Marathon Weekly 25-0116

“Let

FLIPPERED FRIENDS

Wounded Warriors meet dolphins | P.10

THIRSTY KEY DEER?

New study explores water sources | P.12

Jan. 16, 2025

NONSENSICAL NUPTIALS

‘Always a Bridesmaid’ opens at MCT | P.16

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The Islands of Islamorada is a meticulously designed enclave offering waterfront single-family residences. With every comfort considered, this residence exudes coastal living with four bedrooms, four and one-half bathrooms, and stunning ocean views. The three-floor villa offers 3,137 sq ft of interior and 930 sq ft of exterior contemporary island architecture with an open, airy, and light-filled design. Three bedrooms are king-sized with en-suite bathrooms; the fourth is a bunk or twin room. Residence amenities include a top-of-the-line kitchen, open-concept kitchen, dining, and living spaces, elevator, a powder room, ample closets, two oceanfront balconies, a ground floor waterfront loggia, a laundry room, 8 ft interior doors, and a 2-car garage with electric charging and added storage. This turn-key home is maintenance-free, providing the possibility of passive income. The safe and secure environment within the club allows for effortless multigenerational vacations with a gated entry and attentive staff. The property delivers a luxurious experience with its 615 ft of pristine crescent-shaped swimming beach and a private boat basin with ample dockage. Enjoy two oceanfront pools, an oceanfront bar, and pickleball courts for some friendly competition. Surrounded by lush, mature landscaping, this offering provides a plethora of water activities, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the Keys lifestyle.

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Marathon, FL 33050

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According to a report by Forbes, the Food and Drug Administration will ban the use of artificial food coloring Red No. 3. Manufacturers who use the dye in food or medications will have until Jan. 15, 2027 or Jan. 18, 2028, respectively, to reformulate their products. Roughly 2,800 items on American shelves contain the dye.

MARATHON CITY COUNCIL BEGINS 2025 WITH AWARDS APLENTY

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

Awards and service recognitions highlighted an otherwise-brief first Marathon City Council session of 2025 on Jan. 14.

A Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service proclamation presented to Rev. Larry White of St. Paul AME Church opened the evening, followed by recognition of Special Olympics weightlifters Cindy Augustin and Alex Chavala. The Marathon High School duo secured state championship medals in November after posting personal-best lifts at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in Orlando, qualifying them for consideration as participants in the June 2026 Special Olympics national meet in Minnesota.

Fire chief James Muro recognized 10-year Marathon Fire Rescue veteran Chris Cameron, who began volunteering with the department in 2009

She may be the single one of the bunch, but Charlie (Dion Watson) still needs some convincing to make ‘hot monkey love’ with a suggested suitor in ‘Always a Bridesmaid,’ taking the stage at Marathon Community Theatre. See page 16. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

responder when a patient makes a full recovery from a cardiac arrest or near cardiac arrest event and is released from a hospital.

“Joe is a lead instructor and the designer of our system for EMT training and our paramedic program,” Muro said. “Agencies throughout the county come to our city to become paramedics and EMTs, and that’s something that makes us very proud.

“An understatement of service is saying that Joe is a great employee –he’s an exceptional employee.”

Kayak launch delayed

Residents of the 109th and 110th Street neighborhoods will need to wait longer for a promised install of a neighborhood kayak launch, pledged by the council after a controversial right-of-way abandonment removed access to an existing boat ramp last year.

before securing a full-time position in 2014. In addition to serving as the chair of the firefighters pension board, Cameron leads the department’s cadet program, conducting early-morning sessions with Marathon High School students to develop their skills, drive recruitment and expose them to the teamwork and realities of work as a first responder.

“Chris is a spectacular mix of interesting pieces,” Muro said, touting Cameron’s breadth and depth of skills and historical knowledge offered to the department. “We’re a customer service business and human business, and he’s an indelible piece of that.”

Muro also recognized 20-year veteran Capt. Joe Forcine, calling him “one of the most impressive people I’ve had a chance to work with in my entire career.”

Beginning as a firefighter/EMT in 1994, Forcine began working with Marathon in 2004. He has amassed 23 Phoenix awards, given to a first

In July 2024, area residents protested the abandonment of the ramp two months earlier. Though city staff told the council in May that the ramp was already privately owned and excluded from the area to be abandoned, diagrams showing the proposed abandonment appeared to include the ramp as part of the abandoned property. Council members later acknowledged the confusion in July, promising to construct a safer kayak launch on the remaining city property at a projected cost of more than $200,000.

Following Tuesday’s discussion, that install will now wait until Mara-

“I don’t want to jump the gun on this one and do something we might regret, but I would like to see a lot of these street ends developed into something like pocket parks for these neighborhoods so a lot of the dry-lot homes would have access to the water.”

— Mayor Lynn Landry.

Fire Chief James Muro, City Manager George Garrett and the Marathon City Council honor Marathon Fire Rescue veteran Chris Cameron for 10 years of service on Jan. 14. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

UPPER KEYS SIBLING MURDER TRIAL BEGINS IN KEY WEST COURTROOM

A horrific day is relived as the dad of slain son testifies

JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com

Dressed in a blue suit coat, Daniel Weisberger entered a Key West courtroom on Jan. 14. His ankle chains clanged as he proceeded to a table where his two defense attorneys sat.

Before taking his seat, Weisberger took a moment and peered out at the gallery. He saw his father, Ari, and his grandparents. They exchanged a “hello” through a wave. Weisberger put his hands together, similar to a prayer gesture, and proceeded to take a seat. Day one of Weisberger’s murder trial was about to begin before Circuit Judge Mark Jones.

“It’s the first time you and I met in person,” Jones said to Weisberger. Circuit Court Judge Luis Garcia presided over the case before his retirement last November. The case was assigned to Jones after it was initially set to begin last fall at the Plantation Key Courthouse in the Upper Keys.

Weisberger is facing counts of second-degree murder, first-degree attempted murder and false imprisonment from an incident that shattered a family — and a community — more than four years ago on May 7, 2020. According to prosecutors, Daniel Weisberger stabbed his younger brother, then-14-year-old Pascal, to death in a bedroom they shared at their Executive Bay home in Islamorada during the early morning hours. Prosecutors say Daniel also attacked his father, Ari Poholek, shortly afterward, stabbing him in the neck and strangling him. Daniel eventually fled the scene; a

“unrestrained passion or ungovernable anger isn’t insanity.”

“He knew what he was doing,” Dunne said, alluding to a note found in Daniel’s pocket explaining the reasons behind the acts.

Defense counsel Diane Ward and Ed O’Donnell waived their opening statements, saying they would wait until the prosecution rested its case. From there, the prosecution began by calling several witnesses throughout the morning. The first was a neighbor to Ari and his kids at Executive Bay Club. Appearing visibly emotional, he recounted the events unfolding during the early morning hours of May 7, 2020, including the moment a severely-injured Poholek banged on his door seeking help.

For years, Ari Poholek has fought against the Monroe County State Attorney’s decision to charge his son Daniel as an adult. He said his son had a psychotic break as he attacked Pascal and himself, a result of physical and emotional abuse he endured as a child and inadequate mental health system to help him overcome the challenges.

massive hunt ensued by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and neighboring agencies in Miami-Dade County.

Some 12 hours later, Weisberger was seen running into oncoming traffic on U.S. 1 not far from Executive Bay Club. He was treated and taken to Ryder Trauma Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami. From there, he was taken to the county jail and eventually placed into Department of Children and Families care so he could obtain the necessary mental health treatment. Questions ensued over whether he was competent to stand trial; the court declared Daniel incompetent to stand trial in 2022 following a series of psychological and neurological examinations. By July 2023, Daniel was deemed competent to stand trial.

Jurors weren’t in the courtroom on Jan. 14, after an agreement among attorneys and the court to proceed with a bench trial. In addition to presiding over the trial, Jones will consider the facts of the case, apply the law and determine whether or not Daniel is guilty of the charges.

After the defense presented a few minor items to Jones, including giving Poholek a chance to visit with his son Daniel, the prosecution delivered opening statements. Monroe County Assistant State Attorney Colleen Dunne said the case involves a young man with a “wide variety of behavior problems, aggressive and rule making behaviors” who “harbored his anger and resentment for his father, brother and mother.” Dunne also addressed the defense’s pursuit for a plea of not guilty by reason of insanity, stating his

Monroe County Sheriff’s deputy Nestor Argote and Sgt. Vaughn O’Keefe were the next two to take the stand. Argote, who was the first on scene, recounted his interaction with the neighbor and his efforts to secure the area. He noted the front door to Poholek’s residence was locked, but a back door was ajar, where Daniel supposedly escaped. Argote’s body camera video showed the moments as he entered the residence.

O’Keefe was the first deputy to respond to Daniel after he ran into a truck on U.S. 1 on the evening of May 7, 2020. His body camera video was also shown in the courtroom.

Dunne then called Poholek to the stand. For years, Poholek has fought against the Monroe County State Attorney’s decision to charge his son Daniel as an adult. He said his son had a psychotic break as he attacked Pascal and himself, a result of physical and emotional abuse he endured as a child

and inadequate mental health system to help him overcome the challenges. While Pascal’s death was a tragedy beyond comprehension, Poholek has said that long-term imprisonment for Daniel will only lead to the lives of both boys being destroyed.

Inside the courtroom, Dunne and Poholek sparred throughout the morning over the events unfolding before and during the attack. Specifically, Dunne and Poholek went back and forth over a confrontation the day before among Daniel, Pascal and Poholek. Dunne also pressed Poholek related to Daniel’s statements during the attack.

Following a lunch break, Poholek returned to the stand for more testimony. He was eventually let off the stand following the intense back-andforth.

Poholek said he noticed the troubling behavior from Daniel before the attack and told Daniel’s therapist and case worker with the state Department of Children & Families about his mental health issues.

The trial resumed on Jan. 15 as more testimony was heard from witnesses. Once the prosecution rests its case, the defense will provide opening statements and call witnesses. Weisberger is being held at the county jail on Stock Island throughout the trial.

Father Ari Poholek with sons Daniel, left, and Pascal in 2017. A love for scouting was shared among Poholek and his sons as a way to learn, play and experience things together. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

Daniel Weisberger

A 40-member cycling crew takes on ‘the hump’ on the Seven Mile Bridge as part of Wounded Warrior Project’s 2025 Florida Keys Soldier Ride. ANDY NEWMAN/Florida Keys News Bureau

A relaxing day in the water at Dolphin Research Center puts smiles on the faces of veterans and their families to conclude the 2025 Florida Keys Soldier Ride. ROSS SMITH/Keys Weekly

TAKE IN THE VIEW,THEN TAKE THE PLUNGE

Wounded Warriors conquer Seven Mile Bridge, meet dolphins for 2025 Soldier Ride

After taking in views of turquoise waters in the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico from the iconic Seven Mile Bridge on Jan. 10, more than 40 injured military veterans and their families returned to the Middle Keys two days later for an up-close-and-personal visit with the ocean’s most gregarious residents at Dolphin Research Center.

Beginning the annual Wounded Warrior Project’s Florida Keys Soldier Ride with a cycle through the Upper Keys earlier in the day, Friday’s ride in Marathon began with a cheering crowd of flagwavers giving the vets a sendoff as they rode through town to the Seven Mile Bridge. On Saturday, the riders joined Key West community members for a patriotic ride around the Southernmost City.

The flippered pod at Grassy Key’s Dolphin Research Center gave a fond farewell to the warriors on Sunday after half a day of in-water dolphin interactions, from flipper shakes to kisses, splash fights and a gentle ride through the water while holding the mammals’ dorsal fins.

Engaging directly with dolphins helped participants momentarily forget about their injuries, and for many it was a dream come true.

For retired U.S. Marine Corp. Staff Sgt. Kemmini Washington, who was severely injured during his last tour in Iraq, which ended his military career in 2007, the chance to participate and interact

SUPPORT FOX MEETS WOUNDED WARRIOR CYCLISTS

with dolphins was a highlight of his continuing recovery.

“Once they come around and you get to feel and touch the dolphins, it takes you into a different mindset, which is completely off of what you're going through on a day-to-day basis,” Washington said. “So that experience today was life-changing.”

For Washington, involvement in the Wounded Warrior Project program has meant a long but incredibly successful recovery of his ability to walk again.

“The different things, different transitions, different opportunities have not only been instrumental in regaining the full ability and the use of my legs, but mentally as well,” he said. “I went down a dark path and didn't want to be on this side of the world anymore, but due to those programs, it has helped me tremendously.”

The team at Dolphin Research Center looks forward to providing the experience every year at the conclusion of the Wounded Warrior Soldier Ride. The facility’s co-founder and chief operating officer, Armando “Mandy” Rodriguez, is himself a Vietnam veteran.

“It's one of the ways that we can say thank you and help these warriors come back into life here after battle,” said Rita Irwin, president and CEO of Dolphin Research Center. “So it's a very emotional day that's gratifying to us.”

— Contributed

Courage comes in all shapes and species

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.”

On Jan. 10, Pawsitive Beginnings’ very own Kai the fox stepped into the spotlight as he helped kick off the Wounded Warrior Project Soldier Ride in the Florida Keys.

The event, which began at the VFW Post in Key Largo, brought together veterans, supporters and community members for a powerful weekend of camaraderie. And in the midst of it all was Kai — an unlikely but perfect addition to the occasion.

For those who may not know, Kai’s early life was marked by trauma on a fur farm, where he lost his tail before being rescued. Today, he lives a life of luxury with me here at Pawsitive Beginnings.

From the moment Kai arrived at the event, he had everyone’s attention. It’s not every day you see a fox at a cycling event, after all. Veterans and attendees were intrigued by his presence. Many paused to meet Kai, learn his story and snap a few selfies

with him. His calm demeanor made him a natural at connecting with people, and he quickly became a highlight of the morning.

“Many of the Wounded Warrior bicyclists chatted and engaged with Nicole Navarro and her beautifully peaceful support fox before heading out on their challenging journey,” said John Donnelly, a Purple Heart veteran, Wounded Warrior rider, and trustee at VFW Post 10211 in Key Largo.

The Wounded Warrior Ride is all about honoring the strength and sacrifices of our nation’s veterans while bringing the community together to support their ongoing journeys of recovery. Having Kai at the starting line underscored this mission in a unique and heartwarming way. His presence bridged the gap between human and animal stories of survival, showing that courage comes in all shapes, sizes and species.

As the cyclists embarked on their ride through the stunning Florida Keys, they did so with the knowledge that they were not alone in their fight for healing and hope. Warriors come in all forms, and on this day, Kai stood proudly among them.

Anywho, that’s all for this week. Stay up to date on all things fox by visiting my website at pawsitivebeginnings.org. Until next time, Reef, over and out!

Nicole Navarro and Kai the fox meet riders in Key Largo on Jan. 10. CONTRIBUTED

NOT A DROP TO DRINK

NEW KEY DEER RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS DWINDLING FRESH WATER SOURCES

JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com

Key deer, the smallest subspecies of white-tailed deer in North America, are emblematic of the Florida Keys. The endearing creatures are miniature versions of their larger counterparts, captivating onlookers with their tiny stature and friendly demeanor.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Key deer were once poached almost to extinction and in 1967 were put on the endangered species list, where they remain today. Although the Key deer population has somewhat stabilized, with an estimated 700 to 800 currently living in the Lower Keys, the threat of extinction continues to haunt these delicate creatures.

Since its inception in 2017, Save Our Key Deer (SOKD) has been a prominent force in the ongoing battle to safeguard and preserve the iconic Key deer. SOKD has funded crucial research undertaken by local scientists, highlighting the details of the Key deer’s fragile habitat.

A recent peer-reviewed article published in the Journal for Nature Conservation has revealed a disturbing trend: The deer are becoming increasingly domesticated due to a critical shortage of clean drinking water. This development, coupled with other threats such as the encroachment of rising sea levels, the effect of hurricanes and the unpredictability of seasons, continues to endanger the species’ existence.

SOKD embarked on a multiyear investigation to determine the severity of freshwater scarcity affecting the vulnerable Key deer population. The comprehensive study examined 89 freshwater holes, spanning the archipelago from the southernmost reaches of Sugarloaf Key to the northernmost shores of Big Pine Key.

The project yielded valuable insights, SOKD president Valerie Preziosi said, shedding light on the challenges confronting the Key deer and providing crucial information for guiding future management strategies and enhancing their prospects for long-term survival.

Key deer possess a critical adaptation to survive in the Keys’ island chain: a remarkable ability to thrive on water with elevated salt concentrations, honed by their existence within this distinctive geographical environment. Still, like most animals, they do need a certain amount of fresh water to survive.

“Our research shows that the Key deer require lower-salinity water sources than previously believed,” said Preziosi. “We hope this new information compels the (National Key Deer Refuge) to enhance as many individual water holes as possible, resulting in the deer returning to the woods where they belong.”

Human development has accelerated a rampant loss of critical habitat and vital sources of clean drinking water. Historically, the remarkable survival of these deer hinged on the unique geological features of the Keys, which provide surface access to underground freshwater reserves. These natural water features served as lifelines for the deer, offering unlimited access to critical hydration. However, the march of human development has decimated many of these invaluable sites, leaving the delicate balance of the Key deer’s ecosystem teetering on the brink.

In recent years, a troubling trend has unfolded, as Key deer are displaying increasingly tame behaviors. The unsettling shift stems from their dependence on human intervention. The scarcity of natural water sources has left some deer heavily reliant on the efforts of humans, who provide fresh water in makeshift receptacles such as buckets, bird baths, manmade backyard ponds and pet bowls.

This reliance on human charity represents a dramatic departure from the wild instincts of

1. Endangered Key deer cross a shallow bay in the Lower Keys.

2. A dried-up pond on Middle Torch Key leaves nothing for Key deer to drink.

3. As natural fresh water sources dwindle, endangered Key deer increasingly turn to man-made options. VALERIE PREZIOSI/Contributed

these creatures, raising concerns about their longterm viability and the fragile equilibrium of their delicate ecosystem.

The readily-available drinking water appears to be a prime resource sought out by the deer that regularly visit residents’ properties. While it is illegal to feed or touch Key deer, it is not illegal to leave water out for them. Local neighbors may leave clean water for deer to drink, as the animals face a historically low availability of natural drinking water in their native habitats – but Preziosi said SOKD believes the ultimate goal is to return the deer to enhanced water sources in the woods.

“Our current journal publication is essential research to consider when the U.S. Fish and Wildlife (Service) updates its mandatory species status assessment for the endangered Key deer,” said Preziosi. “Delisting the species from its endangered status will be extremely difficult. … We hope our research encourages the refuge to reimplement enhancements of appropriate individual water sources.”

If you see an ill or injured Key deer, contact FWC’s Wildlife Hotline at 888-404-3922, ext. 1. More information is at www.saveourkeydeer.org.

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MARATHON CITY COUNCIL BEGINS 2025 WITH AWARDS APLENTY

Fire Chief James Muro, City Manager George Garrett and the Marathon City Council honor Marathon Fire Rescue veteran Joe Forcine for 20 years of service on Jan. 14. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

thon can move forward with a master plan of simultaneously developing several street-end “pocket parks” throughout the city at a lower per-park cost. Council members agreed to prioritize the 109th Street park in future developments.

“I don’t want to jump the gun on this one and do something we might regret,” said Mayor Lynn Landry. “But I would like to see a lot of these street ends developed into something like pocket parks for these neighborhoods so a lot of the dry-lot homes would have access to the water.”

“I don’t look at 109th (Street) as giving anything back –I think it’s a replacement of what was there, and I want us to honor our word on that,” added Vice Mayor Jeff Smith. “I just don’t want to rush spending $250,000 on something when I can get some economies of scale.”

United Way donors back splash pad, skate park

Two donations from United Way of Collier and the Keys, via anonymous donors, will bolster Marathon’s upcoming skate park rebuild and pave the way for installation of a new splash pad at Marathon Community Park.

UWCK Keys area president Leah Stockton announced both donations – $500,000 for a splash pad and $75,000 toward skate park rebuild costs – Tuesday evening.

“In a place where it’s over 100 degrees most of the year, having options for young people to get out and enjoy the outdoors is so important,” she said. “We want (the park and splash pad) to be a place for the community to come together and for everyone in Marathon to enjoy them.”

Meeting date change

In consideration of Florida Keys Day at the state Capitol on March 13, the March 11 Marathon City Council meeting will be postponed to the previous council workshop date of Tuesday, March 25 at 5:30 p.m. There will be no workshop meeting in March.

TRUMP TAPS KEY WEST’S RUSSO TO CHAIR TASK FORCE

Businessman was environmental consultant for Trump’s golf courses

mandy@keysweekly.com

AKey West businessman, environmental consultant and Nobel Prize nominee made national political headlines last week when president-elect Donald Trump tapped him for a role in the incoming administration.

Ed Russo will chair Trump’s environmental advisory task force, Trump announced on social media on Jan. 10.

“I am pleased to announce that Ed Russo, an Environmental Expert, will lead our Environmental Advisory Task Force, which will advise my Administration on initiatives to create great jobs and protect our natural resources, by following my policy of CLEAN AIR and CLEAN WATER. Together, we will achieve American Energy DOMINANCE, rebuild our Economy, and DRILL, BABY, DRILL.”

Russo previously worked for Trump’s businesses as an environmental consultant for his golf courses. Some of the national news stories about Russo’s appointment mentioned the 2016 book he wrote, and its flattering title: “Donald J. Trump: An Environmental Hero.“

“That book was merely a chronicle of achievements,” Russo told the Keys Weekly. “I didn’t try to spin anything, My point was that if he, Trump, did all these things, then he should get credit, and anyone who didn’t do any of those things can’t criticize.”

“I’ll report to the incoming administration and to Trump directly,” Russo said. “He has some specific tasks for me to work on, like water resource management needs and specific landuse planning in California, obviously. I’ll also be able to put together teams to address the president’s clean air and clean water priorities,” including drinking water and the marine environment.

Russo knows a thing or two about clean drinking water. He and his business partner, Yehuda Kaploun, an Orthodox Jewish rabbi in Miami, were nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize for using atmospheric water technology to create clean, healthy drinking water from the air.

Their company, RussKap, manufactures machines that remove moisture from the air and convert it to drinking water “at the point of need,” Kaploun told the Keys Weekly in June 2024, rather than having to transport it long distances through a pipeline.

The RussKap machines can produce 200 gallons of water a day and are being used in 45 countries for disaster relief, humanitarian and military operations, often where drinking water is contaminated due to pollution, natural disasters or limited natural resources.

“Clean water is the international language of peace,” Kaploun said last year. “Water is not political; it’s personal and it’s the most basic requirement for human life. I have no respect for people who want to politicize a humanitarian water crisis, but are not willing to fix it.”

Russo’s new position does not require Senate confirmation, so he does not need to divest himself of his businesses, and he plans to remain on the boards of Reef Relief and the Florida Keys Environmental Coalition.

“But I did have to resign from the Key West Planning Board, which I regret, because I really enjoyed that,” Russo said.

Russo said last week that he also wants to develop an energy plan — one that considers more than “drill, baby, drill.”

“One form of energy can’t do it all,” he said. “But emerging technology is resulting in new techniques and methods of producing and managing energy. So we’ll put together a plan to know the types of energy we want to use over the next 30, 50, 80 years.”

He complimented Trump’s commitment to “practical, reasonable approaches” to water quality, and emphasized his commitment to helping the Florida Keys from the federal level.

Russo has an office and an apartment in Washington, D.C., though he and his wife, Jennifer Hulse, a Key West attorney and business owner, are still figuring out the logistics of how and where they’ll spend and split their time.

MANDY MILES

Ed Russo, left, and business partner Yehuda Kaploun were nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize for their company’s efforts to make clean drinking water using the humidity from the air. CONTRIBUTED

MARRIAGE-GO-ROUND

‘Always a Bridesmaid’ opens at Marathon Community Theatre

alex@keysweekly.com

What happens on prom night stays on prom night – unless you’re the ridiculous but endearing foursome holding true to drunken promises three decades later in “Always a Bridesmaid,” opening Thursday, Jan. 16 at Marathon Community Theatre.

More than 30 years past the night when they made the Chianti-fueled promise to see one another down the wedding aisle, the motherly Libby Ruth (Tiffany Moore), allbusiness Deedra (Joanne Zimmerman), self-absorbed Monette (Sharon Young) and tree-hugging Charlie (Dion Watson) find that in sickness and in health, the bonds of lifelong friendship may just outlast marital bliss – or lack thereof.

But to give each friend the sendoff she deserves at the Laurelton Oaks event venue, they’ll have to contend with anxiety attacks, fistfights at the altar, runaway brides and a poorly-timed release of white doves on the opening day of hunting season – all under the nose of axe-wielding hostess Sedalia (Marianne Benvenuti), hell-bent on getting each of her clients to the altar. Libby Ruth’s daughter Kari (Abbi Colella) serves as a narrator of sorts, introducing each of the show’s four scenes in the form of an off-the-rails wedding toast.

Starting a calendar year with one of director Jackie O’Neil’s ensemble female casts has become a sort of tradition for the Middle Keys playhouse. But for O’Neil, “Bridesmaid” is an experience she’s been waiting to share with the Marathon community ever since the pandemic.

Originally slated to bring the show to life in 2022, O’Neil instead took on the senior citizen comedy “Sunset Village” and its sequel in back-to-back years, both offered to MCT royalty-free to help with post-pandemic recovery as a kind gesture from playwright Michael Presley Bobbitt.

Still, the desire to put “Bridesmaid” on stage never left, and after taking a “year off” from directing in 2024, she knew she was ready to put together the cast she affectionately refers to as her “bridal party.”

And while there are plenty of ridiculous

moments to go around from beginning to end, it’s the more sentimental moments that O’Neil said drew her out of “retirement.”

“There’s more warmth to this one,” she said. “Usually I just pick a show, and if it’s funny enough I’ll do it. But in this one, these women can not see each other for ages and fall back into place like they’re kids again. I’m lucky enough to have a couple friends like that since college.”

“We laugh a lot, we pick at each other, and it seems very natural,” said Watson.

“We did the smart thing, and before rehearsal started the four of us went out and ‘wined’ a little,” said Zimmerman.

Supported by understudy Karen Shotwell, who’s been tasked with learning all six of the show’s roles should a bridesmaid need a backup, the cast and crew were entirely ready to go when the Weekly paid MCT a visit three days before opening night. As O’Neil confirmed, the actresses took it upon themselves to learn their lines cold, well before an all-volunteer cast typically would.

“That’s because it’s all women,” laughed Colella.

“Always a Bridesmaid” runs on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. from Jan. 16 to Feb. 8, with a 3 p.m. Sunday matinee on Jan. 26. Tickets are $33 including fees and are available at marathontheater.org or by calling 305-743-0994.

ALEX RICKERT

The cast and crew of ‘Always a Bridesmaid’ is prepped and ready for opening night. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly

Kari Ames-Bissette (Abbi Colella) opens ‘Always a Bridesmaid’ with an unhinged wedding toast.

Years of escorting one another down the aisle mean hijinks aplenty for Monette (Sharon Young, left), Charlie (Dion Watson, right) and their friends in ‘Always a Bridesmaid.’

The ‘kinda flashy, kinda trashy’ Monette (Sharon Young) is a frequent flyer at the altar.

Dr. Christopher Forsee, DMD is seamlessly taking the reins from the iconic “Barefoot Dentist,” Dr. Troxel, where the laid-back vibe extends even to the choice of footwear.

Dr. Forsee delivers personalized comprehensive dental care tailored to your needs. Whether it's routine maintenance or advanced procedures, trust Dr. Forsee to rejuvenate your smile with meticulous precision and compassionate care.

STRANDED PYGMY KILLER WHALE SUCCUMBS TO ITS INJURIES

Marine mammal responders mobilized for the report of a stranded dolphin off Long Key State Park on Jan. 12. What they found upon arrival was a little more rare.

Art Cooper, director of stranding operations for Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder (DPMMR), said they discovered a 5.5-foot pygmy killer whale (Feresa attenuata) struggling in shallow mud flats and exhibiting signs of poor health. The whale was malnourished, exhibited shallow breathing and had recent shark bites.

After careful evaluation by DPMMR’s stranding veterinarian Dr. Juli Goldstein and in consultation with NOAA Fisheries stranding coordinator, the decision was made to humanely euthanize the animal and provide a compassionate transition.

Cooper, who was among the team on-site responding to the animal, said this stranding is a stark reminder of the need for a marine mammal hospital in the Florida Keys – a project DPMMR is working toward daily at the Protect Center in Islamorada.

“The decision to euthanize any animal is never easy, but after a thorough clinical evaluation, it became clear that ending this whale’s suffering was the only humane option available,” Goldstein said.

Cooper said it’s an unprecedented stranding event that will provide the team and government officials with valuable scientific insights on the species. Cooper said the last time this species was seen in the Florida Keys was in the early 1990s when they successfully rescued, rehabilitated and released a pair of these animals in Key Largo.

“This is definitely not a common occurrence,” he said.

Pygmy killer whales typically inhabit tropical and subtropical waters at depths between 500 and 2,000 meters. The species is characterized by its dark gray to black coloring with lighter gray sides and white markings around the lips and snout. The average length is just over two meters (6.5 ft.).

Steve McCulloch, director of DPMMR stranding investigation, said that although the ending is sad, there is a lot of scientific information to glean from the stranding.

“Ultimately, as sentinels of ocean and human health, marine mammals reflect the condition of our shared ocean environments,” McCulloch said. “We swim in the same water and in some cases, we eat the same fish.”

A necropsy is being performed at NOAA Fisheries pathology laboratory in Key Biscayne to learn more about the cause of the stranding and to help identify any emerging threats to the species.

“The worst part of our job is having to euthanize an animal, especially if it is an animal that could have been rehabilitated and released back to the wild,” said Cooper, founder of DPMMR and authorized agent for the National Marine Fisheries Service. “Due to its young age and reliance on a mother for food, this animal would most likely not have made a good candidate for rehabilitation. However, we know the day is near when we get the call about an animal that is an ideal candidate for rehabilitation and release back into our Florida Keys waters. I’m not sure I will be able to sleep at night if we are not in a position to offer that lifesaving care.”

DPMMR’s stranding response and rehabilitation is regulated by the National Marine Fisheries Service, which has published minimum standards for rehabilitation facilities. In 2023, DPMMR secured real estate in Islamorada and a large enough pool to meet the size and space standards, but have faced obstacles in finishing the facility and being licensed to rehabilitate.

“Our teams are working daily with architects and engineers to draft all the intricacies of a marine mammal hospital, and once complete, we will be able to submit detailed plans to the local building department for approval,” said Nancy Cooper, president of DPMMR. “We are chomping at the bit to break ground on the actual rehabilitation facility but have many obstacles to navigate to get there. We have a dedicated team working on this project to move it along before another animal strands that would be a candidate for rehabilitation.”

— Keys Weekly staff report

A pygmy killer was humanely euthanized following a stranding off Long Key State Park on Jan 12. DEB JOHNSON/ Contributed

TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN NEEDS 16 MENTORS IN THE KEYS

Students cannot partake in scholarship program without volunteers

Monroe County’s Take Stock in Children scholarship program needs 16 mentors to volunteer 30 minutes a week. CONTRIBUTED

Take Stock in Children Monroe is seeking mentors to pair with 16 students who cannot be part of the program without them.

A mentor is a vital component to a student’s acceptance into the initiative, providing the guidance and support needed to thrive. Without a mentor, an eligible TSIC student cannot enter the program.

“Our mentors are making a positive impact and a true difference in the lives of their Take Stock mentees with a small commitment of 30 minutes a week,” executive director Chuck Licis-Masson said.

The organization said

100% of its students graduate from high school, with nearly all enrolling in higher education or career technical programs, and 75% earning a degree or career certificate.

It has served 1,084 students.

Take Stock said prospective mentors are caring adults who have the time to help guide and encourage students to do their best, and who have a willingness to listen to and be a stable presence in a young person’s life.

More information is available from Licis-Masson at chuck.licis@monroecountyedfound.com or 305-293-1546.

— Contributed

Januar y 25th

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THURSDAY, JAN 16 CANDICE 5:30PM FRIDAY, JAN 17

FLORIDA FLOYD 3PM

SATURDAY, JAN 18 MIKE ROONEY 3PM

SUNDAY, JAN 19 TONY MANFREDI 3PM

MONDAY, JAN 20

JOHNNY LIVE 3PM TUESDAY, JAN 21 TACO TUESDAY ALL DAY COUNTRY NIGHT WITH JIBSEA COWBOYS 7:30PM WEDNESDAY, JAN 22 LUKE SOMMERS 5:30PM

STOP THE SCROLL

It’s

time we talk about phones in the gym

made the natural career transition from dolphin trainer to newspaper editor after six years at Dolphin Research Center. His passions include running, watersports, and civil disagreements with sharks while spearfishing.

Folks, we’ve got a full-blown crisis going on in the exercise world.

No, I’m not talking about a stampede of newcomers banging down the doors on Jan. 1 because it’s a “new year, new me.” The cool part about living in a small town is you won’t get the hordes you see on the mainland, and I would NEVER make someone feel bad about getting in the gym and doing something healthy.

Unless, of course, you’re not actually DOING … well, ANYTHING.

I’ve said a million times that if not for my job, I’d be pretty dang happy going back to the days of the ol’ flip phone (shout out to the glory days of the original Motorola Razr and unlimited free Verizon-to-Verizon phone minutes after 8 p.m.).

As it is, I’m trying hard to scale back what I’m pretty sure is an undiagnosed full-blown screen addiction. So believe me, I get the urge to scroll endlessly.

But the other day, I walked into the gym and had to stop myself from laughing out loud. The place wasn’t crowded – again, perks of our small town. There were fewer than a dozen people, all set up on separate machines.

Not one weight was actually moving – but every single person had a trusty smartphone in hand.

Now once again, I get it: Every exercise needs recovery time, and if you’re working out alone, sending the newest almost-funny Instagram reel to your best digital pen pal or the group chat is a great way to pass the time. But out of curiosity, I hung around and stretched, just to see how long it would take for someone to even look up from their phones.

It took almost five minutes for someone to start moving again.

At this point I was more amused than anything, and since it’s not a crowded gym, there were plenty of machines to go around.

I was less enthused, however, two weeks later.

It was a new workout on a new day, and for this particular exercise there was only one weight in the gym that fit my needs. Unfortunately, it was in use at the moment. Well, that’s if you count being under the foot of a guy scrolling on his phone “in use.”

“No worries,” I thought at first. “Skip this one for now, move on to something else and we’ll come back later.”

Wrong answer.

Over the next half-hour I would go on to finish four sets each of three other exercises. Apart from, you know, the actual effort of working out, the second biggest task of the day was keeping my jaw off the floor when I was done.

The guy hadn’t finished his exercise. He hadn’t finished a set. In half an hour, he hadn’t finished a single rep. He was … you guessed it … still sitting there in the exact same spot, scrolling on his phone.

Is this the exception rather than the norm these days? In the Keys, I’d say yes – but again, I’m so glad I don’t live near a crowded downtown gym contending not only with the scrollers, but the people who somehow think it’s a requirement to film EVERY rep of their exercises for social media (even funnier when they throw up a caption like #silentgrind).

Let’s be honest, though: The phone insanity in gyms could use a reality check, and maybe that should get bundled in with the “new year, new us” resolutions.

Because I will say this: If you “exercised” but left the gym with more Tinder swipes than squats, maybe just save that for a Netflix session on the couch.

OVERSEAS MEDIA GROUP WELCOMES CEO JENNY LORENZ

Locally owned digital marketing agency is Keys Weekly’s sister company

Overseas Media Group (OMG), the locally owned digital marketing agency serving the Florida Keys, recently welcomed Jenny Lorenz, who will be acting as the firm’s CEO, which includes director of social media, brand management and creative director. A veteran marketing expert with more than two decades of experience, Lorenz will lead the day-to-day operations of the agency, while supporting clients’ creative goals and vision.

“Jenny brings a proven track record of success and creative methods to our portfolio and our culture,” said OMG partner Britt Myers.

Established in 2020 as a sister company of the Keys Weekly Newspapers, OMG provides social media management, Google and Meta paid campaign management, website development and optimization, search engine optimization (SEO), email marketing services, webcams and strategic marketing for businesses across Monroe County. In addition, OMG’s expertise not only helps clients promote special events, but also navigate the requirements for reimbursement by the Tourist Development Council (TDC).

“Every business has a story to tell, but how that story is presented and who it reaches is paramount in today’s evolving digital landscape,” Myers said. “We are proud to build our reputation, body of work and results around Jenny’s dedication and talents.”

Lorenz, who moved to Key West over 12 years ago, brings two decades of expertise in marketing, sales, advertising and event management to OMG. A highly regarded marketing executive, she has a proven track record of delivering effective results for her clients. After Hurricane Irma, Lorenz joined The Perry Hotel as the complex director of marketing, where she was named Marketer of the Year for both years she held the position, significantly accelerating her career. In 2021, she started her own digital marketing agency focused on supporting small businesses.

“I’m thrilled to join the team at OMG and lead them into this next phase of growth,” Lorenz said. “Over the last decade, I’ve had the privilege of working with local businesses of

all sizes across all industries and it’s been my passion (and obsession) to help them achieve their goals. To work with a company that shares these same values is a dream come true and I can’t wait for our community to see what we have in store for 2025 and beyond.”

OMG has a large portfolio of projects ranging from complex websites to local social media accounts. The firm recently completed the new Monroe County Sheriff’s Office website and performs social media management for a variety of local businesses and events of all sizes, including the Blue Angels’ Southernmost Air Spectacular.

“Jenny’s addition moves us closer to our goal of becoming the leading digital marketing agency for Monroe County,” said Myers. “We want to be poised to assist businesses and events of any size. And to do so, we have to know our clients. We have to understand the challenges and opportunities of doing business in the Keys. And I believe our 20-year history of serving local businesses creates a great fit for Jenny to lead our team.”

More information about the Overseas Media Group’s services, including a portfolio of websites OMG has built, is at overseasmediagroup.com. Lorenz can be reached via email at jenny@ overseasmediagroup.com.

— Keys Weekly staff report

ALEX RICKERT

Jenny Lorenz joins Overseas Media Group, the locally owned digital marketing agency in the Florida Keys, as CEO. CONTRIBUTED

Monday: Closed | Tuesday - Sunday: 11:00am - 10:00pm

SATURDAY & SUNDAY BRUNCH 11am - 2:30pm

Regular menu available and BRUNCH items including chorizo breakfast burrito, guava French toast, crab benedict and BOGO mimosas & glasses of sparkling wine

2000 DOLPHIN DRIVE

MARATHON | $1,999,000

This remodeled 3-bed, 2.5-bath coastal retreat in Marathon, Florida, boasts a Manta 30 fishing boat, 18K boat lift, and concrete dock with deep-water access. Luxurious upgrades include a chef's kitchen, impact windows, new systems throughout, and elegant finishes. Outdoor oasis features Silver Travertine pavers, lush landscaping, and stunning waterfront views. A boater’s dream!

1130 CALLE ENSENADA

MARATHON | $1,899,000

Located minutes from Sombrero Beach, this 3-bed, 3-bath custom home o ers 2,492 sq. ft. of luxury on a 21,000 sq. ft. lot. Highlights include a heated saltwater lap pool, waterfall, tropical landscaping, solar power system, rainwater collection, and a chef's kitchen with Thermador appliances. A private guest suite with separate entrance completes this stunning property.

14 AVENUE F

MARATHON | $3,670,000

24 FLORAL AVENUE

KEY HAVEN | $4,700,000

Nestled on a lushly landscaped lot this exquisite open water estate seamlessly blends modern elegance with Caribbean charm. With 4,500 sq. ft. of living space, this newly renovated 5-bed, 5-bath gem boasts a resort-style pool, concrete dock with boat lift, and stunning indoor/outdoor.

Angler’s Paradise with unmatched boating amenities and deep-draft ocean access from 200’ wide canal! With 100' concrete dock, complete with two 50' boat slips, davits, two floating docks, fillet station, swim ladder, dock boxes and paddleboard stand, this property is expertly outfitted for the avid boater! This sprawling 4-bed, 3.5-bath, home features an 3,224 sq. ft. airy open concept, flooded with natural light and soaring ceilings, located in exciting Marathon!

2030 AVENUE H

MARATHON | $3,950,000

Experience endless sunsets over a wide, deep-draft lagoon with no-bridge Atlantic access! This 4-bed, 3-bath retreat sits on nearly half an acre, o ering 300’ of waterfront with a boat ramp, 4-post lift, additional lift, and composite dock with a fillet station. Enjoy the resort-style pool, spa, tiki hut, and screened-in veranda. Bright interiors feature soaring cathedral ceilings for ultimate coastal living.

82 TINGLER LANE

MARATHON | $3,999,000

Sprawling retreat on an oversized lot, with pool, private sandy beach, and open water views! Expansive dock with deep-draft boating access, just minutes to world-class fishing. A pristine pool, and lavish tiki hut overlook your private sandy beach! Inside, this home boasts two spacious floors with loads of room to relax and unwind, and unrivaled open water views are the focal point from almost every room and generous porch.

Early-morning showers on Saturday cleared out for a day of libations, Irish and Scottish tunes and an overload of family-friendly fun at the 2025 Florida Keys Celtic Festival.

Photos by Ross Smith (IslandExposureCo) and Sandra Lee Photography Studio.

KEYSY KILTS

2025 Celtic Festival brings thousands to Marathon Community Park

ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com

Irish and Scottish tunes floated through the air as kilts in every direction heralded the return of the Florida Keys Celtic Festival on Jan. 11 and 12 at Marathon Community Park.

Thunderous drumbeats, feats of strength in the Highland Games, herding-dog demonstrations and copious amounts of frothy adult beverages are annual highlights of the festival, but the already family-friendly event had an extra draw for kids in 2025 with the addition of pony rides and a petting zoo on top of a pet parade and “ZeroK” fun run.

Now in its 11th year, proceeds from the fest pay for scholarships for graduating MHS seniors as well as St. Columba Episcopal Church’s Hammock House to provide free after-school and summer camp programs for children in the Middle Keys.

“We’d like to thank all our sponsors, volunteers, the MHS Drama Club and senior class,the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the city of Marathon and the Parks and Recreation Department, and everyone who attended the festival,” said event co-organizer Cathy Walters.

Marathon Vacation Rental Law:

7 NIGHTS!

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

The City also requires that each vacation rental unit be managed by a licensed agent or the owner. To learn more about Marathon’s vacation rental laws visit Marathon’s website at https://www.ci.marathon.fl.us, and you can take the City’s free vacation rental training course.. The training is free and the management license cost is free for owner-managed properties and $500 for agent-managed properties. For other questions regarding vacation rental licensing please contact the City at 305-743-5266.

January 25, 2025 5:30pm

$150 DONATION PER SEAT

Purchase tickets or make a contribution at tinyurl.com/sip25

Key’s Formal Attire Requested

Seacamp | Dining Hall | Big Pine Key, FL

Libations provided by

KEYS’ OVERALL GRADUATION RATE TRAILS FLORIDA AVERAGE

OF 89.7%

Coral Shores exceeds state; Key West keeps pace; Marathon falls short

MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com

School district officials this week announced the 20232024 graduation rates for the Florida Keys’ three public high schools, two of which trail the state’s highest-ever graduation rate of 89.7%.

The district’s overall graduation rate was 86.9% for the 2023-2024 school year, 2.8 points lower than the state.

Monroe County’s overall rate was 89% in 2022-2023 and 88.2% in 2021-2022.

“The district’s overall graduation rate stands at 86.9%, which is slightly below the state rate,” according to a Jan. 13 press release. “The district remains committed to implementing strategies to support and improve student outcomes.”

The press release commended Coral Shores High School for exceeding the statewide graduation rate with its 91.1%. Key West High School trailed the state by less than a point, with an 88.9% graduation rate. Marathon High School trails the state by 6.6 points, with an 83.1% graduation rate.

“The district is aware of the factors that impede students graduating from Marathon High School and is working diligently to address those,” said principal Christine Paul. “This year we have implemented a freshman seminar class, as research indicates that a successful freshman year is a key factor in students’ high school academic success.”

Superintendent Theresa Axford said, “We are incredibly proud of our students, teachers and staff for their unwavering commitment to education. While we recognize there are areas for improvement, we are confident that our ongoing efforts will lead to continued success and higher graduation rates in the future.”

2023-2024

Graduation Rates

Statewide: 89.7% Countywide: 86.9%

Coral Shores High School: 91.1%

Key West High School: 88.9% Marathon High School: 83.1%

KEY WEST AIRPORT BREAKS RECORD

IN DECEMBER

143,606 passengers used EYW

Bound for New York’s La Guardia Airport, an Embraer 175 aircraft operated by American Airlines/Republic Airways prepares for pushback at Key West International Airport on Jan. 14. CONTRIBUTED

December 2024 was Key West International Airport’s best December on record, with 143,606 passengers using the airport for the month.

2024 was transformative for EYW, with ballooning passenger counts and continued construction on the airport’s new eight-gate Concourse A.

For the year 2024, 1,449,649 passengers used the airport, representing a 9.7% bump for the year compared to 2023. December was a precursor to what is expected to be another record- breaking year ahead, while Concourse A is on the path to completion.

“The fact that we’ve been able to serve a 10% increase in passengers while building this new facility is a testament to the hard work of all involved,” said executive director Richard Strickland.

Concourse A update

Construction on the airport’s new Concourse A build-

ing is on track to be complete by April. The superstructure, glass wall and roof are complete. The building is enclosed and interior mechanical, electric and plumbing are underway along with drywall and buildout of concession areas.

Key points

• All but three passenger boarding bridges have been installed.

• Passenger boarding bridges 6 and 7 arrive at the airport this week, followed by the 8th and final bridge set for installation in February to March.

• Installation of furniture, fixtures and equipment is on track for March.

• Training of staff and fit checks for boarding bridges will take place throughout the first quarter.

Follow the progress by viewing the project’s two live camera feeds at eyw.com/ concourse-a.

— Contributed

Raymond Rodriguez, MD Medical Director, Mount Sinai Cardiology of the Keys

Roger Steinfeld, MD Cardiology

Joan E. Homan, MD Cardiology

Raymond Johnson and Johnny “Brush” Pinder at Plantation Key. JERRY WILKINSON COLLECTION/ Contributed

THE GREAT FLORIDA KEYS ROAD TRIP

Historical tidbits fill Plantation Key

The island is called Plantation Key because of the farming that once happened here. It started with pineapples planted by Capt. Ben Baker and his sons. They are considered the first to operate a pineapple plantation in the Keys.

In the late 1850s, they developed fields on Key Largo and Plantation Key. The Bakers weren’t the only farmers on the island; more about that in a bit.

I have a special place in my heart for Plantation Key. It is where I rented my first apartment when I moved to the Keys in the summer of 2001. The island has been home ever since. When people ask where I live, sometimes I say Tavernier and sometimes Islamorada. Both are true. The island has one foot in Tavernier and the other in Islamorada. Along with Windley Key, Upper Matecumbe Key and Lower Matecumbe Key, it is one of the “Village of Islands” under the Islamorada umbrella. However, according to the post office, a generous swath of the island falls under a Tavernier postal address.

On Plantation Key, too, after the Overseas Highway travels down the length of Key Largo and rolls over the Tavernier Creek Bridge, it narrows down to the one-lane road travel writers talk so glowingly about.

While much of Plantation Key is residential, a collection of interesting tidbits are clustered around MM 87. It starts where the sprawling Founders Park appears on the right. Today, the park is home to ball fields, a small crescent beach, a boat ramp, tennis courts and an Olympic-sized swimming pool that is free for Islamorada residents but requires an entrance fee for visitors.

Rumor has it that back in the 1940s, when it was developed into a marina, it was associated with men who had ties to the mob. In some old stories about those days, names like Meyer Lansky and Lucky Luciano are brought into the conversation. I’m looking forward to digging a

FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI

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

little deeper into that aspect of the Plantation Key story.

Before the mob did or did not poke its fingers into the property, it was home to farm fields. I’m not sure if the Bakers were growing pineapples on this part of the island, but Johnny “Brush” Pinder was growing limes, tomatoes, melons and more. The Pinder homestead stretched from the ocean to the bay and included what is now the park; the Pinder house was built down by the water on the Atlantic side of the island. It was not just farming at the Pinder homestead; a little shipbuilding was happening, too. Outside of Key West, there was not a great deal of that up and down the island chain.

Plantation Key is one of a handful of islands where boats were built. We aren’t talking about dozens of ships, but a few.

One of them was a 60-foot schooner built circa 1902 on the Atlantic shoreline near where Pinder’s house once stood. Before it launched, the schooner was christened Island Home. Not only was it used to ship the fruits of Pinder’s labor to Key West and Miami, the Island Home transported everyday goods like sugar and coffee, mail, friends and family.

Before the railroad arrived, the Island Home connected Plantation Key and other Upper Keys communities to the outside world. The schooner likely served as the namesake for the Islamorada town site established a few years later. According to William J. Krome, an engineer working for Henry Flagler who established Islamorada circa 1906, the Spanish word translated into English as island (isla) and home (morada).

Beyond the park, a lot is going on in the immediate area, and of particular note are these three things: a hurricane house, a castle and a giant lobster. On the other side of the highway, on the left, down by the Old Road, stands one of the 28 “hurricane-proof” houses constructed by the Red Cross. The Old Road was the original route of the Overseas Highway when it opened in 1928. On Plantation Key, much of it is still an operable road. The hurricane house was built for Pinder and his family after the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane. It is painted yellow and green.

Just down the Old Road from the hurricane house stands a castle that was built circa 1949 to house treasures of the wrecked Spanish 1733 treasure fleet salvaged by Art McKee. McKee is remembered as the father of modern-day treasure hunting. His old building has been home to a few things since the museum closed.

A collection of roadside shops known as Treasure Village opened. In an effort to draw attention to the shops, a big lobster was brought in. It took Marathon artist Richard Blaes five years to create the 40-foot-long and 30-foot-high piece of art. It is the world’s largest anatomically correct Caribbean spiny lobster and draws considerable attention.

When the shops closed and the Treasure Village Montessori School that calls the castle home today opened, Betsy was moved to the other side of the highway. Betsy is the big lobster’s name. If you pull over and take a picture with Betsy (at some point, it seems like everybody does), you can check out some local art at the Rain Barrel where Betsy is standing. It is quite possible that the only Florida Keys icon more photographed than Betsy is the Southernmost Point, but that is still more than 80 miles away, and there is so much more to talk about before we get there.

In 2025, I’ll be exploring the Overseas Highway, its history, attractions, and points I find interesting.

UPCOMING EVENTS

WOMEN WHO SOAR

HIGH - FLYING HEROINES: TALES OF COURAGE AND CONQUERING THE SKIES

By Flora Johnston

When Elsie Mackay pursues a career in acting, her family wants nothing to do with her. But after leaving that life behind, she joins her father and brothers at the largest British shipping company in the world. Dedicated to making bland ships into luxurious ocean liners, Elsie becomes a successful interior designer. This dynamic woman also acquires her pilot’s license, unheard of for a female at this time. Soon Elsie rekindles her friendship with Stella, whom she met during the war. Instead of participating at the Paris Peace Conference, Stella is pregnant with her third baby and yearning to feel seen again as a person with purpose. Her sister Corran is seemingly wrapped in her academic career. These women support each other at a time when feminists were just beginning to seek birth control and working rights. In 1928, Elsie secretly purchases a Stinson Detroit airplane, partners with an ace war pilot and resolves to become the first woman to complete a trans-Atlantic flight. Based on a true story, this novel is a fascinating peek at brave women making history.

First and foremost a reader, she has reviewed hundreds of books on her blog www.readingandeating. com. And, more recently, this new Keys resident has also begun writing.

By Camille Di Maio

The abuse in Judy’s marriage pushes her over the edge. But in 1962, it’s nearly impossible for a woman to do anything on her own. Where will she go and how will she survive? With help from a neighbor, Judy devises a plan. She applies to become a Pan American stewardess. Beverly, on the other hand, has everything a girl could want. She lives in her family’s New York City mansion, attends teas and balls wearing the finest ensembles and has a suitor waiting to propose. Judy and Beverly have very different reasons for wanting this opportunity with Pan Am, and now their bags are packed and they are ready to go on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Since only one in 50 applicants gets the chance to wear the prestigious tailored uniform, they do everything possible to pass the difficult exams. Focusing on their hearts’ desires for the first time encourages the moxie they need to be selected. An unlikely friendship blossoms as Judy and Beverly travel the world and find their wings to fly. Filled with romance, intrigue and suspense, this novel is your ticket to a fascinating bygone era.

By Paula McLain

In colonial Kenya during the 1920s, Beryl Markham grows up running free alongside her father on their picturesque horse farm. An anomaly of that time, her father treats her as an equal. Outgoing and outspoken, it isn’t until she was 12 that her father is told, “That girl should be educated and needs to wear shoes!” He hires Emma as a housekeeper/governess/wife to run the show. But Beryl is no ordinary girl, and wild horses literally couldn’t hold her down – she becomes the youngest trainer ever licensed. Later, Beryl meets daring and charismatic pilot Denys Finch Hatton. They become lifelong friends, sometimes partners, and he teaches her to fly. Beryl then works as a daring bush pilot, spotting game animals and signaling their locations to safaris on the ground. In 1936 she becomes the first person to fly solo nonstop across the Atlantic from Britain to North America. Married three times, Beryl faces her share of criticism and misunderstanding. Yet, with her beauty, courage and spirit, she lives an extraordinary life surrounded by fascinating characters. A true trailblazer, she soars through the world, far ahead of her time.

BONUS READ FROM A LOCAL: Marathon residents may know Jo Ann Cook as a qualifying broker with Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty. What some may not realize is that Cook, a full-time resident since 2001, has been a licensed private pilot since 2011. Her reading recommendation, Steve Sheinkin’s “Born to Fly: The First Women’s Air Race Across America,” tells the gripping true story of trailblazing women in the 1929 Women’s Air Derby, the first official womenonly air race in the United States.

THE ENDEAVOUR OF ELSIE MACKAY

COME FLY WITH ME

CIRCLING THE SUN

KAREN NEWFIELD

Little Torch trio arrested after shooting makeshift targets

Three people on Little Torch Key were arrested Jan. 9 for allegedly firing an AR-15 rifle at homemade targets, leading to one bullet entering a residence while two people were inside, MCSO deputies said. There were no reported injuries. Robert Andrew Mayette, 51, Jessica Ellen Rene Hargrove, 25, and Nathan John David Charter-Kimberly, 24, were all charged with unlawful discharge of a firearm and culpable negligence. The sheriff’s office was called to a residence on Pirates Road around 4 p.m. regarding a shots fired call. The caller said a bullet entered her residence and broke a window as well as a glass door in her upstairs bedroom. The caller was in the bedroom with her husband and their dogs when the incident occurred. While at the scene, deputies heard active gunshots coming from Kings Cove Road and found all three suspects there, who allegedly confessed to shooting the rifle at a makeshift target range facing Pirates Road. All three suspects were taken to jail.

America’s Boating Club to offer NASBLA marine safety course

Each month from February through May, America's Boating Club will offer a nationally-certified NASBLA boating course, required to obtain the mandatory Florida State Boater ID card to operate a vessel in Florida waters. The card also qualifies the holder for rate reductions from many insurance companies. The 1-½ day course is offered on the first Saturday and Sunday of each month. Saturday's classes run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday classes are from 8 a.m. to noon. Course dates are Feb. 1-2, March 1-2, April 5-6 and May 3-4. The cost for the class is $70 per student, or $85 for two students sharing materials. The price includes a free lunch on Saturday and a guest speaker from Florida Fish and Wildlife. February’s class will be held at 5205 College Road on Stock Island. More information is available via call or text to Dick Odgers at 305-509-0159 or email dickieo@duck.com.

Join KAIR at St. Columba for Volunteer Recruitment Coffee

Keys Area Interdenominational Resources (KAIR) is seeking volunteers and will hold a recruitment coffee on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 10 a.m. at St. Columba Episcopal Church, 451 52nd Street Gulf in Marathon. Volunteers help with a variety of roles, from stocking shelves in the food pantry to computer-based tasks. Time and skills can make a difference for individuals and families in crisis in the Marathon community. More information is available from Marj at 305-393-6621 or via email to mhroberts2@gmail.com.

Keys Democrats to hold monthly public meeting

The public is invited to attend the monthly meeting of the Keys Democrats on Thursday, Jan. 23 at 5:30 p.m. at the Marathon library. The meeting will be a hybrid Zoom and in-person meeting. For more information, including a link to attend virtually, email mid-keys@keysdems.com.

Support the 18th annual Sombrero Beach Run

Keys Area Interdenominational Resources (KAIR) is calling on local businesses to sponsor the 18th annual Sombrero Beach Run, happening Saturday, Feb. 22 at Sombrero Beach. The 5K/10K/15K walk or run helps KAIR provide food and emergency services to local residents in need. Sponsors will have their business name featured on event T-shirts and the run’s website, Facebook page and more — and receive free race passes. The event includes a registration pizza party, plus breakfast and lunch on race day. More information is available from Marj at 305-393-6621 or via email to mhroberts2@gmail.com.

Registration now open for tee ball, baseball, softball

Registration for the 2025 Marathon Youth Club tee ball, baseball and softball season is open for kids ages 5 to 14 until Sunday, Jan. 19. The season kicks off in February and runs through April, offering an opportunity for children to learn teamwork, build skills and create memories. Fees are $50 for tee ball and $120 for all other divisions. Sibling discounts and scholarships are available. The leagues offer children a chance to be involved in fun and competitive sports. More information is available via email to marathonyouthclub305@gmail. com or scan the QR code to register online.

EVENT PRICING

Why concerts and sports are so damn expensive…

Up until around 15 (or so) years ago, ticket scalping was illegal in the state of Florida. Then, Florida legislators, in their infinite (lack of) wisdom, changed their minds. The new law now allows a legitimate company, broker or website to resell tickets for sports and entertainment events without a price limit. The Legislature did install a few “consumer protection features” – each reseller must also allow refunds for ticket purchasers if the event is canceled; the purchaser is denied admission to the event; or the ticket is not delivered in the manner requested, causing the purchaser to miss attending the event. You still can’t resell tickets on the actual property where the event is taking place. God forbid. What this has done is basically price many sporting events and concerts out of reach of the average fan. I often go to the Ticketmaster website to try and find tickets to concerts and other events. Ticketmaster now features resale tickets along with standard face value tickets. Legalized scalping. Not only that, but Ticketmaster’s “dynamic pricing” means that desirable nonresale ticket prices are subject to demand — the hotter the event, the more you pay. That’s why the average ticket prices for Taylor Swift’s recent Eras tour ranged from more than $1,000 to more than $3,000 — per ticket. Single ticket prices actually exceeded the $10,000 mark, with some tickets for the last show on the tour exceeding $14,000.

Nosebleed 400-level seats that used to have a face value of under $50 are going for two to three times the original price. If you dream of sitting in the lower level, the (relatively) reasonably priced $180-$250 seats are now going for over $600. And if you want to get closer to the court, field or stage, you better figure on shelling out a grand or more.

Keep in mind that none of these tickets includes food, drink or even a kiss on the cheek. Whatever food you want certainly isn’t cheap. And drinks? Bottled water is $6. Beers go for $13 and up. Mixed drinks start at $17 – or you can get a “double” for just $25. With a tip, your cocktail just cost you $30. How many drinks do you really want? Let’s not forget the $20-$40 parking charge as well.

city administrator for Key Colony Beach and the former mayor of Marathon.

And how does the typical middle-class American family of four afford to come out to a concert, or an NBA or NFL game? The answer is, they can’t. Pro sports have been priced out of the reach of the average person. (Although I understand that Miami Marlins tickets might still be a bargain…) And musical artists are charging more per show because live performance is one of the only remaining income streams, since no one can make a living selling records anymore.

All this does, however, is play into the greed of the reseller. Ticketmaster, StubHub, and other online resellers have made millions off of what used to be illegal in Florida (and many other states). Some acts, like James Taylor, Bonnie Raitt and others, set aside good seats at good prices for their actual fans. They include safeguards like fan-club-only online sales, ticket limits, will-call pickup on the date of the show and other measures to ensure that their real fans get the good seats.

Still, many fans are opting out of the live event experience altogether. When costs for a couple enjoying dinner, drinks and decent tickets for an event can easily top $1,500, it’s suddenly a lot more attractive to stay home, watch on the big screen and feast on cheap pizza and wings. Parking at home is cheaper, too.

Gone are the days back in the 1970s and 1980s when I could go see a major recording artist for somewhere between $10 and $30 a ticket. That was when major labels would often underwrite touring costs to help improve and increase record sales. Sadly, expensive event ticket prices are here to stay. At least local musicians can be enjoyed simply for the cost of dinner or a drink — hope to see you out soon! Just don’t ask for any Taylor Swift.

— Catch John live next Wednesday at Boardwalk in Big Pine, Thursdays at Sparky’s Landing, Saturday night at Brutus Seafood, and Sunday afternoons at Skipjack Tiki. Find his music anywhere you download or stream your music. www.johnbartus. com • johnbartus.hearnow.com

John Bartus is a singer/songwriter,

JOHN BARTUS

MARATHON CINEMA

A COMPLETE UNKNOWN

TO MEMBERS OF FLORIDA KEYS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOC., INC.

NOTICE OF ELECTION OF THREE DIRECTORS

The Board of Directors of Florida Keys Electric Cooperative Association, Inc. (FKEC) has set the following dates for the District Elections for three positions on the Board of Directors:

District 1

March 27, 2025

District 3

March 27, 2025

District 4

March 27, 2025

Key Largo area northeast of the section line common to Sections 6 and 7, TWP- 62S, R. 39E, southerly of Mandalay Subdivision - Dade/ Monroe County Line on U.S. 1 (including Ocean Reef) to Mile Marker 97.7

Islamorada area southwest of Snake Creek and northeast of the north end of the Long Key Bridge

Marathon area southwest of the north end of the Long Key Bridge

The incumbent directors of the three districts have decided to stand for re-election. In the event only one qualified member from a district for each position is so nominated, that member shall be declared elected. Elections may be conducted on the designated election date, by mail ballot and/or by electronic means. The notice of election and the election ballot and informational materials shall be mailed to each and every member residing or doing business in the district not less than fifteen (15) days prior to the election date. All ballots returned by mail must be received by the Cooperative or the Cooperative’s contracted third-party election management provider no later than one day prior to the official election date.

Directors elected at the district elections shall serve for a period of three years and will take office at the first regular or special meeting to be held on or after Saturday, April 26, 2025.

Members interested in becoming candidates and placing their names in nomination for membership on the Board of Directors are hereby notified of the qualifications and election procedures prescribed by the Bylaws of Florida Keys Electric Cooperative Association, Inc.

A candidate for director must be a member of FKEC and a bona fide resident of the district he/she represents and have 12 months of residency in the area served by the Cooperative. The candidate must not be a minor. No candidate may in any way be employed by or have a substantial financial interest in a competing enterprise or a business selling electric energy or supplies to FKEC or be the incumbent for an elective public office in connection with which a salary or compensation is paid.

Candidates must submit a nominating petition with fifteen (15) or more signatures of members residing in the voting district no less than forty-five (45) days prior to the date of the district election specified above. Nominating petitions for District 1 must be received by FKEC by Noon on Monday, February 10, 2025, petitions for District 3 must be received by FKEC by Noon on Monday, February 10, 2025, and petitions for District 4 must be received by FKEC by Noon on Monday, February 10, 2025. (Please allow time for verification of signatures).

Nomination petition forms may be obtained from the FKEC Tavernier Headquarters. A copy of the FKEC bylaws may be obtained from FKEC offices.

The election will be given widespread publicity prior to the election date.

By Order of the Board of Directors Florida Keys Electric Cooperative Association, Inc.

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

We’re a couple weeks into the new year, but if you’re feeling more like you’re trying to run through Jell-O rather than dancing through life, fear not. Mars, the planet of action and courage, is in a period of apparent retrograde motion through February 23. Active progress is not in the stars right now. This week, however, we turn a corner in this transit. On Wednesday, Mars and the Sun opposed one another, marking the midpoint of Mars retrograde. This is the time in this cycle when we are able to gain some clarity on what the Mars retrograde cycle means for us because the sun sheds light on whatever it touches. What part of your life have you been slowing down so that you can effectively speed up when Mars retrograde ends? What difficult feelings have you been sitting with that will ultimately make you more resilient? What actions have you been putting off as you await for the most appropriate time to spring into action? While it is not yet time to move forward, it is high time to understand and analyze this period of slowing down and how it will help you move forward in February. Coming to clarity with the purpose of this Mars retrograde will allow you to work with the rest of the transit with more intent and purpose. Continue to rest, plan, conspire and wait. The time to jump into action is down the road.

Here are your horoscopes for the Sun opposite Mars retrograde. Read for your rising and sun signs.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 - Jan. 19

Before venturing off into largescale investments and group projects that require your time, energy and money, slow down to focus on

the one-on-one partnerships that ground you. Individual relationships will get you where you need to go, but it is important to slow down to nurture them. Take time with your partner now so you can jump forward with trust and ease later.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 - Feb. 18

Relationships with others are important, but getting good with yourself comes first. Use this time to reflect on your unique position in the universe. What is your stance and, even more importantly, what do you do with your individual perspective? Take this time to focus on your habits and your routines, and make sure that they reflect your unique purpose.

PISCES

Feb. 19 - March 20

Yes, there is work to do, Pisces. There is always work to do. Before you get started, however, tap into your center and get clear on your passion. You have a community of people who hold you up, but you are the only one who can find your bliss. The people you resonate with may hold a clue to your creative joy, but now is the time to slow down and explore. Find your fire.

ARIES

March 21 - April 19

Venturing off on joyful adventures comes naturally to you, Aries. That will never change. Right now, though, you have the opportunity to tap into your roots – whether that is family, your home or the actual earth you walk on. You currently have clarity on your work life, but use that awareness to access the counterpoint, which is your home life. What nourishes and rejuvenates you?

TAURUS

April 20 - May 20

As you work on either creating a home or accessing your family, this time is for you to connect to the people and places that you find familiar that are around that

center. Siblings, neighbors, childhood friends, your local neighborhood places – home can be spread out beyond the focal point. As you engage in new experiences, recall that the things ordinary to you are also important.

GEMINI

May 21 - June 20

It seems you’ve been trying to move forward with things that are very familiar to you, whether that is your siblings, your community or your way of communicating. Right now, though, you are being asked to tap into your personal values first. You cannot move ahead without getting clear on what you value, whether that is financial or emotional. Get right with you first.

CANCER

June 21 - July 22

You’re clearly seeing an important partner in your life, and you are ready to move forward building a nest egg. However, you’re being offered the chance to check in with yourself and to determine what motivates you from within. The finances and support will come, but what is it that you bring to the table that is uniquely your own? Enjoy the time to yourself and be patient.

LEO

July 23 - Aug. 22

You’ve been eager to move forward in your daily routines and responsibilities, but first, you’re being nudged to step into a quieter space of self-reflection. What are the inner truths you’ve been avoiding, and how can they guide your next steps? This is a time to slow down and nurture your connection to the unseen – your dreams, your rest, your spirit. The clarity you need will emerge from this stillness.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 - Sept. 22

Creative projects or personal passions have been calling for attention, but right now, you’re being guided to take a step back into your community. Who are the people

SEE THE SLOWNESS

who inspire and support you? What networks offer the resources you need? By slowing down and leaning into collaboration, you’ll gain the insight and encouragement required to move forward on your own.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 - Oct. 23

Yes, there are people out there who are ready to help you achieve your goals, but first you need to know what your goals are. You can see what grounds you and where you feel at home, so use that awareness to look out at who you want to be in public. What impact do you want to make in the world? When you’re clear on that purpose, the supportive folks will emerge.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 - Nov. 21

You have goals and you have work that you want to do in the world. Before you invest in those goals, now is the opportunity to experience new things to make sure that you’re not selling yourself short. You are grounded in your familiar world now, so trust that tether and take the leap to get outside of your comfort zone. This will only help to clarify your work in the world.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 - Dec. 21

You’ve been aiming to try new things and experience new places, but this sky encourages you to take a closer look at the resources you share with others – whether emotional, financial or energetic. Where are your boundaries, and where can you foster trust? You can see what is yours very clearly, but explore what you share with others. Then embark on that adventure knowing your investments are secure.

CHRIS M cNULTY

Having Fun in the Middle Keys

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

It was the third year that Ellen Westbrook and I had done the morning part of the Christmas Bird Count by bike, which officially made it a tradition. Our territory was Old Town Key West, everything west of White Street.

It was a bit blowy, which was mostly fine, except for the few times Ellen, who is much skinnier than me, had to stand on her pedals to keep going in a headwind. The wind meant our songbird numbers would likely be lower than most years, as they tend to hunker down and make themselves hard to find when branches start waving in the breeze. We persevered, though, and worked our way around the island, counting every pigeon, dove, gull, tern, pelican, mockingbird and chicken we saw.

At Fort Zach we sat on a picnic table bench and counted the gray mass of laughing gulls, backlit by a glittering sea, that covered one of the rock piles. By some miracle we both counted exactly 310.

At Mallory Square, we saw our one and only white-crowned pigeon of the morning, and our first 78 black skimmers.

We parked our bikes at the racks in the shadow of the A&B Lobster House sign and walked to the end of the boardwalk at Ocean Key House, counting the young brown pelicans napping on the floating docks along the way. (There were five.)

We watched as a huge manatee, tail the size of a card table, stuck his nose above the surface to catch his breath, then submerged again and slowly swam under the boats.

I didn’t pay much attention to the great white heron standing on the floating jet ski dock. It was the sixth one I’d seen that day. After we counted the 29 pelicans out on the granite riprap seawall that protects Key West Bight, I started scanning the dock lines for green herons, which sometimes like to use them for fishing perches.

After a few minutes the great white heron took off. I thought about lifting my camera for a flight shot, but knew I would only get a picture of a bird’s departing butt, and I have a lot of those.

Also, the great white did not fly away. Instead he dropped face first, wings outstretched, down into the water, like an osprey, like Cato from the Pink Panther movies.

The bird was only in the water for a second, maybe two. Immediately he started flapping, lifting slowly, then quickly, out of the water, returning to the exact same spot on the floating jet ski dock in the exact same posture, as if someone had rewound a film.

KUNG FU HERONS & THEIR PLACE IN THE GRAND SCHEME OF THINGS

“Did you see that?” I asked Ellen. She had not. Self-doubt started to creep in. I would have wondered if I had imagined it, except the bird left a floating after-image on the surface of the water, kind of an inverse shadow, a pale, large heron-sized, dissipating Rorschach blot that slowly drifted in the direction the manatee had gone.

Herons have a thing called powder down, also sometimes called feather dust, which is a talcum-like substance that comes from the worn feathers. It helps keep their feathers healthy and orderly, like a sort of dry conditioner. So I figured the after-image was that. But Ellen, who handles a lot of birds when she volunteers at the Key West Wildlife Center, was pretty sure there was a healthy dose of feather lice in there, too.

I had never noticed the after-image phenomenon before, but the behavior was unfamiliar as well, and to me more surprising.

Great white herons are wading birds. Their standard modus operandi is to stand in a few inches of water and wait for an unsuspecting fish to swim by, and then to grab it with an ultra-quick stab of the bill. Sometimes they’ll stand on the edge of the water – in the mud or sand or on a log or rock – and do this. Sometimes they’ll wade into belly-deep water. Sometimes they nab a snake or the occasional smaller bird or still-growing chick.

I had never seen a great white heron, or really any type of heron, do a full-on aquatic body slam. No doubt it did it in an attempt to catch a fish, but with all the flailing body parts needed for the bird to regain purchase on the air and lift itself back out of the water, it was impossible to say whether he gulped something down quickly or not.

It was the kind of behavior I would like to read more about, but I suspected there

wouldn’t be a great deal of easy-to-find information about the varied hunting tactics of great white herons, which turned out to be the case.

Part of the problem is the great white heron’s taxonomic status. Not much has been written about its behavior because it is not currently considered a species.

The great white heron breeds almost exclusively in the Florida Keys and the Everglades. It’s our hometown hero(n), the one truly endemic form of a bird we have. It was first described for science by John James Audubon when he visited the Keys in 1832, and for 141 years it was considered a full species. Then, in 1973, the American Ornithologists’ Union’s Check-list Committee, in an era of lumping, lumped it in as a subspecies of the great blue heron, and later, simply a color morph of the great blue heron.

Since that time, most of the consideration and study of the great white heron has centered on its taxonomic status as opposed to its behaviors or other aspects of life histories.

In recent years, though, the pendulum has begun to swing back toward full species status for the great white heron, driven largely by recent DNA analysis, as well as a few scathing takedowns of the original decision to reclassify it as a subspecies.

In 2020, the American Ornithological Society’s North American Classification Committee (the organization and the committee were both renamed since 1973) declined to reclassify the great white heron, but only by a 5-4 vote.

There are rumors the committee will reconsider its status in the next year or two, and I hope so. Then maybe someone can help shed some light on what the bird I saw dive into the water was up to.

great white heron seen in Key West

MARK HEDDEN

Words that remind us of Martin Luther King Jr. are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can

ASSASSINATED, CIVIL, DREAM, ECONOMIC, GANDHI, INFLUENCE, KING, LEGACY, LORRAINE, LUTHER, MARCH, MARTIN, MEMPHIS, RIGHTS, SEGREGATED, STRIKE, THEOLOGY, VIETNAM, WASHINGTON.

Founded by Betty Debnam

Honoring Dr. King

“I have a dream.”

You may have heard this famous statement from one of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s speeches. Dr. King led America’s struggle for equal rights for people of all races during the 1950s and ’60s.

Dr. King was assassinated, or murdered, 57 years ago, on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee. He was only 39 years old when he died. Since 1986, we have celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day on the third Monday in January.

WHAT KIND OF DOCTOR?

Martin Luther King Jr. was not a medical doctor. He received a Ph.D., or a doctor of philosophy degree, from Boston University. His degree was in theology, or the study of religion.

SEGREGATION

For over a century after the Civil War and the freeing of slaves, many African Americans struggled to make better lives for themselves. Even though laws made them “free,” they were often segregated, or separated based on skin color. In some parts of the country, it was hard for them to get a good education or jobs, buy or rent a house, eat in restaurants, or use public transportation.

FIGHTING FOR RIGHTS

Across the country, Black people were joining in the fight for theisr civil, or citizens’, rights. Dr. King started the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) in 1957. This group would help organize and support protests against discrimination, or unfairness. Dr. King wanted the protests to be peaceful, but that was not always possible.

HIS INFLUENCES

Dr. King was known for his strong belief in nonviolence. His friend Dr. Benjamin Hooks had this to say about him: “This was a man who believed in nonviolence as a way of life, not just in the Civil Rights Movement, but nonviolence at home, nonviolence with his children.”

Dr. King’s beliefs were partly based onChristian teachings. He was also influenced, or inspired, by Mohandas Gandhi, a leader in India who peacefully helped to make changes in society.

MAKING CHANGE

Dr. King organized the Poor People’s Campaign, which he hoped would help improve life for impoverished people of all races. With this campaign, he was trying to solve not just racial issues, but the problem of economic, or moneyrelated, inequality.

He also protested against the war in Vietnam, which he thought violated human rights.

A year after an outbreak of H5N1 bird flu killed thousands of elephant seals in Argentina, about a third of the animals typically expected there have returned. Scientists estimate that the influenza killed more than 17,000 of the marine mammals, including approximately 97% of their pups. “It’s beautiful to walk the beaches now and hear elephant seals again,” said Marcela Uhart of the University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine. So far, no elephant seals have tested positive for the virus this breeding season.

APRIL 4, 1968

Dr. King went to Memphis in April 1968 to support a strike, or work stoppage, by African American garbage workers.

He gave a famous speech on the evening of April 3. Here are a few lines from his speech:

“We aren’t engaged in any negative protest and in any negative arguments with anybody. We are saying that we are determined to be men. We are determined to be people.”

The next evening, Dr. King was standing on a balcony at the Lorraine Motel when he was shot by James Earl Ray. Ray was convicted of killing Dr. King and died in prison in 1998.

Dr. King’s legacy, or the ideas he left behind, continued with other leaders.

In May 1968, Dr. King’s friend and coworker Ralph Abernathy and Dr. King’s wife, Coretta Scott King, led the Poor People’s Campaign march to Washington.

Mrs. King started The King Center in Atlanta to continue her husband’s work.

RESOURCES

Wayne L. Wilson

Mini Fact: In 1964, Dr. King was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, honoring his work toward international peace.

photo courtesy NARA

Martin Luther King Jr. gives his famous “I Have a Dream” speech at the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington in August 1963.

Mini Page photo

The Lorraine Motel in Memphis is now the National Civil Rights Museum.

Key West competition cheer preps for regionals | P.4

THE SCOREBOARD

Team Sport Opponent

Marathon Boys Basketball Circle Christian 1/2 L, 58-47

Key West Boys Basketball Circle Christian 1/3 W, 58-48

Marathon Girls Soccer Keys Gate 1/7 W, 2-1

Marathon Boys Soccer True North 1/7 L, 2-1

Coral Shores Boys Soccer Riviera Prep 1/7 L, 4-2

Coral Shores Girls Basketball Somerset Silver Palms 1/7 W, 38-28

Key West Boys Soccer Somerset Canyons 1/7 T, 2-2 Marathon Girls Basketball Mater Bay Academy 1/8 W, 66-26

Coral Shores Girls Soccer South Homestead 1/8 W, 2-1

Marathon Girls Soccer True North 1/8 L, 10-0

Marathon Boys Basketball Mater Bay Academy 1/8 L, 52-45

Coral Shores Boys Basketball Palmer Trinity 1/8 L, 76-35

Marathon Girls Basketball La Salle 1/9 W, 50-48 Key West Boys Soccer Coral Shores 1/9 W, 8-0

WEEK IN KEYS SPORTS

1/16 Key West Girls & Boys Soccer @ Marathon 4 p.m.

1/16 Coral Shores Boys Basketball Mater Bay 6 p.m.

1/16 KW & CSHS Wrestling @ Regional Duals TBD 1/17 Coral Shores Girls & Boys Soccer Marathon 4 p.m.

1/17 Basilica Boys Basketball @ Horeb Christian 4 p.m.

1/17 Marathon Boys Basketball Goleman 6:30 p.m.

1/17 Key West Girls & Boys Basketball Westminster Christian 5 p.m.

1/18 Key West Boys Basketball IMG Academy Gray 12:30 p.m.

1/18 Coral Shores Boys Basketball Westminster Christian 2:30 p.m.

1/18 KW & CSHS Wrestling @ Coral Shores TBA

1/18 Key West Girls Basketball @ Archbishop McCarthy 12 p.m.

1/18 Key West Girls Soccer Lemon Bay 11 a.m.

1/21 Key West Girls Basketball @ St. Brendan 5 p.m.

1/21 Key West Boys Basketball @ Reagan 6:30 p.m.

1/21 Marathon Boys Basketball Palm Glades Prep 7 p.m.

1/21 Coral Shores Boys Basketball @ Goleman 7 p.m.

1/22 Coral Shores Boys Basketball Doctors Charter 5 p.m.

1/23 Key West Girls Basketball @ Somerset Prep 6 p.m.

See page 4. MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys Weekly

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

WEEK

CHAPMAN

Jack is a generational athlete for Marathon who has the ability to do great things and the attitude and motivation to accomplish them.”

— Jim Murphy, Fins head coach

In a recent game, Marathon’s Jack Chapman made a statement, scoring 32 points with all but two of them coming from behind the three-point line. The 10 threes matched the school record, giving Chapman a historical nod for the Fins. And though he is just a freshman, Chapman has quite a bit of varsity experience already, having earned significant playing time for Marathon as an eighth-grader.

“A freshman tying school records is evidence of the hard work he puts in year round to the sport,” said Fins coach Jim Murphy, praising Chapman for his dedication to the sport and his team. For his recordtying endeavor and constant positive energy, Marathon’s Jack Chapman is the Keys Weekly Athlete of the Week.

THIS

Jack

Freshman Marathon, Basketball

Photo by: BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

Mollie Kirkpatrick, left, Madi Wiggins, Ava Rivera and the Key West competition cheer team will look to make a second straight trip to the FHSAA state championships with a strong showing at regionals on Jan. 25.

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.

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

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SOMETHING TO CHEER ABOUT

Key West competition team prepares for regionals

Monroe County’s only competition cheerleading squad is putting the finishing touches on their routine before heading to the FHSAA Region 4 Championships on Saturday, Jan. 25. The Lady Conchs will be competing in the small, non-tumbling division against a dozen other teams in hopes of another bid to states to make it two years in a row for the spirited crew. A dozen Lady Conchs will take to the mat to perform an intricately-choreographed routine full of high-energy dance and complicated stunting.

Coach Ariana Corsi is hard at work with the team. She knows that every point counts, and the girls have been polishing some new moves to wow the judges.

“We have an amazing routine with a lot of complicated skills with a new difficult pyramid that we are working on with flips, a twist and extended two-man stunts,” she said. Should the Conchs prevail and outscore the other teams, they can earn a bid to states in Lakeland on Jan. 31.

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tracy mcdonald

Mollie Kirkpatrick, left, Diana Carballo and the Key West competition cheerleading team will head to regionals on Jan. 25 with a new routine. MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys Weekly

NET GAINS

The Centurions of Circle Christian traveled from Winter Park to play a pair of games in the Keys to begin the new year. Key West spoiled their trip, defeating them 58-48 on Jan. 3 despite not having their top scorer in James Osborne.

Alex Means picked up the slack, dropping 13 points on the Centurions. Tramane Scott registered a double-double with 12 points and 15 rebounds, while Kameron Roberts added 11 points and Zach Levering put up eight. Leo Batista pulled down nine rebounds in the win.

On Jan. 10, Osborne was back from an injury to help the Conchs defeat Coral Shores in Tavernier. Osborne scored 10 points in limited action to help Key West pick up win number eight of the season, just three shy of last year’s total with plenty of action to go. Roberts added 11 points and seven rebounds while Scott scored eight with 14 boards. Josue Thanus and Levering scored seven each in the in-county matchup.

Circle Christian gave Marathon some trouble on Jan. 2, beating the Dolphins 58-47 despite Jack Chapman scoring 19 points. Briggs Roberts put up 13 while Taylor Huff and Andrew Suarez were busy grabbing 10 rebounds each, but it was not enough to best the Centurions.

Key West

hangs on to

winning record as Osborne returns from injury

On Jan. 8, Chapman had the hot hand again, dropping 22 on Mater Bay Academy. Daeshawn Holmes was all over the court with eight points, nine rebounds, three steals and a pair of blocks, but the Fins came up short, losing 52-45. They finally found their groove the following night at Horeb Christian, when Chapman scored the game-high 32 points, all but two of which came from behind the three-point line to tie a Marathon school record. Holmes registered a double-double, scoring 15 with 10 rebounds and two blocks, while Giorvis Zamora added seven to the team total. The 74-48 victory was win number five for the Fins this season. The battle-weary Fins played one more last week, this time at Downtown Doral, losing 77-40.

A short-staffed Coral Shores struggled last week, losing at Palmer 76-35 on Jan. 8, then to Key West at home on Jan. 10. Down three starters, the ’Canes worked to hold their own, but were unable to overcome the Conchs. Thomas Gonzalez scored 10 points while Austin Vogt put up seven and Talin Schafstall added five in the loss. The 2-11 Hurricanes will look to make a run in the last quarter of the season in hopes of a solid seed in districts early next month.

1. Zach Levering shoots a free throw.

2. James Osborne goes for the layup.

3. Zach Levering shooting a three-pointer.

4. Key West coach Tommy Butler has a talk with the team during a timeout.

5. Jaxen Cabrera goes up for an easy two against Circle Christian Jan. 3.

6. Alex Means goes for the layup.

7. Tramane Scott takes a free throw against Circle Christian. Scott earned a double-double against the Centurions.

8. David Aviles shoots a jump shot. MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys Weekly

SWEET 16

Conchs and ’Canes grapplers advance to regionals

OCoral Shores won points in three weight classes. At 106 pounds, Costa Tuttle won his match by forfeit while David Beltran (157) and Andrew Grgek (285) pinned their opponents.

n Jan. 9, FHSAA’s 1A District 16 teams were scheduled to meet in the Southernmost City for district duals action. Despite an eight-team pool, only two showed up. Perhaps that was because the host team, Key West, had already won 15 straight district duals. That number now stands at 16 after the Conchs defeated Coral Shores 58-18.

The Conchs claimed the remainder of the matches, with wins from Alexander Holtcamp (113), Jacob Ferguson (120), Lazaro Diaz (126), Abram Canet (132), Elvis Garcia (138), Kyle Condella (144), James Searcy (150), Michael Guzman (1650, Alfredo Corrales (175), Sanford Horn (190) and Malik Cooper (215).

Both teams advance to the next round of duals, scheduled for Jan. 16 at Key West’s Bobby Menendez Gymnasium.

The Lady Conchs also saw action on the mat last week. They traveled to Coral Reef High School, where Sheyla Figueira won first place in the 105-pound class. Teammates Maria Halushka and Isabella Cosme both took the third-place spots at the podium in their weight classes, and though they fell short of reaching the podium, Sunisa Kuhn and Wenxin Yu both won matches at the tournament.

Coral Shores’ Andrew Grgek, left, and David Beltran both secured wins at district duals by pinning their opponents.

JIM MCCARTHY/Keys Weekly

The Conchs pose with their first-place trophy at district duals.

MAICEY MALGRAT/ Keys Weekly

MEET THE ALL-KEYS GOLF TEAM

Greater participation leads to lower scores in 2024

The greens were more crowded all up and down the Keys last fall, with increased team membership being a commonality for Coral Shores, Marathon and Key West High School. As expected, bigger teams led to a higher level of competition. But make no mistake: Keys golfers are anything but cutthroat when it comes to their matches against one another.

Though each athlete who took a swing this year worked diligently to hone their skills, the camaraderie among Monroe County’s golfers is something to be commended. When athletes weren’t focusing on sinking their own putts, they were helping one another, regardless of which team’s polo was worn, to improve as well. With their friendly, cooperative efforts, the underclassmen of the game should continue to lower their scores for seasons to come.

Years of hard work and dedication paid off for Conch senior Peyton Zubieta when a remarkable round at districts qualified him for regionals, something no Keys golfer has done in many years. Zubieta served as a team captain and his commitment and consistency were crucial to his personal success while his leadership and encouragement affected the rest of his team.

Andrew Bassett led the Conchs as a senior captain, bringing leadership and knowledge to the team. A four-year starter, Bassett’s match play was always good, but his greatest attribute was the guidance he afforded to the less-experienced team members. His patience and willingness to teach others will be missed next season.

Since first joining the Hurricanes’ squad two years ago, senior Derek Ramos has rapidly become an asset to his team. Noted for the enthusiasm he brought to each match, Ramos always strove to be his best, and the improvement from his first season with the ’Canes to his last was dramatic.

At the end of his second season golfing for the ’Canes, junior Brock Bynum shot an 87, the school’s lowest mark at a district match. Praised for his drive toward constant improvement, Bynum often put in extra hours at the driving range or played bonus rounds to continue honing his skills.

Photos by Barry Gaukel, Doug Finger and Keys Weekly file photos.

Titensor

Just a freshman, Key West’s Mason Titensor constantly improved as the season went on, earning a starting spot on the Conchs’ district team. He plays with consistency and determination, never allowing distractions to pull him off his game.

Carroll

Carroll’s low score this year was a 39, capping off his senior season in style with improved play and hard work. A three-year captain for the Hurricanes, Carroll is a leader both on and off the course, motivating his team to play their best while still having fun. His dedication to the team will be sorely missed next season.

Thornton Roco Piscetello

During his senior campaign, Marathon senior Mason Thornton dropped an average of five strokes from last season. His improvement was due to his hard work in the offseason to improve all aspects of his game. As one of the Fins’ senior leaders, Thornton was described as someone who was always encouraging others and keeping the focus on working hard to achieve success.

In his first year playing for the ’Canes, Jacob Bondstent never missed a single practice, let alone a match this season. He stayed beyond scheduled hours in a relentless effort to improve his game. His discipline and willingness to work made him a standout for Coral Shores.

In just his second season as a Golfin’ Dolphin, senior Leo Mendez took time in the offseason to work on his game and helped to carry the team to several wins. His scoring average in 13 matches was 44.5, a marked improvement for the dedicated senior. Mendez was described as a leader, role model, true teammate and motivator.

As the Conchs’ most experienced female golfer, Steling was credited with bringing the requisite knowledge of the sport to her teammates. In addition to her knowledge and experience, Steling’s enthusiasm and positivity set her apart from others. She is known to bring a smile to the face of everyone she plays with, be it a teammate or an opponent.

Marathon sophomore Roco Piscetello just completed his fifth season with the Fins, and he just gets better each year. Known to shine during competition and for keen wedge play and putting, Piscetello works year-round to improve his play, and his excitement for the game is contagious to those around him.

Sophomore Charlize Lopez used an inner drive for perfection to master the game enough to shoot a 101 at districts. The score itself is solid, but given her relative inexperience, Lopez’s accomplishments this season are tremendous. The sophomore’s dedication to improvement will serve her will in the coming seasons.

Claudia

Gabby Thomas Lexi Finigan SENIOR CORAL SHORES

WEST

Finigan’s hard work set her apart from the rest of the pack this season. The sophomore demands the best from herself, and it showed in her performance. Finigan broke 100, shooting a 98 at the district tournament, a personal best and something no other female golfer has done at Key West in decades. She is well on her way to becoming one of the best in Monroe County history.

For a few short weeks last summer, junior Justice Lee was concerned she had finally stumbled upon a sport in which she was not going to excel. Those worries were entirely unfounded. Picking up a club for the first time in August, Lee quickly improved her game, shaving off strokes as the weeks went by to pave the way for a solid senior campaign

A four-year captain, Coral Shores’ Gabby Thomas proved to be a leader on the course for both her team and every athlete she encountered. The talented senior has been a constant for the ’Canes the past four seasons, and the highlight to cap off her senior campaign was shooting a birdie at Grenada Golf Course in Miami.

Bueno

Brand new to the sport of golf, Bueno decided to give it a go her senior year, and she quickly proved to be a natural. But her match play was not what set her apart the most. The team captain was credited for having the absolute best attitude each day on the course and the positivity she exuded affected the entire team.

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LEE AND LADY FINS DOMINATE LIFTING

All three Keys schools have wins at Middle Keys meet

Keys weightlifters met in Marathon Jan. 8 as athletes prepare for the postseason, which is quickly approaching. Marathon had the high score in both the Olympic and traditional events, with Coral Shores in second and Key West in third. Marathon had double winners in several weight classes, winning the overall top spot at the meet. Winning both the traditional and Olympic contests in their classes were Ella Dunn (101 pounds), Rilynn Richards (119), Ella Evans (129), Justice Lee (183) and Sabrina Schofield (199). Katriya Wright (110) won the Olympic contest and Ava Merryman (139) took first in traditional in their respective weight classes. Lee’s 190-pound clean and jerk, a personal and school record, helped propel her to the top score in the Sinclair coefficient for the meet. Sinclair uses a mathematical algorithm to determine the top athlete regardless of weight class. Evans was right behind in both categories, making for an exciting postseason for the Lady Fins.

Key West had three winners in the Olympic event. Shylo Sanchez (139), Alexa Condella (154) and Victoria Gray (169) each took first in their weight classes.

Coral Shores had individual winners in each division. For the Olympic event, Vanessa Gabriel was the top lifter in the Unlimited class. In traditional, Sydney Eysenbach was first in the Unlimited class with Alyssa Sachs (169), Abigail Bergeron (154) and Rachel Rusch (110) winning their weight classes.

Postseason competition begins Saturday, Jan. 25, with Key West heading to Park Vista High School for the FHSAA Region 4 District 16 2A finals. Marathon and Coral Shores, both 1A schools, compete at AIE Charter the same day. The top two lifters for each school at each weight will earn a place at districts. To move on to regionals, an athlete will need to be in the top 20 of the four districts which make up a region. Only the district champ is guaranteed a spot at regionals, with the other 19 entries being earned with top lifts. Regionals will be held Wednesday, Jan. 29 at Keys Gate for Marathon and Coral Shores, then on Feb. 1 at Dr. Joaquin Garcia High for Key West. The end of the road this season will be Lakeland, where the state championships will be held on Feb. 14

Coral Shores, Marathon bring home wins in girls hoops action

CHURRICANES BREAK STALLIONS

oral Shores girls basketball picked up their first win of the season on Jan. 7 at home against the Stallions of Somerset Silver Palms. Melanie Estevez led the charge with 12 points, nine rebounds and three steals. Grace Leffler added 10 with nine rebounds and Alex Burson scored eight with 10 rebounds. Another game scheduled for last week between Coral Shores and Key West was postponed.

Marathon’s entire team contributed in their lopsided 66-26 victory over Mater Bay Academy on Jan. 8. Senior Elena Eubank had the hot hand, scoring 21 points in the win. Marti Kilbourne added 16 plus nine rebounds and six steals, while Daysi Williams scored seven and pulled down eight rebounds. Maddy Judd, Katerin Guerra and Payton Junker each scored two. The following night, LaSalle gave them a run for their money. It took an overtime period for the Fins to defeat the Royal Lions 50-48. Eubank had the top score again, with 16 points, six steals and three blocks. Kilbourne had 14 points and 14 rebounds for a double-double while Williams and Junker each scored seven. Guerra’s six points helped the Dolphins win the edge over LaSalle and even up their record to 5-5.

The Lady Conchs are still hunting for their first win this season after a 44-28 loss to St. Brendan last week. Their upcoming schedule has promising matchups, including a winless Hallandale and Coral Shores, who always proves to be an exciting opponent for Key West.

Rilynn Richards. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

Grace Leffler, left, had 10 points and nine rebounds in Coral Shores’ Jan. 7 win. Marathon’s Elena Eubank leads the Fins in scoring this season. Photos by Doug Finger and Barry Gaukel.

CONCHS CLOBBER CORAL SHORES

THE FINAL COUNTDOWN

SDistrict matches begin next week

occer is quickly approaching the postseason, with the final day of regular-season play for any Keys team occurring on Friday, Jan. 17. After that, the teams await their district brackets, which, for the first time in several years, will not pit any Monroe County teams against one another. Each team’s school enrollment qualified them for a different class designation.

Key West traveled to Somerset Canyons in Boynton Beach Jan. 7, where they tied the Cougars 2-2. Loubins Fleuridor scored both goals for the Conchs, and Albie Bowden assisted on one.

Two days later, Key West won via mercy rule at Coral Shores. Fleuridor added two more to his stats while Emmanuel Innocent, Sebastian Camargo, Bryden Parsons, Jose Sente Reyes and Jack Reynolds found the net once each. Parsons and Niko Sulak were credited with two assists apiece and Jack Reynolds helped out in one of the Conchs’ eight goals. Goalkeeper Fausto Paz saved three shots on goal to preserve the shutout, which was the fourth this season for the Conchs.

On Jan. 11, Bolles made the long trip from Jacksonville to play Key West, where they were defeated 2-1. Innocent scored both goals for the Conchs, with assists from Fleuridor and Sonny Bowden.

Though they struggled against Key West, Coral Shores picked up a win against Riviera Prep at home on Jan. 7. The Hurricane defeated the Bulldogs 4-2. Tony Khioni scored one and Preston Carroll assisted Khioni’s goal and scored one of his own.

Marathon played just one match last week, hosting True North Academy on Jan. 7. The Fins lost 2-1 with the lone goal coming from Fabbianho Louis Jeune. Marathon hosts Key West Jan. 16, then closes out their regular season at Coral Shores Jan. 17 in a flurry of in-county matches.

Emmanuel Innocent. MAICEY MALGRAT/Keys Weekly

Keys high schools split wins and losses as regular season

down

winds

Marathon’s Jordan MacDonald, left, and Addison Collins led the Fins in scoring last week. BARRY GAUKEL/Keys Weekly

The three Keys girls soccer squads each opened 2025 with a dead-even streak of wins and losses.

Marathon played at home against Keys Gate on Jan. 7, celebrating Senior Night in style with a 2-1 victory in which their lone senior, four-year starter Jordan MacDonald, earned an assist. The Fins struck quickly, with Addison Collins finding the net in the first five minutes of play. She scored again in the first half off MacDonald’s assist and the Lady Fins hung on for the win. They did not fare so well the following afternoon at True North, where the Titans defeated them 10-0.

Coral Shores was 2-2 last week with wins against Somerset South Homestead and Miami Country Day. On Jan. 8, Bayley Catarineau got things started, scoring off a rebound from a shot by Kai Redruello. Sofia Jans scored the Hurricanes’ second goal off a penalty kick to make it 2-1 for win number one of the week. Two days later, Redruello found the back of the net for the lone goal of the game, giving the Hurricanes a solid 8-2 record as they enter the final stretch of the season.

Key West now stands at 5-8 this season after splitting the week with one win and one loss. On Jan. 10 the Lady Conchs defeated Keys Gate 2-1, then the following day, they lost 6-0 at Ransom.

All three teams will close out their regular-season play close to home. Marathon hosts Key West Thursday, Jan. 16 and Coral Shores hosts Marathon the following day. Key West plays one final match Friday, Jan. 17 at home against Lemon Bay, and district play begins on Jan. 22.

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Florida Waterfront Realty located at 653 Cabrera Street, Key Largo, FL 33037 intends to register said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.

By: Keys Waterfront Realty, Inc.

Publish: January 16, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice of Seizure that in accordance with Florida Statute 328.17, Pelican Cay RV Park LLC, 299 Morris Ave., Key Largo, FL 33037, will sell or otherwise will dispose of the personal items to satisfy the delinquent storage lien on Boat Slip 8. 46’ Bertram Inboard – FL’s

BERP0234M82G will be sold to the highest bidder for storage fees pursuant to Florida Statute 328.17.

Sale of all goods will be 2/3/25 at 10:00 am at 299 Morris Ave, Key Largo Florida 33037. Pelican Cay RV Park LLC reserves the right to accept or reject any and all bids.

Publish: January 16 & 23, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS:

Community Transportation Coordinator for the Transportation Disadvantaged Program in Monroe County (RFP No. 2024 TDMC 01)

The Health Council of South Florida, Inc. (HCSF) is pleased to announce that we are now accepting proposals from qualified agencies or firms to coordinate transportation services for the transportation disadvantaged (TD) in Monroe County, Florida. This initiative aims to ensure that individuals who face barriers to transportation have access to reliable, safe, and efficient travel options, enabling them to attend essential appointments, work, and other critical activities.

Background:

As the Designated Official Planning Agency (DOPA) for TD services in Monroe County, HCSF is charged with creating the Local Coordinating Board (LCB) and providing technical assistance to the LCB. The LCB acts as an advisory board and as such provides guidance, monitors, evaluates and supports the transportation activities of the CTC.

Chapter 427 of the Florida Statutes establishes the Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged (CTD) and directs the CTD to “accomplish the coordination of transportation services

provided to the transportation disadvantaged”. In accomplishing its purpose, the CTD approves a Community Transportation Coordinator (CTC) for five years for each county of the state; the CTC is charged with arranging cost-effective, efficient, unduplicated, and unfragmented transportation disadvantaged services within its respective service area.

The “transportation disadvantaged” in the state of Florida are defined as those individuals who because of age, disability, or income restraints, do not have access to conventional public transportation options.

Proposal Details: Scope of Services: The CTC will be responsible for coordinating transportation services and providing the most cost-efficient services it can deliver to individuals who are transportation disadvantaged in Monroe County.

Eligibility: Qualified agencies or firms with experience in transportation coordination, especially for vulnerable populations.

Submission Requirements: Proposals must include detailed qualifications, service plans, and cost estimates.

Full details on the submission process can be found in the Request for Proposals (RFP) document, which is available upon request. Submission Deadline: Friday, February 14, 2025, 5:00 PM EST.

Pre-Proposal Information Session will be held via Zoom on the following date: Wednesday, January 22, 2025, 9:30-10:30am; register at https://us02web.zoom. us/meeting/register/ hG1gftOARHqv_Bcsp-2PiQ

Please visit the HCSF website at www.healthcouncil.org and see the “News & Events” section for more details. The application submission must be received via Demandstar. com.

The RFP bid can be viewed here: https://www. demandstar.com/app/limited/ bids/484619/details For further information about the Transportation Disadvantaged program, please visit the Commission for Transportation Disadvantaged (CTD) website at https://www.fdot.gov/ctd/ ctd-home. Contact:

If you have any questions, please contact Anjana Morris at 786-535-4361 or via email at amadanmorris@ healthcouncil.org

We look forward to receiving your proposals and working together to improve transportation services in Monroe County. Publish: January 16, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-593-P DIVISION: PLANTATION KEY IN RE: ESTATE OF ANNE ELIZABETH BAGAN Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Anne Elizabeth Bagan, deceased, whose date of death was October 20, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes.

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: January 16, 2025.

Personal Representative: Sean P. Bagan 635 South Orange Avenue, Unit 301 Sarasota, Florida 34236

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

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173

Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA

10075 Overseas Hwy

PO Box 500938

Marathon, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-9428

Fax: (305) 743-8800

E-Mail: service@ floridakeyslaw.com

Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com

Publish: January 16 & 23, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

FILE NO.: 24-CP-541-M

DIVISION: MARATHON

IN RE: ESTATE OF ERICH BLEY

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Erich Bley, deceased, whose date of death was September 12, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050.

The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

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

The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes.

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: January 16, 2025.

IN RE: ESTATE OF KERRY EDWARD KERWIN Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Kerry Edward Kerwin, deceased, whose date of death was October 12, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.

The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes.

All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: January 16, 2025.

Personal Representative: Rainy Kerwin 10676 Colonial Blvd. 30-200 Fort Myers, Florida 33913

Attorney for Personal Representative: Gregory D. Davila, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 886998 Law Office of Gregory D. Davila, P.A. 1111 12th Street, Suite 411 Key West, Florida 33040

Telephone: (305) 293-8554

Fax: (305) 294-9913

E-Mail: E-Filing@ keywestlawoffice.com

Secondary E-Mail: gdavila@ keywestlawoffice.com

Publish: January 16 & 23, 2025

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

The personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under s. 732.2211, Florida Statutes. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: January 9, 2025. Personal Representative: Connie Marie Parker 23602 Singing Hills Ct. Auburn, California 95602

Attorney for Personal Representative: Richard E. Warner

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 283134 RICHARD E. WARNER, P.A. 12221 Overseas Highway MARATHON, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-6022

Fax: (305) 743-6216

E-mail: richard@rewarnerlaw. com

Secondary E-Mail: pamela2@ rewarnerlaw.com

Publish: January 9 & 16, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-606-P

DIVISION: UPPER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF MARIANNA DOMINGUEZ Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ)

For detailed information please visit the Procurement Department website at www.gmx-way.com/business/solicitations, or call the Procurement Department at 305-637-3277 for assistance.

The following is an upcoming GMX procurement opportunity: Publish: January 16, 2025. The Weekly Newspapers

Personal Representative: Peter Rosasco 8085 Overseas Hwy Marathon, Florida 33050

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

Attorney Florida Bar Number: 359173

Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938 Marathon, FL 33050

Telephone: (305) 743-9428

Fax: (305) 743-8800

E-Mail: service@ floridakeyslaw.com

Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com

Publish: January 16 & 23, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-561-K

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 24-CP-604-P DIVISION: UPPER KEYS IN RE: ESTATE OF KENT DAVID VAN WINKLE Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of Kent David Van Winkle, deceased, whose date of death was November 17, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Tavernier, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having

to be served, must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

The date of first publication of this notice is: January 9, 2025. Personal Representative: Carolina Dominguez 20 Hickory Trail Flemington, NJ 08822

Attorney for Personal Representative: STEVEN I. GREENWALD, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 210927

Law Offices of Steven I. Greenwald, P.A. 6971 N. Federal Highway, Suite 105 Boca Raton, FL 33487 Telephone: 561-994-5560

Email: sigreenwaldlaw@att. net

Secondary Email: susangreenwaldlaw@att.net

Publish:

January 9 & 16, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 24-CP-356-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF SHELLEY J. BREGMAN, Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of MARIANNA DOMINGUEZ, deceased, whose date of death was August 6, 2021, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88770 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Plantation Key, FL 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. The Personal Representative or curator has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent's death by the decedent or the decedent's surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in ss. 732.216-732.228, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by the surviving spouse or a beneficiary as specified under s. 732.2211. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, on whom a copy of this notice is required

The administration of the estate of SHELLEY J. BREGMAN, deceased, whose date of death was April 10, 2024, Case: 24-CP-356-K, is pending in the Circuit Court, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. The date of first publication of this Notice is: January 9, 2025. Personal Representative: CYNTHIA TAPIA c/o Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq. Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A. 3130 Northside Drive Key West, Florida 33040 Attorney for Personal Representative: Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq.

Florida Bar No. 0144304

Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A.

3130 Northside Drive

Key West, Florida 33040

Email designation for service: Service.Probate@ samkaufmanlaw.com

Telephone: (305) 292-3926

Fax: (305) 295-7947

Publish: January 9 & 16, 2025

The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA

PROBATE DIVISION

CASE NO.: 24-CP-550-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF SHAFIQUL ISLAM, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The administration of the estate of SHAFIQUL ISLAM, deceased, whose date of death was July 1, 2024, Case: 24-CP-550-K, is pending in the Circuit Court, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, on whom a copy of this notice is served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

The date of first publication of this Notice is: January 9, 2025.

Personal Representative: ANWAR HOSSAIN

c/o Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq.

Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A. 3130 Northside Drive Key West, Florida 33040

Attorney for Personal Representative: Samuel J. Kaufman, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0144304

Law Offices of Samuel J. Kaufman, P.A.

3130 Northside Drive

Key West, Florida 33040

Email designation for service: Service.Probate@ samkaufmanlaw.com

Telephone: (305) 292-3926

Fax: (305) 295-7947

Publish: January 9 & 16, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers

14' Aluminum boat, 9.9 Mercury Outboard, Elec. start, Trolling motor in bow, NEW gas tank, battery, Depth Finder & trailer tires. Located in Marathon. $3000 305-395-1015

GREAT DEAL: Key Largo 21' Deep V Center Console w/trailer. New 150hp motor & electronics. Ready to fish. PRICE REDUCED TO $20,000. Located in Marathon. 201-696-8906

BOAT SLIP NEEDED

BOAT SLIP NEEDED in Islamorada for 20' Center Console from Feb. 1March 1. Call 516-507-2485 Email: vonherd@outlook. com

EMPLOYMENT

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

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/

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.

year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.

The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: 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

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

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

2-3BR / 2BA Beautiful home for year-round rental on Duck Key. Furnished, full size W/D, stainless steel appliances & granite countertops. Gorgeous pool with built-in bar stools, waterfall & Jacuzzi, 1 car garage, and covered porch for outdoor dining w/ views of the canal. $3,400/ month. Avail. May 1st. Address: 243 W. Seaview Dr, Duck Key, MM 61. Text/ call 774-263-8759 Email: dongamache@comast.net

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

Key West House For Rent - 28 day minimum. Recently renovated. 2 Units: 3BR/3BA or 2BR/2.5BA. 1 block to Schooner Wharf @ Historic Seaport. Starting $214/night. Sweet CarolineSeaport.com

YARD SALES

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

HVAC TECH WANTED

Upper Keys position, reporting in Tavernier. Full time job with benefits, vacation time, and holidays.

Apply at keysschools.com or call 305-293-1400 ext. 53398

NOW HIRING

DOCK HAND

We are looking for a Dock Hand with excellent customer service to join our team. You would assist with the daily operations of our marina. Responsibilities include assistance with the daily marina tasks including helping guests arrive and depart from their dock, guiding guests over the radio, navigation, marina amenity cleaning, pressure-washing, assisting guests with golf cart rides and requests, and maintaining the marina. Send resume to captpips@aol.com or come in the of ce to ll out application. 1480 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050

CAPTAIN PIP’S IS AN AWESOME PLACE TO WORK, WE TREAT OUR EMPLOYEES GREAT. COME JOIN OUR TEAM!

The Moorings Village is seeking a friendly, self motivated, team player for the

1964 Ford Galaxy, 427 Big Block, 5-speed, located in Key Largo. $49,000 954-445-6647

BOATS FOR SALE

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

2 BR / 1 BA unfurnished apartment for rent in Key Largo. $1,500/month includes utilities. F/L/S Text: 786-559-5494 Email: apmz57@yahoo.com RENTED IN LESS THAN ONE MONTH!!

FOR SALE

Previous security experience desired. Job type: full-time

Please email your resume to

The Moorings Village is seeking

Previous hospitality experience required. Job types: Full-time

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

DESK

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

VACATION RENTAL

WE ARE HIRING!

STAFF MANAGER – ADULT DAY TRAINING PROGRAM

FT administrative, salaried position. The ADT Manager will be responsible for all phases of the operation of the Adult Day Training Program in accordance with APD and Medicaid Waiver minimum standards. This includes the worksites and contracts, personnel, and training programs. Maintain a close liaison with the Group Home Managers and Medical Staff to maintain program consistency. Must have current, valid FL driver’s license with clean record. Bachelor’s degree required or year-for-year experience in field or supervisory/management required. *

IN HOME SUPPORT (FT) – Key West

FT split-shift, In-Home Support Coach/Trainer to provide companionship and assist clients with training/support. HSD/GED & 1 yr. exp in a related field. 1 year of college can substitute for experience. Must be able to use a tablet for documentation purposes. The shift for this job is split shift 7-9 am then 3-9 pm. We can be flexible. This is a rewarding position for the right person. *

DIRECT CARE STAFF – NIGHTS/WEEKENDS - GROUP HOMES 24/7 (FT)

This position is available at our Windsor Group Home. Providing direct-care services and support to our clients in their home. Must be willing to work flexible shifts including days, overnights on Thursday. Requires a minimum of high school completion or GED and 1 year of experience with care giving or 30 hours or college coursework. *

SUPPORTED LIVING COACH (FT)

Responsibilities include management of developmentally disabled clients in independent living environments, management of office and in-home support staff. Must be available for some evenings and weekends. Bachelor’s degree in related field or experience working with developmentally disabled clients in lieu of degree. Must have a valid FL driver’s license. Salary commensurate with experience.

GROUP HOME MANAGER – (FT) – Key West

FT administrative, salaried position. Responsible for operations of Group Homes in accordance with State and Fed regulations. Oversight of staff and clients. Bachelor’s degree and Florida DL w/clean driving record req. At least 2 yrs of mgmt and admin experience req, and direct or comparable experience w/same or similar population preferred. Computer skills: moderate to advanced.

*ALSO REQUIRED FOR ALL POSTIONS

Fluent in English language, speaking and writing, proficiency is a must. Level 2 background screening and valid Florida driver’s license. EOE

Come join our family!

Apply at the MARC office, 1401 Seminary St., Key West. Or online at www.marchouse.org. For more information, please contact hr@marchouse.org Phone: 305-294-9526 *32

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. Scan the QR code to visit the careers page on our website.

FACILITIES MAINTENANCE APPRENTICE (Full-Time, Permanent)

EDUCATION PROGRAM HOST (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

e Turtle Hospital in Marathon

Join our team! Full and part-time Educational Program Guides/ Gift Shop Sales. Public speaking & retail sales experience helpful. $18/hour to start. Send resume to: turtlehospital@turtlehospital.org

DUI EVALUATOR/ INSTRUCTOR

The Advocate DUI Program is hiring for part time positions. DUI instructors and evaluators - 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse eld required. Bilingual preferred, not required. Of ce located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc. IS HIRING!

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 PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Apply at guidancecarecenter.org

Search Employment/Portal/Location/zip

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE

We are now hiring for the following positions:

Diesel Mechanic Truck Helpers

CDL Drivers

Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

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

- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN/PA-C), Surgical, Ortho, Tavernier, $5k Bonus

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

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

- Patient Access Associate, Multispecialty, Marathon, $1k Bonus

MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST

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

- Medical Assistant 1, Medical Oncology, $5k Bonus

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

- Clinical Pharmacist, $5k Bonus

- Radiation Therapist, $12k Bonus

- Director Physician Practice Operations

TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL

- Cook, Dietary

- Group Exercise Instructor, Mariners Wellness Center

- Mechanic 3, Facility Operations

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

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

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

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

- Customer Service & Membershipe Coord., Wellness Center

- Food Service Worker, $5k Bonus

- Radiology Technologist 1, $40k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, Emergency Department

- Registered Nurse, ICU

MARATHON FISHERMEN’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

- Experience Advisor, Patient Experience

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

- Radiology Technologist 1, $40k Bonus

- Registered Nurse, $15k Bonus

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

- Pool RN, Emergency Department

- Medical Technologist 2, Laboratory, $50k Bonus

All qualified applicants will

THEME: THE GRAMMYS

ACROSS

1. 43,560 square feet

5. Undergarment

8. “She ____ a Yellow Ribbon”

12. Ocean Spray ____-Apple juice

13. #5 Across, pl.

14. Concentration of solution, in chemistry

15. CISC alternative 16. Swearing-in words 17. Goodwill branch

18. *Artist with most Grammy nominations 20. ALCS counterpart

21. Winter Olympics participant 22. IX minus II

23. Drum roll sound

26. Front of building, pl.

30. Get it wrong

31. Upholstery choice

34. Reflect deeply

35. Raccoon’s cousin

37. “____ the fields we go”

38. Binary digits code

39. Capital on a fjord

40. Isaac of science fiction fame

42. Consumed

43. Within shortest distance

45. *100-year-old Grammy Award nominee

47. Beer faucet

48. Corpulent

50. Self-satisfied

52. *2025 Grammy nominated former band, with The

55. Twist and distort

56. Bank’s provision

57. Flock’s response 59. Ranee’s wrap 60. Elvers

61. *2003 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient ____ Puente 62. Like some wines 63. ____ it or lose it 64. Formerly, formerly

DOWN

1. Acronym, abbr.

2. Discarded cards in cribbage

3. Tear down

4. Enclose in a cyst

5. Orthodontic appliance

6. Motion Picture Association of America, e.g.

7. Certain tray content

8. *Former multiple time Grammy host Andy ____

9. Related to ear

10. RPMs

11. Before, in verse

13. Predatory fish

14. Gin’s partner

19. Giraffe’s striped-leg cousin

22. *1995 “Have I Told Your Lately

That I Love You” winner ____ Morrison

23. Scout’s mission

24. What phoenix did

25. ____-____-la

26. Non-negotiable

27. Old European coin

28. Last 8 in college basketball

29. More than sly

32. *Nominated artist Post Malone’s actual last name

33. Hula dancer’s necklace

36. *Taylor Swift’s “The ____ Poets Department”

38. Nautical “Stop!”

40. Nile viper

41. *Grammy winners Frank and Billy

44. Top scout

46. Make a connection

48. Double-reed instruments

49. Famous Memphis street

50. Unforeseen obstacle

51. Foal’s mother

53. Chieftain in Arabia 54. Tennis amount 55. General Services Administration

56. Romanian money 58. *Kendrick Lamar’s “____ Like Us”