Mason Buxton broke the school records in triple jump and javelin, respectively. Mikkel Ross set a school record in the 3,200-meter run, and Cami Wrinn did the same in the 400 hurdles. In the field events, Daysi Williams cleared the bar for a new record in high jump and strongwoman Justice Lee dominated the throwing events. She set records in javelin, shot put and discus and brought home a fourth-place medal in shot put at the state meet.

CONCHS DAZZLE ON THE DIAMOND

Key West is synonymous with excellence on the diamond, and 2024 was no outlier. Five Conchs signed to play at the collegiate level: Anthony Lariz, University of Central Florida; Felix Ong, University of Florida; Jacob Burnham, Boston College; Hunter White, Inspiration Academy; and Steel Mientkiewicz, Georgia Highlands College. The Conchs fought to the regional semifinals after one of the toughest schedules in high school baseball in the country.

Left: The Key West Conchs earn their 15th straight district wrestling championship. Right: Ralph Riche, left, and coach Chaz Jimenez revel in Riche’s ﬁfth-place medal at states. Photos contributed.

TRACK RECORDS FALL AT KEY WEST HIGH

Conchs broke records on the track and in field events in 2024. Grace Andrew set a record in the 400 hurdles for the Lady Conchs. On the boys side, Suharevskis Niks-Davis claimed a pair of school records – the first in 400 intermediate hurdles and the second in pole vault, in which he won a bronze medal at states. Jean Louis broke the shot put record by more than 3 feet, and Peyton Zubieta and Shane Lavallee both broke the record in javelin, with Zubieta’s longest toss taking over the No. 1 spot in the history books.

Grace Andrew. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

Mikail ‘Jay’ Marshall. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

Clockwise from top: Hunter White, Jacob Burnham, Felix Ong, Steel Mientkiewicz. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

CORAL SHORES BASEBALL SENDS TWO TO THE NEXT LEVEL

The Hurricanes had a strong season on the diamond, winning 10 games, including an all-out pitching duel with Marathon. The team made it all the way to the FHSAA 3A District 16 semifinals. Two athletes, Zeke Myers and Grayden Ross, signed to continue their careers at the next level. Myers was recruited by Freed-Hardeman University and Ross signed his letter of intent with Columbia International University.

Zeke Myers & Grayden Ross. JOY SMITH/Keys Weekly

Key West’s competitive cheer squad earned a trip to states after a strong showing at regionals. CONTRIBUTED

KEYS’ ONLY COMPETITIVE CHEER SQUAD REPRESENTS AT STATES

Coach Ariana Corsi and the Key West competitive cheer team hit their moves at regionals to secure an at-large bid to the state championship meet in Lakeland. The Lady Conchs placed seventh in the small, non-tumbling division with a difficult performance they perfected throughout the season. Though all three public high schools have cheerleading squads, only Key West has an FHSAA-sanctioned competition team which goes head-to-head against other squads as they are judged in areas such as stunting, choreography and crowd appeal.

UPPER KEYS LEGEND UNRETIRES HIS WHISTLE

When Coral Shores found itself without a baseball coach last spring, it didn’t take long to find a perfect fit for the job. Tony Hammon has been a fixture in Upper Keys sports since 1972, when he became Coral Shores’ second-ever baseball coach. In 1974, he started Island Christian School and the following year started sports there as well. Hammon coached baseball, football, basketball and soccer at some point or another in his long career, hanging up his whistle six years ago for what he thought would be a quiet retirement. That is, until 2024, when his community needed him to fill a role for which he was uniquely qualified. Hammon will continue on as an assistant coach this season, explaining that “It’s a lot harder to run a practice at 75 than it is in your 20s.”

Tony Hammon. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

CONCH LACROSSE DOES A 180

After winning just two games one season earlier, Conchs head coach Alberto Piceno and the Key West boys lacrosse team turned things around. The team finished the season 11-4, winning over 60% of their faceoffs and scoring 137 goals in 2024. Senior standout Mack Hill signed on to further his career at Quincy University.

After leading his team to an 11-4 ﬁnish, senior star Mack Hill will continue his career at Quincy University. MARK HEDDEN/Keys Weekly

FINS CLAIM FIRST CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP

According to head coach Joey Gonzalez, the Marathon Dolphins entered the South Florida Baseball Conference roughly 17 years ago, when Miami Country Day School founded it. The conference is composed of eight to 10 non-recruiting teams across South Florida, and prior to the 2024 season, Marathon had made it to the finals four other times, though a title eluded them. The fifth time was a charm for Gonzalez and the Dolphins, as they finally won the conference cup after an impressive 18-6 season which culminated in pitcher Dylan Ziels signing to Palm Beach State after a stellar high school career at Marathon.

The 2024 Marathon Dolphins ﬁnally broke through a formidable barrier to end their season as conference champions. CONTRIBUTED

ROSS EARNS HONORS PAIRING ATHLETICS WITH ACADEMICS

Mikkel Ross was one of Marathon’s most decorated athletes, making state appearances in cross country, weightlifting and track and field. But Ross’ prowess did not end with her athletic gifts; she excelled in the classroom, too. Ross was selected as one of just 24 student-athletes across the state to be awarded with the Florida Dairy Farmers Academic All-State Team, a prestigious recognition program run in tandem with the FHSAA. Ross is the fifth Marathon athlete in four years to earn the award.

Mikkel Ross. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

TOMMY ROBERTS GETS REVAMP

BASILICA ADDS VARSITY PROGRAMS

2024 marked the first year since Island Christian School closed its doors that the Keys had four varsity teams in a sport. After successful junior varsity campaigns at Basilica School with their volleyball and basketball programs, the Mariners added a fourth Monroe County team to girls volleyball and boys basketball, with plans in the works for more as the school expands.

The Basilica School Mariners celebrate an earned point against Key West in early September. MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys Weekly

Opened in 1955, Key West’s football stadium went unnamed until it found a worthy namesake. In 1988, after the passing of the beloved principal Tommy Roberts, the field had its moniker. Roberts taught and coached at Key West High for over 30 years, finally landing his dream job as principal but tragically passing away in his first year at the helm. Key West High athletics historian Judd Wise called Roberts “infectiously positive and the dream administrator” due to Roberts’ dedication to the job. The stadium, long in need of refurbishment, got just that, reopening in 2024 with new bleachers capable of seating 3,100 loyal fans as well as new locker rooms, grass, goalposts and a training facility. The press box and concession stand are now expansive and state-ofthe-art, giving the Conchs a home stadium they can be proud of.

Then: Tommy Roberts Memorial Stadium takes shape in 1955. DON PINDER/Contributed

HURRICANES CLINCH FIFC TITLE

Coral Shores football had one of the greatest seasons in school history, winning eight games and securing the Florida Independent Football Conference. Senior AJ Putetti crossed into the end zone 22 times, the most in the Keys in 2024, and accumulated 1,973 all-purpose yards, 1,288 of which were on the ground. The seniorladen squad also managed to stretch the Hurricanes’ Battle of the Keys total win margin to 30-25 in their favor.

Coral Shores senior AJ Putetti racked up 1,973 yards under the lights this fall.

DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

HOLLY NAMED TO ELITE ROSTER

Coral Shores’ gridiron great Eddie Holly earned one of the most prestigious honors bestowed upon a high school football player when he was selected to the Florida Athletic Coaches Association (FACA) All-Star Team. Holly was chosen for his stellar performance on the field in 2024 and became only the second Monroe County player in history to take the field in the FACA All-Star Game, which was held in the Villages. Players need to be nominated by their region, then are voted on to make the cut. Holly racked up 134 total tackles in 2024, 22 of which were for a loss.

Eddie Holly. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

| Now: The revamped stadium reopened in 2024. CONTRIBUTED

FIGHTING CONCHS CLAIM PLAYOFF VICTORY

After a pair of early-season losses, the Conchs found themselves in an uphill battle to make it to the FHSAA 3A playoffs, but that’s just what they did. Key West surpassed several milestones on their trek toward the postseason, including win number 400 for the program and number 70 for head coach Johnny Hughes. The Fighting Conchs won their first playoff game since 1995 and ended with an 8-4 record, their best in a decade. Senior Jaden Fox had 21 touchdowns, leading the Conchs with 1,731 rushing yards and scoring an incredible 132 points for Key West, while fellow senior Jayden Gist reeled in five interceptions in 2024.

Jayden Gist, left, and Jaden Fox. MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys Weekly

MARATHON MAKES WAVES IN RURAL DIVISION

Marathon moved to the 1A Rural classification in 2024 and would have made the playoffs had a pair of storms not pared down the bracketing. Senior Fabbianho Louis Jeune racked up 1,131 yards and found himself second in Rural in field goals made and total points scored. He was third in total kicking points and extra points. The volleyball team also benefited from the reclassification, making it to the district championship match in their first season playing in the new division.

Marathon’s volleyball team made their mark in the rural classiﬁcation, earning a trip to the district championship. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

LADY ’CANES GO ON A RAMPAGE

Coral Shores’ volleyball team had a standout season, finishing 12-2 in 2024. The team was without a coach during the preseason, but once Jarrod Mandozzi picked up the reins, they did not lose a single match in August or September, going on an 11-game win streak that did not end until the ’Canes faced larger Key West in early October.

The Lady Hurricanes brought home nothing but Ws in August and September, ripping oﬀ an 11-game win streak to start the season. CONTRIBUTED

In just his ﬁrst year in the sport, Aaron Lykins made it all the way to states after claiming district gold in diving. DOUG FINGER/ Keys Weekly

’CANES’ DREAM TEAM MAKES STATE APPEARANCE

Coral Shores sent five aquatic athletes to the state competition this season. Layne Smith, Abbie Sargent, Allegra Fucaraccio and Sofia Figueredo worked together to form a formidable relay team, while Aaron Lykins represented the Hurricanes in the 1-meter diving competition.

Allegra Fucaraccio and Olivia Figueredo formed the Hurri-

fearsome foursome that earned a shot at the state meet. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

MARATHON CROSS COUNTRY EXTENDS STREAK

In 15 years as Marathon’s head cross country coach, Jim Murphy has transformed the school’s program into one of the best in the state. In 2024, Marathon’s boys and girls teams both qualified for the state championships – the seventh consecutive appearance for the girls and 10th for the boys. Murphy announced recently that he is stepping down from the position, marking the end of an era at Marathon High School.

Caylaa Makimaa, left, and Naima Thomas are Key West’s ﬁrst duo to individually qualify for the state meet in a single year. CONTRIBUTED

KEY WEST CROSS COUNTRY MAKES A STATEMENT

In the past few seasons, Key West’s girls cross country team has been steadily improving, much to the credit of head coach Keara McGraw and a solid core of dedicated athletes willing to go the extra mile to reach a goal. This season, two athletes earned an at-large bid to the state meet for the first time in school history. Caylaa Makimaa and Naima Thomas represented the Conchs in Tallahassee, finishing their senior season at the highest level and reaching their preseason goals.

BURSA RUNS DOWN A DREAM

Dolphin distance specialist Vance Bursa already had multiple years of state appearances, a state medal and a 7 Mile Bridge Run win prior to toeing the line at the FHSA 1A State Cross Country Championships in November, where he claimed ninth place and a PR of 16:05 – just six seconds off Jonathan Pitchford’s school record set in 2018. But he didn’t stop there; Bursa was invited to the Garmin Nationals in Alabama, where he competed against the best 18-and-under runners in the nation. There, he finished in the top 100, crossing in 15:46, making him the fastest Dolphin on land.

Layne Smith, left, Abbie Sargent,

canes’

Under the leadership of coach Jim Murphy, pictured in black, small-town teams from Marathon have earned their stripes at the state level in cross country. RICK MACKENZIE/Contributed

Vance Bursa takes a trip to the podium after a ninthplace ﬁnish at states. RICK MACKENZIE/Contributed

ALMANAC | Dec. 26

On this day: In 1776, a er staging a surprise a ack, George Washington and the Con nental Army scored a major upset victory over the Bri sh in the Ba le of Trenton.

In The Bleachers

News of the Weird

A Laysan albatro named Wisdom, who lives at the Midway Ato Na onal Wildlife Refuge, laid what experts believe to be her 60th e recently, her rst in four years. Wisdom is 74 years old, the A ociated Pre reported on Dec. 6. Laysan albatro es mate for life; Wisdom’s mate, Akeakamai, has not b n s n for several years, and Wisdom started ste ing out with another male. “We are op mis c that the e wi hatch,” said Jonathan Pli ner, supervisory wildlife biologist at the refuge. E s typica y incubate for about two months.

Adam

Brevity

In 1966, the pan-African holiday Kwanz , founded by profe or Maulana Karenga, was celebrated for the rst me.

FACT

Despite its impact in the Colonies, the Ba le of Trenton was fought by rela vely sma numbers on both sides -- an es mated 2,400 Con nental Army soldiers defeated the 1,500-strong Bri sh/He ian ga ison.

Adam Brevity

Nancy

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING

MONROE COUNTY

CONTRACTORS EXAMINING

BOARD

MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

Notice is Hereby Given To Whom it may concern, that on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 the Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (CEB) will hold a scheduled meeting at the Marathon Government Center, 2798 Overseas Highway, Second Floor, BOCC Room, Marathon, Florida scheduled to commence at 9:30 A.M. This meeting is to hear the following: any person(s) to come before the board; any reports from Monroe County Assistant Attorney; any reports from Monroe County Building Official; any reports from Staff.

The Monroe County Contractors Examining Board (“CEB”) will review Certificate of Competency Trade applications and the Industry Input Section. All public participation in this meeting may be conducted via Communication Media Technology (“CMT”) using Zoom Webinar platform, during the scheduled meeting. Meeting Agenda and Zoom Webinar information is available 7 days prior to meeting date on the Monroe County Web Calendar and the Contractors Examining Board webpage: www.monroecounty-fl.gov

PURSUANT TO FLORIDA

STATUTE SECTION 286.0105, be advised that, if a person decides to appeal the decision made by the Contractors’ Examining Board with respect to any matter considered at today’s hearing, that person will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, 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.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special recommendations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator's Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441,

between the hours of 8:30

a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”.

NOTICE: It shall be the responsibility of each Respondent or other person addressing the Board to have an interpreter if the party is not able to understand or speak the English language. Rick Griffin, Building Official/ Board Secretary Jamie Gross, Senior Contractor Licensing Coordinator – CEB Board Monroe County Building Department Publish: December 26, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Key Largo Transfer Station New Storage Building Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at https://monroecounty-fl. bonfirehub.com OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request. Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Emailed/ mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted. The Monroe County Purchasing

Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https:// monroecounty-fl.bonfirehub. com, no later than 3:00 P.M., on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. In the event of a discrepancy between the bid amount on the Proposal Form and the bid amount entered in Bonfire, the bid amount listed in the “Proposal Form” provided by Monroe County in the RFP is the amount that will be utilized by the County when considering the bid proposal. The County reserves the right to waive any proposal/bid irregularity. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom.

us/j/4509326156

Meeting ID: 4509326156

One tap mobile:

+16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: December 26, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

Eﬀective December 4, 2024 Barbara Socha, M.D. is no longer practicing with Baptist Health Primary Care at the following location: 91550 Overseas Highway, Suite 215 Tavernier, FL 33070.

Patients who wish to receive copies of their medical records may log into our patient portal at myBaptistHealth.net, call 305-434-3205 or fax 786-260-0512 to request a records release.

Publish: December 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2024 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 1:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: Long Key Transfer Station New Storage Building Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at bonfirehub.comhttps://monroecounty-fl. OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request. Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Emailed/ mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted. The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https:// monroecounty-fl.bonfirehub. com, no later than 1:00 P.M., on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. In the event of a discrepancy between the bid amount on the Proposal Form and the bid amount entered in Bonfire, the bid amount listed in the “Proposal Form” provided by Monroe County in the RFP is the amount that will be utilized by the County when considering the bid proposal. The County reserves the right to waive any proposal/bid irregularity.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 1:00 P.M., on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156

Meeting ID: 4509326156

One tap mobile:

+16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York)

+16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location:

+1 646 518 9805 US (New York)

+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

Publish: December 26, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 10:00 A.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following:

Cudjoe Key Transfer Station New Storage Building Monroe County, Florida Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from the County’s electronic bidding platform at bonfirehub.comhttps://monroecounty-fl. OR www. monroecounty-fl.gov/ BonfireBids. The Public Record is available upon request. Monroe County Purchasing Department receives bids via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform. Please do not email, mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Emailed/ mailed/physically delivered bids/proposals/responses WILL NOT be accepted. The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via the Bonfire electronic bidding platform at https:// monroecounty-fl.bonfirehub. com, no later than 10:00A.M. on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. There is no cost to the bidder to use the Bonfire platform. Please do not submit your confidential financial information as part of your proposal. There are separate uploads for each set of documents, including confidential financial information. All proposals will be made public on the platform after an intended decision or 30 days, whichever is earlier, unless the bids/proposals are rejected in accordance with F.S. 119.071. If your proposal document includes financial information, that information will not be considered confidential and will be available and viewable to the public in accordance with public records law. In the event of a discrepancy between the bid amount on the Proposal Form and the bid amount entered in Bonfire, the bid amount listed in the “Proposal Form” provided by Monroe County in the RFP is the amount that will be utilized by the County when considering the bid proposal. The County reserves the right to waive any proposal/bid irregularity. The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 10:00 A.M., on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156

Meeting ID: 4509326156

One tap mobile: +16465189805,,4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,,4509326156# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

Publish: December 26, 2024

The Weekly Newspapers

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

AUTOS FOR SALE

1964 Ford Galaxy, 427 Big Block, 5-speed, located in Key Largo. $49,000 954445-6647

EMPLOYMENT

Office Assistant needed in the Upper Keys, MM 80. Mon-Sat $20/hour. Must have own transportation. Call Patti 305-393-4433

Secretary/ Receptionist needed in Key Largo, MM104. Full-time, M-F, must have customer service experience. Call 305-916-5645 or Email admin@bluehorizonfl.com

Hiring: Lead Gutter

Installer - EXPERIENCE

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

Marathon Yacht Club is hiring 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.

Night Monitor – FREE Private Room in exchange for overnight availability at our Assisted Living Facility. 5 nights on, 5 nights off 10pm-8am plus weekly stipend, Drug & background screen required. www.westcare. com/join-our-team/

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, 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

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

PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD FOR ONLY $25/WEEK FOR UP TO 5 LINES OF COPY. CALL 305-743-0844 TODAY!

HOBBIES/COLLECT.

PRIVATE COLLECTOR

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

HOUSING FOR RENT

2 BR / 1 BA unfurnished apartment for rent in Key Largo. $1,500/ month includes utilities. F/L/S Please Text: 786559-5494 or Email: apmz57@yahoo.com

Studio with Queen size bed available in Marathon. Furnished, kitchen, dining, newly renovated. No pets. $1,299 + utilities F/L/S 305-610-8002

2 BR/2BA unfurn. apt. for rent in Key Largo. W/D $1,600/monthall utilities included. F/L/S 305-504-1757 RENTED IN LESS THAN ONE MONTH!!!

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

STORAGE AVAIL.

Gated

LIVE IN PARADISE AND SEE DOLPHINS PLAY EVERYDAY!

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER is a fun, environmentally friendly non-profit 501(c)(3) Corporation specializing in education, research, and rescue of marine mammals.

We have the following openings available. Please scan the QR code to visit the careers page on our website.

FACILITIES MAINTENANCE APPRENTICE

(Full-Time, Permanent)

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

(Full-Time, Part-Time, Permanent)

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER

(The position is for one year initially, with a possibility of renewal contingent on performance and mutual satisfaction.)

DRC seeks to provide for the well-being of its employees by offering a competitive total package. DRC currently offers a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays, vacation, sick and an employee assistance program. DRC also provides life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee.

COME JOIN THE FAMILY!

Email your resume and a DRC application to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER

58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL

Teaching... Learning... Caring

SYSTEMS ANALYST HARDWARE

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.

AUTO DIESEL VEHICLE TECHNICIAN

Starting

KEYS is

KEYS

Certain

The Moorings Village is seeking friendly, self motivated, team players for the position:

FRONT DESK

Competitive salary and great bene ts. Previous hospitality experience required. Weekends are a must. Job Types: Full-time

Please email your resume to Sara@MooringsVillage.com or call the reception o ce at 305.664.4708

Hospital

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

APPRENTICE AUTO MECHANIC

Starting

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.

resume to: turtlehospital@turtlehospital.org

JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 52 YEARS!

We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.

KEY LARGO

Lead Certiﬁed Recovery Peer Support Specialist Peer Support Specialist Advocate (PT, FT)

KEY WEST

Case Manager (Adult, Child)

Prevention Specialist (HIV & Children)

MARATHON

Care Coordinator (PT)

Driver – PT (CDL not required)

RN/Licensed Practical Nurse (FT/PT) Advocate (PT)

Prevention Specialist

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

*Support Worker (Assisted Living, PT)

*Night Monitor (Assisted Living - Free Housing)

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

Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP COMPETITIVE

EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Apply at guidancecarecenter.org

Search Employment/Portal/Location/zip THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

OPENINGS AVAILABLE

PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS

- Medical Assistant 1, Upper Keys Internal Medicine, $5k Bonus

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

- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN-PA-C), BHMG Multispecialty, Marathon, $5k Bonus

- Medical Assistant 2, General Surgery, Upper Keys, $5k Bonus

MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST

- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN/PA-C), Medical Oncology Key West-MCI, $5k Bonus

- Patient Access Associate 2, Operation Support Key West-MCI, $1K Bonus

- Medical Assistant 1, Medical Oncology Key West -MCI, $5k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Chemotherapy Infusion, Fl Keys-MCI, $15k Bonus

- Clinical Pharmacist, Key West-MCI, $5k Bonus

- Radiation Therapist, Key West-MCI, $12k Bonus

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Cook, Dietary

- Group Exercise Instructor, Mariners Wellness Center

- Mechanic 3, Facility Operations

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

- 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

- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, Radiology, $25k Bonus

- Patient Access Associate 1, Gastro, Tavernier, $1k Bonus

- Registered Nurse Utilization Review, Case Management, Part Time, Weekend Days

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- ED Team Coordinator 1, Emergency Department

- Experience Advisor, Patient Experience

- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (CT & X Ray) Radiology, $50k Bonus

- Radiology Technologist 1, Radiology, $40k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, $15k Bonus

- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech 1, (Mammo & X Ray) Radiology, $50k Bonus

- Pool RN, Emergency Department, PD

Upper Keys Weekly 24-1226

Not Feeling Retirement Ready? Six Painless Ways to Beef Up Your Account.

5. Make Retirement Real

1. Act Small to Save Big

2. Automate Retirement Contributions

4. Invest Windfalls in Your Future

6. Identify the Meaning Behind Your Retirement Goals

360 million

TOP STORIES OF 2024

Tavernier supermarket-workforce housing project garners attention

MONROE COUNTY COMMISSION GREENLIGHTS BUILDING RIGHT REQUEST, EVACUATION TIME CHANGE

Future

Florida Keys in the hands of state Legislature

Community rallies to save squirrel hit with a blow dart

Longtime judge retires

ANOTHER ROLLER-COASTER YEAR IN ISLAMORADA

Ethics violations, a visit from the FBI and infrastructure among the headlines

Islamorada council chooses Rob Cole as village manager

Ethics complaint against Pinder dismissed

FBI pays a visit to Islamorada

KEYS TO SURVIVAL

Researchers

Shakeups in the Sanctuary

MONROE COUNTY YEAR IN REVIEW

Indictments & replacements mark

2024

No

Mosquito

Christine Hurley gets top job

Tourism turmoil

CONNECTIONS PROJECT SHOWCASES KEYS ART & CULTURE

Event series launches Jan. 8 and runs through April

ARTISTS & SUPPORTERS CONVENE FOR A HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

2024 CRIME & COURT NEWS

Deputy gets arrested; feds bust cocaine ring

OTHER NOTABLE STORIES

ONLY IN THE FLORIDA KEYS

Habitual traffic offender flees troopers, jumps off Seven Mile Bridge

Error sends 35,000 false tax bills from the mainland to Monroe County

SUPERIOR SNAPS

CHECK OUT THAT COVER

Community members grace the front page

COMING TO YOUR TELEVISION SET

Feature highlights

Pawsitive Beginning’s work in

Monroe County

REEF THE FOX

PETEY

THE SPIRIT OF THE MURRAY NELSON BUILDING

TIME FLIES

Expect bigger, better stories in upcoming books

OPEN MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Room Nail Bar : Where Beauty Meets Comfort

Other

SIMPLY INCREDIBLE

The heartwarming side of the headlines in 2024

WARRIORS HIT THE HIGHWAY

COUNTY CONFIRMS RL COLINA AS ACTING FIRE CHIEF

Callahan to retire in early 2025

MOST-READ POSTS OF 2024

YEAR AHEAD HOROSCOPES

ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

RESTORING MORE THAN THE REEF

2 FLORIDA KEYS IMAGES CAPTURE 1ST-PLACE HONORS

Photos showcase marine life & the Milky Way galaxy

HABITAT HONORS CHRIS TRENTINE FOR 10 YEARS OF SERVICE

Construction owner helps build homes for single families

TRY ’N’ FIND

Show Me Missouri

MISSOURI IN HISTORY

FAMOUS MISSOURIANS

COMPLICATED PAST

LIVING IN MISSOURI